Southeastern School of Nursing offers direct admit program to first cohort of students

For the first time, Southeastern Louisiana University’s School of Nursing has offered direct admittance to highly qualified high school seniors interested in obtaining a nursing degree. Called the EDGE (Early Decision Guaranteed Entry), the program’s 2025 inaugural cohort is composed of 74 students from 17 Louisiana parishes.

“To me, having the opportunity to be accepted into and hold a place in the inaugural class of the EDGE program is very special. Southeastern is quite reputable throughout Louisiana for its outstanding and competitive nursing program,” said Parkview Baptist School graduate Riley Hauck of Baton Rouge. “The creation of EDGE demonstrates just how much this nursing program is growing in size, strength, and competitiveness, as well as how much Southeastern, as a university, remains dedicated to student development and education. I am very excited to see where my next four years at Southeastern will take me and beyond honored to have a place in this inaugural class of the EDGE program.”

EDGE offers graduating seniors guaranteed admission into the program if they meet certain criteria. High school students must have a 3.7 high school grade point average, a 25 ACT composite score, and apply for admission to the university, declaring nursing as their major, by Jan. 15 of their senior year. Once accepted into the program, EDGE students must have completed prerequisite courses and be ready to progress into nursing courses within three semesters; and they must meet application guidelines for the School of Nursing – 3.0 grade point average in nursing prerequisites and a ‘C’ or better in all nursing courses. Students in the EDGE program will also enroll in a SE 1010 or SE 1010H section dedicated to EDGE students.

“We are so excited to be the first nursing school in the state of Louisiana to offer this unique direct admit program. High school seniors interested in pursuing a nursing career will receive guaranteed admission into our program based on their grade point average and ACT scores,” said School of Nursing Department Head Lindsay Domiano. “This option provides a peace of mind that comes with knowing that upon completing the prerequisites, students will have a guaranteed spot in the traditional BSN program. What an amazing opportunity for students and for the growth of our program to prepare future nurses for the healthcare workforce!”

“Getting accepted into the EDGE Program felt like my future finally came into focus. Knowing I have a guaranteed spot in the nursing program takes away so much uncertainty and stress,” said Springfield High School graduate Kacie Riddle. “It’s reassuring to have a clear path and support system already in place. For me, it’s not just about getting into nursing—it’s about starting my journey with confidence and purpose, knowing I’m one step closer to making a real difference in people’s lives.”

For more information about the EDGE program, contact the School of Nursing at 985-549-2156 or [email protected].