Carroll University Nursing School Review

Carroll University, previously known as Carroll College Wisconsin (CCW), is located in Waukesha, Wisconsin. It is home to over 3,500 students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school is the oldest four-year institution of higher learning in the state of Wisconsin and was established in 1841 and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN)

Carroll University offers a program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the undergraduate level. The program was established in the Fall of 2002 and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing and is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National League for Nursing. Carroll University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Carroll University must submit to a criminal background check prior to being admitted into the program and must present CPR certification.Individuals applying must also submit to a physical examination and must hand-in immunization records when applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the United States.

The BSN program is composed of a combination of in-class lectures, lab work and clinical practicum. Clinical nursing courses require a minimum of three hours of clinical practice per semester credit hour. Students are asked to be available Monday to Friday during the academic year and are expected to complete all of their clinical practice prior to graduation, whether it be during weekdays or weekends, as that is when some shifts may occur.

Individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure, are able to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, as some individuals wish to complete baccalaureate education. This RN to BSN program is intended for Registered Nurses who wish to continue working, while completing baccalaureate education, which is often done in order to progress through Masters education at a later date, as a BSN degree is a perquisite for a Master of Science in Nursing.

Registered Nurses progress through the program in the same way as traditional BSN students, however, their course requirements are slightly altered. Registered Nurses are also able to obtain credits from previous clinical experience as well as life and employment experience, which will allow them to progress through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Carroll University. The stream for Registered Nurses to complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is 58 credits in duration and is composed of very similar courses to the traditional stream of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It is mandatory that students attend all clinical practice in order to graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Carroll University.

Contact:
Carroll University
100 North East Avenue
Waukesha, WI 53186
United States
Phone: (262) 524-7373

Chippewa Valley Technical College Nursing Program Review

Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) is a member of the Wisconsin Technical College System, and its largest campus is located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The college also has major regional campuses is Chippewa Falls, Menomonie, Neillsville, and River Falls and is one of 16 Wisconsin Technical College System colleges located in the state of Wisconsin.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Chippewa Valley Technical College is a two-year program offered at Eau Claire and River Falls and can commence in either August or January. Individuals applying to this program are eligible to apply for financial aid for either semester.

Individuals starting the Associate Degree in Nursing will start as a pre-program nursing student and then petition to be accepted into the Nursing-Associate Degree program. When the first year has been completed individuals can apply to write the Licensed Practical Nursing examination. After the second year of the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Chippewa Valley Technical College, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN).

In order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Chippewa Valley Technical College, individuals must complete all of Phase I and then individuals can apply to become Phase II students and complete the Associate Degree Nursing Petition Packet and submit the application online after paying the application fee of $30. Applicants must provide his or her high school transcript, which incudes all of the courses taken, as well as grades and graduation dates. Individuals applying to the program must also submit a copy of his or her GED certificate if they have not completed a high school diploma. Individuals must also submit an official transcript showing that he or she has completed an Associate Degree, Bachelor’s Degree or higher degree when applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Chippewa Valley Technical College.

Applicants may also be required to take the COMPASS Pre-entry Assessment, which is a computerized test that tests reading, algebra, and writing. The cost of the test must be covered by applicants. If an applicant has a bachelor’s degree, they may use this instead of a COMPASS test. Individuals who do not speak English as a first language, are required to take a TOEFL exam to test his or her English skills prior to acceptance into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Chippewa Valley Technical College. The total cost of the Associate Degree in Nursing is around $11,000 for two years.

Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Chippewa Valley Technical College is less than one year in duration. The Nursing Assistant Program is available at the Eau Claire and River Falls locations and can commence in August, January or June.The Nursing Assistant program is 120 hours of in-class lectures, lab work and clinical practice. The laboratory environment consists of simulated laboratory experience and the clinical work consists of real experience with human beings in hospital settings. Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program Examination, and once certified, can begin working in healthcare environments, including hospitals, hospices, community-based residences and home health care environments. The program costs about $500.

Contact:
Chippewa Valley Technical College
620 West Clairemont Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54701-6162
United States
Phone: (715) 833-6200

Columbia College of Nursing Program Review

Columbia College of Nursing has been affiliated with Columbia Hospital in Glendale, Wisconsin, since 1909. Columbia College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and students can complete their general education requirements at a variety of two-year and four-year establishments. After individuals have completed their general education requirements, he or she can go on to complete nursing courses at Columbia College of Nursing.

Columbia College of Nursing (CCON) strives to educate individuals who are well-versed in evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, patient safety, and social justice dedication. The nursing program at Columbia College of Nursing is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Clinical practice in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Columbia College of Nursing begins in the first semester and there are no waiting lists for entry into the program. The school is affiliated with Columbia St. Mary’s Health Systems, so clinical practice is guaranteed at partner healthcare institutions. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Columbia College of Nursing can be completed either part-time or full-time. Individuals will be required to complete 62 nursing credits for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and the general education requirements can be completed at Mount Mary College and University Wisconsin-Waukesha, which are located in the area. Individuals can also complete a joint degree between Columbia College of Nursing and Mount Mary College. All nursing courses that are required are offered in both the Fall and Spring semesters.

If students do not wish to complete their clinical practice at Columbia St. Mary’s Health System, Columbia College of Nursing has partnerships with 50 community clinical sites in the area, so that students have a variety of choices. Other hospitals included in the partnerships are; Columbia-St. Mary’s Hospitals and clinics, Aurora Health Care Hospitals, Community Memorial Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Waukesha Memorial, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, and Wheaton Health Care Hospitals as well as long-term care facilities in the local area.

Individuals applying to the program must submit their high school transcript or GED and must submit to a criminal background check and drug screening, as well as provide updated immunization records for admittance into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Columbia College of Nursing. Individuals applying to the program must also provide CPR certification for entry.

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Columbia College of Nursing, individuals are permitted to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, which is to certify the individuals as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and schools as well as a variety of other healthcare facilities.

Financial aid is available to individuals enrolled in the nursing program at Columbia College of Nursing and individuals should contact the Financial Aid Office located at 4425 N. Port Washington Road, Glendale, WI, 53212 or call 414-326-2337 for information about this.

Contact:
Columbia College of Nursing
4425 North Port Washington Road,
Glendale, WI 53212
United States
Phone: (414) 326-2330

Concordia University Wisconsin Nursing School Review

Concordia University, located in Mequon, Wisconsin and established in 1881, is a Lutheran university dedicated to Christ in the Church and of the World. Concordia University Wisconsin offers opportunities for students to be involved in the Church including; daily chapel, Sunday worship and Bible studies.

Nursing studies at Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) are Christ-centered and under Lutheran guidance. Nursing classes are offered both on a part-time and full-time basis as well as online or on-campus – depending on what is easier for the individual student.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Traditional (BSN)

Concordia University Wisconsin offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing traditional stream for individuals who have a GPA of 3.0 in all science required courses from high school. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Concordia University – Wisconsin must first apply to Concordia University – Wisconsin and then to the nursing school. In order to progress through the nursing program at Concordia University – Wisconsin, students must maintain a GPA of 2.75 or above when entering into their sophomore year.

Individuals must have completed Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Chemistry and NURS 100 with a grade of “C” or higher upon entering into their sophomore year. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must be CPR and CNA certified by the Spring semester of their sophomore year, in order to qualify for clinical practicum.

Individuals in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Concordia University Wisconsin are able to complete their core liberal arts courses on campus, and their clinical practice is also conducted through the School of Nursing. Concordia University Wisconsin also offers global experiences in Belize and Costa Rica. Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (RN to BSN)

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at CUW is intended for individuals who already hold their Registered Nurse licensure and are currently employed on a full-time basis as a Registered Nurse. Individuals enrolled in this program can take one class at a time over a one to nine week period and individuals can earn their degree on a part-time or full-time basis. The program can be completed in two years.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN to MSN)

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing program at CUW is intended for individuals who already hold an associates degree in nursing and wish to earn a baccalaureate degree as well. The college also offers an accelerated program. The RN to BSN or MSN program requires individuals to complete liberal arts course requirements and the school accepts transfer credits that were completed with a B or better, as long as they were completed through an accredited university.

Concordia University Wisconsin also offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, which is intended for individuals who wish to enhance their nursing degree. The program is composed of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. Some of the program is conducted through online learning.

Certificate After Graduate Education in Nursing (CAGE)

The Certificate After Graduate Education in Nursing is intended for individuals who already hold a master’s degree in nursing and wish to add clinical studies to this degree. The certificate program has three options; Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice at CUW is intended for individuals who wish to reach the highest level of nursing education and is the newest nursing program at the university and the second doctoral program. All of the courses in the Doctor of Nursing Practice are completed online but students are mandated to attend an initial and final cohort meeting on the Concordia University campus in Mequon, Wisconsin.

Concordia University Wisconsin, also offers a Parish Nursing and Congregational Health program and are taught the roles and models of Parish Nursing as well as theology of health and healing in congregational health.

Contact:
Concordia University Wisconsin
12800 N Lake Shore Drive
Mequon, WI 53097 – 2418
Phone: (262) 243 5700

Edgewood College Nursing Program Review

Edgewood College (EC), established in 1927 is located in Madison, Wisconsin. Edgewood College is a Catholic establishment, rooted in Dominican tradition and serves the Madison area, as well as the Wausau area. Enrollment at Edgewood College is over 2,500 every year, with the average class size being 15 students at a time. Edgewood College offers options for students to study abroad and students have studied in Argentina, China, Ireland, Malta, Mexico, Sweden and the United Kingdom, among other countries.

The Edgewood College School of Nursing, known as the Henry Predolin School of Nursing, hosts small class sizes and has partnerships with over 25 community agencies around Dane county for clinical placements, including; UW Hospitals and Clinics, the American Family Children’s Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital Center and the Veteran’s Administration Hospital. While clinical practice is conducted in healthcare institutions, students also use the simulation lab at the Center for Nursing Excellence on campus.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Edgewood College offers a variety of options for obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Individuals may apply directly into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from high school, provided they meet all of the prerequisites. If an individuals already holds a baccalaureate degree, he or she can apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program as a Post-Baccalaureate BSN student. These individuals usually hold a bachelor’s degree in a field that is not nursing, and have realized that nursing is the career for them. The post-baccalaureate Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is accelerated and can be completed in 12 months.

Once individuals are admitted to this program, they will be required to show high school transcripts, proof of Certified Nursing Assistant Licensure and CPR certification. Individuals must also submit post-secondary transcripts, if they are applying to the Post-Baccalaureate Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Individuals applying to this program must also have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above and must have completed courses in statistics, general psychology, lifespan development, and a religious studies course, as well as a foreign language in order to graduate.

Graduate Programs in Nursing

Edgewood College is home to a variety of graduate programs in nursing including; Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), with concentrations in Administration and Education, a Post-Masters Graduate Nursing Certificate with concentrations in Administration and Education and a Dual Degree – Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).In order to be admitted into the graduate programs in nursing at Edgewood College, individuals must have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at an accredited university, and must have completed their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Once those prerequisites are satisfied, individuals can apply to the Master of Science in Nursing programs, and their various streams, at Edgewood College. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Edgewood College is composed of a combination of in-class lectures, clinical practice and laboratory work, and prepares graduates for a senior career in the nursing profession, whether it be on the administration or educational end.

Contact:
Edgewood College
1000 Edgewood College Drive
Madison, WI 53711
United States
Phone: (608) 663-4861

Fox Valley Technical College Nursing Program Review

Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) is located in Appleton, Wisconsin, was established in 1911 and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. Fox Valley Technical College serves five counties; Calumet, Outagamie, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago and parts of four other counties; Brown, Manitowoc, Portage, and Shawano. Fox Valley Technical College is home to 52,000 every year and offers over 200 associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificate programs, and instruction pertaining to 19 apprenticeship trades, as well as services to business and industry.

The School of Nursing at Fox Valley Technical College offers a variety of programs including; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Nursing Assistant (NA), Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate Degree Pathway Program (LPN to ADN), Practical Nursing (PN) Degree.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

E-mail Page

E-mail Link to a Friend

To: (ex. [email protected])
Separate addresses with semi-colon.

Subject:

From: (ex. [email protected])

Message Body:

Note: Your email address is used only to let the recipient know who sent this web page. Both your address and the recipient’s address will not be used for any other purpose.

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Fox Valley Technical College is composed of 70 credits and is hosted at the Appleton campus. Financial aid is available for this program. Upon completion of the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Fox Valley Technical College, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Before being admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Fox Valley Technical College, individuals must have attended the mandatory program information session and have completed an admissions assessment. Individuals must have a high school diploma or GED and must submit their high school transcript or equivalent when applying.

There are specific prerequisites that must be completed prior to applying to the program and completing courses within the program. Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing are required to complete a criminal background check before being admitted into the program. Applicants to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Fox Valley Technical College must have completed a Nursing Assistant with Federal Status and have completed the prerequisite general study courses.

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Fox Valley Technical College can be completed in three to ten weeks, and is composed of three credits. The Nursing Assistant Program can be completed at the Appleton Campus, the Oshkosh Campus or the Chilton, Clintonville, and Waupaca Regional Centers. The Nursing Assistant Program is flexible, and is divided into online and independent study options, as well as clinical practice and laboratory work. Individuals applying to the Nursing Assistant Program must be 16 years of age or older, and must have completed a caregiver background check and gone through a mandatory orientation. Applicants must also have completed a physical examination and submitted immunization documentation.

Licensed Practical Nurse Refresher to Associate Degree in Nursing Pathway Program (LPN to AND Pathway)

The Licensed Practical Nursing to Associate Degree in Nursing Pathway Program is intended for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to become Registered Nurses. The program allows students to enter into the third semester of the ADN program after the LPN to ADN Pathway Course is completed. The course is offered during the summer semester and individuals who complete it can enter the ADN program in the following Fall or Winter semester.

Practical Nursing Degree (LPN)

The Practical Nursing Degree at Fox Valley Technical College is composed of 29 credits and is hosted at the Appleton campus. This program is eligible for financial aid. Individuals applying to the program must have completed two years of high school or equivalent and must submit high school transcripts or equivalent for admission. Requirements for admission state that individuals should be admitted into the Pre-Practical Nursing program, and be a Certified Nursing Assistant with Federal Status. Upon graduation from the Practical Nursing degree at Fox Valley Technical College, individuals can apply to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses, in order to begin practicing as a Practical Nurse.

Registered Nurse Refresher (RN Refresher)

The Registered Nurse Refresher program at Fox Valley Technical College is intended for Registered Nurses who have been out of the workforce for more than five years. This refresher course is composed of 108 hours of clinical practice, with 54 of those hours in a long-term care setting.

Contact:
Fox Valley Technical College
1825 North Bluemound Drive,
Appleton, WI 54914
United States
Phone: (920) 735-5600

Gateway Technical College Nursing Program Review

Gateway Technical College (GTC), located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, serves the communities of Kenosha, Racine and Walworth. Gateway Technical College offers education through its campus, as well as through online distance learning to over 29,000 students every year, with approximately 5,000 of those students in full-time education. The campuses for Gateway Technical College are located in Kenosha, Racine, and Elkhorn, there is also a center located in Burlington. Advanced Technology Centers in Pleasant Prairie, Kenosha, Sturtevant, and Kenosha offer training and workshops through Gateway Technical College.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion is intended for Registered Nurses (RN) who are looking to advance their careers and complete a baccalaureate degree. Priority for admission is given to individuals who are located in the Gateway district (Kenosha, Racine or Walworth county) and then to residents of Wisconsin. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion program at Gateway Technical College must be high school graduates, or in their final semester of high school or have completed half of the GED, HSED or Adult High School Program. Individuals applying to the program must also complete the Gateway Placement Test, complete a background information disclosure document, and submit college transcripts if college credits have been completed. Individuals are also required to show proof of CPR certification when applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Gateway Technical College. Licensed Practical Nurses applying to the program must also submit a copy of their Licensed Practical Nursing licensure.

Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Gateway Technical College are then able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Wisconsin. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; physicians’ offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, schools, and a variety of other healthcare institutions. The nursing profession is competitive and professionals who obtain a baccalaureate degree often decide to return to school to complete a graduate degree in order to progress his or her career in the field of nursing.

Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant Program at Gateway Technical College, individuals may apply to write the state competency test, and those who are successful on this test will earn the Certified Nursing Assistant title, and will be put on the Nurse Aide Registry for the State of Wisconsin. Applicants to the program are required to show proof that he or she is registered in high school or is in the process of completing his or her GED. Applicants are also required to complete a criminal background check and drug screening when applying to the Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Gateway Technical College.

Individuals who complete the Certified Nursing Assistant Program often return to school after working for some time, in order to complete baccalaureate education in the profession of nursing and advance their careers to become Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses.

Contact:
Gateway Technical College
3520 30th Avenue,
Kenosha, WI 53144
Phone: (262) 564-2200

Herzing University Nursing School Review

Click for more information on Herzing University’s Healthcare programs >>

Herzing University provides flexible and convenient opportunities for students to gain the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Its original focus, when it was founded in 1965, was on computer-related education.

Its focus has since expanded to include healthcare education, business programs, design education, and public safety programs. Herzing University (HU) has a strong online presence; many of the programs are offered online. In addition, Herzing University operates campuses in eight different states; campuses are located in Akron and Toledo, Ohio; Atlanta, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; Brookfield, Menomonee Falls, and Kenosha, Wisconsin; Crystal, Minnesota; Kenner (New Orleans), Louisiana; and Winter Park (Orlando), Florida. At many of these campuses, Herzing University offers programs in nursing.

Click for more information on Herzing University’s Healthcare programs >>

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Herzing University offers the Diploma in Practical Nursing (DPN) program on two different campuses: in Birmingham and in Madison. The program in Madison, called DPNWI, is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. To complete the program, a student must earn thirty-seven credits in total. This includes several general education classes (English composition, college algebra, and psychology) in addition to nursing classes and clinical rotations. Typically, a student can complete the DPNWI program in ten months. The program in Birmingham, called DPNAL, requires forty-one credits in total. Usually, a student needs twelve months to complete this course of study. After earning the Diploma in Practical Nursing, a graduate is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). If she passes this test, she earns the title Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing/Associate of Science in Nursing

Herzing University offers an associate degree in nursing in Akron, Madison, and Orlando. All three programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The program in Akron, called AASNOH, has additional approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing. This program requires seventy-three credits in total and usually takes five semesters (twenty months) to complete. The AASNOH program leads to an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) degree. The associate degree program on the Madison campus, called the ASNWI program, has additional approval from the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. It requires seventy-four credits in total and leads to an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree. Typically, a student in the ASNWI program must commit to twenty months of full-time study to earn a degree. The associate degree program in Orlando, called the ASN program, also leads to an ASN degree. A student in Orlando must complete seventy-five credits in order to finish the program. This usually takes twenty-two months. All graduates of Herzing University’s associate degree in the nursing program are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Click for more information on Herzing University’s Healthcare programs >>

Associate of Science in Nursing – LPN to RN Bridge

An LPN can advance his career by completing an associate degree program and taking the exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Herzing University offers a pathway for an LPN who wishes to do this. The pathway is available in two different locations: in Birmingham and Orlando. The LPN to RN Bridge program in Birmingham called the ASNB program, requires seventy-five credits in total. Herzing University will grant the incoming LPN fifteen advanced placement credits toward the program requirements. Generally, an LPN can complete the entire program in eighteen months (as opposed to the twenty months required for a traditional student in the associate degree nursing program). In Orlando, the program also requires seventy-five credit hours. An LPN can receive up to fourteen advanced placement credits for the Orlando LPN to RN Bridge program, allowing him to complete the program in eighteen months. The Orlando program has approval from the Florida State Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Herzing University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program on five different campuses: Atlanta, Brookfield, Kenosha, Minneapolis, and Orlando. In Atlanta, Brookfield, Kenosha, and Orlando, students must earn 121 credits in order to graduate; students in the BSN program in Minneapolis need to earn 120 credits. This course of study takes thirty-two to thirty-six months of full-time study to complete and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN. After passing this test, graduates are prepared to either work as RNs or to pursue graduate-level nursing education. The BSN program is approved by the State Board of Nursing in all five states where it is located.

RN to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing – (RN to BSN Bridge)

Herzing University’s on-campus RN to BSN Bridge program (BSNB) is available in Orlando. This program provides a pathway for an RN who holds an associate degree to complete a BSN degree. Typically, an RN in this program must commit to twenty months of study. She must earn 129 credits in total, but Herzing University will accept up to fifty transfer credits (both nursing and non-nursing credits) from her associate degree program. An RN in the RN to BSN Bridge program must complete at least thirty-two nursing credits, in addition to general education credits. All the classes in the Orlando RN to BSN Bridge program are offered on campus.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN Bridge Online

For flexibility and convenience, Herzing University also offers an online RN to BSN program (BSNBO), which is available in Birmingham, Brookfield, Kenosha, Madison, Minneapolis, New Orleans, and Omaha. Like the RN to BSN students in the on-campus program in Orlando, students in the online RN to BSN program must earn 129 credits in total. They can transfer in up to fifty credits and must complete the remainder of the credits through Herzing University’s distance learning technology. The online RN to BSN Bridge program typically takes twenty months to complete.

Click for more information on Herzing University’s Healthcare programs >>

Nurse Aide Training Program

The Nurse Aide Training program is only available in Madison. A student in this program must devote 137 hours to the classroom and clinical instruction. Over the course of these 137 hours, he will learn to provide basic nursing care to patients in long-term care facilities. After completing the course, he may take the state certification exam for nurse aides and apply for jobs as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA).

Master of Science in Nursing – Online

Herzing University offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program for RNs who have completed a BSN degree. The program is open to RNs in all states except for Arkansas, District of Columbia, Montana, and Wyoming. Studying on a full-time basis, an RN can complete the MSN program in just one year. She can also choose to study on a part-time basis, taking two years to complete the coursework. Herzing University offers three different tracks within its MSN program:

MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track of the MSN program is called MSNFNP. To complete this, a student must earn forty-eight credits. This includes eighteen credits of core graduate nursing classes and thirty credits in the FNP area of specialization.

