Avila University Nursing School Review

Avila University (AU) is a Church university; strongly affiliated and supported by the Catholic Church. The university is sponsored by the St Joseph Sisters of Carondelet and started off a women’s school. It has undergone tremendous changes including relocations to new places and change of name. In 1969, Avila college started admitting male students to become a fully co-ed higher center. It remains as a college until 2001 when it became a fully pledged university serving Kansas City and beyond.

Nursing at Avila University

The school of nursing at Avila University has two nursing programs: a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program and a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion track. The programs have been approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The traditional nursing program has three entry points which helps different classes of students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree.  It takes in direct entry students, post baccalaureate and guaranteed admission students as explained below:

Avila Baccalaureate Nursing Program

This nursing program at Avila University and prepares students through a four- year curriculum to take the NCLEX-RN exam and hence, become registered nurses. General education and liberal arts courses are taken in the freshman and sophomore years while students take nursing courses in the next two years.  Below are ways through which students can secure admission into this program:

i)        Direct-Entry Admission

This is meant for high school graduates who took nursing courses during their senior years at high school. To maintain eligibility for the direct entry opportunity, high school seniors enrolled for the Avila Nursing Program must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 when starting on the nursing program.

ii)      Guaranteed Admission

This entry point is given to all students who take their prerequisites and core courses of the nursing program at Avila. In this case, students who attain a GPA of 3.0 are granted guaranteed admission into nursing program as long as all other admission requirements are met.

iii)    Post Baccalaureate Admission

This entry point is meant for students for students who want to get into the nursing program at Avila but already have another bachelor degree. Such students will be admitted into the program if their cumulative GPA scores from former bachelor program are satisfactory and meet the minimum requirements.

iv)   Previous Nursing Enrollment

Students transferring to the nursing program at Avila University will be accepted only if their transfers cumulative GPA in the nursing courses is a minimum of 2.5.

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program at Avila University is under the Adult Learner Accelerated-Avila Advantage category. This program is meant for registered nurses who hold Missouri licensure or those eligible for one. On the other hand, RNs must be have a minimum age of 23years or relevant working experience of 3 years as an RN. Candidates must also be graduates of an accredited associate nursing program.

Since the program builds on prior nursing experience, coursework delivery takes an accelerated approach with classes starting every month for 8-week cycles. Classes are scheduled in 1 night/week, weekends and online or in a blended format at either Avila or Truman campuses. RNs can choose from the two emphasis tracks under this RN to BSN program:

• RN to BSN Patient Centered Care
• RN to BSN Health Care Management

Important Notes on The Program

Students must note that Avila University School of Nursing admits nursing students annually; nursing courses starting only in the fall semester. This indicates that students must expect delays in admission, being sidelined or even having to be in long waiting lists due to competitive admission criteria. The program admits only 56 candidates in the annual admission, a very small number compared to high number of applications received. Students must also be aware that they are expected to cover for their own transport expenses to and from clinical sites and hospitals either on their own or carpooling with their colleagues.

Contact:
Avila University
11901 Wornall Road, Kansas City,
MO 64145

Central Methodist University Nursing School Review

Central Methodist University (CMU), dating back to mid 19^th century is a church affiliated university of the United Methodist Church. The four year private university has undergone a long of history of acquiring names, changing ownership and merging with other colleges in Missouri. It operated as Central Methodist college from 1961 until 2004 when a vote was passed to change the name to Central Methodist University. This was meant to reflect the extended scope of studies and the general increase in the number of students and service delivery.

Nursing Programs at Central Methodist University

Nursing programs at the university are under the Health Professions academic division. There are baccalaureates and master-level nursing degree programs offered in the main and other satellite campuses. Graduate nursing programs are only offered in satellites campuses while baccalaureate programs are offered in both. Accreditation for the programs has been granted by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has also been approved by Missouri State Board on Nursing.

Nursing

The Bachelor of Science degree program at Central Methodist University welcomes fresh nursing students at the main campus only; College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.  This traditional nursing program requires a minimum of 124 credits, 55 of which are of nursing major courses and the rest of liberal arts and general education courses. It takes four years to complete and successful completion awards the student a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and eligibility for licensure as a RN after successfully completing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Nursing-RN to BSN

This program takes in registered nurses who are graduates of diploma or associate in nursing programs. The completion of the Bachelor of Science in nursing (RN to BSN) is offered in 10 out of the 14 satellite locations of Central Methodist University sites. The program curriculum is offered in independent Central Methodist University Campuses in addition to collaboration with the following colleges under the College of Graduate and Extended Studies (CGES).

• State Fair Community College
• Three Rivers College
• Mineral Area College
• East Central College

Basically, the nursing programs at the College of Graduate and Extended Studies are meant to build on former nursing experiences and help RNs complete their BSNs. Additionally, some of the colleges and campuses under the CGES prepare students for their first two years with a pre- nursing program for transfer to Central Methodist or other colleges. Most of the program courses are also delivered in flexible part time, distance, online and (or) evening/weekends modes. The combination however, varies among the 10 CGES campuses.

Master of Science in Nursing: Clinical Nurse Leader

This program at Central Methodist University is offered in three campuses of the CGES namely St. Louis, Columbia and St. Anthony’s.  The CNL program is also offered online and therefore, students are free to choose from the three site based or the online options. 34 Credit hours are required to complete the program to be eligible to graduate. CMU also offers a post masters program for the Clinical Nurse Leader program for MSN prepared Students.

Contact:
Central Methodist University
411 central Methodist Square, Fayette,
MO 65248

Cox College Nursing Program Review

Cox College has its history dating back to 1907 when it operated as Burge Deaconess Training School for nurses. The initial college was then closed in 1945 due to lack of standardized nurse training facilities. However, after the Second World War, the demand of professional nurses led to the re-activation of the school, which by then had acquired affiliation with Burge Hospital. Lester Cox, whom the school is named after, facilitated the reopening of the college. As a medical college, it offers numerous health programs including nursing.

Nursing at Cox College

The Nursing Department is one of the main departments of Cox College (CC). The department has much to offer to qualified candidates who wish to pursue nursing. Nursing programs in the college range from associate degree tracks in nursing to Master of Science in nursing graduate programs. There are also continuing education and refresher programs for registered nurses. All programs have been accredited by either NLNAC or CCNE and are also approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.

There are numerous entry points to the nursing programs at Cox which include entry level, advanced placement, second degree in nursing, early entry and completion programs as explained below:

Associate of Science in Nursing Degrees

At Cox College, students have the chance of starting off their professional nursing career with an associate degree program. Students who choose this career entry option take two years of full time study where they cover 32 general education credit hours and 38 nursing credit hours. The program admits students twice a year during spring and fall semesters. Students completing the program are awarded the Associate of Science in nursing degree in addition to being eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

LPN Advanced Placement

At Cox, Licensed Practical Nurses have the chance to make the transition into professional nursing by taking a Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam. Students seeking advanced placement into the ASN program must have an unrestricted LPN licenses for the Missouri State. A minimum 12 transferable credit hours must have been covered to be eligible to apply for the program. Students who receive advanced standing credits from the challenge exam and transfer credits enter the associate program at the 2^nd year level.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This program from Cox offers students five entry points into the bachelor degree in nursing. The five entry points are meant to cater for the different kinds of candidates depending their former nursing experiences as explained below. In any case below, students can complete their program in a period of not more than five years.

• The Early Decision Option (EDO)

The early entry option is a collaborative agreement between interested high school seniors with Cox College School of Nursing. This agreement allows students in their final year to take nursing courses which can be used towards a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Cox. Students who choose the program must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 to maintain their EDO status for Cox College.

• The Entry Level Track/ Bachelor of Science Degree Program-Entry Level

This is the traditional, generic option that takes in fresh pre-licensure high schools graduates other than the EDO.  The program prepares students to take the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses.  The BSN-EL is the point from where all other baccalaureate degree entry points originate from. The Curriculum load for the program is 128 credit hours, 56 in general education and 72 in nursing majors.

• LPN Advanced Placement-BSN

Licensed Practical nurses wishing to become registered nurses can apply for the LPN Advanced Placement-BSN program at Cox College. There is no difference in advanced placement for the BSN from the LPN Advanced Placement-ASN. Therefore, all requirements and advanced standing credits awarded for the LPN to ASN apply to this program only that here, students will have to cover more credit hours to make up to the 128 required for a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.

• BSN Program Accelerated

This option of the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN-ACC) at Cox is specifically designed for candidates with bachelor degrees in other non-nursing fields. This accelerated nursing program makes it mandatory for students to progress as a cohort until completion failure to which leads to dismissal from the program.

Due to the rigorous nature of the program, students are discouraged from taking employment during the 16 months of full time study; 3 semesters and 1 summer session. Completion of the program requires the 128 BSN credits, 26 of which are received from the previous baccalaureate program, 68 nursing major and 34 general education credits. Cohorts are admitted annually in the spring semester and completion leads to the award of a second degree Bachelor of Science in nursing and eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

• RN to BSN Completion

For registered nurses with a nationally accredited diploma or associate degree in nursing, this is the program for them to complete a baccalaureate degree. As usual, students require 128 credits for the BSN but 70 credits are awarded for the prior associate degree or nursing diploma. Therefore, only 58 credit hours, 24 general education and 34 nursing major credits are taken at Cox College. As a completion program, there is much flexibility as most of the courses are available in a blended online and site based format. Online courses take the better part of the blend with minimal site based instruction for each course. Three admission periods per year are available i.e. fall, spring and summer.

Master of Science in Nursing

Under graduate programs in nursing, Cox College has three Master of Science in nursing tracks. The programs are designed for both BSN prepared students and RN who hold associate degree or diploma in nursing.  For the RN to MSN option, students take a curriculum that includes the BSN coursework in addition to 9 credits of MSN level. This dual enrollment of the BSN and some of the MSN electives allows students to complete the MSN component in a shorter term and be awarded two degrees; the BSN and MSN. The three tracks available are:

• Nurse Educator
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Clinical Nurse Leader

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track admits students only in the fall semester while the other two (NE & CNL) have admissions in summer, spring and fall.

Continuing Education

For continuing education, two programs are available:

• Nurse Re-Entry Course

This is a 70 day/ 10 week program that aims to help dormant or non-active nurses to make a comeback into nursing practice specifically in acute care. The RN refresher course is taken online for the first 35 days and 35 days of site-based clinical practicum and skill lab practicum.  6 hours each for Friday and Saturday are needed for the skill lab practicum while 18 hours per week at a Cox Health centre or any other close health facility are required for the clinical practicum portion. The program kicks off in the spring semester and students must maintain their RN licensure to the end.

• Nurse Assistant

This 8-week program trains students to attain Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) status or Patient Care Assistant. Classes meet for lectures and clinical practice two days per week each i.e. Tuesdays & Wednesday and Monday &Thursdays respectively.

Contact:
Cox College
1423 North Jefferson Avenue, Springfield,
MO 65802

Lutheran School of Nursing – St. Alexius Hospital Nursing Program Review

St. Alexius Hospital (SAH) is the mother to the Lutheran School of Nursing (LSN). Based in St Louis, Missouri, the hospital was established in 1869 by the Alexian Brothers, a family of prominent healthcare providers from Europe. The hospital dispenses its services through three sites and one of the sites, Jefferson Campus is home to their Lutheran School of nursing, as old as the St Alexius Hospital. The school has since been offering hospital-based training for registered nurses.

Lutheran School of Nursing Program

The Lutheran school of nursing, located at the Saint Alexius Hospital Jefferson campus offers a nursing program that leads to the award of a two-year diploma in nursing. The nursing program also offers chances to licensed practical nurses who wish to advance and become registered nurses. This department of St. Alexius Hospital is approved by the Missouri Board of Nursing and the two tracks of the nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Registered Nurse (RN) Track

The registered nurse is a very study-intensive program that consists of rigorous hospital-based nurses training together with a nursing theory component. It is a full-time day program designed to cover nursing and university courses in a period of 22 months. Prior to taking the clinical nursing courses, students must complete prerequisites courses which are scheduled to take 6 weeks. The clinical practicum sessions take the better part of the program since students must have 16 hours of clinical practicum per week at St. Alexius Hospital. Courses are offered in 8-week blocks after which one week is given before resumption for the next block.

Successful completion of the required 82 credit hours, students become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses and are also awarded a Diploma in nursing from the Lutheran School of Nursing

LPN to RN Bridge Track

The licensed practical nurse to registered nurse track is a full-time, day program designed to take 15 months of intensive study. Candidates must have current LPN licensure or eligibility for the state of Missouri. Eligible LPNs take a Role Transition LPN to RN course that enables them to receive advanced standing towards the diploma. Students are only allowed to transfer nursing courses if they are not more than three years old and if they were taken from a nationally accredited college. All other non-nursing courses can be transferred apart from those taken in Vocational and Technical institutions. After completion of the LPN to RN Track, students are awarded a Diploma in nursing and areas such eligible to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam. Both tracks have fall and spring semesters starting dates.

Notes

There is an incentive program for non-nurse employees and immediate family members of employees of Forest Park Hospital and St. Alexius Hospital to enable them to become registered nurses. Students who want to take the program and fall in this category get a 15% discount on tuition fees for the entire period of study.

Contact:
Lutheran School of Nursing – St. Alexius Hospital
3447 S. Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis,
MO 63118

Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College Review

Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College (GSN-BJC) has a long history. It is a story of two different hospital-based nursing programs: Jewish Hospital School of Nursing and Barnes Hospital School of Nursing. In 2005, the two programs merged to form Barnes-Jewish College of Nursing and Allied Health. In 2007, the allied health and the associate degree in nursing programs were phased-out and the college embarked on a new journey in nursing education. New bachelors and master and doctorate degree programs were introduced and this came with change of name to Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College.

Nursing Programs at Goldfarb School of Nursing

Goldfarb School of Nursing is one of the largest schools of nursing in St. Louis. There are three main nursing programs:  four tracks leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing, five tracks for the Master of Science in nursing and a unique PhD/ DNP combined program. All programs offered are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing education and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. For qualified students, there is always a perfect nursing program to suit your educational needs at Goldfarb.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs

Goldfarb School of Nursing does not accept freshmen students, rather all students ought to have completed general education and science courses before starting on any nursing courses. Four baccalaureate programs are offered:

• BSN Upper Division Option

This track is open to pre-licensure transfer students who have completed all lower division general education courses from another institution. The ideal candidates are those who have completed at least 54 credits in a 2-year pre-nursing program from a community college. Candidates are admitted every spring and fall semesters to embark on a journey that takes 5-terms of full time study.

The full time program is very tightly scheduled and students must commit between 30-40 hours for class and clinical work. Theory classes are held during the day and evenings while courses with a clinical component often warrant weekend attendance at Barnes-Jewish hospital and other health agencies in St. Louis.

Students complete 66 upper division nursing credits to be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. Completion also leads to educational preparedness to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as Registered Nurses (RNs)

• BSN Accelerated Option

This entry-level program is designed for candidates who hold a baccalaureate degree or higher other than nursing and would wish to become registered nurses. There are 3 admission occasions for this track: summer, fall and spring. Due to the rigorous nature of the program, students are advised not to engage in any employment activities.

The curriculum consists of 58 nursing and 24 general education credits designed to be covered in 12 months of full time study.  The extra 24 general education credits for this track must be completed at a community college or any other institution that offers general education for BSN programs. Students are expected to commit between 30-40 hours per week in order to complete the program in time. Theory classes happen in the day and evenings while clinical and simulation work may prompt the need of weekend sessions at Barnes-Jewish hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital among others. 

Completion of this accelerated option leads to the awards of a second degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students also become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to make the shift into professional nursing.

• RN to BSN Option

For licensed registered nurses who wish to complete a baccalaureate nursing program, this is the option for them. Applicants must have completed 47 general education credits besides lower division nursing courses and having a current registered nurse license. The program admits students every fall semester to start on 18-month part time study plan.

The curriculum consists of 10 upper division nursing courses translating to 33 credits. All courses are taught in a traditional classroom setting at Goldfarb School of Nursing or at the Missouri Baptist Medical Center on a 2 7-week cycles per semester. Completion leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

• RN to BSN Online Option

This program carries a similar curriculum as the traditional RN to BSN option and all admission requirements match those of the earlier option. Unlike the former, this online option is a full time program and all courses are delivered online on a 2, 7-week cycles per semester. Students come to campus only once during the start of the program and clinical experience can be completed at a student’s location of choice.  Students earn a BSN degree after completion of the curriculum requirements.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

There are 5 tracks under the MSN category for the BSN-prepared student:

• Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Students who wish to get into this program are required to have a current Advanced Cardiac Life Support status. Students must also have at least 2 years of work experience in an ICU setting as an RN and requires 47 credits to complete.

• Adult Nurse Practitioner Concentration

This track requires that RNs have had at least 2 years experience in any registered nurses role. The curriculum consists of 40 core and specialty credits.

• Nurse Executive Concentration

The nurse executive concentration does not require any prior nursing experience and has a curriculum consisting of 34 credit hours.

• Nurse Anesthesia Concentration

This program is designed for RNs with a BSN degree but other students with a health-related Bachelor of Science degree may be considered. RNs must have at least 1 year of working experience in an ICU or high acuity environment. The program is intensive and takes 24 months full time study plan of year-round learning ie inclusive of summer terms. 75 credits are required to complete the program.

• Nurse Educator Concentration

Students do not require any prior RN experience to be eligible for this track that requires 34 credits to complete.

Note

In all tracks, students become eligible to take the respective national examinations for certification. MSN-prepared students may also take the 23-credits Post-Master’s certificate program to be certified as an Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.

Online DNP/ PhD in Nursing

This is unique combined program that does not give demarcations between research and practice. Students receive a curriculum that provides a practice-based component in line with the DNP and a scholarly outlook in line with the PhD. Two entry options are available:

• DNP/ PhD Post-BSN Option

This program is designed for BSN-prepared who wish to have the terminal degree in nursing. Coursework for this 5-year program is offered online with only 5-days campus visits annually. BSN students first complete MSN courses leading to either a Nurse Educator or Nurse Executive track as their MSN specialty.

• DNP /PhD Post-MSN Option

This terminal nursing degree option is designed for the MSN-prepared RN and its takes 4 years to complete. Coursework is also offered online with 5-days annual campus visits.

Contact:
Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College
4483 Duncan Avenue, St. Louis,
MO 63110

Graceland University Nursing School Review

Graceland University (GU), formerly Graceland College is a church university of the Community of Christ Church. The college offered is first college education program at Iowa in 1985, where its main campus still remains to be.  Graceland University has since established other satellite campuses, one of which is located at Independence in Missouri, home to the school of nursing which dates back to 1910. The Graceland College was awarded the charter to be a fully pledged university in 2000 and hence changed its name to Graceland University.

Nursing at Graceland University

Nursing at Graceland University is not offered in at the main campus in Lamoni, Iowa, but rather, at the Independence campus in Missouri. The school of nursing has been approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and Iowa Board of Nursing and has also been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Programs range from baccalaureate tracks to doctor of nursing practice as explained below:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to RN Program

The BSN degree at Graceland University helps students to learn the skills of professional nursing through a combination on both liberal arts and science courses. The program has different options through which students can complete the nursing curriculum; all through a full time, on campus basis.

• Option 1

In the first option, students who have not completed supporting and liberal arts courses can apply for admission into the main campus at Lamoni, Iowa. Such students spend their freshman and sophomore years at the main campus and only transfers to the Independence Campus, Missouri where the nursing courses are offered.

• Option 2

The second option is for students who have already met all the lower division course requirements, either from former college nursing, a pre nursing program and (or) associate degree. Such students are advised to apply directly for admission at the Independence campus in Missouri. As such, students join campus at junior level and take their remaining two years of nursing major courses. It is also important to note that all nursing courses for the second option students in summer while those of the first option are matriculated into the program in the fall semester.

There is also an accelerated option for the same program, specifically designed for a limited number of high achievers.  This allows students to complete the program a semester less than the stipulated time. In this case, students take a senior level course at junior level and another two other senior level courses at a summer session between the junior and senior year. In total, a minimum of 124 credit hours are required for students to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree from Graceland University.

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program at Graceland University is a completely online nursing program that allows registered nurses with diploma or associate degrees to complete a Bachelor of Science degree. Students receive 28 credit hours in recognition of the prior nursing degree and more credits can be received through application of recognition of general education courses.  Students are allowed to take practicum lessons at their local health agency of choice which is supervised by a local preceptor.

RN to MSN Program

This too, at Graceland University is an online program. The program enables RNs to complete in tandem, a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in nursing degree.  It is a kind of bridge program that allows RNs to complete their coursework towards a MSN in an accelerated version. More so, students have the option of stepping out of the program at BSN completion level.  Through a combined curriculum of BSN and MSN coursework, students work their way to advanced practice nursing with two options at MSN level:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator

Practicum sessions can also be completed at the local community with only a 4-day campus visit for the BSN ‘stop out’ option and 2-day campus visit for the MSN level.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science at Graceland is designed for BSN prepared RNs. It offers two flexible options of completing the program; a full time and part time option. It is also offered online and students complete the program through a cohort online mode. Only two campus-based focus sessions are required from the students while all other requirements can be met online. Two options are available as specialty tracks; Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator tracks.

Post-Graduate MSN Certificate

The post masters programs allow students to complete a graduate level certificate program in either Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator options. These two programs are also offered online with two on-campus focus sessions in Missouri.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP is also an online/ distance learning program from the Graceland University’s School of nursing. The program prepares nurses who will be in a position to integrate nursing research findings and into practical applications. The entire coursework for the DNP is delivered online and students only need to attend campus-based focus sessions on two occasions, 2 days each.

Contact:
Graceland University
1401 W. Truman Road, Independence,
MO 64050

Hannibal-LaGrange University Nursing School Review

Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU), formerly known as Hannibal–LaGrange College, is an “unapologetically Christian” University, deeply connected to the Missouri Baptist Convention. As a church university, it gives more emphasis on liberal arts studies in comparison to other universities. The university was founded in 1858 and was then located in LaGrange before relocating to its current site above the Mississippi River in Hannibal. Most of the students in the university are of the Baptist faith but students from other denominations have minor representation.

