Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing – Montana State University
The Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing at Montana State University, located in Bozeman, MT, is a premier institution dedicated to preparing highly skilled and compassionate nurses who are ready to meet the healthcare needs of Montana, the nation, and the world. As the only publicly funded nursing school in Montana, the College has a long-standing commitment to excellence in nursing education, research, and community service. Established in 1937, the college has evolved into a leader in innovative nursing education, fostering a collaborative environment where students can thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
The mission of the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing is to enhance the health and well-being of people and communities through education, research, practice, and service. The college offers a range of accredited programs designed to meet the diverse needs of students at various stages of their nursing careers. These include a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an accelerated BSN for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, a Master of Nursing (MN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a PhD in Nursing. The curriculum is rigorous, evidence-based, and constantly updated to reflect best practices and emerging trends in healthcare, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of modern nursing.
One of the distinguishing features of the College is its commitment to rural healthcare. Montana is a largely rural state, and the nursing college recognizes the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural and frontier communities. As a result, students receive specialized training in rural health, including clinical placements in rural and underserved areas. This hands-on experience not only prepares students to provide high-quality care in any setting but also fosters a sense of social responsibility and commitment to service. The college’s emphasis on rural health is supported by strong partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and public health agencies, providing students with a wide range of clinical learning opportunities.
The faculty at the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing are experienced educators, clinicians, and researchers who are passionate about student success. They are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and develop their own professional identities. Faculty members are actively engaged in research on issues such as rural health disparities, chronic disease management, mental health, and healthcare policy. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, gaining valuable skills in evidence-based practice and contributing to the advancement of nursing knowledge.
The College of Nursing is located on the main campus of Montana State University in Bozeman, a vibrant college town nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Bozeman offers a high quality of life, with abundant outdoor recreation, a thriving arts scene, and a strong sense of community. In addition to the Bozeman campus, the College has additional sites across Montana—in Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell, and Missoula—making nursing education accessible to students throughout the state. This multi-campus system allows the College to reach a wide geographic area and to better serve the diverse needs of Montana’s population.
Student support is a top priority at the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing. The College offers a variety of resources, including academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and career counseling. Student organizations, special interest groups, and honor societies provide opportunities for leadership development, networking, and professional growth. The College also emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, encouraging graduates to pursue advanced degrees and specialty certifications.
Graduates of the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing are highly sought after by employers and consistently achieve excellent outcomes on licensure and certification exams. Alumni are employed in hospitals, clinics, schools, public health agencies, and community organizations across Montana and beyond. Many graduates choose to stay in Montana, helping to address the state’s ongoing nursing shortage and improve healthcare access for all Montanans.
In summary, the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing at Montana State University is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that is shaping the future of nursing in Montana and beyond. Through its commitment to academic excellence, rural healthcare, student support, and community engagement, the College is preparing the next generation of nurses to lead, innovate, and make a positive impact on the world of healthcare.