SRU’s nursing programs recognized by Colleges of Distinction

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Slippery Rock University’s nursing programs earned the 2020-21 Education Field of Study badge from Colleges of Distinction.

July 6, 2020

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — Slippery Rock University's nursing programs earned the 2020-21 Nursing Field of Study badge from Colleges of Distinction.

Already honored as a College of Distinction for its high-impact approach to education, SRU has received specialized recognition from COD for its nursing programs. Through a comprehensive vetting process, the COD recognizes programs for Field of Study badges based on stability, multidisciplinary, practical experience, non-education specialization, dedicated advising and counseling, high-impact practices and industry connections.

"We complete a thorough review of the programs before granting the honors," said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. "We're looking for qualities such as accreditation, breadth of program, advising and mentoring, integration of career services, and successful outcomes for students. It's wonderful to see how SRU really exemplifies these qualities."

According to COD, "SRU has enabled its students to take calculated action even in high-pressure situations and are challenged to remain curious and compassionate throughout their education and career."

COD Nursing badge

"The nursing programs at SRU provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the ever-changing health care environment," said Michele Crytzer, associate professor of nursing and department chair. "Faculty are dedicated to student success and promote a culture of excellence that reflects a commitment to lifelong learning."

SRU, one of the first nursing programs in the country to offer classes completely online, has two programs: a 21-credit program for graduate students to become certified school nurses and a 30-credit, RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses to build on their associate degree or diploma education and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

According to Crytzer, the RN-to-BSN curriculum has been streamlined to better reflect current issues in health care while maintaining the affordability and flexibility that is valued by students who are working professionals. The addition of a practice experience cultivates leadership skills and allows students to apply the knowledge they have acquired throughout the program.

COD has recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education for 20 years. The member schools within the COD consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience.

Earlier this month, SRU had a trio of badges bestowed upon it from COD, including being named a 2020-21 national, public and Pennsylvania college of distinction. Also, SRU received the 2020-21 Field of Study badges for its education and business programs.

For more information about the awards, visit the Colleges of Distinction website.

To learn more about SRU's nursing programs visit the Nursing Department's webpage.

MEDIA CONTACT: Justin Zackal | 724.738.4854 | justin.zackal@sru.edu