PARKERSBURG, W.Va. -- The nursing program at West Virginia University at Parkersburg has had its accreditation continued.

The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission says the accreditation was extended following a self-study assessment by the university's Health Sciences division and on on-site visit in October. The next on-site visit is scheduled for 2019.

The university's interim chair of the Health Services division, Debbie Murphy, said the accreditation reflects the "dedication and commitment" of the nursing faculty and college administrators.

WVU Parkersburg graduated its first nursing students in 1969. Besides nursing degrees, WVU Parkersburg offers surgical technology and pharmacy technician certificates.