College of Nursing

Our Past

As nursing education shifted from hospitals toward university affiliation, LDS Hospital School of Nursing provided roots for the establishment of Brigham Young University College of Nursing. In 1952, under the direction of President Ernest L. Wilkinson and Director Vivian Hansen, Brigham Young University College of Nursing opened its doors to nursing students.

The following fifty years saw the attainment of state and national accreditation, the implementation of graduate degree programs, and the beginning of a legacy of international service. At the turn of the century, technology became available for simulated learning. A Nursing Learning Center, directed by a national simulation expert, was established. High-fidelity adult, pediatric, and birthing simulators were acquired, introducing students to real-life scenarios

The Present

Today, BYU College of Nursing educates over 400 students annually who are among the highest academically qualified in the country. As a vital part of their preparation, students engage in clinical practice in more than 250 clinical sites in the Mountain West and beyond. They have opportunities in a variety of local and international areas including Australia, Ecuador, England, Taiwan, and Jordan. In addition, students study research, ethics, advanced writing, and religion.

The baccalaureate program draws students from across the U. S. and several foreign countries. Students enter the nursing program in their sophomore year, and nursing coursework is generally completed in three years.

The master’s program prepares graduates for advanced practice nursing as Family Nurse Practitioners and for leadership in the profession of nursing. The program is ranked in the top 10% of U. S. graduate nursing programs in the 2009 edition of U. S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools. Employment rate for graduates is 100%.

Our Future

Brigham Young University College of Nursing recognizes an overwhelming need for highly qualified nurses throughout the world. To help fill this need the College of Nursing is dedicated to providing the highest quality nursing education. Preparation at BYU includes the integration of the arts, science, and technology, with a devotion to human values and the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In order to continue to provide a dynamic education, we look forward to innovative learning through renovation and expansion of the Nursing Learning Center.