Slippery Rock University Launches Innovative Four-Year Nursing Degree Program

Slippery Rock University's New Four-Year Nursing Program

Slippery Rock University (SRU) has unveiled an exciting new addition to its academic offerings: a four-year, pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Launching in Fall 2026, this initiative aims to provide students with a robust and immersive education that prepares them for one of the most critical and in-demand careers in the healthcare sector.

A Clear Pathway to Nursing

Starting from the fall of 2026, students enrolled in the BSN program will embark on a 120-credit curriculum designed to be completed within four years. The program will allow students to pursue their nursing education entirely on SRU's campus, providing an affordable and hands-on learning journey that is crucial in shaping the future of healthcare professionals. The curriculum includes early exposure to nursing fundamentals, extensive clinical training, and a supportive environment that promotes academic success and professional growth.

The program aims to not just educate, but also empower students to become skilled nurses prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) upon graduation. What sets this program apart is its foundation on SRU's rich history of nursing education, spanning over five decades, including innovative programs that have already produced numerous qualified nurses.

Building on a Legacy of Excellence

SRU's contribution to nursing education is notable; for over 50 years, the university has developed nursing degrees that reflect modern healthcare's needs. The new BSN program builds on the success of SRU's existing RN-to-BSN program, a trailblazer in online nursing education that has graduated 763 students over the last decade. Additionally, the introduction of a 1+2+1 nursing program in Fall 2025 allowed students to earn their RN at partner institutions while enhancing SRU's commitment to nursing education.

The BSN program not only focuses on the educational aspect but ensures that students gain practical experience through laboratory simulations and clinical practice. By the third year, students will engage in hands-on patient care experiences that are critical for developing clinical judgment and empathy—skills essential for any successful nursing career.

Investing in Future Healthcare Heroes

The urgency of the nursing shortage in Pennsylvania and across the United States cannot be overstated. The state faces an annual shortage of over 2,500 nurses, a gap that the new BSN program at SRU seeks to address effectively. With an aging population and increasing healthcare demands, the need for well-trained, compassionate nursing professionals has never been greater. SRU’s proactive approach answers this critical workforce challenge, helping to minimize the deficit of BSN-prepared nurses in the region, as over 1,200 nursing positions remain unfilled within a 150-mile radius of SRU’s campus.

Christine Karshin, dean of the College of Health Professions, emphasizes that the program aligns with the university's mission to enhance regional healthcare delivery. "Our regions urgently need highly skilled professionals, and our communities deserve the best care from those trained locally," said Karshin. This commitment reflects SRU's dedication not only to its students but also to the communities it serves.

Financial Accessibility and Career Potential

One of the standout features of SRU's nursing program is its affordability. In-state tuition is competitive at $7,994 annually, with total costs for Pennsylvania undergraduates averaging less than $26,000. The financial viability of obtaining a BSN at SRU is clear, especially considering that graduates command an average starting salary of $96,000—almost $20,000 higher than their counterparts with associate degrees. Over their careers, this financial difference can exceed $500,000, making the BSN a wise investment.

SRU’s nursing program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) through 2034, ensuring its adherence to high educational standards and continual improvement. The program was officially approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing in January 2026, aligning its curriculum with National Nurse Competencies and NCLEX-RN content areas.

Join the Nursing Revolution

For those interested in exploring a future in nursing, further information about the program and application details can be found on the SRU website. With limited space accommodating only 40 first-year students for the initial semester, interested candidates are encouraged to apply early. SRU anticipates growth in program enrollment, aiming for over 80 students by the end of its fifth year.

As Slippery Rock University embarks on this new chapter in nursing education, it not only prepares future nurses but also reaffirms its commitment to addressing longstanding healthcare employment challenges and training locally-centered professionals who are ready to make a significant impact in their communities.