University of Akron Nursing School Review

The University of Akron (UA) was founded in 1967 and has since then provided nothing but an excellent curriculum of various educational programs. There are more than 100 faculty members, half of which have doctoral degrees and others of which have completed their doctoral studies and have earned practice specialty certifications.

University of Akron – The College of Nursing

The University of Akron’s College of Nursing provides clinical experiences in various settings, with diverse patients and including a wide range of healthcare options overall. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the university is under review at the moment.

This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Undergraduate Programs

Baccalaureate Program (BSN)

This program takes roughly 130 hours to complete and nursing majors will  be prioritized depending on their science GPA.

To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course. Pre-nursing students who do not complete their science prerequisite courses the first time can repeat the courses a second time. However, they will not be allowed to re-take the courses for the third time until five years have gone by since the last time they were re-taken.

Second Degree BSN (Accelerated BSN)

Students who have already completed another baccalaureate program, but wish to get a nursing degree afterwards can take this program. In general, this program takes four semesters and around 96 credit hours to complete. It consists of nurse services and hospital visits, as well as clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.

To apply, students need to have a baccalaureate degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit copies of their transcripts along with two recommendation letters, a personal statement and a resume. Aside from that, students will need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 before starting the course, as well.

Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree in nursing upon completing all of the requirements.

BSN for Registered Nurses (RNs) Sequence

The BSN for RN program has both full-time and part-time options available for students depending on their personal needs and exists especially for RNs who already have bachelor degrees, but what to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing.

This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite course. They will also need to maintain a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course in order to stay in the program.

BSN for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Sequence

The BSN for LPN program exists especially for LPNs who have already have a bachelor’s degree, but still want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing. It includes various learning activities, which build on each student’s prior experience and knowledge.

After all of the prerequisites have been completed, this program will take two and a half full-time years of around 130 credit hours to complete. Students can follow a part-time curriculum, though, if they’d prefer, and they will be given credit by exam for any previous experience as LPNs.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of an LPN program and have a valid LPN license, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 2.5. They will also need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite and science course.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program consists of various advanced role specialties and practice specializations for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist. It also focuses on two particular dimensions – core courses and specialization courses – and is especially designed for working RNs.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses and an interview with the faculty, and submit an essay and three reference letters.

Advanced Practice Options

Adult/Gerontological Nursing Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

This option prepares its students to manage and provide advanced nursing care for people with complicated health conditions. Students who choose this option can either specialize in gerontological health nursing or adult health nursing.

Students who take gerontological nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Gerontological CNS and students who take adult health nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Medical/Surgical CNS through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Adult/Gerontological Nursing Nurse Practitioner (NP)

This option prepares its students to provide healthcare to people in various healthcare settings under the supervision of actual physician preceptors and nurse practitioners.

This option takes 47 credit hours to complete and students will need to complete at least 500 hours of clinical practice before they can take the national certification examination as an adult NP or gerontological NP. Completing this option will allow students to become Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs).

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, three recommendation letters, a minimum of a year of nursing experience in a gerontological or adult healthcare setting, and a BSN degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete every prerequisite course and an interview with a faculty member of this option.

A post-MSN certificate also exists for this particular track.

Child/Adolescent Acute/Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

This option prepares its students to provide acute or primary healthcare to children in various settings.

Graduates of this option will be able to take the certification from the ANCC to become Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.

Psychiatric Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner

These options prepare their students to provide mental healthcare to those in need in various settings and includes core courses in information management, theory, health policies, research, and pathophysiology.

Graduates of this option will be able to take three certification exams from the ANCC: Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Nurse Anesthesia

This option prepares its students to provide anesthesia care to patients who need to go through obstetrical and surgical procedures, as well as provide the skills that RNs need to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesists (CRNAs).

This program takes 60 credit hours and 27 months to complete and includes advanced pathophysiology, advanced physiology, core graduate nursing, chemistry, anesthesiology, physics and pharmacology courses.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of a baccalaureate nursing program and have a BSN, a valid ACLS certificate, a valid license in Ohio, a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a minimum of one year of adult critical care experience. They will also need to have a minimum of 8 hours in the shadow of an actual CRNA and submit various coursework transcripts.

Graduates of this option will be able to take the National Certification Examination to become CRNAs.

Nursing Services Administration

This option prepares its students for work in healthcare environments with community, acute, and long-term orientations.

MSN for RN Sequence

The MSN for RN program exists especially for nurses who want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing and prepare for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist.

This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree upon completing all of the requirements and will be able to continue on their chosen track at the master’s level. Overall, this program can take up to eight full-time semesters to complete.

PhD in Nursing

This joint program exists between Kent State University and the University of Akron to prepare students for teaching and applying nursing strategies as nursing scholars.

This program can be completed in three full-time years, though part-time study programs are also available.

To apply, students will need to have an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Certificate Programs

Nursing Education Certificate

This certificate exists to prepare students for full academic roles and the responsibilities of being a nurse educator in various educational settings.

Nursing Management and Business Certificate

This certificate exists to prepare post-master’s advanced practice nurses, post-baccalaureate nurses, and current PhD and MSN students for life as patient care leaders and managers in various organizational settings.

Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate

This certificate exists solely for adult or gerontological CNSs.

Contact:
University of Akron
209 Carroll Street,
Akron, OH 44325-3701

Stark State College Nursing Program Review

Stark State College (SSC), previously known as the Stark State College of Technology (SSCT), is a two-year public institution that has more than 200 associate degrees, certifications and options available for various programs.

They also have partnerships with the University of Toledo and Franklin University, so students don’t actually have to leave the campus in order to get their bachelor’s degree of choice.

Stark State College – Nursing

This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

This program takes various settings into consideration, including hospitals, clinics, extended and long-term healthcare facilities, and various other healthcare agencies. Students who take this program can either opt for the day program or the evening and weekend program. Aside from that, they also have three roles to choose from: manager of care, provider of care and nursing member.

To apply to either program, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will need to submit the application form along with their ACT or COMPASS test scores and their original high school transcripts, wherein their biology and chemistry grades need to be at a minimum of C, as well.

Day Program

This program takes 72 credit hours or four semesters to complete and consists of hands-on classroom experiences, as well as clinical and laboratory experiences.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Evening and Weekend Program

Generally speaking, this evening and weekend program has the exact same nursing sequence as its day counterpart. However, the laboratory experiences in this program will be held at the campus of Stark State College itself, while the clinical and classroom experiences will mostly take place at the Mercy Medical Center.

Registered Nurse (RN) Completion for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program

This program takes 35 credit hours to complete.

Students who wish to join this program need to be graduates of a practical nursing program. They will also need to take any required developmental courses and have a valid Ohio LPN license. Aside from that, students will also need to submit the program application along with their high school transcripts and college transcripts.

In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in an LPN program and a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and other biology courses.

RN Completion for Paramedic

This program takes 44 credit hours or four semesters to complete and gives paramedics the chance to enter the nursing world and put their emergency services training into good use. Since this program follows the WEB Level II modality, paramedics won’t have any trouble fitting it into their work schedules.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of a paramedic program with a valid paramedic certificate in Ohio. They will also need to submit the necessary application form along with their high school transcripts.

In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra and other prerequisite courses, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in twelve hours of college courses, and complete the necessary developmental courses and the COMPASS Assessment test.

Graduates will be able to take the licensure examination and pursue more educational opportunities in the nursing field if they want to.

Contact:
Stark State College
6200 Frank Avenue NW,
North Canton, OH 44720

Southern State Community College Nursing Program Review

Southern State Community College (SSCC) is a two-year community college that was founded in 1975. It has four different campuses in Ohio that serve the Adams, Clinton, Brown, Highland and Fayette counties.

Southern State Community College has various associate degree and certificate programs available and all of the students can look into financial aid help, regardless of which program they choose to enroll in.

Southern State Community College – Nursing

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Associate’s Degree in Nursing Programs (ADN programs)

Associate of Applied Science Degree Nursing (AASN) Program

This nursing associates degree program takes 73 credit hours and 7 quarters to complete when taken full-time, and can be taken at the Central campus or the South campus of Southern State Community College. In a nutshell, this program entails registered nurses (RNs) taking care of sick patients and maintaining their health.

Students have the choice to finish some of the required general education courses before being admitted to this program if they wish. Staying in the program, however, would require students to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Nursing Transition Pathway

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who may want to get a degree can take this program through this particular pathway instead.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and should have taken the standardized LPN knowledge test and received the minimum required score within the last two years.

Aside from that, students will also need to have a minimum of 500 hours work experience as an LPN within the last two years, a valid nursing licensure and a minimum grade of C in the necessary prerequisite courses.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing (PN)

This program takes 50 credit hours and 4 quarters to complete and can be taken at the Central campus of Southern State Community College. In general, this program consists of regular classes, clinical experience and lab practices. In order to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.

Graduates will be qualified to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses and apply for the Practical Nursing Certificate.

Contact:
Southern State Community College
100 Hobart Drive,
Hillsboro, OH 45133

Sinclair Community College Nursing Program Review

Sinclair Community College (SCC)  is somewhat related to Dayton YMCA. From 1887 to 1948, Dayton YMCA actually offered various classes for men alone. However, by 1948, it became Sinclair College and by 1989, it was chosen to become a member of the League for Innovation in the Community College as Sinclair Community College.

Now, Sinclair Community College has nineteen buildings and courses that are offered at various remote sites and online.

Sinclair Community College – Nursing

Sinclair Community College has graduated thousands of students since its inception in 1969.

This program has been approved by the State of Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Degree Programs

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program

Students can take this program if they want to become registered nurses. In general, this program consists of nursing and non-nursing courses, as well as clinical experience and classroom activities. There are five tracks that students can choose from: member in the discipline of nursing, manager of care, provider of care, patient teacher and communicator.

This program takes 8 quarters to complete and can be taken either part-time or full-time as preferred. However, all of the courses need to be taken sequentially either way. Students may also take general education courses before, during or after being admitted to the program.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in every general education and nursing course and a minimum GPA of 2.0. To graduate, students will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of C.

Graduates will be qualified to sit for the National Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Member in the Discipline of Nursing

This track consists mostly of professional growth, self-development, and continuous learning. This track ensures the best nursing standards, helps improve the field of nursing, communicates honestly, keeps things confidential and improves with the help of constructive criticism.

Manager of Care

This track consists mostly of collaborating with, delegating, accounting for, and respecting other workers in the healthcare field. This track is practiced on people with certain healthcare needs.

Provider of Care

This track consists mostly of critical thinking, accountability, commitment to healthcare and clinical competence. This track is practiced on any age of people with chronic or acute health needs, as well as those who need help restoring or maintaining good health.

Patient Teacher

This track involves using teaching plans that suit each patient’s learning needs, developmental levels and overall knowledge.

Communicator

This track involves promoting psychological safety, establishing and using effective communication, making referrals depending on each patient’s needs and knowing where to get the necessary resources.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Advanced Placement Track

This program takes 7 quarters and 91 credit hours to complete. Students will need to successfully complete certain courses in order to take this program, though.

Certificate Programs

Nurse Aide Training

Students can take this program if they want to become nurse aides in long-term facilities. In general, this program consists of both clinical and classroom learning experiences.

Graduates will be qualified to sit for a certification examination.

Contact:
Sinclair Community College,
444 West Third Street,
Dayton, OH 45402

Shawnee State University Nursing School Review

Shawnee State University (SSU) started out as the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969 before it merged with Scioto Technical College in 1975. In 1986, Shawnee State University became what it is today: an institution where learning is seen as a personal, professional and lifelong development process.

Shawnee State University – The Department of Nursing

In order to progress in Shawnee State University’s nursing programs, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses, as well as perform their clinical experiences in a satisfactory manner. Aside from that, their theory grades also need to average out to at least 76%.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate Degree in Nursing

This program has been around since Shawnee State University was still the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969.

To apply, students might need to complete certain courses during the summer first. Other than that, they will also need to submit their high school transcripts and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and a minimum ACT score of 18. They will also need to complete an autobiography form.

Students with a minimum ACT score of 24 will be eligible for automatic acceptance to the program.

If students want to improve their chances of being admitted to Shawnee State University’s nursing program, they should start thinking about doing several things in high school, such as choosing science courses and algebra courses, taking their ACTs early, talking to nurses about their educational and professional path, talking to their counselors about nursing, and looking at all of their options in terms of college level courses. Naturally, they also need to remember that grades will always matter in the end.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program

To apply, students will need to have a valid Registered Nursing (RN) license, a valid CPR certification, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and recent health assessment and immunization. Preference is usually given to students with at least 15 hours or more beyond the traditional nursing degree and those who have already had half a year of nursing practice. Students will also need to submit a personal statement regarding the benefits of BSN.

RN-BSN Completion Program

This program consists of 34 credit hours. It builds on students’ associate degree diplomas and prepares registered nurses for proper practice in various settings. This program provides a very flexible schedule, so students can take their courses online if they wish or through clinical preceptors.

To apply, students will need to have an associate’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.5, a valid RN license, a valid CPR certification, a completed health physical exam and current immunizations.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Transition Program

LPNs might receive advanced placement during their associate degree program’s second semester if they complete certain courses with a minimum grade of C.

Other than that, students will also need to have a valid LPN license in order to apply to this program.

Contact:
Shawnee State University
940 Second Street,
Portsmouth, OH 45662-4344

Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing Program Review

The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing (HEMSPN) was founded in 1957 and today, they provide a full-time educational program for students who are interested in becoming nurses in the future.

Practical Nursing

The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has a strict nursing curriculum that focuses on children to senior citizens and includes medication administration and IV therapy. From Monday to Friday, students will go through clinical experiences and theory courses, although afternoon and weekend classes are sometimes part of the curriculum, too.

In general, the curriculum at the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing lasts for 44 weeks and follows three main concepts: the nursing process, basic human needs, and wellness-illness of life. The curriculum mainly consists of formal classroom settings, though clinical experiences, theory courses, nursing lab settings are all a part of the curriculum, as well.

To apply, students need to submit their official high school transcripts, the application and the application fee on time, as well as complete the FAFSA. They will also need to make an appointment to take the ACT WorkKeys pre-entrance test. Students will also need to take a medical terminology course.

Before starting at the school, students will also be required to attend the enrollment orientation. If requested, they can also make an appointment to discuss their options for financial aid.

Students who graduate from this Practical Nursing (PN) school usually end up with a slew of career opportunities in various hospitals, physician’s offices, long-term healthcare facilities, and home care agencies.

Any successful graduate of the PN program will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in any state. Graduates with licenses are also allowed to join a baccalaureate (BSN) or associates nursing degree program to become registered nurses.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Board of Nursing, and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

To provide their students with satisfactory clinical experiences, the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has teamed up with various healthcare agencies, including the Salem Community Hospital, the Essex of Salem, Briarfield Manor, the Forum Health’s Childbirth Center, the Crandall Medical Center, the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities, Hospice of the Valley, and the East Liverpool City Hospital. They are also affiliated with various community healthcare agencies, though.

Financial Aid

Financial aid exists for qualifying students via Title IV funding, as well as other loans and grants.

Direct Subsidized Loans

This loan is based on need and won’t be charged with interest while the student is still in school. Also, repayment schemes will not begin until half a year after school has ended.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

This loan, on the other hand, isn’t based on need. Instead, its amount will depend on the dependency status of the student. Interest will start from the beginning, though. However, the repayment schemes will begin half a year after school has ended, as well.

Pell Grant

Unlike loans, the Pell Grant doesn’t need to be paid back. This grant exists for undergraduate students without professional or bachelor’s degrees.

Contact:
Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing
Salem City Schools,
230 North Lincoln Avenue, Suite 3,
Salem, OH 44460

Owens Community College Nursing Program Review

Owens Community College (OCC) was founded as a technical institute in 1965 and was named after a Toledo inventor named Michael Owens who is famous for mechanizing bottle blowing.

Today, they have two campuses – one in Perrysburg Township and one in Findlay – as well as learning centers in Maumee and Toledo. Overall, they provide 130 different academic programs that can lead to various exciting careers.

Owens Community College – School of Nursing

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, but is currently working towards re-establishing their accreditation with the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

School of Nursing Programs

Registered Nursing (RN) Program

This program prepared students to become registered nurses in various healthcare faculties.

To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their SAT or ACT scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.

Licensed Practical Nurse/Associate Degree Nursing Progression Program (LPN to RN)

Licensed practical nurses who take certain nursing courses ad meet the needs of LPNs enrolled in an ADN program can take this program to prepare themselves for various healthcare settings.

To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their LPN STEP test scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.

They will also need to have an LPN license, a high school diploma, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students who are already graduates from the Practical Nursing program in Owens Community College and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 will also get 2 bonus points on the admission tally form.

The LPN Standardized Testing to Evaluate Preparedness (STEP) is a pre-admissions test with eight topics based on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) test plan and can be taken at either of the Owens Community College campuses.

School of Nursing Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing Certificate Program

Practicing Nursing graduates can take this program to prepare for various nursing positions in healthcare vicinities.

To apply, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra. If students are already college graduates, then they need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0, as well.

Students also need to have a Nurse Aid Training Program certificate in order to apply for this program and complete the TEAS test with a minimum score of 50% in each of the available categories.

During the program, students will also have to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.

State-Tested Nurse Assistant Training Course (STNA)

This training program prepares students for the Ohio State Testing and Competency Evaluation Program and is mandatory for nurse assistants in Ohio who want to work in long-term healthcare.

In general STNAs provide assistance to patients and work while being supervised by licensed nurses. Some of their responsibilities include basic personal care and nursing skills, like making beds and helping with meals, bathing, grooming, positioning, dressing and walking. They also provide licensed nurses with important information.

At the moment, this training course doesn’t qualify for financial aid, though.

Contact:
Owens Community College
3200 Bright Road,
Findlay, OH 45840

FORTIS College in Centerville Nursing Program Review

Formerly called RETS College, Fortis College in Centerville is a modern institution located on nine acres of Centerville, Ohio, where all of the labs and classes take place. Fortis College provides various diploma programs and associate degree programs for distance education to accommodate the needs of their students every year.

Fortis College has campuses all over the country, including Atlanta, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia.

The school has been accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), and the Accrediting Commission of the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).

Fortis College Centerville – Nursing

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, South Carolina, Indiana, Virginia and Utah. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.

This program is ideal for students who are just starting out in the field of nursing, as well as students who want to advance their Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) careers. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

Practical Nursing (PN) Program

This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, Arizona, Virginia and Pennsylvania. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.

This program is ideal for students who want to become PNs and consists of hands-on experience in clinical environments. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become practical nurses with licenses.

Other Nursing Programs

Although unavailable at the Centerville campus of Fortis College, the school also offers other nursing programs, such as the following:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated Program)

This program is only available in the Florida campuses of Fortis College and students who are already nurses with a BSN can keep working at hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, nursing care facilities and schools while studying. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

PN-RN Associated Degree Bridge Program

This program is only available in the Nashville, Tennessee campus of Fortis College. PNs who want to advance their careers can take this program, as can career-minded LPNs who cannot attend other programs due to work. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

Vocational Nursing

This program is only available in the Texas campuses of Fortis College. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become vocational nurses, as well as the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

 Contact:
Fortis College Centerville
555 E Alex Bell Road,
Centerville, OH 45459

Urbana University Nursing School Review

Urbana University (UU) was founded in 1850. Although placed in a relatively small college campus altogether, it is very proud to have a liberal arts education on offer that focuses more on individual attention for each student and closer connections with the faculty members.

Urbana University – College of Nursing

This program has been at Urbana University since 2003 and is affiliated with the Springfield Regional School of Nursing. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the  Ohio Board of Regents and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program exists to prepare students for nursing practices where they can serve their community in terms of healthcare as nursing professionals, managers and leaders.

To apply, students will need to have a valid registered nurse (RN) license and a valid CPR certification. They will also need to get a background check, an immunization validation, a TB screening and a health assessment done.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program builds on what Urbana University’s BSN program has to offer and focuses on more advanced teachings of nursing practice, research, and theory. It includes two different tracks: Nursing Education and Nursing Administration.

Classes

Although Urbana University does have several online courses on offer, it sadly does not have an online nursing course on offer. Because of this, all students who wish to take nursing at Urbana University should be prepared to visit the school to finish their degree.

What makes Urbana University stand out from the rest of other colleges out there is the fact that you will get the proper attention that you deserve. Despite the fact that the university is big enough to provide various highly sought-after study programs, each class is small enough to provide students with proper individualized attention.

The campus itself can be found in Urbana, Ohio, providing a safe, small and convenient location of learning. It is also very close to Columbus and Dayton, Ohio.

There are many students that are currently attending Urbana University, creating a very diverse student population that is highly involved in varsity athletics, performing arts, student activities and club sports.

Aside from that, Urbana University is known to be one of the most affordable options for continuing educations. This is partly because their students can apply for scholarships, depending on their talents in performing arts, academics and athletics.

Financial Aid

Students at Urbana University all follow the university’s mission while working with one another, with the school, and with the rules of the government. The university provides great financial to those in need to help them reach their goals in education and in their careers.

The financial aid department in Urbana University helps their students find, get and take full advantage of all of their financial resources. They also provide top-notch guidance and service with respect, empathy and sensitivity to all of their students’ families.

Contact:
Urbana University
579 College Way,
Urbana, OH 43078

Ursuline College Nursing Program Review

Mother Mary of the Annunciation Beaumont founded Ursuline College (UC) in 1871 because she realized that women needed a proper form of higher learning. This is how the first women’s college came about in both Ohio and the United States, in general.

Ursuline College – The Breen School of Nursing

This program has been at Ursuline College ever since 1975. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degrees

BSN Program

To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum high school GPA of 2.75, a minimum composite ACT score of 20 or a minimum SAT score of 1000, and a minimum grade of C+ in algebra I, biology and chemistry.

For students who already have college credit, they will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a recommendation letter and proof of having been a former nursing student.

Accelerated/Second Degree BSN Program

This 15-month-long program exists for second-degree students who already have baccalaureate degrees and want to pursue one in nursing. It includes every course required for the regular BSN program, but can be finished in a shorter span of time.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the sciences within the last seven years. All prerequisite courses will need to be taken before the semester begins.

Graduates will get a BSN degree and will be able to take the National Certified Licensing Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nursing (RN).

RN – BSN Program

This program exists to suit any student’s personal and professional schedules by giving students the chance to take their courses online or as hybrid courses as needed. Students with prior learning can also earn a maximum of 39 credits.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a diploma and complete the entire application process. Registered nurses will generally need to complete 19 nursing hours and 30 hours of other courses.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Students who take this program will need to complete 26 hours of core courses. After that, they will have to choose a track or subspecialty that suits their educational needs. Their choices include Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Palliative Care or Nursing Education. They can also take Post Master’s Certifications, if they wish.

To apply, students will need to submit their official transcripts and prove that they have completed a baccalaureate nursing program. Aside from that, they also need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0, three recommendation letters, a valid Ohio RN license, and a minimum of a year’s experience working as an RN. If requested, they will need to complete an interview with a faculty member or program director, as well.

Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Program

ANPs provide independent or team care and they focus on disease prevention, health maintenance, patient education and counseling. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FNPs incorporate the coursework of ANPs and help students get ready to provide primary health care to people of every age. This program takes 43 credit hours to complete.

Palliative Care Subspecialty Concentration

Palliative care provides therapies that are meant to support and comfort patients of different religions, beliefs, cultures, traditions and values who have fatal diseases. This program takes 24 credit hours to complete.

Nursing Education

This subspecialty exists for students who want to be an ANP or FNP. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.

Post Master’s Certification

Any student who finishes an MSN track can get a post master’s certificate for their track of choice. To do this, they will simply need to take the associated courses and complete certain advanced core courses.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This program is relatively new and opened in 2010. It exists for students who have an MSN and want to become leaders in the field through doctoral level education.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a valid resume, a valid RN license for Ohio, and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit any official transcripts and two recommendation letters.