MSN-Nursing Education

Herzing University refers to the Nursing Education track of its MSN program as MSNNE. It requires thirty-six credits in total: eighteen credits of core graduate nursing classes, twelve credits of nursing education classes, and six credits for a capstone project.

MSN-Nursing Management

The Nursing Management track of the MSN program is called MSNNM. Like the Nursing Education track, it requires thirty-six credits in total: eighteen credits of core graduate nursing classes, twelve credits of nursing education classes, and six credits for a capstone project.

Click for more information on Herzing University’s Healthcare programs >>

Contact:
Herzing University

Campuses:

1600 South Arlington St., Suite 100
Akron, OH 44306

50 Hurt Plaza SE Suite 400
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

280 West Valley Avenue
Birmingham, AL 35209

15895 W. Bluemond Road
Brookfield, WI 53005

5800 7th Ave
Kenosha, WI 53140

W140 N8917 Lilly Rd.
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

5218 East Terrace Drive
Madison, WI 53718

435 Ford Road
St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426

3900 North Causeway Blvd Suite 800
Metairie, LA 70002

1865 SR 436
Winter Park, FL 32792

Lakeshore Technical College Nursing Program Review

Lakeshore Technical College’s main campus is located in Cleveland, Wisconsin, with additional campuses in Manitowoc and Lakeshore Technical College Sheboygan, as well as community education centers at east central Wisconsin high schools. Lakeshore Technical College (LTC) is accredited through the Academic Quality Improvement Program of the Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The college is governed by a local, nine-member District Board, and they are determined by the State Statute. Lakeshore Technical College is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System, which includes 16 colleges.

LTC is home to over 14,000 students over three campuses in Cleveland, Manitowoc and Sheboygan.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Individuals who complete the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Lakeshore Technical College are eligible to go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become certified as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in clinics, community-based healthcare agencies, hospitals, nursing homes and workplace-based healthcare centers, among many other healthcare environments.

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Lakeshore Technical College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission. In order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Lakeshore Technical College, individuals must complete an application form, submit an application fee, and hand-in entrance assessment scores and transcripts from all previous education, both high school and college-level. Requirements to acceptance include a counseling interview, an entrance exam, a health/TB/Tetanus form, and a criminal background check.

Applicants must also have completed a Chemistry requirement and be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). It is also mandatory for individuals to have completed CPR certification prior to starting clinical practice in the Associate Degree in Nursing. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) may be eligible to apply to advanced standing in the program. The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Lakeshore Technical College costs just over $100 per credit for in-state residents and around $160 for out of state residents. Online classes are $10 per credit, and other fees should be accounted for including; supplies, books, materials, uniforms, exams, tools etc. Individuals applying to the Lakeshore Technical College program are eligible for financial aid.

Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma at Lakeshore Technical College consists of one term. Nursing Assistants work in a variety of healthcare environments and play a key role in patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and a variety of other healthcare environments. The Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma at Lakeshore Technical College is only open to individuals who are 16 years of age or above and costs just over $100 per credit for in-state residents and just over $160 per credit for out of state residents. Online classes for the program are $10 per credit and individuals must take other fees into account such as, books, tools, uniforms, exam costs and other such additional expenses that may be incurred during the Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma at Lakeshore Technical College. Individuals apply for admission to the Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma via mail or online through the college directly.

Contact:
Lakeshore Technical College
1290 North Avenue,
Cleveland, WI 53015
Phone: (920) 683-2846

Madison Area Technical College Nursing Program Review

Madison Area Technical College (MATC) is located in Watertown, Wisconsin and was established in 1912. In 1912, the very first class at Madison Area Technical College was held above a firehouse in Madison. Madison Area Technical College offers bachelor’s degrees in a variety of professions, as well as education for individuals to progress through a new hobby or trade in order to upgrade his or her professional skills.

Individuals applying to Madison Area Technical College can apply to over 140 programs in health care, information technology, biotechnology and renewable energy at five campuses in the state of Wisconsin. The nursing programs at Madison Area Technical College are succinct and include a program in Practical Nursing (PN), a Registered Nurse program (RN) and a Nursing Assistant Program (NA).

Practical Nursing (PN)

The Practical Nursing program at Madison Area Technical College prepares individuals for a carer as a Practical Nurse. Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare establishments, including; hospitals, hospices, physicians’ offices, schools and many others. Practical Nurses work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, Physician, Podisatrist, Dentist or Optometrist.

The Practical Nursing program at Madison Area Techncial College consists of lectures held in classrooms, as well as clinical practice at hospitals, nursing homes, family practices, community healthcare settings and home healthcare environments. In order to graduate from the Practical Nursing program at Madison Area Technical College, individuals must have a “C” grade or above and then go on to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. Upon successful completion of this exam, individuals are licensed Pratical Nurses in the state of Wisconsin.

When applying to the Practical Nursing program at Madison Area Technical College, individuals must submit official transcripts from high school or HSED/GED and submit scores from the COMPASS, ASSET, ACT or SAT.Many individuals who become Licensed Practical Nurses go on to become Registered Nurses later in their career.

Associate Degree Nursing (R.N.)

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Madison Area Technical College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation. The program prepares individuals to be able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Wisconsin. In order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing at Madison Area Technical College, individuals must submit his or her high school or GED/HSED transcripts and submit scores from the COMPASS, ASSET, ACT OR SAT tests.

After completing the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Madison Area Technical College, individuals can work as Registered Nurses in various healthcare environments including; hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, doctor’s offices, home health agencies and several more. After completing this degree, graduates often go on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, and then a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Nursing Assistant (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Madison Area Technical College is three credits and 120 hours long and is offered in the Fall, Summer and Spring semesters on various course schedules. Students in the Nursing Assistant program learn basic nursing and personal care skills, as well as client methodology and care. The Nursing Assistant program is often a prerequisite for other nursing programs in the state of Wisconsin. Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant program, there is a fee required for individuals to complete the certification exam in order to be put on the Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing Nurses Aide Registry.

Contact:
Madison Area Technical College
1300 West Main Street
Watertown, WI 53098-3598
United States
Phone: (920) 206-8000

Marian University of Wisconsin Nursing School Review

Marian University, located in Font du Lac, Wisconsin was established in 1936 by the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes under the core values of Community, Learning, Service, Social Justice and Spiritual Traditions. The students at Marian University come from 14 states and 13 countries and enrollment every year is about 3,000 students, with 1400 of those students being traditional day students. Marian University also offers evening/weekend undergraduate programs and graduate programs, which are designed for individuals who are employed during the day. Marian University offers a study abroad program, which gives students the opportunity to study in over 15 countries worldwide, including; Australia, England, Mexico, Japan, and Italy and can be completed in a semester or over the duration of a year.

The nursing programs at Marian University are broad and include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) a Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing with optional Bachelor of Science in Nursing exit (RN to MSN with options BSN exit), an online postgraduate certificate in nursing education, a palliative care certificate program and a parish nursing certificate program. All of the certificates are intended for Registered Nurses. The Online Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing Education is intended only for individuals who hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Marian University was established in 1964 and combines liberal arts with biopsychosocial sciences and theory, research and clinical practice. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Marian University, individuals go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments, and since the program is at the baccalaureate level, individuals can go on to complete Masters education in nursing if he or she wishes.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree in nursing are eligible to apply to the Master of Science in Nursing program at Marian University. Individuals who complete the Master of Science in Nursing have advanced knowledge in nursing and often go on to educate others in the profession. The Master of Science in Nursing at Marian University was established in 2002 and individuals who already have a Masters in Nursing, can study the Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing Education, which is an online program offered by Marian University.

This program is dedicated to educating nurse educators and includes a teaching practicum.The Master of Science in Nursing program can be completed in two and a half years of full-time study. The Master of Science in Nursing program has a Nurse Educator stream and a Nurse Practitioner stream, which are targeted toward the individuals needs and future career goals.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN/MSN)

Registered Nurses are able to chose between the Master of Science in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Marian University, or they can choose both. Individuals who hold a Registered Nurse licensure and have an associate degree and diploma often want additional training and choose to complete baccalaureate education.

Palliative Care Certificate Program

The Palliative Care Certificate Program is for nurses who are already licensed Registered Nurses and wish to work in acute, chronic, home care or clinic settings with palliative patients. The program is three-credit courses and is five weeks in duration.

Parish Nurse Certificate Program

The Parish Nurse Certificate Program at Marian University is for nurses who wish to administer treatment to members of the religious community as well as work as health educators, counselors, coordinators of volunteers, and many more healthcare professions.

Contact:
Marian University
45 South National Avenue
Fond du Lac, WI 54935-4621
United States
Phone: (920) 923-7600

Marquette University Nursing School Review

Marquette University (MU) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin has a reputation for academic excellence in many fields, ranging from the liberal arts to business to engineering to health sciences. The school, which was founded in 1881, serves just about 12,000 students; nearly half of the students are graduate students. One of Marquette University’s areas of focus is the nursing field. With undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, Marquette University has options for both prospective nurses and nurses who wish to advance in the field. All nursing programs hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

The College of Nursing at Marquette University is located in Emory T. Clark Hall, which is on the west side of the Marquette campus. The building includes offices, classrooms, labs and a Learning Resources Center, which is home to the computers, practice models and simulation equipment, which is needed to support the nursing programs offered at Marquette University.

The nursing programs at Marquette University are varied and include; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Honors BSN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with Psychology as a Second Major, Bachelor of Science in Nursing with ROTC options, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a RN Direct Entry, a Doctor of Nursing Practitioner (DNP) program and a PhD in Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Marquette University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is unusual in that incoming freshmen enroll immediately in the College of Nursing. They take their first nursing class in the very first semester at Marquette University, and continue taking nursing courses throughout the next four years. The first clinical rotation takes place in the first semester of junior year. The BSN program prepares students for careers as Registered Nurses (RN). Graduates can take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Marquette University offers six different tracks within its BSN program:

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The traditional track of the BSN program takes four years to complete, and includes 128 credits in total. The curriculum covers all of the university’s core requirements as well as all nursing requirements.

Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The honors track of the BSN program requires 134 credits in total. Students may apply to this program in their senior year of high school or in their freshman year of college. As a BSN honors student, a prospective nurse will have additional opportunities for one-on-one interactions with professors, and the opportunity to pursue research of her own choosing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a Second Major in Psychology
By earning 139 credits, a BSN student can fulfill all the requirements needed for both the nursing major and the psychology major. Typically, a student needs to study for at least one summer semester in order to complete both majors in four years.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Air Force ROTC
Marquette University partners with the Air Force to train nurse officers. Students who wish to pursue this path must complete Air Force course requirements in addition to all the BSN requirements. In total, these students must earn at least 141 credits. They will spend at least one summer semester on campus.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Army ROTC
Marquette University is one of the Army’s Partners for Nursing Excellence. Marquette University students who prepare to enter the Army as nurses must complete an intense curriculum, consisting of 149 credits in total. They need nine semesters (which includes one summer semester) to complete this curriculum.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Navy ROTC
Marquette University has the largest group of Navy ROTC nursing students in the United States. These prospective nurses must earn at least 136 credits, and must spend at least one summer on campus.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN

Marquette University welcomes RNs who are graduates of associate degree nursing programs or diploma nursing programs into its BSN program. These RNs must meet the 128-credit BSN requirement, but they can receive up to forty-eight advanced placement credits toward the Phase I nursing requirements. With these advanced placement credits in place, an RN only needs to complete thirty additional nursing credits at Marquette University, as well as any missing general education requirements.

Master of Science in Nursing

Marquette University trains nurses for careers as advanced practice specialists through its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. The traditional MSN program is open to nurses who have completed a BSN degree. (Nurses with a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing can enter the MSN RN Direct Entry program.) In order to provide flexibility to working nurses, the university offers some of the classes online. The classes that are offered on campus are usually scheduled in the evenings. Students may enroll full-time or part-time. On a full-time basis, the MSN program takes about two years to complete. On a part-time basis, a student may take up to six years to complete the curriculum. Marquette University offers eight different tracks within its MSN program:

Adult-Older Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The Adult-Older Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (NP) program requires forty-two credits in total. This includes both core graduate nursing classes and classes in the area of specialization. Only one of the classes is offered online; students need to come to campus for the rest of the coursework.

Adult-Older Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist
A nurse can prepare to provide primary care to adults as an NP or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) through the Adult-Older Adult Primary Care NP/CNS track of the MSN program. This requires forty-two credits.

Older Adult Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist
The Older Adult NP/CNS track of the MSN program requires forty-two credits.

Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist
A nurse can specialize in pediatric primary care as either an NP or CNS. Regardless of which certification he pursues, he must earn forty-two credits.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
If a nurse wants to specialize in pediatric acute care, she must work toward certification as an NP.This track of the MSN program requires forty-two credits.

Nurse-Midwifery
The Nurse-Midwifery track of the MSN program has additional accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. Students on this track must earn at least forty-nine credits. They can do this over two years on a full-time basis. Alternatively they may complete the first part of the program on a part-time basis. Due to the clinical requirements, they must study full-time for the last year of the program.

Health Care Systems Leadership
The Health Care Systems Leadership track of the MSN program prepares nurses for certification as Nurse Administrators. They must earn thirty-nine credits in order to prepare for the certification exam. Within the Health Care Systems Leadership program, nurses can choose among four areas of emphasis: Care Management Systems, Community Health Leadership, Long-Term Care Administration, Informatics, Conflict Resolution, and Staff Development. Each area of focus requires six credits.

Clinical Nurse Leader
Marquette University offers a CNL track in its MSN program. Students can choose to focus on adult health, pediatrics, or obstetrics. Each area of focus requires thirty-three credits, which includes twenty-one credits in the chosen area of focus.

Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration

Marquette University offers a joint MSN/Master of Business Administration (MBA) program through its College of Nursing and its College of Business Administration. A nurse on this track must complete sixty credits. On a full-time basis (earning between six and twelve credits per semester), this will take five semesters to complete. The MSN classes include all the classes required for the Health Care Systems Leadership track of the MSN program, and graduates are eligible to take the Nurse Administrator certification exam.

Master of Science in Nursing – RN Direct Entry

The MSN RN Direct Entry program is designed for RNs who have both an associate degree in nursing and a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing. It is not open to RNs who do not have a baccalaureate degree. A nurse on this track must complete twelve credits (four classes) of undergraduate nursing coursework as preparation for the MSN coursework. These courses are called bridge courses. Once these are complete, the RN can begin the coursework for his chosen track of the MSN program. All eight tracks, as well as the join MSN/MBA track, of the MSN program are open to an RN Direct Entry student.

Master of Science in Nursing – Direct Entry

The Direct Entry MSN program prepares students who have no nursing background for careers as advanced practice nurses. In order to be eligible for this program, a student must have a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing and must complete the following prerequisites: five or six credits in the sciences, three credits in psychology or sociology, and three credits in statistics. A Direct Entry MSN student begins in the summer semester, and spends the next fifteen months studying on a full-time basis. At the end of this time period, she is finished with all the undergraduate nursing requirements (sixty-three credits) and can take the NCLEX-RN. (She does not receive a BSN degree.) From here, she progresses into her chosen MSN area of specialization. She can complete the MSN portion of the program on either a full-time or part-time basis.

Post-master’s Certification

The post-master’s certification programs are open to MSN-prepared nurses. In order to prepare for a new graduate-level certification, these nurses do not have to repeat coursework that they have already completed as part of their previous MSN program of study. They only need to complete courses in their chosen area of specialization. Marquette University offers seven different post-master’s certification tracks. An MSN-prepared nurse can train to become an Adult Acute Care NP (thirty credits), Adult NP or CNS (thirty credits), Older Adult (Gerontology) NP or CNS (thirty credits), a Nurse Administrator through the Heath Care Systems Leadership track (twenty-one credits), Nurse Midwife (thirty-three credits), Acute Care Pediatric NP (twenty-seven credits), and Primary Care Pediatric NP (twenty-seven credits).

Doctor of Nursing Practice – BSN to DNP

After completing a BSN degree, an RN can enroll in Marquette University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, in the BSN to DNP track. If he chooses to study on a full-time basis, he will need three to four years to complete all the coursework. The program includes master’s-level coursework in a chosen area of specialization, leading to advanced practice certification. In addition, the program includes DNP coursework that will help him to achieve the highest level of clinical responsibility in his chosen area of certification. A nurse on the BSN to DNP track must earn between sixty-three and sixty-seven credits. He can pursue certification as an Adult-Older Adult Primary Care NP (sixty-six credits), as an Adult-Older Adult Acute Care NP (sixty-six credits), as an Older Adult NP (sixty-six credits), as a Pediatrics Primary Care NP (sixty-six credits), as a Pediatric Acute Care NP (sixty-six credits), as a Nurse-Midwife (sixty-seven credits), and as a Nurse Administrator through the Health Care Systems Leadership track (sixty-three credits). Most of the coursework for the DNP program is only offered on campus; a few classes are available online.

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Post-master’s (Bridge)

If a nurse enrolls in the DNP program after completing an MSN degree and earning advanced practice certification, she only needs to earn twenty-seven credits. Like the students in the BSN to DNP track, she can study either full-time or part-time. She needs to travel to campus to take most of the classes in the post-master’s DNP program (also called the DNP Bridge program).

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing – Post-baccalaureate

An RN who has a baccalaureate degree (either in nursing or in a field other than nursing) can apply to Marquette University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing) program. Before beginning the PhD in Nursing coursework, he must complete eighteen credits of transition courses. After completing these, he can progress to the fifty-one credit PhD in Nursing curriculum. In total, he must earn sixty-nine credits. The length of the program can vary, depending on whether the student enrolls part-time or full-time, and depending on how quickly he completes the required dissertation. Generally, the fifty-one credits of the PhD in Nursing curriculum take two years to complete on a full-time basis. This does not include the time required for the transition courses or the dissertation.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing – Post-MSN

A nurse who has already earned an MSN degree can complete the PhD in Nursing program by earning fifty-one credits. She can enroll either full-time or part-time. On a full-time basis, she needs at least two years to complete the fifty-one credits, plus additional time to work on her dissertation. The majority of the courses in the DNP program are only available on campus.

Contact:
Marquette University
College of Nursing
530 N. 16th Street,
Milwaukee, WI 53233

Mid-State Technical College Nursing Program Review

Mid-State Technical College (MSTC), located in Marshfield, Wisconsin is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System’s 16 colleges. The college offers over 50 career options, through associate, technical diplomas and certificate programs. It is estimated that 90% of Mid-State Technical College graduates are employed within the six months after graduation from their specific program of choice.

MSTC is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The average age of students is 32 years old and the largest number of students fall sin the 20-24 age range.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Mid-State Technical College is intended to graduate students who will work as Registered Nurses. The Associate Degree in Nursing at Mid-State Technical College provides balanced education between the technical side of nursing and the caring side of the profession. The Associate Degree in Nursing combines in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. Mid-State Technical College’s nursing program is a part of the Wisconsin Technical College System Curriculum. Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Mid-State Technical College, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination for Registered Nurses. After 32 credits of the program, students can write the Licensed Practical Nurse examination, in order to become licensed if they so choose. The nursing programs at Mid-State Technical College are accredited by the National League Accrediting Commission in Atlanta, Georgia.

If individuals choose to take the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) examination and become licensed as a Practical Nurse, he or she can begin working as a Licensed Practical Nurse, which requires that individual to work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or another senior health professional. The admissions requirements for the Practical Nursing and the Associate Degree in Nursing are the same, and the idea is that individuals would progress through both programs as it is customary for Licensed Practical Nurses to continue their education and become a Registered Nurse at the end of the Associate Degree in Nursing program, however individuals can complete the program early with Licensed Practical Nurse licensure. Both programs are approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing.

Mid-State Technical College also offers an LPN to RN program, for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to become Registered Nurses. Individuals interested in applying must show proof of LPN licensure, a high school or college transcript, a Practical Nursing Program transcript, a background information disclosure form and must meet with a Nursing Program counselor before being admitted into the transition program.

Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

Mid-State Technical College offers a Certified Nursing Assistant Program, which is 120 hours in duration and involves online lectures, campus laboratory work and 48 hours of clinical practice at a healthcare institution in the local area. Certified Nursing Assistant Program students will be required to work with patients and residents in these healthcare environments, and must be at least 16 years of age or above when enrolled in the program at Mid-State Technical College.

Mid-State Technical College recently began offering a one-credit continuing education course for individuals who wish to work as a personal care worked in an assisted living facility or a long-term care facility. This program is intended for students who wish to eventually pursue education and employment in the field of nursing and is the first steps for individuals who are planning on applying to the Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Mid-State Technical College.

Contact:
Mid-State Technical College
2600 West 5th Street,
Marshfield, WI 54449-3299
United States
Phone: (715) 387-2538

Milwaukee Area Technical College Nursing Program Review

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) offers classes during the day, evenings and weekends, and is ideal for individuals who wish to continue working while pursuing his or her education. Milwaukee Area Technical College offers 200 degree programs, diplomas, certificate and apprenticeship programs in traditional trades and education in a variety of extensive employment skills.

MATC also provides opportunities for individuals to earn his or her high school diploma, GED or HSED prior to applying to one of the more senior post-secondary degree options. A high school diploma, GED or HSED is a requirement for all of Milwaukee Area Technical College’s degrees, diplomas and certificate programs.

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Milwaukee Area Technical College is conducted under the School of Health Sciences technical diploma program and takes place at the downtown Milwaukee campus, the Oak Creek campus, or the West Allis campus and offers a bilingual option in Spanish at the downtown Milwaukee campus. Nursing Assistants is an entry level nursing profession, and they provide bedside care and assistance to others more senior members of the nursing profession. The Nursing Assistant program at Milwaukee Area Technical College is not accredited but the Milwaukee Area Technical College Nursing Assistant program is approved by the US Department of Health Services. The Nursing Assistant Program is three-credits in duration and can be completed in eight weeks. The weekend course option can be completed in 11 weeks.

