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Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

Peoria, IL

private nonprofitgraduate
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About Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

A century of excellence in nursing education, rooted in tradition and focused on the future.

Step into a legacy of compassionate care and academic rigor at Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing. Originating from the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing established by the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis in 1905, this institution has a profound history of shaping healthcare professionals. What began as a vital program to train sisters in nursing blossomed into a respected college, opening its doors to lay students in 1918 and steadily expanding its educational offerings.

Today, the college stands as a beacon for aspiring nurses, known for its comprehensive curriculum and commitment to developing leaders in the field. From its humble beginnings as a diploma program that graduated some 3,400 students, it has evolved into a modern baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral institution. Prospective students and their families can be confident in a program built on over a century of nursing education experience, continuously adapting to the evolving demands of healthcare.

Academic strengths at Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing are evident in its diverse degree pathways, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. This progression ensures students have opportunities for advanced practice and leadership roles. The student experience is grounded in a tradition of hands-on learning and dedicated faculty, preparing graduates to excel in various clinical settings and make a meaningful impact on patient lives, carrying forward a proud legacy of service and excellence.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Over a century of nursing education heritage, tracing back to 1905 with the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing.
  • ✦Transitioned from a diploma program that graduated 3,400 students to a baccalaureate institution in 1985.
  • ✦Offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees: BSN, MSN (added in 2000), and DNP (added in 2009).
  • ✦Opened to lay students in 1918, broadening access to its esteemed nursing education.
  • ✦Accredited by the National League for Nursing since 1950 (for its predecessor diploma program).

Timeline

1905
Founded as the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing by the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis.
1915
State of Illinois approved the school's diploma program.
1918
Nursing school opened its doors to lay students.
1950
St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing accredited by the National League for Nursing.
1985
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing established as a baccalaureate institution, approved by the State of Illinois.
1986
First students enrolled in the new baccalaureate program.
1987
St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing graduated its last diploma class.
1988
First class graduated from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.
2000
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program added.
2009
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program added.

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