Learning Objective #1: state the current purpose of CCNE related to the globaliztion of nursing and focus on outcomes.

Learning Objective #2: state outomes of current efforts geared toward international accrediting activities

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Nursing accreditation is centered on evidenced-based educational practice due to its focus on outcomes. With the globalization of the health professions, it is timely to examine the status of nursing accreditation and opportunities for international collaboration and use of technology. Officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits baccalaureate and graduate programs in nursing in higher education institutions located or chartered in the U.S. and its territories. In 2007, CCNE was awarded an expansion of scope by the Department to include the accreditation of distance education programs. Overall, 74% of baccalaureate programs and 83% of master's programs in nursing in the U.S. are affiliated with CCNE, including the programs at American University of Beirut, which is chartered in New York but located in Lebanon. Although CCNE does not currently engage in the review of foreign-based institutions, it is responsible for assuring quality in CCNE-accredited nursing programs offered in partnership with foreign institutions.

The increase in U.S. institutions with nursing programs in other countries is driving the need to examine options for international collaboration and smarter use of technology. CCNE and its counterpart accrediting agency in Canada--the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing—have established a mutual recognition agreement on accreditation. Key steps in the creation of this agreement will be described. Experiences of other health professions accreditors in international accreditation and application of technology also will be examined. CCNE has presented on U.S. nursing accreditation in five countries on three continents. Most recently, the CCNE Director and the Chair of the CCNE Board of Commissioners presented on U.S. nursing accreditation and opportunities for future collaboration at a conference of the Korean Association of Schools of Nursing and the Korean Accreditation Board of Nursing in Seoul, Korea.