The clinical practice portion of the program is selected by the faculty in the program. Individuals applying to the Nursing Assistant Program at Milwaukee Area Technical College must complete certain health forms that need to be completed by the individual’s healthcare provider. The forms include details on immunizations, TB, and hepatitis tests as well as verification from the individual’s healthcare provider that the individual is able to complete the program physically. Applicants are also required to submit a criminal background check when applying to the Nursing Assistant Program at MATC.

There are no prerequisite courses mandatory for the Nursing Assistant Program at Milwaukee Area Technical College and individuals should check with the college to determine if there are any specific tests that he or she should take prior to being admitted into the program. The Nursing Assistant Program does not require students to attend an orientation meeting, but they are required to pay a one-time fee of $30 in order to apply to the program, as well as $20 for the criminal background check before being admitted into the program. Students will not be admitted into the program if the application is not submitted on time and if they do not pass the criminal background check.

Individuals who complete the Nursing Assistant Program are required to pass licensure examinations, which are required in order to be employed in the nursing profession as a Nursing Assistant. In order to receive more information, individuals can set up a discussion with a member of staff at Milwaukee Area Technical College.

Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Program (LPN to RN)

The LPN to RN program is intended for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to pursue additional education in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Licensed Practical Nurses will be granted advanced credits by Milwaukee Area Technical College once he or she has successfully completed an examination. Once the AAS degree program has been completed, individuals can go on to take the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. In order to be admitted into this stream of the program, individuals must hold LPN licensure, at least one year of work experience and hold a Nursing Assistant credential.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Program

Individuals who successfully complete the AAS program at Milwaukee Area Technical College will go on to become licensed as a Registered Nurse after he or she completes the NCLEX-RN examination to be certified. Individuals in this program complete a combination of in-class lectures, laboratory work, and clinical practice in order to complete the program and go on to write the examination. Individuals who wish to apply to this program must have completed a Nursing Assistant course before enrolling.

Contact:
Milwaukee Area Technical College
700 West State Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233-1443
United States
Phone: (414) 297-6282

Milwaukee School of Engineering Nursing Program Review

Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) was founded over 100 years ago and is a private, non-profit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Milwaukee School of Engineering offers a variety of bachelor and master’s degrees in engineering, business and nursing. The student population at Milwaukee School of Engineering is home to 2,500 students who take part in academics, internships and social activities n the Milwaukee campus.

The class sizes at Milwaukee School of Engineering is roughly 18 students per class, and 11 students per lab, allowing students and faculty to interact often. Milwaukee School of Engineering is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Professors at Milwaukee School of Engineering have on average, seven years of industry experience and provide personal attention to the students as a result of the small class sizes.Due to this, instructors know students by name, rather than by their student number.

School of Nursing

Milwaukee School of Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BS). In order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Milwaukee School of Engineering, individuals must have completed high school credits in Algebra, Plane Geometry, Chemistry, Biology, Advanced Science and English. Admission to the school of nursing is automatic for any individual who has been accepted to the Milwaukee School of Engineering. It is not required for individuals to apply to the School of Nursing separately. The only additional requirements for the School of Nursing over the regular application are; individuals must submit the required health forms for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and be able to present proof of health insurance coverage for the program.

Applicants to the nursing program at Milwaukee School of Engineering must also submit to a health screening, and the Milwaukee School of Engineering will refuse students whose health records are not in line with the mandatory requirements, as it is the schools mandate to ensure that patients are not put in danger in any way. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Milwaukee School of Engineering are also required to complete a CPR course, which is approved by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross, which includes choking, child rescue, as well as one and two-person rescue. Individuals who have applied to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Milwaukee School of Engineering must submit a criminal background check, and must not have been convicted of any crime, which relates to the practice of nursing. If individuals do not satisfy all of the above requirements, they will be assessed on an individual basis for acceptance into the nursing program at Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and hospices, amongst many others.

Contact:
Milwaukee School of Engineering
1025 North Broadway
Milwaukee, WI 53202
United States
Phone: (414) 277-7300

Moraine Park Technical College Nursing Program Review

Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) is located in West Bend, Wisconsin and provides applicants with a choice of over 100 career options, as well as opportunities to join clubs and travel internationally with the college. Moraine Park Technical College has three campuses; Beaver Dam, Fond du Lac and West Bend, and has a regional center in Hartford and another in Ripon.

There are options at Moraine Park Technical College for high school students, transfer students and four-year university students and a variety of associate, diploma and certificate options in education. Moraine Park Technical College also offers non-credit options, for individuals interested in maintaining a licensed, receiving certification or gaining personal achievement through education.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Moraine Park Technical College offers a Practical Nursing Exit Point for individuals who wish to certify as a Licensed Practical Nurse and then leave the program, before certifying as a Registered Nurse. Individuals who do not wish to leave the program after certifying as a Licensed Practical Nurse can stay on and complete the program in order to certify as a Registered Nurse. After completing the first semesters of the program, individuals can write the Practical Nursing National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) and if successful, can leave the program and seek out employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse. If individuals wish to become a Registered Nurse, he or she must complete the remaining two semesters and write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Admissions take place in the Spring and Fall semesters.

The nursing program is composed of in-class, laboratory work and clinical practice and can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. The nursing program at Moraine Park Technical College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. The program costs around $100 per credit for in-state residents and around $160 per credit for out of state residents. Online students are not charges fees for being out of state.

After passing either the examination for Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses, individuals are able to enter the profession of nursing at the entry level. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Registered Nurses (RN) work in various healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, home healthcare environments, schools, offices and many more.

In order to apply to the program, individuals must apply to Moraine Park Technical College directly, and submit a one time fee of $30. Individuals must submit high school transcripts when applying, as well as any transcripts from college level courses completed. Applicants may be required to meet with the Admissions department to discuss courses and prerequisites and individuals need to submit a health requirements form and a criminal background check for admission into the nursing program.

Nursing Assistant (NA)

The Nursing Assistant program at Moraine Park Technical College is for entry-level admission into the profession of nursing. Individuals enrolled in the Nursing Assistant program are taught basic skills through in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. Nursing Assistants are taught how to take vital signs, bathing of patients as well as dressing, making beds and specific tools for resident care. The cost of the program is around $110 per credit for in-state students and around $167 per credit for out of state applicants. Online courses are not charged at an out of state rate, irrelevant of where the student is from.

Contact:
Moraine Park Technical College
700 Gould Street,
Beaver Dam, WI 53916
Phone: (920) 887-1101

Nicolet Area Technical College Nursing Program Review

Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC) is a public college located in Rhinelander, Northern Wisconsin, with a campus along Lake Julia. Nicolet Area Technical College was established in 1967 as a college designed to combine occupational education, liberal arts, and community education. The district served by Nicolet Area Technical College includes; Oneida, Vilas, and Forest counties and sections of Iron, Lincoln, and Langlade counties.

The total population of the region served by Nicolet Area Technical College is 83,000 people and each semester the college enrolls 1,600 students in the studies of vocational-technical and liberal arts and 10,000 in community education programs, with trade extension and apprenticeship programs. Nicolet Area Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a variety of programs in nursing education.

Applied Associate of Science Degree (AAS)

The Applied Associate of Science Degree in Nursing at Nicolet Area Technical College is composed of 70 credits and is open to entry-level nurses who are interested in beginning a career in nursing. The Applied Associate of Science Degree is intended for individuals who wish to learn about nursing throughout the lifespan and the program includes in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. The program is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Upon graduation from the Applied Associate of Science Degree at Nicolet Area Technical College, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

In order to be admitted into the Applied Associate of Science Degree at Nicolet Area Technical College, individuals must write the Accuplacer Test and score satisfactory results on the NLN pre-RN examination. Individuals applying to the program must complete two semesters of high school Chemistry with a “C” grade or above, as well as a post-secondary Chemistry course. Individuals applying to the program must have completed a Nursing Assistant course and pass a Caregiver Background Check before being admitted to the program. Applicants must have completed their CPR certification and provide evidence of professional liability insurance and must submit to a health requirement exam. Individuals who enter the field of nursing often work in acute care, long-term care, clinics, home health, hospices, correctional facilities and a variety of other healthcare establishments.

After individuals have completed the first year of the Applied Associate of Science Degree, he or she can submit an application to the state Board of Nursing to take the examination in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. Upon this certification as a Practical Nurse, individuals can continue to complete the degree in order to become a Registered Nurse.

Nursing Assistant (NA)

The Nursing Assistant program at Nicolet Area Technical College is three credits and trains individuals on how to become a junior but integral member of a healthcare team. Nursing Assistants bathe and dress patients, and deal with feeding, taking vital signs, ambulating, lifting and moving clients as well as other nursing procedures under the direction of a Registered Nurse or Physician. The Nursing Assistant Program at Nicolet Area Technical College is 120 hours, including a combination of laboratory work, in-class lectures and clinical practice.

Contact:
Nicolet Area Technical College
5364 College Drive
Rhinelander, WI 54501
Phone: 715-365-4410, 800-544-3039

Northcentral Technical College Nursing Program Review

Northcentral Technical College (NTC) is located in Wausau, Wisconsin, with campuses in Antigo, Medford, Phillips, Spencer, and Wittenberg, as well as a Public Safety Center of Excellence in Merrill, Apprenticeship Center of Excellence in Wausau, Agriculture Center of Excellence in Maine and a Wood Technology Center of Excellence in Antigo.Northcentral Technical College offers over 150 associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificate programs, as well as individual courses for people who wish to advance their skills without taking a degree.Northcentral Technical College believes in geographic, financial, service and learning delivery alternatives and provides financial assistance options for students at all levels, in all degree options.

Nursing Associate Degree

The Nursing Associate Degree at Northcentral Technical College seeks to promote health and learning for individuals, families, and communities in society. Northcentral Technical College uses a holistic approach in learning, including problem-solving, legal issues, ethical and regulatory frameworks. The Nursing programs at Northcentral Technical College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc.

Applicants to the Nursing Associate Degree at Northcentral Technical College must submit their application with a $30 non-refundable application fee in the form of a check or money order, which should be made payable to Northcentral Technical College. High school transcripts are not a mandatory part of the application, but will be required when it comes time to petition this program. High school transcripts may also contain ACT or Accuplacer scores, which were taken while the applicant was in high school, and may meet testing requirements if taken within the last five years. Individuals who are applying to the Nursing Associate Degree and have completed some college-level education, must submit college transcripts. Applicants must provide proof of a Bachelor’s degree, an Associate degree or individual college classes may not be used instead of testing. Applicants must also provide a copy of ACT or Accuplacer test scores when applying to the Nursing Associate Degree at Northcentral Technical College.

The Nursing Associate Degree is also open to individuals who are already licensed as Practical Nurses (PN), as well as individuals interested in transferring from another accredited academic institution. Upon completion of the Nursing Associate Degree, individuals are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare establishments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and many others.

Nursing Assistant CNA Technical Diploma

In order to apply to the Nursing Assistant (CNA) Technical Diploma at Northcentral Technical College, individuals must submit an NTC application for admission. There is no fee required for this application. Individuals must also provide proof that they can read at a 5th grade level, and provide proof of high school diploma, GED or HSED completion. Individuals applying to the Northcentral Technical College Certified Nursing Assistant program can take a free reading comprehension test at the Northcentral Technical College Learning Center. Individuals applying to the program must also submit to a drug test, a health assessment and a criminal background check. Upon successful completion of the CNA program, individuals must write an independent skills test, in order to be placed on the Wisconsin Nursing Aide Registry.

Contact:
Northcentral Technical College
1000 West Campus Drive
Wausau, WI 54401
United States
Phone: (715) 675-3331

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Nursing Program Review

Every year, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) serves 42,000 students in over 100 degrees, diplomas and apprenticeship programs, over 80 certificates and has transfer agreements with 28 colleges and universities in the United States.

Nursing Associate Degree Program (ADN)

The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is offered at the Green Bay, Marinette and Sturgeon Bay campuses. The first year of the Nursing Associate Degree program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College can be completed at the West Regional Learning Center-Shawano. The Nursing Associate Degree Program is fully eligible for financial aid and upon completion of the program, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurses work in various healthcare establishments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and various others. The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is fully eligible for financial aid through the college. Graduates of the program work as Registered Nurses (RN) either as a Staff Nurse, who is responsible for making nursing diagnoses and treating responses from patients, or a Charge Nurse, who directs workflow, manages patient care as well as staff in medical environments.

The Nursing Associate Degree Program requires individuals to complete credits in laboratory work, in-class lectures and clinical practice. Individuals may be required to travel some distance in order to participate in clinical in the evenings. The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.

If a student wishes, after the second semester of the Nursing Associate Degree Program, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse (PN) and not complete the full program, but rather begin working in the field of nursing as a LPN.

In order to apply to the Nursing Associate Degree Program, individuals must complete an application form, submit a high school transcript or equivalent and take an Academic Skills Assessment or ACT assessment with benchmark scores. Applicants must have also completed one year of Biology and Chemistry with a minimum “C” grade or above. If an applicant has completed Introduction to Biochemistry with a “B” or better, he or she will receive priority standing among the applicants applying for that specific intake. Individuals applying must attend a mandatory orientation, complete a physical examination three months prior to program entry and complete a CPR course. All applicants to the program must have completed a Nursing Assistant course that is approved by DHS prior to being admitted into the program. Applicants must also be 16 years of age or above at time of entry into the Nursing Associate Degree Program.

The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College also offers a flexible learning option, so that individuals can complete the program on a part-time track over evenings and weekends. This option is conducted over a ten semester, four-year timeframe, which includes three summers. Other than tuition, students are mandated to purchase a nametag, uniform, liability insurance, transportation to clinical practice, and any other expense related to clinical practice.

Contact:
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
2740 W Mason Street,
Green Bay, WI 54307
United States
Phone: (920) 498-5400

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College Nursing Program Review

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (SWTC) is located in Fennimore, Wisconsin. SWTC conducts strategic planning every three years, which allows the college to be reviewed on its principles. The entire review of Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is available online.

The college offers a Nursing Assistant program with a basic stream, as well as a Nursing-Associate Degree program.

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Program is 120 credit hours and prepares individuals for employment as a nursing assistant in a healthcare facility. Nursing Assistants work under the direction of Registered Nurses and physicians. The program at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is composed of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. The clinical practice for the Nursing Assistant Program is completed at a nursing home under supervision.

Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant Program, individuals will work as entry-level nursing professionals, who work on assisting clients with personal care, fluid and nutrition, mobility, and other basic needs. Nursing Assistant’s are also required to play an important role in the emotional needs of clients. The Nursing Assistant Program is less than one year in duration. Many individuals who complete the Nursing Assistant Program, go on to further their career in the field of nursing. The Nursing Assistant Program is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services and graduate students are able to apply to write the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program Exam, which includes a written and skills portion. The Nursing Assistant Program offers evening and weekend classes for individuals during the Fall and Spring semester, but students must attend a lab session at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College weekly.

Applicants to the program must complete a Caregiver Background Check, which is $12 and must be covered by the student. Applicants must also pass a theory test and complete a physical examination, and provide documentation of a recent two-step TB skin test, and mental health requirements as approved by the College Health Educator. The program does not qualify for financial aid.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree Nursing program at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is a two-year program, which upon graduation allows individuals to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and all students who successfully complete the first year of the program, are able to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. After completing the examination, individuals can come back to the program and complete the second year, in order to become a Licensed Registered Nurse.

Opportunities for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses exist in hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, home health care situations and wellness centers. The Associate Degree Nursing program also offers classes during the evenings and weekends and financial aid is available for this program. Applicants to this program must have completed high school or college Chemistry with a “C” grade or above, hold a high school or GED diploma, submit transcripts, complete pre-nursing admissions assessment testing, pay the assessment testing fee, complete the application form, pay a $30 application fee and interview with a counselor. Applicants must also have completed a Nursing Assistant program or equivalent.

Contact:
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
1800 Bronson Blvd.,
Fennimore, WI 53813
United States
Phone: (800) 362-3322

University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire Nursing School Review

The University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire (UW-Eau Claire, UWEC) was founded in 1916 and is one of the Midwest’s top public universities. The University enrolls almost 11,000 students each year in undergraduate and graduate programs.

The 363 acre campus is located along a river in Eau Claire, a city with a population of 65,000. The campus is crossed by the Chippewa River State Trail, part of the Wisconsin state trails network.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Eau Claire Site

This program is for students beginning their studies in professional nursing, and is offered at the Eau Claire campus. Graduates of the program will be allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam. Students will enter the University as Pre-Nursing, and may apply to the BSN program during the semester in which they have completed at least 30 credits.

Applicants will need to have at least a 3.0 GPA, have a grade of at least a C in all nursing courses, and have taken three or more natural science classes with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Students must also be certified in CPR for Healthcare Providers, and must be certified as a Nursing Assistant (CNA) before they may register for Foundations of Nursing Practice.

BSN Marshfield Site

Students accepted into the BSN program make take courses offered in Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. The admission requirements are the same as for the BSN program in Eau Claire.

Accelerated BSN

This program is offered for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Applicants must complete the prerequisites, have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, a GPA of at least 2.5 in the required science courses, meet the University Cultural Diversity requirement, be CNA certified, and be CPR certified.

The prerequisites for this program are General Chemistry I, Survey of Biochemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Human Development, and Introduction to Statistics.

RN to BSN Program – Collaborative Nursing (BSN @ Home)

Nurses with an RN license may apply to this program to earn their bachelor’s degree. This flexible online program does not require students to relocate. Students may also continue to work while earning their degree.

This program is a partnership between UW-Eau Claire, UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, and UW-Greenbay. Nursing courses are offered online to students enrolled in the program, and are taught by faculty at one of the Universities. Students will designate a home University when they apply, and that is who awards their degree when they complete the program.

Applicants to this program will need to have a current RN license, or be in the final semester of an accredited nursing program, with an overall GPA of at least 2.5. Students need to have taken the non-nursing required classes prior to applying to the program. These are English Composition, Wellness Theory, Physical Activity, a Cultural Diversity course, and a Foreign Language course. They also need to take 39 credits of general education classes, including a Communication Skills course, Statistics, General Chemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Human Development.

Undergraduate Nursing Honors Program

This program allows students to extend their learning and complete a more challenging course of study, as well as complete an independent study project or paper to be reviewed by faculty committee.

Students interested in the Nursing Honors program must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and must have their advisor’s recommendation. Students will need to take at least eight nursing honors credits and pass an oral exam to complete the program.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program allows students to choose a population focus of Adult-Gerontologic Health Nursing or Family Health Nursing. Students may also choose the role function of Advanced Clinical Practice, Administrator, or Educator.

This program can usually be completed over the course of two years of full time study. The number of credits required are 40-42 for the roles of Educator or Administrator, and 45-49 for Advanced Clinical Practice as Family or Adult Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Applicants to the MSN program must have a BSN degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, an RN license, have taken a Statistics class, be ready for graduate studies, demonstrate health assessment competency, and have nursing experience.

Depending on what role the student prepared for, they may be able to take the certification exams for Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Clinical Nursing Specialist, Nursing Education, or Nursing Administration.

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

This program is for nurses with an MSN who want to assume a new role as Adult or Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Education, or Nursing Administration. Students need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 in their master’s program, and specialization as a clinical nurse specialist in adult health nursing, or in adult or family health nursing.

RN-BSN-MSN

This program is for students enrolled in the RN to BSN program. It allows them to begin their MSN studies by enrolling in MSN program courses during the last year of their undergraduate program. All master’s level courses must be taken with a grade of B or higher for the student to be allowed to enroll in further graduate courses. Students may substitute graduate level courses for up to nine credits of undergraduate courses.

In addition to meeting the requirements for the RN to BSN program, students must have a recommendation from the Associate Dean of the Nursing program.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program offers the highest level of education in advanced practice nursing, and allows graduates to assume leadership roles as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse administrator.

Applicants must have an MSN degree with a GPA of at least 3.0 and an RN license. They also need to submit three reference letters, a resume, and an essay.

This program requires 28 credits to complete, and takes two years if taken part time, or three semesters if full time. Classes are offered in an online/on-campus hybrid format.

BSN to DNP

This is a new program allowing students to pursue their DNP degree immediately after earning their BSN. Students must complete 67-76 credits and at least 1050 clinical hours, depending on whether they choose the administration or advanced clinical practice roles. This program may be taken full time over the course of three years, or part time over four to five years. The 800 level courses are taught in an online/on-campus hybrid format.

Applicants must have a BSN degree with a GPA of at least 3.0, an RN license, an undergraduate Statistics course, three reference letters, a resume, and an essay.

Continuing Education

UW-Eau Claire offers continuing nursing education in a variety of subjects that have been approved by the Wisconsin Nurses Association. Courses are offered in a lecture format or online. Students may register online or through the Continuing Education office.

In Summary:

Undergraduate Programs

Undergraduate programs in nursing at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional BSN) – Traditional track at both Eau Claire and Marshfield campuses, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated BSN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program (BSN Completion). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is for individuals who wish to pursue employment as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare institutions, such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities and hospices amongst others. The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing is for individuals who already hold a baccalaureate degree, and wish to pursue a second baccalaureate degree in nursing. Theses individuals are permitted to enter the accelerated track, as they already hold post-secondary education in another field and can transfer specific credits. Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The final undergraduate degree in nursing at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire is the BSN Completion Program, which is intended for practicing nurses who already hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing, and wish to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, but cannot relocate or give up employment. Individuals in this program can complete general education classes at any college or university that offers the classes and then transfer them to UW-Eau Claire. The nursing courses are taught online, and are available only to those individuals registered at the College or Nursing and Health Sciences at UW-Eau Claire, or any of the other campuses of the University. The selected campus becomes the individuals “home” campus and then all of the student services an individual may require (including financial aid, registration, etc.) must take place through that institution.

