St. Joseph’s College New York Nursing Program Review

St. Joseph’s College is a private liberal arts college in New York State. There are two campuses that are located in Brooklyn and in Long Island. The college offers both graduate and undergraduate programs with more than 20 majors. The college was founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph because there was no day college for young women in the area. There are around 5,000 students enrolled at Saint Joseph’s. The college has small classes with a student-faculty radio that enables students to get guidance and support from the faculty. The college has a strict standard of excellence and low cost tuition.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Program for Adults

This nursing program at St. Joseph’s College is designed for adults who are already Registered Nurses (RNs). It focuses on self-directed learning so that the working nurse can learn more about the profession at his or her own pace. The program provides the upper division nursing courses so that RNs may earn their Bachelor of Science in nursing. Having a bachelor’s degree opens many career doors for nurses. If an RN wants to advance in his or her career, the first step to take is to complete the Bachelor of Science program. The program focuses on nursing theory and the restoration and maintenance of health. Nurses with a bachelor’s degree are trained to work in leadership positions in hospital teams, supervising associate degree level nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses. Many nurses with a bachelors degree continue their education and go on to earn a master’s degree with an advanced certificate qualification.

Admission requirements are that the RN must have graduated from an associate’s degree program or a hospital diploma program. The applicant must hold a current license in New York State or must be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition, the applicant must have completed lower division course requirements. After completing 24 credits, the candidate may apply to Saint Joseph’s Nursing Department. A grade point average of 2.5 must have been attained in all lower level college work. Preference is given to those with a 3.0 grade point average on their previous nursing academic work. Registered Nurses must also take the Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam.

Graduates from hospital diploma programs must also take the RN to BSN tests. Students who are accepted into the program must then complete the remaining liberal arts and science classes, upper division nursing courses, and many hours of clinical experience. At the completion of these, the student may graduate and receive a Bachelor of Science in nursing.

MS Nursing Major

St. Joseph’s College also offers a Master of Science in nursing degree. To enter this program, applicants must have a BS from a nationally accredited program. The applicant must also have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0, but preference is given to those with a 3.3 or above grade point average. Applicants must be currently licensed in New York State and must have completed at least one year of clinical practice. The MS program takes a minimum of seven semesters, and at least 38 credits are required for the clinical nurse specialist in adult health concentration. In addition, 525 clinical hours are required. The nursing education concentration includes a minimum of 37 credits and 100 practicum hours. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average in their graduate studies. They must also obtain at least a 3.0 on the comprehensive examination for certification at the end of the program.

Contact:
St. Joseph’s College
LONG ISLAND CAMPUS,
155 West Roe Boulevard,
Patchogue, NY 11772
631-687-5100

St. Joseph’s College
BROOKLYN CAMPUS,
245 Clinton Avenue,
Brooklyn, NY 11205
718-940-5300

St. Elizabeth Medical Center Nursing Program Review

St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) major in nursing. There are around 210 students who attend this college. Saint Elizabeth College of Nursing has been operating since 1904. Students at this college learn theory in class and immediately transfer their new knowledge to actual nursing practice. This makes this college different from many others that separate theory and practice. A day program is offered as well as an evening and weekend program that is designed for those who are not able to attend classes during the weekday hours.

Nursing Programs

Weekday Program

Students may elect to complete their Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree during the day on weekdays. Students complete Anatomy & Physiology, English, and Psychology at the State University of New York Institute of Technology (SUNYIT) and also Fundamentals of Nursing at Saint Elizabeth during the first semester. Students also complete two courses at SUNYIT during the second semester, as well as two nursing courses at Saint Elizabeth. During the second year of the program, students complete two courses at SUNYIT and the remainder of the nursing courses at Saint Elizabeth. The bulk of the clinical experience occurs at Saint Elizabeth Medical Center. At the completion of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their license as a Registered Nurse.

Evening/Weekend Program

This program is designed to take three years to complete. All classes are held at the college on Saturday and Sunday. There are also courses on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Students complete their clinical experience at St. Elizabeth Medical Center and other healthcare facilities on Saturday and Sunday. Liberal arts and science courses are taken at SUNYIT. After completing all of the liberal arts and science courses, nursing core courses, and clinical experience, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their license as Registered Nurses.

Three Year Program

Another option that is available for students is to complete their Associate of Applied Science Degree in three years rather than in two years. In this curriculum format, students go to SUNYIT to take Anatomy & Physiology, English, and Psychology during the first semester. They also take College Survival Skills at Saint Elizabeth. The rest of the curriculum is stretched out over three years rather than two years. At the end of the program, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure as a Registered Nurse.

SUNYIT/SECON 1 + 2 + 1 Program

Saint Elizabeth College of Nursing and State University of New York Institute of Technology (SUNYIT) have a unique partnership. The 1 + 2 + 1 program is geared towards high school students who have met excellent academic achievement and who can meet the strict admission requirements of the program. For this program, students complete their general education requirements at SUNYIT during their freshmen year. They then move to Saint Elizabeth College of Nursing to complete their RN associate’s degree. In the four year, students return to SUNYIT to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). By entering this program, students earn two degrees in four years.

Contact:
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
2209 Genesee Street,
Utica, New York 13501
(315) 798-8100

St. Francis College Nursing Program Review

St. Francis College (SFC) is located in Brooklyn Heights, in Brooklyn. This New York City private college was founded by the Franciscan friars in 1859. There are 19 academic departments at the school with 72 majors and minors offered. This small college has only around 2,500 students, but the student body is diverse because students originate from more than 80 countries. St. Francis has opportunities for studying abroad in several European countries.

Nursing Programs

The nursing program at Saint Francis College is designed to meet the shortage of Registered Nurses (RNs) in Brooklyn who do not have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing. This program is only for those who are currently licensed in New York State as Registered Nurses. It is a bachelor’s degree completion program that will result in a Bachelor of Science in nursing. RNs with their bachelor’s degree can step into higher-level jobs. These Registered Nurses will then supervise and work with RNs who have an associate degree in nursing. A bachelors degree also leads to great salary increases as more administrative and supervisory responsibilities are assumed. This is the only nursing program available at St. Francis College.

Bachelor of Science Degree

This program is designed to help RNs who would like to earn their bachelor’s degree. The courses may be completed either full-term or part-time, according to the RNs personal availability. Courses and clinical experience are provided during the daytime, but the college attempts to make evening classes possible as well. Part-time students must complete a minimum of 12 credits per year, so it takes five years to earn the bachelor’s degree on a part-time basis. A total of 62 credits are earned in the program, whether a student attends full-time or part-time.

Registered Nurses may transfer up to 97 credits to St. Francis as long as they were completed with a grade of C or higher. Foreign students and graduates who have a diploma in nursing may transfer up to 30 credits. They must first complete an exam that is taken during their first semester at St. Francis. To qualify for graduation, students must have a total of 128 credits completed.

RNs in the program take liberal arts and science courses that are required for the bachelor’s degree at Saint Francis College. They also spend a substantial amount of time taking upper-level nursing courses and completing clinical experience at area hospitals in Brooklyn and in other Burroughs in New York City. Students must show that they have the knowledge and skills in liberal arts and sciences, including mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, history, the arts, and basic communication in the courses that they take.

Student life at St. Francis College is much different for working RNs who are completing their bachelor’s degree than it is for students who attend the college right out of high school. There are sports, clubs, and many activities at the college, including the opportunity to study abroad. Working nurses are not usually able to participate in the travel abroad opportunity since they must work and complete courses and additional clinical work at the same time.

Contact:
St. Francis College
180 Remsen Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201
(718) 489-5200

St. John Fisher College Nursing Program Review

St. John Fisher College (SJFC) was founded in 1948 by the Basilian Fathers and was a male-only college at that time. It became coeducational in 1971. Saint John Fisher is a small college with around 2,900 students enrolled. The college offers 32 undergraduate majors, 12 master’s degree programs, and 3 doctoral programs. Wegmans School of Nursing at the college offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in nursing.

Nursing Programs

Traditional Nursing BS Program

St. John Fisher College offers a traditional nursing program that leads to a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing. This program is for students who are directly out of high school or older students without any college courses. The advantage of attending St. John Fisher College is that in the first two years at the college, students follow the undergraduate Nursing curriculum. This involves completing the college core courses and prerequisite liberal arts and science courses. Students also participate in non-credit nursing seminars. Since the first two years do not include clinical practice in medical settings, students in the nursing program are free to pursue trips abroad and special outreach programs at St. John Fisher. Groups of nursing students and some of the nursing teaching staff take part in projects, such as going to Kenya to provide immunizations and basic health care.

Students are admitted to the nursing program in their junior year, and they begin studying nursing theory and clinical coursework related to children, adults, women’s health, psychiatry, and community health. They also complete their clinical experience in a variety of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities at this time. After completing the program and earning 120 credits, students take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to becoming a RN in New York State.

RN/BS Nursing Program

Nurses who are already RNs may complete their Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing at St. John Fisher College. The college offers a blended curriculum that consists of both online and in-class courses that make it much more convenient for the working adult to complete their degree. RNs must be graduates with an associate degree or a nursing diploma. The program can be completed in 18 months consisting of nine 7-week modules that include liberal arts courses and nursing courses. The college encourages students to coordinate their course projects around their current work environment.

Fast-Track RN/BS to MS

RNs with an associate degree or diploma in nursing may also choose the RN to BS to Master of Science (MS) program if they want to quickly earn an advanced degree. A MS in nursing leads to higher level jobs with much higher pay than a nurse with an associate degree or diploma in nursing would earn. This advanced degree also leads to many more high level jobs in hospitals, clinics, and as nurse practitioners who provide primary care, or other positions. Students in this program follow the same program as other RNs in the RN to BS nursing program, except that at the end of their studies, they substitute four courses that count towards the BS and MS degree. This overlapping of coursework enables them to complete the program much faster. Completing these master-level courses does not automatically guarantee that the student will be admitted to the MS program. Students are accepted on an individual basis that is based on grade point average, clinical experience, and other factors.

If a student is accepted into the MS program, they must then choose their special area that they wish to focus on in their master’s level studies, such as Nurse Education, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Specialist programs.

MS in Advanced Practice Nursing

RNs who have their BS in nursing may apply to enter the Master of Science (MS) in Advanced Practice Nursing at St. John Fisher. Applicants must have current licensure as an RN in New York State. Students attend classes in the evening and in the summer, and they may begin their studies in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. Applicants must have two letters of recommendation from a professional who is on the master’s level or above. The options of MS programs are discussed below.

MS in Advanced Practice Nursing: Clinical Nurse Specialist

This Master of Science in nursing program involves a choice of pursuing either an Adult/Gerontologic focus or a Maternal/Child focus. Students must complete 9 credits of coursework and 500 hours of precepted clinical practice. After completing the program, students take the certification exam to become certified as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.

MS in Advanced Practice Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner

After completing this program, the RN is qualified to take the test for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. These nurses provide primary care for children and adolescents, adults, and the elderly. The MS program requires that 27 credits in addition to the core courses must be completed. This amounts to 46 credits of coursework and 600 hours of precepted clinical practice..

MS in Advanced Practice Nursing: Nurse Educator

RNs with a BS in nursing may opt to complete the Nurse Educator program at St. John Fisher College. There is a great demand for nurse educators all around the US. This program requires 17 credits in addition to the MS core courses, including three education courses. Students may either major in Adult/Gerontologic focus or a Maternal Child focus. The program requires that students earn 36 credits and complete 300 hours of clinical practice. At the end of the program, RNs take the national certification exam to receive their Nurse Educator certificate.

Post-Master’s Certificate: Clinical Nurse Specialist

This program is for those who already have a MS in nursing, but others with a non-clinical master’s degree may also take the program to prepare to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist. Students with a master’s degree in another area may need to complete other core courses. All students must choose whether to pursue the Adult Health Focus or Maternal/Child Health Focus. The national exam that leads to a certificate as a

Post-Master’s Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner

The college also offers the Family Nurse Practitioner program for RNs who already have a master’s degree in nursing who want to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Those with a master’s degree in another field may also qualify after taking additional core courses. After completing the program, graduates will qualify to take the national exam that leads to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Post-Master’s Certificate: Nurse Educator

RNs that already have a MS in nursing and want to become a Nurse Educator may complete this program to become certified to teach student nurses in a variety of settings. This is an 11 credit certificate program, and students take the national certification exam after completing a practicum.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

St. John Fisher College offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Admission requirements include a grade point average of 3.3 in master’s level work. The applicant must have graduated from an accredited Advanced Practice Nursing program, must be licensed in New York State as an RN, and must hold a certificate as an advanced practiced nurse. Applicants must also have at least one year’s clinical experience as an advanced practice nurse. Students may enter the program at the Post Baccalaureate Degree Entry Level or the Post Master’s Degree Entry level.

The Post Baccalaureate Degree Entry Level program requires 72 credit hours that are completed over 3-1/2 years. Students may enter the program on a part-time or full-time basis and attend classes that meet every other weekend. The curriculum is designed to accommodate working nurses. The other option is for those who already have a master’s degree. The Post Master’s Degree Entry Level program can be finished in two years. It requires that 48 credit hours are taken. There are also part-time or full-time options at this level, and nurses meet for classes every other weekend, which includes Friday evening and all-day Saturday.

Contact:
St. John Fisher College
3690 East Avenue,
Rochester, New York 14618
(585) 385-8000

Cochran School of Nursing Review

The Cochran School of Nursing (CSN) at St. John’s Riverside Hospital is the oldest hospital-based nursing school in this area of New York. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science, and there are over 150 students currently enrolled in the program. The program is part of St. John’s Riverside Hospital that cares for patients in Yonkers and Southern Westchester. The hospital has been in existence since 1869. State-of-the art medical technology is used at St. John’s, and nursing students train on this equipment.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

Classes that lead to an Associate in Applied Science are offered at St. John’s Cochran School of Nursing on a daytime or evening basis. Students accepted into the program are expected to complete it in two years consisting of four semesters. Licensed Practical Nurses are able to enter the program to become Registered Nurses (RNs) and complete the program in 18 months consisting of 3 semesters. The nursing school also offers a Fast Track program that can be completed in less time.

Students who are enrolled in the Day Theory Section attend courses full-time. Classes are held twice a week and last four to five hours. Clinical practice is twice a week as well, usually lasting from 7 AM to 4 PM. Student who choose to attend the Evening Theory Section also attend classes twice each week, but their classes last from 5:30 PM until 11 PM. Their clinical practice hours are also from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM twice each week. Evening students must also spend some daytime and weekend hours for classes and clinical work.

Applicants to the nursing program at the hospital must be US citizens or legal residents of the US. Once a student is accepted into the program, the student must pass a physical examination that includes screening tests and immunizations. Applicants must have the physical abilities needed for nursing, such as the ability to lift 50 pounds, work on their feet for around eight hours or more each day, and the applicant must also have the motor coordination and manual dexterity to perform nursing duties. Visual acuity and auditory acuity are also necessary for performing routine nursing duties.

The Cochran School of Nursing also requires that a non-refundable application is paid to the school when the application is submitted. Applicants should also submit all high school and college transcripts. Applicants must also take a computerized Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) at the nursing school within one month of applying to begin the program. Financial aid is available for students who need assistance paying their tuition at the nursing school. Most students who apply for financial aid receive approximately two-thirds of the cost of the tuition and are responsible for paying only one-third of it. This is a great help to those who would not otherwise be able to attend the program.

Applicants must also be high school graduates or have a GED. They must have at a grade of C in high school algebra, biology, and chemistry. If these were not taken in high school, they must be completed on the college level with a grade of B or better. Applicants must also take microbiology and anatomy and physiology with a minimum grade of B in these courses. Licensed Practical Nurses who meet all of the entrance requirements may be exempt from Nursing 101, a basic nursing course. After students complete the curriculum at Cochran School of Nursing, they qualify to take the national examination for licensure as a RN.

Contact:
Cochran School of Nursing
967 North Broadway,
Yonkers, New York 10701
(914) 964-4296

St. Joseph’s College of Nursing Program Review

St. Joseph’s College of Nursing (SJCON) is located at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center (SJHHC) in Syracuse in central New York State. It was founded by the Sisters of St. Francis in 1898 and there have been thousands of graduates from this nursing program since that time. St. Joseph’s is the only nursing college in the area that is affiliated with a hospital that has been recognized as a Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

The program at Saint Joseph’s is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as Registered Nurses. After completing a two-year program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). Admission to the program is very competitive, so not all applicants are accepted into the program even if they meet the admission requirements. New York State high school students who plan to attend St. Josephs College of Nursing are highly encouraged to take Regents courses, including four years of high school science and math. They should have a grade point average of at least a B in these courses to increase the chance that they will be accepted into the nursing program.

Candidates for admission must have a high school diploma and they must rank in the upper half of their graduating class. They must also have SAT or ACT scores that are acceptable. The high school courses that must have been completed are Biology, Chemistry, and Math, including Algebra, Social Sciences, and English, including English Composition. Once admitted to the program, students must take a critical thinking entrance exam before orientation.

St. Joseph’s has a weekday program for students or a weekend program. Students are placed in clinical experience after only six weeks of classes during their first semester as a freshman. This is not found at most community college or in four year programs that focus on liberal arts and sciences during the first two years. Students complete many hours of clinical care experience during the four semesters that they attend St. Josephs, including 180 hours each semester. Students also take 30 credits of liberal arts and science courses at Le Moyne College. Nursing courses are taken at St. Josephs. The school also offers economical tuition for students, with a fee for the entire program that is approximately equal to one year at a public college. Almost all graduates from the program pass the NCLEX-RN the first time that they take it.

2 + 2 Option

St. Joseph’s College of Nursing offers the 2 + 2 option for students who graduate from the nursing school. Through an arrangement with Le Moyne College in Syracuse and other nearby colleges, students are able to transfer to these four year colleges to complete their bachelor’s degree. They are also able to work as RNs during this time. St. Josephs offers more patient care than most other nursing programs, so attending this college to earn an associate degree in nursing is a good choice. Then, students are able to work and earn a salary while completing their bachelor’s degree.

Dual Degree Partnership in Nursing (DDPN)

This option is very unique because it allows students to earn both an associate and bachelors degree in nursing in four years. Students begin their first year of study at Le Moyne College and then transfer to Saint Joseph’s for the second and third year. They then finish their bachelor’s degree in the fourth year of studies. Students who choose this option live on the Le Moyne campus so that they can have the full college experience.

Weekend Program

This option is good for students who need to work during the daytime. They can then earn their associate degree in nursing in two years by attending classes two weekends each month. Clinical experience is also completed during this time. The 2 + 2 option is also available for weekend students who begin their college career at Le Moyne College for their first year and then attend St. Josephs for the next two years to earn their associate degree. The final year of studies is then completed at Le Moyne to finish the bachelor’s degree.

Licensed Practical Nurse-RN Program

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to become RNs may enter the RN program at St. Josephs. There are weekday and weekend programs available. LPNs are exempt from taking the first semester of nursing courses in most cases. Each applicant must have an 85% grade point average during their practical nursing (PN) program and must be a licensed practical nurse (LPN) .

Contact:
St. Joseph’s College of Nursing
206 Prospect Avenue,
Syracuse, New York 13203
(315) 448-5040

Stony Brook University Nursing School Review

The State University of New York at Stony Brook, also known as Stony Brook University (SBU), is located about 50 miles east of Manhattan on the North Shore of Long Island. It is a public research university that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). Over 24,500 students are enrolled at the college. It is best known as an internationally recognized research university. Stony Brook also has many activities for students, including a month-long series of events at the beginning of the Fall and spring semesters, an annual regatta, a concert series with popular recording artists, and a film festival.

Nursing Programs

Basic Baccalaureate Program

The nursing program at The State University of New York at Stony Brook leads to a Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing. Students must first complete the first two years of their bachelor’s degree at Stony Brook or at another college before transferring to the nursing program for the final two years. Students often begin their college studies at one of SUNY’s community colleges and then apply to the nursing program at Stony Brook. Students must have at least 57 credits before beginning the nursing program, and a grade point average of at least 2.5 is required in these courses. Once students are accepted into the nursing program at Stony Brook, they must complete 71 credits in nursing courses and clinical experience. Much of the clinical experience takes place at the Stony Brook University Hospital on campus.

Admission to the Stony Brook nursing program is very competitive and not every applicant is accepted into the program. Applicants must have the physical and emotional ability that is needed for a nursing career, such as the ability to use visual, auditory, olfactory, and somatic senses. They must also have the behavioral and social attributes needed in nursing that are required while caring for patients. At the completion of the nursing program, students are qualified to take the national exam, The NCLEX-RN that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

12-Month Accelerated Bachelor of Science Program for College Graduates

This program is designed for those who have a bachelor’s degree. At the completion of the program, these students have a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Nursing. They also qualify to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their license to work as Licensed Nurses. Admission to the 12 Month Accelerated Nursing Program is very competitive. Applicants are required to have at least a 2.8 or C average in their previous undergraduate studies. Students must earn 69 credits and complete 820 hours of clinical experience to qualify for graduation. This program is very intense and requires full-time attendance without working outside of clinical experience in most cases.

Registered Nurse Baccalaureate Program

RNs that have either an associate degree or a diploma in nursing may pursue their bachelor’s degree in nursing by completing this program. The credits from the student’s previous studies for the associate degree or diploma are transferred to Stony Brook and go towards to bachelor’s degree. Up to 57 credits may be transferred with a grade point average of 2.5 or better. Applicants to the program must have three letters of recommendation and must complete three prerequisite science courses by the application deadline. They must also have clinical experience for at least one year as an RN.

Registered Nurse Baccalaureate to Master’s Program

This program is designed for students who are RNs who have either an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Students complete the remaining liberal arts and science courses needed for their bachelor’s degree plus upper-level nursing courses and additional clinical experience. A grade point average of 3.0 is required in the associate degree courses or nursing school courses. When the bachelor’s degree is completed, the students may continue to study for their master’s degree if they have maintained a minimum grade point average.

Master of Science Programs in Advanced Practice Nursing

Nurse Practitioner

Adult Health Nurse Practitioner Program

The Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nursing as a Nurse Practitioner offers many choices for RNs with a bachelor’s degree. A Nurse Practitioner may focus on Adult Health, Perinatal/Women’s Health, Neonatal Health, Pediatric, or Psychiatric/Mental Health. There are core courses that are taken for all of these specialties with specific courses geared to the specialty required as well. The Adult Health Nurse Practitioner Program prepares nurses to provide primary healthcare service to adults and older adults and their families. Applicants to the program must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and be licensed as an RN. Three letters of recommendation are also required. Applicants must also complete a course in Health Assessment and one in Statistics. Upon completion, the graduate is qualified to take the national exam to gain certification as an Adult Health Nurse Practitioner.

