Heritage Valley Health System Schools

Heritage Valley Health System Schools The official page for the School of Nursing at Heritage Valley Health System in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania HVKSOR is a 24-month program.

Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Nursing (HVKSON) and Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Radiography (HVKSOR) are long-standing institutions which aim to provide a quality education to those interested nursing or radiology careers. HVKSON provides a 20-month RN diploma program, which is fully accredited by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Our program is also approved by the Department of Education. Over the last 110 years we have proudly built a reputation for providing our graduates with a high level of training, one which prepares them to successfully enter the nursing field. Students who successfully complete the program are awarded a certificate in Radiologic Technology. They also receive an Associate Degree in Health Science with a concentration in Radiologic Technology from La Roche College. Our graduates are then eligible to take the national certification examination, which is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, to become Registered Radiologic Technologists. Our school recently celebrated the anniversary of its 50th graduating class.

Join the next generation of nurses! The Heritage Valley School of Nursing is currently accepting applications for its Cl...
04/08/2026

Join the next generation of nurses! The Heritage Valley School of Nursing is currently accepting applications for its Class of 2028, with classes beginning late June 2026. Our 22-month program continues to prepare practice-ready graduates through a rigorous blend of academic excellence and hands-on clinical experience. In response to the evolving needs of today’s learners, summer coursework is delivered online rather than in person, providing added flexibility while maintaining the high standards that define our program.

If you are interested in a nursing career, or know someone who is, we encourage you to apply or share this opportunity. Scholarship opportunities are available; prospective students are invited to call 412-777-6204 or email sonadmissions@hvhs.org for details. As we invest in developing the next generation of nurses, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing healthcare in our communities. At Heritage Valley, the art and science of nursing begin here. Please visit https://bit.ly/4bTZC05 to apply online.

Senior Student Spotlight: Caitlin O’HaraI plan to pursue a career in medical aesthetics, when I can blend healthcare and...
04/03/2026

Senior Student Spotlight: Caitlin O’Hara

I plan to pursue a career in medical aesthetics, when I can blend healthcare and artistry together to help people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. My goal is to create warm, welcoming environment with an uplifting experience that leaves others feeling like their best selves, inside and out.

Senior Student Spotlight: Cassandra O’ConnorI am a proud mom to my son, Finley, who is my biggest motivation and the rea...
03/27/2026

Senior Student Spotlight: Cassandra O’Connor

I am a proud mom to my son, Finley, who is my biggest motivation and the reason I never gave up on this goal. Becoming a nurse has been a dream of mine for many years, and reaching this point means more to me than I can put into words. This journey hasn’t been easy, but balancing motherhood, school, and life has taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of showing up even on the hardest days.

After graduation, I plan to work in emergency medicine, with a strong interest in trauma care. I’m eager to continue learning, grow my skills, and gain as much hands-on experience as possible. Emergency care challenges me to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and advocate fiercely for my patients—qualities I value both as a nurse and as a mom. I have been a tech in the emergency department for many years and I look forward to continuing in a department that means so much to me.

Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania is collaborating with Heritage Valley Health System School of Nursing to present a H...
03/13/2026

Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania is collaborating with Heritage Valley Health System School of Nursing to present a Healthcare Badge Blitz! The following badges can be earned and will be distributed at the event:
- Brownie: Brownie First Aid & My Best Self
- Junior: Junior First Aid & Staying Fit
- Cadette: Babysitter, Cadette First Aid & Eating for Beauty
- Senior/Ambassador: First Aid & Mind, Body, Me

When: Monday March 30, from 5:00- 7:30 pm. Doors open at 4:45 pm for registration (1st sessions start at 5:30 PM)

Where: Heritage Valley School of Nursing, W. Laird Davis Center of Learning: 1st Floor Rosetta Auditorium

Cost: $5 per badge due on day of event (Cash or Check ONLY)

Registration: To register go to: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040C48AEAB2FA2FA7-62328127-girl. Sign up by documenting the SCOUT’s name.

Responsible adult must be with the scout at the time registration and pick up.

Senior Student Spotlight: McKenna HouserMy name is McKenna, and I have always had a very strong passion for nursing. I s...
03/12/2026

Senior Student Spotlight: McKenna Houser

My name is McKenna, and I have always had a very strong passion for nursing. I spend most of my time doing schoolwork, completing clinicals, or working as a nurse's aide at my local hospital. When I do get free time, I like to spend it riding my quads, fishing, taking hikes, and just reconnecting with nature. After graduation, I plan to work as a critical care nurse as I feel like I thrive the most in a critical, complex environment.

Senior Student Spotlight: Kathleen MurrayEver since I can remember, I’ve wanted to make a meaningful difference in the l...
03/05/2026

Senior Student Spotlight: Kathleen Murray

Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Nursing lets me connect with people in moments that truly matter, offering care and compassion when it’s needed most. I’m especially passionate about Maternal Child Health and exploring how Holistic and Eastern Medicine can work alongside traditional care. I’m excited to see where this path will lead and how I can continue to grow within it.

They'll Count on You. We'll Prepare You. Applications are now open for the Class of 2028 at the Heritage Valley Health S...
02/26/2026

They'll Count on You. We'll Prepare You.