Nursing Programs- Hannibal –LaGrange University

The nursing department, under the Division of Nursing and Allied Health at Hannibal-LaGrange University has two nursing programs for offer. The programs; an associate and a baccalaureate program are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board on Nursing.  The Baccalaureate in nursing is a completion program, hence does not admit pre-licensure candidates. Licensed Practical Nurses can also join professional nursing by taking the LPN to RN exam. Detailed information of the two nursing programs is given below:

Associate of Science Nursing

The ASN degree at Hannibal-LaGrange University takes three years to complete. The curriculum, a combination of supporting and nursing courses are taken in the first and second years while nursing majors are covered in the third year. A total of 69 semester credits are required to complete the program to be eligible to graduate with an Associate of Science in nursing degree. Students can also apply to write the NLEX-RN hence licensure as registered nurses, but this is not guaranteed.

LPN to RN

Licensed practical nurses can be enrolled into the ASN program at Hannibal-LaGrange University if they meet the outlined requirements. Such include providing an official transcript with an average score of grade C. Graduates must be from a state recognized LPN program and must show proof of relevant working experience in addition having an active, unrestricted LPN license.

 Bachelor of Science Nursing

This is not a traditional nursing program; rather, it is a completion program for registered nurses who already hold a diploma of associate degree in nursing. The BSN candidates at Hannibal-LaGrange University are therefore required to have completed all nursing and supporting courses listed in the Associate of Science in nursing program curriculum. Candidates who meet those requirements are eligible for admission into the Bachelor of Science in nursing program; otherwise, they must complete the entire ASN curriculum prior to applying.

Following admission, students must complete a summer session entailing one chemistry course, after which, they enter the nursing program. The nursing program consist of general education and nursing courses taken along with upper division major nursing courses until completion of the second year . In between the first and second year of the BSN, students must take a mandatory summer session of two nursing courses comprising of eight semester credits. A total of 59 nursing and liberal arts credit hours are required at this upper division level to be eligible for graduation with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Contact:
Hannibal-LaGrange University
2800 Palmyra Road, Hannibal,
MO 63401

Lincoln University Nursing School Review

Lincoln University (LU) is one of the two historically Black Schools in the State of Missouri. This public university dates back to 1866, when it was established to offer teacher training opportunities to African Americans living in Missouri. The university was then known as Lincoln Institute and become a fully pledged university with diverse degree programs in 1921. It started admitting qualified candidates from different races and color in 1954 at Jefferson City.

Nursing Science Programs at Lincoln University

The Department of Nursing Science offers two nursing programs one at the associate degree level and a baccalaureate degree. It also has a continuing education program for nurses who are interested in Spanish as a second language. The programs have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Detailed information of each of the programs is given below:

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS)

The associate of applied science degree in nursing prepares students to become registered nurses. The program welcomes three types of candidates; new, LPN Bridge and transfers students. It is a two-year program that engages students in a combination of general education and nursing courses at all levels of the two-year period.  For new students, 11 prerequisites credits must have been completed prior to admission into the program.

For those seeking LPN to RN advanced placement, they must provide proof of prior LPN experience via a written recommendation from a supervisor and an active LPN license. A Bridging course is then taken to determine the number of credit to be awarded in advanced placement drawn upon the bridge course scores. In case of transfer students, transfer of credits is determined from former transcripts. A total of 71 credits must be completed to be allowed to graduate and take the NCLEX-RN exam.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Completion Program

The BSN completion program from Lincoln University enables diploma and associate degree registered nurses to complete a baccalaureate degree.  It is a very flexible program delivered in a hybrid nature of both online and site-based instructions. General education courses are offered in an online and campus based version while all nursing courses with a clinical component are offered online. For the practicum sessions, students are allowed to freely choose their hospital locations but supervision is done by an approved Lincoln University Preceptor. All Didactic nursing courses are also offered online.

The program is relatively long and course-laden, given that it is a completion program. It takes two years to complete; a first year of two semesters and a second year of four semesters. A total of 92 credit hours are needed to be allowed to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Continuing Education – Spanish for Health Care Professionals

In the category of continuing education, Lincoln University offers Spanish for Health Care Professionals course. This courses aims at enhancing effective communication between Spanish speaking patients and medical staff, especially nurses. The course helps nurses and other medical professional understand medical terminology, human anatomy and other simple verbal communication in the Spanish language.

Contact:
Lincoln University
820 Chestnut Street, Jefferson City,
MO 65101

Maryville University of St. Louis Nursing School Review

Maryville University (MU or MUSL) is a community focused liberal arts university grounded in the Religious of the Sacred Heart. It was established as a women’s academy by French women who had settled in the Southern parts of St. Louis in 1972. The College underwent tremendous changes, including transition form a women’s college into a co-ed institution. It also developed from a junior college to a four-year degree awarding college and finally to Maryville University in 1991. To this date, this private university holds the heritage of Sacred Heart Order at heart, and is guided by it.

Nursing Programs at Maryville University
Nursing at Maryville University is under the School of Health Professionals. The school is approved to offer nursing programs by the Missouri Board of Nursing and the programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The department of nursing offers degrees in traditional and non-traditional modes including online, weekend and evening programs. Four tracks leading to a baccalaureate in nursing are available, three of which are pre-licensure and one RN completion program. Graduate nursing programs include several tracks of Master of Science in nursing and a Doctor of nursing terminal degree as expounded below:

Undergraduate Nursing at Maryville
In the undergraduate nursing programs category, Maryville has four degrees to offer to qualified candidates namely:
Traditional Day Program
The traditional nursing day program has a curriculum the meets the education needs of beginning nursing students.  As the name suggests, it is a full time day program that aims at preparing the students to write the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses. A total of 65 general education and 63 nursing credits are required to be eligible for graduation within a period of four years. upon completion, students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
Fast Track Program
The fast track nursing program at Maryville is specifically designed for students who have completed a minimum of 65 credit hours of liberal arts and science courses from a pre nursing program. Students who have the required courses join the program at junior level therefore, spend only two academic years at Maryville to finish their BSN. Since it is for pre-licensure candidates, completion offers sufficient preparation for students to write the NLCEX-RN exam.
Weekend & Evening Nursing Program
The weekend and evening nursing program offers RNs a chance to complete their baccalaureate at the Weekend & Evening College (WEC). Nursing courses are offered throughout the year including the summer sessions.  To be allowed into this nursing program, students are required to have completed all 65 prerequisites courses before beginning any nursing courses. Having met this requirement, the duration of study becomes 3 fall sessions and 2-spring & summer sessions each.
RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program
This requires candidates who have current licensure as registered nurses.  All students receive a minimum of 40 nursing credits in validation of the prior nursing experience. Courses are designed to be completed in one academic year including full load courses of a summer session. Regardless of the number of credits transferred, the last 30 nursing credits hours must be taken at Maryville.
N/B-Special Challenge Courses for Licensed Professional Nurses
For the WEC and RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion programs discussed above, licensed professional nurses (LPN) can challenge some level 200 courses. LPN students interested in challenging these courses must pay a separate fee of $25/credit so as to receive 5 credits per course. This is a great option for working professionals to subside most of the coursework needed.
Graduate Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing

Two options are available for MSN students at Maryville; one for BSN prepared students and the other for RNs with Diplomas or Associate degrees. Students are free to choose from the following MSN tracks:

· Family Nurse Practitioner

· Adult Nurse Practitioner

· Nursing Educator

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

The above three are full time programs and students wishing to apply for online programs can do so for the following:

· Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

· Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
· Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
At Maryville University, both Post BSN and Post MSN students have the option of completing a DNP as the terminal nursing degree. The program, together with the above two nursing programs are the only online nursing degrees offerings at the university. The 3 are designed to be completed in 2 years and is the best option for the working professionals who want to have a time-sensitive schedule.
Rehabilitation Nursing Certificate
This program is open to Bachelor of Science in nursing –prepared students who wish to take care of individuals that are chronically ill. It is a 1-year program consisting of 6 courses of 3 credits each bringing it to a total of 18 credits.
The emphasis of the program is the ability to carry-out evidence-based research in restorative health for patients suffering chronically. There is also great emphasis on the administration and clinical treatment options that enhance lives of patients with chronic health problems.
Contact:
Maryville University St. Louis
650 Maryville Drive, St. Louis,
MO 63141

Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley Nursing Program Review

In 1915, the Polytechnic destined to become Metropolitan Community College opened its doors. Four years down the line, Kansas City Polytechnic expanded its program and became a two-year junior college. Several mergers happened in 1964 to create what was known as Metropolitan Community Colleges District. By 2005, five other colleges merged with the college to form what is known today as Metropolitan Community College. Penn Valley, the largest campus of MCC serves as a center of excellence in Health-related careers.

Nursing at Metropolitan Community College

There are three nursing programs in Metropolitan Community College- Penn Valley campus. The programs, starting with a certificate program in practical nursing to an associate in applied science degree are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The department of nursing has also been approved to offer the said degrees by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Details of the three programs are given below:

Professional Nursing

The professional nursing program at Metropolitan Community College- Penn Valley (MCC-Penn Valley) leads to the award of an Associate in Applied Science, nursing degree. It aims at preparing student nurse generalists who, attend the end of it will be eligible to write the NLEX-RN to become registered nurses. It is a 72 credit hours program available in day and evening study plans in what are full time and part time options respectively.

The evening/part time program schedules courses to be covered in two evenings per week and clinical sessions to be covered during weekends. While the full time option takes two years of 4 semesters to complete, the part time plans takes two years of 6 semesters including two summers.

LPN to ADN Bridge

This is for licensed practical nurses who wish to make a transition into professional nursing. Students take a Professional Nursing Transition course/bridge comprising of four semester hours. Upon passing this transition course, students receive advanced standing towards their Associate degree.  Just like the associate nursing program, this one is also available in both part time and full time study plans of day and evening schedules. A minimum of 48 credits must be completed after exclusion of advanced standing credits, and the number varies depending on the credits received.

Practical Nursing

This is a one year program for those seeking a quick entry into the nursing field. The program prepares students to write the NCLEX-PN for state licensure as practical nurses. Students who complete this program are encouraged to apply for the LPN to ADN bridge program at the college so as to get into professional nursing.

Transfer Information

Metropolitan Community College has made it easy for students to transfer their associate degree in nursing to four-year colleges and university towards completion of a BSN. In addition to the transfer agreements with over 20 universities, the college has developed Dual Degree Programs, enabling students to connect directly with four-year university right at the MCC.  The Dual Admission nursing program is in collaboration with the following universities:

• Missouri Western State University
• Park University
• University Central Missouri
• Northwest Missouri State University
• University of Missouri- Kansas City

Contact:
Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley
3200 Broadway, Kansas City,
MO 64111

Missouri Southern State University – Joplin Nursing School Review

Founded in 1937, Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) has kept to it mission of giving international education, professional and liberal arts programs and the lifelong learning that comes with delivery of education.  From the status of a junior college to the four-year large state supported university it is today, it has nothing but outstanding milestones of developments to show. It serves the residents of Southern Missouri and beyond through its four-well organized schools and academic departments offering over 200 academic programs.

Nursing Degrees at Missouri Southern State University

The school of technology, one of the four schools of Missouri Southern State University is home to the department of nursing. The nursing department has both undergraduate and graduate degree programs to offers to qualified candidates. Of the three programs offered, two are baccalaureate nursing tracks while one is master level degree track. Programs have been accredited by the National League in Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by Missouri State Board on Nursing. More information is given below:

Undergraduate Nursing

Three undergraduate nursing tracks are on offer at Missouri Southern State University namely:

Bachelor of Science in nursing

This program welcomes freshmen candidates who are recent high school graduates. It is a pre licensure program that prepares student nurses to meet the requirement of eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. It is available only in a full time format from the main campus in Joplin. Students take 79 nursing major credits and 47 general education credit hours to be allowed to graduate.

RN to BSN Track

This is a completion program that had been initially designed for associate degree graduates of Southern State. However, the associate nursing program was discontinued and hence the RN to BSN track welcomes all candidates who are already registered nurses. The diploma or associate degrees must from a state approved program otherwise; students from a non accredited program are challenged to take a level 300 Transition in Nursing Course.

A registered nurse license for the State of Missouri is also required for students to be allowed to receive the 31 credit validation towards the Bachelor of Science in nursing. Students can receive more credits if they opt to take an additional nursing challenge courses upon payment of an assessment fee.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This intensive immersion program is designed for career changers who wish to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to become professional nurses by taking the NLCEX-RN exam. Candidates must be graduates from other non-nursing baccalaureate programs. All applications for the program must be received at MSSU by 31^st January each year and classes commence in the summer session.

Due to the intensive nature of the program, students do not follow the usual university calendar. Classes are conducted from the start of one summer to the end of the next taking approximately 14 months. Classes are scheduled every Friday evening and during the weekends for the nursing courses. The general education and core course requirements are met by the credits of the earlier baccalaureate program.

Graduate Nursing Program

Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)

This is the only Master of Science in nursing program offered at Missouri Southern State University. The program is not offered at the university independently but rather, as a partnership with University of Missouri-Kansas City.  It is specifically designed for Bachelor of Science in nursing graduates who must apply through the University of Missouri-Kansas City and not Southern State. Students in the program take coursework from both universities.

The mode of curriculum delivery is both full time and part time and classes are taken from both universities on a fixed- predetermined rotational manner. This means that students cannot choose when to attend which campus at anytime. Rotational course offering means that when certain courses are being offered at UMKC, they cannot be offered at MSSU at the same period.

Contact:
Missouri Southern State University – Joplin
3950 Newman Road, Joplin,
MO 64801

Missouri State University – Springfield Nursing School Review

It was a Normal School during its founding years, preparing teachers for public systems schools. Fourth District Normal School was the name of what was to become Missouri State University (formerly Southwest Missouri State University).  dating back in 1905. As the normal school was undergoing changes and expansion, the name changed to Southwest Missouri State teachers college and later to a State College. The rapid increase in student enrollment warranted the change of name in 2005 to reflect the statewide student representation to what is now Missouri State University (MSU, MSUS or Mo State)

Nursing Department- Missouri State University-Springfield

The nursing department at Missouri State University-Springfield is the same department that offers nursing programs at Missouri State University- West Plains. The only difference between the programs is that the West Plains campus has associate nursing tracks but no graduate programs. The university has four nursing academic programs available for both undergraduate and graduate levels. The four programs have been approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and have received continuous accreditation from the Commission on collegiate Nursing Education. The four programs at Springfield campus are given below:

4-Year BSN

This is a generic 4–year Bachelor of Science in nursing program in Missouri State University –Springfield and West plains Campuses. Students get admitted to the program first in a pre-nursing program; taking general education and prerequisite course in the first two years. After completion of the pre-nursing portion, students then make another application to the Bachelor of Science nursing major portion which begins in summer. It also accepts students who have completed a pre-nursing program from other colleges as long they meet the admission requirements.

BSN Completion/ RN to BSN

The Bachelor of Science in nursing completion program is open for applications to candidates who have already completed a 2-year associate degree in nursing and have a RN license. It can be completed on a full time or part time basis in a combination of day, evening and online instructions. Students who take the full time study plan complete the program in 1 year of three semesters while part time students can complete in two or less academic years. What’s more, admission into the program is not competitive; hence, as many as eligible candidates can be enrolled.

Accelerated RN to MSN

For exceptionally high achieving registered nurses, Missouri State University-Springfield has their opportunities to earn two degrees in one program.  This nursing program awards a baccalaureate and a Master of Science in nursing degree (Nurse Educator & FNP) tracks. It is an accelerated degree option that takes less time to complete as compared to the time it would require to complete coursework for both degree programs. Students complete a BSN component and few prerequisite 500 and 600 level courses before being allowed to progress to the master level courses for their clinical specialties.

Masters Programs

There are two master programs for BSN prepared students namely:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator

In addition to the MSN programs, post MSN students can also registers for the Post master Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator programs.

Contact:
Missouri State University Springfield
901 South National Avenue, Springfield,
MO 65897

Missouri State University-West Plains Nursing School Review

Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) is an integral part of Missouri State University-Springfield. They share the same historical timelines and the West plains Residence Centre was established in 1963, as part of the then Southwest Missouri State College (SMSC). The center received a joint accreditation as part of the said college in 1965 and later renamed it to become a campus of SMSC. Associate degree programs were started in the campus and nursing was one of them. With the change of the main university name to Missouri State University, so was the change of West Plains to become MSU-WP.

Nursing Programs at MSU-West Plains

Nursing programs at Missouri State University-West Plains are similar to those on offer at the main campus in Springfield except the graduate level programs. However, the West Plains campus has two additional associate of nursing degree tracks which are not offered at the Springfield campus. In total, the West Plains campus has four nursing programs whereby, two of the undergraduate tracks are offered via a State Outreach Program from the flagship campus. The undergraduate degrees are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education while the Associate degrees at West Plains are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission

Associate of Science in Nursing (Registered Nurse Track)

Missouri State University-West Plains offers future nurses an entry level nursing program into professional nursing. The program comprises of 72 semester credits designed to be completed in two years of six semesters including two summer sessions. The program prepares students to be eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides earning an associate of science in nursing degree.

Associate of Science in Nursing (LPN to RN Program)

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse track gives qualified students the opportunity to progress into professional nursing. It prepares students to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam within one academic year of three semesters including one summer session. Students take two nursing transition courses during the summer session and which can grant up-to 15 nursing credits and 6 non-nursing credits towards the associate degree. Together with the advanced standing credits received, students must cover 72 credits to be allowed to graduate.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science programs at Missouri State University-West Plains are similar to those offered to those in Springfield campus. These programs are offered through Missouri State Outreach program of distance learning.  In this case, students can apply for admission into the:

• 4-Year BSN Program
• BSN Completion/RN to BSN Program

The generic Bachelor of Science in nursing requires 125 credits to complete whereby, the first two years consist of a pre-nursing portion. Completion of the pre-nursing component makes the students eligible to apply for the nursing majors which take another two years.

The RN to BSN completion program takes students who have already completed their associate degree nursing. In this case, ADN students at West Plains and transfer students can apply to complete their BSN program at West Plains but take courses from Springfield.

Note

All nursing courses at baccalaureate level taken at West Plains are covered through an outreach program that exclusively uses live video conferencing for curriculum delivery. This precisely means Bachelor of Science students at West Plains catch Springfield campus nursing classes live via video conferencing.

Contact:
Missouri State University – West Plains
128 Garfield Avenue, West Plains,
MO 65775

Missouri Western State University Nursing School Review

Missouri Western State University (MWSU), Commonly known as a Western was established in 1915. During those years, it was known as St. Joseph Junior College, a liberal arts college that taught transfer programs for four-year colleges. In 1969, the junior college was changed to a four year college and ultimately it received designation to become a university in late 2005, hence, a final change of name to the current name.

Nursing Degrees at Missouri Western State University

Nursing at the university is under the Department of Nursing and Allied Health. Three nursing programs are offered, two baccalaureate nursing tracks and one Master of Science in nursing track. The three programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. One of the baccalaureate tracks, BSN for RNs is not offered at the university but through collaboration with Metropolitan Community College at the colleges’ main campus. More details are given below:

BSN Pre-Licensure

The Bachelor of Science Pre-licensure program at Missouri Western State University welcomes entry level students who want to start the journey in professional nursing. The program equips students with prerequisites required by the Missouri Board of Nursing towards application for the NCLEX-RN exam. In this preparation, students complete 124 credit hours of both nursing and non-nursing supporting courses.

The pre-licensure program also has an early acceptance option for high achieving high school seniors in the state. Students who apply and get the early acceptance chances are required to take some selected BSN courses during their senior year. To maintain the Early Acceptance/ Nursing Scholar status, high school graduates must attain a cumulative GPA of not less than 3.2. Once admitted, both categories of students take the first two years to complete general education and supporting course while nursing major courses are only taken from the junior level.

BSN for the RN

The Bachelor of Science in nursing for the RN aims at helping RNs complete their baccalaureate degree in flexible manner that accommodates their working schedules. The program welcomes nurses who hold active RN licensure in Missouri or students who have applied for Dual Admission from Metropolitan Community College. It is offered as a partnership with Metropolitan Community College- Penn Valley campus and as such all courses are offered there. The ADN program at MCC is articulated in such a way that students receive 71 credits for their ADN at Metropolitan and later making a smooth transition to MWSU

For flexibility of classes, courses are taught only once per week at Penn Valley and students are eligible to graduate after two years of study. Clinical times may vary to accommodate the different schedules of working RNs.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)  in Health Care Leadership

This program is for BSN graduates of either CCNE or NLNAC accredited programs. Admission into the program occurs twice in the fall and spring semesters. It is a very convenient program since classes happen in a one night per week format. As indicated, the Healthcare Leadership is the only track offered.

Note

At the Centre for Professional Development of Missouri Western State University, nursing can register for Nursing Home Administration courses that can help nurses to meet the Contact hours for recertification.

Contact:
Missouri Western State University
4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph,
MO 64507

Park University Nursing School Review

Park University (PU), one of the most renowned private universities in the nation was founded in 1875. It started off as Park College until the year 2000 when it acquired a university status. The University had been earlier affiliated with the Presbyterian congregation but that was later dropped and currently, it has no religious affiliations. Park University is also renowned for being one the universities with a nationwide outreach, with about 40 satellite campuses in 21 US states.  PU offers courses online and its military programs are also known the world over.

Park University Nursing Programs

Nursing at Park University is under the Ellen Finley Earhart Nursing Program. The university nursing programs include a baccalaureate completion degree for registered nurses and an associate degree in nursing completion program for LPNs who want to make a transition into professional nursing. The two completion programs are fully approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and accredited by the NLNAC.

Associates degree in Nursing

As mentioned earlier, the Ellen Finlay Earhart nursing programs are exclusively completion programs. In this case, the associate degree in nursing at Park University only takes LPN graduates who want to enter professional nursing. Eligible candidates must have a current Missouri LPN license or to be currently enrolled in a Practical Nursing program for classes that will graduate before the ADN program begins. This career mobility program accepts qualified practical nurses to take the accelerated program in a period of one year running from August to May each year.

In total 51 credit hours are required to complete the program, including a three credit nursing transition course taken in the August before the start of the fall semester. Passing the transition course allows students to be granted advanced standing for the ADN program. Successful completion of the program enables students to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses.

