Loading...

Auburn University Nursing School Review

Auburn University (AU) was established as East Alabama Male College in 1856. The name was changed to Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama in 1872, and then changed again in 1899 to Alabama Polytechnic Institute. It was in 1960 that the name Auburn University was adopted and kept. AU has advanced into one of Alabama’s largest universities with over 120 degrees for students to choose from to achieve personal and professional goals.

Auburn University School of Nursing (AUSON)

Auburn University School of Nursing (AUSON) was established in 1979 and had only five professors in the first year. The first students were recruited from a pre-nursing program the University offered at the time. Auburn University School of Nursing is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The school offers two nursing programs. Below are the programs and what the student can expect to take from each.

BSN Program

In this undergraduate program, students are prepared for the stimulating career in health care. The program plants within the students who enter it the knowledge, skill, ethics, and passion that it takes to be a nurse in the constantly evolving world of medicine. Upon completion, graduates will be awarded their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and are then qualified to take the NCLEX-RN in order to obtain their registered nurse license. Students applying for admission to the professional program are required to participate in a pre-professional program in Nursing Science. This is a four year program, of which the first two years are labeled as Pre-Nursing (PNUR).  In order for students to complete the Professional Nursing Curriculum (NURS) they must go through 5 semesters of classroom time, labs, and clinical time in a medical field setting. 

MSN Program

The Master of Science in Nursing degree offered at the Auburn University School of Nursing is collaboration between the School of Nursing and Auburn University Montgomery. This collaboration allows students to participate in more activities and become more diversified in their studies. Most of the classes for this particular program are offered online, but may require some on-campus time. The main objective of this program is to improve upon the knowledge and communication of patients and nursing professionals, as well as other health care staff, to constantly advance the distribution of care and learn about the advancing technology in this field. It provides the graduate with the concepts and principles to design teaching materials for families, patients, and other health care professionals to lean new terms and technologies commonly used in the work force. The program integrates cultural lessons into the curriculum for the graduates to establish trusting relationships with the multitude of clientele they will meet along their professional journey.  Admissions into this program are extremely competitive. Applicants must meet all standards for Graduate School admission and should talk to their advisor about any additional requirements they school has for admissions to this program.

Contact:

Auburn University
108 Mary Martin Hall
Auburn, AL 36849
334-844-6425

[wpgmza id=”45″]

 

Auburn University at Montgomery Nursing School Review

Auburn Montgomery is the urban based campus of Auburn University. The University offers highly esteemed, qualified academic programs in an environment that is considerate to its students while providing them with challenging curriculum and pushing them to achieve their academic goals. The institution was chosen as one of the best colleges in the South by The Princeton Review. It was established in 1967 as an act of the Alabama Legislature and started calling itself Auburn University at Montgomery since 2007.

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) has several different programs for education organized into five different categories offering a diverse network of professionals offered to each student in order to broaden their horizons and reach out to other peers of different backgrounds, cultures, and professional goals.

The Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing

AUM offers the school of nursing in a joint effort between the main campus of AU (Auburn University) and the Montgomery based campus. The School of Nursing at Auburn University Montgomery offers nursing students the opportunity to earn their first time nursing degree or continue their education in this field of study. With three different programs of study available, students can customize a route of instruction to keep their professional and academic goals on track. AUM School of Nursing is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and sanctioned by the Alabama Board of Nursing. It is also a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

BSN Program

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at AUM is among the top programs in the state of Alabama. The pass rates on the Registered Nurse licensure examination by graduates from this institution are well above the norms for other schools in the state as well as across the nation with pass rates regularly in the top percentile. Customarily this four year program has two parts; a pre-nursing section and a professional nursing section. The pre-nursing segment of this program offers education to the student as to the general sciences of the nursing profession. After completion of this segment, the student can then apply to be educated on the ethics and most current procedures in the nursing workforce.

RN to BSN (EARN)

The AUM Educational Advancement for Registered Nurses or EARN, is intended for RNs who desire to continue their education and receive a BSN degree. It is in this program that the nurses bring with them the knowledge and experience they have already acquired that are the building blocks for their success. With only three semesters of full time study required to finish this degree usually, an RN can build upon his or her knowledge to take their career to the next level. Students may elect to attend classes with some offered online through the “Hybrid Track” on campus or do the entire curriculum online.

MSN Program

Whether the goal is becoming a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or a Nurse Educator, the Master of Science in Nursing  Program offered at Auburn University Montgomery allows the student to pursue a better future for themselves, as well as making patients’ lives better while in the care of nursing professionals or earn the training to help educate other nurses.

Contact:

Auburn University at Montgomery

P.O. Box 244023kMontgomery, AL 36124-4023
334-244-3000

[wpgmza id=”44″]

 

Bevill State Community College Nursing Program Review

Bevill State Community College (BSCC) is the result of the merging of Walker State Technical College and Brewer State Junior College. In 1993, Hamilton Campus of Northwest Alabama Community College was added to Bevill State Community College’s campuses. A fourth campus, UAB/Walker College, was added in 1998 to complete the collective campuses of BSCC. Along with these four campuses, there is also an educational site at Pickens County Educational Center.

