Medical facilities throughout Oklahoma are getting a much-needed shot in the arm.
Oklahoma State University’s four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is making great strides toward closing the gap in the state and national shortage of nursing professionals, producing a new generation of highly qualified nurses equipped to lead with confidence.
Housed within the College of Education and Human Sciences, the BSN program is the culmination of years of dedication and collaboration. From its early planning stages to celebrating the first graduating class, this initiative continues to grow with purpose and momentum.
Now in its third year, the program welcomed over 165 aspiring nurses to the Stillwater campus for 2025-26. Since its inception in the fall of 2023, the program has accepted over 300 students.
Director of nursing Dr. Alana Cluck says it has been incredibly ewarding to lead and witness the transformation of a vision into a thriving reality.
“I am immensely proud that the BSN program at OSU is built on a strong foundation of academic excellence, a supportive and compassionate learning environment, and a commitment to high expectations,” Cluck said.
“We strive to empower our students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in today’s health care landscape. Our nursing faculty represents a cohesive, highly experienced, compassionate and exceptionally knowledgeable team of nurse educators whose collective expertise and dedication to student success set them apart.”
Substantial growth has been found in enrollment capacity, faculty size and facilities.
Eight new faculty members have joined the team for the 2025-26 academic year.
Backed by rigorous courses, hands-on clinicals and statewide support, program graduates are ready to make an impact from day one.
OSU BSN students have the unique experience of being embedded in campus life, like any other student. Dr. Diane Cannon, assistant professor of nursing, believes this illustrates the well-rounded nature of the program.
“Yes, they’re training to become highly competent, compassionate nurses in an intensive academic program. But they’re also getting the full OSU experience – something many nursing students in other programs simply don’t have,” Cannon said.
“Our students are part of a vibrant, traditional college campus. They cheer on the Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium, join Greek life, attend concerts and cultural events, and make lifelong friendships in student organizations. They study hard but feel connected to a larger community that celebrates who they are and who they’re becoming.”
Just as important, they’re surrounded by top-tier campus resources – from the LASSO Center and the Reboot Center, to mental health support, tutoring, academic coaching and career services. These wraparound supports ensure they don’t just survive nursing school, they thrive.
It’s not just about becoming a nurse,” Cannon said. “It’s about growing into a well-rounded,
resilient and connected leader. That’s the Cowboy Scan QR Code way – and it’s a difference you can feel.” For more information, visit www.go.okstate.edu.
