Samuel Merritt University Nursing School Review

Samuel Merritt University (SMU), formerly Samuel Merritt College (SMC), is a private health sciences college in Oakland, California. It was founded in 1909, and currently enrolls 1400 students at the Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Mateo campuses. The university is full accredited, and has degree programs for nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant and podiatric medicine.

Graduates of Samuel Merritt’s programs are recruited heavily, and have a high rate of employment within the first year after graduation.

SMU produces the most new registered nurses each year in California, and its graduates routinely achieve scores on license and certification exams higher than those of the state and national rates.

Nursing Programs

Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students looking to enter the BSN program as freshmen will apply to one of SMU’s partnership programs at Holy Names University, Mills College or Saint Mary’s College of California for pre-nursing. Students who complete the 2 years of pre-nursing courses at one of the partnership schools are guaranteed admission to the BSN program at Samuel Merritt University. Those students will enter the university as first semester juniors, and will complete a 4 semester program to earn their BSN.

Samuel Merritt University will also admit transfer students from other community colleges and universities into the BSN program on a limited basis. Transfer students will be admitted as first semester juniors, and will complete the program in 4 semesters.

Accelerated BSN

Samuel Merritt University offers an accelerated BSN program at all of its campuses. This program is aimed at students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. The accelerated program will be completed in 12 months.

Graduate Degrees

Entry Level Master of Science in Nursing (ELMSN)

ELMSN Case Management

The ELMSN Case Management program prepares students to practice as Case Managers in a variety of facilities and settings. Full time students can complete this program in two calendar years plus one semester. The first four semesters must be taken as full-time students, but students may switch to a part-time schedule after that.

ELMSN Case Management is taught at the Oakland and Sacramento campuses.

ELMSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Registered Nurses (RNs) can take their experience and knowledge to the next level through advanced clinical training and education and become nurse practitioners.

Consideration will be given to ELMSN FNP applicants who have experience as a health care volunteer, worker, or who have worked with a nurse practitioner. Those who speak another language, especially Spanish, will also have consideration. Students also need to demonstrate interest in advanced practice nursing, academic preparation, and commitment to the underserved. Approximately 24 FNP students are admitted each year into this program.

After graduation, students may take the national certification exam through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Master of Science in Nursing (Post Professional)

Case Management

For full time students, the Post Professional Case Management program is a 2 year (5 semester) program. There is also a part-time program, as well as an online option. This program is offered at the Oakland and Sacramento campuses.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

The Program of Nurse Anesthesia (PNA) at Samuel Merritt University is offered in partnership with Kaiser Permanente Northern California and is recognized as one of the top programs in the nation for producing highly qualified Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. About 25 students are admitted into the program each year, which runs for 2 calendar years plus one semester (7 semesters total).

Family Nurse Practitioner

The post-graduate FNP track is a combination of coursework and clinical practice. It takes 5 semesters, including summers, to complete it full-time, or 9 semesters including summers when studying part time.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

In keeping with the goals of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National Academy of Science, the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program was introduced to Samuel Merritt University in 2011.

The DNP is a two year program for those who wish to evaluate data in clinical practice and provides advanced educational credit for those who are not interested in a research-focused degree.

Contact:

Samuel Merritt University

3100 Telegraph Ave.

Oakland, CA, 94609

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San Bernardino Valley College Nursing Program Review

San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) has been educating students for over 85 years.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

The SBVC nursing program teaches students to assist patients in achieving or maintaining an optimal level of health. Courses take place on campus and in local community healthcare facilities.

The nursing program admits students every fall and spring semester. To be accepted into the program, students must have completed the prerequisites of Freshman Composition and Intermediate Algebra with a grade of C or better, and Psychology, Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology with a GPA of 2.75 or better. In addition, it is recommended to complete the Speech and Sociology courses required for graduation.

Only students that have been accepted into the nursing program may enroll in nursing courses. The program is 4 semesters long, and classes and clinical rotations are scheduled during the day and evenings, Monday through Friday.

If a student seeking an associate degree in nursing has a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing subject, they will only need to complete the course work required for the nursing program. This includes the prerequisites listed above and nursing classes. They will not be required to complete any other courses normally required by the college for an associate degree.

Graduates of the SBVC nursing program are allowed to take the national licensing exam and become a Registered Nurse in the state of California.

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

The LVN to RN program was designed to help LVNs obtain their Associate of Science Degree in Nursing and to become RNs. LVNs may choose to apply to the regular RN program detailed above, or to the LVN to RN program. The LVN to RN program admits students once a year in the spring semester. Students must have completed the prerequisites listed above, and also have a current LVN license and one year of LVN work experience. They must also take the LVN to RN Transition course.

Foreign Nurses Seeking California Licensure

As space is available in the program, nurses who graduated from programs outside of the United States that are looking to become licensed in California may gain admittance to specific nursing courses if recommended by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Students must apply to the BRN to receive a letter of requirements, and apply for admission to the Department of Nursing at SBVC.

Transfer Students

Students may transfer into the SBVC Department of Nursing from another accredited nursing program if space is available and if the student had no more than one withdrawal or failure in a nursing course at their previous school. Potential transfer students must have met the same prerequisites listed above, and must apply with their official transcript, a recommendation letter from their previous school’s nursing program director, and the syllabi of all courses completed previously.

Credit from Previous Education or Experience

Students may transfer credit from classes taken at another accredited institution if the classes are equivalent to an SBVC course. Students may also earn credit by examination if they have knowledge in a nursing subject equivalent to a course offered by the nursing program. To do this, the student must show the instructor of the course they have extensive knowledge or experience. They must also have completed at least 12 units at SBVC or be a permanent employee of the college district, and they must be enrolled in the college to take the examination.

Contact:

San Bernardino Valley College
701 South Mount Vernon Ave.
San Bernardino, CA 92410

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San Diego City College Nursing Program Review

Administered by the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD), San Diego City College (SDCC) has been educating students for nearly a century. The college serves the downtown San Diego area and enrolls 18,000 students each semester. With more than 100 majors and over 100 certificate programs to choose from, San Diego City College has something for everyone.

Nursing Programs

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

San Diego City College is dedicated to providing the opportunity for individuals to pursue the education needed for a successful career in nursing. Students in the LVN program will learn to care for patients in a variety of settings. To be considered for admission into the LVN program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid, current Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification from the Department of Health Services in California, and have earned a grade of 75% or higher in Health Care Essentials.

The LVN program is a combination of 42.5 units of classroom learning, as well as clinically based courses in health care facilities in the community. After completing the required courses, graduates of the program may sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Registered Nurse (RN)

The RN program at San Diego City College is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). There are 50-60 students accepted into the program each fall semester. The students that complete this 4 semester program will earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Any student that meets the entrance requirements for this program is eligible to be admitted.

To qualify for admission, students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher in Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology, and the associated labs. In addition, it is recommended to take the general education classes required for this program before applying. These include English Composition, Math, Multicultural Studies, Physical Education, Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Communication.

In addition to classroom time, students will complete clinical course work and Directed Clinical Practice, which will be held in nearby health care facilities.

Graduates of the RN program will receive their ADN degree and will be allowed to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN)

Students that already have their LVN license may apply for acceptance into the LVN to RN program. Each year, San Diego City College accepts 8-12 students for this and the 30 Unit option.

This advanced placement program has the same prerequisite courses and general education course requirements as the ADN program above. Students must also take the LVN to RN Transition course. After admittance to the program, students will take 2 semesters of classes and clinical work, and will graduate with an ADN degree. At that point, graduates will be eligible to take the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become an RN in California.

LVN to RN 30 Unit Option

The LVN to RN 30 Unit option is available for LVNs wishing to become RNs. With this program, students do not earn a degree, but are able to sit for the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN), and apply to become licensed RNs in California. However, students should note that under this option, their RN license may not be recognized in other states.

Contact:

San Diego City College
1313 Park Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92101

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San Diego State University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1897, San Diego State University (SDSU) is one of the oldest and largest colleges in the San Diego region, and is a nationally ranked research university. SDSU enrolls more than 30,000 students, and has 85 undergraduate majors to choose from, as well as 76 masters programs, and 21 doctoral programs.

The SDSU School of Nursing is accredited by the California State Board of Registered Nursing, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the American College of Nurse Midwives, and the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BS)

The BS in Nursing degree is a four year program. Admission to the program is based on a point system where students are assigned points based on their GPA in the prerequisite classes of Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology and Communications, their cumulative GPA, their score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), health care work experience, and volunteer health care experience. In addition, students must have an overall GPA of 2.8 or better.

Once in the program, students are required to maintain a grade of 2.0 or better in all nursing courses. In addition, nursing majors must participate for two or more weeks in an international experience, in order to better understand global health, political, economic, and cultural challenges experienced by other cultures.

Registered Nurse (RN) to BS

The RN to BS option is available for students who already have an Associate Degree in Nursing or a Diploma in Nursing and who are licensed as RNs. The program is designed to meet the needs of the working nurse, with flexible class schedules and teaching methods. Students will receive credit for previously completed coursework, and will work closely with the Nursing Office to plan their program. Students must meet all prerequisites of the BS program to apply.

Master of Science in Nursing (MS)

The MS in Nursing program at SDSU is an option available to students who have a BS in Nursing, or a bachelor degree in another field but that also have an RN license. The MS program offers four different concentrations. They are: Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults and the Elderly with a specialization in acute or critical care nursing, Community Health Nursing with specialties in Nurse Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education with specialties in adult health, maternal-newborn and pediatrics, and Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems.

School Nurse Services Credential

Applicants interested in the School Nurse Services Credential must be admitted to SDSU as a post baccalaureate student. This program is for current RNs to become school nurses, and can be taken full or part time.

Post Masters Nursing Education Certificate

The Nursing Education Certificate is a program that allows nurses with an MS in Nursing to become teachers in classroom or clinical settings.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN

SDSU offers the LVN to RN 30 unit option. This program is designed for LVNs currently licensed in California to become RNs in 18 to 24 months. When the program is completed, these students do not earn a degree, and their RN license will not be recognized outside of the state of California. Students wishing to pursue this option must apply to the School of Nursing with their transcripts, a resume showing their work and school experience over the last five years, and two letters of reference from current or former employers in health care.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program is for the nurse who wishes to pursue advanced nursing practice in educational, administrative/organizational, and clinical environments. Developed in partnership with Cal State San Marcos, this program focuses on evidence-based practice.

Contact:

San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182

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San Francisco State University Nursing School Review

San Francisco State University (SFSU) was founded in 1899 as a two year teaching college. Today the university has more than 30,000 students enrolled.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The San Francisco State University Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are offered at both the San Francisco campus and the Sequoia Health District, which is located at Cañada College and operated in conjunction with Sequoia Hospital.

Applicants to the nursing program must be either current students at SF State or transfer students. To be eligible to apply to the program, students must be eligible to apply to SF State, California residents, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, have at least a C or better in nursing prerequisite courses, complete the general education classes for the University, and submit their Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores.

The nursing prerequisites include courses in Microbiology, Physiology, Anatomy, Chemistry, Math, Nutrition, and Psychology.

Students who already have their RN license and want to complete their bachelor’s degree may apply for the Advanced Placement Option (APO) in the program. The APO will give students some academic credit for courses already taken, and offers flexibility in scheduling for nurses that are currently working. This course of study may be completed while going to school full time or part time. The length of time this option takes is variable depending on the student, but it can be completed in as little as a year and a half of full time study.

To gain credit for courses already taken, students will take challenge exams. Challenge exams are given at the start of the semester when the course will be taught. If a student passes the exam, they will receive credit for the course, but if they don’t pass, they must then take the course.

Master of Science in Nursing(MSN)

The Master of Science program in nursing is open to all RNs that hold bachelor’s degrees and can show they have completed the equivalent of all nursing content in the SF State Bachelor of Nursing program.

RNs who do not hold a bachelor’s degree may have to take additional courses through SF State and the partnering hospitals to meet the requirements and enter the program.

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree but are not RNs may enter the general Master of Science program and take the classroom and clinical courses required of the nursing undergrad students, which will usually take about five semesters. After completing those courses, students must sit for the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become RNs. Students must hold an RN license to be able to continue with graduate level nursing studies and earn a Master’s Degree.

Students in this graduate program may take extra courses for an emphasis as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) with certification by the California Board of Registered Nursing, or an emphasis in Nursing Administration or in Community/Public Health Nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing: Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The FNP concentration requires an additional 600 hours of clinical work and 19 units of classroom courses beyond the normal master’s program, and prepares the nurse for primary care practice.

Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

The FNP Certificate is a post-graduate program for RNs with master’s and doctoral degrees. Candidates who complete this course of study are deemed to have met all licensure requirements to be family nurse practitioners as set by the California Board of Registered Nursing. This certificate is also recognized by professional organizations as certifying that national certification exam requirements have been met.

Contact:

San Francisco State University

1600 Holloway Avenue

San Francisco CA 94132

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San Joaquin Delta College Nursing Program Review

San Joaquin Delta College (SJDC) serves the Stockton, California area, in partnership with the University of the Pacific. The Health Sciences Division at San Joaquin Delta College has seven programs for certificates and degrees in health care including nursing.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program is designed to prepare students to perform as Registered Nurses (RNs) using entry-level knowledge and skills in various patient care settings. This program is four semesters long, in the fall and spring semesters. There are no summer courses offered. Each semester, 60 to 70 students are admitted into the program.

Students are admitted based on multi-criteria entrance requirements including health care certificates and licenses, previous degrees, GPA in the science prerequisite courses, GPA in other courses, any repeats in science courses, volunteer and work experience relating to patient care, life circumstances, TEAS test score, and ability to speak a second language.

The prerequisites required for this program, with a 2.5 GPA, are Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Written Communications, Nutrition, and Algebra.

Graduates who complete the program will receive an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing, and will be eligible to complete the state licensing exam, NCLEX-RN, to become an RN.

Students that already have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university may apply to the program after taking the nursing specific required courses of Fundamentals of Speech, Introduction to Psychology, and Problems of a Changing Society.

Vocational Nursing Program (VN)

The VN program gives students the entry-level skills needed to care for patients in a variety of settings. Upon completing the program, graduates will earn a completion certificate and are eligible to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-PN) to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse. The VN program takes a calendar year to complete.

To apply for this program, students must have completed the program prerequisites of Anatomy, Psychology, Human Development, and Medical Terminology.

Due to the fact that students are in class five days a week (four days a week during the summer) and the program is 46 weeks long, students are advised not to work during the program.

Nurse Assistant Training

This program teaches students the knowledge needed to be a certified nurse assistant (CNA) in various long term care situations. Once students have completed the course, they will be able to take the state certification exam to become a California CNA.

Nurse Assistant training is a seven to eight week long program. Students will attend a combination of classes and clinical rotations.

Other Programs in the Health Sciences Division

Psychiatric Technician (PT)

Psychiatric Technicians care for patients in a variety of settings. This program will prepare students to successfully complete the state licensing exam and to become Licensed Psychiatric Technicians. This program is one year in length.

To apply for this program, students will need to take the prerequisite courses Anatomy, Psychology, Human Development, and Medical Terminology.

Radiologic Technology

The Radiologic Technology program is a certificate program that takes two years to complete. Graduates are eligible for the national and state certification exams, to become Certified Radiologic Technologists and Registered Technologists.

Students enroll at Delta College and take their courses at San Joaquin General Hospital. There are no prerequisites for this program.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Students taking the EMT program will learn the skills necessary to practice as an EMT-1 and will be prepared to complete the California certification exam for EMTs. The program is one semester long, and includes classroom study, clinical observation, and skills lab components.

There are no prerequisite courses for this program. Students enter the program by enrolling in the appropriate Health Science course.

Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)

Speech Language Pathology Assistants help patients with communication disorders and assist Speech Language Pathologists with hearing, language and speech screenings, as well as complete paperwork such as updating charts and keeping records. Graduates of the SLPA program will be able to apply for their California licensure.

There are no prerequisite courses for this two year program. Students will either be working toward the SLPA, Associate of Science Degree, or will already have a bachelor’s degree and need to finish the clinical practice to qualify for their SLPA license.

San Jose-Evergreen Community College District Nursing Program Review

The San Jose/Evergreen Community College District (SJECCD) is made up of San Jose City College, founded in 1921, and Evergreen Valley College, founded in 1975. The District serves an area covering over 300 square miles, and enrolls 20,000 students each semester.

The District nursing program is administered by Evergreen Valley College.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Science – Nursing

The Nursing Program at Evergreen Valley College will provide the culturally diverse student with the ideal environment in which to begin a life-long career as a registered nurse (RN). The Associate in Science degree will allow graduates the ability to take the national RN licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).

Students must be admitted into the Nursing Program to enroll in nursing courses. Once they are in the program, students are required to earn a “C” or better in all nursing courses, or they will not be allowed to continue with the program.

To apply to the Nursing Program, students need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have taken Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and English, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better. The Associate in Science degree is a four semester program.

Advanced Placement

The Advanced Placement program is for California LVNs seeking to earn an associate degree and become RNs, and for students transferring from another state accredited nursing program. To apply, students must complete a request for advanced placement in nursing, and meet with first a Nursing Counselor and then the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health, to determine where in the program they should be placed.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Bridge

LVNs that choose to work toward the Associate in Science degree must meet the same admissions criteria as all other students seeking an associate degree. LVNs will be admitted as space becomes available in the third semester of the program. They must also take nursing placement tests to determine their priority in placement in the nursing program, and have a qualifying score on assessment tests.

LVN 30 Unit Option

The 30 Unit option allows LVN students to qualify for the RN licensing exam quickly. To apply to the 30 Unit option, LVNs must take Physiology and Microbiology with a grade of “C” or better, a Challenge Exam with a “C” or higher, a passing score on the TEAS exam, and complete the Role Transition course.

Students wishing to complete the 30 Unit option must complete paperwork stating their intention before they begin the program. LVNs will be admitted into the 30 Unit option as space becomes available.

Graduates of the 30 Unit option will be eligible to take the RN licensing exam, but will not earn an associate degree from Evergreen Valley College.

Transfer Students

Students who transfer from another accredited nursing program must meet all requirements to apply to the Nursing Program, and must pass the diagnostic assessment test. They will be admitted into the program when space is available, and their placement will be determined after meeting with a Nursing Counselor, as well as the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health.

Contact:

San Jose/Evergreen Community College District
4750 San Felipe Road
San Jose, CA 95135

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San Jose State University Nursing School Review

San Jose State University (SJSU) has been educating students for over 150 years. A metropolitan university, this school is the largest college in Silicon Valley, offers over 134 degrees and 110 concentrations, and enrolls over 30,000 students each semester.

Nursing Programs

Pre-Nursing

Students who enter the nursing program at SJSU can expect to gain clinical experience under faculty supervision in local health care facilities. This course of study will also give the student a foundation in professional education, enhanced leadership skills, experience in nursing theory, and help develop professional relationships with others working in health care.

Students wishing to apply to the BS in Nursing program must first apply to and be accepted by SJSU as a Pre-Nursing major. Students that have not yet been accepted into Pre-Nursing may enter the university as undecided majors.

Baccalaureate (BS)

Students must have at least 2 semesters of grades and be declared as Pre-Nursing majors to apply to the Nursing Program. To be considered for the program, students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their most recent 30 semester units. In addition, they must have taken Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English and Statistics, and have a GPA of 2.75 or better in these five courses. They must also take two Chemistry courses and a Communications course with a 3.0 average or higher. Priority will be given to California applicants.

The baccalaureate program at SJSU is approved by the State Board of Registered Nursing, and is accredited nationally by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Those who graduate with a bachelor’s degree may apply for the Public Health Nurse Certificate.

Graduates may sit for the national licensing exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Transfer students may take their prerequisite and general education courses at another college, as long as they are equivalent to those courses offered by SJSU. The university maintains a list of articulation agreements and course equivalencies. For those courses not on the list, students may apply for equivalency consideration by submitting a Prerequisite Course Substitution Form to the university.

Bridge Registered Nurse (RN) to BS

Those who have experience in nursing, such as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), RNs, and those who have taken courses in nursing at other institutions are encouraged to petition for advanced placement in the Nursing Program. Students must be at least sophomores at SJSU and Nursing majors, and have met with an Advanced Placement Coordinator. They will be eligible to begin the Advanced Placement Option after they have at least 60 units of transferable coursework completed.

LVNs that have earned a minimum of 30 units of transferable credit may enter an accelerated program for a BS degree at SJSU. LVNs may also consider the 30 Unit option, a program that allows LVNs to apply for licensure as an RN. The 30 Unit option does not, however, award a degree, and the RN license earned may not be recognized in other states.

Students that are graduates of foreign nursing schools and have transferable credit will receive individual assessment for admission to the Nursing Program.

Masters in Nursing

Students may enter the master’s program and major in Nursing when they have a bachelor’s degree in Nursing earned from SJSU or another accredited institution. If the school they attended wasn’t accredited, their prior classes must be assessed for equivalent content to SJSU’s BS program.

Students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing may be admitted conditionally, and will be required to take Community Nursing Theory, Community Nursing Practicum, Nursing Process, and Nursing research before they can be accepted into the program.

To apply to the program, students must submit a goal statement, resume, official transcripts, and references.

The SJSU Master’s In Nursing program has majors in Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Informaticist. The University also offers a Post MS Nurse Educator Certificate and a Post MS Nurse Informaticist Certificate.