Bevill State Community College Nursing Programs Review

BSCC offers two different certificate programs as well as an Associate Degree in nursing. These different programs offer the student the opportunity to keep reaching for the top level of education while allowing them to get into the workforce while achieving their academic goals. By taking these different routes in education in the nursing field, graduates and certificate holders attain the knowledge of the most current technology and practices.

Nursing Assistant Certificate of Completion

Assisting in the care of patients in a health care setting is the primary responsibility of a Nursing Assistant. Students who complete this certification program will find employment opportunities that require they work under the supervision of nursing staff at the facility as well as other medical staff. This training provides the student the knowledge and skills to help the patient become more mobile on their own, assess vital signs, help the patient with day-to-day tasks, and detect changes in the patients’ medical condition. This position allows for the Nursing Assistant to establish long-term relationships with the patients as they are generally the principal caregiver. Generally, employment opportunities for these students are with long term care facilities and can also be called Geriatric Aides.

Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate

The Practical Nursing Program offered at BSCC is a program that gets the student ready to go on to achieve professional licensure in the nursing field. It provides certificate holders with the understanding of the basic needs of patients in the care of critical and long term facilities, as well as familiarity with general nursing processes, communication, and legal and ethical issues. PN certificate holders have the education to be employed in a variety of different health care settings. Gaining this certificate also allows for a range of continuing education the student can apply themselves toward. A passion for interpersonal relationships with the general public is essential to reaching excellence in this field of study.

Nursing ADN – Associate in Applied Science

The ADN Program at BSCC prepares nursing students to become familiar with critical and long term practices by combining common educational classes with nursing specific classes. These courses allow the student to prepare for their career in the nursing field by gaining experience in clinical settings that are guided by professors and other medical professionals in addition to regular classroom curriculum. This particular degree requires five semesters worth of classroom instruction and clinical experience. Admissions to this nursing program are highly competitive because of the limit put on how many students one teacher can productively instruct. This program also opens a plethora of doors for each graduate when it comes to continuing education in the field of nursing. While not all employment positions require graduates to continue on to advanced degrees, the continuation of education of students with this degree allows for more advancement in the professional nursing career field.

Contact:

Bevill State Community College
101 State Street
Sumiton, AL 35148-4121
(205) 648-3271

[wpgmza id=”43″]

 

Bishop State Community College Nursing Program Review

Known by many different names before the Board of Education of the state of Alabama established the name Bishop State Community College (BSCC) in 1989, this college has actually been in use for educational purposes for over 80 years. Originally this institution was a branch of Alabama State College in Montgomery.

The main campus, located in Mobile, Alabama, was joined by two additional technical colleges, now named Southwest Campus of Bishop State Community College and Carver Campus of Bishop State Community College. Campus number four was added in 1995 and named Baker-Gaines Central Campus.

Bishop State Community College Nursing Program Review

Bishop State Community College offers several different routes to attaining students’ academic and career goals. With three different programs to choose from, the students who apply to be admitted to a program can choose which route is best for them and their life styles. All programs are accredited and approved by The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and The Alabama Board of Nursing. Successful conclusion of the Associate Degree of Practical Nursing Program allows the student the opportunity to sit for the licensure exam.

PN (Practical Nursing) Program

The PN Program offered at the Bishop State Community College is among the best in the state. The program consists of three semesters of full time study to be completed by the student. In these three semesters, the student will acquire the knowledge to provide care of a range of patients in either a short-term or long-term facility. Clinical hours must be completed in this program allowing the student to get experience under their belt while completing the educational portion of the program. Certain pre-requisite courses apply for this program and are required to be completed before apply to the PN Program. Upon completion and passing of the state licensure exam to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), students can then choose to go straight into the workforce or continue their education and career to the next level.

RN (Registered Nursing) Program

The RN Program offered at BSCC offers students the ability to acquire the needed skills and knowledge to be a competent member of the world of professional nursing. This program includes five semesters of full time study as well as clinical and lab experience that is overseen by licensed members of the health care profession and professors. Pre-requisite courses are required to be completed before applying for the RN Program at this institution. With this degree achieved, students are eligible to sit for the state licensure exam. This degree opens an abundance of doors for the student to kick start their career as well as opens doors to continuing education in the professional nursing field.

Career Mobility (LPN to RN) Program

In order to begin this program, prospective students must have an up-to-date Alabama PN nursing license. This program allows the student to step up in their career in the nursing field and further their personal knowledge of the most current practices, legal and ethical matters, and technology in the workforce. After completion of the project, students are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam.

Contact:

Bishop State Community College
351 North Broad Street
Mobile, AL 36603
(251) 405-7000

[wpgmza id=”42″]

 

Calhoun Community College Nursing Program Review

Calhoun Community College (CCC) is the creation of the merging of the Tennessee Valley State Technical School and John C. Calhoun State Junior College in 1947. The Board of Education of the state of Alabama formally labeled the college as a community college in 1973. When the institution was first relocated to its current location, it served as a project to train World War II veterans. Today, Calhoun Community College serves to promote training and knowledge for its students and to serve as a place of advancement in education as well as careers.

Calhoun Community College Nursing Programs Review

Calhoun Community College offers four different programs for students interested in pursuing an education in nursing. Nursing programs include a traditional ADN (Associate Degree Nursing), a non-traditional part-time evening ADN (Associate Degree Nursing, Career Mobility Nursing Program, and PN (Practical Nursing) Program. All of these programs are constructed with the student in mind to provide the most up-to-date training on the collective subjects of nursing as well as the technology used in the nursing work field.

