By: Reshelle Bihasa, Staff Writer
Chamberlain University plans to add a new in-person nursing campus in Cincinnati near the Kenwood area. This could introduce potential competition to Xavier’s nursing program.
Recently, Chamberlain University signed a lease to rent out the entire third floor of “The Tower at The Kenwood Collection” right across from Kenwood Town Centre Mall.
Chamberlain University is a health-care focused school primarily for nursing, with a growing network of over 23 campuses across the nation including Chicago, St. Louis, Atlanta, Columbus and more. Chamberlain is an accredited private, for-profit university, with a mix of online classes and in-person learning unlike other traditional campuses. With the new Cincinnati location in Kenwood, the university plans to accept around 450 students for the program.
This added location can help with the nursing shortage in the country as new campuses lead to more space for students to be educated and receive clinical practice. Additionally, Cincinnati has a large network of hospitals making it an ideal place for a nursing campus.
Kenwood is hosting a new nursing school from Chamberlain university that may challenge Xavier’s nursing school.
Chamberlain University could pose a possible competition between Xavier’s nursing program, though others claim the differences in programs set them apart.
“I see it as another option rather than a competitor. Xavier has a very established program and a specific culture, while Chamberlain will offer a different style of nursing education,” sophomore nursing major and business minor Marin Seyferth said.
“With a degree from Xavier, you get a Jesuit education along with a nursing education. I believe that if you do not want a Jesuit education along with a four-year degree program then you are not going to consider Xavier anyways,” junior nursing major Audrey Yager said.
Furthermore, both nursing programs offer direct-admit pathways, which is a major advantage for both programs. Xavier’s nursing program has a strong reputation being one of the top majors at the university. It is a well-structured traditional 4-year (BSN) degree program with many strong connections and clinical partnerships. Chamberlain’s (BSN) nursing program may differ by being very fast paced year-round with no extended breaks. It can be completed in three years with a mix of online and in person classes.
Chamberlain’s arrival could cause concern about how incoming students choose between nursing programs in Cincinnati.
“When a new program opens, students will naturally compare the cost, flexibility, and program length. Some students may look at Chamberlain if they want a different schedule or a potentially faster path. Cost can be a major factor for students deciding where to study,” Seyferth said.
Both universities have strong aspects that set them apart from one another.
“Xavier’s nursing education is set apart from others because of the Jesuit values that are taught to every student. Students at Xavier receive a well rounded liberal arts education which allows nursing students at Xavier to provide better holistic care and deepen critical thinking,” Audrey Yager said.
Regardless, this new location can potentially benefit aspiring nursing students and healthcare individuals in the area because of the close proximity of major hospitals and healthcare clinics. As of right now, there is no set date when this new nursing location begins, but the university aspires to move forward as of early 2026.