The Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is excited to offer incoming students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the dynamic environment of the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center for two years — twice the duration of our typical nursing student.
This extended placement at a Level 1 Trauma Center for both adults and children provides a unique learning experience where students will benefit from exposure to a wide range of medical cases all at a singular location. The larger center and its diverse demands ensure the same comprehensive education that other students find across our clinical sites, while state-of-the-art simulation labs allow for practice and proficiency in a controlled environment, mirroring real-life scenarios.
Additionally, Hershey Medical Center’s status as a teaching hospital offers access to a broad wealth of professional resources and mentorship from experienced healthcare leaders. By choosing this option, nursing students at Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing are prepared to excel in their careers and contribute to the healthcare field.
About the Hershey Medical Center
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the only locally based academic medical center in central Pennsylvania. The 619-bed medical center provides adults and children advanced patient-focused care for cancer, heart, vascular and neurological conditions. It is Pennsylvania’s only nationally verified Level I Trauma Center for both children and adults.
For more information, including details regarding the hospital’s esteemed U.S News & World Report ranking, Magnet® Recognition, designation as a Highmark Blue Distinction Center, and recognition from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, please follow the link below.
The Same Benefits, Plus More
While some prospective students may worry about missing out on experiences unique to the University Park campus by effectively trading one year there for a year at Hershey, this new option ensures no loss of academic opportunity. Students will follow the same rigorous curriculum and have access to the same student organizations and support, maintaining their connection to the broader Penn State community.
Additionally, the extended time at Hershey Medical Center provides more comprehensive exposure to medical cases, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and mentorship from seasoned professionals — enriching their education. This extended experience will enhance the students diversity of clinical experiences in one location and provide opportunities to broaden their nursing careers and contributions to the healthcare field.
Learn about student nursing groups »
Regional Attraction
Choosing to spend two years at the Hershey Medical Center not only enriches your nursing education but also offers a vibrant lifestyle in the Hershey area. Proximity to the Harrisburg metropolitan area provides access to a wealth of cultural and entertainment options, including museums, theaters, and a diverse culinary scene. As a student, you’ll enjoy discounts to Hershey Park — the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania — perfect for unwinding and having fun.
The Hershey area is known for its beautiful parks, scenic trails, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to balance your rigorous studies with a rewarding and enjoyable lifestyle.
Additionally, the area offers easy access to the University Park campus, ensuring you can still partake in Penn State football games and other campus activities if you wish to travel.
Explore the map to learn more about the area.
Navigating the Details
By accepting a University Park offer of admission, students are committing to one or two years at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, depending on their choice and offer. Students are sometimes exempted from the Hershey experience for curricular reasons, which include exceptions for Schreyer Honors College students, ROTC, and NCAA scholarship athletes. Exemptions are not granted for personal (including mental health), social, employment, or financial reasons. In addition, curricular exemptions and not granted for Blue Band students, cheerleaders, and Lionettes.
Guaranteed housing is available on the Hershey campus for nursing students. Four students share an apartment, each with their own bedroom. Students can choose roommates or be assigned. Parking and laundry facilities are included in the housing fee. Students have a five-minute walk to both the Hershey Medical Center and fitness center.
Residence dining halls are not available at Hershey, but students can use LionCash at the Hershey Medical Center’s cafeteria and Starbucks. Most students shop for grocery items at a number of stores just a few minutes away and cook at home.
Most clinical areas are contained near or offered within the Hershey Medical Center campus. However, students will need a vehicle or means of transportation to attend community and mental health clinical rotations.
Affiliated Faculty and Staff
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has a robust presence of faculty and staff at the Hershey Medical Center. These dedicated staff will support you every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have to the featured members of our team below.
Jennifer Barton, DNP, RN, CNE, WHNP-BC
Associate Teaching Professor; Nursing Program Hershey Campus Director