PN (Practical Nursing) Program

PN Program offered by Calhoun Community College is designed for students seeking employment as a LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). It offers a three semester, full-time program of study to its students to educate them on the practices, ethical and legal matters, as well as the clinical trainings of the professional career path of a LPN. The growing population of people in need of passionate and caring health care professionals demands that more nurses be added to the workforce. Applicants must be able to meet the necessary roles and requirements for the nursing field.

Career Mobility Nursing Program

This particular program offered by Calhoun Community College is constructed to meet the needs of LPNs seeking an Associate Degree in Nursing. This allows for the LPN to get the necessary education required to sit for the national licensure exam for RNs and obtain employment as an RN after passing the exam. After completion of this program, the student will have the indispensable knowledge of the growing, diverse field of nursing that will allow them to advance. This is a four semester course of full-time study. 

Traditional ADN (Associate Degree Nursing) Program

The Traditional ADN Program is designed for traditional students who can attend classes and clinical experiences during regular day time hours. It is a five semester, full time program of study that includes classroom instruction, laboratory instruction, and clinical experience. After successful completion of this program, the student is eligible to sit for the licensing exam to obtain employment as a Registered Nurse (RN). This program is designed to teach the functions and skills required as a vital part of the health care system.

Non-Traditional ADN (Associate Degree Nursing) Part-Time Evening Program

This program offers a different type of education to the non-traditional student. It offers unconventional class formats such as distance learning and video-streaming instruction tools to allow for flexibility in where and when the student participates in instruction as well as clinical practices on weekends and evenings. This program offers the chance to obtain the skills and knowledge for the student to become a licensed RN on the schedule of a busy working adult.

Contact:
Calhoun Community College
PO Box 2216
Decatur, AL 35609
1-800-626-3628

[wpgmza id=”41″]

 

Central Alabama Community College Nursing Program Review

Central Alabama Community College (CACC) is the creation of the combination of Alexander City State Junior College and Nunnelley State Technical College in 1989. This college offers two different campus locations in Alexander City and Childersburg. This community college now offers a place of academic advancement to central Alabama that has that close to home feeling with caring and attentive professors and other professionals to assist its students in becoming bright and well informed additions to the work force.

Central Alabama Community College Nursing Programs Review

Central Alabama Community College offers three types of nursing programs at their facilities. Programs include ADN (Associate Degree Nursing) – RN, PN (Practical Nursing), and LPN to RN Mobility Program. Each program offers a specialized training and classroom instruction for the students’ particular educational path leading to becoming a vital member of the health care profession of nursing. Central Alabama Community College is one of the top community colleges in Alabama. The Associate Degree Nursing Program is sanctioned and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and is accredited through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta. The PN Program is sanctioned by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

Associate Nursing Degree – RN

This degree program offers students the most current technological training in the field of nursing as well as instruction by certified faculty. The courses taken in this program let the student advance their knowledge of the practices and communications used on a daily basis as a RN (Registered Nurse). Graduates of this degree program will be eligible for to write the licensure examination and pursue employment in a health care facility upon successful completion of said exam. This program requires five terms of full time study for completion. A combination of basic educational courses and nursing specific courses make up the entirety of this program.

Practical Nursing – PN

Central Alabama Community College’s Practical Nursing Program is intended to prepare students to enter the health care field with the awareness and understanding of nursing practices required to provide excellent care for patients of all ages. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the most current knowledge and skills for employment. They may also be authorized to take the national exam or the NCLEX-PN. The program is designed to be a three term full time program that includes teaching the student terms and ideas of the nursing profession as well as educating them on the role they are about to fulfill.

LPN to RN Mobility Program

This program is designated to provide existing LPNs a way to advance in their career in the nursing profession. Students can complete this program in three to four terms of full time study. Upon successful completion of the program students can be eligible to take the national exam for licensure as a RN. This allows the student to take their career to the next level with the required education and the experience already acquired by them as an LPN.

Contact:

Central Alabama Community College
1375 Cherokee Rd
Alexander City, AL 35010
(256) 234-6346

[wpgmza id=”40″]

 

Chattahoochee Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC) has served as the source of education for the Chattahoochee Valley for over 35 years. As the main community college in the area, the college strives to make students ready for their entrance into a four-year college and acclimate students to the transition from schooling to the workforce. This college promotes opportunities for students to give back to the community and develop their leadership skills.

Chattahoochee Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

This college offers three different ways to start a career in the field of nursing. The Practical Nursing and Associate Degree Nursing Programs are accepted and approved by the Alabama State board of Nursing. Specific requirements may be required for admission to this institution’s nursing programs. Students should see the College Catalog for the specific requirements for each program of interest.

Associate Degree Nursing – Mobility Program – LPN to RN

During this course of study, practical nurses holding a license, can obtain the knowledge and skills required to achieve their Associate in Applied Science degree. This program is a one year course of study for completion. After successful completion, graduates can be eligible to take the licensure exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). This program is appropriated by the Alabama Board of Nursing. This program is an excellent choice for those LPNs who want to take their career to the next level and achieve a salary increase along with continuing their education to become a more respected member of the nursing community.

