Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

CNL

The Clinical Nurse Leader or CNL® is a master’s educated nurse, prepared for practice across the continuum of care within any healthcare setting. The CNL was developed by AACN in collaboration with leaders from healthcare practice and education to address the critical need to improve the quality of patient care outcomes.

The CNL is a clinical leader – at the point of care – who focuses on:

  • Care Coordination
  • Outcomes Measurement
  • Transitions of Care
  • Interprofessional Communication & Team Leadership
  • Risk Assessment
  • Implementation of Best Practices Based on Evidence
  • Quality Improvement

Access the CNC web portal

MyCNC Portal

Find a Program

Find a Program

Career Services

Career Services

CNL Resources

CNL Resources

CNL Summit

CNL Summit

Get CNL Certified

Get CNL Certified

Learn More

Learn More

News & Announcements


2025 CNL Awards and ICNLA Conference: Call for Nominations and Abstract Submissions

The AACN and the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC) are now accepting nominations for the 2025 CNL Educator and CNL Vanguard Awards. Please refer to the award pages for eligibility and criteria. The deadline for all applications is December 2 at 5:00 pm (ET).

The International Clinical Nurse Leader Association (ICNLA) invites faculty, researchers, nursing administrators, practicing CNLs, and students to submit abstracts for presentation at its February 2025 conference. Abstracts should highlight initiatives or innovations in CNL research, education, or practice. Submissions are due by December 2.


Save the Date for the 2025 International Clinical Nurse Leader Conference, taking place February 13-15, 2025, in Charlotte, NC. The event is titled 'The CNL Advantage: Driving Sustainable Change in Health Care' and is designed to bring together practicing CNLs, CNL faculty, and students to discuss the impact of Clinical Nurse Leaders on patient care across the healthcare continuum. The flyer includes a background image of the Charlotte, NC skyline and logos of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the Clinical Nurse Leader Association, and Northeastern University as supporters.

 

Value of the CNL

CNL Certification Exam Review ModulesCover of CNL Certification Exam Review Modules Brochure

The modules were created for those seeking to prepare for the CNL Certification Examination, practicing CNLs renewing certification through continuing education units (CEUs), and others seeking nursing continuing professional development opportunities. 

The CNL Certification Exam Review Course features 17 chapters across 6 separate modules. By completing all 6 modules, you are eligible to receive 18 continuing education credits.

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Congratulations to the 2023 CNL Award Recipients

headshot of robert roseCNL Visionary Award

Robert Rose, MS, RN, NEA-BC
Market Chief Nurse Executive, Central Division
Atrium Health


headshot of Jeanne BernierCNL Educator Award

Jeanne Bernier, MSN, RN, CNL
CNL Program Director
Mississippi College

Learn more about the CNL Educator Award Winners


headshot of chrissy bassCNL Vanguard Award

Chrissy Bass, MS, RN, NEA-BC
Clinical Nurse Leader
Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center

Learn more about the CNL Vanguard Award Winners