In addition, the following are the credentials and certificates may be earned by master’s students:

Audiometry for School Nurses

School Nurse Credential

Clinical School Nurse Specialist/School Nurse Credential

Post Master’s School Nurse Credential

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

SJSU has partnered with California State University, Fresno, to create a joint DNP program. The purpose of this program is to increase the amount of qualified nursing faculty instructors. Students must apply to Cal State, Fresno, and include transcripts, letters of reference, work experience, and a statement of professional goals.

Contact:

San Jose State University

One Washington Square

San Jose, CA 95192

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Santa Ana College Nursing Program Review

Santa Ana College has been a fixture in Orange County for over 90 years, and is the fourth oldest community college in California. Recognized as a top college in the nation for awarding associate degrees to minority students, Santa Ana is a leader in innovative education. The college offers full semester, mini-semester (8 weeks), weekend, and online courses. More than 30,000 students each semester enroll in over 300 subjects offered.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

Option I – Generic Registered Nurse (RN)

The ADN program at Santa Ana College gives students the knowledge and practice needed to successfully pass the licensing exam and become a successful RN. This two year program will also prepare students to continue their education by transferring to a four year college and pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

The prerequisites for this program are to complete Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and English with a GPA of 2.5 or better in these courses. The courses must have been completed within five years of applying to the program.

Students may transfer credit from nursing courses or general education classes they have taken at other accredited schools. To do so, they must have earned a C or better in the general education courses and an average of 2.5 or better in the nursing classes.

Those that have prior experience in nursing may also earn credit through challenging a nursing course. Students may go to the Admissions Office to get a “Credit by Examination” form. A student must be currently enrolled in the course they wish to test out of, and must make an appointment for the exam within the first two weeks of the semester. If the student does not pass the challenge exam, they will not be allowed to retake it.

The ADN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). It is also approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

Option II – Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN

The LVN to RN program is a one year program. LVNs may apply to the program by meeting the same prerequisites as for the generic ADN program. They must also complete the Role Transition course. LVNs will meet with the Program Director to determine where they will be placed in the program, which will generally be in the third semester of the program with 18 units of credit awarded.

Option III – LVN 30 Unit Option

To apply for the one year 30 Unit Option, students must be a current California Licensed LVN, and complete the Role Transition course.

RN Refresher Course

The Health Sciences Skills Lab at Santa Ana College offers an independent study RN Refresher Course. The Lab has over 300 instructional DVDs and videos, simulation manikins, and a 32 station computer lab. To participate in the lab, students must be licensed RNs in the United States, though their license need not be active. They also must apply to be a Santa Ana student. After being accepted to the college, they need to attend a one hour lab orientation and tour, and complete a practice session in psychomotor skills.

Students may register for the refresher course when they complete the orientation.

Other Health Services Programs

Medical Assistant

The Medical Assistant Program is designed to ready students to work in a health facility or medical office, and will earn the student an Associate Degree and Certificate. Graduates will work under the direct supervision of a medical doctor.

Contact:

Santa Ana College

1530 West 17^th St

Santa Ana, CA 92706

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Santa Barbara City College Nursing Program Review

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is considered to be in the top 10 community colleges in the nation. Serving Santa Barbara County since 1909, SBCC is an ideal choice for those looking for small classes, top faculty, and new facilities. SBCC offers a variety of degree and certificate programs, and transfer opportunities to four year institutions for baccalaureate degrees.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program at SBCC is structured to prepare nursing students to learn the necessary skills to be able to graduate, pass the licensing exam offered by the state board to become a registered nurse (RN), and to become employed by a hospital or other health agency.

The program boasts a 90% satisfaction rating by graduates. Of those that start the program, 75% end up completing it, and 80% of graduates taking the licensing exam pass it on the first attempt. In addition, employers favor SBCC nursing graduates and rate 90% of them as adequate or higher.

Applications to the nursing program are accepted all year. To apply, students must be high school graduates or equivalent, unless they already hold an associate or bachelor’s degree. They must also have taken Chemistry, Math, English, Anatomy, Physiology and Microbiology, and have received a course grade of C or better in each. They must have a physical exam and a background check, and receive a satisfactory score on the TEAS assessment test.

Those who have left the program and wish to re-enter, or want to transfer from another state accredited ADN program may apply for entry into the ADN program. They must meet all the prerequisites for the ADN program, and will be considered as space becomes available in the program. Any nurse that is required by the Board of Registered Nursing to complete required classes for the licensing exam will be required to complete the prerequisites and apply for the ADN program, and will be admitted when there is space available.

High school students at San Marcos High School Health Academy are encouraged to take advantage of the articulation agreement between their school and SBCC. They may take the four year pre-nursing program to prepare to enter the ADN program.

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) with current California licenses have two ways to enter the ADN program, either as an LVN to RN student (earning a degree) or in the 30 Unit Option (no degree). LVNs must have completed the same requirements as for the ADN program above, and are only admitted to the program during the spring semester.

Vocational Nursing (LVN)

Students pursuing the three semester LVN program will earn a Certificate of Achievement and are allowed to sit for the state licensing examination for LVNs. Students may also earn an Associate in Science: Vocational Nursing (LVN) degree by completing the LVN certificate program, and taking at least 18 additional credits of General Education classes to meet the Associate of Science degree requirements.

To apply for the program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have a grade of C or better in Anatomy and Speech, be eligible to take English, and have either a current Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) license or recent CNA experience.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)/Home Health Aide (HHA)

SBCC offers the Dorothy D. Rupe CNA/HHA program, designed to train students to provide basic patient care, especially to the elderly. This is a one semester program when the CNA and HHA courses are taken concurrently.

To apply, students must apply to SBCC for admission, and be eligible to take English.

After completing the CNA class with a grade of C or higher, students are eligible to sit for the State Certification Exam in California to become a CNA. Students may take the Acute Care CNA course and the Home Health Aid course to gain skill competency awards in both areas. Both of these courses may be taken at the same time as the CNA course.

Contact:

Santa Barbara City College

721 Cliff Drive

Santa Barbara, CA 93109-2394

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Santa Monica College Nursing Program Review

Santa Monica College (SMC) opened in 1929 and is now a bustling college with over 30,000 students enrolled each semester. Considered one of the best community colleges in the nation, the school is a leader in transferring students to four-year universities. Santa Monica College attracts students from all over the world to study and participate in its wide range of cultural and recreational offerings.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Graduates of the nursing program receive an Associate in Arts – Nursing Degree and may sit for the state licensing exam for Registered Nurses (RNs). Students are encouraged to pursue their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree by then transferring to a four-year college.

To apply to the ADN program, students must meet the perquisites of the program. That includes passing the admission assessment exam, taking English with a grade of C or better, and Physiology, Microbiology, and Anatomy with an average of 2.5 or better and no grade lower than a C in anyone. Students must also have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher in all classes taken.

About 40 students are accepted into the nursing program each spring and fall semester. If on the waitlist for the program, students are encouraged to complete their general education required courses, complete their Pharmacology courses, consider taking BSN courses in conjunction with California State University, Dominguez Hills, and consider using web-based programs, such as Plato (see below), to enhance their skills.

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) and transfer students may be considered for advanced placement, based on nursing courses already taken. They must meet with a nursing counselor to determine if they are eligible. They must also take the Nursing Transition course, have a current LVN license, and meet all the requirements of the ADN program. There are limited advanced placement spaces available in the nursing program.

The ADN program at SMC is accredited by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), and the NLN Accrediting Commission.

ADN to BSN/Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Santa Monica College has entered into an agreement with California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), to allow SMC students who have been waitlisted for the ADN program to get a start on their BSN/MSN degree. Students may enroll concurrently in CSUDH’s BSN/MSN program.

To do this, students must not be on academic probation, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in their science classes and an overall GPA of 3.0, have good scores on their admissions exams, and have a C or higher grade in English, Philosophy, Math, and Speech. In addition, those students who are currently in the ADN program must be passing their nursing courses with a grade of B or better, and not have any academic statements of concern or correction.

Plato Orientation

SMC has a unique program available to students on the ADN waitlist. Plato Orientation is an online program designed to help students improve their skills in Science, Math, English, and Reading. Since the program is web-based, it can be used anywhere students have access to a computer with internet access and a web browser. Students can set up an individual study program, free of charge.

Contact:

Santa Monica College,

1900 Pico Boulevard,

Santa Monica, CA 90405

Sonoma State University Nursing School Review

Sonoma State University (SSU) is located one hour north of San Francisco, in the heart of California’s wine country. Sonoma State is a small university and many classes have fewer than 40 students enrolled. The University offers 45 bachelors degree level majors and 15 masters degree level majors.

Nursing Programs

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students with no prior experience in nursing may apply for the pre-licensure BSN option. They will spend the first two years of the program as Pre-Nursing majors, completing science and general education courses. After completing all of the Pre-Nursing requirements, students may then apply for acceptance into the Nursing major.

The prerequisites for Pre-Nursing are high school or college level Biology and Chemistry courses at a B or better, an overall GPA of 3.5, and an SAT score of 4000. The Nursing major requirements are: overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, a 3.0 or better in Anatomy, Physiology, and Chemistry classes, Certified Nurse Assistant certification, an essay, and an acceptable score on the TEAS exam.

The Nursing program at Sonoma State University is highly competitive, with only 24 students being admitted into the BSN program each fall semester.

Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN

The RN to BSN program is for post-licensure students (now called the Post-Licensure BSN Program). It is structured to allow students to transfer credits from their community college Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program in order to meet degree requirements for the BSN. The curriculum will expand upon what the student has already learned and will result in successful completion of a baccalaureate degree.

The courses for the RN to BSN program are designed to be flexible and are offered either as a combination of classroom and online (hybrid format) or exclusively online.

Nurses that have graduated an ADN program and have completed all general education requirements before starting the RN to BSN program can complete the program in as little as two semesters at Sonoma State, if enrolled full time.

To apply for the RN to BSN program, students must have at least 60 hours of transfer credit with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. 30 units of this should meet Sonoma State General Education requirements, including English Composition, Speech, Critical Thinking and Statistics. Another 30 units must be nursing courses. Students must also be currently licensed in California as an RN, have at least 3 credit hours of Chemistry with a C or higher, direct patient care experience within the last two years or Anatomy and Physiology taken within the last 10 years, and have been admitted to Sonoma State University.

Priority placement within the program will be given to students who live in Sonoma, Napa, Solano, Marin, Lake, and Mendocino Counties.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to BSN

Sonoma State University offers an LVN to BSN program in partnership with Indiana State University, in order to make sure that all California LVNs had access to a quality BSN program. Students take the program online from anywhere.

LVN 30 Unit Option

The LVN 30 Unit option is a state-mandated program that allows LVNs to become licensed as RNs. This program meets the requirements for LVNs to take the state RN licensing exam, although they will not earn a degree. Students seeking this option should be aware that spots are awarded when space is available, and there is no guarantee of placement.

Masters Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

The MSN program is for graduate level nurses who wish to influence the delivery and practice of health care. To apply to the program, students must have a BSN degree or other bachelors degree, be a licensed California RN, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their last 60 credits, and have taken a statistics course at the college level.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The FNP option of the MSN program has an emphasis on an advanced level of primary care practice in a clinical setting. Applicants for this program must meet the MSN requirements above and have completed an upper-division physical assessments course (within the last three years), have completed a course in community health nursing, and preferably have two years experience as an RN.

Graduates are qualified to take the American Academy of Nurse Practitioner (AANP) exam or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam for national certification.

Sonoma State University also offers a post graduate certificate in FNP.

Leadership and Management

The Leadership and Management option of the MSN program has specialties in Administration, Education, and Clinical Nurse Leader. This course of study focuses on concepts of financial management, leadership and organization and research application and use. Students applying for this option must meet the same requirements as the generic MSN program listed above.

Direct Entry MSN Program

The Direct Entry MSN program is for non-RNs with bachelor’s degrees. This program requires 18 months of continuous study, online classes, and studying undergraduate and graduate coursework at the same time.

To apply, students must earn a 3.0 in the undergraduate courses of Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, and Human Growth and Development. Students must also become a certified CNA before starting the program.

Upon graduation, students will be awarded an MSN degree and be eligible to take the exam for RN licensing.

ADN to MSN Pathways Program

The ADN to MSN program is for licensed RNs in California with a bachelor’s degree or higher to earn their MSN degree and be eligible for the California Public Health Nurse Certification. Students who complete this program will earn an MSN degree, but not a BSN degree.

Students will be assessed based on their nursing practice and educational background to determine which courses are still required for the master’s option they wish to pursue. Students may attend classes full or part time.

To apply to the program, students must be currently licensed RNs in California or scheduled to graduate from an ADN program and be licensed prior to the fall admission to the ADN-MSN program. They must also be admitted conditionally to the University as a graduate student, hold a bachelor’s degree, have a 3.0 GPA in their last 60 units of coursework, and show they’ve completed a college level Statistics course and the Development Across the Lifespan course.

Contact:

Sonoma State University

1801 East Cotati Ave.

Rohnert Park, CA 94928

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Southwestern College Nursing Program Review

Located south of San Diego, Southwestern College (SWC) was established in 1961 and enrolls over 20,000 each semester. With over 300 associate degree and certificate options, SWC has something to offer for everyone.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN)

The ADN program at SWC is a four semester (two year) course of study. Approximately 60 students are admitted into the program each Fall semester.

Students are admitted into the ADN program using a multi criteria point system. The multi criteria point system gives each candidate a point score based on their academic degrees and diplomas already earned, their GPA in related classes, life experience, skill in languages other than English, and assessment test results. In addition, students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher in the nursing prerequisite courses of Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology. Students must also have a high school diploma or equivalent, be a Certified Nurse Assistant or equivalent, and demonstrate Math and English reading proficiency.

Graduates of the ADN program are allowed to sit for the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). After passing, they will become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs).

SWC’s ADN program is accredited for the maximum time given by the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Step Up Program

Currently licensed California LVNs are eligible to apply for the LVN Step Up program, a one year LVN to ADN transition. Students will be given credit for the first two semesters of the ADN program when they submit proof of licensure. They must also complete a transition course before they begin the third semester of the ADN program.

To apply, students will be evaluated based on the multi criteria point system outlined above. Students must also meet all the prerequisites listed above for the ADN program before they may apply. Graduates of this program will earn their ADN degree and be qualified to take the state licensing exam for RNs.

Vocational Nursing Program

The Vocational Nursing program is three semesters and begins every year and a half. There are spots for 30 students each time the program begins, and they must have met the program prerequisites to apply. The prerequisites are a C or better in college level Reading and Math, Anatomy/Physiology, Principles of Child Development, Fundamentals of Nutrition, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course. In addition, students must submit verification of their CNA certificate and Hepatitis B vaccination.

All classes must be taken in sequence, and students must earn a grade of C or higher for each of their nursing requirements.

Students who complete the LVN program are eligible to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-PN) to become LVNs.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program.

This program is for those who are interested in beginning a career in nursing, and is a requirement for entry into the LVN and ADN programs. This program consists of a class and a lab, and is offered four times a year. Students must pre-apply for the class through the nursing department.

Perioperative Nursing Program

The Perioperative Nursing program instructs nurses on operating room procedures. The program begins each Fall semester, and 10 students will be admitted.

To be considered, students must be currently licensed RNs in the state of California, or be in the last year of their nursing program and obtain the program director’s recommendation. Students also need to have recent (within the last 5 years) acute care RN experience. Students must be current on their vaccinations, CPR certification, professional liability insurance, and they must have a drug screening and background test completed before starting the program.

Contact:

Southwestern College

900 Otay Lakes Road

Chula Vista, CA 91910

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University of California, Los Angeles Nursing School Review

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has 27,000 undergraduate students and 13,000 graduate students, and is a magnet for the entire Southern California area. One of the world’s most respected research universities, it is also a hub for cultural experiences and world class sports.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing

The BS pre-licensure program in nursing was developed to get students ready for their nursing career. This is a four year program. Students will be allowed after graduation to take the state licensing exam for Registered Nurses (RNs).

Students are admitted as freshmen once a year into the School of Nursing at UCLA, and a limited number of transfer students are admitted at the junior level of the course. Freshmen should complete the UC Application of Admission first to be admitted to the school, then complete the Nursing Supplemental Application form. The Nursing Supplemental Application must include a resume detailing volunteer and work experience, personal recommendations, and a statement of purpose.

Freshmen students who are already enrolled at UCLA in another major and have fewer than 60 units of coursework with a 3.0 or higher GPA may apply for a change of major to the School of Nursing by submitting the Nursing Supplemental Application. These students will be considered along with incoming freshmen.

Students already enrolled at UCLA in another major and that have over 60 credits of courses completed are recommended to consider finishing their current degree and pursuing a Master of Science degree in Nursing, or looking at other RN educational opportunities within the state of California. By changing majors, students may find they have to take an additional year of courses to complete their studies.

Transfer students must complete their general education requirements at their prior school, and must complete the non-nursing prerequisites of Chemistry, Communications, Life Sciences, Math, Microbiology, Physiology, and Psychology, or their equivalencies.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Masters Entry Clinical Nurse (MECN)

The MSN MECN program at UCLA is designed as a two year, pre-licensure program for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another subject and want to pursue a master’s in nursing.

Graduates of the MSN MECN program are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam to become RNs, and to then work in nursing.

To apply for this program, students must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited school. They must also have earned a C or higher in the prerequisite courses of Chemistry, Epidemiology, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, Statistics, English Composition, and Communication. They must also have a record of satisfactory scholarship, and three letters of recommendation. In addition, foreign applicants must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

This program allows students to take the Clinical Nurse Leader exam for certification, as well as apply for a Public Health Nursing Certificate.

MSN – Advanced Practice

The MSN, Advanced Practice program is what licensed RNs with baccalaureate degrees will take to pursue their advanced studies.

To enter this program, students must be licensed RNs with a BS degree in nursing from an accredited school. They must also have completed Biostatistics (or equivalent), an upper level nursing research course, an upper level Physical Assessment course, and an upper level Physiology course. In addition, they must have a satisfactory record of scholarship, usually maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or better. Also, foreign applicants must pass the TOEFL.

There are a number of advanced practice specialties available in the MSN program. They are:

• Nursing Administration, also available with an emphasis in Occupational and Environmental Health, or as a Masters of Business Administration (MBA)/MSN
• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care, also with an emphasis in Occupational and Environmental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Population
• Family Population, either as Family Nurse Practitioner, or Underserved Populations
• Pediatric Population

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD program at UCLA focuses on clinical nursing research.

The application for the program begins with an MSN, a BS in Nursing with a master’s in a different field, or a BS in Nursing. Students must have a 3.5 GPA or better, have taken the GRE in the last 5 years, be a licensed RN, have taken an upper level Statistics course, a graduate level nursing research course, and four letters of recommendation. They must also have passed the TOEFL if applying from another country. In addition, they need to supply a curriculum vitae, examples of their published nursing papers, and a statement of educational, research, and career goals.

Post-Master Certificate

The Post-Master Certificate program is for students who hold MSN degrees who want to obtain the clinical and educational experience to be a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse administrator.

UCLA offers Post-Master specialties in the following areas:

• Nursing Administration
• Adult/Gerontology
• Adult/Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Adult/Gerontology-Acute Care Program/Oncology Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s certificate

To apply, students need to verify an MSN and current RN license, have three recommendations, a statement summarizing their nursing and personal goals, a curriculum vitae, completed upper division Physical Assessment and Physiology courses (not needed if applying for Nursing Administration), and foreign students need to pass the TOEFL.

Contact:

University of California – Los Angeles

301 Westwood Plaza

Los Angeles, CA 90095

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University of California, San Francisco Nursing School Review

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is the only school in the University of California system dedicated to health sciences, and is a leader in education in health professions and life sciences.

Nursing Programs

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

The MS program at UCSF is geared toward students who already have a baccalaureate degree in nursing. However, Registered Nurses (RNs) who have a bachelor’s degree in another field are still able to apply.

Applicants to the MS program in nursing must provide proof of their RN license and official transcripts showing they graduated from an accredited bachelor’s program. A GPA of 3.0 is or higher is desired, as is proof of graduate study potential and personal qualifications, through personal references and their work and volunteer history. They must also have one Statistics course, a minimum of one year of work experience as an RN, and computer proficiency. In addition, foreign students for whom English is a second language will need to achieve a minimum score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

There are a number of specialty areas in the UCSF MS in nursing program. These areas are:

• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (ACPNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Advanced Practice Neonatal Nursing (APNN)
• Advanced Practice Pediatric Nursing (APPN)
• Cardiovascular Nursing
• Critical Care Trauma
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Gerontological Advanced Practice Nursing
• Health Policy Nursing
• Nurse Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing and Health Systems Leadership (NHSL)
• Occupational and Environmental Health Nursing
• Oncology Nursing, Advanced Practice
• Perinatal Nursing
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
• Public Health Nursing, Advanced Practice (PHNAP)

In addition to these specialties, students may also choose to minor in Psych/Mental Health, Genomics, HIV/AIDS, Health Policy, or Global Health.

Masters Entry Program (MEPN)

The MEPN is a program for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a program other than nursing. This three year course of study will prepare students to become advanced practice nurses, meaning they are experts in their area of practice and knowledge.

MEPN students begin the program with four semesters of foundation nursing courses. After the first year, they are allowed to sit for the state licensing exam to become RNs. At that time they will begin their MS specialty coursework.

Applicants must complete prerequisite coursework in Statistics, Psychology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology to be able to apply to the program. In addition, applicants must submit their GRE scores (taken in the last 5 years), four recommendation letters, official transcripts for all schools after high school, proof of graduate study potential and personal qualifications, through personal references and their work and volunteer history, and a written goal statement.