AAS – Nursing (ADN) – RN

The Associate Degree Nursing program offered at Chattahoochee Valley Community College is a five term curriculum. This program allows, upon successful completion, for the student to hold an Applied Science Degree in Nursing. This course of study includes 72 hours for completion and teaches the student the familiarity and expertise in the field that are required to take the licensure examination to obtain the title of Registered Nurse (RN). Clinical experience is required to complete the program and all agencies are required to be accredited by the proper accrediting association. The program includes 30 hours of general education and 42 hours of nursing specific instruction. Each student is required to meet the specifications set by the National Council Licensure Committee in order to complete the NCLEX-RN.

Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)

This pathway for entering the field of nursing offered at the Chattahoochee Valley Community College is a one year program that leads to certification in Licensed Practical Nursing. After completion of the program the student will be qualified to apply to take the licensure exam (NCLEX-PN) in order to obtain the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). During the course of this program, students will learn the necessary knowledge to be able to enter the workforce with the confidence of being familiar with the terminology used today as well as the technology used in most facilities. Employment opportunities for graduates of this rapidly growing field are vast and upon licensing, the student can choose to either go straight into the workforce or continue their education to take their career to the next level.

Contact:

Chattahoochee Valley Community College
PO Box 1000
2602 College Drive
Phenix City, AL 36869
(334)291-4900

[wpgmza id=”39″]

 

Faulkner State Community College Nursing Program Review

Faulkner State Community College (FSCC) was established in 1963 and is in Baldwin County with three different locations. It is a public establishment that offers an assortment of traditional classes along with online classes offered through the internet for flexibility in the students’ interest. They offer development in the workforce preparation area, technical certificates, as well as associate degrees in many different professional areas. Students who complete an associate program from this institution may move on to a four-year institution.

Faulkner State Community College Nursing Program Review

The nursing programs at Faulkner State Community College are accredited through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission out of Atlanta. Five different programs of study are available at this institution to accommodate students at every level for the start of their career in the nursing workforce.

Pre-Nursing – Associate in Science Degree

This program is designed for students that are considering going on to a four year institution or university. It is a four term program that includes teaching the very basics of the nursing profession. With this program, students are prepped to enter into the professional courses of the nursing profession and will have the basic knowledge and elective courses out of the way to go on and concentrate solely on the getting the ethic, legal, and clinical experiences of the nursing workforce.

Nursing Mobility – LPN to RN – Associate in Applied Science Degree

The nursing mobility plan is a program of courses plotted out to assist students who already have a license in Practical Nursing (LPN) to achieve their license to become a Registered Nurse (RN). After completing this program, LPNs may be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam. Students need to have valid licensure through the Boards of Nursing and must be in good standing with the board in order to sit for the examination. This is a three term program of full time study.

Nursing RN – Associate Degree Nurse – Associate in Applied Science Degree

The RN program at Faulkner State Community College is a five term, full time day course of study that allows students to achieve the completion of the classes and may sit for the National Council Licensure Exam upon completion. These students will have the knowledge and abilities crucial to becoming a professional nurse in the workforce. Students must be in good standing with the Board of Nursing in order to qualify to sit for the exam and should be aware of the situations that could potentially lead to being denied to take the examination.

Nursing – Practical Nurse – LPN – Certificate Program

This program of study is designed to train students to receive their certificate in Practical Nursing (PN). It is a three term certificate program that can enable the student to take the National Council Licensure Exam. This program provides the student with the knowledge and skills to become a productive member of the nursing community. The skills learned here teach students to care for patients throughout their lifetimes from childhood to late adulthood.

ADN Transfer to LPN Program (AND to LPN)

Students who are in the two year Associate Degree (ADN) program may opt to transfer to the Practical Nursing (PN) program. Students who choose to do take this option will want to make certain that there is room in the PN program before starting the process as admission is limited by how many positions are available. Certain requirements are mandatory to make this switch. After completion of the PN program, students are eligible to apply to take the licensing test to start work as an LPN after successful passing.

Contact:

Faulkner State Community College
1900 Highway 31 South
Bay Minette, Alabama 36507
800-231-3752
(251) 580-2100

[wpgmza id=”38″]

 

Gadsden State Community College Nursing Program Review

Gadsden State Community College (GSCC) serves students from across the northeastern part of Alabama. The institution offers several different campuses and centers including Gadsden Campus, Anniston Campus, Ayers Campus, East Broad Campus, Valley Street Campus, Wallace Drive Campus, Cherokee Center, and McClellan Center. Each campus and center has its own personal story to how it became a part of this college. The college strives to serve the counties of Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, Etowah, and St. Clair. It is part of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS).

Gadsden State Community College Nursing Program Review

This college offers five different programs of study for students to obtain a certificate or degree in the nursing profession. With these five different pathways, students have the ability and the opportunity to become a respected member of this profession and to become a vital member of the nursing community in order to provide excellent care for patients, and add to the education of the community in which they live to promote more health conscious individuals.

Nursing Assistant – Short Term Certificate Program

In the Nursing Assistant Certificate Program offered at GSCC, students spend two semesters learning the academic necessities of being a nursing assistant as well as the clinical procedures they will perform in the workforce. Nursing Assistant certificate holders will learn skills in phlebotomy, use of medical computer systems, and the common communication of the medical field. All training is provided in order to prepare the graduate to obtain employment in a wide variety of occupations across the nursing work force. Training acquired in this program will enable the graduate to sit for certification exams to become a certified nursing assistant or to become certified in the area of phlebotomy.

