Quick Facts

• The College of Nursing offers curricula leading to the following degrees:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Master of Science in Nursing
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
• The College of Nursing's B.S.N. program started in 1936, the M.S.N. program in 1938, the Ph.D. program in 2003 and the D.N.P. program in 2008.
• Students from all regions of the United States seek Marquette for undergraduate and graduate education.
• Our programs receive continuous accreditation by the nursing accrediting bodies.
• We have an outstanding Clinical Simulation Center.
• Students receive expert clinical experiences across specializations.
• Students have opportunities for involvement with faculty research.
• We offer varied service learning opportunities.
• We provide rich cultural experiences in a vibrant urban setting.
• We are committed to diversity and inclusion programming and support.
• Many work-study opportunities are available.
• Students have the opportunity to study abroad in numerous locations.
• We have an active Wisconsin Student Nurses Association chapter.
• Graduates are sought after by health care systems that offer competitive starting salaries and flexible work schedules.
• There are more than 8,500 Marquette nursing alumni.

Student Highlights

• 616 undergrad nursing students representing 27 states
• 152 freshmen
  • 30% are students of color
  • 20% are first-generation
• 99% of undergrads receive financial aid
• 671 graduate students representing 27 states
• 99.6% was the combined NCLEX pass rate for 2020 B.S.N. and Direct Entry MSN graduates
• 93% of 2018 graduating B.S.N. students were employed full time, full time students or in active military service 6 months after graduating

For more detailed information on our nursing student body, look at our annual Nursing Fact Sheet. 

History of the College of Nursing

In 1912, Marquette University acquired the Trinity Hospital Training School for Nursing and the nurses' residence. Soon after that acquisition, the nursing school became a division of higher education at Marquette and graduated 18 nursing students. At that time, Marquette was the only university in Wisconsin to offer a three-year nursing certificate.

In 1936, the School of Nursing became a constituent college of Marquette University with a four-year collegiate program designed by the college's first dean, Dr. Berenice Beck.

Today, the College of Nursing is housed in Emory T. Clark Hall on the west side of the Marquette campus. The 46,000-square-foot building includes office, classroom and laboratory space, including our Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Center for Clinical Simulation, which provides a realistic health care environment where our students can strengthen essential clinical competencies, develop sound clinical reasoning and prepare for high-risk situations.