Centra College
Centra College General Information
Overview
Centra College, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a private institution dedicated to nursing and health‑care education, offering focused degree programs that prepare students for professional roles in the clinical setting. As a specialized college, Centra emphasizes applied learning, small class sizes, and individualized student support. The institution is committed to equipping learners with the practical skills, critical thinking, and clinical experience necessary for success in nursing and allied health careers. Many programs leverage simulation labs, hands‑on clinical rotations, and partnerships with regional health systems to provide real‑world training.
The college’s mission centers on transforming lives through education that blends academic rigor with compassionate care and professional readiness. Given its targeted scope and size, Centra College provides a close‑knit environment where instructors are accessible and responsive, and students benefit from strong mentoring and collaboration. Graduates are prepared not merely to enter the job market but to thrive as healthcare professionals who prioritize patient safety, evidence‑based practice, and lifelong learning.
Contact Informations
Address: 905 Lakeside Drive, Suite A, Lynchburg, Virginia 24501, United States
Phone Number: (434) 200‑3070
Email Address: admissions@centracollege.edu
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2012 (as Centra College of Nursing and Health Sciences) |
| Institutional Type | Private, non‑profit (specialized health‑care college) |
| Location | Lynchburg, Virginia, USA |
| Focus Areas | Nursing, Allied Health, Health Sciences |
| Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and state regulatory approval |
| Student‑Faculty Ratio | Approximately 6:1 |
| Campus Setting | Urban, health‑care partner environment |
Centra College Rankings
| Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| Nursing Schools (Virginia) | Among top regional specialized nursing colleges |
| Acceptance Rate | Reported 100% by some institutional data |
| National/Global Ranking | Not featured in major comprehensive national rankings due to specialized size and focus |
Centra College Academics
Centra College Faculties / Departments
- Department of Nursing
- Department of Health Sciences & Allied Health
- Department of Clinical Simulation & Experiential Learning
- Department of Student Support & Academic Success
- Department of Professional & Career Development
Centra College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – four‑year program
- Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) / Practical Nursing pathways
- Accelerated BSN for students with prior degrees
- Certificates in health‑care support tracks (e.g., clinical care technician)
- Continuing education modules and professional development for nurses
Online Learning
While Centra College’s core programs emphasize clinical and lab‑based training that must occur on‑site, it also offers hybrid coursework for theory components. Students can engage in online lectures, virtual simulations, and digital assignments alongside in‑person practical sessions. This blended format supports flexibility for adult learners and working professionals, balancing hands‑on clinical practice with remote study components.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Range / Data |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not required for most entry‑level health programs |
| ACT | Not specifically required |
| GRE | Not applicable |
| NCLEX Pass Rate (Institution‑Reported) | ~88–90% among first‑time test‑takers |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Centra College reports a strong retention culture, supported by low student‑faculty ratios and individualized mentoring. Graduation or program‑completion rates for nursing tracks are approximately 100% in specific recent cohorts, according to institutional data. Students benefit from structured clinical sequencing, consistent support, and dedicated pathways from enrollment through licensure.
Centra College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Centra College emphasizes readiness for health‑care programs rather than rigid standardized test thresholds. Applicants typically present a high school GPA of 2.5 or greater (or equivalent) and completion of prerequisite coursework such as biology and mathematics. SAT and ACT scores are generally optional, with evaluation based primarily on academic history, motivation, and suitability for a caring profession.
Centra College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 100% (open for eligible applicants) |
Centra College Application Requirements
Applicants must complete an application form, submit official transcripts from high school or college, provide documentation of prerequisite coursework, and attend an admissions information session or interview. For nursing tracks, criminal background checks, immunization records, and health clearances may be required prior to clinical placement. Applicants are encouraged to meet with admissions counselors to review program design, pathway options, and career goals.