Practical Nursing Program (PN/LPN)

The Practical Nursing Program offered at GSCC has gained the approval of the Alabama Board of Nursing which is located in Montgomery Alabama. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for entry level professional nursing and a certificate in practical nursing (PN). Upon successful completion of this certificate program, students who are in good standing with the Board of Nursing are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses. After passing this exam, graduates will carry the title and responsibilities of the title “Licensed Practical Nurse” (LPN). This program can be completed successfully in three terms of full time study. Students can also change the curriculum in order to make this program a part time course of study.

Registered Nursing (RN) – AAS Degree Nursing

This program of study offered at Gadsden State Community College to obtain an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing, located in Montgomery Alabama and is accredited through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta Georgia. This program is designed to prepare graduates to sit and write the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). After successful passing of this exam, the graduate will be considered a part of the professional nurses of Alabama. They will learn in these courses the knowledge, skills, and most up-to-date technology associated with the profession. Graduates will also be considered eligible to participate in continuing education at a four-year institution. This program can be completed in five terms of in class instruction and clinical experience training.

LPN to RN Mobility Program

This program of study has two different tracks that a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can take to achieve their Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree. If the student has been working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or have graduated from an approved school over two years prior to applied to the program, the will need to be enrolled in Track 1 offered under the Mobility Program. Track 2 is offered for those who have graduated and been working as an LPN for less than two years. After completing this program, LPNs are eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN to start work as a Registered Nurse.

Paramedic to RN Mobility Program – EMP to RN

Students who have completed an associate degree for paramedics can choose to enter the program to gain credentials to hold the title of Registered Nurse (RN). This program can be completed in three semesters. After completing the program, students can apply to write for the NCLEX-RN. This program is held at Wallace Drive Campus.  

Contact:

Gadsden State Community College
1001 George Wallace Dr.
Gadsden, AL 35903
(256) 549-8200

[wpgmza id=”37″]

 

Wallace Community College Nursing Program Review

First named George C. Wallace State Technical Trade School, this institution was established in 1947. In 1955, the institution was renamed George C. Wallace State Vocational Trade School and then was again renamed in 1963, George C Wallace State Technical Junior College. The technical school and junior college were joined in 1969 to form Southern Alabama’s first all-inclusive community college.

It is currently more known as Wallace Community College (WCC) and is a member of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS). It was accredited to award graduates with associate degrees and certificates in 1969 for the first time and has been reiterated since. It has grown to be nationally recognized for its quality in instruction.

Wallace Community College Nursing Program Review

George C. Wallace Community College offers three different pathways in achieving a degree or certificate in the nursing field. A traditional program to obtain an Associate Degree Nursing program is available for students wanting to start out their career with the title of Registered Nurse (RN). A traditional Practical Nursing Program is available for those students wanting to start in an entry position as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This college also offers a Mobility Program for students who are already licensed.

LPN to RN Mobility Program

This particular pathway to achieving the an Associate Degree Nursing Degree is an advanced placement program that requires the student have graduated from the Alabama Community College System Practical Nursing standardized program of study within two years of applying to the program. In this program the student will learn the skills and responsibilities of a Registered Nurse (RN) and successful completion of the program may make the student eligible to sit for the licensure exam. This program allows for a jump in salary and advancement in the respected field of nursing.

Associate Degree Nursing Program – RN

The traditional two year Associate Degree Nursing Program is an opportunity for students to start their career in nursing with an understanding of the most current technology and terminology used in the work force to date. This program offers a curriculum with general education courses as well as specific nursing courses. Nursing students enrolled in this program are expected to comply with the standards for nursing students set by the Alabama Law Regulating Practice of Registered and Practical Nursing. This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates may apply to take the national licensure exam.

Practical Nursing Program – LPN

The Practical Nursing (PN) Program offered by this institution is offered on the Wallace and Sparks Campuses. Students wanting to complete this program will be the bedside care giver for patients in a medical setting and will operate under the supervision of registered nurses, doctors, or other medical professionals. The program is sanctioned by the Alabama Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.  Completion of this program may make the student eligible to take the national licensure exam for practical nursing. This program provides the education necessary to learn the essential skills to gain entry level employment in a variety of medical facilities.

Contact:

George C. Wallace Community College
1141 Wallace Drive
Dothan, Alabama 36303-0943
(334) 983-3521

[wpgmza id=”36″]

 

Wallace Community College Selma Nursing Program Review

George Corley Wallace State Community College, commonly known as Wallace Community College Selma (WCCS), was created in early summer of 1963. The institution is growing each year to better serve its students as well as the area in which it lies. The institution runs two off-campus centers for educational purposes and is part of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS).

George Corley Wallace State Community College Nursing Program Review

This institution offers three different pathways to entering the field of nursing with an Associate Degree in Nursing. A traditional LPN to RN Mobility program offered allows for LPNs to take classes online and on campus. A Hybrid On-Line LPN to RN Mobility Program is also offered which allows for the students to have maximum flexibility of when they complete course work. This college also offers a traditional Associate Degree Nursing Program which is the traditional blend of general education courses with nursing specific courses. The nursing programs at Wallace Community College Selma are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. The school also offers a Nursing Assistant Program that allows students to enter the field of nursing at an entry level.  

