Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, located at 1520 Clifton Rd NE Suite 244, Atlanta, GA 30322, stands as one of the nation’s premier nursing schools, renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education, research, and leadership. As the nursing school of Emory University, it has established itself as a leader in shaping the future of healthcare both locally and globally.
Founded in 1905, the school is named in honor of Nell Hodgson Woodruff, wife of former Coca-Cola president Robert W. Woodruff, who was a dedicated advocate for nursing and healthcare. The school’s mission is to educate visionary nurse leaders and scholars who are committed to advancing health and transforming healthcare systems through evidence-based practice, research, and service.
Academically, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing offers a range of degree programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring nurses at every stage of their careers. These include the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Accelerated BSN for students with prior degrees, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with multiple specialty tracks such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, and Adult/Gerontology, as well as Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD in Nursing programs. The school is particularly known for its innovative curriculum that integrates classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences at renowned healthcare institutions in Atlanta, including Emory Healthcare, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and other community partners.
The faculty at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing are recognized nationally and internationally for their expertise in nursing practice, research, and education. Many hold leadership positions in professional organizations and contribute to shaping policies that impact the nursing profession and healthcare delivery. Their research spans a wide array of topics, including maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS prevention, chronic disease management, palliative care, and health disparities. The school is home to several research centers and initiatives that foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in healthcare.
Students at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing benefit from a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school emphasizes interprofessional education, allowing students to collaborate with peers from Emory’s schools of medicine, public health, and allied health, mirroring the collaborative nature of modern healthcare teams. Simulation labs equipped with the latest technology provide opportunities for students to practice clinical skills in a safe and realistic setting before transitioning to real patient care. The school also offers a variety of global health opportunities, enabling students to gain experience in diverse healthcare settings around the world.
Community engagement is a core value at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. The school partners with local organizations to provide health education, screenings, and services to underserved populations in Atlanta and beyond. Through initiatives such as the Farmworker Family Health Program and the Emory Global Health Institute, students and faculty contribute to addressing health inequities and promoting wellness in vulnerable communities.
The school’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in its recruitment, admissions, and retention strategies. It strives to create a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds and actively promotes cultural competence in nursing practice. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and student organizations support professional development and foster a sense of belonging within the nursing community.
Graduates of the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing are highly sought after by employers and consistently achieve high pass rates on licensure and certification exams. Alumni hold leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, and public health agencies across the country and around the world. The school’s strong network of alumni provides ongoing support and career development opportunities for current students and recent graduates.
In summary, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is dedicated to preparing nurses who are compassionate, knowledgeable, and equipped to lead in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. With its rich history, innovative programs, distinguished faculty, and commitment to service, it continues to set the standard for nursing education and contribute to the advancement of health and healthcare on a global scale.