Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
Cleveland, OH
Quick Facts
1923
Founded
550+
Enrollment
25%
Acceptance Rate
94%
NCLEX Pass Rate
About Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University is one of the most historically significant and research-productive nursing schools in the nation. Located in Cleveland's University Circle, the school is part of a major research university adjacent to Cleveland Clinic, one of the top-ranked hospitals in the world, and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. This unparalleled clinical neighborhood gives students access to some of the most advanced healthcare facilities anywhere.
FPB Nursing has pioneered many advances in nursing education, including being one of the first schools to offer a doctoral program in nursing. The school's research enterprise spans areas including symptom management, self-management, chronic illness, pain, cardiovascular nursing, and health equity. Faculty are leading researchers who shape national nursing practice and policy. The school's small size relative to large state programs means students receive personalized attention and strong mentorship.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A four-year pre-licensure program with clinical training at Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and community health partners throughout Northeast Ohio.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Advanced practice programs with specializations including Adult-Gerontology NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse-Midwifery, and Flight Nursing.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A practice-focused doctoral program for advanced practice nurses, with emphasis on evidence-based practice, leadership, and health systems improvement.
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
A research-focused doctoral program preparing nurse scientists to conduct original research. Case Western's PhD in nursing is one of the oldest and most respected in the country.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing holds full CCNE accreditation for its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, reflecting its position as one of the most research-intensive nursing schools in the country.
Campus & Online Options
BSN and MSN programs are on-campus in Cleveland with clinical rotations at Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, MetroHealth Medical Center, and community health partners. The DNP program includes hybrid elements. The school does not offer fully online pre-licensure programs.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition
Undergraduate tuition at Case Western Reserve is approximately $56,000 per year. Graduate tuition varies by program, with MSN programs at approximately $1,900 per credit hour. The university offers generous merit-based aid to admitted students.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Case Western Reserve offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal financial aid, and nursing-specific awards through the FPB School of Nursing. Many students receive institutional aid that significantly reduces tuition. External programs include the Nurse Corps Scholarship and Ohio nursing workforce grants.
Admissions Overview
Admission to FPB Nursing is competitive. Students apply directly to the BSN program through Case Western Reserve's undergraduate admissions. Graduate programs evaluate clinical experience, academic achievement, and research or leadership potential.
Application Deadline
January 15 for fall BSN admission; varies by graduate program
Requirements
- Strong academic record with emphasis on science prerequisites
- Completed prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and statistics
- Personal statement on nursing career goals
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Healthcare experience recommended
- SAT/ACT scores (test-optional available for BSN)
Student Life
Case Western Reserve's University Circle campus in Cleveland is surrounded by world-class cultural institutions including the Cleveland Museum of Art, Severance Hall, and the Museum of Natural History. Nursing students engage in student organizations, community health volunteering, research mentorships, and interprofessional events. Cleveland offers affordable living, professional sports, a revitalized food and arts scene, and a major healthcare industry anchored by Cleveland Clinic.
Great for Future Travel Nurses
Case Western Reserve FPB Nursing graduates bring elite clinical training and a strong research foundation to their travel nursing careers. Rotating through Cleveland Clinic, one of the top-ranked hospitals in the world, and University Hospitals gives students experience in the most advanced clinical settings available. This level of preparation makes Case Western graduates highly competitive for travel assignments at academic medical centers and specialty hospitals nationwide. Ohio's NLC membership simplifies licensing for travel nursing, and the school's specialty tracks, including one of the few Flight Nursing programs in the country, open unique travel nursing pathways in air transport and critical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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