Welcome to the Swain Department of Nursing
The Swain Department of Nursing is committed to building the next generation of professional nurses and nurse leaders. Small class sizes, a caring learning environment, and high-fidelity simulation experiences support student success. A focus of caring and clinical judgement are hallmarks of the program. Benner’s model of Novice to Expert, which serves as a guiding framework, acknowledges that the development of nursing skills and the understanding of patient care occurs over time based on educational foundation and personal experience.
The curriculum is focused on holistic and person-centered care across the lifespan and within various healthcare environments. The Citadel nurse understands the impact of the social determinants of health and integrates this knowledge to meet the unique care needs of the communities they serve.
The application of clinical judgement enables the student to apply abstract concepts to concrete situations using methodological skills and current evidence. The Citadel nurse understands and applied evidence-based practice in accordance with accepted standards of professional practice. He/she provides safe and quality care as a contributing member of the inter-professional team.
Majoring in Nursing
at The Citadel
A strong general science background provides the infrastructure necessary for students to apply theoretical principles to the delivery of nursing practice. Students learn in the classroom, simulation center, and clinical settings. We offer diverse clinical experiences to provide the student with competencies that reflect the skill of a novice nurse by graduation. Standardized testing is threaded throughout the curriculum to enhance learning and to further prepare the student for the nursing licensure exam.
A traditional four-year baccalaureate program is available to students in the Corps of Cadets as well as Veteran students. A community focused evening completion program provides the option to transfer general education courses and prerequisite courses from another institution toward the completion of a nursing degree at The Citadel. Classes and clinical experiences for evening students are completed during evening hours. They will occur occasionally during the day and on Saturdays. These hours are designed for the student who needs flexibility in their learning environment. Both the Corps of Cadets and evening students earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree upon completion of the program.
The evening program offers an opportunity for students to take classes in the evening. The evening program is not required to participate in the activity of the Corps of Cadets. The program is designed for civilians seeking the opportunity to receive their education at The Citadel.
The Citadel’s Swain Department of Nursing excels in providing tools for its cadets and students to become the next generation of nurses.
The Citadel’s Swain Department of Nursing is celebrating two major successes – one for the department as a whole and another for the outstanding accomplishments of its graduates. 
The Citadel’s Swain Department of Nursing is recognizing its newest graduates from its nursing program.