 Contact:
Ursuline College
2550 Lander Road,
Pepper Pike, OH 44124

Walsh University Nursing School Review

Seven founding Brothers once had the vision to create a college campus out of 50 acres of alfalfa and this vision of theirs came true in 1960 when they opened Walsh College. Now known as Walsh University (WU), this Catholic college continues to grow with more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees currently available.

Walsh University – School of Nursing

This program prepares students to work as a registered nurse (RN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Undergraduate Degrees

Nursing (Pre-Licensure)

This program takes four years to complete and students can be admitted in two different ways. They can either directly admitted due to a scholarship or can be admitted as pre-nursing majors.

In order to continue in this nursing major, students will need to complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.

RN – BSN School for Professional Studies Option for the RN

This program exists for RNs who already have associate degrees and want to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This flexible option is ideal for students who want to study no a part-time or full-time basis.

Accelerated BSN

This second-degree program exists for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but want to become nurses.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a bachelor’s degree and meet all of the admission requirements of Walsh University. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all prerequisite courses. Students might need to  have an interview with the committee of the School of Nursing before being admitted to the program.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program prepares post-baccalaureate RNs for advanced careers in the following tracks: Academic Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Leader. Both of these programs are mainly offered online, so that busy nurses can complete their requirements at their utmost ease and convenience.

To apply for this program, students will need to complete the admission application, the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and a statistics course. They will also need to have a valid RN license, a valid resume and a minimum of a year’s working experience in nursing. Aside from that, students will need to submit all of their official transcripts, a personal essay and two recommendation letters. They will also need to have an interview with the committee of the program.

Academic Nurse Educator

This track started in 2005 and the primary roles that these educators eventually fulfill are those of teacher, collaborator and scholar.

To complete this track, students will need to complete 39 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 16 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 310 clinical hours.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

To complete this track, students will need to complete 36 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 13 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 480 clinical hours.

Online Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree

This program prepares students for a masters degree in healthcare while following Judeo-Christian values at the same time. The online format exists of small classes that encourage student participation and assure personalized attention. It also includes important opportunities for hands-on learning.

 Contact:
Walsh University
2020 East Maple Street,
North Canton, OH 44720

Wright State University Nursing School Review

Wright State University (WSU) is responsible for starting the very first baccalaureate nursing program within Dayton, Ohio.

Wright State University – College of Nursing and Health

This program has been fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program takes four years to complete and prepares students for a lot of different careers in various healthcare settings.

To apply, students will need to complete the admission application and submit their official transcripts. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and take the admission assessment exam at Wright State University. Aside from that, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75.

Graduates will be able to take the National Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

ADENA Cohort Program

This program also takes four years to complete and is dedicated to students who would rather finish their courses in Chillicothe, Ohio instead of in Dayton, Ohio.

RN – BSN Completion Program

RNs who already have associate degrees in nursing can take this flexible program to accommodate their regular work schedules.

To apply, students will need to complete the admission application, as well as all of the prerequisite courses for Wright State University. They will also need to have a valid RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Baccalaureate Education Accelerates Career Opportunities in Nursing (BEACON) Program

This accelerated program takes 24 months to complete and exists for college graduates who want to become nurses. The courses in this program are offered both face-to-face and online, or in hybrid mode, and consists of 5 graduate nursing courses.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and complete all of the prerequisite courses. Conversely, to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.

Master of Science in Nursing (MS) Program

This program prepares nurses for advanced courses in various specialty tracks, including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administration, School Nursing, Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Leader.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

This track needs to be completed within 5 years, though students can either enroll as full-time students or part-time students. It also takes 52.5 credit hours and 500 clinical hours to complete and consist various subspecialties, as seen below.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and at least two years of full-time experience as RNs. They will also need to complete and submit a statement of goals along with their college transcripts.

Graduates will be able to sit for advanced practice certification exams.

Healthcare Administration

This track includes courses on human resource management, strategic planning and financial management and includes creative practicum opportunities.

School Nursing

This track takes 59 credit hours to complete and consists of both clinical and classroom experiences.

To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid CPR certification tand a valid RN license for Ohio. They will also need to submit all of their college transcripts and a statement of goals.

Graduates will be able to sit for the school nurse licensure exam.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Family Nurse Practitioners provide general healthcare in a lot of different settings to people of different ages. This track can either be taken in class or online.

To apply, students will need to submit a valid resume, a meaningful essay, two recommendation letters, and a statement of goals. They will also need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum of a year’s full-time experience in nursing and go through a personal interview.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This tracks prepares advanced entails nurses to provide care for infants and children up to 21 years old.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, at least a year’s full-time experience in nursing, and a PALS certification. They will also need to complete a basic course for physical assessment.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

Through this track, students will be prepared to become clinical leaders at unit levels and to manage and create unit-based healthcare microsystems.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license in Ohio, and 1-2 years of clinical experience as an RN. They will also need to submit a statement of goals.

Bridge Program

Students with associates degrees in nursing can take this track to enter the master’s program in nursing earlier than usual.

To apply, students will need to have a nursing diploma, an RN license and a baccalaureate degree. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This program takes 36 credit hours and 520 clinical hours to complete and is also offered as a part-time program.

Contact:
Wright State University
160 University Hall,
3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.,
Dayton, OH 45435

Xavier University Nursing School Review

Xavier University (XU) was founded in 1831 as Jesuit-Catholic college. To date, it has three colleges, in general, and is known to be one of the few Jesuit universities in the country.

Xavier University – Nursing

This program began in 1995 and is now accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Undergraduate Nursing

To apply to undergraduate nursing programs at Xavier University, students will need to complete high school chemistry first. They will also need to submit all of their official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70. To stay in the program, students will need to maintain this same GPA, as well.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This holistic, community-based program educates its students in communication, cooperation and coordination with various other healthcare experts. This program takes four years to complete.

Graduates will be allowed to take the holistic nurse certification examination.

BSN – MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Honors Program

This program allows graduating senior students to finish their master’s degree with a CNL track in just one year. To apply, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20.

Graduate Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses

This would be the entry program that students need to take to become registered nurses in the end.

Educational Mobility Option

Students can take this option to enter the MSN program if they already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.

RN to MSN

This program exists for RNs who already have experience in the nursing field but do not have a bachelor’s degree yet. Through this program, they can get an MSN faster.

However, to apply, students will need to have at least two years of full-time RN work experience, and a great academic record. This program takes 18 semester hours to complete.

Graduates will be allowed to move into graduate programs if they complete this program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MBA

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MEd

This program takes 54 credit hours to complete and prepares students to teach and administer in various educational settings.

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MSCJ

This program takes 46 credit hours to complete.

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Graduates will get two different degrees upon completion of this program: the MSN and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration

This concentration will prepare nurses to become advanced generalists that can provide nursing care at the actual point of care. This concentration takes 43 credit hours to complete and can be taken part-time or full-time.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time experience in nursing.

Post Master’s Certificate Programs

MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This certificate program is open to licensed RNs who already have an MSN. It usually takes 4 semesters and 21 credit hours to complete on a part-time basis.

Graduates will be able to take the certificate exam to become CNLs.

 Contact:
Xavier University
3800 Victory Parkway,
Cincinnati, OH 45207

Youngstown State University Nursing School Review

Youngstown State University (YSU) has a ton of programs for students to choose from in seven different colleges: the Beeghly College of Education, the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, the College of Fine and Performing Arts, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of STEM, the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and the Williamson College of Business Administration.

Youngstown State University – Department of Nursing

This department maintains only the best standards in nursing and has so far prepared a ton of professional nurses that are well-qualified in the field.

This department has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Generic Track

Students who wish to get a BSN degree have two tracks to choose from at Youngstown State University. This generic track exists for students who do not have any diplomas yet.

This program takes 127 semester hours to complete, 71 of which are nursing hours. It also includes 960 clinical hours and 90 on-campus laboratory hours. In general, this program can be completed in 8 semester if students take at least 14 hours each semester.

To apply, students will need to have completed the required pre-nursing courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.80. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in all of their other college work.

Graduates will need to have completed all of the necessary baccalaureate nursing courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

RN/BSN Completion Track (for current RNs)

A registered nurse (RN) who already has a diploma can take this track in order to help their career grow more. Any previous education of up to 44 semester hours can be awarded to RNs who have successfully completed their first three courses in nursing.

To apply, students need to have a CPR certification, a valid RN license in Ohio or be graduates of an approved program in nursing. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

School Nurse Licensure (Certificate)

This certificate program helps students build on their undergraduate education and turn them into effective members in the professional community at school. This program takes 18 credit hours and 300 practicum hours to complete.

To apply, students need to have an RN license in Ohio.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses

This program exists for nurses with baccalaureate degrees and strong foundations in making decisions, thinking critically and practicing nursing, in general. There are three tracks to this program, including clinical nursing, school nursing, and nurse anesthesia.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license, and a valid CPR certificate. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite undergraduate courses and submit their GRE scores, official college transcripts, a letter of intent and three reference letters.

Graduates will be able to take the national certification examinations to practice as advanced practice nurses.

Contact:
Youngstown State University
One University Plaza,
Youngstown, OH 44555

Dickinson State University Nursing School Review

Dickinson State University (DSU) is a public university in Dickinson and is part of the North Dakota University System. It is located in the small city of Dickinson that has a population of around 18,000 residents. The university was founded in 1918 as a normal school, or school to train teachers. The university offers over 75 fields of study and has 10 academic departments. There are also two-year programs offered by the university, with a specialization in teacher education. A graduate program in education has recently been added to the offerings at the university. Several nursing programs are also offered at the university.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science in Practical Nursing Program

The university offers an Associate in Applied Science Practical Nursing (AASPN) program. Students learn therapeutic nursing interventions and must complete 66 credits to complete the program. When a student is ready for graduation, the NCLEX-PN exam is taken to obtain licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse. The program is competitive because only 43 students are enrolled each year. Students must complete at least 67 credits to graduate from the program. Students are required to apply to both the university and to the Department of Nursing. A physical plus a criminal background check are required. Applicants must be high school graduates with a grade point average of at least 2.25. A North Dakota University System application must be submitted to Dickinson State University.

Vocational LPNs may apply to complete the second year of the AASPN program if they are interested in completing their associate degree. The candidate must have graduated from an approved PN program with a minimum grade of C in chemistry and other courses. Applicants may take the PN Fundamentals Exam to receive credit for nursing courses that they have taken in their PN studies.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program

Dickinson State offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Completion Program for RNs who want to complete their BSN. After the credits from the student’s associate degree have been transferred, most students only need to complete around half of the credits that are needed to earn the bachelor’s degree. Students must have completed core courses in high school that include 4 units of English, 3 units of math such as Algebra I and above, 3 units of science such as biology, chemistry, physics, or physical science, and 3 units of social studies. Candidates without this academic background may be admitted to an associate degree program until they complete these courses. The nursing program is competitive and only 32 students are accepted each year.

Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 2.5 on their previous college level work and must have at least a C in any prerequisite courses taken before being accepted into the nursing program. The BSN completion program requires students to meet all of the general education requirements of a bachelor’s degree. Students then complete advanced nursing courses and complete clinical experience before graduation.

Contact:
Dickinson State University
291 Campus Drive,
Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 483-2507

Jamestown College Nursing Program Review

Jamestown College (JC) is a small private college located in Jamestown, North Dakota. There are about 1,000 students enrolled in this liberal arts college that was founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1883. Jamestown College is known for its science and nursing programs. The student to faculty ratio is 13 to 1, so students are able to get the extra help that they need. Students live in the on-campus residence halls at Jamestown College.

Nursing Program

Nursing

Jamestown College offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The program prepares students for a career as a professional nurse who is knowledgeable and ready to work in a variety of healthcare facilities. The college has a reputation of placing 100% of its graduates in many different hospitals, clinics, and other places all over the United States, including the famous Mayo Clinic and others. Applicants who are interested in entering the nursing program must first apply to the college and be accepted into Jamestown College. A minimum high school grade point average of 3.25 is required, and the preferred ACT score is 24 or 1100 on the SAT. It is highly recommended that applicants have had biology and chemistry while they were in high school.

Those who are accepted into the program are expected to maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 on the prerequisite nursing courses that they complete at the college. Once enrolled in the nursing program, students may not get a grade less than C on nursing course. Acceptance into the program is competitive, and the decision of which students are admitted relies primarily on applicants’ grade point averages. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as Registered Nurses (RNs).

RNs and LPNs

RNs and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the BSN program at Jamestown College. They may take an orientation and transition module or preparation of portfolios to receive credit for the nursing courses that they completed while studying for their nursing careers. Previously earned college credit can also be transferred to meet the general college requirements of the college. Each RN or LPN may take a different amount of time to complete the program since some students will require fewer courses than others, depending on how many credits were transferred into the BSN program. There is also a full-time or part-time option.

All BSN students complete their clinical experience at diverse clinical settings. Some of these are the James River Correctional Center, North Dakota State Hospital, Jamestown Regional Medical Center, Anne Carlsen Center for Children, and Sanford Hospital. There are also international travel opportunities for nursing students who may choose to travel to Chogoria, Kenya during their senior year. This experience counts as clinical experience since students travel to a hospital in the jungle and visit villages to provide nursing care and medicine. Students also have the chance to visit orphanages and schools and to go on a safari while they are there. Another international opportunity for seniors is to Nha Trang, Vietnam and Taipei, Taiwan. Students experience the modern medical facilities in these countries and can experience healthcare and eastern medicine.

Contact:
Jamestown College
6000 College Lane,
Jamestown, ND 58405
(701) 252-3467

Sanford College of Nursing Program Review

Sanford College of Nursing (SCN), previously known as the Medcenter College of Nursing (MOCN), is located in Bismarck, North Dakota. The facility includes classrooms, a computer lab, library, conference rooms, study areas, and four clinical learning labs. Students use the computer lab for computer-assisted instruction programs, for nursing care planning, and as a place to write papers and complete other assignments. The college has learning labs that simulate patient care rooms and equipment that students use for practice purposes. There is also a simulation lab where students practice on “patients” before they move on to treat human patients.

Nursing Program

The nursing program is a four-year program that prepares students for many different entry level positions in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, schools, and other healthcare facilities. Those who are interested in attending the Sanford College of Nursing should complete an application. Applicants are considered individually, and admission is based on scholastic ability and achievement. Potential students must also show that they have maturity and integrity before being admitted to the program. Applicants must first enroll in the general education prerequisite courses before applying to the nursing program. A grade point average of at least 2.5 in this academic work is required. Students must complete all of the prerequisites before enrolling in the junior year of the nursing program.

Students are required to have complete criminal background checks before beginning any clinical experience. Those who have been convicted of felonies and some other crimes are not permitted into the healthcare facility to complete their clinical experience. In addition, students with convictions may not be granted a license to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). For this reason, background checks are required by the college. If an applicant has been convicted of any criminal offence besides a minor traffic offense, admission will probably not be granted. It is important that prospective nursing students realize that even if they meet all of the minimum requirements, it does not guarantee that they will be admitted to the nursing program.

The focus of the nursing program at the Sanford College of Nursing is to prepare students to become leaders in the healthcare systems in which they work. Students receive experience in many different settings while they are students at the college, and the Sanford Medical Center (SMC) is one of the main clinical experience sites for students. They also rotate to a variety of community agencies, schools, and clinics. Students are well-prepared to take the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse, the NCLEX-RN.

Also, the college realizes that many students need financial aid to complete their nursing degree. Some of the sources of financial aid are grants, loans, student employment, and scholarships. An outstanding opportunity for students who do not want to pay student loans for years is the Sanford Health Nursing Student Tuition Loan Program. It is available to all good students who meet all of the admission requirements who would like Sanford Health Health Systems to employ them as Registered Nurses. Those graduates who choose to work with Sanford Health Systems (SHS) or any of its affiliates may have their nursing student loan cancelled. If you opt to work elsewhere, you have the option to directly repay the loan amount you borrowed. There are also Federal Work-Study Programs available. In this program, students work in community jobs for minimum wage pay. This money can be used to pay for tuition and college expenses.

Contact:
Sanford College of Nursing
512 N. Seventh Street,
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 323-6271

Minot State University Nursing School Review

Minot State University (MSU, MiSU) is located in Minot, a city in north central North Dakota. It is the fourth largest city in the state. The university was founded in 1913 and started as a normal school to train teachers.

Today, it has around 3,400 students who are in 60 undergraduate programs or graduate programs. Minot State is a member of the North Dakota University System that is made up of 11 colleges and universities with doctoral, master, baccalaureate, and community colleges.

Minot State is close to a major air force base and to the Turtle Mountain Region and Garrison Dam/Missouri River area. The university draws most of its students from North Dakota, Montana, and from several Canadian areas. There are also several Native American communities that are located in the area and who can be found at Minot State as faculty members and students.

Nursing Programs

BSN Degree

The Department of Nursing at the university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Students are prepared to meet the nursing shortage that is expected to continue to grow greater in upcoming years. Students are prepared to work at many different healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, retirement homes, schools, community agencies, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare settings. During the four years of the program, students take the general education requirements of the university plus nursing core courses. They also complete rotation at a variety of healthcare settings to prepare them for their careers. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs).

Applicants who want to enter the nursing program must first be accepted by Minot State University. Also, all science courses must be completed before students are admitted to the program. Students must have a grade point average of 2.75 and must have earned at least a C in each support course. Support courses require a grade point average of 2.8. Another requirement is that applicants must take the TEAS test and have a satisfactory score on this test. Applicants who were born outside of the U.S. or Canada must complete the TOEFL exam and score a minimum score of 79 or minimum paper based score of 550. Admission to the nursing program is decided through a point system.

RN to BSN Online

The university also offers an RN to BSN program that is completed online. RNs who want to complete their bachelor’s degree in nursing must meet the general education requirements of the university as well as the nursing program requirements. The program is designed to be flexible and to meet the needs of working nurses. Students may complete the program on either a full-time or part-time basis. Once credits from the student’s associate degree are transferred to Minot State, the student must complete the remainder of the 128 credits needed for the BSN. This can be accomplished full-time in a minimum of 15 to 18 months, depending on how many courses a student must complete. RNs can expect to have more job opportunities after completing the program and graduating. Many agencies require RNs with a BSN, including federal agencies, the military, public health agencies, and companies that hire nurses for management positions.

Contact:
Minot State University
500 University Avenue West,
Minot, ND 58707
(800) 777-0750

North Dakota State College of Science Nursing Program Review

North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is a two-year college that is part of the North Dakota University System. It was established in 1903, and today offers degrees, certificates, and diplomas in over 80 programs. It is located in Wahpeton, a small city of less than 8,000 residents. This college is different from most community colleges because it provides a university experience for students. There are residence halls, intramural athletics, intercollegiate athletics, and many programs that students may become involved in during their time at North Dakota State College of Science.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing

This unique program prepares students for a career as a Practical Nurse with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Most Practical Nursing (PN) programs lead to a diploma rather than to a two-year associate degree. This program at North Dakota State College of Science has be ranked as number one out over 1,000 other practical nursing programs in the U.S. The college has a record of 100 percent of the graduates who took the NCLEX-PN national exam leading to licensure passed it on their first try. Students complete 68 credits over four semesters. Graduates have opportunities for employment at many different healthcare facilities.

Students begin taking nursing courses in the first year of studies. Students also complete liberal arts and science classes that are required for the degree. Admission requirements include a high school diploma with at least a C average and an ACT score of at least 15 or an Aptitude Examination for Practical Nursing with a minimum score. Students must first be accepted into the college and complete at least 12 credits of the nursing curriculum in one semester or 6 credits in a summer semester. A grade of C or higher is required before the student may apply to the Practical Nursing Program.

Bridge to AAS Practical Nursing

This program is designed for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who have a certificate or diploma who want to further their education. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree in Practical Nursing. Students are usually able to transfer some general education credits from their previous nursing studies. Graduates from the program may apply to transfer into an associate degree program in Registered Nursing or into a bachelor’s degree program in nursing.

Associate in Science in Nursing

This program is offered by the college to LPN graduates who have an AAS in Practical Nursing. Students have the opportunity to complete their Associate in Science in nursing degree. Upon graduation, they take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Students must complete 72 credits of liberal arts and science courses plus the required nursing courses. Students also complete clinical experience in rotations to a variety of medical settings. Applicants must have an Associate in Applied Science or an Associate in Science Practical Nursing degree and must be currently licensed. They must have a grade average of at least C in these courses. They must also complete the Assessment Technologies Institute assessment exam and attain a satisfactory score. A point system is used to determine which students are accepted into the program, and those with the highest scores on the assessment exam and previous courses taken are admitted to the program.

Contact:
North Dakota State College of Science
800 Sixth Street North,
Wahpeton, ND 58076-0002
(800) 342-4325

North Dakota State University Nursing School Review

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a research university that has been rated as one of the top 108 public and private universities in the U.S. The university is part of the North Dakota University System. It is located in Fargo and has around 14,000 students. It began in 1890 as the North Dakota Agricultural College. Today, the university has agricultural research extension centers that cover close to 20,000 acres. There are 102 bachelor’s degree programs, 66 master’s degree programs, and 44 doctoral programs, and 10 graduate certificates offered at the university. The university is more affordable than many others and tuition is around 11 percent less than other colleges and universities in the region.

Nursing Programs

Baccalaureate Degree Pre-Licensure Track

The Baccalaureate Degree Pre-Licensure Track is a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). The pre-nursing program consists of the first two semesters at the university. It is open to all high school graduates interested in becoming professional nurses. Students must first be admitted to the university. During their first year, students take liberal arts and science courses and do not begin the nursing major until the beginning of the sophomore year. Admission to the program is competitive, and students must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their freshman courses to apply to the program. Most of the students who are admitted have substantially higher grade point averages.

Students applying to the nursing program must have a background check that includes a criminal background check and FBI check. The proper immunizations and vaccines are also required since students may be exposed to blood and body fluids. They must also maintain professional behavior once admitted to the program. Students complete all of the university’s bachelor’s degree requirements plus nursing core courses and electives. Clinical experience is also completed once students are in the nursing program.

LPN-BSN Track

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have an associate degree in nursing may apply to enter this program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The program is designed to meet the needs of working LPNs and is convenient to fit into their schedule since most of the program is completed online according to the nurse’s schedule. It usually takes six semesters for LPNs to complete the program, including summers. Students are required to take some coursework on campus during the summer semesters. Depending on the amount of credits that may be transferred to the BSN program, students often need to complete some prerequisite courses before entering the program. Applicants take an advanced placement test to determine how many credits they will be allowed to transfer to the BSN program. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Master’s Degree

Master of Science

This program is designed for RNs who have a BSN. Applicants must apply to the university’s graduate admissions department by submitting an application and an official transcript. Also, the GRE is required and the scores must be sent to the graduate admissions office. A copy of the applicant’s RN unencumbered license must also be submitted, along with a statement of purpose and three professional letters of recommendation. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on their undergraduate studies to qualify for this program. Students must complete the core nursing courses required for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). In addition, the courses related to the concentration chosen by the student must also be completed. The concentrations are discussed below.

Family Nurse Practitioner/Doctor of Nursing Practice

Nurses with a BSN may enter this MSN program and also complete their Doctor of Nursing Practice. A grade point average of at least 3.0 is required on undergraduate work. Applicants must be licensed RNs with an unencumbered license. In addition, they must complete a Graduate School application and submit three professional references plus a written narrative explaining their professional experience and future nursing goals. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree requires at least 86 credits to complete. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average in their coursework. In addition, a dissertation, clinical dissertation, or thesis is required.

