Skip Navigation
 

Gather Here. Go Far

With locations in Tahlequah, Muskogee and Broken Arrow, NSU is Oklahoma’s immersive learning institution. Choose from in-person, blended or online learning options.

Explore Our Degrees

Scholarships

NSU is committed to assisting students in applying and earning scholarships. Whether you are an incoming freshman or a continuing/returning student, NSU has a wide variety of scholarship options for students to choose from.

Learn More

Homecoming 2025

NSU Homecoming 2025 Green & White Fest brings students, alumni, and organizations together for a week full of tradition, excitement, and RiverHawk pride. Join the fun as we showcase student organizations, enjoy live entertainment, and celebrate what it means to be part of the NSU family.

Learn More

Transfer Students

Whether you’re an incoming or current transfer student, NSU’s transfer advisors are available to assist you with transcript evaluation, information on degree programs and support services. NSU is where You Belong.

More Information

Graduate College

Whether transitioning to graduate school or returning to higher education, NSU’s graduate college is your next step. Choose from over 25 master's degrees and several certificate programs.

Learn More
Home/Riverhawk News/NSU expands Nursing Education with new Bachelor of Science

NSU expands Nursing Education with new Bachelor of Science

NSU expands Nursing Education with new Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Northeastern State University will expand its nursing education offerings with the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Prelicensure) program beginning in fall 2026. The new degree will prepare students to enter the healthcare workforce as registered nurses and help address the state’s growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.

“For more than 40 years, NSU has helped shape the future of healthcare by preparing exceptional nursing professionals,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “This new BSN program builds on that legacy and reflects our commitment to meeting Oklahoma’s healthcare challenges head-on—with programs that change lives, strengthen communities and prepare the leaders our state needs.”

The pre-licensure BSN program will offer a 120-hour curriculum that combines classroom learning, clinical practice and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Oklahoma faces a projected shortage of nearly 16,000 registered nurses by 2030, according to state workforce data. Currently, 36 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas. The new program will help meet this need by equipping students with the skills and experience required to serve in hospitals, clinics, tribal health systems and community health settings across the region.

Since the early 1980s, NSU has been a trailblazer in nursing education. The university launched Oklahoma’s first stand-alone RN to BSN program in 1982, followed by the state’s first fully online RN to BSN program in 2000. NSU’s online accredited RN to BSN and Master of Science in Nursing programs continue to be recognized nationally for quality, innovation and accessibility.

“This program opens the door for more students to join a profession that truly changes lives,” Dr. Heather Fenton, director of nursing programs, said. “We are deeply committed to preparing nurses who are clinically skilled, compassionate and ready to lead in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. It’s another example of NSU seeking a better way.”

The BSN program is seeking provisional approval from the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. NSU’s RN to BSN and MSN nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

 ###

NSU Campus