SNU, founded in Bethany, OK in 1899, is a faith-based University. While at SNU, students receive instruction through the lens of a Christian worldview. “Purposefully Different” describes SNU well. That motto is reflected in this year’s School of Nursing (SON) theme of “Difference Makers”. Over the years, SNU has been forward-thinking and intentional in exploring new programs and degrees, while maintaining a strong liberal arts foundation. Following that path, a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree was launched in 1982.
The program incorporates planned interactions among Nursing faculty and students early and often. These times of connectivity allow students to get to know the Nursing faculty
(who are also their advisors) from their first days at SNU. As they build relationships with students, faculty can identify and offer interventions to those who may benefit from additional encouragement and support. These factors contribute to increased student satisfaction, retention, and success.
A significant contribution to the formation of SNU Nursing students’ care for others begins the first week of their freshman year. Because students begin building cohesion with members of their cohort as soon as they enter SNU, the opportunity for peer support is established early. It is exciting to watch student interactions transform from first-day uncertainties into a supportive community, often within the first semester. Students begin, during their first classes, to share concerns, as well as problem-solving skills, and to encourage each other.
The unique distribution of pre-nursing and BSN courses throughout the 4 years provides a flexibility that enables students to pursue extracurricular activities, such as athletics, music, and internships while progressing through the program as full-time students. Some students involve themselves in service to others, such as participating in Students in Missions during breaks. These programs may take students to areas inside or outside of the United States. The result is graduates who are well rounded personally and professionally.
SNU’s BSN students benefit from well-supplied and supervised skills labs and an expanding simulation (SIM) lab. In addition to low and mid-fidelity simulation, the SON has multiple high-fidelity human patient simulators (HPS): adult, pediatric, and obstetric. HPS provide students with opportunities to see, hear, and interact with realistic situations leading to high-level critical decision-making experiences. Students then implement interventions determined to address identified problems within a safe environment.
Students learn the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration during their first semester, helping them build a life-long understanding of and appreciation for other healthcare professionals. An added advantage of having a SIM lab with HPS is the provision of a venue for interdisciplinary collaboration with other healthcare programs; contributing to an early understanding of continuity of care.
BSN students, trained by highly qualified faculty, graduate from SNU with a deep desire to truly see and serve others, providing excellent holistic care. Approximately 95% of graduates from the Nursing program have jobs or job offers prior to graduation. Their professional Nursing degree opens doors for them to serve across the country and around the world.
For more information www.snu.edu/major/school-of-nursing
