Buffalo, NY, October 12, 2025

Daemen University has partnered with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center to expand its nursing program with a focus on oncology care. This initiative aims to address the shortage of cancer specialists in the Buffalo region. Launching in spring 2026, the program will accept 50 students annually and feature advanced training modules, clinical rotations, and hands-on simulation labs. This collaboration is seen as a vital step in enhancing healthcare education and improving patient care in oncology.

Daemen University Partners with Roswell Park to Boost Oncology Nursing Training

Amherst, NY – Daemen University has launched a significant partnership with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center to expand its nursing program, focusing on oncology care. This collaboration introduces specialized training modules and clinical rotations for students, aimed at addressing the regional shortage of cancer specialists. The initiative comes at a critical time when healthcare demands for cancer treatment are rising in Buffalo, NY, and surrounding areas.

The program, set to launch in spring 2026, will accommodate up to 50 students annually. It includes hands-on simulation labs equipped with advanced technology to prepare nurses for real-world oncology challenges. Daemen University officials have described the effort as an important advancement in healthcare education, highlighting its potential to strengthen local medical services.

This partnership builds on Daemen’s established strengths in practical medical training. By integrating Roswell Park’s expertise in cancer research and treatment, the program will offer students direct exposure to cutting-edge oncology practices. Clinical rotations at Roswell Park will allow participants to work alongside experienced professionals, gaining insights into patient care for various cancer types.

Addressing Regional Healthcare Needs

The collaboration targets a pressing issue: the lack of specialized oncology nurses in the Buffalo region. With cancer rates remaining high, local hospitals and clinics face staffing shortages that impact patient care quality. Daemen’s expanded program aims to fill this gap by producing graduates who are ready to handle complex cases, from diagnosis support to palliative care.

Specialized training modules will cover topics such as chemotherapy administration, symptom management, and psychosocial support for cancer patients. These elements are designed to equip students with the skills needed in high-demand oncology settings. The simulation labs will recreate clinical scenarios, allowing safe practice with tools like virtual reality systems and interactive mannequins.

Local healthcare leaders gathered for the program’s announcement, underscoring its relevance to improving patient outcomes. They noted that better-trained nurses could lead to faster recovery times and more effective treatments, benefiting communities across western New York.

Program Structure and Student Opportunities

For the initial cohort, the program will integrate into Daemen’s existing bachelor of science in nursing curriculum. Students will dedicate specific semesters to oncology-focused coursework and rotations, ensuring a balanced education that includes general nursing principles alongside specialized knowledge.

Participation is selective, with admissions prioritizing candidates interested in cancer care. The annual capacity of 50 students reflects a measured approach to scaling the program, allowing for personalized mentorship from faculty and Roswell Park staff. Over time, Daemen plans to evaluate the program’s success and potentially increase enrollment based on demand and resources.

Financial support options, such as scholarships and grants, will be available to make the program accessible. This inclusivity aligns with broader efforts to diversify the nursing workforce, drawing from varied backgrounds to better serve diverse patient populations in Buffalo.

Broader Impact on Community Health

Daemen University’s commitment to community health is evident in this partnership. The institution has a long history of hands-on training, with graduates contributing to hospitals, clinics, and public health initiatives throughout the region. By focusing on oncology, the program addresses a specific vulnerability in western New York’s healthcare landscape.

Cancer care requires not only technical expertise but also empathy and communication skills, which the training will emphasize. Graduates will be positioned to take on roles in oncology units, research facilities, and community outreach programs, ultimately enhancing access to quality care.

This initiative also supports Roswell Park’s mission as a leading cancer center. Through student rotations, the center gains fresh perspectives while mentoring the next generation of specialists. The synergy between academic and clinical environments promises long-term benefits for cancer treatment innovation.

As the program prepares for its 2026 debut, interest from prospective students is already growing. It represents a proactive response to healthcare challenges, fostering a pipeline of skilled professionals dedicated to improving lives affected by cancer.

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Author: HERE BUFFALO