Advanced Practice Nursing Program in Perinatal Women’s Health

This masters-level program involves distance education with additional on-site requirements. It prepares RNs to care for women and their families in many different healthcare settings. Applicants to the program are required to have at least a 3.0-grade point average in their undergraduate studies. They must also have three recommendation letters, and complete a course in Health Assessment and one in Statistics. Only RNs who are currently licensed are considered. It is preferred that applicants have at least one year of clinical experience. After completing the program, the graduate will take the national exam leading to certification as a Perinatal/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

This program is for RNs with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. It prepares nurses to provide primary care to neonates and their families. It is preferred that applicants have at least one year’s clinical experience and a grade point average in undergraduate work of 3.0 or greater is required. Applicants must also have their RN license and submit three letters of recommendation. Two classes are required before beginning the program, which is Health Assessment and Statistics. When the program is completed, graduates take the national exam that provides certification as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care

Graduates of this program are qualified to take the national exam that leads to certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. These specialized nurses provide primary healthcare to children. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in their undergraduate studies and must submit three letters of recommendation. They must also take Health Assessment and Statistics courses before entering the program.

Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Stony Brook University offers this program for RNs with a bachelor’s degree that wants to become primary caregivers as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. The program offers distance education, but some on-site requirements are also required. Applicants with at least one year’s clinical experience are preferred, and they must have at least a 3.0-grade point average in their bachelor’s degree studies. The courses Health Assessment and Statistics are required before beginning the program. Upon graduation, students take the national exam leading to certification as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

This master’s degree program is offered either on-site or by distance education with some on-site requirements. An Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist works with adults of all ages and their families in a variety of healthcare settings. Applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in undergraduate work. Three recommendation letters are required plus the completion of Health Assessment and Statistics courses. It is preferred that applicants have at least one year’s clinical experience as well.

Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist

RNs with bachelor’s degrees who want to work specifically with children may want to pursue this degree. Many of the courses are available through distance education with some on-site requirements. An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 is required plus three recommendation letters. In addition, the courses of Health Assessment and Statistics must be completed before admission to the program. It is preferred that applicants have worked as a clinical nurse for at least one year before beginning the program.

Certified Nurse-Midwifery

This master’s degree program is offered with distance education that requires some on-site hours. The Nurse-Midwifery Program prepares nurses to care for women of all ages with a focus on normal birth and care of a healthy newborn. Admission to the program requires that the applicant had a minimum grade point average of 3.0. Applicants must be currently licensed RNs and submit three letters of recommendation. They must also take Health Assessment and Statistics courses before entering the program. At graduation, they take a national exam to be certified in Nurse-Midwifery.

Advanced Certificate Programs

RNs who already have their master’s degree may earn an Advanced Certificate as a Nurse Practitioner. They may specialize in Adult Health, Women’s Health, Neonatal Health, Pediatric, or Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. At the completion of the program, students take a national exam to become certified as Nurse Practitioners in their particular area.

It is also possible to complete an Advanced Certificate Program to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health or Pediatrics. Another specialty area is Nurse Midwifery. These areas lead to certification after graduation when a national exam is passed.

Master’s Completion Programs

Nurse Practitioner

On-Site or distance education with on-site requirements in Nurse Practitioner specialties are offered at Stony Brook University for Nurse Practitioners who want to continue their education. Specialty areas are in Adult Health, Neonatal Health, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

Midwifery

This program is designed for Midwives who want to continue their education beyond the master’s degree level. It is a distance education program with on-site requirements.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

This doctoral program prepares RNs who have a master’s degree through computer-mediated distributive learning and on-site residencies. The program uses the cohort model and takes 18 months of full-time study and 42 credits.

Contact:
The State University of New York at Stony Brook
100 Nicolls Road,
Stony Brook, New York 11794
(631) 632-6000

Suffolk County Community College Nursing Program Review

Suffolk County Community College (SCCC, SUNY Suffolk) is a two-year college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). It is a large college with over 22,000 students enrolled. Located in the suburban and rural area of Suffolk County on Long Island, this college offers 69 academic programs. Many activities and programs are offered at Suffolk County Community College, including a Study Abroad Program.

Most of the travel opportunities are in the summer session, so it may be possible for nursing students to participate in one of the programs that will not interfere with clinical experience. Some of the summer programs that are planned are to Germany, Canada, Spain, and Italy. Suffolk County Community College does not have dorms or housing available for students. They are required to rent a room or apartment nearby, and the monthly cost of rental is from $700 to $2,000.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing

This community college offers a highly competitive Practical Nursing (PN) program. Graduates of the program qualify to take the NCLEX-PN national exam that will enable them to be licensed practical nurses. They may then enter the workforce as entry-level nurses. Applicants are required to have taken high school biology and chemistry with a lab. If they do not have this background, they will need to take these courses at Suffolk County Community College before applying to the PN program. The program consists of three semesters plus one summer session.

Associate in Applied Science

Suffolk County Community College offers a two-year program that leads to an Associate in applied Science. Admittance to the nursing program is highly competitive, and even if a candidate meets all of the entrance requirements, it is not guaranteed that the applicant will be accepted into the program. Students take general education courses that include liberal arts and science courses. They also take the nursing core courses and complete clinical experience at nearby hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that prepare them to take the NCLEX-RN when they are ready to graduate. This national exam leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) that is required to work as a professional nurse in the State of New York. Two options are offered to students who want to enter the nursing field by beginning their studies at the college. These are either a two-year day program or a three-year evening program.

Once a student is accepted into the program, he or she must take a CPR class sponsored by the American heart Association and pass the class to be certified in CPR. Students are also required to have a physical exam and to purchase uniforms and a patch and name tag. A background check is also required. Also, all students entering Suffolk County Community College must take a placement test to ensure that they have beginning college level skills necessary for success in college level courses. Students complete their courses either in the daytime or evening program. When they are ready for the clinical experience portion of the program, students are sent to nearby medical facilities for a variety of experience. When the program is completed, students are ready to take the national exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Contact:
Suffolk County Community College
Crooked Hill Road,
Brentwood, New York 11717
(631) 851-6700

Sullivan County Community College Nursing Program Review

Sullivan County Community College (SCCC, SUNY Sullivan) is a two-year program that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). It is located in Fallsburg, New York, a rural area of Loch Sheldrake in the Catskill Mountains. There are only about 1,700 students who are enrolled at the college. Sullivan has EcoGreen Community townhouse residences for students, or they may live in the Lazarus I. Levine Residence Hall if they are not going to commute to classes. The campus is on over 400 acres of rural land, but is only about a two hour commute to New York City.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Associate Degree

Sullivan County Community College offers an associate’s degree in nursing that is highly competitive. High school students must have an overall average of 85 or above or a grade point average of at least 2.5 to be considered. High school students should complete Regents courses, including English, math, Advanced Placement Biology or Principles of Biology. The ACT or SAT college entrance tests are also required. A minimum score on the ACT English section must be at least 17, and for the SAT a minimum of 560 in Critical Reading and Writing must be at least 550, or the applicant may have a B or higher in English Composition in high school.. ACT scores for math must also be 17 or higher, and SAT must be 560. Higher-level math courses must have at least a C or higher. Applicants must also take the SUNY pre-nursing exam and score at least a 70 or higher to be considered for the program.

About 40 students are accepted into the program each year, and after admission decisions are made, no one else may enter the program. Students admitted to the program are expected to complete it in two years or four semesters of full-time study. If students need to complete prerequisite courses, completing the nursing program can take up to six semesters. Clinical experience must also be completed in this time frame. Licensed Practical Nurses may apply to enter the program with an advanced standing if they pass the advanced placement exams and prerequisites for the program. These nurses must hold a current license to be considered. At the completion of the associate degree program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam to receive their license as a Registered Nurse.

LPN to RN Evening/Weekend Nursing Cohort

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may study to become Registered Nurses (RNs) and work in a cohort group with other LPNs. The LPN must first meet all of the admission requirements of the college and complete the prerequisites of the nursing program. The prerequisite courses may be completed in cohort style meetings with other nurses who take the required courses together. Groups meet one evening during the week and on Saturdays. The courses are taken during the fall and spring semesters, as well as during the winter and summer session. At the end of the prerequisite studies, LPNs must take a LPN to RN Transition-Bridge Course in the summer, and this course must also be passed. Once the LPN has met all of the requirements, 16 credits are awarded. This means that the LPN can then begin taking higher level nursing courses and complete the program is less time. At the completion of the program, the graduate may sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to qualify for licensure to work as a Registered Nurse.

Contact:
Sullivan County Community College
112 College Road,
Loch Sheldrake, New York 12759
(845) 434-5750

SUNY Brockport Nursing Program Review

The College at Brockport (SUNY Brockport ) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). This college is a four-year liberal arts institution with around 7,000 undergraduate students and almost 2,000 graduate students enrolled at the university. There are over 400 acres of land at Brockport’s campus that is located near Rochester. The university has one of the largest study abroad programs in the US and more than 60 clubs and organizations. There are indoor recreation facilities, such as a large pool, gymnasium, squash and racquetball courts, and more.

Nursing Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Brockport offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing program that takes four years to complete. Before being admitted to the program, there are prerequisite courses that must be completed, including Statistics, Microbiology, Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, and others. Students must also complete all of the liberal arts and other science courses that are required for general education at Brockport. A total of 122 credits must be accumulated over the four years to qualify for graduation. Students complete nursing core courses and clinical experience during their junior and senior years at Brockport. At their completion, the graduate is prepared to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to certification as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Before being admitted to the BS in nursing program, applicants must first be accepted into Brockport. Admission is competitive, and high school students are usually in the top 28 percent of their graduating class. Typical SAT scores of accepted students range from 1040 to 1170, and ACT scores are between 22 and 26. It is preferred that students have an Advanced Regents Diploma with four years of English, three years of math, science, and social studies, three years of a foreign language, and a solid grade point average. After being accepted into the university and completing prerequisite courses, students may apply to the nursing program.

Students may qualify for a scholarship to pay for their four years of tuition at Brockport by joining the Army ROTC. The Military Science/ROTC Scholarships are for those who want to be an Army Officer and Registered Nurse after graduation. They will work wherever the US Army sends them. Academic requirements are for a student to have a high school grade point average of 2.5 or better, and applicants must also score at least 1000 on the SAT. Those who receive the scholarships are obligated to complete eight years of service after graduation. There are also opportunities for scholarships if a student enlists in the US Army Reserves or National Guard.

RN-BSN Program

Brockport offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for nurses with an associate’s degree in nursing. They must also be licensed as RNs. Students who are accepted into the program may earn their bachelor’s degree in two semesters plus part of a summer session when a bridge program from RN to BSN is held. Students must also complete all required liberal arts and sciences courses to qualify for graduation.

Contact:
State University of New York at Brockport
350 New Campus Drive,
Brockport, New York 14420
(585) 395-2211

SUNY Alfred State College Nursing Program Review

Alfred State College (ASC, SUNY Alfred) was once called the Agricultural and Technical College at Alfred. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) in Allegany County in the city of Alfred, a rural area. The college has around 3,200 students enrolled in 18 baccalaureate degree areas or 60 associate degree areas. The university also awards certificates for numerous programs. One of the social events for which Alfred is known is Hot Dog Day, an annual event that is held in April. There are 12 residence halls on the campus, and students have the option of becoming part of a fraternity or sorority.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

This associate degree program prepares Registered Nurses (RNs) to enter the workforce as entry-level RNs. The program is designed to take two years to complete, but if an individual needs more time to take prerequisite courses, it can be extended according to the student’s needs. Students must take a clinical lab once a week during the first year of the program and twice a week during the second year. Each lab lasts for seven hours. Alfred offers transportation to clinical sites. Students must have a computer with Internet access and Microsoft Word. They must also have an i-Pod Touch without a phone or camera, or with the camera disabled. Students must earn at least a C in the core courses and must meet the grade specifications for computing medication.

Students must demonstrate the physical ability to complete the duties of a RN to enter the program. This includes the ability to lift at least 30 pounds, to perform under stress, to adjust to changing situations, to maintain confidentiality, and to demonstrate effective communication orally and in the written word. If the applicant has not had algebra, biology, and chemistry at the high school level, then they must be completed at the college level. Admission requirements also include a minimum SAT score of 900. Before being eligible to graduate, a nursing student must have earned 40 credits of nursing courses, 12 credits of natural science, including anatomy and physiology and microbiology, 9 credits of social science, 6 credits of English and humanities, and 1 credit of physical education. At the completion of the AAS program at Alfred, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a RN.

Another option for graduates is to transfer to a baccalaureate nursing program. Around 8 percent of the graduates at the college do this because of the 2 + 2 baccalaureate nursing program. Graduates of Alfred are eligible to enter upper level Bachelor of Science (BS) nursing programs after their credits at Alfred State are transferred to the BS program. There is also a program called 3 + 1 Transfer Program that allows students to complete their third year at Alfred State and then transfer to Brockport for their fourth year.

Nursing (BS)

Alfred State also offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) program. Applicants to the program must have an associate degree in nursing or a diploma from a nursing school. They must also be currently registered as professional RNs. Students complete upper level nursing courses plus two in-residence classes each semester. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 2.0 in their associate degree program. By the time a student is qualified to graduate, he or she has completed 27 credits of upper level nursing courses, 3 credits of electives, 21 credits of liberal arts and sciences, and 12 credits of upper level liberal arts electives. One credit of physical education is also required. After completing the program, graduates may take the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their licensure as Registered Nurses.

Contact:
Alfred State College
10 Upper College Drive,
Alfred, New York 14802
(800) 425-3733

SUNY Canton Nursing Program Review

SUNY College of Technology at Canton (SUNY Canton) is a large campus that is built next to the Grasse River in St. Lawrence County. The university is in the Canton, but is near the Adirondack Mountains and the St. Lawrence River. It is not far from the Canadian border and Montreal and Ottawa. There are around 3,300 students enrolled in the university that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). Both associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees are offered at this university with around 40 program offerings.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing-Certificate

SUNY Canton offers a Practical Nursing (PN) certificate program for students who want to begin working with patients without spending years in college. Practical Nurses take care of patients in long-term care facilities, in acute care, and in clinical settings. Admission to the PN program is selective, and to be considered for admission a student must have a high school diploma and an average of at least 75. Applicants must also score at least 75 on the test for sentence structure and 60 on the test for reading that is required before entering the PN program. An SAT score of at least 420 on the verbal section is required or an ACT score of at least 17 on reading and writing. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-PN national exam that they must pass to become Licensed Practical Nurses.

Associate of Applied Science

Canton State also offers a two year program for those who want to enter the workforce after only two years of education. They will be ready to take the NCLEX-RN after completing the program that includes liberal arts and sciences courses, nursing courses, and clinical experience. Around 95% of the graduates who take the NCLEX-RN pass it, which is a rate higher than the state average for New York. Admission to the program is selective, and applicants must have either a high school average of 80 or an SAT score of 900 or higher. An ACT score of 21 or higher is also acceptable. Prerequisite courses must be completed before a student is considered for admission to the nursing program. Students must complete a CPR course and meet the physical and other requirements of the program. At the completion of the program, graduates may continue their education by transferring the credits that they have earned to a bachelor’s program in nursing.

Nursing-BS

Registered Nurses (RNs) who want to earn their Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing may also do that at Canton State. This four-year program prepares RNs for advanced positions in many different healthcare facilities, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, and other sites. Applicants must be licensed RNs in New York State and must be graduates with an associate’s degree. Some employers pay the tuition for nurses to continue their education, so many RNs can earn their bachelor’s degree without paying a cent. In addition to that, they will have many more opportunities for advancements over their working years in their career. The program is offered through SUNY Canton OnLine with a lot of flexibility so that RNs may continue working.

Contact:
State University of New York at Canton
34 Cornell Drive,
Canton, New York 13617
(315) 386-7011

SUNY Delhi Nursing Program Review

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi  (SUNY Delhi) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is located in the rural area of the Catskill Mountains, around 3.5 hours from New York City. There are around 3,000 or more enrolled in the university. There are one-year certificate programs offered, associate degree programs, and bachelor’s degree programs. The campus is fairly large and is situated on 625 acres with 44 buildings. There is even an 18 hold golf course. Many students live on campus in the six residence halls.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science Degree

Delhi offers an associate degree in nursing that prepares students to enter the workforce when they graduate. They will be professional Registered Nurses (RNs) after passing the NCLEX-RN. RNs work in industrial settings, geriatric centers, public and private healthcare agencies, and acute care facilities. The nursing program is selective, and students must meet the minimum requirements to be considered. These are a high school grade average of at least 80, Algebra Regents grade of 80, Biology Regents grade of 80, English Regents grade of 80, or a transfer GPA of 3.0.

Once a candidate is accepted into the program, they are assigned an advisor who will guide them when planning their schedule for the two years that they are at Delhi. A total of 69 credits must be earned, and a minimum grade of C+ is required in all nursing courses. Students complete liberal arts and science classes plus nursing core courses. They are also assigned to a variety of healthcare facilities for clinical experience for a well-rounded experience in acute care, psychiatric, maternity, pediatric, and other specialty areas.

Online RN to BSN Program

This program at Delhi is for RNs who want to continue their education and earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in the most flexible way possible. Since it is designed for working nurses, it is 100% online and does not require RNs to sit in class. Courses may be completed at the convenience of the student. There are practicum experiences that are required, but these are completed near the student’s home. RNs with an associate degree are often able to transfer between 60 and 80 credits. There are only 120 credits needed for a bachelor’s degree at Delhi, so students begin with at least half of the credits needed. A benefit to the program is that employers often pay 100% of the tuition for associate degree level nurses to continue their education and earn their bachelor’s degree. Many RNs pay little to nothing for their bachelor’s degree that will provide multiple career opportunities over their lifetime.

The time that the program takes to complete depends on how many credits are transferred. Students must complete more liberal arts and sciences, electives, and higher level nursing courses. There are some requirements for RNs to enter this program, including an RN license. Applicants must also have at least a 2.8 grade point average in their associate degree coursework. Those who complete the online program are eligible to graduate with other students when they complete the program.

SUNY Downstate Medical Center Nursing Program Review

SUNY Downstate Medical Center (SUNY-DMC) is located in Brooklyn, New York, a borough of New York City. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). The College of Nursing has existed since 1967 and began as a bachelor’s degree program. Today, there are other programs offered, including the RN to BS program that admits around 100 RNs each year. Downstate also offers a Master of Science program with advanced nursing specialty areas.

Nursing Programs

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Program in Nursing

Applicants to this program must have a bachelor’s degree in another field. The accelerated program is designed to be completed in only 15 months. It consists of 60 credits of classroom theory and clinical experience. Applicants must have 65 prerequisite credits that can be transferred to the program. When these are combined with the credits earned at Downstate Medical Center, the student has the 125 credits necessary for graduation. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing. They are able to take the NCLEX-RN, the exam required for licensure as a Registered Nurse in New York State. Those who are accepted into the program must have a 3.0 grade point average in their undergraduate studies from their first bachelor’s degree.

Master of Science

RNs who already have their BS in nursing may want to specialize in an area of advanced nursing, such as Nurse Anesthetist or Nurse Practitioner. There are also other programs available that are explained below.

Clinical Nurse Specialist, Master of Science Degree

The clinical nurse specialist provides advanced care to patients in many different settings. This includes acute care and wellness care for patients of all ages. To complete the Master of Science (MS) degree, students must complete 44 credits. The program is designed to be completed in two years with two summer sessions included. At the completion of all courses and clinical experience, graduates may sit for the national certification exam. They will also receive their Master of Science degree. Applicants to the program must have a current RN license in New York State, and they must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the previous studies.

Nurse Anesthesia Program

This program requires full-time study and takes 27 months to complete. It prepares RNs to become Nurse Anesthetists who administer anesthesia during surgery, for pain management, and for oral surgery. Students must complete 61 credits, plus a minimum of 550 cases must be completed to take the national certification examination to become licensed as a Nurse Anesthetist. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, must be currently licensed RNs in New York State, and must have a grade point average of at least 3.3 on their undergraduate studies.

Nurse Midwifery Collaborative Program

This program requires that 52 credits are completed to prepare RNs with a bachelor’s degree to provide primary care to women and newborns. Students receive a Master of Science in Nurse-Midwifery with the Advanced Certificate program at the College of Health Related Professions. They also take 14 credits through the College of Nursing. It can be completed in two years when attending full-time, or three years for part-time attendance. Graduates take the national certification exam to become a certified Nurse Midwife.

Nurse Practitioner Program

RNs with a bachelor’s degree may enter this program that takes six, eight, or nine semesters to complete. Family Nurse Practitioners provide primary care to family members from children to elderly people. They treat acute and chronic health problems and work to prevent disease and to promote health and wellness. Another option of study besides the Family Nurse Practitioner program is the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. This advanced care nurse provides primary care for women of all ages and their children. At graduation time, students take the national exam to receive their certificate as a Nurse Practitioner.

Women’s Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate

This program is for RNs who already have their MS and wish to earn a certificate as a Women’s Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. After completing the program, they take the national certification exam and are able to practice as nurse practitioners. This program excludes the basic MS courses that these nurses have already taken and focuses on the advanced nursing specialty courses.

Contact:
SUNY Downstate Medical Center
College of Nursing
450 Clarkson Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11203
(718) 270-7600

SUNY New Paltz Nursing Program Review

SUNY New Paltz is part of the State University of new York (SUNY). The campus is located in a small college town that is only 90 minutes from New York City. Students lie in thirteen residence halls, and there are 24 buildings on the main campus. New Paltz is one of the most selective of the SUNY schools, accepting only around 34 percent of those who apply. The mean SAT score is 1172, and students typically have a high school grade point average of 91.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing

The nursing program at New Paltz is in a phase out phase. There are currently 148 students enrolled in undergraduate programs. Most of these students attend only one-third time. There are 19 students enrolled in the Master of Science in Nursing degree program and 0 students are currently enrolled in the Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing. Those who are currently enrolled will be given the opportunity complete their degree over the next three years. No new students are currently being accepted into the program, and none will be accepted because the closure is a permanent one. The college will save one-half a million dollars by making this change. There are 11 students who have been accepted into the Bachelor of Science program that will not be allowed to begin. They have been sent to SUY Delhi as of Fall, 2009.

Contact:
SUNY New Paltz
1 Hawk Drive,
New Paltz, New York 12561,
(845) 257-7869

SUNY Rockland Community College Nursing Program Review

Rockland Community College (RCC) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is a two-year college that is in the Village of Suffern in Rockland County, just north of New Jersey. It is only 35 miles from New York City. There are 48 programs offered at Rockland, and associates degrees and certificates may be earned. Around 7,300 students attend Rockland. The college also has articulation programs with four-year schools so that the credits earned at Rockland may be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year university. The college has many sports available, as well as activities for students.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Science

Rockland Community College offers an Associate in Science that trains students to become professional Registered Nurses (RNs) in only two years if the student attends full-time. A part-time option is also available for students who must work while they attend college. Students complete their liberal arts and science courses as well as nursing core courses within this time frame. They also work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, and community health centers during this time to gain clinical experience. At the completion of their studies, students take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure that is needed to work as a professional RN. They will then be able to enter the workforce as entry-level nurses.

Students who want to have a career in nursing must first enroll in Rockland community college. They must take the Math and English Assessment exams. The math exam consists of both arithmetic and algebra. While waiting for a seat in the nursing program, students may take prerequisite courses and several nursing courses. Once a student is enrolled in the AS program, he or she must maintain at least a C+ in nursing courses. A grade point average of at least 2.0 is required to graduate with the Associate of Science degree and to be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that provides licensure for nurses to work as professional RNs.