Applications are now open for the Class of 2028 at the Heritage Valley Health System School of Nursing.

Join a program built on excellence, support, and real-world nursing education—because when patients need you most, preparation matters.

Apply now and start your nursing journey at: heritagevalley.edu

The art and science of nursing begin here.

Heritage Valley School of Nursing Faculty Spotlight: Anna TaylorMrs. Taylor’s journey into nursing didn’t begin where sh...
02/18/2026

Heritage Valley School of Nursing Faculty Spotlight: Anna Taylor

Mrs. Taylor’s journey into nursing didn’t begin where she expected, but it led her to exactly where she was meant to be.

After starting college as an elementary education major, an unexpected illness during her first semester led to a medical withdrawal and ultimately sparked her interest in healthcare. She began her career as a medical assistant and quickly realized her true passion was nursing.

In 2007, Mrs. Taylor became a nurse’s aide at Ohio Valley General Hospital on the Acute Rehabilitation Unit. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from CCAC in 2010 and went on to work in both the ARU and medical-surgical units. In 2015, she transitioned into the role of hospital nurse educator and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017.

Mrs. Taylor joined the School of Nursing as a faculty member in 2022 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing that same year. She truly enjoys teaching and sharing her passion for nursing. Educating the next generation of nurses is where her heart belongs.

Presidents’ Day reminds us that leadership is rooted in service. From George Washington’s commitment to duty to Abraham ...
02/16/2026

Presidents’ Day reminds us that leadership is rooted in service. From George Washington’s commitment to duty to Abraham Lincoln’s resolve in times of crisis, our nation was shaped by leaders who put people first.

Nurses lead every day through compassion, critical thinking, and care.

At Heritage Valley School of Nursing, we carry that legacy forward. Through education we are shaping the next generation of nurse leaders committed to serving our communities.

The art and science of nursing begin here. Happy Presidents’ Day.

Heritage Valley School of Nursing Faculty Spotlight: Leslee BrewsterMrs. Brewster is a 2009 graduate of the former Ohio ...
02/02/2026

Heritage Valley School of Nursing Faculty Spotlight: Leslee Brewster

Mrs. Brewster is a 2009 graduate of the former Ohio Valley Hospital School of Nursing, now the Heritage Valley School of Nursing, and brings a unique and inspiring career journey to the classroom. Prior to pursuing nursing, she spent 18 years with USAirways as a Flight Attendant Training Instructor. Although she had always dreamed of becoming a nurse, she was once told by a school guidance counselor that she was not suited for the profession. When her position with USAirways was relocated to Phoenix, she saw it as an opportunity to remain in the area and finally pursue her passion for nursing.

After graduating, Mrs. Brewster built her entire nursing career within the Ohio Valley Hospital/Heritage Valley Health System organization, serving in a variety of roles including Med-Surg staff nurse, Clinical Educator, Director of the Med-Surg unit, and Director of Recruiting in Human Resources. She later returned to her alma mater as a faculty member, where she now uses her diverse clinical and leadership experience to guide and inspire future nurses.

The Heritage Valley Health System School of Nursing is pleased to announce a partnership with Sophia Learning, on online...
01/28/2026

The Heritage Valley Health System School of Nursing is pleased to announce a partnership with Sophia Learning, on online education platform offering self-paced college-level courses. This collaboration will enable our students to complete their nursing degree more efficiently by providing pre-approved online general education courses, transferable to their nursing degree.

Meet Winslow and Bruce!They are eagerly awaiting the return of their classmates on January 13, 2026 for the spring semes...
01/12/2026

Meet Winslow and Bruce!

They are eagerly awaiting the return of their classmates on January 13, 2026 for the spring semester. These two training mannequins help our first-year and second-year students practice real-world scenarios through pop-up simulations in the classroom. From communication skills to hands-on clinical techniques and emergent situations, Winslow and Bruce make learning engaging, safe, and interactive. Our students love working with them as they build skills and confidence for patient care.

If you're interested in starting your nursing career we're currently accepting applications for the Class of 2028! Apply online at http://www.heritagevalley.edu or contact our admissions office at 412-777-6204 for more information.

Address

25 Heckel Road
McKees Rocks, PA
15136

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 3:30pm
Tuesday 7am - 3:30pm
Wednesday 7am - 3:30pm
Thursday 7am - 3:30pm
Friday 7am - 3:30pm

Telephone

+14127776204

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Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Nursing (HVKSON) and Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Radiography (OVHSOR) are long-standing institutions that aim to provide quality education to those interested in nursing or radiology careers. HVKSON provides a 20-month RN diploma program, which is fully accredited by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Our program is also approved by the Department of Education. Over the last 110 years, we have proudly built a reputation for providing our graduates with a high level of training, one which prepares them to successfully enter the nursing field. HVKSOR is a 24-month program. Students who successfully complete the program are awarded a certificate in Radiologic Technology. They also receive an Associate Degree in Health Science with a concentration in Radiologic Technology from La Roche College. Our graduates are then eligible to take the national certification examination, which is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, to become Registered Radiologic Technologists. Our school recently celebrated the anniversary of its 50th graduating class.