The Villa Maria School of Nursing philosophy is consistent with the Mission of the parent institution, Gannon University, and the parent College. The philosophy of the Villa Maria School of Nursing reflects the beliefs and values of the faculty and gives direction to the baccalaureate and graduate curricula. We believe that a broad education in liberal arts and sciences is the foundation for the development of knowledge, skill, and inquiry essential to the profession of nursing. A program of balanced study of natural and social sciences and the humanities, within the context of professional education promotes critical thinking, effective communication, caring, respect, and concern for individuals, communities, and society. We are committed to the ongoing development of the discipline, the integrity of our educational process, and the competence of our practitioners.
Baccalaureate education provides the foundation for learning as a life-long continuous process.
Graduate education in nursing lays the foundation for doctoral studies. We believe that the development of values, attitudes, knowledge and skills necessary to competently serve diverse cultures with the rapid expansion of health knowledge and health care technology requires a degree in higher education. To this end, the faculty supports the baccalaureate degree as entry into professional nursing practice with the associate degree as entry into nursing practice. The faculty of the Villa Maria School of Nursing has formulated the following beliefs about Person, Environment, Health, Nursing and Nursing Education. We believe that person is a biopsychosocial and spiritual system, which is in constant interaction with the environment.