Traditional LPN to RN Mobility Program

Students who are able to attend regular classes on campus may want to choose this program in order to gain their Associate Degree in Nursing. This program requires that the student be on campus in order to attend classes and lab experiences throughout the semester. Applicants who choose this type of program will earn the ability to apply to write for the National Licensure Exam. Licensed Practical Nurses who want to extend their knowledge and further their career will learn the necessary educational information as well as clinical experiences to promote themselves to the next level in the nursing profession.  Students are required to attend labs and clinical rotations throughout the semester on normally scheduled days during weekdays in order to complete this program.

Hybrid On-Line LPN to RN Mobility Program

For students who are unable to attend class room instruction on a regular basis, the hybrid on-line program may be the best route to obtaining their Associate Degree in Nursing. This program allows for the maximum flexibility in when the student listens to lectures and communicates with professors. However, if a student enrolled in this program needs to attend traditional classroom setting in order to get extra help with a concept they are having difficulty with, they are permitted to do so. Students are required to attend clinical rotations for 90 hours, but these are generally scheduled during the weekend or evening hours. Students enrolled in this program are required to attend some of the regularly schedule labs.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program – RN

This program requires that the student complete five semesters of full time study in order to achieve the degree. Two levels are included in the curriculum. In the first level, the student will demonstrate and utilize the basic nursing skills as well as an introductory knowledge to nursing processes. This level also includes an ability to create a teaching and learning strategy for the cultural diversity that the graduate will come in to contact with in the field. Level two includes demonstrating a expertise in executing advanced nursing skills as well as utilizing the ability to think critically in a wide array of settings. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply to take the national licensure examination. 

Nursing Assistant Program

The Nursing Assistant Program is offered to those students that want to start work immediately at an entry level. This program teaches students to provide the most basic care for the patients they will be providing most of the bedside, daily care for in a medical setting. There is a state certification exam that the student will be qualified to sit for after completion of this program. After successful completion of the program and the examination, the student can then be employed in a health care or home care atmosphere.

Contact:

George Corley Wallace Community College
3000 Earl Goodwin Pkwy.
Selma, Alabama 36703
(334)876-9227

[wpgmza id=”35″]

 

H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College Nursing Program Review

Situated in Montgomery Alabama, H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College was formed in 2001 when Trenholm State Technical College consolidated and merged with John M. Patterson Technical School to become one faculty of education.

It is a member of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and is administered by the Alabama Board of Education. The areas of service include Montgomery and the counties of Autauga, Macon, Elmore, Bullock, and Lowndes.

H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College offers a certificate in Practical Nursing for those who wish to pursue a career in the health-care industry as a nurse. 

Practical Nursing

H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College’s Practical Nursing program has been created in order to enable students with the skills, knowledge and experience so that they can subsequently offer provision of safe and effective nursing care as a licensed practical nurse (LPN).  The program provides instruction in the delivery of nursing care for patients no matter where they are within their lifespan. Students receive a range of clinical experiences through placements that are arranged with the cooperation of hospitals, clinics, care homes and other health care providers in the area.

The clinical experiences are combined with the following curriculum of education over the course of the three-semester long course –Mathematical Applications, Body Structure & Function, Fundamentals of Nursing, Health Assessment, Introduction to Pharmacology, College Orientation, English Composition, Nursing, Maternal & Child Nursing, Adult/Child Nursing, Psychosocial Nursing and Role Transition for the PN

Students who satisfactorily complete the PN program are subsequently prepared to write the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing).  The College’s PN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

Nursing Assisting / Home Health Aide

H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College has also recognized that both Nursing Assistants and Home Health Aides have been projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations in the United States over the next few years.  There are expected to be numerous job vacancies and opportunities within nursing environments, residential care homes, clinics, doctor’s offices, hospitals and through home health care agencies that the healthcare industry will be crying out for qualified and knowledgeable people to fulfill these roles.

With this in mind the college has designed a combined Nursing Assisting and Home Health Aide option which has been designed to both train and educate students who can subsequently find employment within this important role.  The Nursing Assistant / Home Health Aide Course is a 645-hour long program wherein candidates are trained and educated in order that they can perform routine tasks under the supervision of trained health-care staff. 

The role enables candidates to maintain safe and comfortable environments for people who need long term health or acute health care.  As nursing assistants often spend more time with the patient’s they are crucial in the observation and reporting of changes in the patient’s mental, physical and emotional well-being.

Upon successful completion of the Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide program, the student is able to take the Certification Examination for Nursing Assisting which is given by the NNAAP (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program).

Contact:

H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College
PO Box 10048
Montgomery, Alabama 36108
(334) 420-4200
866-753-4544

[wpgmza id=”34″]

Jacksonville State University Nursing School Review

Jacksonville State University (JSU) is located in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains in Northeast Alabama.

Founded in 1883 as Jacksonville State Normal School, Jackson State University has gone through a number of name changes including Jacksonville State Teachers College, Jacksonville State College and finally began operating under the name Jacksonville State University in 1967.   Jacksonville State University has been daubed by the NSSE (National Survey of Student Engagement) as “The Friendliest Campus in the South”, so is a prestigious and pleasant environment for those who wish to study nursing.

