Education in nursing stands as a bridge between medical science and compassionate care. The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) has emerged as a leader in nursing education, research, and community engagement. With its innovative programs, professional development opportunities, and commitment to real-world impact, UMSON equips aspiring nurses, educators, and researchers to thrive in a rapidly evolving health care system. This article explores the highlights of UMSON, including programs, achievements, events, community involvement, and unique initiatives that reflect its excellence.
Table of Contents
Academic Programs at UMSON
- Entry-into-Nursing Programs
- Designed for those beginning their nursing journey.
- Offered at both the Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses.
- Focus on blending clinical skills with research-based education.
- Continuing Education Programs
- Short-term certificates and workshops for professional nurses.
- Enhance skills in leadership, education, and advanced practice.
- Specialized Certificates
- Real-World Data and Pragmatic Research Certificate was introduced in 2025.
- Prepares professionals to analyze health data and apply findings in patient care.
- Graduate Degrees
- Master’s, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD programs.
- Designed for advanced roles in clinical leadership, policy, and research.
Events and Opportunities
- Virtual Info Session
- Focused on the new Real-World Data and Pragmatic Research Certificate.
- Scheduled for September 30, 2025.
- Guides how data can transform nursing research.
- Open House Sessions
- October 25 in Baltimore and November 8 at Shady Grove.
- Aimed at individuals considering entry into nursing programs.
- Includes interactions with faculty, campus tours, and admission guidance.
- Career Connections
- Held on September 8, 2025, in the UMSON Lobby.
- Connects students with employers and professional mentors.
- Advising Sessions
- RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN advising on September 11, 2025.
- Supports registered nurses seeking advanced qualifications.
- Workshops
- Competency-Based Education Workshop scheduled for September 12, 2025.
- Conducted online for broad accessibility.
Quick Facts about UMSON
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Extramural Funding | $9.3 million in the last fiscal year |
| Entry-into-Nursing Admissions | 288 students are admitted each semester |
| Simulation Labs | 33 clinical simulation labs available |
| Global Community Presence | Programs embedded in Baltimore, Shady Grove, and international communities |
UMSON Achievements
- Fulbright Scholar Recognition
- A PhD student became the school’s first Fulbright U.S. Student Program Scholar in 2025.
- This recognition highlights UMSON’s commitment to global research collaboration.
- Visionary Pioneer Awardees
- Five new professionals were named UMSON Visionary Pioneers in August 2025.
- Honors contributions to advancing nursing education and practice.
- Impact in Research
- UMSON researchers actively explore health care challenges.
- Federal funding drives projects that improve patient outcomes and policy decisions.
UMSON in the News
- National Nurses Week 2025
- UMSON celebrated the resilience and dedication of nurses.
- Events included workshops, recognition programs, and community outreach.
- AI in Nursing Education
- Maryland colleges, including UMSON, integrated artificial intelligence into curricula.
- Prepares students for future health care environments driven by technology.
Community Engagement
- Local Partnerships
- UMSON collaborates with health care facilities in West Baltimore and Shady Grove.
- Initiatives improve access to quality care for underserved communities.
- Global Impact
- Programs extend beyond Maryland, supporting nursing education worldwide.
- Focus on health equity and cultural competence in nursing practice.
- Living History Museum
- Captures the evolution of nursing as a profession.
- Offers educational experiences for students and visitors.
Institute for Educators
- Mission
- Empowers nurse educators to advance the science and art of teaching.
- Equips faculty with modern tools for effective nursing education.
- Programs
- Workshops on curriculum design and competency-based education.
- Training in simulation technology and evidence-based teaching methods.
- Impact
- Strengthens the pipeline of skilled nursing educators.
- Contributes to the sustainability of the nursing workforce.
Breakthrough Research at UMSON
- Government-Funded Projects
- Federal support enables research addressing real-world health care needs.
- Projects target chronic illness management, community health, and data-driven solutions.
- Student Involvement
- Research opportunities are available for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.
- Encourages critical thinking and innovation in clinical practice.
- Real-World Application
- Studies focus on improving patient safety, reducing health disparities, and influencing health policy.
Highlights of UMSON Initiatives
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Real-World Data Certificate | Training in health data and pragmatic research | Prepares professionals for data-driven care |
| Entry-into-Nursing Open Houses | Events for aspiring nurses in Baltimore and Shady Grove | Provides clarity on program pathways |
| Visionary Pioneers | Recognition of nursing leaders | Inspires future professionals |
| Institute for Educators | Faculty development programs | Advances in teaching in nursing education |
| Research Projects | Studies funded by federal and state sources | Improves patient outcomes and policies |
Future of Nursing at UMSON
- Expanding Curriculum
- Integration of digital tools, AI, and simulation-based learning.
- Development of new certificates aligned with emerging health care needs.
- Increasing Student Access
- More scholarships and financial support for diverse learners.
- Expanded advising and mentorship for professional growth.
- Strengthening Research Collaborations
- Partnerships with hospitals, government agencies, and global institutions.
- Focus on interdisciplinary approaches to health challenges.
End Notes
Nursing education evolves constantly, and UMSON continues to set benchmarks in professional training, research innovation, and community engagement. The introduction of cutting-edge programs, strong institutional values, and impactful partnerships showcases its leadership in health care. Students, researchers, and educators find in UMSON not just a place of learning but a foundation for lifelong service to humanity.