BSN Degree Completion (Online)

The Bachelor of Science in nursing completion program allows registered nurses to advance their nursing qualifications to the baccalaureate level. Candidates must have a valid RN licensure from any US state and must have graduated from an accredited associate of science in nursing program. Students who are not registered nurses but have completed a pre-nursing program may also be allowed into the program if they have a minimum GPA of 3.0 from the pre-nursing program.

Applications for the program are open all year round but students start the mobility program only in the spring semester.  46 core nursing credits must be taken at Park and additional 15 credits on social sciences and humanities bringing the total for the completion program to 61 credits. It is also important to note that all the courses for BSN completion program courses are offered online. This definitely makes the program more suitable for those building on their prior nursing experience ie RNs than the Pre-nursing students who hold no prior nursing experience. For those coming in with a pre-nursing associate degree, successful completion will enable them to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.

Contact:
Park University
8700 NW River Park Drive, Parkville,
MO 64152

Research College of Nursing Program Review

With roots from the German Hospital established in 1905, the Research College of Nursing (RCN) has a rich and deep history.  The College survived the eras of the world wars and formed a joint program with Rockhurst College to form what was known as Research Medical Center. The center then acquired Baptist Medical Center and joined the Health Midwest System. Later on, the Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) acquired the Health Midwest System and so was the Research Medical Center. While under HCA, Research College of Nursing started offering nursing degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels from 1980.

Nursing Programs at the Research College of Nursing

As an exclusive college of nursing, the college has so much to offer to qualified nursing candidates. With partnership with the Rockhurst University, the Research College of Nursing offers baccalaureate nursing programs with a number entry points and graduate nursing programs on its own. All programs at the college are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.

Undergraduate Nursing Degrees

Under this bracket, Research College of Nursing has two tracks leading to Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The baccalaureate program is not offered independently by the College but through a partnership with Rockhurst University.

Traditional BSN Option

Candidates interested in this program must first apply as freshmen at Rockhurst University. It is designed to be completed in four years of full time study, where students take courses from both colleges. The program not only welcomes first-time nursing students but also transfer students from other colleges and universities.  The curriculum consists of 66 science and liberal arts credits and 62 nursing major credits. Students applying to the transfer option are subject to competitive admission while those seeking direct admit are not. Completion of the coursework makes the student eligible to apply to write the NCLEX-RN besides being awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Accelerated BSN Option

This program is designed for candidates who hold a non-nursing bachelors degree from an accredited program. It is a study-intensive full time program that takes 12months to complete and as such, students are advised not to engage in any work during the period of study. Completion of the nursing and prerequisite courses enables the student to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and also earn a joint second degree in nursing from Rockhurst University and Research College of Nursing.

Graduate Degrees

There are four tracks of Master of Science in nursing degrees from Research College of Nursing for BSN-prepared candidates namely:

• Nurse Educator
• Executive Nurse Practice
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Clinical Nurse Leader

The Nurse Educator track is offered exclusively online and consist of 36 credit hours. Part time and full time study plans are available for nurse educator students. The Executive Nurse Practice option consists of 35 credit hours and is offered online through partnership with Rockhurst University. For Family Nurse Practitioner students, the study plan is part time with a blend of both campus based and online instructions for the 45 credits.

Post Master’s

Two post master’s certificate programs for MSN-Prepared students are also offered i.e

• Executive Nurse Certificate
• Nurse Educator Certificate

 Contact:
Research College of Nursing
2525 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City,
MO 64132

St. Charles Community College Nursing Program Review

St. Charles Community College (SCC) celebrated its Silver Jubilee in 2011, marking 25 years of delivering quality higher education to the residents of St. Charles County and beyond. The college was voted to become a community college in 1986, making it the 11^th Community College to be established in Missouri. In the effort to meet higher education needs, Saint Charles Community College offers credit, non-credit and lifelong learning programs.

Nursing Programs at St Charles Community College

At St. Charles, there are three nursing programs under the nursing department. They include a certificate of achievement program in practical nursing and two tracks of associate degree nursing. One of the associate tracks is a LPN bridge option for LPNs making a transition into professional nursing. The three programs are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and are also approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Details of the nursing department and programs are given below:

Nursing AS

The nursing Associate of Science degree at St. Charles Community College is a 72 credit hours program that calls for fresh, entry level nursing students. The coursework of the program comprises of liberal arts, science and nursing courses designed to be completed in a period of two years. There are flexible classes and students can choose from either day or evening schedules for both classroom and clinical practicum sessions. For Licensed practical nurses who want to have a transition to professional nursing, an advanced standing option is available.

Bridge Program Options for LPNs

The bridge program helps LPNs to make the transition into nursing. To be allowed into the ‘Bridge Option’ program, candidates must have at least two years of working experience as practical nurses. Candidates must also have an undisciplined LPN licenses valid for Missouri State and must have graduated from an LPN program not more than two years ago. Two nursing courses are then given to successful students, upon which advanced standing will be granted.

Practical Nursing CA

The Certificate of Achievement (CA) is awarded to students who complete 44 credit hours. Successful completion of the coursework for this program makes the graduate eligible to apply for NCLEX-PN exam for state licensure as practical nurses. Students who take this program at Saint Charles are encouraged to apply to the LPN bridge option program within two years if they want to earn an associate of nursing degree.

Certified Nurse Assistant

This is a 8-12 week program that trains students to provide basic patient and bedside care. The program does not have precise admission date and is an open entry- open exit program. This means that students can choose to join the program at any time and exit and any time as long as they have completed the required number of credits.

Registered Nurse First Assistant

This certificate program at St. Charles helps peri-operative nurses working in surgery rooms to kip abreast with new skills. It is a six-credits course that requires candidates to have and maintain their RN licenses to the end. Student eligible for this program must also show prove of at least two years working experience in operating rooms.

Non-Certificate Courses

Practical Nurse Review Course

The course allows students to refresh their PN skills or prepare for NCLEX-PN exam. Major practical nursing topics are covered but no certificate of completion is given.

Advanced Clinical Calculations

This short program is applicable to ADN’s who are at the second year level or registered nurses who want learn about clinical calculations for prescriptions, dosages and push medications.

Contact:
Saint Charles Community College
4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, Cottleville,
MO 63376

Saint Louis University Nursing School Review

Dating back to 1818, Saint Louis University (SLU) is one of the oldest centers of higher education in US. The college that was to become Saint Louis University; Saint Louis College was established by a Catholic Bishop in those early years of the 19^th century. In 1826, the college was taken-up by the Jesuits Tradition and to this day, the university still remains a catholic university under the Jesuits Traditions. Many developments occurred but the most significant was the opening of an out of state campus in continental Europe in Madrid, Spain.

Nursing Programs at Saint Louis University

The Nursing School at Saint Louis University is quite old and has a number of nursing programs under it. Programs start at the baccalaureate level all the way to the two terminal nursing degrees not to mention Continuing Nursing Education (CNE). Different entry points into the baccalaureate nursing programs are available and various options for graduate degrees in nursing. The nursing programs also greatly benefit from Cardinal Glennon and St. Louis University Hospitals; facilities that help students get real nursing experience right around campus. The nursing programs are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. There is also preliminary accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Nursing at Saint Louis University

At undergraduate level, students have four options to choose from ie an accelerated option, an international study option, a traditional program and a completion program as explained below:

Traditional BSN

This Bachelor of Science in nursing program is designed for freshmen who come in as high school graduates or students from pre-nursing program from community colleges. It is a full time, 4-year program that requires students to take a minimum of 127 semester credits of 2 years for Pre-nursing graduates. The program is meant to prepare students to write the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure as RNs.

Four-Year BSN International Nursing

This is an exciting program that enables students to experience the learning experiences of different continents by one university. In the arrangement, students always start off their nursing journey at Saint Louis University in Madrid Spain. For the freshman and sophomore years, students take courses from Madrid, hence experiencing the great exposure to the Spanish and English culture. After successful completion of the lower division courses, students transfer to the main campus in St Louis, Missouri, again, getting to learn in an American environment. Graduates of the program receive a Bachelor of Science from St Louis, just like those who took the generic BSN at Missouri.

Accelerated One-Year BSN

Saint Louis university prides itself to be very first university in US to offer a second degree in nursing program; the accelerated one-year BSN. The program is designed for baccalaureate holders with other degree other than nursing. It is a very intensive program that seeks to train professional nurses in 12 months of three-semesters.  Students must have earned at least 77 transferable semester credits from their previous programs so that they only complete 51 upper division nursing credits at St Louis. Completion of the program offers sufficient preparation for students to write the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses.

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program is meant to meet the career advancement needs of registered nurses. The Bachelor of Science in nursing completion program is suitable for nurses with a diploma or associate degree. It is a very flexible program that allows RNs to work while studying since coursework is offered in an online mode. All nursing courses are offered online while other courses needed for program completion are available both online and on-site. Nursing courses take 16 weeks to complete while supporting courses take 8 and 18 weeks for online and site-based instructions respectively.

To eligibility for this program, students must first register at the university’s School of Professional Studies where they are take pre-nursing courses not received from the transfer policy. Part time and full time study options are also available for this program

Graduate Nursing

Five nursing program are listed under the graduate nursing programs and include different masters level degree options and terminal nursing degrees as explained below:

Accelerated Generalist Masters of Science in Nursing

The AGMSN program at St Louis will target bachelor degrees holders who are not already registered nurses but want to get into the nursing profession through a masters level education. The program will help students to prepare to take their first NLCEX-RN exam with a master level nursing option of Clinical Nurse Leader certification. The program is designed to be covered in 21 months of five, full time semesters.

Masters of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science at Saint Louis calls for candidates who are BSN prepared to apply for the various MSN tracks.  The program is offered online with options of full time or part time study plans. Two Advanced Practice Nursing options are available ie Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator. For those who choose the Nurse Practitioner track, five specialty role options are available namely:

• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner  
• Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner

Post Master’s Certificates

Post master’s certificates programs are available for students who have already completed their MSN degrees. All the post master’s programs are available online and students are encouraged to seek advanced placement for some credits from their MSN graduate coursework. The certificates programs are all those included in the Masters of Science in nursing package.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

At Saint Louis, student wishing to take this terminal degree can do so with two options namely:

• Post BSN to DNP
• Post Master’s DNP

On the first option, BSN prepared graduates can enroll but will take courses including a MSN component. Due to the MSN component, the total number of credits required is up to 70 with students choosing any of the above Nurse Practitioner as specialty roles for their advanced nursing practice status. The program is offered online with only two-5-day residency session at St Louis campus. Part time and full time study plans are available hence study period can range between 4 and 5 years.

On the second Post Masters DNP option, courses are fewer and total to 28 semester credits. Just like the first option, students can choose between part time and full time study plans of this online program. Campus visits are done twice, an orientation at the start and capstone presentation period towards the end.

PhD in Nursing

At St Louis University, students have the options of taking the full time or part time study plans of this terminal nursing degree. The curriculum is delivered in two methods; students can come to campus for site- based instructions or follow the same sessions at the campus using synchronous web learning modes like webcam or video conferencing from their homes.

Continuing Nursing Education (CNE)

The St Louis University is approved to offer CNEs by Missouri Nurses Association under the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Nurses are able to shop from a large pool of CNE courses, apply for them and take them online. At the end of the courses, students earn a certificate of completion, instantly.

Contact:
Saint Louis University
221 N Grand Blvd., St. Louis,
MO 63103

Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

St. Luke’s hospital, the successor of All Saints Hospital is the root of the Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences (SLCHS). Saint Luke’s Hospital started a nursing college that was meant to train nurses under the supervision of the hospital. Nurses alumni of the hospital pushed towards the establishment of a four-year baccalaureate degree and 1991, the program kicked off. By 2010, the College was changed from a government to private, non-profit status, and this came with the change of name to Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences.

 Nursing Program at Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences

The nursing program is the main stream program at Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences as compared to other allied Health programs. Only baccalaureate programs are offered in this college with masters programs being developed for the future. Two programs, one a traditional bachelor option and the other an RN to BSN completion program are available. Both BSN options are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.

Traditional BSN

The traditional Bachelor of Science at St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences is designed to take four years of full time study. Candidates seeking admission into the program come in from two year pre-nursing programs from which they must have completed a total of 63 credits of general education courses. The 63 credits are accepted from any college of the students’ choice as long it is an accredited program.

Students who meet the above requirement may be admitted to Saint Luke’s where they take another two years to complete upper division nursing majors. During the four semesters as St Luke’s, students take a course load of 15 credit hours except one semester of 16 credit totaling to 61 nursing majors. Therefore, to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in nursing from St Luke’s, students require 63 transfer and 61 St Luke’s credits. Completion allows students to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

RN to BSN Program (Online)

This is a flexible and convenient program that enables registered nurses to advance their careers by completion a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.  RNs seeking admission into the program must hold active licensure and must be involved in professional nursing practice at the time of application. St Luke’s accepts students from any college in the US as long the diploma or associate degree the RN holds is from a nationally accredited program. RNs from such programs can receive up-to 36 lower division nursing credits in recognition of their earlier degree awarded. In addition, successful applicants from accredited programs also receive between 29 and 33 credits of general education courses.

Following admission, students must complete the 61 upper division nursing majors required to graduate and any other remaining credits to make up-to 124 required to graduate. The program encourages application from working RNs because most of the courses are offered online or others delivered in a blended online and classroom attendance format. What’s more, students can choose between the part time and full time study plans and for working RNs, no clinical hours are required to graduate.

Contact:
Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences
624 Westport Road, Kansas City,
MO 64111

Southeast Hospital College of Nursing Program Review

Southeast Hospital College of Nursing & Health Sciences (SEH College of Nursing, or SHCNHS)  has had its ups and downs. It started off in 1928 but closed down during the depression period and later re-opened in 1990. Before closing, the hospital based school was offering RN training but resurfaced with only a LPN to RN diploma program.  More allied health program were added to the school and this led to change of name from Southeast Hospital college of Nursing to the current name in 2000. Nursing programs for students with no prior nursing education were also re-introduced around the same time.

Nursing at Southeast Hospital

Nursing programs at the college is offered in collaboration with Southeast Missouri Hospital; which the college is an integral part of. The College offers associate degree in nursing as its preparation for the NLCEX-exam for students who want to become register nurses and is accredited by National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The nursing program accepts three groups of students: the fresh nursing student, the Licensed practical nurse and the Paramedic technician. The latter two undergo bridging programs before being admitted into the nursing program as explained below:

Associate Degree Nursing Program

The two–year nursing program is meant to prepare students to write the NCLEX-RN exam upon which they become registered nurses. It requires 72 credits hours to complete which are offered as a joint venture between Southeast Missouri State University and the College hospital. All general education courses are taken at the university while the nursing and allied health courses are offered at the Southeast Hospital College of Nursing.

Students may choose between the traditional coursework delivery format that entails day classes and few evening classes or the exclusive evening/weekends study format. Completion leads to the award of an Associate in Applied Science degree.

LPN to RN Bridge Options

This is meant for licensed practical nurses who want to get into professional nursing. Eligible candidates take a NLN Mobility Foundation exam for which they receive advanced standing. As in the ASN case, some courses are offered in Southeast Hospital while others are offered at Southeast Missouri State University.

Upon acceptance into the LPN to RN Bridge program, students can choose the 1-year accelerated track for which nursing course are scheduled for 7-week terms. Alternatively, individuals can also take the two-year track for which nursing courses are offered in 14-weeks terms. The same curriculum is covered for both tracks and completion leads to eligibility to write the NCLEX and award of the Associate in Applied Science in nursing degree.

Paramedic to RN Bridge Option

For Paramedics who want pursue professional nursing, this is the option for them. This paramedic to RN bridging track allows students to receive credits for advanced standing status towards the associate of science in nursing degree. Candidates must provide a copy of their current, valid and undisciplined Paramedic certification to be allowed to apply. Unlike the other two programs, the paramedics to RN students take courses on a part time format. In this regard, classes are held twice per week for a period of two years. Completion leads to the award of the Associate in Applied Science degree and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN.

Contact:
Southeast Hospital College of Nursing & Health Sciences
2001 William St, Cape Girardeau,
MO 63703

Southeast Missouri State University Nursing School Review

Southeast Missouri State University (SMSU) was established in 1873 to meet the needs of training school teachers. The university started off as Southeast Missouri Normal School and in 1881, it was renamed Missouri State Normal School-Third District. Enrollment in the university increased and by 1972, it was offering a large number of academic programs in addition to teaching. To give a reflection of the expanded college, the name was finally changed to Southeast Missouri State University in 1972, taking back the former name ‘Southeast’.

Nursing Programs at Southeast Missouri State University

Under the university’s department of nursing, there are four nursing programs on offer. Three of the four are baccalaureate nursing tracks which include an online RN to BSN completion program, a pre licensure option and an accelerated second degree option. The Masters level program consists of two nursing specialties in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator tracks. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Details of the programs are as follows:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

The baccalaureate nursing program at Southeast Missouri prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses. It is a four year degree program that aims at preparing students to become eligible to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam. The coursework of the program totals to 124 credit hours for one to graduate. University studies and supporting courses are taken during the freshman and sophomore years while nursing courses kick off at the junior level.

RN to BSN Online Program

The RN to BSN program is designed to be a flexible solution offering degree completion opportunities for RNs returning to school. It takes care of the needs of working RNs who need to work besides undertaking further studies. In this regard, the Bachelor of Science in nursing completion program at Southeast Missouri State University is an entirely online program.100% online means that students do not need to make a single visit to campus during their entire study period. Nurses are free to choose their own clinical locations within their preferred areas.  And even more, no clinical hours are required for graduation.

Students can choose between the part time study plan that takes five academic semesters of the more compressed and accelerated full time plans that lasts for three semesters of 1 academic year. Courses for either study plans start each fall and spring semesters.

Accelerated BSN Program

The accelerated Bachelor of Science program at Southeast Missouri helps graduate of other baccalaureate degree programs to earn a second degree in nursing. BS or BA graduates are admitted as a cohort of a very small class of 10 students, hence is very competitive admission criteria. Upon admission, students must be ready for a challenging full time of progression into the 18 month periods of study. Course work is covered in four full time semesters, which includes one summer session. Completion leads to the award of a Second Degree Bachelor of Science in nursing and eligibility to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Master of Science in Nursing

The MSN program at Southeast Missouri State University offers students two options in advanced practice nursing for BSN-prepared candidates namely:

• Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator tracks.

 28 core MSN courses must be taken for any of the tracks above and these are covered via online or Interact Television (ITV) synchronous modes in all campuses of the university. MSN-prepared students can also apply for the Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner program.

Contact:
Southeast Missouri State University
1 University Plaza, Cape Girardeau,
MO 63701

Southwest Baptist University Nursing School Review

Southwest Baptist University (SBU) is a Christian university grounded in the Baptist faith. It was founded in 1878, with a large main campus at Lebanon which was later relocated to Bolivar. The university academic programs integrates faith, liberal arts with the aim of making students not only learn but also develop and grow in their faith. The university also reaches other parts of Missouri through it satellite campuses in Springfield, Salem and Mountain View.

Southwest Baptist University Nursing

Nursing programs at the university are offered through St John’ College of Nursing and Health Science, an integral part Southwest Baptist. The college of nursing is a collaborative venture of the university and St John’s Mercy Health System; another faith based institution. The two has nursing programs ranging from associate degrees to Master of Science in nursing. In between are a bridge programs for LPNs and the uncommon Paramedic bridge programs giving a transition to nursing. The college has been approved to offer nursing degrees by the Missouri State Board of nursing and have also been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Associate of Science in Nursing

This program, as mentioned earlier is a join venture between two faith based institutions. Classes are however held at Southwest Baptist University at the Springfield campus and clinical sessions at St John’s Health System. Completion time is estimated to be two academic years of 72 credit semesters. As a church university, students take two courses on the Old and New Testament as part of the general education courses.

Upon completion, students can apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses and earn an associate of science in nursing degree. For students wishing to advance their nursing career, they can apply to continue with the Southwest Baptist BSN completion program.

LPN Bridge: LPN to ASN

This program is for Licensed practical nurses holding current Missouri licenses. Those LPNs who meet the admission requirement for Southwest ASN program are accepted and complete and LPN Bridge course in order to receive advanced standing. After advanced placement, students join the regular ASN class at the third semester. The two bible courses mentioned above are mandatory requirements for graduation. 30 credits must be completed at Southwest excluding the advanced standing credits.

Paramedic Bridge Program: Paramedic to ASN

Paramedics licensed in the state have the chance of getting into professional nursing at Southwest Baptist University. Eligible candidates complete a paramedic/ advanced placement Bridge course to receive advanced standing. After successful completion of the bridge program, all other course requirements are similar to those of the LPN to RN program including integration with the ASN class at third semester level. Completing the program enables student to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become RNs.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The RN to BSN completion program is an accelerated hybrid degree option consisting of online and classroom based instructions.  Students from a nationally accredited ASN or diploma program receive 30 lower division nursing credits.  Students then need to complete 35 online upper division nursing major credits hours at Southwest Baptist and 24 supporting credits in both online and classroom instruction formats. A total of 128 credits are required including all others transferred from the earlier degree program.

Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in nursing program at Southwest Baptist University is designed for BSN graduates of nationally accredited programs.  It is an accelerated program offering coursework in a blended online format.  In preparation for advanced nursing roles, students can choose from the following concentrations:

• Parish Nursing
• Missionary Nursing
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Administration

Contact:
Southwest Baptist University
1600 University Avenue, Bolivar,
MO 65613

St. Louis Community College Nursing Program Review

St. Louis Community College’s history can be traced back to 1962, when the Junior College District of St. Louis was established by a legislative vote. Under the Junior College district, Meramec and Florissant Valley Community Colleges were established. In 1975, the Junior Colleges merged to form St. Louis Community College (STLCC), with the former colleges becoming satellite campuses of the main college. Other two satellite campuses in Forest Park and Wildwood campus were opened to increase the community outreach for the college.

