Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, located in the state-of-the-art Samson Pavilion at 9501 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, is a premier institution dedicated to advancing the profession of nursing through excellence in education, research, and clinical practice. As part of Case Western Reserve University, one of the nation’s leading research universities, the school is recognized for its innovative approach to nursing education and its commitment to preparing nurses who are leaders, advocates, and change agents in healthcare.
Founded in 1923 and named after Frances Payne Bolton, a philanthropist and former U.S. Congresswoman with a deep commitment to nursing and public health, the school has a rich legacy of pioneering advancements in the field. It was one of the first schools to offer the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and is renowned for its contributions to nursing research, particularly in areas such as aging, acute and critical care, and community health.
The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of programs, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD degrees. The undergraduate BSN program is distinguished by its early clinical experiences—students begin hands-on patient care in their first semester, giving them a unique advantage in clinical skill development and professional confidence. Graduate programs are designed to prepare advanced practice nurses, nurse leaders, educators, and researchers who will shape the future of healthcare.
The school is housed in the Health Education Campus’s Samson Pavilion, a cutting-edge facility that fosters interprofessional collaboration among nursing, medicine, dental, and physician assistant programs. This environment reflects the realities of modern healthcare, where teamwork and communication across disciplines are essential for optimal patient outcomes. The pavilion features simulation labs, advanced technology, and collaborative learning spaces, providing students with unparalleled resources to enhance their education.
Faculty at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing are leaders in their fields, bringing a wealth of clinical expertise and research acumen to the classroom. Many are recipients of national and international awards, and their research addresses pressing health issues, from chronic disease management to health disparities and nursing workforce development. Students have the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research, often working alongside faculty mentors on projects that have real-world impact.
Clinical education at the school is robust, thanks in part to strong partnerships with some of the nation’s top healthcare institutions, including University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth, and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. These affiliations provide students with diverse clinical experiences in hospitals, community agencies, and specialty settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of contemporary nursing practice.
Community engagement and service are integral to the school’s mission. Students and faculty are involved in numerous outreach initiatives, both locally and globally, addressing health disparities and promoting wellness in underserved populations. The school’s emphasis on cultural competence and social responsibility prepares graduates to serve as advocates for patients and communities.
The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing is also committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The school values the unique perspectives and experiences that students from different backgrounds bring, and it actively works to create a supportive community where all students can thrive.
Graduates of the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing are highly sought after by employers for their clinical proficiency, leadership skills, and commitment to patient-centered care. Alumni have gone on to become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, educators, researchers, healthcare executives, and policymakers, making significant contributions to the profession and to society.
In summary, the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University stands as a leader in nursing education, research, and practice. With its innovative curriculum, world-class faculty, outstanding facilities, and commitment to service and inclusion, it prepares nurses who are ready to meet the challenges of today’s healthcare environment and to shape the future of nursing for generations to come.