Q: Will the CNL replace baccalaureate-prepared nurses and is AACN recommending that
baccalaureate programs close?
No. At their January 2004 meeting, the AACN Board of Directors reaffirmed the organization’s
strong support for baccalaureate nursing education. Though AACN recognizes that entry-level
nurses will continue to be prepared at the diploma and associate degree (ADN) levels, the
organization supports the four-year baccalaureate degree as the minimum credential for
professional nursing practice. AACN encourages differentiated nursing practice based on
educational preparation and supports efforts to move ADN and diploma graduates into
baccalaureate and graduate degree programs.