Nursing at St Louis Community College

An associate of science in nursing program is offered at Saint Louis Community College. The program is offered in all four campuses and in South County Education Center. The program also offers qualified Licensed Practical Nurses the chance to enter professional nursing through a bridging program. A certificate in Nurse Assistant program is also offered and a number of continuing education courses. The nursing program is accredited by the National League for nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Details of the programs are given below:

Nursing Associate in Applied Science Degree

The RN preparation at Saint Louis Community College is offered at three campuses of the college namely Meramec, Florissant Valley and Forest Park. Only general education courses can be completed at any of the five academic centers of the college including Wildwood and South County. It takes four semesters and one summer session to complete the 68 credit hours coursework for the program. Successful completion of the required courses leads to the award of an associate in applied science degree; an occupational oriented degree and eligibility to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

LPN Bridge Program

This is for licensed practical nurses who qualify to enter the associate degree program. It uses two bridging courses to enable students receive advanced placement, therefore joining the regular ADN program at second year level. Upon completion, students can apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurse besides being awarded the Associate in Applied Science degree

Nurse Assistant for Nursing Homes

The nursing assistant program at St. Louis Community College is a 10-week long program that trains nurses on basic bedside patient care. Classes meet twice weekly for the ten weeks to cover up-to 100 hours of supervised clinical sessions and 75 hours of nursing assistant courses and each study session takes four hours. This program is only available at the Forest park Campus. This program has a strict and mandatory attendance policy, failure to which could lead to expulsion

Phlebotomy

This is certificate of specialization program open to those wishing to have an entry level into the healthcare field or for Registered Nurses who want to gain skills in blood drawing techniques. It is not entirely meant for nurses but is a big choice for many registered nurses.

Professional Development Courses

There are professional development continuing education courses from St. Louis Community College. Featured nursing CEs include Legal Nurse Consultant Conferences and Nurse Assistant courses. The College also serves as a Community Training Center for American Heart Association; offering pediatric advanced life support and basic cardiac life support courses to registered nurses and other allied healthcare professionals.

Contact:
St. Louis Community College
3400 Pershall Road, St. Louis,
MO 63135

Three Rivers Community College Missouri Nursing Program Review

Three Rivers Community College (TRCC) was formed in 1966 after residents of Southeast Missouri counties found it appropriate to have an affordable yet quality center of higher learning. The college started in a humble storefront location before it could afford its own campus in Poplar Bluff. It is a two- year public college serving the education needs of residents of Ripley, Wayne, Butler and Carter counties. It operates from the main campus in Poplar Bluff and several satellites centers in Cape Girardeau, Doniphan, Malden Dexter, Kennett, Sikeston, Van Buren, Portageville and Piedmont.

Nursing Programs at Three River College

Three Rivers Community College has one nursing program that leads to the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing. The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Licensed Practical Nurses also have an option of receiving advanced standing in the AAS degree. However, this LPN to RN Bridge program is only conditionally approved by the state board of nursing.

Nursing (AAS)

The nursing degree program is designed for entry level and transfer students who wish to become registered nurses. Potential candidates must have taken the National League for Nursing (NLN) pre-admission exam to be eligible to apply. Students need not have completed general education courses to be accepted into the program.

Students of the generic AAS take classes from the Poplar Bluff campus. Two options: day and evening tracks are available for students to choose from. For the day program, classes commence on a summer term whereby pre-nursing courses are covered. Coursework is covered on a full time study plan and progresses for two years to complete in the spring semester.

Students who choose the evening program start on their pre-nursing courses in the fall semester and finish their coursework in the fall semester. Basically, there are no major differences between the day and evening programs since they both take five semesters to complete. The only difference is the start dates: summer and fall for day and evening respectively and an additional course at the 1^st semester of the evening program

 A total of 70 credits: 43 nursing and 27 general education credits are required to be eligible to graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree.  Graduates also become educationally prepared to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN).

LPN-RN Bridge (AAS)

The LPN to RN Bridge program is open to practical nurses that have a Missouri LPN license and would like to become professional nurses.  This program, like the generic AAS, is offered on both evening and day plans. Classes commence in the spring semester for the day option and summer for the evening plan. All courses for this track are offered at the Sikeston campus. LPNs who meet all admission requirements for the AAS take a LPN-RN Bridge course equivalent to 4 credit hours. Successful completion of this course award the students 16 credits in place of the 4 as advanced standing.

In addition to the articulated credits, LPNs are expected to complete another 29 nursing and 27 general education credits at Three Rivers College. However, credit validation may transfer more credits from the general education credits of the practical nursing program. Completion leads to eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam besides being awarded the AAS in nursing degree.

Contact:
Three Rivers Community College
2080 Three Rivers Blvd, Poplar Bluff,
MO 63901

Truman State University Nursing School Review

Named after a former president of the nation, Truman State University (TSU) started as an institution of higher learning offering teacher training. It was then known as North Missouri Normal School and was a privately owned college. The schools then received state support and changed its name to Northeast Missouri State Teachers College and later to Northeast State college. In the period between its founding and 1995, the college had undergone numerous changes and expansion of programs. During the 10^th anniversary of its commitment to become a statewide university, the university changed its name to the current name.

Truman State University Nursing Program

Truman state university offers only baccalaureate nursing tracks. Two programs are under the nursing bracket and include a pre-licensure and BSN completion program for registered nurses. The programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are also approved by the Missouri State Boards of Nursing. More details about the programs are given below:

Four Year Plan Baccalaureate

The four year baccalaureate degree in nursing is meant for fresh entry nursing candidates. Accepted students will engage in profession nursing preparation starting with liberal arts education and selected nursing courses at the freshman and sophomore years and general education and nursing majors at the junior and senior years. Nursing major courses are wide and diverse and include all nursing areas hence, preparing the students to work as generalists in all major nursing divisions. 

An interesting feature about this baccalaureate nursing programs at Truman is that students start on nursing courses as early as the first semester upon admission.  Unlike many 4-year nursing programs that start their students on nursing courses at junior level, students at Truman cover 5 nursing courses during their freshman and sophomore years. On the other hand, general education courses are also taken in the last two years. The program requires 122 credit hours to be completed in order to graduate and become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN Completion Program

The program aims at helping registered nurses to advance and complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. RNs returning to school build upon their prior nursing experience with a focuses on a community-based curriculum. There is flexible scheduling of courses, clinical requirements and course offerings depending on the prior nursing credits. After validation of the former degree is done, students get a minimum of 21 credits in lower division nursing courses, excluding applicable general education courses.

Study Abroad Provision for BSN students

This is an attracting factor for BSN candidates in Truman State University. The Study Abroad program allows students to participate in a Trans- cultural Nursing Experience for a 3-week period.  Students who have completed some select junior level nursing courses are allowed to travel to Manila, Philippines and Visayan Islands for a cross-cultural immersion program. During this period, students engage in nursery clinical, obstetrics patient care, public health, prenatal clinics and interaction with commercial sex workers. An exchange program is also held at West Visayas State University which includes a Philippine Cultural social show.

Contact:
Truman State University
100 e. Normal St, Kirksville,
MO 63501

University of Central Missouri Nursing School Review

Established in 1871, University of Central Missouri (UCM) first served the residents of Missouri as a Normal School training teachers for school systems.  It was then known as Central Missouri State College with its main campus in Warrensburg. The university has expanded to reach out to students beyond the state and even globally. Still maintaining the strong pioneer education program, it has diversified in other academic fields including professional programs like nursing.

Nursing at University of Central Missouri

The nursing department at University of Central Missouri has three tracks of nursing programs. It prepares student nurses who come in as pre-licensure and registered nurses who want to complete their baccalaureate nursing degrees. It also offers a pre-nursing program that is transferable to other universities and colleges that offer four-year BSN degrees. The university also has a unique Master of Science in nursing program that focuses in Rural Family Nursing with a number of specialty tracks under it. Accreditation for the nursing programs has been granted by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.

Pre-Nursing

The pre-nursing program at Central Missouri University is meant to prepare students for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing major. Students need to complete 60 credits of lower division to be allowed to apply again and progress into the BSN major. On a further note, this program can be completed by students who do not anticipate joining the UCM BSN, but looking forward to complete the freshman and sophomore years for transfer purposes.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing program at Central Missouri University accepts applications from students who have completed a pre-nursing program at the university or transfer students from other colleges. Those students who meet that requirement apply again to take a minimum of 60 upper division semester credits to be allowed to graduate with a BSN degree and become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Upon acceptance into the program, students spend their junior year at Warrensburg campus and then proceed to complete the senior year at the Kansas City Campus giving students the chance of experiencing both urban and rural clinical settings. It is a full time program with classes starting every fall and spring semesters.

Online Registered Nurse to Baccalaureate

This is a flexible professional advancement opportunities for registered nurses. The RN to BSN program requires 30 nursing credits of upper division courses, which are designed to be completed in one calendar year on a full time basis. On the other hand, students can choose the part time study plan and complete the program within four years. Courses for the RN to BSN start at any of the three semesters and all coursework is completed entirely online for 8 weeks. Including the transfer component, all credit hours must total to 120.

Master of Science in Rural Family Nursing

The Master of Science program at University of Central Missouri focuses on nursing concepts in rural family settings. From this focus point, BSN-prepared students can take emphasis on:

• Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP)
•  Nurse Educators (NE) 

On a further note, all coursework for the MSN programs is offered entirely online on a full time or part time basis. It is good to note that the clinical component of the FNP track can only be taken in the State of Missouri. UCM also has post master’s certificate programs for the MSN prepared nurse in both the Nurse Educator and Family Nurse Practitioner tracks.

Contact:
University of Central Missouri
208 East South St, Warrensburg,
MO 64093

University of Missouri Columbia Nursing School Review

Founded in 1839, University of Missouri- Columbia (Mizzou, MU) is the flagship campus of other three campuses of the University of Missouri System; Kansas City, Rolla and Saint Louis. It was the first public university west of the Mississippi River founded under a public land grant. With a heritage of success and excellent milestones, the university has developed over 280 degree programs with close to 80 of them being offered online.

Nursing Programs at University of Missouri-Columbia

All nursing programs at UM-Columbia are under the Sinclair School of nursing. There are undergraduate tracks and several graduate degree options at this Missouri Board of Nursing Approved school. All the baccalaureate, masters and doctoral programs at the university are also accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. For each degree level, there are several entry options depending on the qualifications and prior education status of the candidates as outlined below:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Three tracks of undergraduate nursing degree are offered at University of Missouri-Columbia.

Traditional BSN

The traditional Bachelor of Science in nursing track at UM-Columbia is meant for students who are coming in as freshmen. The freshman and sophomore students are still considered to be nursing students and their places at the nursing major are guaranteed as long the 60 lower division courses are completed. After completion of the pre nursing portion, students start on the clinical nursing major component of the program at junior year.

Students follow their preferred study plan which must first be approved by an academic advisor. Full time and part time study plans are openly available for lower division courses but part time plans for nursing majors must be approved by the department. The curriculum consists of 120 credit hours of general, support and professional courses within a liberal-education perspective.

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN degree program at University of Missouri Columbia is both an online and campus based program. It is designed for RNs who want to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees from either a diploma or associate degree level. For the campus option, classes are held on a full time or part time basis. The online option requires students to come for a maximum of three scheduled campus visits per semester to complement some courses. Full time study plans take 4 semesters while the part time plan takes 6-7 semesters. Those who choose the RN to BSN online option must attend clinical practicum only in stipulated clinical agencies

Accelerated BSN

The accelerated second degree in nursing program is a full time, on campus 15-months commitment for those who want to enter professional nursing from other non-nursing degree programs. 54 Nursing major credits are covered within the four semesters including two summers.  All prerequisite courses can be taken at any college and transferred to the Sinclair School of nursing. Admission takes place annually in May and the program culminates in June.

Graduate Nursing Degrees

Master of Science (Nursing)

The Master of Science (Nursing) at the Sinclair School of Nursing is the flagship program for other university of Missouri system programs. The MS (N) is distance-mediated meaning most of the coursework is offered online using synchronous and asynchronous formats of Blackboard learning. However, few selected courses require students to attend intensive campus instructions lasting not more than three days per semester. A mandatory campus orientation session on the first two days of the first summer must also be attended.

Students choose from the following advanced practice registered nurse roles:

• Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Advanced Public Health Nurse/School Nurse
• Nurse Educator

Just like all the other Master of Science in nursing-NP tracks under the University of Missouri system being wiped out, so are those of the Sinclair school of nursing. As such, only the currently enrolled students will complete the program. All other future students must check the newly established BSN to DNP program. This new BSN to DNP program will cover the Nurse Practitioner advanced practice RN roles for all the above listed NP tracks. However, the Nurse Educator and Leader tracks will remain for the BSN prepared candidates.

Post Master’s Certificate in Nursing

The post master’s certificate in nursing is available for MSN prepared graduates. All details including those of campus visits, mode of coursework delivery are similar to those given on the MS (N) package. The three certificate programs are:

• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (PCNS).
• Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACNS).
• Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Family PMHNP).

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing practice program has already taken heed to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing call to transform all MSN Advanced Practice Registered Nurse roles to the DNP level. As such, the DNP at University of Missouri system including the Sinclair School of Nursing offer the BSN to DNP program for those interested in nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist areas. Five tracks offered namely:

• Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

There are three entry pathways for the DNP

i)        Post Baccalaureate Entry

This is the newly developed program that will replace the Master of Science in nursing Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist roles. 

ii)      Post Master’s Entry (Advanced Practice Nursing Specialty)

This entry point is specific for MSN prepared nurses who specialty roles as Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialists.

iii)    Post Master Entry (Without Advanced Practice Nursing Specialty)

This is meant for MSN generalists or MSN graduates with an APRN roles but would wish to add another APRN role to their qualifications. For this particular entry point, individualized plans of study will be developed depending on the MSN coursework of the generalist.

Learning modes, curriculum delivery and campus visits are also similar to those of the Master of Science (N) program for all the DNP entry options. Only the first orientation days have an exception which takes 5 days for a Leadership and Technology Seminar.

PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy offered at Sinclair School of nursing is also distance mediated. It admits MSN-prepared nurses who are interested in becoming scholars, researchers and health policy makers. Other details of coursework are similar to those of the DNP program.

Contact:
University of Missouri-Columbia
311 Jesse Hall, Columbia,
MO 65211

University of Missouri Kansas City Nursing School Review

University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is a long story of merges, re-organization and expansion. Founded in 1929, then as University of Kansas City, UM-Kansas City has undergone numerous changes especially in its education programs. This is evident to the number of distinct professional colleges that joined to become part of the University of Kansas City fraternity. However, with the establishment of the University of Missouri System in 1963, the university ceased to be known as UKC and became University of Missouri-KC becoming the second last member of the UM system before UM-Saint Louis.

Nursing at University of Missouri-Kansas City

The School of Nursing at UM-Kansas City is a relatively large school with many programs ranging from baccalaureate to doctoral degrees. The schools has programs for pre-licensure nurses, completion programs for registered nurses and accelerated nursing program for non-nursing baccalaureate graduates. A number of Master of Science in nursing tracks are also available, post masters certificate programs and the two terminal nursing degrees. Continuing nursing education for nurses is also part of the programs package. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and as are as follows:

Undergraduate Degrees

In the undergraduate category, University of Missouri –Kansas City has three nursing tracks:

Pre-licensure BSN

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing- Pre Licensure (BSN-PL) is open to high school graduates and transfer students wishing to become professional nurses. While on this track, students are expected to cover pre-nursing courses during the freshman years and proceed to apply to take nursing courses and clinical practicum starting from the second year.

UMKC has set strict guidelines for the period of the nursing and clinical sessions for transfers students. As such, students must complete three full years at the university regardless of how many credit they receive from transfers programs i.e., the three years cannot be compressed. There are 4 and 5 years study plans of fulltime study to complete the 128 credit hours required to graduate and to be eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam.

Accelerated BSN Program

The Accelerated track (AT) of the Bachelor of Science in meant for candidates who have a bachelor degree in another non-nursing area. The program requires coverage of 69 upper division nursing major credits which are designed to be completed in five compressed semesters. The university admits student every fall semester for the three-year full time program.

RN to BSN Program (online)

The RN to BSN is meant for RNs who are graduates of a state approved nursing program or graduates of non-accredited programs who pass the provisional policy of the university. Nurses must also hold active undisciplined RN licenses to become eligible candidates. Student can receive lower division and some general education courses by seeking transfer from their ASN degrees. Students from non-accredited nursing programs and diploma holders must complete some core nursing challenge courses to be allowed to transfer their credits. Rather than the usual patient bedside care focus for most clinical sessions of RN programs, this one takes a different direction and involves practicum sessions in Community Nurse Leadership projects.

Rural Nurse Initiative

This program is an extension of the RN to BSN program. The unique feature about it is that it focuses on delivering education advanced needs for nurses in underserved and rural communities. RNs in this program undertake their coursework via online and web enhanced modes without the need for on-site instructions. What’s more, nurses in these remote areas receive laptops and fast Broadband connections to enable them complete their program. This reimbursing initiative is HRSA funded as an incentive to promote and integrate rural nursing concepts for remote-based nurses. Both RN to BSN tracks have full time and part time study plans.

Graduate Degrees

Graduate nursing degrees at University of Missouri-Kansas start from a BSN -PhD option all the way to DNP and PhD programs for the MSN prepared student as explained:

BSN-PhD Program

This program is meant for highly motivated and highly achieving BSN students. The program is for BSN students of UMKC and allows students to be matriculated directly into the PhD, therefore avoiding duplication of credit hours. Students who have exceptional performance in their BSN may apply during their final semester of the Bachelors program for consideration. If students are accepted, they take four masters level courses before being allowed to take the PhD level coursework.

The curriculum can be completed on a full time or part time basis taking 3 and 4 years respectively. Post BSN students take a total of 73 credit hours to complete the program. Unfortunately, this program does not prepare advanced practice nurses with given specialties, rather it takes a generalist approach.

Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in nursing bracket at University of Missouri-Kansas City has currently six emphasis areas for qualified candidates. There are two site-based tracks namely:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner

Both programs require 42 credits to complete and are available at the universities main campus in Kansas City, Missouri Southern State University in Joplin and Missouri Western State University in St Joseph. Only a few of the courses for this two are available online otherwise, the highest percentage of the course is delivered on-site. On the other hand, four tracks are entirely offered online namely:

• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Nurse Educator (NE)

A maximum of four days are required for main campus visit for any of the programs listed above.

Important Notes

University of Missouri Kansas City is having the last batch of MSN applicants for all the Nurse Practitioner areas mentioned above. Instead, a program of BSN to DNP program is being developed which will integrate each of the NP tracks.

Post MSN

This are certificate programs for MSN prepared students meant for students seeking national certification in their respective areas. Each of the six Master of Science nursing tracks listed above have a Post Master’s certificate program.

PhD Program

The Doctorate in Nursing at UMKC is an online/distance learning program that uses web-based curriculum delivery modes. Students only visit campus during two sessions during their entire period of study. Part time and full time study plans are available and can take 3 or 4 years to complete depending on whether the student is BSN of MSN prepared.

DNP Program

Just like the PhD program, the Doctor of Nursing practice program has full time and part time study plans taking 23 and 35 months respectively. The DNP is offered online with only two expected campus-based instruction sessions. Currently, University of Missouri Kansas is developing a BSN to DNP program to add to the current MSN-DNP admission requirement.

Continuing Education

The American Nurse Credentialing Center has accredited the university to offer Continuing Education for nurses. The CEUs offered meet the contact hour requirements for nurses to who want to renewal their certificates.

Contact:
University of Missouri-Kansas City
5100 Rockhill Road, Kansas City,
MO 64110

University of Missouri St. Louis Nursing School Review

University of Missouri was founded in 1960 as the youngest of the University of Missouri system. The university is located in Metropolitan St Louis and therefore has a great cultural diversity of city life. The university was established as a junior college on a former country club grounds through a land grant and has since developed to acquire more campuses on Normandy and  Bel-Nor and Marillac College. The junior college was granted a university status in 1963 and joined the University of Missouri System the same year.

Nursing Programs- UM-St Louis

The College of Nursing is mandated to offer nursing degrees in University of Missouri-St Louis (UMSL). The College has programs from the baccalaureate level to doctorate degree in nursing. All the nursing programs at the college are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Four baccalaureates and two Master of Science in nursing tracks are offered in addition to the two terminal nursing degrees as explained below:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Four baccalaureate nursing tracks offer coursework leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Traditional

The Bachelor of Science in nursing pre-licensure is meant for transfer for students from a pre-nursing program or fresh entry level nursing candidates. The coursework for this program is designed to be completed in 1.5 year periods for general education courses and 2.5 academic years for the clinical nursing courses component. On this note, transfer students who have already completed the general education courses join the program at the 2^nd semester of the sophomore year to start on the clinical portion.

However, three nursing courses are offered at each semester of the first 1.5 year period and transfers students must take them during the first semester of the 2.5 year period. 124 credits are required to graduate and eligibility to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Accelerated

This is a 15 month accelerated degree for candidates seeking a second degree in nursing. The 15 month period is meant to cover 58 nursing major credits if the candidates have already completed all general education requirements for the BSN. Completion leads to the award of a second degree Bachelor of Science in nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Part Time

For students who have completed all general education requirements, the BSN part time option at University of Missouri-St Louis is the perfect choice. The program is designed to help all undergraduate BSN students to complete a nursing career on a flexible mode. Classes are offered in the evening and weekends; Saturdays and (or) Sundays.

Flex RN to BSN Program

The Flexible Learning Experience (FLEX) program is a very well designed program to cater for RNs who wish to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The Flex program is offered on a two-year part time basis and students can choose from the following options

i)        Flex Online

The online RN to BSN offers coursework is delivered through the internet and web-based modes. Students start and progress as a cohort starting from every fall semester.

ii)      Flex Campus

The campus-based RN to BSN at UM-St Louis takes in students every fall semester of odd-numbered years. Classes are offered once a week in the evening at the main campus.

iii)    Flex Outreach

The outreach-RN to BSN students complete their curriculum at three outreach sites around St Louis. Cohorts are admitted every spring semester at University of Missouri- ST Louis West County Continuing Education center and every fall semester in St Charles Community College and St Louis Community College. All admissions for this option take place in even-numbered years.

