Saint Vincent’s College Nursing Program Review

Saint Vincent’s College (SVC) was founded in 1905. Originally St. Vincent’s School of Nursing, it has evolved into a leader in health science education. This Catholic school offers a variety of programs to over 550 students each year. The majority of students are women.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Science – Nursing

The associate degree nursing (ADN) program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The course of study includes class time, labs, and clinical practice. Graduates of the program will complete at least 72 credits and be eligible to take the license exam (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses (RNs).

Students may apply to the limited slots available for this program if they have taken high school biology and chemistry or the equivalent with a C grade or better within the last 5 years.

Once in the program, students need to earn a grade of B- or higher in each nursing class to be able to progress to the next level. All other classes must be taken with a C+ grade or higher. If a student earns lower than a B- in more than one nursing course, they will be dropped from the program. Also, if a student fails a clinical course, they will be dropped from the program.

SVC is affiliated with St. Vincent’s Medical Center, a modern acute care medical facility. Students will perform their clinical courses there, and at other area health care facilities.

Advanced Standing for Licensed Practical Nurses

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) wishing to gain advanced placement in the associate degree program must meet the admission criteria listed above, and submit transcripts from their previous nursing education. According to the Articulation Model for Nurse Educational Mobility in Connecticut, LPNs may be awarded up to 16 credits toward the associate degree program.

To qualify for articulation, LPNs must have a current license. They will be required to complete any general education courses, an online bridge course, and a nursing transition course prior to taking the final year of nursing courses.

Advanced placement is also an option for students who do not hold a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Any student may challenge courses, whether clinical or theory.

Online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This online RN to BSN program is available to Registered Nurses currently licensed in Connecticut who want to earn their BSN degree. To graduate, students will complete at least 125 credits, and must finish the program within four years of starting.

Through the Connecticut State Articulation Model, students may apply for advanced placement credit to be applied toward their BSN. Graduates of the SVC associate degree program may earn up to 84 credits as follows: 36 credits for General Education, 36 credits for Nursing, and 12 credits for additional courses taken either at St. Vincent’s or at another school.

Students that graduated from an associate degree program at another school may also earn up to 36 Nursing credits and 48 General Education credits, for a total of 84.

Graduates of a diploma program may earn up to 30 General Education and 30 Nursing credits, for a total of 60.

All courses must have a grade of C or higher and must be equivalent to a class from SVC for the credit to transfer.

Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

All students in the SVC nursing program must be CPR certified each year, and proof must be submitted each fall semester. Students may take the course offered throughout the year at SVC at their own expense.

RN Refresher Certificate

SVC offers an RN Refresher Certificate for RNs who wish to return to acute care practice after being away from it. This is a 152 hour, seven week program that will reinforce previously learned skills, update advances in technology and practices, and provide hands-on practice in a nursing skills lab and a clinical setting.

This program is open to anyone with a current Connecticut RN license. Students must apply to the Continuing Education Office of St. Vincent’s College.

Contact:
Saint Vincent’s College
2800 Main Street
Bridgeport, CT 06606

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Southern Connecticut State University Nursing School Review

Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) enrolls almost 12,000 students each year, yet their student to faculty ratio is just 15 to 1, giving them a small college feel. Southern began as a two year teacher training school in 1893, and became a four year institution in 1937. It gained its current name in 1983 and was made part of the state’s University System.

The Nursing Program is part of the College of Health and Human Services.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN nursing program at Southern has been in place since 1969 and is National League for Nursing accredited. The traditional BSN program requires students to complete 128 credits to graduate, at which time they will be allowed to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.

To apply for the 4-Year Traditional Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree program, students must first complete 11 prerequisite courses in the subjects of English Composition, Statistics, Math, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Physics. Students must have a 3.0 GPA or higher in these courses to enter the program. It should take the first two years of study, including summer, for students to complete these prerequisites.

Once a student is admitted into the undergraduate nursing BSN program, it will take four years to complete it from start to finish on a full time basis. The BSN program may be taken full time or part time, and students are admitted once a year.

Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) BSN

The ACE program is for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study, who now want to earn their BSN. As long as the requirements listed above have been met, this intensive program takes 12 months to complete.

Due to the high demand for this program, only the first 120 students that apply each year will be considered for admission. Students must have a 3.0 GPA to apply.

RN to BSN

This program has a flexible admission policy for RNs who have graduated from an associate degree or diploma program, and who want to earn their BSN.

Students will be granted 30 credits from prior education in accordance with the Connecticut Articulation Agreement, plus additional credit for equivalent courses if they have any. Students may also challenge certain general education courses and test out of them for credit. Associate degree students may transfer a maximum of 75 credits, diploma students up to 63 credits, and those who were in a 4 year program up to 90 credits.

Students must take the prerequisites of English Composition, Statistics, Math, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Statistics with a grade of C+ or better to apply for the program.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program allows students to continue professional growth and apply theory and knowledge, provide leadership, and conduct research.

Students must be a licensed RN with a BSN degree to apply. Applicants must submit an essay and letters of reference. There are three MSN programs students may choose to study:

• Nursing Education – for nurses who wish to teach, this program requires 24 credits of core master’s classes and 18 credits of specialized nurse educator courses. Students must also complete a thesis or special project to graduate.
• Clinical Nurse Leader – this program requires 24 credits of core classes and 12 credits of clinical courses, plus 500 clinical hours of practice and a thesis or special project.
• Family Nurse Practitioner – this program requires 24 credits of core classes, 18 Family Nurse Practitioner specialization courses, and a thesis (6 credits) or a research project (3 credits). Students will also complete 660 hours of clinical practice.

Bridge Program

RNs that have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing can enter the MSN program through the Bridge Program. This is a flexible program with many online offerings in addition to traditional classes.

To apply, RNs must be currently licensed and demonstrate they have the skills of a BSN graduate by taking National League for Nursing challenge exams. They must also show proof of having taken Research, Statistics, and Health Assessment.

Post Master’s Certificates

SCSU offers Post Master’s Certificates for students who already hold an MSN degree. These are offered in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, and Clinical Nurse Leader. Students need to hold a current Connecticut RN license to apply.

The FNP Certificate takes two years, 27 credits of study, and 660 hours of clinical practice to complete, and qualifies graduates to take the nurse practitioner certification exam.

The Nurse Educator Certificate is a 9 credit option with 12 hours per week of clinical experience.

The Clinical Nurse Leader Certificate requires 6 credits of study to complete the program.

Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Nursing Education

This program is offered in collaboration with Western Connecticut State University and is the only one of its kind in Connecticut, and one of a few in the United States. It is designed to train nurses to be nursing faculty.

The program is mostly offered online, and also includes on campus residencies at the beginning of the program, after the first year, and after the second year of study.

Only 25 students are admitted into this program each year. Students must have a current RN license, an MSN degree, GRE or MAT scores, references, a resume, and personal statement. The program requires 51 credits of study including a dissertation.

Contact:
Southern Connecticut State University
501 Crescent Street
New Haven, CT, 06515

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Three Rivers Community College Nursing Program Review

Following a state legislature to merge community and technical colleges, Three Rivers Community College (TRCC) was formed. This was in 1992 when Mohegan Community College and Thames Valley State Technical College merged. The college picked the new name in reflection of its location around three rivers in Connecticut.

With a main campus on New London Turnpike, the college has other two satellite campuses in Ella and Groton in the effort to reach more communities and fulfill its mission as a community college. Three Rivers has almost 4000 enrolled students and over 2500 continuing education students in attendance every year.

Nursing Programs

The nursing program at Three Rivers Community College is offered under the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP). It is an innovative common program offered in six community colleges in the state. The admission requirements to get into the program are similar and the curriculum is also common. Students interested in the program must apply to their community college of choice and as such, take the nursing program from that particular college. The program also provides LPNs with a bridge program to make the transition into nursing. Accreditation for this common program is granted by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

Three Rivers community college is one of the six participating colleges that offer the CT-CCNP associate degree in nursing (ADN). The program is designed for both fresh-entry level students and also LPN to RN students.

This ADN program takes four semesters to complete after taking the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, with 38 of these as Nursing credits and 30 as General Education credits. The nursing program was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.

The prerequisite courses for the Three Rivers nursing program are English with a grade of C or better, and Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have taken Math and Chemistry at the high school level or the college equivalent, must show computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must also have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses.

To apply, students submit an online application to CT-CCNP, stating Three Rivers Community College is their first choice of college to attend. The school will rank all applicants based on a combination of their TEAS score, GPA and grades in Anatomy and Physiology. Applicants will then be selected based on rank order for 75% of the open slots. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening.

Three Rivers offers required lab and clinical courses during the day, evenings, and weekends. Students will spend their clinical hours at various health care facilities in the area. Sites will be assigned by nursing faculty.

After graduation, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduation from the program does not guarantee an RN license.

*Note: Students interested in joining the program must apply to the community college they wish to study in. Admission into each college is independent though the selection criterion is similar. Students are also encouraged to indicate a 2^nd choice college besides the primary First choice college. This second application is done in the same application form; therefore, students do not have to complete a second application form. This is meant to increase the chances of getting admission if other colleges do not get the required candidates from their selection basis.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement

The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. LPNs that are currently licensed and meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation. In other words, For Connecticut based Licensed Practical nurses, advanced placement is allowed if they hold current Connecticut licenses. Eligible candidates are required to complete a Connecticut LPN Transition Bridge course which must be taken at Charter Oak State College. An additional CT-CCNP LPN Transition Course will also be required for students to receive advanced standing.

This LPN bridging provision is available to Connecticut LPN graduates while out of state transfer cases are only considered on a space availability basis. All evaluation for transfer eligibility is done by the college of first choice.

To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the prerequisite General Education courses of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must take two LPN Transition Bridge courses.

External Transfer Nursing Students

Students that have taken nursing courses at other schools may apply to transfer credit for them to CT-CCNP for advanced placement in the associate degree program.

Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. They must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better to be considered for the program. External transfer students are considered as space is available. To graduate from a CT-CCNP school, students must earn at least 25% of their credits at that school.

Continuing Education – Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

This is a 120 hour program to teach individuals the skills required to give basic care to patients. Graduates of the course will be qualified as Home Health Aides and will have their names placed on the State Certified Nurse Aide Registry.

To apply, students must pass a Math and English comprehension test, or provide proof of college level courses. Students must also have a high school diploma and TB test within the last year.

Continuing Education – Patient Care Technician

This program is made up of one month of twice a week classes and one month of twice a week clinical practice. Students will learn to give direct care, monitor vital signs, and record patient information.

Students must be a certified CNA with at least 3 months of work experience in the field. They must also provide immunization records and have a TB test within the last year.

Health Career Pathways Certificate Program

This program provides students with a foundation to begin their healthcare career. Students will take courses in Biology, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Chemistry, Algebra, and English. Credits earned in this program may be applied toward healthcare program requirements at any member of the Community College system of Connecticut. This program requires 28 credits to complete.

Educational Advancement for CT-CCNP Graduates

Graduates of Three Rivers Community College and all others of the CT-CCNP program have the choice of taking advantage of the articulation agreements that exist with 4-year BSN programs. Agreements have been made between Three Rivers Community College for graduates wishing to take the RN to BSN degrees at:

• Southern Connecticut State University
• Fairfield University
• University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (Online Program)
• Saint Joseph College
• Sacred Heart University
• University of Hartford
• Western Connecticut State University
• St Vincent’s College

Two more has articulation agreements for those seeking a direct RN to MSN are available at:

• Yale University School of Nursing
• Sacred Heart University

Contact:
Three Rivers Community College
574 New London Turnpike
Norwich, CT 06360

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University of Connecticut Nursing School Review

The University of Connecticut (Uconn) was founded as the Storrs Agricultural School in 1881. It became the University of Connecticut in 1939, and now enrolls over 22,000 students each year. Uconn is among the top 20 public universities in the country, according to US News and World Report.

The Uconn School of Nursing has been named as a Center of Excellence by the National League of Nursing (NLN). The academic nursing programs at the school are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate College Nursing of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Commission (AACN).

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing

This program is for students wishing to enter the field of nursing. The first four semesters are spent building an educational foundation with general education and science courses. Most of the nursing courses will be taken during the last four semesters, along with the clinical coursework. To graduate, students must earn at least 127 credits and have a GPA of at least 2.5. Graduates of the program may sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensure exam.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

The MS program prepares nurses to become advanced practice specialists. Core classes of the MS program are offered either in classrooms or online. Students may complete the program full time or part time. Applying to UCONN Graduate School can all be accomplished online.

The MS program offers the following specialty tracks for the MS degree:

• Adult/Gero Acute Care – this 45 credit program prepares graduates to take the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification.
• Adult/Gero Primary Care – this program is 47 credits, and allows graduates to take the Adult Nurse Practitioner exam for certification.
• Clinical Nurse Leader – students will take a minimum of 34 credits to graduate, and be allowed to take national board certification.
• Family Nurse Practitioner – this program requires 47 credits and allows students to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification.
• Neonatal Acute Care – after completing 43-45 credits, students may sit for the Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist exam.

Post-Master’s Certificates

RNs with MS degrees can pursue an area of clinical concentration with a Post-Master’s Certificate. To apply, students must have a 3.0 GPA from their MS program.

The three Post-Masters Certificates available at UConn are Adult Acute Care, Adult Primary Care, and Neonatal Acute Care.

RN to MS

Self-directed students with an associate degree or diploma in nursing and a current RN license may apply to the RN to MS program. Students will take a combination of General Education courses, Nursing courses, and RN to MS courses.

To be eligible, students must start the program within six years of graduating from their RN program. Students may transfer general education credits from their previous education provided they earned a C or higher. They will also earn at least 30 nursing credits and up to another 30 credits, per the state articulation agreement.

Masters Entry into Nursing (MEIN)

This is a three year program for students who hold a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. The first year is devoted to learning basic nursing skills, and at that point students will be awarded a basic nursing certificate and be allowed to take the RN license exam. During the next two years, students will take the required nursing courses and earn both a bachelors and a masters degree.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

UConn has the first DNP program in Connecticut. This program supports nursing professionals that prefer a non-research based doctoral program. This program takes nine semesters to complete if taken full time.

The specialties available in the DNP program are:

• Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner: Acute Care
• Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner: Primary Care
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Acute Care: Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Neonatal Acute Care: Nurse Practitioner

BS to DNP

Students that hold a BS degree in nursing and want a career in advanced practice nursing (APRN), as a Nurse Executive, or as clinical faculty may apply to the DNP. This program has the same specialties available as the traditional program.

Post Master’s DNP

The Post Master’s DNP is the highest degree of professional expertise and allows students to specialize in an individual area. Students must have an MS degree in Nursing and certification in their specialty. This course of study is two years if taken full time.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD program in nursing prepares nurse leaders to pursue quantitative and qualitative research methods and advance the scientific body of knowledge of nursing. To enter the program, students must have at least a bachelor’s degree and a 3.25 GPA.

This is a three year program if taken full time.

BS to PhD

Students with a BS in nursing can apply to the PhD in nursing program. This program is for nurses who wish to specialize in research, public policy, nursing philosophy, and theory. They must have a 3.25 GPA and be eligible for RN licensing in Connecticut.

Study Abroad

The School of Nursing has a Study Abroad program to allow students to immerse themselves in clinical experiences in another culture. Most programs require a GPA of 2.5 or higher to apply, and nearly all of them are open to juniors and seniors, with many open to sophomores. Students may apply for this program online.

Urban Service Track

The Urban Service Track is dedicated to training skilled health care workers to care for the underserved populations of Connecticut. Participants come from the School of Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine, and Dental Medicine. Known as Urban Health Scholars, they are eligible for financial assistance and scholarships. Interested students may apply to the University of Connecticut Health Center.

Contact:
University of Connecticut
115 North Eagleville Road
Storrs-Mansfield, CT 06269
Tel: (860) 486-2000
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University of Hartford Nursing School Review

In 1957, three schools merged to become the University of Hartford (U of H). The school has grown from a commuter college to a large residential university serving the Hartford community. The University of Hartford enrolls over 7000 students each semester, and offers over 80 undergraduate and over 30 graduate majors.

Nursing Programs

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

This program is for the RN who wishes to earn their BSN degree and further their nursing education. The BSN program does not accept freshmen. This part time program is designed to meet the needs of working students. Classes are offered once a week in late afternoon or evening. Students are also encouraged to take equivalent courses at community colleges when convenient. However, they will need to take their final 30 credits at University of Hartford.

Students with an associate degree or diploma in nursing may transfer into the University of Hartford. They will be granted 60 credits or more toward their BSN program. This program generally takes students two to three years to complete.

To be eligible to apply, students must have a current RN license and have earned a C grade or higher in all previous nursing classes.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

The MS in Nursing program has three areas of focus, listed below. To be eligible to apply, students must have a BSN degree from an accredited institution, a current RN license or be eligible for one, and one year of RN work experience. They must also submit their professional goals and a resume, letters of recommendation, and have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.

MS in Nursing – Nursing Education Focus

This program is designed for nurses who wish to pursue a career in education. The focus is on curriculum development and theories of learning and teaching. Students may take this flexible, 34 credit course of study part time while they continue working. Most students complete the program in two to four years.

MS in Nursing – Nursing Management Focus

The Nursing Management program is for nurse leaders and managers who work in acute and long term care facilities. The program requires 34 credits to complete, and focuses on leadership and administration as it pertains to nursing. The program may be personalized for each student to fit their goals, and generally takes two to four years to complete.

MS in Nursing – Public Health Focus

This program is for nurses who have roles in public health departments, global health care, and a variety of school and occupational health settings. Graduates focus on public health care policy and theory. This is a 34 credit program that takes from two to four years to complete, depending on how many classes students wish to take at one time. The program may be personalized to fit each student’s career goals.

Post Masters Certificate in Teaching for Nurses

This is a 12 credit program to train nurses as confident nurse educators. Students in this program already have an MS degree in Nursing, and are interested in becoming faculty at a nursing school or educating a specific patient population. This program may be started in either the fall or spring semester.

Project Horizon

This community outreach project is part of the Center for Health, Care and Well-Being. Nursing students have been offering health and education services to schools, neighborhood agencies and the homeless for over 25 years.

Volunteers give four to six hours per week and attend a class focused on cultural issues, diversity, and family values.

Contact:
University of Hartford
200 Bloomfield Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117

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Western Connecticut State University Nursing School Review

Western Connecticut State University (WestConn, or WCSU) was founded over 100 years ago and has two campuses in Danbury, CT. These campuses, which are 3 miles apart, are the Midtown and West Side campuses. WCSU is a public, liberal arts university. It enrolls over 6,000 students each semester to join its various courses. The student to faculty ratio is 16 to 1, so students will be assured to receive personalized attention.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing

The BS in Nursing program is for the beginning nurse. The program accepts 60 students each year, and offers small class sizes and one of the highest pass rates for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam in Connecticut.

Students begin as pre-nursing majors, and then are admitted to the nursing program beginning their sophomore year. To be eligible to apply, students must have completed or be currently taking Writing, Communications, Psychology, Sociology, Chemistry, and Math. They must have a 2.5 GPA or better.

Students must earn a C grade or higher in all nursing courses to remain in the program. To graduate, students will need to take a minimum of 125 credits.

RN to BS Program

This program is for RNs that have graduated from associate degree or diploma programs and who want to earn their BS degree in Nursing. To graduate from Western, students need to have taken a minimum of 30 credits or one half of the required courses for their major, whichever is greater, at the University. This program may be taken full time or part time.

Students with an RN license will receive up to 75 transfer credits toward their degree. Those that completed the associate degree in nursing are eligible to earn additional transfer credit up to 75 credits, and those who attended a four year college may earn up to 90 credits that can be applied to general education, elective, or major classes.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program is designed for nurses who want to prepare for a role in leadership, education, or management. Courses are offered in the evenings, and this program will take about four years to complete part time. Students must complete their degree program within six years of starting the program.

The MSN program has two specialty areas, and each one requires a minimum of 36 credits to complete.

The Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) specialty requires an additional 540 hours of clinical practicum study to complete. Students that successfully finish this course of study may take the national certification exam.

The Advanced Nursing Practice: Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) specialty is a clinical based program with more elective choices.

All MSN students are required to complete a thesis project.

Post-Master’s Adult Nurse Practitioner

This program gives adult nurse practitioners with an MSN degree the preparation to take the certification exam for adult nurse practitioners. To take this program students must have taken Advanced Clinical Pharmacology or be licensed as an advanced practice registered nurse in Connecticut or New York, and must have had continuing education or skills testing in the last 5 years.

Doctoral Preparation for Nurse Educators (EdD)

This program is the result of a collaboration between Western Connecticut State University and Southern Connecticut State University, and is designed to address the shortage of qualified nursing faculty. Aimed at MSN graduates with clinical experience, this program teaches nurses to be effective faculty members.

The EdD program is taught online, and requires students to attend residencies on campus before the program starts, and in the summer after year one and year two. Students will take 51 credits including a dissertation to complete the course of study.

Contact:
Western Connecticut State University
181 White Street
Danbury, CT 06810

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Yale University Nursing School Review

Yale University can trace its history back to 1701, when a college for arts and sciences was started. Renamed Yale College in 1718, the school has grown until present day, with over 11,000 students enrolled. Yale has been called the most beautiful urban college in America.

Yale School of Nursing (YSN) was founded in 1923, and was the first university program to train nurses in an educational setting, as opposed to an apprenticeship program.

Nursing Programs

Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN program trains students to become clinician-scholars in selected specialties and in research. This program is preparation for a wide variety of leadership roles.

To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree. They may already be a Registered Nurse (RN), or have no previous nursing experience. Those that are already licensed RNs can complete the program in two years if taken full time. There is also a part time study option available. Students will take a minimum of 40 credit hours to complete the program.

Students who have bachelors degree but no previous nursing experience can enter the Graduate Entry Pre-Specialty in Nursing (GEPN). This is a full time course of study, and takes two years plus a summer semester to complete. GEPN students will be qualified to sit for the RN licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) after their first year of study. GEPN students will take 80.9 credits to complete their degree, which includes the nursing courses required for the licensing exam.

The MSN program offers the following specialties:

• Adult Advanced Practice Nursing (AAPN) – offers tracks in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Acute/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Oncology Nurse Practitioner.
• Adult-Gerontological, Family, and Women’s Health – focuses on caring for diverse populations. Students will be prepared to take the certification exam for the specialization track they studied.
• Nurse-Midwifery – prepares nurse-midwives to provide care to women. Graduates will be eligible to take the American Midwifery Certification Board exam.
• Nursing Management, Policy and Leadership (NMPL) – this part time, online program prepares nurses to engage in management and think strategically.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) – students learn to provide care to children and adolescents. After graduation, students may apply for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certification.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health – prepares students to provide mental health care to patients at all stages. Graduates may apply to be psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners.

Post Master’s Certificates (Post-M.S.N.)

To apply for this program, students must have a current RN license, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, a master’s in a clinical specialty, and at least one year of clinical experience after completing their master’s degree. Students will submit an application, resume, personal statement, MSN transcript, and letters of recommendation.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program

The PhD program focuses on the research of health systems, clinical settings, and health care policy. This program is run by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Yale.

Students in this program must complete 12 core PhD courses, plus six courses in their specialization area. Students may take specialization courses in nursing or in a subject related to their dissertation.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program is for nurses in their mid-career who want to participate in the decision making process in health care systems. Applicants must hold an MSN in a related field and be licensed as an RN or advanced practice nurse.

This program may be completed in one year if taken full time, or two years if part time. The program is 38 credits, including a Capstone project.

Post-Doctoral Program

This program is designed to prepare nurses to perform research in health management and the risk of developing certain health conditions. PhD program students will be invited to apply for the Post-Doctoral program if their research is in line with the program.

Students also have two other opportunities for post-doctoral work: Fellows, which are funded by an outside source, or Associates, which are Yale funded grants.

