WHEELING, W.VA – West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) is proud to announce that its registered nursing program has been awarded ongoing accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Originally accredited in 1977, the program’s accreditation is now extended for until 2031, the maximum allowable eight-year period.
ACEN is considered one of the leading accrediting body for nursing education programs, ensuring that nursing programs across the country meet rigorous standards of excellence in nursing education. WVNCC’s Nursing Program has once again met these stringent criteria, underscoring its dedication to preparing students for successful and rewarding careers in nursing.
“We are thrilled to receive this continuation of accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing,” commented Dr. Debra Tervala, vice president for learning and chief academic officer at WVNCC. “This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. It reaffirms our commitment to providing top-tier nursing education and ensuring that our graduates are prepared to excel in their professional careers as registered nurses.”
In February, WVNCC hosted a three-day site visit during which peer evaluators met with faculty, administrators, students and members of the public. Evaluators also toured the WVNCC Wheeling Campus and received a first-hand look at the new $1 million nursing simulation lab renovations, which opened officially in February of 2023.
Jill Keyser, WVNCC Nursing Program Director, added, “Accreditation by ACEN is a validation of the dedication and quality of our nursing program. We remain focused on offering a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that prepares our students to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare world.

This accreditation highlights WVNCC’s ongoing dedication to maintaining the highest standards of education and preparing students to become compassionate and competent healthcare professionals. It also ensures that graduates of the WVNCC Nursing Program will continue to be in high demand within the healthcare industry.
West Virginia Northern Community College’s mission is to educate and empower individuals to achieve academic and career goals, leading to a highly skilled, well-rounded, and accomplished workforce which successfully competes and adapts in a global economy. The College responds to the needs of the region it serves by offering a high-quality learning environment that is accessible, safe, and accommodating while nurturing teamwork and community service. Founded in 1972, WVNCC is comprised of three campuses situated in New Martinsville, Weirton and Wheeling.

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