4 days ago
Juniata College receives approval from state nursing board for new nursing program
HUNTINGDON COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) – Juniata College is taking the next step towards the future as the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing officially approved the college's new Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.
The new program is set to launch in the Fall of 2025. The college is aiming to address critical nursing shortages in Central Pennsylvania as well as create a program that readies students for life after college.
'Really, the whole goal is to make sure that we are able to provide a program that's steeped in safety and that we're prepared to educate nurses to become practice-ready and that they're competent and ready to serve in our communities,' Director of Nursing Jennifer DellAntonio said.
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Juniata College has built an advanced nursing simulation laboratory, which is housed in its Sill Business Center. Featuring high-fidelity manikins that replicate real-life clinical scenarios, the lab allows students to hone their critical thinking, technological proficiency, and clinical judgment in a controlled, immersive environment.
Juniata College plans to relocate the nursing simulation lab next year to the Gateway Center, a transformative new facility that will be built on campus. This three-story, 24,100 square feet building will dedicate one floor to the nursing program, with the remaining floors housing healthcare offices. This unique integrated building will foster mentorship opportunities between students and practicing healthcare professionals, while expanding clinical training settings for students.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing is among the top 10 occupations expected to see the highest job growth over the next decade. Recognizing this demand, Juniata has designed a nursing curriculum that combines evidence-based teaching, clinical education, industry standards, and real-world experiences to prepare students for future careers.
'Our rigorous clinical experience that our students will be involved in, as well as the liberal arts education. So really, to prepare a student to be compassionate, caring, and competent when they go out and serve in our community,' DellAntonio said.
The launch of the BSN program was made possible in part by a generous $1 million gift from Juniata alumnus Dan Sunderland '88 and his wife Kerry. Their philanthropy funded a feasibility study and the development of the nursing simulation lab, laying the foundation for the program's success.
The college says over 100 students have already expressed interest in the program. For more information about the new nursing program, visit To learn about admissions to the nursing program, contact the Enrollment Office at admissions@ or 814-641-3420.
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