Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) has received initial accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for its associate nursing program, marking a significant milestone in the college’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-ready healthcare education.
The ACEN Board of Commissioners granted the decision at its April 2025 meeting, with no stipulations or findings. The accreditation is effective retroactively to November 1, 2023, and the next scheduled site visit will occur in the  Fall of 2029.
“This is an outstanding achievement for our nursing program, and a reflection of the exceptional work of our faculty, leadership, and clinical partners,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech. “Receiving ACEN accreditation reinforces our commitment to meeting the highest standards in nursing education and preparing students to serve our region with skill, compassion, and excellence.”
DeShaun Willingham, Dean of Nursing at WSU Tech, added, “This accreditation affirms the extraordinary dedication of our faculty and staff who are training the next generation of nurses. Our students deserve the very best, and this recognition confirms they’re receiving a top-tier education grounded in both academic excellence and real-world preparation.”
WSU Tech’s Associate Degree Nurse (A.D.N) program is designed to prepare students for immediate employment as Registered Nurses (RNs) upon successful completion of the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. In addition to launching careers directly after graduation, many students choose to continue their education through RN-to-BSN programs, building on the strong foundation provided at WSU Tech.
ACEN accreditation offers significant benefits to both students and the institution.
 
What the ACEN accreditation means for students:
  • Confirms the program meets national standards for nursing education
  • Keeps students eligible for financial aid and scholarships
  • Makes it easier to transfer credits to four-year universities
  • Helps students compete for jobs and stand out to employers
  • Signals that students are receiving a high-quality, career-focused education
 
What it means for WSU Tech:
  • Demonstrates commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement
  • Strengthens partnerships with healthcare employers and clinical sites
  • Supports long-term growth of healthcare education and workforce development
“We are incredibly proud of our students and team who worked tirelessly to meet the high standards required by ACEN,” said Flora Diaz, MSNEd, RN, Assistant Dean and Director of Nursing. “This recognition strengthens our reputation and gives our graduates a strong foundation to launch or grow their careers in nursing.”
For more information about WSU Tech’s associate nursing program, visit wsutech.edu/nursing.
 
About WSU Tech
 
As Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology, WSU Tech stands at the forefront of modern technical education in Kansas, offering over 100 degree and certificate options. These programs cover critical fields such as aviation, health care, manufacturing, design, information technology, police science, culinary arts, business, and more.
WSU Tech operates four campuses and serves as the managing partner of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) in Wichita, KS—a city known for its high concentration of STEM jobs.
In 2018, Wichita State University, Kansas’ urban public research hub, affiliated with WSU Tech, enhancing the institution’s student-centered focus and aligning with Wichita State’s dedication to innovation and applied learning. This partnership has created a comprehensive educational environment that supports student achievement and meets the evolving needs of industries in the urban heart of Kansas and beyond.
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and as a Kansas Board of Regents institution, WSU Tech upholds high academic standards and equips students with the skills necessary for lifelong success and career readiness.
For more information on how WSU Tech shapes the future of technical education and contributes to the workforce in Kansas and beyond, please visit www.WSUTECH.edu.