Jacksonville State University offers nursing programs through the Lurleen B. Wallace College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) which was founded in 1967.  The CNHS delivers programs that included a traditional full time Bachelor of Science in Nursing BSN, a Registered Nurse to BSN (STEP), and a Master of Science in Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is offered at the Lurleen B. Wallace College of Nursing and Health Sciences. After applying, this program allows the graduate to take the Registered Nurse (RN) national examination. To begin the nursing program the student must take academic and requirement courses. To be admitted to the clinical portion of nursing the student must file a separate request. Students that are admitted to clinical of nursing will do so in the spring and fall of each year.

The Step program RN-BSN

Individuals holding an associate degree or diploma in nursing will be supported by the Lurleen B. Wallace College of Nursing and Health Sciences for career mobility. The college developed any way possible for registered nurses to obtain the BSN Degree. Strategic Teaching for Enhanced Professional Preparation (STEP) is to allow students to complete their goals.

Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This program is designed to train nurses to assess the needs of populations as they currently exist. Students acquire multiple assets in this program. They include knowledge and skills in community needs assessment, health planning, analysis of combined data, and program development and evaluation. The program allows students to identify populations that focus on health promotions and prevention, such as cardiology, infectious disease, and women’s health. In the curriculum disaster management is incorporated into the courses. For this program 33 required hours in nursing and 3 hours of an elective are required equaling 36 total semester hours. JSU has four online courses which equal 11 hours through a partnership with Troy University (TROY). This partnership offers unique education in Alabama. All courses are done in an online format. Full time and part time options are available; the students can enter the program at the beginning of the semester, which is fall, spring, or summer. An examination is necessary at the final semester and will be given on campus. Clinical section is individualized and given in settings that provide experiences that are compared with the student’s goals. With this program the student can help plan public health training, learning, supervision, meetings and study.

Graduate certificate in Nursing Education (Non-degree)

This program is intended to prepare nurses to instruct other nurses in different settings, such as, health certified programs, health care establishments and organizations within the community. The Graduate Certificate provides the student with knowledge and skills to properly educate other nurses to promote programs for teaching, program improvement, assessment, clinical coaching and many more parts of the process. Students will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program.

Contact:

Jacksonville State University
700 Pelham Road North
Jacksonville, AL 36265-1602
(256) 782-5781

[wpgmza id=”33″]

Jefferson Davis Community College Nursing Program Review

Established in 1965 Jefferson Davis Community College (JDCC) is a comprehensive community college with campuses in Brewton and Atmore.

Nursing Programs

Jefferson Davis Community College started their Associate Degree Nursing (ADN-RN) classes during the 1970-71 season and in the subsequent years has trained over 1,200 nursing students to graduation.  Today it offers two tracks in which students can attain their ADN degrees and both programs have been approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and have been accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission.

The programs available through the Nursing and Allied Health Division at Jefferson Davis Community College are:

Standard Associate Degree

Jefferson Davis Community College provides this program for those candidates who wish to train to be a Registered Nursing but have no background in Nursing.  The program that has been designed so that upon successful completion graduates are able and ready to successfully operate as a professional Registered Nurse within the area of health care. Once completed the graduates are qualified to apply to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) NCLEX-RN exam, which, if passed enables the graduates to practice as registered nurses (RNs).

The curriculum for Jefferson Davis Community College Standard Associate Nurse Degree program includes the standard elements that are found country wide – English Composition I, Human Anatomy & Physiology II, Adult Nursing, Maternal & Child Nursing, General Psychology, General Microbiology, Nursing through the Lifespan I, II and III, Public Speaking, Human Growth and Development and Transition into Nursing Practice within the curriculum.

A portion of the knowledge gathered in this course is through clinical experience gained at various health care facilities through the county and these are invaluable and are assessed on teaching needs rather than geographical requirements so there may be some commuting involved.

Mobility LPN to Associate Degree

This four semester long course is designed for candidates who wish to progress their career to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).  Potential candidates must hold a valid unencumbered Alabama Practical Nursing License with accompanying proof of employment and be in possession of at least 500-clock hours working as a LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) in the 12 months leading up to admission.

There are also certain prerequisites courses that must have been passed by potential candidates before they can enroll in this program.  These include Higher Level Mathematical Applications, Anatomy and Physiology I and II and English Composition.

The first semester of this program is specifically designed to assess suitability of the candidate to embark on Nurse Mobility towards and ADN.  From the second Semester candidates will be exposed to a curriculum that includes Psychology, Microbiology, Nursing through the Lifespan I, II and III, Speech, Human Growth and Development, Humanities Elective and Role Transition for the Registered Nurse.

As with all Nursing Programs spaces are limited and all face  competition for enrolment.The Nursing Admissions Committee bases admissions by utilizing the same points system for both Standard and LPN Mobility tracks.  Points are accumulated through the TEAS V exam scores, completed general education credits whether college, high school or GED and attendance at JDCC. 

Contact:

Jefferson Davis Community College
P.O. Box 958 Brewton,
AL 36427
251-867-4832

[wpgmza id=”32″]

 

Jefferson State Community College Nursing Program Review

Known as one of Alabama’s top two year colleges, Jefferson State Community College (JSCC) has provided education and job preparation for the Birmingham area for more than 45 years. Jefferson State, also commonly referred to as “Jeff State”, was founded in 1965 and offers university transfer programs, 20 career programs, and multiple certificate programs.