Joint Degrees

The university offers a joint degree between nursing and divinity. Students may either earn an MSN and a Master of Arts in Religion (MAR), or an MSN and a Master of Divinity (MDiv). The first option is a three year program (four for GEPN program students), and the second option is a four year program (five for GEPN). Potential applicants need to meet with the MSN specialty director and the associate dean for academic affairs to determine if their program will work. Students in the Nurse-Midwifery specialty are not eligible for this program.

Students may also pursue a joint degree in nursing and public health. They will earn an MSN and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in three years, or four if they are GEPN students. Students must apply to both the School of Nursing and the School of Public Health. Students in the Nurse-Midwifery specialty are not eligible for this program.

Students may earn an MSN and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in three years, or four if they are in the GEPN program. Applicants must meet with the master’s program chair and the associate dean of academic affairs to determine if this program will work before they apply.

Contact:
Yale University
38 Hillhouse Avenue
New Haven, CT 06511

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Adams State University Nursing School Review

Adams State University (ASU), previously known as Adams State College, was founded as a teachers’ college in 1921. Serving Southern Colorado as a small, public liberal arts school, Adams State currently enrolls about 3700 students a semester.

Nursing Programs

Both of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs offered at Adams State are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

BSN – Traditional Degree Program

The traditional BSN program is a four year degree. Students take prerequisite courses and apply to the program at the end of their first year. They are generally accepted into the program and start their nursing courses at the beginning of their second year. This is a pre-licensure program. After graduation, students will be eligible to take their state licensing exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs)

To apply for the BSN program, students must have been accepted at Adams State and have a 3.0 GPA in their general education courses and their nursing prerequisite courses. Final acceptance into the program depends on maintaining a 3.0 average through the first semester of the sophomore year. Students must be computer literate. Prior to applying, students need to have completed Basic Nursing Skills or a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. In addition, they must submit a resume, a background check, an autobiographical 500 word essay, and provide two recommendation letters from former employers, instructors, coaches, or members of the clergy.

The prerequisite courses required for admission into the BSN program are English, Psychology, Sociology, Statistics, Math, Nutrition, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, History and Humanities. All courses must have a minimum grade of C- or better, except for the Math, Statistics and Science classes, which must have a C or better.

RN to BSN Degree Program

RNs wishing to obtain their bachelors degree may apply to the RN to BSN program. Students will get credit for coursework completed while working toward their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and will take upper level nursing and general educations courses to complete their BSN at ASU.

To apply to the RN to BSN program, students must be currently licensed as RNs and have a minimum 2.5 GPA in their previous coursework. It is recommended that students apply to the program after or near their ADN graduation.

Along with their application and official transcripts, students will need to submit a copy of their RN license, a background check and an essay on honesty, initiative and empathy, 500 words long.

To graduate, students must have their RN license and have 34 hours of RN transfer credits, 36 hours of nursing major courses, 50 hours of supporting and general education course, for a minimum of 120 hours.

San Luis Valley Center for Clinical Excellence

The San Luis Valley (SLV) Center for Clinical Excellence is a joint nursing educational program for Adams State College, Trinidad State Junior College, San Luis Valley Regional Medial Center, and Valley Wide Health Systems. The center provides educational resources for students of nursing as well as experienced nurses already practicing. It was designed to help qualified nurses graduate, and to improve the quality of healthcare in the San Luis Valley.

Contact:
Adams State College,
208 Edgemont Blvd.,
Alamosa, CO 81101
Tel: (719) 587-7011

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Aspen University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1987, Aspen University is committed to helping students get ahead with superior, affordable education. Aspen University has always been an online university, and was the first accredited school to have an online MBA program. Aspen University prides itself on offering online course programs that let students pursue their education on their own schedule while leading busy lives.

All courses at Aspen University are held online, and there are no set class times, so students may “attend class” at any time and from any location that is convenient for them. Students attend Aspen from all 50 states and from around the world. Students log into class via the Internet, and participate in the course discussions. Instructors can be reached by email and through the online class discussions.

Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN program at Aspen University is part of the College of Health Professions and Studies, and is designed to prepare nurses for leadership positions in management, education, and clinical settings. Courses are held online for students’ convenience, and clinical practicum courses are performed under direct supervision.

Aspen University offers MSN specialties in nursing administration and management, and nursing education. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Aspen is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

The MSN program requires students to take 15 credits of core courses, 18 credits of Administration and Management, 18 credits of Nursing Education, and a 3 credit Capstone course. The Capstone course is a custom-designed course where students will come up with an individual, comprehensive nursing research project. Students are advised to choose a topic of professional or personal interest to research. The Capstone course has a 6 month time limit, and is intended to have students apply theories, and principles to an actual nursing related issue.

Students will also be required to take two proctored exams during the MSN program. One will be given at the midpoint of the program, and one at the end. Students will go to an approved testing center and take the four hour exam. Exams are made up of three essay questions, and are open book.

Registered Nurse (RN) to MSN Bridge Program

The online RN to MSN Bridge Program at Aspen University is designed to assist RNs who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and want to earn an MSN degree. Students will not receive a BSN degree during the program, but instead will graduate with an MSN in either nursing administration and management or nursing education.

Students begin the program by taking 21 credits of undergraduate nursing classes (bridge courses), to prepare them for the demands of the MSN program. Once they have completed these credits, students will move on to their specialty and complete another 36 credits of graduate courses. All classes will be completed online, and clinical practicum courses are done under the supervision of a mentor. Students will also be required to take two proctored exams at an approved testing center.

Students that take this program full time can complete it in as little as two years.

Other Health Care Programs

Aspen University also offers other programs in the College of Health Professions and Studies.

Psychology and Addiction Counseling

Aspen University offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Psychology and Addiction Counseling. To be allowed to take the National Certified Counselor Examination, the exam many states use as a licensing exam for counselors, students taking either program must complete a 540 hour practicum prior to graduation.

Physical Education and Sports Management

Aspen’s Master of Science in Physical Education and Sports Management will prepare students for careers in coaching and sports management.

Contact:

Aspen University
720 Colorado 2 #1150
Denver, CO 80246

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Colorado State University-Pueblo Nursing School Review

Colorado State University, Pueblo (CSU-Pueblo) was established in 1933 as a junior college, and became a four year university in 1965. The university enrolls 5000 students each semester and offers 26 bachelor degrees and six master degree programs.

Nursing Programs

Undergraduate Programs

Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Basic BSN)

The Basic BSNThe university enrolls 5000 students each semester and offers 26 bachelor degrees and six master degree programs. program was designed for the student who wishes to enter a nursing career and currently has no nursing license or prior degree. Students will complete a total of 120 credits, including 74 credits of nursing classes, to earn their BSN.

Students will study their first year at CSU-Pueblo as pre-nursing, then apply to the nursing program during their second year. To apply they must have a minimum 3.25 GPA for all courses, and must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better.

Graduates will be qualified to take the National Certification and/or Licensing Exam (NCLEX) to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Licensed Practical Nurses BSN Option (LPN-BSN)

The LPN to BSN option is for LPNs or others who have completed an accredited nursing program to earn their BSN degree. Per CSU-Pueblo’s articulation agreement, students may transfer 7 nursing credits to count toward their degree.

To apply to the program, students must supply a copy of their current nursing license, in addition to meeting the requirements listed for the Basic BSN program.

Registered Nurse to BSN Option (RN-BSN)

The RN to BSN option is for students who are working RNs and already hold an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing. They must also have a current license in nursing from the state of Colorado.

To develop their course of study, students will meet with an RN-BSN advisor. The program will be designed with the student in mind, and can be accelerated, full time, or part time. Course options will be standard, online, or a mixture of both.

Students admitted to this program will receive 33 transfer credits, and will take 43 credits of general education and 33 credits of nursing courses. Students enter the RN-BSN program as juniors.

Degree Plus to BSN Nursing Accelerated Option

The Degree Plus to BSN option allows students who have a non-nursing bachelors degree and no nursing license to pursue their BSN degree. This is a challenging, fast-paced program that allows students to complete their BSN and be eligible to take the RN licensing exam in just 14 months.

Students must meet with a pre-nursing advisor to develop their program. They will be expected to take a minimum of 30 hours of coursework at CSU-Pueblo.

Paramedic to BSN Accelerated Option

Paramedics who graduated from an accredited program may earn their BSN with the Paramedic to BSN accelerated option. This program focuses on applying theories and experience to increasingly complex situations.

Students must meet with a pre-nursing advisor to develop their program. They will need to take a minimum of 30 hours of classes at CSU-Pueblo.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science (MS) – Nurse Educator

The MS – Nurse Educator program will prepare students to be college level faculty, teach in hospital based technical or nursing schools and be staff educators in health care facilities. Students must complete at least 360 contact hours of teaching, and complete the coursework over five to six semesters, if full-time. Students will then take two more semesters to work on either a thesis or research project. Graduates will have met the National League for Nursing Certification education requirements.

Post Master’s Nurse Practitioner to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program readies students to be experts in their advanced nursing area of expertise. This program has over 1100 hours of clinical immersion. Nurses in this program will be prepared for clinical practice at the highest level available in nursing. The DNP program has three emphasis programs available, listed below.

Adult/Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)

The ACNP is a fast-paced program designed to prepare students to provide acute care for adult patients. It is expected that students will complete the coursework and a minimum of 570 clinical practice hours in five semesters while attending school full time. Graduates will be eligible to take the exam for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification.

Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Emphasis (ACNP-FNP)

The ACNP-FNP trains students to provide advanced care to all patients. It is a full-time, six semester program with over 1050 hours of clinical practice required. Graduates can take both the exam for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification and the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis (PMHNP)

The PMHNP program is to train nurses in advanced psychiatric and mental health care. This program is five to six semesters long when taken full time, and students are required to complete a minimum of 570 clinical practice hours.

Contact:
Colorado State University – Pueblo,
2200 Bonforte Blvd.,
Pueblo, CO 81001-4901

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Colorado Mesa University Nursing School Review

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) was founded in 1925, and was previously known as Mesa State College (MSC) until it was officially renamed in 2011. CMU has over 8100 students enrolled, and offers over 90 programs of undergraduate study. Almost 75% of all students are enrolled are attending school full time, and are traditional-aged students.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN program is structured to prepare graduates to practice as Registered Nurses (RNs) after passing the state licensing exam.

To graduate students must complete a minimum of 126 semester hours, 68 of which will be nursing courses. A minimum of 28 of these must be taken at CMU (for transfer students). Students must have a 2.0 GPA or higher in all coursework.

The BSN program is typically four to five years long for full time students, depending on whether they take classes during the summer semester or not.

Online RN to BSN Program

The RN to BSN program at CMU is an online program for Registered Nurses (RNs) with an associate degree to earn their bachelors degree. Designed for the working nurse, RNs can complete this program full time over the course of a year, or part time in two years. Courses can be completed online or in a more traditional classroom setting.

According to the Colorado Articulation model, CMU may award RNs a total of 38 transfer credits for previous nursing education. An advisor will determine what courses will still need to be taken.

Students may apply to the program if they have a current Colorado RN license, proof of their CPR for the Caregiver certification, and a background check.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-BSN

LPNs may challenge Nursing Diagnosis/Medical Terminology for credit. They must also get IV certification before applying to the program. Otherwise, they will need to take the rest of the courses in the BSN program.

Practical Nursing (PN)

CMU encourages students interested in nursing careers to become LPNs, work as a nurse, and then continue their education. The PN program prepares students to take the state LPN licensing exam, and to be primary caregivers. After obtaining their LPN license, students may pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or their BSN.

To apply to the PN program, students must first be accepted into CMU and show they have reading and writing skills at a college level.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (LPN-AAS)

The LPN to AAS program (LPN to ADN) allows students to continue their education path to graduate with an AAS degree, take the state licensing exam and become RNs. The program is three semesters of study for those who are already LPNs.

To apply, students must have graduated from a state approved LPN program, have passed LPN licensing exam, and have a current LPN license in the state of Colorado. They must also show they have worked as an LPN within the last six months, have their IV certification, and have current certification for CPR for the Professional Caregiver.

Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology

The two year program involves classes and clinical practice, and will prepare the student to graduate with an AAS degree and be allowed to take the national registry exam for certification as a Registered Technologist (RT). Graduates will be qualified for basic duties in radiology.

Admission to the program is limited due to the amount of clinical facilities in the area. Applicants are recommended to have taken high school or college level courses in Biology, Physics and Chemistry before applying. Students will be selected for the program based on their Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test (HOBET) scores, academic preparation, aptitude, and number of program slots available.

To continue with the program, students need to maintain a GPA of 2.0, and must earn a 2.0 or higher grade in each Radiologic Technology course they take.

Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Radiologic Technology

The BAS program in Radiologic Technology allows students with an AAS to earn their bachelor’s degree and become certified in one or more additional specialty areas. To apply for the program, students must have graduated from the AAS program and be certified as an RT. If students have completed a certificate program and not an AAS, they must contact the program director for consideration.

Students must apply to both CMU and the Radiologic Technology program to be considered. The BAS program takes approximately four full time semesters to complete, and students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better. The specialty fields students may pursue include CT, MR, Mammography and Cardio/vascular Imaging.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-1)

The EMT-1 program will train students to administer care to patients at accident scenes and while transporting them in an ambulance. The EMT-1 program requires an application to CMU and the EMT program, a high school diploma or equivalent, letters of recommendation, CPR certification, and an interview. After admission to the program, students will need to pass a background investigation to be allowed to continue.

The EMT-1 program requires 10 semester hours of classes, and 195 hours of time in an ambulance or emergency room. Graduates of the program may take the state or national certification test to become Registered Emergency Medical Technicians.

Emergency Medical Responder

The Emergency Medical Responder program is for students wishing to become certified as Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Responders (NREMR). Students must take the three hour First Responder course, and do not need to apply to CMU.

Paramedic

To enter the Paramedic program, students must be currently certified as EMTs and must maintain this certification throughout the program. Students will work toward either a Certificate or Associate of Applied Science degree.

When applying for the AAS degree program, students must indicate whether they are applying for the traditional (classroom) or hybrid (online and classroom) program.

After graduation, students will be able to take the exam to become certified as paramedics.

The Paramedic program is a two year course of study if taken full time. Students must apply to both CMU and the Paramedic program. They must also take the HOBET test, and submit letters of reference, a copy of their EMT certification, and CPR certification.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN degree prepares students to become leaders in the field of nursing. The program has an emphasis either in Advanced Nursing Practice or Nursing Education.

This degree program is for RNs who have a BSN. To apply students must have a current RN license, a 3.0 or better in their undergraduate nursing courses, submit transcripts and letters of recommendation, submit an essay about nursing, and complete an interview if required.

Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to remain in the program. The MSN program is expected to take four years, and requires a thesis or research project.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-Family Nurse Practitioner

The DNP degree allows students to become Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP). The program takes six years to complete and requires over 1000 hours of clinical practice, as well as completion of a research project. Students are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA or better to remain in the program.

To apply to the DNP program, students must have a BSN, have an RN license, have a GPA of 3.0 or better in undergraduate nursing classes and any prior graduate coursework, submit transcripts and letters of recommendation, submit an essay about nursing, and complete an interview if required.

Contact:
Colorado Mesa University
1100 North Avenue
Grand Junction, CO 81501-3122

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Metropolitan State University of Denver Nursing School Review

Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSUD, Metro State, or MSU Denver), previously called Metropolitan State College of Denver (MSCD), has been serving students in downtown Denver since 1965. Currently Metro State enrolls 24,000 students, and nearly 80% of alumni remain in the Denver area or in Colorado.

Though it is one of the largest public colleges in the nation, Metro State prides itself on small class sizes and accessible staff. The school offers three campus locations, and weekend, evening, and online classes to meet the needs of busy students.

Nursing Programs

Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Completion Option (BRNCO)

The BRNCO is structured for students who have completed an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and are licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The program admits students yearly in the Fall semester. After prerequisites are met, the program is a one year course of study if taken full time, or two years if taken part time.

In order to be eligible to apply, students must be admitted to MSU Denver, have a diploma in nursing or an ADN degree, a current RN license, and should have taken a Statistics course prior to admission to Metro State. If they have not taken Statistics, they will have to take it during their first semester in the program.

The application for the BRNCO program requires completion of a total of 39 credits of General Education classes in Multi-Cultural Health Care, English, Math, Communications, History, Arts, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences.

In order to graduate, students will need to have completed a minimum of 120 credits, including the up to thirty hours transferred from their ADN degree or prior qualified nursing education.

This program has been continually accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) since1976.

The BRNCO program is also offered at the campus of Front Range Community College, through Metro State’s Extended Campus program. The program admits students once a year in the Fall semester, and is a two year, part time program, offering classes on Wednesdays.

Accelerated Nursing Option (ANO)

The ANO is a second degree program, geared toward students with a non-nursing related bachelor’s degree. Students are admitted once a year in the Spring semester. This is a 17 month long program over four consecutive semesters, including summer. This program requires classroom time, labs, and clinical rotations, and students should expect assignments during the day, evening, and on weekends. Graduates will receive a BSN and will be allowed to take the licensing exam to become an RN (NCLEX-RN).

Metro State has a competitive admissions process, and looks at students’ prior GPA, academic experience, work and volunteer experience, certifications, honors, a personal essay, and resume. In addition, students will need to pass a drug test and background check.

Prerequisite courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, Nutrition, Human Growth and Development, and Clinical Pathophysiology must be completed with a 2.5 GPA or higher.

The ANO program has been accredited by the NLNAC and approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing.

Department of Health Professions

In addition to the Department of Nursing, Metro State offers other health care related programs in the Department of Health Professions. The department offers majors in Health Care Management, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Integrative Therapeutic Practices, and Recreation Professions. As an alternative, students may take these subjects as a minor degree program to complement another major. The department also offers minors in Pre-Healthcare and Gerontology.

Contact:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
1201 5th Street
Denver, CO 80217

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Otero Junior College Nursing Program Review

Otero Junior College (OJC) was founded in 1941. It is a highly reputable and affordable institution for students to begin their journey in higher education or to earn a degree. Over 97 percent of OJC students continue on to a four year college or gain employment after graduation.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program is structured to give students the education and practical knowledge to become practicing nurses. Upon graduation, students will earn their Applied Science Degree (AASN), and be eligible to sit for the state licensing exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

To be eligible to apply, students must apply to OJC and take the prerequisite courses of Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, and Human Growth and Development. These courses must all be completed with a grade of 2.5 or higher.

After completing the prerequisites, students may apply to the nursing program by submitting an online application and passing a background and drug test.

The ADN program is a two year course of study if taken full time. Students may take the traditional program (daytime classes) or the non-traditional program (evening and weekend classes). The program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and approved by the Colorado Community College System.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may apply for entry into the second year of the ADN program by completing the prerequisites listed above and providing a copy of their LPN license, in addition to their LPN course transcripts. They also must complete the LPN to RN Transition course with a grade of C or higher.

Practical Nursing

LPNs provide patient care under the direct supervision of a doctor or RN. They may also supervise nursing assistants and aides. The Practical Nursing certificate program at OJC offers students the chance to earn a Certificate of Practical Nursing and take the state licensing exam to become an LPN.

Students must have completed the prerequisite courses of Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, and Human Growth and Development, with a GPA of 2.5 or better, to enter the ADN program. After completing the first two semesters of the ADN program, students may opt to leave the program and take the Transition to Practical Nursing. Upon completion, they will receive their Certificate of Practical Nursing. This program is offered full time with traditional daytime classes, or part time, with evening and weekend classes.

Nursing Assistant

OJC offers a Nursing Assistant program in cooperation with hospitals in the area. Students who complete this program will be qualified to work as nursing assistants in nursing care facilities, hospitals, and mental health facilities. Upon completion, students will be able to apply for state of Colorado Nurse Aide Certification.

The Nursing Assistant program is one semester long and requires two courses: Certified Nurse Aide Health Care Skills and Nurse Assistant Clinical Experience. It is recommended that students also take the Medical Terminology course.

Students may enter the program by registering at OJC and for the two required courses, listed above.

Medical Assistant

The Medical Assistant program trains students to handle the administrative and clinical functions that keep a medical office running smoothly. OJC has two programs for Medical Assistants: the Associate of Applied Science Degree, and Certificate Program.

The AAS degree program is two years in length and requires 60 hours of classes to complete. The Certificate program is one year long and requires completion of 30 hours of classes.

Contact:
Otero Junior College
1802 Colorado Avenue
La Junta, CO 81050

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Pueblo Community College Nursing Program Review

Pueblo Community College began as Southern Colorado Junior College in 1933. A series of name changes followed, and it became Pueblo Community College (PCC) in 1982. Today PCC is a state leader in health care education and offers over 50 associate degree programs. Besides the main campus in Pueblo, PCC has branch campuses in Freemont, Durango and Mancos, CO. The average age of the student body is 29 years old.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Applied Science Degree, Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program is designed for students who wish to begin a career in nursing. After completing the program, graduates will have an AAS degree, and be allowed to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

To be eligible to apply to the program, students must have basic math and reading skills, and have completed the prerequisites of English, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Human Growth and Development with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

To apply, students must take the TEAS exam, have a negative drug test, a successful background check, and complete CPR for Health Care Providers. They must also file a letter of intent with transcripts to the Nursing Department.

There is no waiting list for this program. If a student is not selected, they must apply again the following term.

The PCC Nursing Program is a full time program for the first year. After the first year, students may request to switch to part time (evenings and weekends) if the courses are being offered.

Students that already have completed courses to be a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may transfer up to 20 credits into the program, per the Colorado Articulation for non-PCC graduates. They will also need to take the Transition from LPN to ADN course, in addition to meeting the ADN requirements above.

The ADN program is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing, and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Practical Nursing

PCC has a program for students wishing to pursue a Certificate in Practical Nursing. To do so, they must begin the ADN program and successfully complete the first two semesters. At that point, they are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam for LPNs (NCLEX-PN). They may then leave the program, or continue working toward their AAS degree and eventual RN license.

Nurse Aide

The Nurse Aide Mini Certificate program qualifies students to work as an entry-level caregiver, such as a nursing assistant, nurse aide, attendant or orderly in home health care or in a health care facility.

Students that successfully complete the courses of Certified Nurse Aide Health Care Skills, Nurse Assistant Clinical Experience, and Advanced Nurse Aid Clinical will earn a Nursing Aide Certificate.

To apply for this mini certificate program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have basic English, Reading and Math skills, and complete a background check, drug screening, CPR training, and immunizations. They must also have malpractice insurance.

Psychiatric Technician

The Psychiatric Technician Certificate program prepares students to work in health care situations as a psychiatric caregiver. This program is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing.

Students must complete the prerequisites of Math and Basic Anatomy and Physiology, and any courses recommended by the PCC Basic Skills Assessment Test, before they can apply for the program.

Once they have finished the prerequisites, students may complete the application for the program. If not selected, they must reapply the following term.

After acceptance, students will complete 25 hours (two semesters) of coursework. Those who complete the program will be awarded a certificate and will be allowed to sit for the state licensing exam.

Contact:
Pueblo Community College
900 West Orman Avenue
Pueblo, CO, 81004
Tel: (719) 549-3200

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Regis University Nursing School Review

Regis University, a Jesuit school, was originally founded in 1877 in New Mexico. It was moved to Morrison, CO, in 1884, and settled into its current home in Denver in 1887. Regis currently enrolls 16,000 students and offers traditional classroom classes as well as online options for undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs.

The Loretto Heights School of Nursing is part of the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions (RHCHP).

Nursing Programs

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN program at Regis is a four year program for those who have no prior nursing experience or degree. Applicants are chosen competitively based on academic performance, recommendations, writing skill, and healthcare and volunteer experience.

To graduate, students must complete 128 semester hours of general education, science, and nursing courses. Students will also have over 750 hours of clinical experiences to gain real life experience in health care facilities throughout the Denver area. After earning their BSN degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to earn their Registered Nurse (RN) license.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Students that have a non-nursing bachelors degree are eligible for the Accelerated BSN program. This full time, one year program requires over 750 hours of clinical practice and 57 semester hours of nursing courses. After completion of the program, students are eligible to take the state RN licensing exam.

