Connell School of Nursing
The Connell School of Nursing at Boston College, located at 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, is a premier institution dedicated to preparing the next generation of nurses, nurse leaders, and scholars. Established as part of Boston College, a renowned Jesuit institution, the Connell School of Nursing (CSON) is committed to academic rigor, clinical excellence, and the holistic development of its students. The school’s mission is deeply rooted in the Jesuit values of service, social justice, and care for the whole person, which permeate every aspect of its curriculum and community engagement.
CSON offers a comprehensive array of academic programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring nurses at every stage of their careers. At the undergraduate level, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program combines a strong foundation in the liberal arts with rigorous nursing coursework and extensive hands-on clinical experience. Students are prepared to enter the nursing profession as competent, compassionate, and culturally sensitive practitioners. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication, ensuring that graduates are ready to meet the challenges of today’s complex healthcare environment.
For those seeking advanced education, the Connell School of Nursing provides several graduate-level options, including the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing. The MSN program offers a variety of specialties, such as family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology, and pediatric nurse practitioner tracks, allowing students to focus on their areas of interest and expertise. The DNP program is designed for nurses seeking leadership roles in clinical practice, healthcare policy, and administration, while the PhD program prepares nurse scientists to conduct groundbreaking research that advances the science and practice of nursing.
One of the distinguishing features of CSON is its commitment to experiential learning. Students benefit from clinical placements in some of the best hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Greater Boston area, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital, and many others. These partnerships provide students with invaluable real-world experience, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in diverse clinical settings and work alongside experienced healthcare professionals.
Research is a cornerstone of the Connell School of Nursing. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research on a wide range of topics, including chronic disease management, health disparities, mental health, palliative care, and global health. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, either as part of their coursework or through independent study, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and innovation. The school’s research centers and initiatives, such as the Institute for the Care of Vulnerable Populations, provide additional opportunities for scholarly collaboration and impact.
In addition to its academic and research excellence, the Connell School of Nursing is deeply committed to community service and global engagement. Students participate in service-learning projects, health promotion initiatives, and outreach programs that address the needs of underserved populations locally and internationally. Whether through health education workshops, vaccination clinics, or global immersion trips, CSON students and faculty exemplify the school’s mission to make a positive difference in the world.
The Connell School of Nursing boasts a vibrant and supportive community. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized advising, and numerous mentorship opportunities. The faculty are not only distinguished scholars and practitioners but also dedicated educators who are invested in the success and well-being of their students. The school also offers a range of student organizations, leadership development programs, and networking events that foster professional growth and camaraderie.
In summary, the Connell School of Nursing at Boston College stands out as a leader in nursing education, research, and service. Its holistic approach to nursing education, rooted in Jesuit values, prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape while making meaningful contributions to society. Whether pursuing undergraduate or advanced degrees, students at CSON are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become exceptional nurses and leaders in the field.