Nurse Educator

This MSN program requires a minimum of 39 credits to complete. Students are prepared to teach undergraduate nursing students and to educate staff and patients in a variety of settings. Coursework includes strategies for teaching, curriculum development, and evaluation. A grade point average of 3.0 or higher is required for the courses in the program. Students also complete a practicum of teaching experience.

Doctor of Nursing Practice MS-DNP/FNP

This program is designed for RNs who have completed their MSN and wish to pursue an advanced nursing degree. The program leads to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) degree. Students are prepared to provide the most advanced nursing care to families and their members of all ages. The DNP program prepares the nurse practitioner for leadership and clinical roles in many different healthcare settings. The program is a distance delivered program that focuses on preparing nurses to serve those who do not receive regular medical treatment. It takes three years of full-time study to complete the program, including summer sessions. The part-time program takes four years to complete including summer sessions.

Contact:
North Dakota State University
1340 Administration Avenue,
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 231-8011

Presentation College Nursing Program Review

Presentation College (PC) is located in Aberdeen, South Dakota. It is a Catholic private college that was established in 1922. Around 790 students are enrolled at the college. Students of all faiths attend the college that offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificate programs. Although many different programs are offered at the college, it is known for its health and medical programs. Nursing is the most popular program at Presentation College, and students who are looking for a small college with a very low student to faculty ratio will want to consider attending this college.

Nursing Programs

Baccalaureate Nursing Program

Presentation College offers a Baccalaureate Nursing Program that leads to a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN). Students take all of the required courses for a bachelor’s degree plus specialty nursing courses to prepare them for their career as a nurse. At least 127 credits are necessary for graduation. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN that is required for licensure as a Registered Nurse after completing the program. Clinical experience is an important part of the program that prepares RNs to enter the workforce and work directly with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, community agencies, and other healthcare facilities. A BSN prepares students for leadership roles in nursing if they begin working after graduation, or it is the preparation needed to continue studying for a master’s degree in nursing.

BSN Completion Program for RNs (RN to BSN)

Presentation College requires applicants to have a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Also, SAT scores must be at least 860, or an applicant must have an ACT score of at least 18. Applicants with scores below these are sometimes accepted on probation. The college also accepts students who were home schooled or who have completed their GED. The BSN completion program for RNs (Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BSN) is designed for nurses who have already earned their Associate degree or who have a diploma in nursing. The program can be completed in about half the time that it takes to complete a traditional BSN since credits from the nurse’s previous coursework can usually be transferred to the bachelor’s degree program.

LPN to BSN Completion

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to BSN Completion program is designed to allow LPNs who are currently licensed to earn their BSN. It takes between four to six semesters to complete the program that is all online. Clinical experience is also at one of the college’s virtual sites. Since students choose when they complete their work, they can keep working as they earn their BSN. At the end of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

RN to BSN Completion

RNs can complete their BSN through Presentation College’s online program. All parts of the program are offered online, and clinical experience is completed near the student’s home area. The program takes 16 months to complete and can be done while the student works full-time. Applicants must have current licensure as an RN.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Presentation College offers a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that trains students for entry-level jobs as a Registered Nurse. Students are trained in the technical side of nursing care, but they also take some liberal arts and science courses. At the completion of the nursing courses and clinical experience, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

Contact:
Presentation College
1500 N. Main Street,
Aberdeen, SD 57401
(800) 437-6060

University of Mary Nursing School Review

The University of Mary (U-Mary) is located in Bismarck, North Dakota. It is a liberal arts private, Catholic university with over 3,000 students enrolled in its programs. Besides the university’s location in Bismarck, it has other locations in North Dakota, Montana, Missouri, Kansas, Arizona, and Rome, Italy. There are 52 undergraduate programs, 8 master’s degree programs, and 1 doctoral degree program.

The college is known for being very affordable for a private university. Students have the opportunity to take an entire semester of studies in Rome at the Rome Campus. The university has a unique guarantee that students will complete their bachelor’s degree in four years or the college will fund your fifth year without cost to the student. The student must keep a minimum grade point average and not fail any classes to qualify for this guarantee.

Nursing Programs

Nursing

The University of Mary offers either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in nursing. The program prepares students to work in many healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and other settings, or to continue studies to complete a Master of Science in Nursing. Students complete their clinical experience in public health agencies, nursing homes, community agencies, and other facilities. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse. To qualify for admission for the program, candidates must have a grade point average of at least 2.75 or higher, and they must earn at least a C in the prerequisite courses for the nursing program. There is a preadmission exam that must be taken before being admitted to the nursing program and students must have a criminal background check, physical exam, and must have CPR certification.

Nursing – LPN to BS

This program is designed for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with either a certificate or associate degree who wants to complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in nursing prepares the graduate to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure as a Registered Nurse. Most courses are online so that students do not need to attend classes each day. This allows nurses to continue working. To be admitted to the program, the student must be a currently Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with a grade point average of 2.75 or higher. Candidates must take the LPN Comprehensive Predictor Exam and earn a satisfactory score. The student who is accepted into the BS program must earn at least 128 credits.

Nursing – RN to BS

The Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) program is for nurses who have an associate’s degree who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. Students in the program work in a cohort format which makes completing projects easier to do. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.75 on their previous coursework and at least an average of 2.0 in nursing courses. Students are able to continue working during the program and can complete the program in about two years after the credits from their associate’s degree have been transferred to the college.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner FNP

This Master of Science in Nursing program offers some unique features that are not found at every college or university. The program is partially online and also requires classes at the college. Visits to the college are limited. Clinical experiences are another requirement of this program. A unique feature is that the program can be completed in only 15 to 18 months. Also, the GRE is not required, so nurses do not need to spend time studying for this exam that is usually required for admission to graduate programs. Candidates for the program must be currently licensed RNs with an unencumbered license and a BSN. An undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 or better is also required. Students in the program are prepared to deliver primary care to members of families of all ages. The program requires that students complete 53 semester credits and 900 clinical hours.

MSN Nurse Administrator

This Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares nurses to work as leaders in clinical settings and in other facilities within the community. It is designed for RNs who have previously completed a bachelor’s degree. Courses are offered either on-site or online, and both options are accelerated. Students have the opportunity to complete the program in only 15 to 18 months to earn this MSN degree. Applicants must have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 or better. A total of 36 credits are required to complete this program.

Diploma/ADN to MSN: Nurse Administrator

This program is designed for RNs with a diploma or associate degrees who want to add to their credentials as professional nurses. There are two bridge courses in this program that are related to community health and leadership. Prerequisite courses are statistics, chemistry, microbiology, psychology, and English.

MSN Nurse Educator

The University of Mary offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator program. Students in the program learn to teach undergraduate nurses as well as patients and staff in hospitals and other healthcare facilities and in the community. Two accelerated program choices are available, which are to complete the program on site or online. The advantages to this program are that it can be completed in only 15 to 18 months with a MSN degree. Also, students do not need to take the GRE to be admitted to the program. Applicants must have a BSN with an undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.75. This program requires that 41 credits are completed.

Contact:
University of Mary
7500 University Drive,
Bismarck, ND 58504
(800) 288-6279

University of North Dakota Nursing School Review

The University of North Dakota (UND) is located in Grand Forks and was founded in 1883. It is a public university that has over 14,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs. It is the only school that offers law and medicine in the state of North Dakota. The university is known for its School of Aerospace Sciences for training pilots from around the world. The university offers many other programs, including nursing.

Nursing Programs

Traditional 4 Year BSN

The university offers this program for students who want to prepare for a career as a professional nurse. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students take liberal arts and sciences plus prerequisite courses before beginning the nursing program. Applicants must apply to both the university and the College of Nursing. Those who apply must have a grade point average of at least 2.50 on the courses that have been completed at the University of North Dakota. About 56 students are admitted each semester, and students are chosen by using a point system. Those accepted into the program focus on nursing courses and clinical experience at a variety of clinical sites in the area. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Nurses with a BSN are in demand all over the United States, and the number of professional nurses is expected to increase in the future.

Accelerated BSN

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is open only to students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Applicants must apply both to the university and to the College of Nursing, and the amount of time required to complete the degree depends on how many credits from the applicant’s previous bachelor’s degree can be transferred to the nursing program. A grade point average of 3.0 in previous college level work is preferred. Admission is competitive since only 16 students are admitted each year. Once a student has met all of the prerequisites by completing required coursework before beginning the nursing program, an accelerated curriculum of nursing courses and clinical experience must be completed. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licenses to practice as a Registered Nurse.

LPN to BSN

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) by completing this program. Credit is given for some of the nursing courses that they have taken. Students must meet all of the university’s requirements for bachelor’s degree students in addition to the required coursework and clinical experience that the College of Nursing mandates. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.

RN to BSN

This Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for nurses who have previously earned an associate degree or who have a diploma in nursing. There are 129 credits required for the BSN, and typically students can transfer around 130 credits from their previous nursing studies to the program. There is a full-time program as well as a part-time program for RNs who must continue working while they are in the program. Students who opt for the full-time program can complete it in one year, but this depends on how many credits a student has to transfer to the BSN program.

MS Tracks

The university offers a variety of Master of Science (MS) degrees with specialties in Nurse Anesthesia, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric and Mental Health, Nursing Education, Gerontological Nursing, and Advanced Public Health Nursing. All students in the MS programs must complete the basic core nursing courses required by this degree in addition to the advanced nursing practice coursework required by the specialty that they choose. Each of these is discussed below.

Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia Track

This program trains RNs with a BSN to take the national exam for certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). The program requires 78 credits that are completed in 28 months of full-time study. Applicants must have completed a statistics course, College Algebra or an ACT score of 26 or more. They may also test out of this course on the university math placement test. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or better and a current license as an RN. Two years or more experience working in a critical care setting is desired, but students with one year’s experience are considered. Applicants are also required to have completed an advanced Biochemistry course. Only 12 students are accepted into this highly competitive program each year.

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

This program is online and prepares RNs with a BSN to provide primary care to all family members. Five semesters are required, including one summer session. Students must complete from 59 to 61 credits and 645 clinical hours. At the completion of the program, graduates take the national exam for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Psychology and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist or Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This MS program is offered by the university via online delivery except for one week each year. Students must complete between 61 and 63 credits to earn their MS as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. Those who want a career as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner must earn between 60 and 62 credits. Both programs prepare RNs to specialize in mental health issues, while the Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs to provide primary care for patients with mental health issues. Applicants are expected to have a current license as an RN and to have a grade point average of 3.0 or better in the last two years of undergraduate courses. They must also have completed a statistics course and must have at least one year of experience as an RN.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Education Track

The university offers this MS program for RNs who want a career in nurse education. Students are prepared to teach undergraduate nursing students and to provide staff training and education in a variety of healthcare settings. They also specialize in patient education. A post-master’s certificate is also available to those who have already completed their MS in nursing. The program is offered online for RNs who are working and are unable to take time off to further their education.

Master of Science in Nursing – Gerontological Nursing

This is an online program that prepares RNs with a BSN to work with elderly patients. Students must choose to enter the Gerontological Nurse Practitioner or Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist program. Applicants must have a current RN license, have completed a statistics course, and have a minimum grade point average of at least 3.0 for their last two years of undergraduate studies. The program may be completed full-time in 5 semesters or part-time in 8 or 9 semesters.

Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Public Health Nurse Track

This program prepares RNs with a BSN to work in leadership positions in public health, both in clinical settings and in administration. Applicants are required to have a statistics course completed, a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the last two years of their undergraduate studies, and current licensure. One year’s experience as an RN is preferred.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

This doctoral program is designed for RNs with a MS who want to further their education to prepare for a career in research or college level teaching positions in nursing. There is also an entry point for post-baccalaureate students who are RNs with a BSN who have master’s degrees in other fields. The amount of time required to complete the program depends on the area that the student chooses as a focus.

Contact:
University of North Dakota
2901 University Avenue Stop 8264,
Memorial Union Room 314,
Grand Forks, ND 58202
(800) 225-5863

United Tribes Technical College Nursing Program Review

The United Tribes Technical College (UTTC) is an accredited college through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. UTTC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, functioned by the following five tribes: the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the Spirit Lake Tribe, the Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indian, and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. It is commissioned by the state of North Dakota. The UTTC was originally established for American Indians to receive training and employment placement and since has become affiliated with all nationalities abroad. Native Americans and people of all backgrounds are given the opportunity to be provided with an excellent education in a variety of choices of study.

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Practical Nursing (AASPN)

The United Tribes Technical College’s Practical Nursing Department (PN), requires its interested students to complete its Admission Requirements before a student is considered into the program. Admission requirements include: demonstration of physical capabilities required in the nursing profession; successful completion of BIO 220 and NUR 101; current enrollment or completion of NUR 203, NUR 206, BIO 221, and BIO 203; a GPA of 2.50 or higher; and a criminal background check report may not have any convictions of felonies, any reports on a health care abuse registry, and may not have any convictions of a crime against a minor in order to be accepted into the program. General Education requirements for the AASPN are necessary for admission into the Practical Nursing program as well.

In the first year of entrance, the Introductory Nursing Courses provide students with classroom theory and skill labs to teach the basics of the nursing profession along with the ethical and legal practices of the nursing industry. Courses that teach the different age groups, such as geriatric and children care for example, give the diverse knowledge of patient interaction and responsibilities required. Quality health care delivery to patients and professionalism towards staff and team members are just a few things taught in the introductory courses.

The next semesters enrolled for an AASPN, the student will be given the opportunity to learn in a medical environment as well as the classroom by following faculty around various clinical settings. Learning through hands-on experience, while still under the supervision of highly skilled staff, is what gives UTTC’s students the advantage of becoming confident and accomplished nursing professionals. All staff of the nursing faculty have at least a Master’s Degree in Nursing. A review course for the licensing exam is given towards the end of completing the program. Once the program is completed, students are fully prepared to apply for the national licensure exam (NCLEX-PN) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Graduate students are then ready for the real world upon achievement of the exam. Graduates are employed through facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, home health, hospice, or nursing home and rehabilitation centers. The UTTC’s AASPN is a nationally accredited program through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

Contact:
United Tribes Technical College
3315 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 255-3285

SUNY Institute of Technology at Utica-Rome Nursing Program Review

The State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome (SUNYIT) is located in Central New York State north of Utica. The campus is very large with over 700 acres of land. Utica is a city that has many parks and activities that SUNYIT students attend. Students from all over the state attend this university to earn their bachelor’s degree or to work on a graduate degree. The housing options on campus are two townhouse type buildings and one residence hall that was just recently built. SUNY-Institute of Technology-Utica/Rome also has many planned student activities, including athletics, clubs, and various organizations for students.

Nursing Program

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

SUNYIT Utica/Rome offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in nursing for those who are already Registered Nurses (RNs). RNs must have either an associate degree in nursing or a diploma from a diploma nursing program. Students may attend either full-time or part-time. There are also outreach sites that offer courses blending distance learning technology with traditional classroom teaching. Students complete additional liberal arts and sciences classes as well as nursing courses that cover contemporary nursing practice, nursing research, comprehensive health assessment, and more. To qualify for graduation, students are required to have 124 credits. RNs may usually transfer 30 credits in nursing and up to 34 credits in liberal arts and sciences, so the time to complete the bachelor’s degree program is reduced.

Applicants who want to attend this program at SUNYIT Utica/Rome must have a minimum grade point average of 3.2 on the last 30 credits that they earned at the undergraduate level. They must have completed one year of experience working as a nurse, and they must be currently registered as an RN in New York State. To qualify for graduation, students must have a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all courses and no less than a C in each nursing course.

SUNYIT-St. Elizabeth College of Nursing 1 + 2 + 1 Partnership

This program allows students to earn two degrees in four years. It is intended for high school students who enter college immediately after they graduate. Those who are accepted into the program begin their freshman year at SUNYIT and then attend St. Elizabeth College of Nursing for the second and third years. At the end of the two years at St. Elizabeth, students graduate with an associate degree and are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN. At St. Elizabeth, they will work over 590 hours of clinical time in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. For their final year, they take all of their classes at SUNYIT to earn their bachelor’s degree. Students may live at SUNIT on campus for the entire period of four years. To apply for admission to this program, students need SAT or ACT scores, two letters of recommendation, and their high school transcript. Although admission is very competitive, students are admitted on an individual basis.

Albany Outreach Program

This program is designed for RNs in the Albany who want to complete their Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. It is a part-time program that allows nurses to continue working. Many of the courses are available online, which is a convenience for working nurses. It usually takes four years to complete the program since only two courses of six to eight credits are taken each semester. Students must go to Hudson Valley Community College for their nursing courses and arts and science courses. The SUNYIT nursing faculty travels to Hudson alley to teach the nursing courses.

Ulster Outreach Program

The SUNY Ulster Campus in Stone Ridge also offers a part-time study nursing program for RNs who want to earn their bachelor’s degree. Some courses are available online, and students must travel to the SUNY Ulster Campus for nursing and arts and science courses. The SUNYIT nursing faculty teaches the nursing classes. Students also need to travel to the Utica campus to take Nursing 490. RNs with either an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing are admitted to the program.

BS/MS ANP Program

This Bachelor of Science/Master of Science Adult Nurse Practitioner program is open to applicants who are RNs with an associate degree in nursing. Students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 in all courses taken at SUNYIT to qualify to remain in the program. All graduate nursing courses require a 3.0 as well, and the student may not have more than two Cs on record at the time of graduation. This nursing program is accelerated and required a lot of commitment and devotion to succeeding in learning the material in courses and earning the grades needed to remain in the program. Students who fail to keep their grades at 3.0 or higher are dropped down to the RN to BS program. Students must complete a total of 120 credits to earn their BS with a major in nursing. There is a residence requirement of 30 hours for the graduate portion of the program, and at the program completion, students take a national exam to be certified as Adult Nurse Practitioners.

BS/MS FNP Program

RNs with an associate degree in nursing who wish to become Family Nurse Practitioners may want to enter SUNYITs Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) Family Nurse Practitioner Program. Students must maintain a 3.0 in all nursing courses and may not have more than two Cs at the time of graduation. Students who do not maintain their grades will be dropped down to the RN to BS program. There is a 30 hour residence requirement to complete the program. At the time of graduation, students take the national exam to become certified to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner in New York State.

BS/MS Nursing Administration

RNs who are interested in a career in nursing administration may want to complete both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in one program at SUNYIT. This accelerated program requires that a grade point average of at least 3.0 is maintained in all courses taken at SUNYIT and also a 3.0 in all graduate nursing courses. The residence requirement is 30 hours, and students may complete some of the coursework online. At the time of graduation, students take a national exam that leads to certification as a nurse administrator.

Accelerated BS/MS Nursing Education

This program requires three years of full-time study to complete. Two summers are also required. Students complete education courses and a practicum to practice teaching methods. At the completion of the program, they may take the national certification exam to become Nurse Educators.

Contact:
State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome
100 Seymour Road,
Utica, New York 13502
(315) 792-7100

Appalachian State University Nursing School Review

Appalachian State University (ASU) is a public facility in Boone, North Carolina. It is a large university with over 17,000 undergraduates and over 3,000 postgraduates enrolled. The campus is in a scenic area in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are over 140 undergraduate and graduate majors. Appalachian State is one of the 16 universities that are part of the University of North Carolina system. The university has a textbook rental program that saves students a substantial amount of money over the years because they do not need to buy textbooks. The college has received many awards, including Sierra magazine’s Top 20 “Coolest” Schools.

Nursing Programs

Prelicensure BSN

Appalachian State offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for students who are not yet licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). Students who complete the program are eligible to take the national examination for licensure as an RN. The nursing program trains future nurses to work in many different settings, and they are prepared to enter the workforce as soon as they become licensed as RNs. The nursing department admits up to 40 qualified students each year. The program is designed to take eight semesters plus one 8-week summer session that is scheduled between the sophomore and junior year. Students need 124 credits to graduate, and they must meet all general education required to complete the BSN as well as the nursing courses and clinical experience.

Applicants to the nursing program at Appalachian must first be admitted to the university. Students may apply to the nursing department at the end of their sophomore year. They must have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher, complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills and score adequately, and complete an application to the department. All non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses must be completed by this time. Admission to the nursing program is competitive, so not all students who qualify will be accepted. Once students are admitted, they must maintain a grade of C or higher.

The university nursing department has had travel abroad opportunities for nursing students in the past. One of these trips was to the Yucatan region of Mexico during spring break with one of the faculty members for a study abroad experience. Students performed service work and evaluated healthcare in the foreign country. They also toured several nursing schools and spend time in Mayan villages where they worked in a rural clinic and went on home visits. Nursing students also distributed items in an orphanage, hospitals, nursing home, and a village school.

RN to BSN Program

This program is for Registered Nurses (RNs) and is designed for those who want to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It is a part-time program that allows RNs to continue working. Those who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (AND) or a Diploma in Nursing and their RN license to practice in North Carolina are eligible for this program. Many students who enter this program have completed their associate degree at one of the North Carolina community colleges. Appalachian State University has an articulation plan with these colleges that graduates will be admitted to their nursing program at Appalachian. Students must earn 62 credits, and some of these are taken from credits earned in the associate’s degree work. After students finish the first semester of the senior year, they receive 30 semester hours for prior learning and clinical knowledge. Students work in a cohort to complete projects and assignments, and they do not need to travel to Appalachian State since faculty members travel to various locations. Classes are held only one evening each week.

Contact:
Appalachian State University
University Drive,
Boone, NC 28608
(828) 262-2000

Barton College Nursing Program Review

Barton College is a small college in Wilson, North Carolina with a student enrollment of around 1,200 students. It was begun in 1902 by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). There is a very low student to faculty ratio of eleven to one. The college is nationally recognized for its deaf education, education, nursing, and social work programs. There is a strong emphasis on individual attention at the college. There are five residence halls on the 65 acre campus. Students attend Barton from 24 states and 9 different countries. Over 40 majors and programs are offered at the school.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Barton College offers a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program that is unique in that the faculty team teaches students. This enables faculty members to work together to present the curriculum by using a combination of all of their talents and knowledge to benefit students. Students have opportunities to study in Peru, Honduras, Costa Rica, rural Pennsylvania, and a Cherokee Indian reservation. Nursing students take general education courses during their first year and then progress to nursing courses and other general education courses in the second year. This plan allows students to complete the science prerequisites in their sophomore year.

Another interesting opportunity for nursing students at Barton is that they work internships for their clinical experience. Many of the hospitals and healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement or pay competitive salaries to students during this time. Barton offers scholarships to students in need of financial aid, and the State of North Carolina also awards a North Carolina Nurse Scholar award. Students may also apply for federal financial aid and numerous other nursing scholarships and grants that they may qualify to receive.

To qualify for admission to the college, students must have a high school diploma with at least 13 college preparatory units. It is expected that students have at least a 2.30 grade point average from high school classes. They must also take the SAT or ACT and score a minimum score of 890 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT. Students who are admitted must complete all of the nursing courses and clinical experience necessary for graduation with a BSN. At the completion of the program, students qualify to take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

RN to BSN

This program is for RNs who have their associate degree who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 on their previous college-level work. Students must complete the prerequisite and core curriculum courses before applying to the nursing program, and they must maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average in these courses. This program requires part-time attendance so that the RN may continue working. It is a requirement that students must be a currently licensed RN to enter the program. Credits may be transferred from the student’s community college or junior college in amounts up to 64 semester hours. Students must complete the upper level nursing courses and clinical experience after the prerequisite liberal arts and science courses are finished. A total of 126 semester hours are required for graduation when students receive a BSN.

