Edited by Ayodele Nwosu
Published on May 29th, 2015
The Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University is widely recognized as the top RN (Registered Nurse) education program in the city of Chicago, IL. With an acceptance rate of approximately 60%, the RN program at Loyola is highly competitive and selective in choosing its students. In addition to its BSN degree program Loyola is one of the largest accredited LPN schools in Chicago.
One of the reasons why Loyola’s nursing programs are so successful in preparing students for the field is the inclusion of many hands-on learning opportunities during the program. Through exposure to real-life scenarios and healthcare environments students gain intimate knowledge and invaluable real world experience before practicing nursing. The University has partnerships with local healthcare facilities, plus access to its own hospital and training laboratory. Loyola boasts extremely high graduation rates and successful job placement of recent graduates in their desired fields.
Another advantage of attending Loyola is the opportunity to choose between many different nursing degree programs such as 4-year BSN degree, Accelerated BSN degree, RN to BSN degree completion, RN to MSN, Doctor of Nursing Practice, PhD in Nursing, and several certificate level nursing programs. These options give all students the ability to select the program which best fits their needs and will provide the proper training for their future role in nursing.
The third primary advantage of Loyola’s nursing programs are the strength and experience of their faculty members. With 172 published works and counting, the faculty have proven to be leaders in the field of nursing and innovators in health care. Recent international recognition was awarded to faculty member Leann Horsley, PhD, who was recently asked to assume a three-year position as lead nurse planner for the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation & Learning, after several years serving as a member of the organization. Another faculty member, Patricia Friend, PhD, APN-CNS, AOCN, AGN-BC, recently earned a newly created certification in Advanced Genetics Nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This ground-breaking accomplishment illustrates the fact that the faculty members at Loyola are at the top of their professions and are recognized as such by other professionals.
Choosing a nursing program can be difficult, but remember, your Alma Mater will follow you throughout your career and remain on your resume. The skills and knowledge you acquire in your primary nurse education program will guide your path as a nursing professional and be a key factor in determining your ultimate success in the profession. Selecting a strong program with expert faculty, excellent resources and state-of-the-art facilities will come in handy down the road. The Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University in Chicago makes an excellent choice.
