Chamberlain University and ONS launch online and campus-based oncology nursing course
Chamberlain University and the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) have introduced a 16-week Introduction to Oncology Nursing course, available both online and at all 23 Chamberlain campuses.
The course is part of the Practice Ready. Specialty Focused. (PRSF) initiative, which provides nursing students with specialized training in various healthcare fields.
Course structure and availability
The course covers key aspects of oncology nursing, including cancer basics, treatment modalities, symptom management, and long-term patient care. Each of the four modules lasts four weeks, offering a structured approach to understanding cancer treatment and patient support.
Funded by a grant from the American Nurses Foundation, the initiative is designed to introduce pre-licensure nursing students to specialty areas in healthcare. The PRSF program also includes courses in emergency, perioperative, home health, nephrology, and critical care nursing.
Brenda Nevidjon, Chief Executive Officer of ONS, said:
“ONS is pleased to partner with Chamberlain University to introduce students to the rewarding field of oncology nursing early in their education. By offering a dedicated oncology nursing curriculum, we aim to inspire interest in this vital specialty and prepare future nurses, helping to address the growing demand for nurses in cancer care.”
Workforce development and student engagement
Since January 2022, more than 2,200 students have enrolled in PRSF courses, with a completion rate exceeding 90%. The initiative supports workforce development efforts by equipping nursing students with practical, specialty-focused training before they enter clinical practice.
Rhoda Murray, Executive Dean of MSN/RN-BSN Programs at Chamberlain University, said:
“As an Executive Dean at Chamberlain and a former oncology and hospice nurse, I can attest to the deeply rewarding nature of this field. I wish that, as a young nurse, I had access to a specialized course like this so I could have been better prepared earlier in my career to provide exceptional care, compassionate support, and hope during the most challenging times in the lives of patients and their families.”