Attending Rockland Community College is already very economical since it costs only a fraction of what a private college would cost in tuition. In addition, many students receive financial assistance. Every year, students from the college receive over $10 million in financial assistance. Besides federal and state financial aid programs, there are local programs that can sometimes aid nursing students with paying their tuition. The Rockland Community college Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization that awards hundreds of scholarships to new and continuing students each year.

LPN to RN Express

Licensed Practical Nurses who want to become RNs may enter this program. They have the opportunity to test out of four of the six nursing process courses by passing the test that is required to measure their nursing knowledge. These nurses must be currently licensed as Practical Nurses in the State of New York. After completing the required arts and science courses, LPNs can often complete the remaining nursing courses in only one semester. Most students take longer than one semester because the RN nursing courses are presented in more depth than those for LPNs.

Contact:
SUNY Rockland Community College
145 College Road,
Suffern, New York 10901
(845) 574-4000

SUNY Morrisville State College Nursing Program Review

Morrisville State College (MSC) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). It is a small college with only 3,356 students enrolled. Morrisville offers 22 bachelor degrees and many different associate degrees at its two campuses in Morrisville and Norwich. The college is in Central New York. There are over 50 buildings on the campus that is about 30 miles from the cities of Syracuse and Utica.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Applied Science

Morrisville State College has some definite advantages in the Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree. One of the biggest of these is that classes are small, so students get a lot of personal attention from faculty. During clinical experience, there are never more than 8 students with one faculty member as students practice learning the skills they will need in their careers as nurses. Another advantage of this college is the low cost of tuition. Some nursing students intend to continue their education to complete their bachelor’s degree in later years after they have worked for a few years. By attending a SUNY college like Morrisville, they keep their student loans down to a minimum.

Admission requirements for the AAS program are having a high school average of B or better. Students are expected to have completed biology, chemistry, and New York State Math A. They should also have a Regents score of at least 65 in all of these. Applicants must also take the NLN pre-admission exam and score at least 100 points. Once students are accepted into the program, it takes four semesters or two years to complete. At the end of this time, students qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that is necessary to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Graduates are then eligible to work as entry-level professional nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Students who graduate from this program may apply to the Nursing Bachelor of Science program at SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology-Morrisville when they are in their final semester of the AAS program.

Nursing BS

A Nursing Bachelor of Science (BS) is a good choice for those who want to stay in school for four years before beginning their professional career. RNs with a bachelor’s degree earn higher salaries, have more responsibility, and they often manage LPNs and RNs with associate degrees. Some graduates with a BS in nursing go on to complete their Master of Science (MS) degree. Students who are in the AAS program at Morrisville may apply to enter the BS program in their final AAS semester. They must have a cumulative average of 2.5 or better in the AAS program, and they must be licensed RNs by the time that they complete the first semester in the bachelor’s degree program.

Most of the time, students are able to transfer 60 credits from their associate’s degree work, and this gives them around half of the credits necessary for their bachelor’s degree. They must then complete the courses in liberal arts and sciences needed to meet the college’s general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree. In addition, they complete higher-level nursing courses and many hours of clinical experience. At the completion of the program, the RN is awarded a BS degree.

Contact:
Morrisville State College
80 Eaton Street,
Morrisville, New York 13408
800-258-0111

SUNY Upstate Medical University Nursing School Review

The State University of New York Upstate Medical University (SUNY-UMU) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) network of colleges. It is located in Syracuse and has around 1300 students enrolled in upper-division transfer programs and graduate programs. The campus includes University Hospital where students complete clinical experience. The College of Nursing has options for nurses to complete a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or post-master’s certificate.

Nursing Program

RN to Bachelor’s (2 + 2) Early Admission Program

This unique program at SUNY-Upstate Medical University allows students to apply to this university at the same time they apply to an associate’s degree nursing program. This guarantees students a spot in the bachelor’s degree program at Upstate Medical University as soon as they complete their Registered Nurse (RN) associate degree program. Before beginning at Upstate Medical University, the student must have completed all prerequisite courses and must have at least a 2.8 cumulative grade point average.

Students are accepted into this program after completing their associate’s degree at nearby community colleges and nursing schools including Cayuga Community College, Crouse Hospital School of Nursing, Jefferson Community College, Mohawk Valley Community College, Onondaga Community College, and more. Other associate’s degree programs are St. Elizabeth’s College of Nursing, St. Joseph’s College of Nursing, Morrisville State College, and Tompkins-Cortland Community College. Those accepted into the program must have successfully completed at least three years of Regents or honors level courses in math and science. They should also be in the top 25 percent of their high school class. Additionally, volunteer or observational experience is highly regarded when considering students for the program.

Bachelor of Science

This Bachelor of Science (BS) program is designed for RNs who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. A total of 61 credits must be completed, consisting of upper level nursing courses and clinical experience plus the liberal arts and science courses that are necessary for graduation. The program curriculum is arranged so that it is convenient for working nurses. It is possible to take courses only one day a week. Many students complete the BS on a part-time basis. They are encouraged to take a minimum of 12 credits per year. At the completion of the program, students are awarded their BS.

Master of Science

The Master of Science (MS) program at Upstate Medical University is a program that RNs with a bachelor’s degree are eligible to enter if they meet the admission requirements. Although the core courses of this program are the same, there are upper level specialty courses that prepare nurses to perform important tasks in the healthcare industry. RNs may train to be nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or they may decide to pursue research with this training. They may also want to go into leadership roles or consulting jobs within the healthcare community. The following information about these advanced nursing specialties explains each one.

BS to MS

Some students at Upstate Medical University want to continue their education as far as they want to go without stopped to work for a year or so. This can be done at this SUNY University. Admission requirements for any of the MS programs are two prerequisite courses of Basic Health Assessment and Basic Statistics. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in their undergraduate courses. They must also be currently licensed as an RN in New York State, and have current CPR certification. When an applicant moves directly to the master’s program after completing the BS, there is no work requirement to gain experience as an RN and no GRE required.

RN to MS

Applicants who are already RNs and have an associate’s degree or a nursing diploma from a nursing program may also attend the BS program at Upstate Medical University. They must have a minimum of 60 credits including Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Microbiology, six credits in English, six credits in social science including psychology, and six to nine liberal arts science credits. They also need to have 30 credits in nursing courses. A minimum grade of C should have been earned in all of these courses. It is also recommended that applicants have 12 additional credits in arts and sciences.

Bachelor’s in Another Field RN to MS

RNs who have a bachelor’s degree in another field may also attend the university to complete their MS. They must have Basic Health Assessment, Basic Statistics, and Management in Nursing, Research, and Community Focused Nursing completed before entering the program.

RN to MS Program

RNs with an associate’s degree may enter this program to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degree in three years of full-time study.

Nurse Practitioner: Child Track

This program is currently on hold at the university.

Nurse Practitioner: Family Track

This advanced practice nursing program prepares RNs to diagnose acute and chronic illnesses. They create treatment plans and prescribe medication and diagnostic tests. They then analyze the lab tests and x-rays. They also refer patients to specialists and educate patients about their illness. The program takes two or three years of full-time study to complete, including coursework, clinical experience, and residency. Students may complete the program part-time, and doing this usually takes around three to five years. At the completion of the program, students take the national exam leading to certification as a Nurse Practitioner.

Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a specialist who provides children and adults with primary healthcare that includes the diagnosis of mental illness and medication. This nurse also works with the family in group therapy in clinics, shelters, and other settings. At the completion of the program, students take the national exam for certification to practice this specialty. This program can usually be completed by attending the university full-time for two years.

RN to MS Program

RNs with an associate’s degree may enter this program to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degree in three years of full-time study.

Master of Science: Clinical Nurse Specialist

This program is very unique in that it is designed for RNs with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. It is the only local clinical program that accepts students with this academic background. Those who are accepted into the program may choose from two clinical tracks, which are Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist. Nurse Practitioner students must choose from either the Family Nurse Practitioner or Family Psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner. A Clinical Nurse Specialist is trained in a particular area, such as wound care, Emergency Department, rehabilitation, and others.

Master’s Completion for NPs

Nurse Practitioners who have only their bachelor’s degree in nursing may complete their MS at Upstate Medical University in one year of full-time or two years of part-time study.

MS-Unique Education Minor for Certificate

There is also a master’s program for RNs who want to become Nurse Educators. They complete the core courses of the MS and also a minor in education. The education minor takes two semesters to complete.

Certificate Programs

RNs that have their MS may complete the Nurse Practitioner program or the Clinical Nurse Specialist program. They do not need to repeat courses that were taken when working on their MS, and this cuts down the time needed to earn the specialty certificate. They take the national exam at the completion of the program to become licensed in their specialty.

Contact:
SUNY-Upstate Medical University
750 East Adams Street,
Syracuse, New York 13210
(315) 464-5540

Tompkins Cortland Community College Nursing Program Review

Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) is near the counties of Cortland and Tompkins in New York. It is a public college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. The campus is located in a rural area in the town of Dryden. There are around 3,270 students enrolled at the college. The student body is diverse, with students from over 50 different countries attending Tompkins-Cortland. These students attend colleges in their own countries and then go to Tompkins-Cortland for two semesters. Students stay in seven student housing buildings. Over 50 different programs are offered at this community college.

Tompkins-Cortland offers some programs that are not often seen in community colleges. One of these is a study abroad program that is led by faculty members. Some of the countries where these opportunities are available are India, Ireland, Argentina, Ecuador, Cyprus, England, France, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and many others. Students who have completed 12 credits may also take part in the Disney College Program. Students complete a full-time internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando. They are paid for their work and receive academic credit as well. Although it is not always possible for nursing students to take part in these activities, it is possible in certain circumstances if the student completes these experiences before beginning the nursing courses.

Nursing Program

AAS Degree

An Associate of Applied Science is offered at Tompkins-Cortland Community College. This two-year associate degree in nursing prepares students to enter the workforce as entry-level nurses. At the completion of the program, graduates take the national exam, the NCLEX-RN, to attain their license to practice as professional Registered Nurses. General admission to college is open, but the nursing program is selective. Students are selected on the highest grade point averages and other criteria. Those who have graduated from high school within five years must have completed New York State math courses A and B, biology, and chemistry with Regent’s scores of 80 percent or better. Preference is given to students residing in Tompkins, Cortland, or Tioga Counties.

Applicants must also take the Test of Essential Academic Skills. Applicants who have graduated from high school more than five years ago must complete 12 credits at the Tompkins-Cortland or at another college before being considered for the nursing program. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may seek advanced entry into the nursing program. They must complete the New York Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse course with a passing grade. After that, they are granted experiential credit for some of the nursing courses in the RN program. Grade point averages of college work completed for the LPN are considered when admitting students to the program.

The college’s nursing program is highly-praised and is demanding to prepare future nurses to work in many different healthcare facilities. Students take liberal arts and science courses to meet the general education requirements at the college. Then, once accepted into the nursing program, they take nursing courses and complete clinical experience. This experience takes place in same day surgery, acute care units, community agencies, doctor’s and midwives’ offices, mental health clinics, and hospice organizations.

Contact:
Tompkins Cortland Community College
170 North Street,
Dryden, New York 13053
(607) 844-8211

Trocaire College Nursing Program Review

Trocaire College (TC) specializes in healthcare training. It is located in Buffalo and has around 1,300 students enrolled. The Sisters of Mercy founded the college in 1958, and at that time it was for sisters only. Other women were admitted in 1965, and the college became coeducational in 1972. It is a junior college that offers certificates, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Although healthcare is the main focus of Trocaire, they also have programs in Human Resource Management, and Hospitality Management. Students receive a lot of attention with a student to faculty ratio of nine to one.

Nursing Programs

Nursing PN

Trocaire College offers a Nursing Practical Nurse program. A graduates of this program is eligible to take the NCLEX-LPN exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Applicants must have a high school diploma and a grade point average of at least 75 percent. Either high school algebra or algebra on the college level is required, as well as biology or chemistry. Candidates must take the Arnett Diagnostic Entrance Test at Trocaire. They must also have a cumulative average of 2.5 on all coursework at the college. Students are first accepted into the college into a pre-professional program and are not guaranteed admittance to the professional program. Students in the program must complete 48 credits to qualify for graduation.

Nursing AAS Day

Students who want to become Registered Nurses (RNs) may enroll in the Associate in applied Science degree program. This program trains entry-level RNs to join the workforce in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare facilities. There are two ways to complete the program. These are either in the day program or evening program. Both of them require the same amount of credits, but the day program is completed in two years, while the evening program is planned to be completed in three years plus two summers. It is ideal for students who must work in the daytime. Students in the day program must take the pre-professional Anatomy and Physiology course before moving onto the nursing curriculum. The first semester of courses is a heavy course load consisting of 19 to 21 credits. The second and third semesters require 16 credits each, and the final fourth semester consists of 12 credits.

Nursing AAS Evening

Trocaire College’s Associate of Applied Science Evening Program requires that students complete 67 credits, the same as for the day program. Students who apply to this program must have their high school diploma and a grade point average of at least 85 percent. Math I, Biology, and Chemistry are also required before being admitted to the program. Students must also take Anatomy and Physiology I as a pre-professional course, and they must maintain at least a 2.75 in this course and all others in the program. The Accuplacer and TEAS test are also required before admission is finalized.

Nursing BS

Trocaire College also offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) program for RNs who have a diploma in nursing or an associate’s degree. RNs with a bachelor’s degree qualify for higher paying positions on nursing teams in hospitals or for jobs in other healthcare facilities. All courses for this program are offered online with a maximum of three traditional courses on campus. This allows working RNs to complete their degree according to their unique schedule. The 135 hours of clinical experience may sometimes be completed at the nurse’s current worksite, but these experiences must take place on units that are distinct from the current worksite. The BS program can be completed in as little as 16 months.

Contact:
Trocaire College
360 Choate Avenue,
Buffalo, New York 14220
(716) 826-1200

SUNY Ulster County Nursing Program Review

SUNY Ulster is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) network of colleges. It is a two year college that offers over 60 programs, including nursing. The college is located in a rural area of New York and has around 3500 students enrolled. The college offers athletics programs, peer tutoring, and a variety of cultural programs throughout the year. They are known for their Poetry Forum, Visiting Artist Series, Elizabeth Gross Lecture Series, and musical concerts featuring many different genres that are open to the public year round.

Nursing Program

Associate in Science

The nursing department at SUNY Ulster offers a two-year nursing program that leads to an Associate in Science (AS) degree. Students may attend either full-time or part-time to complete the program. Students seeking admission to the nursing program must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills and score at least 75 percent on the test. Students who need extra academic help or tutoring may find it at the SUNY Ulster’s Learning Center, Times Square math lab, the Writing Center, the Peer and Friend Tutor Program, or English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors. Students who attend full-time can complete the nursing program in two years. At that time, they are prepared to take the national exam for certification, the NCLEX-RN, which leads to a license to practice as a Registered Nurse.

It is recommended that nursing courses are taken in succession without interruption. Although it is possible to attend the program part-time, not all nursing courses and laboratories are offered in the evening. Admission to the nursing program is competitive, and applicants must be legal residents of Ulster County, New York to be admitted to the program. Permanent residents must have resided in the county for six months or in New York State for one year. In addition, students who are taking general education requirements at SUNY Ulster must maintain a grade point average of 2.5 to be considered for the nursing program. Students must complete a total of 72 credits to qualify for graduation, including clinical experience that takes place at nearby clinics, community agencies, and hospitals. All students who graduate from Ulster must complete the general education requirements of liberal arts and science classes in addition to the nursing courses that are required. Some of the liberal arts courses are foreign languages, sociology, and history such as American History, Other World Civilizations, or Western Civilization.

There are also general requirements that must be met to be considered for the program, such as a satisfactory physical examination. Applicants must have the proper immunizations and must have a certificate of Basic Life Support. Another consideration is the nursing dress code. Students should expect to spend at least $400 for the cost of uniforms and supplies. They also need to pay for their liability insurance, which can be purchased through the college for around $20 annually.

Financial aid is available for nursing students through federal, state, and private loans, grants, and scholarships.

Contact:
SUNY Ulster
491 Cottekill Road
Stone Ridge, New York 12484
(845) 687-5000

University of Rochester Nursing School Review

The University of Rochester (UR, U of R) is a research university located in Rochester, New York. This private university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. Doctoral and professional degrees are also offered. There are around 5,600 undergraduate students and 4,600 postgraduate students who attend the university. There are students from 90 different countries enrolled at the University of Rochester. The university offers around 200 programs and is a prominent research university with a very low student to faculty ratio of nine to one.

Nursing Programs

University of Rochester’s School of Nursing (SON) can be found at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) campus.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Program for Non-Nurses (ABPNN)

This program prepares those with a bachelor’s degree in another field to graduate as a Registered Nurse (RN). At the completion of the program, students qualify to take the national exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). It is possible to complete this program in only one year of accelerated studies after completing the prerequisite courses of Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Human Growth and Development, and Statistics if the student has not yet taken these in the undergraduate work. It is preferred that applicants have a grade point average of 3.0 in their undergraduate work. Students complete 750 hours of clinical with 660 hours of direct patient care during their studies.

RN to BS Modular Program

This program is specifically designed for RNs who have an associate’s degree or a diploma from a nursing school. The program builds on the knowledge that these RNs have from their previous studies and from their work experience. The university will transfer 32 nursing credits from previous studies, and only 32 additional nursing credits must be completed. Most of the coursework is online, and the program is part-time so that the RN can continue working. A grade point average of 3.0 in undergraduate studies is preferred, and applicants must have their licensure as an RN. It is possible to complete it in four semesters if the arts and sciences requirements have been completed. After the student has a total of 64 arts and sciences credits, he or she may graduate with a Bachelor of Science.

RN to BS to MS

This program enables RNs with an associate degree or diploma from an accredited nursing school to save time in earning their master’s degree. This is accomplished by saving from 19 to 24 credits, depending on the specialty. Some courses count for both the bachelor’s degree and master’s degree. It is possible to earn both degrees in only three years. Applicants choose the nurse practitioner specialty that they would like to practice after graduation, and their master’s level courses focus on these. It is highly preferred that applicants have a grade point average of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies to enter this accelerated program.

Accelerated Master’s Program for Non-Nurses

The University of Rochester offers this master’s program for students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Students are able to earn a bachelor’s degree in one year and a master’s degree in two years. Through this program, students may become Nurse Practitioners. They qualify to take the national exam to obtain their licensure as a Nurse Practitioner at the completion of the master’s program. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a grade point average of 3.0 or higher to be considered for the program. They must also complete the prerequisite courses, including Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Human Growth & Development, and Statistics if they have not taken them in their undergraduate studies. There are eight Nurse Practitioner programs that are described in the following paragraphs. At the completion of these programs, students take the national certification test to become registered Nurse Practitioners in their specialty.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Cardiovascular or Critical Care)

This program requires that the student complete 43 credits, including 672 clinical hours. Students must complete the master’s degree courses and those related to acute care.

Adult Nurse Practitioner

Students must complete 42 credits of study plus 560 clinical hours. They complete master’s core courses as well as courses related to healthcare of adults of all ages.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares students to treat family members of all ages, providing primary care and prescribing medication. A total of 53 credits must be earned, including master’s core courses and specialty courses. In addition, 672 clinical hours are required.

Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

The Master of Science degree in Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner requires 50 credits of core courses and specialty courses plus 840 clinical hours to complete.

Care of Children and Families/Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares RNs to become Nurse Practitioners who care for families and children of all ages. There are 45 credits of study required plus 616 clinic hours.

Care of Children and Families/Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

RNs that complete this program are qualified to care for children in doctor’s offices, community agencies, and other healthcare facilities. They are also specially trained to care for newborn babies. The program requires the completion of 54 credits and 960 clinical hours.

Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This specially trained Nurse Practitioner will be able to care for the family and diagnose and treat mental illness in the family. There are 47 credits required and 616 hours of clinical experience.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

A program leading to this advanced degree is available at the University of Rochester. This degree is for RNs who want to continue clinical work at the highest level, and it is an alternative to a research-oriented PhD degree. It takes approximately two and one-half years to complete the program. Students must complete a minimum of 90 credits plus a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The clinical practicum courses are geared towards the student’s clinical focus. Admission requirements to the program are a grade point average of 3.0 for undergraduate studies and 3.5 for graduate studies.

PhD in Health Practice Research

RNs who want to go into academic and research leadership may complete this program to complete their PhD. The program builds on the research skills of RNs with a master’s degree. This program at the University of Rochester is also open to non-nurses, and it is one of two programs in the U.S. that allow non-nurses to complete a program like this. Students must spend two full years of coursework at the beginning of the program, and they then work independently and spend 360 hours on Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantship work.

MS and PhD Dual-Degree Accelerated Programs

This program allows RNs with bachelor’s degrees in nursing to become researchers and Nurse Practitioners at the same time. It is a very rigorous program that can be completed in five years. Those who are interested in the program should have a grade point average of 3.5 in their undergraduate work. They must also have taken statistics and have a grade of B or higher.

Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Programs

The University of Rochester offers this program to RNs with a master’s degree in nursing who want to become certified in New York and nationally as Nurse Practitioners. After choosing one of the Nurse Practitioner specialties, the student completes only the subspecialty courses since the masters’ level nursing courses have been completed while studying for the master’s degree. Any courses that were not included in these studies must be completed as well. At the completion of the program, the student takes the national certification exam to practice as a Nurse Practitioner.

Post-Doctoral Fellowship

This program allows those with a doctoral degree to study for two more years to expand their research skills. They will establish a program of nursing research in areas of faculty expertise. Each applicant and their academic goals are considered individually before admission to the program.

Contact:
University of Rochester
601 Elmwood Avenue
Rochester, New York 14642
(585) 275-2375

Utica College Nursing Program Review

Utica College (UC) is a private university with only 2,500 undergraduate students and around 600 postgraduate students. Utica is a four-year college that offers 37 majors, 27 minors, 21 master’s and doctoral programs, and some special programs. Its health science education is well known, and it is one of the op colleges for occupational therapy and physical therapy, as well as psychology. Utica offers a personalized atmosphere for each student, and they choose students who will contribute to the culture of their community. Each applicant’s background is considered individually to determine if the applicant would fit into the college community.

Nursing Program

Bachelor’s Program in Nursing

This four-year bachelor’s degree program offers unique elective courses in forensic nursing for students who want to work with prison populations and geriatric nursing for future nurses who want to work with the elderly. Utica offers small classes with a strong clinical focus. The Dr. Albert and Gloria Shaheen Nursing Laboratory is a practice facility that provides learning experiences for students. It has a 10-bed ward, a 6-bed examination bay, a multipurpose isolation room with diagnostic and vital sign monitoring equipment. In this lab, students learn bedside monitoring and respiration technology and more. Besides learning in this lab, students complete clinical experience at nearby St. Luke’s Healthcare.

