Mercy Hospital is a Catholic facility, and according to its website is "the only faith-based health care provider in the City of Pittsburgh." The hospital's school of nursing was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1893. Now sponsored by UPMC, the school offers a 21-month diploma program that has graduated more than 5,600 nurses. Students may transfer up to 30 credits from nearby Carlow College.
Founded in 1910, the St. Margaret School of Nursing offers programs in registered and practical nursing. The registered nursing program is a 76-week diploma program that qualifies graduates to take a state licensing exam. The practical nursing program is a 52-week program offered to students who want to become licensed practical nurses. A clinical practicum for both programs is offered at either of two hospital campuses, UPMC St. Margaret and UPMC McKeesport.
This school, based at Shadyside Hospital, has been training nurses since 1884. It features a 22-month program for students interested in full-time training and a four-year course of study for part-time students. The four-year program offers weekend and evening classes. Clinical experiences may be held at Shadyside Hospital or other health centers in the UPMC network and may be scheduled for day, evening or weekend hours.
This nursing school has won numerous awards and accolades. In 2007, the school was ranked seventh on "U.S. News & World Report's" list of the best graduate schools in the United States. The school offers bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, as well as a doctoral program. As of the 2009-10 school year, the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing achieved a 95 percent first-time pass rate for nurses taking licensure exams.