Application Process
- Submit online or paper application including transcripts
- Attend an information/admissions session or interview
- Complete prerequisite coursework verification
- Submit health and background documentation (for clinical programs)
- Meet with advisor to select cohort start date and schedule
- Register and attend orientation
Centra College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fall Cohort Start | Applications accepted through July |
| Spring Cohort Start | Applications accepted through December |
| Rolling Admissions | Many programs admit until cohort capacity |
Essay Prompt
Candidates may be asked to submit a short statement of purpose outlining their motivation for pursuing a nursing career, their commitment to patient care and how Centra College will support their goals of entering the profession.
Centra College Scholarships
Centra College provides institutional scholarships for high‑achieving applicants, need‑based grants, and tuition assistance for veterans and healthcare workers seeking upskilling. Prospective students should consult financial aid staff early to explore options, including external scholarships and payment plans.
Centra College Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| BSN Program | Approx. US $24,000–US $28,000 (total) |
| Accelerated BSN Program | Approx. US $30,000–US $34,000 |
| ASN/Practical Nursing | Approx. US $18,000–US $22,000 |
Centra College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Centra College’s student body is predominantly female (approximately 89%) reflecting the nursing profession’s gender distribution. Students typically range in age from 18 to 45, including fresh high‑school graduates and adult learners returning for career transitions. Ethnically the institution serves a diverse population: ~67% White, ~13% Black/African American, ~2% Hispanic/Latino, ~1.4% Asian, and ~6.6% two or more races, per data for the college.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The institution supports students from low‑income backgrounds with 100% of incoming students receiving some form of financial aid or scholarship. The college offers accommodations for students with disabilities, including adaptive clinical practice, specialized tutoring, and accessible learning environments to ensure equitable participation in rigorous health programs.
Student Body
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | Approx. 212 students |
| Full‑Time Students | Nearly all enrolled students |
University Diversity
Centra College places strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with a student population comprising first‑generation college students, adult learners, and professionals transitioning into healthcare roles. The faculty and staff prioritize cultural competence, and curricula include training on equity, social determinants of health, and patient‑centered care for diverse populations. The intimate campus size fosters a close community where students support each other, mentors know students by name, and peer networks form strong professional bonds even before graduation. This enriched environment positions graduates not only to succeed academically but to serve in varied healthcare settings with sensitivity and competence.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Centra College enter nursing professions where median earnings are competitive. Alumni report starting salaries around US$42,200 annually, with upward mobility as experience accrues and certifications are obtained. The strong clinical preparation, simulation training, and healthcare network partnerships support early employment and earning potential. As graduates specialize, lead teams, or pursue advanced credentials, incomes may increase significantly beyond entry‑level figures.
Centra College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Faculty at Centra College are experienced registered nurses, nurse educators, and healthcare professionals who hold advanced qualifications and maintain active clinical practice. Student‑to‑faculty ratios are low (approximately 6:1), allowing for greater instructor accessibility, individualized feedback, and mentoring. Administrative and student‑support staff provide admissions, financial aid guidance, tutoring, career services, and clinical placement coordination.
Faculty Profiles
Instructors bring a mix of clinical expertise, academic credentials, and professional leadership in nursing practice and education. Many have published research, participated in healthcare quality improvement initiatives, and hold certifications in simulation, advanced practice, or nursing education. Their combined experience ensures students receive training that aligns with current standards of practice, regulatory expectations, and workforce needs in the healthcare sector.
Centra College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Centra College operates within a focused professional educational environment rather than a traditional residential campus. While on‑campus housing is not provided, students often arrange nearby housing in Lynchburg and benefit from a campus designed for adult and career‑focused learners. Student life features cohort‑based learning, simulation lab teamwork, student nursing associations, and networking events with clinical partners. The small size fosters tight‑knit cohorts, peer support, and professional camaraderie from day one.
Transportation
The campus is located in Lynchburg with access via local transit, commuter routes, and nearby parking. Many students commute from surrounding areas; convenient scheduling, evening classes, and flexible orientation support commuting lifestyles. Facilities include accessible build‑ings, simulation labs, and student support centers designed for ease of movement and professional practice readiness.