Exciting News: The Joyce Lillis School of Nursing at Mercy College of Health Sciences
Faith Baptist Bible College is thrilled to share an exciting development with our educational partner in nursing, Mercy College of Health Sciences. Mercy recently announced their campaign for the addition of the Joyce Lillis School of Nursing to their campus, a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance their nursing program by providing the latest technology and equipment all within one building. This expansion will further support Faith and Mercy’s mission to graduate top-tier nursing students prepared to make a difference in healthcare.
In August 2024, Faith Baptist Bible College strengthened its partnership with Mercy College to offer a streamlined path for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Recognizing the nationwide shortage of nurses and a growing interest among Christian students to serve the Lord through nursing, Faith created this program to blend biblical education with nursing training.
A Unique Pathway to Serve
Faith students complete their nursing prerequisites and earn an associate degree (AA) in biblical studies during their first three years on our campus. They then transition to Mercy for one year of focused nursing classes, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This accelerated path allows students to graduate in just four years with two degrees—equipped academically, spiritually, and professionally to bring their faith into the world of healthcare.
We are excited to offer our students the chance to live on campus for all four years, remaining within a community of support and discipleship as they prepare to enter the healthcare field. This approach ensures our students maintain strong spiritual foundations while receiving top-quality education.
A Legacy of Excellence
Mercy College has been training nurses since 1899, showcasing over a century of excellence in healthcare education. The Joyce Lillis School of Nursing will be located just south of MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, one of the multiple Des Moines area facilities where nursing students complete their clinical training. This new building will provide a centralized, cutting-edge environment for hands-on learning.
The school is named in honor of Joyce E. Lillis, a dedicated nurse for 47 years, who with her husband, Terry, generously donated the first $2.5 million to make this project a reality. Their contribution will leave a lasting legacy that impacts generations of healthcare professionals.
We are grateful for our partnership with Mercy College and look forward to having our first Faith student start her Mercy ABSN classes later this year.
For more information, please contact our Admissions Office at admissions@faith.edu.