CHOICE BSN

The CHOICE (Connecting Health Occupations with Innovative Curriculum and Experience) BSN program is for students who are currently working in health care and want to continue to do so while they earn their degree. Students do not have to have a degree prior to starting the program. Classes are offered two evenings per week with clinical rotations on the weekends, for six consecutive semesters. The program will be completed within two years.

RN-BSN Completion

The RN to BSN Completion program is for working registered nurses who want to keep working while completing their BSN. Registered Nurses can be awarded between 33 and 72 hours of credit based on their Registered Nurse (RN) license and previous coursework, per the Colorado Articulation Model. These hours are awarded upon completion of the student’s first practicum experience.

RN to Master of Science, Nursing (MS)

This program combines the RN-BSN program with the Master of Science in Nursing program to allow students to complete both their BSN and MS degrees. Classes are taken on campus or online, and can be taken in an accelerated, eight week format. The campus program meets once a week, and the online program has no set class time.

Students will first earn a BSN, and then the MS degree. In the master’s program, students will select a focus area of either management or education. Each focus area requires a 105 hour practicum class.

MS Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems

Working RNs with a BSN may earn their master’s degree in Leadership in Health Care Systems, with a focus in either management or education. Classes are offered on campus or online, and can be taken in an accelerated, eight week format. The campus program meets once a week, and the online program has no set class time.

The program consists of 13 courses that will take about 24 months to complete.

MS Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

This program is for RNs who hold a BSN degree and who wish to pursue a career in providing family health care. Classes are offered on the main campus every other weekend. Students must take clinical courses beginning the second semester of the program. The clinical courses will total 630 hours, with half of those taken in the last semester of the program.

Part of the curriculum includes preparing for the national certification exam. This full time program can be completed in 22 months.

MS Nursing Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

This program is aimed at students with a BSN degree who are interested in a career in providing care for high-risk newborns. This program is two years long and classes are offered in traditional semesters and in eight week sessions. In addition, students will complete 630 clinical hours of study.

MS Completion for Certified Nurse Practitioners

This program is designed for RNs that already hold a bachelor’s degree, are certified as nurse practitioners, and don’t want to change their clinical specialty. The program offers areas of emphasis in ethics, theoretical frameworks, and policy and research. The program consists of at least 39 semester hours and has an optional thesis.

MS Degree in Nursing Articulation for Certified Nurse Practitioner

This program is for the already practicing nurse practitioner without an MS degree who wishes to pursue their MS as a Neonatal Nurse or Family Nurse Practitioner specialist. The program requirements will vary based on the student’s prior education, certification, and clinical practice. The program at a minimum requires 38 to 43 semester hours.

Post Master’s in Nursing Certificate Program

Designed for the MS graduate who wants to specialize in their nursing practice, the Post Master’s Certificate option offers the chance to become a health care educator or nurse practitioner without having to earn another MS degree.

The Health Care Education graduate certificate requires 12 hours of classes and takes one year to complete. The NNP or FNP specialization certificate takes 12 to 34 hours to complete, and graduates of the program are then allowed to take the national certification exam for their focus specialty.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The post-masters DNP program at Regis is offered entirely online, and focuses on advanced practice and leadership skills in order to offer service to underserved, vulnerable populations.

The DNP program has two areas of focus: Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Leadership in Health Care. This online program is full time and takes six semesters to complete.

Contact:

Regis University

3333 Regis Boulevard

Denver, CO 80221

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University of Colorado Colorado Springs Nursing School Review

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) is nestled in the mountains of Colorado and enrolls over 13,500 students each semester. UCCS offers 36 undergraduate degrees, 19 masters, and five doctoral degrees.

The Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences has been training health care professionals for over 100 years.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Traditional

This is an entry level four year program for nursing students. Students must take the HESI Pre-Admission Entrance Exam to apply to the nursing program. The program requires a minimum of 126 credits of general education, science and nursing courses to graduate. Graduates of the program will earn a degree and be eligible to take the state Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).

RN to BSN or DUAL Enrollment

The RN to BSN program is designed for RNs who wish to earn their BSN degree, and the DUAL Enrollment program is for students currently enrolled in an associate degree program in nursing. Courses are offered completely online. Students may obtain advanced placement in the program by transferring credit from previous studies or by challenging courses where they have knowledge of the subject. Placement in the BSN program will depend on how much credit is transferred or challenged.

Students need to have an active RN license to apply to the RN to BSN program.

BSN Accelerated

This program is an intensive, 16 month course of study designed to train students who have a bachelor’s degree from another field to be RNs. Students will meet the same degree requirements as the traditional BSN program.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN program allows nurses to expand their education and take on roles in leadership, as well as apply theories and research to patient care. The MSN program offers all of its classes completely online.

Students may follow two areas of study, listed below. The core MSN program requires 21 to 23 credits, plus the credits required for the specialty areas, for minimum of 38 to 47 graduate level credits. Students must also maintain a B grade in all nursing courses, and complete their program within six years of starting.

MSN Nurse Practitioner (NP) Option

This online degree program allows students to focus in either Adult/Gero NP or a Family NP. Adult/Gero NP will require an additional 26 credits and 630 hours of practicum, while the Family NP requires 25 credits and 630 hours of practicum.

MSN Nurse Education Option

This online degree program trains graduates to teach nursing in bachelor’s and associate degree level programs and clinical settings. Students must complete 17 credits of Nurse Education graduate courses, plus 225 hours of practicum.

Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP is an online program that prepares nurses to be leaders in nursing practice. This program builds on what the student learned in their MSN program.

Taken full time, this is a two year plan, or three years if taken part time. The program takes 35 credit hours to complete. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better, and will be required to complete and defend a Capstone research project.

Certificate Programs

The following certificate programs in nursing are available at UCCS. These programs are all offered 100% online.

• Forensic Nursing – Students interested in the undergraduate, graduate, or post-master’s certificate must register through the Extended Studies Department. This certificate takes 12 credit hours to complete.
• Nursing Education – This is available as a graduate or post-master’s certificate, and requires 12 credit hours to complete.
• Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner – This program requires 32 credit hours of classes and is awarded as a post-master’s certificate.
• Family Nurse Practitioner – Also a post-master’s certificate program, this program requires 31 credit hours to complete.

RN-Refresher Program

This program is designed for inactive or active RNs who want to update their skills. This course is two months long and is approved as 220 contact hours of continuing education.

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)

This six day, 64 classroom hour course trains RNs to provide care to victims of sexual assault. In addition to classroom time, student will complete 90 hours of clinical rotation and a judicial component that involves observing criminal trials and expert testimony.

To qualify to take this program, nurses need to have a minimum of 3 years of experience in direct patient care in women’s health, emergency nursing, acute care, or pediatrics.

Contact:

University of Colorado – Colorado Springs
1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway
Colorado Springs, CO 80918

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University of Colorado Denver Nursing School Review

The University of Colorado, Denver (UCD, CU Denver, or UC Denver) began in 1912 as an extension of the University of Colorado, Boulder. The College of Nursing is located at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. More than 14,000 students enroll at the main campus and over 3000 are at the Anschutz Medical Campus every semester.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Bachelor of Science (BS)

The Nursing BS program is an entry-level program for those beginning their nursing career. Students may follow the Accelerated option, for those with a prior bachelors degree in a non-nursing field, or the Traditional option, for students with no prior degree, or those with a degree but that do not want to study at an accelerated pace. Students who complete the program will graduate and become eligible to take the state licensing exam, to qualify as Registered Nurses (RNs).

RN to Nursing BS

This program is for nurses already with an RN license in Colorado to pursue their Nursing BS degree. Prior education is recognized and online courses allow students to complete their degree while they continue to work.

Integrated Nursing Pathway

This program makes it easier for community college students to complete their Nursing BS degree. Students enrolled in an associate degree program at a participating community college will complete the first two semesters of classes in the Nursing BS program at their community college. At that time, they will receive their associate degree and take the remainder of the program at the University of Colorado College of Nursing.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

The masters program in nursing at the University of Colorado is one of the highest ranked in the country. Students must have a BS in Nursing, and are able to follow one of eleven specialties in their studies.

The specialty programs available for the MS degree in Nursing are Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, Health Care Informatics, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nursing Leadership and Special Needs, Special Studies, Nursing Leadership and Health Care Systems, and Women’s Health Care.

Students will take core MS in Nursing courses and the required and advanced practice classes in their chose specialty.

i-LEAD Nursing Leadership Program

This is a program for nurses who wish to become leaders and managers in health care settings. The i-LEAD program is completely online, and has both a master’s option for 30 credits, and a post master’s certificate for 12 credits.

MS-Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This program is for students who want to complete both their master’s and DNP. Students must already have a BS in Nursing degree. Students will select a nursing specialty from the master’s program (listed above). After completing the program, students will be awarded both degrees.

DNP Program

Students who have already received an MS in Nursing degree and who want to receive a practice-focused doctorate can pursue the DNP program. DNP graduates are leaders in a clinical setting, and also may consider becoming nursing faculty.

MS-Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program

This program is for students who want to complete both their master’s and PhD. Students must already have a BS in Nursing degree. Students will select a nursing specialty from the master’s program (listed above). After completing the program, students will be awarded both degrees.

PhD in Nursing Program

The PhD in Nursing program readies students to conduct research in the nursing field, in the role of educator, administrator, scientist, scholar, and health policy analyst. PhD courses are taught online, or in one or two week intensive sessions each semester. The program requires students to complete 42 credits of coursework and 30 credits of dissertation.

Post Master’s Certificates

Students who have graduated with an MS in Nursing degree that wish to further specialize in the one of the master’s specialty options may pursue a Post-Master’s Certificate. Enrollment in this program depends on available space.

Continuing Education

The College of Nursing at the University of Colorado has been approved by the Colorado Nurses Association as a continuing education provider. The program strives to offer quality continuing education to nurses. Though the programs are targeted toward nursing professionals, other health care professionals such as Physician Assistants are encouraged to attend.

Contact:
University of Colorado – Denver
1250 14th Street
Denver, CO 80217

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University of Northern Colorado Nursing School Review

The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) has been a fixture in Greeley, CO, since 1889. The school has over 12,000 students enrolled each semester and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.

The School of Nursing is located in the College of Natural and Health Sciences.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The traditional BSN degree program is for students with no prior nursing degree. It is a four-year program (including one summer semester) and students must finish at least 126 credit hours.

Students enter UNC as a Clinical major and apply for the BSN program during their sophomore year. Students must be Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and have a 3.0 GPA or better in their last 45 credit hours.

After graduation, students receive their BSN degree and are allowed to take the state licensure exam (NCLEX-RN). Upon passing, they will become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs).

BSN-Second Degree Program

This program is for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and now wish to have a BSN and pursue a career in nursing. Students who are admitted to the program will complete their nursing courses and earn their BSN degree in five consecutive semesters (20 months). The program begins in the Summer semester, and students graduate in December of the following year.

Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their last 45 credit hours and must be certified as CNAs.

RN to BSN Program

Working RNs who have graduated from an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or diploma program may take the RN to BSN program. This course of study is online and takes 16 months to complete. The program begins each summer and students graduate in the Fall of the following year. The program has been structured so that nurses may still work full time while working toward their degree.

To apply, students must be graduates of an accredited Nursing program, hold a current RN license, and have a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Nursing MS Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

This program is designed to prepare students for advanced clinical practice and to treat patients throughout the life span. This program is offered in a one-day-per-week format, and some classes are offered online, so students can continue with their work and family obligations while earning their degrees.

The FNP program requires 36 to 39 credit hours in the emphasis. Graduates may apply to be nationally certified as an advanced practice nurse in the primary care of families.

Nursing MS Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This program is for nurses who will provide advanced care directly to patients. After graduation, nurses will be allowed to take the exam for Clinical Nurse Leader Certification.

This program is 36 credit hours and 450 practicum hours. The program takes three years part-time to complete. Some classes are offered in-person and some are online.

Nursing Education PhD

This program is designed to train nurse educators and is offered online only. Graduates will be qualified as nursing faculty in universities and health care facilities.

To apply, students must have a BSN degree and an MS in nursing or a related field. The program requires four years of study and 65 credit hours of study.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program is geared toward nurses who want to achieve the highest level of nursing practice. Nurses with a DNP may apply to the State Board of Nursing for national certification as an Advanced Practice Nurse.

Nurses with BSNs or MS degrees in Nursing may apply to the DNP program. For those with a BSN degree, it will take approximately 4 years of study, including summers, to complete the DNP program. Those with an MS degree will need about two years to complete the program.

Nursing Education Graduate Certificate Program

The Nursing Education Certificate program is an online course of study for masters or doctoral students who want to become nurse educators. The certificate program requires 12 credit hours of study.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certificate

The FNP certificate is for graduates of the MS in Nursing program who want to study advanced practice in FNP. Students will complete 720 practicum hours in addition to 33 credits of coursework for this certificate. The curriculum meets the guidelines of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties.

When they have completed the program, students will be eligible to apply for national certification and advanced nurse practice status.

Contact:

University of Northern Colorado
501 20 St.
Greeley, CO 80639

Azusa Pacific University Nursing School Review

Azusa Pacific University (APU) is a Christian university that is located in California. The history of the school dates back to 1899 when it was mounted as the first Bible College in the West Coast. Today, it still holds steadfast to its religious views, but has also adapted its curriculum to include various courses to meet the demand from students within and outside of the United States of America. The school prides itself with its 53 undergraduate majors, 37 master’s degrees, 21 credentials, 7 doctoral and 5 certificate programs. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

 Azusa Pacific University’s School of Nursing offers a list of undergraduate and graduate programs that enable students to better embrace the changing responsibilities in the health care sector. The school of nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the California Board of Registered Nursing. The programs at the school include:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)- Generic Option

This is an 8-semester course that combines arts, science and nursing subjects into the curriculum. During the course students have access to virtual patients and simulators to enrich the learning experience. Biblical studies are also included and students are encouraged to analyze how their spiritual and academic life can act in unison to fulfill their roles as nurses. It is designed for high school students and after graduation they are eligible for public health certification.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)- Generic Option Two-Plus-Two (High Desert)

This is a six consecutive semester course that is open to students that have completed all the necessary pre-requisites prior to sending in their applications to the school of nursing.

Traditional RN to BSN: LVN to BSN and LVN to RN Programs

Qualified licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) can either choose the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program or the registered nurse program. Each student is evaluated on an individual basis to identify core skills and experience in the nursing sector. LVNs that have an active unencumbered license can be waived from doing certain subjects. For the LVN to BSN program, LVNs that currently have a license can be waived for particular course. However, those that choose the LVN to RN program are admitted as terminal non-degree students. 

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

Students are taught the essence of combining theory with practice in this accelerated course.  After completion, they are able to undertake more responsibilities in health care and understand the complexities of human health and well-being.

Registered Nurse to Nursing, B.S. (Online)

Registered nurses that want to be engaged in advanced studies while working can choose this course for added flexibility. They will be trained to undertake more responsibilities and to have deeper insight for patient care. The learning community aims to capitalize on the strength of each student thus enriching the course.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Students are able to choose the specializations they believe are best for them. After completion, they can undertake roles as clinical nurse specialists, family nurse practitioners, school nurses, adult nurse practitioners, etc. The main areas of specialty are:

a)     Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS):  The school of nursing offers two possibilities to students that which to specialize in this area. They can choose between the Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist and the Parent-Child Clinical Nurse Specialist. Each of the main specialty offer other sub-specialty that allows students to be trained in areas they believe will be best for them.

b)    Entry-level Masters (ELM) program: Students that have completed advanced studies in other areas and have received their baccalaureate or any other type of higher degree in a non-related course are encouraged to apply to this program. It is an accelerated program that exposes students to basic nursing studies. After successful completion they can sit the NCLEX-RN licensure examination.

c)     MSN with NP Specialties: It is necessary to fully understand and comply with the MSN coursework before enrolling in any NP specialty program. The options that are available are:

• Adult NP
• Family NP
• Pediatric NP
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Combined Programs for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

d)     Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Program: This program gives nurses the opportunity to be prepared in two advanced courses that shape their skills and effectiveness in the world of nursing.

e)     Master of Science in Nursing with Parent-Child Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program: Students are trained in this program to work with children and their families. They will earn a master’s degree and gain specialization as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). In addition to this, they will also gain a Parent-Child Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Certificate. This is possible after they have successfully taken and passed the exams for certification by the state of California and for national certification.

f)       Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with School Nurse Services Credential (SNCSC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): This is a combined course that is aimed at registered nurses. To be admitted into the program, qualified registered nurses must have an unencumbered license and should have completed their bachelor’s degree. They are trained to work with different age groups and are exposed to advanced skills and theory that enable them to serve patients. At the end of the course, they qualify to sit the national exam for licensure and are awarded the Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate. The course is approved by the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission. In addition to these, it is also accredited by the WASC and CCNE.

g)    Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): Various courses are combined to train and equip students with the knowledge they need to embrace work at schools or any other health care setting that deals with children. They must be registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree and have an unencumbered license to apply.

Post-Bachelors Credentials

School Nurse Services Certificate (SNSC)

This is a non-degree post-bachelor’s specialty program that is open to registered nurses. The program is built on a combination of courses required for the School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC) along with other courses administered by the university.

Post-Master Certificates

The post-masters specialty is open to nurses that already have a MSN from APU or any other accredited university. Those that enroll in the course can get choose any of these specialties:

a)     Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Post-Master’s Certificate: This is the perfect course for the working profession. Classes can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis depending on the student’s availability. After successful completion, students can take the exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. If they pass, then they will be eligible for California advanced practice certification. The course is aimed at nurses with a masters degree in nursing and prepares them to undertake roles in acute, primary and long-term care.

b)    Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Post-Master’s Certificate: This course is also designed for students with a masters degree in nursing. It is a non-degree course credit option.

c)     Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Post-Master’s Certificate: Nurses that have a master’s degree in nursing can take this non-degree credit course. After successful completion they can take the national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. During the course students are taught the essentials about primary health care skills. They will also gain clinical health care experience by working with a diverse background of people from different social ranks.

d)    Nursing Administration Post-Master’s Certificate: Students that do not want to be directly involved with the health of patients will find this course interesting. It prepares them for administrative roles that enable them to guarantee effective organizational development and also hone their managerial skills in the health care sector.

e)     Nursing Education Post-Master’s Certificate: Nurses with a masters of science in nursing are welcome to apply to this course. Their knowledge and experience will be enriched with further courses that enable them to be effective educators in a clinical or academic setting.

f)      Parent-Child Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Certificate: Registered nurses with a master’s degree can build on their knowledge to undertake roles involved in pediatrics or obstetrics. It is a non-degree course credit option.

g)    Parish Nursing (PN) Certificate: Nurses interested in undertaking spiritual aspects of patient care will find this course fulfilling. After successful completion they will be able to work in churches or any other religiously based organization.

h)    Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Certificate: Nurses that have a passion working with children will gain the necessary skills to undertake roles in primary health care settings. It is a non-degree course credit option open to registered nurses that have a master’s degree in nursing.

i)       Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate: This course will prepare students to effectively work with patients that have severe mental challenges. They will be able to work if challenging and changing work environments with patients that need special care to handle their mental illness. They will also be able to determine biopsychosocial health care needs for these patients.

Doctoral Degrees

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Students that want to perform at very high levels and with greater degree of responsibility in the world of nursing will find this course very useful. The content is built and channeled towards organizational analysis, evidence-based practice and scientific findings. Those that complete their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) will only need to take 13 more courses to be awarded their doctorate.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

During this course students will be exposed to various concepts and information that adequately prepare them to work with family health along with international and community health. When they successfully complete the course, they will be recognized as educators, nurse scholars and researchers. They will also be able to use the knowledge obtained throughout the program to improve health conditions across various settings.

Secondary Specialties

Students interested in earning a secondary specialty can choose between the Nursing Administration Specialty or Nursing Education Specialty to achieve their goal. They must be doing their Master of Science in Nursing along with a primary specialty to be considered for admission.

Nursing Administration Specialty- This program hones the administrative side of the nursing professional. It is preferred by those that are keen on developing skills related to business management and organizational development.

Nursing Education Specialty- This program prepares students that wish to undertake teaching roles in the academic or health care setting.

Continuing Education

The courses offered by the Continuing Education Department for the School of Nursing are available to both alumni and nurses. The aim of the courses is to ensure that students are adequately prepared to deal with changing information and roles in the health care sector. The two main areas that are currently being offered include:

a)     School Nurse Audiometry: This course is approved by the hearing conservation specialist of the State Department of Health Services. It is an intensive online course with only one clinical day in July or June. 

b)     RN Refresher: Nurses that have not been active in entry level positions due to being away from the workforce can consider this course. During the program, they will have the opportunity to enhance their own knowledge, gain and upgrades skills to better fulfill their roles as health care professionals. They must have an unencumbered Californian license, CPR card and meet the additional requirements of the program to gain entry.

Contact:
Azusa Pacific University
901 E. Alosta Ave.
P.O Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000

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Biola University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1908 as the “Bible Institute Of Los Angeles”, Biola University now boasts more than 145 academic programs that have distinguished it from other schools. It is a private Christian university located in Southern California and is not linked to any specific religious denomination. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools.

Its nursing program was established in 1945 at the then School of Missionary Medicine. The program is accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing, and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Biola University only offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN).

Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN)

Biola University offers a 5-year Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN) that is grounded in liberal arts, science and nursing subjects. Students accepted into the program are either accepted in the pre-clinical nursing major or the clinical nursing. The former is a two year phase that prepares the foundation for the clinical phase of the course. Applicants must meet all health and admission requirements to be accepted into the course.

During the program, students gain the relevant nursing experience through hospital and agencies that are located in Los Angeles and Orange County. All students are encouraged to maintain a Christian outlook, positive nurturing character to remain in the program. Upon successful completion, graduates can sit the registered nurse (RN) licensure examination. Those that pass the examination are recognized and primary health care givers.

Thirty Unit Curriculum: LVN to RN

This option is open to licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) that want to take courses that give them the necessary knowledge and qualifications to sit the California registered nurse licensing examination. All applications are evaluated on an individual basis. Transfer students from accredited institutions that have completed comparable pre-licensure courses will receive academic credit after courses are analyzed and evaluated

Nursing Admission Requirements

Biola has a two-phase admission process into its BSN program. The first phase is the pre-nursing major and the second is the clinical nursing program. Students are advised that admission into the pre-nursing major does not guarantee admission into the clinical nursing program. A separate application is required for the latter to enter the three-year clinical phase. Background checks and health-related examination are part of the requirements to enter its competitive nursing program. Additionally, students must have outstanding TEAS scores that are in line with the requirements at the school. They must also have an exceptional GPA and demonstrate a grade “C” of higher for pre-requisite courses to enter the program.

Transfer students that have not started nursing must submit a normal application to the program. They must ensure that all pre-requisite courses are taken and completed to progress successfully throughout the program. All transfer students from other nursing programs are evaluated individually. 

Registered nurses (RNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) must have current active licensure in the United States of America. They must also be graduates from regionally accredited nursing programs to be accepted into Biola University. RNs may also present proof of one year working experience to enter the program. This requirement is optional provided they meet one or both of the previously mentioned requirements. 

Students that wish to challenge nursing courses may do so provided they submit the necessary requirements for admission into the program.

Financial Aid

Students that are in need for financial assistance can choose between scholarships, grants and loans at the University. The main scholarships available to nursing students are:

1)     Academic Scholarship (Freshman Students): This scholarship is awarded automatically once the student meets the admission requirements at the university. It is renewed each year once a minimum GPA is maintained.

2)     Academic Scholarship (Transfer Student): Awarded to students that are transferring 15 or more credits and that have established GPAs.

3)     Alumni Dependent Scholarship: Only students that have completed 30 units of course work at the school and at specific locations are eligible to apply.

4)     Church Matching Scholarship: This is a non-renewable scholarship that is awarded to students with financial challenges. To be considered, students must receive financial sponsorship from a church. Biola University will then match up to a certain amount of the awarded amount.

5)     Community Service Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to full-time students that have demonstrated strong leadership and community skills. 

6)     LEAD Scholarship: Scholarship available to students that promote multi-ethnic awareness through their own consciousness and acceptance of their roots in the United States.