Graduate Programs

The graduate programs at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire consist of a Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The nursing programs offer hands-on clinical practice in Harlaxton, England, Anchorage, Alaska, Rosebud, South Dakota and many more locations worldwide. The Master of Science in Nursing Program at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire is for nurses who wish to focus on Adult-Gerontologic Health Nursing or Family Health Nursing and also provides study for individuals who wish to work as a Nurse Educator. The graduate programs in nursing at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire are intended for individuals who wish to work at higher levels of service in the field of nursing.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire is for individuals who wish to pursue education in advanced nursing practice in either Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Specialist or Nursing Administration. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is offered as a post-masters option only, but eventually the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire hopes to offer both Master of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice and Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice options. For individuals who have completed a Master of Science in Nursing, the Doctor of Nursing Practice includes 28 credits of nursing courses over three terms – summer, fall and spring for full-time study and two years for part-time study.

Contact:
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
105 Garfield Avenue,
Eau Claire, WI 54702-4004

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Nursing School Review

Founded in 1965, the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay (UW–Green Bay, UWGB) is located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, which has a population of about 250,000 people. The campus is on 700 acres and includes a nine hole golf course, laboratory, fitness center, and center for the arts. The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay is home to over 6,000 students, with over 4,000 undergraduate students from all over the United States.

Some of the most common majors undertaken at University of Wisconsin – Green Bay are Business Administration, Psychology, Human Biology, and Nursing. The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as associate degrees and certificates. The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay holds a full 10-year accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The nursing programs at University of Wisconsin – Green Bay include a completion program for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN), a professional program in nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay allows individuals who hold a Registered Nursing licensure via an associate degree or diploma in nursing to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. The program is flexible, in that it allows individuals to complete the program while employed in the nursing profession. The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay also offers options in transfers from other accredited educational institutions. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program consists of 120 credits and the Registered Nursing transfers 60 credits through agreements.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay offers three tracks – Campus Track (which includes face-to-face courses), BSN@HOME track (which offers courses through the Internet for people residing in Wisconsin) and the BSN – LINC/National Track (for individuals residing out of state). Program outcomes are the same for every track, in that individuals receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay must hold an associate degree in nursing program, as well as a GPA of 2.5 at minimum on post-secondary coursework. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing must also hold current Registered Nursing licensure in any state and it is highly recommended by the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay that individuals consult with a Nursing program adviser prior to applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, in order to get a better understanding of admission guidelines and the program in general.

Individuals registered in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, must complete 18 credits in general education, 12 credits in nursing support and 30 credits in upper level nursing.

Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare establishments, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, home healthcare opportunities and many others.

Contact:
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
2420 Nicolet Drive,
Green Bay, WI 54311
USA

University of Wisconsin Madison Nursing School Review

The University of Wisconsin at Madison (UW-Madison) was founded in 1848, and is the flagship school of the UW system. There are over 42,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The scenic 936 acre campus sits on top of a hill overlooking Lake Mendota, the largest lake in Madison.

The School of Nursing was established in 1924, and is a leading partner in the state’s healthcare system and in nursing research. Over 500 students enroll in UW-Madison’s nursing programs each year.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This program trains students to be entry-level, professional nurses. Students are admitted to the University as Pre-Nursing, and those accepted into the program will begin nursing courses in the fall semester of their junior year. Graduates of this program are allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.

Students may apply to this program once they have completed 54 credits and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. They will need to submit an application to the program and a personal statement. Students must also have completed at least four of the prerequisites before applying, and all prerequisites before beginning the program.

The prerequisites for this program are Chemistry, Microbiology, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Introductory Psychology, Introductory Sociology, and Human Growth and Development.

Students admitted to this program may complete their courses at the Madison campus, or at the Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.

RN to BS (BSN @ Home)

Graduates of associate or three-year nursing programs with an RN license may apply to this program to earn their bachelor’s degree. This flexible online program allows continue to work while earning their degree. Students may transfer up to 60 credits from their prior nursing studies.

This program is a partnership between UW-Madison, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, and UW-Greenbay. Nursing courses are taught by faculty at one of the Universities, and are offered online to students enrolled in the program. Students designate UW-Madison as their home university when they apply, and will receive their degree from this school.

Applicants to this program will need to have a current RN license and be a graduate of an associate degree or three year nursing program, with an overall GPA of at least 2.5.

BS Honors Program

High-performing students who want to pursue research with a faculty mentor may enter this program. Students may apply for admission to the Honors Program after being admitted to the nursing program. Students must have a GPA of at least 3.5, submit an essay, and have a letter of reference to be considered for the program. Those in the program will take selected nursing honors courses, perform research, and submit an Honors Thesis.

Master of Science (MS)/Master of Public Health (MPH)

This dual degree program is designed to train nurses to be educators or administrators in the field of public health, and is the only MS in Nursing program offered at UW-Madison. Students must be admitted to both the School of Nursing and the Medical School, Department of Population Health. This program will be customized to the needs and interests of the student.

To apply, students must have a BS in Nursing degree with a GPA of at least 3.0 in their final 60 credits, an RN license, GRE scores, and it is recommended to have one year of nursing experience. In addition, to apply for the MPH program, students will need to submit their transcripts showing an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, and must have taken college-level algebra and biology with a B- or higher.

In this dual degree program, students will take at least 60 credits to complete both degrees. This program may be taken full or part time.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program prepares nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, and has taken the place of the MS in Nursing program. Courses for the DNP program are offered online or in classrooms. Students who complete the dual MS/MPH degree or who have an MS from another school may complete the DNP program with a minimum of 33 credits. Those entering the program with a BS in Nursing will need to take at least 71 credits.

Applicants with a BS in Nursing degree must have a GPA of at least 3.2 in their last 60 credits, have an RN license, and have at least one year of nursing practice, preferably related to their population specialty. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, essay, resume or curriculum vitae, and three recommendation letters.

Applicants with an MS in Nursing degree must have a GPA of at least 3.5 and a graduate level statistics course with a grade of B or higher. They must also have an RN license, at least one year of nursing practice, preferably related to their population specialty, their official transcripts, an essay, a resume or curriculum vitae, and three recommendation letters.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Nursing PhD program attracts qualified students from all over the globe, who bring a variety of experiences and interests. Students must have research aptitude, good academic performance, and fit in with the doctoral program goals.

Applicants to this program must have a BS in Nursing with a GPA of at least 3.0, satisfactory GRE scores, satisfactory academic references, and two scholarly writing samples. They will need to submit official transcripts, recommendation letters, a curriculum vita or resume, and a personal statement outlining their goals for the PhD program.

The program requires at least 52 credits to complete, but the exact number of credits and length of study will vary based on the student’s individual course of study.

Early Entry PhD

Undergraduates interested in a research career may pursue this program. Students and advisors develop a personalized program of study and research. This intensive course of study results in BS in Nursing, an MS in Nursing, and a PhD.

Center for Professional Development and Outreach (PDO)

Nurses may earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from the PDO to meet their professional development needs. Courses are offered face-to-face or online in a variety of subjects. These courses are non-credit and do not count toward any degree program.

Contact:
University of Wisconsin Madison
1308 W. Dayton Street,
Madison, WI 53715-1149

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Nursing School Review

University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee (UWM, UW-Milwaukee) began in 1885. Located just five miles from Lake Michigan, this University enrolls over 30,000 students each year in a broad range of programs in over 14 schools and colleges. UWM is Wisconsin’s most diverse University, with thousands of students that are first generation college students, a nationally known LGBT Resource Center, the state’s largest population of student veterans, and several on-campus multicultural centers.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing, Traditional

This program is for students beginning their career in professional nursing. Students may take courses at UWM, or at the University of Wisconsin locations in Parkside or Washington County. Graduates of this program will be allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.

Students must first apply to the University as Pre-Nursing. They must have one year of high school chemistry, three years of high school English, high school algebra, and have completed a History or Social Science course and college prep electives. They must also submit their ACT or SAT scores.

Once they have completed the majority of their Pre-Nursing courses with a C or higher in each course, an overall GPA of 2.75 or better, a 2.5 GPA in science courses, students may apply to the BS program. The Pre-Nursing courses include two semesters of Anatomy and Physiology, General Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Clinical Nutrition, Physics, Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, a Social Science elective, Human Growth and Development, Cultural Diversity in Healthcare, Perspectives in Healthcare Systems, Nursing Research, English Composition II, and four general education electives.

Students that are transferring in from another University or that have another degree may apply to the program if they have a GPA of 2.5 or better, have completed at least 15 credits, and have earned a B or better in at least one science course.

RN to BS Completion (BSN @ Home)

Graduates of diploma or associate degree nursing programs with an RN license may apply to this program to earn their bachelor’s degree. This flexible online program allows continue to work while earning their degree. Students may transfer up to 60 credits from their prior nursing studies, and the program takes two to four years, depending on the course load. Students will meet with an advisor to determine their exact course of study.

This program is a partnership between UWM, UW-Madison, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Oshkosh, and UW-Greenbay. Nursing courses are offered online to students enrolled in the program, though some lectures are available on campus. Students will receive their degree from UWM.

Applicants to this program will need to have a current RN license and be a graduate of an associate degree or diploma nursing program. They will also need to submit their transcripts.

RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MN)

This program is for graduates of an associate or diploma in nursing program that have an RN license. Students will be awarded 30 credits from their prior nursing studies, and will take an additional 118 credits to earn both their BS and MS degrees. This program allows students to complete nine credits of graduate courses during their undergraduate studies.

Applicants need to have a current RN license and be a graduate of an associate degree or diploma nursing program. They will also need to submit their transcripts.

MN Direct Entry

Students with a bachelor’s degree in any subject and no prior nursing experience may apply to this program. Students in this program are admitted to a cohort that takes courses continuously for 15 months. At this time, they may sit for the RN licensing exam. After passing the exam and becoming RNs, they will take 24 credits of MN courses, and upon graduation will be eligible to take the certification exam for Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL).

Applicants need to apply to the UWM Graduate School. They will need a bachelor’s degree, a GPA of at least 2.75, transcripts, reference letters, and a personal statement. They may need to submit GRE scores if their GPA is below 3.2.

Applicants also need to complete the prerequisite classes of upper-level Statistics, two semesters of Anatomy and Physiology, Growth and Development, Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Nutrition.

MN Program

This program builds on the educational foundation of the BS in Nursing program. Students will need to take 33 credits to complete this program, and may take their courses full time or part time. Graduates of this program will be allowed to take the CNL certification exam.

Applicants need to have a BS in nursing degree, a GPA of at least 2.75, transcripts, reference letters, resume, and a personal statement. They may need to submit GRE scores if their GPA is below 3.2.

BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program provides the highest level of education for advanced nursing practice. Students must complete 64 credits for this program, and may choose from a number of specialty tracks.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of a BS in Nursing program with a GPA of at least 2.75, and an RN license. They will need to submit their transcripts, a personal statement, GRE scores, reference letters, resume, two scholarly writing samples, and must have taken an upper level undergraduate statistics course.

Students may study the non-clinical specialization areas of Systems Leadership or Community Health. They may also concentrate on the advanced practice tracks of Family Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist. Within Clinical Nurse Specialist, students may choose a population to study, including adult, childbearing, pediatric, or psych-mental health.

Post-Master’s DNP Online

This program is for students who have already earned an MS degree, and want to pursue their DNP degree. Students admitted into this program progress through as a cohort, taking 28 credits and 460 clinical hours part time. Classes are offered online.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of an MS in Nursing program with an advanced practice focus and a GPA of at least 3.2, and an RN license. They will need to submit their transcripts, a personal statement, GRE scores, reference letters, resume, two scholarly writing samples, and must have taken an upper level undergraduate statistics course.

BS to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

This program is for nurses interested in careers in research and who want to influence healthcare policy. This program is taught primarily on campus, and combines four functional courses from the DNP program with the traditional PhD program. Students must take at least 61 credits to graduate.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of a BS in Nursing program with a GPA of at least 2.75, and an RN license. They will need to submit their transcripts, a personal statement, GRE scores, reference letters, resume, two scholarly writing samples, and must have taken an upper level undergraduate statistics course.

PhD on Campus

This program is similar to the BS to PhD program, except it does not include the DNP functional courses. Students take 49 credits, and classes are held one day a week on campus to accommodate work schedules and commuting.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of a BS in Nursing program with a GPA of at least 2.75, and an RN license. They will need to submit their transcripts, a personal statement, GRE scores, reference letters, resume, two scholarly writing samples, and must have taken an upper level undergraduate statistics course.

PhD Online

This program is nearly identical to the PhD on Campus program, except students are admitted as a cohort and must take the courses online when offered.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of a BS in Nursing program with a GPA of at least 2.75, and an RN license. They will need to submit their transcripts, a personal statement, GRE scores, reference letters, resume, two scholarly writing samples, and must have taken an upper level undergraduate statistics course.

PhD in Medical Informatics

This is an interdisciplinary program offered by UWM and the Medical College of Wisconsin, and housed under the UWM Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Students perform advanced research and become leaders in healthcare and the medical industry. Students may choose an area of concentration in Knowledge Based Systems, Health Services Management and Policy, Health Information Systems, and Medical Imaging and Instrumentation.

Students will take a minimum of 61-67 credits beyond their BS degree. Students that already have an MS degree in a related field may apply up to 24 credits toward this program.

Applicants to the program must have either a BS or MS degree in Nursing or a related field, and must submit two recommendation letters and GRE scores.

Post MS Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

This program is available to students who already have an MS in nursing. Graduates may take the certification exam for Family Nurse Practitioners. This is a 12 month program beginning in the summer, and students will take 21 credits to complete it.

Applicants must have an MS in Nursing degree, and have a B or better in graduate level courses of physiology, epidemiology, comprehensive assessment, and pharmacology. Students will need to have a GPA of at least 3.0, an RN license, submit their transcripts, submit reference letters, write an autobiographical sketch, and a resume.

Health Professional Education Certificate

This program is available to students who already have a BS or MS in nursing. This program requires 15 credits, and is offered in the classroom, online, or as hybrid courses.

Applicants to this program must be graduates of a BS in Nursing program with a GPA of at least 2.75, or an MS in Nursing with a 3.0 GPA, or be currently enrolled in a graduate program, and have an RN license. They will also need to submit their transcripts.

Public Health Certificate

This 15 credit program is offered through the School of Public Health. Applicants must have at least a baccalaureate degree, and must submit a resume, transcripts, and an autobiographical statement.

Post MS Applied Gerontology Certificate

This interdisciplinary certificate is designed for students who either hold a bachelor’s degree and don’t wish to pursue a master’s, or who are already in an MS program and wish to expand their knowledge of aging processes and policies. Students will take 17 credits to complete this certificate.

Applicants to this program must have a baccalaureate degree with a GPA of at least 2.75. They will need to submit their transcripts, and a personal statement, and submit an application to the UWM Graduate School.

College of Nursing Centers

The College of Nursing has centers that focus on nursing subjects like student learning, global health, nursing history, and research. These centers are staffed with expert personnel and allow faculty and students to participate in projects, research, and study-abroad opportunities. The College of Nursing centers at UWM include the Center for Global Health Equity, Center for Nursing History, and the Nursing Learning Resource Center.

Research

Over three quarters of all tenure track nursing faculty members are conducting funded research projects. The College of Nursing at UWM was recently ranked 28^th in NIH funding to nursing schools, and it is projected that this funding level will increase.

Community Nursing Centers

UWM was one of the first nursing schools to establish community nursing centers to provide primary care to the public. In an average year, the community nursing centers have over 10,000 visits.

Contact:
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
2200 E. Kenwood Blvd.,
P.O. Box 413
Milwaukee, WI 53201

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Nursing School Review

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (UW Oshkosh, UWO) was established in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in 1871. UW Oshkosh is the largest public university in the state of Wisconsin and is composed of 52 buildings on over 170 acres of land. The university enrolls over 13,000 students every year and offers education in business, education and human services, letters and science and nursing in four colleges.

UWO offers 60 undergraduate majors, 15 master’s programs and one doctorate program. The university also offers over 50 international study abroad programs to over 20 countries including; Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and Peru.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh is five semesters in duration and offers a combination of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. The College of Nursing has a laboratory on campus, which allows students to practice skills on simulated models. Students complete their clinical practice via an internship in the final semester of the program. The clinical practice takes place in a hospital or a community agency setting.

UW Oshkosh offers an accelerated online Bachelor’s to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option, which is intended for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and can do so in 12 months. In order to apply to this accelerated program, individuals must satisfy admission requirements and complete the academic prerequisites before they can begin studies. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the university of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices, and many others.

Accelerated Online Bachelor’s to BSN

The Accelerated Online Bachelor’s to BSN degree started in 2003 and is the first of its kind in the United States. Individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in another specialty can earn a BSN in 12 months. The theory courses are offered online and clinical rotations can be completed in the individuals home town. Nurse preceptors are required for each clinical rotation in order to grade the student’s progress. There are two cohorts – May to May and October to October and courses are taken one at a time, with one credit per week. The program should be completed on a full-time basis, as it’s quite rigorous and therefore students are required to give up employment for the year. Students are required to attend campus residency three times each year, on orientation weekend, a two-week “Boot Camp” which includes lab experience and first clinical rotation, and then a one-week Capstone experience at the culmination of the program.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (RN to BSN & ADN/Diploma to BSN)

Individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure through an Associate Degree in Nursing, sometimes wish to achieve a baccalaureate degree as well. Individuals can complete a baccalaureate degree at UWO, through the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree option. This program can be completed online or on campus, as it suits the schedule of the Registered Nurse, as it is common for the individual to continue working while completing this program. The University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh offers an option for Registered Nurses to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and go directly to a Master of Science in Nursing program. This program can be completed online or in person on the campus.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh offers a Master of Science in Nursing program, with specializations in Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) or Nurse Educator (NE). Both specializations are offered on a full-time and part-time basis and the CNL and NE options are completed completely online. The MSN can be completed from the RN level – RN to BSN (BSN at Home) to MSN, which allows Registered Nurses to fast-track their Master’s program, while still completing their undergraduate degree. The RN to BSN to MSN option also allows RNs to complete the MSN course through online options.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice offered at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is the highest level of nursing education available. Individuals can apply to the Doctor of Nursing Practice after completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or after completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), as there is an integrated doctoral program offered at this level. The MSN to DNP option is offered as a part-time plan of study.

Certificate Programs in Nursing

The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certificate program is for individuals who hold a master’s degree in nursing and wish to complete the requirements for the Nurse Leader Certificate. The certificate program is 14 credits.

Contact:
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
800 Algoma Blvd.,
Oshkosh, WI 54901
United States
Phone: (920) 424-2312

Viterbo University Nursing School Review

Viterbo University (VU) is located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, which has a population of 52,000 people. Viterbo University was founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and also has satellite centers in West Allis, Wisconsin and Des Moines, Iowa. The university is named after Viterbo, which is a city in Italy, which was home to the founder of the school.

Total yearly enrollment for Viterbo University is over 3,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate degrees. The school offers 50 undergraduate majors, 27 minors, and five graduate degrees. The schools at Viterbo University include the School of Nursing, the School of Letters and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Fine Arts, and the School of Education. The School of Nursing at Viterbo University is accredited by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN)

VU offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, which is intended to prepare individuals for a career as a Registered Nurse. Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Viterbo University go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes, and many more. Viterbo University also offers a pre-nursing curriculum. In the students sophomore year, students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program conduct their clinical practice at either Gundersen Lutheran or Franciscan Skemp medical center. Individuals can also complete their clinical practice at a variety of community-based healthcare organizations in the area in maternity nursing, mental health nursing, nursing of children, adult health nursing, nursing of older adults or public health nursing.

Viterbo University also offers study abroad opportunities for their nursing students, through the Global Education Program, which allows students to complete nursing experience in other countries and gain an understanding through cultural immersion.

Individuals in the nursing program at Viterbo University are mandated to complete liberal arts education courses in a variety of fields.

In order to apply to the VU BSN program, individuals must have completed high school education or GED, and must provide transcripts as proof of education. Individuals who have completed any college level education, must also submit transcripts to Viterbo University. When applying to the School of Nursing at Viterbo University, individuals must submit a criminal background check, as well as a drug screening and proof of immunization records. Applicants need to also provide proof of CPR certification, before being admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Viterbo University. Without submitting these materials, students will not be considered for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Viterbo University. In order to apply to the School of Nursing, individuals must first be admitted into Viterbo University. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Viterbo University are able to apply for financial aid through the university.

BSN Completion Program

The BSN Completion Program at Viterbo University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is intended for Registered Nurses who wish to earn their bachelor’s degree off-campus, quickly. Classes take place one day every week, in seven-week blocks. The program is available at several locations and dates of the programs and final locations are determined based on enrollment numbers.

Graduate Programs in Nursing

The graduate programs in nursing at Viterbo University include tracks in Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care), Family Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan), Nurse Educator, or Advanced Clinical Nursing (CNL and other related preparations). The programs can be completed in three years, with six credits completed each year on a full-time basis. Classes take place one day per week and the total amount of clinical hours and credits required for graduation differ depending on the specific program. Clinical practice can be completed in the student’s hometown if required and part-time options are possible. Graduates of this program can go on to write the certification exam depending on their chosen specialization, including the ANCC, AANP, CNC or CNL exams.

Contact:
Viterbo University
900 Viterbo Drive
La Crosse, WI 54601
United States
Phone: (800) 848-3726

Waukesha County Technical College Nursing Program Review

Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is located in Waukesha, Wisconsin and is home to two nursing programs; Nursing Assistant (NA) and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

The Nursing Assistant program at Waukesha County Technical College is a three credit technical diploma that does not require an application form. The program requires a $20 fee in order to have a Criminal Background check completed, as students cannot start the program until the criminal background check has been completed. The Nursing Assistant course at Waukesha County Technical College is 120 hours in duration and the hours of the course are composed of in-class lectures, laboratory sessions and a clinical practice portion.

