Criteria for Evaluation of NP Programs

In 2005-2007, NONPF facilitated the work of the National Task Force on Quality Nurse Practitioner Education (NTF) to develop the Criteria for Evaluation of Nurse Practitioner Programs.  This multi-organizational task force established the goals to 1) develop standardized criteria for evaluation of NP programs, 2) pilot test the criteria as a self-study document, 3) develop an implementation/ dissemination plan for the criteria, and 4) seek endorsement of the criteria from participating organizations and other selected nursing organizations.  The work was funded in part by the Division of Nursing, Bureau of Health Professions, Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services.   The NTF completed and released the first edition of the evaluation criteria in 2007.

The NTF conducts periodic review and updating of the Criteria for Evaluation of Nurse Practitioner Programs.  The review process is part of the NTF's commitment to ensure that the document retains its currency and also to provide the opportunity to refine the wording and include additional elaboration, as necessary, to enhance clarity.   The third edition (2008) of this document is now available in electronic format, see below. 

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has adopted the evaluation criteria into their accreditation standards.  The National League For Nursing has endorsed the evaluation criteria and recognizes this document as the national standard for nurse practitioner educational programs.

2008 Criteria for Evaluation