Grants

1)     Cal Grant A- Open to undergraduate that demonstrate financial need and are within certain academic achievements. Applicants must be a resident of California.

2)     Cal Grant A- Same requirements as Cal Grant A

3)     Federal Supplementary Education Opportunity Grant – Must be an undergraduate and recipient of Pell Grant.

4)     Pell Grant- Open to students with demonstrated financial need. Must be an undergraduate or have Teaching Credential.

5)     President’s Award: Open to graduating senior

6)     University Award/ Grant- Open to students with financial need.

Loans

1)     Direct Stafford Loan: Students must have a minimum half-time enrollment. They received subsidized amounts for their financial need.

2)     Direct Parent PLUS Loan: Loan is based on credit and open to students with minimum half-time enrollment.

3)     Biola University Loan: Student must demonstrate financial need.

4)     Helen Grace Colbert Yates Loan: Only applicable to those instructed by the Financial Aid Office to apply.

5)     Federal Nursing Home: Must be enrolled in the nursing program, demonstrate financial need and minimum enrolment of half-time.

6)     Federal Perkins Loan- Must demonstrate financial need and minimum half-time enrollment.

7)     Freeman Aitken Somerville Loan: Only applicable to those instructed by the Financial Aid Office to apply

8)     Private Student Loan: Loans available to US Citizens, international students with U.S. Cosigner or eligible non-citizen.

Contact:
Biola University
13800 Biola Ave. La Mirada
CA 90639

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California Baptist University Nursing School Review

The beginnings of California Baptist University (CBU, or Cal Baptist) date back to 1950 when it was known as California Baptist College in El Monte. The school originally started with a small student body until expansion and demand caused it to relocate to larger facilities.

Today it has a modern campus that is full of excellent options for students to learn and enjoy their days at the school. The university is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Among the many colleges, schools and departments, is its nursing school that offers a wide range of courses and specialties. The school is accredited by the Board of Registered Nurses (BRN) and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).  The programs being offered are:

Undergraduate Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This course is a 4-5 year course that qualifies students to sit the relevant national exam for licensure. Admissions to the program are accepted twice per year and students must have exceptionally high TEAS scores to be considered. It is a full-time day time program with an intense approach. The school does not offer an accelerated program for BNS.

Degree Completion Program

RN to BSN (for current RN license holders)

Registered nurses with a current unencumbered license are welcome to apply to this program. They must possess an accredited associate’s degree or diploma in nursing to be considered for admission. During the course, subjects with a foundation in arts, science and nursing will be taught. There is a possibility for having certain pre-requisite courses exempted if the associate’s degree is from a WASC accredited California program.

Admission into the program is on a rolling year-round basis. The entire program can be completed within 18 months. However, this applies to those that are full-time students who have completed all the program requirements.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science degree in nursing (MSN)

The core content of this course focuses on advanced areas in nursing that allow students to better deliver essential skills to patients or to undertake studies geared towards a doctorate. When the student captures and assimilates all the information transmitted throughout the program, he or she will be able to lead and interact with various teams and patients. They will gain practical knowledge during the course from working with different individuals, families and communities. Only students with a baccalaureate nursing degree can apply to the program.

Students interested in this course can specialize in two areas: teaching nursing or administering nursing services. Training will be provided in both specialties in different health care settings by allowing students to apply the theoretical knowledge gained throughout the teaching-learning process to specific circumstances. After completion of their respective specialties, graduates will be able to undertake advanced roles, teach other students in an academic or health care setting or assume leadership roles in various areas.

Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing

This course is designed for those that have a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field. After successful completion, graduates are able to undertake positions as a registered nurse, provided they pass the relevant exam. Once this is done they, can earn a Master of Science in Nursing after completing post-licensure coursework.

Contact:
California Baptist University
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504

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California State University, Chico Nursing School Review

The now California State University, Chico (Chico State, CSU Chico, or Cal State Chico) went through a series of name changes from the day it was originally known as Chico Normal School in 1889. It was not until 1972 that the current name was adopted and has remained with the school since then. Chico State is part of the California State University (CSU) system.

Over the years, the school has received numerous recognitions from noted publications such as “America’s Best Colleges” from U.S. News & World Report” and Princeton Review.

The College of Nursing offers a wide range of courses that are channeled towards the undergraduate to the master’s level. The CSU, Chico School of Nursing also has award-winning online nursing programs available. By using the latest education delivery methods and technology, those students who are in full-time employment or those who reside in remote rural areas are able to complete their chosen nursing classes from the comfort of their homes and in their own time.

The nursing courses offered at the school include:

Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Student applications are accepted twice per year for this program. The course is accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing and by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Acceptance rates are low to ensure that the requirements for the areas of study are fully detailed and each student is given the necessary attention to guarantee successful progression in the course.

RN to BSN program

Registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or diploma in nursing are the accepted candidates for this program. Most of the course is conducted online and students are only required to meet 2-3 times on campus during the semester. It is a 15-month course that can be completed at the student’s convenience. However, this completion time also depends on how many prerequisite courses are necessary for each student. A working RN can complete the program in 2 years. For improved flexibility, there are online options for the RN to BSN program classes and coursework.

LVN to BSN Program

This is an online part-time program designed for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) that hold a current unencumbered license. The course is accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing and by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students that live in the rural area are given top priority over those from other regions. This is due to the level of dedication that is necessary for clinical and on-campus time. The program can be completed in three years on a part-time basis and is perfect for working nurses that need the flexibility to be able to work and study.

This LVN to BSN program is unfortunately currently suspended though due to state budget cuts.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is an advanced course that enables students to become qualified educators and nurses focused on adult health. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been in existence since 1970. During the course, students are exposed to advanced education that equips them to undertake advanced nursing roles in various sectors. Additionally, they can also work as administrators, clinicians, and managers. To enable access to more students who may be working or just in rural areas, there are online options for the MSN classes and coursework.

Continuing Education for Nurses

Nurses that want to gain additional knowledge or sharpen their own skills can take any of the courses highlighted below:

1)      Audiometry for Nurses: This course does not offer university transfer credit. It meets all the requirements for the School Audiometrist Certificate issued by the State of California.  The 5-day intense program prepares nurses to undertake functions that require specific knowledge and training in this area.

2)     R.N. Refresher Course:  This course is offered to registered nurses that want to get back into the workforce. Classes are administered online and practical experience is gained through computerized patient mannequins.

3)     Rural Nursing Preceptorship Program: This program is open to students that want to gain additional clinical experience. Only student nurses and graduate nurses can apply.

4)     Rural No. Calif. Clinical Simulation Center: All types of care professionals are welcome to apply to gain additional experience in a clinical setting. They will hone their response and analysis skills of patient illnesses to ensure that patient safety is guaranteed at all times.

Contact:
California State University-Chico
400 West 1st Street
Chico, CA 95929

California State University Bakersfield Nursing School Review

California State University Bakersfield (CSUB, CSU Bakersfield or Cal State Bakersfield) is part of the California State University (CSU) system. It opened its doors to students in 1970 and since then has grown tremendously in various areas. It currently offers 31 undergraduate degree programs, 17 graduate degree programs and seven credential programs in education.

The university has a Department of Nursing that offers RN to BSN and BSN to students. The BSN program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Accreditation. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) graduate degree program is currently withdrawn due to voluntary closure of the program. It is undergoing a review process.

RN to BSN Completion Program (Post-Licensure)

This is an online program that allows registered nurses to complete their Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN). Applications are accepted once per year and the course lasts 12 months. The school uses an impacted approval system in which applicants are ranked according to their performance. During the program, all students must complete a predetermined number of hours at Kern County Department of Public Health as part of the course requirements.

Pre-Licensure BSN Program

Students with no previous background in nursing can apply to this program. It opens the door of pre-licensure for them. Before they enter the nursing program, they must take the pre-nursing program and pass all the educational requirements at that phase. When they have successfully accomplished this, they are then eligible to enter the nursing program provided their supplemental application is accepted.

The course can be completed in 3 academic years. After this period, students are awarded a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and are eligible to sit the Board of Registered Nursing to sit for the NCLEX (RN licensure exam) provided they have no pending issues.

Financial Aid

Students that need to finance their studies can do so through scholarships, loans and grants offered at the university.

The university does not openly disclose the scholarships that are available. To be considered for scholarships students must register with the Scholarship Tracking and Review System (STARS online). Once the registration and the opening questionnaire are completed along with any other requested information, they will receive a list of “Recommended Scholarships” at the end of the application process.

Grants

1) Pell Grants- For first time students and those with a teach credential.

2) Academic Competiveness Grant: For undergraduate students that are in the second year of studies.

3) Education Opportunity Program (EOP) Grant: Available to students that demonstrate financial need. They must be first-time undergraduate and admitted to the EOP program.

4) Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): Open to full-time undergraduate students that are in dire need of financial assistance.

5) Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Grant: Only students that can demonstrate that they are at least on quarter American Indian, Eskimo, or Aleut are eligible to apply.

6) Cal Grants: Available to students from California that are undergraduates at the university.

7) Chafee Foster Youth Grant: Available to first time undergraduate students that can demonstrate that they were or are foster youths.

8) CSU Graduate Equity Fellowship Program: Students that are interested in doing their doctorate, but are financially challenged are welcome to apply. They must demonstrate that they are economically disadvantaged.

9) State University Grant (SUG): Available to eligible students that are undergraduates, possess teacher credential, or graduate students.

10) Scholarships for Disadvantages Students (SDS) in Nursing: For full-time students that have financial challenges and enrolled at the school of nursing.

11) Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant: For students who lost parent or guardian after September 11, 2011 due to their services in the armed forces. It is also awarded to students that are not eligible for Pell Grant, but comply with the requirements mentioned previously.

Loans

1) Federal Direct Student Loan Programs for Students – Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and Graduate PLUS Loans

2) Federal Direct Parent Loans for Undergraduate Student (PLUS)

3) Federal Perkins Loans

4) Federal Nursing Student Loans (NSL)

5) Alternative Loans 6) Emergency Short-Term Loans

Contact:
California State University-Bakersfield
9001 Stockdale Hwy.
Bakersfield
CA 93311-1022

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California State University, Fresno Nursing School Review

Founded in 1911, California State University-Fresno (Fresno State) has gained considerable reputation with its Pulitzer Prize-winning achievements and other major gifts to the school. Originally known as Fresno State Normal School, the university has 59 undergraduate degree programs and 44 master degree programs in the liberal arts and sciences. This university is one of the 23 campuses that make up the California State University (CSU) system.

All courses are administered across the eight colleges and schools that are part of the institution. The University is fully accredited by the California State Board of Education and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The Department of Nursing offers a wide range of courses to students with different goals and aspirations. Students also enjoy a wide variety of clinical placements across various health care settings to hone their practical skills in every aspect. The degree and programs are:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This is a three year course that prepares students to sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and the California Public Health Nurse Certificate. Students that get into the program are either accepted as basic of advanced applicants.

Basic applicants are classified as those that do not have any prior education in nursing. Admission to the program is competitive and preference is given to U.S. military veterans that meet the requirements established by the school. All other applicants are chosen according to academic performance in prerequisite courses.

Advanced applicants are students that have prior education in nursing. These can range from registered nurses (RNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs). Students that are within these categories must complete the necessary prerequisite courses to be considered for advance placement.

RN to BSN

This course is designed for registered nurses that wish to complete their Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). It focuses on theory-based practice and students will be able to take any of the advancement placement courses:

a) Public Health Nurse

b) School Nurse

c) Nurse Practitioner

d) Clinical Nurse Specialist

LVN 30-Unit Option

Students that complete this program are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurses. They must also meet the necessary requirements outlined in section 2728 of the code. Academic merit is not used as placement criteria in the program. Students are accepted based on the number of available space that is available. Those that are awarded a 30 Unit Option RN license do not receive any degree after the course. In addition to this, they must also be aware of the limitations they may encounter if they wish to practice outside of California.

Entry Level Masters

Students that have a baccalaureate degree in a field unrelated to nursing are eligible to apply to this program. Upon successful completion they will be awarded a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree and can sit the registered nurse (RN) licensure examination. They can work as Clinical Nurse Specialist / Nurse Educator.

This is an intense course that requires full dedication to be successful. Practical experience will be gained through various health care settings.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Students are trained to work with different types of patients and age groups in this course. The aim of the program is to equip students with the necessary knowledge to provide cutting-edge primary care to their patients. A combination of clinical and classroom courses prepare students to assess, maintain, promote, counsel, educate and manage all aspects related to health. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to apply for national certification. They may undertake roles as a Pediatric and Geriatric practitioners. They may also work as Family Nurse Practitioners in California.

There is also the possibility of waiver on certain coursework. This, however, will depend on the individual evaluation that is performed on each student’s academic accomplishments and experience.

Post-Master Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Students are trained in this course to provide primary health care to children. During the course, they are taught how to assess, maintain, promote, counsel, educate and manage aspects of children’s health. Upon successful completion, they are recognized as Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in California after passing the national certification exams. They are awarded with a post-master’s nurse practitioner certificate after graduation.

Post-Master Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Educator

Students that want to capitalize on their own abilities and enter different aspects of nursing can choose the Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Educator Option. They will be trained in specific areas in clinical nursing and will be able to take the specialist certification through the California Board of Registered Nursing. The course also places emphasis on leadership skills and advanced training in specific areas in nursing. They are awarded with a post-master’s clinical nurse specialist/nurse educator certificate after graduation.

School Nurse Services Credential

This is a basic course with some of its units offered online. After successful completion, students are trained to perform basic duties as a school nurse and receive a Professional Clear School Nurse Services Credential. The course is divided into two phases. Both phases are approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Only applicants with a baccalaureate degree in nursing or a two year associate degree with a baccalaureate degree in another field can apply to the program.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is aimed at nurse practitioners that want to gain specialized knowledge to be health care providers that have various psychiatric skills. The one year program is built on the partnership between Division of Continuing and Global Education and California State University-Fresno. After successful completion, graduates will be recognized as Adult or Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner according to the requirements established by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. At the end of the course graduates receive a Certificate of Advanced Study for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Only students that have done their master’s can enter the program.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP)

Fresno State and San José State University have partnered to offer the California State University, Northern Consortium Doctor of Nursing Practice (NorCal DNP). This is a joint post-masters Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This doctoral program aims is to prepare nurses to undertake leadership and educational roles in the health care sector. It is aimed at both advanced nurses and nurse leaders.

Admission to this program is accepted once each year. Online training materials will be used to transmit information to working professionals that are interested in this full time program. A few intensive classes will however be held at the Fresno State and San José campuses. This jooint DNP program is a 5 semester, 37 unit program that can be completed in 21 months of full-time study.

Contact:
California State University-Fresno
5241 North Maple Avenue
Fresno, CA 93740

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California State University, Dominguez Hills Nursing School Review

The history of California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH or CSU Dominguez Hills) began in early 1960. Back then it was known as South Bay State College until the name was changed two years later to California State College at Palos Verdes.

It was not until 1977 that it was officially called California State University, Dominguez Hills. The school boasts modern facilities that are backed with many technological developments. Among the most noted are the SMART classrooms.

The school currently offers various academic programs and among them are nursing courses offered by the School of Nursing at CSUDH. The programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The programs currently being offered are RN to BSN, MSN, Certificate Programs, and a Pre-licensure program.

RN to BSN

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) is aimed at registered nurses (RNs) that have unencumbered licenses and wish to do advanced studies. It is a flexible online program that makes it easy for RNs to complete the necessary courses in the curriculum by accessing web-based course material. The program stimulates students’ critical thinking abilities and trains them to apply knowledge and practice to real health conditions. Some of the classes are also administered at the campus, so students will have to plan to take these at the appropriate time. At the end of the program, graduates can sit the relevant licensure exam and enter more advanced studies for their Master’s of Science in Nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Masters of Science in Nursing at CSUDH is designed for students that want to be engaged in advanced studies. Those that enroll in the program will have the opportunity to choose from different specialties that they must indicate on their application to the program. The main areas are:

1)     Nurse Educator:  This course focuses on teaching methods and strategies that are part of the role of the nurse educator. After successful completion of the program, graduates will be fully prepared to teach students, staff, and clients. Students are exposed to an advanced clinical focus area to hone their skills in real teaching/learning situations.

2)     Nurse Administrator: Students looking for non-traditional nursing roles will find the content of this program exciting and fulfilling. As nurse administrators, they will organize and function in administrative roles in various health care settings.  They will be trained by experienced Masters’s prepared administrators that will impart their knowledge and skills during the learning/teaching process.

3)     Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): There are two options for students that decide to take this course, and they are: CNS Parent-Child Curriculum or CNS Gerontology Curriculum. All students (irrespective of specialty) must complete 500 clinical hours. A CNS is responsible for planning, implementing, developing, and evaluating special populations. The skills and knowledge gained throughout the course will enable students to be consultants, researchers, clinicians, educators, and case managers.

4)      Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): After completion students can work as nurse practitioners provided they pass the national certification examination. They will also be qualified to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center and/or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners’ certification examinations as Family Nurse Practitioners.

Entry-level Pre-licensure Masters Entry-level Professional Nursing (MEPN) Program

This course is open to students that have a BS or BA in any non-related nursing field. It is an intensive full-time program that can be completed in six semesters, 24 months. The accelerated program allows students to gain the necessary skills and training with 1000 hours of clinical experience at various health care settings. After successful completion, they are granted a Master of Science degree in Nursing with specialization as a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL). Admission to the program is once yearly.

MSN Pathway Program

This course is designed for registered nurses that have a bachelor’s degree in a field that is not related to nursing. During the course, students take the BSN prerequisite courses to get their MSN. Admission into the program is on a conditional basis and all students must attend the MSN Pathway Workshop. They will receive the necessary information and orientation about the courses they will need to do take prior to or concurrent with their graduate course.

Post Bachelor Certificate

After successful completion students are awarded a Public Health Nurse (PHN) Certificate by the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). The course is designed for those who were not awarded a baccalaureate degree from a US-based nursing school, non-NLN accredited nursing schools, or anyone else with a baccalaureate in an area that is not related to nursing. Each student will need to abide by specific requirements to enter the program depending on how the degree was obtained.

Post Master Certificate

CSUDH offers a post-master certificate in the following areas: Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Practitioner.

Contact:
California State University-Dominguez Hills
1000 E. Victoria Street
Carson, CA 90747

California State University, Fullerton Nursing School Review

After two name changes in 1962 and 1964, California State University-Fullerton (CSUF, CSU Fullerton, or Cal State Fullerton) finally settled with its official name in 1972. It started off with a small student body, but this quickly changed as the years progressed and the university was transformed into a dynamic institution with a growing student body.

Today, it offers a wide range of courses offered by its 7 colleges, one university extended education program and the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics. Students interested in nursing will find a host of programs at the College of Health and Human Development. The programs offered at the college include:

Entry Level BSN (EL-BSN)

Applications to this program are accepted by students that want to achieve a registered nurse (RN) license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The course is only open to CSUF students or licensed practical nurses (LVNs) that wish to be registered nurses. It is not open to transfer students unless they transfer to a different major and enroll in coursework to enter the program.

LVN-BSN

Licensed practical nurses that have completed the required number of coursework units and pre-requisite courses can apply to this course. They must pass the TEAS within the accepted range outlined by the university.

LVN 30-unit option

This is another option open to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) that want to be registered nurses. Only LVNs with an unencumbered license and that achieved the required scores in the TEAS can apply. At the end of the course, no degree is issued. In addition to this, LVNs are advised that the California LVN 30-unit option is not recognized in some states. As a result, those that intend to work outside of California may experience challenges getting their RN license in another state. To get around this, LVNs can choose to do their associate degree in nursing (ADN) to guarantee more flexibility when applying for their RN license in another state.

Entry Level MSN

Students that have a Bachelor’s degree in another field, but wish to qualify for an RN license and their Master of Science in Nursing can apply to this course. The program is under impaction which means that non-residents are not considered for admission to the course. Students with degrees from foreign universities must get these evaluated before submitting their applications.

RN-BSN Campus Program

This is a full-time program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is specifically intended for registered nurses that want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Working nurses that find it difficult to accompany the full-time program may opt for part-time classes. Students that select full-time study is able to complete the program in 2 years, whereas those that opt for part-time study can do so in 3 or more years. During the program, students are exposed to courses that deal with critical inquiry and research, health promotion and health concepts, health teaching, and counseling just to name a few. Students gain clinical experience from community-based locations with various health sectors.

RN-BSN Distance Program

This is a unique program that is possible through the partnership between the School of Nursing at California State University- Fullerton and local hospitals and community colleges. It is possible to finish the program in 6-10 semesters or 2 to 3.5 years. Students do not need to attend classes as Fullerton and will only need to meet once per week at hospitals and community colleges within the state. It is a flexible course that is perfect for working professionals that have a host of obligations. The class times do not change during the course and students are able to better balance their personal and academic life.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree – Nursing Leadership Concentration (Online and on Campus)

This course is designed for nurses that want to occupy leadership roles in administration and education. Graduates will be able to use their skills in a variety of settings that include, but are not limited to, acute care and community-based agencies. Emphasis is placed on using advanced knowledge to meet the changing demand in the health care sector. There will also be a supervised practice that will train the students to apply both theory and practice to accomplish required goals.

Both online and on-campus courses share the same curriculum. Students that opt for the online course will be required to meet on campus three times during the course.

Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology

This is an additional course that can be taken by nursing students that are enrolled in the Master of Science degree in Nursing- Nursing Leadership Concentration. In the end, they will gain a certificate in Instructional Design and Technology. During the program, nursing students are taught the basics of instructional design and computer-based design principles. They are also exposed to concepts of instructional approaches.

Master of Science degree in Nursing (MSN)- Women’s Health Concentration

This course is designed for registered nurses that want to gain advanced practice and skills to undertake positions in nurse-midwifery or women’s health nurse practitioner.  Applicants must have a CA RN license to be admitted into the program. They must also have a Baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN) or related field from an accredited institution to enter the program. During the course, students are taught the essentials through practical and theoretical applications about client-based care and professional core issues.

School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC) and Special Teaching Authorization in Health (STAH)

Both courses focus on health care research, theory, and practice to adequately prepare students for their roles as school nurses. After completion, they will work with students of all ages. The importance of understanding the roles of a school nurse as they relate to the health and well-being of a family, community, school, and staff are also emphasized in the program. Students will develop skills that are channeled towards currents needs and evidence.

MSN CRNA

This course is offered in partnership with Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia (KPSAN).  It is aimed at students that have their BSNs and/or MSNs and RN licenses and want to get their MSN/CRNA.

Master of Science degree in Nursing(MSN)- Nurse Educator

Students that enroll in this program will be able to undertake nurse educator roles involved in staff development, community development, and instructor. The course is aimed at working professionals that have their BSN’s or MSN’s and want to gain advanced knowledge through a flexible program. After successful completion, students will be able to work in the community, institutional, and academic settings. They will also be able to professionally assess, plan, initiate and evaluate educational courses and programs in any setting they find themselves. Both coursework and clinical experiences are used throughout the programs to prepare students for the hands-on roles as nursing educators. The course is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP)

This is a practice-oriented doctorate that prepares students for advanced roles that require specific skills to obtain satisfactory results. During the course, students gain advanced training and will be able to present advanced credentials for complex practice, faculty, and leadership roles.

Contact:
California State University-Fullerton
800 North State College Boulevard
Fullerton, CA 92831

California State University, East Bay Nursing School Review

California State University-Hayward has its history dating back to 1957. However, due to expansion and wider geographical reach the school changed its name to California State University-East Bay (CSUEB, Cal State East Bay, or CSU East Bay) in 2005.

The school is part of the California State University (CSU) system and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). It achieved various marks of excellence over the years making it a distinguishable institution in various academic and social aspects.