The clinical practice section of the Nursing Assistant program is conducted at a long-term care facility in the area and is conducted under supervision of an instructor of the program. Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant program at Waukesha County Technical College, individuals can go on to write the state examination, which certifies individuals in the state of Wisconsin, and puts them on the Nursing Assistant Registry.

Prior to registering for the Nursing Assistant program at Waukesha County Technical College, individuals must prove that he or she is proficient in the reading portion of the COMPASS reading test and scoring higher than 40. Upon class registration, students will receive an information package. As well as a criminal background check, applicants must take a two-step TB skin test and send written documentation of the test into the school. Students are also required to purchase risk insurance for clinical practice.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing at WCTC is a 70-credit associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing and admission to the program is solely for Waukesha District residents. In order to apply to the program, individuals must have passed the national board examinations with an average that is higher than the national and state averages. The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at Waukesha County Technical College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission. Waukesha County Technical College uses the Petition Process in order to admit students to the Applied Science Degree in Nursing program.

Individuals must complete all general education courses with a grade “C” or better, and if the individual is transferring a science prerequisite from another college, the grade must meet this requirement as well. Individuals must also pass the NLN-PAX examination prior to admission into the Associate Degree in Nursing program. Individuals applying to the nursing program must also complete formal training as a Nursing Assistant prior to being admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program and must be certified in CPR.

Upon completion of the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Waukesha County Technical College, individuals are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become certified as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and a variety of other healthcare institutions.

Contact:
Waukesha County Technical College
800 Main Street,
Pewaukee, WI 53072
Phone: (262) 695-6500

Western Technical College in Wisconsin Nursing Program Review

Western Technical College (WTC) is located in La Crosse, Wisconsin and provides education for individuals located in the region and beyond. The college is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System andwas previously known as Western Wisconsin Technical College (WWTC).

Associate in Applied Science Degree (N-AD)

The Associate in Applied Science Degree at Western Technical College is composed of 70 credits and prepares individuals to work in client care in the discipline of nursing. Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science Degree at Western Technical College, individuals can apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses.

Once the individual becomes a Registered Nurse, he or she can work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices, and various other healthcare environments. The Associate in Applied Science Degree at Western Technical College is accredited by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing and the NLNAC of New York.

In order to be admitted into the Associate in Applied Science Degree at Western Technical College, individuals must complete either the COMPASS, ASSET or ACT test, however, if an individual has appropriate post-secondary education, he or she can have the standardized testing requirement waived. Individuals must complete the Western Technical College application form and then complete a criminal background check prior to being admitted into the program. Applicants must also have complete immunization records, including current TB. Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree program must have also completed CPR certification and have completed General Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of “C” or above and complete the Intent to Enroll Form.

Applicants must have completed one year of high school Chemistry or college chemistry and high school biology of developmental biology with a grade of “C” or above. Applicants must also have completed the Wisconsin Department of Health Services approved Nursing Assistant course, which is composed of a minimum of 120 hours and must include a clinical practice portion. It is also recommended by Western Technical College that individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree work as a Nursing Assistant for a time period, as he or she will need a moderate level of experience before being admitted into the program.

Nursing Assistant Certificate (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Certificate at Western Technical College is composed of three credits and prepares individuals for entry-level nursing employment in a variety of long-term care settings, hospitals or day facilities for adults. The Nursing Assistant Certificate program is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services as a Nursing Assistant Training program. Once an individual has completed the program, he or she is able to apply to take the Nursing Assistant Registry examination (NNAAP) offered by Pearson Vue.

In order to be admitted into the Nursing Assistant Certificate program at Western Technical College, individuals must complete either the COMPASS, ASSET or ACT test, which will be waived if the individuals has already completed post-secondary education. The Nursing Assistant Certificate is offered at La Cross campus and the Regional Learning Centers each semester, including summer. The online option for the course is composed of 38 hours of video lecture and worksheets. Individuals are required to meet with the teacher and classmates for the final 82 hours of lab time.

Contact:
Western Technical College
400 Seventh Street North
La Crosse, WI 54601
Phone: (608) 785-9200, (800) 322-9982

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Nursing Program Review

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College (WITC) is located in Superior, Wisconsin and was established in 1972. The school offers associate degree programs, technical diplomas, short-term certificates and training programs in a variety of courses in order to enhance an individual’s career. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College has four campuses in Ashland, New Richmond, Superior, and Rice Lake, as well as two outreach centers at Hayward and Ladysmith, as well as a learning center in Spooner, called Washburn County Learning Center.

WITC serves Northwest Wisconsin and has a total of over 7,500 students enrolled every year. Around 91 per cent of graduates are employed within six months of graduating from their specific program of choice. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

In order to be admitted into the Nursing Assistant Program at WITC, individuals must be at least 16 years of age and must complete a criminal background check and complete a health form, which is required for the first day of class. Individuals must have completed a college entrance test for reading and must have reviewed and signed the Functional Abilities Statement of Understanding, as well as attending a mandatory orientation session prior to class starting. Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant Program at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, individuals can write the state licensure exam in order to get on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry and working as a Nursing Assistant in a variety of healthcare institutions.

Nursing – Associate Degree Program (ADN)

In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, individuals must have competed an assessment conducted by the WITC and have earned a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must have completed one year of high school chemistry, or one term of college-level chemistry with a 2.0 or better. Applicants must submit a criminal background check prior to entry into the program. Applicants are required to review and sign the Functional Abilities Statement of Understanding and complete a Nursing Assistant Program.

Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College must have completed a Nursing Assistant program at an accredited institution and must provide CPR certification and submit to a physical examination, including immunization records prior to being admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program. Immunization records must include immunization against TB step-two.

If an individual is already a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and would like to become a Registered Nurse (RN), he or she can be admitted through the Licensed Practical Nurse Progression to Associate Degree in Nursing track (LPN to ADN). This program provides advanced standing for Licensed Practical Nurses and allows individuals to transfer credits from other accredited post-secondary institutions.

Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices, and many more healthcare institutions.

Contact:
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
600 North 21st Street
Superior, WI 54880
United States
Phone: (715) 394-6677

Casper College Nursing Program Review

Casper College (CC) is located in Casper, Wyoming, which is Wyoming’s second largest city in the center of the state. Casper College is one of the largest and most comprehensive colleges in the region. Established in 1954, Casper College was Wyoming’s first junior college and was originally located in a high school in the area. In 1955, Casper College moved to its current location and today the campus sits on 200 acres of land, in 28 buildings.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Casper College is run by the Casper College H.E. Stuckenhoff Department of Nursing and prepares students to be able to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) after graduation. The NCLEX-RN examination licenses individuals as Registered Nurses. Individuals can obtain a course book on the Associate Degree in Nursing Program through the college directly. In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Casper College, individuals must have completed an application to Casper College, as a degree seeking student. Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program must have also completed school with a GPA of 2.5 or above and have completed Human Anatomy and Lab, General Psychology, Medical Terminology, and completed the TEAS as well as hold a Nursing

Certificate. Individuals must have completed a Math ACT of 21 or above and a COMPASS score of 40 or higher or have a “C” or above in Math.

Each year a different amount of students apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing program but it is usually between 100 and 130 applicants every year. Casper College does not use a waiting list for admission to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program. Individuals must already be a Certified Nursing Assistant when applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program. Casper College also offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, which falls under the same requirements for admission as the Associate of Science in Nursing degree. Both associate’s degree are two years in duration. Individuals may also wish to apply to a baccalaureate degree in nursing, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, at an educational institution that offers four year degrees. However, both the associate’s degrees offered at Casper College and four year baccalaureate degrees lead to a Registered Nursing licensure after completing the NCLEX-RN examination.

Individuals enrolled in the associate’s degrees in nursing at Casper College may also take courses via online learning, and these courses can be found on the college schedule and when enrolling in the programs. Applicants to the program must have completed high school, or hold a GED and must complete a criminal background check, drug screening and provide immunization records, including two-step TB, prior to being admitted into the associate degrees in nursing programs at Casper College.

Individuals who graduate from the associate degree programs in nursing at Casper College go on to work as Registered Nurses in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, physicians’ offices, and many more healthcare institutions.

Practical Nursing Certificate Program (PN)

The Practical Nursing Certificate Program can be completed in 18 moths and is intended for individuals who wish to obtain their Practical Nursing licensure quickly in order to begin practicing in healthcare settings. The program includes a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practice as well as laboratory work. Practical Nurses work in healthcare environments under the supervision of Registered Nurses.

Nursing Assistant Course (NA)

Nursing Assistant courses take place as Casper College throughout the year and are comprised of 90 hours of in-class instruction and lab work, as well as clinical practice. After completing this program, individuals can take the state certification examination, in order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Individuals that apply to this program must have proof of a TB skin test, administered within one year and CPR certification. Proof must be presented prior to registration in the Nursing Assistant Course.

Contact:
Casper College
125 College Drive
Casper, WY 82601
United States
Phone: (307) 268-2100

Central Wyoming College Nursing Program Review

Central Wyoming College (CWC) is located in Riverton, Wyoming and has other campuses in Jackson, Lander, Thermopolis, and Dubois as well as the Wind River Indian Reservation. Central Wyoming College also offers courses through distance studies online. Central Wyoming College offers a wide variety of programs for individuals who are looking at entering a new career or refining their skills at an existing career. Central Wyoming College also specializes in programs for individuals who wish to pursue education at a baccalaureate level, as students can prepare for those degrees at Central Wyoming College.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Central Wyoming College is designed to prepare students for an entry-level career in nursing as a Registered Nurse. Upon completion of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Central Wyoming College, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes and many more healthcare institutions. The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Central Wyoming College begins in the fall semester yearly, and it is a two-year program composed of four semesters of study. The Associate Degree in Nursing program is composed of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice and prepares students for a career as a Registered Nurse. In order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Central Wyoming College, individuals must already hold a Certified Nursing Assistant licensure.

Central Wyoming College also provides an accelerated program for LPNs (LPN Advanced Placement). Individuals with an unencumbered LPN licensure can enter the ADN program with advanced standing and applicants must have practiced as a LPN for at least six months prior to application. Individuals must meet al admission requirements of the ADN program, except for the requirement of the Nursing Assistant licensure. Applicants must take the TEAS and the LPN STEP.

Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Central Wyoming College prepares students for an entry-level career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, or Nurse Aide, as they are sometimes referred to. Nursing Assistants work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, and nursing homes, and are always working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse of physician. Certified Nursing Assistants or Nurse Aides help to maintain patient hygiene, and support doctors and nurses in their daily tasks when related to patient care and instruction.

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program at Central Wyoming College is open to individuals who are 16 years of age or above. The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Central Wyoming College is offered in the fall and spring semesters, as well as during the summer session. The Certified Nursing Assistant Program does not follow a semester schedule, so individuals can study on a more flexible schedule.

Upon completion of the Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Central Wyoming College, individuals will need to submit an application to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. The certification examination can be completed throughout the state of Wyoming at various sites, and has a cost associated with it. Individuals must complete the certification examination within two years of completing the Certified Nursing Assistant course, however, it is encouraged by Central Wyoming College to complete the test soon after completing the course as the information is fresh. The Wyoming State Board of Nursing monitors the testing and determines if individuals are in a position to write the examination.

For both nursing programs offered at Central Wyoming College, individuals must complete a criminal background check and drug screen. Students will not be admitted into either program until both of these prerequisites are completed. Individuals applying to the program must also submit immunization records, which include the two-step TB test.

Contact:
Central Wyoming College
Riverton, WY 82501
United States
Phone: (307) 855-2141

Laramie County Community College Nursing Program Review

Laramie County Community College (LCCC), located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, was established in 1968 and is a full-service college with campuses in Laramie and Cheyenne and an outreach center at F.E. Warren Air Force Base and in Pine Bluffs. Laramie County Community College offers associate degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, as well as certificate programs in 130 disciplines.

Associate in Applied Science Program (AAS)

Laramie County Community College offers a four-semester Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program. The program is composed of a combination of in-class lectures, clinical practice and laboratory work in order to provide individuals with a well-rounded nursing education and prepare them for a career as a Registered Nurse. Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science program at Laramie County Community College, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The Associate in Applied Science Program is approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Once the individual has passed the NCLEX-RN examination, he or she can go on to begin practicing as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and nursing homes among many other healthcare institutions.

The first level of the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program at Laramie County Community College provides a foundation in order for people to progress in the field of nursing. During the first level, students receive classroom education and clinical experience and the second level allows students to take alternative coursework in order to obtain their certificate and write the NCLEX-RN examination and begin practicing as a Registered Nurse.

Laramie County Community College offers an advanced option in the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, for individuals who are already licensed as Practical Nurses (LPN Advanced Placement). The program is offered twice every year, and starts in August in a classroom setting, and then in January through online studies. In order to take the classroom program, individuals must be licensed as a Practical Nurse or have two consecutive semesters of nursing school. For the online option of the advanced placement Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, individuals must have at least one year of experience working as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Applying to the Program

In order to apply to the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program at Laramie County Community College, individuals must first apply to Laramie County Community College. Individuals must verify that they have English and Math competency, and if he or she does not have college credits, he or she must take a placement test. Applicants must verify computer literacy skills through high school or on the job training and can verify this through a letter from an employer. Individuals applying to the program must receive a 75% or higher on the Kaplan exam and have a “C” grade on all mandatory prerequisites. If an individuals applying to the program has been employed as a Certified Nursing Assistant program for six months or more, the individual must submit a copy of his or her certificate when applying. Finally, all applicants to the nursing program must complete a criminal background check, drug screening and submit immunization records.

Contact:
Laramie County Community College
1400 East College Drive
Cheyenne, WY 82007
United States
Phone: (307) 778-5222

Northern Wyoming Community College District Nursing Program Review

Sheridan College (SC)  is a part of the Northern Wyoming Community College District, which is the center of the educational system in Wyoming. The Northern Wyoming Community College District (NWCCD) serves three counties, and educated 4,000 students every year. With campuses in Sheridan, Gillette and centers in Buffalo, Kaycee and Wright, the Northern Wyoming Community College has a wide reach and is able to target a wide variety of students. The educational system at Northern Wyoming Community College is composed of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice in a variety of institutions in the area.

The main campus of the Northern Wyoming Community College District is Sheridan College, as well as Gillette College (GC) and both schools offer associate of arts, associate of fine arts, associate of science and associate of applied science degrees, as well as certificate programs, and program tracks which prepare students who wish to eventually apply to four-year college or university programs. Sheridan College and Gillette College also prepare students by offering certificate programs, as well as professional training, and technical programs. A variety of programs at Sheridan College and Gillette College are offered via distance studies online.

Sheridan College is located in Sheridan, Wyoming and there is a commuter program available in Gillette, Wyoming. Sheridan College sits on a 145-acre campus, and is home to a variety of programs. Gillette College was built in 2003 and is housed on over 15 acres with programs in science, and state of the art technology.

Sheridan College and Gillette College both offer an Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS), with an optional Practical Nursing (PN) certificate, which can be completed after the first year of study in the Associate of Applied Science Degree program. After one year of the program, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse.

After an individual passes that examination, he or she can go on to complete the second year of the Associate of Applied Science Degree and then write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a Registered Nurse. Individuals are not required to come back to complete the second year of the program, but it is mandatory for a Registered Nurse licensure. The Associate Degree Nursing Program is approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

The Associate of Applied Science Degree consists of a combination of class room study and clinical practice, and both must be completed in order for an individual to graduate from the Associate of Applied Science Degree at either Sheridan College or Gillette College. Non-nursing courses must be completed either before the nursing program, or at the same time as the program, and students are required to complete the program with a minimum “C” grade or above in all nursing and science courses, in order to continue through the program.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (RN to BSN)

Sheridan College and Gillette College both offer an option for Registered Nurses to take courses toward their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, while at the same time, completing their associate degree prerequisites. When being admitted to the Northern Wyoming Community College District associate degree in nursing program, students can take upper level nursing courses, which would be required for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Courses for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program can be completed through the University of Wyoming Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing completion program.

Acceptance Requirements

In order to be accepted into the nursing programs at Sheridan College or Gillette College, individuals must complete a variety of prerequisites. Individuals must first apply directly through the Northern Wyoming Community College District. Upon completion of the application to Northern Wyoming Community College District, individuals must apply to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at either Sheridan College or Gillette College. Individuals must then submit a high school transcript or a GED certificate prior to being accepted.

Individuals must hold a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above in all courses which are applicable to the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. If an individual has attended more than one college, a cumulative GPA will be calculated combining all of the college grades. Individuals must have completed English course with a grade of “C” of above and must have completed college level math with a “C” or above. Applicants must have completed Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology with a “C” or better as well and must have a “Proficient” or above on the TEAS exam.

Once admitted into the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at Sheridan College or Gillette College, individuals must complete a criminal background check, as well as a drug screening. Applicants must then submit immunization records, including a two-step TB test, and then submit CPR certification, before being admitted to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at either Sheridan College or Gillette College. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at Sheridan College or Gillette College, must also hold liability insurance, in order to complete their clinical practice. Clinical practice is conducted at a variety of healthcare environments at either region – Gillette or Sheridan (depending on where the individual student is enrolled), and students work under the supervision of Registered Nurses or Physicians.

Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at Sheridan College or Gillette College, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Wyoming. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, hospices, and many other healthcare institutions. Individuals who are licensed as Registered Nurses often with to advance their education, and go back to school to complete a baccalaureate degree at a four-year educational institution.

Contact:

Campuses:

Sheridan College
171 North Main Street
Sheridan, WY 82801-3915
United States
Phone: (307) 674-6446

Gillette College
Gillette, WY 82718
United States
Phone: (307) 686-0254

Northwest College Nursing Program Review

Located in Powell, Wyoming in the Shoshone River valley, Northwest College is on a 124-acre campus composed of 58 buildings, five residence halls and a student center.

Northwest College (NWC) offers a variety of programs in the discipline of nursing including an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing, a Nursing Assistant program and a Practical Nursing Certificate. The Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing is intended for individuals who wish to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. The Nursing Assistant program is for individuals who wish to complete the program and work as a Certified Nursing Assistant and the Practical Nurse Certificate program is for individuals who wish to be employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree (AAS)

Individuals who complete the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree at Northwest College go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree is approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes and a variety of other healthcare environments.

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree is two years in duration and is composed of four semesters. Prerequisites are mandatory for the course, so if an individual needs to complete prerequisites, the program could take longer to complete. Northwest College offers an Allied Health Specialization, for individuals who wish to prepare to take the Nursing program and work in Allied Health. If an individual plans to take a four-year degree program after the nursing program at Northwest College, they may need to have additional hours beyond nursing requirements in order to transfer as a junior student.

Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)

The Licensed Practical Nursing Program at Northwest College is one year in duration, which is composed of three semesters of study. Certain prerequisites apply in order to complete this program, so it may take some students longer to complete than others. Upon successful completion of the Practical Nursing Certificate program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare institutions including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices and many more, and often go on to apply to educational institutions in order to become a Registered Nurse.

Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Northwest College prepares individuals for an entry-level career as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Certified Nursing Assistant’s work in a variety of healthcare institutions, in order to assist nurses and physicians in their daily tasks. Nursing Assistants must work under the supervision of a nurse or physician.

Individuals must apply to Northwest College directly, in order to be admitted into the nursing programs.

Contact:
Northwest College
231 West 6th Street
Powell, WY 82435,
United States
Phone: (307) 754-6000

University of Wyoming Nursing School Review

The University of Wyoming (UW, UWY) was founded in 1886, before Wyoming became a state. The first class had 42 students and was co-ed. Today, the University enrolls over 13,000 students each year in over 190 areas of study through in-class lectures and distance learning.

The University is located in Laramie, a town of 30,000 in the southeast corner of the state. Laramie is located between two mountain ranges, and is about two hours north of Denver.

Nursing Programs

The University of Wyoming offers a vast and diverse amount of programs in nursing including; a basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Basic BSN), which is an introductory program in nursing, an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BRAND), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN Completion), a Masters Nurse Educator Program (MSN Nurse Educator) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice program (DNP), which has post-BSN or post-MS options available.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Basic

Students may enroll in the BSN program at the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing to begin their studies in nursing. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing program.

Students begin at the University with two years of Pre-Nursing. After completing 49-50 credits of prerequisites, students may apply to the Nursing program. Students will also need to be a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), have a nursing GPA of at least 2.75, and have earned at least a C in all prerequisites.

The prerequisites for this program are College Composition, an approved Writing course, College Algebra, Statistics, General Biology, Introductory Chemistry or General Chemistry, Human Anatomy plus Lab, Human Systems Physiology, Pathophysiology, Medical Microbiology, General Psychology, a Sociology elective, Nutrition, and Developmental Influences on Health or Human Lifespan Development.

Accelerated BSN – BRAND

This program is for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing. The program courses focus on nursing and clinical skills.

Applicants need to have a bachelor’s degree and need to complete the prerequisites for the program, earning at least a C in each course and maintaining a 2.75 GPA overall. They also need to be a CNA or LPN, submit a personal essay, three recommendation letters, and have an interview.

The prerequisites for this program are Pathophysiology, Anatomy with Lab, Physiology, Medical Microbiology, General Psychology, and Nutrition.

RN to BSN Completion Online

This program is for RNs who want to earn their BSN degree. This is an online program that may be taken anywhere. At this time, however, students in Tennessee, Arkansas, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, and Massachusetts may not be admitted to the program.

Applicants must be admitted to the University, be a graduate of an associate or diploma in nursing program, have a GPA of at least 2.5, and must earn a C or higher on all nursing core classes.