Admission requirements are three years of science and math experience in high school with a preferred minimum grade of 80% or better. The applicant’s high school grade point average should be 2.5 or better. Satisfactory ACT or SAT scores are also required. Once an applicant is accepted, the college’s general requirements must be met. In addition, students must complete the nursing core courses and clinical experience. A total of 128 credits must be completed before a student is eligible for graduation. At that point, the graduate takes the national exam, the NCLEX-RN, to gain licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Online RN to BSN Degree

Utica Collage also offers an online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program is designed for RNs who have completed their associate degree. Graduates of the program are prepared to fill higher level positions in hospitals and other healthcare facilities that demand bachelor’s degrees. In this program, students focus on management, pharmacology, and health assessment. Students are not required to complete clinicals because they take Community Health Nursing and Nursing Management in place of the clinical experience. Most students complete their bachelor’s degree in three years, but it can be completed sooner, depending on the number of credits transferred from their associate’s degree. Utica accepts between 60 and 90 credits from undergraduate work that enables students to complete their bachelor’s degree in less time.

Financial aid is available for almost every student who wants to complete a degree program at Utica College. Besides federal and state financial aid, there are scholarships, grants, and other sources available to nursing students. The Financial Aid office works with students to locate the funds needed to pay for their tuition if they want to attend Utica College.

Contact:
Utica College
1600 Burrstone Road
Utica, New York 13502
(315) 792-3006

Wagner College Nursing Program Review

Wagner College (WC) is a small liberal arts college in the borough of Staten Island in New York City. There are around 2,400 undergraduate students enrolled and 400 postgraduate students at this private college.

Wagner was originally a college to train Lutheran ministers in 1883 with a six-year curriculum. Today, most students live in one of the four residence halls. Students admitted to Wagner from high school have an average high school grade point average of 3.6 and high SAT scores of 530 to 640 in critical reading, 530 to 650 in math, and 520 to 650 in writing. The average ACT scores are usually between 24 and 28.

Each year, the college consistently appears in Princeton Review’s ‘Best Colleges’ list. Wagner College is also featured on several ‘top 20’ lists and receives special mention as a great school for health service majors. With these ratings, it is easy to see that the college has more going for it than its spectacular views overlooking the New York Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. When you add its convenient location to Manhattan (just a free ferry trip away), you will discover why so many students choose Wagner for their education home.

The nursing school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC). The school is also registered with the New York State Education Department and holds membership in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

Nursing Programs at Evelyn L. Spiro School of Nursing

Wagner College’s School of Nursing focuses on a “community-based” approach to health and nursing education. Nursing students are inspired to become leaders down the path of health for the people they will serve in communities around the nation. The nursing program incorporates an understanding of society as a whole, the value of individuals, and the impact of environment, including the objects, people, cultural values, beliefs, and experiences in the world around.

The Evelyn L. Spiro School of Nursing seeks to prepare individuals for their role as professional healthcare givers, both independent thinkers and collaborative team workers. The idea of personal care is never divorced from professionalism at Wagner’s, but becomes an integral part of the educational focus. Field experience is a critical component of the nursing programs and occurs in a variety of nearby healthcare facilities. All graduates are prepared to take and pass the NCLEX-RN examinations.

Undergraduate Nursing Degrees

One of the best ways to begin an exciting career in the field of nursing is pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. Wagner College offers several ways to accomplish, designed to meet the needs of every student. Whether you are just starting college, are working on a second degree, or already have nursing experience as a registered nurse, Wagner can get you on the path to a BSN in no time at all.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Wagner offers a BSN as a fantastic way to launch into the nursing field. Carefully built upon the foundational core of liberal arts subjects, the nursing degree thoroughly transforms students into professional nurses, equipped to serve society as guardians of health. The rigorous studies of a BSN train nursing students to research and think for themselves, while the practical experience at local healthcare facilities helps them embrace the teamwork and collaboration skills needed in the medical field.

Admission into the baccalaureate program requires a score of at least proficient on the entrance exam (TEAS V), and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Prerequisites of Biology, Psychology (or Sociology or Anthropology), Microbiology, and Nutrition must be completed before a student can begin taking nursing courses.

RN-BS

Registered Nurses seeking to boost their career with an undergraduate degree will find the perfect program at Wagner College. The college offers credit for on the job experience, allowing nurses to receive credit for clinical practice. In addition, some transfer credits may be obtained from other colleges.

RN to BS students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher to enter the program, or be evaluated by the admission committee. A total of 36 units are required for a RN to BS, and 18 can be received by credit for previous experience. However, the final 9 credits must be taken at Wagner College.

Second Degree – 15 Month Program

Already have a Bachelor degree but want to delve into the field of nursing? Wagner’s 15 month program may be the perfect match. The previous Bachelor’s degree must have come from an accredited college, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher is required. In addition, a number of prerequisites are required, including 4 units of Biology and one of either Psychology, Sociology, or Anthropology.

Graduate Programs

When it is time to advance your nursing career to the professional level, check out the graduate programs at Wagner. Designed to enable nurses to focus in on a special area, the graduate level offers focus that a general, undergraduate degree cannot accomplish. Students wishing to transfer credits for the Master’s level are required to seek approval from the school.

Masters in Nursing (MSN)

At the graduate level, Wagner College offers two Masters programs: the Family Nurse Practitioner and the Nurse Educator. Both of these advanced practice degrees offer nurses greater flexibility and opportunity for advancement in their nursing career. Both Masters level programs are designed to be taken either as full-time study (5 semesters) or part-time (7 semesters), offering flexibility for working professionals to continue their education without sacrificing their jobs.

Post Master’s Advanced Certificate Program

Nurses who already have a Master’s of Nursing degree can receive certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, allowing them to legally practice independently as a Family Nurse Practitioner. These advanced level courses include 27 credits, and involve clinical practice. These classes may be taken in the evening, acknowledging that most students at this level will be actively involved in a nursing career.

Contact:
Wagner College
1 Campus Road
Staten Island, NY 10301
(718) 390-3100

York College – CUNY Nursing School Review

York College is part of the City University of New York (CUNY). It is one of the eleven senior colleges in the network and is located in Jamaica, Queens in New York City. The college offers bachelors degree programs in over 40 fields. There are about 7,800 students enrolled at the college. A large part of the college’s focus is on continuing education, and many programs are offered for students who want to continue their educations. Students who attend this college have the experience of living in New York City with its cultural and other attractions.

Nursing Programs

Nursing BS

York College-SUNY offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) program that enables students to transfer credits that they have earned in their associate degree work. RNs may complete their bachelor’s degree by completing this program. RNs may also be nurses who have earned their diploma in nursing from an accredited nursing school. York College has articulation agreements with the nursing programs at Queensborough Community College/CUNY and LaGuardia Community College/CUNY. Students who have earned their associate’s degrees at these two community colleges are guaranteed entry into the nursing program at York College. The credits that they earned are then transferred to York to give them a good start on their bachelor’s degrees.

Applicants to the nursing program must complete 56 general education and prerequisite credits. They must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in these courses. Applicants must also complete all lower division Writing Intensive Courses. They must also be RNs in the State of New York. There are other requirements for admission, such as holding a current Basic Life Support Certificate and having professional liability insurance before the first clinical course begins. Students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. They may also be international students with F1 status or those who have been granted asylum, refugee status or have a legal reason to stay in the U.S.

York College offers some unique courses for students to choose from when completing their prerequisite courses. Some of these are Spanish for the Health Professions or French for the Health Professions. These courses can be very practical if the RN intends to continue to practice in a diverse area like New York City.

Nursing-Generic (BS)

This program is designed for students who want to become RNs and want to complete a bachelor’s degree to do so. Admission to the program is highly competitive. Students must first meet the requirements for admission to York College. They must also complete 56 credits of prerequisite courses before being admitted to the nursing program. All candidates must be proficient in reading, writing, and math and must pass the CUNY assessment tests. Students must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 in general education courses and prerequisite courses. They must also have adequate scores on the pre-admission RN exam (PAX-RN). In addition, students must have a Basic Life Support Certificate and professional liability insurance. Once students are accepted into the program, they begin taking nursing core courses and completing their clinical experience. When the program is completed, they must take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

Contact:
York College-CUNY
94-20 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard
Jamaica, New York 11451
(718) 262-2000

nursing inforgraphics

Central New Mexico Community College Nursing Program Review

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) boasts to be the state’s largest community college besides being the largest-post secondary education center after University of New Mexico. It opened doors for the first students in 1965 as Albuquerque Tech and Vocation Institute (TVI). During its early years, it offered diploma, certificate and continuing education programs until 1986 when it was granted the mandate to offer 2-year degrees. 

The name was changed to CNM in 2006 to reflect its expanded scope of academic programs. It operates from the main campus in Buena Vista –Albuquerque, 4 satellite campuses and 2 learning centers around Albuquerque.

Nursing at Central New Mexico University

CNM is a good place to start for students looking forward to get into the nursing profession at the very basic level or plunging directly into professional nursing.  It offers 2 certificate programs in nursing assisting, a practical nursing certificate program and a 2-year associate degree in nursing option. It also offers a mobility program to licensed practical nurses seeking advanced standing in the registered nurse (RN) program. The nurse refresher course is also offered to RN who has been of out of practice for long.

Nursing Assistant, Certificate of Achievement

This is a short 150 hours course: 45 lab, 45 clinical and 60 theory designed to train entry-level students on basic patient care skills. Upon completion, students receive a Certificate of Achievement in Nursing Assistant besides becoming eligible for the State Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) exam.

Nursing Assistant/ Unit Coordinator, Certificate of Achievement (NAUC)

This program includes two 8-week courses: a complete package of the 6-credit nursing assisting course mentioned above and another 6-credit patient care technique course. Upon completion of the nursing assisting course, students must take the CNA exam before taking the second patient care course. Completion leads to the award of a NAUC Certificate of Achievement.

Practical Nursing, Certificate of Completion

The CNM practical nursing program is a limited entry program. Candidate must have current certification as a Certified Nurse Assistant or take a selected alternative nursing course from the University of New Mexico.

The program’s curriculum consists of 48 credit hours: 31 nursing and 17 of general education, designed to be completed in 3 terms. Upon completion students become eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Graduates can choose to exit or seek advanced placement in the registered nursing program.

Nursing, Associate of Applied Science (AASN)

This CNM registered nurse program is a limited entry program that prepares students for the NLCEX-RN exam. Candidates are expected to have a current CNA license; otherwise, they should take a selected alternative course from University of New Mexico.

The program has a curriculum of 72 credits designed to be completed in 4 terms of full time study. 42 credits and 30 credits are for nursing and general education courses respectively. Upon completion, students receive the AASN degree and become eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses.

Nursing (LPN Mobility), Associate of Applied Science

The LPN mobility program allows licensed practical nurses with valid licenses to become registered nurses (RN) by advanced placement. Candidates must show proof of at least 1000hours LPN working experience taken in last two years. It is also a limited entry and competitive program. Candidates that meet the general admission requirements of the AASN program plus the above LPN qualifications are eligible to apply.

Upon admission, students take a LPN transition course for which they receive 18 credits from their prior LPN program. These credits are held in an escrow account and are awarded to the students upon completion of all other nursing course for LPN mobility track. In total, students must have 72 credits, including those of advanced placement to be eligible for graduation. They also become eligible to apply and sit for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Nurse Refresher

This consists of two nurse refresher courses: a theory course, 7-credit hours and a clinical application course, 2 credit hours. Registered nurse interested in this program must first obtain at least a temporary RN or LPN license. Occasionally, Central New Mexico Community College also offers Continuing Education Units for RNs. Such include IV procedures for Nurses and Non-Licensed Professionals.

Contact:
Central New Mexico Community College
525 Buena Vista Drive, Albuquerque
NM 87106

Clovis Community College Nursing Program Review

Clovis Community College (CCC) history can be traced back to 1961, when the Eastern New Mexico University opened a satellite campus in rented property at Clovis. The satellite campus was opened to offer some of the university’s evening college credits to students around Clovis. Clovis opened its own campus in 1980 and by 1990, Clovis legislature voted to make it a locally-supported independent campus. This resulted to CCC breaking-off as a campus of Eastern New Mexico University and officially adopting its current name.

The Nursing Program at Clovis Community College

Clovis Community College offers a Career Mobility nursing program designed to culminate into registered nursing licensure. It is offered as a collaborative effort between Clovis and its mother campus. It is meant for both high school entry-level students and licensed practical nurses (LPN) seeking advanced standing.  As a career mobility program, it has two levels and students can exit at their preferred choice to earn a certificate or an associate nursing degree. The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing.

Level I Nursing

Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing

This level is the starting point for all nursing students at Clovis.  The program has two admission cycles for fall and spring semesters. In addition, all candidates are expected to have completed a nursing assistant course but not necessarily have state certification.

Upon admission, students complete 12 and 21credits in general education and science courses respectively.  This are well distributed between the first and second semester. After successfully completing this portion, they take another 8 and 10 nursing credits in the first and second semesters.  This brings it to a total of 51 credits at the end of 1^st and 2^nd semesters and also the end of level I. At this stage students become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses. They are free to exit at this point and are such awarded a Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing.

Level II Nursing

Associate of Applied Science

This level is a mobility track that picks from level I for students who wish to continue to level II. Clovis college graduates of level I need not apply again for the level II. The track leads to students becoming registered nurses. It consists of 5 nursing courses equivalent to 21 credits. 11 credits are taken in the 3^rd semester and 10 credits in the 4^th semester.  This totals to 72 credits including of the level I practical nursing portion required for the completion of the entire nursing program.

Students who complete this portion become eligible to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. They also earn an occupation based degree: an associate of applied science in nursing degree.  In addition, graduates have the golden opportunity of transferring to Eastern New Mexico University to complete an online RN to Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree.

Note

Level II is also open to LPN and Licensed vocational nurses (LVN) seeking to have advanced standing. Such candidates must have valid LPN or LVN licenses from state approved practical nursing programs to be eligible for admission. Such students get into the program to complete the 21 credits leading to NLCEX-RN exam eligibility.

Contact:
Clovis Community College
417 Schepps Blvd., Clovis,
NM 88101

Dona Ana Community College Nursing Program Review

Dona Ana Community College (DACC) was established in 1973 as part of the larger New Mexico State University (NMSU).  DACC was specifically opened to meet the vocational and technical education needs of Las Cruces, Hatch and Gadsden; the 3 school districts of Dona Ana county. The college is therefore nationally accredited as part of NMSU. As a branch of NMSU, it also directly governed by the board of regents of the university. It offers 2-year degrees, vocational training and adult education through 2 campuses and 5 off-campus learning centers of the county.

Nursing Programs at Dona Ana Community College

DACC offers qualified students a chance to become registered nurses through a ladder of career mobility tracks. The college allows students to choose from starting their nursing career from a very basic level in the certified nursing assistant program. Such students can then go further and become certified health care assistants. Students can also decide to start from the practical nursing program and progress to take the associate degree in nursing (ADN). Graduates of the ADN program can also complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from NMSU online. The programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

This program consists of 2 short courses equivalent to 8 credits. The program trains students on the basics of direct patient care in health care and long term care settings.  Students may wish to add a few more classes in phlebotomy and electrocardiogram in order to complete the whole package of courses needed for certification as a Health Care Assistant. However, those who take the 8 credits only are still eligible to take the state exam to become a CNA.

LPN Program

This program is in the form of a mobility program which culminates with licensure to become registered nurses. Candidates for the program are required to have completed a state-approved nursing assisting course to be eligible to apply. Prior to admission, candidates are also expected to have finished all prerequisites courses totaling between 27-35 credits. Those without the prerequisites courses will take an extra semester. New students for the program are admitted every fall and spring semesters.

Upon admission, students take 23 nursing credits which are part of the 1^st and 2^nd semesters of the ADN program followed by a separate 6-credit maternal nursing course.  After completion of this 29 nursing credits, students become eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses. They are also awarded a Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing and are free to exit the program at this point.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

DACC offers this program as a choice for traditional students with no prior nursing experience or those willing to move-on from the LPN exit point.  For traditional students, the program accepts new students every fall and spring.  Traditional students take 27-35 general education credit in addition to 44 nursing credits. This means that a minimum of 71 credits are required for eligibility to graduate with an ADN degree. For this group of students, four semesters are required to meet graduation requirements.

On the other hand, LPNs seeking advanced standing must have valid LPN licensure to be eligible to apply. Graduates of DACC LPN exit option do not need to reapply afresh as it is part of the career mobility. Since 29 nursing credits had already been covered at the LPN exit level, such students take only 15 credits to complete the ADN graduation requirements.  Upon completion in both cases above, students become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides earning the ADN degree.

RN to BSN Program

As part of NMSU, graduate students of DACC have the opportunity to complete the BSN degree from NMSU. It is an online RN to BSN program that allows students from associate degree programs to transfer up-to 41 credits for lower division BSN requirements. Classes begin in the summer semester going forward for 1 year on a full time basis- for students who do not have outstanding general education courses. The program requires 128 credits some of which can be transferred from the associate degree program. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Contact:
Dona Ana Community College
3400 S. Espina Street, Las Cruces
NM 88003

Eastern New Mexico University Nursing School Review

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) opened doors for its first students in 1934 as ENM Junior College offering 2-year degrees in business and education. In 1939, the college started offering 4-year degrees and was renamed ENM College before gaining university status in 1955. The university operates from its 4-year main campus in Portales, and its 2-year satellite campuses in Ruidoso and Roswell. It is a Hispanic-serving institution with a relatively large high percent of students being of Hispanic origin.

Nursing Programs at Eastern New Mexico University

ENMU-Portales offers 2 nursing distinct nursing tracks leading to registered nurse. The first program is a cooperative program between ENMU and Clovis Community College. The other track is a registered nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) completion track for RN offered independently by ENMU. Both programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Mexico State Board of Nursing.

ENMU/Clovis Community College (CCC)Pre-Nursing

This program is offered as a collaborative effort between CCC and ENMU. This collaboration can be attributed to the fact that CCC had been initially established as satellite campus of ENMU before it broke–off to become an independent college.

The program at Clovis is a 2-year associate degree program meant to prepare both licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. It is a career mobility program that consists of two levels I and II. As part of the program plan, students can complete the first portion of the mobility plan by completing 51 credits: 18 of nursing courses and 33 of general education and science courses. Students can opt to exit the program and take the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

On the other hand, students can decide to continue with the second portion of the by competing another 21 nursing credits. As such, they become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. All these courses from Clovis can be completed while students are living and using facilities at ENMU. This program culminates into students being awarded an associate of science in nursing degree.

BSN Completion Program

The BSN completion is a 100% online program designed as a completion option for RN graduates of CCC and other RN from 2-year degree or diploma programs. Students who start as freshmen from the cooperative associate program at Clovis are given first preference over other applicants.  Prior to admission, all candidates must be in possession of a valid RN license in New Mexico. Besides Clovis, ENMU also has special articulation agreements for the BSN program with Pima Community College.

Upon admission, students complete 46 upper-division nursing credits through the ENMU online learning mode.  These are distributed between the junior and senior years at ENMU. Any outstanding general education and elective courses must also be completed to reach the graduation requirements of 128 credits. Generally, all students finish the BSN program within three years with a self-paced online learning mode.

Scholarships for Nursing Students at ENMU

Students at ENMU can apply for the following nursing scholarships available for ENMU students:

• Laurie, Kurt, Kaaren and Travis Mahan Endowed Scholarship
• Sharon Farris-Stern Scholarship
• Eleanor Shields Williamson Scholarship in Nursing
• Plains Regional Medical Center Scholarship
• Dabbs Merit Endowed Scholarship
• Marsha Dean Kelly and Sylvia Delores Akins Memorial Scholarship

Contact:
Eastern New Mexico University
1500 S. Avenue, Portales
NM 88130

Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Nursing School Review

Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell (ENMU-Roswell, ENMUR, ENMU-R) is a public 2-year university established in 1958. It was established as a branch of ENMU-Portales which had been operational from 1934. The mother campus offers 4-year degree programs while its 2 satellite campuses; Roswell and Ruidoso, offer 2-year programs. Due to the affiliation with the major campus ENMU-Portales, Roswell associate degrees and certificate programs are specially designed to transfer to the main campus. However, students are free to make their own choices in terms of career entry and transfer prospects.

Nursing Programs at Eastern New Mexico-Roswell

ENMU –Roswell has two nursing programs to offer to interested students. Those wishing to enter the nursing profession from the basic level can choose to apply for the nursing assisting certificate program. Those interested in professional nursing, the associate degree is their choice. The latter is designed to enable students to directly transfer to ENMU-Portales to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree. The nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Mexico State Board of Nursing.

Nursing Assisting

This is a short program that trains entry-level students to become direct caregivers in hospitals, health care agencies and long term care facilities. The program takes 10 weeks of both clinical and practical study of one nursing assisting course. Following completion, students are awarded a Certificate of Occupational Training in Nursing Assisting/ Certificate of Employability. Graduates can also take a state certification exam to become Certified Nurse Assistants.

Associate of Science in Nursing

This registered nurse program prepares students to become registered nurses by taking the NLCEX-RN exam. Candidates for the programs are expected to have completed a nursing assistant course and be certified as nurse assistants. Candidates without state certification as CNA must provide proof of at least 6 months full time working experience as a nursing assistant to be eligible to apply.

The curriculum consists of between 66-74 credit hours: 40 nursing credits and at least 26 general education credits. Students admitted having taken prerequisites courses take four semesters to complete while those without prerequisites take an extra year before starting on the nursing program. Upon successful completion, an associate of science in nursing degree is awarded. Graduates also become academically prepared to take the NLCEX-RN exam.

BSN Completion Program

Graduates of the associate degree at Roswell are given the chance to complete a BSN degree program at ENMU-Portales. This is a 100% online program that offers students to complete a baccalaureate degree at the comfort of their homes. However, graduates of the Roswell program must complete the NLCEX-RN exam and be registered nurses before being eligible for the Portales BSN program.

The BSN completion offers an upper division nursing program of 46 credits projected to be completed within three years. Students are free to choose their preceptors and clinical sites for purposes of clinical practical. All courses in the program can be taken at a student’s pace; i.e. no specific times for taking courses.

Contact:
Eastern New Mexico University Roswell
52 University Blvd., Roswell
NM 88203

New Mexico Junior College Nursing Program Review

New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) was established in 1966 to offer post-secondary education to the residents of Lea County and neighboring communities. Its objective was to offer affordable yet high quality academic programs in preparation for workforce entry or transfer to four-year colleges. It’s location in Hobbs offers a serene rural learning environment in Southeastern New Mexico. It offers associate degree programs in science, applied science, arts and a few certificate and vocational training opportunities.

Nursing Programs at New Mexico Junior College

NMJC has 4 and nursing programs to choose from depending on where the students wish to start from. At the basic level, students can choose the short nurse aide program. Those wishing to become registered nurses can apply for the 2-year associate degree nursing program. This program is offered as a career mobility program with an option to exit at some level and take the practical nursing licensure exam. There is also the Licensed practical nurse/licensed vocational nurse advanced placement option. NMJC nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Nurse Aide (CNA)

The Nurse Aide is a short course meant to train entry-level students to provide patient care and bedside care. The program enables students to take the state’s Certified Nurse Assistant exam and be entered in the states Nurse Aide Registry. At NMJC, it is a prerequisite for the registered nurse program.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Option

Since the registered nurse program is a career mobility program, students must meet all the requirements of the associate degree program. This includes being in the states Nurse Aide Registry having completed a CNA program in the last one year.