Students interested in pursuing a career in nursing will be able to choose from outstanding courses at the Department of Nursing and Health Sciences. It is home to the nursing department and where you can find the following programs:

LVN to BSN Program

Only licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are eligible for this course. It is specially aimed at those that want to baccalaureate degree in science of nursing. Students must possess in-depth knowledge or experience to be successful in the course. Any Licensed Vcational Nurse (LVN) that wants to be accepted into the program must possess a current unencumbered license as a vocational nurse in California. Upon successful completion of the program, the student is eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) provided there are not unresolved pending issues. The student may also apply for the California Public Health Nursing Certificate. An assessment is made of each applicant’s academic achievement and experience to guarantee the best learning program for them.

Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN)

There are two routes that can be taken to be awarded a BSN: RN-BSN Advanced Placement and Pre-Licensure Program. At the end of each course, graduates can either chose to immediately embrace the nursing professional or pursue advanced coursework and studies to gain more knowledge and skills.

RN to BSN Advanced Placement

This program is for registered nurses that want to complete their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. Only applicants holding a California RN license can apply to the course. In addition to this, applicants must have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) within the last twelve months. If they are unable to meet this requirement, then 6 months of relevant work experience in the United States is also accepted. This is a 4-6 quarter program.

Pre-Licensure Program

This program is open to those that want to accomplish a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree and a California RN license. It is a full-time day-time program that can be completed in 2.5 years. It is necessary to complete the CSU Application for Admission and Clinical Nursing Program Supplemental Application to be considered for entry. This is due to the fact the course is impacted to guarantee better admission possibilities for all students. As a result, the selection process is based on priority ranking with military veterans being fist choice. Next in line are California residents and non-California residents after them.

B.S 5 Year Program in Nursing

This 5-year program is available to students located at the East Bay and Concord Campus.

RN Residency Program

This is a 12-week program that is open to currently employed RNs that received their license between specific dates. Graduates from the following accredited nursing programs in the San Francisco Bay Area are also welcome to apply: AACN/CCN, BRN and NLN. Training will be conducted across various health care settings. The aim of the program is to increase the number of RNs that are entering the work force and to ensure that they are fully prepared for situations that require analytical thinking skills, management or responsibilities and clinical competency in all aspects.

Contact:

California State University-East Bay
25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard
Hayward, CA 94542

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California State University, Long Beach Nursing School Review

Originally known as Los Angeles-Orange County State College, California State University, Long Beach (CSULB, Cal State Long Beach, Long Beach State, or LBSU) has evolved into one of the nation’s leading universities since it was founded in 1949.

It has appeared in numerous publications due to its distinctive accomplishments. Recently, it appeared on the Princeton Review as one of the “best in the west” colleges. In the same year it was chosen as the 4^th Best Public Regional University in the West in the U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges Guide,”.

Among its many schools and colleges is its School of Nursing. Here students can take various courses that range from the undergraduate to more advanced studies. Below is list and description of the courses currently being offered at the university.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is open to students from various education levels. It is accredited by the California State Board of Registered Nursing, and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Each student will be assessed according to the most relevant level and will enter the program according to the respective route for that level. The program is open to basic/trimester students, registered nurses and entry level BSN/MSN students. Upon successful completion the basic /trimester and the entry level BSN/MSN student will be able to sit the National Council Licensing Examination—NCLEX for registered nurses. For these groups, only students that are undergraduates or second degree seekers can apply.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing is an advanced program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Board of Registered Nursing. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in any of the following areas:

1) Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty: Open to students that have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or any other related field. Applicants must have a current unencumbered California RN license to be accepted into the program.

2) Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty: same as above

3) Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty: Same as above

4) Clinical Nurse Specialist Specialty: same as above

5) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty: This is a 6-semester course open to students with a bachelor’s degree in nursing or any other related field. Applicants must also have a RN license issued in the state of California.

6) Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty: same as above

7) Master of Science in Nursing / Health Care Administration: Students must have a PHN Certificate and bachelor’s degree in nursing or any other related field. They must also have a current unencumbered California RN license.

8) Master of Science in Nursing / Master of Public Health: This is a double degree program in which students are exposed to courses from both subject areas. Students that enroll in the course are able to undertake advanced areas in health promotion, illness promotion and other aspects of community health. They are adequately trained to perform roles in various health care settings. Only students with a bachelor’s degree in nursing or any other related field can apply. Applicants must also have a PNH certificate and a California RN license.

9) Master of Science in Nursing / Master of Science in Health Care Administration: This is a dual degree program that allows students to get practice in the area of Advanced Practice Nurses in administration. It is an intense course in which courses from both areas are taught in a theoretical/practical environment. Students that enroll in the course will be able to specialize as advanced practice nurses. They will have the necessary skills to work in various health care settings.

10) Health Services (School Nurse) Credential Program: All registered nurses that plan to work in the California school system must have Health Services (School Nurse) credential: Only nurses with a BSN degree for post-baccalaureate certificate can apply to the program. They must also have FNP or PNP licensure for post-master’s certificate along with a current unencumbered RN license.

11) Functional Minor in Nursing Education: This course is aimed at students that want to complement their clinical specialization with additional knowledge in the functional area of teaching. Once completed, they can perform a series of functions that include, but are not limited to planning and implementing courses for other health care areas, teach in schools of nursing among others.

Post-Masters Nurse Practitioner Certificate

This course is only open to students that have a master of science in nursing (MSN). The course can be taken as a “stand alone” program. Students will have the option to complete the entire curriculum in any of the Nurse Practitioner specialty areas listed below. Once this is successfully achieved they will receive a Nurse Practitioner Certificate.

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Entry Level BSN/MSN Program

This course is only open to those that do not have a RN license. Students that enter the program will have the opportunity to gain their master of science in nursing (MSN). The course is specifically aimed at those that have a bachelor’s degree in an area that is not related to nursing.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This is a practice-oriented program and not a research-oriented program. Students that participate in the program will develop skills to undertake challenging leadership roles and complex practice. The course is administered across various campuses with experts in related areas delivering relevant content throughout the program. Only nurses with an unrestricted RN license can apply to the program. Additionally, students must possess a master’s degree in a nursing from an accredited institution related field and the relevant certification for advanced practice nurse. In the absence of the latter, students must present a masters in nursing from an accredited institution and have certification in clinical nursing specialty.

Contact:
California State University-Long Beach
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840

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California State University, Los Angeles Nursing School Review

California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA, CSLA, or Cal State LA) joined the California State College (CSC) System, currently known as the California State University (CSU) system, in 1968. This was the same year it was renamed to reflect its present name after undergoing two name changes in previous years. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Commission for Teacher Credentialing Committee on Accreditation.

There are currently 59 undergraduate programs and 51 graduate programs being offered at Cal State LA. Students that want to complete professional development courses or certificate programs can do so at the Division of Extended Education at CSULA. Those interested in nursing can enroll in any of the following programs provided they meet the admission criteria.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN)

Students interested in obtaining their BSN will be able to choose from two options at the school.  Both courses are accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The two options are:

a)     Basic Pre-Licensure BSN Program: Students must have the required GPA and SAT score to be admitted into this program. Applications are accepted from freshmen, transfer and continuing education students. Those that are accepted into the program are placed in the pre-nursing major program. They must meet all supplementary eligibility requirements to continue in the course.

b)     RN BSN Transfer Program: This program is only open to any registered nurse (RN) that has a current unencumbered California R.N license. They must also have an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science in Nursing from an accredited institution. A NLNAC accredited diploma is also accepted.  Only applications with CA RN license attached and the minimum GPA requirement are considered for admission.

ADN to BSN Program

This program is for those with an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) who want to gain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This program is currently under review.

Master of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN)

Graduate courses focus on advanced areas that prepare students to undertake more demanding roles in the health care sector. Students that are interested in completing their MSN will be able to choose three entry routes. They must submit their applications to CSCLA and also to the MSN program to be considered for admission. Applications are accepted only once yearly. The three entry routes to the MSN program are: traditional masters program, Entry Level Masters in Nursing program (ELMN) and Blended Masters Program.

a)     Accelerated Masters Program: Only students that have a BSN from an NLN or CCNE accredited program are considered eligible applicants to enter the program. They must also have a current RN license that is unencumbered and that allows them to freely practice in California. All applicants must have a cleared criminal background check and meet a list of other admission requirements to enter the Accelerated MSN program.

b)    Blended Nurses Program: Students are exposed to courses from the BSN and MSN program in this course. At the end of the program they are awarded a BSN and also a MSN. Students that successfully complete the undergraduate program will be able to select options in the MSN program. Two tracks are currently being offered for entry into the Blended Masters Program.

1)Track I: Blended Master’s Program for RN’s with a Non-nursing Baccalaureate: This course is open to students that have a non-nursing baccalaureate from an accredited institution. Students that have an A.A. or A.S. degree in nursing from an accredited college or an NLN-accredited diploma program are also welcome to apply. Once accepted, only those that complete at least one year of employment as a registered nurse and maintain the required GPA are allowed to continue in the program.

2) Track II: Blended Masters Program for RNs without a Baccalaureate: Registered nurses with an A.A. or A.S. degree in nursing from an accredited college or an NLN-accredited diploma program can apply to this program. They must also have the minimum GPA and comply with all other admission requirements to gain entry into the course.

c)     Entry Level Masters in Nursing (ELMN) Program for Non-RNs with a Baccalaureate (or Higher) Degree: This program is open to applicants with a baccalaureate (or higher) degree in another field but do not have the qualifications as registered nurses (RNs). Once they have completed the required number of units and passed the NCLEX examination for RN licensure they will be classified as graduate students. Prior to meeting these requirements they are enrolled as conditionally classified.

Graduate Programs

 Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program (ACNP)

Theoretical content and clinical practice are the core focus areas in this program. Students are prepared to embrace roles related to acute care in clinics, intensive/critical care settings, emergency departments, etc. The school adopts a holistic approach to patient care and all students are taught the essence of this concept to better care for patients. The content of the program adequately prepares students to take the national acute care nurse practitioner examination.

Nursing Administration Program

Students that want to undertake advanced nursing practice roles in hospitals and community will be fully prepared with this course. Throughout the program they acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to be effective problem solvers and leaders. Upon graduating they can undertake roles related to problem solving, performance appraisal, policy development and numerous non-traditional nursing fields.

Nursing Education Program  

This course is based on a theoretical component and practical experience. It is a 45-unit option that prepares students to assume nursing education roles in areas such as course and student evaluation, course planning, clinical and classroom teaching among others. Upon graduation they are able to work in client programs, collegiate and various other health care settings. Students learn how to apply the concepts of educational philosophies and theories in a practical setting such as a classroom or clinic.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program

This is a 75-unit courses that prepares students to promote health, prevent diseases and manage diseases- whether common or chronic- in a diverse population. The school hopes that those that graduate from its program will bring their care and knowledge to the underrepresented and thus increase the number of nurses working with the minority. The curriculum of the program is built on an international and family health perspective so that students are adequately prepared to care for families, individuals and communities. They are trained to provide their services through consultation, collaboration, advanced nursing care and any other area that requires in-depth knowledge as a FNP.

Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This is a full time course that covers 72-units in seven semesters. The core graduate courses include: Role Development of the Advanced Practice Nurse, Research Utilization, Nursing Research Methods, Theoretical Basis of Nursing Research and Practice and Decision Making Nursing & Health Care Policy. Other areas in the program include:  Advanced Practice Core which has 23 units; the Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner which has 35 units and the Comprehensive Exams, Thesis or Project which has 0-5 units.

 Psychiatric/Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

This is a 58-unit option that builds on the concepts applied in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing as well as using nursing research and theories and hands-on experience with different types of psychiatric clients. The coursework passed to graduates enable them to receive Certification by the American Nurse Association and by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

There are eight post-masters certificate programs at CSCLA. These programs are only offered to students that have a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Only students that have a current unrestricted California RN license are considered for admission. They must also meet the requirements outlined for background checks and physical assessment. After successful completion they are eligible to sit the National Certification Examination for licensure to work as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists. The programs that are currently being offered include:

1)     Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: Adult Specialty Certificate: Only students that complete the required number of units with the specified GPA will receive the post-masters certificate. Applicants must also have one year clinical experience working with acute ill adults to be admitted to the program. Specialty nursing certification is also a requirement. Successful completion of the program provides the foundation to sit the National Professional Adult ACNP certification examination provided there are no pending restrictions.

2)     Adult Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate: Both theory and clinical practice are integral components of this course. As a result, students will be exposed to both seminar courses and clinical practice courses throughout the program.

3)     Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program: Applicants must have one year of clinical nursing experience to be considered for admission. Throughout the program they will be presented a list of practice core courses and other course options that enable them to sit the national examination certifications.

4)     Nurse Practitioner: Psychiatric/Mental Health Certificate Program: This program is comprised of common core courses, advance practice core courses and required option courses that must be completed to sit the State certification from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) as both a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and a nurse practitioner (NP). Successful completion also prepares students for the national examinations for licensing.

5)     Nursing Education Certificate Program: Students that want to take courses in nurse education will find this program rather fulfilling. After successful completion they are awarded a certificate provided they maintain the required GPA and complete the certificate courses.

6)     Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate: This program is comprised of seminar courses and clinical courses that prepare students to sit the National Professional Pediatric Nurse Practitioner certification examination. They will also be able to apply for nurse practitioner certification from BRN.

Health Services Credential: School Nurse Services

Students that have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field are welcome to apply to this program provided they take the required electives. The course is also open to applicants that can demonstrate that they are/have been employed as a school nurse in California public schools. They must have at least two years full-time or the equivalent part-time employment on their records.  An evaluated clinical practicum with a credential school nurse is also obligatory for admission. Candidates must demonstrate adequate experience working with multicultural and multiethnic individuals.

 Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This is a practice-oriented doctorate as opposed to research-oriented PhD. The course trains students for advanced roles in complex practice, faculty and leadership roles in nursing. It is offered through a Consortium of the Schools of Nursing at California State University, Fullerton, Long Beach and Los Angeles and is being offered for the first time in 2012. However, the program is still awaiting approval from the Chancellor’s Office and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

There are 36 units of required coursework and one elective of 3 units which are covered in 2 years. Only students with a Master’s degree will be admitted. Applicants must also have a national certification as an APRN for doctoral preparation as a clinician. The course is also open to those that have a Master’s Degree in Nursing with specialization in specific areas such as nursing education, nursing management, nursing leadership, nursing administration or community health nursing. Students can specialize in any of the following areas in the program.

• Anesthesia
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Management/Administration/Leadership
• Midwifery
• Nurse Practitioner: Adult, Adult/Geriatric, Acute Care Adult, Acute Care Pediatric, Family, Pediatrics, Psych/Mental Health
• Public Health Nursing

Contact:
California State University-Los Angeles
5151 State University Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90032

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California State University, Northridge Nursing School Review

California State University, Northridge (CSUN, or Cal State Northridge) opened its doors to 3,600 students in 1958. It was known as San Fernando Valley State College at the time. In 1972 it later changed name to reflect its current name. From early on the school cemented its reputation by emphasizing the importance of hands-on education. However, disaster struck in 1994 when a magnitude 6.7 earthquake caused major structural damages throughout the campus.

Within 64 days the main section of the library was reopened and the school gained momentum once again. It also adopted the slogan “not just back, but better” to reflect its determination to take higher education even further despite the losses it had suffered. CSUN is part of the California State University (CSU) system.

Various courses are part of its curriculum and among them are programs for students interested in nursing such as:

RN to BSN Program

This program is only opened to licensed registered nurses that have an associate degree in nursing or equivalent. It builds on the foundation established in a community college setting to prepare students for more advanced studies and roles in health care. During this RN to BSN program, students are taught the essence of working independently and interdependently with various professionals. They are also given many opportunities to practice their skills. The course can be attended full-time or part time.

It is possible to contest credit by doing the necessary exams to have them recognized. Students must submit proof of clinical competency and meet additional requirements to enter the program. All those accepted must maintain an active license while enrolled in the program.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Students that hold a minimum of a BA or BS degree in a non-nursing field are welcome to apply to this program. It is an intense course that builds on specific nursing education during four semesters. Emphasis is placed on theoretical knowledge and also clinical practice in patient care settings. After successful completion, they can take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX). The students that passes the exam and is not hindered by any restrictions will be recognized a registered nurse (RN). Applications to the Accelerated BSN program are accepted only once per year.

The LVN 30-Unit, Non-degree Option

During the program licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are exposed to a selected number and type of courses that prepare them to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.

Public Health Nurse Certificate

Only applicants that have a current active California RN license can apply to this program. They must submit proof of baccalaureate education from an accredited institution. This institution must be accredited by the National League of Nursing (NLN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If they have a foreign degree, then it must also be from an accredited institution. Upon successful completion, graduates will be eligible for the California Public Health Nurse (PHN) Certificate which is granted by the Board of Nursing (BRN).

Health Services Credential Program: School Nurse Services Program

Only registered nurses that hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution are eligible to apply for the certificate program. Applications are evaluated on an individual basis to identify the best path for students based on their skills and experience. Students must be fully aware that all courses must be completed within seven years counting from the day they were first enrolled into the program. Applicants must have at least two years of working experience as a school nurses and must have a Preliminary School Nurse Credential. Students that wish to acquire the Professional (Ryan) School Nurse Credential must do a fifth year of study.

COC – CSUN ADN-BSN Concurrent Enrollment Nursing Program

This course is offered through the agreement established between California State University Northridge and College of the Canyons. The content on the program focuses on both courses from the bachelors degree in nursing program and the  associate degree in nursing (ADN) program. As a result, students will be enrolled in both programs giving them the flexibility to take bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree courses while they are doing their associate degree. They will be able to finish their BSN in one year after they have taken all the courses in the ADN program.

Contact:
California State University-Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330

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California State University, Sacramento Nursing School Review

California State University-Sacramento (CSUS, Sacramento State or Sac State) started out as Sacramento State College when it was founded in 1947. It is now part of the California State University (CSU) system and enjoys a branding reputation for its large student body and state-of-the-art facilities.

The school currently offers 48 undergraduate degrees and 41 master degrees. It prides itself for having a large percentage of professors that hold the highest qualifications in their fields. It also has a vibrant student body that is evident in the 276 student organizations that are established on the campus.

The School of Nursing has a long standing tradition for preparing registered nurses. However, it also focuses on giving eligible individuals the foundation on which they can become advocates, clinicians, leaders, educators and researchers. The courses offered are:

Traditional-Track: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program

Students enrolled in this program are prepared to be generalists who can use their skills and knowledge to help communities with different backgrounds. The course is administered at the school during a four year period during which successful applicants are prepared through a rich curriculum comprising of lower and upper division coursework. Professors use both on-campus and off-campus settings to combine the theory and practice that are needed to adequately prepare students for the ever changing roles in heath care. After successful completion, they can sit the relevant exam and apply for licensure by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Accelerated Second Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ASBSN)

This 16-month program is offered through the partnership established between California State University-Sacramento and California State University, Stanislaus. Only applicants that want to be registered nurses and hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing course will be considered for admission. They must also complete all the pre-requisite courses to be accepted into the program and have satisfactory ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores. After completion they are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse (RN). Students must be fully aware of the fact that this is an intense course that is offered in a hybrid format. The content of the course is built from classroom settings, online learning and other educational approaches.   

LVN to RN

This course is specially designed for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and meets the requirements established by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Admission into the program is only guaranteed to those that have a current and active LPN license and the required GPA for admission along with other requirements. The program is known as the LVN to RN 30-Unit Option and is a full-time, non-degree program that does not result in a BSN.

RN to BSN Nursing Program

Working registered nurses that want flexibility to complete course material for a BSN will find this program dynamic and interesting. During the program, students are engaged in many professional activities that hone their leadership and critical thinking skills. The course builds on the knowledge gained from an associate degree program and exposes each individual to more advanced concepts and information to prepare them to enter the nursing professional with confidence and in-depth knowledge. The program also presents physical and behavioral sciences and humanities.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Nurses that are currently employed and want to advance in their profession will benefit from the curriculum of this course. It is specifically designed for those that hold a baccalaureate degree and are licensed registered nurses with an unencumbered license.  After successful completion of the program they can go on to work as educators, administrators, family nurse practitioners, family and community nurses and adult clinical nurses. They will be trained throughout the program to undertake leadership roles in various healthcare settings.

School Nurse (SN) program

With roots dating back to 1966, this is a one-year credential program is certified by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). It is offered through the joined forces of The College of Continuing Education and Sacramento State School of Nursing. Only registered nurses (RNs) that hold a current California RN license can apply to the program. They must also have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. During the course they are trained to be effective health care practitioners and gain advanced school nursing skills.

Contact:
California State University-Sacramento
6000 J Street
Sacramento, CA 95819

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California State University, San Bernardino Nursing School Review

California State University-San Bernardino (CSUSB) started as a three-building campus in 1960. When it first opened its doors it was known as San Bernardino-Riverside State College. Within three years it was renamed California State College at San Bernardino and later in 1984 as California State University-San Bernardino. It prides itself for being a ‘young, vibrant’ university and its record enrollment numbers is evidence that students find the school just as thrilling.

The Department of Nursing offers three programs to students that wish to undertake professional roles in nursing. Depending on the program, classes are held at either the campus at San Bernardino or Palm Desert Campus. The programs currently being offered are:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Admission is twice yearly to this program. All pre-requisite courses for the Fall and Winter admission must be completed by the end of the Spring and Summer term respectively. There are 9 pre-requisite courses and a grade “C” or higher on all is required to enter the program. The pre-requisite courses are: 

• Microbiology
• Anatomy and Physiology I
• Anatomy and Physiology II
• Freshman English
• Oral Communication
• One Critical thinking course from specific options
• One math course from specific options
• General Chemistry
• Human Biochemistry

 All applicants must take and pass the ATI-TEAS pre-admission examination with the required scores established by the university. Classes are held at San Bernardino and Palm Desert Campus.

RN to BSN

Only students with a California Registered Nurse license that is current and unrestricted will be considered for application. These applicants must hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) with the minimum required GPA to meet the entry requirements. In addition to this, they must present proof of employment. Experience for one year in direct patient care or any other area in the heath care field is essential. This is a two year program that can be completed in four semesters. Classes are held at both locations with the Palm Desert Campus offering distance learning.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Masters program provides an advanced setting for studies to obtain their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in any of the following areas below. Only students with a registered nurse license (RN) that have a BSN or BS in a related field can apply to the master’s program. They must also present proof of competency and have the required GPA to enter the program. This is hybrid program.

1)     Population-Based MSN: In this course students can select a population of focus. Throughout the program they will be trained about the vital aspects of leadership to better prepare them for leadership roles in the health care sector. They will be able to use this knowledge to establish health care systems directed to the population of choice. With skills in management and leadership, they will ensure that the health care system guarantees easy access, is effective and uses resources in a cost-effective manner.

2)     Academic Nursing Education: This program is specifically designed for advanced practice nurses that are keen on delivering classes geared towards population health education and health education programming. They will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to teach at community colleges and four-year universities.

3)     School Nursing Concentration: Students that complete this program will be awarded two distinctions: a Master of Science in Nursing degree and a School Nurse Credential. The program adheres to the requirements established by the California State.

4)     Advanced Public/ Community Health: Students interested in this program will need to get the necessary guidance from their advisor regarding the National Board Certification in public/community health nursing. The course is covered in 59-67 units totaling 510 hours.

Admission Requirements for High School Graduates

CSUSB guarantees admission to its generic, undergraduate Nursing major if high school graduates demonstrate exceptional academic performance. This is only applicable if students have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 in academic courses, rank among the best 10% of their graduating class and have SAT or ACT scores of 1100 or 26 respectively. The option is open to eligible students prior to completion of one term/year in college.

Students that intend to enter CSUSB in Fall must take the ATI TEAS admission test by the Fall admission deadline. Successful completion of the 9 pre-requisite courses with a grade C or better by the end of the Spring quarter is mandatory for those that intend to enter the Fall program and graduate in Spring of the same year. 

Contact:

California State University, San Bernardino
5500 University Parkway
San Bernardino
CA 92407-2318
Tel: 909-537-5000

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California State University Stanislaus Nursing School Review

California State University-Stanislaus (CSUStan, Cal State Stanislaus, CSU Stanislaus, or Stan State) is a public university that was established in Turlock in 1957. It was originally known as Stanislaus State College and gained its present name in 1985. The school has various colleges that contribute to the 100 majors, minors, concentrations and teaching credentials and 24 master degree programs.

