by Rachel Ward, Student Public Relations Writer
As the World Health Organization estimates a global shortage of 4.5 million nurses by 2030, higher education institutions play a critical role in preparing the next generation of health care professionals. Cedarville University’s School of Nursing is addressing this issue through applied learning, academic rigor and personal and professional development.
Cedarville University Nursing Program Responds to Global Nurse Shortage
To introduce prospective students to its highly recognized curriculum, Cedarville is hosting a Nursing Preview Day — an immersive look into its nursing program — on Friday, Jan. 30. The event will feature a panel discussion, high-fidelity patient simulation demonstrations and hands-on lab experiences. It also offers an opportunity for parents and guardians to meet faculty and explore the nursing facilities.
Suzanne Lefever, associate dean and director of the undergraduate nursing program, spearheads the event and will speak during the question and answer panel.
“We educate students to be safe and competent nurses, to become leaders in the profession, and to focus on care of the whole person, including physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual needs,” said Lefever.
Nursing Preview Day Highlights Hands-On Simulation and Clinical Training
As early as the second semester of freshman year, Cedarville nursing students begin clinicals. Over the course of their 1000 Days™ at the university, they complete more than 500 clinical hours of face-to-face, direct patient care. They also participate in simulations like the ones demonstrated during Nursing Preview Day.
“This serves to supplement the classroom learning and application in clinical settings while offering a safe and prescribed learning environment,” said Lefever.
Faith-Based Nursing Education Emphasizes Whole-Person Care
The curriculum is designed to prepare students academically and to serve patients holistically. In addition to their studies, many nursing students participate in short-term medical mission trips through Global Outreach, Cedarville’s missions organization.
“We emphasize the importance of care for the individual as created by God,” said Lefever.
Prospective students and families interested in attending Nursing Preview Day can find additional information and register at www.cedarville.edu/event/nursing-day.
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.