Students are encouraged to complete all core classes before entering this program. These classes are Statistics, General Psychology, a Sociology elective, Human Anatomy, Human Systems Physiology, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology.

Master of Science (MS) Nurse Educator

Students with a BSN or RNs with a bachelor’s degree in another field may apply to this program. This program prepares students to teach undergraduate nursing courses. Courses are delivered online, and students will only come to campus once for New Graduate Student Orientation. At this time, students from Tennessee, Arkansas, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, and Massachusetts may not be admitted to the program.

Students applying to this program will need to have a bachelor’s degree, an RN license, three letters of recommendation, a goal statement, clinical experience, GRE scores, and a resume.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program offers the highest level of education for advanced practice nursing. Students may focus on Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner options in their studies.

Students must have either a BSN or MS degree and an RN license to apply. They must have a GPA of at least 3.5 in their nursing courses, and an overall GPA of 2.75 or better. They will need to submit their GRE scores, and be able to perform the physical functions of a nurse. They will also need to submit a resume, letters of recommendation, an essay, and have an interview.

Nursing Program Application Procedures and Requirements

Individuals who wish to apply to the nursing programs at the University of Wyoming, must complete a criminal background check, drug screening and immunization records, including a two-step TB test. All of these tests are mandatory for admittance into any of the nursing programs at the University of Wyoming. Individuals applying must also submit proof of CPR certification prior to being admitted to the program. For the nursing programs that require a previous degree, such as a baccalaureate degree or a Registered Nurse licensure, individuals must provide proof of these licenses and previous education or they will not be considered for the programs. All of the nursing programs at the University of Wyoming also require individuals to hold a high school diploma or GED, and these documents must be submitted with the applicant’s materials for admission. Individuals enrolled in the nursing programs at the University of Wyoming can register for a three credit senior course, which is offered in the fall of each semester, in order to complete a work abroad program in Honduras.

Aspire Program

The Aspire program is designed to nurture, encourage and promote professionalism, scholarship, and leadership in student nurses. Students apply to the program the second semester of their freshman year, and continue with it throughout their undergraduate studies. Students in the Aspire program are guaranteed admission to the nursing program, provided they have CNA certification.

To apply, students must have scores high enough on their ACT or SAT to be able to declare nursing on their University application, and they must have a nursing GPA of at least 3.0 after the first semester of their freshman year. They must also submit an essay and have an interview.

Honduras Experience

The University of Wyoming has partnered with Shoulder-to-Shoulder to provide primary health care, dental care, and health education in Agua Salada, Honduras. Students may participate in this program during their senior year and earn three credits while participating in a unique, cross-cultural learning experience.

Contact:
University of Wyoming
1000 E. University Avenue,
Laramie, WY 82071

Western Wyoming Community College Nursing Program Review

Located in Rock Springs, Wyoming, Western Wyoming Community College (WWCC) was established in 1959. Western Wyoming Community College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and is recognized by the Veteran’s Administration and the Wyoming State Department of Education. Western Wyoming Community College is a public educational institution and is a two-year, coeducational establishment.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Western Wyoming Community College offers a three-year program, which is composed of six or seven semesters and leads to an Associate Degree in Nursing. Upon completion of the program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Upon successful completion of the NCLEX-RN examination, individuals go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes and many more nursing related healthcare institutions.

In order to apply to the Associate of Nursing degree at Western Wyoming Community College, individuals must first complete a Western Wyoming Community College application form, and receive acceptance to the college. After this step, individuals must have completed the nursing application form by the application deadline set out by the college. Individuals applying to the program must hold a GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale from all prerequisite courses. The Nursing Assistant course offered at Western Wyoming Community College does not require this GPA requirement.

Individuals applying to the program must also have a “C” grade or above in all prerequisites. Applicants to the Associate of Nursing program at Western Wyoming Community College must also take the TEAS-V entrance test, which is the Test of Essential Academic Skills, which measures basic essential skills in reading, mathematics, and science, as well as English/language use. Applicants to the program must hold a high school diploma or GED prior to being admitted into the program, and must submit transcripts as proof of education. If an applicant has completed any college level credits, he or she must also submit a transcript of this with their application. Applicants must also complete a criminal background check and drug screening, as well as provide his or her CPR certificate.

Nursing Assistant Program (NA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Western Wyoming Community College is intended to prepare individuals for an entry-level career in nursing. Nursing Assistants are a key part of the nursing staff at a variety of healthcare institutions, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes and many more. Certified Nursing Assistants must work under the direct supervision of physicians and nurses at all times. Upon completion of the nursing assistant program, individuals must register with the state of Wyoming as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Applicants to the Nursing Assistant program must be 16 years old or above and must submit a criminal background check and drug screening prior to being admitted into the program. Applicants must also hold a CPR certificate prior to admission into the program.

Contact:
Western Wyoming Community College
2500 College Drive,
Rock Springs, WY 82901
Phone: 307-382-1600

Alderson Broaddus University Nursing School Review

Alderson Broaddus University (A-B, AB, ABU), until 2013 known as Alderson Broaddus College (ABC), is located in Philippi, West Virginia. It was established 140 years ago and is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA) and the West Virginia Baptist Convention.

Individuals who graduate from the nursing programs at this university go on to work in hospitals, community health care facilities, emergency rooms and intensive care units. ABU also offers a School Health Nurse Option, which is approved by the West Virginia Department of Education, and prepares individuals to work as a school health nurse in schools throughout the United States, upon receiving his or her certification. Other specializations offered at Alderson Broaddus University include; Health Care Administration and Business Administration.

The four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), was the first four-year baccalaureate nursing option in West Virginia, opened in 1945. The ABU nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and have been since 1974. The nursing programs are also approved by the West Virginia State Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.

Lessons at ABU are conducted in person and combine in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practicum, which begins in the sophomore year. The clinical practicum is conducted in hospitals in Morgantown, Clarksburg, Elkins and Weston and students must be able to provide their own transportation in order to be able to complete clinical practice at these varied locations. Barbour also holds clinical practicum in community nursing, home health, school nursing and hospice experience.

Upon completion of the nursing programs, individuals will receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and will be able to apply to sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals go on to become nurse practitioners, clinicians, educators, administrators or researchers, with further nursing education. Individuals who already hold certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN), may enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Alderson Broaddus University at an advanced level, after they have submitted transcripts and a clean licensure.

Transfer students, who have completed nursing education at other accredited institutions may also enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at an advanced standing, but those individuals must provide all high school and college-level transcripts at the time of application into the program. Alderson Broaddus University will determine at which point an individual can enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

International Nursing

Alderson Broaddus University also offers experience in international nursing with its partnership with Arellano University in Manila, Philippines. The students who wish to take the International Nursing program option, take their first three years in Manila and the final year is completed at the ABU campus in the United States. Upon completion of the program, individuals must also complete the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the United States and continue on to work in the field. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare environments and work as supervisors to Certified Nurse Aides, who are entry-level nursing professionals.

Contact:
Alderson Broaddus University
101 College Hill Drive,
Philippi, WV 26416-4600
Phone: (800) 263-1549, (304)-457-1700

Bluefield State College Nursing Program Review

Bluefield State College (BSC), located in Bluefield, West Virginia is an historically African American public higher education institution.

The School of Nursing and Allied Health at Bluefield State College offers baccalaureate and associate degrees in nursing. The Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing program (LPN to RN) admits students in May and the Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) begins in the fall semester.

Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program (LPN to RN)

The Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program at Bluefield State College is intended for individuals who already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure and wish to advance their training to the level of Registered Nurse. The program is accelerated, and individuals must complete prerequisites in math, general psychology, human development and anatomy. The program is composed of a 10 week summer session, as well as four semesters and is composed of 70 hours in total.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Bluefield State College requires all individuals to be physically strong in order to be admitted. Individuals must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds, and be able to push or pull up to 100 pounds frequently and more than 100 pounds occasionally. Individuals must be capable of standing and walking for a large part of the work day and be able to work indoors all day. Applicants must have good interpersonal skills and be able to work in a team setting. Individuals must be able to withstand a high level of stress and be mentally alert and adaptable.

Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Bluefield State College, individuals will be able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare institutions including; long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, schools, hospices and many more varied healthcare organizations.

Admissions

Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program or the Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing programs at Bluefield State College must hold a high school diploma or GED and must be either a full-time freshman, a transfer student from another accredited institution or a former student of Bluefield State College, who has been out of college for one semester or more. Applicants may also be Special Non-Matriculating students who would like to pursue baccalaureate courses, but does not wish to gain a baccalaureate degree at the present time. Transient students, who wish to take one or more classes at Bluefield State College, while being registered at another college, may also apply to the nursing programs. Finally, Provisional Students may apply, who are students who wish to take nursing courses while still enrolled in high school.

In order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Bluefield State College, individuals must submit all of the prerequisites outlined by the college, as well as a clear criminal background check. Applicants must also submit immunization records that are up to date, as well as any nurse licensure that is already completed. Individuals must also submit a drug screen test when applying. Individuals applying to the Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing program must show a copy of their unencumbered Licensed Practical Nursing licensure in order to be admitted into the program.

Contact:
Bluefield State College
219 Rock Street
Bluefield, WV 24701-2198
Phone: 304-327-4000

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College Nursing Program Review

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College (Blue Ridge CTC, BRCTC), located in Martinsburg, West Virginia is state-supported and offers degrees at the associate and certificate levels.

Associate of Science in Nursing Program (ASN)

Upon graduation from the Associate of Science in Nursing Program at Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, individuals can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). When individuals pass this examination, they can go on to work as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare institutions, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, hospices, and many others.

Admission

Twenty-four students are admitted to the Associate Degree in Nursing program every semester. Prior to being admitted into the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College’s School of Nursing, individuals must first be accepted into the college as a whole. Students must apply to the nursing program, in order to establish a file and begin admissions testing. The admissions test is the TEAS-V, which must be prepaid before a test date can be set.

Individuals applying to the nursing program must submit official transcripts from all colleges and past nursing programs attended and all prerequisite courses must be completed or students must provide proof of enrollment. All prerequisite courses must be completed with a minimum “C” grade or a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above.

Individuals applying to the nursing program must submit a criminal background check. Individuals who are not accepted, can apply a second time, and must update their information on their record as it changes. If a student is not accepted on the second round of application, that student will be removed from consideration in the future.

Nursing Scholarships

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College offers scholarships and financial aid for its nursing students. Some of the grants and scholarships offered by Blue Ridge Community and Technical College have specific requirements, such as residency, but others do not require any type of special application measures. Individuals interested in scholarships or financial aid must fill out the appropriate forms and submit them to the nursing office.

Uniforms and Books

Students in the nursing program are required to purchase two sets of the white school uniform, as well as one polo shirt from the company that provides the uniform. Individuals in the program must also own a paid of dressy khaki pants for community activities. White closed shoes are also a requirement. Individuals are also required to own a Nursing Skills Kit, which must be purchased prior to entering the first semester of study.

The kit contains the pertinent tools for the lab and clinical practice components of the program. The kit is available for purchase in the school’s bookstore. Individuals in the program are also required to own a PDA or smartphone and details of hardware and software requirements will be provided during the orientation for the nursing program. Textbooks must be purchased prior to the first semester and can be ordered online. Costs for the initial textbook purchase is roughly $300. Individuals must hold their CPR prior to applying to the program. Courses are offered at the college.

Contact:
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
13650 Apple Harvest Drive,
Martinsburg, WV 25403
Phone: (304) 260-4380

Davis and Elkins College Nursing Program Review

Davis and Elkins College (D&E), located in the mountains of Elkins, West Virginia was founded by Senator Davis and Senator Elkins. Davis and Elkins College offers over 30 academic programs, and majors include traditional arts and sciences and professional studies including teacher education. Davis and Elkins College also offers pre-professional programs in medicine, dentistry, forestry, the ministry, occupational therapy, pharmacy, and the law.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Davis and Elkins College allows Licensed Practical Nurses to enter the program with advanced placement. Individuals who graduate from the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Davis and Elkins College go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of West Virginia.

Individuals who apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Davis and Elkins College must hold a high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and must have completed the college math placement test into FND 112 or greater. Applicants must have an ACT composite score of 20 or an SAT score of 460 in Maths and 500 in Verbal. Applicants must have completed a three-credit chemistry course from an accredited institution with a “C” grade or above within the last five years of applying to the nursing program. Individuals must have completed the Evolve Reach Admission Assessment Exam with a minimum score of 70% and completed eight hours of college-level Anatomy and Physiology with a minimum “C” grade or above. These admission requirements must also be completed by individuals who hold a GED diploma and transfer students.

Individuals who already hold Licensed Practical Nurse licensure (LPN) must provide proof of the licensure when applying and must also provide two letters of recommendation, one must be from the individual’s most recent health care supervisor or instructor. Licensed Practical Nurses applying to the program must also have a score of 120 or above on the National League of Nursing Comprehensive Exam for Licensed Practical Nurses. If a student is successful at this examination, they will be awarded credits for the following courses; Introduction to Nursing, Nutrition, Anatomy, Physiology, and Life Span Development.

If a student leaves the nursing program at Davis and Elkins College and wishes to be readmitted they must provide transcripts of all academic work, and a medical form completed by a licensed physician. Readmitted individuals must also provide proof of liability and personal health insurance and a completed application form.

The requirements for the nursing degree consist of 72 total semester hours, 48 of which are nursing courses including; Introduction to Nursing, Pharmacology, Disruptions in Mental Health, Nursing Concept Synthesis, Management of Care, Social Problems, Intro to Sociology, and many more.

The nursing programs at Davis and Elkins College are approved by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses and are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Contact:
Davis and Elkins College
100 College Street,
Elkins, WV 26241
Phone: (304) 637-1900

Fairmont State University Nursing School Review

Fairmont State University (FSU) shares a campus with Pierpont Community and Technical College in Fairmont, West Virginia. Fairmont State University is home to over 4,500 students a year and offers associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and graduate programs. Fairmont State University has a campus in Clarksburg, the Gaston Caperton Center.

Pre-Nursing Program

In order to be admitted into the Pre-Nursing Program at Fairmont State University, individuals must hold a minimum score in either the ACT, SAT or COMPASS tests. The ACT minimum math score is 19 and the English score is 18. The minimum SAT requirement in math is 460 and 450 in English and the minimum COMPASS math score is 36 and COMPASS English score is 71 in Writing. All prerequisites in English and Math must also be satisfied prior to admission and individuals applying to the Pre-Nursing Program at Fairmont State University must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and must declare Pre-Nursing as their major.

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN)

The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program at Fairmont State University is tow years in duration and upon graduation students are able to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in order to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and many more. Clinical experience in the Associate Degree of Science Nursing Program takes place in Marion, Monongalia, Preston, Doddridge, Lewis, and Harrison counties and students must find their own transportation to all clinical practicum.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN)

Individuals in the Associate Degree Nursing Program, who wish to continue their education to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Registered Nurse (BSN to RN) track may apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in the second year of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program. Individuals who wish to continue to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Fairmont State University, must successfully complete their licensure examination, prior to being admitted into this program.

Licensed Practical Nurse Articulation Program (LPN)

Licensed Practical Nurses who are admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing Program are able to go forward through the articulation process into the Traditional or Non-Traditional tracks. The Traditional track is geared toward Licensed Practical Nurses who have not been practicing in an acute care environment and can attend day time classes and clinical. The Non-Traditional track is for Licensed Practical Nurses who have already completed general education studies, work in an acute care facility and need to complete courses during the evening or weekend. Fairmont State University also offers a LPN to ASN program, for individuals who hold Licensed Practical Nursing licensure and wish to complete their Registered Nursing licensure, by completing the ASN degree and completing the NCLEX-RN examination.

School Nurse Certification

Several years ago, Fairmont State University began offering a School Nurse Certification program, which is designed for individuals who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and are licensed as a Registered Nurse to work as a School Nurse. Individuals who wish to complete this certification must be enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program or already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and be returning to school in order to obtain the School Nurse Certification. The certification includes a four credit School Nurse Practicum composed of theory and clinical requirements and the clinical component of the program mandates that the student work with a Certified School Nurse in the school system. This certification is available as an online option as well.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing at Fairmont State University is offered in collaboration with the College of Nursing and Health Professions at Marshall University, in Huntington, West Virginia. The two tracks available at the master’s level include; Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. Individuals applying to the Master of Science in Nursing program at Fairmont State University must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in order to apply.

International Program

Fairmont State University has partnered with various South Korean universities and has developed global exchange programs for nursing students through Ansan University and Namseoul University. Woosong University School of Nursing in Korea is next in line for a potential partnership with Fairmont State University. The global exchange program is two weeks in duration, and individuals are fully immersed in the culture and profession of nursing in South Korea.

Contact:
Fairmont State University
1201 Locust Avenue,
Fairmont, WV 26554
Tel: 304-367-4892 / Toll Free: 1-800-641-5678

Marshall University Nursing School Review

Marshall University (MU), located in Huntington, West Virginia, and founded in 1926 is home to over 14,000 students from 46 states and 52 foreign countries.

The Nursing programs offered at St. Mary’s School of Nursing at Marshall University include an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN), a Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Bridge (LPN to RN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN), with an option for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN).

The Associate of Science in Nursing degree is two years in duration and two classes are admitted every year in the Fall and Winter semesters. In order to apply to the nursing programs at St. Mary’s School of Nursing at Marshall University, individuals must hold a high school GPA of 3.0 or above and a minimum ACT composite score of 21. Applicants must hold a “C” grade at minimum in any college courses already taken and must hold a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must hold a minimum “C” grade on any non-nursing courses completed with a minimum 2.0 QPA on all college work attempted at Marshall University with a minimum 2.0 QPA on all college work completed in general.

The nursing programs at Marshall University are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Clinical practice experience is conducted at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cabell Huntington Hospital, Mildred Mitchell Bateman Hospital, Health South Rehabilitation Hospital, Mariner Health Care Center, Woodlands Retirement Center and a variety of physician offices and community-based health care facilities.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Marshall University prepares graduates to work in a variety of healthcare institutions including hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices and many other healthcare environments. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Marshall University go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a licensed Registered Nurse. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program includes clinical practicum at a variety of healthcare institutions including; Cabell Hun­tington Hospital, River Park Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Veterans Administration Medical Center, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, King’s Daughters Medical Center (Ashland, Kentucky), Pleasant Valley Hospital (Point Pleasant, WV), Holzer Medical Center (Gallipolis, OH) and others. Students can also take their clinical practicum at doctors’ offices, schools, and various other healthcare establishments.

Master of Science in Nursing Programs (MSN)

Marshall University offers a variety of specializations in the Master of Science in Nursing Program including; Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, Nursing Education and Nurse-Midwifery. Individuals applying to any of the Master of Science in Nursing specializations at Marshall College must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in order to apply. Applicants must show their nursing licensure, as well as transcripts from accredited institutions prior to being admitted into the Master of Science in Nursing program at Marshall University. Individuals will also be asked to submit immunization records and CPR certification, prior to enrollment into any of the nursing programs at Marshall University.

Contact:
Marshall University
1 John Marshall Drive,
Huntington, WV 25755
Phone: (304) 696-3170

Mountain State University Nursing School Review

Mountain State University (MSU) is located in southern West Virginia, and is a private institution that was founded in 1933. Originally named, Beckley College, Mountain State University opened with 97 students and lectures were conducted in a local church. The enrollment at Mountain State University increased steadily as time went on, and have changed considerably in the last 20 years, going from a two-year college to a four-year college, which includes master’s level programs and most recently, doctorate programs. Mountain State University was coined in 2001 and is now home to programs in humanities, arts and sciences.

Mountain State University’s main campus is in Beckley, West Virginia, however, the college conducts programs via distance learning online, as well as a variety of other campuses. Mountain State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure, as well as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which is offered via clinical or administration/education concentrations.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Mountain State University combines general studies courses with humanities and social science courses. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is formed of a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practice, which takes place in hospitals, clinics, nursing home, long-term care facilities and physicians’ offices. This clinical training provides graduates with real life experience, in order to be successful members of the nursing profession upon graduation. Upon completion of the program, Registered Nurses can go on to work in a variety of health care environments. Mountain State University also offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) stream, for individuals who already hold RN licensure and wish to complete baccalaureate education.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is available at Beckley, Martinsburg, and Orlando campuses through the School of Nursing. Upon graduation, individuals will hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree, which will allow them to work in advanced standing in the profession of nursing. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University allows individuals to go on to progress in their nursing education by completing a doctoral degree eventually, or to go on and work in advanced standing in the nursing profession, thus advancing their skill set and knowledge base.

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University allows students to continue to work full-time or part-time while completing studies, since the classes are offered weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. Students can register as they have time available, and complete the degree on their own time. Individuals are also able to take courses during the day or at night, depending on their personal and employment schedule. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University offers two concentrations; Nursing Administration and Education and Family Nurse Practitioner. Individuals must choose which stream they would like to enter prior to applying to the Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University.

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) stream of the Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is for individuals who are interested in working in a clinical environment as well as in an environment where research and leadership are key. The graduate certificate program in Family Nurse Practitioner is available for individuals who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

The Nursing Administration and Education stream of the Master of Science in Nursing program is intended for individuals who wish to become top or mid-level leaders at various health care organizations, as well as teachers in educational environments. Upon graduation from the Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Administration and Education stream, individuals are readily prepared for a high-level career in nursing.

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Atlanta, Georgia.

Contact:
Mountain State University
410 Neville Street
Beckley, WV 25801
Phone: (866)-367-6781

Reynolds Memorial Hospital Nursing Program Review

Reynolds Memorial Hospital (RMH) is located in Glen Dale, West Virginia and began as God’s Providence Home, which was an old farmhouse converted into an infirmary by B.M. Spurr, Archdeacon of the West Virginia Episcopal Diocese. The facility as it is today, was built in 1963 and is continually being added to and refurbished. Reynolds Memorial Hospital is licensed by the West Virginia State Health Department and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

The hospital is also a member of the Voluntary Hospital Association, Inc., the American Hospital Association and the West Virginia Hospital Association. The hospital conducts the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing.