Masters Pathway Program

RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) but do not yet have a bachelor’s degree or higher may apply for the ADN to MS Pathway program. This program begins study at educational partner schools Golden State University (GSU) or John F. Kennedy University (JFKU). Students will earn their bachelor’s degree in approximately 18 to 24 months, and then will be eligible to start the MS program at UCSF. Pathway students will need to apply to the MS program at least nine months in advance of earning their bachelor’s degree.

To apply to the pathway program, students must apply to GSU or JFKU. Students will need to meet all the requirements for the UCSF MS program before they may begin their MS studies.

Doctoral Program – PhD in Nursing

The Doctoral program at UCSF is designed for those who wish to focus their nursing careers on being clinical researchers or academic faculty.

Students may enter the PhD program with an MS in Nursing, a BS in Nursing, or a BS in another program while enrolled in the MS program. Students who don’t have an MS degree when starting the PhD program may earn one after completing MS specialty requirements.

The PhD program offers research programs in Family Health Care Nursing, Community Health Systems, Physiological Nursing, and Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.2 and a graduate GPA of 3.5 (if applicable). They must have a recent (with 5 years) GRE score, and be proficient in English. They also must have taken Statistics, and a Nursing Research Methods course. They must also have a valid RN license, have one year of nursing experience, and be computer proficient.

PhD in Sociology

The PhD in Sociology program centers on the study and research of illness, health, biomedicine, and the system of health care. There are four specialty areas of study:

• aging, chronic illness, and disability
• health policy, organizations and economics
• science, technology, and medicine studies
• race, class, gender, and health/health inequalities

Students applying for the PhD in Sociology must submit a statement of purpose, official transcripts, GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, an example of scholarly writing, and a curriculum vitae.

Once admitted to the program, students must pass qualifying exams at the end of the first and second years of the program in social theory and sociology of health and illness to be considered for candidacy to continue on in the program. At that point, they will write a review of a relevant problem, that will lead to their dissertation, which will be based on their own research.

Post Master’s Options

Post Master’s options are offered when available, based on the faculty resources. Offerings will vary, but the categories generally offered are nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, health policy specialist, and nursing and health systems leadership.

Post Doctoral Options

Post Doctoral study is in specific areas of interest to the individual student, and will be arranged by student request. Students will receive no academic credit or transcript, but they will receive a certificate of study when finished.

Custom Special Studies

The Custom Special Studies program is an individualized course of study tailored to the needs of the student and does not lead to certification or a degree. Acceptance is based on department approval, availability of a faculty advisor, and English competence.

Contact:
University of California – San Francisco
505 Parnassus Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94122

University of San Diego Nursing School Review

The University of San Diego (USD) is a Catholic school that was formed in 1972 when the College of Women and College of Men merged. The school has 7800 students and has six academic divisions, including the Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science.

Nursing Programs

Health Care Informatics

Health Care Informatics is the process of automating, organizing, and improving information transmission to improve health care. It means computerized patient records, electronic transmission of lab results, and increasing accuracy and speed of medical care while decreasing costs and errors, thereby improving overall medical care.

Health Care Informatics has three programs:

• Certificate in Health Care Informatics – students apply through the Office of Professional and Continuing Studies, and must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, basic information management skills, and an understanding of MS Office products
• Master of Science in Health Care Informatics – students must meet the requirements for the Certificate program, and submit an application for the program, as well as take Statistics, have a GPA of at least 3.0, one year of work experience, three recommendations, a resume, and an interview
• Master of Science in Nursing Health Care Informatics – students must have met the requirements for the Certificate and Master of Science programs, and must have a current Registered Nurse (RN) license in California

Masters Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) for non-RNs

This program is for students seeking a new career in nursing, that have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-related field. Graduates will receive a clinical nursing master’s degree and will meet the criteria to sit for the state RN licensing exam. They will also have met the requirements to take the Clinical Nurse Leader certificate examination.

To apply to the program, students must complete the application, have a bachelor’s (or higher) degree from an accredited college with a GPA of at least 3.0, be computer literate, have three references, a resume, at least 100 hours of health care related volunteer work, have taken the GRE, and have completed the prerequisite courses with at least a B in the science classes. The prerequisite courses are Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, Cultural Anthropology, English Composition, Speech, Statistics, and Nutrition.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN program is structured to build upon a student’s existing nursing knowledge and focus on theory, research, and practice. Emphasis areas are offered in:

• Health Care Informatics
• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Executive Nurse Leader
• Clinical Nursing
• Family/Lifespan Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse Practitioner

In addition, the MSN program has the options of Latino Health Care, Nursing Education, and Mind-Body-Spirit Health Care.

Applying to the MSN program involves submitting the application, resume, letters of reference, and official transcripts. Students must have graduated from an accredited school with a minimum 3.0 GPA, have a current RN license, and complete an interview.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

The PhD program is designed for nurses who wish to follow a career in research. It has three routes to achieving a degree: BSN to PhD, post-MSN PhD, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to PhD.

The BSN to PhD program is an accelerated program for nurses with a bachelor’s degree. Students may pursue an emphasis in Executive Nurse Leadership, or Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist.

With the post-MSN PhD, students with a master’s degree in nursing may pursue a concentration in clinical nursing research, knowledge transmission, or executive leadership.

The DNP to PhD program is for nurses who have completed their DNP degree and wish to also obtain their PhD. This is an individual, custom-designed program.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program is designed for nurses in advanced practice who wish to take on a leadership role in nursing. The DNP program can be entered by students either after completing their BSN degree or their MSN degree.

The options available for BSN graduates who wish to pursue their DNP degree are:

• Family
• Dual Pediatric/Family
• Dual Adult/ Family Nurse Practitioner
• Family/Lifespan Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Practitioner/Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Adult-Gerontology as a Clinical Nurse Specialist

International Programs

The Hahn School of Nursing and Health Sciences offers nursing students the opportunity to gain international awareness and provide competent, evidence-based health care to vulnerable populations around the globe. Students have been participating in these clinical research missions since 2003 in various parts of the world.

Contact:

University of San Diego

5998 Alcalá Park

San Diego, CA 92110

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University of San Francisco Nursing School Review

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and downtown, the University of San Francisco (USF) is one of the top schools in the nation for ethnic diversity and international student enrollment. USF is a Jesuit Catholic school with small class sizes, and over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN program at USF is for men and women who are beginning their careers in nursing. Graduates will be able to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become Registered Nurses (RNs). They will also be eligible for the Public Health Nursing Certificate for California.

Course work in the program begins freshman year. To graduate, students will complete a minimum of 128 credits of general education and nursing requirements.

The Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

The CNL is a generalist who provides and manages care for a specific group of patients. This program is for non-nurses who have a bachelor’s degree or higher. This program is six semesters long when taken full time, and students will complete a minimum of 67 units to graduate.

Registered Nurse (RN) Associate Degree (ADN) to MSN CNL

RNs that have completed their ADN can pursue this accelerated program to earn their MSN CNL degree. Students do not need a bachelor’s degree for this program. This program requires a total of 46 units to complete.

RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to MSN CNL

This two year program allows RNs who have already completed their BSN degree to work toward an MSN CNL degree.

RN (BA/BS non-nursing) to MSN CNL

RNs that have completed their ADN and also have a non-nursing BA or BS degree are eligible to apply to this program. This is a two year program, and students will be required to take 40 units of coursework.

Online MSN

The Online MSN degree is an innovative program that allows RNs with either ADN degrees or BSN degrees to work toward their MSN CNL degree while taking all of their coursework online, and completing their clinical internships in a health care facility close to where they live. Students are able to complete this program in as little as two years.

Post Master’s CNL

The Post Master’s CNL program at USF is a personalized program that is custom fitted to each student. Students will take a series of courses related to CNL competencies as outlined by the Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), after a review of their transcript. Depending on the student, the program will be anywhere from 9 to 31 units. Upon completion of the program, students will be allowed to take the CNL examination.

Master of Public Health (MPH)

The USF MPH degree is structured to prepare students to be public health practitioners and leaders. This program requires 45 units of study to graduate.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program is designed for nurses holding either a BSN or MSN degree. BSN students will take from 82 to 94 units, and will need four years to complete the program. MSN students will be given consideration for courses already taken, and their program will be adjusted to reflect this. Most courses are given in a combination of online and in person. Courses are designed with the working professional nurse in mind. Graduates will also have completed 1000 hours of clinical practice performed under supervision.

RNs with a BSN or MSN can pursue specialties of Family Nurse Practitioner and Healthcare Systems Leadership. Nursing executives holding an MSN may specialize in Nursing Leadership.

Contact:
University of San Francisco

2130 Fulton Street,

San Francisco, CA 94117-1080

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Western University of Health Sciences Nursing School Review

Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) has been educating health care professionals since 1977. The College of Graduate Nursing was begun in 1998.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree to Masters (ADN to MSN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing (ADN to MSN) program is offered for nurses who wish to pursue their graduate education while they continue working and have commitments which don’t allow them to return to school full time. This associates degree to masters in nursing program is web based (online), and especially beneficial for students who live in rural areas or who are active-duty military. Students will participate in web-based courses, twice a semester weekend sessions at the Pomona campus, and clinical training close to home with supervision by an approved preceptor.

The program will take most students two to three years to complete. After graduation, they will have an MSN degree. The program requires between 45 and 80 units required to complete, depending on the track the student chooses to follow. Students may study Health Systems Leadership – Administrative Nurse Leader (ANL), Health Systems Leadership – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), Ambulatory Care (AMB), or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

MSN Entry (MSN-E)

The MSN-E program is structured to enable students with bachelor’s degrees in another field enter nursing. After successful completion of the program, students will earn an MSN degree, and be prepared to take the state licensing exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

Students will spend 16 months studying nursing and preparing for the RN licensing exam. The pre-licensure part of the program requires 61 units to complete. After passing the exam and becoming licensed, they will work as an RN while pursuing their graduate degree.

The MSN-E program offers students the chance to take three semesters of courses per year, thereby reducing the amount of time it takes to complete the program. Students may choose from Health Systems Leadership – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), Health Systems Leadership – Administrative Nurse Leader (ANL), Ambulatory Care (AMB), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) as their area of emphasis. This part of the program ranges from 35 to 70 units, depending on the emphasis chosen.

MSN Health Systems Leadership-Administrative Nurse Leader (ANL)

The MSN ANL program is another flexible, web-based program, ideal for nurses who are on active duty military, who wish to keep working, or who have commitments that keep them from attending school full time. This program has online courses and requires students to attend two weekend sessions per semester at the Pomona campus.

This program prepares students for effective leadership roles in health care. Graduates will have met the course requirements to be certified as a nurse administrator.

This program requires 35 units of coursework to complete for graduation.

MSN Health Systems Leadership-Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

The MSN CNL is a web-based, flexible program that has courses online and requires students to attend two weekend sessions per semester at the Pomona campus, as well as complete a preceptored clinical practicum.

Students who complete this program will obtain advanced clinical and leadership skills in health care. This program has 51 units required for graduation.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Another flexible program for nurses, the MSN FNP program is also a combination of online coursework, two weekend sessions per semester at the Pomona campus, and supervised clinical training in the student’s local area.

This program is a two to three year course of study, depending on whether it’s taken full time or part time. The program requires completing 65 units to graduate.

MSN Completion

The MSN Completion course is aimed at nurses with a BSN degree who are already certified as family or specialty nurse practitioners. When taken full time, students can complete this program in one year.  This is designed to be a flexible program for nurses with other commitments, and has web based online courses, and two weekend sessions per semester at the Pomona campus. The program requires 30 units of courses for graduation.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program prepares students for future roles in health care to evaluate, design, and improve how care is delivered.

The DNP program is a two year, self-directed learning program with web based courses, collaborative projects in the student’s community, and two weekend seminars per semester at the Pomona campus. The program requires 31 units and a dissertation for graduation.

Contact:

Western University of Health Sciences

309 E. Second St.

Pomona, CA 91766-1854

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Arkansas Northeastern College Nursing Program Review

Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) was established from the merger in 2003 between Cotton Boll Technical Institute and Mississippi County Community College. The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Its nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. The School administers classes at different centers, but the main campus is located in Blytheville. Potential nursing students have a rich choice of options to pursue their interests in the nursing field. These options include:

Associate Degree in Nursing (Traditional Route)

This is a 2-year associate degree program. During the course students are prepared to become registered nurses and after completion can sit the National Council of Licensure Examinations for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) for licensure. Various non-traditional subjects are included in the nursing courses to better prepare students when dealing with patient care. The course is offered at the ANC Burdette Campus and the Paragould Campus. The program is offered through distance learning. The Associate Degree in Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Nursing is conferred to successful graduates upon  completion of the associate degree nursing (ADN) program.

Associate Degree in Nursing (LPN to RN Program)

This course is open to LPNs that are interested in further studies in the nursing field. There are essentially two options to choose from. They can choose the traditional Associate Degree in Nursing or the Accelerated Program. The requirements for admission into each of these programs depend on selected admission criteria that are not limited to completion of specific subjects. 

Practical Nursing

This is a 13-month course that prepared students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Students that successfully complete the course can sit the National Council of Licensure Examinations for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) for licensure. They are awarded a Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing and are exposed to subjects such as nutrition, drug administration and pharmacology. The program is offered at both the ANC Burdette and Paragould Campuses.

Nursing Assistant Program

Students that want to enter the nursing professional quickly will find this eight week proficiency course of particular interest. It is approved by both the Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services Division of Medical Services Office of Long Term Care. The course includes 90 hours of training as required by the Arkansas Department of Health.  Once it is successfully completed a Certificate of Proficiency is awarded and students are recognized as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNAs). A Medical Terminology course is included in the curriculum along with Cardio-Respiratory Resuscitation and First Aid. The course is administered at the ANC Burdette and Paragould Campuses and accepts admission twice each year.

Scholarships for Nursing Students

Arkansas Northeastern College has a healthy source of scholarships that are available to promising nursing students. The DR. Charles C. & Carolyn Brock Scholarship, Sharon Fulling Memorial Scholarship and Nelson Nursing Scholarship are just some of the few nursing specific scholarships that are open to students. Employment opportunities are also available and these allow students to have a balanced work-study academic life. Many of the work-study positions are available on campus, but there is also the possibility to work in local community service agencies outside.

Students that aren’t successful in finding a scholarship can consider federal grants, fee waivers, waiver scholarships and loans as possible solutions to fund their academic pursuit.

Contact:

Arkansas Northeastern College
2501 South Division St.
Blytheville, AR 72315

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Arkansas State University Nursing School Review

Arkansas State University (ASU) gained university status in 1967. The University currently has campuses in Jonesboro, Beebe, Mountain Home and Newport. It is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association along with other accrediting institutions.

Founded in 1909, the university continues to offer a wide range of courses and programs to students with different career goals. Among, these many programs, is its nursing program which is offered at the Nursing School at the university. Students can choose either an associate’s degree or more advanced studies. After completion of the course, they are eligible to sit the required examinations for licensure.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)

The content covered revolves around liberal arts and health subjects. The student is groomed throughout the course to undertake various types of responsibilities that are directly linked to the nursing profession. A list of academic requirements must be successfully completed prior to submitting an application. A grade “C” or higher is required in all cases. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) that are interested in an AASN must ensure that more than 12 months have passed prior to submitting their application requests. The school offers two options for an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN):

1-     LPN to RN (AASN):  In this course nursing professions are taught the essentials that they relate to caring for individuals with well-defined problems. Both individuals in acute care and community based settings are presented throughout the course. All students are encouraged to have all the necessary qualities outlined in the Student Handbook before they undertake the course.

2-     Traditional AASN: To undertake this course, students must be certified as a Nursing Assistant (CNA). It is designed for those that do not have any previous experience as a licensed nurse. The three main campuses that the program is taught are: ASU Beebe-Beebe, ASU Mountain Home- Mountain Home and Mid-south Community College- West Memphis. Students are prepared for the beginning practice as registered nurses. After successful completion, nurses are fully equipped to provide secondary care for illnesses that are common and recurrent. However, they are not specialist, but have the general knowledge to provide the necessary care for known illnesses. They work instead as a generalist.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This course also builds on a foundation of liberal arts and health subjects. Graduates are prepared to provide both direct and indirect care to individuals. The options that are available for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing include:

1)     Traditional BSN for students with no nursing experience: Students are prepared to provide both direct and in-direct care to individuals. The program covers an extensive outline that include both health-related and non related courses to mold professionals that have a general outlook on the nursing profession and not the traditional approach. Upon successful completion students can embark on career opportunities in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers,  hospitals, clinics, just to name a few.

2)     2^nd Degree Accelerated Option: The program is open to students that have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in another field, but are interested in completing their BSN in one year. It is a second degree accelerated program with an intense course outline.

3)     LPN- BSN: The University is part of a statewide articulation program that makes it possible for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to further their studies at the advanced level. Through this initiative, LPNs can earn credit by articulation or by challenge examination. The program is also open to licensed psychiatric technician nurses (LPTN) that are seeking a BSN. Through successful articulation it is possible for LPNs and LPTNs to earn sophomore level credit. LPNs can complete the course in two years provided that the prerequisite requirements are met. They should apply to the junior level nursing courses to make this possible.

4)     RN-BSN: Registered nurses that wish to get their Bachelor of nursing at the school will also benefit from the specialized track that has been created to make this possible. The length of study will depend on previous college credits and additional credits that are needed to complete the program. The RN to BSN program is specially tailored to meet individual needs according to applicant’s proficiency. RNs that want to enter the program must have at least 1000 hours of work experience after getting their license. This depends on the number of years they have been acting in the profession. Only professionals with unencumbered licenses can apply. The course is open to registered nurses (RNs) and students with an associate degree in nursing. RN’s with an associate degree in nursing can complete the course in two years. Students that want more flexibility can consider the RN-BSN Nursing courses (NRS/NRSP) that are available online. RNs will be granted reduced nursing clinical hours provided they meet the necessary requirements.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Students that already have a BSN and wish to specialize in specific health fields may find this option interesting. The specialties that are currently being offered by the school include:

1)     Nurse Anesthesia (NA): This is a full time course that can be completed in 28-months. It is designed for Registered Nurses that want to enter the anesthesia profession. They will be recognized as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist after taking and successfully passing the examination administered by the National Board on Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists.

2)     Adult Health Nursing-Educator option (AH): Study for this course can be undertaken on a full-time or part time basis. As future nurse Educators, students are exposed to a list of courses that involve both clinical and non-clinical subjects. A clinical and nursing practicum must be completed to successfully complete the course.

3)     Adult Health: Nursing Administrator: Students are taught leadership skills along with many other areas that prepare them for advanced practice role. They will be trained and taught how to create a working environment, interact with different professionals, entrepreneurial partnership skills among other areas.

4)     Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP):  Successful applicants are trained for entry into primary health care practice. There are exposed to a list of core and support courses that can be completed online whether they prefer on a full-time or part-time basis. They must complete the 45 credit hours that are comprised of clinical, support, core and theoretical courses.

Contact:

Arkansas State University
2105 Aggie Road
Jonesboro
AR 72401

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Arkansas Tech University Nursing School Review

Arkansas Tech University (ATU) is a state-supported institution that is located in Russellville. It was founded in 1910 and currently has a growing student body. The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges. The school boasts the highest graduation rates in the state of Arkansas despite its size.

Future and current nurses interested in pursuing their education there will find excellent resources to facilitate their goals. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and this is open to registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and first time students. All eligible students may sit the national examination (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as a registered nurse once they have successfully completed the course.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Students that enroll will receive a firm foundation for graduate study. Occasional travel to areas outside of the University is necessary to fulfill the course requirements. The school also uses the health care facilities that are located in Arkansas River Valley area.

RNs and LPNs are welcome to apply to the program, and where necessary can challenge, validate or receive credit for specific nursing programs that are part of the course. The university also offers online courses to RNs that are interested in obtaining their BSN.

Practical Nursing

This is a 3-semeser course that is administered at the ATU-Ozark Campus. The content of the course revolves around both theory and clinical practice. The University adopts a holistic approach to the former and provides the necessary grounds for training at many health care centers for the latter.

A.A.S. in Allied Health with a Practical Nursing  

Successful completion of this course does not lead to RN credential. The content of the course prepares students for the BSN program that is at Russellville campus. After successful completion the students sit exams for licensure in Practical Nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing (Administration and Emergency Management):  This course prepares students to assume administrative roles in a list of health care institutions. Students that want to enter areas in sectors that relate to emergency management will be trained in using concepts related to preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. The curriculum is based on a multidisciplinary approach that uses many areas related to planning and emergency management to ensure that students are fully trained to act in any setting.

Scholarshipsfor Nursing Students

Nursing students can consider applying for scholarships through the Office of Development or through the Nursing Department.  The department of nursing has five different types of scholarships available. They are: Nell Teeter Balkman Nursing, Junior Auxiliary of Russellville Nursing Award, Hazel Thrasher Memorial Scholarship Fund, Dr. Charles and Joyce Wilkins Nursing Scholarship and Yell County Medical Society Scholarship. The award amounts differ and so does the requirements for acceptance.

If you are a transfer student and worried about funding, you may consider the few scholarships that university has for transfer students. The main transfer scholarships are: Tech Transfer Scholarship, Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, Presidential Honors Transfer Scholarship and Academic All-Star Scholarship.

Distinguished scholars that demonstrate academic excellence can be eligible for the University’s competitive funding options. These scholarships are only awarded to excellent students and award amount covers up to eight semesters or until the completion of the undergraduate degree.

Nursing Clubs

The Student Health Information Management Association (SHIMA) and Student Nurses Association are two interesting clubs that nursing students can consider. The latter was founded in 1998 and the former in 1977. There is also the Medical Assistance Association (1982) and Pre-Med Society (2008) that are also active at the school.