Students are basically admitted in the RN program to complete the first 3 semester’s credit requirements of the associate degree in nursing. Prior to starting on the nursing courses, students must complete 29 general education and science courses. The first year/level I include the first 2 semesters and the second year/level II has the 3^rd semester. Up to the 3^rd semester, students will have completed 34 nursing credits plus the 29 and will be eligible to apply for the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses. They are also awarded a Certificate of Completion for Practical Nursing

LPN/LVN to RN Completion Option

LPN/ Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) seeking advanced placement in the registered nurse program are advised to contact the school directly. This enables the LPN to discuss the entry level and the number of credits they need to complete on an individual basis.

Associate Degree Nursing Program (RN)

This program is a continuation of the LPN program from the 3^rd semester level. After completing the 63 credits required for the LPN certificate, students can continue to take another one semester of 10 nursing credits. This brings the total number of credits for the RN program at NMJC to 73. The entire curriculum to become an RN is therefore designed to be completed in 4 semesters of full time study.  Students become eligible to take the NLEX-RN exam.

Contact:
New Mexico Junior College
1 Thunderbird Circle, Hobbs
NM 88240

New Mexico State University Carlsbad Nursing School Review

New Mexico State University (NMSU-Carlsbad, NMSU-C, NMSUC) prides to be oldest community college in the state. It was started in 1950 as Carlsbad Instructional Center before acquiring the current name in 1960. It is a branch of NMSU-Las Cruces and offers only 2-year associate degree programs, non-credit programs, personal development, continuing education and adult basic education programs. Most of the 2-years programs have been designed to offer transfer opportunities to the Las Cruces campus for interested students.  In addition, the college also offers some selected upper division and graduate programs from Las Cruces onsite.

Nursing Programs at NMSU-Carlsbad

The nursing department at Carlsbad offers a career mobility associate degree program that enables students to begin nursing practice at various points. The program is designed with two exits options such that after completion of the first level, students can take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses. Students can also continue with the second level of the program to become prepared for the NLCEX-RN exam and become registered nurses (RN). It is also an approving agency for continuing education units for RN through mandate from AACN.  Through NMSU-Las Cruces distance learning, graduates of the RN program can complete an online Bachelor or Master of Science in nursing degree right at Carlsbad.

Certificate in Practical Nursing

This program is part of NMSU-Carlsbad nursing career mobility program. Candidates must have completed a Certified Nurse Assistant course to be eligible to apply. The program is the first portion of the associate of applied science program.

Upon admission, students take 18 credits in the general education and supporting courses curriculum and 23 credits for the nursing program curriculum. These are usually designed to be completed in the first two semesters of the associate track. After completing the total 41 credits for this section, students can choose to exit and take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed Practical nurses besides earning the certificate of completion.

Associate Degree in Nursing

This registered nurse program picks from the first section of the LPN option. Since students had already completed 18 general education and 23 nursing credits, they only need to add an extra 29 credits to bring it to a total of 70 for the associate degree. This package is taken in the 3^rd and 4^th semester of the sophomore year. Students become eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses. In addition, the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) degree; a transferable degree is also awarded.

NMSU Distance Education

The distance education nursing programs are offered by the main campus New Mexico State University-Las Cruces. Graduates of all NMSU branches become eligible to take the distance learning program at their local sites. In this case, NMSU Carlsbad ADN graduates can apply to complete the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree (BSN) in Eddy County. The RN to BSN program is offered 100% online by faculty of Las Cruces. BSN graduates can also choose the Master of Science in nursing (MSN) which is also offered online. Both distansce education nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Contact:
New Mexico State University Carlsbad
1500 University Drive, Carlsbad
NM 88220

New Mexico State University Alamogordo Nursing School Review

New Mexico State University-Alamogordo (NMSU-A, NMSUA) opened its doors for the first students in 1958. It offered night classes at the Alamogordo High School with an objective of offering post-secondary education to military students.  Besides offering university-credited education, NMSU-A also offers technical and occupational programs. This two-year community college campus is part of NMSU-Las Cruces. As such, it offers degree programs that are in line with 4-year degree requirement of the mother campus at convenient location and affordable fees.

The Nursing Program at NMSU-Alamogordo

NMSU-A offers an associate degree in nursing program for preparation of registered nurses. For students who wish to take the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN), the Pre-nursing certificate program is their choice. It is a non-licensure program for most foundation and general education courses needed to complete upper division nursing courses. As a branch campus of NMSU-Las Cruces, graduates students of the associate program are offered a chance to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Las Cruces. The program associate program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Pre-Nursing Certificate

The Pre-nursing certificate program is a special program designed to enable students to complete non-nursing courses required for associate and bachelor nursing programs. It consists of 51 non-nursing general education courses in sociology, general sciences, math, anatomy & physiology among others. 

Most courses in this curriculum are transferable to four year colleges for those wishing to take a BSN degree. Students must note that they do not gain eligible for licensure or to practice nursing. It is also not a requirement to enter the NMSU-A associate nursing program.

Associate in Nursing

This registered nurse track is a limited entry program designed to be completed in 4 semesters of full time study. Candidates must have completed a nursing assistant course and have a current Certified Nurse Assistant certificate. Pre-requisite courses must be completed prior to admission into for the nursing courses. On the other hand, co-requisites may be completed prior to admission or hand-in-hand with the nursing courses. Almost all of the pre-requisites and co-requisite courses can be completed online. Two of the nursing courses also have online scheduling.

In total, students complete 72 credits after which they become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. They also graduate with a transferable Associate of Science in nursing degree.

NMSU Distance Education

Despite earning a degree that can transfer to most 4-year colleges for a BSN, graduates of the nursing program at NMSU-Alamogordo can take advantage of the distance learning nursing degrees offered by the mother campus: NMSU-Las Cruces. These programs: a BSN and Master of science-Administration degrees can be completed right at Alamogordo.

Specifically, immediate RN graduates can take the 100% online RN to BSN program to earn a baccalaureate nursing degree. NMSU-A also facilitates the distance education MSN program for BSN-prepared students. Programs under the NMSU distance education are also available in all other 2-year branches of Las Cruces including Carlsbad, Dona Ana Community college and Albuquerque.

Contact:
New Mexico State University Alamogordo
2400 N. Scenic Dr, Alamogordo
NM 88310

New Mexico State University-Las Cruces Nursing School Review

New Mexico State University-Las Cruces (NMSU–Las Cruces, NMSU-LC) was formed after the merging of two colleges: New Mexico Agricultural and Mechanical Arts College and Las Cruces College established in 1988 and 1989 respectively.  The merge happened in 1890 and it continued operating from the former Las Cruces college site before moving to a new site south of Las Cruces.  NMSU is one of the largest land-grant universities in the state and has expanded with a number of branch campuses. Most of its branch campuses are 2-year community colleges namely NMSU- Carlsbad, Alamogordo, Grants, Albuquerque and Dona Ana Community College.

Nursing Programs at New Mexico State University-Las Cruces

NMSU-Las cruces nursing programs can be classified into those offered on-site at Las Cruces and those offered at each of the branch campuses. In this guide, we will discuss the programs offered at the Las Cruces campus or online/distance from Las Cruces. NMSU offers a variety of options for the prospective nursing student with its dynamic bachelor’s, masters and doctoral programs. 

Within the undergraduate category, there are 3 options: the generic 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN), a 2^nd degree in nursing option and an online registered nurse (RN) to BSN completion option. At master level, the university has one Master of Science in nursing (MSN)-Administration track. The two terminal nursing degree programs are also offered: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the PhD in nursing.  Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This is the generic program that offers a pre-licensures curriculum for recent high school graduates or those with no prior nursing experience. The program is designed to cover 68 credits of pre-requisites and general education courses only during the freshman and sophomore years. If students successfully complete this section, they can take 61-67 nursing major/upper division nursing credits in the junior and senior years.  Completion of this curriculum makes the students eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides. Students are also awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Note

This program is also offered to students of NMSU-Grants at the same timing and schedules as the main campus. This means that BSN students at Grants follow classes live from Las Cruses through Live Interactive Television. All courses offered at the main campus are delivered in a real-time synchronous mode via videoconferencing.  Student at Grants earn the same degree and eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam.

Online RN to BSN Option

The RN-BSN completion program is designed for registered nurse graduates of associate programs. New students are admitted once annually during the summer session. Candidates are expected to have completed all general education requirements for the NMSU BSN prior to starting the program.

Coursework from earlier programs is evaluated against that of the school of nursing and credits awarded appropriately. Credits transferred are only lower division courses, to a maximum of 41 credits.  All outstanding requirements for the lower division must be completed. All courses for the upper division nursing are offered 100% online; students only need to come to campus for a 3-day orientation session at the very start of the program.  The program is projected to take one year of full time, online learning. This track is offered as a Distance Learning option at other NMSU-branch campuses.

2^nd Baccalaureate Degree

The 2^nd degree pathway is offered for students with undergraduates degrees in other fields other than nursing. The program admits new students biannually for the fall and spring semesters. Students receive most of the lower division degree requirements from their earlier programs. As such, the curriculum offered is a 67-credit pre licensure package designed to prepare the students take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. It is a rigorous track and demands full time commitment on the part of the student.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program

The MSN program at NMSU offers two degree plans to qualified students as follows:

Nursing Administration

This track is open for the registered nurse who has a BSN degree. It is a 42 credit hour program available in part time and full time options.  The full time option takes 2 years of 4 semesters and 1 summer while the part time option requires 3 years of 6 fall and spring semesters and 1 summer semester.  Professional busy student in the MSN program can also choose to complete the coursework 100% online otherwise,  one can attend onsite classes. This track is also offered as a Distance Learning options at other NMSU-branch campuses

Roadrunner MSN (2^nd degree option)

The roadrunner MSN program is specifically meant for students without prior nursing experience but have undergraduate or graduate degrees in other fields. All student are admitted in cohorts and must remain as so to the end. The program offers nursing courses in undergraduates and graduates levels to enable the student become a MSN generalist yet eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam.

Due to lack of prior nursing experience, this track is offered in a hybrid of online and classroom instruction-especially for clinical purposes. All undergraduate courses with a clinical component are offered within Lac cruces. Students can complete the 92-nursing credits in 2.5 years: 5 semesters and 3 summer sessions of year-round study and become registered nurses after the NLCEX-RN exam.

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

The DNP program at NMSU is a terminal degree that has two entry options: Post BSN DNP and Post-MSN DNP cohorts. It has been designed in line with the requirement of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to convert all advanced practice MSN tracks to the DNP by 2015. As such, this program offers students the freedom of choosing among Mental/Psychiatric Health Nursing, Public health or Adult Health options as their area of concentration. These options; previously available as MSN specialties are no longer offered as so at NMSU.

Post-BSN to DNP students are only admitted for a full time study plan in contrast with the Post MSN to DNP which has both full time and part time options. On a further note, the mental health track is offered in odd numbered years while the adult and public health tracks are offered in even numbered years. All courses for both options are offered online/ web enhanced formats with an annual 2-3 day onsite seminar. Failure to attend the orientation leads to dismissal from the DNP.

Online PhD in Nursing

This terminal degree program is designed for MSN prepared nurses who wish to become nurse researcher/scholars in contrast to the practice-based DNP. Like the DNP, all courses are offered online with full time and part time options. Students must attend a 1 week campus residency session in addition to a mandatory research conference annually.

The program carries a curriculum of 72 credits: 51 didactic and 21 dissertation credits. Full time students can take 3 years of 6 semesters and 3 summers while the part time track can take 5 years 5 summers and 10 semesters.

 Contact:
New Mexico State University – Las Cruces
1780 East University Avenue, Las Cruces,
NM 88003

San Juan College Nursing Program Review

San Juan College (SJC) was founded in 1956 as a branch campus of the current New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Farmington. The branch operated in temporally facilities of Farmington High school and offered only part time and evening classes. The branch acquired its own facilities and permanent site in 1968 still under NMSU. Due to the tremendous growth of this campus, San Juan County voted to make San Juan-NMSU an autonomous and independent college hence separating it from NMSU. As such, it became San Juan Junior College in 1981 which was later named SJC; a 2-year public community college.

Nursing at San Juan College

San Juan College offers a nursing curriculum leading to the associate degree in nursing (ADN). The associate program is designed to offer three entry options: Track I taking 24 months, Track II taking 18 months and an advanced placement option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). In addition to the main tracks, SJC has a Nurse Aide Program under its Career and Technical Education category. The associate degree tracks are approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Nurse Aide Certification

This course trains entry-level students on basic nursing skills as stipulated in the Omnibus Reconciliation Act. Students become prepared by taking classroom, theory and clinical work to take state certification exams to become certified nurse aides.

Track I ADN Program Option

This Associates Degree in Nursing track is offered every fall semester and takes the form of the traditional program. Before applying, students must take the TEAS V test and submits their scores to the nursing department for selection purposes. The program takes 24 months to complete with all clinical and theory classes being offered during the day on a full time basis.

To eligible for the award of an Associate degree in nursing (ADN), students must successfully complete 72 credits. The study plan of the 24 months is five academic semesters including a summer session. Graduates become eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Track II ADN Program Option

This track is similar to the track I option in terms of curriculum and admission requirements. The only difference is that it is offered in a non-traditional format of late afternoon and evening sessions for clinical and theory classes.  Interested candidates must note that the track is offered once annually on even years only.

Prior to applying, students must have completed at least 27 prerequisite and general education courses. The remaining courses out of the 72 for the ADN are taken at San Juan College in a period of 18 months. Students earn an associate in nursing degree and as well become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Advanced Placement

The advanced placement is open for licensed practical nurses and transfer students from other nursing programs.  Advanced placement opportunities are given on a space availability basis. Once admitted, students complete a Transition and Advanced Placement course to facilitate credit transfer from the previous program.

Contact:
San Juan College
4601 College Blvd., Farmington
NM 87402

Santa Fe Community College Nursing Program Review

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) was founded in 1983, operating in rented and temporally sites. The college was developed from scratch with the support of residents of Santa Fe. From rented property to its own permanent campus at Santa Fe, the community college has so much to show.  As a community college, SFCC offers students credit courses for various 2-year associate degree programs, non-credits courses and adult learning opportunities to Santa Fe residents and beyond. 

Nursing at Santa Fe Community College

The nursing program at SFCC prepares students to become registered nurses (RN) with a 2-year associate degree curriculum. Qualified candidates can join the program as freshmen or transfer students. The program also has an advanced placement option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who wish to becomes registered nurses. The rather unique Paramedic to RN option is also available as an advanced placement option. The tracks are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

The AAS nursing program at Santa Fe Community College is designed to enable students get into employment immediately.  Candidates are expected to have completed all prerequisites courses in addition to a Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR course prior to applying. Admission into the program is competitive and selection is based on prerequisites and GPA scores.  Selection is also based on residency where preference is given to New Mexico residents.

After admission, students are denoted as pre-nursing students until all general education and science course are completed. After this, students can re-apply again to be admitted in the nursing major.  As freshmen, students complete 33 general education courses within the first year. Nursing courses constitute 38 credits totaling to 71 credits for the program. Nursing courses are designed to be completed in 15 months of full time study while it would take 2-3years to complete the entire curriculum for the AAS.

After successful completion of the coursework, students graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree: a degree not meant for transfer but for workforce entry. Graduates also become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Entry Options

Besides the generic option of first-year admissions, the program also accepts licensed practical nurses (LPN), paramedics and re-entry students. The advanced placement students take differing times to complete the program depending on the number of credits accepted for transfer. This means that candidates joining through advanced placement have personalized study plans and completion times.

Articulation Agreements

Despite being an occupation-oriented degree program, SFCC has formed special articulation agreements to enable the graduates complete a baccalaureate nursing degree. In this view, students can take advantage of SFCC and University of New Mexico (UNM) articulation agreement into the university’s Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program. Students planning to transfer to other 4-year colleges besides UNM must consult with their future school and academic advisor to ensure courses taken will be transferable.

Contact:
Santa Fe Community College
6401 Richards Avenue, Santa Fe
NM 87508

University of New Mexico Nursing School Review

As a Hispanic-serving center of higher learning, University of New Mexico (UNM) was founded in 1889. It is located in the heart of Albuquerque, New Mexico with additional satellite learning centers in Gallop, Taos, Valencia County and Los Alamos.  The university presents a rich and diverse culture of Native citizens, Latinos, Hispanics and Indians.  UNM boasts to be the flagship research university in the state with extensive research especially in the health care sector. It offers over 210 baccalaureates, master and doctoral degree programs available in both traditional and non-traditional modes of learning.

Nursing Programs at University of New Mexico

Health science programs and medical care make UNM one of the most respected research institutions in the state. In the nursing category, the university has bachelor, master and terminal nursing degrees. The baccalaureate programs are designed for basic entry-level candidates seeking initial licensure and registered nurses wishing to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree (BSN). At the master’s level, candidates can choose from the 6 Master of Science in nursing (MSN) options available while those seeking terminal degrees can enroll for the PhD in nursing. Post-master’s tracks are available for all the MSN concentrations above. UNM baccalaureate and master programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Basic Entry Option

The basic entry option is designed for recent high school graduates with no prior nursing experience. The program admits students twice annually for the fall and spring semesters.  Candidates are expected to have completed at least 16 prerequisite credits prior to placing their applications. However, applicants must note that preference is given to New Mexico applicants over other applicants.

Once admitted at UNM, students must complete 65 credits of freshmen and sophomore courses after which, a second application into the BSN basic entry option is made. The basic entry option curriculum consists of 63-credits of upper division nursing courses and is designed to take 4 academic semesters.  In total, the two categories of 128credits take 8 academic semesters to complete. Upon successful completion, students graduate with a 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam.

RN to BSN Undergraduate Degree Option

This is an online program designed to allow and accommodate registered nurses to have flexible schedules in their quest for higher education.  The track admits students thrice annually for fall, spring and summer semesters. Registered nurses are given individualized progression plans and acceleration options are available for high achieving students.  Admitted students take a Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (ACE RN to BSN) to facilitate award of 34 upper division courses.  Other credits in the lower division category can be transferred if applicable.

Master in Nursing Program

The graduate nursing program offers various options leading to the Master of Science in nursing (MSN). The graduate program has advanced practice, community health and nursing education and administration. In the advanced practice category, the following MSN tracks are offered:

• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse-Midwifery
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

The Nursing education, Nursing Community health and Nursing Administration tracks can be offered alone or as dual degrees along with Public Health or Public Administration (MSN/MPH or MSN/MPA).

Acute Care Nurses Practitioner

The Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) track welcomes BSN-prepared candidates from nationally accredited programs. BSN graduates of non-accredited programs together with Registered nurses with non-BSN degrees can also be admitted based on individualized selection. All candidates must also have valid registered nurse licenses for New Mexico.

The program takes 6 terms including 2 summers of full time study to complete. However, core nursing courses can be completed on part time basis but once started on the ACNP courses; students must commit themselves full time basically during the second year. All courses are web-enhanced so students do not need to be in campus for classes. On this note, students can arrange for accessible clinical sites and preceptors with UNM at various sites throughout the state.

Family Nurse Practitioner

The FNP track starts in the summer semester and is only available as a full time track with only 2 core courses being offered online. Clinical core courses are offered in blocks and rotations must be followed ie lectures followed by clinicals. Students in this track must be prepared to travel outside Albuquerque for 2 mandatory clinical rotations. This is because the program aims to train nurses in working underserved populations.

Nurse Midwifery

The academic qualifications needed for eligibility to apply match those of the other advanced practice tracks above. However, candidates for this track are required to have at least one year working experience as registered nurses. It is also a 6-terms full time program with a curriculum consisting of 55 credit hours.  Students are strongly advised not to take employment during study.

All but one course in the first two terms can be completed online and students may choose to stay away. For all other terms, students must be available on site on a full time basis. The track also has a strong emphasis on rural settings and a lot of travelling outside Albuquerque is inevitable.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

The PNP track is designed for candidates who meet academic qualifications matching those for the above tracks. However, the candidates must have at least 2 years experience as a registered nurse to be eligible for selection.

It is as 47-credit full time program with no provisions for part time classes. Classes commence in summer for year round learning for a period of 6 terms of 2 academic years including 2 summer sessions.  Core and non-clinical courses can be completed online but PNP courses must be taken on site.

Nursing Education

The nurse education track is a very flexible program as all courses can be taken online with exception of fieldwork. The 32-credit curriculum can be completed on a full time basis of 4 semesters inclusive of a summer semester or a part time basis of 6-terms: 4 semesters and 2 summer sessions. This track can be taken as a dual degree along with Master of Public health (MPH) or Master of Public Administration (MPA).

Nurse Administration

This track is available independently or students can opt for a dual degree along with MPH or MPA.  The curriculum consists of 32 credits that can be completed in a part time plan that can extend up-to 7 years to accommodate the working demands of registered nurses. The fulltime plan of 4 semesters including a summer takes less than 2 years to complete. All courses can be completed through web-enhanced online modes.

Post-Master’s Certificates

University of New Mexico offers post-master’s certificates in all the concentration areas at the MSN level. The tracks consist of an average of 15 courses to help registered nurses become certified in the following areas:

• Acute Care Nurses Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Midwifery
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Education
• Nurse Administration

PhD Program

This terminal nursing degree at University of New Mexico is available for master-prepared students.  However, BSN students with a master degree other than MSN are only considered on an individual basis. Students can choose their own individualized concentration plan or opt for the university’s Health Policy concentration.

Degree requirements are completed in a part time plan requiring only 6-7 credits per term. Learning is all-year round and includes summer semesters. A maximum of 70 credits are required to fulfill the requirements for graduation.

Contact:
University of New Mexico
1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque
NM 87131

Western New Mexico University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1893, Western New Mexico University (WNMU) serves as a serene learning environment for the people of New Mexico, the neighboring Arizona and beyond.  The university is located very close to the lush Gila National Forest, giving students an opportunity for many outdoor activities like hunting, camping and backpacking. In addition to the main campus located at Silver City, WNMU has extended campus sites in Gallup, Deming, Lordsburg and Truth or Consequences.  The university offers close to 80 programs: 41 baccalaureates, 10 master and 27 2-year associate and certificate programs.

Nursing at Western New Mexico University

The school of nursing at WNMU offers four nursing programs; two of which prepare candidates to become registered nurses (RN). The tracks are a generic associate degree in nursing option, an advanced placement option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and a baccalaureate completion program for registered nurses.  A 4^th program is a short Certified Nurse Assistant course that trains entry-level candidates to enter the nursing profession. The associate programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission while the baccalaureate option is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Certified Nurse Assistant

This is a short 60-hours theory and 90-hours clinical course designed to prepare entry-level students to work as nursing assistants in health care facilities. The course prepares students to take certification exams to become licensed as nursing assistants.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

This is a limited admission program with only 32 students admitted per year. The program is offered at the WNMU main campus and the Mimbres Valley Learning center. Candidates must have certified nurse assistant status before applying to the program otherwise; a nursing assistant course must be taken after admission and licensure obtained.

