By Karren Jay G. Asgar & Mikee N. Norico
A symbol of commitment and care! CPU College of Nursing celebrates its Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for future nurses. Are you ready to embrace the call to serve? Begin your nursing journey at CPU-CON!
If you are passionate about shaping the future of healthcare, providing compassionate patient care, advancing nursing practices, or promoting and driving innovations in health education, the College of Nursing at Central Philippine University (CPU) offers the ideal academic environment to help you thrive and excel in this field.
The Central Philippine University – College of Nursing (CPU-CON) offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a comprehensive four-year program that integrates general education, professional courses, and advanced healthcare education rooted in Christian principles. Designed to develop professional nurses in health facilities or community settings, the program combines rigorous theoretical instruction with an intensive nursing practicum. This hands-on training sharpens students’ nursing competencies, ensuring they achieve the 14 program outcomes required of an entry-level nurse. With a strong emphasis on both theory and practical application, CPU-CON prepares students to become highly skilled professionals equipped to address the challenges of today’s healthcare landscape while upholding a solid foundation in faith-based values.
“Union Mission Hospital Training School for Nurses, now known as Central Philippine University, was the first nursing training school in the Philippines. It played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s nursing profession. Nicasia Cada, Felipa de la Peña, and Dorotea Caldito were the first graduate nurses in the Philippines,” Prof. Melba C. Sale, CPU-CON Dean shared in an interview.
In 1900, Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Hall arrived in Iloilo under the Presbyterian Mission of the USA, beginning formal nursing education with just four students. The hospital was renamed the Union Mission Hospital & Training School for Nurses, where American nurses Miss Elizabeth Brinton and Miss Amelia Klein served as instructors. By 1909, the first three nurses graduated, with the mission focusing on training women to care for the sick and improve community health standards, particularly in childcare, sanitation, and home health.
A moment of pride and purpose for CPU-CON Batch Archeona during their Send-Off Ceremony! Are you prepared to make a difference in the world of healthcare? Start your nursing career at CPU!
In 1915, Miss Klein proudly wrote to the American Journal of Nursing which was published in 1915. “We have the distinction of being the first Mission Hospital in the islands, our training school was two years in advance of the government one in Manila and one year ahead of St. Paul’s Hospital in Manila. The training school for nurses has been standardized and only women who are ready, at least high school graduates can enter training,” she wrote. She also highlighted the exceptional qualities of Filipino nurses as “gentle, kind, patient, ambitious, and untiring.”
During World War II, Miss Loreto D. Tupaz, known as the “Florence Nightingale of Iloilo,” continued her nursing work despite the war’s hardships and kept the training school’s records safe. After the war, the hospital and school were reorganized and eventually became part of Central Philippine College, offering a BSN degree. The College of Nursing continued to thrive under leaders like Miss Esther Salzman and Mrs. Natividad C. Caipang, who made significant contributions, including initiating new programs and receiving prestigious awards such as the Anastasia Giron Tupas Award and the Distinguished Centralian Award.
“I am incredibly grateful for everything that I learned at CPU, both inside and outside the classroom. Beyond earning a nursing degree, I gained lifelong friendships, valuable life lessons, and the skills to become a compassionate nurse and leader. The strong Christian values instilled in me throughout my time at CPU have significantly contributed to making me a more understanding and empathetic person, ultimately shaping me into a better friend, supportive wife, and nurturing mother,” Dr. Ann Catedrilla Seisa, from the BSN class of 1977, said during her commencement speech at the 96th Graduation of the University Colleges.
CPU-CON has a long history of producing highly skilled nurses who excel both locally and internationally. From its early beginnings, CPU’s nursing program has been committed to shaping healthcare professionals who are grounded in Christian values and dedicated to improving public health. Over the years, CPU nursing graduates have consistently achieved top-notch results in licensure examinations, showcasing the program’s commitment to excellence. The College’s rich legacy of academic rigor, combined with a deep sense of social responsibility, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to make a lasting impact in the world of healthcare.
“I decided to study nursing at Central Philippine University (CPU) because of its long history as the country’s first nursing school and its fundamental values: Faith, Character, Justice, Stewardship, and Excellence. The university’s dedication to developing competent and morally motivated nurses aligns perfectly with my goal of delivering quality healthcare. This university is the ideal place for me to grow academically and morally as I equip myself to serve and contribute to the nursing profession. It provides an inspiring and proud environment, along with a strong network of alumni who have achieved success in the nursing field,” RV Justine Veloria, CPUR Senator said.
At CPU, the journey to becoming a nurse is not just about academic success—it’s about personal and spiritual growth as well. The College of Nursing fosters a strong sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni, creating an environment where everyone is supported in their educational and professional goals. Students are encouraged to collaborate, share experiences, and build lifelong relationships that will continue long after graduation. Additionally, CPU’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all students, regardless of background, are given equal opportunities to thrive.
Dean Sale shared the following message with students aspiring to become future Centralian Nurses: “I encourage you to develop strong study habits. Nursing requires resilience, as you will be responsible for many patients. You must learn to balance academics with your well-being. Remember, you are not only here to study but also to enhance your skills. Maintaining physical and mental health, practicing time management, and keeping faith through prayers are essential.”
Dean Sale also emphasized that at CPU-College of Nursing, students experience a holistic education. They gain academic knowledge, engage in scholarly work and research, and enjoy a fulfilling college life through extracurricular activities and leadership development. The Centralian community provides a Christ-centered education that ensures a balanced learning experience, supported by a strong alumni network.
As posted on the official Facebook page of Central Philippine University, the deadline for submitting the Letter of Intention and CPU College Aptitude Test (CPUCAT) Results for BS in Nursing applicants has been extended until March 25, 2025. The extension applies exclusively to the submission of the Letter of Intention and CPUCAT Results for BS in Nursing applicants. Please note that no further applicants will be accepted after March 25, unless a new announcement is made.
Additionally, the CPU College Aptitude Test (CPUCAT) remains open for other courses until May 31, 2025. For students who wish to join the Centralian community, please visit this link: https://cpu.edu.ph/cpu-college-aptitude-test-cpucat/