It is part of the California State University (CSU) and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Among its colleges is the College of Human and Health Sciences which is responsible for the nursing program at the school. The following programs are being offered:

Pre-licensure BSN Track (Basic Nursing)

This is an impacted program and California residents are given first priority over international and out-of-state students. In addition to this, admission into the program is also based on supplemental application. All students are required to take and pass the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills with scores established by the university. Applicants must also submit clearance from the Department of Justice. Background checks are performed on every applicant; as a result students are encouraged to report any conviction or felony charges to the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Incoming freshmen and non-CSU Stanislaus can apply to the program provided they have the required GPA and meet additional requirements for admission. This is a full-time program that can be completed in three years.

RN to BSN Track

Only students with a license as a Registered Nurse in California can apply to this program. They must have an associate degree in nursing or a baccalaureate with 30 and 60 semester units of transferable credit respectively. It is also necessary to have a current CPR Certification for Healthcare Providers, pass the health care examinations and have up-to-date vaccinations. The course is designed to build on the current knowledge of the registered nurse that has an associate degree to be able to obtain a BSN. It can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ASBSN)

This is a 15-month full-time program that is designed for students that already have a baccalaureate in a non-nursing program. Complete dedication is required throughout the course to meet the demands and requirements for continuing the program. Only students that demonstrate acceptable academic performance and a behavior pattern in line with professionalism can continue.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Students that are enrolled in this program will be trained to develop key leadership skills. They will be able to use the knowledge they obtained throughout the program to make solid research findings and evaluations that enhance the health care system in the nation, country or within the local community they operate. Areas in health care policy, financing and organization are taught to prepare students to better assume roles that require in-depth knowledge about specific issues. This course is perfect for students that are not looking for a traditional course, but want to use their talents to embrace the ever changing nursing functions in the health care sector. 

Only students that have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution can enter the program. It is also open to those that have an associate degree in nursing and a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Students that do not meet the all of the admission requirements are evaluated on an individual basis. After completion, graduates will be able to choose from any of these three options to contribute to their culmination experience: thesis, project and comprehensive examination.

LVN to BSN Track

Students are admitted on a space available basis to this program. The evaluation is done on an individual basis and after successful completion graduates obtain their BSN. The minimum admission requirements include an overall GPA of 3.0; a GPA of 2.75 for the science prerequisite and a GPA of 2.75 for the non-science prerequisite courses. Grade C is the minimum grade for each of the prerequisite courses while no more than 2 of these courses may be repeated. Statistics, Microbiology for Nursing, Chemistry & Biochemistry are some of the prerequisite courses that must be completed before enetring the program.

Contact:
California State University, Stanislaus
One University Circle
Turlock, CA 95382

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Cerritos Community College Nursing Program Review

Founded in 1955, Cerritos Community College is a public comprehensive community college located in Norwalk. The college is noted for its diverse student body with Hispanics accounting for the higher percentage. It offers associate degrees and certificates in various areas of study.

Among these, are its nursing courses which are approved by the Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. The nursing programs being offered at the school are:

Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) Program

This is a four semester course focused entirely on nursing subjects. Students must complete the necessary pre-requisites with a grade “C” or higher to be accepted into the program. They also have the option to take the college placement test and must have satisfactory scores for. Students entering the nursing program for the first time are considered “option A” applicants; whereas, those that want to complete an associate degree in nursing are classified as “option C” applicants. It is important that students know their classification to adhere to the requirements for each “option” since there are slight modifications.

LPT to ADN Mobility Program

In this program, students are trained in areas like Nursing Process Documentation, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Major Drugs and Nursing Management.  At the end of the training, they receive an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN). The course is only for any Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) that wants to gain licensure as a registered nurse by taking the NCLEX-RN examination. They must also have a valid and current California LPT license to be accepted into the four semester program.

LVN to ADN Mobility Program

This program is only open to licensed vocational nurse (LVN) that has at least one year of professional experience in acute care. They must have worked at a hospital or nursing facility to demonstrate their skills. Students acquire specific knowledge and skills throughout the program. Upon successful completion, they can sit the NCLEX-RN examination to be recognized as licensed registered nurses provided there are no pending restrictions. They will also receive an Associate Degree Nurse (ADN).

LVN-30 Unit Option

Students complete 30-units of college course in this program. All units are designated by the College. It is only open to licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) that want to gain licensure to become registered nurses. They must take the college placement tests as part of the admission requirements.   After successful completion they can sit the NCLEX-RN examination if there are no hindrances. This is a two semester course with the option to select two electives that are 9 week courses.

Board of Registered Nursing Referral

Students that have been instructed by the California Board of Registered Nursing and that are given a valid referral letter to complete certain areas of nursing content can take this course. The program specifically targets those that intend to hold California licensure as registered nurses by taking the NCLEX-RN examination.

Additional Information: Transfer and Challenge

Students that meet the requirements are given advanced standing in the nursing program. Only those that have completed academic courses at another accredited institution or can demonstrate relevant knowledge and skills are considered for admission. Those that the transfer route must have completed vocational or practical nursing courses, registered nursing courses, psychiatric technician courses at an accredited institution. If they choose the challenge route then they must pass the written examination and/or practical evaluation.

Contact:

Cerritos Community College
11110 Alondra Blvd.
Norwalk
CA 90650

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Chaffey College Nursing Program Review

Chaffey College is a public community college founded in 1883 in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The college offers both academic and occupational programs. There are more than 60 occupational programs at the school and its excellence in these areas adequately prepares students to enter a four year university or assume professional roles after graduation.

It is comprised of three campuses namely: Chino Campus, Fontana Campus and Rancho Cucamonga Campus. Nursing students are able to choose from the Associate Degree Nursing Program, Certified Nursing Assistant Home Health Aide (CNA/HHA) program and Vocational Nursing program.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program

The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program is a very in-depth course that builds on the concepts of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Basic Needs. It also incorporates key elements of the Nursing Process and Erik Erikson’s theories of development, and therapeutic communication to better prepare students to reach their full potential as care givers in a changing world. Throughout the program students acquire the necessary skills to evaluate, lead, implement, apply analytical thinking and manage in various health care settings. The course in approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to gain the necessary qualifications to be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of California.

Certified Nursing Assistant Home Health Aide (CNA/HHA)

This program is approved by the Department of Public Health of the State of California. The curriculum covers courses that prepare students to provide the necessary care to patients that demonstrate sub-acute to acute illnesses. They are also trained to work under the supervision of a licensed nurse in a home care or clinical setting. After successful completion, they are eligible to sit the examination for Nurse Assistant Certification (CNA). Once this is completed they can also take courses for certification in Home Health Aide. Applicants must be in good health and demonstrate physical capabilities according to the requirement established by the college. They must also have their immunization up-to- date and pass the drug screening tests.  All candidates must attend a mandatory information session prior to commencing the course.

Vocational Nurse (VN) Program

This program is accredited by the State of California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). It is a three semester program that prepares students through class room instruction and skills and simulation clinical experiences. Focus is also placed on hands-on training in various health care settings. Only 30 students are accepted each semester. They must have graduated from an accredited high school and pass the health exam and background checks to be admitted into the program. It is mandatory that all students hold a current health care provider CPR card that is issued by the American Heart Association. After successful completions students can take the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians licensing examination to practice as a Vocational Nurse. Graduates can work in acute health care hospitals, clinics and various other locations.

Contact:
Chaffey College
5885 Haven Avenue
Rancho Cucamonga
CA 91737-3002

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College of Marin Nursing Program Review

The College of Marin (COM) gained its official name in 1947 after being named Marin Junior College when it was founded in 1926. Students that attend the college will have the opportunity to hold an Associate Degree in various fields of choice. They are also guaranteed entry into many specific University of California campuses based on the agreement established between these schools and the college.

There are 35 two-year vocational and career programs that prepare students for employment in various areas. The two campuses located at Kentfield and Indian Valley Campus have all the resources to attend the needs of their growing student body. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Registered Nursing (RN) Program

This is a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) program that equips students with the necessary knowledge to become active members in the health care profession. They will also be trained to be managers of care; apply critical thinking to various situations and develop cultural maturity to work with people from various backgrounds. The program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. After successful completion they are eligible to sit licensure exams provided they meet all the requirements. They can then occupy roles as registered nurses in various health care settings. Applications should be directed to the Kentfield Campus.

Admission

All applicants must submit test scores for the ATI TEAS. The college only accepts Test Version V. Prior admission is necessary to obtain a Marin ID number that will be placed on the registered nurse application. Students must pass the 7 pre-requisite courses required by the school prior to submitting their applications. Students that completed some of these courses at another institution should complete the Substitution form to request consideration for these subjects. A background check will be performed on all applicants; however, those that believe that they will not pass a background check can explore other courses with an academic counselor. These courses should not require a background check. Other admission requirements include: drug screening, physical screening and immunization history along with others.

Scholarships:

There are many nursing scholarships for students that have financial challenges. Some of these scholarships are institutional, whereas others are offered by external donors. The school also offers Federal Aid and State Aid to those that qualify. The Calwords Pell Grant Student Loans is one example of Federal Aid that is available to students that demonstrate dire need for financial assistance. Scholarships programs include:

1)     CNA Nursing Education Scholarship Fund

2)     Health Professions Education Foundation

3)     Kaiser Permanente

4)     National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN)

5)     National Black Nurses Association

6)     National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses, Inc. (NFLPN)

7)     National League for Nursing (NLN)

8)     National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)

9)     Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program (NELRP)

10)     Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

11)     Sigma Theta Tau International – Honor Society of Nursing

12)     The California Endowment Central Valley Nursing Scholarship Program

13)       U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Bureau of Health Professionals

Contact:
College of Marin
835 College Avenue
Kentfield
CA 94904

Tel: (415) 457-8811

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College of the Canyons Nursing Program Review

College of the Canyons (COC) is a public community college that opened its doors to students in 1969. The college offers both Associate of Science (A.S) and Associate of Arts (A.A) degrees. There are also various certificate programs at the college.

It is specially noted for its large student body that has catapulted to astounding numbers over the last years. Students can attend any of the two campuses located at Valencia and Canyon County depending on the course in which they are enrolled. Nursing students can choose from the following programs at the college:

 Registered Nurse Two-Year Program

This program is accredited by the California State Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The curriculum is aimed at students that want to be entry level registered nurses. All students must take a state approved assessment test and rank at the required level.  Only students that complete the necessary pre-requisite courses respecting the required GPA will be allowed into the program. It is a two-year registered nurse program that equips graduates with the necessary training and knowledge to take the NCLEX-RN examination to become a registered nurse (RN). They are also awarded an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)  after graduation.

 LVN to RN “Career Ladder” Program

Only licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) can apply to this program. Those that are admitted are trained and acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to become registered nurses. Upon successful completion they receive a certificate of completion and an Associate Degree in Nursing. They are also eligible to apply for licensure to become a registered nurse in the state of California.

LVN to RN – 30-Unit Option

This is another option open to LVNs that want to become registered nurses. The program is structured to allow the students to take specific courses that give the necessary foundation on which to gain licensure when they take the NCLEX-RN. However, students are advised that while they are able to practice in California the same may not be true in other states. They may experience some degree of challenges if they decide to transfer to another state. When they sit the NCLEX-RN, they sit as a non-graduate. As a result, they may have trouble getting into advanced courses. Applicants must submit proof of employment as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and approved I.V certification course.

ADN to BSN Nursing Program

This program was offered by College of the Canyon in conjunction with the California State University at Northridge (CSUN). It is currently suspended. After successful completion of the NCLEX examination they would be able to get their BSN degree in just one year.

An alternative route for students is to enroll in the program offered by National University at College of the Canyons University Center. The course is offered on the COC campus. It is only open to registered nurses that have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and want to hold a BSN after completing the program. However, those that do not have an ADN can meet the required equivalency for National University by completing pre-requisite courses. All students must hold and current active license and have the required GPA for admission.

Collaborative RN Program

Since 2010 this program is not longer offered. However, applicants from participating hospitals can submit employment letters to the College to gain priority access to the RN program being offered.

Paramedic to RN Option

This pilot program is no longer offered and students are encouraged to apply to the two year RN program instead.

Nurse Assistant Training (Nursing 050)

In this program, students are trained to be nursing assistants and gain the necessary skills about nursing care in various settings. At the end of the program they receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the California Certificate Examination.

Contact:

College of the Canyons
Canyon Country campus
17200 Sierra Highway
Canyon Country, CA 91351

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College of the Desert Nursing Program Review

College of the Desert (COD) is a two-year community college that was founded in 1958 and started its first set of classes in 1962. It offers both vocational and technical programs.

It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. As a nursing student, you can choose to do the Nursing Assistant program, Registered Nurse (RN-ADN) program, Vocational Nurse (VN) program, Advanced Placement and Home Health Aide program.

Nursing Assistant program

Admissions are accepted twice yearly to this program. It is approved by the California Department of Public Health and upon successful completion a certificate in Nursing Assisting is awarded by the College. Graduates are also eligible to take the certification examination administered by the California State Department of Health Services. The course covers the roles of a nursing assistant and the essential aspects of nurse-patient relationships. They will be trained to provide long-term care in various health care settings. A CPR certificate issued by the American Heart Association is also part of the admission requirements.

Registered Nurse (RN-ADN Program)

This associates degree in nursing (ADN) program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the California State Board of Nursing. All applicants must pass the four pre-requisite courses prior to submitting their applications in March or August. Additionally, TEAS test scores are required.

Advanced Placement

This course is intended for those that wish to hold licensure as a registered nurse (RN). Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and other health care providers are the main target audience. Only applicants that submit proof of equivalent courses will be considered for admission. The following programs are available for advance placement:

1)     LVN to RN Transition Course – Nursing 55 (Degree Option): This course is open strictly to licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) that want to be registered nurses.

2)     Thirty-Unit Option (Non-Degree Option): All four prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade “C” or higher to enter this program. No degree is awarded after completion. Only licensed vocational nurses interested in being registered nurses can apply. Applicants must also bear in mind that acceptance of the thirty-unit option does not guarantee academic or professional ascension in other states outside of California.

Home Health Aide (HHA) Program

Only students that are licensed Nursing Assistants in the state of California can apply to this program. Applications are accepted twice yearly during fall and spring semester. They must also be enrolled in the prerequisite course at COD. After successful completion, they are awarded a certificate in Home Health Aide by the College. Once they take the licensure exams, they are certified as home health aides on California.  The course prepares students to understand and provide for the needs of patients that are in their care. They are also trained to work alongside other health care providers. Graduates are eligible to take the certification examination administered by the Department of Health Services. Acceptance into the program is based on the time the applicants are received by using a first come first serve criteria.

Vocational Nursing (VN) Program

This program is approved by the California Bureau of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians.  Students that complete it are eligible to take the (NCLEX-PN) to receive a license as a vocational nurse. The course is built on theory and practical interactions to adequately train students to undertake roles in the health care sector while working alongside licensed registered nurses and physicians. The program allows a maximum of 40 students to enter the program and selection is based on completion of prerequisite courses and GPA.

Contact:
College of the Desert
43-500 Monterey Avenue
Palm Desert
CA 92260

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Cypress College Nursing Program Review

Cypress College started offering courses in 1966. It currently has 280 bachelor-degree programs, 141 career-certificate programs and 51 associate degree programs. The 44,000 square feet campus is home of state-of-the-art facilities that modernize the teaching and learning process.

Students can choose from a wide range of options to get active on campus and enjoy their experience at Cypress College. Among the vast list of courses is its nursing program which consists of the following courses:

Career Mobility LVN to RN and PT to RN

This is the Registered Nursing Program for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) and Licensed Psychiatric Technicians (PT/LPT).

LVNs and PTs that are interested in becoming registered nurses can consider this program. At the end of the program they are eligible to take the Registered Nursing State Board Licensing Examination provided there are no pending restrictions. They will also be awarded an Associate Degree in Nursing. The program is approved by the California State Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Registered Nursing

This is a four semester course with one summer program. Applicants must complete all pre-requisite courses at the university or demonstrate course equivalence if they are transfer students. At the end of the program, graduates are awarded an Associate Degree in Nursing and can enter more advanced studies at universities. The College works with other universities in California, so that students are able to get their credits transferred as quickly as possible due the agreement established between the schools. Successful completion of the program also makes graduates eligible to sit the Registered Nursing State Licensing Examination. If they pass they are able to work in many health care settings that include, but are not limited to: hospices, clinics, home care agencies and hospitals.

Scholarships

There are four types of scholarships offered at Cypress College. These include: merit based scholarships, merit plus need scholarships, private scholarships and institutional scholarships.

The school also offers various grants that are dependent on different factors to be awarded to needy students. The grants present at the school are: Federal Pell Grant Program, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program (SEOG). There are also grants offered by the state of California and these are: Cal Grant A, Cal Grant B and Cal Grant C.

There are also loan options, but these have stringent rules that apply to be approved. In light of the financial crisis and frequency of defaults, Cypress College strongly discourages students from getting a loan.

Other types of financial aid include: Board of Governors (BOG) Enrollment Fee Waivers and Federal Work-Study (FWS) fund.

Nursing Organizations at Cypress College

National Student Nurses Association

The National Student Nurses Association is open to both nursing and non-nursing students. The association is aimed as registered nurses and provides the necessary guidance and resources for professional ascension and personal development.

There is also the Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association which was established in 1969.Nursing students that are not able to get a scholarship, grant or loan can consider applying to the foundation. It operates solely on a charitable and educational basis.

Contact:
Cypress College
200 Valley View Street
Cypress, CA 90630

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Dominican University of California Nursing School Review

Dominican University of California (DUC) was established in 1890 and it is an independent university of Catholic heritage. Located in Marin County, this university offers more than 60 academic programs to 2,200 students. They enjoy a long standing reputation as an excellent institution involved in many community outreach programs.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – BSN

Dominican University of California offers a comprehensive Nursing Major Program for new and repeat students who would like to pursue a career in nursing. The program prepares students for both practical and theory exams and provides more than 200 hours of practical training in their lab. Students will also learn about purchasing equipment and supplies; as well as repairs and maintenance of recording systems. This program will run a minimum of four years and students require 124 units to graduate.

Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into the program, students need to hold a GPA score of at least 3.0 or more. Students also need to have passed a total of eight prerequisite courses with a passing rate of C+. Any student that has failed more than two of these required classes won’t be eligible for acceptance into the course. Students also need to be medically cleared when admitted in this program. There is also a required TEAS test that needs to be passed prior to acceptance.

LVN to BSN

The current requirements for Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) students that want to enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program are the same as those for pre-nursing students. Prospective students need to pass all the prerequisites before entering these programs and admission is granted on available space.

Clinical Nurse Leader – MSN

Students that apply for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program will have their applications go through a review process first; before they are accepted into the program. Factors such as their GPA scores and their TOEFL scores will be assessed, as well as their goals and achievements set out for themselves. Although space is limited, applications are regularly reviewed for admission.

Course Requirements

To be accepted into the MSN program, students need to possess a Bachelor’s degree and hold an average GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students also need to provide two letters of recommendation as well as a personal resume. Prospective students will need to undergo an interview with the admissions committee prior to approval for acceptance into the program.

Accelerated ADN / RN to MSN

This program has been designed for students holding either an Associates degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Registered Nurse (RN) qualification that want to advance to the Master degree. Students will have to complete a first year of bridge work that consists of 16 study units, before moving over to the graduate program. After successful completion of the normal course work, the student will receive the Master of Science in Nursing.

Contact:
Dominican University of California
50 Acacia Avenue
San Rafael
CA 94901
Tel: (415) 457-4440

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El Camino College Nursing Program Review

El Camino College (ECC) was founded in 1947 and serves the greater Los Angeles area. Each semester more than 25,000 students enroll at ECC. It is commonly referred to as “Elco”. The college has a Memorandum of Understanding with the former Compton Community College, and uses their facilities, now known as ECC Compton Center, to provide classes to the community.

All classes at both locations are administered by ECC Torrance. Nursing courses fall under the Health Sciences and Athletics Division at ECC Torrance and the Career and Technical Education at ECC Compton Center. Nursing classes may be offered at either campus.

Nursing Program

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

ECC offers an ADN for those looking to enter the nursing profession. The California Board of Registered Nursing approved the nursing program at ECC, and it is National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) accredited. Students must have a minimum 2.5 Grade Point Average (GPA) and have completed English 1A, Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology to apply. After being accepted, the ADN program is a two year program.

This program teaches the skills required by entry level nurses, and students will learn to successfully assess patient conditions in a variety of settings. Students will learn in a combination of classroom and clinical settings. After graduation, candidates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examinations for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), and must pass this exam to be certified as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Transfer students who are Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN), Licensed Psychiatric Technicians (LPT) or transfer students from other accredited nursing programs are able to apply for advanced placement in the ADN program, and will be accepted on a case by case basis.

Certification Programs

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

The CNA program is designed to teach the student how to directly care for and make patients comfortable, as well as collect, record, and report information to licensed practitioners. It is offered beginning in February and September, and lasts eight weeks. Students must complete the course and the State Competency Exam to be eligible for State of California certification as a Nurse Assistant.

Home Health Aide

Home Health Aides are CNAs that work for a home health agency as an entry level caregiver in a home care setting. The Home Health Aide course is only open to CNAs, and is offered during the last 6 weeks of each semester, beginning in November and April. It is designed to allow CNAs to quickly gain certification. After course completion, students may apply for Home Health Aide Certification by the State of California.

Perioperative Nursing Review

After the student passes the necessary nursing courses and license requirements, El Camino College offers a post-licensing course that gives students the ability to register for nursing assistant positions in the operating room. The program is focused on students who are licensed nurses, but the student has no experience in the operating room. The course helps nurses advance their careers into management and decision-making throughout the entire course of the operating room procedures.

El Camino Counseling and Student Services

Every student who enters into a nursing program at El Camino College is assigned a counselor. The counselors help students find the right curriculum, courses and schedule that fit the student’s needs. The counselors help with career placement and any issues with grades and graduation. The counselors help new students acclimate into the college culture and environment needed to grow academically and exceed at the student’s goal to become the next nursing professional.

Scholarship Information

Health Professions Education Foundation

In an effort to increase the number of RNs in California and to encourage them to practice in underserved areas, the Health Professions Education Foundation offers the Associate Degree Nursing Scholarship fro the Registered Nurse Program. To be eligible to apply, students must be accepted into or currently enrolled in an Associate Degree Nursing Program. Those who are accepted may be awarded up to $8,000 for an academic year. In order to accept the award, students must agree to work in a medically underserved area of California for two years after graduation.

Other Scholarships

There are other scholarships available for ADN students at ECC and ECC Compton Center. To be eligible, students must have 6 units of graded ECC coursework, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, one letter of recommendation and a personal essay.

Contact:

El Camino College
16007 Crenshaw Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90506

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Golden West College Nursing Program Review

Golden West College (GWC) is located in Huntington Beach. It is also known as “Surf City”. This college serves more than 14,000 students and is a two-year, medium-sized college. GWC offers various instructional and student support programs and has a strong commitment to student learning. Golden West College is part of the Coast Community College District (CCCD).

ADN – Basic Associate Degree Program

Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection into the Associate’s degree in Nursing (ADN). Selection to this nursing course will be done according to a formula that determines a student’s probability of success in this program. Only eligible students will be considered.

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program is divided into 4 semesters and will total 56 study units. The courses in this program must be taken in a specific required curriculum order and students must also achieve a minimum 2.0-grade point average for all subjects to be accepted into this program.

Completing this course will qualify the student to be eligible for the Associate Arts Nursing degree qualification, and this will allow students to be accepted for examination at the California licensing examination for Registered Nursing. This nursing program has also received accreditation from the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Non-Graduate Program

Students may be allowed to take the examination for licensing when they have completed the curriculum; even if the requirements have not yet been met. However, students will then not be considered to be graduates and as a result, they might not be able to receive their license in other states.

Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted for this program, prospective students will need to undergo a physical examination upon his or her application to ensure he or she meets the appropriate physical and emotional standards of the program. Students must also hold a valid CPR certification no less than 2 years old. Students that plan on enrolling in the nursing program need to complete an acceptable score on the Test of Essential Analytical Skills (TEAS).

A background check will also be done on all prospective students and they are also advised to obtain malpractice insurance. Students to this course are responsible for their own expenses with regards to transportation, uniforms, accessories, CPR courses, and physical examinations.

In order to be accepted into these programs, no student that is currently undergoing treatment for substance abuse will be considered.

LVN to ADN Program

Students that wish to complete the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to Associates degree in Nursing (ADN) program will be required to have at least one year of experience with direct patient care; as well as be a graduate of the LVN program. All student applications will be subject to an evaluation and factors will be considered such as GPA scores and the passing of prerequisites. Students will be informed in writing and they will need to accept to be able to enter the course.

Contact:
Golden West College
15744 Goldenwest Street
Huntington Beach
CA 92647
Tel: (714) 892-7711

Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District Nursing Program Review

Grossmont College first opened in 1961, and Cuyamaca College opened in 1978. Together they have more than 30,000 students enrolled each semester. The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District (GCCCD) offers flexible learning opportunities, including short-term classes of 4 to 8 week durations, open entry and exit courses, online and blended classes, and Saturday sessions, to benefit 21^st Century students who lead busy lives.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree Registered Nursing Program (ADN)

The Grossmont College School of Nursing Program began in the fall of 1967. Approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, the ADN program at Grossmont College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. It takes two years (four semesters) to complete the program after the prerequisite classes have been taken. The science prerequisite courses include Anatomy, Physiology and Microbiology. In addition, the following courses are also prerequisites for Nursing Majors: English Composition, Intermediate Algebra, Communications/Speech, Introductory Psychology, and Sociology. The ADN program opens to 40 new students every Fall and Spring semester.

The ADN not only prepares students for the national licensing exams, it trains them in the skills necessary to successfully be professional nurses in a various health care environments. This major requires a special application, and will not be accepted until the required science prerequisite courses have been passed. After graduation, students will be qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their RN certification.

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN) Transition Program

There are two paths for the LVN to RN Transition Program. The first is a 2 year program at Grossmont College that leads to an ADN, and admits 20 students each year. The second program is the LVN to RN Transition 30 Unit Option. The 30 Unit Option takes approximately 18 to 24 months to complete, and students completing it do not earn a degree. The 30 Unit Option is designed as a way for Licensed Vocational Nurses in California quickly work their way to becoming an RN. However, students should be note that most other states will not recognize the LVN to RN Option in California and they will not be able to obtain an RN license outside of the state.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students wishing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing should be aware of the arrangement between the Grossmont College School of Nursing and Grand Canyon’s School of Nursing. The two schools have developed a special track for ADN to BSN.

Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Many other schools in the area offer BSN and MSN degrees. Grossmont College School of Nursing encourages graduates interested in pursuing advanced nursing degrees to continue their education.

There is an option for graduates of the Grossmont College School of Nursing with a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree, who are interested in an MSN degree. Through agreements between Grossmont College and the University of San Diego (USD) and San Diego State University (SDSU), students can take advantage of advanced placement opportunities in the MSN programs at USD and SDSU.

USD also offers Grossmont College of Nursing graduates a 3 year ADN to MSN track that awards a BSN along the way.

Contact:
Grossmont College
8800 Grossmont College Drive
El Cajon, CA 92020

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Contact:
Cuyamaca College
900 Rancho San Diego Parkway
El Cajon, California 92019

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Holy Names University Nursing School Review

Holy Names University (HNU) can trace its roots back to 1868, when a teaching order of nuns arrived in California to establish a school for girls and train teachers. It remained an all-female school until 1955, when it admitted males into its newly established Graduate Division. The rest of the college followed suit and became coed in 1971.

The University today is committed to meeting the needs of working adults by offering unconventional and innovative degree completion programs, such as a three-year bachelors degree. Holy Names University has been offering nursing education since 1957.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Bachelor Degree in Nursing (BSN)

Students with no prior nursing experience will take their first two years of general courses at Holy Names University. If they have a GPA of at least 3.00, they can then transfer to Samuel Merritt University (SMU) where they will study nursing for two years. Their BSN degree will be awarded by SMU.

Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN

The RN to BSN program is designed for working RNs to pursue their BSN at their own pace. The evening courses are available online at home or via interactive video feeds at hospitals throughout the state. Because of the nature of the program, the amount of time it takes to complete this degree depends on the student.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to BSN

Another program for those already working in healthcare, the LVN to BSN program has courses that are held on campus and scheduled for late afternoons and evenings. This program is year round (Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters) and takes two and a half years of continuous study to complete.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degrees

The MSN programs at Holy Names University have a unique schedule designed for working adults. Courses are offered once a month on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

MSN/Family Nurse Practitioner

Students must have a BSN before beginning this program. Those who complete this two year program receive their MSN/Family Nurse Practitioner degree and are eligible to apply for the California FNP license. They are also able to apply for the furnishing license which gives nurses the ability to prescribe medications and diagnose patients on their own, without a physician.

An RN that has a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field can enter the MSN/Family Nurse Practitioner program by completing the Pathway Program with additional nursing courses.

MSN/Clinical Faculty

Those who have a BSN and are interested in becoming clinical faculty with a master’s degree can pursue their MSN/Clinical Faculty degree, a two year program.

If an RN that already has a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field wants to enter the MSN/Clinical Faculty program, they can do so through the Pathway Program by completing additional nursing courses.

Those who want to become clinical faculty and already have an MSN can complete the MSN/Clinical Faculty option courses and become certified.

MSN with Administration Management

Students wishing to become administrators or managers can opt for the MSN with Administration/Management degree, a two year course of study.

RNs that already have a bachelors degree but in an unrelated field can enter the MSN with Administration Management program through the Pathway Program by completing additional nursing courses.

MSN/Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The MSN/MBA degree program was designed for working RNs. It follows the same monthly class schedule as the other MSN programs, with an additional Saturday morning class during a Summer term. Besides a BSN degree, this program requires the prerequisites of statistics and computer proficiency. This is also a two year program.

RNs who have a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field can enter the MSN/MBA program through the Pathway Program, which requires additional nursing courses.

MSN/Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology (MFP)

The MSN/MFP program prepares students to work in forensic mental health nursing, which includes caring for the mental health of incarcerated or paroled patients, as well as crime victims. This program contains additional forensic psychology courses. Because of the unique schedule of the MSN program (listed above) and the fact that the forensic courses are offered online, this is still just a two year program.

An RN that has a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field can enter the MSN/MFP Pathway Program by completing additional nursing courses.

Post Master Certificate Programs

Holy Names University offers Post Master Certificate programs in three of their MSN programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Faculty, and Administration Management. For each program, applicants must be an RN and have a masters degree in nursing from an institution accredited either by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Contact:

Holy Names University

3500 Mountain Blvd.

Oakland, CA 94619

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Humboldt State University Nursing School Review

Humboldt State University (HSU) is part of the 23-campuses of the California University. The university is located in Arcata, 270 miles to the north of San Francisco. The university sits on 144 acres of land and it is surrounded by other spectacular natural features which make the learning environment very fun and impressive to both the students and the professors who teach at the university.

HSU offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs and has a population of 7902 students where the programs can be taken on full time or part time basis but the student population who are in full time programs are more that those on part time programs. The programs in Humboldt state university are also available to international students.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The university of Humboldt offers a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) to new students commonly referred to as traditional students and those who are already Registered Nurses (RN) who may want to receive a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The students are usually organized in small classes and they are offered with placements in rural clinics in order to help them in advancing in their career as this gives them the exposure and the real work environment in the field. Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four year program and it is accredited by the California State Board of Nursing. The program has been designed in such a manner that after completion, the students are able to take leadership roles in the nursing fraternity or outside, where they can develop an in-depth knowledge in biology and socials sciences. They can also get exposure on what is happening in the field as the students are able to go for placement during their degree program and other benefits.

Admission Requirements

For the student to be admitted into BSN, he/she must provide supporting documents which may include unofficial transcripts, TEAS score (but this can be taken in the university if the student did not take it from another location) and health experience form. In some cases students will be required to submit their foreign language proficiency verification but this is optional depending on the country of origin and it s usually required if the student comes from a country where the dominant language that is used is not English, local residency verification may also be required but this is optional. The student will be required to pass all the pre-requisites and co-requisites which may include both science and non-science courses. For the students to be admitted into the BSN program, they should apply to HSU and indicate pre-nursing as their major; or apply directly to the HSU Nursing Program.

RN to BSN Bridge Program

This course is designed for those students who are Registered Nurses (RN’s) but would like to proceed into a Bachelor’s program. The students are required to meet all the course requirements before they can be admitted into this program.

Contact:

Humboldt State University (a California State University Campus)

1 Harpst Street

Arcata, CA 95521

Tel: (707) 826-3011

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Loma Linda University Nursing School Review

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) university which is located in Southern California. The university offers 55 educational health science based programs to more than 4000 students where a good number of these come from 80 countries around the world.

The university offers admission to students irrespective of their races, culture and any other orientation. But once the students are admitted in the university they are taught and empowered on spiritual matters related to the Bible and more especially the Adventist message.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing

Loma Linda University the school of nursing offers Bachelor of Science degree in nursing to new students joining the university and other students who may be in possession of various experiences in the field of nursing or those with other qualifications and would like to join nursing. The program prepares students for professional nursing where clinical groups are formed after the second week in the university. This is also available to those students who may have completed pre-requisite courses but they do not have a bachelors degree or any experience in the field of nursing.

Admission Requirements

In order for a student to be admitted in this program, he/she must hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 or more fro regular track, 3.3 for accelerated track. The student will also be required to have passed all the pre-requisites with a “C” or more. The applicants will also be required to pass pre-entrance exams such as TEAS and critical thinking. Other requirements that the student must have include; three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a personal statement, completed HS or its equivalent and must take an interview before being admitted.

LVN to BS Track

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) can also be admitted into Bachelor of Science (BS) nursing and the admission requirements include a GPA of 3.0 and above, must have passed all the pre-requisites examinations such as TEAS and other relevant qualifications.

RN to BS

Students who are currently registered as a Registered Nurse and hold a license, can be admitted into Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They must meet all the requirements the same as for licensed vocational nurses and also they must complete all the prerequisites before they can start the program.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

Students who complete Bachelor of Science in nursing can apply for a Master’s degree in different fields of specialization depending on the availability of the program chosen. There are also post MS certificates that are offered for nurse practitioners in adult nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner among others.

Doctoral programs

PhD programs are offered in nursing in collaboration with NEXus (Nursing Education Exchange).

Admission requirements

For a student to be admitted into this program, they must be in possession of Master’s degree in nursing and must be registered or licensed. Other requirements may vary depending on the area that one may want to specialize.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Program

For this program, students are required to have a Baccalaureate degree in Nursing; as well as be able to provide recommendations from co-workers, pastors and current supervisors. The program also consists of a 30 month graduate program of which the final 18 months will be practical experience.

Contact:

Loma Linda University
11092 Anderson Street
Loma Linda
CA 92354
Tel: (909) 558-1000

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Long Beach City College Nursing Program Review

Long Beach City College (LBCC) was founded in 1927, and currently enrolls over 28,000 students each semester. There are two campus locations in Long Beach, and LBCC is accredited by Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior
Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

For those that enjoy athletics along with learning, LBCC has 21 different intercollegiate athletic programs from which to choose. LBCC has a tradition of athletic excellence, with more state and national titles and bowl appearances than any other Community College in California. LBCC is recognized as having one of the nation’s best community college athletics programs.

The Registered Nursing Program at LBCC falls under the School of Health and Science.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program at Long Beach City College is a full-time, two year program. Students attend classes during the day, and will have daytime and evening clinical rotations. Classes are held at the Liberal Arts Campus.

To apply to the ADN program, students must have a high school diploma or GED, have successfully completed the LBCC reading proficiency test, and have taken the required math, information proficiency, English, Anatomy, Biology, and Physiology prerequisite courses. In addition, students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

To graduate, a student must complete a minimum of 68 units of core nursing courses, and at least 19 units of general education courses. After completion of all degree requirements, graduates are eligible for the Registered Nurse National licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to qualify for their California RN license.

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN)

The LVN to RN program has been designed as a career ladder for LVNs who want to become RNs. This course of study is structured so that students can complete all the requirements listed above during the course of two and a half semesters. Graduates of this program will receive an ADN and a certificate of completion, and will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to qualify for their California RN license.

Vocational Nursing Program

A full-time one year program, the Vocational Nursing Program is designed to help Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) transition to LVNs. Once the students have taken the required courses in Common Health, Maternal, Infant, and Child Care, and completed the clinical requirements, they are able to sit for the vocational-practical nursing licensing exam (NCLEX-VN/PN).

After completing this program, LVNs that wish to pursue an associate degree may take the prerequisite courses listed above and apply for the ADN program.

Thirty Unit Option Certification Program

LBCC offers a thirty unit option certification program as required by the California Board of Registered Nursing. The Board has mandated that colleges must make this option available to anyone who is currently in possession of a valid LVN license and wants to advance to become an RN. Upon completion of this program, a student is allowed to take the NCLEX-RN.

Students should note that those who have completed the thirty unit option are not considered graduates of LBCC, do not obtain an ADN degree, and are not recognized as licensed RNs outside of the state of California. This course of study could also cause problems for the student if they want to pursue a higher degree, such as a BSN, as they may not meet entry requirements at other institutions.

Contact:

Long Beach City College
5000 East Lew Davis Street
Long Beach, CA 90808

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Los Angeles Harbor College Nursing Program Review

Los Angeles Harbor College (LAHC) is located south of metropolitan Los Angeles and has been educating students in the community for over 60 years. The college strives to provide a wide variety of options to prepare students to succeed in their careers, continue on to four-year universities, and foster a love of life-long learning.

The nursing program at Los Angeles Harbor College began in 1963. The college is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and the nursing program is accredited by the Board of Registered Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program is designed for students who do not currently have any form of nursing license. To be accepted into the ADN program, students must have a high school diploma or GED or hold an associate degree or higher in any subject. They must also complete courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English, Psychology, Math, Chemistry, and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Students who complete the ADN program will earn their associate degree and be eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). After passing the licensing exam, they will be Registered Nurses (RNs).

Licensed Vocational Nurse to RN Transition Program (LVN to RN)

LVNs that are currently licensed in California are eligible for this program, which will allow them to earn an RN license. In addition to completing the prerequisites listed above, students have two options for pursuing their ADN. They may either test out of up to 15 units by scoring a 75% or better on competency tests, or they may take a series of nursing transition courses and take the ATI Medical-Surgical standardized test. Both of these paths lead to advanced placement in the ADN program. After completing either of these options and the remainder of the ADN program, they will earn their associate degree and may take the NCLEX-RN.

LVN 30 Unit Option

LVNs that are currently licensed in California may opt for the LVN 30 Unit option. This course of study allows them to take specific nursing courses as well as a clinical study, to work toward becoming an RN. Upon completion of this course, they may take the NCLEX-RN exam. They will not, however, earn a degree, or be considered graduates of the Los Angeles Harbor Nursing Program.

The prerequisites for this program, besides being a current licensed LVN, are Physiology, Microbiology, and Nursing courses.

Certified Nurse Assistant/Certified Home Health Aide Program (CNA/CHHA)

The CNA/CHHA program at Los Angeles Harbor College has two parts. The first is the 5 unit CNA course, geared toward those seeking to begin as health care workers in a long-term care facility or in acute care. This is a 7-week program of lectures and clinical work. After students complete this program, they may apply for certification by taking the State of California Certification Exam.

Those wishing to become a CHHA may enroll in the CHHA program after or at the same time as the CNA program. This is a three-week program with lectures and clinical work and focuses on the care of clients and residents at home. After successfully completing this program, students may apply for Home Health Aide certification.

There are no prerequisite courses required for either of these programs, and a high school diploma or equivalent is not required.

Contact:

Los Angeles Harbor College
1111 Figueroa Place
Wilmington, CA 90744

Los Angeles Pierce College Nursing Program Review

Founded in 1947 as an agricultural college, Pierce College is located in the San Fernando Valley on 426 wooded acres that include a botanical garden, nature preserve, and giant redwoods. This campus is unique in the metropolitan Los Angeles area.

Pierce College has alliances with most 4-year universities in California, and is considered a top transfer college in Southern California, making it an ideal place for students to begin their college career. The current enrollment at the college is over 21,000 students.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Arts Degree Nursing Program (ADN)

The ADN program at Pierce College has been accredited or approved by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Board of Registered Nursing. Graduates of this program are qualified to sit for the licensure examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN).

During their course of study, students will attend classes and will have practical clinical time at local hospitals and health agencies. They will provide care to actual patients while being supervised by faculty members.

In order to qualify to apply for this program, students must first complete general education courses in Psychology, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Sociology, Math, and English, and have a cumulative GPA of 2.5.

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN)

LVNs that are currently licensed in California may apply for advanced placement in the ADN program. Spots are awarded as space is available, and candidates are chosen based on a lottery system. To apply, students must have completed the prerequisite courses listed above. Students who complete this program will graduate with an ADN, and will be eligible to sit for the national licensing exam.

30 Unit Option

Pierce College offers LVN to RN students a 30 Unit Option to complete their coursework and become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Students must be currently licensed and complete Physiology and Microbiology with a GPA of 2.5 or higher before applying. Students that complete this course of study will be able to take the licensing exam to become RNs, but they will not earn a degree and their license is not guaranteed to be recognized outside of California.

Admission is subject to space availability, and candidates compete for open spaces through a lottery.

Foreign Nurse Graduate

Nurses who are not eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam because they are missing requirements in their nursing education are encouraged to enroll at Pierce College as a foreign nurse graduate. To be admitted to this program, they must have a letter from the California Board of Registered Nursing which spells out the requirements for licensure they are missing. They must also file a nursing department petition. Foreign nurse graduate applicants are admitted on a space available basis, and once accepted, will be allowed to enroll in the college and in the course they need. They also need to take the Role Transition to RN course.

The Board of Registered Nursing will be notified when the student has finished the missing course.

Transfer Students

Students wishing to transfer to Pierce College from another accredited nursing program will have every effort made to accommodate their request.

To begin the transfer process, students should obtain a petition from the Nursing Department Office to evaluate their previous nursing coursework and determine its equivalency. The petition must be submitted to the department’s Admissions/Graduation/Retention Sub-Committee, along with a letter showing academic standing and student status from their former nursing school director, outlines and descriptions of completed nursing courses, and sealed official transcripts from every college attended.

Students must have a GPA of 2.5 or better, and have taken the prerequisites listed above. The courses may have been taken at another school.

Students approved for transfer will be admitted on a space available basis.

Contact:

Los Angeles Pierce College
6201 Winnetka Ave.
Woodland Hills, California 91371

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Los Angeles Valley College Nursing Program Review

Los Angeles Valley College (LAVC) was founded in 1949 and is one of the leading community colleges in the state. Located in Valley Glen, campus is a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, television and movie studios, Malibu and Santa Monica Beach.

Valley College enrolls over 20,000 students each semester, and has over 140 associate degree and certificate programs. It is also the home of the Valley Symphony Orchestra, LAVC Art Gallery, and the Los Angeles Valley College Historical Museum.

Nursing Programs

The nursing programs at Valley College are accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing (CABRN) and the National League for Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Students must have a “C” average or better before applying to the ADN program, and have completed the required courses of Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, Math, and English.

Once in the ADN program, students will take 38 units of nursing theory, have supervised clinical experience at local hospitals and health care facilities, and complete at least 34 units of science and general education in order to graduate. All nursing courses must have been completed with a “C” average or better in order to take the licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Career Ladder

Students currently licensed in California as an LVN and that have at least one year of current LVN work experience, 12 completed units with the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) with a “C” average or better, and have completed the prerequisites listed above for the ADN are qualified to apply for the LVN Career Ladder. LVN students must also take the Transition Course.

LVN 30 Unit Option

The 30 Unit Option has the same requirements as the LVN Career Ladder above. Students should be aware that upon completion of this program, they will not earn an ADN degree, they will not be graduates of either Valley College or the Nursing Program, employment opportunities will be limited, and that other states will not recognize their California RN license. Students who complete this program receive an occupational certificate and are eligible to take the licensing exam.

Transfer Student

All students admitted as transfer students must take the Transition Course. In addition, they must have a letter from the Director of Nursing at their former school explaining why they are leaving, submit a transcript and petition for approval of credit transfer, and have 12 completed units with the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) with a “C” average or better.

Foreign Nurse

A student applying as a foreign nurse must submit a transcript and petition for approval of credit transfer, and have 12 completed units with the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) with a “C” average or better. In addition, students should be aware that foreign nurses that only need one or two specific courses will be considered last for placement in the program.

Other Health Related Programs

Respiratory Therapy Program

Respiratory Therapists work with patients suffering from heart and lung disease. These health care professionals work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, pulmonary rehabilitation facilities and home care, and in sleep disorder laboratories. The profession is well-paying and critically underserved, with many open positions right now.

Advanced Respiratory Care Practitioners (Registered Respiratory Therapists)

The Respiratory Therapist Program consists of two phases. Phase I is open to anyone, but students must apply for Phase II. To apply to Phase II, students must have a high school diploma (or equivalent), and a “C” average in all phase I courses (Psychology, Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, and Physics). Students that complete the Respiratory Therapist Program will graduate with an Associate of Science (AS) Degree in Respiratory Therapy.

After completing the Respiratory Therapist Program, students may take the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam, and then sit for the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) written and clinical exams. Once they have passed the CRT exam, they can also apply for a license as a California Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP).

The Valley College Respiratory Therapist Program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Respiratory Care (CoARC).

Contact:

Los Angeles Valley College

5800 Fulton Avenue

Valley Glen CA 91401

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Monterey Peninsula College Nursing Program Review

Founded in 1947, Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) is one of 110 colleges in the California Community College System (CCCS). MPC has nearly 20,000 students enrolled. It offers 71 Associate Degrees and many courses to prepare students to continue their education at a four year university, update their skills and career, or gain a general education.

The Maurine Church Coburn School of Nursing (MCCSN) is part of the Monterey Peninsula College and offers community and professional health education courses, as well as the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. The School of Nursing has partnered with the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula to deliver this program.

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

This degree program strives to deliver safe, high-quality nursing care by including both general education and nursing courses to broaden students’ knowledge. Students will have the opportunity to apply their skills in various health care settings.

The School of Nursing is accredited or approved by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Graduates of this program will have earned an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing and will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become Registered Nurses (RNs).

In order to be considered for admission to the nursing program, students have to have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must have met the MPC math and reading proficiency requirements, and have a grade of “C” or better in the required English, Physiology, College Anatomy, Developmental Psychology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology courses.

Students should note that though they may have completed the required courses, they are not automatically guaranteed entry into the nursing program due to space limitations.

Advanced Placement Licensed Vocation Nurse (LVN)

Students who are currently practicing LVNs may apply for advanced placement into the nursing program. Students must meet the requirements for the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing listed above, and must take the Nursing Role Transition course. Students will be given the opportunity to earn credit through testing and clinical assessment, within the guidelines of the MPC policy on credit by examination, and BRN regulation 1430. Admission will be considered as space becomes available.

The same criteria apply to LVNs wishing to apply to the nursing program through the 30 Unit option. The 30 Unit option is a program to allow LVNs to become RNs, but without earning an Associate Degree.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN)

Monterey Peninsula College has partnered with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) to offer a unique way to approach a 4 year degree. Students will begin their nursing studies at MPC, then spend time on both campuses before earning an Associate Degree from MPC and a BSN from CSUMB.

There is no direct entry to the BSN program at CSUMB. Students must begin by taking courses by starting at MPC or one of three other area community colleges. To be apply to the CSUMB BSN program through MPC, applicants must have met the requirements for entry into the Maurine Church Coburn School of Nursing and either have been accepted into the program, or be on the waitlist.

