At GCU, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, which can help them build relationships with peers, network with professionals and discover exciting career opportunities while still in college.
If you are a current or aspiring nurse, there are many ways to join our nursing community. The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals by providing opportunities for students to become involved. Whether it be through joining an honor society, nursing club or association, students can make the most of their college experience and prepare for their future as a nurse.
Why Join a Nursing Club or Professional Organization in College?
Professional nursing organizations and student nursing clubs play an important role in shaping future nurses beyond the classroom. These groups help students develop leadership, communication and advocacy skills by offering opportunities to collaborate with peers, participate in service initiatives and engage in healthcare discussions that impact the profession.
Through mentorship, networking and continuing education opportunities, nursing organizations connect students with experienced professionals and industry insights that can support academic performance and career readiness. Getting involved early allows nursing students to build confidence, stay informed about evolving healthcare standards and begin establishing a professional identity that supports long-term growth in nursing.
"Some of the differentiating factors for me when I was choosing GCU as my nursing school was the affordability and also the hands-on experience that I got to gain here at GCU throughout the nursing program."
Nursing Clubs at GCU
Our nursing clubs offer students opportunities to connect with peers, grow professionally and get involved beyond the classroom. These organizations support hands-on learning, leadership development and engagement with the nursing community while complementing your academic experience.
Nu Upsilon Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, International
GCU’s Nu Upsilon is a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, International. Sigma Theta Tau is the nursing honor society and the second-largest nursing organization worldwide.(See disclaimer 1) As of November 2025, Nu Upsilon is one of the larger chapters with approximately 2,000 active members.(See disclaimer 2)
Sigma Theta Tau and Nu Upsilon’s mission is to advance world health and celebrate nursing excellence in scholarship, leadership and service in supporting the learning, knowledge and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health worldwide.(See disclaimer 3)At GCU, Nu Upsilon and Sigma aim to develop nurse leaders to improve healthcare everywhere. GCU nursing students can participate by invitation; admission criteria are based on academic excellence, academic integrity and service.
More information on Sigma Theta Tau can be found at https://nuupsilon.sigmanursing.org
Student Nurses Association
At GCU, nursing students have the opportunity to join the Student Nurses Association (SNA), a growing, unified organization now expanding across both traditional pre-licensure and ABSN program sites. The SNA brings together students who are passionate about nursing, committed to service and actively engaged in their academic programs, communities and the profession.
The GCU SNA emphasizes service, professionalism, leadership and spiritual growth through its “Keys for Success” framework. These opportunities include leadership development, participation in community service and outreach events, guest speaker sessions and professional broadcasts, skills and leadership training, networking, mentorship, resume building and meaningful connections with peers across multiple program pathways and campus locations.
This club is affiliated with the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA), whose mission is to mentor nursing students as they develop professional values, leadership skills and a commitment to advocacy and service. Through this affiliation, students gain access to national conferences, leadership opportunities, scholarships and broader professional engagement. Additionally, the GCU SNA maintains affiliation with applicable state student nurses’ associations, providing students with expanded opportunities to participate in state-sponsored SNA events, volunteer initiatives and community service projects.
The expansion of the SNA to ABSN sites strengthens collaboration, consistency and student engagement across programs while ensuring all nursing students have access to leadership development and professional growth opportunities. Through the support of the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions, participation in the SNA can help equip students to grow as servant leaders and can prepare them to pursue careers in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
Get Involved in a Nursing Club at GCU
Discover how joining a nursing club at GCU can help you build leadership skills, expand your network and get involved in experiences that support your future in healthcare. Explore our clubs and nursing program options and join our nursing community at GCU.
Advance critical thinking, professionalism, accountability and ethical decision-making while incorporating a foundation of Christian values.
