Leading the Way in Nursing Education in Baton Rouge
For more than a century, FranU has been a cornerstone of nursing education in Baton Rouge. Our story began in 1923 when the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady opened one of the region’s first nursing schools alongside Our Lady of the Lake Sanitarium. With only nine students, the program set a foundation built on compassion, excellence and a commitment to serving others.
Today that same mission continues to guide us. We are proud to be considered one of the best nursing schools in Baton Rouge. Our rigorous nursing programs offer quality hands-on nursing education, state-of-the-art simulation technology, fulfilling service-learning opportunities and successful academic and career outcomes.
The FranU Nursing Advantage
What Sets FranU’s Nursing Programs Apart
As a Catholic nursing school, we offer a faith-based education that is service-centered. Our small class sizes allow for individualized faculty mentorship and community connections students won’t find anywhere else.
Our affiliation with FMOL Health gives students in the nursing programs the opportunity to form strong partnerships with top-notch Baton Rouge healthcare facilities. These partnerships along with a high NCLEX pass rate, clinical experience and a loyal alumni network leads our students to greatness. In fact, all FranU nursing programs have a 100% employment rate within 12 months of graduation.
Real-World Clinical Experience in Baton Rouge
The bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate nursing programs all include extensive clinical portions in their curriculum to develop skilled nursing students who are ready to serve. This hands-on nursing education gives students the confidence and readiness needed for RN licensure or higher, helping them attain competitive clinical placements in local hospitals, clinics and healthcare systems.
Cutting-Edge Nursing Simulation Labs
FranU’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs replicate real hospital settings. The University’s top-of-the-line nursing simulation lab technology gives nursing students real-world experience through hands-on learning in an environment they are likely to see on the job. These labs include a birthing suite, NICU, emergency room, ICU, operating room and more!
A Legacy of Excellence in Nursing Education
FranU’s nursing school has a long history of preparing nurses rooted in service and compassion. The University’s mission to form Franciscan leaders dedicated to service is important, especially for nursing students. Our nursing graduates are easy to identify because of the holistic education they received here. FranU’s nursing students carry forward the legacy of excellence that defines the University and the future of healthcare we’re committed to building.
Stories from the Source: FranU Nursing Students and Alumni
Hear directly from our students as they share their journeys. These spotlights feature nursing graduates who turned their passion into purpose, many now thriving in nursing careers across Baton Rouge.
Throughout the program, the instructors were always supportive taking the time to explain difficult concepts and ensuring I could apply what I learned in real clinical settings. Their guidance helped me grow from simply memorizing information to truly understanding how to provide safe, effective and compassionate care. This experience has been instrumental in shaping my professional confidence and preparing me for the realities of nursing practice."
Joshua Butler
Current Accelerated Pre-licensure BSN Track Student
I’m incredibly grateful for the clinical opportunities provided throughout the FNP program. Every aspect of the program felt thoughtfully designed to help us thrive. I’m thankful for the strong emphasis on patient-centered care and the high-quality education I received."
Rhea Eslit, APRN, FNP-C
Class of 2024 | Fast Pace Health, Urgent Care NP
The FranU DNP-NA program faculty have been invaluable on my journey to becoming a nurse anesthesiologist. The experienced faculty incorporate current practices and modern anesthetic techniques into the classroom through various learning methods. With the recently updated SETH lab, guest speakers and student grand rounds, I have experienced a smooth transition into clinical rotations. The program has not only prepared me both academically and clinically but has also fostered a strong sense of community."
Ethan Treigle, BSN
Current DNP-NA Student
Faith-Based Learning at FranU
Faith, service and ethical care are central to nursing education at FranU. As one of the leading nursing programs in Baton Rouge, we prepare students not only to deliver excellent care but to do so with compassion, integrity and a strong moral foundation.
Our approach includes service learning for nursing students, where academic knowledge meets hands-on experience in local healthcare and community settings. These opportunities help students strengthen both their clinical skills and their commitment to serving others.
The REACH Program stands at the intersection of faith and service in healthcare. Through this unique experience, students learn to apply Catholic ethical principles to real-world clinical scenarios, gaining a deeper understanding of how faith informs compassionate decision-making. By December 2021, REACH was fully integrated into the BSN curriculum and co-curriculum activities. REACH helps future nurses navigate complex ethical situations with confidence and clarity, preparing them to lead with both competence and conviction in their professional practice.
Explore Nursing Degrees at Every Level in Baton Rouge
Accelerated and Traditional (pre-licensure) BSN Tracks
Whether you’re changing careers or starting fresh, FranU offers both an Accelerated Pre-licensure BSN Track and a Traditional Pre-licensure BSN Track. Each pathway provides immersive clinical experiences and preparation for the RN licensure exam.
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
FranU’s Accelerated Pre-licensure BSN Track allows students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing to earn a BSN degree in 16 months, following completion of required prerequisites. The track builds on students’ foundations in the arts and sciences to form self-directed nurse generalists prepared to assume leadership roles in the delivery of evidence-based nursing care.
Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The pre-licensure BSN program prepares graduates to excel as Registered Nurses (RNs), with the potential for future specialization or advanced practice roles. We accomplish this through rigorous in-classroom education and hands-on clinical experiences.
Advanced Nursing Degrees: MSN-FNP and DNP-NA Programs in Baton Rouge
Master of Science in Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Our Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program empowers RNs to provide advanced-level primary care across the lifespan.t As a top nurse practitioner school in Baton Rouge, FranU prepares students for FNP jobs in Baton Rouge and beyond.
Doctor of Nursing Practice — Nurse Anesthesia (DNP-NA)
FranU’s DNP-NA program is a highly respected nurse anesthesia program in the United States. Graduates become competent and compassionate CRNAs ready for leadership and practice across advanced healthcare settings.
Proven Licensure Exam Success and Career Outcomes
FranU’s School of Nursing consistently has high NCLEX-RN pass rates and high pass rates on the family nurse practitioner and CRNA certification exams, showcasing the strength of our bachelor and upper-level programs and the dedication of our students. Graduates of our Registered Nurse (RN), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) programs enter the workforce ready to lead and serve. They go on to earn competitive RN, FNP and CRNA salaries in Baton Rouge, reflecting both their preparation and the exceptional quality of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice education at FranU.
How to Apply to FranU’s School of Nursing
Ready to begin your journey toward becoming an RN, FNP or CRNA? Follow below to apply to FranU’s nursing programs and take the next step toward your career in healthcare.
Traditional Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Start your nursing education and build the foundation for a rewarding career as a registered nurse.
Accelerated Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Fast-track your nursing degree and prepare to become an RN through our intensive, hands-on accelerated program.
Apply NowAdmission Requirements
Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Advance your career and become a confident, compassionate family nurse practitioner ready to lead in patient care.
Apply NowAdmission Requirements
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia
Prepare to practice at the highest level of nursing through FranU’s DNP-NA Program and become a highly skilled skilled, ethical nurse anesthetist.
Apply NowAdmission Requirements
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