The curriculum consists of 72 credit hours designed to be competed in four semesters and 2 summer sessions. Upon completion, students become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses and graduate with an associate of science in nursing degree.

Associate Degree in Nursing- LPN to ADN

The LPN to ADN option is meant for New Mexico or multi-state licensed practical nurses who wish to become professional registered nurses. Due to the limited space in the registered nurses program, admission into the advanced standing option is based upon space availability in the sophomore year class of the ADN program.

To facilitate credit transfer and for advanced standing, students must complete 2 freshman years courses and CLEP exams.  Upon earning advanced status, practical nurses complete a maximum of 66 credits including 5 of a nursing articulation course. Successful completion of the curriculum leads to eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam for the transition to professional nursing.

RN to BSN Program

This program is designed or registered nurses who wish to complete the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program. Candidates must be graduates of accredited associate and diploma programs and have active RN licenses.  Graduates of Associate nursing programs can automatically transfers all lower division nursing courses but diploma graduates must have their courses evaluated before transferring.

Registered nurses take a minimum of 50 upper division courses: 36 nursing, 12 outside the major and 2 electives. All nursing courses in the RN to BSN program are offered online, including most of general education courses. This online format enables RN to earn a baccalaureate degree without giving-up their employment. Basically, the track takes 2 semesters and 2 summers to complete.

Contact:
Western New Mexico University
1000 W. College Street, Silver City
NM 88062

Atlantic Cape Community College Nursing Program Review

Atlantic Community College (ACC) opened doors to its first students in 1966 on rented property of the Atlantic City High school of Atlantic County. This was after a New Jersey County college act was passed to establish affordable county colleges. Two years later, the college set-up its own campus and moved to its current location in May Landings. From its time of founding, Cape May County wanted the college to be part of the county and in 1999; the college became a joint college between the two counties. This warranted the change of name to Atlantic Cape Community College (ACCC).

Nursing at Atlantic Cape Community College

The nursing department at Atlantic Cape Community College has one main nursing program that leads to an Associate degree award. The program is accredited by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Licensed Practical Nurses are also considered for advanced placement in the associate program. In addition, it offers three nursing assistant programs under its continuing education category.

Nursing- Associate in Applied Science

This program is meant to prepare fresh entry-level candidates and licensed practical nurses to become professional nurses. Candidates must have completed at least 20 general education credits and a TEAS V test to be allowed to apply. Admission into the program is competitive and preference is given to candidates from the Cape May and Atlantic counties. Other candidates outside these regions are only considered on space availability basis. Students are admitted every fall and spring semesters for the nursing courses.

Once admitted, students take an additional 46 nursing and supporting credits to make up-to 66 credits required for graduation. Courses are taken on a full time basis at the May Landings campus for a period of 2 years. Courses must be completed in a sequential manner but in the case a student cannot complete a course, there is 1 chance for re-admission.  However, re-admission for a skipped course is not guaranteed and so is the case of a failed course.

After completion of the required curriculum coursework, students must take an “exit Exam” as required by the state of New Jersey. Only those who pass this exam are allowed to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. In addition, students are awarded an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree. For LPNs seeking advanced placement, a LPN Transition course must be completed before starting on the associates’ nursing courses. This allows students to receive credits and gain advanced placement status in the associate program.

Continuing Education-Health Care

In the health care category of their continuing education, Atlantic Cape Community college has 3 nursing programs all offered at the Worthington Atlantic City Campus:

• Certified Home Health Aide

This is a 78 hours program that trains entry-level students to become nursing assistant in home health care agencies. Completion of this state’s board of nursing approved program enables students to apply to become Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)

• Certified Nurse Aide

This program is meant to prepare students to launch their nursing careers from the basic foundation level. It is a 90-hours program of 50 theory and 40 clinical hours.  The program is approved by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. Completion enables students to write the state examination in order to become Certified Nurse Aides (CNA)

• CHHA for CNAs

The Certified Home Health Aide for CNAs is a 10-hour program that enables them to become CHHAs. The program accepts students on a rolling basis after every 2 Saturdays.

Contact:
Atlantic Cape Community College
5100 Black Horse Pike, May Landings,
NJ 08330

Bayonne Medical Center Nursing Program Review

The School of Nursing at Bayonne Medical Center (BMC) opened its doors for the first students in 1891. The school offered in-house training for nurses who also served as members of staff in the hospital during their free time. The school was first approved for diploma nurse training in 1912 but by 1973, students started taking college credits from St. Peter’s College.  By 1998, the school expanded its curriculum and formed a joint program to enable students graduate with an associate degree alongside the diploma from Bayonne Medical Center.

The Nursing Program at Bayonne Medical Center

One nursing program is offered by the school of nursing at Bayonne medical center. The curriculum leads to two awards: a diploma and an associate degree. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting commission and is approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The objective of the program is to prepare entry-level students and licensed Practical nurses to become registered nurses.

The Cooperative Program

Students admitted into Bayonne Medical Center school of Nursing have the advantage of receiving training from two distinct institutions. All course work required is taught by School of nursing and Hudson County Community College faculty.  Students need 33 nursing credits and 37 general education and supporting courses. The coursework is spread-out in 2-years of 4 fall and spring semesters, 2 winter sessions and 4 summer sessions.

Most courses with a clinical component are taken at Bayonne Medical center on a hospital-based delivery mode.  Completion of the program leads to the award of a Diploma from Bayonne Medical Center and an Associate of science in nursing degree from Hudson County Community College. Students also become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurses wishing to have a transition into professional nursing are also welcome to apply into the program. Such students must show proof of LPN licensure in the state to be eligible to apply.  Prior to admission, LPNs must take a Test of Cognitive Skills (TCS) to be allowed to take the LPN Transition course.  The courses enable students to gain advanced placement status in the associate towards becoming registered nurses.

Note

All qualified candidates must make their applications for consideration in this cooperative program from Hudson County Community College.  Students must note that all administration costs, fees and any other payments are paid to the community college and not Bayonne Medical Center. In addition, students pay all the applicable fees including tuition fees in the rates being used at Hudson

Joint Admission Program RN to BSN

The joint admission program enables Registered Nurses (RNs) to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree after graduation from Hudson County Community College and Bayonne Medical Center School of Nursing. These two have partnered with New Jersey City University to facilitate a ‘seamless’ transfer of their RN graduates.  Students transfer all the 71 general education and nursing credits taken at the two institutions to the New Jersey City University BSN program. After admission, students take an online BSN transition course that further awards then 17 nursing major credits. This means that RNs only need to complete 42 credits at the university to graduate with a BSN degree.

Contact:
Bayonne Medical Center
29 East 29^th St., Bayonne,
NJ 07002

Bergen Community College Nursing Program Review

Bergen Community College (BCC) was founded in 1965 following the need of quality and affordable higher education in Bergen County. The college offers transfer programs, career-entry training and lifelong learning opportunities to the community around it. It has three campuses: Lyndhurst, Hackensack and Paramus the main campus. Through these campuses, about 17,000 students take 2-year degrees and an additional 15,000 are enrolled in non- credit courses, adult education and continuing education.

The Nursing Program at Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College has one nursing program to offer to qualified candidates. The program; an associate of applied science is meant to prepare students to become registered nurses. The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. Students of BCC nursing program can also take the advantage of the Kean’s University nursing education partnership as will be explained.

Associate of Applied science (AAS)

This degree program has a curriculum designed to prepare qualified candidates to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. It is an occupation-based program, hence not suitable for students wishing to transfer to other four-year universities but those who want to get into employment fast. The program’s curriculum is offered on two options: day and evening.

Students interested in the day options must place their applications before February 1^st for classes commencing fall semester. On the other hand, the evening program accepts students who wish to start on the spring semester hence, applications must be received in BCC by October 1^st. Applicants for the evening option must have completed all the general courses to be allowed to apply while day students may start on general courses after admission. 

Both options take 2 years to complete and the only difference is that while day students take the usual 4 semesters, evening students take 8 semesters of year-round learning which includes summer and winter sessions. A total of 69 credits are required to be eligible for graduation: 36 general education and 33 nursing credits. After completing the coursework, students may apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

ADN/ BSN Partnership

Bergen Community College has partnered with Kean University to offer the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) nursing education completion. This partnership enables students at Bergen to enroll and take courses for the Kean University BSN degree while still at Bergen. Students interested in this program must apply and be accepted at Kean to allow them to take upper division nursing courses of the University.

ADN students at Bergen enroll for all upper division non-clinical courses which are taken at the Lyndhurst campus on Mondays and Wednesdays. Only a few exceptions can be taken at Paramus campus.  These courses are taken concurrently with those of the ADN curriculum at Bergen and some are offered during summer sessions.

By the time students finish their Associate degree requirements at Bergen, they usually have 88 credits; all of which are transferred to Kean University BSN program. It is not mandatory for students to apply for licensure after completing the Bergen coursework to start on the upper division clinical coursework at Kean University. Generally, the remaining courses can be completed in 12 months of full time study. Busy students can opt for the more flexible part time that takes 2-4 years.

Contact:
Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Road, Paramus,
NJ 07652

Bloomfield College Nursing Program Review

Bloomfield College (BC) has its history dating back to 1869, when it first opened doors for the first seminarian students. The college, then known as German Theological Seminary was based in Newark Township. Three years later, the college relocated to Franklin and occupied what was once Bloomfield academy. After a four-year Bachelor of Arts degree was established in 1923, the seminary and the college separated but remained partners as reflected in the name: Bloomfield College and Seminary.  In 1961, the college dropped the word seminary to the current name to reflect the full range of academic programs offered.

Nursing Programs at Bloomfield College

Nursing programs at the college are offered at the Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing. There are two nursing programs which both lead to the Bachelor of Science in nursing. Qualified candidates can choose between the traditional Bachelor of Science for entry level pre-licensure students or the registered nurses baccalaureate completion option. The programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. Once admitted, students can also take advantage of the numerous institutional-based nursing program scholarships available.

Nursing-Bachelor of Science (BSN)

The BSN is designed for candidates who apply as freshmen or transfer students from other colleges. The curriculum of this Traditional Track is designed to be completed in 4 years of full time study.  Qualified candidates do need any college credits before acceptance into the program. Admitted students take 24 nursing & supporting courses and 9 general education courses. As a requirement by New Jersey Nursing board, students who complete the coursework must take an “exit exam” before applying for NLCEX-RN. Only students who pass this exam are endorsed to take the National RN exams to become registered nurses (RN).  Successful candidates are also awarded the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree

RN to BSN Accelerated Degree Program

This fast track enables registered nurses who hold diplomas or associate degree to complete a baccalaureate degree in a flexible and short period. RNs must have New Jersey registered nurse licensure and RNs from other states must obtain the New Jersey’s licensure to be accepted.  Courses are offered in a manner that allows registered nurses to work while they study. Courses are delivered in a hybrid of online and face-to –face classroom instructions.

 A maximum of 16 course units can be earned by means of transfer, Excelsior College Examination and CLEP.  Students need to attend classes on campus only once a week for theory classes while clinical experience schedules may differ in time and location. Classes run on all-year format and can take 15 to 18 months to complete. At least 8 courses must be completed at Bloomfield for students to eligible for graduation with a BSN degree. The exact number of courses to be taken depends on the number of courses transferred.

Bloomfield College: Nursing Scholarships

The nursing program students at the college can benefit from the following specific and private nursing scholarships available from the financial aid office:

• Mern Shafman Memorial Nursing Scholarship
• Presbyterian Nursing Alumnae Scholarship
• Zonta Scholarships
• The Rath Family Scholarships
• Katherene E. Carretta Nursing Scholarship
• Dorothy A. Snyder Scholarship Fund
• Schering-Plough Scholarships
• Alfred E. Rowe Scholarships
• Sutcliffe Foundation Scholarships

Contact:
Bloomfield College
467 Franklin Street, Bloomfield,
NJ 07003

Brookdale Community College Nursing Program Review

Brookdale Community College (BCC) was founded in 1967 as one of the County Colleges of New Jersey.  It was established to meet the educational needs of the residents of Monmouth County. The college has a notable open-admission policy that welcomes any high school graduates who have attained 18 years of age. In its effort to reach out communities, it has 6 satellite campuses and learning centers in Hazlet, Sandy Hook, Long Branch, Freehold, Neptune and Wall in addition to the main campus at Lincroft. It is a  2-year public community college that offers associate degree programs, certificate courses and a path to bachelor or master degree completion; known as “communiversity”.

Nursing Programs at Brookdale Community College

Brookdale community college has one associate degree nursing (ADN) program and a shorter certificate course for registered nurses who wish to become legal nurse consultants. There is also an opportunity for Licensed Practical Nurses to have advanced placement in the ADN program to become registered nurses. The ADN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The college prides itself for being designated as a Center of excellence by National League for Nursing for the pedagogical expertise of its faculty.

The Nursing Program at Brookdale Community College

The associate degree in nursing program at Brookdale community college offers a curriculum that trains students to become registered nurses. Potential candidates must have completed a nurse aide course prior to application and acceptance is on a first come- first served basis.  Since Brookdale is an open admission college, student only require a high school diploma to be enrolled. Admissions occurs twice annually for the fall and spring semesters.

The curriculum consists of 72 credits: 26 general education and 46 nursing and support credits. Coursework is delivered on-site at the Lincroft campuses and via web-enhanced online modes for selected courses. Nursing and supporting courses are designed to be completed in five semesters on a full time study plan. Generally, the degree program is designed to be completed in not less than 2.5 years. There is also a fully online track for this program.

LPN Nursing Advanced Placement

This program is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who would like to make a transition into professional nursing. LPNs must be graduates of a nationally accredited program and must have a current, active LPN license from New Jersey. Such applicants must then complete a Nursing Advanced Placement Challenge Program in order to receive advanced standing in the ADN. Successful candidates are admitted in the fall and spring depending on space availability.

Legal Nurse Consultant Academic Certificate

RNs who would wish to work in legal nurse consulting positions are welcome to take this certificate program at Brookdale Community College. It is open to associate or bachelors-prepared registered nurses who have an active RN license and at least 2000hours of clinical practice. The program trains nurses to work as paralegals, consultants or in law offices. To be awarded this certificate, RNs take 25 legal-related nursing credits.

BS Completion Programs

Associate of science in nursing students of Brookdale can take advantage of the numerous Bachelor of Science completion opportunities available. Through the New Jersey Coastal Communiversity program, students can be able to complete BSN or Master of Science (MS) credits while at Brookdale. Such courses are offered at Brookdale’s- Wall Higher Education learning center and involve a number of universities as follows

• B.S in Nursing at State University of New Jersey & Rutgers
• RN-BSN at New Jersey City University
• MS Nursing at Rutgers University

Contact:
Brookdale Community College
765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft,
NJ 07738

Burlington County College Nursing Program Review

Burlington County College (BCC) opened its doors for its first students in 1969. The college used rented property from Lenape High School at Medford before it moved to its own campus in Pemberton; it current main campus in 1971. The college is dedicated to bringing higher education closer to the residents of Pemberton through the main campus and 4 satellite campuses in Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Mt. Holly and Cinnaminson. It offers 2-year transfer and occupation-based programs, certificates and non-credit courses for community enrichment purposes.

The Nursing Program at Burlington County College

Burlington County College offers only one nursing program that leads to an occupation-based Associate of Applied Science degree. This program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The program also offers an advanced placement opportunity for Licensed Practical Nurses to complete the Associate degree to become registered nurses via advanced placement. High School seniors who would like to earn college credits for the AAS program are also welcome to apply.

Nursing-Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

The college offers a curriculum that prepares students to take the NLCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Admission into the program occurs twice annually in fall and spring semesters. Students ought to have taken the TEAS V test prior to making application. Admitted students can choose between the Day and Evening study plans.  For students taking the day program, classes start in the fall semester and courses are scheduled during the day with occasional evening sessions for clinical experience. 

For those taking the evening program, classes start in the spring semester. Courses are taught between 4pm and midnight therefore, takes the same time to complete as the day program.  Potential students interested in the evening program must note that there are a limited number of seats and selection is done on a first-come first-served basis. Likewise, students expressing interest for the day clinical slots are also selected on a first-come first-served basis.

Students are required to take 70 credits in a period of two academic years of five semesters including a summer session. Completion of the AAS coursework leads to eligibility to take the NLCEX-RN and become registered nurses.

Advanced Standing

Advanced standing is available for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and transfer students from other colleges. For this category of students, all transferable nursing courses must not be more than 12 months old. LPNs must have current unrestricted licenses for the state to be eligible to apply and acceptance for both cases is on a space availability basis.

LPNs have the option of choosing between two courses for their bridging option. Completion of any of the two courses awards the LPN an advanced placement status in the AAS. Students become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed nurses besides being awarded the Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree.

High School Seniors

Burlington County College has a few reserved seats for high school seniors who wish to become registered nurses.  This arrangement enables them to complete AAS College credits during their last high school year which guarantees them a place in the AAS program provided they maintain set standards.

Contact:
Burlington County College
601 Pemberton Brown Mills Road, Pemberton,
NJ 08068

Capital Health System Nursing Program Review

Capital Health System is a premier Health services provider with four locations in New Jersey: Hamilton, Pennington and 2 in Trenton. The healthcare system offers medical services ranging from simple testing to complex diagnosis and treatment. Services can be in-patient based or office visits for routine employee testing.

 Besides the patient-based health care, Capital Health System Trenton’s campus offers a Diploma in nursing program that prepares qualified students to become registered nurses. The program is a cooperative program between Capital and Mercer County Community College. Generally, students take nursing courses from Capital Health Systems and complete science, math and general education courses at Mercer.

The Diploma program at Capital Health is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. After completion of the curriculum, nurses are awarded a Diploma from Capital Health System and an Associate of science in nursing degree from Mercer. Graduates also become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. This cooperative program also involves St. Francis Medical Center which is also a diploma nursing program.

Capital Health System
446 Bellevue Ave, Trenton,
NJ 08618

Christ Hospital Nursing Program Review

Christ Hospital was established in Hudson County in 1872 under the Episcopal Diocese of Newark. The opening of the hospital was inspired by a reverend who witnessed a patient suffer due to lack of medical care in the county. With that case, the reverend swore to open a hospital which happened in 1872. 12 years down the line, the need to train more personnel became a roaming need and as such, Sister Gertrude of Sisters of Margaret deliberated on opening a training school for nurses under the hospital.  As a result, Christ Hospital School of Nursing opened its doors for its first students in 1890.

The Nursing Program at Christ Hospital School of Nursing

The school of nursing offers a professional nursing program that leads to the associate of science in nursing. The program is a cooperative effort between Christ hospital and Hudson County Community College. It is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.  The program also has an accelerated transition option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who wish to become registered nurses. For this nursing program, Christ hospital prides itself in being designated as one of the few Centers of Excellence in nursing education by the National League for Nursing (NLN).

Cooperative Nursing Program

Christ hospital school of nursing had been offering a nursing program that led to a diploma in nursing until 1999. The school of nursing formed agreements with Hudson County Community College; established in 1981, for a cooperative nursing program which has been effective to date. Candidates for the program must make applications to both colleges separately. After evaluation of applications, candidates will be required to take Pre-Entrance NLN exams and attain a satisfactory grade which will be used for the selection process. The number of students admitted is limited and selection is done on a first-come first-served basis until the class if filled. This cooperative program admits one nursing group per year.

Once admitted, students take courses from faculties of both schools. All general education and science courses are taken at Hudson County Community college while courses with clinical requirements are taught at Christ hospital.  Students have two options to choose from in terms of covering the curriculum. In the day division, students take their coursework of theory and clinical portion during the day at the designated location while for the evening division; courses are offered from 5.30 pm. Depending on the student’s availability, non- nursing courses may be offered during the weekends.

A total of 72 credits are required for degree completion: 34 nursing (Offered at Christ Hospital) and 38-39 general education and science credits (Hudson). Completion of the curriculum awards the student a Diploma in Nursing from Christ Hospital School of Nursing and an Associate of science in nursing degree from Hudson County CC. Students also gain eligibility to apply and write the NLCEX-RN exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs)

Note

This cooperative program also involves Bayonne Medical Center School of Nursing.  Students from the 3 colleges can benefit from the RN to Bachelor of Science seamless transition at New Jersey City University.

Accelerated LPN to RN Program

This program is designed for LPNs who wish to become registered nurses. Admission requirements of the Associate degree must be met for application eligibility. Additionally LPNs must have current licensure to practice in New Jersey. Students can receive up-to 30 credits in advanced standing for the registered nursing track. Likewise, completion leads to the award of a diploma and associate degree besides gaining eligibility to take the NLCEX-RN exam to a become registered nurse.

Contact:
Christ Hospital
176 Palisade Ave, Jersey City,
NJ 07306

The College of New Jersey Nursing Program Review

Established as New Jersey Normal School in Trenton by a state Legislature in 1855, the College of New Jersey (TCNJ) has come a long way with so much history. The College has had numerous change of name over the years: from a Normal school to a State teachers college, a state college and finally to its current name adopted in 1996. By 1958, it was offering non-teaching programs and this warranted the change of name to New Jersey State College.  Currently, the college has academic programs in all disciplines at undergraduate and graduate level

Nursing Programs at the College of New Jersey

The nursing department at the College of New Jersey has various undergraduate and graduate nursing programs on offer. In the undergraduate category, students can choose the traditional Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program or the Registered nurse to BSN completion program. At the Graduate level, qualified candidates have five areas of concentrations to choose from. There are also a number of Post-master’s Certificate programs for master-prepared candidates. All programs under the department are accredited by the Commission on collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) is a traditional program designed for entry-level pre licensure students. The curriculum consists of 128 credit hours scheduled to be completed in 4 academic years of 8 semesters. Courses are offered on a full time study plan in the traditional classroom setting. Completion of the program leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and eligibility to write the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN).

RN to BSN Nursing

The RN to BSN program is designed for RNs who wish to complete a baccalaureate nursing degree. Candidates for this program must have current registered nurse licenses to be eligible to apply. Admission occurs once annually in the spring semesters. The transfer of courses conforms to the states articulation model. This means that students cannot transfer more than 80 credits towards the BSN regardless of the number of courses that had been covered previously.  Courses being transferred from junior and community colleges cannot exceed 64 credits. In addition, students must take at least 48 semester credits to be eligible to graduate with a BSN degree.

On most cases, students from associate degree programs transfer 16 nursing and 6 general education courses.  Students who transfer these 22 courses take approximately 5 semesters of full time study to complete and be awarded the degree.

Master of Science in Nursing Programs (MSN)

There are a number of MSN tracks for both BSN prepared candidates and candidates with any other Bachelor of Science degree.

Bridge Program to the MSN

The Bridge program is meant for RNs with baccalaureate degree other the BSN. Such students must have graduated from an accredited associate or diploma nursing program in addition to having a current RN New Jersey license. After admission, students take about 5 undergraduate BSN courses to be eligible to take the MSN level courses. After bridging courses are complete, students can follow the usual MSN path to choose specialty roles in School Nurse Program, Clinical Nurse Leader and Adult, Neonatal or Family Nurse Practitioner tracks.