Living on Campus

You can choose to live on campus if you prefer. The residence halls are structured to offer different living environments to suit your preferences. Whether you are looking for a building next to your classes or one that has enough rooms to share with up to three friends, you can find these options there. There are 14 residential students and first year students can chose from 11 of these units to live in.

Contact:
Arkansas Tech University
402 West O Street
Russellville, AR 72801
Tel: (800) 582-6953

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Baptist Health Schools Little Rock Nursing Program Review

Baptist Health Schools Little Rock (BHSLR) opened its doors in 1921. The school’s Christian principles and health-related curriculum are the main cornerstones that have shaped its identity over the years. Special emphasis is placed on student-focused education and various resources are set in place to achieve this.

Practical nursing, registered nursing and accelerated registered nursing programs are all offered by the school. Students can sit relevant licensure examination after completing any of these courses. The school is accredited by the Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Its nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing course offered at BHSLR is a 2-semester course with admission in January and July. Students are trained to work under the supervision of a registered nurse while providing important patient care. They are taught how to administer medication, personal hygiene and different treatments. Lectures are given 4 days per week.  The school does not offer online practical nursing courses.  

Registered Nursing

BHSLR has tailored its program to meet the specific needs of students according to their academic achievements when entering the program. Students that do not have any college experience or some college with few science credits can consider the Three Year Traditional Track to become registered nurses. During the first two years they take introductory nursing classes and health related courses. The school also offers general education courses to prepare them during their pre-professional stage.

Students with extensive college experience and some science credits can take the 2-year Express Track course. This is specially prepared for students with more experience and who have the selected college level courses to enter the program. They are trained to become registered nurses.  

If you are a Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)/Licensed Psychiatric Technician Nurses (LPTN) or Paramedic and have some college experience then you can take the 1-year accelerated track.  Admission to the program is once each year and applicants are trained to become registered nurses. If you are not an LPN/LPTN then you’ll have to apply for the traditional track.

If you are a Baptist Health RN graduate and wish to complete your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN), then you can consider the Completer Agreements program. This is an online course that is offered through the partnership between BHSLR, University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) and Arkansas Tech University (AR Tech).

Scholarships and Funding

BHSLR participates in Federal Aid programs. The main programs that fall under this category include: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Direct Loans and the Parent Plus Loan. There are also state aid programs such as: Arkansas Academic Challenge (specifically for nursing students), Academic Challenge Scholarships, Arkansas Workplace Improvement Grant and the Arkansas Go Grant.

BHSLR also offers institutional scholarships to students.The Baptist Health Foundation Scholarships and the Baptist Health ACT Academic Scholarship. The latter is only awarded for one semester and to students that have an exceptional ACT score. Students interested in the former must be in a freshman level program. The award amount varies depending on the donor’s available funds and eligibility criteria.

Contact:

Baptist Health Schools Little Rock
11900 Colonel Glenn Road
Little Rock, AR 72210-2820

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East Arkansas Community College Nursing Program Review

East Arkansas Community College (EACC) has been in operation since 1974. The school is accredited by Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The Department of Allied Health Science offers health related courses as part of the school’s curriculum.

Nursing students can choose the Traditional Track Nursing Program and LPN/LPTN Accelerated Track Nursing. Both programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN).

Traditional Track Nursing Program

This is a 2-year program that has been in operation since 1976. Upon successful completion of the course graduates will be able to apply both theoretical and practical knowledge in the nursing practice. In addition to this, they will acquire the necessary communication skills to relate to patients, families and other nursing and non-nursing professionals.

To be accepted into the program, applicants must comply with the entry requirements that include, but are not limited to: sound physical disposition, clear analytical thinking, ability to work under stress, make quick decisions, etc.

The LPN/LPTN Accelerated Track

This is a 1-year course that was implemented in 1990.  It is an intense course and students are sought by local recruiters during the spring semester of each year. The core goal of this program has many similarities with the traditional track nursing program. Acceptance into the program is only possible if all requirements are met.

Professional Development Course: RN to EMT Program

Registered nurses (RNs) that want to acquire knowledge as an Emergency Medical Technical at the basic level will receive the necessary training in this course. It is a professional development course geared specially towards RNs. Upon successful completion, the RN will be able to treat and assess an acutely ill or injured patient in a pre-hospital setting. They will also be able to sit the National Registry EMT Basic Certification Examination.

Health Care Provider-CPR Courses

This course is open healthcare providers that handle different types of patients. It is not specifically geared towards nurses, but to anyone that want to develop the necessary skills needed to respond to different types of patients. After successful completion, the participant will be knowledgeable about the relief of foreign-body airway obstruction (FBAO), ventilation with a bag-mask device and oxygen, just to name a few.

Scholarships

EACC understands the importance of proving scholarship opportunities to students. This is evident through the numerous scholarships that are available. Nursing students can consider the General Education Scholarship, Non-Traditional Student Scholarship, Eleanor B. and Harry E. Beasley Scholarship, Jessie Smith Swindle Scholarship, Community Leader Scholarship and Ben T. Whitfield Memorial Scholarship.

The Academic Achievement Waiver is open to students that graduate within the area that EACC provides services. The percentage of the waiver will depend on ACT scores. The school offers 50 % and 100% tuition waiver.

The EACC Nursing Program Scholarship is another alternative for nursing students. Students must be admitted to the nursing program and commit to work within the state of Arkansas for 2 years for every year the scholarship was received once the course is finished.

Contact:

East Arkansas Community College
1700 Newcastle Road
Forrest City, AR 72335

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Harding University Nursing School Review

Harding University (HU) is a private Christian institution that is located in Searcy, Arkansas. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It was established after the merger between Arkansas Christian College and Harper College in 1924. Recognized as being the first Campus of Character in October 2002, Harding University promotes the importance of good character and the necessary steps to nurture one.

The school is firmly rooted in its Christian values and this is a solid part of everyday life on campus. Among its different colleges is its College School of Nursing (Carr College of Nursing) that is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Applications are welcome from students that wish to pursue a degree in nursing at the school. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year full-time track that builds on the school’s curriculum outline to prepare students for the challenges of the nursing professional. It also has a part-time program that allows working professionals and anyone else that is unable to enroll in the full-time track to take its nursing course. After successful completion, students can sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once they pass and are not hindered in any way, they can enter the nursing profession in generalist positions.

Advanced Placement Track (APT) (RN to BSN, LPN to BSN)

This course option is open to licensed nurses that have already taken pre-requisite courses and possess an unencumbered current Arkansas nursing license. This applies to registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and licensed psychiatric technical nurses. The course is a spin off from the Carr College of Nursing’s adoption of the articulation program that has been established in Arkansas to assist licensed nurses to gain higher education at a faster pace. Students must also have work experience and should not have obtained their degree or diploma 12 or more months before applying for admission to the program. In the absence for work experience, they must take the NLN Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exams (NLN-ACE). The options available are:

Registered Nurses (RN to BSN):

Registered nurses can take the advanced placement track if they meet the requirements and hold an unencumbered current Arkansas state license. They are required to take the NLN Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exams II — RN-BSN if more than 12 months have passed since they graduated and if they do not have the necessary work experience requested. They must complete pre-requisite courses to be eligible to enter the Advanced Placement Track. They may also opt to do the traditional track which consists of level I and II with options with sequence A or sequence B. As part of graduation requirement, they must also complete 8 hours of textual Bible classes.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN or LPTN):

Licensed practical nurses and licensed psychiatric technical nurses must sit the NLN Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exams I-LPN-BSN (NLN-ACE) if they do not have the necessary work experience and graduated more than 12 months before seeking admission into the program. Students enter the traditional track and not the advanced placement track after completing the necessary prerequisite courses.

Contact:

Harding University
915 E. Market Ave.
Searcy, Arkansas 72143

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Henderson State University Nursing School Review

Previously known as Arkadelphia Methodist College which was founded in 1890, the current Henderson State University (HSU) has grown to become the second oldest university in Arkansas. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. For its nursing program, it is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

The courses administered at the university are offered through the five college and schools that comprise its foundation, namely: Ellis College of Arts & Sciences, School of Business, Teachers College, Honors College and Graduate school. The school also offers modern facilities and extensive resources to promote a rich academic life.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) gives students the necessary foundation that allows them to enter graduate school. They are trained throughout the program with hands-on experience and also in clinical settings. The school also endeavors to introduce liberal-arts courses into its curriculum with the intent of grooming students to be astute in all aspects and not just within the concepts of traditional nursing courses. Classes are small to ensure that a more personalized approach is adopted when teaching. The course is a four year professional nursing program and students that have a Nursing Assistant Certification (CNA) can qualify for course waivers where applicable

HSU Nursing Scholarships

The University offers a wide range of institutional scholarships to nursing students that are at different levels in their studies. Among the many options to choose from are:

1)      Bea Narracong Scholarship– Available to both junior and senior nursing students at HSU. Special consideration is given to students that are involved in community services or professional activities.

2)      Eastern Star Nursing Scholarship– Available to both junior and senior students. The scholarship is open to applicants that Order of Eastern Star and Masonic relationships. Their Grade Point Average (GPA) is also taken into consideration.

3)      Ester Black Nursing Scholarship– This scholarship is only for senior nursing students. The selection criterion is based on the students completing one semester as HSU.

4)      Evelyn Latimer Scholarship– This scholarship is open to both junior and senior students at the university. To be considered students must be playing an active part of the HSU Student Nurses Association.

5)      Mary Taylor Nursing Scholarship– The scholarship is only open to junior students. It was established to award students that are interested in the school’s nursing course, but have completed courses unrelated to nursing.

6)      Molly Wilson Nursing Scholarship– This scholarship is open to both junior and senior students. It is open to students with children or those that have engaged or are active in military services.

External Nursing Scholarships

1)     Martha Harding Gann Memorial Scholarship– Open to senior students or juniors that are near to become seniors.

2)     Arkansas Nurses Foundation– Awarded to registered nurses who meet the requirements.

3)     Arkansas Public Health Association– Awarded to full-time students that are enrolled in the nursing program.

4)     Baptist Health Medical Center Arkadelphia-Awarded to those that undertake work responsibilities during the course and agree to post graduation employment.

5)     Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)-Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited institution.

6)     Little Rock Black Nurses Association of Arkansas-Open to RN and LPN students.

7)     National Park Medical Center Scholarships– Awarded to those that undertake work responsibilities during the course and agree to post graduation employment. Preference given to upperclassman.

8)     Navy Nurse Corps Program-Students must be under 30-years old and be enrolled as a junior or senior.

9)     Programs in Psychiatric Nursing (PIPN)- Must be enrolled in a NLN Accredited School of Nursing. Preference given to employees of the PIPN affiliated hospitals.

10)  Saint Joseph’s Regional Health Center- Awarded to those that undertake work responsibilities during the course and agree to post graduation employment. Preference given to upperclassman.

11)   Share Foundation

12)   Uams Nursing StudenT Program

Contact:

Henderson State University
1100 Henderson Street,
Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71999

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Jefferson Regional Medical Center Nursing Program Review

Jefferson Regional Medical Center (JRMC) is a not-for-profit private regional hospital that is located in Southeast Arkansas. It started through the initiatives of Mattie Crawford. Despite the hardships and humble beginnings, JRMC has blossomed into a 471 bed hospital with an exemplary value system.

It offers primary care and a whole list of other services. It is licensed by the Arkansas State Health Department and accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organization. Its School of Nursing is open to a wide range of students that want to embrace various roles in health care. The programs offered include:

Diploma of Nursing

This is a two-year program that is open to students that are U.S citizens. The program does not accept international students on student visas or anyone that is not a U.S. citizen. The first year of the program is focused on college courses. Students can take these courses at Southeast Arkansas College, UAPB any accredited college. Students learn in a state-of-the-art facility with simulation lab and enhanced curriculum. After they have completed the required college courses, they can complete the program in 24-months.

Any Licensed practical nurse (LPN) or Licensed Psychiatric Technician Nurse (LPTN) is eligible for advanced placement if they meet the prerequisite requirements. They must hold a current, unencumbered Arkansas license to be accepted into the program. LPN and LPTN professionals that have one year working experience in acute care may test out of specified courses if they provided their scores are acceptable and in line with the requirements.

Those that do not have experience in acute care, but that have worked in certain specialty areas can also challenge credits. All LPNs and LPTNs that are successful to test out of specific subjects must complete the program within 11 months and not less.

Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) provided there are no hindrances. All students must inform the Arkansas State Board of Nursing about any crimes and convictions in the past. A background check is also performed at an extra cost. 

Financial Aid

There are three avenues for students to get the necessary funding to assist with the cost of their education. These include:

1)     JRMC financial assistance program that has specific criteria for acceptance. Information is available through inquiries to the school.

2)     Arkansas Scholarship Program and Federal Pell Grants

3)     Student loans

Student Nurses’ Association

Students interested in participating in the State and National Student Nurses’ Association can join the JRMC School of Nursing Student Association (JSNSA). The organization provides support to nursing students in the form of education and other fundamental interests that help to shape nursing students to better embrace their roles in the future. It adopts a holistic approach through self government.

Job Placement

Students that are concerned about job placement can inquire at the JRMC

HR Department.  It provides the necessary services and assistance to students that are seeking employment. This can be on a part-time basis while as a student at JRMC or full-time after graduating .

Contact:

Jefferson Regional Medical Center
School of Nursing
1600 West 40th Avenue
Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71603

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National Park Community College at Hot Springs Nursing Program Review

The National Park Community College (NPCC) is a two year community college that was established from the merger between Garland County Community College and Quapaw Technical Institute. The College is the fourth largest in Arkansas and is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. NPCC prides itself for being one of the main employers in the region. It is located southwest of Little Rock and has a very vibrant environment on campus and off campus.

Future nursing students can choose from a wide range of courses that enables them to the integrated into the nursing profession with modern skills and knowledge. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) are the leading institutions that have given their stamp of approval on the courses. The courses that are available at the school include:

Certificate for Proficiency Nursing Assistant (CNA)

This is a one semester course that equips students with basic skills to work in hospitals, nursing homes and other health care facilities. It also provides the building blocks for future studies as a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Upon successful completion of the course, applicants can take the certification test and after passing may work as a nursing assistant.  

Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree (RN)

Associate of Science Degree in Registered Nursing (ASN-RN) students must have completed two years of general education courses before sending in their applications. The selection process is based on TEAS tests and GPA. After successfully completing the course, students can sit the National Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses RN.

Advanced Standing: LPN/LPTN Applicants to RN Track

This program is based on rolling admission and eligible applicants, once accepted, are given a start date to enter the course.  The course is only open to licenses licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed psychiatric technical nurses (LPTNs) that want to gain an associate degree to become a registered nurse (RN). All applicants to the course must ensure that their licenses are active to be awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (A.S.N.).

High School to ASN Track (3 Year Plan)

This program is a three year course. During the first year, students are exposed to general courses that are pre-requisites to enter the nursing program. After successfully completing the first year, they are then exposed to the nursing curriculum. They are also given the opportunity to select additional courses that will give them the jump-start for higher education for a BSN.

Technical Certificate Practical Nursing (PN) (Day/Night)

Students are encouraged to evaluate their time and dedication to the nursing career before they apply to this course. The curriculum is intense and the Arkansas State Board of Nursing outlines the number of hours that must be completed in the course to successful graduate. Attendance is essential and students must comply with the established limits. Those that fail to do so are dropped from the course. 

Technical Certificate in Pharmacy Technology

Students that are interested in this course will have two possibilities to choose from: a 12-month course that rewards a Technical Certificate degree or a 24-month program that awards an Associate Degree. Upon successful completion of the course, students can take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Applicants that successfully pass the course will be granted national certification. They will be recognized as Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhT).

Certificate of Proficiency Medical Aide

Students accepted into the program are fully trained to work in nursing homes. Successful completion of the program allows students to take the state proficiency test. After passing, they can work as a MA-C.

Contact:

National Park Community College
101 College Drive
Hot Springs National Park
AR 71913
Tel: (501) 760-4222

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North Arkansas College Nursing Program Review

Formerly known as North Arkansas Community/Technical College, North Arkansas College (NAC) is a reputable two-year public college. It prides itself with the ever increasing student body that highlight the quality and importance of the courses offered.

It was noted for its efforts in preserving the environment, evidenced in it becoming the first “Climate Neutral” campus. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. All of its RN courses are accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN) and National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The PN courses offered at the institution are accredited by the former. The nursing courses offered at the school include:

Associate of Applied Science Degree- Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing (LPN to RN)

This is an intensive course that is offered to licensed practical nurses that want to become registered nurses. The curriculum can be completed in one year and after successful completion students can sit the state examination for licensure.

Associate of Applied Science Degree-Registered Nurse

This is a full-time program that is offered through two tracks. The traditional RN program begins every fall in August and students must present be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) “Healthcare Provider Course” and meet a list of requirements to be accepted into the course. Students are encouraged to seek the necessary financial assistance and to think carefully about their available time prior to entering the program.

Technical Certificate- Practical Nursing

This is an 11-month long course that is offered twice per year. Admission into the program is based on a list of factors that include, but are not limited to high school transcript or GED scores, medical examinations and willingness to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) American Heart Association Health Care Provide.

Certifies Nursing Assistant- CNA

In this course, students are taught the essentials of patient care. Students interested in the program can choose either the day or even class. The college offers both day and evening classes. The former is a 120-hour class that, whereas the latter is 90-hour class. After successfully completing the required courses, students can sit the state certification exam and after passing are recognized as Nursing Assistants.

Bachelor Degree Partnerships

North Arkansas College has partnered with several institutions of higher education to give students the flexibility of completing advanced studies at the school. Depending on the program students complete their freshman and sophomore classes at the college and the junior and senior level at the partnering institution. Those that are interested in obtaining their BSN can consider the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN).

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) is open to registered nurses that have an active license. It can be completed in one year and can be done online. Students must an accredited associate degree or diploma program to enter the program. The program is possible due to the partnership between North Arkansas College and Arkansas Tech University.

Contact:

North Arkansas College
515 Pioneer Drive
Harrison, AR 72601

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Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas Nursing Program Review

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) is a two-year higher education institution with campuses in Dewitt, Helena-West and Stuggart. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The history of the school dates back to as far as 1965. Since then, major expansion and reconstruction have adequately prepared it for the growing student body. 

The Associate Degree Nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The school offers many interesting courses. Future nursing students that want to enter the world of healthcare will find the following programs there:

ADN Associate Degree Nursing

Various courses are taught throughout the curriculum with the intent of shaping students to better understand their roles as nurses and how these play out in dealing with patients. Students are also introduced to hands-on training that prepares them to interact with patients of all developmental and chronological ages. Strong emphasis is placed on how nurses communicate with patients to ensure that their needs are met regardless of any surrounding situation at the time. Entry into the program is also extended to students that are interested in proving their credentials through challenge or articulation. This includes any Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Psychiatric Technician Nurse (LPTN) who is ineterested. Upon successful completion of the course, students can sit the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Practical Nursing (PN) Program

The practical nursing program does not cover the scope and skills required to be a registered nurse. The course focuses on all the areas that students will need to integrate into their lives to better prepare them for attending to community needs. As such, when they have successfully completed the course they will be able to perform the functions of a practical nurse. Provided there are no hindrances, they will also be eligible to sit the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Nursing Assistant Program

Students are prepared to provide the daily assistance that is needed for home-based patients. This includes basic services that range from bathing, feeding, grooming, etc. It is important that applicants to the program have a strong sense of care and ability to work under stressful situations.  After completion of the course, they can sit the National Council Licensure examination for Nursing Assistants provided there are no hindrances.

Financial Aid

Phillips Community College has a wide list of financial aid opportunities that allow students to offset education costs and thus better focus on their studies. These opportunities take the form of scholarships, grants, loans and work-study programs. The scholarships that are available to students (including nursing students) include:

1)     Chancellor’s Scholarship

2)     Academic Excellence Scholarships

3)     Technical Achievement Scholarship

4)     Foundation scholarships

5)     Single Parent Family Scholarship

6)     State of Arkansas Scholarships

Other forms of financial aid:

1)     Workforce Improvement Grant-Offered through the Arkansas Department of Higher Education.

2)     Career Pathways-Open to students that have received Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA) or are currently receiving. Also those that are earn below 250% of the federal poverty. Must also be receiving food stamps, Medicaid, or ARKids.

3)     Individual Development Account- Provides assistance with tuition, books and fees through an assistance program with participating banks and low income families.

4)     Vocational Rehabilitation- Open to students that are physical or emotional handicaps.

5)     Workforce Investment Act- Provides assistance with tuition, books and fees.

6)     Federal Aid

Contact:

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas

DeWitt

1210 Rice Belt Ave
DeWitt, AR 72042

Stuttgart

2807 Hwy 165 S, Box A
South Stuttgart, AR 72160

Helena-West Helena

1000 Campus Drive
Helena-West Helena, AR 72342

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Southeast Arkansas College Nursing Program Review

Formerly known as Arkansas Vocational-Technical School, Southeast Arkansas College is a two-year higher education institution based in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. It is also a tobacco-free facility, so anyone wishing to smoke must leave the campus in order to do so.

The school is also known as SEARK and adopts the motto: “Changing Lives… One Student at a Time!”. It is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Strong emphasis is placed on technical subjects and work place development. The counties Jefferson, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, Grant, and Lincoln all benefit from the school’s presence. Various courses are offered to its diversified student body. Interested nursing students will find the following programs there:

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing course is a bridge program that allows students to transfer credit to other institutions. The course is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and after successful completion students can sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) provided there is nothing that precludes them. During the program, students are trained to give primary care to patients. They also learn how to work with other professionals that will ultimately supervise them such as: registered nurses, clinical instructors, etc. Admission to the program occurs twice yearly and classes are administered full-time, part-time and on weekends.

