Nursing School in Wisconsin Uses Advanced Technology to Train Future RNs


“Our faculty and staff have worked hard to create one of the top nursing schools in Wisconsin. Our investment in technology and transition to a concept-based curriculum shows our commitment to giving the best possible education and training for future RNs,” said Nurse Administrator, Kimberly Udlis.

Marian University, one of Wisconsin’s most highly rated and affordable private schools, has invested in technology that gives nursing program students the opportunity to apply conceptual learning to real-world scenarios in a simulated environment. The technology supports Marian University’s concept-based curriculum designed to prepare graduates for the challenges of modern nursing.

The growing nursing school at Marian University features high-fidelity simulators that are part of a multi-room simulation center. These simulators allow students to engage in high-risk, low-frequency scenarios in the areas of obstetrics, pediatrics and acute care medical surgery. Students learn to handle medical situations in a safe environment, immediately processing what they have learned in debriefings with professors and colleagues.

The simulation center is a key component in Marian University’s concept-based approach for nursing school students. This approach differs from traditional nursing schools in Wisconsin. Instead of learning about topics in isolation and then moving on, students enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills by applying conceptual learning to real-world nursing scenarios.

This approach, backed by innovative technology, is a key factor in Marian University’s high standing among nursing schools in Wisconsin. Another factor is a faculty of experienced nurses, many of them graduates from Marian University nursing programs.

Associate Dean and Chief Nurse Administrator Kimberly Udlis, Ph.D. FNP-BC, FAANP, leads the Nursing Department. A nationally recognized leader in nursing practice, policy and education, Dr. Udlis stays connected with nursing practice by working one day each week as a nurse practitioner.

“We pride ourselves at Marian for having graduates prepared from Day 1 to meet the challenges of the nursing profession. To achieve that goal, our students learn nursing theory and concepts as well as best practices for putting them into action,” said Dr. Udlis. “Our faculty and staff have worked hard to create one of the top nursing schools in Wisconsin. Our investment in technology and transition to a concept-based curriculum shows our commitment to giving the best possible education and training for future RNs.”

The concept-based curriculum and use of technology in training have contributed to rising NCLEX exam pass rates by Marian University students. Those rates reached 96% in the latest numbers from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), placing Marian University among the best nursing schools in Wisconsin.

Marian University offers a traditional four-year BSN degree, a three-year BSN program, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner track and a 100% online RN to BSN program.

About Marian University

Marian University is a regionally accredited, co-educational Catholic University that inspires personal and professional success through an engaging, values-based education. Founded in 1936 by the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes as a college for teachers, Marian University has grown to offer a full slate of degrees but the focus to liberal arts excellence and a focus on students has never changed. Marian University maintains a commitment to the core values of community, learning, service, social justice and spiritual traditions. Marian University has been named a “High Lifetime Return on Investment (ROI) College” among all public and private Wisconsin colleges and universities by Affordable Colleges Online (ACO).

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