Clinical Nurse Leader

This is a program that enables BSN-prepared students to become certified at Clinical Nurse Leaders.

MSN- Nurse Practitioner Tracks

This program is designed for BSN-prepared candidates who wish to earn advanced practice RN status as:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner  (ANP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Those taking the ANP and NNP track should expect to complete their coursework of 42 and 37 credits respectively in 2-years of full time study including 2 summer sessions. The FNP curriculum consists of 46 credits designed to be completed in 2 years including 1 summer session. Part time options are also available but all courses must be completed within 6 years after acceptance. While the ANP and FNP coursework is offered at College of New Jersey, the NNP may warrant a Philadelphia RN license since the program is a consortium with Thomas Jefferson University. All specialty courses for this track are offered in the evening at the Philadelphia-based University.

School Nurse Certification

The department of nursing at College of New Jersey offers two options for school nurses certification:

• Non-Instructional school nurse
• Instructional school nurse

Besides the core Master of Science in nursing and nurse educator courses, the Non-instructional school nurse track requires an additional13 credits while the instructional school nurse track requires 23 credits to complete.

Post-Master’s Certificates

Two major post-master’s certificate options are available with several tracks under each

Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certification is offered in 2 options

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner

Post-Master’s FNP Certification Programs for Specialty Nurse Practitioners in 3 options

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Contact:
The College of New Jersey
2000 Pennington Road, Ewing,
NJ 08628

College of Saint Elizabeth Nursing Program Review

The College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) was established in 1899 by the sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth as a women’s college. The college remained a women’s college until 1976 when it established an evening program that would cater for working students including male students.  To this date, the college is strongly affiliated to the Catholic Church and this depicted by its highest administrators; all presidents have been of the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth. However, even after allowing male students, some programs in the college are open to women only.

Nursing Programs at the College of St. Elizabeth

The college of St Elizabeth offers both undergraduate and graduate level nursing programs. The undergraduate program is a completion track that enables registered nurses to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. At the graduate level, the Master of Science in Nursing Education is the only specialty option offered and has two entry options. There is also a post-master’s certificate program on the same. Programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

B.S in nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offered at College of St. Elizabeth is a completion program designed for registered nurses (RN).  Candidates must have active and current registered nurse licenses for New Jersey to be allowed to apply. Candidate without active licenses for the last five years may be warranted to successfully complete a nurse refresher course if they are to be accepted into the program.

Students are admitted as cohorts and continue as so throughout the program. Students must also maintain their RN licenses to be allowed to progress through. RNs who graduated from diploma programs are able to transfer up-to 34 nursing credits to the BSN.  On the other hand, associate degree RNs graduates transfer all their associate credits and if applicable, students can transfer up-to 96 credits.

At the senior year, RNs must take and successfully complete a capstone project in their clinical setting of choice. After successful completion of the appropriate coursework totaling to 128 credits, students are awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

M.S Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is also a cohort based Co-ed program designed for BSN-prepared RNs and RNs with baccalaureate degrees other than nursing. The curriculum consists of 37 credits that culminate in a Nurse Educator MSN specialty.  Coursework is offered both on campus and off-campus for selected courses. Generally, it takes 2 years of full time and 3 years of part time study plans to complete the required coursework

Bridge to MSN for RN with Non-nursing Bachelors Degree

As mentioned earlier, this option is designed for diploma or associate RNs who have another Bachelor degree other than nursing. Such candidates need to have graduated from a nationally accredited baccalaureate program besides having a current RN license for New Jersey.

After admission, such RNs become designated as Provisional MSN students until they complete MSN Bridge courses. 2 MSN Bridge courses translating to 8 credit hours must be successfully completed for the provisional status to be dropped and to allow them to enter the MSN Nursing Education program.

Post-Master’s Nurse Education Certificate Program

This program is meant for MSN or Doctorates prepared RNs to complete a 12-credit curriculum to facilitate certification as Nurse Educators. The coursework can be completed in either part time or full time study plans.

Contact:
College of Saint Elizabeth
2 Convent Rd, Morristown,
NJ 07960

County College of Morris Nursing Program Review

The County College of Morris (CCM) opened its door for the first students in 1968. The college was opened in response to the needs of workforce training center that would offer high quality yet affordable education.  In the mission to spread its services to the community, a satellite campus was opened in Morristown in 1992. Through its main campus at Randolph and the satellite site, the County College of Morris offers dynamic educational programs that foster the student’s quest for professional development and lifelong learning.

Nursing Programs at the County College of Morris

The nursing department at the college has only one nursing program that leads to the associate in applied degree. The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is unconditionally approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The program also welcomes Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) wishing to receive advanced placement status in the associate in order to become registered nurses.

Nursing-Associate of Applied Science Degree

The nursing program at County College of Morris offers a curriculum designed to prepare students to become registered nurses. Students are expected to apply to the college for a Pre-Professional phase during which they take 20 credits of general education and science courses. However, completion of the pre-professional phase does not guarantee students a seat in the professional nursing phase.

Admission into the professional phase is competitive and depends on the number and grades of prerequisite courses completed at Morris County. During the time of application, students must clearly indicate whether they want day or Evening study tracks. Day students start their professional phase in fall while evening track students start classes in spring.

Once accepted into the professional phase, a further 47 credits must be completed: 9 support and 38 nursing credits. This brings the entire curriculum to 67 credits which can be completed in 6 sequential semesters (excluding summer sessions) for the day/full time students. For the evening students, additional semesters are required depending in the course load of the student.

Satisfactory completion awards the student an Associate of Applied Science degree besides becoming eligible apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

Note

All Students are welcome to apply for the over 15 nursing-designated scholarships from the CCM scholarship foundations but applicants must have eligibility criteria applicable to each scholarship.

Advanced Placement

This is meant for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who meet the general admission requirements of the associate nursing track besides having a current LPN New Jersey license. Admission into the program conforms to the New Jersey transfer articulation model and depends on space availability. In this case, LPNs must have graduated from a LPN program during the past year. On the other hand, LPNs who graduated between 13 months and 3 years must have at least 1000hrs clinical experience while those with more than 3 years after graduation must have 2000hrs.

Upon admission, LPNs enter an Advanced Placement Program where they complete 1 special Transition Course for LPNs and 2 other Basic/foundation nursing courses. These enable them to receive advanced standing status in the associate track. After meeting all the curriculum requirements, LPNs are awarded an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree and can apply for the NLCEX-RN exam.

Articulation Agreements

County College of Morris has formed articulation agreements with:

• College of St. Elizabeth
• Rutgers University

This enables nursing students to take upper division nursing courses right at County College of Morris campuses during their study period. Completion of such Bachelor of Science-upper division designated courses enables students to readily transfer to the two schools for a BSN degree.

Contact:
County College of Morris
214 Center Grove Rd, Randolph,
NJ 07869

Cumberland County College Nursing Program Review

Cumberland County College (CCC) was established in 1966 to meet the higher education needs of residents of Cumberland County. The college prides itself to be the oldest community college in the state of New Jersey. It is dedicated to offering quality and affordable education in the county through transfer programs, associate degrees for workforce-entry, certificate and continuing education opportunities. Cumberland county college acknowledges that more than half of its students start there seeking transfer credits to four-year colleges and universities.

Nursing Programs at Cumberland County College

The nursing department at Cumberland has three nursing program to offer to qualified candidates. They range from a practical nursing to the registered nursing 2-year associate degree program. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) also have an opportunity of advancing and becoming registered nurses through the LPN to Registered Nurse Transition option. The three programs are approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing program is designed for those who want to become licensed practical nurses.  Coursework for the program is offered either during the day or early evenings. However, students must choose and stick to one option to the end. The curriculum consists of 34 credits: 10 general education and 24 practical nursing credits.  Usually, the program is designed to be completed in 1 academic year.

After completion of the necessary coursework, students graduate with an Academic Certificate in Practical Nursing. They also gain eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Nursing

The nursing program at Cumberland County College offers a curriculum that leads to the associate of applied science degree. It is designed for fresh entry-level pre-licensure candidates and can be completed in 2 years.  The program has limited seats and admission is selective.

The curriculum consists of 69 credits: 23 general education and 46 nursing and support credits. Students choose between the day or early evening options to complete their coursework. Since the evening options start early and extends late into the night, the completion time matches with that of the day option.

Students who complete this track become eligible to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. They are also awarded the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing degree: an occupation-based degree. On this note, those with intentions of having immediate transfer to a four-year program must consult their future school. This ensures that students take the required transferable credits to avoid disappointments.

LPN to RN Transition

This program is meant for LPNs who wish to challenge the first year AAS program to earn advanced placement status. Candidates must be currently licensed to practice in New Jersey and meet all the admission requirements of the AAS program to be allowed to apply. If admitted, students take a LPN Challenge Course which grants them the advanced placement status. Such students enter the AAS program at the 2^nd year level.

Satisfactory completion of the remaining coursework at Cumberland County College makes the student eligible to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. They are also awarded the AAS in nursing degree.

Contact:
Cumberland County College
3322 College Drive, Millville,
NJ 08362

Essex County College Nursing Program Review

Essex County College (ECC) was established in 1966 as a community college serving the residents of Essex County. The college operates from the main campus in Newark and closely neighbors Rutgers University-Newark and New Jersey Institute of Technology. It extends its higher education services to the western end of the county through its satellite campus in West Caldwell. It is an open door college dedicated to offering high quality 2-year career entry and transfer degrees in addition to professional, community development and certificate programs.

Nursing Programs at Essex County College

The nursing division at ECC offers 2 tracks leading to the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing degree: an entry level option and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) articulation option. It also offers an academic certificate program for those wishing to become licensed practical nurses. Accreditation for the associate tracks is by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. No accreditation information is provided by the school for the LPN certificate program. All programs are approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

Nursing ASS Degree Program

Like mentioned earlier, ECC is an open door college hence, the ASS program is open to any candidates with a high school diploma. The program is designed for career-entry purposes and prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses.  Candidates initially make an application to the college and take all required courses so as to gain eligibility for the nursing program. Admission into the nursing major is competitive and occurs twice annually for the fall and spring semesters. All transfer students must complete at least 6 prerequisites at ECC to be allowed to transfer into the nursing program.

The curriculum consists of 66 credits: 20 for general education courses and 46 for nursing courses. Students must choose between one of the 2 study options available: full time day program or the Evening/weekend program. Those in the full time option start on the semester commencing September while the evening program starts every January. Both options are designed to be completed in 2 academic years of 4 semesters. Successful completion leads to eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

Nursing: LPN Articulation Option

This option offers LPN opportunities to become registered nurses in a shorter period through gaining credit for their LPN licenses and prior education. Application for this program must be received at ECC no later than 31^st July each year. Candidates must be in possession of a current LPN/LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) to be eligible for admission. Candidates must also have a minimum of 6 months working experience in a medical-surgical setting.

 Admitted students gain advanced standing by completing two nursing courses totaling 8 credits for which they receive another 6 nursing credits.  After these bridging courses, LPNs join the generic AAS track students usually at 2^nd year level. Generally the articulation option takes 3 semesters in 1.5years to complete the AAS degree requirements to be eligible to graduate and take the NLCEX-RN exam.

LPN Program

The ECC LPN program is designed for students who wish to make a quick entry into the nursing career. Qualified candidates should send their applications to ECC before 30^th June each year and must have completed a National League for Nursing (NLN-PN) admission exam. This certificate program is designed to be completed within 12 months of 4 semester year round study. 49 credits: 14 general education and 35 LPN credits must be completed for students to become eligible to take the NLCEX-PN exam.  Students are also awarded a Certificate of Practical Nursing Education. Graduates can also proceed to take the AAS nursing program under the LPN articulation option to become registered nurses.

Articulation Agreements

Graduates of the AAS nursing program at Essex County College can take advantage of the existing RN to Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree completion opportunities.  Students can flawlessly transfer credits for a BSN at the following 4-year schools:

• Kean University
• New York University
• William Paterson University
• New Jersey City University
• Felician College
• St. Peter’s College
• Rutgers University
• Seton Hall University

Contact:
Essex County College
303 University Avenue, Newark,
NJ 07102

Fairleigh Dickson University Nursing School Review

Fairleigh Dickson University (FDU) was established in 1942 as a private junior college in New Jersey. In 1948, the college introduced 4-year programs to replace the 2-year programs.  Fairleigh Dickson College was granted university status in 1956 and expanded its outreach to acquire a satellite campus in Madison. The university has a global approach in providing American education and as such, it has established international campuses in England and Vancouver, Canada.  Its main campus is located in metropolitan Teaneck Township of Bergen County.

Nursing Programs at FDU

Nursing programs at FDU are offered at the Henry P Becton School of Nursing and Allied Health. Programs range from baccalaureate nursing degrees which include a traditional 4-year option, an accelerated track for career shifter and completion tracks for registered nurses.  At graduate level, there are 7 Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks and 3 post-Master/Post-doctorate certificates options. Students interested in a terminal degree in nursing can apply for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The school of nursing and all the programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is also approved by New Jersey Board of Nursing.

BS in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN program at FDU has many entry options for qualified students wishing to become registered Nurses (RN)

BS in Nursing (Eight Semester Plan)

This is the traditional 4-year nursing program designed for recent high school graduates and transfer students. Successful candidates are admitted annually for classes beginning fall semester.  The curriculum consists of 128 credits that can be completed on full time and part time study plans. Students become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam after successful completion of the coursework.

BS in Nursing (RN to BSN) With an Associate Degree

This BSN track is meant for registered nurses with an associate degree from an accredited program. RN candidates for this program must have valid and active licenses to be eligible to apply. Such students are automatically awarded a minimum of 66 credits of lower division requirements for the FDU BSN program.  The remaining 62 upper division nursing and support credits are completed at Fairleigh.

BS in Nursing (RN to BSN) Without an Associate Degree

This RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurse graduates of accredited diploma nursing programs.  Candidates under this track receive a minimum of 30 semester credits for the lower division courses and the remaining coursework of 98 credits is completed at FDU.  The 2 completion options for registered nurses are available in both full time and part study plans.

Accelerated B.S. in Nursing (A.B.S.N.)

The college graduate track is designed for those interested in switching careers and get into nursing. Candidates must have graduated with a non-nursing bachelor degree from an accredited school to be eligible for the program. Graduates are enrolled in an accelerated track that helps them prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses.

This second degree in nursing option is offered in 1 and 2-year plans provided students have all the required prerequisite courses. For the 1 year plan, courses are taught starting from the May semester whereas for the 2-year plan, courses commence in September each year. Those who enroll prior to completing all pre-requisite courses remain designated as Undeclared Nursing students until the said courses are completed.

Graduate Nursing Programs

The graduate programs comprise of the larger number of nursing programs at Fairleigh University.  There are 7 MSN under the graduate category and 3 post-master certificate options.  All the MSN programs are available in both full time and part time options. Below is a list of the programs:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner- 30 credits
• Adult Nurse Practitioner (with focus on Education or Administration) – 39 credits
• Forensic Nursing- 42 credits
• Family Nurse Practitioner- 38 credits
• Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nursing-32 credits
• Nursing Information Systems-32 credits
• Nursing Education-33 credits

Bridge Program to MSN Programs

FDU has a bridge program to the MSN programs that gives registered nurses with a non-nursing BS degree an opportunity to become advanced practice nurses in a shorter period. Such registered nurses take bridging courses which facilitates matriculation into the MSN programs.

RN to BSN to MSN

This program enables registered nurse to complete a BSN and continue to earn a MSN degree. New students are admitted every summer, spring and fall semesters and can choose between the full time and part time delivery plans . From the 2-year associate program, RN can transfer 66 credits and take an additional 36 upper division nursing credits. The remaining credits to make up -to 128 for the BSN can also be transferred.

The RN to BSN portion allows students to take 3 double-edged graduate courses which can be used towards both the baccalaureate and MSN programs. The program is offered under the University Joint Community College Partnerships. Under this arrangement, students have the advantage of completing nursing courses at:

• Gloucester Community College
• Mountainside School of Nursing
• Raritan Valley Community College

Students only come to Fairleigh Dickson University to complete the MSN capstone course. Courses for the BSN and MSN degree requirements are taught by FDU faculty on 1 day per week schedules.

Post-Master’s Certificates

MSN-prepared students can take courses for certification in the following post-master’s certificate options:

• Nursing Education
• Nursing Information Systems
• Adult Nurse Practitioner

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program at FDU prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical-expert practice. Candidates must be registered nurses with advanced practice MSN degree from nationally accredited programs. However, a DNP Bridge program is in place for registered nurses with a non-MSN masters degree. The program puts emphasis on health education, health promotion and disease prevention.  The curriculum consists of 36 credits and students can choose from two specialization tracks available:

• Clinical leadership
• Organizational leadership

24 credits are for the core curriculum and 12 credits are for each of the specialization tracks chosen.  Courses are delivered through the executive education model. This format allows students to complete 9 credits and 6 credits in a 16-week semester for full time and part time students respectively.  All graduation requirements must be completed in 5 years.

Nursing Scholarships/loans at FDU

Two scholarship/loan programs are available for student nurses at FDU namely:

Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP)-This is designed for MSN students taking the Nursing Education tracks. Students can be either in the full time or part time plans. After graduation, nurses can serve as a member of faculty in an accredited nursing college for 4 years to offset 85% of the loan.

RWJF/New Careers in Nursing Scholarship Program- This scholarship program is meant for college graduates with non-nursing degree who wish to change careers and get into nursing.

Contact:
Fairleigh Dickson University
1000 River Road, Teaneck,
NJ 07666

Felician College Nursing Program Review

Felician College (FC) was established in 1923 as Immaculate Conception Normal School. It is a private, co-ed institution affiliated with the Catholic Church and operated by the Felician Sisters of America. The college is affiliated with the Catholic University of America and through it, was transformed into a teachers training college; who are also its founder organization. By 1967, the teacher training college had introduced other program besides teaching and it was authorized to offer 4-year programs. With this elevation came the change of name to Felician College.

Nursing at Felician College

Nursing was among the first disciplines introduced at the college after it became a junior college. All 2-year programs were however discontinued by 1965. 12 nursing tracks are offered at the college: 4 undergraduate, 3 Master of Science tracks, 3 post-master’s certificates and 2 options for the Doctor of Nursing Practice. There are also 2 other programs offered under the Teacher Education program that  include a Master of Arts in Nursing education and a Certificate for School Nurses. The nursing programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

Undergraduate Tracks

The 4 undergraduate nursing tracks admits high school graduates, transfer students, registered nurses or students with a first baccalaureate degree for the various entry options.

BSN Degree-High School Seniors and Transfer Students

As the name suggests, this is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) track designed for entry level candidates that have no prior nursing experience. Candidates are recent high school graduates or transfer students from other colleges. Coursework include freshman courses in liberal arts, sciences, general education and nursing courses. The 4-year curriculum is designed to prepare students for the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses besides earning a BSN degree.

RN to BSN Fast Track Program

This program is designed for busy and working registered nurses who wish to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree. Candidates interested in this program must be registered nurses in New Jersey with current and unencumbered licenses. An associate degree in nursing or a diploma from an accredited institution is also required.

Students are admitted as cohorts and move from one learning cycle to another as so. Classes are scheduled for 1 full day per week for 8-week cycles. 54 credits: 27 of liberal arts and 27 of nursing   courses. Coursework is taught in the two campuses of the Felician College and other off-campus location throughout New Jersey.  On a normal basis, the program takes 17 months including a 5-week break to complete. Students are awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree after successful completion.

Accelerated Bachelors to BSN Program

This second degree program is meant for adult learners who already hold another non-nursing baccalaureate degree and wishing to change career into nursing. It is a highly intensive program and is advised for students who can dedicate full time attention to study.  Candidates must have completed all prerequisite courses for a BSN degree prior to enrolling for any nursing course sequence.

Like the RN to BSN option, students are admitted as cohorts that must be maintained to completion. Coursework is offered on a full time basis of 12-week cycles including summer sessions. A total of 72 upper division nursing courses and 32 prerequisite courses are required for eligible for graduation with a second degree BSN. Students also become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

RN to BSN to MSN

This program is designed for RN to BSN graduates of Felician College who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses.  Such graduates get a streamlined admission into the RN to BSN to MSN track. The RN to BSN fast track program consists 2 graduate level nursing courses that are used to “jump-start” the Master of Science in nursing (MSN) program.  Since the 2 courses are double edged: count towards both the BSN and MSN degrees, nurses save time and money. Registered nurses can choose Adult or Family Nurse Practitioner or the Nursing Education tracks as their MSN specialty.

Graduate Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Master of Science in nursing (MSN) candidates must have a current and unencumbered registered nurse license. Not all tracks will require candidates to have a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree as a prerequisite for admission.

• MSN: Executive Leadership

This track requires 36 credits to complete with coursework being offered in a hybrid format of classroom and distance learning modes. Students are admitted in cohorts that must be maintained to the end. This track is open for both BSN-prepared candidates and baccalaureate degree holders with degrees other than nursing. The latter admission is evaluated on portfolio assessment. If successfully chosen, students take 3 level 400 Bridge Program courses after which they are matriculated into the MSN program.

• MSN Education

This track is specifically designed for BSN-prepares students who want to become faculty members. The track’s curriculum consists of 42 credits and minimal clinical and practicum hours. It can be completed in just about 2 years.

• MSN Family or Adult Nurse Practitioner

The 2 options are for registered nurses with a BSN degree and at least one year working experience as nurses. RNs that do not have 1 year working experience may be admitted on a conditional basis. The Family NP curriculum consists of 46 credits while the Adult NP track has 43 credits. All theory coursework is offered online while clinical courses are completed at a student’s location of choice. However, the preceptor must be approved by Felician College nursing faculty. Graduation requirement can be completed in a minimum of 2 years.

Post Master’s Certificates

3 post-master’s nursing certificate programs are available for MSN prepared candidates:

· Post Masters Certificate: Adult or Family Nurse Practitioner

· Post Masters Certificate: Executive Leadership

· Post Masters Certificate: Nursing Education

Teacher Education Nursing Options

Felician College offers 2 unique teacher education nurse training at the graduate level as follows:

·         Certificate: School Nursing & Teacher of Health Education

This is a certificate offered under the division of education. It is approved by the New Jersey Department of Education and students become eligible to receive certification from the state as School Nurse & Teacher of Health Education. Candidates need only a BSN and not a MSN like other post-master’s certificate programs. Even more the college also helps with the certificate application process of the 2 certificates on behalf of the graduates. The coursework consists of 19 credits/9 courses projected to take 2-4 semesters to complete.

·         MA Education: School Nursing & Health Education

Registered nurses that have completed the above named School Nurse/Teacher of Health education certificate are eligible to complete a Master of Arts (MA) program on the same. Such students only need 18 additional credits to bring it to 37 to earn a MA-School Nurse and Health education degree.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) terminal nursing degree is for MSN-prepared candidates. There are 2 options to choose from:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice Executive Leadership
• Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice

Both options require 40 credit hours to complete with a projected completion time of 7 trimesters.  Graduates of Felician College MSN Adult, Family Nurse Practitioner and Executive Leadership tracks have the advantage of seamlessly transferring 6 credits from their MSN towards the DNP.  All theory coursework is offered online through synchronous instructions from the nursing faculty. Students are required to visit campus for campus-based intensives only on 2 occasions.

