Marywood University

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum integrates foundations in biological and behavioural sciences with professional nursing knowledge and clinical decision-making. Core topics include human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment and lifespan growth and development. Nursing-focused modules cover adult medical–surgical nursing, maternal–child health, paediatric nursing, mental health and psychiatric nursing, community and public health nursing, and care of older adults.

Pathways within the programme allow students to concentrate on Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. Nursing Administration coursework emphasises leadership, healthcare systems, finance and human resource management. Nursing Research introduces evidence-based practice, statistics and research methods to prepare nurses to evaluate and apply research findings. Clinical Nursing coursework deepens advanced assessment, complex care management and specialty clinical practicum experiences.

The programme combines classroom instruction, high-fidelity simulation and supervised clinical placements in hospitals, community agencies and long-term care settings. Students typically complete a clinical capstone or practicum in which they synthesise clinical judgment, care coordination and professional leadership. Interprofessional learning and opportunities in health promotion, patient advocacy and quality improvement are embedded throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in college-preparatory science and mathematics. Typical prerequisites include courses in biology and chemistry; anatomy and physiology is highly recommended. Admissions decisions consider academic performance (high school or prior college GPA), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining commitment to nursing.

Many applicants will be asked to complete an admissions assessment or interview as part of the selection process. Accepted students must meet clinical placement requirements such as immunisations, health screening, CPR certification, and may be required to pass background checks and drug screening prior to practicum experiences. International applicants should provide proof of English language proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the national licensure examination for registered nurses and begin practice in a wide range of clinical settings, including acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health organisations, long-term care facilities and schools. With a BSN and experience, alumni commonly move into roles such as staff nurse, charge nurse, case manager, clinical nurse leader or specialised clinical roles (for example in medical–surgical, critical care, maternal–child or mental health).

Those who pursue the Nursing Administration concentration may advance into supervisory and managerial positions in healthcare organisations, while the Nursing Research concentration supports roles in quality improvement, clinical research coordination and positions that contribute to evidence-based practice. The BSN also provides the academic foundation for graduate study (MSN, DNP, PhD) and advanced practice careers such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or nurse educator.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a values-driven nursing education grounded in the Franciscan tradition, emphasising compassionate care, service and community engagement. The programme features small class sizes and accessible faculty who combine academic and clinical expertise. Simulation labs and skills suites give students realistic, hands-on practice before entering clinical settings.

Marywood maintains longstanding partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics and community agencies to support diverse clinical placements and professional networking. The curriculum emphasises interprofessional collaboration, leadership development and preparation for contemporary healthcare challenges, making it suitable for students who aspire to both bedside practice and leadership or research roles in nursing.