by Rachel Ward, Student Public Relations Writer
Demand for nurses continues to rise in the United States and around the world as health systems face workforce shortages, an aging population and a growing need for advanced care.
That broader reality forms the backdrop for Cedarville University’s graduate nursing program, which is marking its 15th anniversary this year. Since its launch, the program has prepared nearly 400 graduates for advanced practice roles in a profession that continues to expand.
Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Nursing Degrees Expand Access Nationwide
Cedarville offers Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Nursing degrees, preparing students for leadership, education and clinical care. Its hybrid format, which combines online coursework with on-campus experiences, has also helped expand access for students across the country.
Ruth Stayte, a Florida resident who completed the program in December 2025 as a family nurse practitioner, said the format helped her stay connected while pursuing her degree.
“Even though it is an online program, I felt personally known and supported through each class and visit,” said Stayte.
Cedarville Nursing Graduates See Strong Job Placement in a Growing Health Care Market
The program reports a 98% placement rate, underscoring both the strength of the nursing job market and the readiness of its graduates. Cedarville also has received national recognition, including placement on The Princeton Review’s list of Best Online Nursing School Master’s Programs for 2026 and Money’s 2025 list of Best Nursing Master’s Programs for Your Money.
Nurse Salaries and Job Growth Remain Strong Across the United States
The outlook for nurses remains strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports continued job growth and competitive wages across nursing fields. Registered nurses earn a median annual wage of about $93,600 in the United States, while advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners, earn a median of more than $132,000. Roles such as nurse anesthetists can exceed $200,000 annually.
Growth is expected to continue. Advanced practice nursing roles are projected to increase 35% from 2024 to 2034, far outpacing the average for most occupations. Registered nursing positions also are expected to grow steadily as health care systems place greater emphasis on preventive care, outpatient treatment and community-based services.
Cedarville Nursing Leaders Reflect on Program Growth and National Reach
Dr. Marcia Williams, director of graduate nursing programs and associate dean of nursing, said she has seen the program’s growth from the beginning. A member of the first graduating class, Williams said the program has expanded opportunities for students nationwide.
“While health care has changed in the past 15 years, preventive practice is still needed, and our graduates now have an opportunity to attend from all over the country,” said Williams. “It has been such an honor to be part of their transition to advanced practice registered nurses, and I am so excited to see our program reach this milestone. To God be the glory!”
Dr. Angelia Mickle, dean of the Cedarville University , said the program’s growth reflects both academic commitment and the changing needs of health systems.
“For the past 15 years, we have witnessed remarkable growth in our school of nursing graduate program,” said Mickle. “We have expanded in academic excellence, clinical partnerships and the reach of our students serving in diverse health care settings.”
Faith-Based Nursing Education Prepares Graduates for Leadership and Clinical Care
As the demand for highly trained nurses continues to grow, Cedarville leaders say the program remains focused on preparing graduates to serve with clinical skill, leadership and Christ-centered care.
“With graduates impacting hospitals and communities across the region and beyond, this program is vital in preparing Christ-centered nurse leaders,” said Mickle. “I am excited to see what God continues to do through it in the years ahead.”
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.