Graduate Nursing programs

MSN Program

The Master of Science in nursing is meant to help RNs with BSN degrees to pursue advanced nursing practice. There are Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner tracks with the following NP specialty roles:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s health management Nurse Practitioner

Unlike the Columbia and Kansas City campuses of University of Missouri system, St Louis is still accepting applications for their Nurse Practitioner roles.

Post MSN Studies

Two post master’s certificates are available for offer at University of Missouri-St Louis for Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner MSN-prepared nurses.  Students may also apply for a second advanced practice certification whereby, credits from the previous certificate may be validated and received towards the second certificate.

DNP Program

The DNP program at St Louis is offered in collaboration with University of Missouri- Kansas City. Eligible candidates are those who hold a MSN degree with an advanced practice RN specialty as a Nurse Practitioner. The program is offered only on a part time basis of two academic years of six semesters and an extra summer session touching on a third year.

PhD

The doctor of philosophy in nursing is designed for both BSN and MSN students who want to become nurse scholars and researchers. Full time and Part time study plans are available taking 3 and 4 years respectively. For Bachelor of Science candidates, the period of study is prolonged and differs since each candidates of this entry option have individualized study plans.

Contact:
University of Missouri St. Louis
1 University Blvd, St. Louis,
MO 63121

Webster University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1915, Webster University (WU) was a dream come true for women scholars who would rather not have got a chance to higher education in those early days. The College was formerly known as Loreto College, reflecting the name of the Catholic Sisters organization that helped come-up with it. It remained a women’s university until 1962, when the first male students were admitted on a limited basis. Due to conflicting names with another junior college in St Louis, Loreto College changed its name to Webster College and to later Webster University in 1983. To this day, the university has campuses in over 90 worldwide locations, including Europe, and the Middle East.

Webster University Nursing

Webster University strives to give students a world class education and this is reflected in all its programs. Nursing programs at the university start with a BSN completion program to masters degrees in nursing. There are no chances for entry level students to pursue nursing at Webster University. The program under the nursing department are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Details on the programs are as follows:

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Online RN to BSN)

As mentioned earlier, nursing at Webster starts with registered nurses who want to advance their education. The RN to BSN program at Webster University takes in RNs and gives them an upper division nursing majors’ curriculum.  Prerequisite courses must have been completed prior to getting admission into the nursing program. The program has the advantage of having five admission cycles per year and that it is available both online and on-campus at St Louis & Kansas City Campuses.

Graduate Degrees

Master of Science in Nursing Program (MSN)

The Master of Science in nursing at Webster University has three tracks under it. The program welcomes BSN-prepared candidates to apply for either of the two nursing tracks with a Family Systems Nursing Focus as a Nurse Educator or Nurses Leader. Students can also apply to the Nurse Anesthesia MSN track. All the nursing tracks coursework is offered on a part time basis at St Louis or Kansas City campuses in eight week sessions of evening classes.

RN to MSN Combined Degree

The combined Degree is a special part time program exclusive to for RN to BSN students of Webster University who would wish to graduate with two degrees. This arrangement starts when students have completed 20 BSN level credit hours and are allowed, through an application, to join the combined degree program. The advantage of this program is that six semester credits of MSN level count towards the requirements of both the BSN and MSN degrees; at the end of it, students are saved from taking 12 semester credits. Students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing and Master of Science degrees after completion of the program. Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader are the tracks available for this programs’ MSN.

Certificate Programs

For the MSN prepared nurse, post master certificates in Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator are offered. Both programs are offered at St Louis and Kansas City campuses of the University.

Contact:
Webster University
470 E. Lockwood Avenue, St. Louis,
MO 63119

William Jewell College Nursing Program Review

William Jewell College (WJC) is a college named after its founder William Jewell; who had been a Baptist and legislator in Missouri and contributed the very first finances to build the college premises. The college served as a men’s only college until after World War 1 when women from a destroyed small school came to join the men at William Jewell. From a small college, Jewell has grown into a big Christian liberal arts college supported by the Baptist faith.

Nursing at William Jewell College

The department of nursing at William Jewell College offers three nursing tracks, all leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The three programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and have also received approval from the Missouri State Board of Nursing. There are two accelerated tracks of the BSN for students with non- nursing degrees and one entry level nursing baccalaureate. In addition to this, there is a faith-based nursing program for interested students and as such, these nurses become parish nurses.

4-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This is the main nursing program at William Jewell and it is from the curriculum of this program that the other two nursing tracks come from. It is designed to take eight semesters of full time study, whereby, the first three semesters are dedicated to prerequisite courses. After completion of the prerequisites, students progress to another five semesters of combined liberal arts and nursing courses.  As an advantage, students start on their nursing courses during the fourth semester of learning at the sophomore level. A total of 124 credit hours are required for students to graduate and become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam. Entry into the welcome is for both direct entry (pre licensure candidates) and transfer students.

Accelerated Nursing Tracks

The accelerated nursing track at William Jewell take two forms; one is a 12 month and the other is a 16 month program.  The two tracks welcome candidates who hold BA or BS degrees in areas other than nursing and want to shift careers into professional nursing. After completion of prerequisite courses, both tracks join the traditional nursing class at the senior year to complete the level 400 nursing major courses.

There is no much of a difference between the two accelerated nursing tracks, only that the scheduling of classes makes the periods different. The 12 month program kicks off in May and has two summer sessions in between May and the start of fall semester. On the other hand, the 16 month option begins in January and runs through to May of the following year. There is only one summer session for this track but two spring semesters. A total of 60 nursing major credit hours are required to graduate with a second degree in nursing from Jewell and for eligibility to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Faith Community Nursing

This program, formerly known as parish nursing is offered to willing students through a partnership of William Jewell and Liberty Hospital. Students interested in this program may apply for the course every spring semester. The course focuses on holism, spirituality, psychology and the social aspect of nursing. It is follows the guidelines for Parish Nursing set out by the International Parish Nurse Resource Center.

Contact:
William Jewell College
500 College Hill, Liberty,
MO 64068

Chamberlain College of Nursing Review

Chamberlain College of Nursing (CCN), dating back to 1889, is one of the oldest and largest schools of nursing in the US. The college history can be further traced back to 1836, when it was established as the first Deaconess Home and Hospital of the Deaconess traditions. And even more, the founder of modern nursing; Florence Nightingale was one of the pioneer students of that ancient hospital.

In 1889, Deaconess College of Nursing was established as a diploma awarding nursing school. Later on, two-year Associate and Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees were introduced. In 2005, a major transformation took place when the college was acquired by DeVry Inc. As such, the former name ‘Deaconess’ was dropped and Chamberlain School of Nursing became the new name towards the end of 2006. The name of the college is derived from an English word meaning ‘chief steward’ as the college is devoted to train the chief stewards of patient care; nurses.

Locations of Chamberlain College of Nursing

Chamberlain has a relatively large presentation by having campuses in 8 US states. The flagship campus of Chamberlain College of nursing is located in Illinois where two campuses are operated; one in Addison and another one in Chicago. Other locations for the college are:

• St Louis, Missouri
• Miramar & Jacksonville, Florida
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Arlington, Virginia
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Houston, Texas
• Columbus, Ohio

Each of the colleges’ campuses offer different programs and others even have one or two nursing programs under them.  In addition to physical campuses, Chamberlain is also very well renowned for online nursing degree programs where students can earn their degrees in distant locations without having to visit any of the onsite classes.

Nursing Programs at Chamberlain College of Nursing

For all the educational needs of students aspiring to become registered nurses, Chamberlain has most of what students would want.  A very large number of nursing programs are under the college, starting with the very lowest Associate degrees to Masters Degree in nursing.  The different levels of nursing programs are offered at selected locations; hence students must choose the locations as per their educational needs.

Associate degrees in nursing offered by the college are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC). On the other hand, the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) with few exceptions.

Undergraduate Degree Options at Chamberlain

Under their undergraduate category, students have various options as outlined below:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

LPN to RN Bridge Option

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Option
• RN-BSN to MSN Online Option
• Three-Year BSN
• Second Degree BSN Option

Graduate Degree Options at Chamberlain

On the graduate degrees category, the following Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks and specialty tracks are available:

• RN-BSN to MSN Online Option
• Executive Specialty track
• Educator Specialty track
• Informatics Specialty track
• MSN & MBA program track

A comprehensive review of the above listed programs and each of the locations in which they are offered is provided below:

Undergraduate Degrees

i)        Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate degree in nursing program at Chamberlain degree is only offered their Columbus, Ohio Campus. It is a 6-emester, 72 credit hours program which students can complete online or onsite. Most of the general education and didactic courses can be offered online and students can access the courses from any geographical location. However, all courses with a clinical component must be completed at the Columbus campus. With on-site training, students must attend real clinical labs and traditional classroom settings.

Courses are offered all year round for the six semesters whereby, general education and fundamental courses are offered in the first year and continuation to the second year for the nursing and clinical portion. On a further note, students can choose to attend campus during the entire time or choose the hybrid option of online and onsite-Columbus campus classes.

ii)      LPN to RN Bridge Option

This nursing program is a completion option for licensed practical nurses (LPN) who want to pursue an Associate degree in nursing and become registered nurses.  The program can be completed entirely online but for those who want to complete it onsite, it is offered only at the Columbus, Ohio campus. In addition, the LPN to RN Bridge Option is only available to practical nurses residing in Ohio but with licensure from any US state.

To be admitted, students must take and pass the Transitions in Professional Nursing Bridge course which allows validation of prior nursing knowledge received through the Chamberlain College Articulation Plan (CCAP). After passing this validation test, students receive up-to 10 semester credits; 3 and 7 in general education and nursing course respectively. Students are also required to maintain their LPN licensure to be allowed to progress into the program. For students who have not completed liberal arts and applied science courses, they can do so at DeVry University.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Options

i)        Three-Year BSN

Instead of the common generic Bachelor of Science in nursing program that takes four years to complete, the generic BSN at Chamberlain is completed in three years. It is an entry level program that admits fresh, pre-licensure students who want to become registered nurses. The program has several attractive details including the 3-year instead of the 4-year period, starting off nursing courses as early as the first year and removal of pre-requisite courses as a requirement for admission.

This program has a wide representation as it is offered on-site in all the above mentioned campus locations of Chamberlain College of nursing. Accreditation for the BSN program at Columbus, Ohio and St Louis, Missouri has double accreditation by both the NLNAC and CCNE while tracks on all other locations are accredited by the CCNE. A total of 129 credit hours must be completed in an all-year- round format to be allowed to graduate and take the NLCEX exam and become a registered nurse.

ii)      Second Degree BSN Option

The second degree BSN program from Chamberlain College of Nursing is designed for adult learners who already hold another baccalaureate degree in any other non-nursing field.  For flexibility, this program is offered in a hybrid online-on site format. All theory courses are offered in an online format while clinical, lab and experiential learning component of the program are offered on-site. On this note, the onsite component of this hybrid program is offered at three campuses of Chamberlain namely: Florida, Houston and Chicago.

Students apply for credit transfer from their prior bachelor degree hence, completing the Bachelor of Science in nursing requirements in as little as 13months. To be allowed into the program, a prospective student must have at least 68 transferable credit hours from their first baccalaureate program. Three full- load semesters of one academic year and an extra 3-credit semester of a capstone course are required. Students are admitted and progress in cohorts of eight students who must be around a common clinical partner’s site. In addition to being an online option, each student in this program is assigned to a student services Rep from any campus of chamberlain close to their geographical location. The rep oversees that the clinical compliance requirement for the program is fulfilled and that there is ease in handling the online coursework.

iii)    RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Option

For registered nurses (RNs) wishing to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree, Chamberlain College of Nursing has this option. This program is offered 100% online with very attractive provisions like non-requirement of clinical experience and individual preference log-in times. Registered nurses are able to complete the program in a record 3-semesters having completed a maximum of 48 credit hours; 24 each in nursing and liberal arts courses.

RNs that hold active licensure in any US state are able to transfer up-to 81 credit hours towards the Bachelor of Science degree through the CCAP.  These are a maximum of 44 of nursing 37 of liberal arts courses. This program also offers tuition discount for military students and those RNs working in healthcare partners of Chamberlain College of Nursing. However, the program does not accept students from Tennessee, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island and Vermont.

iv)    RN-BSN to MSN Online Option

The RN-BSN to MSN is for registered nurses who want to earn two degrees simultaneously in a single program. Students earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) making it cost and time effective. For this online program, RNs are first admitted into the RN to BSN program at Chamberlain and are then eligible to apply for the MSN degree before they complete their BSN

In this case, students at the RN to BSN program are allowed to take selected MSN courses in place of 2 Bachelor level courses. The RN-BSN to MSN Online Bridge courses are taken at the 3^rd semester of the RN to BSN program. These MSN courses are of higher content and total to 6 alternate credit hours applicable for both BSN and MSN programs. In addition to the 3 semesters of the RN to BSN, students take another 5 semesters to complete the graduate courses. Just like the RN to BSN program, students from the above named 4 states and North Dakota are not allowed into the program.

Graduate Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing Degree Program

The Master of Science degree in nursing at Chamberlain is meant for the BSN-prepared candidates. The program prepares advanced practice nurses in the following three specialty tracks:

• Nurse Executive track
• Nurse Educator track
• Nursing Informatics track

The informatics track was recently introduced in the college enabling nurses to take advanced roles in developing information technology for the healthcare sector. The curriculum for all the three tracks takes 6 semesters each and is delivered exclusively on an online format. Practicum hours for each track can be completed at the students’ geographical location of choice. This makes the program ideal for working nurses.

MSN & MBA Track Option

Unlike other common MSN and Master of Business Administration (MBA) tracks that take a dual learning format, the MSN & MBA track at Chamberlain is different. Students must first complete the MSN Executive specialty track after which, they can apply to take the MBA degree at the affiliated DeVry University.  The latter is offered by Keller Graduate School of Management of the university and many qualifying credits from the MSN Executive track are transferred to the MBA program.

This results to students taking only 6 additional courses to finish the second master program which would have otherwise been 16 courses. This MSN & MBA arrangement has the advantage of being fast not to mention the huge savings in tuition. Similarly, the program does not accept students from Vermont, Tennessee and North Dakota.

Financial Assistance for Chamberlain College of Nursing Students

Apart from the usual Federal Grants, Loans, Work Study plans, Chamberlain College of Nursing has several scholarships programs specific to its student’s needs which include:

Chamberlain Access Grant (CAG)

This grant program awards $175 per semester to any student of the college who are also recipients of the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity (SEOG).

Undergraduate Scholarships

Under this category, there are five scholarship programs for students at Chamberlain listed below:

i)        Nightingale Scholarship

This is awarded to pre-licensure RN student nurses based on need and its availability varies from campus to campus. Beneficiaries of this scholarship receive $2500 in tuition fees and must maintain a GPA of 3.5 to maintain eligibility.

ii)      Next Generation Scholarship

This scholarship program is merit based and is open to entry level high school graduates. Under this plan, students receive $2500 per academic semester and is funding is continued as long the beneficiary students maintains a GPA of 3.5.

iii)    Chief Steward Scholarship

The scholarship is merit based but the high achievers must have also shown a high commitment to community nursing. It is open to pre-licensure students and funds range from $1000 to $8000 per semester and availability varies by campus and semester.

iv)    Navigate to Nursing Scholarship (N2N)

This program is open to high school seniors who wish to start earning college credit hours towards the BSN g program at Chamberlain. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.2, must come from a Chamberlain-recognized school and must present a letter of recommendation for the program. Beneficiaries receive up-to $8500 in tuition fees during their high school senior year.

v)      Deans Scholarship

This is merit based and students must be in a pre-licensure program at the college. Transcripts from all schools attended are required to verify eligibility. Beneficiaries receive $2500 per academic semester and a minimum GPA of 3.5 must be maintained for continuous award.

Graduate Scholarships

i)        Clinical Educator Scholarship

This is open to RNs who have had at least 5 years experience in a hospital or clinical setting and wish to become nurse educators. Students must not be receiving any other scholarships from Chamberlain and must be currently employed. Under this scholarship program, students receive $290 per session up-to $3500.

ii)      Working Parent Scholarship

This scholarship is unlimited to parents who enroll in the Master of Science in nursing program. It is open to working RNs who hold a registered nurse license and not receiving any other form of scholarship from the college. The MSN students receive $290 per session totaling to $3500 and continuous awards is for students who maintain a GPA of 3.0

Contact:
Chamberlain College of Nursing
National Headquarter Offices,
3005 Highland Parkway,
Downers Grove, IL 60515

Alcorn State University Nursing School Review

Alcorn State University (ASU); a historically Black university was the first to be supported by the US government. Its history dates back to 1871 and is named after James Alcorn, a former reformist and governor in Mississippi. This public co-ed institution of higher learning was the first school to admit African American students into its programs. The university has a main campus at Claiborne and a satellite campus in Natchez, which is home to the school of nursing.  In collaboration with Hinds Community College; which too is a historically black school, some courses are offered there.

Nursing Programs at Alcorn State University

Nursing at Alcorn State University is offered at the satellite campus-Natchez.  Programs range from an associate degree to graduate nursing programs. The Associate program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The Bachelor and graduate programs are accredited the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The baccalaureate and the master programs have two career pathway options each to choose from.

Associate Nursing Degree

The university has nursing programs starting from the associate degree level. This option of nursing entry allows eligible candidates to choose from two tracks towards earning the associate degree. In the first option, new entry level nursing students can apply to the ADN generic program which requires 70 credits to complete. Secondly, licensed practical nurses who hold current Mississippi licensure can apply for advanced standing for the ADN where they receive 18 credits for their licenses. Completion leads to eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Baccalaureate Degree Nursing

• BSN- Traditional

In this level too, two nursing tracks lead to the award of Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees. The first option is for those wishing to get into nursing at the BSN entry level. Students require 55 general and prerequisite courses which can be taken prior to admission into the university from the online Mississippi Virtual Community College.  The other 69 nursing major courses are then completed at Alcorn University though all courses including the former can be completed at the university which leads to eligibility to write the NLCLEX-RN exam.

• RN to BSN (online program)

On the other hand, students can choose the online completion program. Students take 39 nursing major credits and 55 general education and prerequisites credits. The remaining credits needed for the BSN are transferred from the diploma or associate degree.

Graduate Nursing at Alcorn State University

Four master level advanced practice nursing tracks are offered at Alcorn State University School of nursing. The four programs are namely:

• Family Nurse practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

The two first tracks are offered directly by the school of nursing and have curriculum designed by Alcorn State University. The last two; Geriatric and Mental health tracks are offered through Mississippi Education Consortium for Specialized Advanced Practice Nursing. However, all course requirements can be meet at Alcorn. For master prepared nurses, there are two post-master certificate programs namely:

• Post- Mater Certificate Option (Family Nurse Practitioner)
• Post- Mater Certificate Option (Nurse Educator)

Contact:
Alcorn State University
1000 ASU Drive, Alcorn State,
MS 39096

Copiah Lincoln Community College Nursing Program Review

The mother college to Copiah Lincoln Community College (CLCC, Co-Lin) started back in 1915 as an agricultural high school in Wesson. The expansion of academic programs resulted to the upgrade of the college to Copiah Lincoln Junior College. Following approval and a vote of the Mississippi legislature especially in the counties of Lincoln, Lawrence, Jefferson, Franklin, Adams and Copiah, the school finally settled for the current name.  Since then it has been offering two year degrees directed to work force entry or for transfer purposes to four year degrees.

Copiah Lincoln Community College Nursing Programs

The department of nursing at Copiah Lincoln has five nursing tracks on offer to qualified candidates. Two of the programs lead to an associate in applied science degree and have received accreditation by the Mississippi State Institutions of Higher Learning and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. There is a pre nursing program that is meant for easing transfer to four year BSNs and also two certificate programs in practical nursing and nursing assistant.

Associate Degree in Nursing

Copiah Lincoln community College offers an associate degree in nursing at its Wesson campus. The program has two career pathways which have a common outcome; preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam. The first option is for candidates who have no prior experience in nursing. Students take 72 credits that must be completed in two academic years on a four semester plan. The courses are divided on a 45 and 27 credits ratio for nursing and general education.

LPN to RN Accelerated Program

This is the second variation of the associate degree in nursing at Copiah Lincoln. It calls for candidates who hold active unencumbered LPN licenses for the state of Mississippi and a minimum of one year practical nursing experience within the last three years. Admission into the program is during the spring semester each year and preference is given to residents of the five counties of the college fraternity.

The curriculum is delivered on a hybrid format of online and classroom instructions. Of the 72 credits needed for the associate degree, 45 must be completed at Copiah Lincoln Community College while the rest can be received as advanced standing from the LPN license. Prior to admission though, candidates must complete two LPN to RN transition course in role development and pharmacology totaling to 12 credits. Successful completion of the transition course awards the students 9 credits in palce of the 12.

Pre- Nursing (B.S Degree Program)

This is not a nursing program and students who get into the program do not become nurses. It is a program that helps a student complete general education and prerequisite courses needed for BSN completion. The credits earned from this program are for transfer purposes to four year BSN programs so that students can join the BSN at junior level.

Practical Nursing

The program is a one year curriculum that trains nurses to work under registered nurses in hospitals and other health agencies. Completion of the one year curriculum makes the students eligible to write the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Nursing Assistant

Nursing assistant candidates at Copiah Lincoln Community College undergo 4 days/week of six weeks rigorous nurse assistance training. Completion of the program enables students to be placed in the Mississippi Nurse Assistant Registry.

Contact:
Copiah Lincoln Community College
1001 Copiah Lincoln Circle, Wesson,
MS 39191

Delta State University Nursing School Review

Delta State University (DSU) is located in an ethnically rich and culturally diverse region of the Mississippi Delta Valley. In the small town of Cleveland sits the main campus of the university which started off as small normal school for teachers training in 1925. After introduction of a number of baccalaureate and masters program, the school changed the name from Delta State Teachers college to Delta State University. From then, the university started offering terminal degrees starting with a doctor of education.

