students from Gannon University are involved in more than 3,000 service-learning hours per year. In addition to the baccalaureate program, Gannon offers an online RN to BSN completion option, an online post-bachelor?s certificate in school nursing and an on-ground RN to MSN program leading to a master?s degree in nursing.

You Will Experience

Clinical experiences are an integral part of the baccalaureate nursing curriculum. The Villa Maria School of Nursing has affiliation agreements with more than 50 healthcare agencies in northwestern Pennsylvania. Students complete 980 hours of supervised clinical experience before graduation. During senior year, students will complete 224 hours of clinical with a RN preceptor to provide synthesis of the professional nursing role. Our state-of-the-art Patient Simulation Center is integrated throughout the curriculum to enhance student clinical expertise, critical thinking ability and confidence in clinical practice.

Between the student?s junior and senior years, summer internships are available in Erie?s medical centers and hospitals. Students can also apply to health centers close to home in preparation for their first position after graduation. Internship areas of interest include medical surgical floors, psychiatric mental health facilities, intensive care units, oncology units, pediatric facilities and mother/baby centers. Students can qualify after successful completion of the sophomore year to be employed as nurse aides.

You Will Achieve

Students will be prepared to enter into the largest healthcare profession. The Villa Maria School of Nursing helps students develop intellectual curiosity and a quest for life-long learning. Achieving the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) provides the foundation for entry-level professional nursing practice and preparation for graduate-level study in professional nursing.

You Will Earn

The employment opportunities for registered nurses (RNs) are excellent, as a continued shortage of RNs is projected through 2025. Salaries in the industry vary depending on the location and type of organization.

  • Starting salary (based on geographical location of employment): $55,400
  • Mid-career salary: $71,700