The University of Rochester School of Nursing offers an inclusive, innovative, and inspiring place to achieve your dreams and make a difference in the lives of others. Now, college graduates can earn full tuition coverage for the 12-Month Accelerated Nursing Program at the University of Rochester with a three-year work commitment at Strong Memorial, Highland, or F.F. Thompson Hospital.*
We are proud to announce that the UR Nursing Scholars program has been extended through 2027!
Applications are now being accepted to start the program in Summer 2025! Apply by November 1st.
Change your Career. Make an Impact.
Sarah Cox
Accelerated Student, Class of May 2023
Previous Degree: Spanish
As a professional birth doula and a cancer survivor, Sarah's admiration for the nurses in her life soon turned into a career goal of her own.
Sarah's Nursing StoryChristina Mather '18N
Project Nurse, UR Medicine Employee Wellness
Previous Degree: Microbiology
From neuro-virology researcher to neuromedicine nurse, Christina discovered her passion for healing others right here at the University of Rochester.
Christina's Nursing StoryJoshua Billings
Accelerated Student, Class of May 2023
Previous Degree: Psychology
A former case manager who helped survivors of human trafficking, Joshua is pursuing his bachelor's as the first step toward a career in psychiatric and mental health nursing.
Joshua's Nursing StoryUR Nursing Scholars Program
There is a critical need for skilled nurses — especially in acute care settings. The UR Nursing Scholars program seeks to combat the nursing shortage by providing an affordable nursing education for the next generation of nurses.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- 12-month, full-time program for students with a previous bachelor's degree
- Career support from nursing leaders and mentors at UR Medicine hospitals
- 100% tuition covered with three-year work commitment at Strong Memorial, Highland, or F.F. Thompson Hospital
About the 12-Month Accelerated Nursing Program
49
CREDITS OVER 3 FULL SEMESTERS
Become practice-ready in a high-impact learning environment, recognized by Apple for excellence in innovation, teaching, and learning.
1:1
Career Support
Connect with a network of peers and faculty at every stage of your journey. Each program cohort features students from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.
650+
HOURS OF CLINICAL TRAINING
Learn to solve complex problems and make safe decisions for your future patients with clinical rotations at the University of Rochester Medical Center and immersive simulation experiences.
About Nursing at UR Medicine Hospitals
Strong Memorial Hospital
Strong Memorial Hospital is the largest and most specialized hospital in western New York State as part of the University of Rochester Medical Center. Strong is home to nationally renowned clinical care, including upstate New York’s only cardiac and liver transplant programs, the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and the Wilmot Cancer Institute.
Learn more about Strong about Strong Memorial HospitalHighland Hospital
Founded in 1889, Highland Hospital has a history of innovative and personalized care. The 261-bed community hospital is a regional leader in specialties such as total joint replacement, geriatric care, gynecologic oncology, women's health services, maternity, as well as hosting a collaborative Wilmot Cancer Center program.
Learn more about Highland about Highland HospitalF.F. Thompson Hospital
Founded in 1904, the 113-bed F.F. Thompson Hospital is located at the north end of picturesque Canandaigua Lake in a vibrant community. With numerous distinctions and accreditations, the Thompson health system demonstrates a strong commitment to nursing excellence, and specializes in a full array of healthcare services addressing a wide range of needs across the region.
Learn more about F.F. Thompson about F.F. Thompson HospitalAs a lifetime health and wellness advocate, I knew nursing was the ideal choice for me. I chose the UR Nursing Scholars program because of the program length and immediate employment opportunities. I am a UR alum and know UR is a fantastic university with strong and rigorous academic standards.
How to Apply
The UR Nursing Scholars Program provides three-semesters of tuition coverage (in the form of a scholarship and forgivable loan) in Rochester, New York, in exchange for a three-year work commitment at Strong Memorial, Highland, or F.F. Thompson Hospital upon graduation and passing the NCLEX.
I am thrilled to be accepted to the UR Nursing Scholars Program as it will enable me to serve the Rochester community as an RN upon graduation. I never want to stay stagnant and look forward to a life full of learning. Our community needs nurses and I am honored to join this profession and
serve the Rochester area.
*The condition of UR Nursing Scholars Program is that recipients will work full-time in an eligible position at an eligible health care facility for up to three years. If students do not meet the condition of the UR Nursing Scholars program, they will be required to repay loan funds as set forth in the Loan Agreement & Promissory Note. The students exclusively attend classes at the University of Rochester School of Nursing on-site in Rochester, New York.