Contact:
Felician College
262 South Main Street, Rutherford,
NJ 07070

Gloucester County College Nursing Program Review

Gloucester County College (GCC) opened doors for its first students in 1968. The college was established after deliberative talks to establish a community college in the county by chosen freeholders. The college initially operated from sub-let property at Monongahela and Deptford high schools. The college held the first classes at its own campus in 1970. As a community college, GCC offers 2-year degree programs, certificate courses, and professional and workforce development opportunities.

Nursing at Gloucester County College

Gloucester has two nursing programs to offers to qualified candidates. The two programs lead to the associate of science in nursing i.e a generic associate of science in nursing and a Licensed Practice Nurses (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) advanced placement track. Both programs are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

Nursing Generic Program

This Associate in Science (AS)-transfer program is prepares students for entry-level positions as registered nurses. It is a selective admission program and applicants must meet additional requirements besides the open door admission applicable to other GCC programs. Such requirements include taking a GCC nursing placement exam besides having double applications: for the college and for the program. Admission for this generic program is once annually for the fall semester.

The curriculum consists of 69 credits projected to be completed in 4 semesters of 2 academic years with no summer sessions. Completion of the program awards the student an Associate of Science in nursing degree. Students also become eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Articulation Agreements

The Associate of science in nursing generic program is a transferable program but GCC has established specific transfer options for it’s AS graduates. Students willing to continue and complete a Bachelor of Science can take advantage the seamless transfer to the following colleges/universities:

• Wilmington University
• Widener University
• Thomas Jefferson University
• Stockton State College
• Springfield College
• Fairleigh Dickson University

LPN-RN Track

Just like the generic program, the LPN to RN track is a selective admission program. Candidates for track must have current LPN licenses for New Jersey State. Candidates must also take the GCC placement test for selection purposes. Admitted students must have completed all general education courses prior to starting on any nursing courses. General education courses taken in the LPN program may also be challenged thorough Excelsior Exams or CLEP to facilitate their transfer.

Two LPN to RN Transition courses are required to give the student advanced standing in the AS generic program. Completion of these 6-credits transition courses awards the student an extra 10 credits towards the AS program. Nursing courses take 2 semesters to complete and students become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Nursing Scholarships at GCC

AS nursing students can apply for the 14 nursing scholarship programs specifically designated for GCC nursing students listed below:

• Arlene Barna Memorial Scholarship
• Dr. Weems Nursing Scholarship
• Dr. Barbara and Dr. Mark Chamberlain Scholarship
• Dr. Paul C. Davidson Memorial Scholarship
• Future Nurses Book Scholarship
• Foundation Scholarship for Nursing Students
• Lois Chamberlain Memorial Scholarship
• Larry B. Henry Memorial Book Scholarship
• Kelly Cassidy Memorial Scholarship
• Lisa Ann Geortler Memorial Nursing Scholarship
• Medical Office Managers of Gloucester County Scholarship
• Martha Northey Book Scholarship
• Nursing Success Book Scholarship
• SNO Student Nurse Organization Scholarship

Contact:
Gloucester County College
1400 Tanyard Road, Sewell,
NJ 08080

Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing Program Review

Holy Name School of Nursing is as old as Holy Name Hospital; its mother hospital. The college was established in 1925 as a women’s registered nurse diploma training school by Sisters of St Joseph. The medical center was initially known as Holy Name Hospital until 2010 when it changed to the current name. It is a non-profit community medical and training center serving the residents of Bergen County and beyond.

Nursing Programs at Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing (HNMCSN)

The School of Nursing at the medical center offers three nursing programs: a registered nurse (RN) track, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to RN articulation option and a practical nurse track. The first 2 programs lead to the Associate of science in nursing while the practical nurse is a diploma program. The school will also be starting a LPN evening program by mid 2012. The 2 associate degree tracks are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The diploma track is approved by the board of nursing but has no accreditation information.

Practical Nurse Program

This program is designed for students seeking quick entry into the nursing profession. The curriculum is designed to prepare student become practical nurses and work under the supervision of registered nurses. Students are admitted once annually for classes starting fall semester.

The coursework in the practical nurse (PN) program consist of 57 credits projected to be completed in one academic year. Classes commence in fall for a 15 week period followed by a 2-week recess. Studies resume for a 15-week winter session followed again by 1 weeks spring recess. Spring classes take 9 weeks and a final 7 weeks summer session.  Completion of the coursework makes the student eligible for NLCEX-PN exam and graduation with a practical nursing diploma to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). The college has also just recently started an LPN Evening Program.

Student must note that the 57 credits are not transferable to other colleges.

Registered Nurse Program

The generic registered nurse (RN) program at Holy Name Medical Center offers 3 options for qualified students. It is offered as a collaborative program between Holy Name and St Peter’s College-New Jersey. College courses are those of St Peter’s college but are taught at Holy Name. The first and second option can be completed on a full time and part time basis of 2 and 3 years respectively. Students on this track graduate with a Diploma in Nursing after taking 63 credits: 30 nursing and 33 college credits from St Peter’s College.

In the third option is a matriculation option after completing the diploma coursework. Interested students can join the Associate of Applied Science in nursing program at St. Peter’s College. Graduates only need to add 3 college credits to bring it to a total of 66 for eligibility to graduate with an Associate degree. This option takes 3 years to complete and students need not to apply for licensure before matriculating. Successful completion any of the 3 options makes the student eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

LPN to RN Articulation

This program is for licensed practical nurses that have current licenses for New Jersey. Admission is based on limited availability for candidates who would wish to make the transition into professional nursing. Applicants are required to take a LPN test from Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) to be eligible for advanced standing. Qualified candidates can choose from the 2 diploma options or the associate of applied science option from St Peter’s College.

Contact:
Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing
718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck,
NJ 07666

Kean University Nursing School Review

Kean University (KU) history can be traced back in 1855 when it was founded as Newark Normal School in Newark. The college was renamed New Jersey State College in 1937 and shortly after relocated to Union, its current location. The name changed again to New Jersey State Teachers College and to Kean College by 1973. In 1997, the college gained university status having largely expanded it programs from teacher education to include a wide array of career choices. This development also came at a time when the college had opened satellite campuses in Ocean County, Hillside New Jersey and prospects to open such a campus in the Peoples Republic of China.

Kean University-Nursing Programs

Kean University as a large university also has a large school of nursing offering a large number of programs to qualified students.  The main campus at Union offers Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program, three Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) tracks and post baccalaureate school nurse certificate program. The main campus in collaboration with Raritan Valley Community College offers a registered nurse to BSN completion option.

At Kean Ocean campus, the university has an RN to BSN completion option and 3 flexible MSN programs similar to those offered in the main campus. In addition there is a Transcultural Nursing Institute that offers programs with nursing Continuing education courses for nurses.  The school of nursing is approved by the New Jersey Board of nursing and the MSN and BSN tracks are accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing    

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Kean University is a completion program open to graduates of nationally accredited Associate and diploma nurse programs. Candidates must be registered nurses with current New Jersey licensure and join the program to complete upper division nursing courses. Upon admission, registered nurses automatically get 30 lower division credits towards the 125 needed for the BSN program. The curriculum consists of 72 support and upper division nursing credits to be completed at Kean with an additional 2 electives.

The BSN degree requirements can be completed on a full time format of 2-years. Students can also opt for the part time study format that accommodates busy and working registered nurses. With the extended option, RNs can take up-to 10 years.

Kean’s Offsite Nursing Program at Raritan Valley Community College

This program at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) is meant to help students to complete their RN-BSN at a convenient location upon graduating from the associate nursing program at RVCC. General education courses are taught by faculty from both schools but the upper division nursing courses are taught by Kean’s faculty only. Nursing courses are usually offered once a week on Friday at RVCC North Campus Branch in usual semesters and summer sessions.

Generally, the program takes 20 months for students to earn the BSN degree but interested students can Fast-Track or take it a slower pace. What’s more, RVCC also has a Dual Admission program whereby, associate of science in nursing students at RVCC can apply to be BSN majors after their 1^st year. After successful completion of the freshman nursing courses, students can apply to take Kean’s upper division nursing courses along with their sophomore credits. Credits earned this was can be used towards the RN to BSN program.

RVCC offsite program also offers an option for RN to BSN students to complete Bridge Courses towards the MSN programs at Kean. Such courses are double-edged as they count towards the BSN besides ability to transfer to the MSN tracks.

Post Baccalaureate School Nurse Program

This certificate program is open to all registered nurses who have a baccalaureate degree in any major. Kean is fully approved by the State Department of Education to offer the school nurse/instructional program. Candidates must have completed at least 8 selected foundation courses before registering for the 4-school nurse concentration courses.

MS in Nursing

The MSN tracks offer BSN-prepared students an opportunity to become advanced practice nurses in the following areas:

• Clinical Management option
• Community Health Nursing option
• School Nursing option

Students have the choice of taking 3 to 9 credits hours per semester on a full time or part time basis. The 3 tracks puts more emphasis on trans-cultural nursing concepts of nursing hence graduates fit well in locations with a diverse culture populations.

Kean Ocean Nursing

Kean University offers RN to BSN and MSN programs at the Ocean County campus.

RN to BSN

This program is specifically designed for associate of Science in nursing graduates of Ocean County College but other students may be considered. This completion program is offered at the Kean’s campus based in Ocean County College but courses are taught by Kean Faculty. The program is designed to cater for the education needs of working nurses hence have flexible modes of course delivery. Students complete 82 credits: lower division nursing and general education for Ocean County College. They then proceed to take 43 upper division credits for Kean’s BSN curriculum.

MS in Nursing

Three MSN tracks are offered in a flexible, work-balanced mode at the Ocean County Campus. They include:

• Master of Science in nursing-Clinical Management
• Master of Science in Nursing-School Nursing
• Master of Science in Nursing- community Health Nursing

The clinical management option requires 36 credits while the other two have a curriculum of 39 credit hours each. Support courses can be completed online while the nursing courses can be taken at 2 campuses of Ocean County College and Kean’s main campus at Union.

Transcultural Nursing Institute

The institute offers courses congruent to the needs of caring for diverse populations. The institute offers these courses in two capacities: as Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or for all the transcultural credit requirements for the MSN tracks. Courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters for the graduate category as well as all year round off-campus presentations for the CEUs. The CEUs can be used as contact hours for registered nurses license renewal.

Contact:
Kean University
1000 Morris Avenue, Union,
NJ 07083

Mercer County Community College Nursing Program Review

Mercer County Community College (MCCC) is an open-door public college founded in 1966. The college can be traced back when Trenton Junior college was accredited to offer 2-year associate degrees following high education needs from residents in the county.  A board of chosen freeholders decided on having a community college which later merged with Trenton Junior College. The new college relocated to West Windsor; its current main campus. Since then, MCCC opened a satellite campus at North Broad: the James Kearney campus and has formed numerous agreements for its programs with other colleges and partner institutions.

Nursing Programs at Mercer County Community College

MCCC offers a nursing program that leads to the associate degree in nursing. The nursing program also offers Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) an opportunity for advanced placement in the associate nursing program. Recently, the college started an online option for the associate degree. As part of its cooperative programs, MCCC offers the associate degree courses with diploma nursing schools: Capitol Health Systems and St. Francis Medical Center New Jersey to enable students earn an associate degree. Short courses for certification as Nursing Assistants, Home Health Aide and Medication Aide are also offered. The associate tracks are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Direct Health Care Provider Course

This is a non-credit course that gives preparation and training for students who wish to take the state examinations to become Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs). The course is scheduled for 15 weeks to cover the 90-hour curriculum. Students who complete this course and become CNAs may wish to complete an additional 10 hrs to further certification as Home Health Aides (CHHA). In another option, the CNA may complete an extra 30 hours to become Certified Medication Aide (CMA). However, the CMA option is not approved but is currently seeking approval from the state’s Department of Senior Health Services.

Nursing Program

The Registered Nurse (RN) program at MCCC is designed to prepare students to become professional registered nurses. Currently, the professional phase of the nursing program accepts only applications from Mercer County residents. There are two admission cycles: the spring admission for evening students and fall admission for the day option.

The curriculum consists of up-to 34 general education credits and 32 credits of nursing courses.  Completion of this curriculum leads to educational eligibility to apply and take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse. Students are also awarded an Associate of Science in nursing degree.

Online Nursing Program

The online option offers a similar curriculum as the associate track. All courses with theory component are covered online while those with a clinical portion must be completed on-site. The on-site sessions are scheduled on a one day/12hrs per week.

Cooperative Program with St Francis Medical Center

The cooperative program is between the diploma nursing school of St Francis and MCCC. Students in this program must meet the usual admission requirement of MCCC nursing program to be accepted. Generally, MCCC offers the science, mathematics and general education courses while the school of nursing at St Francis Medical Center offers the nursing courses.  The program is designed to be completed in 2 years including summer sessions. Students get 2 awards after successful completion of the curriculum: a diploma from St Francis and an Associate of Science in nursing degree from MCCC. Gradates can also write the NLCEX-RN for initial licensure as registered nurses. An exact plan also exists between Mercer and Capitol Health Systems’ diploma in nursing program.

LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option

The advanced placement option offers licensed practical nurses an opportunity to enter professional nursing. Candidates must have current New Jersey LPN licenses and must have graduated from a nationally accredited LPN program. Candidates that meet this requirement receive 6 credits in advanced standing from their LPN license.

BSN Partner Programs

Mercer County Community College has numerous articulation agreements that enable students complete a –year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Such agreements are between MCCC and:

• Drexel University BSN program
• Felician College
• LaSalle University Accelerated BSN Program
• Rutgers University
• Seton Hall University
• Thomas Jefferson School of Nursing
• Thomas Edison State College
• University of Wisconsin at Green Bay Online
• University of Phoenix Online
• University of Delaware
• Wilmington College Dual Admissions Program

The Felician College option enables students to complete all BSN degree right at Mercer rather than a physical transfer like is the case with the other schools. This program enables students to complete an additional 54 credits on a 50-50 basis for nursing and science courses from Felician College. This fast-track RN to BSN program is also open to interested students of the Capitol Health and St Francis under the cooperative program. Students must first get their RN licenses before enrolling for the 17-month BSN completion track.

Contact:
Mercer County Community College
1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor,
NJ 08550

Monmouth University Nursing School Review

Monmouth University (MU) was established in 1933 as a 2-year Junior College offering classes in the evening. The college was founded to meet the education needs of students who could not afford to travel out of state for college education. 23 years down the line, the college was granted the status of a 4-year college to award baccalaureate degrees.  In 1995, the college attained university status offering a large range of undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs. This private university is set on strategic locations near New York City, Metro Philadelphia and the Atlantic Ocean Beaches.

Nursing Programs at Monmouth University

Nursing programs at MU are offered at the Marjorie Unterberg K School of Nursing and Health Studies. Quite a large number of undergraduate and graduate programs are offered at the school. At the undergraduate category, the university has an upper division Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) completion program. At graduate level, there are 8 tracks under the Master of Science in nursing (MSN) program, 3 post-BSN nursing certificates and 5 post-master’s nursing certificate programs. 

Registered Nurses (RN) who wish to get a masters degree without completing a BSN can enroll for the RN to MSN Direct Program. A terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program is also available for MSN-prepared graduates.  Registered nurses seeking contact hours can search for suitable courses at the university’s Continuing Education offerings. The school of nursing and the programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing

Nursing (RN to BSN)

The program is designed for registered nurse graduates of associate or diploma programs. Candidates must have valid registered nurses licenses to be allowed to apply. Since all students in the program are admitted as transfer students, some specific guidelines must be followed to receive credits. Nurses from associate programs automatically receive 30 lower-division nursing credits upon acceptance into the BSN. Diploma graduates only receive those credits after completing 9 upper division credits from the BSN curriculum at Monmouth. General education courses may also be challenged for transfer via CLEP, Excelsior College exams or through Monmouth University credit validation system.

The program is quite flexible and is suitable for the working RN. Classes are scheduled to meet one day per week on a 3-hour block but can occasionally extend for an evening session. Most courses are offered on a hybrid format and students can choose between the full time and part time study options. A total of 128 credits must be completed to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree. 60 of these are the upper division BSN requirements and 57 must be completed at Monmouth University.

RN to MSN Direct Program

This direct program is designed to give registered nurses an opportunity to complete Master level education without earning a BSN degree first. Registered nurses from associate or diploma program with valid licensure or eligibility for licensure and at least 2 years work experience are welcome to apply. However, all prerequisites courses for the BSN must be completed before applying to the program. 30 lower division nursing credits and 28 college credits may be transferred from earlier programs.

After acceptance, students take 30 credits which act as graduate courses preparatory coursework. These are meant to cover the nursing basics of the upper division baccalaureate nursing program. Beyond these, students take a further 36 to 45 credits of MSN courses depending on their MSN track of choice. Courses can be completed on a full time or part time basis.

There are 8 MSN specialization tracks to choose from:

• Nursing – Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – Administration – (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – Adult Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – Nursing Education (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – Forensic Nursing (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – School Nursing for Certified School Nurses (RN to MSN Direct)
• Nursing – School Nursing – Non-Certified School Nurses (RN to MSN Direct)

Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in nursing is for registered nurses with a BSN degree. However, registered nurses with a baccalaureate degree other than nursing may enroll for the MSN Bridge Program to be allowed to take other graduate courses.  Candidates also need to have at least 1 year working experience within the last 2 years. If this is not the case, such candidates must expect to start their clinical practice after completing the first 12 credits of the MSN program.

Most courses are offered fully online but others are offered on hybrid format of online and class room instructions. For the onsite courses, classes are scheduled to meet one day per week. Students can choose from the following 8 MSN specialization tracks offered:

• Nursing – Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing
• Nursing – Administration
• Nursing – Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing – Nursing Education
• Nursing – Forensic Nursing
• Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing – School Nursing (Certified & Non-Certified School Nurses)

Certificate Programs in Nursing at Monmouth University

The Marjorie Unterberg K School of Nursing and Health Studies offer 8 nursing certificates for both post-baccalaureate and Post-master’s students:

Post-Baccalaureate Certificates

This category is for registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and the offers are:

• School Nursing Non-Instructional
• School Nursing
• Forensic Nursing

Post-Master’s Certificates

This are designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking certification in the following areas:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing
• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Educator

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This terminal degree program is meant for registered nurses with a MSN degree and specializations as either nurse practitioner or nurse administrator.  The program accepts student in cohorts every summer semester. The 36 credits coursework is designed to be completed within 2 years of 6 semesters on a part time basis. Courses are offered online with only 3 on-campus weekend class sessions twice per semester.

Continuing Education

Monmouth University is an approved provider of continuing education by the state board of nursing through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Courses are offered on a varied basis either via seminars, workshops or online. Specific course offerings often vary and interested nurses can check frequently for current listings.

Contact:
Monmouth University
400 Cedar Ave, West Long Branch,
NJ 07764

New Jersey City University Nursing School Review

New Jersey City University (NJCU) was established in 1929 as New Jersey State Normal School at Jersey City. The normal school was dedicated to teacher training and later advanced to a state teachers college. The college expanded from a teacher’s college and by 1958, it was offering degrees besides teaching. Four decades down the line, the college was granted university status and adopted the current name. NJCU is set in an urban location of the 2^nd populous city in the state. This public university offers over 40 undergraduate, about 30 graduate and continuing education opportunities.

Nursing Programs at New Jersey City University

The nursing department at NJCU has quite a number of Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) programs to offer. The on-campus programs are a registered nurse (RN) to BSN completion program and an accelerated BSN option. The university has a dual admission program with Brookdale Community College nursing students and a Joint Admission option with 3 other colleges namely:

• Bayonne Medical Center School of Nursing-BMCSON
• Christ Hospital School of Nursing-CHSON
• Hudson County Community College -HCCC

The department of nursing also offers a Graduate School Nurse Certificate to students who have already earned a BSN degree.  All programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting commission and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

RN-BSN

This RN to BSN program is open to registered nurses with current and valid New Jersey licensure or with eligibility for the state’s RN licensure. Candidates must be graduates of accredited associate or diploma nursing programs. Students are admitted to complete the upper division nursing major courses and earn to earn a baccalaureate degree. There are full time and part time study options for completing the curriculum.

Following acceptance, students take a BSN Transition course for which they receive 17 upper division credits. Courses taken at other colleges equitable to the NJCU nursing requirements are validated via CLEP examinations to facilitate transfer. All upper division nursing courses offered at NJCU plus those transferred must total to 128 for eligibility to graduate with a BSN degree.

Accelerated BSN Program

The accelerated bachelors of science in nursing program is designed for career shifters who hold baccalaureate degrees in fields other than nursing. Candidates must have completed all prerequisite courses congruent to the requirements of the NJCU BSN degree.  It is a highly intensive 12-month full time program that enables students to become professional nurses. The 64-credit coursework is offered on site at two locations of the university:  Wall Campus Township and the main campus at Jersey City. The option at Wall Campus starts in May while the main campus program starts in September. After successful completion of the required coursework, students become eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam initial RN licensure.

RN to BSN Dual Admissions with Brookdale Community College

This dual admission program enables BCC students to earn both associate and BSN degree credits at the same time while at BCC.  In this case, students take the usual 72 associate of science in nursing credit at the community college together with an additional 10 credits of support courses from either BCC or NJCU; whichever the student chooses.

After completion of the associate degree requirements and the 10 extra credits, students can seamlessly transfer all the 82 credits to towards the NJCU BSN. This leaves the students with only 46 upper division nursing credits to complete at NJCU in order to earn the BSN degree.  14 of these can be waivered following completion of a specific level 400 5-credit course

Joint Admissions BSN Program with BMCSON, CHSON & HCCC

This option is open to nursing students of the above named diploma schools and the associate school. The two hospital-based diploma nursing schools; BMCSON and CHSON have their cooperative programs with Hudson County Community College to enable students earn an associate degree besides the nursing diploma.

In this case, students must be accepted at HCCC and any one of the other 2 diploma schools. If this condition is met, students must then complete all general education courses at HCCC and all lower division nursing courses at either CHSON or BMCSON.  Courses are completed as follows:  37 in general education at HCCC, 33 in lower division nursing courses at CHSON or BMCSON and 59 in upper division course at NJCU. After completion of the first 2 batches, students transfer 70 credits towards the NJCU BSN program. Moreover completion of a BSN Transitions course equivalent to 5 credits waivers 17 credits from the 59 NJCU course load.

Graduate Certificate In School Nursing

This 30-credit certificate program is meant for registered nurses who wish to become school nurses. It is open to candidates who, besides being registered nurses with valid licensure, are holders of a baccalaureate degree.

A special option is available for those who successfully complete this certificate program. In this case, graduates can add an extra 12 credits to receive a Master of Science degree. This degree is for those interested in School Health Education as an area of specialization.

Contact:
New Jersey City University
2039 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City,
NJ 07305