B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing (LPN)

The B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission and the West Virginia State Board of Examiners for Licensed Practical Nursing. Upon graduation from the Practical Nursing (LPN) program at the B.M. Spurr School of Nursing, individuals can go on to apply to write the State Licensed Practical Nurse Examination, which allows successful individuals to go on and work as a Practical Nurse in a variety of healthcare environments including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices and many more. Practical Nurses are required to practice under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), licensed physician or a licensed dentist.

Individuals applying to the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing are required to submit an application form, which includes information on GED and/or high school GPA scores, as well as an outline of course prerequisites. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing program, must also include information on any previous nursing education, as well as state their GPA at that nursing program and their reason for leaving. Applicants must also provide a name and contact information for three individuals who are able to provide a personal reference, who have known the applicant in a supervisory capacity, such as teachers, employers, supervisors or counselors. Individuals are not permitted to include friends or family members as personal references.

The application form also includes a section where applicants must outline why they are interested in a career in practical nursing, as well as a description of hobbies and activities that the applicant enjoys. Applicants must also outline future plans, and education and career interests that they have for the future. Individuals applying to the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing must also submit to a criminal background check, and provide updated immunization records. The Practical Nursing program at the B.M. School of Practical Nursing is one year in duration.

The application form for the Reynolds Memorial Hospital, B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing is available online through the hospitals website and applications can be made for a fee. If applicants have attended previous colleges, transcripts must be handed in with the application. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing program must also answer questions regarding financial aid requirements (if any), reasons he or she is interested in a career in practical nursing, activities and hobbies he or she enjoys and future plans.

Contact:
Reynolds Memorial Hospital
800 Wheeling Avenue,
Glen Dale, WV 26038
Phone: (304) 845-3211

Shepherd University Nursing School Review

Shepherd University is located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia and was established over 130 years ago. Shepherd University offers a variety of baccalaureate degrees including those in liberal arts, business administration, teacher education, and social and natural sciences, including nursing. Shepherd University also provides individuals with the option of taking certificate courses, rather than pursuing full degrees. Individuals do not have to attend courses at the Shepherd University campus in Shepherdstown, West Virginia; they can also attend courses online via distance studies. This allows more individuals to study through Shepherd University.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) and Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track (RN to BSN)

Shepherd University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program for individuals who already hold a Registered Nursing licensure (BSN to RN). The Registered Nursing track is intended for individuals who wish to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on a full-time or part-time basis. Individuals must hold previous experience in nursing in order to be admitted to this program and this is determined based on the individual nurses portfolio, which is assessed at the commencement of the application process. Shepherd University also offers a generic baccalaureate program for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), which derives the exact same outcome as the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program stream.

Upon acceptance of an individual’s application to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals will be sent an information package, with instructions on how to begin their application at the Department of Nursing at Shepherd University. The outline and handbook provides applicants with a checklist of requirements and deadlines as well as information on how to progress.

Prior to being accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Shepherd University, individuals must complete health insurance requirements, health data, immunization records and CPR certification. Individuals will not be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program without the aforementioned credentials. When being entered into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals must complete the Health Requirements Verification, which must be uploaded to the Immunization Tracker. Individuals must have their physician or nurse practitioner sign the document prior to being uploaded. Individuals must also submit to a physical examination and immunization verification prior to being accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University.

Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program must also provide both sides of their CPR Certification, and the only accepted certification in the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider course. Prior to being admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals must also submit a criminal background check, and a fingerprint card will be mailed to the residence of the applicant. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also provide Professional Liability Insurance for Nursing Students, which is required prior to beginning the program at Shepherd University. The fee for the insurance must be paid annually.

In order to progress through the nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals must take the Assessment Technologies Inc. achievement tests. This test requires a fee and at the end of the program the test will be administered in order to gauge the students ability to take the NCLEX examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals must pay these fees prior to the start of testing.

Prior to the commencement of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Shepherd University, individuals are given a Student Handbook and Policy Manual, which individuals must review prior to the beginning of the nursing program.

Contact:
Shepherd University
301 N King Street,
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Phone: (304) 876-5000

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Nursing Program Review

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College (SWVCTC) was established in 1971 in Saulsville, West Virginia. The community college was established due to a consolidation of two branches of Marshall University, located in Mingo and Logan Counties. The original Williamson Campus building was built in 1971 and new facilities have been constructed as the years have progressed. In 2007, a building was constructed, which is connected to the Lincoln County Comprehensive High School and is the first of its kind. In 2008, individuals were ushered into a 55,000 square foot Allied Health and Technology Center on the Logan Campus and currently plans are being completed for a technology facility to the campus in Williamson and the National Guard Armory Building.

SWVCTC has developed relationships with education institutions, including universities and private colleges, in order to provide opportunities for individuals who would like to complete associate degrees. Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College has agreements with these educational institutions across the state of West Virginia and the United States, and education is available through campus lectures, clinical practicum and distance learning online.

Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science Degree at SWVCTC is intended for individuals who wish to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The individuals studying in the Associate in Applied Science Degree at Southern West Virginia Community College learns to be a provider or care, manager of care and a member within the nursing discipline. The nursing program is conducted at the Logan Campus, however the Boone/Lincoln, Williamson, and Wyoming/McDowell campuses offer the program support courses as well.

In order to complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, individuals must complete the courses with a “C” minimum. The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing program must be completed within four years of admission. If an individual does not complete the program in four years, he or she will be dismissed from the program. If an individual wishes to be re-admitted into the nursing program, he or she must re-apply to the program and do so under new requirements if there are any.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who are enrolled in the nursing program, hold a current and valid Licensed Practical Nursing licensure and provide a copy of their Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure can get the Nursing 100 articulated credit prior to the program commencement. Individuals who hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure may challenge the Nursing 104 and Nursing 107 prerequisite courses, but must pay for the cost of the challenge examination on their own.

Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree program at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College may need to sit a competency examination in courses in order to progress through the curriculum.

Individuals who complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at SWVCTC, can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of West Virginia. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices and several other healthcare environments. Individuals who complete an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, often go on to complete additional degrees in nursing.

Contact:
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College
128 College Drive,
Saulsville, WV 25876
United States
Phone: (304) 294-2001

St. Mary’s School of Nursing Program Review

St. Mary’s Hospital, located in Huntington, West Virginia, is the largest medical center in Huntington. The teaching facility at St. Mary’s Medical Center (SMMC) is associated with the Joan C. Edwards Marshall University School of Medicine and trains students in a variety of specialties in the medical profession. St. Mary’s School of Nursing is located on the hospital grounds and is associated with Marshall University.

The St. Mary’s School of Nursing (SMSN) was founded in 1926 and is the oldest program in West Virginia. St. Mary’s School of Nursing has graduated over 3,000 individuals.

Upon graduation from Saint Mary’s School of Nursing, individuals become Registered Nurses. The Cooperative Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Program at St. Mary’s School of Nursing is conducted through a partnership between St. Mary’s Hospital and Marshall University. The Associate of Science in Nursing Program is two academic years in duration and the final degree obtained by the graduate is the Associate of Science in Nursing from Marshall University. Individuals can apply to the Associate of Science in Nursing program twice every year, once in August and again in January.

In order to apply from high school, individuals must hold a high school GPA of 3.00 and a minimum ACT Composite score of 21, as well as a minimum “C” grade on any college course already completed. Individuals applying to the Associate of Science in Nursing program, who already hold at least 12 college credits must hold a high school diploma or GED and must also hold a minimum of a “C” on any non-nursing courses that the individuals has already completed. Individuals applying with college credits must also hold a minimum of 2.00 QPA on all college work that he or she has undertaken at Marshall University. Individuals must also hold a minimum overall 2.00 QPA on all college work completed.

The program costs vary, depending on if the student is located in-state or in the metropolitan area. Tuition for in-state students, which includes fees, textbooks, and uniforms is over $13,000. Tuition for students in the metro area is over $16,000 with the same inclusions.

It is recommended that individuals applying to the St. Marys School of Nursing from high school have taken the college prep track, as well as English, Science, Math, and Social Studies.The Associate of Science in Nursing degree at St. Mary’s School of Nursing is accredited by the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Charleston, West Virginia and is nationally accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta, Georgia. Individuals enrolled in the Associate of Science in Nursing degree at St. Mary’s School of Nursing must take non-nursing courses including; Anatomy, Chemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition, English, Physiology and Psychology. Nursing courses at St. Mary’s School of Nursing include; Fundamentals of Nursing, Health Alteration, Psychiatric Nursing, Maternal-Child Nursing and Academic Success for the Associate of Science in Nursng Student.

The Associate of Science in Nursing program combines in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Clinical practicum is included in all nursing courses at St. Mary’s School of Nursing and can be completed at a variety of hospitals and medical centers in the area including; St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cabell Huntington Hospital, Midred Mitchell Bateman Hospital, Health South Rehabilitation Hospital, Mariner Health Care Center, Woodlands Retirement Center and various physicians offices and health care facilities in the local community.

Contact:
St. Mary’s School of Nursing
2900 First Avenue
Huntington, WV 25702
Phone: 304-526-1234

University of Charleston Nursing School Review

The University of Charleston (UC, UCWV), located in Charleston, West Virginia, is home to over 1,300 full-time students and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Charleston is one of 12 colleges nationally chosen as a model for first-year experience and has an alumni base of 14,000 people. Besides the Charleston campus, there are campuses in Martinsburg and Beckley; together with courses offered online.

The University of Charleston was founded by the Southern Methodist church in 1888 and became a college a year later. In 1901, it was named Morris Harvey College, in honor of its foremost donor. The college moved to Charleston to have access to a greater student base and became Morris Harvey College in 1942, as it disassociated itself from the church. In 1978, the Board of Trustees changed the name from Morris Harvey College to the University of Charleston.

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Charleston is home to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN) and the Associate Degree in Nursing program (ADN).

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing program is two academic years of study and the eventual degree obtained by the graduate is an Associate in Arts degree. After completing all of the curriculum, the graduate of the program is able to apply to write the West Virginia State Board of Examiners of Registered Professional Nurses examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). After obtaining Registered Nurse licensure, individuals can go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments including hospitals, physicians offices, long-term care facilities and more. Individuals who complete the Associate in Arts in Nursing degree, often go on to complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Charleston.

In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at the University of Charleston, individuals must meet general admission requirements. Admission is competitive, and individuals must submit their cumulative GPA, ACT or SAT scores if they are a recent high school graduate and the number of credit hours completed if they have previously attended a college program. Individuals must also submit his or her nursing entrance test scores for admission to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at the University of Charleston. Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program, who are recent high school graduates must hold a minimum of a 2.75 GPA on the 4.0 scale in all academic subjects taken on the secondary level. Individuals must have completed two levels of high school math as well. Individuals applying from high school must have a composite score of 21 or above on ACT test or total score of 1000 or above on the SAT test. If an individual does not have all of these requirements, the individual will be considered for admission again after completing 12 or more college credit hours with a 2.75 GPA or above.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Charleston is intended for individuals who wish to complete baccalaureate education in nursing. Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals are able to go on write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals must first be accepted into the University of Charleston, prior to being admitted in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Applications for the program are reviewed using the point scale weighing GPA, course work, and TEAS scores when there is a high volume of applicants.

In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Charleston, individuals must submit a copy of a University of Charleston Program Evaluation or a transcript that shows the individual holds a GPA of 2.75 or above. Individuals must also submit a TEAS score and a copy of their CPR certification as well as a copy of their current negative PPD tuberculosis test results or chest x-ray results. Applicants must also submit immunization records. Finally, individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also submiy a copy of a certified background check, a copy of current flu vaccination documentation and a letter of good standing and transcripts of course work and standardized testing if an individual is interested in transferring from another nursing program.

Contact:
University of Charleston
2300 Maccorkle Avenue Southeast,
Charleston, WV 25304
Phone: (800) 995-4682

West Liberty University Nursing School Review

West Liberty University (WLU) is located in West Liberty, West Virginia and is West Virginia’s oldest higher education university. West Liberty University was established in 1837 and provides programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels. West Liberty University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

West Liberty University is home to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for high school graduates. The university is also home to a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree track, for individuals who already hold their Registered Nurse licensure and wish to obtain a baccalaureate degree. Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at West Liberty University, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. After successfully completing the examination, individuals go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments as a Registered Nurse, including; physicians’ offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and many more. Many individuals practice as Registered Nurses for some time, and then go on to complete additional education at a master’s level.

Individuals interested in applying to the West Liberty University nursing programs, must first apply to West Liberty University and be accepted there, before being able to declare their major as nursing. Individuals must submit their high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores to the Admissions Office for entry into the program. Individuals must then use their freshman year, in order to complete prerequisites for the nursing program. After prerequisites are completed, individuals can go on to apply to the nursing program for admission. Individuals must hold a 2.8 GPA minimum of 28 college credit hours, in order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

In order to be admitted into the WLU BSN program, individuals must complete a variety of health requirements. Immunizations records must be submitted before clinical rotations begin and the records must come from the student’s physician. Individuals must also submit to an annual Tuberculosis testing and follow-up before clinical practicum begins.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (RN to BSN)

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is intended for Registered Nurses who wish to pursue undergraduate education. The accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is offered on one weekday, evening course or online, as it is intended for Registered Nurses who are currently employed and wish to fit education into their already busy lifestyle. If a Registered Nurse is enrolled in the program full-time, the program can be completed in three semesters. Registered Nurses may be able to obtain a certain number of credits based on life experience and work experience and this is determined when the applicant meets with a Nursing faculty member to review course plans. If the Registered Nurse is a graduate of an associate degree program, 72 credits from accredited two-year colleges can be transferred to West Liberty University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

West Liberty University’s Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is fully accredited and courses are offered online and on-campus. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at West Liberty University admits students on a rolling basis.

Contact:
West Liberty University
208 University Drive
College Union Box 101
West Liberty, WV 26074
Phone: 304-336-8076

West Virginia Northern Community College Nursing Program Review

West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) is located in Wheeling, West Virginia and was established in 1972 by the West Virginia Board of Regents. West Virginia Northern Community College is coeducational and is made of three campuses, which all host two-year community college programs. The programs at West Virginia Northern Community College include liberal arts, career-technical and community and continuing education. Most admissions are on a rolling basis, therefore students can apply at any time throughout the year.

West Virginia Northern Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) via general admission as well as a transition option for individuals who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN to ADN). The Associate in Applied Science Degree is available through West Virginia Northern Community College’s Wheeling, Weirton and New Martinsville campuses and all of the campuses have nursing advisors that can speak to potential applicants and discuss options for education in nursing.

West Virginia Northern Community College’s Associate in Applied Science Degree prepares graduates to be able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, businesses, hospices, physicians’ offices and a variety of other healthcare establishments. West Virginia Northern Community College makes it clear that individuals who work as Registered Nurses need to be able to stand for long periods of time, and be able to lift fifty pounds without difficulty and move quickly in order to best respond to emergencies.Registered Nurses are often required to work on weekends and overnight, so individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College should understand this and be ready to commit to this type of lifestyle when he or she becomes as Registered Nurse.

The Associate in Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College is composed of a combination of classroom instruction and clinical practice. Individuals registered in the Associate of Applied Science degree take courses in biological and behavioral sciences, as well as liberal arts and obviously nursing courses. The program is only available on a full-time basis and must be completed within two years. Individuals that apply to the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College must submit to a drug screening, criminal background check and submit the application directly to West Virginia Northern Community College. Upon completion of the National Council Licensure Examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse, individuals must apply to their selected state in order to be able to be licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse.

Prior to the criminal background check, individuals who have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, must identify this to the State or National credentialing boards. This may cause an individual to be denied entry to the nursing program at West Virginia Northern Community College. Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science degree must first be certified as a Nurse Aide, in order to be admitted into the program at West Virginia Northern Community College.

Contact:
West Virginia Northern Community College
Wheeling Campus
1704 Market Street,
Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: 304-233-5900

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College Nursing Program Review

Established in 1953, and located in Institute, West Virginia, Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College (KVCTC), was formerly known as West Virginia State Community and Technical College. The school offers a variety of degrees and certificates as well as continuing education, employee education, and transfer degrees. Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College are based in Institute on the West Virginia State University campus in the Cole Complex.

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College offer twenty-two associate degree programs and eleven certificate programs. Twelve collaborative degree programs and several certificates are also available at KVCTC. There are also a variety of credit and non-credit training options for business and industry employees through the Workforce and Economic Development Division at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College. There are several off-campus training sites available in the regions of Kanawha, Putnam, and Clay counties.

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing (AAS), as well as a transition track for Licensed Practical Nurses to study to become Registered Nurses (LPN to RN). The nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses since 2007.

In order to apply to the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and must submit a transcript as proof of their studies. Individuals who are not seeking a degree are also able to apply to the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College, however, those individuals must apply as non-degree seeking students. Those individuals must submit a completed application form to the Student Services Admissions Office. If a student who is registered as non-degree wishes to change his or her status from non-degree to degree or certificate program, the individuals must submit the necessary forms to the Office of Student Services in order to change this status. At this point, the individual must complete the degree-seeking admission requirements for this change.

Individuals who have not yet completed high school may apply to Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College programs however, they must submit the following requirements; complete the consent form signed by his or her high school principal or counselor and parent, must have a 3.0 GPA at minimum, and Juniors can only take four credit hours per semester. Seniors can enroll for no more than seven credit hours per semester unless the Dean for Academic Affairs approves otherwise. Before registering for college-level English and/or math courses, these early application students must meet the prerequisite test scores necessary for the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College.

For pre-nursing information or information on the Allied Health programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College in general, individuals can contact 304-204-4043 for more information.

Contact:
Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College
2001 Union Carbide Drive,
S. Charleston, WV 25303
United States
Phone: (304) 766-3118

West Virginia University Nursing School Review

West Virginia University (WVU), founded in 1862 as an agricultural college, is the flagship member of the West Virginia higher education system. The school enrolls nearly 30,000 students each year, and offers a wide variety of programs at the baccalaureate level, master’s level, and doctoral level. Since the 1960s, when its baccalaureate nursing program was established, WVU has included undergraduate nursing education among its program offerings. In the 1980s, it added graduate-level nursing courses.

Now, nurses and prospective nurses can pursue bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees through WVU’s School of Nursing. All the nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

WVU offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in several different locations. Students can complete it on the main campus in Morgantown or at WVU Institute of Technology in Montgomery. Alternatively, a student can complete the first year of the program at Potomac State and transfer to WVU in Morgantown for the next three years, or he can complete the first two years at Glenville State College and transfer to WVU Tech in Montgomery for the remaining two years. The curriculum for the BSN program is the same, regardless of which location the student chooses. In total, a BSN student must earn 128 credits, which requires four years of full-time study. A BSN student may apply for admission to the program in the fall or spring semester. After completing the BSN program, a student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts to BSN

The Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts (BS/BA) to BSN program provides a way for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree to complete a BSN degree. Before enrolling in this program, however, a student must complete the following prerequisites: English 101 and 102, biology, chemistry, human physiology, human anatomy, microbiology, statistics, introductory psychology, introductory sociology or anthropology, developmental psychology, human nutrition, and college algebra. Once enrolled in the BS/BA to BSN program, a student must study on a full-time basis for five semesters to complete the program requirements. In total, she must earn sixty-four nursing credits. The BS/BA to BSN program is only available on WVU’s Morgantown campus, and it begins in the spring semester.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN

A Registered Nurse (RN) who has completed an associate degree or diploma nursing program can enroll in the RN to BSN track in order to complete his baccalaureate degree. WVU’s RN to BSN program is available online, although students do need to travel to campus occasionally for advising and other matters. Students in the RN to BSN program can go to Morgantown, Charleston, or Montgomery for these required sessions. The rest of the coursework can be completed via distance learning technology. Clinical rotations are included in the program, but students can schedule these in a location that is convenient. On a full-time basis, an RN can complete the RN to BSN program in just three semesters. Part-time study is also an option, however. This will require six semesters. In total, an RN needs to complete twenty-eight nursing credits, as well as any missing general education courses, in order to earn his BSN. An RN can begin the RN to BSN program in the fall, spring, or summer.

Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN/MSN

Through the RN to BSN/Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, a graduate of an associate degree nursing or diploma nursing program can progress smoothly through her BSN degree into the coursework for an MSN degree. WVU’s program is designed so that an RN can complete both degrees in eight semesters of full-time study. The RN in this program can continue working, since the coursework is available online. Students only need to travel to campus occasionally; when necessary, they may come to either Morgantown or Charleston. A student in the RN to BSN/MSN program will spend the first three semesters completing the required coursework for her BSN degree (twenty-eight credits), and the last five semesters completing coursework for her MSN degree in her chosen area of specialization (forty-four credits).WVU offers five tracks in its MSN program: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Leadership. An RN can begin the BSN portion of the program in the fall, spring, or summer, but must start the MSN coursework in the fall.

