Get your college career off to a great start!
Discover the pathway that may be best for you in pursuit of an undergraduate degree at Carlow University.
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At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can Support
At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can SupportCarlow University’s Master of Science in Nursing Executive Organizational Leadership program and its accompanying Post-Master’s Certificate prepare nurses to become the kind of healers the world needs; leaders who combine strategic expertise with compassion and a deep commitment to improving patient care. Designed in collaboration with healthcare executives, the curriculum equips graduates with high-level business and organizational skills, from fiscal management concepts drawn from Carlow’s MBA program to system-level project leadership, health policy, and ethics. Through 100% online coursework paired with a 150-hour mentored internship, you’ll learn from faculty with real-world executive nursing experience and graduate ready to lead at the highest levels, driving compassionate care, shaping ethical policy, and helping to create a more just and merciful world.
Credits required:
30 credits for MSN; 12 credits for Post Masters Certificate
Cost per credit:
$812
Time to degree:
16 months with 150 hr. internship for MSN;
8 months with 150 hr. internship for Certificate
Delivery:
100% online remote.
No campus requirements
Quick facts
Nursing executive preparedness with concentration in high-level business management
- System Level Project Management
- Fiscal Management concepts from the Carlow MBA program
- Human Resource strategic management
- Health Policy, Ethics & mentored leadership development at the VP level and above
Career opportunities for Masters
in Nursing Executive Organizational Leadership & Post-Masters Certificate
Chief Nursing Officer
Vice-President level positions within healthcare organizations
(example: VP Perioperative Services, VP Nursing Operations,
VP Patient Experience)
Admission requirements and application process
- Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
- Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
- Current resume or curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply
anytime
Start term:
Fall, Spring and Summer
Full-time Faculty
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Matthews-Hayes, Tina
As a Carlow student, Tina received the education and self confidence to excel in the role of a nurse practitioner. She hopes to share her knowledge and experience of 15 … Continued
Ranft, Emma
Emma is a faculty member in the Practical Nurse Certificate Program. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing degree specializing in Nursing Education in March of 2024 from Capella … Continued
Discover the advantages of Carlow University’s Nursing Programs
As a graduate nursing department, we prepare exceptionally skilled providers, leaders and educators in doctoral, masters, and certificate tracks to meet the healthcare and health promotion needs of populations. Nursing graduate students have experiences with people nationally and internationally via didactic, clinical and study abroad opportunities. The School of Nursing educates practitioners of tomorrow and encourages a passion for evidenced-based practice, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration in the spirit of social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion.
We offer study in a hybrid face-to-face modality that incorporates twice monthly evening classes with online coursework to fit the needs of today’s full-time working nurse, while affording opportunities for 1:1 faculty engagement, and peer group networking and support.
A fully online program is also available, for students out of the Pittsburgh region, and/or for those desiring a non-synchronous education program.
View the School of Nursing’s program outcomes and accreditation information.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The high demand for qualified psychiatric nurse practitioners stems in large part from the increased normalization of mental health issues.
$2.6M
in scholarships awarded every year to IMPACT FNP graduate students
4
competitive scholarships available to support the inaugural cohort of PMHNP MSN students.
200+
medical practices and clinics students can practice at facilitated by the Director of Clinical Education
Faculty & staff
Nursing, like all other health care professions, does not exist in isolation. Advanced practice nursing education must integrate other aspects of our humanity if the profession is going to truly do what it pledges to do from the outset of a nurse’s oath. A commitment to justice and mercy requires critical thinking and self-reflection. Carlow University has a rich tradition of service and a mission that flows from the Mercy Core Values. These values: Hospitality, Service, Discovery, and Sacredness of Creation, are embraced within a framework of reflective practice. We recognize that no single discipline can fully educate today’s advanced practice providers who care for families across the lifespan. We are a uniquely positioned university with the ability to fully utilize our colleagues in theology, art, pharmacology, biology, creative writing, and communications to guide discovery within our students. We are not only these disciplines, but more, together, each contributing to the development of a critically thinking, ethical, and merciful human being who will go into the community transformed, and ready to lead.
Susan Mihaljevic, DNP, CRNP-PC Associate Professor
Deborah Lynn Mitchum DNP, ANP-C, WHNP, Project Director, Clinical Coordinator Chair of Department of Graduate Nursing
Kathleen Tennant Professor
Department Points of Pride
- On June 26th, 2023, Carlow University received over $2.6 million to increase the number of Family Nurse Practitioner graduates educated to provide primary care services, with advanced education in mental health, substance use disorders, and women’s and maternal health care. The Advanced Nursing Education Workforce (ANEW) grant – funded through the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is aimed at increasing access to primary care providers for those living in medically underserved communities. The goal of the grant is to make a BIG IMPACT on students, preceptors, and the underserved population through “Impacting Diversity and Education of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses for Healthy Communities”. Current full time FNP students are eligible to apply for up to $23,000 in tuition reimbursement.
- HRSA Nursing Faculty Loan Program to repay 85% of tuition costs with post-graduate employment in the role of nursing educator.