Nursing at Delta State University

Robert E Smith School of nursing is one of the largest academic divisions at Delta State University alongside Education and Business schools. It has three approved nursing programs; two leading to a bachelor’s degree and one master program carrying a number of tracks under it. The undergraduate and graduate programs have received accreditation by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and also the States’ Board of Institutions of Higher Learning. Delta State University has greatly excelled in delivering most of the nursing curriculum in an online format. Details of all the nursing programs are given below:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Two programs are offered under the undergraduate category as follows:

• BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree

This program is designed for candidates who are not yet nurses and prepares them to write the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses. The program can be completed in  part and full time and selected courses in both schedules can be completed in a web enhanced mode. 68 nursing major credits must be completed for students to graduate. The part time option carries five semesters of junior years and students must switch back to full time schedule for 2 semesters of the senior year. Full time students take a maximum of five semesters to complete all the nursing courses

• RN – BSN Online Completion Program

This program is meant for candidates who are prepared with an associate degree of diploma. Requirement for completion are similar to those of the BSN but students receive credits for their earlier nursing experience. It is an exclusive online program and students meet only twice or thrice at the start of each semester. Nursing courses can be completed in 12 months but part time classes may be scheduled upon request and availability of a quorum.

Master of Science in Nursing (Online)

The masters programs at Delta state University are offered completely online. There are five tracks from which BSN prepared candidates can choose as their advanced practice nursing specialty namely:

• Nurse Administrator
• Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Adult or Family Focus
• FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
• GNP – Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator.

 It is mandatory for the candidates to have at least one year of professional nursing practice and three years for the Nurses Practitioner options. The Gerontology and Mental health tracks are offered through Mississippi Education Consortium for Specialized Advanced Practice Nursing. All the Masters of Science in nursing tracks at Delta State University have post-masters certificate program options.

Students require to make a few occasional trips to the university for the two years they will be undertaking study. Students can however apply for part time classes and the period of study is extended.

Contact:
Delta State University
Highway 8 West, Cleveland,
MS 38733

East Central Community College Nursing Program Review

East Central Community College (ECCC) was founded in 1928 first as a junior college and later to a community college. Initially, it served Neshoba, Scott and Newton counties but after its upgrading to a community college, Winston and Leake counties become part of the colleges’ fraternity. It is a small college that offers two year programs with a notably large number of students taking programs under the nursing profession.

Nursing Programs at East Central Community College

About 46% of all students admitted to East Central Community College take nursing programs. The nursing programs are under the health care education division and students have five programs to choose from. All programs are accredited; the associate degree is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning also accredits the ASN program.  Accreditation for the practical nursing is through the Mississippi State Board of Community Colleges. Comprehensive information of the nursing programs is provided below:

Associate Degree Nursing (RN)

The associate degree in nursing is a blend of general education and nursing courses to help the new nursing student get the basics of working as a professional nurse. It prepares students take the NCLEX-RN exam by taking a total of 64 credits of combined nursing and prerequisites courses. The curriculum is designed on a 2-year four semester plan. Courses are delivered in mixture, i.e. students do not have to complete general education courses before taking the nursing course. This means there is a mixture of all courses in all four semesters.

LPN to ADN Bridge Program

At East Central Community College, Licensed Practical Nurses have eligibility for advanced standing if they have a number or requisites conditions namely, an unencumbered LPN Mississippi License, one year prove of Clinical experience. After admission into the program, students take a nursing transition course during the spring semester equivalent to 8 credits. Successful finish of the LPN to ADN Bridge awards the student 18 credits in place of the 8. Candidates then progress to the second year of the generic ADN. Completion of the program makes the students eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.

Practical Nursing (LPN)

Practical nursing at East Central Community College enable students to become licensed to work in the capacity of a practical nurse under the supervision of a registered nurse. The Curriculum of 35 practical nursing credits is designed to be covered in a minimum of three semesters with an average of 12 credits each. The third semester is a summer session and comprises of 12 credits. Students who complete the program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam and become a practical nurse in Mississippi.

Nursing Assistant

The Nursing assistant is a short one-course certificate program that trains students to work as a bedside care giver to in patients and residents of long term care facilities. Completion of the program enables the student to take a competency test and be placed in the states’ Nurse Assistant Registry.

Contact:
East Central Community College
275 West Broad Street, Decatur,
MS 39327

Hinds Community College Nursing Program Review

The mother college that was to become Hinds Community College (HCC) has history dating back to 1917. The college prides to be the largest Community college in Mississippi in terms of the number of students enrolled for its programs. The historically black community college has developed and expanded tremendously to offer a large number of credit and non credit programs. As part of mission to reach out the communities, Hinds Community College has opened four satellite campuses in five counties namely Rankin, Copiah, Warren and Claiborne.

Nursing at Hinds Community College

At Hinds, nursing is offered under the Nursing and Allied Health Programs. Three programs are offered, two of which lead to an associate degree in nursing and a certificate program in practical nursing. The associate degree tracks have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission while the Practical nursing program is accredited by the Mississippi Community College Board. The college offers paramedics and respiratory technicians a transition option to professional nursing as explained below:

Associate Degree Nursing Program

The associate of nursing program from Hinds Community College has two career pathways for qualified students to choose from:

• ADN Generic Option

The generic program is designed for candidates who have no prior nursing experience. Classes for the program begin in fall and spring semesters; a double annual intake that is meant to reduce the time on the waiting list. A total number of 72 credits are required and must be completed on a four semester plan, excluding the time needed to complete prerequisites courses in anatomy and physiology. Successful students get eligibility for first time licensure as registered nurses upon writing and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

• Transition to RN Option

The transition program admits students on a single intake in each campus. The candidates for the program are respiratory therapists, paramedics and licensed practical nurses.  All candidates must have active their respective licenses or certificates for the state of Mississippi. The programs are offered in the main campus at Jackson for its single summer intake and at Warren campus for its fall intake.

However, students who are coming in as paramedics and respiratory therapists must apply to Jackson campus as their transition to RN status is not offered at Warren Campus. LPNS are free to apply to any campus. Classes in both campuses have full time and part time- weekend and evening options to cater for the busy schedule of LPNs and Paramedics.

A transition course, eight weeks in length is required for the transition to the RN program. LPNs receive 18 credits and Paramedics & Respiratory therapists get 13 in advanced standing. A total of 74 credits are needed to complete the program before the complex exemption and transfers are made for each option.

Practical Nursing

The Hinds Community College practical nursing program trains entry level qualified candidates to work beside registered nurses as licensed practical nurses.  The program is available in both part time and generic options whereby, upon successful completion leads to eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN exam.

Contact:
Hinds Community College
505 East Main Street, Raymond,
MS 39154

Holmes Community College Nursing Program Review

Holmes Community College (HCC) evolved from Holmes Agricultural high School. The High school has been established in 1911 and but later on added two-year programs to become a junior college. More expansion of the academic programs and educational services lead to the renaming of the school to its current name in 1988. This led to addition of two satellite campuses; Ridgeland and Grenada besides Goodman main campus. The change was meant to reflect the multifaceted mission of the two year college of bringing higher education closer to the communities.

Holmes Community College Nursing

Holmes Community College has three nursing programs, all of which have been approved by the Mississippi Board of Nursing. Accreditation has also been provided through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Of the three, one is a diploma awarding program, one associate degree program and a Pre-nursing for BSN transfer. The programs details are given below:

Associate Degree Nursing

The program is designed for fresh students seeking licensure to become registered nurses by preparing for the NLCEX-RN exam and also for LPN who receive advanced standing. The generic associate degree in nursing track is available in two options; a full time day program at Ridgeland and Grenada campuses and an evening/ weekend track.

During the first years on the generic day track, students take 36 general education credits and move on for two more semesters in the second with a total of 24 credits. Students take anatomy, physiology, and microbiology credits only during summers; before admission and in between the first and second years. On the other hand, part time students take 22 general education credits in first year, 30 during the second year and an extra fall semester of 12 credits. Unlike the full time, anatomy and physiology are taken only in one summer in the part time track.

 ADN for LPN 

Individuals who hold an active practical nursing license are welcome to apply for an accelerated format of the associate program as they prepare for the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses. The program can be completed via two options. In option one, candidates can complete the program after one year and one summer semester after taking 36 credits excluding the advanced standing and prerequisites courses. Option two is not an accelerated program and takes four semesters to complete.

Pre-B.S Nursing

The pre nursing for the Bachelor of Science is purposely designed to enable students offset the huge workload towards a BSN. Students must note that this program does not lead to any certification or eligibly to practice nursing. This is because courses offered in this program do not contain any nursing components but general and prerequisites that most universities ask for during application to their BSN. A total of 65 pre nursing credits are completed but students can always contact their transfer university of choice to ensure the combination of courses taken at Holmes Community College will transfer.

Practical Nursing

Practical nursing at Holmes is offered in the three campuses i.e. Goodman, Grenada and Ridgeland. The program takes one academic year and a summer session all of which comprise of 45 credits. Successful completion enables the students to have eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Contact:
Holmes Community College
1 Hill St, Goodman,
MS 39079

Itawamba Community College Nursing Program Review

Serving the residents of Northeast Mississippi, Itawamba Community College (ICC) started as an annex of Itawamba County Agricultural High School. The high school expanded its curriculum and focused on two-year college coursework. Several counties: Chickasaw, Pontotoc, Lee and Monroe joined the fraternity of the college; resulting to its transformation into a junior college. A final decision to change the name of the college to Itawamba Community College was reached in 1987. Three campuses in Fulton, Belden and Tupelo serve its purpose of a community College.

Nursing Programs at Itawamba Community College

Three nursing programs are available at Itawamba Community College. The Associate degree is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Mississippi State Institution of Higher Learning. There is also a Practical Nursing certificate nursing program that is accredited by the State Board for Community and Junior Colleges. Details of the nursing programs are provided below:

Nursing (Associate Degree Program – ADN)

This is a nursing curriculum designed to meet the needs of qualified candidates who wish to have an entry point in nursing. The program has all components of general education, clinical and theory courses required to become a professional nurse. Basically, candidates need to complete a minimum of 72 credits from the Fulton campus to be eligible for graduation with an Associate of Applied Science degree and eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Practical Nursing

This program provides technical and bedside care skills to students who will work under the supervision of registered nurses. The one- year three- semester program is offered at the Fulton Campus as a full time program. It is kind of a career ladder whereby, students can exit after the first semester of study. Those who choose to exit at this point are eligible to receive certification as a Nursing Assistant from Itawamba Community College having finished the required 16 credits. Such graduates will be entered in the State Registry for Nursing Assistants.

Those who continue to the second and third semesters of the program complete a total of 43 nursing credits and 8 prerequisites. Completion of the program will be eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam for certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mississippi State.

Nursing-Pre

All students pursuing the Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree (A.A.S.N) receive 15-16 general education cores credits and 48 nursing core credits towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Nursing Scholarships for the Nursing Programs at ICC

Nursing students at Itawamba Community College have chances to apply for about eight nursing scholarships. These scholarships are meant to help the financially strained students to complete their nursing program at Itawamba. Some of the Scholarships available to students at the college are:

• Mccarty Company Scholarship Foundation
• Nurses’ Christian Fellowship Scholarship
• Herrick Foundation Endowed Scholarship
• Bobbie Anderson Scholarship
• Anson Aven Memorial Scholarship
• W.O. Benjamin Memorial Endowed Scholarship
• Board of Trustees Scholarship
• W.E. Boggs Endowed Scholarship
• David and Betty Cole Endowed Scholarship

These scholarships are specific to Itawamba students and are through well wishers, former members of the board and prominent personnel from around the college.

Contact:
Itawamba Community College
602 West Hill Street, Fulton,
MS 38843

Jones County Junior College Nursing Program Review

Following the suggestion of introducing two-year college curriculum into existing agricultural high schools in Mississippi, Jones County junior College (JCJC) came into being. As such, in 1922, Jones County Agricultural high school started the junior college as an extension of the high school. By 1957, the junior college had had large developments and it was separated from the high school to become an independent state college. It offers two years degrees in arts, and applied science programs in addition to vocational training.

Jones County Junior College-Nursing

Nursing at the college is offered under the healthcare academic division. Three programs; a pre nursing, an associate degree option and a practical nursing program are available for offer. Accreditation to the nursing program has been granted by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.  More information of the nursing program is provided herein:

Associate Degree Nursing Division

The associate degree nursing program at Jones County Junior college has two tracks:

• Generic Track

The first option is a generic program that takes in new entry–level nursing students who do not have prior nursing experience. Completion of the program awards the students an Associate in Arts degree with a nursing major in addition to eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

• Advanced Placement in the ADN Program

The second option of the associate degree is the advanced placement program also known as the Challenge process of the LPNs. In this case, LPNs who hold active licenses of the State of Mississippi are eligible to apply. In addition, candidates for this program are expected to have a minimum of one year experience in the last four years prior to application. The LPN to RN at Jones County Junior College requires two nursing transition courses in order to receive advanced standing. Graduates of the program become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam

Practical Nursing

The nursing practical program is designed to prepare students to write the NCLEX-PN in order to become Licensed Practical nurses in the state of Mississippi. The program too have two entry points; one for usual high school graduates while the second one is specifically designed for students who started on nursing courses during their final high school year.

The latter, known as Dual-Enroll LPN program is meant for high school students in their senior year. Students in Jones County and the JCSJ district are eligible for this grant-funded program. Participating in the Dual Enroll LPN Program is open to students of participating high schools. As part of this program, students take nursing courses meant for the first year LPN program during their last year in high school. In total, both groups of the practical nursing track must complete 43 credit hours to be eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Pre-Nursing (BS)

This is a program meant to ease the workload of general education and science courses during the first and second years of Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees. Students who take this program complete up to 66 credits in arts, science, English and math courses. Students must note that taking this program does not lead to any certification; it is a prior preparation for the freshman and sophomore year in four-year colleges and universities offering the Bachelor of Science in nursing.

Contact:
Jones County Junior College
900 South Court Street, Ellisville,
MS 39437

Meridian Community College Nursing Program Review

Meridian Community College (MCC) was as a result of a merger between TJ Harris Junior College; a historically black junior college then. This happened in 1970 following a federal court order to separate it from Meridian public schools system. Prior to this date, the college was known as Meridian Junior College. The College received its current name in 1980 for the reasons of reflecting it expanded and diverse pool of programs.  The community college offers two-year programs, transfer opportunities and other community development education options.

Nursing at Meridian Community College

Four distinct nursing programs are available in the Division of Health Education and Nursing at Meridian Community College. Continuing education under the Work-Based learning programs is also available for nurses. Of the four programs, two lead to an associate degree in nursing while two are certificate programs. The associate programs have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the States’ Institution of Higher Learning. Practical Nursing is also accredited by the States’ Department of Education and NLNAC.

Associate Degree Nursing- Associate in Applied Science

The associate degree in nursing from Meridian Community College is a four-semester program designed for new nursing students. The program requires 71 credit hours of both general education and nursing courses. After completion of 8 prerequisite credit hours, students are eligible to apply again to the ADN program. At Meridian, general education and nursing courses are not segregated and are offered concurrently in the two years of study. The program curriculum prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.

Associate Degree Nursing Accelerated Program for Licensed Practical Nurses and Paramedics

This program is designed to help both LPNs and Paramedics to make a transition into professional nursing. The curriculum is covered in fast-paced three semesters in which, the first semester is a transition semester. Successful completion of the transition semesters gives the students advanced standing of 20 credits on the 1^st year ADN courses. Therefore, students join the ADN class at the year-2 level and continue for the two regular last semesters. LPNs and Paramedics who successfully finish the accelerated ADN program become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam as part of getting licensure as registered nurses.

Practical Nursing Certificate

This program equips entry level nursing students with technical and practical nursing skills. It is designed to be completed in one year that leads to the award of a certificate of completion. Admission into the program is done twice yearly for fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for graduation with the MCC LPN certificate and eligibility for the NCLEX-PN exam, students must take a total of 46 credit hours.

Health Care Assistant- Certificate

The HCA, also known as the Nursing Assistant program prepares students to become nursing assistants and home health aides. This MCC nursing assistant curriculum requires 16 credit hours to complete designed to be completed in one semester. Like the LPN program, the HCA admits students twice yearly in fall and spring.

There is also a Work-Based Learning program meant for nursing assistant students at Meridian Community College. This program is like an externship program that awards the students 3 credit hours for every 3-18 of completed work site involvement.

Contact:
Meridian Community College
910 Mississippi 19,
Meridian, MS 39307

Mississippi College Nursing Program Review

Mississippi College (MC) is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. It is a church co-ed college of the Baptist Convection of Mississippi dating back to1826. The college has undergone numerous changes including a double change between a Men’s and Co-ed College before its current status.  In the years in between its founding and its current status, the college has increased its programs, acquired other colleges and developed its infrastructural capacity.

Mississippi College School of Nursing

Mississippi College has two nursing programs, both of which lead to the award of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education together with Mississippi Institute of Higher Learning. The two tracks of the nursing baccalaureate are a completion program for the registered nurses and a traditional track for fresh nursing students as outlined below:

Generic Track- Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The generic track is designed for the traditional nursing students who are making their first entry in professional nursing. The track takes four years of nine semesters to complete; eight fall and spring semesters and one summer semester of finishing general education courses. As a church affiliated college, Mississippi college nursing program has many courses of the Christian faith including different courses in the study of the New and Old testaments. A minimum of 127 credits must be taken but the number can increase depending on the electives chosen. Successful completion of the track requirements makes the student eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

Online RN to BSN Track

This Bachelor of Science track from Mississippi College is designed to meet the career advancement needs of registered nurses. As prove of their nursing experience and abilities, future candidates are subjected to a third-year nursing course. Upon passing of this course, registered nurses receive up-to 30 level lower division nursing courses. However, students must note that they must produce an active, unrestricted RN license for the State of Mississippi. Only those students who have such licenses are allowed to take the entrance course.

The program is exclusively offered online giving students a flexible mode of finishing a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Students must also note that the last 33 nursing credits must be completed at the Mississippi College to be eligible for graduation with a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Congregational Health Nursing

Commonly known as parish nursing, this program is also available at Mississippi College as a Continuing Education Unit. The program aims at training nurses who are able to work a parish nurses in their own church gatherings and congregations. The program focuses in Christian faith-based community nursing training that encompasses Christian education, worship and Christian service.

This congregational health nursing program takes an equivalent of three credit hours and is endorsed by the International Parish Nurses Resource Centre.  The additional credits are usually offered to interested nursing students along with the two nursing tracks mentioned above.

Contact:
Mississippi College
151 E Griffith St  Jackson,
MS 39201

Mississippi Delta Community College Nursing Program Review

Like all community colleges in the state, Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) was initially an agricultural high school. The then Sunflower Agricultural High School became a junior college in 1930 and later to Mississippi Delta Community college in 1989 to reflect the much expanded college. It has three off-campus centers as part of its commitment to reach all residents of the Mississippi Delta. As a Community college, it offers two-year workforce entry and transfer programs as well as certificate programs.

Nursing at Mississippi Delta Community College

At the community college, three certificate and two associate degree tracks in nursing programs are available. The practical nursing certificate program is accredited by the Mississippi Community College Board and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The two associate in nursing degree tracks are accredited by Mississippi Institute of Higher Learning and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The five programs are:

Associate Degree Nursing

The program is meant to prepare basic entry level nursing students to become professional nurses. The focus is to prepare students to write and pass the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses. Completion of the two year program of 72 credit hours awards the student an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Accelerated Track for LPNs

The accelerated track for LPNs gives a chance to licensed practical nurses to become registered nurses via a transition course. Students must have a current LPN license and show proof of at least one year working experience as a practical nurse. The accelerated track course is taken during a summer semester and successful completion allows students to enter the associate degree nursing (ADN) at the sophomore year.  Completion of the summer transition courses allows the student to receive advanced standing of 18 credits towards the Associate of Applied Science degree. The accelerated track takes 12 months to complete having prepared students to be eligible to write the NLCEX-RN exam.

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing program at Mississippi Delta Community College prepares students to work under registered nurses in health care agencies. Students are prepared to take the NLCEX-PN exam and to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). 43 credit hours are required to complete this program and be awarded a Certificate in Practical Nursing.

Health Care Assistant

The HCA program prepares students to work as nursing assistants giving basic care to patients. It is a one semester program offered in three campuses of Mississippi Delta Community College; Drew center, Greenwood and Greenville campuses.  On a further note, the HCA program at Greenville and Greenwood are full time day study plans while the Drew Centre program is only offered in the afternoons and weekends. Admissions are in both fall and spring semesters

Phlebotomy

This program can be an entry level point into nursing and trains students to become phlebotomist nurses/technicians. It takes one semester of 17 weeks to complete and classes are only held in the evenings. Students are attached to any one of the four affiliated hospitals.

Contact:
Mississippi Delta Community College
289 Cherry street, Moorhead,
MS 38761

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Nursing Program Review

Harrison-Stone-Jackson Agricultural High school formed the base of what today is Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC). The high school was transformed into a junior college in 1962 following a vote by the residents of Mississippi and the counties supporting the junior college. Expansion of the programs, satellite centers and increase in the number of the supporting counties finally warranted the change of name from a junior college to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in 1987.

Nursing Division- Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

The nursing division at the college has three programs; one leading to a practical nursing certificate and two tracks leading to an associate degree in nursing. Nursing programs are offered in the four campuses of the college as will be explained later. All the programs have been accredited by the National League for nursing Accrediting Commission. In addition, the practical and associate programs are further accredited by the States Board for Community and Junior College and Mississippi Institution of Higher Learning respectively. Below is more information about the three nursing programs.

Nursing- Associate Degree

The four-semester, two year program is designed to prepare students to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. The best candidates for this program are fresh, entry level students who want to get into professional nursing.  Students must take a total of 72 credits of both nursing and general education courses to be eligible to graduate and take the licensure exam.

Students can complete the freshman courses at George County Centre and later transfer for the final year in Perkinston, Jefferson Davis and Jackson Campuses or complete the first year in the three aforementioned campuses as a PN exit option. Hence, most courses can be completed at all the campuses of the college.