Contact:
Barton College
200 Atlantic Christian College Drive NE,
Wilson, NC 27893-2575
(800) 345-4973

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is located in Concord, North Carolina. It is a small college with around 500 students who enroll each year. There are five associate degree programs and three bachelors degree programs offered at the college. Cabarrus College of Health Sciences was started in 1942 to meet the need for Registered Nurses during World War II.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

Cabarrus College offers an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN). The program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as entry-level nurses with a broad range of knowledge and experience. Clinical experience takes place in various hospital settings, providing experience in medical, surgical, pediatrics, and maternity rotations. At the completion of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Admission to the program requires that the applicant has completed Algebra II in high school or on the college level plus other prerequisite courses. The SAT or ACT is another requirement, and applicants must have acceptable scores on one of these exams. Applicants are also encouraged to apply for financial aid. Over 90 percent of the students attending the college receive some sort of financial aid.

Before being accepted into the college, students must have a negative drug test within 30 days before the first day of classes. They must also have a criminal background check and submit proof of health insurance coverage. Applicants must also pass a physical exam and be emotionally able to complete the program and work as a professional nurse. Proof of immunizations must be submitted, as well as evidence of passing the American Heart Association class for healthcare providers. Once accepted into the program, students complete the Pre-Nursing track of 28 semester hours of classes. If these are completed successfully by earning a minimum grade of a B in specified courses and a grade point average of 3.0, students are guaranteed admission to the ADN program.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the ADN program if they meet the general admission criteria and those for the ADN program. They must be currently licensed and submit reference letters. LPNs may receive credit for some of the courses that they took in their studies to become licensed practical nurses. These nurses may also take challenge exams, and if they pass them, they may be exempt from certain nursing courses.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

This Bachelor of Science in Nursing program enables RNs who have an associates degree or a nursing diploma to complete their bachelor’s degree. Nurses are able to continue working while enrolled in the program since it is an online program. It can be completed either full-time or part-time, and requires six semesters on a full-time basis. Credits from the associate degree are considered individually for each student, it is possible to transfer up to 61 credits for previous courses taken. The Cabarrus College faculty works closely with students who are working towards their BSN. RN to BSN students may also earn a minor in Health Services Management and Leadership by completing 12 credits in health services on campus.

Contact:
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
401 Medical Park Drive,
Concord, NC 28025-3959
(704) 403-1555

Carolinas College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

The Carolinas Healthcare System (CHS) is a very large provider of medical care in North Carolina. The Carolinas College of Health Sciences is the training facility that trains Nurses Aids, Registered Nurses, and other healthcare technologists and others. Carolinas College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is part of Carolinas Medical Center (CMC), which is part of Carolinas HealthCare System.

Nursing Programs

Pre-Nursing

The Carolinas College of Health Sciences offers a Pre-Nursing program for students who plan to enter a two-year or four-year nursing program. Students may enter the program in two different ways. They may have guaranteed admissions or a Pre-Nursing certificate program. To be guaranteed a seat in the nursing program at Carolinas College, students must complete four courses within three consecutive terms at the college. They must earn a grade point average of 3.25 in these courses. The courses are Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Medical Terminology, and College Math. Students who earn the required grade point average on these courses are placed on a waiting list, and when an opening occurs, they are admitted to the nursing program.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Carolinas HealthCare System offers a two-year program in nursing. This Associate of Applied Science degree program enables graduates to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. Students must be high school graduates or equivalent, or they may be a high school senior. The applicant must have completed biology, chemistry, and algebra in high school. If this was not done, the applicant must complete these courses before applying to the nursing program. Students take general education classes in the daytime, evenings, or on the weekend. Nursing classes are available only during the day. Clinical experiences begin during the first semester and take place one or two times each week. A total of 71 semester hours must be completed to graduate and take the NCLEX-RN exam. After that, RNs are able to begin working in many different healthcare facilities.

Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing

The Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing program is a four-year program that admits students to both the University of North Carolina (UNC) Charlotte and one of three Associate Degree Colleges. These community colleges are Carolinas College of Health Sciences, Central Piedmont Community College, and Gaston College. Students complete the first three years of studies at the Associate Degree College. They also take one course each semester at UNC. Then, the final year of studies for the bachelor’s degree takes place at UNC. Admission to this program is competitive. A combination of general education courses and nursing courses are taken during the three years at the Associate Degree College.

This unique program is a money-saving option for students because the bachelor’s degree institution charges more for tuition, yet the courses and credit are basically the same, wherever the courses are taken. Carolinas Healthcare System offers financial assistance to students who need financial aid. The finance 80 percent of the tuition for a student until the student graduates or leaves the nursing program. At that time, payments can be arranged. There are also grants, scholarships, federal student loans, or a federal work-study program available.

Contact:

Carolinas College of Health Sciences
1200 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 355-5043

Carolinas Healthcare System
200 South College Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 376-1787

Catawba Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is located in Hickory, North Carolina. It was established in 1958 as part of the North Carolina Community College System. Over 5,000 students attend this community college, with 49 percent attending full-time and 51 percent attending part-time. Almost half of the students attending Catawba Valley receive some sort of financial aid.

Associate Degree Nursing Program – Associate in Applied Science

Catawba Valley Community College offers a Registered Nursing (RN) program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). Applicants to the program must be high school graduates or the equivalent. There is a series of steps that must be carefully followed when applying to this competitive nursing program. It is important that applicants know that if they apply online, the application is not processed until they meet with a Student Services Counselor before the application deadline. Simply submitting the application and not meeting with the counselor means that an applicant will not be considered for admission to the program in that particular year.

Other admission requirements are that the applicant’s high school or GED transcript must be submitted along with the application to the college. The transcript must be an official one that shows the graduate’s date of high school graduation. Those with a GED must also submit their scores along with their application. Official transcripts must be sealed, or they are not considered to be an official copy of the grades. If an applicant has completed any courses at another college, the transcript from these must also be submitted in a sealed envelope. Placement testing is required if an applicant does not meet the curriculum exemptions. In this case, Reading, Writing, Math, and Computer Competency placement tests are required. These tests must be passed with a satisfactory score, or if not, the applicant must complete the equivalent courses at Catawba Valley Community College before being considered for admission.

Applicants are also required to have completed a biology course in high school. If they have not taken biology, they will need to take it at the community college or at another college. The same is true of chemistry. A minimum grade point average is also required for any courses completed at the college, which must be a minimum of 2.50. Applicants with degrees who want to enter the nursing program must also have a minimum grade point average of at least 2.50 in their previous college-level work. In addition, mandatory attendance at a Nursing Success Seminar is required. These programs are held each month. If an applicant meets all of the above requirements, they qualify to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, another admission requirement. Those who are not admitted to the program may re-apply after meeting with a Student Services Counselor. There is no waiting list for the program, so applicants must re-apply each year that they want to be considered for admission to the nursing program.

The number of first year students admitted to the program each year varies, and a point system is used to determine which applicants are accepted. The point system is based on academic performance in high school or in any previous college work and the results of the TEAS exam. Once accepted into the program, students must attend an Orientation Session with the Department of Nursing, and they must have proof of Healthcare Provider CPR certification. A health exam is also required. In addition, applicants must have North Carolina Certified Nurse Aide I certification and a good record of working as a Nurse Aide.

The AAS program is either a daytime or evening program that takes a minimum of five semesters of full-time attendance to complete. The focus of the program is on the RN as a member of the interdisciplinary team that cares for patients. Students complete clinical experience at a variety of healthcare settings, and qualify to take the NCLEX-RN after completing the program. This national exam leads to licensure as a RN.

Catawba Valley Community College lists all of the additional costs that students should be prepared for when they apply to the program. These are for malpractice insurance, uniforms, nursing shoes, and equipment such as a stethoscope kit, bandage scissors, and more. This is very helpful for students who are budgeting for the expenses that they will incur as they move through the program. There are also fees for the NCLEX at $200, North Carolina State Board of Nursing fees of around $100, and fees for criminal background checks. Additional fees are around $1,000 for Board Review, graduation expenses, and miscellaneous fees.

Contact:
Catawba Valley Community College
2550 US Highway 70 SE
Hickory, North Carolina 28602-8302
(828) 327-7000

College of the Albemarle Nursing Program Review

The College of Albemarle (COA) is in northeastern North Carolina. It is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System that was established in 1960. There are three campuses, including the main campus in Elizabeth City and satellite campuses in Edenton and Manteo. The college has programs that allow students to finish high school and earn a GED. There is also distance education with a Course Management System called Moodle.

Nursing Programs

Nurse Aide Level I

This 144 hour course is an introduction to basic nursing skills. It includes communication, patient rights, vital signs, elimination, rehabilitation, emergency, and other topics that prepare graduates to earn a certificate as a Nurse Aide I. Graduates must pass a competency exam to be listed on the state registry. Applicants to the program must take a reading placement test or have completed a basic college level reading course.

Nurse Aide Level II

This course takes 176 hours of class, laboratory, and clinical learning experience to complete. Graduates must take the competency evaluation to be listed on the state registry. This course prepares students to perform higher level skills to care for residents of nursing homes or patients in various healthcare settings.

Practical Nursing

The College of the Albemarle offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program. Admission is competitive, and not all of those who apply are admitted to the program. Although the college has an open admission, this is not true of the PN program. To be considered for the program, applicants must be a “qualified applicant” who has adequately passed the placement tests in Reading, English, and Math. After receiving test scores, applicants are expected to make an appointment with a Student Development counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken before their application to the PN program is considered. A minimum grade of C is expected in each subject of the placement test, or applicants must take remedial courses at the college before applying to the PN program.

Other requirements to become a “qualified applicant” include submitting an application that includes an official copy of their high school transcript or the transcript from any college that the applicant has attended. Applicants must be high school graduates or have earned a GED. They must have earned at least a grade point average of 2.0 in high school coursework. Those with college experience must have a grade point average of at least a C on any coursework. In addition, all of the applicant’s scores on the TEAS test, the admission test for the Nursing Department, must be satisfactory after taking the test one time. It is mandatory that applicants meet with the nursing faculty for a pre-admission meeting at their assigned time or they will not be considered for the program.

There are also very stringent requirements that applicants must meet after being accepted into the PN program. For example, an applicant must attend an orientation session. The other usual requirements must also be met, such as a physical exam, having required immunizations and health requirements, having liability insurance, and having completed a CPR course. Before beginning clinical rotations, students must have criminal background checks, drug and alcohol screening, and sex offender checks. Students may complete the PN program in three semesters totaling 47 credit hours. These hours include classwork and clinical experience. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their license as a Practical Nurse.

Associate Degree Nursing

Another opportunity for students at the College of the Albemarle is to earn an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses (RNs) have many different employment opportunities in doctor’s offices, industry and community agencies, hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, and other healthcare facilities. Students complete liberal arts and sciences classes to meet the college’s requirements for an Associate Degree, as well as specific nursing courses required to graduate with an ADN. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Admission to the ADN program is competitive, and there are specific steps that applicants must closely follow to be considered for the program. One of these is that applicants to the ADN program must have completed Nurse Aid I training. This is a good opportunity for those who are unsure if they really want a career in nursing to experience the career before completing the required education to become an RN. The College of Albemarle has an articulation agreement with Mid-Atlantic Christian University allowing students who want to complete both an ADN and Bachelor of Science Biblical Studies to earn both degrees in four years. Earning only the ADN degree takes 2 years to complete.

LPN-ADN Option Program

A nurse who is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may choose to enter the nursing program at the college of Albemarle that leads from an LPN degree to an ADN. Nurses who want to enter this program must have completed four college transfer courses and have a grade of at least a C in them. It is also required that the applicant is licensed to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse, and at least one year’s clinical practice experience is required. A pre-admission meeting is also mandatory, and failing to meet with the nursing faculty results in not being accepted into the nursing program. Students accepted into the program are granted 8 semester hours after meeting all of the admission criteria and acceptance into the program. The result of receiving the 8 credits is that only 10 credits must be completed for the Fall Semester of the first year of studies rather than 18 credits.

Contact:
College of the Albemarle
1208 N. Road Street,
PO Box 2327
Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27906-2327
(252) 335-0821

Davidson County Community College Nursing Program Review

Davidson County Community College (DCCC) is a small two-year college between Lexington and Thomasville in North Carolina. This college offers certificates, diplomas, and Associate Degrees in over 50 programs. Davidson Community College has around 3,400 students enrolled, and some graduates choose to continue their education at the University of North Carolina since Davidson has an articulation agreement with this university. Davidson is a member of the North Carolina Community College system of 58 community colleges in the state.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nurse Education

Davidson County Community College offers a Practical Nurse Diploma program that prepares students for a career as a Practical Nurse (PN). Although PNs are being phased out of hospital work as they hire mostly Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree trained nurses, PNs have many opportunities to work in clinics, private practice, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. This program is truly unique in that it is one of the only hybrid practical nursing programs in North Carolina. Even more unique is the fact that it is the only practical nursing online program in North Carolina.

Admission to the program is very competitive, and all of the steps leading to being accepted into the program must be carefully followed by those hoping to begin the program. Students must first complete an online application for admissions and then request to have their official high school and any college transcripts sent to Davidson. Other steps to be taken are to take the placement assessment and apply for financial aid. When the results from this test are available, the applicant must make an appointment to meet with the Admissions Counselor assigned to him or her. Then, a new student Orientation is needed, along with an academic advisement appointment. At that time, courses are selected and the student registers for the upcoming semester.

To determine whether an applicant qualifies for admission to the program, they must be a high school graduate or have a GED. Applicants must also have acceptable scores on Davidson’s placement assessment. Physical checkups are necessary, as well as criminal background checks and a drug test. Applicants are given priority if they live in Davidson or Davie County and for their scores on the entrance test and for Biology if taken at Davidson County Community College. Once an applicant is accepted into the program, all courses are completed online. Applicants complete clinical experience at local hospitals and other healthcare facilities as well. After completing the program, graduates become Licensed Practical Nurses by taking and passing the NCLEX-PN.

Associate Degree Nursing

The college also offers an Associate Degree Nursing that is an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Admission to the program is competitive, and residents of Davidson or Davies Counties are given priority admission. Other factors that determine whether or not an applicant is accepted into the program are entrance test scores and the grade attained when taking Biology at the college. Only students who are high school graduates or those with a GED are considered. Applicants must also have good physical health and clean drug tests and background checks. The college does not keep a waiting list, so applicants must re-apply each year if they are not accepted into the program the first time. Also, students must have completed a Nurse Aide course that consisted of 70 hours of training and 40 hours of clinical instruction before they are allowed to begin nursing classes. It is not necessary to be a Nurse Aide before applying since training can be completed before enrolling in the nursing program. In the meantime, students can complete liberal arts and science classes.

The AAS program in nursing usually takes two years or four semesters to complete, but many students take an additional semester to take the general education required courses. They may then begin nursing courses and clinical experience. At the completion of all required academic work, students may take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

LPN-ADN Option

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have been employed in their field for at least a year in an acute or long-term care facility may apply for the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing program. The entire program, except for the first three days is available online. This has been very convenient for working LPNs who are not able to quit their job to attend classes full-time. Taking online courses allows students to complete their work according to their work schedule. Some of the clinical experience may be completed at the site of the LPNs current employment, but not in the same department. At the completion of the program, graduates are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.

Contact:

Davidson County Community College-Davidson Campus,
297 Davidson Community College Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
(336) 249 -8186

Davidson County Community College-Davie Campus,
1205 Salisbury Road, Mocksville, NC 27028
(336) 751-2885

Duke University Nursing School Review

Duke University (DU) is a private research university with around 15,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs. The campus is very large, with over 8,600 acres and three campus locations in Durham and a marine lab in Beaufort. Although the university has ties with the United Methodist Church, it is a nonsectarian institution. There is a large Medical Center on the campus, and undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing are offered at Duke. Duke University School of Nursing is ranked Number 7 in nursing schools in the U.S. by a popular nationwide magazine survey.

Nursing Programs

Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing

The Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is the only undergraduate nursing degree offered at Duke University. It is designed for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and have decided to go into nursing. The program is also known as a second degree nursing program. Students must have completed all of the pre-requisite courses before enrolling in the program. After these courses have been completed, the ABSN takes 16 months to complete. The program makes it convenient for students to continue to earn their Master’s Degree since up to 15 credits in the ABSN program also count as graduate credits. A unique advantage of this program is that clinical experience is completed at Duke University Health System and at locations around the world. This provides a rare opportunity for nursing students to study abroad while completing their ABSN. When students have completed the program, they are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure as Registered Nurses.

To qualify for admission to the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any major with a minimum grade point average of 3.0. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required unless applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.4 or higher.

Master of Science in Nursing Program

The Master of Science in Nursing Program at Duke University is the basis for many advanced nursing specialties, such as nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, and more. From 39 credits to 60 credits must be completed to obtain the MSN degree. Both full-time and part-time programs are available. All MSN courses are offered online at least one semester each year, which makes it convenient for students to complete coursework according to their own schedule. The admission requirements for all of the MSN specialty nursing programs is the same unless noted below. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing with a Bachelor’s degree in another field.

Although not required, it is highly recommended that applicants have worked as a nurse for at least one year. An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 is required, as well as the Graduate Records Exam unless an applicant’s undergraduate grade point average is 3.4 or better. In addition, an applicant should be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) or eligible for licensure. Three professional letters of recommendation are also required, a personal statement by the applicant, and a personal interview. Decisions for admitting students to the MSN program are made on an individual basis.

There are four main categories of advanced nursing specialties available at Duke University’s MSN program, which are Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Non-Clinical, and Nurse Anesthesia. After completing each of the programs, students qualify to take the national exam for certification in their specialty. Each of these is discussed below.

Nurse Practitioner Specialties

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Both part-time and full-time options are available for RNs who want to specialize in acute care by becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. These nurses care for patients who need intensive care for many different reasons, and they may serve as the patient’s primary medical caregiver. In this MSN program, students advance their knowledge in clinical skills and participate in clinical rotations that provide experience in many different environments.

Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Specialty

This Nurse Practitioner specializes in cardiovascular patients and serves as the main healthcare provider of routine care for these patients. Those who have graduated from the program have found employment in outpatient diagnostic testing centers, heart failure clinics, inpatient and outpatient cardiology, and internal medicine. The Duke Heart Center is ranked Number 10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Students in this program complete clinical experience in many different environments to prepare them to work as generalists in caring for adults. There are 612 hours of clinical experience required, including residency. Graduates from this program have found jobs in outpatient clinics at hospitals, specialty practices, clinics, and private practices.

Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Graduates from the Family Nurse Practitioner program are trained to provide primary care for all ages. Duke University makes it as easy as possible to earn a MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner by offering part-time or full-time study and distance courses for working professionals. Another unique opportunity offered to students is the chance to complete clinical work at international sites.

Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

Geriatrics is a growing field in nursing, and the Gerontological Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs to care for elderly patients. They provide the primary care for these patients. Students are mentored by leaders in long-term care and clinical geriatrics fields, and they may have sub-specialty concentrations in cardiology, oncology, or acute care. There are opportunities for global perspectives on health in the aged in this program.

Oncology Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Students in this program are trained to be experts in cancer epidemiology, pathophysiology, immunology, genetics, prevention, symptom management, and end-of-life care. Students are able to become Oncology Nurse Practitioners and combine this with a clinical nursing specialist major. Students have the opportunity to complete their residency at the Duke Cancer Center, ranked #7 in the nation for cancer care. This Oncology Nurse Practitioner program is one of only a few in the U.S.

Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

This program prepares nurse specialists to care for infants and children who have complex and rapidly changing clinical conditions. These Nurse Practitioners work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, inpatient units, and rehabilitative and other outpatient facilities. This program is the only acute care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program in North Carolina. Students may choose to complete training in primary and acute care on a part-time or full-time basis.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) Program

Outstanding pediatric nurses are eligible to enter this program to train to be a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who provides primary care to children of all ages. Students learn prevention, management of acute and chronic pediatric illness, behavioral issues, and health maintenance. Clinical experience takes place in schools, health departments, pediatric practices, and other healthcare settings.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Specialty

This program prepares students to provide primary healthcare to newborns and their families. Students learn to care for low and high-risk neonates in many different settings. The program may be customized to meet the needs of nurses in various situations, and there are both part-time and full-time options available.

Non-Clinical Specialties

Nursing and Health Care Leadership

Students interested in earning a MSN in Nursing and Health Care Leadership will learn financial management and other basics of nursing leadership. New and innovative ways of thinking of nursing leadership are emphasized in this program that prepares graduates to work in hospitals, government, and other healthcare organizations.

Nursing Education Specialty

This MSN program prepares nurses to teach in nursing schools and universities. Students learn methods for teaching adults, curriculum and program development and evaluation, and more. The program is totally online and is designed to be completed on a part-time basis. In addition, students work with master teachers at nursing schools, such as Duke University’s School of Nursing.

Informatics Specialty

The Informatics Specialty that leads to a MSN prepares graduates to work as health informaticians and recognizes the importance of electronic healthcare data to improve the health of humans. The program is distance-based and requires that students are on campus only three days each semester. Those with a bachelor’s degree may complete the program in two years.

Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) Specialty

This program lasts for 28 months of full-time study and prepares students to administer anesthesia to patients as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. There are 60 credits required to complete the program, and at its completion students are prepared to take the national certification exam.

Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner Specialty Concentration

This specialty concentration is open to students in the Adult Primary Care or Acute Care, Gerontology, Family, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specialty tracks of Duke’s MSN degree program. This concentration has three courses that focus on musculoskeletal practice. Students must complete two didactic courses and one clinical course to complete this program. The university awards a certificate to graduates of the program.

Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing

Those who have already earned their MSN may complete additional advanced nursing programs to earn a Certificate in Nursing. Specialties include all of the above options for MSNs, except students do not need to take Master’s Level courses that they have already completed. Students with another Master’s Degree will also be individually considered for the program individually by the nursing faculty. Non-nurse applicants are considered only for the Clinical Research Management program. They must have a Master’s Degree or Graduate Degree from a discipline approved by the nursing faculty.

Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics

This program is designed for healthcare professionals with a Bachelor’s Degree. This certificate program requires that 18 credits are completed, and it focuses on gaining specialized knowledge in health informatics.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This advanced degree prepares RNs to fulfill roles as nurse leaders in healthcare teams to improve the care, patient outcome, quality, and more. Applicants must have either a BSN with a 3.0 grade point average. RNs with a MSN may also enroll in the program. Those with a BSN will need to complete between 73 and 94 credits, depending on which advanced practice specialty is selected. Students should plan on focusing on their advanced practice specialty for the time required, which is usually around 18 months to 2 years of full-time study. Then, it takes an additional 5 semesters to complete the DNP. RNs with a MSN must have a degree in an advanced nursing practice specialty, such as Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, Nurse Administrator, or Nurse Informatics. The program takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete.

PhD Program

This program is designed for RNs with a MSN who want to have a career in academic and research settings. Graduates of the program are prepared in research methods and for an entry-level teaching role in an academic setting. Full-time study is required for this program, and all students receive fellowships that pay tuition, stipend, and fees.

Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

Trajectories of Chronic Illness and Care Systems

Each associate admitted to this postdoctoral program works with a mentor who has a common research interest who will supervise the associate’s research. Different areas of study are available, such as adult health, child health, and aging and family caregiving, prematurity and low birth weight infants, and others.

Non-degree Enrollment Option

Those with a Bachelor’s Degree may take classes in certain nursing specialties that lead to a MSN without being formally admitted to the Duke University School of Nursing. Available specialties are Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care, Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing and Health Care Leadership, and Nursing Education. Financial aid is not available for these courses.

Specialized Programs

These programs meet the specific needs of students in a variety of situations who want to continue their education at Duke University.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree

This program allows those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another discipline to earn their BSN in only 16 months. Graduates may then take the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam.

Continuing Nursing Education Credit (CEU) Opportunities

The Duke University School of Nursing offers experiences that provide CEUs for nurses throughout the year.