Nursing Assistant

Students that want to learn the essentials of performing specific duties that relate to home or in a health-care setting will be taught these in this course. The course is for those that want to be Nursing Assistants or Home Health Aides. Classes are taught by a Registered Nurse and comply with the Health Care Finance Administration under the OBRA 1987 Guidelines and Rules and Regulations for Home Health Agencies in Arkansas. They are offered twice per year. After successful completion student can take the Arkansas State Certification as a Nursing Assistant (CNA).

LPN/Paramedic to RN Nursing Transition Program

Admission to this course is once yearly and is only open to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technicians-Paramedics (NREMT-P). Both professionals must have an unencumbered license when applying to the program. The course is intended to provide the necessary training and information that enables LPNs and NREMT-P to become registered nurses. Special care is taken to ensure that the time frame for the course is favorable and that students receive the necessary advancement placement where necessary to avoid repeating courses. After they have successfully completed the course, they will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

LPN to RN Pre-Professional Curriculum

This program is being offered as a result of a partnership established between Southeast Arkansas College and Jefferson Regional Medical Center’s School of Nursing (JRMC). It is a diploma RN program and after completion, students are awarded a Nursing Diploma from JRMC. They start the pre-requisite courses at Southeast Arkansas College and then complete the program at JMRC. To be admitted into the program, students must complete Practical Nursing Program Completion and Licensure and meet the requirements established by JMRC for admission into its program.

Contact:

Southeast Arkansas College
1900 Hazel Street Pine Bluff
AR 7160

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Southern Arkansas University Nursing School Review

Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is a four-year public university that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission North Central Association. The history of the school dates back to as far as 1909 when a competition was set in place to have the Third District Agricultural School located in Magnolia.

Today, it offers a wide range of programs, including nursing courses which range from:

Associate Degree Program in Nursing (ADN)

This is a 4-semester course that is grounded on liberal arts, science and nursing subjects. Students are trained to function at entry level and are exposed to clinical laboratory experiences in various health care sectors. In the first year of the course, students are taught general education courses and in the second specific nursing courses. The ADN Nursing Program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Students that have successfully completed certain subject at the time of application will be given priority rank.

 LPN-RN Transition Program

This course is open to students that are currently licensed practical nurses (LPNs), licensed vocation courses (LVNs) and Licensed Psychiatric Technician Nurses (LPTN) that want to complete their Associate of Science Nursing Degree. 

This LPN to RN course is specifically structured to allow these professionals to gain the necessary mobility towards qualifications in a leading learning environment. The curriculum can be completed in three semesters with the flexibility of doing the general education courses at Southern Arkansas University or any other accredited university. The course is considered a fast track course, and only professionals with unencumbered licenses can apply. Students interested in this program can choose between a traditional option or a transition option. The former allows them to complete the course in 4 semesters, whereas the latter in three.

BSN Program

Students that are enrolled in this course will be trained to practice as a general specialist. They will be able to perform their roles in various health care setting including with families and the general community.  Students that complete the Nursing Curriculum Support Courses (NCSCs) will be given priority ranking to enter the BSN program. This is a four year course and students that took courses from community colleges will not have the hours transferred as part of their requirement to graduate from Southern Arkansas University.

RN-BSN Program

Registered nurses (RNs) that have current unencumbered licenses are welcome to apply to this course. The full-time program can be completed in two years. The course includes liberal arts, general education and nursing content. Focus is also placed on leadership qualities and roles in the last semester. Registered nurses must be graduates from a NLN accredited associate degree program or diploma program to be considered for admission. They must also ensure that all general requirements regarding vaccinations for Hepatitis B and TB screening are performed. They must also have a CPR certification from the American Heart Association to be considered for admission into the course.

Scholarships for Nursing Students Include:

1)     The MCSA Auxiliary Helen Wright Memorial Scholarship Award Criteria

2)     The Curtis W. Kinard Memorial Scholarship Award Criteria

3)     Lucy A. Ring Memorial Scholarship Criteria

4)     Larkin M. Wilson, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Criteria

5)     Dr. Warren S. & Wilma “Billie” Riley Scholarship Award Criteria

6)     Barton Scholarship Criteria

7)     Union County Medical Scholarship Criteria

8)     UAMS Master of Public Health Scholarship Criteria

9)     Dr. J. C. Callaway Memorial Scholarship Fund

10)   The John R. Williamson, M.D. Memorial Scholarship Award

Contact:

Southern Arkansas University
100 East University
Magnolia
AR 71753
Tel: (870) 235-4000

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University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Nursing School Review

University of Arkansas at Fayetteville has its pages of history dating back to 1862. Formerly known as Arkansas Industrial University, the University is one of the first state-funded universities of higher education. It has a dynamic campus life with many events focused around student growth, culture, art, athletics and recreation. It prides itself for being the ‘flagship” university in the state and boasts an astounding 412 acres of land for its campus.

The University has also carved its fame for being focused on high quality research and with more than 200 programs to choose from, students can find just about any course to boost their steps towards professional ascension. These are all offered through various departments and schools at the university. The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing leads the nursing programs and offers:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

University of Arkansas –Fayetteville strongly believes in a one-on-one learning environment and takes the necessary steps to promote this. This is clearly seen in the nursing program where the faculty-student ratio is low and clinical classes are small. During the course, students are exposed to valuable information and practical experience that enrich their lives throughout the course and after completed. Students are trained to perform their roles in various health-care settings from manager, researcher, caregiver to teacher. The importance of critical thinking and ability to adapt to changing situations in the health care world are emphasized throughout the course. Those that intend to move on to more advanced studies will have a sound foundation on which to build. The course is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This is an online course that allows students to choose between two specializations: Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Adult Health or Nurse Educator (NE). The course is administered by the School of Continuing Education & Academic Outreach. Full-time students that choose the specialization in Clinical Nurse Specialist will be able to complete it in 2 years and one summer. Those that choose the Adult Health or Nurse Educator on a full-time basis will be able to complete in four semesters and one summer. There is also the possibility to do the course of a part-time basis, but it is compulsory to finish within six consecutive years. This period takes into consideration the date of enrolment. Both specializations prepare students to undertake roles in different areas in the health care sector.  Upon successful completion, those that enrolled in the CNS program will be able to attend to adults that present medical/surgical health problem. They will act as a clinical nurse specialist. However, students that prefer the NE program will not be exposed to the traditional nursing role. Instead, they will share their knowledge and incorporate new lessons in a classroom setting for future nurses.

Scholarships

There are various scholarships that are designated specifically for nursing students. These include:

1)     Nursing Home Abuse Awareness and Prevention Scholarship

2)     Altrusa International of Fayetteville Scholarship

3)     Greta James Memorial Scholarship

4)     Arkansas Department of Higher Education

5)     Health Resources and Services Administration

6)     After College/American Association of Colleges of Nursing Scholarship Fund

7)     Briton Endowed Award in Nursing

8)     Arkansas Graduate Nursing Education Student Loan/Scholarship

9)     University of Arkansas Scholarships

10)   College of Education and Health Professions Scholarships

Contact:

University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
410 Arkansas Avenue,
Fayetteville, AR 72701

Tel: (479) 575-2000

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University of Arkansas at Little Rock Nursing School Review

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) went through a series of name changes until it finally remained with the name it now has. It founded in 1927 as Little Rock Junior College and later changed to Little Rock University in 1957. However, after a merger in 1969 with the University of Arkansas, it was renamed as the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

As would be expected, the merger led to increased enrollments, more resources and an expansion in the number of courses it offered. The school is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The UALR Department of Nursing has been in existence for more than 40 years and has built a reputation for itself training nurses that are highly qualified. The courses offered include:

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

Students that choose this course will be able to select from three options depending on their professional experience and where they want to take their nursing career. The course is built on a combination of both liberal arts subjects and nursing subjects. The three options that are available to students include:

Traditional and Traditional-Accelerated Option

Courses in the traditional option are offered fall, spring, all spring. On the other hand, the Traditional Accelerated option is offered fall, spring, summer, fall. Students will have the option to select their preferred choice during the admission process.

LPN/LPTN-to-RN Transition Option

This course is open to LPNs and LPTNs that want to become registered nurses (RNs). All applicants to the program must ensure that they possess a current unencumbered license prior and during the course. In addition to this, they must also have graduated from an accredited institution. There is also the possibility to gain advancement placement into the program, but this depends on how many months have passed since graduation, number of hours completed in work experience and passing the Excelsior Fundamentals of Nursing examination.

Paramedic-to-RN Transition Option

This is a one year course with admission occurring only once each year. Paramedics that want to become registered nurses are welcome to apply provided they graduated from a paramedic program that is affiliated with an accredited institution. In addition to this, they must have a current certification issued by the Arkansas Department of Health as an Arkansas Paramedic. During the course they are exposed to all the concepts and clinical knowledge that registered nurses have to undertake many roles in any health care facility. Applicants are also expected to have passed the Excelsior Fundamentals of Nursing Examination and be actively registered with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) to enter the program.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

UALR has tailored its nursing program to ensure that RNs that have a associate of science degree or diploma are able to take further advanced studies to get their BSN. This is possible through the combination of online courses and face-to-face orientations that are given throughout the course. Registered Nurses must ensure that they have an unencumbered license before applying to the program. In addition to this, they may be required to take a list of subjects if their original program did not cover them. They must ensure they successfully pass all of these subjects prior to entering the BSN program.

Contact:

University of Arkansas at Little Rock
2801 South University Avenue,  Little Rock,
AR 72204

Tel: (501) 569-3000

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University of Arkansas at Monticello Nursing School Review

The University of Arkansas at Monticello is a public university and college that offers technical certificates, associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degree programs. Originally known as the Arkansas Agricultural and Mechanical College, the university adopted its now current name after becoming a part of the University of Arkansas system in 1971.

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools) and its nursing program by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

The school of nursing offered its first program in 1968. Back then, it was an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) that later gave way to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Over the years a series of additional nursing programs have been added to give students more options to choose from. The main nursing courses at the University include:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree

Students that wish to the nursing professional for the first time can consider a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. They will be exposed to various clinical experiences, information and knowledge based courses that prepare them for various roles in the health care sector. All BSN pre-requisites must be completed prior to sending an application to the program. These can be completed in four semesters during which students are exposed to a list of science and literal arts subjects. After successful completion of these, they can then take the nursing major programs.

RN to BSN Degree Advanced Placement Program

This program was established in 2002 and gives qualified RNs advanced placement to attain a BSN at the school. The program is open to RNs that have a diploma in nursing or an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Nursing. It is a flexible course that gives RNs the chance of working while completing higher education studies. Classes are held once per week during the fall and spring semester. Only RN’s with an unencumbered license can apply to the program. They must ensure they their licenses remain active during the course. It is possible to complete the degree program in one year.

LPN – BSN Degree Advanced Placement Program

This course is open to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) that are not hindered in any way from applying to the BSN program. After successful completion students can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) Degree-LPN to RN Fast Track Program

This is a 12-month fast track course that gives LPNs the opportunity to become RNs and undertake more challenging roles in the health care sector. To be admitted into the program, it is necessary to have completed at least 2000hours of work experience at an acute care setting. Students admitted into the program will be given a list of prerequisite general education and nursing courses that must be completed prior to undertaking the fast track option. This is the ideal program for working LPNs that want to be prepared at the associated degree level while gaining hands-on experience during the course.

Contact:

University of Arkansas at Monticello
School of Nursing
P.O. Box 3606
Monticello, AR 71656

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University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Nursing School Review

*This nursing program is currently inactive*
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) was founded in 1873. The school boasts 20:1 students to teacher ratio that guarantees better class interaction and learning. The main campus is in Pine Bluff with other campuses located in North Little Rock, Gould and Marianna.

The school supports promising entrepreneurs through its APB-ERDC Business Support Incubator. It also has a University Museum and Cultural Center that thoroughly preserves the history of the school over the years. A large catalog of images, photographic panels, year books and other historical documents are part of the legacy. The school is also noted as one of the few that has a large percentage of black students in California.

The nursing program at UAPB is currently inactive. In the past years, the school has had the lowest number of students that pass the licensure exams. The school offered the following programs:

LPN/LPTN to BSN Completion Track

This program is open to registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and psychiatric technician nurse (LPTN). Students that are in any other these categories can qualify for advancement placement in the Upper Division provided they take and pass the pre-requisite courses that have been established by the university. All students that apply to the program must have an unrestricted active license applicable for their field. The course is specially designed for LPNs and LPTNs that want to transition from their current roles and undertake positions with greater responsibility.

Applicants that are RNs must have an associate degree or diploma that is accredited by the NLN. All RN/BSN completion track students must adhere to the same admission requirements as generic students. Transfer students on the other hand, will have their courses evaluated by the Department of Nursing administration provided they meet the admission requirements as those of generic students.

RN to BSN Completion Program

Only licensed registered nurses can apply to this program. The school uses its Nursing Articulation Model to grant advance placement to students that meet the admission requirements. All applicants that have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or diploma are eligible for advanced placement in the upper division. The ADN or diploma must have NLN accreditation. It is also necessary to submit an employee verification letter and to present proof that their previous graduation date was within the last 12 months. Nurses that are unable to present proof of active unemployment are required to take specific examinations to challenge the course.

BSN Program: Generic Option 

This program if for generic students that do not hold a nursing license. All pre-requisite courses must be taken in sequence to gain admission into the program. Students are required to submit their ACT or SAT test scores prior to the application deadline. In addition to this, immunization records and the required GPA for admission must be respected. All the necessary health records are also important aspects in the admission process. During the course, students are exposed to both liberal arts and science subjects to fully equip them with the necessary knowledge to undertake more in-depth nursing subjects in the program. They are also trained to care and handle patients by being conscious of their roles as nursing and knowing the impact of their care on patients’ well-being and life.

Contact:

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
1200 North University Drive
Pine Bluff, AR 71601

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University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville Nursing Program Review

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) is a two-year college that was formerly known as Gateway Technical College until 1997. The change in name was spurred from the initiative to join the Arkansas System. This has led to more courses being offered in areas such as: Education, Industrial Technologies and Business.  

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. The nursing programs that are offered include:

Nursing Assistant

Basic skills and knowledge are shared throughout the course with students that want to provide professional services in home-care, acute care and long-term care to patients. Emphasis is placed on technical skills and this is possible through the combination of classroom and clinical training. The issue of professional relationships and workplace ethics are also areas that are covered to ensure that graduates and fully prepared to undertake their roles in challenging environments while maintaining a professional posture.

 After completion, students are eligible to sit the state written and skills test to gain licensure to work in the health care sector. If they are successful in passing the exam and provided they are not blocked in any way from licensure, they will be recognized as Certified Nursing Assistant. The program is approved by the Arkansas Department of Human Services and accredited by the Office of Long-Term Care.

Practical Nursing

This is an 11-month technical certificate program that prepares students to take the National Council of Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Applications for the program are received once yearly and after successful entry, students are taught a combination of liberal arts, science and nursing courses. The college uses both classroom and clinical experience to strengthen the content of the course that is passed to students.

To be admitted students must score satisfactorily on the Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam and meet other entry requirements.

Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing (Traditional, Online, and Generic Entry Options)

Entry into this program is offered on a generic basis for non-nurse. The program is also open to LPNs that want to become a registered nurse. To meet this requirement, the school offers two possibilities for those that are in the latter group.

a)     On campus LPN to RN option in the traditional classroom setting: This option is ideal for LPNs that want a traditional learning setting and have enough time during the week to attend classes without comprising any area in their lives.

b)     Online LPN to RN option. LPNs that are looking for more flexibility and the ability to work while they study will find this to be an interesting option to maintain balance.

The course covers areas in both general education and those related to the nursing profession. It is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN) and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Only LPNs with an unencumbered license can apply to the course. They must also ensure that their licenses are not restricted in any way during the program.

Contact:

University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville
PO Box 3350
Batesville
AR 72503

Tel: (870) 612-2000

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University of Arkansas Fort Smith Nursing School Review

The University of Arkansas Fort Smith (UAFS) is a public four-year university that is part of the University of Arkansas System. It was founded in 1928 and merged into the system in 2002. The courses offered there vary from baccalaureate degree programs to associate and technical programs.

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Various colleges can be found on campus with the College of Health Sciences being one of them. It is there that nursing students are taught for the traditional BSN program, the RN to BSN online program, the associate degree program (ASN), PN/Paramedic to RN (ADN) and Practical Nursing.

PN Program

Students that want to enter the world of nursing quickly without having to go through a BSN course can choose this entry option. After successful completion they can consider more advanced studies if they are inclined about taking on more responsibilities as a nurse and want to secure and even more promising career. They must have a score of 105 on the NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX PN or PAX-RN) before applying for the PN program. During the course they will be taught important skills that related to patient care in different health care facilities. They will work directly with a supervisor or registered nurse to administer the best possible care to patients. After completing the program, they can sit the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

PN / Paramedic to RN (ADN)

Licensed practical nurses and paramedics that want to enter this program must have an unencumbered license prior to applying. LPNs must have at least 1000 hours of working experience or be able to demonstrate that they graduated from the LPN program within the last 12 month before sending in their application. There are in essence two ways in which LPNs can gain access to the ADN program: credit by examination or completing the transition course.

Paramedics on the other hand can only enter into the program through the transition course and must demonstrate that they have held a steady full- time job for at least six months. Both LPN and Paramedic students will receive the necessary training to shape their abilities to become talented registered nurses. After successful completion they can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

RN-BSN online program

RNs that are interested in this program must submit proof of NLNAC accredited associate degree or diploma nursing program. They must also have a valid active license with no hindrances. Those that have graduated from a nursing program that is not recognized by NLNAC can still apply, but will be evaluated according to the established criteria. There is also the possibility for credit standing provided the RN meets the necessary work experience and graduation time before submitting an application.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

All students must complete the necessary prerequisite courses to enter the BSN program. After successful completion of the BSN course they can sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Associate degree in Nursing (ADN)

This course is offered once each year and all students must complete the necessary pre-requisite courses prior to the fall deadline. It is also necessary to score 105 on the NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX-RN) prior to this period.

Contact:

University of Arkansas Fort Smith
5210 Grand Avenue 
P.O. Box 3649
Fort Smith, AR 72913-3649 

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University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Nursing School Review

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is a teaching hospital that is based in Little Rock. It is part of the University of Arkansas System and has gained numerous accolades for its contribution towards the health care sector.

The school is comprised of five colleges and a graduate school. In addition to these, there are also Health Care Centers and institutes of excellence. The UAMS College of Nursing is part of the five colleges at the university. Established in 1953, it is here that students are taught the essence of patient care and are exposed to clinical research programs. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, whereas its baccalaureate program by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Nursing students can select from the following programs:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students that are interested in this course can apply to the program at Little Rock or at the UAMS off-campus site at Hope. There are four programs that fall under this category and after successful completion graduates are fully prepared to provide acute, ambulatory and long-term care to different types of patients. The four main programs include:

1)     BSN – Generic Program:  This program is built on the combination of arts and sciences subjects along with nursing courses. All prerequisites must be completed prior to sending applications to the program. It is also important to take and pass the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) Test of Essentials Academic Skills (TEAS) to be accepted into the program.

2)     BSN Nursing Honors Program:  Students with high academic excellence are invited to apply to this program in the fall semester of their junior year. The program prepares them for graduate studies to take the BSN to PhD Program in Nursing if they are so inclined. However, the school does not guarantee that students will be able to transfer the graduate honor courses to another school once they have completed the program.

3)     RN to BSN Program: Qualified registered nurses (RNs) with unencumbered licenses are welcome to apply to this program. The program highlights the importance of critical thinking, independence in the nursing professional, professionalism, leadership skills and communication. There are two online pathways that Registered nurses can take to get into the program:

i)   Pathway I-RN to BSN – this course is currently inactive

ii)   Pathway II- RN to BSN (Earns BSN with graduate courses substitution): Students that meet the admission requirements, but are without a baccalaureate degree are welcome to apply to this program. During the course, students are exposed to courses from the BSN and MNSc program. The MNSc courses are substituted by the BSN courses.

iii)    Pathway III- Bridge Pathway to the MNSc degree: The bridge program allows students that do not have a degree in nursing to be engaged in courses that allow then to earn a MNSc after successful completion. To enter the program, students must have BSN degree in another area field and they must meet all the other entry requirements as normal students.

Health Assessment Class for Licensed Applicants

This is a continued education course for RNs interested in the AMS RN-BSN, BSN/MNSc Articulated, or Bridge Programs.