Nursing – LPN to RN Transition

The LPN to RN transition program is meant to help Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) to make the transition into practical nursing and is only offered in Jefferson Davis Campus. The LPN Mobility Track students are expected to take a Transition Course the summer before the semester of enrollment.  Successful completion of the course awards 14 credit hours and students are allowed to by-pass the freshman courses. The advanced placement therefore enables the student to join the ADN program at the second year level and later become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Nursing – Practical

This is a diploma program that is an exit option from the ADN program. The program takes three semesters to complete excluding an extra semester to complete the supporting courses. As a career ladder program, the first two years can be complete at any MGCCC campus along with the ADN program students. After completion of the first year semester at any of the campuses, students must then transfer to George County Centre Campus, where the third PN exit semester is completed. A total of 58 credit hours must be completed to allow students to graduate with the Practical Nursing Diploma besides being eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam to become LPNs.

Contact:
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
2300 Highway 90, Gautier,
MS 39553

Mississippi University for Women Nursing School Review

At a time when women education was not valued or given much attention, Mississippi was on the contrary and hence the foundation of Mississippi University for Women (MUW) in 1884. In this view, the university became the first Women’s-only public and state-supported center of higher education in US. It remained as a state college for women until 1974 when it changed to Mississippi University for Women. However, the university started enrolling men from 1982 but women still hold the highest percentage of women.

Nursing at Mississippi University for Women

There are three departments that offer the nursing programs at Mississippi University for Women. The three departments are under the College of Nursing and Speech Language Pathology. From the level of associate nursing degrees to graduate nursing, the university has everything you would require as nurse student. The associate degree is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission while the degrees from the Baccalaureate level are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.  All programs are also accredited at the state level by the Mississippi Institute of Higher Learning.

Department of Associate Nursing

This department has two associate degree tracks as outlined below:

• ASN- Generic Option

The generic option of the associate degree admits fresh students who do not have prior nursing experience. The program requires 71 credit hours of nursing and non-nursing courses to complete. The curriculum is designed to be completed in two-years of intensive study involving college study, clinical experience and externship.  Students are awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing degree and obtain eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.

• LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option

At Mississippi University for Women, LPNs have the chance of advancing to professional nursing through the fast-paced, nine-month program.  For advanced placement, students must complete three nursing transition courses after which, the students receive 21credits in advanced standing in place of the three.  This program forms a good base for students who want to complete a BSN at MUW at a later point.

Department of Baccalaureate Nursing

In this department, two degrees are also available as explained below:

• BSN Option

The program requires 128 credits; 62 and 66 general education and nursing major respectively. The first and sophomore years are specifically designed for general education courses while junior and senior years are dedicated to nursing major courses.  The program welcomes fresh entry level candidates who will complete the curriculum on a full time basis at Columbus Campus. Students are prepared to write their first NCLEX-RN exam.  Registered Nurses who wish to complete a BSN at Mississippi University for Women are advised to apply to the RN to BSN advanced placement.

• RN/ BSN Advanced Placement Option

This program is designed for adult learners who are already registered nurses. It helps RNs complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree through two flexible options. The first is a Partial Distance Option where students can take a hybrid of distance learning and classroom for curriculum coverage.  The hybrid includes one campus attendance day/week in the first semester and one campus day every three weeks in the subsequent two semesters.  The second is a Total Distance Option where all courses are delivered exclusively online and students are not required to come to campus for classes.

Department of Graduate Nursing

The department of graduate nursing at Mississippi University for Women includes master level degrees and post masters certificate programs.  All programs in the master’s level require 12 months and 39 credits to complete for all the three Masters of Science in Nursing tracks listed below:

• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP),
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP)

There are also three post masters MSN programs at the university; two of which are meant for masters prepared generalist graduates who do not have a Nurse Practitioner specialty while the other one is for MSN- Nurse Practitioner graduates.

Contact:
Mississippi University for Women
1100 College Street, Columbus,
MS 39701

Northeast Mississippi Community College Nursing Program Review

The agricultural high school and junior college status of what was to become Northeast Mississippi Community College (NEMCC) was dropped in 1949 to form the fully pledged community college. The community college was established to bring higher education to the Northeast counties of Mississippi namely Union, Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah and Tishomingo. The college offers career entry, transfer, and technical programs at affordable fees; one of the mission of community colleges.

Nursing Programs- Northeast Mississippi Community College

Under the Division of Health Sciences in the college, there are five nursing programs. They range from a certificate program in practical nursing to a Pre-Nursing BSN program. The practical nursing program is accredited by the State Board of Community and Junior Colleges while the associate degree in nursing is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the State Institution of Higher Learning. The college also has a phlebotomy certificate program, but it is only offered when there is adequate demand in a given semester.

Associate Degree Nursing

The ADN program at Northeast is offered at their Booneville Campus. The curriculum consists of 62 credit hours to be completed in four semesters and two summer sessions. The program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam besides awarding the student with an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree-an occupation focused degree. For LPNs who want to get into professional nursing, the LPN to ADN program is their program of choice.

LPN to ADN Advanced Placement Program

The program takes in candidates who have proof of practical nursing licensure. The students are subjected to two nursing courses challenges to enable them to receive advanced standing.  Completion of the two nursing courses enables the student to join the ADN program at the sophomore year.  Admission into the program is competitive and preference is given for readmission, Fresh LPN-ADN challenge and transfer students from other colleges in that order. Successful completion of the LPN to ADN advanced placement enables students to write the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs.

Alternate Placement Practical Nursing Education

This program is specifically designed to allow students who failed in the first attempt LPN to ADN program. There are three options of study available depending on the choice of nursing courses taken by the student. Candidates eligible for this program must have completed the unsuccessful/ failed ADN program in a period of not more than one year.

Pre Nursing

The pre nursing program at Northeast Mississippi Community College allows students to complete general education courses required for the four-year BSN program. Completion of the two- year program awards the student an Associate of Arts degree that is transferable to major universities and colleges for the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. Students can ask for specific courses required by their transferring university to ensure all courses will transfer successfully.

Practical Nursing Education

This is a one year nursing certificate program offered at Boonville and New Albany campuses of Northeast. The Practical Nursing Education (PNE) Program prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

 Contact:
Northeast Mississippi Community College
101 Cunningham Blvd, Booneville,
MS 38829

Northwest Mississippi Community College Nursing Program Review

With roots from the Tate County Agricultural High School, Northwest Mississippi Community College (NWCC) came to be. Quitman County joined in support of the agricultural high school leading to establishment of college-level education alongside the high school curriculum. In 1953, the college had an expanded curriculum hence, changed its name to Northwest Mississippi Community College. Currently, the college serves 11 counties in Northwest parts of Mississippi and has five campuses in Oxford, Ashland, Yalobusha, Senatobia and Southaven.

Nursing at Northwest Mississippi Community College

The Division of nursing has four programs to offer to qualified candidates looking forward to getting into the nursing profession.  Two of the programs are tracks leading to an associate degree in nursing, one is a certificate and one is a pre-nursing program for those who want to complete a bachelors of science in nursing. The programs have received accreditation from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the States’ Institute of Higher Learning.

Division of Nursing- Associates Degree Program

At Northwest, the associate degree program requires 63 credits to complete. Students start taking nursing courses from the first semesters and both general education and nursing courses are offered concurrently throughout the program. The program prepares students to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Licensed practical nurses wishing to complete the associate degree to become professional registered nurses are advised to apply for the following:

Practical Nursing Program-PN Challenge

Northwest Community College Division of Nursing gives a chance to qualified LPN candidates to have advanced standing towards the associate degree. Students must be licensed to work in the state and must produce recommendation letters from their RN supervisors and a RN co-worker. Passing the PN challenge exam enables students receive advanced standing for all first-semester freshman courses hence, joining the associate degree program at level I second semester. Admission is open twice per year in fall and spring semesters. Students who successfully complete the program become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become RNs.

Pre-Nursing

The pre-Nursing BSN program at Northwest Community College helps students to complete the first two years of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree at the college. The pre-nursing program also allows students who want to become enrolled in the college associate nursing program to complete the first year before being enrolled.

However, most concentration is geared towards the pre-BSN students. As such, these students complete 65 non- nursing credit hours; all of which are required for transfer into junior year level at major universities. Students in this program can transfer to their university of choice or take advantage of the Northwest MCC to University of Mississippi Medical Center direct transition option.

The Practical Nursing (PN)

This program is offered at four of the five satellite centers of the college. After successful completion of 43 credit hours, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses in Mississippi. The program is designed to be completed in three full-time semesters.

Contact:
Northwest Mississippi Community College
4975 Hwy 51N, Senatobia,
MS 38668

Pearl River community College Nursing Program Review

Pearl River Community College (PRCC) has a long history from its mother Agricultural High School of Pearl River. The community college prides itself in being the oldest public-funded two-year college in the state of Mississippi after the high school incorporated college level education in 1922. The college has three satellite campuses in Hancock, Forrest county and Woodall in addition to the main campus at Poplaville.

Nursing at Pearl River Community College

The department of nursing education at Pearl River Community college is mandated to offer the nursing programs at the college.  A total of three programs are available for qualified candidates; two of which lead to an associate degree and one practical nursing certificate program.  The associate degree tracks are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the States Institute of Higher Learning while the practical nursing program is accredited by the State Board for Community and Junior Colleges.

Associate Degree Nursing

The associate degree nursing (ADN) from Pearl River Community College is offered at their Poplarville Main Campus. Qualified candidates are welcome to apply for admission in their spring and fall intakes. The program takes four semesters to complete as students prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. A total of 72 credits are required for students to be allowed to graduate; with general courses being offered along with the nursing courses throughout to the final year.

LPN to ADN Bridge Course

This program calls upon licensed practical nurses that hold active, unrestricted licensure in practical nursing. Candidates for this program are required to show proof of at least one year of working experience within the last three years. The experience is recommended to be from an acute care or long term care facility. Students are also asked to have a completed employer verification form to be allowed into the program.

The bridging course is given to candidates who meet all the requirements at the main campus in the summer session only.  Successful completion of the bridging course enables the students to be awarded 7 credit hours towards the associate degree nursing program. It also allows students to enter the ADN program at the level II, third semester. Students must note that waiver of the remaining level I courses is only done after the student passes some selected level II courses. After receiving the advanced placement to the ADN, students prepare for the NLCEX-RN exam to make the transition from practical to registered nursing.

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing program at Pearl River is offered in the main campus and Forrest County Center. The one-year program is only offered once annually in the fall semester. Students are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses in the state. There is also a Dual Enrollment option for high schools students who wish to become practical nurses. Students in this program attend college during their senior years to take nursing courses. Unlike the generic program which takes 12 months, this dual enrollment programs takes 18 months to complete.

Contact:
Pearl River Community College
5448 U.S. 49,
Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Southwest Mississippi Community College Nursing Program Review

Pike County Agricultural High School; established in 1918 was the school that was destined to become Southwest Mississippi Community College (SMCC) later in 1988. Between those years, the school became a junior college before it finally changed to a two-year college serving the residents in the Southwest region of Mississippi. The high school started offering college education 1929 and expanded the curriculum to  two-year college by 1932, hence transforming into a junior College and finally as a community college in 1988.

Nursing Programs at Southwest Mississippi Community College

There are five nursing programs offered in Southwest Mississippi Community College under the Division of Associate Degree Nursing. Two of them are associate degree tracks, certificate programs in practical nursing and health care assistant each and a pre nursing program. The education programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and Mississippi Institute of higher education.

Associate Degree Nursing

The program prepares competent professional nurses through a curriculum of general education, nursing theory and clinical practice. Entry level nursing students are prepared to write the NCLEX-RN exam after completion of a total of 72 nursing and general education credit hours. The program takes two-years of full time study for students who have completed prerequisites courses prior to admission.  Nursing and supporting courses are offered concurrently during the two years. Licensed Practice nurses wishing to become registered nurses can apply for the program below to facilitate their transition.

LPN to RN Bridge

The LPN Bridge program gives a chance to licensed practical nurses to enter professional nursing. As such, the students take a summer session LPN to RN transition course after which, they are given 6 credit hours in advanced standing. Students also receive advanced standing for most freshman prerequisites courses and therefore, join the Associate of Nursing degree program at the sophomore level. Two more semesters to make up 72 credits are required to complete the program and become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

Practical Nursing

This is a one- year program comprising of 45 semester credit hours leading to a certificate in practical nursing. It prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN exam so as to be licensed to work as practical nurses. Students must note that the school does not cater for expenses that result from traveling to clinical sites and health agencies; all expenses are met by the individuals.

Nursing Assistant/ Health Care Assistant

At Southwest Mississippi Community College, the health care assistant (HCA) is a one semester program comprising of 16 credit hours. Successful completion of the program awards the student a certificate of completion. Graduates can also apply for the National Nurse Aide Assessment exam and be entered in the Nursing Assistant Registry.

Pre-Nursing (BS)

With 65 general education credits, students are prepared to take a Bachelor of Science degree from other four-year colleges and universities. The program is meant to cover the freshman and sophomore years curriculum required for completion of a four-year BSN. The pre nursing program at Southwest Mississippi Community College is specifically designed to cover the 1^st and 2^nd year requirement of the traditional BSN program at University of Mississippi Medical Center or any other state approved four-year college. However, students willing to complete their junior and senior years at the University of Southern Mississippi have take a slightly different curriculum from the generic majority pre-nursing program.

Contact:
Southwest Mississippi Community College
1156 College Drive, Summit,
MS 39666

University of Mississippi Medical Center Nursing School Review

The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) is the dedicated health academic center annex of the larger University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). The medical center opened to four year program is 1955 as a semi-autonomous subsidiary of University of Mississippi. It has nine well structured schools offering medical programs including pharmacy, nursing, dentistry and medicine. The University is located in the Capital of the state; Jackson, and it prides itself to be the only university with a teaching hospital in metro Mississippi.

School of Nursing- University of Mississippi Medical Center

The school of nursing is one of the six dedicated schools of the Jackson Based academic health science center. Initially, it was a department at the University of Mississippi –Oxford before being transferred to the Medical Center as a school. The school offers degrees from the baccalaureate level to the terminal nursing degrees. Nine programs are listed under the school, starting from early entry nursing programs for RNs. All the nursing programs under the school of nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Below is a broader view of all the programs at the medical center:

Undergraduate Programs

Under the undergraduate programs at the university are traditional, accelerated and early entry programs as explained below:

• Freshman Early Entry (BSN)

This early entry program gives a chance for students to enter the baccalaureate program as a freshman rather than a junior. This program allows students to complete the pre-nursing curriculum at the center hence; students avoid competitive selection process for during application for the Bachelor of Science in nursing. The advantage of this program is that students are assured of guaranteed admission to the BSN after completion.

• RN-MSN Early Entry Program

The RN-MSN Early Entry Program is as a collaborative effort between University of Mississippi Medical Center and two community colleges; Northwest Mississippi and Hinds Community Colleges. Students apply for the RN to MSN program during their first year’s associate studies in the mentioned community colleges.

It is a flexible program that has allows working RNS to finish their masters programs as a continued program of the ADN.  Part time and full time options are available for students in this track with seven and nine semesters being applicable for each option respectively.  This program incorporates the Bachelor of Science of nursing curriculum but students are only awarded the Master of Science in nursing after completion.

Just like the FEE mentioned earlier, the RN to MSN Early entry guarantees students a position in University of Mississippi Medical Center, hence avoiding the competitive selection into the generic RN to MSN program. Students are free to choose from the following advanced practice nursing options:

• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing and Health Care Administrator
• Traditional BSN Program

The Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program from UMMC accepts fresh entry-level nursing students who wish to become professional nurses. This program prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses by taking the NCLEX-RN after completion. Students complete a total of 63 pre-nursing credits, which can be completed at the university or transferred from a pre-nursing program from a community college.

Another 62 nursing major credits at junior and senior level must be completed at UMMC on a full time basis in a period of five semesters. The traditional program admits students annually during the summer semester. Students from the university’s’ freshman early entry program are given preference during admission to transfer students from other colleges.

• Accelerated BSN Program

The accelerated Bachelor of Science program is specifically designed to cater for educational needs of career shifters wishing to come into the nursing profession. The program allows such students who already hold other non- nursing bachelor degrees from accredited universities to prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam and become professional nurses in a short period.

Within 15 months of four- semester full time study, students engage in an accelerated curriculum completion program for professional nursing. Students are expected to complete 124 credit hours whereby, most of the lower division prerequisites courses are exempted in recognition of the former bachelor degree.

Graduate Nursing Programs

There are five graduate nursing programs at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Three are of the master level and two of the terminal degrees in nursing.

• RN to MSN

This flexible nursing program is meant to help registered nurses earn an advanced practice nurses status without necessarily having to take a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Unlike the RN to MSN early entry program, students applying for this program are subject to competitive selection during admission. As a prerequisite, students must have active RN licenses and must have practiced as RNs.

This is the program that accepts RN transfers students from all other colleges and community colleges apart from Hinds and Northwest Mississippi community Colleges. Just like the RN-MSN early entry, students have the choice of taking full time study for seven semesters or part time study for nine semesters. All advanced practice nurse tracks in the RN –MSN early entry are applicable for this program in addition to Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner for RNs who have had experience in acute care settings.

• MSN

The Master of Science in nursing (MSN Program) is designed for BSN-prepared students. Students are welcome to choose from the following six masters tracks available:

• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing and Health Care Administrator
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

On a further note, the Nurse Educator, Gerontology, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks are offered online with only 4-1-1 time campuses visits respectively per semester. The Nursing and Health Care Administration is only available on a full time basis while all the remaining tracks are available on both full time and part time options. It is also good to note that the Gerontology and the Mental Health tracks are offered through a consortium: Mississippi Education Consortium for Specialized Advanced Practice.

• Post-MSN Programs

The post masters certificates are meant for MSN graduates who wish to advance their nursing skills. There are six post master certificate programs for all the aforementioned MSN tracks.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice

This practice-based doctoral degree from University of Mississippi Medical Centre helps students learn the emphasis of health care delivery and application of credible research findings into nursing practice.

• PhD in Nursing

The PhD program welcomes both BSN and MSN prepare who wish to engage in scholarly research pursuit in the nursing health profession. It prepares nurse scholars and researchers who are able to develop theory an experiential foundation vital for advanced clinical practice.

Note

Students in all nursing programs at University of Mississippi Medical Center have the unique advantage of practicing clinical skills at their own University Hospital. The university prides to be only academic health science center with Missouri’s only children hospital and a level 1 Trauma center.

Contact:
University of Mississippi Medical Center
2500 North State St, Jackson,
MS 39216

University of Southern Mississippi Nursing School Review

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), commonly called Southern Miss,  dates back to 1910, when its mother school; Mississippi Normal College was founded. The school was transformed into a State teachers College after offering the first bachelor degrees in 1924. In 1940 and 1962, the college was underwent reorganization to become Mississippi Southern College and University of Southern Mississippi respectively. The university delivers higher education through its three campuses: Hattiesburg Main campus and Southern Miss Gulf Coast and Meridian.

College of Health- Nursing Programs

Nursing Programs at University of Southern Mississippi are offered in the college of health. There are quite a number of nursing programs starting from baccalaureate to the terminal nursing degrees. Nine degrees tracks are offered in the university in addition to a post master’s certificate program. The undergraduate and graduate programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.  The school of nursing offers programs in the main, meridian and Gulf Coast Campuses as explained below:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

• Nursing B.S.N

The nursing BSN program at university of Southern Mississippi are offered in all three campuses mentioned above. The program requires students to take 62 non- nursing general education and science credit hours and 66 upper division nursing credit hours. It is an entry level baccalaureate program that takes in new nursing students who want to take the NCLEX-RN exam for the first time and become RNs.

• Nursing B.S.N (RN to BSN)

This program takes already registered nurses with active unrestricted Mississippi licenses who have a diploma or associate education. The RN to BSN at USM is a completely online program that allows students to complete their BSN without coming to campus. Students are usually allowed to complete prerequisites courses online or in other community colleges or university near them whereby; the courses will be recognized by University of Southern Mississippi. The program requires students to complete 36 upper division credit hours and 30 credit validation hours; 25% of which must be taken at Southern Miss to be allowed to graduate from this online nursing program.

Master’s Degree in Nursing Program (MSN)

At Southern Miss, students can choose from the four Master of Science programs available. Full time and part time mode of study are available.  Full time students can complete their degrees in about 15 to 24 months but the time is extended for part time students and depends on the number of credits taken per semester. Students must complete between 34-44 credits depending on the MSN chosen.

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Executive
• Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

 The gerontological option is offered through a nursing consortium with Alcorn and Delta State Universities, University of Mississippi Medical Center and Mississippi University for Women. All students in the program get identical classes offered via a distance learning mode and complete the program in three semesters. The Nurse Executive track is offered as an online and web-enhanced program and students come to Southern Miss for classes only on weekends.

There are also post master certificates from the University of Southern Mississippi available for the three nurse practitioner Master of Science programs listed above.

RN-MSN

The RN-MSN program is designed for diploma and associate degree prepared students. Students enrolled for this program take 40 undergraduate nursing credits but student must take at least 17 credit hours so as to be allowed to start on the master level nursing courses.

Terminal Nursing Degrees at Southern Miss

• Doctor of Nursing Practice

The doctor of nursing practice at USM calls upon masters-prepared students who have at least two years of professional working experience to apply to this program. The program is offered through a consortium by the above mentioned universities of the MSN gerontological program. However, only Southern Miss and University of Mississippi offers the DNP degree of all the members of the consortium.

• Nurse Anesthesia Program- (BSN-DNP)

The University of Southern Mississippi is in the process of developing a curriculum for the Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) following approval by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning and Council of Accreditation (COA) on NAP. Currently the program is being evaluated by COA-NAP and once it is accredited, the first class is expected to be admitted soon after. Those who wish be pioneers of this class can place their application . The Program will utilize a Post-Baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing (BSN-DNP) approach giving emphasis to nurse anesthesia. 

• Doctor of Philosophy

The nursing PhD at the university is also a collaborative program between the university and the University of Mississippi Medical Center and courses can be completed in either of the universities. Just like the DNP, it requires masters-prepared nurses.

Contact:
University of Southern Mississippi
118 College Drive, Hattiesburg ,
MS 39406

William Carey University Nursing School Review

Named after the Father of Modern Missions, William Carey University (WCU) was initially a women’s college. It remained as a college educating women from 1906 until 1954 when it was transformed into a co-ed college hence, offering higher education to both men and women. The college became a fully pledged university with its current name in 2006. It is a church university of the Baptist Missionaries.

