HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is thrilled to introduce Dr. Teresa Cating, Program Lead for Nursing and Chief Nursing Officer. Dr. Cating has contributed to the Harrisburg University ecosystem for two years, and in January 2025 transitioned to her new role as head of HU’s nursing program.
Dr. Cating is already working to grow HU’s Nursing programs and add concentrations that correspond to industry needs and talent gaps. She brings a wealth of experience and skills to our campus, not to mention a big heart and a service mindset.
We can’t wait to see the positive impact she makes on our students and the healthcare community here in Central Pennsylvania! In the meantime, here’s a brief interview with Dr. Cating and a sneak peek at what’s next for the Master of Science in Nursing Degree Program at Harrisburg University.
What is your name and full title?
“My name is Dr. Teresa Cating, DNP, MSN, A-G, NP-C. I currently serve as HU’s Chief Nursing Officer and Program Lead for Nursing.”
How long have you been with Harrisburg University, and what are you working on currently?
“I got my start here at HU two years ago and entered into my new role as Chief Nursing Officer and Program Lead in January 2025. In these last four months, I have started a complete update to the MSN Nursing Program, including preparation for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation visit later in the year. This includes revisions for all 16 courses, updates to a 14-week Executive Format, and writing an MSN Student Handbook that includes new policies.”
What project or development are you most proud of since joining HU?
“I am extremely excited about completing the update to the MSN degree program and getting through the accreditation process later in the year. I’m also very encouraged by the ongoing growth in admissions in the MSN program – it’s a very exciting time to apply for your nursing degree in Pennsylvania. Leading the charge to modernize, revise, and update the entire program is also a very exciting challenge.”
How would you describe the impact of your work on HU’s student body?
“I’m proud to bring 36 years of experience in nursing and over 7 years in academia. I also bring a lot of excitement to share with our nursing students at HU. I have a lot of lived experiences to share with students and help guide them through this journey towards a graduate degree – and most importantly, to expand post-graduation horizons for our students and help them land rewarding careers in healthcare.”
How would you describe the impact of your work on Harrisburg University?
“The program is already showing very promising growth! Some of our classes originally launched with cohorts of just one or two students; today, classes are starting with 25 students.
“HU currently offers a Master of Science degree in Nursing, with two 2-year concentrations so students can further personalize their academic journey and career track: Clinical Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator. With the plans now in motion, I anticipate even more growth that will positively impact the healthcare system with graduate nurses in educational and leadership roles.”
What was it about your disposition, history, or upbringing that led you to a career in healthcare?
“I’ve always had a huge heart and loved helping people – especially seniors. My love for others and desire to help them led to my becoming a nurse. After 25 years as a RN (registered nurse) in leadership roles, I became a Nurse Practitioner because I felt I could help fill the gap of primary care providers to better serve the senior population.”
How would you describe your personal or academic philosophy?
“Soon after becoming a Nurse Practitioner and receiving a Doctorate, I started a career in academia and found that I loved sharing my knowledge and experiences with students. I believe all nurses should see themselves as lifelong learners.”
What’s next for nursing at Harrisburg University?
“Up next for the HU Nursing Program is continuing to grow our offerings by adding additional programs, such as a BSN Degree Program or a Nurse Practitioner Program. Like all of HU’s science, technology, and healthcare programs, Nursing at HU is designed, and redesigned as needed, to respond to emerging industry trends and workforce needs.”
Do you have any interesting personal trivia to share?
“I have two goldendoodles whom I love very much: Lily and Lulu. I also enjoy traveling when I have time off and have been to 43 US states and 31 countries. I love to read, play the piano, and bake just about anything!”
Please join us in giving Dr. Cating a warm belated welcome! Our students are lucky to have you – and we can’t wait to see what you do with your time here at HU!
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University was recently recognized by US News & World Report as one of the nation’s most innovative colleges. HU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, nursing, and other health science fields. For additional information about HU’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).
