Nursing
Accredited Nursing Pathways for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Emporia State University nursing
Emporia State University Nursing prepares practice-ready nurses to meet the needs of today’s healthcare systems. Our accredited nursing programs emphasize evidence-based practice, hands-on clinical experience and strong faculty mentorship.
You can choose from multiple nursing degree pathways designed to align with your academic background, career goals and timeline, from undergraduate nursing options to advanced online graduate education.
Priority Nursing Pathway (BSN)
A focused, early pathway into nursing.
The Priority Nursing Pathway is designed for highly motivated students who are committed to pursuing nursing from the start of their college experience. This option provides early guaranteed admission to the ESU Nursing program.
This pathway is ideal for high school juniors and seniors who know their future lies in the nursing profession.
Traditional 4-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A comprehensive, on-campus nursing education.
The traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is ideal for first-time college students who want a full undergraduate experience combined with rigorous nursing preparation. Students complete foundational coursework before progressing into hands-on clinical training and advanced nursing concepts.
This program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN and begin professional practice with confidence, supported by small class sizes and dedicated faculty.
Interested in growing your nursing career?
Our online MSN program allows you to grow your career with the flexibility of online classes.
Transfer Nursing Pathway (BSN)
Find your path to transfer.
The transfer nursing option is designed for students who have completed college coursework elsewhere and are ready to continue their nursing education at Emporia State. With careful credit evaluation and advising, we will work to identify your journey to Hornet Nursing.
This pathway recognizes prior academic work while maintaining the high standards and clinical preparation expected of Emporia State nursing graduates.
Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
Advance your nursing career — online and on your schedule.
Designed for working nurses, our accelerated online Master of Science in Nursing programs are aligned with evidence-based practices and industry certifications. In small classes taught by supportive faculty, you will complete practice assessments to prepare for certification exams.
Students gain advanced strategies to serve diverse populations. The flexibility of the online format allows nurses to continue working while pursuing graduate education.
The master’s programs in nursing at Emporia State University, located in Emporia, Kansas, are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
To request information about the nursing program and/or to contact nursing@emporia.edu or 620-341-5220.
ACEN Accreditation feedback: For information on submitting comments to ESU Nursing's accreditation body during an upcoming site review, visit the outcomes + accreditation page.
BSN Nursing Program Policies and Procedures
Find important information about admission and application procedures.
About Us
Learn about the Nursing program and access information about progress reports and clinical sites.
Outcomes and Accreditation
Review the Department of Nursing's Outcomes and Accreditation.
Nursing and Student Wellness Center
Emporia State University has a brand new, 32,000-square-foot Nursing and Student Wellness Center in the heart of campus that helps students gain the skills needed for a successful career. The state-of-the art building houses classrooms, an 11-bed skills lab, simulation hospital and dedicated student-support spaces.
Student Focused, Donor Powered
The Nursing and Student Wellness Center — and the advanced learning experiences inside it — are made possible through private support from health care partners, foundations, alumni and community who believe in Emporia State University’s nursing students.
These investments allow students to train in realistic simulation environments, practice essential skills in modern labs and gain hands-on experience that reflects today’s health care settings — building confidence and career readiness before entering clinical roles.
Because the facility was funded entirely through private support, Emporia State was able to build without issuing bonds or taking on institutional debt, keeping the focus on student access and affordability, educational quality and outcomes while preparing nurses to meet Kansas’ workforce needs.