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WesternU College of Graduate Nursing Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) proegram students get hands-in training during an ENP procedural skills day Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021. The students learned about sututing, ear and nose techniques and also went to the WestrernU Eye Care Institute to learn about vision exams.
WesternU / College of Graduate Nursing / About the College

About the College

We are a leader in online/hybrid nursing programs and the growing field of mental health care.

Nursing education requires students to master a combination of knowledge, skills, and values. In the WesternU College of Graduate Nursing, faculty, staff and students develop collaborative learning partnerships to foster commitment to academic excellence, respect for persons, accountability, self-reflection, critical thinking, leadership, professional development, and life-long learning. Through the educational process, nursing students undergo role transformation as they undertake the competencies of a graduate nursing professional.

Academic Calendar

College of Graduate Nursing Dean Mary Lopez

Message From the Dean

In the College of Graduate Nursing, our students have access to a rich array of clinical resources that are not generally available at a liberal arts institution. Over the years, we have built a solid reputation of educating outstanding and compassionate advanced practice nurses and nurse leaders – a success we credit to our students, faculty and community partners. We are proud to be among those professionals standing in the forefront of nursing education helping to create the advanced practice nurses who will lead us into the next millennium.

Be a part of our rich history and exciting future!

Mary Lopez, PhD, RN
Dean, College of Graduate Nursing

A Leader in Mental Health Education

The College of Graduate Nursing has received more than $4 million in grant funding since 2020 to enhance mental health services and provide access to care in underserved communities. CGN received a $955,466 grant from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) in September 2020 to help implement its Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program, and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded CGN $1.875 million over four years to fund stipends for PMHNP students and for the creation of the region’s first Behavioral Health Training Center. CGN and the College of Health Sciences received a $2.5 million HRSA grant to create the WesternU Integrated Substance Abuse Training Program, designed as a one-year, limited employment, transition-to-practice training program for nationally-certified nurse practitioners and PAs.

Learn more about grants received by the College of Nursing.

CGN Faculty Dr. Christine dang near computer workstation

Commitment to Nursing Education Excellence

The College of Graduate Nursing has received the highest level of accreditation for all programs from the professional accrediting body for nursing, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Our programs are Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) approved. Our students are taught by distinguished faculties who have received state and national recognition for their leadership and professional accomplishments.
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Accreditation
Three students in CGN Student Clubs, booth for Funds for Fred Africa

Student Clubs and Engagement

College of Graduate Nursing students have the opportunity to join CGN-specific student clubs to advance professionally. The Doctor of Nursing Practice Association Student Club, The National Student Nurse Association Student Club, The American Assembly for Men in Nursing Student Club offer assistance for students to advance as responsible and accountable leaders and members of the profession. GCN students can also participate in Shared Clubs that invite students from all Colleges. Learn more about our Student Clubs!
Student Clubs
Students collaborating during IPE session

Interprofessional Education

Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) provides an integrated, interdisciplinary, discussion-based approach to learning. IPE occurs when students from two or more professions learn about, from, and with each other to enable effective collaboration and improve health outcomes. Once students understand how to work interprofessionally, they are ready to enter the workplace as a member of the collaborative practice team. This is a key step in moving health systems from fragmentation to a position of strength.
Interprofessional Practice and Education