The School of Nursing and Human Physiology (SNHP) is Gonzaga’s newest school, established in June 2013. It brings together three programs with a long history at Gonzaga: the Department of Human Physiology; the Department of Nursing; and the Department of Nurse Anesthesia. The creation of the school was driven by recognition of the importance of health care, both globally and as a Jesuit, humanistic concern. Under the aegis of their own school, Gonzaga’s health care programs can better serve their students and advance programmatic goals.
The three departments in the SNHP range from under a decade old to stretching back more than a century. The Department of Human Physiology was founded in 2008, and offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology. It has grown from approximately 105 majors in 2008 to 175 majors today. The Department of Nursing has existed in various forms at Gonzaga since the 1940’s, and currently offers degrees at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. There are approximately 1100 students currently pursuing a BSN, MSN or DNP degree at Gonzaga. The Department of Nurse Anesthesia (DNAP) started in 1977, a joint venture between Gonzaga and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center (where a nurse anesthesia program has existed since at least 1909). Initially, the DNAP offered a Master’s in Anesthesiology Education. They now offer a Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia, and have 20 students (increasing to 30 when their third cohort starts).
Under the direction of Dean Brenda Stevenson Marshall, the programs comprising the SNHP have coalesced into a powerhouse of healthcare education. Enrollments are up across all programs. Degree offerings have been expanded. School and program visibility has increased, both on campus and in the larger Spokane community. The SNHP looks forward to well-managed enrollment growth, and rewarding professional and educational opportunities for program graduates. Continuing to foster and strengthen community partnerships is a priority for Dean Stevenson Marshall. Good working relationships with community leaders, health care institutions, and other area universities are of benefit SNHP students, Gonzaga, and the advancement of good health in areas we serve.
Furthering the health sciences through applied research and compassionate caretaking. Please click here and select SNHP Excellence Fund as your Gonzaga Will priority to support the SNHP.