The first graduation occurred in 1902, with 5 nurses receiving diplomas. In the early part of the 1900s, the word "Training" was removed from the school name. In 1912, Rhode Island put into law the states first Nurse Practice Act, and soon after St. Joseph received its first state approval as a nursing education program. In 1937 the Franciscan Sisters of Allegheny New York took over the administra
tion of the hospital and school of nursing and remained with the hospital until the early 70s. A formal affiliation was signed with Providence College in 1951, allowing students from the school to take their biological and social sciences at the college. In spite of the affiliation being in effect for nearly 20 years, it was not until 1973 that students began receiving college credits for these courses, giving them a springboard to further their education. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing moved to Marian Hall at the Fatima Unit following the condemning of the 75-year-old residence and classroom facilities at the Providence Unit. Shortly after the move the school became a commuter school . With the trend in nursing requiring further education for diploma graduates, the school entered into an articulation agreement with Salve Regina University in Newport in 1992. The university agreed to accept all of the graduates nursing and science courses in transfer, allowing them an easier transition into the BSN Program. In 1995 science courses were moved into Rhode Island College, where an established RN to BSN program afforded graduates a second option for easier course transfer and transition towards pursuing a nursing degree. A curriculum revision which occurred in 1996 gives the student exposure to the varied settings in which professional nurses practice their art. Classroom and clinical activities are structured to include group and individual assignments, student presentations and the use of the Learning Resource Center which is comprised of state of the art Nursing Arts and Computer Labs as well as a Health Sciences Library and an Audiovisual Lab. This new design provides opportunities for students with varied learning needs. Joseph School of Nursing has always been an integral part of its parent organization: from St. Joseph Hospital in the early years, to the present St. It is strongly supported by the Board of Trustees with administrative access through the President and Chief Executive Officer. The program has provided states throughout the country and countries throughout the world with more than 2300 competent professional nurses for 100 years, each carrying with them the pride and proud heritage of the pin they wear, along with the commitment, dedication, and excellence of the "St. Joes Grad".
