Illinois College’s nursing program is celebrating two milestones that reinforce its commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The program recently earned continued accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for the maximum term of 10 years, with its next review scheduled for the 2035-36 academic year. The accreditation recognizes the program’s rigorous academics, hands-on clinical experiences and commitment to student success.

Illinois College also welcomed Amanda Schuster, Ph.D., RN, as director of nursing. An experienced nurse educator and academic leader, Schuster will lead a program that has become an important contributor to the region’s healthcare workforce since launching its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in 2018.

Students benefit from recently renovated nursing facilities featuring advanced simulation laboratories, collaborative learning spaces and virtual reality clinical training that help build confidence before entering patient care settings. Through Illinois College’s partnership with Memorial Health and clinical placements across Central Illinois, students gain valuable realworld experience while working alongside healthcare professionals.

Schuster brings experience in nursing education, curriculum development and academic leadership, along with a background in acute care nursing. Her leadership will build on the program’s strengths in personalized instruction, clinical readiness and career preparation.

In addition to its four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, Illinois College also offers an accredited online Master of Science in Nursing for working nurses pursuing careers in education or healthcare leadership. Together, these milestones position the program to continue preparing Graduate READY nurses to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region for years to come.