Kent State University College of Nursing
Kent State University College of Nursing, located in Kent, Ohio, stands as one of the largest and most respected nursing schools in the state and the region. Established in 1967, the College of Nursing is an integral part of Kent State University, a renowned public research university. The college is committed to excellence in nursing education, research, practice, and service, preparing students to become compassionate and skilled nursing professionals equipped to meet the evolving needs of healthcare.
The College of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through several pathways, including a traditional four-year program, an accelerated second-degree program for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, and an RN-to-BSN program designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career opportunities. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical experience, critical thinking, and patient-centered care.
Graduate nursing education at Kent State is equally robust, offering Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing degrees. The MSN program features a variety of concentrations, such as Nurse Practitioner (with specializations in Family, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric, Psychiatric Mental Health, and Women’s Health), Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator. The DNP program prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical practice, focusing on leadership, evidence-based practice, and healthcare policy. The PhD program is research-intensive, preparing nurse scientists to advance the science of nursing and improve healthcare outcomes through research and scholarship.
Kent State University College of Nursing is known for its innovative curriculum, highly qualified faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The college boasts simulation labs equipped with advanced technology, allowing students to practice and refine their clinical skills in a realistic and safe environment before working with real patients. Clinical placements are arranged with leading hospitals and healthcare organizations across Northeast Ohio, providing students with diverse and enriching hands-on experience in a variety of settings, including acute care, community health, mental health, pediatrics, and more.
Faculty at the College of Nursing are leaders in their fields, dedicated to teaching, research, and service. Many faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research addressing critical health issues such as chronic disease management, health disparities, mental health, and nursing education. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty, and present their findings at local, regional, and national conferences.
The College of Nursing is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, striving to create a supportive and welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. The college offers a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and career counseling to ensure student success. Student organizations, such as the Kent State Student Nurses Association and specialty interest groups, provide networking, leadership, and professional development opportunities.
Accreditation is a cornerstone of the college’s commitment to quality. The baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the rigorous demands of the nursing profession and to pursue licensure and certification.
Graduates of Kent State University College of Nursing are highly sought after by employers and have a strong record of success on licensure and certification exams. Alumni work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, community agencies, research institutions, and leadership positions in healthcare organizations.
In summary, Kent State University College of Nursing provides a nurturing and dynamic learning environment where students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become leaders in nursing. Through its academic excellence, innovative programs, commitment to diversity, and active engagement with the community, the college continues to shape the future of nursing both in Ohio and beyond.