The ACEN Program of Distinction recognizes ACEN-accredited nursing programs that demonstrate sustained excellence and innovation beyond foundational accreditation requirements. This designation highlights programs that consistently exceed the ACEN Standards and Criteria and serve as national models in advancing high-quality nursing education.

Programs that earn this distinction demonstrate measurable student success, sustained achievement of outcomes, and leadership in driving educational improvement and innovation.

The Program of Distinction sets a new benchmark for excellence—celebrating nursing programs that push the profession forward through vision, innovation, and proven results.

On this page...

• Why Pursue ACEN Program of Distinction
• Recognition Mark
• Eligibility Snapshot and 2026 Application Deadlines

Why Pursue ACEN Program of Distinction Designation

Earning the ACEN Program of Distinction designation provides powerful advantages for programs, institutions, students, and communities:

Recognition of Excellence & Innovation

Highlights exemplary practices, faculty expertise, and innovative approaches to curriculum, evaluation, and student achievement.

Stronger Recruitment & Visibility

Attracts high-caliber students, faculty, and clinical partners who seek programs with proven outcomes and leadership.

Credibility in Outcomes

Reinforces confidence among employers, regulators, and accreditors with validated evidence of sustained accredited performance.

Positions Your Program as a Leader

Serve as a model for advancing the nursing profession through continuous improvement and excellence in education.

Shareable Honors

Highlights your distinction by using the Program of Distinction mark on program website, marketing materials, campus displays, and professional communications.

Distinction & Prestige

Elevates your program’s reputation and competitive positioning with a visible designation that distinguishes exceptional performance beyond being an accredited nursing program.

Recognition Mark

Programs awarded the distinction will receive the ACEN Program of Distinction recognition mark to be used as a lock-up with the Accreditation seal.

This mark will:

• Display as a lock-up with the ACEN-Accredited seal on program websites and marketing materials
• Display independently next to program names in the ACEN Program Directory on the ACEN website

Eligibility Snapshot and 2026 Application Deadlines

Eligibility Snapshot

The ACEN Program of Distinction is available to all ACEN-accredited nursing programs, including practical, diploma, associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and clinical doctorate programs.

To be eligible, programs must:

• Be accredited by ACEN for at least three years
• Have a minimum three years of End-of-Program Student Learning Outcome and program outcome data (Graduate programs must include Role-Specific Nursing Competency data)
• Have no active ACEN stipulations (not on conditions, warning, or good cause)
• Be approved without qualification by the state or national regulatory authority
• Include at least one ACEN Peer Evaluator from the Nursing Education Unit
• Have two letters of support from key stakeholders (e.g., advisory board, employers, community partners)
• Be current on all ACEN fees and expenses in accordance with Policy #27

Eligibility/Application Process & 2026 Deadlines

Programs begin the process by submitting an Eligibility Check form. Eligible programs* will then be invited to complete a full application and submit the required fee. Final determinations are made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners.

2026 Eligibility Check Form Deadlines

• Eligibility Period 1: April 1, 2026
• Eligibility Period 2: October 1, 2026

Eligibility Check Form

Program of Distinction Guide