Director Welcome

Welcome!

Welcome to the School of Nursing at UNC Wilmington! As Director, my vision is for UNCW’s School of Nursing to be the premier institution in southeastern North Carolina. We aim to shape clinicians and scholars who will lead transformative changes in healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and influence policies that enhance lives. For over 40 years, we have proudly graduated visionary nursing professionals who are making a difference across diverse healthcare settings. Our programs—including the BSN, MSN, and DNP—are designed to prepare the next generation of clinicians, leaders, educators, and researchers. In addition, we offer programs in Clinical Research, designed for students who are passionate about advancing healthcare through the development, coordination, and oversight of clinical trials and research studies. Whether you are just beginning your journey or looking to expand your expertise, our program equips you with the knowledge and skills to work in pharmaceutical companies, academic research centers, hospitals, and regulatory agencies.

We are excited that you have found your way to our website and are exploring the exceptional opportunities we offer. Our mission is to educate and empower nursing and clinical research professionals to advance the health of individuals and communities through excellence in teaching, practice, research, and scholarship. Whether your path is in nursing or clinical research, our programs are built with your success in mind. With flexible learning formats and a commitment to innovation, we support over 2,300 students across undergraduate and graduate programs.

At UNCW, you will begin a remarkable journey filled with lifelong professional opportunities. We invite you to become part of a community of compassionate leaders dedicated to making a meaningful impact in healthcare.

So why become a UNCW nurse?

• Job Security: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), approximately 193,100 RN positions will be available each year until 2032. North Carolina is one of the ten top states where the nursing shortage will be critical. (Health Workforce Analysis, AACN, 2024)
• Embraced: Our faculty and staff recognize that nursing education programs can be stressful. We encourage students to take advantage of our support services and to have candid conversations with their professors when they may need more assistance.
• Create Your Path: After graduation you will be prepared to work in a clinical area of your choice (pediatrics, intensive care, community, etc.), type of organization (hospital, out-patient clinic, homecare, etc.) and where you may want to work. Although we hope you will stay local, we know that some of you will choose to live out of state. Either way, you will be well prepared to practice and improve health outcomes for diverse populations wherever you go.

So why become a UNCW clinical researcher?

• Job Security: To date, 85% of our graduates are employed before they even graduate! Our graduates aid in the monitoring of cutting edge research leading to pharmaceutical and medical advancements that are changing the lives of people around the world.
• Embraced: Faculty and staff want you to succeed! We encourage students to take advantage of support services and to talk to the faculty when school/life balance becomes off balance.
• Create Your Path: We offer one of the few undergraduate programs in clinical research in the U.S. In addition, we offer a graduate degree in clinical research where you can focus on advancing your career and knowledge about clinical trials and product development. 

So why choose UNC Wilmington?

• Expert Faculty: Our faculty are clinical experts, educators and researchers who guide practice using cutting edge, evidence-based approaches.
• Supportive Staff: Our staff prioritize customer service and student success, ensuring you have the right resources at your fingertips.
• Beautiful Campus: Our campus is picture perfect with traditional Georgian-style architecture, green space and plenty of room to explore. Also, we are located just 15 minutes from the southeastern North Carolina coastline. Our campus provides a unique environment for students to learn and interact.  
• Embrace FUN: Let’s face it, we want you to choose a college that fits you! Our college encourages a balance between academics and fun.

Please take the time to explore our website. I think you will find even more reasons to choose UNC Wilmington. I know I did!

Dr. Trish Suplee