University of Southern Nevada Profile

The University of Southern Nevada (USN) is a private, non-profit, independent educational institution situated in Henderson, Nevada. Founded with a strong focus on providing specialized healthcare and business education, USN has earned a reputation for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to preparing students for careers in fields such as nursing, pharmacy, business, and dental medicine. Over the years, the university has built a distinctive identity, emphasizing professional education in health-related disciplines, while also ensuring that students receive a well-rounded academic experience.

USN is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a reputable and independent body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This accreditation reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards, providing quality education, and continuously improving its programs. Additionally, the institution is licensed to operate in the State of Nevada by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education, ensuring its compliance with state regulations and policies that govern higher education institutions.

The University’s academic programs are designed to meet the growing demands of the healthcare industry and beyond, and its specializations are highly regarded for their depth and quality. USN’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, offered at the Henderson campus, is one of the flagship programs of the university. It is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), a leading accrediting body for nursing programs. The BSN program prepares students for a wide range of nursing careers, equipping them with the essential skills to provide high-quality care in a variety of healthcare settings. With the increasing demand for skilled nurses in the U.S., the BSN program at USN plays a crucial role in ensuring that graduates are ready to meet the challenges of the healthcare field.

In addition to its nursing program, the university is also home to the College of Pharmacy, which offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program at two campuses—Henderson, Nevada, and South Jordan, Utah. The College of Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), a key accrediting organization for pharmacy schools in the U.S. The PharmD program at USN prepares students for careers in pharmacy by providing them with comprehensive knowledge of drug therapy, patient care, and pharmacy management. With a growing need for healthcare professionals who are well-versed in pharmacology, the College of Pharmacy ensures that its graduates are equipped to play a critical role in improving patient outcomes.

The College of Dental Medicine (CODM) at USN is another key academic unit of the university. Established in 2007, CODM has become a prominent part of the university’s healthcare programs. Initially offering an Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Residency (AEODO) combined with a Master in Business Administration (MBA), the college has grown to become an integral part of USN’s offerings in the dental field. This residency program equips students with the advanced skills necessary for specialized careers in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. The addition of the MBA component to the program ensures that graduates are not only skilled in clinical dental practices but also possess the business acumen to run successful private practices or manage dental health organizations effectively.

In addition to its specialized healthcare programs, USN also offers accreditation for its business programs. Through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), the university has earned specialized accreditation for its business programs, which are available to students pursuing careers in business management, administration, and related fields. The IACBE accreditation is a highly respected credential, ensuring that USN’s business programs meet rigorous standards of academic quality and prepare students for successful careers in a wide range of industries. This accreditation is vital in today’s global economy, where businesses are looking for well-trained professionals who can manage and lead in dynamic and competitive environments.

The university’s diverse academic offerings cater to students with a variety of interests and career goals. Beyond the healthcare and business fields, the University of Southern Nevada is committed to fostering an environment where students can receive a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in the ever-evolving global marketplace. The accelerated programs, such as the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program for those who already hold a degree in another field, are specifically designed to help students transition into new careers in a short period of time. These fast-track programs ensure that students can gain new skills and credentials quickly, making them highly attractive to employers in the healthcare industry.

One of the defining features of USN is its emphasis on student success and professional development. The university is not just focused on academic achievement, but also on preparing students for the practical challenges they will face in their respective careers. This focus on real-world applications of academic knowledge is what has helped the University of Southern Nevada build a reputation for excellence in training highly skilled healthcare professionals and business leaders.

In recognition of its commitment to creating a positive work environment and fostering employee satisfaction, USN was named the Best Place to Work by the Southern Nevada Human Resources Association. This honor speaks to the university's strong internal culture, which is centered around collaboration, mutual respect, and a commitment to fostering a healthy and productive work environment for faculty, staff, and students alike. This accolade is not only a testament to the university’s operational success but also highlights the supportive and nurturing atmosphere that contributes to the overall success of its students.

USN's location in Henderson, Nevada, is another key factor that contributes to its appeal. Henderson is part of the Las Vegas metropolitan area, providing students with access to a vibrant, diverse, and dynamic city that offers a range of professional opportunities. For healthcare students, the proximity to numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical centers in the Las Vegas area creates excellent opportunities for internships, clinical placements, and employment upon graduation. Similarly, students in the business and pharmacy programs benefit from the region's growing economy, which offers a wealth of opportunities for career advancement and professional networking.

While the university has earned a strong reputation in healthcare and business education, it is also committed to ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to quality education. The university supports a diverse student body, providing resources and opportunities to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, can succeed. This commitment to inclusivity and diversity is central to USN’s mission and is reflected in the variety of student services available, including academic advising, career counseling, and support for students with special needs.

In conclusion, the University of Southern Nevada stands out as a leader in specialized education, particularly in the fields of healthcare, business, and pharmacy. With its range of accredited programs, including those in nursing, pharmacy, dental medicine, and business, USN provides students with the tools they need to succeed in some of the most rapidly growing industries. The university’s commitment to excellence, its focus on student success, and its nurturing work environment make it an attractive option for students seeking to advance their education and careers. Whether pursuing a degree in nursing, pharmacy, or business, students at USN can rest assured that they are receiving an education that is not only academically rigorous but also aligned with the needs of the contemporary job market.