Director Welcome

Welcome!

I am Dr. Trish Suplee, the new director of the School of Nursing (SON). We are thrilled that you landed here and are interested in learning more about the great things we have to offer at UNC Wilmington. Our mission in the SON is to educate and empower nursing and clinical research professionals to advance the health of diverse individuals and communities, through excellence in teaching, practice, research and scholarly activity. Here at UNCW, you will embark on a spectacular journey, one that will lead you to numerous professional opportunities for the rest of your life. 

Whether you choose nursing or clinical research, our programs are designed with you in mind. We offer several formats to learn and interact depending on the program you choose. Currently we have more than 2,000 nursing students enrolled in one of our pre-licensure or graduate nursing programs. We are also adding an accelerated BSN program in the fall of 2025. Our clinical research programs are thriving and offer both undergraduate and graduate educational experiences.

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