Online and Distance Learning

Many programs at Duke University are available as distance-based online programs, including the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Students in the DNP program, which is an alternative to the typical on-campus program, can conveniently work during the day and complete their coursework in the evening or when their personal schedule permits. Required on-campus days are limited to a 3-day orientation and 2 to 3 days per session, amounting to 8 or 12 days required on-campus for the duration of the program.

The MSN program is also distance-based and do not require that students go to the Duke campus at all. Some specialty programs do require students to go to campus one or two times each semester to meet as a group.

There are four distance-based Nurse Practitioner specialties, which are Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care (Post-Master’s Certificate only), Family Nurse Practitioner, and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner.

Making a Difference in Nursing II

This program at Duke University is for high achieving or high potential minority students. The purpose of the program is to inspire those who are seniors in college or those who have completed a non-nursing undergraduate degree to pursue higher level nursing degrees in education, practice, research, and in other areas. Financial assistance and scholarships plus stipends are available. The program consists of three components. These are the Summer Socialization to Nursing Pre-entry Program when scholars participate in a six-week summer residential program to learn about careers in professional nursing and opportunities in nursing at Duke University, the Continuing Connectivity Program, which keeps students completing their education at another facility connected with their mentors at Duke, and Succeed to Excellence Program. This program provides social support and financial stipends and scholarships to those who enter the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Military Programs

Active duty military students who are sent to Duke University by the military for full-time studies in the graduate nursing program usually do not pay tuition beyond what the military funds for them. Clinical experiences typically take place at a military treatment facility, and a former military officer is assigned as the student’s mentor or advisor for the duration of the student’s studies.

Contact:
Duke University
Durham, NC 27708
(919) 684-8111

Durham Regional Hospital Nursing Program Review

Durham Regional Hospital (DRH) is part of the Duke University Health System (DUHS). It joined this system in 1998. There are 369 beds in the hospital and over 500 doctors on the medical staff. Durham Regional Hospital opened in 1976 and was known as Durham County General Hospital. The Watts School of Nursing (WSN, WSON) is affiliated with the hospital. It is North Carolina’s oldest nursing school. Over 3,000 nurses have graduated from the Watts School of Nursing since 1985.

Nursing Program

Associate of Science Degree in Health Science

Watts School of Nursing has an articulation agreement with Mount Olive College so that nursing students working towards their Associate of Science Degree in Health Science can earn a science degree from Mount Olive. Students then complete their nursing courses and clinical experience at Watts School of Nursing. There are prerequisite courses required, and these are completed at Mount Olive College at their Triangle Park campus and at the Watts campus, and the nursing courses are taught at Watts School of Nursing. After graduating with the Associate of Science Degree in Health Science, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). RNs have opportunities to work in many different healthcare settings, such as doctor’s offices, clinics, community centers, and many departments in hospitals, including medical-surgical, psychiatric, maternity, and critical care units.

Admission to the Watts School of Nursing is competitive, and even if a student meets all of the admission criteria, it is not guaranteed that there will be room in the program for all applicants. Only citizens of the U.S. or legal permanent residents are accepted. Those interested in the Associate Degree must apply to both Mount Olive College and to Watts School of Nursing. All applicants must have background checks before being accepted into the program and a preadmission test is also required. Once this test has been passes, applicants may submit their application along with their official high school transcript or GED. Applicants must have completed 18 hours of courses at Mount Olive College before beginning the nursing curriculum, and they must earn at least a grade of C in these courses. A course in Basic Life Support Training must also be completed. It is also necessary that applicants pass a physical exam. References from three professionals or employers must also be submitted. It is important that Licensed Practical Nurses realize that this program at Watts School of Nursing does not award advanced placement for them.

Watts School of Nursing has a philosophy that the student and his or her family, or the married or independent student must carry the burden for their education. The belief is that financial aid is only a supplement for available resources that the family has. Financial aid is available for those who demonstrate low income and inability to pay for their tuition in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. The Financial Aid office works with students to ensure that their tuition for both Watts School of Nursing and Mount Olive College are covered.

Students in the program take nursing courses at Watts’ four large classrooms and labs where practice and simulation take place. Clinical experience takes place at Durham Regional Hospital and at other community-based settings and hospitals in the area, including Duke University. Housing is not provided for students, so if they do not live at home, they must find their own housing while they are in the program. The program typically takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete between the liberal arts courses at Mount Olive College and the nursing courses at Watts School of Nursing.

Contact:
Durham Regional Hospital-Watts School of Nursing
2828 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 200,
Durham, North Carolina 27701

East Carolina University Nursing School Review

East Carolina University (ECU) is located in Greenville, North Carolina. It is the third-largest university in the University of North Carolina system with almost 28,000 students enrolled in various programs. Nursing is one of the most popular programs, and East Carolina is renowned for this and for some of its other programs. There are over 100 Bachelor’s Degree programs, 85 Master’s Degree programs, 21 Doctoral programs, and 62 Certificate programs at the university.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

East Carolina University offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that takes four years plus one summer session to complete. After the prerequisite courses are completed in humanities and sciences, students may apply for admission to the nursing program. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. There is a demand for nurses and opportunities to work in many settings besides hospitals, such as schools, community agencies, clinics, doctor’s offices, and others.

Many applicants want to attend East Carolina University’s College of Nursing because it is one of the eight schools in the U.S. to be recognized for the way it teaches nursing students. The College of Nursing has been awarded a Center of Excellence for 2011 to 2015 by the National League for Nursing. The College of Nursing offers much more than great teaching, such as the housing opportunity offered for intended nursing majors. Thirty freshmen with the intention of becoming RNs live in the same dorm and take classes together in their first two semesters at the university. They work together to prepare to take the nursing school entrance test, practicing time management and test taking skills.

RN to BSN

Registered Nurses (RNs) with an Associate Degree who want to continue their education have the opportunity to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with this program. There are many opportunities for RNs by choosing East Carolina University’s program, such as the fact that there are no placement exams and students receive 34 semester hours of advanced placement to senior status. Students need to only complete 34 additional hours to qualify for graduation. Courses are online, which is a very convenient way for working professionals to complete their work. The program is specifically designed for working RNs who may complete their BSN on either a part-time or full-time basis. This means that it takes either three, four, or five semesters to complete the program. Another convenience is that the practicum and field experience are completed in the area close to the student’s home.

RN to MSN

The Registered Nurse (RN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is designed for RNs with an Associate Degree who want to earn their MSN. Students do not earn their BSN. This program is highly selective, and students must complete their undergraduate prerequisite courses and 15 to 18 semester hours of RN to BSN coursework before they may enter the MSN program. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in the BSN courses to qualify for the program. The MSN courses are mainly online courses. Students must choose one of the following advanced nursing specialties to focus on after completing the general MSN courses.

Adult Nurse Practitioner

This MSN program prepares RNs to serve as primary healthcare of adults. The entire program is taken online, and students need only to go to the campus on 9 dates. Only 25 students are admitted annually to the program. There are at least 45 semester hours of coursework plus 616 clinical practicum hours required for this program. Either a part-time or full-time curriculum may be chosen. The full-time plan takes two years to complete and the part-time program can be completed in three years. Graduates take the national certification exam to become Adult Nurse Practitioners.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

This MSN program prepares RNs to work in complex care settings. Students focus on specializing in adult medicine and gerontology in this 42 credit program. At graduation, students take the national certification exam to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist. An additional option is to complete another 3 credit course in Critical Care. This also requires a certification exam after its completion. The courses are offered online and the program takes two years of full-time study or three and one-half years of part-time study.

Nursing Leadership

This MSN program prepares students to become leaders in the healthcare field. Students choose from Leadership in Acute Care Health Systems, Leadership in Community-Based Health Systems, or Leadership in Health Care Educational Systems. Students learn financial and human resource management, law and regulation, and more. There is also a required 252 hour practicum in the student’s focus area. A total of 41 credit hours are also required, and they are all offered online.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

RNs who want to work with newborns and their families may want to continue their education with this online MSN program. Graduates take the national exam to become a certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. All courses are offered online and 41 credit hours are required for graduation. The full-time curriculum takes 18 months to complete, while the part-time plan takes two and one-half years to complete.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This MSN program is an online program that is designed to prepare RNs to practice nursing in primary healthcare settings. Students are required to go to the university campus only 9 times over the course of their studies. At least 50 credits must be completed plus 728 clinical practicum hours. Graduates take the national exam that leads to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The full-time version of the program takes two years to complete and the part-time plan takes five years to complete.

Nurse-Midwifery

This MSN online program is offered to prepare students for a career in Nurse-Midwifery. Graduates take the exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. There is a special need for graduates to work in rural areas where there is a great need for this nurse specialist. At least 50 credits are needed for graduation, and students may complete the program on a full-time basis in two years or part-time basis in three years.

Nursing Education

This MSN program prepares RNs to become Nurse Educators. North Carolina law requires Nurse Educators to have a minimum of two years of clinical experience, so students must have one complete years’ experience before enrolling in the program. The program requires that 36 to 39 credits are completed. Students may work on either a full-time or part-time basis. Upon graduation, students take the Certified Nurse Educator Exam.

Nurse Anesthesia

East Carolina University also offers a Nurse Anesthesia program that must be completed on campus for five semesters. This 28 month program prepares students to take the national certification exam. Afterwards, Nurse Anesthetists work in hospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare facilities.

Post-Master’s Certificates

RNs who have already earned their MSN may complete the advanced nursing specialty programs and receive a certificate in this area. All programs prepare students to take national exams for certification. These programs are Adult Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, Nurse Anesthesia, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Leadership, or Family Nurse Practitioner. Nursing Education is also available.

MSN Alternate Entry Option

This program is designed for those with a baccalaureate degree in another field of study. It is an accelerated program that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. There are two phases of this program. The first phase that prepares students to become RNs and to meet licensure requirements requires 39 credits. The next phase that prepares nurses for a career in advanced nursing requires 39 to 50 credits, depending on the specialty that is selected. The total credits required are anywhere from 78 to 89.

PhD Program

This program is designed for nurses who want to become researchers or teach nursing education. The length of study depends on the individual student. Graduates from this program are prepared to work as administrators in public and private healthcare organizations, as university faculty, policy makers and analysts, and researchers.

Contact:
East Carolina University
600 Moye Blvd.,
Greenville, NC 27834

Fayetteville State University Nursing School Review

Fayetteville State University (FSU) is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina and is part of the University of North Carolina (UNC) System. Around 6,000 students attend the university that was begun in 1867 by African-American men to educate black teachers. Today, this liberal arts college offers Bachelor’s degrees in 43 areas, Master’s degrees in 22 areas, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership. The diverse student body and faculty add to the cultural richness that is experienced by students who attend this university.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Four Year Track

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program takes four years to complete and consists of 126 credits. After completing the program, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. Students are also prepared to continue on to graduate studies in nursing if they want to pursue an advanced nursing degree. There are two divisions in the nursing curriculum, which are the pre-nursing and upper division nursing. Students must complete three semesters and one summer semester of prerequisite courses in the pre-nursing component before being admitted to the upper division. When they begin the upper division, they must complete five semesters of studies and clinical experience.

Even if a student completes all of the pre-nursing prerequisite courses, it is not guaranteed that the student will be accepted into the upper division. A minimum grade of C or better must be earned in the prerequisite courses, and students must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.8 and of 2.75 or better in math and science. Students must also obtain a passing score on the TEAS pre-nursing admission test, have the required physical exam and the proper immunizations, and pass the background check and drug screens. In addition, students must submit a writing sample and complete an interview with the Admission, Progression, and Retention Committee.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN Track

In the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Track, students must have an Associate Degree of Diploma from a nursing school. This program is designed to allow these nurses to complete their BSN which can lead to more challenging and interesting positions in the nursing field. Those accepted into the program need to complete 74 credits after receiving credit for their previous nursing studies. Once all of the liberal arts and science courses have been completed to meet the general education requirements of Fayetteville, students begin the upper nursing division courses. They also complete clinical practice at various healthcare facilities nearby.

Fayetteville State University has an extraordinary amount of activities for students to participate in, including over 75 clubs and organizations, including 9 Greek fraternities and sororities. The university also has a radio station, a theater company, and the college is an NCAA Division I school in athletics with football for men and basketball, volleyball, and other sports for men and women. In addition, the university is ranked as one of the safest campuses in North Carolina.

Contact:
Fayetteville State University
1200 Murchinson Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28301
(910) 672-1111

Fayetteville Technical Community College Nursing Program Review

Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System (NCCC). It is on the Fort Bragg army base in North Carolina and has provided education to those in the military since 1961. Many military students attend this college because of its close proximity to the army base. Military personnel, their spouses, and children often continue their education at Fayetteville Technical Community College. The college offers online courses, accelerated sessions, and more options that make attending college manageable for military personnel as well as others who want to continue learning. Many different programs are offered at the college, including nursing.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Assistant

This program leads to a certificate as a Nursing Assistant. These healthcare workers work under the supervision of licensed professionals in many different healthcare environments. Graduates may be eligible to be listed on a registry as a Nursing Assistant I or Nursing Assistant II. Nursing Assistants work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, for home health agencies, nursing homes, and extended care facilities. Applicants must have CPR Certification, vaccinations required for healthcare workers, and TB screening before entering the program. After completing Nursing Assistant I, students may take Nursing Assistant II.

Practical Nursing

The Practical Nursing (PN) program offered at Fayetteville leads to a Diploma for graduates. The program can be completed in three semesters of study. The program prepares students to work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, long term care facilities after they complete the program. Graduates must take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their licensure to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Applicants must be high school graduates and must have completed a Biology, Algebra, and Chemistry class. If these courses were not completed in high school, the applicant must take them on the college level before acceptance into the PN program. An important fact to know before enrolling in this program is that not all of the courses are transferrable to an Associate Degree program if the student intends to earn this degree in the future.

Fayetteville Technical Community College offers financial aid for students who want to complete an Associate Degree, but financial aid is not always available for those pursuing a Diploma in Nursing. Applicant should contact the Financial Aid office to determine if they are eligible for this help in paying their tuition. The college also offers child care financial assistance that pays for day care while a parent attends classes.

Associate Degree Nursing

Fayetteville offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program for students who wish to become a Registered Nurse. Applicants must first take the courses needed to become a Certified Nurse Assistant I and be listed on the North Carolina Registry before applying to the ADN program. The program takes 5 semesters to complete. Licensed Practical Nurses may enter the program if they have worked in a healthcare setting for 3,600 hours within the past four years. After completing all of the general education requirements plus the nursing courses and clinical experience, students take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licensure to work as Registered Nurses.

Financial aid is often available for students enrolled in the ADN program. They need to complete the Financial Aid application after applying for admission to the college. Another convenience for parents is the financial aid available for child care that enables the parent to continue his or her education.

Contact:
Fayetteville Technical Community College
P.O. Box 35236
2201 Hull Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28303
(910) 678-8400

Gardner-Webb University Nursing School Review

Gardner-Webb University (GWU, GW) is a private Christian college not far from Boiling Springs, North Carolina at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is affiliated with the Baptist religion and has around 4,300 students enrolled at the university. There are 60 undergraduate majors that students may choose from, including nursing. There are many opportunities for service projects offered at the university whose mission is “Faith, Service, & Leadership.” Gardner-Webb is continually named as one of the Top 100 universities. The student body is a diverse one with students from 21 foreign countries and from 37 states. There is always something for students to do after studying is finished because there are over 50 clubs and organizations at Gardner-Webb.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing

Gardner-Webb offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Admission to the program is competitive, and even if an applicant meets all of the prerequisites for the program, he or she may not be admitted since only a limited number of seats are available. Applicants must apply to the university first and then to the nursing department. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on all college-level work so far to qualify for the program. Minimum scores of 1050 on the SAT or 22 on the ACT are also required. A satisfactory score is also necessary on the TEAS pre-nursing program admission test. Biology, chemistry, and algebra must be taken at the college-level if they have not been taken in high school. In addition, applicants must have a satisfactory criminal background check.

It is not required that applicants have certification as a Nurse Assistant, but this is a requirement of the Associate Degree in Nursing program so it must be completed before nursing courses are begun. At the end of the program that takes four to five semesters to complete, the student is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that takes four years to complete. A total of 64 to 70 credits in general education requirements must be completed plus 63 credits of nursing courses.

RN to BSN (Degree Completion)

The university offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for RNs who have an Associate Degree in Nursing. RNs with a Diploma in Nursing may also apply to this program. Those with an ADN may receive a maximum of 40 hours of nursing credit after completing 9 hours of nursing courses. Requirements for admission include current licensure as an RN and a grade point average of at least 2.5 in college courses that have been completed. Applicants must also have a clear background check and must have a 12 panel urine drug screen before enrolling in nursing courses or in beginning clinical experience.

Master of Science in Nursing

Gardner-Webb University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Applicants must first apply to the university’s Graduate School and have a criminal background check. A BSN is required for admission, but under certain circumstances, those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another area may be accepted. A grade point average of at least 2.70 is necessary in undergraduate work. Applicants must be currently licensed as RNs. Another requirement is a satisfactory score on the GRE and three letters of recommendation.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The university offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for RNs who have a MSN. Admission is competitive, and not all applicants are accepted into the program. Applicants must first apply to the Graduate School and they must have a 3.20 grade point average in their other college-level coursework. The number of years that a nurse has spent working in a specialty practice has an influence on whether or not the nurse is accepted into the program.

Contact:
Gardner-Webb University
110 South Main Street,
P.O. Box 997
Boiling Springs, NC 28017
(800) 253-6472

Lees-McRae College Nursing Program Review

Lees-McRae College (LMC) is a small private college located in Banner Elk, North Carolina in Appalachia near the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Cherokee National Forests. Situated over 4,000 above sea level, there is a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains from the campus. Lees-McRae is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Less than 1,000 students attend the college that began as a college for women in 1899. There are 22 majors and 16 minors offered at Lees-McRae College and class sizes are an average size of 15 students.

Nursing Program

RN to BSN Program

Lees-McRae offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is designed for nurses who want to complete their baccalaureate degree. The program does not require prerequisite courses because students take general education and nursing courses after enrolling in the program. This RN-BSN program is different than others in several ways. Besides not requiring any prerequisites, it is based on an Associate Degree Program and RNs receive recognition for their past nursing courses. Classes are held only one night each week from 5 PM until 9 PM, which allows RNs to continue working a day shift. Also, the nursing program includes upper level general education courses that are built into it.

The nursing program is a 2 + 2 program. RNs with an Associate Degree enter the program as a junior with two years of studies left to complete. Many times, other colleges advertise that an RN can complete his or her BSN in one year, but they do not mention the 1 to 2 years of prerequisite classes that are required. Students work together in cohort to complete the four semesters required to complete the BSN. Admission requirements are that the applicant must be working as an RN at least 20 hours per week and must hold current licensure as a RN. Lees-McRae College has a transfer agreement with community college in North Carolina that allows RNs who have graduated with an Associate Degree to transfer to Lees-McRae.

Lees-McRae College offers a very helpful financial aid package to all extended campus students that also applies to nurses in the RN-BSN program. Tuition at the college costs $2,750 per semester, and students receive $17,950 in grant aid per academic year. This includes funds from the college, state, and federal aid, including the Federal Pell Grand and North Carolina Need Based Scholarship if the student qualifies to receive this. Whereas a full year’s tuition would normally cost $23,450, with the grant aid each academic year, students are only responsible for paying $5,500 each academic year, or $11,000 for two years needed to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine if they qualify for state and federal loans. This is a very generous grant that is usually difficult to find, and for RNs who live in the area, it makes completing a bachelor’s degree something possible to do.

Contact:
Lees-McRae College
191 Main St. W, Banner Elk, NC 28604
(828) 898-8814

Lenoir-Rhyne University Nursing School Review

Lenoir-Rhyne University (LRU) is a small liberal arts college with almost 2,000 students enrolled in programs at the college. Lenoir-Rhyne is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The university has received awards in several categories, including teaching, community, and others. The School of Nursing at the university offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Nursing Programs

Pre-Licensure (BSN) Program

In this program, students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students must first apply to the university. This program is competitive and not all students in pre-nursing are admitted to the nursing program when they apply to it at the end of the second year of studies. Factors that affect whether or not the applicant is accepted are the overall grade point average in the courses that were completed during the first two years at the university and the pre-nursing test score. Students must have completed 60 credits in the pre-nursing curriculum or be close to completing 60 credits with a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in their first two years at the university.

Students attending other universities may also transfer into the pre-nursing program at any time during their freshman or sophomore years. They must have completed all prerequisite courses and have earned a minimum grade point average of at least 2.7 in them. Students accepted into the program complete upper level general education requirements and mostly nursing courses, including clinical experience. The university also has a simulation lab where students practice nursing skills before beginning their work with actual patients. At the completion of the senior year, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licenses as Registered Nurses.

Gateway Program

This program is a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for those with an Associate Degree. Applicants must have a current license as an RN. They must also have finished 56 semester hours of pre-nursing courses before beginning the BSN program, and a minimum grade point average of 2.5 must be attained. RNs may challenge 2 clinical nursing courses and 5 non-clinical courses that they may be exempt from if they meet the criteria to bypass these courses.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is also offered at Lenoir-Rhyne University at two of the university’s locations in Hickory and in Asheville. There are two tracks that RNs may choose from, which are Education or Administration. The MSN Administration concentration prepares students to work in administrative roles in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The MSN Education concentration prepares nurses to teach students in nursing schools, colleges, and universities in a variety of nursing programs. Applicants to the program must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in the last 60 hours of the program and no grade lower than C in the prerequisite courses of statistics and nursing research. If an applicant has graduated with a BSN within the last 6 years, the GRE is not required. Each track of the MSN program consists of nursing graduate core courses plus direct care core courses. The remaining 18 credits consist of courses related to the advanced nursing specialty of either Administration or Education. A Capstone Project or Thesis is 6 of the last 18 credits before graduation.

Contact:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
625 7^th Avenue NE,
Hickory, NC 28601
(828) 328-7300

Mitchell Community College Nursing Program Review

Mitchell Community College (MCC) is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains around 50 miles north of Charlotte or 50 miles southwest of Winston-Salem in North Carolina state. The college features open enrollment at a tuition rate that is lower than what students would pay at 4-year colleges or universities. Associate Degrees and certificates are offered in a variety of programs at the college. Mitchell Community College offers opportunities for students to participate in student organizations and to participate in study abroad programs such as the Journey to Israel. Students have an opportunity to experience a unique culture and to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tel Aviv. Mitchell also offers a Nursing Program for those interested in studying to become a Registered Nurse.

Nursing Program

Associate Degree Nursing

Mitchell Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program that takes two and one-half years to complete. The nursing program is competitive so not every applicant is accepted into the program. Those who are accepted are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). RNs are in demand in many different healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, community sites, industries, schools, and others. Students must complete 17 credits of general education courses required by Mitchell. There are 56 credits of nursing courses required to graduate from this program. Students also complete clinical experience at various healthcare facilities in the area.

Those who are interested in the nursing program at Mitchell Community College must first complete an application to the college. They must then schedule the placement tests, which are in reading, English, math, and algebra. When the results from the tests are available, a nursing advisor is assigned to the applicant, and at that time he or she will discuss the possibility of the applicant’s eligibility to enter the program. If accepted into the program, the pre-nursing test or TEAS test should be taken. After that, applicants must apply to the nursing program.

Mitchell Community College also requires applicants to be high school graduates or to have their GED, and they must have a grade point average of at least 2.5. Once accepted into the program, all students in the nursing program must maintain a grade of C or better. Students who do not have high school chemistry or biology must complete these courses on the college level to qualify for the nursing program. Applicants must also be a Nursing Assistant I and be currently listed on the Nurse Aide I Registry from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Those who are interested in a career as a Registered Nurse must have satisfactory physical and emotional health and must have current CPR certification.

