Nurses pursue challenging and rewarding careers that offer remarkable growth opportunities. At Southwestern Adventist University’s Department of Nursing, we prepare you to become a leader within the healthcare field, equipped to provide patient-centered care and adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the profession.
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Why Nursing?
Why SWAU?

Southwestern Adventist University’s Nursing program prepares students for one of the most impactful careers in healthcare. With small class sizes, individualized mentorship, and clinical rotations at top hospitals across the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, our program is designed to equip you with both the confidence and competence to care for the whole patient—mind, body, and spirit.
From mastering clinical judgment to learning how to work within interdisciplinary healthcare teams, you will gain the knowledge and experience needed to thrive in fast-paced medical environments. Simulation labs, hands-on hospital experience, and evidence-based training make this program a strong choice for future nursing leaders.
Curriculum and Courses
Students are immersed in a rigorous academic curriculum paired with real-world application. Courses emphasize patient assessment, communication, and clinical decision-making, while also integrating knowledge from biology, psychology, ethics, and nursing science. You will train with the latest healthcare technologies and graduate ready to adapt in a rapidly evolving medical field.
Already an LVN?
With a current L.V.N. license and at least one year of hospital or long-term care experience, you may be eligible to receive credit for select foundational courses upon completion of 12 credit hours at SWAU.
Learn More About Our Nursing Admissions Process
RN to BS in Nursing (Online)
Licensed R.N.s can take the next step in their careers with our RN to BS Online Nursing program. Designed for working professionals, this flexible and fully online program helps nurses deepen their expertise and meet current industry standards.
Faculty & Mentorship
Visit our Nursing Department page to learn more about each program offered, current research, and ongoing projects.
Our nursing faculty members are deeply committed to student success. With years of clinical experience and a passion for teaching, they offer mentorship in both classroom and clinical settings, fostering strong connections that last beyond graduation. Visit our directory to learn more about our nursing faculty.
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Admission Requirements
To begin your journey in the Nursing program at SWAU, visit our Admission Requirements page for information on program criteria, application steps, and transfer pathways.
Start Your Process

What can you do with a degree in Nursing?
A Nursing degree from Southwestern Adventist University prepares you to make an immediate impact in healthcare settings across the country. From hospitals to clinics, community outreach programs to emergency rooms, your skills will be in demand wherever compassionate, competent care is needed.
Job Titles to Explore
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Pediatric Nurse
- Geriatric Nurse
- Critical Care Nurse
- Emergency Room Nurse
- Surgical Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Nurse Case Manager
Employment Settings to Explore
- Hospitals and Emergency Rooms
- Outpatient Clinics
- Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities
- Community Health Organizations
- Home Healthcare Services
- Schools and Universities
- Mission and Humanitarian Organizations
- Government and Military Health Services
Explore Graduate Opportunities
Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN)
Take the next step in your nursing journey with SWAU’s MSN in Nursing Education. Designed for nurses who want to transition into teaching, clinical education, or leadership roles, this program blends advanced nursing knowledge with a passion for mentorship and service.
Learn More About the MSN Program
Ways to Excel

Career Center
The Career Center can help you chart your path and connect with employers through internships, workshops, and job search resources.

Academic Advising Center
Work with your advisor to choose the courses and experiences that best support your professional goals.

Honors Program
Challenge yourself academically and professionally through the Honors Program. With advanced research and leadership opportunities, it’s an excellent way to stand out in the world of Advertising and PR.

A degree from Southwestern Adventist University is more accessible than you might think.
We are committed to helping every student find a clear, affordable path to graduation.
Scholarships & Grants
We believe hard work and dedication should be rewarded. That is why SWAU offers automatic academic merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores, as well as need-based aid and departmental awards.
- Merit Scholarships: Automatically awarded with admission
- Endowed & Donor-Funded Scholarships available
- Faith-based and church-matching scholarships for eligible students
- External scholarships are accepted from any organization
Apply for Scholarships
Your FAFSA, Your Counselor, Your First Step
Submitting your FAFSA is one of the best ways to unlock financial aid. Our financial counselors walk you through the process to ensure nothing is missed.
- SWAU FAFSA Code: 003619
- Get help submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Learn more about grants, loans, and federal work-study
- One-on-one financial counseling is available year-round
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
Take Action

Estimate Your Cost
Use our Net Price Calculator to see what your true cost may be after scholarships and financial aid.

Community is at the heart of Southwestern Adventist University, where students are empowered to form lasting bonds and embrace personal growth.
From engaging events to supportive friendships, students form a community where they grow both academically and personally. This vibrant campus culture makes every day a new opportunity for students to thrive.
A Welcoming & Connected Community
SWAU is known for its friendly and tight-knit campus culture. Whether you are joining student organizations, participating in residence hall activities, or building lifelong friendships in small classes, you will feel seen and supported.
- Student Government & Leadership: Step into leadership through student association and other campus governance roles.
- Campus Events: Weekly activities, music festivals, and cultural events make every semester memorable.
See Upcoming Events
Faith & Spiritual Life
Faith is the foundation of everything we do at Southwestern Adventist University. Our Spiritual Life and Development Department (SLAD) creates a vibrant environment where students can grow spiritually, build community, and find purpose.
SLAD Programs and Opportunities:
- Worship Services: Weekly chapels and vespers for community reflection and renewal.
- Community Service: Service projects and volunteer opportunities that make a local impact.
- Church Ministries: Support and leadership roles in local churches and campus ministries.
- Mission Work: Domestic and international mission trips that let you live out your faith.
Join a community where faith is lived out in service, worship, and daily life.
Learn More About SLAD

Tutoring & Academic Support
Find personalized help and academic resources through our Tutoring Center, where peer tutors and workshops support your learning.

Athletics & Intramurals
Stay active and connected through intramural sports, cheering on the Knights at games, or working out in our campus gym and weight room. There’s a way for everyone to get moving and stay healthy.

Alumni Association
SWAU’s alumni network is a powerful resource for mentorship, networking, and lifelong friendships.
SWAU Nursing Rankings
SWAU nursing graduates exhibit NCLEX pass rates above the national average, which open doors for successful careers in leading organizations.
30
Average class size
94%
2024 Current NCLEX pass rate
100%
Job placement post-graduation
Programs
Let's Get Started
Ready to begin your journey toward becoming a trusted leader in healthcare?
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The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Southwestern Adventist University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
The nursing program is fully approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, George H. W. Bush State Office Building, 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200, Austin, TX 78701, 512-305-7400.