Best school in WA for nursing

WWU nursing program at forefront of nursing pedagogy

After receiving two significant grants last fall, the nursing program at Walla Walla University welcomed students this fall with newly renovated simulation labs and modernized curriculum. The goal of both updates is to provide high-level nursing education to our students, continuing the tradition that earned Walla Walla University recognition in 2021 as the best school in Washington state for a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

The new state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs provide a decidedly realistic and safe environment for students to practice and master their skills. Students interact with manikins that provide feedback verbally and through vital signs such as a physical pulse, and lung, cardiac, and bowel sounds. A control room allows instructors to oversee work and help students better understand their performance.

Recent renovations also modernized a realistic hospital and long-term care room. Working in realistic settings and simulations allows students to build confidence and step into their clinical rotations with confidence. “We are so delighted to be able to provide this rich simulation experience for our students,” said Michaelynn Paul, dean and professor of nursing.

These facility transformations are part of the university’s continued transition to competency-based learning. “We’re part of a limited group that is leading the way on these exciting changes. With competency-based learning, our nursing program is more student-centered, individualized, and provides clearer expectations on how to meet class learning objectives,” said Paul.

WWU received $100,000 in funding from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) to support these curriculum changes over the next two years. The grant was awarded to only 10 schools nationwide, including Johns Hopkins University and Texas State University.

To learn more about undergraduate opportunities in nursing, visit wallawalla.edu/ nursing.