Nursing
Mount Mary University’s Nursing Program prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals to lead with confidence and compassion. Through a holistic approach to education, we help students develop the knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills needed to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Our nursing program is rooted in compassion, excellence and service. We believe that nursing is both a science and a calling — one that blends clinical expertise with empathy and integrity. Our students are empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, supported by a community that values leadership, reflection and lifelong learning.
At Mount Mary University, we are dedicated to preparing our nursing students for success every step of the way. Our state-of-the-art Health Sciences Simulation Center provides immersive, hands-on experiences that mirror real-world patients in the settings. These experiences empower students to transform knowledge into a confident, compassionate practice that supports excellence in patient care.
Under the guidance of our expert faculty, students receive personalized instruction and mentorship in both classroom and clinical environments. Our goal is to ensure that every graduate is not only ready to pass the NCLEX-RN exam but also equipped to deliver compassionate, high-quality care throughout their professional journey.
Join Mount Mary University and take the first step toward a fulfilling, impactful, and rewarding career in nursing.
View a sample program plan to see what courses you'll take in our Nursing program.
Learn MoreNursing
Mount Mary University’s Nursing Program prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals to lead with confidence and compassion. Through a holistic approach to education, we help students develop the knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills needed to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Our nursing program is rooted in compassion, excellence and service. We believe that nursing is both a science and a calling — one that blends clinical expertise with empathy and integrity. Our students are empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, supported by a community that values leadership, reflection and lifelong learning.
At Mount Mary University, we are dedicated to preparing our nursing students for success every step of the way. Our state-of-the-art Health Sciences Simulation Center provides immersive, hands-on experiences that mirror real-world patients in the settings. These experiences empower students to transform knowledge into a confident, compassionate practice that supports excellence in patient care.
Under the guidance of our expert faculty, students receive personalized instruction and mentorship in both classroom and clinical environments. Our goal is to ensure that every graduate is not only ready to pass the NCLEX-RN exam but also equipped to deliver compassionate, high-quality care throughout their professional journey.
Join Mount Mary University and take the first step toward a fulfilling, impactful, and rewarding career in nursing.
View a sample program plan to see what courses you'll take in our Nursing program.
At Mount Mary University, our Nursing Program is designed to make your path to becoming a registered nurse clear, supportive, and accessible. With no separate program applications, entry exams, it allows you to focus on what truly matters: building your clinical skills, confidence, and professional identity as a nurse. Guided by dedicated faculty and supported by a collaborative learning environment, you’ll gain the knowledge, compassion, and experience needed to provide exceptional care in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.
- Direct admission: No additional application or entry exams: From the moment you’re accepted to Mount Mary, you’re a nursing student. There’s no separate application process or entrance testing required.
- Guaranteed clinical placement: Our coordinated clinical and preceptorships model ensures every student secures a clinical site — no waiting lists or uncertainty.
- Small class sizes: Benefit from personalized instruction and close connections with expert faculty. Collaborative learning with additional programs at the university enriches your academic experience.
- Comprehensive NCLEX preparation: Exam readiness is woven throughout the curriculum, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to succeed on the licensing exam.
- Community and Connection: Get involved through Mount Mary’s Student Nursing Association and community partnerships that encourage service, leadership, and the development of skills that extend beyond the classroom.
- Direct admission: At Mount Mary, you’re a nursing student right from the start
- Clinical partners at top health care facilities in Southeastern Wisconsin, including Children's Wisconsin, Froedtert, Advocate Aurora, Ascension, at ProHealth Care, Milwaukee Catholic Home and Clement Manor
- Earn your CPR certification on campus
- Four-year program: Students will be able to manageably complete their nursing training with an average of 15 credits per semester
- The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Mount Mary University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791
Kelly Shafaie MSN, RN
Dean of Nursing
Phone: (414) 930-3326
Email: shafaiek@mtmary.edu
Jennifer Nowicki, MSN, RN
Chair and Assistant Professor, Nursing
Phone: (414) 930-3489
Email: nowickij@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Psychiatric, Medical Surgical, Stepdown, Emergency Room, Education
Rachel Pappenfuss MSN, RN
Health Science Center Education Coordinator
Phone: (414) 930-3171
Email: pappenfr@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Nursing education, lab & simulation education, medical-surgical nursing
Dakota Hechimovich, MSN, RN
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Phone: (414) 930-3251
Email: drolshad@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Pediatric, Community Health, and Critical Care Nursing, Clinical Practice, Advising
Kristin Wood, MSN, RN CNE
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Phone: (414) 930-3322
Email: woodkr@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Nursing Student Success Coach, Interprofessional Education, Medical/Surgical Nursing, Neurosurgery
Dr. Brianna Nabak, DNP, RN
Assistant Professor
Phone: (414) 930-3318
Email: wolfb@mtmary.edu
Expertise: cardiac critical care, pediatric critical care, pediatric primary care
Erica Nissila, MSN, RN
Assistant Professor
Phone: (414) 930-3467
Email: nissilae@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Acute Care, Emergency Department Nursing , and prehospital Emergencies
Megan Oertel BSN, RN, CHSE, CHSOS
Director of Health Sciences Center and Simulation
Phone: (414) 930-3389
Email: oertelm@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Healthcare Simulation, Nursing, Nursing Skills Lab
Chyral Forrest
Clinical and Program Coordinator
Phone: (414) 930-9498
Email: forrestc@mtmary.edu
According to 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for registered nurses is $93,600, and for nurse practitioners is $132,050. The nursing field is projected to experience a 5% growth between 2024-2034, considered faster than average when compared with all occupations.
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