Once accepted into the program, students complete their general education and science requirements plus nursing courses that include clinical experience. There are medical centers, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities where students complete the clinical part of their education at Mitchell Community College.

Contact:
Mitchell Community College
500 West Broad Street,
Statesville, North Carolina 28677
(704) 878-3200

North Carolina A&T State University Nursing School Review

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (North Carolina A&T, NC A&T or A&T) is located in Greensboro on a 200 acre campus. There is an additional 600 acre university farm. Over 10,000 students attend the university and are enrolled in a variety of programs, including a nursing program.

The university is classified as a doctoral and research institution. North Carolina A & T was founded in 1891 as a land-grant institution. It has a long history of civil rights legacy, and the first sit-in at a lunch counter in 1960 was by NC A & T students. It is home to the largest agricultural school among black colleges and also has the largest number of African-American engineers at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels. There are also 40,000 alumni who hold leadership positions worldwide.

Nursing Programs

BSN Traditional Program

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers a traditional program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This program takes four years to complete and students earn 127 credits, including general education credits, nursing credits, and clinical experience. Students are prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level Registered Nurses (RNs) after earning their bachelor’s degree. They may take the NCLEX-RN near the time of graduation. This exam leads to licensure as a RN. Students who do not meet the admission requirements to enter the nursing program may still be admitted to the university. They then take general education courses for their freshman year, as well as pre-nursing courses. They must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.8.

The nursing program is divided into a Lower Division and Upper Division. Freshmen and sophomores are in the Lower Division and must complete the general education courses required for these years of the program. Students who enter the Upper Division of the nursing program are officially nursing students.

Applicants who live in North Carolina must have a SAT score of at least 800 and a high school grade point average of 3.0 or better. The ACT test is also accepted with a minimum score of 17. Out-of-state applicants must have a SAT score of at least 950 and a grade point average from high school of 3.0. Students who do not meet the admission criteria may take general education courses and prerequisites for the nursing program if they are admitted to the university. They must earn at least a 2.8 in these courses. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are considered individually for admission to the program.

Accelerated BSN Option

The university also offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) option for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another area. Applicants must have a minimum grade point aver of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies to be considered for the program, as well as have a variety of science courses completed before being accepted into the program. Students earn 58 credits in one year in this program, and since the curriculum is very challenging, students are not able to work at an outside job while enrolled in this program. Students begin nursing courses and also complete clinical experience at nearby medical centers and other medical facilities. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

BSN Completion Option

There is currently a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion option for Registered Nurses who have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing that is pending at the university level. If approved, students will be able to complete their bachelor’s degree. They will receive up to 47credits for their college-level work that they have completed, plus they will be required to complete the university requirements at North Carolina A & T State University plus upper level nursing courses. RNs interested in this program may apply online at this time.

Contact:
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
1601 E. Market Street,
Greensboro, NC 27411
(336) 334-7500

North Carolina Central University Nursing School Review

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is located in Durham and is part of the University of North Carolina system. There are around 8,600 students enrolled in programs at the university that lead to baccalaureate, master’s, professional, and doctoral levels. The university has a history of training Black teachers and other professionals when college education was very limited in the South. The university was founded in 1909 as a religious training school and began adding baccalaureate and additional degrees over the years. It is located only three miles away from Duke University.

Nursing Programs

Traditional BSN

North Carolina Central University offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that can be completed in four years. This program is designed for high school graduates, transfer students, and licensed practical nurses. The nursing program is divided into the lower and upper divisions. Students must complete the lower level courses in liberal arts and sciences before being admitted to the nursing program. Pre-nursing courses must also be completed before entering the program. If the applicant meets all of the requirements and is admitted to the nursing program, studies focus on higher level nursing courses and clinical experience. At the end of the program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national certification exam that must be passed to become a Registered Nurse.

Students in their first year at the university must take placement exams in English, math, biology, and foreign language studied in high school. The results of the tests are used to place students in the courses that are needed, and if necessary, remedial courses must be completed before taking college level courses.

RN-BSN

There is also a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offered at the university. This program offers RNs the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree while obtaining credit for the courses completed while studying for their associate’s degree. The program is web-enhanced and students only go to the university campus several times during their program. Students must first complete the General Education Curriculum before beginning the nursing bridge course that officially begins their upper level nursing courses. A foreign language is a general requirement of the university that must also be completed by students in this program. The university also requires 15 mandatory service hours each semester, and student in this program are also expected to complete this work.

ABSN (Accelerated)

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is specifically designed for second degree students who receive 60 credits from their first degree. Students are required to complete the general education requirements and pre-nursing courses before beginning the upper level nursing program. Applicants must take the TEAS exam to determine if the applicant is ready to begin the nursing program. Although applicants may be accepted who have a grade point average of 2.5, the competitive cumulative grade point average is 3.0 or higher. Students in this program must also meet the foreign language requirement of the university and they must also work 15 hours each semester to complete community service. Once nursing upper level courses are started, the program can be completed in 16 months. Graduates are then eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Contact:
North Carolina Central University
1801 Fayette Street,
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 530-6100

Queens University of Charlotte Nursing School Review

Queens University of Charlotte (QUC) is located in Charlotte and has around 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students. Queens is a private Presbyterian university that was founded in 1857 as a women only college. The college became co-educational after World War II. The John Belk International Program has received national recognition for its study programs for juniors and seniors at the college who travel to various countries around the world. Some of the places that students have studied are Hong Kong, Ireland, Vietnam, and South Africa.

Nursing Programs

ASN in Nursing

Queens offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that prepares students to enter the workforce as Registered Nurses (RNs). Graduates take the NCLEX-RN national exam to become licensed as RNs. Graduates are prepared to work in many different healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, schools, doctors’ offices, and others. The current ASN program can be traced back to the nursing diploma program at Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing that was opened in 1903. The nursing school and Queens University of Charlotte’s nursing program merged in 2004. The two-year program includes liberal arts and science courses plus nursing courses that also include clinical practice. Admission to the ASN program is on an individual basis and is most based on the applicant’s academic history.

BSN in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offered at Queens prepares students to work in many different healthcare facilities and specialties. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure to practice as a professional nurse. Some graduates go forward with their education to earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree or to earn a doctoral degree. Students complete all of the general education requirements for the university plus courses related to the nursing field. Clinical experience takes place at hospitals and other area healthcare facilities. Students in this four year program have an opportunity to participate in the university’s John Belk International Program. The BSN program is designed for students who are 18 to 22 years of age. Adults who want to earn their BSN have the opportunity to take classes in the evening so that they may continue working full or part-time. There is a special program for adults at Queens that is called the Hayworth College Undergraduate Program that offers flexible advising and other services to working adults.

RN-BSN

Queens offers this program for RNs with an associate degree or diploma. RNs may complete their bachelor’s degree either online or in the classroom. The program lasts for four semesters and requires daytime classes. There is no foreign language requirement for students in the program. Students must complete the Queens University of Charlotte Career Mobility Scholarship for the bridge course. They may do this with a 50 percent savings in tuition. There are also scholarships that are awarded according to student need and merit, such as the William Randolph Hearst Nursing Scholarship and Preceptor scholarship. The university offers tuition deferment as well. Applicants who have earned their ASN at the Presbyterian School of Nursing have all 41 credits transferred to the RN-BSN program. If an applicant has earned an associate degree elsewhere, 36 credits are transferred after the bridge course is completed.

Minor in Health Services

Another option for students in the BSN program is to also earn a Minor in Health Services. This involves completing 14 credits plus Introductory Statistics.

MSN in Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares students for advanced practice. Students choose from three areas of concentration, which are Health Systems Management, Clinical Nurse Leader, or Nurse Educator Practices. At the completion of the programs, graduates take the certification exam to gain national certification in the specialty area that they have studied. All students in the graduate program take 15 credit hours in nursing core courses and must earn 36 to 38 credits depending on their concentration. Some of the advantages to working towards a MSN at Queens University are that students take part in small interactive classes that are held in the evening. This allows working RNs to continue in their professional careers while working on their graduate degree. Also, the university offers tuition deferment that allows students to graduate and move into a higher paying nursing position before being required to pay their tuition. There are also scholarships available for those who qualify and financial aid is available as well.

Admission requirements to the graduate program in nursing are that the applicant must be currently licensed as an RN with an unrestricted license. A BSN is required, but those with a bachelor’s degree in another are considered on an individual basis. A grade point average of 3.0 or higher is required as well, and applicants with grade point averages lower than 3.0 may take the GRE and will be considered if they have a verbal and math combined score of at least 1000. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation and must be computer proficient.

The following three concentrations lead to a MSN in a specialty area of advanced nursing practice.

Health Systems Management Concentration

Besides completing the graduate level nursing core courses, students complete courses in business such as Law and Ethics and others. Courses in health care administration and nursing management are also part of this program. The program requires a health care practicum and nursing capstone project.

Nurse Educator Practice Concentration

This concentration leads to a MSN and also prepares the student to teach nursing students on a variety of levels including nursing school programs, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, and to serve as a community educator. Students learn the basics of teaching and learning in nursing, how to develop curriculum, and evaluation of nursing students. A practicum in nurse education and a capstone project are required for this concentration.

Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration

This program focuses on the clinical care of patients including health assessment, clinical outcomes, and management of the healthcare environment. A residency is required for this concentration that leads to a MSN.

MSN-MBA Combined Program

This Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is combined with an additional Master of Business Administration degree. Students who plan to go into management of various community organizations, hospitals, clinics, and other facilities sometimes prefer to earn this dual degree to enhance their credibility as a nurse administrator. All of the requirements for the MSN must be completed in the school of nursing, and business courses must be taken at the McColl Graduate School of Business. Admission to the program is on an individual basis.

MSN in Nursing (RN-MSN)

This program is designed for RNs enrolled in Queens RN-BSN program who want to earn their master’s degree in nursing. Students choose from one of the three concentrations of Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator Practices, or Health Systems Management. To qualify for this program, RNs must first apply to the RN-BSN program. This requires completing all prerequisite courses with a grade of C- or better. The applicant must also be a registered nurse. Students then work on their BSN and apply to the RN-BSN program after completing courses at Queens. They must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 to qualify for the MSN program in the last 60 hours of studies that they have done at the university. One of the advantages of enrolling in this program for students who want to get their MSN is that 9 credits apply for both the BSN and MSN. The applicant must complete the BSN before enrolling in the MSN program.

Graduate Certificate in Health Systems Management

RNs who have previously earned their MSN who want to continue their education by studying an advanced nursing practice area may earn a certificate in one of the three MSN special concentration areas. The program consists of completing 15 credits in health systems management. At the completion of the courses, graduates take the certification exam and are granted a certificate in this specialty area.

Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nurse Leader

RNs who have a MSN may earn a certificate as a clinical nurse leader by completing this program. A residency of 6 credit hours is required in addition to the mandatory courses. At the completion of the program, RNs take the national exam for certification in this specialty area.

Graduate Certificate in Nurse Educator Practices

There is a great need for nurse educators, and this program at Queens prepares RNs who already have a MSN to enter this field of nursing. Students complete 15 credits in curriculum building and education courses for teaching student nurses.

Contact:
Queens University-Charlotte
1900 Selwyn Avenue,
Charlotte, NC 28274
(704) 337-2200

Randolph Community College Nursing Program Review

Randolph Community College (RCC) is located in Asheboro. There are more than 25 degrees offered at the college, including nursing. Around 3,200 students are enrolled at the college. The college was established in 2008 and is a collaborative effort with Pfeiffer University and Salem College. All of these are located in Randolph County, and students have the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree by combining classes that are offered at these institutions. RCC is a member college of the North Carolina Community College System.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Assistant

The Nursing Assistant program at Randolph Community College prepares students to be listed on the registry as a Nursing Assistant I and Nursing Assistant II. These workers are employed in doctors’ offices, home health agencies, nursing homes, extended care facilities, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Admission to the program is based on how many seats are available in the program. Once it is filled, no more students will be accepted despite the open enrollment policy of the college. Phase I studies require a high school diploma or GED. In addition, applicants must take the placement tests required by the college, and if the minimum scores are not met then students must take remedial courses. For Phase II of the Nursing Assistant program, students must have CPR certification. Students must be available for clinical experience assignments at various times throughout the day, and they must be willing to travel up to 50 miles for these assignments.

Associate Degree Nursing

Randolph Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing for students who wish to pursue a career as a professional Registered Nurse (RN). Although admission to the college is on an open enrollment basis, the nursing program has admission requirements and accepts students on a competitive basis. The program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. Graduates from the program have opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, schools, industrial sites, and others. There is an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) Day program and an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) Evening and Weekend program available at the college.

Applicants who are interested in the program must first apply to Randolph Community College and take the placement testing that is required. Official high school transcripts and any college transcripts must be submitted. Applicants must have a grade of C or higher in high school biology and chemistry and high school algebra. If they do not have these, they must take them on the college level and earn at least a C in these courses. A grade point average of at least 2.5 is mandatory throughout the nursing program. Applicants must also take the TEAS exam to demonstrate that they have the academic readiness to complete the program.

Another important requirement is that applicants must have successfully completed Nurse Aide I training, including the clinical experience. They must have CPR certification and pass a physical and emotional health exam. The college uses a numerical ranking system to admit students that is based on TEAS scores. Points are also awarded for college level courses completed and the applicant’s high school grade point average. Residents of Randolph County are also given preference when determining which applicants to admit to the program.

Contact:
Randolph Community College
629 Industrial Park Avenue,
Asheboro, NC 27205
(336) 633-0200

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Nursing Program Review

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) is a large institution in Rowan and Cabarrus Counties. About 22,000 students are enrolled at this college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System. There are diploma, certificate, and associate degree programs offered at the college, and a significant number of students transfer to four-year colleges and universities after graduating from Rowan-Cabarrus. There are six different sites where branches of the college are located.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing

A practical nursing program is offered at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College that prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN exam that is required to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program prepares LPNs to work in many different healthcare facilities, especially long-term care, home health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, and others. It takes three semesters to complete this program, and students earn 44 credits in this time. The curriculum is convenient for working students since courses and clinical rotations may be scheduled during the daytime, evenings, or weekends. Those enrolled in the program must maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their coursework.

Admission to the Practical Nursing program is competitive and only 30 students are admitted each year. A selective point system is used to choose applicants for the program based on results of the TEAS pre-nursing exam that indicates an applicant’s academic readiness to complete the program. Half of the applicant’s points come from the result of the TEAS and the other half is dependent on the applicant’s high school or college grades and classes completed, residency of the applicant, and work experience. Graduates from the program receive a diploma.

Associate in Arts Pre-Major Nursing

Students who plan to transfer to a four-year program after graduating with an associate degree may enroll in this program. After the two year program is completed, a student may transfer to the four-year program and begin completing junior-level courses in nursing.

Associate Degree Nursing

The college’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) is a two-year program that prepares students to enter the workforce as entry-level Registered Nurses (RNs). A student may take the NCLEX-RN national certification exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse after completing the program. The graduate RN has many opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, schools, industrial sites, and other healthcare facilities. Some graduates continue their education by completing their bachelor’s degree at one of the institutions that works in collaboration with Rowan-Cabarrus by accepting students who graduate from the community college.

The ADN program accepts 60 students into the day program and 20 students for the evening program. The admission process is selective and is based on a point system that analyzes the results of the TEAS exam and the applicant’s work experience, academic work, and residency in either Rowan or Cabarrus Counties. Applicants must also attend an information session about the program and must have completed biology and chemistry in high school or on the college level. The applicant must also demonstrate computer literacy. Additionally, students must be currently listed on the Nurse Aide I Registry as a Nurse Aid, according to North Carolina guidelines. Those not accepted into the program may be placed on an alternate list. If an opening occurs in the nursing program, an applicant from the alternate list is chosen.

Contact:
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
1333 Jake Alexander Blvd. South,
Salisbury, NC 28146
(704) 637-0760

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Nursing School Review

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC, UNC-CH, UNC Chapel Hill) is located in Chapel Hill and is a public research university. It is one of the institutions claiming to be the oldest public university in the U.S. It is a very large university with almost 30,000 students enrolled in 77 undergraduate, 107 master’s, and 69 doctorate and programs. The university has the reputation of being one of the best universities in the world. As a research university, inventions such as the low-dose x-ray machine and a drug delivery system for cancer patients. There are also many activities that students may participate in such as more than 320 study abroad programs in 71 different countries.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the university may be pursued in several ways. A student may complete two years of upper division courses in the School of Nursing after finishing two years of lower division courses in the General College. Those who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in another field may pursue the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) degree. In addition, there is a Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN option for professional nurses who have completed an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing.

Students working on their BSN as their first degree are admitted to the program on a competitive basis. Applicants must have completed at least three of the five required science courses within the past ten years and must have earned a minimum grade of C. Other factors that are considered by the admissions committee are the student’s academic performance, writing ability, community service history, and abilities to successfully complete the BSN program. Students working on their second degree may complete the BSN program in one of two ways. They may either complete the BSN six semester curriculum, or they have the option of completing it in four semesters in the Accelerated BSN program. These students have 60 credits transferred from their first degree to their BSN. All BSN students must complete all of the upper division nursing courses and clinical experience before taking the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to certification as a professional Registered Nurse.

BSN students with high grade point averages of at least 3.4 are eligible to complete undergraduate research during their last two semesters in the program. The student is assigned to an advisor who guides the student in an independent study honors project. All graduates of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill are eligible to apply for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the college after graduation.

The university’s RN to BSN program is indefinitely suspended due to budgetary constraints.

Master of Science in Nursing

RNs with a BSN may want to continue their studies for a career in advanced practice that requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Students admitted to the program must complete the MSN core courses plus those related to their concentration. The various concentrations are discussed below.

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares nurses to provide primary care for adults aged 13 years to the end of life. The program may be pursued on either a full-time or part-time basis, and at the completion of the courses, graduates take the exams to become certified as Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners. Full-time students can complete the program in four semesters and one summer practicum session while part-time students require six semesters and one summer term. Students in this program may choose an Oncology Focus program that prepares them to provide care for patients with cancer as a nurse practitioner. Students learn diagnostic methods and treatment of various types of cancer. Admission criteria include a B average or better in undergraduate work, competitive GRE scores, and at least one year of clinical experience working as an RN, preferably in the specialty area that the applicant wishes to pursue. At the completion of the program, students are granted their MSN and take the national exam for certification as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

Health Care Systems

This MSN prepares RNs for positions as nurse leaders in a variety of healthcare settings, including management, education, informatics, human resource management, and other areas. The Health Care Systems program offers advanced practice in the following areas: Administration, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, Education, Informatics, or Outcomes Management. Those accepted into the program must choose one of these specialties, such as Administration that emphasizes human and financial resource management or Clinical Nurse Leader, a 32 credit program that focuses on clinical care of patients in hospital and other settings.

The Nurse Educator concentration prepares RNs to instruct student nurses in various educational settings, and the Education concentration prepares RNs to facilitate patient education, staff development, or to work in academic settings. Informatics teaches students to manage and process the data, information, and knowledge needed to practice nursing in the best ways, and Outcomes Management focuses on innovative ways to improve patient and systems outcomes. Full-time student complete the program in five semesters and part-time students require three to five years for completion.

Dual Degree MSN/MSIS or MSN/MSLS

The School of Nursing and the School of Information and Library Sciences offer two dual degree programs at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. The Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Information Science (MSN/MSIS) and the Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Library Science (MSN/MSLS) prepare RNs to focus on Informatics to meet the needs of today’s healthcare environment. Earning one of these dual degrees takes less time than pursuing the degrees separately. Students may complete either of these degrees in three academic years. Applicants must first apply for graduate study in the School of Nursing. Students accepted into the graduate nursing program must then apply to the School of Information and Library Sciences after completing some of the graduate nursing courses.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Primary Care

This MSN program prepares RNs to provide primary care to infants, children, adolescents, and their families. Full-time students are required to study for four semesters and one summer practicum while part-time students usually take six semesters plus one summer term. Applicants to the program are required to have at least a B average in their nursing courses plus competitive GRE scores of at least 1000 in verbal and quantitative scores. In addition, RNs are expected to have worked in a professional healthcare setting for at least one year before applying to the program.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This MSN program in advanced nursing practice trains RNs to serve as the primary care provider for all members of a family. Both full-time and part-time studies are available. Students who are interested in global health or other areas of healthcare may pursue studies related to their interests through clinical placements, elective courses, and the Master’s Paper.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This MSN specialty area of advanced nursing practice prepares RNs to provide primary care to patients by serving as psychotherapists and case managers in a variety of healthcare settings. Students may complete courses on a full-time or part-time basis, and clinical placements are in mental health centers and inpatient settings as well.

Post-Master’s Programs

RNs who have already completed a MSN degree may earn certificates in the specialty areas offered in the MSN program. These are Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, including the Adult Oncology focus, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Health Care Systems, including Administration, clinical Nurse Leader, Education, and Informatics. Other areas that present an opportunity to earn a certificate are Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Primary Care, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After completing any of these programs, graduates sit for the certification exam that leads to licensure in the specialty nursing area.

Doctoral Program

RNs interested in furthering their studies may complete the Doctoral Program at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Students focus on advanced data management, research that adheres to the standards of scientific integrity, and other research skills. A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing is awarded after a student completed all course requirements and a dissertation. Need-based financial aid is available as well as merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships for students interested in this doctoral program in nursing.

Pre- and Postdoctoral Fellowships

Doctoral Fellowship applicants must be enrolled in the Doctoral Program at the university. Postdoctoral Fellowship candidates must have earned a doctoral degree in nursing or in a related field.

Contact:
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
153A Country Club Road,
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514
(919) 966-3621

University of North Carolina at Charlotte Nursing School Review

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC, UNC Charlotte) is a public research university located in the city of Charlotte. It is a large university with over 25,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. There are 90 bachelor’s degree programs, 62 master’s degree programs, and 19 doctoral programs offered at this university. The University of North Carolina-Charlotte is known for facilitating more small businesses than any other learning institution in the country. It is the fastest growing university in the state as well. The campus is situated on 1,000 acres and is only two hours from the mountains and three hours from the Atlantic Ocean.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) RN to BSN

Professional Registered Nurses (RNs) who have an associate’s degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing may complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Before entering the BSN program, students must complete all prerequisites, general education, and foreign language course requirements. Once these are finished, the RN to BSN curriculum requires 30 credits. This is usually completed in one year of full-time studies. There are two ways to complete the BSN, which are through distance education or through the on-campus program. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 grade point average in their previous college level studies and they must maintain at least a grade of C in their prerequisite courses at the university.

Applicants have the option of testing out of the foreign language requirement, or if an applicant has studied the same language for at least three years in high school, he or she may be exempt from this requirement. Applicants must first apply to the university and then to the School of Nursing. When 120 credits have been completed, students may apply for graduation and receive a BSN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing—Upper Division Nursing Major

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a four-year program that includes all of the courses required for a bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte in addition to specific nursing courses and clinical experience. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). In this program, students complete the general education requirements at the lower level and the nursing courses once they are accepted into the nursing program upper level. Applicants enter the program as pre-nursing students. Graduates are trained to work in many different healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and others. Some students decide to continue their education by pursuing a master’s degree in nursing.

Applicants to the pre-nursing program who are transfer or students who have changed their major must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their previous university work. Acceptance into the pre-nursing program does not automatically mean that a student is accepted into the nursing program. Applicants are expected to have an average of at least B in the prerequisite courses. In addition, applicants must be listed in the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry as a Nurse Aid before beginning coursework in the upper division. Students must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the prerequisite courses as well. The degree requires 124 credits before graduation.