Master of Science in Nursing

WVU’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program trains nurses for advanced practice certification. In order to give students as much flexibility as possible, WVU offers the coursework for the MSN program online. Students only need to come to campus two or three times a semester for advising. When they do have to travel to campus, they can go to either Morgantown or Charleston. Clinical rotations are a required part of the MSN program. On a full-time basis, a student in the MSN program can complete the course requirements in five semesters (which includes one summer semester). On a part-time basis, a nurse will need to study for eight semesters (including two summer semesters) to complete his MSN degree. Regardless of whether he chooses to enroll in the MSN program full-time or part-time, he must start in the fall semester. Over the course of the program, he must take both core graduate nursing courses and courses in his chosen area of emphasis. Regardless of his chosen area of focus, he must earn forty-four credits. WVU offers five different tracks in its MSN program:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Nursing Leadership

Post-master’s Certification

The post-master’s certification program is open to nurses who have already completed an MSN degree. Through the post-master’s certification program, they are able to complete the coursework required to sit for another graduate-level certification exam without repeating any courses unnecessarily. Nurses on this track do not need to take core graduate nursing classes; they only need to complete the coursework for their area of focus. All of the tracks of the MSN program are available as post-master’s certification tracks. An MSN-prepared nurse can pursue certification as an FNP (nineteen credits), as a PNP (nineteen credits), as an NNP (twenty-five credits), as an WHNP (seventeen credits), and in Nursing Leadership (twenty-two credits). In addition WVU offers a post-master’s certification track that is not available as an MSN track: Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP). To become a GNP, a nurse must earn twenty-one credits. The classes for the post-master’s certification program begin in the summer and can be completed online.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

WVU’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is only open to nurses who have completed an MSN degree and earned advanced practice certification. The curriculum consists of at least forty credits. Along the suggested course sequence, a nurse can complete these credits over the course of eight semesters. The final two semesters are devoted to clinical practice. DNP students must begin in the summer semester. Classes for the DNP program are all available online; students only need to travel to campus occasionally throughout the program. When it is necessary to meet with an advisor in person, students can go to either Morgantown or Charleston. DNP students can complete the clinical hours in a location that is convenient for them.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

On the Morgantown campus, WVU offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing) program for nurse researchers and educators. The coursework for the PhD in Nursing program is not available online, but to make it more flexible for working nurses, WVU offers the coursework in the summer semesters. Over the course of four summers, spending six weeks at a time in Morgantown, students can complete the PhD in Nursing coursework. They also have the option of completing up to eighteen credits at a school closer to their home. According to the suggested course sequence, a student needs four full years to take the required courses. After completing the coursework, the PhD in Nursing student also needs to write a dissertation. The PhD in Nursing program is only open to nurses who have already completed an MSN degree.

Continuing Education

WVU is committed to providing continuing education for nurses and other healthcare professionals, allowing them to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing healthcare field. The majority of the continuing education courses are offered through the WVU Health Sciences Center Office of Continuing Education in Morgantown; this office administers a wide variety of on-site and online courses, and regularly hosts conferences. The list of courses is constantly changing. However, WVU consistently offers an online Parish Nursing class, to train nurses to practice their skills within a faith setting. Graduates of the basic Parish Nursing class can progress to an advanced Parish Nursing class. In addition, WVU offers an advanced pharmacology continuing education class through the health sciences division in Charleston.

Contact:
West Virginia University
1550 University Avenue,
Morgantown, WV 26506
Phone: (304) 293-0111

West Virginia University at Parkersburg Nursing School Review

West Virginia University in Parkersburg is affiliated with West Virginia University (WVU), and located in Parkersburg, West Virginia. West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVU Parkersburg, WVUP) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers community college programs and bachelor’s degrees. WVU Parkersburg, is the only community college in West Virginia that is accredited to offer baccalaureate degrees.

The nursing program available at West Virginia University at Parkersburg is the Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS). The degree is at the associate degree level and is intended for adults who are looking to pursue additional education. Individuals entering the Associate of Applied Science degree program usually hold licenses, certificates and credits for other institutions. Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science Degree usually go on to complete baccalaureate education at educational institutions. The Associate of Applied Science degree is composed of 60 credit hours and the degree is flexible so that individuals who are employed can pursue the program. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science degree can chose to use professional work experience in order to apply for college-level credit. Individuals are encouraged to submit a portfolio for entry into the program.

In order to graduate from the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia University – Parkersburg, individuals must complete 60 credit hours of education with a GPA of 2.0 on the 4.0 scale at a minimum. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science degree program must also have been out of high school for at least two years and are able to use what they completed during that time period as a part of their portfolio.

Individuals who graduate from the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia University at Parkersburg are able to apply to write their NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the United States. Individuals who become licensed as Registered Nurses, go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices and a variety of other healthcare environments.

Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in nursing at WVU Parkersburg can apply year round and can be completed online or through the admissions office. Individuals applying to the program must have submitted a Health Sciences application and must have included his or her high school transcript of GED certificate. Applicants must submit an ACT score of 19 or higher or an SAT score of 910 or above. If the applicant has completed any college level courses, he or she must submit a college transcript. Individuals applying to the West Virginia University – Parkersburg Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing must also have completed the Health Education Systems Inc. Admission Assessment Examination, with a score of 70 or above. Individuals writing the exam are responsible for the total cost of the examination.

Individuals who already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure (LPN), can apply for advanced standing (LPN to AAS) in the nursing program if they meet the admission criteria outlined for the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, hold a clean Practical Nursing licensure, submit a Practical Nursing School transcript and a college transcript that shows completion of prerequisites.

Contact:
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
300 Campus Drive
Parkersburg, WV 26104-8647
United States
Phone: (304) 424-8000

West Virginia Wesleyan College Nursing Program Review

West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) was founded in 1890 and is a private residential college, that has ties to the United Methodist Church. West Virginia Wesleyan College currently has almost 1,500 students and is home to 43 majors and 36 minors, as well as graduate programs. West Virginia Wesleyan College is located in Buckhannon, West Virginia.

The Nursing School at West Virginia Wesleyan College is intended to prepare individuals to enter the profession of nursing at a variety of levels. The nursing programs at West Virginia Wesleyan College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and approved by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Nurses. West Virginia Wesleyan College prides itself on the fact that its graduates have 100 percent employment placement.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is a four-year program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Upon graduation from the program, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses can go on to work in a variety of healthcare institutions, including; hospitals, hospices, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and a variety of other healthcare institutions.

Graduate Nursing Programs

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a variety of Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN) streams at the graduate level, including; Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. The classes at the nursing graduate level are small and the classes are collaborative between students and faculty. Both streams of the graduate level are 36 credit hours and can be completed in 16 months or part-time over several years. The classes take place in the afternoons and evenings, in order to account for the fact that most of the students will be employed in the nursing program. Individuals can take the program at a flexible pace, and can plan their own schedule. West Virginia Wesleyan College also offers two new Advanced Practice Nursing Concentrations including; Nurse Midwifery and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), which is in collaboration with Shenandoah University. Individuals who graduate from these programs will receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree from West Virginia Wesleyan and a Certificate of Endorsement in Nurse Midwifery or Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Shenandoah University.

In order to be admitted into the Master of Science in Nursing program at West Virginia Wesleyan College individuals must have graduated from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and hold a clean Registered Nurse licensure. Individuals must also hold a 3.0 undergraduate GPA on all previous college-level courses and have completed the application to West Virginia Wesleyan College. Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing program at West Virginia Wesleyan College must provide a statement of goals and objectives, as well as an official undergraduate transcript and CV. Individuals applying must also submit two letters of recommendation and submit their license in order to practice.

Contact:
West Virginia Wesleyan College
59 College Avenue,
Buckhannon, WV 26201-2600,
United States
Phone: (304) 473-8000

Wheeling Jesuit University Nursing School Review

Wheeling Jesuit University (WJU), a relatively small Catholic liberal arts university founded in 1954, is situated in the northern part of West Virginia, on the Ohio River. The school enrolls just over 1500 students each year from 26 states and over 20 countries. Wheeling Jesuit University offers over 50 programs of study on a 65-acre campus and a 550-acre retreat farm and research reserve.; most students are pursuing undergraduate degrees although the school also offers a variety of graduate programs.

For students who want to pursue careers in the healthcare field, WJU offers both undergraduate and graduate education in the nursing field. Its programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Wheeling Jesuit University offers a variety of nursing program including a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BA/BS to BSN), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN/MSN) or Master of Science in Nursing program and a Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has a standard, four-year curriculum. Incoming students spend their first year focusing entirely on WJU’s general education requirements and on the nursing prerequisite courses in the sciences and social sciences. In the first semester of his sophomore year, a BSN student can enroll in the first, one-credit nursing class. He continues with introductory nursing coursework in the spring of his sophomore year, and begins the intense nursing courses and clinical rotations in his junior year. Over the course of his four years at WJU, he must earn at least 135 credits. The four years of study prepare him for the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). If he passes this test, he can look for work as a Registered Nurse (RN) or pursue specialized nursing education at the graduate level.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated (BA/BS to BSN Program)

The BSN Accelerated program (also called the BA/BS to BSN program) is designed for baccalaureate-prepared students who want to switch careers. In order to be eligible for the program, a student must have a bachelor’s degree already; either a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science degree is acceptable. Regardless of her type of degree, however, she must have completed the following prerequisites: anatomy and physiology, chemistry, general psychology, developmental psychology, microbiology, and statistics. The BSN Accelerated program begins with a summer semester, and wraps up eighteen months later, in the fall. Over the course of these eighteen intense months, a student on the BSN Accelerated track must earn seventy-eight nursing credits. At the conclusion of the program, she is prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and start her new career as an RN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN

WJU offers another special track within its BSN program, specifically designed for RNs who are graduates of an associate degree or diploma nursing program. The RN to BSN program is tailored for working RNs, so all courses are offered online. Clinical rotations are included in the program, but nurses can schedule those in locations that are convenient for them. An incoming RN can receive up to thirty-nine advanced placement nursing credits, which will allow her to skip the lower-level nursing courses. She must take twenty-five credits of upper-level nursing courses through WJU, and complete any missing general education classes. For its general education requirements, WJU requires eleven credits of science classes and fifty-one credits in the liberal arts.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN/MSN

An RN who has an associate degree or diploma in nursing needs to complete his BSN degree before he can pursue a graduate nursing degree. WJU provides a specific path for an RN who wishes to do this, allowing him to earn both his BSN and his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. As the RN completes his BSN degree, he can substitute as many as five graduate-level nursing courses for the undergraduate-level nursing courses. The credits for these courses count for both the BSN degree and the MSN degree, enabling him to get a head start on his MSN coursework. Once he has completed the BSN degree and moved entirely into the MSN coursework, he can choose from among the three areas of specialization: Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Like the RNs on the RN to BSN path, an RN on the RN to BSN/MSN path can complete all the required coursework online.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Administration

An RN with a BSN degree can enroll in WJU’s MSN program, specializing in Nursing Administration. The program requires forty credits in total, which includes six core graduate nursing courses and eight courses in the Nursing Administration area of focus. The graduate student can complete all the coursework for this degree online, and can schedule clinical rotations in a location that is close to her home.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Education

The Nursing Education track of the MSN program is also offered online, to enable a working RN to complete the coursework at his own pace. He must take five core graduate classes, four clinical courses, and five courses in Nursing Education. In total, he must earn at least forty-two credits. The MSN Nursing Education program is only open to RNs who have already earned a BSN degree.

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program focuses on preparing students to be primary caregivers in rural areas of West Virginia. The program requires forty-eight credits in total, and includes ten core courses (both clinical and classroom) and four courses in the FNP area of specialization. The majority of the coursework can be completed online.

Post-Master’s Certification

After earning an MSN degree, a nurse can choose to return to school and work toward another graduate-level certification. WJU offers all three tracks of its MSN program as post-master’s certification programs. MSN-prepared nurses can skip the core graduate nursing classes and clinical rotations; they can complete the post-master’s certification program by taking the classes in their chosen area of specialization. The Nursing Education post-master’s track requires eighteen credits. The Nursing Administration post-master’s track requires twenty credits, and the FNP post-master’s track requires twenty-seven credits. All classes for the post-master’s certification program are available online; nurses may complete the required clinical rotations in a location that is convenient for them.

Contact:
Wheeling Jesuit University
316 Washington Avenue,
Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: (304) 243-2000

Catholic University of America Nursing School Review

The Catholic University of America (CUA) was established in 1887 by Catholic bishops under Pope Leo XIII and is the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States of America. Undergraduate education was first begun at the Catholic University of America in 1904 and now the school offers 12 schools and 21 research facilities. Catholic University is located near Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

CUA offers ecclesiastical facilities and offers degrees in canon law, philosophy and theology. There is also a Theological College at the Catholic University of America, which offers education in the priesthood. CUA is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and several disciplinary accrediting orgranizations depending on the school.

The School of Nursing offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing that involve studies in health policy, research and clinical practicum at a variety of healthcare institutions. The School of Nursing at the Catholic University of America offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), and master’s degree programs (MSN) in nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist offerings. Catholic University is also home to a Doctor of Nursing Practice option (DNP) and a Doctor of Philosophy program (PhD).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Catholic University of America is intended for individuals who are just starting their career in nursing. There are two ways to enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, the Basic Program and the Second Degree Program. The Basic Program is for individuals who do not have any prior baccalaureate education and the Second Degree Program is for individuals who already hold a baccalaureate degree, and wish to begin studying nursing for the first time. There is also a Bridge to Practice Model, for students who already have certain medical and surgical clinical experiences. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the District of Columbia Board of Nursing. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science program, must complete specific prerequisites and complete certain math requirements before being admitted to the nursing program.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing Program at the Catholic University of America is for students who wish to further their career in nursing as a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Advanced Community or Public Health Nurse Specialist or a Nurse Educator. Students can attend the Master of Science in Nursing on a part-time or full-time basis, as many students continue to be employed while taking the course. The Master of Science in Nursing program has several program options; Nurse Specialist Specialty Option in Advanced Public/Community Health Nurse, the Nurse Practitioner Program in Adult, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in primary care of combined acute and primary care. The Master of Science in Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is for individuals who already hold their undergraduate and masters education in nursing and wish to specialize in advanced nursing practice. The focus of the Doctor of Nursing Practice is on clinical studies.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program (PhD)

The PhD program at CUA prepares individuals to be nurse scientists and is incredible research driven. The program is 70 hours in length and 24 of those hours may be transferred over from master’s degrees. The credits in the PhD program are taken from courses in science, philosophy, research and support courses. Individuals must hold a statistics course at the graduate level, and if they do not have this, it must be taken during the course in the first semester. The program must be completed in five years on a full-time or part-time basis, and a dissertation must be completed by the end of study.

Contact:
The Catholic University of America
620 Michigan Avenue, N.E.
Washington, DC 20064

Howard University Nursing School Review

Howard University (HU), established in 1867, is located in Washington, DC. Howard University provides nursing education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for students who wish to practice in urban or rural environments. It is a historically black university.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program at Howard University includes a combination of liberal arts and nursing education with three study options; Generic, Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN) and Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) options. The Generic study option of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is intended for high school graduates who are beginning their career in nursing, or transfer students who have begun to study nursing at another accredited institution. Individuals must have completed their prerequisite courses, before applying to this program. The Generic program option is four years in duration and one summer session and is organized in two divisions.

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option and the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option lead to an undergraduate degree in nursing. The program is 124 credit hours, with 61 credit hours of prerequisites and 63 credit hours of required courses. Clinical practicum, which is a requirement of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Howard University is completed at health centers, hospitals and long-term care facilities in DC, MD and the Virginia tri-state area. Individuals entering this program must complete a total of 63 credit hours prior to starting the program.

Thirty nursing credit hours from their previous nursing program can be taken from a previous nursing program and the program can be completed in a minimum of one year of full-time study. Upon completion of the program, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare organizations including hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices, schools, long-term care facilities and many more various healthcare institutions.

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN) track is for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. If individuals have the following course; Fundamentals of Nursing, Introduction to Pharmacology, and Adult Health Nursing, they will be granted 11 academic credits. This program of study commences in the summer, and takes two consecutive years to complete.

Admission Requirements

In order to apply to the nursing programs at Howard University, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale. Individuals must hold a minimum American College Test score of 21 or an SAT score of 1000. Individuals must also submit two letters of recommendation; one from a teacher and another from a counselor. Individuals must submit an admission essay and a high school transcript, which shows completion of English, Sciences, Social Sciences, Mathematics and two years of a foreign language.

Contact:
Howard University
2400 Sixth Street, NW,
Washington, DC 20059
Phone: 202-806-6100

Trinity Washington University Nursing School Review

Trinity Washington University, established in 1904, is located in Washington, DC. Trinity Washington University began as a Catholic women’s college, and was started by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1897. The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur believed that women should be able to experience higher education, just as men had been able to for years. Originally intended as a women’s university, Trinity Washington University began accepting men into its evening and weekend programs in the 1960s.

Trinity Washington University is located three miles from Washington, District of Columbia and offers a free shuttle bus every 20 minutes between the main campus and the Brookland Metro stop on the city’s red line. The University offers four dorm halls, which is open to all students studying in the College of Arts and Sciences. Trinity Washington University is also home to an athletic facility called the Trinity Center for Women and Girls in Sports, and is available to all Trinity Washington University students.

The nursing programs at Trinity Washington University are varied and are geared toward individuals who require a flexible schedule. Trinity Washington University offers entry level, pre-licensure and professional nursing degrees for individuals from all backgrounds. The University offers an evening and weekend format Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, a day format Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is available during the evenings or weekends or during the daytime. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is intended for individuals just beginning their nursing education and is composed of a combination of academic studies and clinical preparation. The start of the program consists of liberal arts courses, and is an initial framework for the students major in nursing. At the close of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals must complete clinical practicum in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, physicians’’ offices and many others. At the completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University, graduates can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, (NCLEX-RN), which allows them to become certified as licensed Registered Nurses and allows them to practice in their field.

In order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University, individuals must hold a “C” grade or above in all SPS Core Curriculum and Pre-Nursing courses. Individuals must also hold a GPA of at least 2.5 and must have a satisfactory score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) test.Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity University must also submit updated immunization records, CPR certification, a criminal background check and a successful drug screening for admittance.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (RN to BSN)

Individuals, who hold a Registered Nurse licensure after completing an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, can apply to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree. This program, allows Registered Nurses to complete baccalaureate studies. Other than holding a Registered Nurse licensure, the requirements for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are the same as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University.

Contact:
Trinity Washington University
125 Michigan Ave. NE,
Washington, DC 20017
Phone: 202-884-9000

University of the District of Columbia Nursing School Review

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) was established in 1851 and became part of the public school system in 1879. The school was officially formed in 1955 as a teachers college, and was the merger of two existing schools; Miner Normal School and Washington Normal School. Today, the University of the District of Columbia offers 75 undergraduate and graduate academic degree programs through the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Public Administration, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (RN to BSN)

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at the University of the District of Columbia is fully accredited and is available for students who wish to study on a part-time and full-time basis, as many individuals continue employment as nurses while enrolled in education. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is designed for individuals who are already Registered Nurses and hold licensure to practice nursing in Washington, DC and the metropolitan area. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is approved by the DC Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia is focused on adult learners who are already professionals.

Associate in Applied Science in Nursing Degree (AASN)

The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AASN) and the accelerated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate in Applied Science in Nursing degree (AASN) are also offered at the University of District of Columbia. Students are required to complete clinical practice, laboratory work and in-class lectures in the program and the program prepares students to complete nursing practice to individuals from newborns to the elderly, in critical care, acute care, rehabilitation and home care settings. The University of District of Columbia also offers a Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA), for individuals just beginning their studies in the profession of nursing and a Home Health Aide Program, which is also for individuals who are new to the profession of nursing. All of these programs are offered at the University’s Community College Backus campus, which is located at 5171 South Dakota Street NE, WDC.

Admission Criteria

In order to be admitted into the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia, individuals must hold Registered Nurse licensure prior to applying to the program, and must show this licensure when asked. Individuals must already be practicing as a Registered Nurse in the state of DC, and be interested in pursuing baccalaureate education. Individuals applying to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia must submit a criminal background check when applying to the program, and must also submit an up-to-date immunization record as well as a clear drug screen. Individuals must have completed all prerequisites before applying to the program.

Contact:
University of the District of Columbia
4200 Connecticut Avenue NW,
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 274-5000

Bellevue College Nursing Program Review

Bellevue College (BC), previously known as Bellevue Community College (BCC) offers programs on three campuses; Main campus, Robinswood Campus, and City University Campus, all of which are located in Bellevue, Washington. Bellevue College also provides courses on 25 additional sites in the community.

Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree in Nursing at Bellevue College prepares students to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which allows individuals to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Washington. Lectures are scheduled during the day and clinical practicum is scheduled during the days and evenings. The Associate of Applied Science Transfer Degree is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare institutions including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, schools, and many more healthcare environments.

The Nursing program offers both a part time and full time alternatives. Entry for the full time option is in the Fall/Winter and classes for the part time Bellevue nursing program students start in the Spring.

Admission Requirements

In order to apply to the Associate of Applied Science Transfer Degree, individuals must complete a Bellevue College Application and a Nursing Application. Individuals must then complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a minimum score of 74. Individuals must submit an official transcript and must have completed general education requirements with a GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in a given course. Required general education courses in include Chemistry and various Biology courses. Individuals must also submit a writing sample and go through an interview. Once qualified, applicants must take a COMPASS E-Write Test and submit a background check, a criminal history disclosure, immunization records and CPR card for healthcare providers.

Other Nursing Certificates/Programs

The four-month Registered Nurse (RN) Refresher Program is taught by local clinical experts and is offered twice every year. The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program combines in-class lectures with clinical practicum and prepares students to apply to write the NNAAP Examination for OBRA Nursing Assistant Registry and Certification in the State of Washington. Bellevue College also offers classes and training programs for CPR for Health Care Providers, IV Skills for Nurses and Venipuncture for Health Care Providers. In order to apply to these programs, individuals must attend an information session and complete an online application form. Individuals must then submit immunization records, proof of CPR certification, and a criminal background check.

Certified Nurse Aide’s work in a variety of healthcare organizations, under the supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and physicians. After some time as a Certified Nurse Aide, an individual may wish to begin studying to further his or her education in nursing in order to progress to the level of Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse.

At several times throughout the year, Bellevue College offers a variety of classes and workshops for healthcare professionals on their campus. The classes and workshops offered include; CPR for Health Care Providers, IV Skills for Nurses and Venipuncture for Healthcare Providers.

Contact:
Bellevue College
3000 Landerholm Circle,
SE Bellevue, WA 98007-6484
United States of America
Phone: (425) 564-1000