- 97% AANP & 100% ANCC certification exam pass rate for FNPs
- “Very Strong” NCC certification exam pass rate for WHNPs
- In 2023, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers Carlow University established a one-year pilot program, funded by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH), to develop clinically sound evidence-based practicing NPs. FNP graduates have a year of residency (transition to primary care) after completion of an educational program at Carlow University.
- Carlow Graduate Nursing Department is a CEU provider through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) for professional development training for preceptors, clinical faculty, and students.
Myers, Maggie
Maggie is a member of the nursing faculty. She teaches the sophomore level courses and clinical for the juniors. She has been at Carlow since 2023. She serves as a … Continued
Devoted to Caring for the Mental and Emotional Needs of All Patients
Carlow University’s Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program (PMHNP) is for ethical healthcare professionals working professional nurses seeking to create a better healthcare system by contributing to fair and just mental health care – and all healthcare – for everyone.
Designed for working professional nurses is another distinguishing factor for our NP programs.
With more than 26 million individuals with a mental illness going untreated, our nation is in dire need of compassionate, ethical mental health leaders. Carlow’s PMHNP program is for students devoted to providing specialized assessment and treatment for a full range of mental health disorders, including counseling and medication management. Within this program, it is possible to specialize in certain types of patients, such as children, families, or those with substance abuse problems.
Credits Required:
- 19 courses for the MSN
- 14 courses for the Post MSN
- 9 courses for the Post MSN NP
Cost Per Credit:
$918
Time to Degree:
As few as 28 months
Delivery:
100% online
PMHNP Curriculum
The greater demand for PMHNPs coincides with a dramatic increase in reported cases of depression and anxiety, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ensuring that get the treatment they need remains a key concern. With such an unmet need for service providers in this specialty to care for existing patients and help new ones, the demand for more nurses to pursue this specialty will likely only grow.
Quick Facts
- The ideal student is a nurse with compassion, sensitivity, and exceptional communication and relationship-building skills. It requires someone who can be objective and empathetic who understands that a person isn’t defined by their mental health condition.
- Graduates of Carlow’s nursing programs are prepared to be innovative, caring, compassionate, ethical members of a healthcare team. The opportunity for interdisciplinary education with psychology and social work peers is a distinct advantage.
- Carlow has 75 years of experience in educating nurses and the nurse practitioner programs have had 97-100% pass rates for certification boards over the past eight years.
- Carlow offers certification for nurses who already possess an MSN in another field of study.
- Upon completion of the degree or certification, the graduate can sit for a national certification exam, and upon passing, is given a professional, advanced practice license by the state board.
- Each state has a different licensing board, but they all require and accept the national certification. We utilize a board review course in the student’s final semester to help them successfully prepare and pass the certification exam.
75 Years of Nursing Excellence
For 75 Years, Carlow University’s School of Nursing has been dedicated to educating and empowering nurses who make a significant impact on healthcare as clinicians, educators, leaders, and researchers. As we look to the future, Carlow University remains devoted to creating ethical leaders who strive to build a more just and merciful world.
Alternate Degree Completion Options
Online Degree
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count towards both degrees. Apply for this option after your sophomore year.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- 3.0 GPA Minimum for Admission
- Apply anytime, start date in the Fall Semester.
- It is possible to transfer up to 18 post-Masters credits.
- This program accepts international students.
- Current CV, graduate transcript, and an essay are required to apply.
- Three (3) professional recommendations are required.
Apply:
Any time
Start Terms:
Fall
Applicants for this program are eligible for the Anne Kisak endowed scholarship, upon acceptance and enrollment.
Contact Admissions
If you would like to learn more about the program, schedule an on-campus visit or attend an upcoming event.
Faculty & staff
Deborah Lynn Mitchum DNP, ANP-C, WHNP, Project Director, Clinical Coordinator Chair of Department of Graduate Nursing
Susan Mihaljevic, DNP, CRNP-PC Associate Professor
Be the first to earn a Practical Nurse Certificate from Carlow University
You can become a part of the change needed in healthcare with a Practical Nurse Certificate from Carlow University. In just 16 months, you will be immersed in a nursing education that includes clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings. Direct patient care, community engagement and cultural experiences are integral to the program, as students will have the opportunity to explore intellectual endeavors, responding ethically and compassionately to diverse communities.
Upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX) PN in Pennsylvania.
Credits required:
48
Cost per credit:
$559
Time to Completion:
As few as 16 months
Delivery:
On campus
Practical Nurse Certificate Program Curriculum
The Practical Nurse Certificate Program serves as the ideal foundational model for a career-building pathway in the healthcare field. The Practical Nurse Curriculum provides an environment that enhances the creativity of the learner who contributes freely as a valued team member. Various clinical and non-clinical-based projects and learning modalities will be incorporated into the educational model.
Quick Facts
- After completing the program, students will be able to provide competent, holistic care by applying relevant knowledge and skills needed to meet the needs of the patient.
- The Pittsburgh metropolitan region is the state’s second largest employer of LPN’s accounting for 5,700 employed LPN’s.