Joseph and Nancy Fail Nursing School Programs

The school offers nursing programs from three campuses of William Carey University; New Orleans, Hattiesburg and Tradition campuses. Joseph and Nancy Fail School of nursing has been approved to offer nursing degrees by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing for the New Orleans campus and the Mississippi Board of Nursing. Programs on offer are also accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The School has baccalaureate and graduate nursing tracks and a post master’s certificate program.

Baccalaureate Program

The entry level baccalaureate program is offered in the Hattiesburg and New Orleans Campuses. It is a four- year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) track that prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses. The program requires 120 credit units to complete, 59 of which are of nursing majors and 61 for general education and liberal arts courses. A high percent of liberal arts and Christian domain courses is evident during the first two years at nursing school.

Completion of the program allows makes students eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam and receive initial licensure as registered nurses besides being awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

RN-BSN Program

The RN to BSN program at William Carey gives a chance to registered nurses to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree in 12 months. Students are required to have graduated from a nationally accredited diploma or associate degree nursing program in addition to having an unrestricted RN license.

In recognition of the RN license, students receive 31 credit hours towards the BSN degree and additionally complete 21 hours of upper division nursing credits. 79 prerequisite credits are required for RNs, most of which can be received transferred from the diploma or associate degree program as applicable. The 12 months period is meant for completion of the nursing upper division component but prerequisites courses can be completed in a period of up-to six years. Courses for the RN- BSN program are available in all campuses, Hattiesburg, New Orleans and Tradition and are offered in a web-enhanced online format to cater for working RNs.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program

There is only one Masters of Science in nursing track at William Carey University. This program is offered in Hattiesburg and Tradition campuses only. Students wishing to study at the Tradition campus are admitted in spring while those for Hattiesburg Campus are admitted in fall. It has both full time and part time study options but all courses must be completed within six years. The nursing specialty available is the Nurse Educator track.

Post Masters Program

There is also has a post masters certificate program option for MSN prepared nurses. The graduate program is for those who want to have a post master’s certificate in nursing education.

Night/Saturday Program

It is important to note that nursing students can enroll for night/Saturday classes for all the nursing degree options in all campuses. However, the night/ Saturday nursing program is only offered during the spring trimester and courses can only be completed in the initially chosen campus for that specific semester.

Contact:
William Carey University
498 Tuscan Avenue, Hattiesburg,
MS 39401

Anoka Ramsey Community College Nursing Program Review

Located in Coon Rapids, Anoka County, the college has a history dating back to 1965. It started at an auxiliary wing of the Centennial High School until its relocation to the current main campus site in Coon Rapids. The college has undergone expansion in trying to reach the community by establishing a satellite campus at Cambridge.  As a community college, Anoka- Ramsey Community College (ARCC) offers certificate, diploma and two-year associate degree programs to over 10000 students annually

Anoka-Ramsey Community College Nursing Program

The nursing programs at Anoka-Ramsey Community College have been approved by the Minnesota Board of nursing and also fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. There are two options for the nursing programs that lead to the award of an associate in science with a concentration in nursing degree. The programs are explained below:

2-Year Nursing Program

This program has been specifically designed for students who have no prior nursing experience. Students enrolled in this program will be expected to take a total of 64 credits of which, 30 are general education and the remaining 34 are nursing credits. The learning mode is full time for both clinical and classroom instructions in a period of two years. Students can also take courses at both campuses in Cambridge and Coon Rapids. Basically, students are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam after successful graduation with the associate of Science in nursing degree.

LPN Mobility Program

The program is designed for career advanced needs of licensed practical nurses certified in Minnesota State. It takes students three semesters to complete the program after receiving the 12 advanced placement standing from the LPN license. Starting on the nursing courses for the associate degree does not require students to sit for a transition/ bridging exam. Instead, the transition courses are offered along with the usual nursing courses during the three semesters of study.

 In total, student being enrolled for the LPN mobility take fewer credits than fresh entry level nursing students. After exemptions, 22 nursing credits are taken at Anoka Ramsey community college as opposed to the 34 for the 2-year program students. Just like the first option, the program makes the students eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.

ADN to BSN Opportunities

The college has made arrangement with other universities to allow ADN graduates to further their career by taking a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. On this note, students can finish a BSN right at the Cambridge campus of the college courtesy of the Bemidji State University or at Coon Rapids campus via direct articulation agreements between Anoka Ramsey and Metropolitan State University

On a further note, Anoka-Ramsey Community College has also formed articulation agreements with the following major universities and colleges to allow students transfer credits towards a BSN.

• Winona State University
• Augsburg College
• Minnesota State University- Moorhead
• Minnesota State University –Mankato
• College of St. Scholastica
• Bethel University

Contact:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
300 Spirit River Drive, South Cambridge,
MN 55008

Augsburg College Nursing Program Review

Augsburg College is a church college of the Lutheran church of America. As such, its history dates back to the 1870s when it served as a seminarian college in Wisconsin. The college later moved to its current city location but the needs of training personnel for a city necessitated the change of the seminary into a general education college alongside the seminary. At this period, the college started admitting female students and the seminary and the liberal arts college was separated. Since then, the college has grown tremendously to offering undergraduate, master and doctoral degrees in many academic fields.

Nursing at Augsburg College

The nursing programs of Augsburg College (AC) are offered at the main campus and the Rochester Lutheran church nursing division. The programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Minnesota board of Nursing. All programs are for advancement outlooks and do not take-in fresh nursing students but those seeking career advancing from registered nursing.

BSN Completion

Students are expected to take a total of seven nursing major courses which can be completed in either a part time of full time basis. Full time students can complete the program in about fifteen months if they have taken their liberal arts and general education course prior to admission into the program. The courses can also be taken during the weekends and evenings while clinical practicum must be taken during the day for part timers. The college has the sole mandate of deciding what courses from other colleges can be accepted towards completing the BSN at Augsburg.

Master of Arts in Nursing

This a unique master degree offered as an option for advanced nursing at Augsburg College. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is offered in both campuses of Augsburg College. Students are welcome to choose from two tracks of the MA namely:

• Master of Arts in nursing-Trans-cultural Nursing Community Track
• Master of Arts in Nursing-Transformational Leadership & Management Track

For both programs, students must take a total of 10 courses, five of which are directed to nursing tracks mentioned above. The programs are unique from the usual master of science in nursing in that it focuses on bringing nursing services to the population that are beyond the mainstream traditional care nursing . Students taking the Trans-cultural option will be eligible for certification as advanced community health nurses. On the other hand, students who choose the transformational leadership track receive classroom instruction from courses in master of business administration, Master of Arts in leader and from the nursing department.

Doctor on Nursing Practice

This terminal degree in nursing offers masters prepared students to undertake studies with a focus on trans-cultural nursing. The program is available as both a full time and part time commitment with a total of 10 courses. The part timers are expected to complete their program in three years while the full time basically runs for two academic years.

Contact:
Augsburg College
2211 Riverside Avenue, South Minneapolis,
MN 55454

Bemidji State University Nursing School Review

In 1919, the history of a school that would become Bemidji State University started. It started off as a normal school training teachers but the scope was later re-organized to include diverse programs. The university has changed names thrice from its time of inception i.e. from a state teachers college to Bemidji State College and to the current name. The university’s name comes from its location; which is just at the shores of Lake Bemidji in Minnesota. It has a rich culture due to the large proportion of American Indian learners and the influence of urban life.

Bemidji State University Nursing- (BSU Nursing)

The department of nursing at Bemidji State University (BSU) is mandated to offer various nursing degrees. The two nursing programs offered by the university are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. They are also approved by the Minnesota Board of nursing and are follows:

Four year BSN Track Program

The 4-year Baccalaureate nursing track program at Bemidji State University focuses on molding professional nurses who are on their first nursing experience. The track requires students to take a minimum of 120 credits of both nursing and non nursing courses. Students start their freshmen year on general education credits and only take nursing courses starting from the sophomore year. Completion of the program awards the student a baccalaureate in nursing degree.

RN to BS Track

This track on nursing is older than the four year track at Bemidji. It specifically focuses on the advancement career needs of already registered nurses holding either diploma or associate degrees. Since the program is designed for working professionals, it is very flexible and includes both part time and full time study options.

The program is affiliated with Anoka-Ramsey Community College where some classes are offered in the colleges’ Cambridge campus.  The courses schedule is complex as senior and junior students never meet in the same campus at the same time. On this note, students only meet in campus as a whole for the first two weeks and consecutive classes are alternate- online and campus based.

Students at the junior level attend classes every 3-4 fours weeks on Mondays and Fridays at the Anoka Ramsey Community college Cambridge campus and the rest of the classes are offered online. Similarly, senior students attend classes every 3-4 four weeks at the department of nursing clinical resource centre in Bemidji State University with the rest of the classes being offered online.

The flexibility of the program also allows adult learners to choose their most convenient location for the clinical practicum mostly within their neighborhoods. The blended format of both online and campus instruction makes the program an attractive option for registered nurses seeking to complete a BSN. The program is very short and requires only 33 nursing credits to complete.

For students of Anoka-Ramsey Community College, this program from Bemidji State University guarantees them direct transition into completing the four year nursing BSN. Since the program is partially offered at their college, they are at a better chance to enroll for the program when starting off at Anoka.

Contact:
Bemidji State University
1500 Birchmont Drive, NE Bemidji,
MN 56601

Bethel University Nursing School Review

For students who want to learn in an environment with an evangelical perspective, Bethel University (BU) offers that. The university was established in 1871 and was then called Baptist Union Theological College. It remained a seminary center, training ministers and pastors until 1989 when the first non-theological programs were introduced. Shortly afterwards, adult-targeted bachelor degrees were introduced which saw the change of the name from the initial name to Bethel University; a world class private university. It still maintains its initial seminary as one of its colleges alongside the recently introduced colleges.

Bethel University-Department of Nursing

The department of nursing at Bethel University offers undergraduate and master level nursing degree programs. The department maintains the mission and vision of the founder of the university which was to bring a Christ-like presence in the nursing profession. Due the strong affiliation to the Converge Worldwide church, students must take a curriculum that integrates Christian faith into nursing profession.

The curriculum has a huge percentage of liberal arts courses that emphasizes spirituality, caring, integrity, value for life. Three programs have been approved and accredited by the Minnesota Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education as outline below:

Pre-Licensure Undergraduate Degree (BS in Nursing)

The degree takes the form of the traditional four-year program of study. Students are expected to have full time commitment to the program for both the practical and classroom instructions. The program aims at preparing nurses who will be eligible to write the NLEX-RN as part of becoming registered nurses. It requires 125 credits to complete, with a good number having a Christian faith and liberal arts outlook.  The program also takes in transfer students from other colleges and universities who wish to complete their BSN.

BS in Nursing (RN to BS)

The program is meant for already registered nurses as it aims at building on prior nursing experience. Students are enrolled in a cohort and move on as so to the completion of the program. Students who hold associate and diplomas in nursing are the targets of the 12 courses program.  Since most of the admitted students are adults, the classes are designed to be flexible to cater for working RNs. In this case, students meet in either Arden Hills or Bloomington campuses or the North Hennepin Community College. Classes happen in the evenings only once for four hours per week for a duration of 20 months for which 37 credits are covered.

M.A. in Nursing

This program at Bethel University welcomes both BS in nursing students and other non-nursing baccalaureate holders. For the BS in nursing graduate, the curriculum is short and they graduate with a Master of Arts in Nursing with concentrations in either Nursing Education or Nursing Healthcare Leadership. The other group of students graduates with two parallel degrees, a BS in Nursing and a Master of Arts in nursing with options of the same specialties as above. The latter option, also known as a combined degree option takes 3 and 4 years to complete for the Education and Leadership concentrations respectively.

Contact:
Bethel University
3900 Bethel Drive, St. Paul,
MN 55112

Century College Nursing Program Review

Century College came into existence after a bill was passed to merge two state colleges; Northeast Metro Tech College and Lakewood Community College. This happened in 1996 and resulted to the now Century College. The college is dedicated to offering affordable high quality education in the Ramsey and South Washington counties among others in Minnesota and beyond. It is part of the Minnesota State Colleges & Universities System (MnSCU) system

Nursing Programs at Century Community and Technical College

Century Community college has four nursing programs under its health care careers division. Three of the four lead to an associate degree and one is a certificate program. The college has also a number of continuing education courses for Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses who want to keep abreast with changing trends or for license renewal contact hours. All programs at Century are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing

Associate Degree Nursing Program

This program has three career pathways all leading to the award of an associate degree in nursing as outlined below:

• Traditional Track Nursing

The first option of the associate degree is the traditional track that takes four semesters to complete.  64 credits in the ratio of 34 to 3o are required for the nursing and general education course requirements. The candidates for this program are fresh nursing students who no prior nursing experience.  Completion of the program places the students in a position to sit for the NLCEX-RN to become registered nurses.

• LPN Mobility Track

This track is meant for candidates who hold licenses as practical nurses. The programs total number of credits is equivalent to those of the traditional track only that here, students receive advanced standing for their LPN licenses.  Students take 23 nursing credits at Century and receive 11 advanced standing credits after passing an assessment of LPN skills and Knowledge. An additional 30 general education units are needed to complete the 64 credit associate track. Completion is after three semesters; a summer for the LPN assessment and a fall and spring semester for the nursing courses.

• Paramedic Mobility Track

This enables licensed paramedics to make the transition to registered nursing. Just like the LPN mobility track, paramedics receive 11 advanced standing credits after assessment of their paramedic skill and knowledge. 23 credits are then taken at Century in three semesters, with the same mode as the LPN track. After completion of the 64 credits, paramedics are usually in a position to write the NCLEX-RN and become registered nurses.

Note

The three tracks of the associate degree are delivered in either day or a hybrid of day and online modes for the nursing courses.  All general and prerequisites can be completed in day, evening or online modes on part time or full time basis. The traditional track starts at fall and spring semesters while the LPN and Paramedic Mobility start only in the summer semester.

Nursing Assistant

The nursing assistance certificate program is a 4-credit program that enables students to be entered in the States’ Registry of Nursing Assistants. The program has admission in all three semesters year round and is available in daytime or evening schedules.

Continuing Education

On this segment of Century Community & Technical College, nurses and LPNs have access to a number CEUs.  Courses are CPR training, nursing cont’ Ed, Nursing assistant, phlebotomy and other health related technician courses.

Contact:
Century College
3300 Century Avenue North,
White Bear Lake, MN 55110

College of Saint Benedicts & Saint John’s University Nursing School Review

A wonderful and unique partnership it is, the college of Saint Benedicts (CSB)- for Women and Saint Johns’ University (SJU)- for men, two distinct yet parallel colleges. The college and the university are deeply rooted into the catholic faith; the base of their foundation. The two schools offer liberal arts programs and are ranked among the top liberal colleges in the United States. Peculiar though, the two in one schools offers the same academic programs yet retain their individual identities in matters of campuses, traditions and other extra curriculum programs.

Department of Nursing at CSB/SJU

The department of nursing offers only one fully accredited and approved four-year baccalaureate program. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Minnesota Board of Nursing has accredited and approved the program and has been offered in the schools for about thirty years. The program is taken by female and male students from the respective schools hence, it is a co-ed program.

The Nursing Major

Is it the only nursing program from the CSB/SJU and runs for a period of four years. The program takes the form of a full time program and students are expected to take courses from both the College of St Benedicts and St Johns’ University. The curriculum of the program is highly inclined to nursing courses with a view of the catholic Benedictine setting. Each nursing course has this element and students are expected to base their nursing practice from those teachings.

The program takes a holistic approach to nursing and most of the liberal arts courses focus on training nurses who will cater for patients of all ages. During the freshman year, students take liberal arts and general education credits. These run for three consecutive semesters until the fall of the sophomore year.

Starting from the fall of second year, students start on the nursing majors which run for five consecutive semesters. 55 nursing major credits must be completed for eligibility to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.  The program prepares student for state licensure exam in their pursuit to become registered nurses.

As part of the program completion norm, students are sent- out on a short- study abroad experience. In this case, students can either travel to S. Africa, Ecuador or Mexico to complete the study abroad experience.

Transfer and Early Admission Information

Students from other colleges and universities are welcome to apply for the transfer of credits to college of St. Benedict / St. John University. However, the transfer policy decides the number of students to take on a competitive basis. Students wishing to transfer their credits to the nursing program should be aware that they will only be accepted if there is available space left. Priority to admission is given to students who have completed pre-requisite courses at the school.

There is also a chance for students to apply for an early admission into the nursing program using the most recent ACT or SAT scores at the time of application. Students who get enrolled via this route must pass exceptionally well to be allowed in the liberal and general education course at first-year level to be allowed to progress into the major.

Contact:
College of Saint Benedicts
37 South College Avenue,
St. Joseph, MN 56374

Or

Saint John’s University
2850 Abbey Plaza,
Collegeville, MN 56321

St. Catherine University Nursing School Review

St. Catherine University, previously known as College of Saint Catherine (CSC) is an school with a catholic identity whose history started back in early 1900s. The university was started under the leadership of Sisters of St Joseph of Carondelet and named after an Egyptian martyr. By then, it had the name College of St. Catherine which was changed recently to Saint Catherine University (St. Kate’s, SCU).  Prior to the renaming, the college merged with St. Mary’s School of Nursing and as such, nursing in the university has a long history of excellence. It is located in the Twin cities and has one extended campus location.

Henrietta Schmoll School of Health

The Henrietta Schmoll School of Health leads the stewardship of nursing programs at Saint Catherine University. The school has numerous programs of study ranging from associate degrees to doctoral programs, all which have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.  The nursing programs available in an ascending order are:

Associate Programs

• Nursing: Associate of Nursing

The program is a co-ed program that trains pre-nursing students to become professional nurses. The curriculum is designed to run for two-three years of full time study upon which, students are in a position to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Students start off with liberal arts courses and then progress to nursing courses. Courses are offered only at the university’s Minneapolis campus.

• Nursing: LPN to RN Mobility Program

The program gives licensed practical nurses a chance to become registered nurses. LPNs receive advanced standings from the LPN certificate and complete the program in one academic year. Courses are offered at the Minneapolis campus on an evening/ weekend study mode. Students graduate with an associate of science in nursing degree and become ready to write the state RN licensure exam.

Baccalaureate Majors

• Nursing: Baccalaureate Day

The program is offered on a full time day schedule at the main campus at St. Paul. Basically, student nurses are prepared to sit for the NLCEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses in addition to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree (BSN).

• Nursing: RN to Bachelor’s

This program is also offered during weekends at St Paul’s campus and is designed for registered nurses stepping up to the bachelor’s level. It accepts transfer students and takes about two to three years to complete depending on the acceptable number credits accepted for transfer.

Master of Arts in Nursing (MA in Nursing)

The Master of Arts in nursing program is offered at the main campus with classes being scheduled in the evening and weekends only. Two concentrations: Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner are available for students to choose from. Further, students can choose from three functional roles under the Nurse Practitioner concentration i.e.

• Neonatal option
• Adult Gerontological option
• Pediatric option

Generally, students must complete 37 credits for the education track and up to 40 credits for the practitioner track depending on which option is chosen.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This terminal nursing program at Saint Catherine University is meant for Masters degree prepared students. It is an evidence based program where students are expected to cover 9 clinical credits and 19 theory credits.  The curriculum is delivered on a part time basis and students only come to campus to campus once monthly for face to face instructions.

Contact:
St. Catherine University
2004 Randolph Ave, St. Paul,
MN 55105

College of St. Scholastica Nursing Program Review

The College of St. Scholastica (CSS) was founded by a group of the catholic identity sisters; sisters of Benedictine. It was initially a women only university but later evolved to a co-ed centre offering courses to both men and women. The college is located in Duluth, Minnesota where its mains campus is but has other satellite campuses at Rochester, St. Paul, St Cloud and Brainerd. It neighbors the nearby Lake Superior and has a serene learning environment set on 186 acres of land.

School of Nursing

Twenty years after its founding, the College of Saint Scholastica started their first baccalaureate nursing programs which run for five years. Since then on, the colleges has designed and seek approval and accreditation of master and doctoral degrees in addition to variations of the Bachelor of Science in nursing. The programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

BS Nursing

This is a nursing program that leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science degree with a nursing major. The curriculum is delivered on a full time basis and students are expected to complete a minimum of 117 credits. It prepares nurse on holistic nursing practice approach and strictly adheres to the Catholic/Benedictine setting in curriculum delivery. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses.

RN to BS online

The program is specially designed to cater for the advancing education needs of already registered nurses. In this case, it is a bachelor’s completion program that takes in associate or diploma prepared registered nurses. The most appealing aspect of this program is that it is offered exclusively online. This gives adult learners a chance for them to continue with their education without giving-up their jobs or families. Completion leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Post Baccalaureate Nursing

The College of St. Scholastica welcomes interested students who hold non nursing degrees to start their path into professional nursing.  There are two tracks which students can take towards their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. On the first track, students take a full time day study from the main campus in Duluth and students must study in cohorts. On the second option, students can study on hybrid online and face to face instruction where the classroom instructions are taken at St. Clouds Campus grounds. Classes are accelerated and run to about 15 to 16 months for both tracks. On this note, students are advised to give-up their day jobs due to the fast pace

Master of Science in Nursing

The college of nursing has six nursing specialties at master level for students to choose from. They all require BSN-prepared nurses and mainly target students who are from underserved and rural areas on N. Minnesota.  All the programs have options of part time or full time study formats hence, are quite flexible. Most classes are offered during weekends, evenings or on a full day/per week format while some selected courses are taught online.  Students can take 2 to 7 seven years depending on the learning mode chosen. Tracks are:

·         Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program

·         Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Program

·         Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist

·         Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Program

·         Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Family Program

·         Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Adult Program

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The program welcomes both BSN and Master prepared students who are intrested in evidence based advanced nursing practice in all the master level tracks above (for the BSN candidates). The program is offered online and students only visit campus on a few occasions. The BS to DNP is has more campsus visits as comapred to the Post-masters option.

Contact:
College of St. Scholastica
1200 Kenwood Ave, Duluth,
MN 55811