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN program at the university prepares RNs for a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner. These healthcare professionals are primary care providers for the entire family, from infants to the elderly. Students must take the MSN core courses as well as the specialty courses related to this concentration. At the completion of the program, the graduate may sit for the certification exam to be permitted to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Students must complete 46 credits, and this usually takes 27 months if the student is working on a full-time basis or 39 months for part-time studies. Applicants must have current licensure as an RN, and must have completed a BSN.

Applicants with degrees in other fields are considered, but they must first complete courses from the RN-BSN program. In addition, satisfactory scores from the GRE or MAT are required. Applicants should also have an overall grade point average of 3.0 in the last 60 credits that they have completed. One year’s experience as a professional RN is also required. Applicants must also be computer literate. The program requires 600 hours of supervised clinical experience, and only one C is allowed. Students must earn all B’s to progress in the program.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Anesthesia

Students working on their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) may choose to specialize in the Nurse Anesthesia concentration. This program requires 27 months of full-time study, and applicants must have an unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina. A BSN is also required. Applicants must also take the GRE or MAT and have satisfactory scores on these tests. A grade point average of at least 3.0 on all college work after high school is also required. In addition, applicants must have at least 18 months of full-time critical care experience with adult patients. Graduates take the national exam to become licensed as Nurse Anesthetists.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Administrator

This concentration of Nurse Administrator in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares nurses to work as department managers in hospitals and other health care facilities. Some graduates with this degree work in health departments or in nursing schools. After completing 36 credits in 27 months of part-time online study, students take the certification exam in Nursing Administration or Nursing Administration Advanced. Applicants must have satisfactory GRE or MAT scores, an unrestricted license as a RN, and a BSN degree. Those who wish to enter this field but have a baccalaureate degree in another area may also apply for the program, and the required nursing courses will be built into their curriculum. Also, one year of nursing experience is preferred, and applicants must be computer literate.

Master of Science in Nursing – Community Public Health Nursing

This MSN program prepares RNs for a career in public health nursing. Graduates work in public health departments, industries, schools, and other community-based agencies. The program requires the completion of 38 credits that can be completed in 36 months of part-time studies. Admission requirements are satisfactory scores on either the GRE or MAT, an unrestricted license as an RN, and a BSN from an accredited university. If the degree is not in nursing, the required courses are built into the curriculum. A grade point average of 3.0 is preferred, as is one year’s professional experience as an RN.

RN/MSN Early Entry Program

The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Early Entry Program is designed for outstanding students who want to pursue a MSN. Applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to both the RN to BSN program plus the graduate program that is chosen. The MSN specialty areas available in this program are Family Nurse Practitioner, an on-campus program, Community Public Health Nursing, a distance education program, Nurse Educator, a distance education program, and Nurse Administrator, a distance education program. These concentrations require 36 to 46 graduate credits, depending on the specialty. All coursework in the RN to BSN program must be completed except for 10 hours of graduate credit that count for both the BSN and MSN. Students must maintain a 3.0 in all graduate courses.

Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator

This program prepares RNs to teach student nurses and to work as a Nurse Educator. Graduates with two years of full-time teaching experience will qualify to take the certification exam for Nurse Educators. Students must complete 39 credits that may be completed in 30 months of part-time study. Applicants to the program must have an unrestricted RN license and a BSN degree or other baccalaureate degree. If the applicant’s degree is in another field, the nursing courses required for licensure are built into their curriculum. In addition, satisfactory scores on the GRE or MAT are required. Applicants are expected to have a 3.0 average in their college level work, and it is desirable that they have at least one year’s experience as a professional nurse. Applicants must also be computer literate.

Certificates

Graduate Certificate – Nursing Administrator – Distance Education

This program is designed for RNs with a BSN and for RNs with master’s degrees. The program requires four specialty courses in nursing administration that equal 12 credits. The certificate takes one year of part-time study to complete. Applicants must have a current unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina, a BSN, and three letters of recommendation.

Post Master’s Certificate in Advanced Practice Registered Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner

This program requires 21 credits to earn a certificate in advanced practice nursing. RNs with a MSN will be prepared to enter advanced practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. All courses must be completed within four years and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 must be attained. Family Nurse Practitioner graduates work in primary care practices, community based clinics, public health departments and in other healthcare settings. The program can be completed in two years. Admission requirements include a MSN, licensure as a RN in North Carolina, satisfactory GRE or MAT score, and certain prerequisite course completion within the past three years. Students spend a minimum of 600 hours of supervised clinical experience as a Nurse Practitioner student, and they must maintain a B or better to progress in the program.

Graduate Certificate – Nurse Educator – Distance Education

This program is designed for nurses with a BSN or MSN. It consists of four courses or 12 credits that can be completed in one year. Applicants must have an unrestricted nursing license in North Carolina and they must have three letters of professional recommendation. Graduates receive a certificate after passing the national exam.

Graduate Certificate in Community Health

This program is designed for students who want to work in community or public health. After completing the program, graduates take the exam leading to certification in this area. There are 15 credits required for this program, including six core courses, three restricted electives, and two other elective courses.

Post Master’s Certificate in Nurse Anesthesia

This program is designed for RNs who have completed a MSN who want a career as a Nurse Anesthetist. The program requires 27 months of full-time study. Applicants must have an unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina, a MSN and BSN, satisfactory GRE score, and a grade point average of 3.0 for all undergraduate work. Other requirements are that applicants are expected to have 18 months of full-time critical care experience with adults. Graduates from the program take the national exam for certification as a Nurse Anesthetist.

Contact:
University of North Carolina-Charlotte
9201 University City Blvd.,
Charlotte, North Carolina 28223-0001
(704) 687-8622

University of North Carolina at Greensboro Nursing School Review

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG, UNC Greensboro) is a public university located in Greensboro. It is part of the University of North Carolina system, and there are over 100 undergraduate, 61 masters, and 26 doctoral programs offered at the university that has over 18,500 students enrolled in various programs. The school was established in 1891. It is continually ranked as one of the top academic institutions in the U.S., based on student performance, value, and academics. The School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro has been named a Center of Excellence by the National League of Nursing for three consecutive terms.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The university offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for students who want to prepare for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). The program can be completed in four years, but it is very rigorous so some students choose to complete it in five years instead of four years. There are four parts to the program which include the general education core courses, nursing prerequisites and co-requisites, upper division major courses, and electives that are necessary for meeting the baccalaureate degree requirements. A total of 122 credits are necessary to complete the program. At that time, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The University of North Carolina-Greensboro has some special requirements that are unique to the university. These are mandated for all students working on bachelor’s degrees. There are two intensive writing courses required. One may be in nursing and the other can be a non-nursing writing course. In addition, students must take two speaking intensive courses. One must be in nursing and the other can be a non-nursing course. A foreign language is not required for a nursing degree, but nursing students must also take four global perspectives courses, and one of these must be a nonwestern course.

Students must have a 3.0 grade point average before enrolling in nursing courses. The university recommends that students apply to the nursing program in their sophomore year. Only those who have received formal, written notice of acceptance to the program can be assured that they have made it into the program. Since the nursing program is very competitive, applicants usually have grade point averages that are much higher than 3.0. The faculty recommends that students work as Certified Nurse Assistant I or II during the summers between academic years.

BSN for Second Degree Students

This BSN program is designed specifically for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field. The program usually takes three years to complete. Students do not have to take the general education core requirements, and once they have finished the courses that are prerequisites for the nursing program, they usually begin nursing classes. Students then complete nursing courses, clinical experience, and any electives or other courses required for the program. At the completion, a graduate is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure as a Registered Nurse.

RN to BSN (2+Program)

Registered Nurses with an associate degree or those who have graduated from a state approved nursing program may enter this program as a day or night student. Students require various amounts of time to finish their BSN depending on how many course are required to reach the 122 credits needed to graduate. Applicants must have a North Carolina RN license without restrictions before beginning the program. RNs may take special exams on various areas of nursing, and if they pass the exam up to 30 credits will be awarded. All students in the program must complete a minimum of 31 semester hours in residence at the university. Also, the university has articulation agreements with North Carolina community colleges, so students who graduate from one of these with their associate’s degree in nursing are guaranteed to enter the University of North Carolina-Greensboro with at least 30 hours towards their bachelor’s degree.

RN to BSN (Diploma Program)

RNs who have graduated from an accredited diploma nursing program may enter this program to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have an unrestricted license in nursing in North Carolina. The amount of time to complete the program varies with the number of courses that are required for the BSN. Students in this program must complete all of the courses that traditional nursing students working towards their bachelor’s degree must take.

Triad Education Center RN to BSN Program

This program is offered at the Triad Education Center which is close to the Piedmont Triad Airport. RNs who enter the program can earn their BSN in two years in most cases. Students attend classes only one day each week and complete independent learning activities, web-based activities, and may complete their assignments on a flexible schedule. This program is designed for the working RN who needs to work studies into the busy nursing schedule that they must follow.

RN to BSN Outreach Program

This program is offered for working nurses who want to earn their BSN. It is a part-time program that is held at the Northwest AHEC building next to the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory each Wednesday. University faculty travel to this location to teach classes to nurses. The program can be finished in five semesters, and students are admitted only at the start of the program which is every two years. Students in the program may take the nursing exams offered by the university to be awarded up to 30 credits.

Master’s Program

The university offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a variety of concentrations. After completing core courses in the program, students complete the required courses in their concentration. Applicants to the Master’s Program at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and satisfactory scores on the GRE or MAT. It is preferred that applicants have worked for at least one year as an RN. Those applying for admission to the nurse anesthesia program must have at least one year’s experience working in critical care nursing. RNs must have an unrestricted license to practice nursing in North Carolina as well as CPR certification. Each of the concentrations is described below.

Nursing Administration

This MSN concentration is an online course that requires 36 credits to complete. Students must complete 12 lab hours each week as well as courses that deal with the law, policy, and economics of healthcare, nursing case management, and advanced nursing courses. A thesis or critique in research in nursing project is also required as a capstone project.

Nurse Anesthesia

This program leads to a MSN in Nurse Anesthesia. It requires 50 semester hours for the degree and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Graduates of this program take the national exam to become Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

Nursing Education

This MSN program can be completed online, and it can be completed in 36 hours. Students learn advanced nursing in addition to education courses in which they practice designing curriculum and evaluating students’ work. Students also complete practicums in teaching student nurses.

Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

The university offers the Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Concentration for RNs. It takes 50 credits to graduate from this program. Students must be practicing RNs, but this is a full-time program. RNs complete 12 lab hours each week in addition to the coursework that must be completed. The program can be completed in 5 semesters.

Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Concentration – Part Time

This program prepares RNs to provide primary care to older adults. It requires seven semesters to complete, including 12 hours of lab work each week and a practicum at the end of the program.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs

RNs with a bachelor’s degree may earn a certificate in a variety of concentrations, such as Nursing Administration, Nursing Case Management, Nursing Education, and Gerontological Nursing. Students must complete at least 12 credits during a two-year period. Credits earned may apply towards a degree program in the Graduate School.

Post-Masters Certificate in Nurse Anesthesia

RNs that have previously completed their MSN may complete a program to earn a certificate in an area of advanced nursing such as Nurse Anesthesia. It takes 41 semester hours to complete this program or four semesters of full-time studies. At the completion of the program, students take the national exam to become certified Nurse Anesthetist.

Post-Masters Certificate for the Adult Nurse Practitioner/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

This program may be completed on a part-time basis and requires the completion 41 credits. In addition, 12 hours of lab work is required each week. At the completion of the program, students receive a certificate ad take the national exam for certification as a Nurse Practitioner.

MSN/MBA Program

Students at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro may want to earn a dual degree. They can earn both their MSN and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the 54 semester hour program. It takes 5 years of part-time study for RNs to earn this dual degree.

MSN Outreach Program

This MSN program is offered to RNs who have a BSN. It provides an opportunity for nurses to earn their MSN on a part-time basis. Classes are taught by university faculty at the Northwest AHEC building which is next to the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory each Tuesday from 1 pm to 8 pm. There are 8 semesters in the program that takes four years to complete. Applicants are required to have a 3.0 average to qualify for admission.

PhD Program

The PhD program at the university requires that applicants have satisfactory GRE scores and that the exam was taken within the last 5 years. Applicants must also have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on any previous graduate work. At least 57 credits are required for graduation with a PhD in nursing. Applicants must be licensed RNs, have CPR certification, and carry liability insurance. Students may not take longer than 7 years to complete the program.

Study Abroad Program

Students who are enrolled in the traditional BSN four-year program, RN to BSN, or graduate MSN students in the anesthesia program may participate in an international experience. The practicum requirement may be completed through this program to the Dominican Republic from 7 days.

Contact:
University of North Carolina-Greensboro
112 Moore Building,
Greensboro, NC 27412
(336) 334-5000

University of North Carolina at Pembroke Nursing School Review

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP, UNC Pembroke) is one of the schools in the University of North Carolina system. It is a public school that is located in the college town of Pembroke. It was founded in 1887 and was originally formed to teach Native American teacher since there was a need for these teachers in the area. This master’s level university has over 6,000 students and offers 41 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The university features small classes with a student to teacher ratio of around 15 to 1, allowing students to get the help that they need from the faculty.

Nursing Programs

BSN Pre-Licensure

The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for high school graduates who want to pursue a career as a professional nurse. The four-year program requires 124 credits in liberal arts and sciences as well as nursing courses and clinical experience in nearby healthcare facilities. At graduation, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). After passing the exam, RNs are able to work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and other industries. Another option is to continue their education to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for a career in an advanced nursing specialty.

BSN Pre-Licensure applicants must first apply to the University of North Carolina (UNC) -Pembroke and begin taking classes before declaring a major. The first 62 hours of general education courses must then be completed, including all nursing prerequisite courses. In addition, a grade point average of 2.8 or better must be maintained on all coursework before entering the nursing program. Students accepted into the program are then expected to maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average in all nursing courses. Applicants must also meet all of the other requirements related to their physical, mental, social, and communication skills to remain in the program.

RN-BSN Program

The University of North Carolina-Pembroke offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. RNs who are currently licensed in North Carolina or who have a multi-state license and who have either an associate degree or diploma in nursing may apply for the program. Students in the program must complete 53 credits out of the 62 credits required to meet the general education nursing core. It is also necessary to complete 16 prerequisite nursing courses before beginning the BSN nursing courses. Students must have a grade point average of at least 2.8 on all college level work to qualify for the nursing program. Once students begin the BSN nursing courses, a grade point average of at least 2.0 must be maintained.

Many students who are enrolled in the BSN may complete financial aid forms. Many students at the university receive some sort of financial aid, and there are also scholarships available for nursing students. After completing an application to the University of North Carolina-Pembroke, candidates are strongly encouraged to complete financial aid forms to determine what type of financial aid they may qualify to receive.

Contact:
University of North Carolina-Pembroke
1 University Drive, Pembroke, NC 28372
(910) 521-6000

University of North Carolina Wilmington Nursing School Review

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW, UNC Wilmington) is a public university that is located in Wilmington, North Carolina. Wilmington is a coastal city located between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the University of North Carolina System universities with about 14,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs at the school. It was founded in 1947 and was a junior college when it first opened. The university has received prestigious ratings by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, Kiplinger’s, Fiske Guide to Colleges, G.I. Jobs, and Princeton Review.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science: Nursing Prelicensure

This four year program prepares students for a career as a professional nurse. It also prepares those who want to continue their education to earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a doctoral degree. After completing the general requirements for the university, nursing courses, and clinical experience, students take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Nursing students have an opportunity to take part in international programs offered at UNC Wilmington. One of these is working and studying in El Salvador and Guatemala. Students meet nursing students and medical students from this region to discover more about healthcare in Central America. They also work at a clinic, providing medical care to patients in the area. Another program is a trip to Peru, South America. During a two week period, students learn about the global healthcare system and experience a different culture. This program is incorporated into one of the nursing courses.

Students entering the nursing program after completing high school must first be accepted into the university. Admission is competitive, and not all students are accepted. There is no guarantee that a student who is accepted into the college will also be accepted into the nursing program since students do not declare a major until the end of their sophomore year. The University of North Carolina-Wilmington receives almost 11,000 applications from prospective freshmen, but only 1,950 students are accepted. The middle 50 percent of accepted first year students scored between 1130 and 1250 in reading and math on the SAT and between 530 and 620 on the SAT writing portion. The middle 50% SAT scores were between 1,670 and 1,870. Middle ACT scores were 23-28. These middle scores are substantially higher than those for many other colleges and universities.

Bachelor of Science: RN to BS

This program allows an RN to complete a Bachelor of Science degree after completing an associate degree. Those accepted into the program may transfer a maximum of 64 credits from a two-year college. If the student has completed a previous bachelor’s degree in another field, up to 93 credits may be transferred. Students must complete all of the liberal arts and science courses required by the university plus nursing courses and clinical experience. Three to six credits in a foreign language are required for a BSN. Students usually complete the RN-BSN program in three semesters. All nursing courses are completed online for this program.

Master of Science: Family Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares RNs with a BSN to provide primary care to family members of all ages. The program is available on a full time or part time basis. The full time program consists of 2-1/2 years of study. Part time student need 3-1/2 years to complete the program that requires the completion of 46 to 47 credits, including practicums and clinical experience. At graduation, students take the national exam that leads to licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

Nurses who have already completed their MSN may enter this program to earn a certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is on a part time basis and takes 2-1/2 years to complete 25 credits. Students do not take advanced nursing courses that they completed while working on their MSN. At the completion of the program, these students take the national exam to be licensed as Family Nurse Practitioners.

Post Master Certification: Nurse Educator

This program prepares RNs for a career as an instructor of pre-licensure nurses at various college levels of learning. It takes 12 credits to complete on a part time basis by being enrolled for one year. The program is open to RNs who already have a MSN. Students learn about curriculum design and instruction, evaluation, and teaching strategies. There is also a residency that is required.

Contact:
University of North Carolina-Wilmington
601 South College Road,
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
(910) 962-3000

Wayne Community College Nursing Program Review

Wayne Community College (WCC) is a two-year college located in the town of Goldsboro. It is a large college that has about 14,000 students enrolled in its programs. The college is also the location of the Wayne Early/Middle College High School. Sixty students are accepted from the high school into Wayne Community College each year. The college was begun in 1957 as an industrial college before becoming a community college. Today, over 70 degree, diploma, certificate, and continuing education programs are offered at the college. The affordable tuition makes continuing education a possibility for many residents of the area around Wayne Community College.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing

Wayne Community College offers a Practical Nursing program for students who want to enter this career. They will be prepared to work in hospitals, home health facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities after graduating. Graduates will also be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN to become licensed as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). They will also receive a diploma from the college in Practical nursing. There is a high demand for all kinds of nurses, including LPNs. The college accepts only 15 to 20 applicants into the LPN program each year, so admission is very competitive.

The Practical Nursing program is one of those at the college that are referred to as Allied Health Limited Programs. Applicants who are interested in entering this program need to print the packet available online. It is important to follow all directions in the packet and to submit all of the necessary documents and the application before the deadline. Admission is granted according to a point system, and only those who have completed all of the requirements are considered for admission. Applicants must either take the college placement tests or submit their SAT or ACT scores. Minimum SAT scores must be 1,000 or higher.

The point system used for admission to the program is based on several criteria. These are grades from college work that has been completed and the applicant’s overall grade point average from high school or college.

Associate Degree Nursing

Wayne Community College also offers an Associate Degree in Nursing. Admission to the program is competitive, and applicants must follow all steps of the application process to be considered for the program. Applications to the college and to the nursing program are required. In addition, applicants must either take the college placement tests or submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants must also provide proof that they have taken a chemistry course in the past ten years, and they must have a background check and submit the results to the admission office. Students for the program are chosen on a point system that depends on the applicant’s overall grade point average in high school or college plus the grade point average that has been earned in the prerequisite courses.

The program is a two-year combination of liberal arts and sciences courses and nursing courses and clinical experience. Students are trained to enter the workforce as entry level Registered Nurses (RNs). At the completion of the program, the graduate takes the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Advanced Standing Alternative for Licensed Practical Nurses

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the Associate Degree Nursing program if they are currently licensed and have a grade point average of at least a C in their Practical Nursing courses. Students in the program may transfer up to 31 credits from their previous nursing courses, and 72 credits are required for the Associate Degree Nursing. Qualified applicants are admitted to the program if space is available.

Contact:
Wayne Community College
3000 Wayne Memorial Drive,
Goldsboro, NC 27534
(919) 735-5151

Western Carolina University Nursing School Review

Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university that is part of the University of North Carolina system. It is located in Cullowhee in the western part of the state and is one of the oldest four-year universities in the state system. The campus is close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is between the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. There are around 12,000 students attending the university that offers both undergraduate and graduate activities. Western Carolina University was founded in 1889 and now offers more than 120 academic programs.

Nursing Programs

BSN Pre-Licensure Program

The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure Program that prepares graduates for a career as a professional nurse. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Those who are interested in the program must first be accepted into the university. They must then begin taking lower division courses before applying to the School of Nursing. Only after they are accepted are they able to begin taking nursing courses. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the 60 credits that are required before being eligible to begin the nursing program. In addition, applicants must have an SAT Critical Reading/Verbal score or at least 500 and must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and have adequate scores on this test. During the nursing program, students complete nursing courses and their clinical experience.

Accelerated BSN Option

This program is for students who want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing with an accelerated option. It is referred to as the ABSN program because it is designed for those who already have completed a bachelor’s degree in another field who want to become professional nurses. The program is completed in 12 months and is a full-time program for students who can devote themselves to a full-time program. Classes are held five days each week for around eight hours each day. Clinical experience is in the evening or on the weekends, so the program requires a time commitment from students. Students may take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure after completing the program. To qualify for the program, applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in their college level work, and they must take the TEAS exam. They must also have completed all of the prerequisite courses. This program is highly selective. The applicant’s grade point average, TEAS score, resume and cover letter score, and interview with the ABSN Admissions Committee determine whether or not an applicant is granted admission to the program.

WNC RIBN Option

This program is the Western North Carolina Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nurses (RIBN) Program. Students are admitted to Western Carolina University and to A-B Tech to earn an associate degree and then a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The difference between this program and the BSN Pre-Licensure program is that students may begin working as an RN at the beginning of their fourth year in the program. This enables a student to pay for most of the three years of education that they have completed. For the first three years of the program, students attend A-B Tech’s Asheville campus. Then, the fourth year is taken at A-B Tech’s Enka Campus.

RN to BSN Program

This is an online program that enables Registered Nurses (RNs) to complete their BSN. There are 24 hours of online courses and 8 hours of upper division online electives that must be completed within two years on a part-time basis. An advantage of this program is that students may transfer up to 60 credits that they earned while studying for their associate’s degree. Another advantage is that the program is very affordable at less than $5,000 for the entire program, including textbooks.

RN to MS(N) Early-Entry Option

Students in the RN to BSN program who would like to continue their education to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree are eligible to apply to enter this program. Students may then take up to 8 hours of graduate level MSN courses in one of the MSN concentrations as they complete their BSN. By doing this, the courses count for both the BSN and MSN degrees and reduce the total number of credits that must be completed.

Graduate: Master of Science (Nursing)

This program is for graduates of a BSN program or for those who are in the WCU RN to MS(N) Early-Entry Option. Besides completing basic core courses that are required for the master’s degree, students also choose a concentration and complete courses that are related to it. These are discussed below.

MS(N) Nurse Educator

This program is designed to prepare RNs who have completed their BSN to become educators of student nurses. They are also prepared to educate staff and patients. All courses are taught online, and students choose whether they want to complete a thesis or project option. A total of 38 to 39 credits are required, and students take courses part-time. Applicants should have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on the last 60 hours of undergraduate work, and must have completed statistics and research courses. They must also have at least one year’s clinical experience as an RN in the past five years. In addition, either the GRE or MAT exam is required.

