Nursing student looking at the camera with other students working in the background

Nursing Programs at Mercyhurst

The region's best path to a nursing career.

Mercyhurst University’s Nursing programs are recognized for producing compassionate, skilled leaders in the nursing field, thanks to hands-on clinical training, access to state-of-the-art equipment, and unparalleled faculty support. Nursing jobs are in high demand at every level thanks to advances in health care technology allowing for greater treatment opportunities and longer lifespans in the population. All of Mercyhurst’s Nursing programs are now located in one newly renovated convenient location with one shared goal: to graduate experienced nursing professionals. With programs available on campus and online, there is no shortage of opportunities—whether you’re just entering the field or looking to advance your nursing career.

Our mission is to consistently prepare knowledgeable, merciful, compassionate, creative, accountable, and respectful nurses who embody a passion for excellence, lifelong learning, and true caring for all they encounter. This will be accomplished through a united faculty that will foster consistency, communication, teamwork in decision-making, and use of evidence-based practices in classroom and clinical settings.  

Five Excellent Nursing Programs

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  • Practical Nursing Certificate

    Full-time program
    One-year certificate
    In-person coursework
     

    In this program—the region’s only 12-month practical nursing program—you’ll get the engaging coursework and hands-on training you need to start your nursing career at an affordable, all-inclusive price. When you’re ready for the next step, you can take advantage of our unique LPN-RN bridge program. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

    Students listening to a nursing lecture
  • Registered Nursing (ASN)

    Full- or part-time program
    Two-year associate degree
    In-person coursework
     

    As one of the most trusted and affordable RN programs in the region, we prepare our graduates with the skills to accurately assess patients, deliver quality care, and communicate effectively with patients and care teams. In as little as two years, you’ll be equipped to pass your National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and start your career in the health field as an RN.

     

    Students looking at lab equipment.
  • BSN Program

    Full-time program
    Traditional 4-year bachelor's degree
    In-person coursework

    With Mercyhurst’s newest nursing program, you'll be able to earn a bachelor's degree in four years, or less with our three-year accelerated or LPN-BSN bridge options. This program is ideal for students who want the traditional college experience, with hands-on coursework taught by our experienced faculty in our new facilities. Graduates will have all the skills necessary to pass the NCLEX nursing licensure exam.

    Professor and student working with mannequin
  • BSN Completion Program

    For current RNs
    Two-year bachelor's degree
    Blended coursework (in person and online)
     

    The BSN completion program is the ideal next step for those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. You’ll benefit from the flexibility of a blended program design, which combines online coursework with on-campus classes. The program works around your schedule, leaving time for family and work commitments, as you acquire the skills needed to excel in a supervisory role. 

    nursing student examines mannequin
  • Integrative Nursing Leadership MSN

    For current BSNs
    One- to two-year master's degree
    100% online coursework

    Take the next step in a leadership role with this affordable online MSN. The program’s unique focus on integrative health, resiliency and patient safety prepares you to address some of the most pressing issues in health care today. You’ll learn evidence-based applications of health and well-being strategies with patient populations as well as the health care team members that you lead. 

    Student working on computer

Nursing Facilities

Our recently renovated nursing space on Mercyhurst’s campus in Erie, Pennsylvania, houses one of the best nursing facilities in the region. Two clinical skills labs provide the abilities necessary for you to have a safe transition from classroom learning to a real-world setting. You'll practice critical nursing skills using computer-controlled mannequins, medical equipment, task trainers, and low-fidelity mannequins in the clinical skills lab. Our simulation suite contains high-fidelity mannequins, debriefing rooms, video-recording equipment, and medical equipment that closely mimics the clinical environment.

Watch the videos below to receive an overview and virtual tour of our nursing facilities.

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