Master of Nursing Science (MNSc)

This course prepares students for doctoral study. After successful completion of this masters in nursing program, they will be able to undertake more advanced roles in the health care sector. Students interested in this program consider enrollment in any of the following courses:

a)   Adult/ Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program:  This course prepares students for advanced nursing roles. Once completed, they will be able to provide the necessary health care to adult/gerontology patients with complex health needs. It is possible to complete the course on a full-time or part-time basis and completion date is based on the specialty. When the students have done all the necessary coursework and fulfilled the requirements of the course in its entirety, they can take the exams administered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

b)   Family Nurse Practitioner: Full-time studies for this course are currently suspended. Students are required to complete the program within six consecutive calendar years counting from the date they enrolled in the program.

c)    Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Enrollments are accepted twice per year for this program. Students are exposed to valuable information and training that equips them to provide the necessary heath care to mentally ill patients. The course can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis and after completion graduates can take the exam for national certification as a Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

d)   Nursing Administrator: Students that do not want to undertake the traditional nursing roles will find this course of particular interest. They will be equipped with the necessary training and knowledge to undertake leadership roles at managerial positions in the health care sector. After successful completion they can take the ANCC Nursing Administration Certification Exam.

e)   Nursing Education Specialty (Ned): To get into this program, students must also be enrolled in any of the following programs: Acute Care, Women’s Health, Geriatrics and Pediatrics. The course can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, but enrollment in the program should not exceed six consecutive years counting from the first day of entering the program.

f)     Pediatric Nurse Practitioner:  Students interested in this program can complete the requirements on a full-time or part-time basis. Those that complete the program on a full-time basis will be able to do so after two-years, whereas those that choose a part-time arrangement can look for three to four years completion. The curriculum prepares the students to undertake both traditional and non-traditional nursing roles. After completion they are qualified to take the national certification examination as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

g)   Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist: The content of this course adopts the same outline as that of the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program. The only difference is in the education courses that are part of its curriculum.

h)   Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner: This is also a full-time and part-time course that can be completed at the student’s pace. However, the completion limit is six consecutive years after enrolling in the program.

PhD – Doctoral Program

This program is open to students that have a MSN degree or to those that enter the BSN to PhD program. For the PhD program there is the PhD Full-time plan of study and Part-time plan of study. Studies can be done on a part-time of full-time basis.

a)      BSN to PhD program: This program is not for clinical nurse specialist and clinical nurse practitioner. These are encouraged to apply to courses channeled towards them to get their PhD. Students that wish to enroll in the program must demonstrate that they have completed 1000 hours of documented clinical nursing practice. The program does not award MSN degrees to students that have a BSN. Students that want to earn a MSN are encouraged to apply for the appropriate program.

b)     MSN to PhD program: All programs for this course start in June. Students must hold a master’s degree in nursing from an NLNAC or CCNE accredited program to be accepted.  

Contact:
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
4301 West Markham Street,
Little Rock, Arkansas 72205

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University of Central Arkansas Nursing School Review

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a state-run university that was established in 1907. It started out with a curriculum focused around teaching, but this changed around 1967 when other courses were taken into consideration.

It has a diversified student body that is represented by national and international students. Known as the-“City of Colleges”,-  the school lives up to its name with the two colleges that can be found on the same premises. It boasts a beautiful campus that is dotted with all the necessary amenities for teaching and learning.

The Department of Nursing was founded in 1967 and offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Both courses are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Generic/Traditional BSN Track

The traditional BSN track is designed for students that do not have any license in nursing. They can choose to do any of the following depending on their preferences and qualifications:

a)      Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 4-Year Curriculum Plan: Students that have the necessary pre-requisites and do not need to take additional subjects can enroll in this program. They should have a chemistry subject from high school as part of their academic history.

b)     Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 5-Year Curriculum Plan: Students that for whatever reason find themselves unable to take the full credits in this program each semester can choose the 5-year plan. It is usually the best option for students that wish to be involved in other extracurricular activities and not just academics.

c)      Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 4-Year ROTC Curriculum Plan:  The ROTC student that wants to enter the world of nursing can enter this program. It is specially aimed at this group of students.

d)     Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Post-Degree Curriculum Plan: Students that have a baccalaureate degree in any field other than nursing from an Arkansas-supported college or university are welcome to apply to this course. It is also open to those that have an Associate of Science or an Associate of Arts. They must complete and pass all the pre-requisite courses prior to enter the nursing program.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) LPN-to-BSN Curriculum Plan

This course is for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) that have an unencumbered license and want to become registered nurses (RNs). At the end of the course they are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree provided all the courses in the nursing major and prerequisite courses have been completed with a passing grade.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) RN-to-BSN Curriculum Plan

This is an online track is aimed at registered nurses that have an unencumbered license and want to get their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. They must show proof of academic qualification through an accredited associate degree or hospital diploma programs. The program is also open to students that have an Associate of Science or an Associate of Arts from an Arkansas-supported college or university. Those that fall into this category do not have to take the UCA’s General Education requirements.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) RN-to-BSN/MSN Curriculum Plan

Registered nurses that want some degree of flexibility to complete their BSN and gain credits towards a MSN will find this course interesting. Only registered nurses that have an unencumbered license and graduated with an associate degree or hospital diploma programs can apply to the program. It is also open to those that have an Associate of Science or an Associate of Arts from an Arkansas-supported college or university or a baccalaureate in a different field that is not related to nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree is offered online to registered nurses that have a baccalaureate in nursing. Those that qualify can consider any of the following options:

a)      Adult Nurse Practitioner (NP): Registered nurses that want to be specialty health care providers will benefit from the content in this course.   They will be exposed to advance nursing practices that equip them with the necessary knowledge to provide health care solutions to adults.

b)     Family Nurse Practitioner (NP): Qualified graduates that have an unencumbered license and want to advance their studies to treat the family will be trained to do just that in this course. After successful completion, they will work as advanced nurses that diagnose and manage episodic and chronic illness. They will also be able to promote health and disease prevention.

c)      The Nurse Educator with a Clinical Specialty (NECS): This is not the traditional nursing program. Students are trained to be educators in various settings that can range from higher education for students to patient education.

d)     The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL): A clinical nurse leader is trained to work in various settings and with any type of patient. The program is managed by the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). After successful completion graduates are able to bring high levels of knowledge and competence to any area in the health care sector.

Contact:

University of Central Arkansas
201 Donaghey Ave.
Conway, AR 72035

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Arizona State University Nursing School Review

Arizona State University (ASU) offers a variety to prospective students, not only in which campus they can take the courses at, but also in the degrees they offer that students can choose from. ASU offers a faculty that has won numerous awards in their respective fields and is caring and compassionate toward the students’ needs both educationally and in day to day life.

Arizona State University Nursing Program Review

The nursing program at Arizona State University operates under the name of ASU College of Nursing & Health Innovation. It is the goal of this program to provide the nursing industry with quality trained nurses in order to improve upon the health care system as a whole. The instructors at this college pride themselves on preparing students for a professional career in the nursing industry by teaching the moral, ethical, and clinical practices of nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – BSN – Undergraduate

Under the BSN Program there are several options that students can choose to take in order to achieve their degree. The Traditional Pre-Licensure Clinical Nursing Program is designed for first year students who have had no college training to begin their journey to becoming professional in the nursing industry. The Concurrent Enrollment Program is for those students who want to obtain both their Associate Degree and Baccalaureate Degree in one program. The Post-Baccalaureate Program is for those students who have obtained a BS degree in an area of study other than nursing.   And finally the RN to BSN Entry (RN-BSN) Option is for those students who have a current license to practice nursing as a RN to obtain their BSN.

Master of Science in Nursing – MSN – Graduate

Two different options are available under the MSN program at Arizona State University. Students who are interested in organizing health education in their communities have the option of enrolling in the Community Health Nursing graduate program. In this program the student will learn the necessary skills and knowledge to practice advanced nursing skills in the public health care area. Students who are interested in helping future nurses by teaching them the skills and knowledge needed to become a productive member of the nursing community have the option of applying to the Nurse Educator Program. This program involves gaining the skills to face the challenging career of teaching nurses the knowledge gained during work experience in the clinical field.

Doctor of Nursing Practice – DNP

This program teaches students to use their ingenuity to improve upon the health care system. The nursing field is always growing and changing so it needs individuals who are trained to take leadership roles in the field and use data and experience to come up with cost effective approaches to running of health care facilities. Several different pathways are available for students under this program including a Post-Baccalaureate option, a Post-Master’s Entry With Advanced Practice Specialty option, and a Post-Master’s Entry Without Advanced Practice Specialty option.

PhD in Nursing & Healthcare Innovation

In this program, students can gain the highest level of education possible in the nursing field. This program is designed for students who want to obtain top leadership employment in order to become a director research, clinical, education, and policies of health care facilities in nursing.  Students may enter this program through two different entry pathways. BS-PhD is a pathway for those students who do not have their Master’s degree but would like to obtain their Master’s as well as their PhD in the same program. The MS-PhD is a program for those students who have achieved their Master’s degree and are seeking a PhD.

Graduate Certificates

Several certificate options are available to students in the nursing category. These certificate programs are designed to instill the knowledge needed for the student to gain training without gaining a degree. The options for these programs are: Child/Family Mental Health Practitioner, Community and Public Health Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner, Geriatric Nursing, and Nurse Education in Academic and Practice Settings.

Contact:

Arizona State University,
699 S Mill Ave
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 965-9011

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Arizona Western College Nursing Program Review

Arizona Western College (AWC) provides its students with a network of people, programs, and organizations to promote a community oriented learning environment. Students enrolled at Arizona Western College find that the college is centered around learning from a technological stand point that helps students obtain skills based knowledge.

Arizona Western College Nursing Program Review

The nursing program at AWC offers full time faculty and staff in order to supply students with the best possible resources for their study. The program is intended to educate students to become productive members of the nursing industry. AWC’s Nursing Program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the national League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Nursing Assistant Program – CNA

This program prepares the student for entry level positions in a variety of different medical settings. After completion of the program the student must take the state exam in order to achieve the title of CNA. After this title has been achieved the student can go out into the field to gain employment and begin the exciting and dynamic career in the nursing field. Students can also use this education in order to gain higher degrees in the nursing field. Employment opportunities for CNAs can be in hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, or other medical facilities.

Associate Degree in Nursing – ADN

This program is designed to train students in the area of nursing to become a professional nurse with the title of RN. This program prepares students for the national licensure exam by teaching them the in classroom knowledge they will need in general education as well as nursing specific courses. Clinical laboratory experiences are required of each student in this program. After completion of the program requirement the student may apply to take the licensure examination, but completion of the program does not necessarily mean that the student will be able to participate in the exam. They must first be approved by the council. After completion of the program and passing of the exam, the student will then be considered a Registered Nurse (RN) and will be able to seek employment as a RN. Working as a RN the student will have the opportunity to advance to management positions.

Practical Nursing – Exit Option – LPN

Students enrolled in the ADN program can choose to exit after the third semester and take the Transition to Practical Nursing course, which allows them to obtain their Practical Nursing certificate in just one more semester. After completing the certificate program, the student can then apply to take the national licensure exam in order to gain the title of Licensed Practical Nurse. Once the LPN title has been achieved the student can then go on to seek employment as an LPN. The employment opportunities for an LPN include clinics, hospitals, long term and short term care facilities, as well as others. The student will be overseen in these medical settings by RNs, doctors, and other medical staff.

Contact:

Arizona Western College,
2020 S Avenue 8 E
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 314-9464

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Central Arizona College Nursing Program Review

Central Arizona College (CAC) is the only higher education teaching site in Pinal County. The institution is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and a participant in the Academic Quality Improvement Program. It offers several different athletic programs for students to become involved in as well as on campus housing that is policed by their campus police force.

Central Arizona College Nursing Program Review

The nursing program at CAC is conducted on the Signal Peak Campus. The college offers a multi-exit course program in order for instructors to teach the curriculum for a certificate for Practical Nursing (PN) and an Associate in Applied Science degree curriculum in one program.  Students are required to take general education courses before they can start in the block sequence that will ultimately lead to a certificate in the Practical Nursing (PN) section and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing for the Registered Nurse (RN) section. The head of the nursing department holds the professional titles of a MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner-Certified, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. Most of the other faculty members have a Master’s degree in nursing. Students who are applying to the nursing division must make preparations to attend a Nursing Information Session. Registration for these sessions can be completed online.

Practical Nursing (PN) – LPN                                                                                        

The Practical Nursing program at Central Arizona College requires that students take general education course before they can start the Block Sections of the program. . After the students has completed both Blocks of the program, they must take the HESI-PN exit exam to demonstrate their competency. The PN program is centered around preparing the student to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) in order to gain the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Students should be aware that successful completion of the PN program and passing the HESI-PN exit exam does not guarantee them the right to take the National Council Licensure Exam. Employment Opportunities for LPNs range to a variety of different facilities. Employment can be gained in hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, and doctor’s offices, as well as many others. Students entering this program should have a deep desire to help the general public with compassion and consideration of cultural differences.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing– RN

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree offered at Central Arizona College requires that general education courses be completed by the student before starting the Block Sections of the degree program. There are a total of four block sections to complete the AAS program. Students who successfully complete all four blocks are then awarded a AAS degree and are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Students should be aware that completing the program and gaining the AAS degree does not guarantee them the right to take the licensure exam. Employment for RNs can be obtained in various health care settings such as hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and many others. Good candidates to enter this program will have a passion for helping as well as a desire to give patients health care education.

Contact:

Central Arizona College
273 Old West Highway
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
(480) 667-7700

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Chandler-Gilbert Community College Nursing Program Review

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) has three different campuses where classes take place. Pecos campus, which is associated with Northern Arizona University to give students the chance to finish a bachelors degree without transferring schools, has been in operation in the East Valley since 1987.

Williams Campus gives students the opportunity to gain associate degrees, certificates, and the ability to transfer to a university to continue their education. Sun Lakes Center is Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s place for continuing education and job training. It is set up specifically to meet the needs of busy, working adults.

Chandler-Gilbert Community College Nursing Program Review

Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s nursing program operates under the Division of Nursing and Health Sciences. This division encompasses Therapeutic Massage, Dietetic Technology, and Registered Nurse programs. The Therapeutic Massage Program offers two different options: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and Certificate of Completion. The Dietetic Technology Program is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program. The nursing program available at this institution is for students seeking to obtain education to gain the title of Registered Nurse (RN).

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)

This program is offered for students who want to prepare to become a licensed RN through the Arizona State Board of Nursing. This program is a part of the MaricopaNursing Programs. The Program offered at Chandler-Gilbert Community College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. This program is designed to give students the general knowledge of higher education as well as nursing specific courses in order to provide students with the knowledge necessary to become a productive member of the nursing community as a Registered Nurse (RN). Completion of the program does not guarantee the student the right to take the licensure exam, and each student must complete the application to take the exam.

Admission Requirements for Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Nursing Program – RN

Students are responsible for getting their transcripts sent to Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Each student is required to take the HESI Assessment (HESI A2) and score at least a 75%. Students must qualify to obtain Level One Fingerprint Clearance. It is also required that each student pass a background check in order to enter local hospitals and other facilities for their clinical experiences. If students cannot pass the background check it is possible that they will be removed from the program and given a failing grade as clinical experiences are a required part of this program.

Additional Options for Nursing Program Applicants

This program offers an Accelerated Degree Option for those students who are transferring or who have already obtained the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The student must provide proof of their current, valid license and cannot be under investigation for disciplinary action by the Regulatory Board in order to be admitted into the Accelerated Degree Option at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Upon entry to this program, the student will receive the necessary training, skill set, and knowledge to be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN.   

Contact:

Chandler-Gilbert Community College
7360 East Tahoe Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
(480)988-8000

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Estrella Mountain Community College Nursing Program Review

Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) is a relatively young college. It opened its doors in 1992 and has since started growing as a higher education institution. The college has a main campus located in Avondale, Arizona and an educational center that is located in Buckeye, Arizona.

These schools offer convenient educational locations for the surrounding communities to build the workforce with individuals who are equipped with knowledge of expanding technology and the education to begin their new careers and workforce training.

Estrella Mountain Community College Nursing Program Review

The nursing program at Estrella Mountain Community College is part of the network of colleges who operate under the Maricopa Nursing curriculum. They offer one degree program for students wishing to obtain the title of Registered Nurse (RN) and gain an associate degree, one program for students wishing to gain a certificate of completion in Practical Nursing (PN) and become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN), and also a Nursing Assistant Certificate program in order to gain the title of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)

Students who wish to pursue a two year degree in the field of nursing have the option to apply to EMCC’s Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program in order to obtain the education needed to apply to take the NCLEX-RN and obtain the professional title of Registered Nurse (RN). Students that complete this course are not guaranteed the right to take the exam. The courses offered under this program allow students to gain education as well as clinical and laboratory experiences that will help them become productive members of the nursing community. Students are required to provide their own transportation to these experiences and must be eligible to enter into the clinical facilities by passing a background check and fingerprinting. Any student who cannot meet these requirements could be subject to dismissal and a failing grade. Students who pass this program and the NCLEX-RN are then eligible to apply for employment as a Registered Nurse (RN). Students graduating from this program have the option to take the Maricopa – ASU Pathway Program to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Arizona State University. This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Practical Nursing Certificate – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Students seeking employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) have the option to apply to enroll in the Practical Nursing Certificate program at EMCC. Students who are accepted to this program will be given the necessary training to apply to take the NCLEX-PN. This program teaches students the basic principles of the nursing field by combining general education courses and nursing specific courses with lab and clinical experiences. Students can then choose to either continue their education to the next level to obtain a degree and become a Registered Nurse (RN) or can go straight into the workforce to gain employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This program is fully approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Nurse Assistant Program – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Students who wish to obtain knowledge and skills to start an entry level career in nursing may apply to the nurse assistant certificate program at EMCC. This program is provided at the SouthWest Skill Center. Students who graduate from this program will be awarded a certificate of completion and will be eligible to take the state certification test. Students who complete this program will have the necessary training to perform the everyday tasks associated with the nursing profession.

Contact:

Estrella Mountain Community College
3000 North Dysart Road
Avondale, Arizona 85392
(623) 935-8000

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Gateway Community College Nursing Program Review

GateWay Community College (GWCC) has been in operation since 1968 serving the surrounding communities as a higher education learning center. The college was first named Maricopa Technical College and changed to its current name in 1987. It is accreditied by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The college offers over 125 different degree, certificate and job training options for the convenience of their students.

GateWay Community College Nursing Program Review

GateWay Community College offers four different options to students seeking a degree or certificate in the nursing profession. Students can opt to take entry level nursing courses to obtain the training necessary to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), complete additional training for continuing education in the Nursing Continuing Education program, obtain a certificate of completion with the Practical Nursing (PN) Program, or complete the education necessary to obtain their two year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Nursing in their Registered Nursing program. These nursing programs are a part of the network of Maricopa Community Colleges.

Registered Nursing (RN) – Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Under this program, students can obtain the necessary training to get them to the goal of getting their Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree to be able to take the exam to obtain the professional title of registered Nurse (RN) or they can take the Nursing Refresher course if they have a valid RN license or an in active RN license. The traditional course of obtaining an AAS offers students a combination of general education courses and nursing specific courses, as well as clinical and laboratory experiences to give the student a wide range of education. This prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN. Students who complete this program are not guaranteed the right to sit for this exam, but will be eligible to apply. This program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Under this program, students have two options. Students can either opt to take the traditional Practical Nursing track for a Certificate of Completion in order to become eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, or they can choose to take the Fast Track Practical Nursing option in order to obtain the same knowledge in order to take the NCLEX-PN in a shorter amount of time. Students for either option must complete the pre-requisite courses assigned by the college. After becoming eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-PN, and successfully passing the exam, students can then decide whether they would like to go straight into the workforce or continue their education to obtain a higher professional title. In the workforce, LPNs operate under the supervision of RNs, doctors, as well as other medical professionals in medical facilities such as hospitals, clinics, long term and short term care facilities, as well as others.

Nursing Continuing Education

This program provides current nurses the opportunity to continue their education in a variety of different subjects. These courses range from full day workshops to full semester classes and are in place to help keep nurses up-to-date on the technology and practices of the ever changing profession. The courses offered to students are: Basic Critical Care, Advanced Critical Care, Hemodynamics, Interpretation of Cardiac Arrhythmias, Twelve Lead EKG Interpretations, PICC Line Insertion, IV Therapy and Medical Skills, Emergency Room Nursing, Physical Assessment, Conscious Sedation, Intra-aortic Balloon Pump, Legal Medical Consulting / Basic and Advanced, Pharmacology, Documentation, School Health Assisting, and School Nurse Certification Classes.

Nurse Assisting Certification – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The nursing assistant certification program provides students with the most entry level education to the nursing profession. These students will learn the necessary skills to help their patients on a day to day basis with the routine tasks. Students who complete this program will be eligible to take the state certification test to become a CNA and gain employment after successful completion of the test. CNAs work under the supervision of LPNs, RNs, Doctors, as well as other medical professionals in the work force.

Contact:

GateWay Community College
108 North 40^th Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85034
(602)  286-8000

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Glendale Community College Nursing Program Review

Glendale Community College (GCC) has been in operation since 1965, helping the surrounding communities to gain education to promote themselves in the job market and obtain employment in the respective areas of education. The college has three different locations. The main campus is located in the middle of Glendale, Arizona.

Another location in north Glendale opened for the convenience of their students in 2000. The college also offers courses at the Communiversity as a combined effort between Maricopa Community Colleges and the City of Surprise.

Glendale Community College Nursing Program Review

Glendale Community College offers its nursing courses under the Maricopa – Nursing curriculum. Two different options are available to students through this college. The Nursing (RN) Program is designed for those students who wish to obtain the necessary knowledge and training to become a Registered Nurse (RN). The Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program is available for those students who wish to gain the most entry level education in order to gain the knowledge to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Both programs require that students go through the Maricopa admissions requirements.

Nursing (RN) Program – Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)

The Nursing (RN) Program offered at Glendale Community College allows students to gain the education and skills necessary to prepare them for the NCLEX-RN to obtain the professional title of Registered Nurse (RN). Students must be fingerprinted and have a background check preformed before being admitted into this program. Students must be able to provide transportation to and from the clinical experience facilities. This program offers a look into the professional practices of Registered Nurses and what students can expect when working in the medical field. Students who complete this program are not automatically eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta, Georgia. After students successfully complete this program and are deemed eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, they may then seek employment in the nursing field. This includes a variety of different medical settings such as clinics, hospitals, and long and short term care facilities. RNs operate under the supervision of doctors as well as other health care professionals.

The Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Students who wish to gain employment at the most entry level of the nursing profession can apply to the Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program offered at Glendale Community College. This program gives students the necessary training to perform the daily tasks associated with patient care. These students will study to obtain the knowledge and certificate of completion in order to become eligible to take the state certification test. After successful completion of the program and passing the certification test, students will then be eligible to seek employment as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). CNAs work under the supervision and guidance of LPNs, RNs, doctors, and other health care professionals. Students must have their proof of immunizations, a health declaration, a valid CPR card, and a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card in order to apply to enter this program.

Contact:

Glendale Community College
6000 West Olive Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85302
(623) 845-3333

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Grand Canyon University Nursing School Review

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has been in operation since 1949 as a private university in Arizona. This university is a Christian based institution that offers a wide array of degrees for students to choose from. Grand Canyon University also offers a wide variety of their programs online in order to make classroom sessions more convenient to students.

Grand Canyon University Nursing Program Review

Grand Canyon University’s nursing programs operate under the GCU College of Nursing. The programs offered at GCU include undergraduate degree options, graduate degree options, and individual courses. GCU offers these programs in three different ways in order to accommodate students and their busy lifestyles. Students can opt to take these courses during the evening, through online training, or through the main campus.

Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) – Registered Nurse (RN)

The BSN program offered at GCU is offered in three different ways. Students can opt to take the traditional four year program, a fast track option, or a RN to BSN program for those students that have already become licensed. The traditional four year program offered at GCU is for students who are just entering college and are seeking education to become a Registered Nurse (RN). The fast track option is for students who are seeking a BSN in less than four years. The fast track option takes approximately 20 months to complete. The RN to BSN program is for those students who have already obtained licensure was a Registered Nurse but desire to further their education to achieve their BSN.

Undergraduate Degrees

Several other undergraduate degrees are offered at GCU College of Nursing.

• Bridge to Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems (Dual Degree) is centered around adult students and combines RN to BSN in order to prepare students to merge into the MSN program in order to gain training on how to effectively work in leadership roles in health care facilities.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with emphasis in Health Care Informatics is another program offered by GCU that allows RNs who have already obtained their BSN to refresh on courses offered in the RN to BSN in order to prepare them to merge into the MSN program that focuses on the research aspect of improving on how care is provided to patients.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Nursing Education is a program that is designed to prepare RNs who have their BSN to enter the masters program in order to gain the knowledge and training to educate future nurses on the practices of the nursing profession.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems is designed for RNs who wish to enter into the MSN program in order to gain the education to gain more opportunities in leadership roles in management or administrative positions in the nursing field.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health is a program with refresher courses required to enter the MSN program that teaches students how to cope with the public and the various different cultural backgrounds and how to educate them on nutrition and healthy living practices.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a curriculum that helps RNs gain the required courses to merge into the MSN program that teaches students to become a primary care giver to patients and families is clinical settings.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing: Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist allows RNs to focus on obtaining the education requirements to enter into the MSN program to gain their master’s degree in the setting of caring for adult patients in a clinical setting and offering positive health education to the patients they see.
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner is designed for RNs who have their BSN and desire to begin the MSN program to start employment in areas where they will be making critical decisions about primary care for all age groups encompassed inside families.

Master of Science Nursing (MSN)

Several different options are available to those students who are seeking a Master of Science Nursing (MSN) degree from GCU. These courses are dependent on which skills the student is seeking to expand. MSN degrees offered at GCU are designed to help students improve their career as a nurse in the specific area that they want to take their career. Graduate degrees offered with an MSN include:

• Master of Business Administration and MSN with Emphasis in Nursing Leadership in Health care Systems (Dual Degree) is designed to elevate students to roles of making critical decisions on how to improve patient care and the way the facility in which they gain employment operates on a daily basis.
• MSN with Emphasis in Health Care Informatics teaches students to look at evidence based data in the research portion of the nursing profession in order to improve treatment of diseases and illnesses as well as overall patient care.
• MSN with Emphasis in Nursing Education helps experienced nurses spread their knowledge of techniques and practices to those students who are on their way to becoming the future nurses of the medical field.
• MSN with Emphasis in Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems offers a curriculum that teaches students how to make important decisions about how health care facilities are run and to constantly improve upon the quality of patient care at the facility.
• MSN with Emphasis in Public Health is designed for those RNs who have a passion for spreading knowledge throughout the general public as to how they can maintain healthier lifestyles by educating themselves on positive life changes.
• MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner focuses on the primary care of patients on a regular basis and facilitating positive reinforcement of maintaining healthy lifestyles.
• MSN: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a program centered around RNs who are looking to obtain employment for primary care of patients in clinical settings
• MSN: Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist is a curriculum that focuses on the primary care of adult patients in clinical settings.

Graduate Degrees

Other graduate degrees offered under the GCU College of Nursing include:

• Post-MSN: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides experienced nurses the chance to obtain a certificate from the American Nurses Credentialing Center in order to give care to patients in a variety of different settings with various illnesses.
• Post-MSN: Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist Certificate allows for the student to promote their career in the areas of clinical decisions and moral and ethical practices in the nursing profession. This program also teaches students how to use all the available resources in order to facilitate learning opportunities.
• Post-MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides the opportunity for advanced practice nurses to gain a certificate and become a primary care giver to families in health care facilities. The program teaches the ethical practices as well as how to make informed decisions about the treatment of families under their care.
• Post-MSN: Nursing Education Certificate allows students to gain a certificate in order to teach future nurses the practices used in the nursing field as well as the ethical issues that come with the profession. This program helps nurses apply their experiences working in the field to facilitate learning in future nurses.

Online Nursing Programs

GCU places a large emphasis on the importance of offering online programs to their students in order to optimize convenience in obtaining education while working around other obligations such as work and family. These courses allow the student to get more one on one attention from the instructor through distance learning and allow the student the ability to graduate in less time. The university offers the following graduate programs described above through their online education programs:

GCU also offers these undergraduate programs through their online education programs:

Mesa Community College Nursing Program Review

Mesa Community College operates in a variety of places across Mesa and surrounding communities. The two main campuses are the Southern & Dobson Campus and the Red Mountain Campus. MCC offers a variety of job training and university transfer options for students. Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

Mesa Community College Nursing Program Review

MCC offers students a variety of different pathways to enter into the dynamic career in nursing. With these degree and certificate programs, students have the opportunity to gain the education needed to enter the nursing workforce or re-enter the nursing workforce. Available degrees and certificates include: Associate in Applied Science (AAS), Nursing Assistant, and Paramedic to RN.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)

The AAS program offered at Mesa Community College offers students the ability to earn their AAS degree and prepare to take the NCLEX-RN in order to gain the professional title of Registered Nurse. With this degree, students can choose to go into a variety of different health care settings as a supervisor to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) or choose to continue their education at a university or four year institution. Completion of this program will make the student eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, but does not guarantee the student the right to sit for the exam. Students should check with an advisor before starting the program to ensure that they have met all the pre-requisite requirements of the nursing program before applying.

Nursing Assistant – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

This program is designed for students who want to enter the nursing workforce at an entry level position. Nursing Assistant courses prepare the student for executing the daily routine tasks that patients need provided to them. The basic skills learned in this program will prepare the student to take the state certification test in order to obtain the title of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). After successful certification, the student can then apply for employment at a variety of different health care facilities. CNAs are overseen by Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Registered Nurses (RN) as well as other health care professionals.

Paramedic to Registered Nurse (RN)

For Paramedics who have a official and unhampered Arizona or National Paramedic Registry Certificate and have completed a minimum of 12 moths of consecutive paramedic work in the past three years, MCC offers the Paramedic to RN program. Admission to this program requires some prerequisite course work, and students should check with a nursing advisor at MCC to ensure that all pre-requisite work has been completed and/or will transfer before applying to the program. After successful completion of this program, students will be eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN in order to obtain the professional title of Registered Nurse (RN) and seek employment with the title. Completion of the course does not guarantee that the student is eligible to sit for the exam.

Contact:

Mesa Community College
1833 West Southern Avenue
Mesa, Arizona 85202
(480) 461-7000

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Mesa Community College-Boswell Nursing Program Review

Mesa Community College (MCC) – Boswell is the site for the Maricopa Community College District Nursing Program. The Banner Boswell/ Mesa Nursing Education Program is what the partnership between Mesa Community College and Banner Boswell Memorial Hospital has been named. Sun Health joined in this effort to help Mesa Community College Nursing Department educate future nurses and provide continuing education in the health care field.

Mesa Community College-Boswell Nursing Program Review

This partnership offers students ways to educate themselves on the ever changing field of nursing and the practices in the field. Courses are available at the Banner Boswell Nursing Education Center in Sun City, Arizona for students to receive their Associate in Applied Science Nursing (AAS) degree from Mesa Community College. Several different options are available to students who are interested in gaining their AAS through the Banner Boswell Nursing Education Center.

Four Semester Traditional Associate in Applied Science Nursing (AAS) – RN

This option is available for the traditional student who is interested in going the full four semesters of the program in order to achieve their AAS degree and be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN. The skills and training obtained from this program will ensure that the student knows the practical principles of a Registered Nurse (RN) before continuing on to seek employment in the medical profession. This option is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Part Time Schedule Option – Associate in Applied Science Nursing (AAS) – RN

This option is geared toward the non-traditional, working adult who would like to obtain an AAS degree in order to gain employment as a Registered Nurse (RN). Classes are usually scheduled in the evening hours and clinical experiences may or may not include weekend hours as a choice. Some clinical experiences may be conducted during weekday hours and students are required to attend. Students who complete this option are eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Students who graduate with this degree have the option of either going on to transfer to a university or four year college or going straight into the workforce. This option is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Accelerated Degree Option – Associate in Applied Science Nursing (AAS) – RN

The accelerated option is for those students who wish to complete their degree in a shorter amount of time. Classes are generally held through the day as well as clinical experiences. Students will complete approximately 16 – 18 months of course work and clinical experiences in order to obtain the AAS degree and be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN in order to obtain the professional title of Registered Nurse. Graduates of this program will have the necessary training in order to become productive members of the nursing community and offer fresh ideas for how to improve patient care or students may choose to continue their education at a four year institution or university. This option is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the national League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Contact:

Mesa Community College-Boswell
10484 W. Thunderbird Blvd.
Sun City, AZ 85351
(623) 974-7835

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Mohave Community College Nursing Program Review

Mohave Community College has four campuses for the convenience of their students in Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, and Colorado City. MCC also offers some of their programs through their online education program. The college sets the groundwork for students to go on to obtain employment in their areas of training or to transfer to universities or four year institutions to further their education.

Mohave Community College Nursing Program Review

MCC offers a variety of ways for students to obtain their Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Nursing as well as offering certificate options in Practical Nursing (LPN) and Nursing Assistant (CNA). All tracks for obtaining the AAS degree are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Nursing – Registered Nurse (RN)

Several different track options are made available through MCC for students to obtain their AAS and go into the workforce as a RN. Below are the different tracks that are offered and what kind of student the track is specifically designed to accommodate:

• AAS Nursing Traditional – This track is offered for those students who are just starting out in obtaining education in the field of nursing. Students are required to complete pre-requisite courses in order to apply for admission to this track and should contact an advisor to ensure all pre-requisite courses have been completed in order to start the program. Upon completion, students will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
• AAS Accelerated Nursing Track for Paramedics – This option is for students who already have a paramedic training certificate and have completed the necessary pre-requisites to be admitted to the program. Upon completion of this program, students will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
• AAS Accelerated Nursing Track for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) – Students who have a license to practice as a Practical Nurse (LPN) are eligible to apply for this track. Pre-requisite courses must be completed before applying. Completion of this program makes the student eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN.

The Nurse Refresher Program – RN

This program is offered to Registered Nurses (RN) who have a license and simply want to update their skills and training, or nurses who need to reactivate their license. Students who complete this program successfully can then go on to continue their work in the field or apply for renewal of their license.

Practical Nursing (PN) – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

This program is designed for the student who would like to obtain the professional title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Students who complete this program are eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-PN. After passing both the program and the exam, students may then apply for employment as a LPN. With the title of LPN, students will work under the supervision of RNs and other medical professionals in the medical field.

Nursing Assistant – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Students who wish to gain employment at an entry level position can apply to enter the Nursing Assistant Program in order to gain the knowledge and training to apply to take the state certification test. Graduates of this program are eligible to gain employment in a variety of medical facilities under the supervision of LPNs, RNs, and other medical professionals after becoming certified.

Contact:

Mohave Community College
3400 Arizona 95
Bullhead City, AZ 86442
(866) 664-2832

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Northern Arizona University Nursing School Review

Northern Arizona University has been serving the surrounding communities since it was founded in 1899. The main campus of Northern Arizona University is located in Flagstaff, Arizona. The university offers over 30 additional campuses across the state as well as online options to accommodate their students.

NAU prides itself on being student centered and helping its students achieve the levels of education they desire. With so many of their courses offered at nights, on the weekends, and through online distance learning, NAU provides the flexibility needed for students with busy lifestyles and multiple commitments.

Northern Arizona University Nursing Program Review

NAU offers several different nursing education opportunities to potential students. Along with the traditional Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program, they have also acquired the ability to offer this program in an American Indian Nation. The BSN program is also available in an accelerated option. Other programs available include the Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN, as well as Master of Science Nursing (MSN), a Post-Master Certificate Program and a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program.

Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) – Registered Nurse (RN)

Students who wish to obtain the education and skill set involved with gaining the title of Registered Nurse (RN) can enter into the BSN program. This program is carried out in a variety of different settings that include in class instruction, online lessons, and hands on clinical experiences. Students who complete this program will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. After successful completion of both the program and NCLEX-RN, the student will then be able to apply for employment with the professional title of RN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – American Indian Program

The BSN program is available to Navajo, Hopi, as well as other American Indian Nation residents through the American Indian Program. This program is the first of its kind to be given inside the boundaries of an American Indian Nation. Students can begin taking the pre-requisite courses at a local community college or they can choose to take them through NAU and then apply for admission to the BSN program. Graduates from the American Indian BSN Program are eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Tucson Program

In order to accommodate students in the Tucson area, NAU offers the BSN program at the Tucson campus as well. This program is identical to the BSN program offered at the Flagstaff campus. Students who complete this program will be able to apply to take the NCLEX-RN in order to gain the title of Registered Nurse (RN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Yuma Program

NAU also offers identical curriculum for the BSN program at the Yuma campus. As with all the BSN programs in different areas by NAU, this program offers students the ability to obtain the knowledge and skills to care for patients across the life span in a variety of different settings. Students who successfully complete this program are then able to apply to take the NCLEX-RN.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is designed for those students who have already achieved a bachelor degree in a field of study other than nursing and would like to obtain their BSN. Students who complete this program will be eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN in order to gain the title of Registered Nurse (RN) and seek employment in a variety of different medical settings. Students wishing to enter this program are also required to take certain pre-requisite courses and should meet with an advisor to ensure that they have met the necessary requirements before apply for admission.  This fast paced program takes place over the course of 12 months and must be completed in the order that is listed the course progression materials.

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

The RN to BSN program has been created for the Registered Nurse (RN) who is seeking a higher degree in order to gain more prominent leadership roles in the nursing profession. Students who complete this program will be eligible to apply for jobs with more responsibility and create more opportunities for advancement in their career. Students wishing to gain admission to this program must have a valid and current license to practice as a RN as well as complete several pre-requisite courses. 

Master of Science Nursing (MSN)

The MSN degrees offered under the graduate programs at NAU allow for students to advance in their nursing career and gain more leadership in their profession. NAU offers two different tracks to a master’s degree in nursing.

• The Family Nurse Practitioner Track is available for those students seeking to provide care for families in country areas. This track offers the students the ability to gain the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about the treatment of their patients as well as making responsible decisions about the way in which the services are delivered to the patients.   
• The Nurse Generalist Track is available for those students seeking to enhance their skills in a specific area in which they are choosing to advance. Students can choose the emphasis in which they are looking to steer their career.

Post-Master Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

For those students who already have a master’s degree in nursing, this program allows students to develop their skills and understanding of providing care for rural families as the primary caregiver. Students who complete this 38 credit hour certificate program can go on to enhance their career and gain employment in the field.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

Students who have already achieved their master’s degree may apply to enter into the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program offered at NAU. After completion of this program, the student will have the ability to seek greater leadership roles in the nursing community. This program offers education to practice nursing at the highest level. Students who complete this program will have a greater understanding of the health care system and will be able to better apply the expertise they will obtain in clinical practices in the work force. This program requires that the student complete no less than 30 semester hours of classes under the guidelines for DNP students. Students will be able to obtain the national certification as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse upon successful completion of the program.

Contact:

Northern Arizona University
South San Francisco St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
(928) 523-9011

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Paradise Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Paradise Valley Community College prides itself on being a Learning-Centered College. The college offers a wide array of degree and certificate programs to potential students. PVCC offers the ability for students to decide between transferring to a four-year institution, gaining an associate degree, earning a certificate of completion, or just working on developing skills they already have to be more profitable.

Paradise Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Paradise Valley Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree Program in order to gain the official title of Registered Nurse (RN). The PVCC nursing program is a part of the Maricopa Community Colleges network. This degree program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. PVCC also offers a certificate program in Nurse Assisting.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)

Students in the Phoenix area who wish to obtain the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in order to gain the title of Registered Nurse (RN) may apply for admission to the program offered at PVCC. All students must get a health declaration signed by a physician to prove their physical ability to perform the essential functions of an RN. Students must also pass a drug screen and have a valid Level One Finger Print Clearance card at the time of application. Students who complete this program will be eligible to apply to sit for the national licensure examination. Successful completion of the program does not guarantee the right to sit for the exam.

Pre-requisite courses are required to be completed at the time of applying to the program. Students should meet with a nursing advisor to make sure all prerequisite courses have been complete or will transfer in order to obtain admission to the program. Successful completion of the program and passing of the NCLEX-RN will give the student the ability to apply for employment with the professional title of Registered Nurse (RN). Students also have the option to further their education at a four-year institution or university after completion of the program.

Nurse Assisting – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Students who are seeking entry-level employment in the nursing profession can apply to enter the Nurse Assisting (NA) program in order to gain employment as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Students who complete this program successfully are eligible to sit for the state certification test as well as receiving a Certificate of Completion (CCL) from PVCC. Students must complete a background check before they can be admitted to the program. Clinical experience facilities require that all students have these background checks done in order to enter the facilities.

All applicants must have proof of immunizations, a valid CPR card, and a Fingerprint Clearance Card in order to apply for admission to the program. Students who complete this program and pass the certification test will be eligible to gain employment in a variety of different medical care facilities at an entry-level under the supervision of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Registered Nurses (RN) as well as other medical professionals.

Contact:

Paradise Valley Community College
18401 N. 32^nd Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
(602) 787-6500

Phoenix College Nursing Program Review

Phoenix College (PC)  is widely esteemed in the State of Arizona for its solid reputation in education. This undisputed recognition has made it a reference point among Maricopa Community Colleges. The college also boasts modern classrooms coupled with a list of state-of-the-art facilities that provide the necessary momentum for learning and student interaction.

Its diverse student body is represented by different ethnicities that attend the full-time, part-time, non-traditional, evening, and weekend classes it offers. Of notable mention is it’s a nursing program that rewards students with an Associate in Applied Science (Career Program Specified) in Nursing (AAS) and Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting.

Associate in Applied Science (Career Program Specified)-Nursing

Theoretical and practical applications are the cornerstones and focal points of the nursing course offered by Phoenix College. Students gain experience by hands-on interaction with in-patients and out-patients during the course. The Arizona State Board of Nursing is the ruling institution that approved the nursing program offered by Phoenix College and accreditation comes through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). After successful completion of the course, students are eligible to apply for their registered nurse license (RN) after passing the national exam.

The Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting

Students that are interested in entry-level employment in the health sector may consider the Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting as a starting point towards their ultimate goal. Throughout the course, they are exposed to classroom, practical, and laboratory settings to strengthen their experience and knowledge in nursing. They can undertake a career as a nurse assistant once they have successfully passed the written and verbal exams that are approved by the Arizona State of Nursing.

Bilingual Nursing Program

Efforts are being made to increase the number of Spanish-speaking nurses that are entering the American workforce. The program is offered in English and additional Spanish classes are part of the traditional curriculum of the MaricopaNursing Program. The program is promoted through an agreement established between Phoenix College and South Mountain Community College. Once accepted into the program, students can complete the necessary courses that entitle them to an Associate in Applied Science.

The nursing courses offered at Phoenix College prepare students for more advanced studies since many of the subjects are pre-requisites.

Scholarships

Phoenix College awards a list of scholarships to students that submit a compelling Personal Statement, demonstrate relevant experience, voluntary service, and appropriate GPA. Some of the eligible scholarships that nursing students can apply for include:

-Udall Foundation Scholarships;

– Desert Schools community Service Scholarship-Graduating High School Senior;

– Desert Schools community Service Scholarship-College Freshman Scholarships;

-Foundation Hill Rotary Club Scholarship;

-Child Care Scholarship;

– Helping Hands for Single Moms Scholarship

– Honors Program Scholarships (Internal, Phoenix College Students)

There are also many external resources that can be considered to find the necessary funds to undertake nursing education at Phoenix College. Students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid or Scholarship Office to get more information.

Under federal law, students awarded both external and internal scholarships may be over-rewarded, and this is not a favorable situation.

