UNMC College of Nursing
UNMC College of Nursing – West Nebraska Division is a distinguished nursing school located at 1601 E 27th St, Scottsbluff, NE 69361. As one of the five divisions of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Nursing, the Scottsbluff campus plays a vital role in educating future nurses and advancing healthcare in western Nebraska and surrounding regions.
The UNMC College of Nursing, established in 1917, is renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education, research, and service. The West Nebraska Division, opened in 1987, was specifically created to address the critical need for highly skilled nurses in rural and underserved communities. The campus is situated in the regional medical hub of Scottsbluff, providing students with unique opportunities for hands-on clinical experience within a diverse patient population.
**Academic Programs:**
The UNMC College of Nursing at Scottsbluff offers a range of academic programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring nurses at various stages of their careers. These include the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) traditional program, the RN to BSN program for registered nurses seeking to advance their education, and graduate programs such as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The curriculum is carefully developed to blend rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical practice, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to provide high-quality patient care and to assume leadership roles within the healthcare system.
**Clinical Experience:**
A hallmark of the UNMC nursing program is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students at the Scottsbluff campus benefit from strong partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The campus is adjacent to Regional West Medical Center, a major healthcare facility in western Nebraska, which offers students exposure to a wide range of clinical settings, including acute care, outpatient services, rural health, and specialized units. This proximity allows for immersive learning, mentorship from experienced practitioners, and opportunities to work with patients across the lifespan.
**Faculty and Resources:**
The faculty at UNMC College of Nursing – West Nebraska Division are experienced educators, clinicians, and researchers dedicated to student success. Small class sizes and a supportive learning environment foster close student-faculty relationships and individualized attention. Faculty members are actively engaged in advancing nursing practice through research and innovation, often involving students in scholarly projects and quality improvement initiatives.
The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art simulation labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and learning resources that replicate real-world healthcare environments. These facilities enable students to practice clinical skills, critical thinking, and teamwork in a safe and supportive setting before transitioning to direct patient care.
**Community Engagement:**
The UNMC College of Nursing in Scottsbluff is deeply committed to serving the health needs of rural and underserved populations. Students participate in community outreach programs, health fairs, and public health initiatives aimed at improving wellness and access to care. The program emphasizes cultural competence, population health, and the social determinants of health, preparing graduates to be advocates for patients and communities.
**Career Outcomes:**
Graduates of the UNMC College of Nursing are highly sought after by employers throughout Nebraska and beyond. The school’s strong reputation, comprehensive education, and emphasis on leadership and professionalism ensure that alumni are well-prepared for diverse roles in hospitals, clinics, community health organizations, and advanced practice settings. Many graduates choose to remain in rural areas, helping to address critical workforce shortages and improve health outcomes in their communities.
**Conclusion:**
The UNMC College of Nursing – West Nebraska Division in Scottsbluff stands as a leader in nursing education, known for its academic excellence, clinical partnerships, and commitment to rural health. By combining rigorous academics, hands-on experience, and a mission-driven approach, the school prepares nurses to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their patients and the broader healthcare system.