2024 Nurses

Expanding on the traditional practice of teaching via lectures, memorization and exams, UW–Madison utilizes a curriculum that incorporates participatory learning activities and develops critical thinking in nearly 250 areas of competency. Such active learning is enhanced by the innovative facility that houses the nursing program.

Badger nurses have access to Signe Skott Cooper Hall, with high-tech learning centers, hospital simulation rooms, a fully equipped lab and dozens of research and project spaces, all of which empower students to practice real-life nursing experiences before setting foot in a clinical setting. True to its purpose, it is also designed as a healing, soothing environment that enhances student well-being.

Professional development as you learn

UW–Madison is especially proud of its clinical partnerships that place over 400 Badger students each semester across a spectrum of settings. “We help students find where they will flourish,” said Lisa Bratzke, associate dean of academic affairs. “Students gain a vital, career-shaping experience working somewhere that speaks to their interests, or in an area they may have never considered.”

Placements are available in schools, public health departments, critical access sites, hospitals, hospice, long-term care facilities and even prisons. Immersion programs with local partners such as Easterseals and Girl Scouts, and international opportunities, are also available.

Building better health outcomes for Wisconsin

The School of Nursing is committed to building a culture of health equity in Wisconsin. “Students are prepared to meet existing and emerging health care needs, such as the shortage of nurses, the aging population and, of particular note, the growing health inequities among various groups,” said Bratzke.

For example, residents in rural areas have fewer health care options, just as some communities have limited access to education, social connections and nutrition basics such as high-quality produce.

“Where we are born and live has a huge influence on our health outcomes,” Bratzke said, “and this, in turn, must impact how we educate students.”

Students are trained to recognize disparities and adjust their patient education and interaction techniques accordingly. UW–Madison further addresses these disparities by intentionally recruiting students from rural and underserved areas, recognizing that many are likely to return to these communities after graduation.

Badger nurses change lives

“Amidst all the change, the foundation of what we do as nurses has remained the same since the days of Florence Nightingale,” said Britta Lothary, clinical instructor. “Clinical judgment, education, communication and empathy have always been at the forefront of nursing. What has changed is the way we are able to deliver those services.”

While Lothary cautions that technology is not always the answer, it offers new venues of patient access, collecting data and information sharing that UW–Madison is using to shape the next generation of nurses.

For more information about the School of Nursing at University of Wisconsin–Madison, please visit nursing.wisc.edu.

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