CNL Certification Eligibility
Requirements for Graduate Students and Faculty Members
As our nation’s healthcare system continues to evolve, there is a growing need for nurse leaders who focus on the delivery of safe and quality patient care. As a result, the CNL has become a vital skill set in more than 100 practice settings and over 120 nursing schools. You can join this growing number of highly prepared nurse leaders by meeting the eligibility requirements outlined below.
Determine Your Eligibility
Graduate Student Requirements
Be a student in your last term of a CNL education program or a graduate from a CNL master’s or postmaster’s degree program accredited by a nursing accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education;- Successfully complete the CNL Certification Exam and submission of required application documents; and
- Possess Registered Nurse (RN) licensure (candidates are ineligible if currently being disciplined by a state nursing board).
CNL Faculty Waiver for 2024
Possess the RN licensure;- Possess a graduate degree in nursing or a related health care discipline from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education; and
- Teach in an existing CNL education program.
- If not teaching in an existing CNL education program, faculty may submit an appeal request letter to CNC’s Appeal Committee via email at CNL@aacnnursing.org.
- Current teaching experience must include:
a. Clinical experience mentoring CNL immersion projects or;
b. Didactic experience focused on the CNL skill set and aligned with CNL competencies. - Describe any relevant work experience as it relates to the CNL competencies.
- Letter from the Dean of the School of Nursing or designee explaining qualifications, current teaching.
To apply for the exam, CNL faculty must submit the online CNL Certification Application and the CNL Faculty Eligibility Documentation Form.
