Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing
Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing (PHSSN) is a distinguished institution located at 2149 Hickory St, Abilene, Texas, 79601. As a collaborative nursing school, PHSSN represents a unique partnership between Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University. This alliance enables the school to draw on the strengths and resources of all three institutions, providing students with a robust and interdisciplinary educational experience in nursing.
PHSSN is committed to developing compassionate, skilled, and ethical nursing professionals who are prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare. The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The curriculum is designed to blend rigorous academic coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality patient care in diverse healthcare settings.
A hallmark of PHSSN is its emphasis on student-centered learning. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and educators who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment. Small class sizes allow for individualized attention, promoting close relationships between students and faculty. In addition, the school employs innovative teaching methods, including simulation-based learning, case studies, and interprofessional collaboration, to enhance students’ critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.
The clinical component of PHSSN’s programs is particularly robust. Through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations across Abilene and the wider region, students gain practical experience in a variety of settings, such as acute care, primary care, pediatrics, mental health, and community health nursing. These clinical rotations not only reinforce classroom learning but also expose students to real-world challenges and opportunities in nursing practice.
PHSSN is also deeply committed to service and leadership. The school encourages students to participate in outreach programs, local and international mission trips, and community health initiatives. By engaging in service learning, students develop cultural competence, empathy, and a commitment to social justice—qualities that are essential for effective nursing practice in today’s globalized world.
Research and evidence-based practice are integral to the mission of PHSSN. The school promotes a scholarly environment where students and faculty collaborate on research projects aimed at improving patient outcomes and advancing the nursing profession. Graduate students, in particular, have opportunities to engage in scholarly inquiry, quality improvement initiatives, and leadership development, preparing them for advanced roles in clinical practice, education, and administration.
PHSSN’s facilities are state-of-the-art, featuring advanced simulation labs, modern classrooms, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. The simulation labs replicate real-life healthcare scenarios, allowing students to practice clinical skills, teamwork, and communication in a safe and supportive environment. This hands-on approach ensures that students are confident and competent as they transition to professional practice.
The school is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards of academic quality and integrity. Graduates of PHSSN are highly sought after by employers due to their strong clinical skills, ethical grounding, and readiness to contribute to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
In summary, Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing stands out as a premier institution for nursing education in West Texas. Its collaborative model, comprehensive curriculum, dedicated faculty, and commitment to service and research create a nurturing and challenging environment where students can thrive. Whether pursuing entry-level nursing education or seeking advanced practice and leadership roles, students at PHSSN are prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of nursing.