There is also a Post-Graduate Certificate Program for RNs who have already completed their MSN. This program takes 18 credits to complete in five semesters. Applicants to the Certificate Program must have their MSN and GRE scores are not required.

MS(N) Nurse Administration

This master’s degree program prepares nurses to work in leadership positions. It is an online program except for practicum placements that are near the student’s home. Either a thesis or scholarly project must be completed. The program requires 40 or 41 credits, and student take classes on a part-time basis. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 on the last 60 hours of their undergraduate studies and must have completed statistics and research courses. They must also be licensed as an RN and have at least one year of clinical experience. Either the GRE or MAT exam is required.

MS(N) Nurse Anesthesia Program

This program prepares RNs to work as Nurse Anesthetists and takes 28 months to complete. During this time, students take at least 66 course credits. This highly competitive program admits only 14 students into each cohort class, and this is less than 20 percent of the number of applicants who want to be admitted. Applicants must have at least one year’s experience in full-time critical care in a hospital setting. Students must take the GRE and have satisfactory scores plus a grade point average in the last 60 hours of undergraduate studies of at least 3.0.

MS(N) Family Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares nurses to work with family members of all ages and leads to a master’s of science degree. This is an online program, or students may take classes on the Enka campus. Those who already have a MSN may apply to the Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program. A total of 49 to 53 credits are required, depending on whether the student chooses to complete a thesis or project option. The Post-Master FNP Certificate Program requires 38 credits to complete. Admission requirements are that the applicant must have a BSN and a grade point average of at least 3.0 during the last 60 credits completed. A statistics course and research course are also required. In addition, the applicant must be licensed as an RN and have at least one year’s clinical experience as a RN. Satisfactory GRE scores are also required. For the Certificate Program, GRE scores are waived, and the applicant must have a MSN.

Contact:
Western Carolina University
102 Cordelia Camp,
Cullowhee, NC 28723
(828) 227-7317

Western Piedmont Community College Nursing Program Review

Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) was founded in 1964 and is a member of the North Carolina Community College System. It is located in Morganton, a small city that has been given awards as one of the best small towns in the USA. The college has an enrollment of around 13,000 students who are in associate degree programs or one of three transfer associate degrees. There are more than 36 associate in applied science degrees in healthcare, industry, business, and education offered at Western Piedmont. The college offers courses available through distance learning that make it easier for working adults to complete their associate degree while meeting their family and work responsibilities.

Nursing Program

Associate Degree Nursing

Western Piedmont Community College offers a two-year program for those interested in becoming professional nurses. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that is required for nurses to be licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). Nurses are in demand in many healthcare sites, including hospitals, clinics, schools, factories, home health care, doctor’s offices, and other places in the community. Admission to the program is competitive, and applicants must closely follow the requirements for admission to be considered for the program.

An application to Western Piedmont Community College must be submitted, but even if an applicant meets the requirements for admission, it is not guaranteed that the candidate will be admitted to the program. Applicants must take a Reading exam and score 81 or better, or they make take a college level English course and earn at least a C in it. They must score 70 or higher on the Compass Writing exam or complete a college level English course with a grade of C or better. In Math, applicants need to score at least 47 on the Pre-Algebra exam or complete a college level Math course with a C or higher. In addition, they must take an Elementary Algebra exam and score at least 46 or higher, or they may take a college level Math course and earn at least a C in the course. It is also required that applicants have completed high school college preparatory chemistry with a grade of C or better, as well as biology with a C or better. Applicants must also test out of computer literacy or complete a college level course in this subject.

A grade point average of at least 2.5 is required in all college level work. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is offered by the college, and students must take this test. Applicants must have completed a nursing assistant program as well. A point system is used for admitting students to the nursing program. Admission test scores, placement scores, and grade point averages from high school and any college work that has been completed are used to determine which applicants are chosen for the program. The college also recommends that applicants have completed Anatomy & Physiology I and II before starting the nursing program. Once admitted, students must maintain minimum grade point averages.

Newly admitted students are required to attend an Orientation to Nursing, and state law requires that nursing students must be physically and emotionally healthy. A physical exam is required for this purpose. Students must also pass a urine drug test and background test. Once all of the liberal arts and science prerequisite courses have been completed, students begin nursing core courses and complete clinical experience. Tuition at Western Piedmont Community College is very reasonably priced, and some students finish the associate degree program and then transfer to a four-year college to finish their bachelors degree.

Contact:
Western Piedmont Community College
1001 Burkemont Avenue,
Morganton, NC 28655
(828) 438-6000

Winston-Salem State University Nursing School Review

Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is located in Winston-Salem and is a traditionally black public research university. It has been highly rated for being one of the best colleges in the South. There are around 6,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate and grade programs at the university. The institution began in the late 19^th century as a training school for African American teachers. Today there are more than 40 undergraduate programs and 10 graduate programs.

Nursing Programs

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Winston-Salem State University is the fourth largest producer of nurses in North Carolina. The university’s Clinical Laboratory Science program was the first Internet based degree program in the North Carolina System and was one of the first in the USA. The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students without college backgrounds to enter the workforce as Registered Nurses (RNs). The program takes four years to complete and focuses on a liberal arts education for students who also complete nursing courses and clinical experience. Students must complete 62 credits in general education and support courses before being admitted to the nursing program.

Those who are interested in attending this nursing program must apply to Winston-Salem State University. Those entering the university from high school are admitted depending on their academic record, high school grade point average, and scores on the SAT or ACT tests. Students admitted to the university are not guaranteed admission to the nursing program. The nursing program admits students based on their SAT or ACT score and reading score. Other factors that are taken into consideration are the grades that students received in science courses and their grades in the Lower Division Nursing courses. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 2.6 in the courses that are taken at the university. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Accelerated Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Option

The university offers this program for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. These students must apply directly to the Division of Nursing. Each year, 45 students are admitted to the program that takes 13 months to complete. Applicants are required to have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.6 or better, SAT score of 470 or higher in Verbal/Critical Reading or an ACT English score of 19 or better. The university also requires a reading placement test. Priority admission is given to students who have earned a grade of C on their first try to pass life or physical science courses. After completing the required nursing courses and clinical experience, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as an RN.

Master of Science in Nursing

RNs who have completed their BSN and who want to move into advanced nursing may be interested in this program. The university offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with two concentrations. These are Family Nurse Practitioners and Advanced Nurse Educators. Students complete core courses that are required for the MSN and then focus on the specialty classes that prepare them for their chosen concentration.

MSN Advanced Nurse Educator – Full-Time Plan of Study

The Advanced Nurse Educators program prepares nurses to teach nursing students in undergraduate programs and to provide staff development positions in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Students are also prepared to fill clinical education positions such as educating patients in wellness and in chronic illness treatment. Students who attend full-time are able to complete the program in two years.

MSN Advanced Nurse Educator – Part-Time Plan of Study

The requirement for the part-time program is the same as for the full-time program except that student complete the program in three years instead of two years. A total of 39 credits must be earned. The university allows up to six years for completion, but no longer than that amount of time.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner – Full-Time Plan of Study

The Family Nurse Practitioners program focuses on training RNs to provide primary care to family members of all ages, especially those who do not have regular access to medical care. A total of 51 credits and 700 clinical hours are required, and these are completed in five semesters.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner – Part-Time Plan of Study

The requirements for this program are the same as for full-time students except that courses are completed over seven semesters.

Certificate Programs

Post-Master’s

Advanced Nurse Educator (ANE) Certificate

This program is designed for RNs who have already completed their MSN. Students complete 27 credits and are awarded a certificate upon completion of the program.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certification

This program takes from 12 to 18 months to complete when a student has previously finished a MSN. Between 33 and 37 credits are required plus 672 hours of clinical experience.

Post-Baccalaureate

Nurse Educator Certificate

This program consists of 15 credits that students must complete. Courses cover curriculum and instruction methods and the program includes an education residency of four credits.

Contact:
Winston-Salem State University
601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27110
(336) 750-2000

Adelphi University Nursing School Review

Adelphi University (AU, AdelphiU) started as a small private preparatory school in 1863. 30 years down the line, Adelphi preparatory school head found it important to establish a liberal arts college in the Brooklyn region. As such, Adelphi College; a woman’s college came into being in 1893. The two institutions remained intact but each operated independently.  The college separated from the preparatory academy and relocated to Garden City in Long Island. By 1946, the college had had tremendous growth and opened its doors for men. It was granted university status in 1963 as a private co-ed center of higher learning.

Nursing Programs at Adelphi University

The School of Nursing at Adelphi University offers 3 Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree tracks, 3 Master of Science in Nursing options and a PhD in nursing degree program. There is also a special Master of Public Health degree program designed for nurses. Besides the major degree programs, Adelphi University also offers a number of Continuing Education courses and Registered Nurses (RN) refresher courses. All the degree programs are approved by the New York State Board of Education and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Programs

As mentioned earlier, the school of nursing at Adelphi has 3 tracks leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing:

BS in Nursing

This traditional nursing program is designed for recent high school graduates or transfer students of a pre-nursing program. The program has a curriculum designed to be covered in 4-academic years on a full time basis. Student takes general education and nursing courses in preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam so as to become registered nurses.

30 general education credits are covered during the freshman year. Starting from the sophomore going forward, all but one are nursing courses totaling to 94 credits. Those admitted as freshmen take their courses on a full time basis while transfer students have the option of a part time plan. Successful completion of the 124 credits for the generic degree enables students to take the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses.

RN to BS Program

This program; referred to as ASCEND at Adelphi, is designed for registered nurses who wish to advance and complete BSN degree. The curriculum for this track builds on prior nursing experience and focuses on deepening nursing expertise for the RN. It can be completed on a flexible study plan and is therefore suitable for the working RN. RN who are graduates of an Associate of Science in nursing program are exempted from taking all general education courses unlike those of Associate of Applied Science in nursing programs. On a further note, those who have graduated from a diploma program must take 24 credits from Excelsior College to be eligible for advanced standing.

Students take a mandatory 30 upper division nursing courses while the lower division and general education courses may be validated for advanced standing.  Courses are taken on a full time format of one day per week schedules; hence suitable for the busy RN. Completion all requirements lead to the award of a BSN degree.

BS in Nursing Second Degree Program

This program also referred to as Professional Acceleration to Healthcare (PATH) at Adelphi University is designed for career shifters wishing to enter professional nurses. Candidates must be graduates of an accredited bachelor program other than nursing. Students who have completed all pre-requisite courses for the BSN take 14 months to complete of the upper division BSN courses.

Students of the PATH program are admitted as cohort and progress as so for the entire period of study. Since the program has intensive curriculum coverage mode, students are advised to give-up any employment prior to starting on the program.  Courses commence on a summer semester and progress for another 4 semesters including a winter and 2^nd summer session. 62 credits are required for students to graduate with a BSN degree and gain eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

Master of Science in Nursing

Adelphi offers 3 Master of Science in nursing tracks and a special master of science in public health program. For the latter, candidates need not be registered nurses to be allowed to apply. The MSN tracks requires BSN prepared students or registered nurses with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree. All applicants must hold or be eligible for RN licensure in the state of New York and must have at least 2 years working experience a registered nurses.

However, RNs without a nursing baccalaureate degree must expect to take a number of undergraduate BSN courses before being allowed to take any MSN courses. Candidates who do not meet all MSN admission requirements may still be admitted at the discretion of the program director. Such candidates retain the status of Provisional Admission until they complete at least MSN credits to be recognized for regular admission. Each MSN track has 15 core courses and varying specialty course depending on the track chosen. The 3 tracks are:

• Master of Science: Adult Health Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science: Nursing Education
• Master of Science: Nursing Administration

For the Master of Science in Public Health MPH, students need to apply through the school of nursing but do not require a nursing degree to be accepted. The program is open to nurses and non-nurse candidates and offers a broad interdisciplinary approach to improving public health.

PhD in Nursing

The Doctor of Philosophy in nursing terminal degree is designed for MSN prepared candidates who wish to become nurse scholars. Adelphi University offers students the options of taking the curriculum requirements for this program on either a full time or part time basis. Students are admitted every fall semester in cohorts and proceed as such to the end. At least 54 credits of nursing and research courses are required to graduate.

Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (Continuing Education)

Adelphi University offers registered nurses a refresher course for those intending to get back to nursing practice after dormancy. There are also other continuing education courses on various topics designed for nurses as outlined below:

• RN Refresher course
• AHA Basic Life Support Certification (CPR)
• AHA Basic Life Support
• PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) course
• IV Training
• Infection Control
• Wound Care

All the above courses are offered on a face-to-face format at the 3 campuses of Adelphi University: Manhattan, Hauppauge and Garden City. RN should check for course offering dates regularly.

Contact:
Adelphi University
1 South Avenue, Garden City
NY 11530

SUNY Adirondack Nursing Program Review

SUNY Adirondack, previously known as Adirondack Community College (ACC), was founded in 1961 with the aim of bringing higher education close to the residents of 3 counties: Saratoga, Warren and Washington. It is a public 2- year college offering associates degrees and certificate program for career entry or transfer purposes.  ACC become part of the State University of New York (SUNY) and adopted a new name: SUNY Adirondack (SUNY ACC) in 2010. With this new name and association, the college now offers bachelor and master degree programs to its students at the SUNY Adirondack campus.

Nursing at SUNY Adirondack

The nursing program at SUNY Adirondack is a 2-year associate degree program that prepares both entry-level high school graduates and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New York State Board of Education. Through other universities of the SUNY system, students can complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree right at Adirondack.

Nursing AAS

The Associate of Applied Science (ASS) program admits students twice annually for summer or fall and spring semesters.  Candidates interested in the fall or summer start dates must place their applications between 1^st Jan and 1^st Feb for evaluation. Those hoping for the spring semesters must do so between 1^st September and 1^st October. A January admission can be decided on a year to year basis and is dependent on the applications received.

After admission, students embark on a full time plan spanning 4 semesters. General education courses are covered in the 1^st year along with a few nursing courses. In the sophomore year, students take nursing and supporting science courses. A total of 68 credits: 30 general education and supporting and 38 nursing credits. All graduation requirements must be met within 7 semesters after the first nursing course. Successful completion of the curriculum requirements leads to academic eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.

Practical Nurses Advancement Options

Graduates Practical Nurses (GPN) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) have the chance of joining the AAS program at the sophomore level. For the GPN case, candidates need not have licenses but must be eligible for one and graduated from an accredited PN program. To be eligible for advanced standing, GPN and LPN must take and pass a bridging nursing course before starting on 2^nd year nursing courses.

GPN and LPN automatically receive 6 credits in advanced standing for one 1^st year nursing course and can challenge by exam a further ten nursing credits.  Successful completion of the remaining courses leads to eligibility for the NLCEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

SUNY Adirondack Nursing Scholarships

Besides applying for the federal loans and grants, AAS students at Adirondack College can apply for the following institutional based scholarships:

• Sandra Schupp Memorial Nursing Scholarship
• Beverly Ross Memorial Scholarship
• Beth Karhan Lauren scholarship

The above scholarships are open to students who are at their 2^nd year level and enrolled on a full time basis.

Articulation Agreements

Graduates of the AAS program are advised to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program by taking advantage of the SUNY transfer program. Nursing graduates may transfer to the following SUNY and non-SUNY college for a 4-year degree:

• Excelsior College
• Kaplan University
• SUNY Canton College Technology
• SUNY Plattsburgh
• SUNY Upstate Medical University

Contact:
Adirondack Community College
640 Bay Road, Queensbury,
NY 12804

American University of Beirut Nursing School Review

American University of Beirut (AUB) was founded in late 1866 following generous donations from the community. The university was initially known as Syrian Protestant College and its aim was to start a college offering American Education in the Middle East. The college put more emphasis on medical education right from the start with the school of medicine being the first academic affair of the college. A hospital affiliated with the college: American University of Beirut Medical Center was established along with a school of nursing. In 1920, the initial name of the college was changed to AUB to reflect an expanded college and its recognition as a US university.

Nursing at American University of Beirut

The Rafic Hariri School of Nursing at AUB was established in 1905. It opened along with AUB medical center and severed as an in-house training school for nurses. The school prides itself to be the first nursing school to be established in the Middle East and the first to be accredited outside the US by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The school offers a 4-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program, Master of Science in nursing (MSN) program and a BSN completion option for registered nurses.  There are also accelerated BSN opportunities for career shifters and the ability for dual undergraduate degrees. The programs are fully accredited by the CCNE.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a traditional full time 4-year program that prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses (RN). Students are admitted as freshmen and start off with general education courses in the first year.  In the second year, nursing courses are introduced along other supporting science courses. In the 2^nd and 3^rd year, nurses come for fully loaded summer sessions and normal semester periods during the 4^th year.

In total, 30 credits in general education and 102 credits in nursing and supporting science courses. Successful completion leads education eligibility to sit for the National Colloquium Exam to become a registered nurse in Lebanon. Students also graduate with a Bachelors of Science in nursing degree.

RN-BSN Program

This RN to BSN program is designed for candidates who are already registered nurses in Lebanon or equivalent. The curriculum is scheduled to be completed in 3 academic years on a full time basis but not exceeding six calendar years on a part time plan. Courses are taught during summer sessions in 1^st and 2^nd years besides the normal semesters and only one semester during the 3^rd year.

Students may apply for validation of a number of nursing courses after admission into the program. However, on a normal basis, 90 credits of nursing courses are required for graduation with a BSN degree.

BA/BS –BSN Accelerated Program

This program is meant for students who already hold Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in other non-nursing fields.  Students who join this program are career shifters who want to become professional RN by earning a BSN degree. Since most general education courses are met in the prior program, students can complete the program in an accelerated format of 24 months. Completion leads to eligibility to write the National Colloquium Exam for licensure as registered nurses.

Dual Degree

Those in the BSN program may take another degree in tandem with the nursing program upon approval from the faculty. This program is advised for highly achieving students who wish to graduate with 2 degrees at the end of their study period.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program

AUB’s Rafic Hariri School of Nursing offers BSN-prepared students four options in the Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN). All candidates are required to a minimum of 1 year working experience as a RN in addition to a Valid RN licenses from the candidates’ place of practice. Although the ideal Master’s of Science in Nursing program candidates are those who have a cumulative grade 80, those with a average passing grade of 70 maybe admitted on a probation basis.

The curriculums for all tracks consist of 36 credit hours that can be completed in either full time or part time options.  No more than 6 credits can be transferred from other colleges into the AUB MSN tracks. MSN Students also have the chance of choosing between thesis and non-thesis options for graduation requirements. The following are the MSN tracks offered:

• MSN in Nursing Administration
• MSN in Community and Public Health (optional nursing education minor)
• MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health (optional nursing education minor)
• MSN in Adult Care (optional nursing education minor)

Contact:
American University of Beirut
3 Dag Hammarskjold, New York,
NY 10017

Arnot Ogden Medical Center Nursing Program Review

Arnot Ogden Medical Center; home to the Arnot Ogden School of Nursing (AOMC-SON) was established in 1888. It is part of the Arnot Health Group consisting of 3 hospitals located in the Southern and Northern Tier of New York and Pennsylvania respectively. Arnot Ogden School of nursing was opened three years after the hospital following the increasing needs of nurses. The hospitals and the school of nursing are independent non-profit making organization committed to providing health care and hospital-based nurse training to the residents around it.

Nursing Programs at Arnot Ogden School of Nursing

The school of nursing offers two curriculum options for students who wish to become registered nurses. The school offers a 3-year nursing diploma program with options for fresh entry students and those who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Both programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and are registered by the New York State Department of Education. Students are advantaged to have Arnot Ogden Medical Center and other two Premier hospitals for clinical rotations and direct patient experience before they get out of school.

Three Year Program Diploma in Nursing

The full time 3-year diploma program is designed to prepare entry-level high school graduates who wish to become registered nurses (RN). The diploma program accepts students each year for classes beginning September and candidates must place their applications before May 15^th each year. Prior to placing an application, candidates must take a Test of Essential Academic Skills exam (TEAS).

If admitted, students enroll for 25 general education and science semester hours at Elmira College since these are not offered at the school of nursing. During the freshman and 2^nd year level, a combination of general education and nursing courses are taken at both Arnot Ogden School of nursing and Elmira College. The senior level courses are exclusively nursing courses and are completed at the Arnot Ogden.

The school has a term study plan as opposed to the usual semester plans. Generally, courses are offered on a 13-week schedule on the start of each level after which students take a 3-week break. After resumption, another 13-week cycle starts and ends with a 1 week spring break followed by a 9-weeks term that ends with a long summer break. After successful completion of the 9 terms of 75 credits, students become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides graduating with a Diploma in Nursing.

Practical Nurse (PN) to Registered Nurse (RN)

This option is developed to offer practical nurses the advancement opportunity to become registered nurses. Each student seeking advanced placement must apply for nursing credits validation and this leads to an individualized study plan for each LPN to RN student. Credit transfer for general education courses is allowed after students take the College Level Examination Program (CLEP).

Students under the advanced placement plan can choose from the full time and part time options. However, all requirements for graduation must be completed within 5 years after admission. After successful completion, students become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to make the transition into professional nursing. A diploma in nursing is also awarded.

Institution based-Scholarships

Arnot Ogden School of nursing has two in-house scholarship programs for its student nurses. The Arnot Ogden Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship is open to senior level students who demonstrates need coupled with good academic achievement. The Marguerite Shelgren- Endsley Scholarship program is meant for junior students who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.

Contact:
Arnot Ogden School of Nursing
600 Roe Ave, Elmira,
NY 14905

Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing Review

Beth Israel School of Nursing was founded in 1904 as part of the Beth Israel Medical Center. The nursing school served as a hospital-based training center for nurses without a formal nursing curriculum. In 1906, the school adopted a formal nurse training curriculum and hence started training professional nurses. In 1984, the school received a new name: Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing (PBISN) in honor of Seymour Phillips a former president of the school.

The Nursing Program-Philips Beth Israel School of Nursing

The nursing program at Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing has undergone a lot of changes since its inception in 1904. The program started off as an in-house training school for nurses before moving on to a degree awarding school. The program is a 2-year associate of science in nursing program that prepares students to become professional registered nurses. It is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. It has articulation and affiliation status with a number of colleges to ensure career advancement for its students. Continuing education for nurses is also offered at the school in association with Continuum Health Partners.

The Nursing Program

The traditional nursing program is designed to run for 2 academic years on a full time basis. There is only one admission cycle per year and candidates are expected to have submitted their nursing program application by 1^st of April each year. The program accepts both fresh entry and transfer students. As a prerequisite for admission, all candidates must possess a Basic Life Support course in addition to current National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-RN exam scores.

In addition to the traditional plan, there are a number of program completion options including a 3-year part time plan and an evening schedule. Those interested in the former are admitted in the fall semester while evening students commence classes in the spring semester

Phillips Beth Israel School of nursing does not itself offer general education and science courses for the associate of science in nursing program. Instead, students admitted as freshmen take all the general education and pre-requite courses at Pace University which the school has affiliations with. A total of 33 credits must be completed at Pace or transferred from another college for students to be eligible for nursing courses.

At the 2^nd year level, students take 35 nursing courses on a face-to-face format. Successful completion of the entire curriculum gives the student education eligibility to apply and take the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure as a registered nurse. Students are also awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Note

PBISN has articulation agreements with Excelsior College and New York University. This enables its graduates to flawlessly transfer up-to 65 credits towards their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree programs.

Nurses Continuing Education

Phillips Beth Israel together with other partners of Continuum Health offers numerous Continuing education courses for registered nurses. The school is an approved provider of continuing education by the New York State Nurses Association. Courses at the Continuing education center are in the form of online courses, lecture based programs and nurse education workshops.

Contact:
Beth Israel Medical Center
776 Avenue of Americas, New York
NY 10001