Contact:
Phoenix College
1202 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85013
602-285-7800

Pima County Community College Nursing Program Review

Pima County Community College (PCC) has a long-standing history that dates back to 1969 when the initial plans for construction came to fruition. Since then, it has prided itself for being ranked among the 10 largest multi-campus community colleges in the nation.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS). Additionally, both the Arizona Department of Education and/or the U.S. Department of Education have also given their stamps of approval on the courses being offered at the institution. Students can choose from a wide range of resources that make their transition into college life easier. For nursing students, the school currently offers the following programs.

Practical Nurse- Certificate

For college credit and a Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate, students are encouraged to apply at the school’s West Campus. Throughout the course, students are exposed to advanced patient care during the weekdays, evenings/weekends. Upon successful completion of the course, they can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN®, and if they pass will be eligible to receive the necessary licensure to work as a licensed practical nurse. Further studies will be necessary to be recognized as a registered nurse.

Nursing students also have the option to take the course at the Pima County Community (PCC) College Center for Training and Development. However, they won’t receive any college credit so careful planning about the intended career path and career plans are necessary when considering this route. The Center provides the necessary training that students will need to undertake jobs in high-demand areas. It also assists with job placement.

Nursing Assistant-Certificate

PCC Center for Training and Development offers this non-credit option for students that want to gain entry-level into the nursing profession. The course is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and successful completion unlocks the doors to an associate’s degree in nursing, and both credit and non-credit practical nursing. Students must pass the Certification Exam for Nursing Assistants in Arizona before they can qualify as nursing professionals.

Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the LPN – Certificate

LPNs and other health care professionals that want to update their skills or are not trained to administer IV therapy are suitable candidates for this course. It is offered by the PCC Center for Training and Development and is a non-credit certificate.

RN Refresher

RNs interested in continued education to update their skills and get additional training are encouraged to apply to the RN refresher course offered by the PCC Center for Training and Development. The courses can be completed both online and in classroom settings. The online courses are only open for theoretical areas, whereas practical experiments should be completed within the classrooms. The course is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing for nurses that want to refresh their skills before they undertake their duties as health care professionals.

Associate of Applied Science-Nursing

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at the college is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission. After the first three semesters of the course, students may qualify for a Practical Nurse Certificate and may be able to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) once they pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN®. If the students choose to leave the course after the first semester, then they may qualify for a Nursing Assistant certificate after passing the relevant exams.

Successful completion of the entire course provides the necessary foundation to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Contact:
Pima County Community College
4905 E. Broadway Blvd.
Tucson, AZ    85709-1010

Rio Salado College Nursing Program Review

Rio Salado College (RSC) boasts a wide range of online courses and a strong academic foundation. It’s affectionately referred to as the “college within everyone’s reach”, and faithfully lives up to its name. The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and is the largest of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges.

Founded in 1978, Rio Salado College continually strives to expand its influence in regions within Maricopa county and internationally. Future nursing students can select its online courses that are structured to meet the prerequisite and co-requisite requirements that allow transfer to any Maricopa Nursing Program. These include:

Associates of Applied Degree in Nursing

Graduates that complete this program are eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). The college has a number of online nursing prerequisite courses that give students the added flexibility to study at convenient times. The prerequisite courses are divided into health related and nursing and different emphasized areas are taught according to each individual curriculum. Once completed, students are able to further their studies in a university setting.

Advanced Placement 

All nursing prerequisites and co-requisites must be completed to be considered for advanced placement. It’s also important to complete a pharmacology course within 12 months of applying. The HESI PN exam must also be taken within the last six months of applying.

Scholarships for Nursing Students

Rio Salado has different general scholarships that are beneficial to qualified nursing students. To apply for these simply apply through the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation. Other scholarship sources to check include: college specific scholarships and external scholarships. The Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection is one of the general scholarships that nursing students can consider.

The College also participates in a number of financial aid program that such as: Federal Pell Grant, Private Students loan, Federal District PLUS loans (private loans for undergraduate students), Leveraging education assistant partnership (LEAP) and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).

Rio Salgado Online Courses

Rio Salado offers 24/7 support for students that plan to take their courses online. You can get grades, communicate with your tutor, register for classes and much more online as a nursing student. The school has 48 start dates a year which means that it does not follow the traditional two semester program of most schools. In addition to this, there are a number of software discounts tailored towards students to ease the financial strain. The school also has an online library that keeps you connected to the academic world 24/7. You’ll be able to read articles, listen and watch videos, access media and the school’s library catalog. The Ask a Librarian program support this initiative by providing services to students 365 days throughout the year online.

The school has also partnered with a leading publisher to provide affordable text books to students. Through this partnership, students are believed to save at least 51% in textbook fees.

At the end of your course it will be possible to transfer credit to many universities based within and outside of Arizona. You will need to first check the requirements.

Contact:

Rio Salado College
323 West 14th Street,
Tempe, AZ 85281

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Scottsdale Community College Nursing Program Review

Scottsdale Community College (SCC) is one of the ten colleges in the Maricopa Community College District. Its tradition of excellence dates back to 1970 when it first opened its doors to receive students. The College offers credit and occupational programs with a curriculum that is fully integrated into business and community demands.

The MCCDNP (Maricopa Community College District Nursing Program) is offered at Scottsdale Community College). The program is accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Nursing students can choose between its Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Nursing Program, Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting and Practical Nursing Certificate of Completion (CCL) Program.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Nursing Program

The college uses various health care settings to train potential students for this course. Students are encouraged to ensure that they can adequately cope under stress and are physically fit before they apply to the program. In addition to this, no outstanding felony convictions must be present on their records. An absolute discharge of the charges should date back at least 5 years before sending off the application to the nursing program. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse (RN). The courses delivered during the program prepare students to enter a university setting after completion.

Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting

This program equips potential students with job ready skills at entry level. Students are exposed to clinical laboratory, acute care and skill care to adequately prepare them for the role as a nursing assistant. The program also has prerequisite courses that are of particular interest to students that plan to enter a baccalaureate program. After successful completion, students are eligible to take a written and practical certification examination. They must pass both to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Students must demonstrate good physical condition and have clean background checks as part of the admission requirements.

Practical Nursing Certificate of Completion (CCL) Program

 Successful completion of this course enables students to apply for the licensure as a practical nurse. They can work as a licensed practical nurse in many health care settings, but are always guided and supervised by a registered nurse. The course also offers prerequisite courses to students that are interested in entering a university setting after completion.

Scholarships

Nursing students can choose between Maricopa Scholarships and Private scholarships. Those that opt for Maricopa scholarships can apply to the Maricopa Community Colleges foundation for funding. For private scholarships, there are a list to choose from that can provide total or partial funding to cover tuition expenses. For specific nursing scholarships, there is the CampusRN – Arizona Nursing Scholarship. This is a nationwide scholarship program that is awarded to nursing students from six different regions.  It is also possible to obtain students through the Ford Federal Direct Loan program. The college also participates in the Federal Work Study Program that provides students with part-time job to assist with education expenses.

Contact:

Scottsdale Community College,
9000 East Chaparral Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2626
(480) 423-6000

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University of Arizona Nursing School Review

Founded in 1885, the University of Arizona (UA) is a leading public research university that is noted for its high-quality education and excellent research facilities. The College of Nursing is one of the 14 notable colleges that is part of the University.

The College offers a wealth of resources to hone nursing skills in the health care sector. Some of these resources include, Patient Care Learning Center, Behavioral Studies Laboratory, nurse-managed centers and health departments. The College has a list of programs for those that are just entering the nursing field and those that are interested in advanced studies. The options to choose from include:

Bachelor in Science in Nursing (BSN) or BSN Pathway

This course is open to students with a high school diploma with/some college credit can apply provided they complete the required pre-nursing courses. The College also requires successful completion of freshman/sophomore education courses.  The course can be completed in 4 semesters and are also open to students that already have a non-nursing degree. Those that apply to its pre-nursing course can later apply to the BSN program in their sophomore year. After completion, students can take the national licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or MEPN Pathway

The program is known as the Master’s Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN) Pathway. This course is open to students that already have a bachelor’s or higher degree in a non-related course. Students that are a part of this group must complete prerequisite courses before they are allowed to enter the program. It is a 15-month accelerated course and successful completion prepares students to take the licensure exam to become a registered nurse. Graduates are considered advanced nursing generalist and can undertake nursing roles in a wide range of health care settings.

Advanced Studies

Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (BSN to DNP)

If you are already a nurse and wish to do advanced courses, then the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) may be an ideal option to be a nurse practitioner. This is particularly an interesting course for students that want to be engaged in broader skills in research and clinical practice. There are in essence three specialties areas that students can consider and all are offered as online courses:

1)     BSN-DNP with Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty (ACNP):  The core content of this course prepares students to adequately provide the necessary care for adults with acute illnesses and complexities. Students are exposed to both clinical and classroom setting. They are prepared to make accurate assessments, provide health care maintenance solutions, clinical decision making and illness management are just some of the areas covered in the course. They will also need to complete 1000 practice immersion hours to successfully complete the course.

2)     BSN-DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty (FNP): Both advanced nursing and beginning level of practice are elaborated in this course. Students are required to be adequately prepared to complete the extensive clinical time that is part of the course. They are also required to complete 1000 practice immersion hours as part of the completion requirements of the program.

3)     BSN-DNP with Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty (PNP):  Students that are interested in acquiring more knowledge than that offered for registered nurse preparation can consider this course. It is specially designed to provide registered nurses with advanced education in pediatric nursing. The course is built on elaborating health maintenance and education, disease prevention and disease management of various diseases in children. Both acute and common health conditions are elaborated.

MS-DNP with Nurse Practitioner Specialty

This DNP entryway is designed for nurses that wish to add to their credentials and those that are not eligible to gain licensure to be recognized as nurse anesthetist or clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner and nurse midwife. There are three types of specialties:

1)     MS-DNP with Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty (ACNP): The course prepares students with the necessary knowledge and skills to adequately care for adults with different types of illnesses. Subject areas cover advanced nursing practices.

2)     MS-DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty (FNP): Students are prepared for beginning level of practice and beginning researchers. They are also trained and given the necessary content courses to know how to use research information that’s provided.  Upon successful completion of the course they will be prepared to provide health care maintenance, engage in critical clinical thinking and illness management. All students are required to complete 1000 practice immersion hours.  

3)     MS-DNP with Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Specialty (PNP): The content of this course provides the necessary foundation for registered nurses to provide pediatric care. The core subjects covered throughout the course enables students to engage in more advanced roles than what the initial registered nurse preparation provides. All students are required to complete 1000 practice immersion hours

MS-DNP

This course is open to students that either have the necessary certification or are eligible to attain to work as a nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetic and nurse midwife. Students are required to complete 500 practice immersion hours. Only registered nurses that have an unencumbered license can enroll in the program.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) is the preferred option for students that want to be a nurse scientist. To enter the course you must have a BSN, MS in nursing and or DNP (practice doctorate) in Nursing. The course is focused around clinical, academic and scientific studies that can be done either full-time or part-time.

BSN – PHD in Nursing

Students that want to become a nurse researcher and have an inert zeal for research will find this course of interest. It is a fast track program and applicants can enter as post-BSN students. Extensive research is conducted throughout the course. Students are supervised by a faculty researcher. The program includes a nursing major and a minor. If you opt for a major, then it will be possible to do coursework in:

1)     Substantive Area of Research;

2)     Scientist/Academic Role;

3)     Philosophy and Theory;

4)     Research Methods;

5)     Dissertation.

Those that opt for nursing minor in the program can opt for a selecting coursework from within the nursing curriculum or in another area. Prior approval is necessary for this option.

MS-PhD in Nursing

Entrance into the MS-PhD in Nursing is possible as a post-MS in nursing student. Students can choose a Nursing minor or major in the same courses studied at BSN–PhD in Nursing. The course is designed for students that are prepared at the master’s level. Extensive research is the cornerstone of the course.

Graduate NP Certificate

If you are a working registered nurse (RN) not looking to do your doctorate, but want to get more training and knowledge on specific specialties, then this course is the ideal option. The three areas that the College offers port-master’s nurse practitioner specialty certificates include: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.  Registered nurses that are currently working can complete the course on a part-time basis. The entire program lasts 4 semesters. You must have a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing.

Contact:

University of Arizona
College of Nursing,
PO Box 210203
Tucson, AZ 85721-0203

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University of Phoenix Nursing School Review

The University of Phoenix (UPX, UoP, UOPX) was founded in 1976 by Dr. John Sperling. He established the university with the mission to provide an educational facility that meets the needs of working adults interested in pursuing higher education.

Today, the university offers programs in more than 200 locations and is popular for its online courses. The College of Nursing is one of its flagship courses with a wide range of degree programs that range from undergraduate, graduate and continued education. The programs offered for each category are as follows:

Undergraduate Course

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing offered by the University of Phoenix is accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. The course is firmly grounded on science-based subjects and a hands-on working environment that adequately prepare nurses for the challenges in health care. LPNs/LVNs and RNs that want to advance their studies in nursing will find this course of particular interest. They can choose between the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN) or the Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN/LVN to BSN) program.  Upon successful completion of the course, students can sit the National Council Licensure Examinations before they undertake an active role as a nurse.

1)     Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN/LVN): This course covers courses that take into consideration the transitions between the roles and knowledge of a practical nurse to a professional nurse. Students are taught about the essence of critical thinking, advanced role functions and evidence-based practice.

2)     Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN): After successful completion of this course, students are able to undertake more demanding roles and not just comprehensive patient care. You’ll also develop the professional skills and knowledge of registered nurses. Both liberal arts and science subjects form the curriculum with the intent of shaping nurses that are better prepared for the challenges of the health care sector. Key focus areas in the course include family and community health assessment. The course is credited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Graduate Courses

Master of Science in Nursing

Registered nurses (RNs) with a bachelor’s degree in nursing are eligible to apply for this course. It covers advanced studies in health care and prepares nurses to have strong analytical skills. Some of the courses explored include: nursing roles and theories, educational programs, legal issues and organizational structure. You’ll be able to choose from four focus areas, namely:

1)     Master of Science in Nursing/ Nursing and Health Care Education (MSN/ED): This course prepares you to be an effective educator and develop the ability to evaluate instructional strategies. Graduates will be able to share their knowledge with students either at an institution of higher learning or in a hospital setting. The course is designed for registered nurses that have a baccalaureate degree and wish to develop the necessary skills associated with assessment, writing and creating educational programs, and evaluation. Students are taught the essentials that enable them to function in leadership roles in practice or in an educational setting.

2)     Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Health Administration (MSN/MHA): Students will be taught the essentials of nursing along with business acumen. The program is designed for those that want to gravitate from patient care to more administrative roles. This is a dual degree program that equips students with the necessary knowledge to make critical decisions in the health care sector. In addition to this, they are exposed to advanced nursing concepts. The course is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

3)      Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration/Health Care Management (MSN/MBA/HCM) dual-degree: This course is developed to give RNs advanced nursing skills and to enable them to act in any health care setting while applying traditional business concepts taught throughout the curriculum. Students are prepared to deal with challenges and as such are able to solve organizational problems through analytical thinking and the skills and knowledge groomed during the course. Essentials from both degree programs form the cornerstone of the program.

4)      Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN/FNP):  This course is designed for RNs that still want to continue as nurse practitioners. You’ll be taught about the essentials that are necessary to manage the health of a family. The concepts and knowledge gained will enable you to act in a more advanced role. Preventative care and treatment are some of the areas covered in the course. First students are required to complete courses in advanced nursing and then the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) course.

Nursing Bridge Program

The Nursing Bridge Program is open to students that have a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field and wish to pursue a master’s degree in nursing. The course is similar to the traditional MSN course, except that you’ll have to complete three bridge courses at the Bachelor of Science in nursing level. Once you’ve successfully completed the course along with the MSN introductory course you can do any of the four courses mentioned above under the master’s section.

Continuing Education

The three continuing education programs offered by the University of Phoenix, namely: nurse education courses, nurse practitioner education courses and nursing management courses. These are non-credit courses that are adapted for working professionals that want to expand on the knowledge they already have. They are also useful ideal for nurses that want to be on par with new developments in the world of nursing.

Contact:

University of Phoenix
1625 W Fountainhead Parkway
Tempe, Arizona 85282-2371

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Yavapai College Nursing Program Review

Yavapai College (YC) is a community college located in Yavapai County, Arizona. It was founded in 1965 and currently has associate degrees and certificates in a wide variety of courses. The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and its nursing program by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Students interested in pursuing nursing studies at the school can choose either its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing or paralegal studies to obtain a Legal Nurse Certificate.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

All students must take a preadmission exam and include the results with their admission package prior to entering this program. It’s also compulsory to meet with an advisor on either the Prescott Campus or the Verge Valley Campus. Students that are located at the Verge Valley Campus will need to travel to the Prescott Campus occasionally to enrich their learning experience. Off-campus clinical activities are also part of the nursing program and all students are required to become active when the need arises to partake in them. Yavapai College’s nursing curriculum is blended with a variety of subject areas that stimulate a global vision of the nursing professional. Some of these areas include: environment, nursing therapeutics, environment and client.

Once the course is successfully completed, students can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Paralegal Studies – Legal Nurse Certificate

This is an intensive course for nursing professionals that already have a Registered Nurse degree, and a minimum of an associate degree. It is preferred by candidates that want to sidetrack somewhat from the traditional nursing role and embrace law. Nurses that successfully complete the program will be able to undertake duties outside of a hospital and work in firms such as: law office and insurance firms. At the end of the program, candidates are awarded a Legal Nurse certificate.

Nursing Scholarships and Grants

Nursing students that demonstrate financial need and are qualified can benefit from the many nursing scholarships that the College offers. There are also more general scholarships that are for any student that is qualified. The nursing scholarships that are available include:

1) Dr. Ralph Arnold Nursing Scholarship Fund

2) Roy Bronander Memorial Scholarship Fund (for second year nursing school students)

3) Conley Family Nursing Scholarship

4) Gnagey/Physicians’ Nursing Scholarship

5) Elizabeth Hooker Nursing Memorial Scholarship Fund

6) Dr. Ray Inscore Scholarship Fund

7) Luchek Scholarship Fund

8) Yavapai County Medical Society Alliance Scholarship Fund (student has to be a Yavapai County Resident)

9) Nicolai Scholarship Fund

10) Ardy Jo Noel Memorial Scholarship Fund

11) Scottie Quail Nursing Scholarship Fund

12) Martha and Mary Rummel Family Scholarship Fund (for second year nursing students who are Yavapai County residents.

13) James & Herchanna Sullivan Nursing Scholarship

The College also administers outside scholarships. Students that submit the FAFSA and apply within the deadline are automatically considered. The Ingebritson Scholarship is an outside scholarship that is administered by the school and is specifically for nursing students. There is also the Helen Dyar King Scholarship, but students that apply must be related to certain types of government employees or is a member of specific government departments.

Contact:
Yavapai College
1100 East Sheldon Street,
Prescott, Arizona 86301

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Alabama Southern Community College Nursing Program Review

Alabama Southern Community College (ASCC) was created by the joining of Patrick Henry State Junior College and Hobson State Technical College in August of 1991. It is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools as well as being accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission Alabama Board of Nursing.

Alabama Southern Community College has two main campuses located in Monroeville and Thomasville. Two other day and evening centers are also available in Gilbertown and Jackson. The most current technology has been integrated into this college to replace and improve upon the old chalkboard classrooms. This allows students to learn the newest technology in their field of study as well as in a classroom setting.

Nursing Programs at Alabama Southern Community College

Nursing Program Review

Alabama Southern Community College offers students the opportunity to enter a career in nursing with the essential knowledge, ethics, and skills needed to flourish in this ever-changing profession. Highly qualified staff and smaller classrooms allow each student to receive more individualized education for more academic rewards with degrees and certificates awarded at this institution. Graduates from this institution’s nursing programs open many doors that lead the individual to fulfilling goals and ambitions in their professional lives.

Upward Mobility Program (LPN to RN)

Associate in Applied Science Degree

Licensed Practical Nurses looking to obtain their Registered Nursing degree are eligible to apply for the Upward Mobility Program at Alabama Southern Community College in Monroeville. This program offers the increased knowledge and skill required to become a RN (Registered Nurse). It is a full time program that requires 57 semester credit hours to obtain the necessary knowledge to lead into the booming Registered Nurse career path. Completion of this program will make graduates eligible to take the exam for RN licensure.

Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate

The Practical Nursing (PN) program takes one year to complete and includes the knowledge required to care for patients over their life span. This program is designed with the student in mind to prepare her or him to complete and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to then become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Students who complete these courses come out with the ability to be competitive in their field. This program provides the graduate with knowledge of Pediatric as well as Adult nursing in an urban and rural environment. The diversity of this program allows the student to go out into the work force with confidence. Working in the health care field with a Practical Nursing degree offers the graduate opportunities for advancement and placement directly into the profession.

Registered Nursing

Associate in Applied Science Degree

This program is offered at Alabama Southern Community College’s Monroeville location. Students interested in this Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program must complete Biology 103 or have achieved an acceptable score on ASC placement exam. This is a two year degree which gives the student the opportunity to gain general knowledge and practices of the nursing field with the options of transferring to a university for master’s courses or going straight into the nursing career field. A total of 72 semester credit hours are required to obtain this degree. These include 30 semester hours of general education classes as well as 21 semester hours of registered nursing courses. Upon graduation, students may apply to take the RN licensure exam (NCLEX – RN).

Contact:

Alabama Southern Community College
1866 Southern Lane
Decantur, GA 30033-4097
404-679-4500

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