Louisiana State University at Alexandria Nursing School Review

Louisiana State University at Alexandria (LSUA) is located in Alexandria, Louisiana. It is part of the LSU system and has about 2,300 students enrolled in a variety of programs. The first degree program was an Associate in Nursing in 1964. Today, there are numerous programs available that lead to bachelor’s degrees for students. The University has a diverse background, and a variety of cultural and ethnic programs are offered to students, including travel abroad initiatives, special activities and programs, and a variety of events at the University.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Nursing

LSU Alexandria offers students an associate degree program in nursing. This two-year program is designed for students who want to enter the workforce as professional Registered Nurses (RNs). Some students continue their education and complete their bachelor’s degree after finishing the associate in nursing program. Admission to the associate degree program requires that the applicant first apply to the University for admission to Louisiana State University-Alexandria. Applicants must then apply to the nursing department. Selection of students is highly competitive, and not every student who meets the prerequisite requirements of LSU is admitted to the nursing program.

A high school diploma is required with a minimum grade point average of 2.0, and the ACT is also required with a composite grade of 20. Students accepted into the program must complete 72 credits to earn their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree. This is accomplished by completing the liberal arts and science courses required by LSU Alexandria plus nursing courses and clinical experience in healthcare facilities in the area. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to certification as a Registered Nurse.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The University offers this Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to RNs who have already earned an associate degree in nursing. This program is also highly competitive, and all applicants who meet the prerequisite requirements are not admitted to the program. Having a BSN is often advantageous in finding nursing jobs, and this degree is required for government and many community positions in nursing. It also prepares students for the future completion of their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) if they decide to continue their education. An MSN is required for positions such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. Working RNs with a current nursing license may apply to this program that is available on either a full-time or part-time basis. Students receive full credit for the courses completed in their associate degree nursing program.

Students must complete 59 hours of undergraduate credits in liberal arts and science courses before the last semester of the BSN program. Nurses who have completed all prerequisites are able to finish the RN to BSN program in three semesters. Admission requirements include an RN license, CPR certification, and a grade point average of 2.5. Students are required to maintain an average of C in all LSU coursework to qualify for graduation. The three semesters of nursing courses include upper level courses plus clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings.

Contact:
Louisiana State University at Alexandria,
8100 U.S. 71,
Alexandria, LA 71302
(318) 445-3672

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