The mission of Keiser University’s nursing degree program is to utilize an evidence-based approach to educate a diverse student body into the practice of nursing, while reflecting the best traditions of the art and science of the nursing profession.
Beginning with one student in 1977, Keiser University (KU) is today Florida’s second largest, not-for-profit, Level VI SACS accredited university. The University has 20,000 students, 3,800 employees, and 66,000 alumni, and an annual economic impact of $3 billion. For 40 years, KU has been a talent development leader by offering over 100 academic degrees in many of Florida’s targeted industries. To meet society’s evolving healthcare needs, KU’s nursing degree programs are committed to providing an advanced patient-centered learning environment utilizing integrated technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sound clinical judgment within a safe and effective setting.
Leadership behind its Colossal Success
Dr. Arthur Keiser, Chancellor and Co-Founder of Keiser University, is a renowned academician. He earned his doctorate from the Union Institute and University and has 40 years of higher education experience. During his tenure, Arthur has held various eminent statewide and national positions and currently is the Chairman of the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI).
As a tireless advocate for students, he has given numerous presentations, and published many articles and reports on a diverse range of student-centered concepts and subjects. Carrying out his founding vision, KU acquired its first Florida residential campus—the Flagship—on over 100 acres in the heart of West Palm Beach. Under his leadership, KU has grown to 19 Florida campuses, a graduate school, and international and online divisions.
Distinguished Courses that are Shaping Future Leaders
The University provides various associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree courses in the fields of management, IT, healthcare, legal studies, and many more. Nursing, Physician Assistant, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychology, Health Science, Health Services Administration, Medical Assisting, and Physical Therapist Assistant are some of KU’s distinguished healthcare degree programs. KU is also home to South Florida’s only College of Chiropractic Medicine.
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates and degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral levels. The nursing degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Nurturing Future Healthcare Professionals with Advanced Curriculum and Simulation Based Learning
At KU, the professional nursing curriculum is a robust combination of observation, assessment, nursing diagnosis, and evaluation of care. The faculty assists students in gaining specialized knowledge and advanced nursing skills to meet the biological, physical, and psychological needs of the patient. The University partners with well-known medical institutions and industry leaders to provide students an advanced practical learning environment, rigorous academics, and foundational soft skills necessary for their future success.
Nursing graduates are nurtured to provide compassionate, patient-centered nursing care in a variety of settings. They use evidence-based knowledge and skills related to wellness, health promotion, illness, and disease management to improve healthcare outcomes. Nursing students receive practical training by utilizing the most recent healthcare technologies in an advanced simulation based environment. The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree develops leaders who contribute in making a healthier society for all.
Notable Accomplishments in Recent Times
- U.S News & World Report ranked KU 23rd for the Best Colleges 2016-2017 in the Regional Colleges South category. In 2014, KU was ranked 13th in the Best for Veterans category in the South Region of Regional Colleges.
- Community College Week magazine ranked KU’s associate in nursing program 2nd best in the state and 6th best in the entire country for its production of graduates in the Associate in Health Professions and Related Clinical Science field in 2016-2017.
Shining Stars of Keiser University
Diane Johnson, MSN, RN: Recently appointed to the Florida Board of Nursing by Governor Rick Scott, Ms. Johnson is the University Department Chair of Nursing.
Terry Avitable, MSN, RN, CNOR: Ms. Avitable is KU’s very first student and graduate. She has served as a practicing nurse and educator for 30 years. She is the former South Florida Chapter President of the Association of Operating Room Nurses and an account executive with a prominent company that supplies curriculum and training to healthcare professionals.
Jeremy Purvis, RN, Associate of Science in Nursing: After graduating in April 2016, Mr. Purvis began his nursing career at Jacksonville’s St. Vincent’s Riverside hospital. Mr. Purvis recently accepted a position with the Mayo Clinic in their neuroscience unit. He cited his KU education, instructors, and clinical experience for his preparedness and advancement.
Pedro Pena, RN, ASN: Mr. Pena is working at a Level 1 trauma center as a trauma intensive care unit nurse. Level 1 trauma centers provide total care for every aspect of injury – prevention through rehabilitation.
Daniel Hargrove, RN, BSN: Mr. Hargrove is an US Army veteran and currently working in Florida Hospital’s Cardiovascular ICU, which specializes in the care of cardiac patients requiring continuous monitoring and treatment.
Services crafted for a better tomorrow
From day one, the faculty works with students for their professional skill development for career readiness. This approach includes improving communication skills, accountability, and cultivating the knowledge and compassion to become better nursing professionals and leaders in their communities. Resume writing, business attire workshops, mock interviews, leadership distinction programs, professional seminars, and many more measures prepare students and graduates for career success. The student services team actively provides employment opportunities, training partnerships, clinical affiliations, and residency programs to students.