Students applying to the CSUMB nursing program must submit an application proving they have taken the prerequisite courses for the Associate of Science in Nursing degree, listed above, and prove admission to the MPC program. They must also submit an essay to CSUMB, discussing their interest in nursing and what strengths they will bring to the program, and why CSUMB is the best fit for them.

Contact:

Monterey Peninsula College
980 Fremont St.
Monterey, CA 93940

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Moorpark College Nursing Program Review

Moorpark College (MC) is a community college in California, and is located a short distance from Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills. MC is one of the three colleges that are part of the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD).

The college is dedicated to providing postsecondary education at an affordable cost to anyone who wishes to take advantage of it. Founded in 1967, it currently has over 15,000 students enrolled, and offers 1500 different classes each semester in 70 disciplines.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program began in 1981 as a satellite program to Ventura College, and was approved as its own program by the California Board of Registered Nursing in 1983. The program was nationally accredited by the National League of Nursing in 1990. The ADN is a four semester program.

To be admitted into the ADN program students must have a high school diploma or equivalency, and must have a GPA of 2.5 or better in all their college courses. They must have taken Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology and Math within the last five years, and must have taken English Composition.

The application to the nursing program is good for up to two years after applying. If a student is not admitted into the program during that time, they will need to reapply.

Advanced Placement

Advanced placement in the ADN program means students may be able to start in the second or third semester of the program and receive credit for courses already taken. The only way a student may start in the fourth (last) semester of the program is if they withdrew from the nursing program due to extenuating circumstances, had been a student in good standing, and were able to return within one year.

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), nursing students transferring from another accredited college, and readmission applicants may be considered for advanced placement. Admission is limited to available space in the program. All applicants for advanced placement must prove that they meet the ADN program requirements, which includes a GPA of 2.5 or better in English, math, and science. The science and math courses must have been taken within the last five years for them to count. In addition, all advanced placement applicants must include a personal letter stating why they want to attend the Moorpark College nursing program and what their current situation and future goals are.

Any interested Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) must also submit a copy of their current license, a resume detailing what their work experience has been, a letter of recommendation from their current employer, a letter of recommendation from the nursing school director where they graduated, and must have taken the PN Comprehensive Predictor course within 12 months of application.

Transfer nursing students from another accredited college must meet the above ADN requirements and submit the college catalog and course syllabi from their previous college, two recommendation letters from the nursing director or nursing faculty at their previous school, and their TEAS V score, taken within 12 months of application.

For students seeking readmission to the nursing program, the requirements are to submit two recommendation letters from faculty of the nursing school, evidence of volunteering or work experience, transcripts proving academic remediation, and their TEAS V score, taken within 12 months of application.

LVNs also have the 30 Unit option available to them, which doesn’t earn an ADN, and may not be recognized by other states. The 30 Unit option must be stated on the advanced placement application. Licensed Vocational Nurses that choose this route will be required to sign a waver stating they understand they will not earn a degree.

In addition, foreign nursing students who are missing a single course to apply for California licensure may not take just one course. They must apply as advanced placement students to the ADN program.

Contact:

Moorpark College
7075 Campus Road
Moorpark, CA 93021

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Mount St. Mary’s College Nursing Program Review

Mount Saint Mary’s College (MSMC) is a Catholic college which aims to provide a values-based education system. It was founded in 1925 and has since relocated to its Chalon Campus in Santa Monica Mountains. The college promotes diversity and ethical values for all its students and offers a variety of degree programs. They have granted more than 17,000 degrees since its founding year.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

For this program, students need to adhere to the following prerequisites: completion of various courses including anatomy, microbiology, physiology, philosophy and sociology. These courses must have been successfully completed by the student within 5 years prior to his or her application. This is a three year program with a total of 74 study units.

Advanced Placement

A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) who meets all the requirements for admission to the ADN program must be able to give a written indication to the Director prior to admission. There is also a 30 unit non-degree option which is available for LVN’s who meet the current entrance requirements of the College. After successfully completing 30 study units, the student is eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination. Students may receive transfer credits if they have a previous Registered Nurse (RN) qualification. Prospective students also need to have obtained a minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) score of 2.5 to be considered into the program.

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program

In order to be considered for this program, students need to have completed either a pre-nursing program at this college, or as a transfer student from a reputable institution. The program consists of both theory and practical studies and aims to prepare the students for professional nursing care in the working environment.

The program offers students practical learning as well as a solid theory base to the program. Graduation will be conditional to evaluation of the Department of Nursing Admissions Committee.

Master of Science (MSN) Program

This course has been designed to further educate students in the field of nursing; and to add personal growth to the individual. This course is ideal in preparing students for Nurse Administrator, Clinical Nurse Specialist or Nurse Educator.

Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into the MSN degree program, students need to have gained a GPA (Grade Point Average) of at least 3.0 for the previous 60 study units. Students also need to complete an application essay and provide two letters of recommendation. Applicants need to have completed at least one year as a full-time licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in the previous 5 years before applying for the MSN program.

The MSN program is offered online, as well as year long during weekday evenings. If the student does not yet quality for admission, he or she will need to register for the Registered Nurse (RN) Internship every term, until suitable employment has been secured. This is relevant to students that are newly graduated, 12 months or less.

Contact:
Mount St. Mary’s College
Chalon Campus
120001 Chalon Rd.
Los Angeles
CA, 90049
Tel: (310) 954-4000

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Contact:
Mount St. Mary’s College
Doheny Campus
10 Chester Place
Los Angeles, CA 90007
Tel: (213) 477-2500

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National University Nursing School Review

National University (NU) was established in 1971 as a non-profit making institution. The university offers various academic programs to students from all over the world. The university offers both undergraduate and postgraduate (masters) programs to enrolled students and it has been ranked as one of the top ten Universities in the United States in granting master degrees to women.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This course if offered to registered and licensed nurses who want to proceed to a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The course will prepare the students in conducting accurate nursing diagnoses, planning, implementing nursing diagnoses, management of multiple patients and communication with patients and families within the health care fraternity.

Course Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted for admission into BSN, the students must meet these criteria points: The student must complete an undergraduate admission process and must be in possession of a current and active license to practice as a registered nurse. Students should also be required to obtain a score of 2.75 as their grade point average; or the equivalent in the nursing program. In some cases the student will be required to be a current or recent graduate of a nursing associate degree in order to be admitted into the BSN program. The student will be required to submit the nursing program’s application and attend a pre-nursing program information forum. In addition, the student will be required to complete all the prerequisites courses, take the essential skills test and finally complete a passed written proctored essay.

Equivalency Requirements

Licensed Registered Nurses who might not have an associate degree may still be admitted into BSN by successfully completing and passing the basic education requirements which may include some theory and practical lessons in anatomy, physiology, physical, biological sciences and basic nursing education program among others.

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

This course is specifically designed for students seeking basic preparation in order to be ready for the Nevada exam and licensure for registered nursing.

Admission Requirements

Have successfully completed the university’s undergraduate process and must also attend a successful pre-nursing forum that is organized by the university. The student must have gained a GPA of 3.0 for all the sciences and mathematics courses or accumulative GPA of 2.75 from an accredited institution that he/she attended. In some cases the student will be required to achieve a score of minimum 70 points on the Essential Skills Test and TOEFL for those whose main language is not English. It should be noted clearly that meeting all the admission requirements does not automatically guarantee the student’s admission into the specific nursing program.

Accelerated Post Bachelor Degree – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This degree program is designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in arts or sciences and would like to be prepared for licensure as a registered nurse at the same time studying towards earning a Bachelor of Science – Nursing degree. Admission requirements are the same as those in Associate of Science in Nursing program. In all programs, for the students to receive BSN, they must complete a minimum of 108 units per quarter where 45 must be successfully completed in National University.

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LVN to BSN)

This program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education and it meets the requirements for certification in the state of California. This program aims to allow the students to provide accurate nursing diagnoses and collect accurate data; as well as manage multiple patients and assume an ethical and professional working manner. To be accepted into this program, students must be a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and hold a current certification. Students will need to complete at least 180 study units of which 45 will be as a resident.

LVN to RN
LVN’s who want to take the minimum number of units that is required for the licensure exam can take this option. LVN’s that select the 30-Unit option should consult with the Chair of the Department of Nursing for a personalized consultation. Students need to complete specific study units to receive certification; including the completion of 40.5 study units.

Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia

This program aims to teach students the fundamentals on anesthesia care delivery. The study curriculum is divided into two parts; which comprises of didactic instruction, and clinical practice. Students are required to hold a current Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in order to be accepted into the program.

Contact:

National University
11255 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla
CA 92037
Tel: (800) NAT-UNIV

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Ohlone College Nursing Program Review

The Ohlone Community College is one of the leading colleges in California. Ohlone College is an institution that aims to  deliver on new innovations; and provide continuous improvement within all its divisions and departments. This college  serves its local population and currently offers more than 160 degree and academic programs.

Registered Nursing Program

There are several aspects to this Registered Nursing (RN) Program; such as the “Human Simulator” which is a practical instruction and the clinical learning sites that Ohlone offers. These two features provide additional learning resources that help students to pass their exams with ease. In this Nursing Course you will also have the opportunity to study with students from various multi-cultural ethnicities.

Eligibility

Before you enroll in the Registered Nursing Program, you must meet their requirements. These include the following: You have to complete the Classic Course at Ohlone College, or have completed an equivalent course at another institution. Some of the Classic Course prerequisites are ENG 101A (Reading and Written Composition) as well as ENG-163 or 167 (College Reading Techniques). Prospective students should also have completed various other courses such as Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology.

Associate of Science – A.S. Degree

This degree program will prepare students for working directly with patients; such as in long term care institutions, hospitals and clinics. Students will undertake basic nursing and support courses during their first year; to support their major. Courses will become more structured and specific as the second year commences; focusing on patients ranging from infants to elders. There are no specific certificates for this major; and this course prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, which will help to prepare them for the title of Registered Nurse (R.N.).

Requirements

In order for students to be accepted into the A.S. Degree, they must ensure that they have completed at least 12 prior study units at Ohlone College; and that they have completed a major field with a grade of C or better.

Generic RN Transfer

Students who completed their R.N. Program at a different college may apply; and they will receive transfer credits for their course work. Credits are rewarded for Nursing Support Courses, as well as General Education Courses.

Advanced Placements

With this placement option, Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN’s) as well as Psychiatric Technicians (Psych Tech) with a license in California may be accepted into the nursing program, should there be space available for them to do so. As part of the selection process of the College, students need to have a valid LVN License, completed all the educational prerequisites, and have a minimum of one year working experience as a LVN or a Psych Tech.

Alternative Options for LVN Students

LVN’s might be eligible to take the RN licensed exam (NCLEX-RN) if they have successfully completed 30 study units. These students however, will only be licensed in California and they will need the AS Degree to be licensed in other States.

Contact:

Ohlone College Fremont Campus
43600 Mission Boulevard
Fremont
CA 94539-5847

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Ohlone College Newark Center
39399 Cherry Street
Newark
CA 94560-4902

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Pacific Union College Nursing Program Review

Pacific Union College (PUC) is a community education institution that aims to prepare students to be enthusiastic and productive in their chosen careers. PUC is located close to the Napa Valley, just 17 miles to the north of San Francisco. This college has also ranked as the top of its category as the “Best College” for 17 consecutive years.

Associate of Science (A.S) in Nursing

In order to be accepted for this nursing degree program, students need to complete various prerequisite classes; including Intermediate Algebra, English, Anatomy and Chemistry. Applications are received and evaluated for the next quarter; provided that all prerequisites have been met. Eligibility is divided into classes, and grades. As for grades, students need to achieve a minimum of 2.7 Grade Point Average (GPA) to be accepted; and preference will go towards students with a grade of 3.0 and higher.

Major in Nursing, B.S.N and A.S Degrees (Two Step Program)

This degree aims to prepare students to function successfully as nursing professionals in their own capacity. AS graduates are able to also qualify as Registered Nurses (RN’s) after they have passed the examination for licensing in their respective State. The College also provides an LVN to RN AS program at the Air Force Base in Travis for students who want to grow as a professional nurse. Classes are divided into week days and weekends to accommodate all students.

A.S Program Admission Requirements

Required admissions are those explained above in effect during the year of the student’s admission to the nursing program. The Nursing Department has rights to admit or deny admission to each individual based on the evaluation.

Each individual must submit an application for admission to the Nursing Department accompanied by $30 of application fee. Both of the Admission Committee and the applicants may request for an interview.

Major in Nursing BSN Degree – for Registered Nurses (RN’s) Only

This degree program has been designed to accommodate the working professionals. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) courses may be taken on a full time or a part time basis at the convenient Angwin Campus; or students can choose part time study at the Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa. All of the students can plan their individual clinical hours and also participate in the selection of mentors. The clinical sites may be arranged with local hospital in the student’s hometown.

In addition to the part time option, there is also a full time option for the RN to BSN students; and students who do not met the criteria for full time classes will be considered for part time study.

LVN to RN AS Program

For this program, students are required to meet certain basic prerequisites; including passing various cognate courses. These courses include nutrition, public speaking, general microbiology and sociology. This program also requires 41 hours of course work and a total of 115 hours will be taken to qualify for the degree. Students will also need to undergo a routine health check and be cleared before acceptance into this program. This health check is standard for all nursing programs at the College.

Contact:

Pacific Union College
One Angwin Avenue
Angwin, CA 94508
Tel: (707) 965-7606

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Palomar College Nursing Program Review

Palomar College is a two year public community college. For now they have about 30,000 students for both full-time and part-time. All of the Residents of Californian students are only charged by $36 per unit. They may choose from over 200 degree and certificates programs, spend the first two year of a Bachelor Degree, or take a personal enrichment classes for lifelong learning.

General Information for Nursing Education (NURS)

This program is concentrates to provide direct nursing care to any patient in the hospital or any other health agencies. Their curriculum includes nursing coursework, basic education, and nursing clinical practice.

The College offers two Associate Degree options for students that are interested in Nursing as a career. The first one is the Associate in Arts (AA). It is meets the requirement of title V, and the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). And the second one is the Associate in Science (AS). It is meets the requirements of title V, BRN.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for consideration of the admission to the Nursing Program all of the applicants must attend an orientation meeting, be eligible to be accepted at the College, have proof of their graduation in high school, have a 2.5 average GPA score, and pass the TEAS test with more than 65%.

Associate in Arts (AA) in Nursing – Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN’s)

The advanced standings for a LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) are based on the following:

1. Graduated from an accredited LVN/LPN program.
2. Meet all of the prerequisites for college admission.
3. Successfully complete the NURS 110.

All of the students will have two academic years to spend in the nursing program just after completion of NURS 110. And they will be given any credit for previous vocational nursing education which is equivalent to 18 units’ right after they have successfully completed the AA nursing program.

Associate in Science (AS) in Nursing for LVNs

All of the advanced standings for LVNs in AS is just the same as specified in the AA in Nursing. When the students have successfully completed the AS in Nursing Program, they will be credited for previous nursing programs just like in the AA program.

Non-Degree for Licensed Vocational Nurses  – 30 Unit Option (LVN to RN)

Students who are signing up for the 30 unit Non-Degree option are eligible to be accepted for the NCLEX-RN Examination (National Council of Licensure Examination). They will be licensed as an RN by the California Board of Registered Nursing. They also may earn Associate in Arts Degree in general studies.

AA or AS Degree in Nursing for Diploma RNs

The students must meet the following requirements:

1. Must present a valid and active California RN license to be verified by the Nursing Education Department.
2. Must have an official transcript of the diploma school coursework.
3. One of these units must be completed: NURS 203, Nursing Foundation II.

The student will receive a credit for 38 coursework units that have been completed in the diploma school for nursing when the student has completed the General Education Requirements for AA or AS.

Diploma RN to ADN

In order to be accepted for this program, students need to have a current California RN License that can be verified by the Nursing Education Department. Students also need to complete specifically the Multicultural Requirement as well as the Health Education 100 unit. This program aims to facilitate the advancement of Diploma Nurses.

Contact:

Palomar College

1140 West Mission Road

San Marcos, California 92069-1487

United States of America

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Point Loma Nazarene University Nursing School Review

Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) was founded in1902 and serves more than 3,500 students currently; and at the moment has more than 50 undergraduate programs available for study. They have regional centers in Arcadia, San Diego, and the Inland Empire.

The Point Loma Nazarene University Medical School has an overall acceptance rate of more than 90%. This University is also nationally recognized for its leadership in the area of sustainable development and has been awarded the national championship in the Debate Association.

Undergraduate Bachelor of Science Program (BSN)

The application for Undergraduate Program at PLNU will be available on December 1 of each year and will meet its deadline on February 1. All of the students are only admitted to nursing and pre-nursing annually in the fall. LVNs and RNs licensed in the State of California are accepted into the program with advanced standing based on transfer of credit and credit-by-examination. The students will need 4 years to complete the program if prerequisites are completed in one year, and 5 years to complete the program if prerequisites are completed in two years. The BSN program of the PLNU has some features of the following:

1. The PHN (Public Health Nurse) certification will be available when the student completed the degree and obtains RN licensure.
2. International Nursing: Cross-cultural experiences for either seniors or juniors are available on off campus.
3. Health Promotion Center: The students will gain much experience while helping others at PLNU’s free clinic.

BSN Program Admission Requirements

The students will be eligible for PLNU Nursing program when they are meets the following:

1. Acceptance to PLNU as pre-nursing major.
2. Submission of a School of Nursing application for the nursing program.
3. Cumulative GPA of 2.70 or higher.
4. Completion of the following prerequisites with a minimum grade of 2.0 in each one :

• Organic Chemistry
• Human Physiology and Anatomy
• General Human Psychology
• Algebra at College Level
• Human Development
• Nutrition
• Transfer students must have completed all prerequisite courses completed when they apply to this BSN program.

All of the students must have evidence that they are physically and emotionally have an ability to perform required duties. And per the agreement with the SDNSEC (San Diego Nursing Service Education Consortium) and their affiliated network of hospitals, the students will be required to take a mandatory background check as well as a thorough drug screening test.

Master of Science in Nursing Degree (MSN)

The graduated students of the PLNU’s nursing programs have some nursing professional options of the following:

1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
2. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) course options within mental health, family health, and medical or surgery.
3. Post-MSN degree certificates for nurse educator and also CNS.

This University has a couple of offers in the Master of Science in Nursing Degree (MSN) which in the following:

1. MSN focusing on Nursing Education
2. MSN with CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist) areas that include: Mental Health, Family Health, Gerontology, Medical/Surgical
3. Post-MSN for Nurse Educators Certification
4. Post-MSN CNS Certification (Clinical Nurse Specialists)

Contact:

Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma campus
3900 Lomaland Drive
San Diego, CA 92106-2810
Tel: (619) 849-2200
Fax (619) 849-2579

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Riverside Community College Nursing Program Review

Riverside Community College (RCC) serves more than 19,000 students each semester. First established in 1916, it has become a landmark for downtown Riverside, and one of California’s leading community colleges.

Nursing Programs

Vocational Nursing (VN) Program

Licensed Practical (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are responsible for giving general care to patients with direction of a registered nurse, physician, or dentist. Students of the VN program will be trained to take patient vital signs, apply sterile dressings, assist with exams and treatment, and will receive patient health education.

Riverside Community College began its VN program in 1953. Students entering the VN program will attend either one year of full-time courses or two years of part time courses. This is a 51 credit program, and after completing the program, graduates are awarded a certificate and may take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed in California as a Vocational Nurse.

This program accepts 40-60 applicants in the Fall for the full-time program, and 30 in the part-time program. There is no waiting list for this program, and applicants that are not selected may reapply the following year.

Associate Degree Nursing/Registered Nursing (ADN/RN)

The ADN program at RCC began in 1957, and is nationally recognized as being number one for program completion in the state of California. It is a four semester, 72 unit program. After completing the program, graduates will have an Associate in Science Degree in Nursing and may take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Those who pass this exam will be licensed as RNs in the state of California.

There are between 44 and 100 applicants accepted into the ADN program each Spring and Fall semester. There is no waiting list, and applicants that were not accepted are encouraged to reapply the following semester.

The ADN program at Riverside Community College is accredited and approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

ADN Advanced Placement/Transfer/30 Unit Option

Advanced placement and transfer students are accepted into the ADN program each Fall and Spring semester, as space permits. Any student wishing to enter the program past the first semester is considered advanced placement or transfer. This includes nurses who are currently practicing LVNs, and those who have taken a part of the ADN program either at Riverside Community College or elsewhere. Those that wish to enter the program with advanced placement and who do not currently hold a license may only do so during the Fall semester, immediately after completing the VN program. Those students must become licensed LVNs by the following semester.

There is also an LVN to ADN Flexible Program option available at Riverside Community College. The benefit of this program is that while it has the same requirements as the traditional program, the lectures are available in streaming video on the Internet, and may be accessed from anywhere. Applicants may apply to either the program, but those applying to the flexible program need to pass the Advanced Placement Exam as well. Applicants who are LVNs in underrepresented nursing groups and who work in partner facilities in the community will be given preference.

The LVN 30 Unit Option is available to LVN students. Students who pursue this course of study will not be considered RCC graduates, and will be considered to have a Nursing Non-Degree/Non-Graduate Status. This status allows students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and to become RNs, but only in the state of California.

Contact:

Riverside Community College
1533 Spruce St.
Riverside, CA 92507

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Saddleback College Nursing Program Review

Saddleback College is fully accredited and offers over 300 associate degrees and certificates in 190 programs. Established in 1968, it has educated over 500,000 students to date, and is focused on helping students reach their professional, educational, and personal goals.

Students at Saddleback College can expect to learn from faculty renowned for its expertise and experience, and have opportunities for online learning, cooperative work experience, and study abroad to enhance their college experience.

The College is the ideal location for students looking to earn associate degrees and transfer to four-year universities. It ranks high among California Community Colleges for transfers to University of California and California State University, as well as other top California schools, including UC Santa Barbara, UC Santa Cruz, UC Berkeley, and UC San Diego.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Registered Nursing Program at Saddleback College is designed to teach students to become competent nursing practitioners and to encourage continuing educational development of the student. This is a four semester program, after completing the prerequisite courses. Upon completion of this program, students will receive an ADN and will be allowed to take the NCLEX licensing exam for the state of California to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

Prior to applying to the program, students must be enrolled in Saddleback College and must have completed Anatomy, Microbiology, and Physiology with a GPA of 2.8 or better, and English with a grade of 2.5 or better. It is highly recommended that students enroll in the required core classes of Pharmacology, Gerontology, Psych, and Speech before applying. This will help to improve their multi-criteria admission scores and increase the chances of their success once in the program.

Students applying for entry into the nursing program will be selected using the multi-criteria admission process. They will be ranked based on the points accumulated from a number of criteria, including related certificates and work experience, completion of relevant course work, grade point average in relevant coursework, prior academic degrees, test scores, proficiency in a language other than English, and life experience.

The Saddleback College Registered Nursing Program is accredited by the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and the National League for Nursing (NLNAC).

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN) Program

LVNs seeking to become RNs may enter the Registered Nursing Program after meeting the requirements listed above. In addition, they must take the Successful Transition to Professional Nursing course. During preadmission advisement with the Nursing Program Director or Assistant Director, they will be given their required core nursing courses and the sequence in which to take them. Students that graduate from this program will receive an ADN and be allowed to take the national RN licensing exam.

LVN to RN students may also complete the 30-Unit option to be eligible to take the state RN licensing exam. With this option, however, they will not receive an ADN and will not be eligible to participate in the Nursing Program pinning ceremony.

Other Health Care Programs

In addition to the Registered Nursing Program, Saddleback College offers a variety of other programs for those interested in a career in health care. These programs are also in the College of Health Sciences and Human Services, and include Emergency Medical Technology, Health Information Technology, the Medical Assistant Program, the Medical Laboratory Technician Program, the Paramedic Program, and the Phlebotomy Program.

Contact:

Saddleback College

28000 Marguerite Parkway

Mission Viejo, California 92692

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