Academic Programs in Nursing

Answer Your Calling. Be a Nurse.

Nursing is an exciting profession with many career pathways and possibilities. Kent State University–located in northeast Ohio between Akron, Cleveland, and Youngstown–offers a wide range of accredited nursing programs at the baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral levels.

The challenging curriculum, latest technology in simulation, and experienced faculty prepare students to reach their full potential as expert clinicians, nurse scientists, and healthcare leaders. Explore our nursing programs below.

Undergraduate Programs

Kent State nursing students read an oath at the university's first White Coat Ceremonies.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Kent State's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year pre-licensure (RN) program that will prepare you to meet the challenges of today's healthcare needs as a professional nurse.

Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Kent State's Accelerated BSN, created for students who already have a bachelor's degree, leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in as few as 15 months.

LPN & Allied Health to BSN Program

Kent State's LPN & Allied Health to BSN is a flexible Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) bridge program designed to meet the unique demands of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Physical Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Respiratory Therapists, Paramedics, Field/Combat Medics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).

Kent State University nursing students receive hands-on learning experience by practicing on a simulator.

RN to BSN Online Program

Created specifically for RN's with a diploma or associate degree, Kent State's Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN-to-BSN) program will allow you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a 100% online format from one of the nation’s largest and most respected nursing programs.

graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master’s Degree in Nursing at Kent State prepares nurses for advanced nursing roles. Students develop a foundation for further post-graduate and doctoral-level study in nursing.

A male Pediatric Nurse Practitioner examines a baby who is sitting in her mother's lap

Post-Master's Certificates

Kent State's Post-Master's nursing certificates are designed to prepare graduate-prepared nurses for new advanced nursing specialties.

A DNP student studies her coursework on her laptop via the Internet

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP is the terminal degree for nurses who want to advance their knowledge of nursing practice and gain exceptional leadership and technology skills. Kent State offers two pathways to the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Doctor of Philosophy In Nursing (Ph.D.) Program

A Ph.D. in nursing will prepare you to fulfill your purpose. Whether you have always wanted to conduct cutting-edge research, educate and mentor future nurses, lead large health organizations, or any combination of these and more, earning a research doctorate in nursing from Kent State University can open doors of opportunity. With a Ph.D. in nursing, you can join the highest echelons in the nursing profession throughout the world.