MALVERN, Ark. — Arkansas State University Three Rivers announced that its Registered Nursing and Practical Nursing programs have earned Initial Accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
The ACEN Board of Commissioners granted Initial Accreditation to both programs, including all program options reviewed, following its September 2026 meeting. The accreditation is effective March 6, 2025, and the next evaluation visit for both programs is scheduled for Spring 2031.
Adding to the significance of the achievement, ACEN reported no findings for either nursing program. This means the accreditation review did not identify deficiencies requiring corrective action, reflecting the programs’ alignment with ACEN’s standards and criteria.
“This achievement represents the culmination of two years of tremendous dedication, collaboration and hard work,” said Melinda Sanders, dean of health sciences at ASU Three Rivers. “I am incredibly proud of our nursing faculty and staff for their commitment throughout this rigorous process. Earning ACEN accreditation affirms the quality of our programs and the high standards we maintain in preparing our students for successful careers in nursing. It is an exciting milestone for our students, our college and the communities we serve.”
Shane Broadway, interim chancellor of ASU Three Rivers, said the accreditation reflects both the strength of the college’s nursing programs and the commitment of the faculty responsible for educating the region’s future healthcare professionals.
“Achieving ACEN accreditation is a significant accomplishment for ASU Three Rivers and a testament to the exceptional work of Dean Sanders, our nursing faculty and everyone who contributed to this process,” Broadway said. “Our nursing programs play an important role in preparing highly skilled professionals to meet the healthcare needs of our region. This recognition reinforces our commitment to providing students with a high-quality education that prepares them to serve their communities and succeed in their profession.”
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing formally notified ASU Three Rivers of the decisions in letters dated Oct. 1, congratulating the college on the achievement and confirming that both programs will receive ACEN certificates authenticating the Board of Commissioners’ decisions.
The accreditation marks an important milestone for the ASU Three Rivers Health Sciences Division and further demonstrates the college’s continued commitment to academic excellence, student success and workforce development in healthcare.
ASU Three Rivers is a public, two-year institution providing accessible educational opportunities through academic, technical and workforce programs designed to prepare students for successful careers, continued education and service to their communities.