- On-campus facilities include classroom settings, biology labs, nursing skills lab, and nursing simulation lab
Career Opportunities for Practical Nurse Certificate Program
Students who graduate from the program will be career ready and prepared to practice in healthcare settings that include long-term care, home care, rehabilitation facilities, physician offices, and community agencies.
By the year 2030 PA is expected to have a deficit of 18 ,700 FTE LPN’s.
75 Years of Nursing Excellence
75 Years, Carlow University’s School of Nursing has been dedicated to educating and empowering nurses who make a significant impact on healthcare as clinicians, educators, leaders, and researchers. As we look to the future, Carlow University remains devoted to creating ethical leaders who strive to build a more just and merciful world.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply:
Anytime
Start Term:
Fall
Nursing faculty
Diana Kozlina-Peretic, DNP, CRNP, MSN, RN Associate Dean
Angela Simmons DNP, MSN-NCEL, RN Founding Director Practical Nurse Program
Christin Smerkol Administrative Assistant II
Emma Ranft, MSN, RN, OCN Instructor
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit.
Simmons, Angela
Angela Simmons is the Founding Director of the Practical Nurse Program and an Assistant Professor at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With extensive experience in community health, utilization management, and … Continued
Explore Your Passion and Empower Global Communities
Welcome to a unique, first-semester educational opportunity that helps you in getting to know yourself better, while helping others. The Carlow faculty have designed this immersive experience so you immediately can apply your learnings in real-world settings to make a meaningful impact. In addition to core curriculum courses that you can apply to most majors, you will spend 4 weeks abroad in Uganda.
Quick facts
- Experience campus living and a structured self-reflection learning program focused on reinvigorating your passions and your purpose in life
- Serve alongside your peers, through service-learning projects in the fields of education, healthcare and more
- Benefit from onsite counseling to help you discover and process your strengths, interests and skills throughout your experience
- Minister to the needs of Ugandans, igniting your global perspective of the ways in which you can best serve yourself and the world around you
Your Discovery Program experience
On-campus discovery and preparation
You will begin your self-discovery living on Carlow University’s charming, urban campus in the heart of Pittsburgh’s exciting Oakland area.
- First semester courses can be applied to most Carlow undergraduate majors.
- You will be part of a living/learning community on campus during your first semester.
- Service-learning projects will occur locally and internationally.
- A residency fee, billed by Carlow, includes round-trip travel on major U.S. carriers, accommodations, meals, activities, and project materials.
- Financial aid and scholarships may be available for eligible students.
Get Your College Career Off to a Great Start
If you are interested in the Discovery Program, complete this form or contact Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke, at slorourke@carlow.edu or +1 (412) 578-2054.
Service Learning in Uganda (30 days)
Apply what you learned, sharpen your problem-solving skills and make positive contributions through service and volunteer opportunities at Ugandan schools and health care clinics.
One of your guides and mentors abroad will be Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke. She has led study abroad programs for decades and is committed to helping you become immersed in the Ugandan culture with amazing moments and adventures. Alongside Susan will be a counselor available to students, both are trained in healthy relationships, stress management practices and study-abroad protocols.
Serve, Learn & Volunteer
- Volunteer (provide tutoring and engage in fun learning activities) at Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities in Entebbe
- Participate in service projects (plant orchards and tend to school gardens) for Bright Kids Uganda on Lake Victoria Island
- Serve (provide instruction and adapt learning materials for children with disabilities) at Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE) in Opucet
- Assist with vision assessments and distribution of donated eye glasses for seniors and school children
Meet a New Culture
- Hear inspiring life stories from locals, young and old; learn about their history including the effects of living as a British colony and subsequent years of conflict
- Become familiar with local customs and their challenges
- Interact with people living in remote villages without access to electricity, clean water, phones or computers
- Prepare, taste and eat authentic Ugandan food
Take amazing adventures
- Visit the source of the Nile River and go white water rafting
- Take a hike to the tallest waterfall in eastern Africa, Sipi Falls
- Observe animals in their natural habitat on a three-day safari
- Visit Chimpanzee Island
An impactful experience
“I would go back and serve in Uganda in a heartbeat. I wish I had more time there. It had a huge impact on my life after returning and loved the opportunity to be able to have an impact on the lives of those there.”
– Kaylee Goblesky, Carlow University Nursing student
Get Your College Career Off to a Great Start
If you are interested in the Discovery Program, complete this form or contact Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke, at slorourke@carlow.edu or +1 (412) 578-2054.
Program Director
Susan O’Rourke, EdD
Global Center Director
Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke has been working in Uganda for 10 years (since 2012). She has personally selected the comfortable and secure living facilities for the Uganda service-learning program and prearranged secure transportation through established partners in Uganda. Dr. O’Rourke has developed experiential learning and service projects through established partnerships and non-government organizations (NGOs).
Partners such as:
- Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities
- Bright Kids Uganda
- Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE)
- Prime Tower Primary School
Contact the Discovery Program
If you are interested in the Discovery program, and have questions, email us or give us a call. We’re here to help!
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Carlow University prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator, Jackie smith at jmsmith@carlow.edu or 412-578-6050.
