The demise of nursing education at a major research university

The Department of Nursing at the University of Southern California closed in June 2004 after a series of attempts to restructure nursing education programs to adhere to the vision and mission of the parent institution. From a review of the Department’s history and strategic plan, it is clear that Nursing did not recognize the University’s political and academic plan to strengthen undergraduate education evidenced by increased selectivity of students and showcasing research. This case study analyzes the Department’s demise and the contribution of internal and external factors including isolation from the rest of the University by its physical location, the administrative structure within the academic health center, economic constraints, and a lack of continuing permanent leadership. Nursing leaders can learn from this experience that nursing faculty must be scholars and researchers at a comparable level to other disciplines and that the educational programs must be strategically aligned with the University’s vision and mission.