Nursing Frequently Asked Questions
What skills do I need to succeed in this major?
If you're considering a nursing major at CMU, you should be compassionate, helpful, organized, motivated, possess time management and communication skills, think critically, and have the desire to further develop a professional attitude. You should be adaptable to changing environments, and be comfortable working in both individual and group settings.
How will I know if this major fits me?
If you have an interest in science, the human body, hands-on care, and helping others, this major is a great choice for you. Many CMU nursing students decided on this major simply because they want to make a difference in the world by assisting and caring for those around them.
What can I expect to learn?
As a nursing student at CMU, you will gain knowledge through classes in liberal arts, humanities, the sciences, and nursing laboratories. You will develop a strong understanding of the human body and diseases, and be able to use your knowledge to analyze information, make confident decisions, and administer care. Because nursing is dynamic, the education is foundational for professional growth through research and continuing education.
What technology will I use in this major?
Significant technology is used in the Nursing program at CMU. For simulations, CMU Nursing uses Laerdal Mannequin - the leading company in nursing simulation education. As you study, you will use patient beds that can be video and audio recorded in real time, and a debriefing system for students and instructors to review and critique patient care once simulations are over. Additionally, you will learn with top-of-the-line mannequins which have capabilities that include giving birth, having seizures, communicating as you care for them, and other features. You will utilize video software and healthcare informatics while you train in our state-of-the-art Simulation Laboratory, which has life-like surroundings and audio.
Will I have opportunities for internships and hands-on learning experiences?
Many CMU nursing students participate in externships in the summer. Once admitted to the nursing program, students have hands-on experience with nursing skills and simulations in state-of-the-art laboratories. In your last semester, you will complete 240 clinical hours in a healthcare facility.
Am I required to be vaccinated for COVID-19?
While Central Methodist University currently does not require students to be vaccinated for COVID-19, area health care providers who provide clinical experience opportunities for health professions students may require the vaccination in order for students to be on their premises and come into contact with patients in their facilities. Therefore, all pre-licensure nursing students must be vaccinated for COVID-19. Students seeking an exemption would need to contact CMU's clinical coordinator to receive the process on requesting an exemption. Exemptions from the vaccine are only granted by the clinical facility.
What are current nursing majors at CMU saying about their experience?
"I chose nursing because I wanted to make a difference in people's lives, especially when they're at their weakest moments. CMU prepares nursing majors for the real world. We have clinical hours to complete with an instructor, simulations, hands-on learning in the lab, and the professors are always there help us through any questions we have." - Brianna Mitchem
"The professors have helped me build confidence in my skills as a nurse, and have always pushed me to do my best. They know me, Kaci - not just me, the student. That kind of relationship means the professors truly know my strengths and weaknesses, which allows me to better my education. If it wasn't for CMU and my professors, I wouldn't be the person I am today, and I wouldn't be the nurse I always dreamed I would be." - Kaci Linebaugh
"I chose to study nursing because I want to make a difference in people's lives. At CMU, I am gaining the knowledge and training I need to help me succeed not only in the classroom but more importantly in my future role as a registered nurse. Hands-on skills labs with life-like mannequins coupled with hands-on clinicals help us to gain the skills and confidence we need to take care of patients." - Megan Prenger
"I really enjoy the classes at Central Methodist because the professors are very professional and personal, and they accommodate my needs. They can meet with me whenever I need or give me help whenever I ask." - Madelyne Brand
What are CMU students who graduated with this degree doing now?
Recent nursing graduates of CMU have gone on to pursue careers in operating rooms, emergency departments, intensive care units, cardiac intensive care units, neonatal intensive care, labor and delivery, postpartum, newborn nurseries, and recovery rooms.
Who can I speak with for more information about this major?
For additional guidance and information about the nursing major, contact CMU's School of Health Professions at 660-248-6359 or email Debbie Lackland at dlacklan@centralmethodist.edu.
To read more about this major, visit our Major Resources page provided through CMU's Career Development Center.
