Points of Excellence: CSB/SJU Nursing Program

• The Nursing Program is fully approved by the MN Board of Nursing (2009) and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE, 2007-2017)
• Pass rates on licensing exams have consistently exceeded national pass rates for baccalaureate graduates (91-96% from classes of 2006, 2007, and 2008)
• 100% of graduates are fully employed within the first year after graduation; employers are highly satisfied with CSB/SJU graduates; job market information can be found at http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/; average full-time salary for new RNs is approximately $50,000-$55,000 per year.
• Over 90% of our graduates complete the nursing program in four years; those taking longer have transferred to CSB/SJU or changed majors prior to admission to the nursing program
• The curriculum prepares the generalist nurse for a wide range of practice settings, is consistent with the Pew Commission and other professional recommendations on educating health professionals, and has a strong emphasis on cultural competence and care of the older adult.
• A senior-level clinical/leadership intensive capstone provides an excellent forum for entry to practice; every nursing course integrates liberal learning concepts and Catholic principles/Benedictine values
• All students have the opportunity to complete a short-stay study abroad experience in Port Elizabeth, South Africa or Juarez, Mexico with additional sites under development
• Students participate in the Minnesota Student Nurse Association (MSNA) and also have opportunities for on-campus for professional development such as resume/interview workshops and a student mentorship program
• Nursing Club maintains an active program of service and fundraising including participation in the arthritis walk, on-campus recycling, and a highway clean-up program
• Faculty are committed to excellence in student learning, teaching, service, and scholarship; many faculty have partnered with students or other community members in nursing research projects
• The Nursing Department is active in Sigma Theta Tau International, a renowned honor society emphasizing leadership and scholarship in nursing Major planning and renovation of the nursing learning laboratory are currently underway to better integrate simulation and information technology