A number of convenient locations provide the convenience for a busy style of living. With online instruction, locations include the Shelby-Hoover Campus in Shelby County, the Jefferson Campus, the St. Clair-Pell City Center and the Chilton-Clanton Center. Programs are offered anytime and over the internet online. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to grant associate degrees.

Pre Nursing Advising

Pre Nursing Advising offers advising sessions that will answer any and all questions. The pre nursing student will meet faculty, advisors, and current nursing students that can help with applying and to help you increase chances of being accepted. They can also give you facts about the whole process of the course.  The student will learn about all programs including full time, part time, night and weekend. This is partnership with St. Vincent’s and will start in the fall. For all students pursuing a degree in nursing, this meeting is a requirement. 

Jefferson State Community College Nursing Program Review

Jefferson State Community College offers students looking to achieve a degree or certificate in nursing three different curriculum choices. If the student already has their license as a Practical Nurse (LPN), the college offers a Career Mobility Program – LPN to ADN. For those wanting to go straight to the top of the two year college nursing opportunities, the college offers the traditional RN Associate Degree. The college also offers a Part-Time Associate Degree Nursing Program.  Programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta Georgia as well as being approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

ADN Registered Nurse – Night and Weekend Tract/St. Vincent Partnership

This program offers the courses of a traditional ADN degree in a night and weekend form for working, non-traditional students who want to obtain the necessary education to start their career in nursing. The program is a mix of on-line classes and in class education. It is offered as a partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital. Students should begin taking the classes required for admission to the nursing program before applying. These classes are required in order to complete the ADN Program as well.

LPN to RN Career Mobility Program

This program offered at Jefferson State Community College requires that the student complete a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in one of the Alabama Community College System institutions within two years of applying for this program. Those who have completed the program outside of this timeframe must complete the Nursing Career Mobility Assessment. In this program, students will learn and show expertise in the operations of professional nursing as well as attend clinical experiences. Applicants for this program must hold a current and valid Alabama Practical Nursing License. Applicants for this program also must provide proof of at least 500 hours of working experience as an LPN within the 12 months of applying. Upon completion of this program, graduates will hold an Associate Degree in Nursing and will be qualified to apply to sit for the national licensure examination.

Standard Associate Degree Nurse Program – RN

This standard program allows for students with no prior nursing experience or training to begin their journey to becoming a prominent member of this professional community. With the mixture of general instruction courses as well as nursing specific courses allow the student to achieve this degree in five semesters. This degree will allow the individual to go into the work force knowing the fundamentals of the nursing profession and detailed training in how to care for individuals in different life stages as well as from different cultures. After completing the program the graduate will be eligible to apply to write the national licensure examination.

LPN – Gainful Employment Disclosure

The on-time completion rate is 92.9 percent for this program. It takes three semesters to complete, although remedial and pre-requisite courses will extend program completion. The job placement rate is 85.7 percent for this program and is calculated by the number of graduates place in the field by the number of graduates.

Contact:

Jefferson State Community College
2601 Carson Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35215
(205) 853-1200
800-239-5900

[wpgmza id=”31″]

 

Lawson State Community College Nursing Program Review

At Lawson State Community College (LSCC) students are offered education of high quality. In an environment that is encouraging and demanding, this education was built on solid academic and career programs. There are a lot of majors to choose from in the academic, professional-technical and community programs.

At LSCC, programs have kept up to date of advancements in technology. Graduates are prepared to be learners and leaders to prepare for the changes of the global world. This college is a two year college that has multiple campuses, one campus at Bessemer and one in Birmingham. It also provides opportunities in learning to benefit students for employment or advancement in the jobs. LSCC offers Associate Degrees for ADN Program or the Mobility Program (LPN to ADN), certificates for Dental Assisting degrees and practical nursing. You can also attend LSCC for Short Certificates for Emergency Medical Technicians,  home health aide, nursing and dental assistance.

 Mission of the Nursing Program

This program is to train people in the talent of caring in a technology environment. Graduates would be working in the community as registered nurse (RN), License Practical Nurse (LPN), or Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA). There are several different factors that would be developed for a thriving practice. Students can also pursue high education.

Associate Degree and Practical Nursing program

General Education and Nursing courses make up these two programs.  A classroom environment is used to help the student use scientific ethics for nursing. Whereas, a clinical environment is used so the student can apply those ethics to meet different patients needs. A clinical environment is offered in several different settings and is guided by teachers. The student must complete five semesters and earn a C or better in clinical to move forward to the next nursing course. If the student does not meet the requirements to move forward they will fail the course, but can be considered for readmission depending on space and GPA, and is only permitted once for the entire nursing program. In the ADN Program there are two different admittance procedures.

First Admission Procedures in the Associate Degree Nursing

Students that do not have any prior nursing experiences will be admitted for the first admission procedure. This class will take place in the fall and summer. General Education courses and client care experience will be provided for the student.

Second Admission Procedure in the Associate Degree Nursing

Students with prior nursing experience will receive advanced placement options. This is for Licensed Practical Nurses with at least 14 hours general education courses from a college. The student is recognized for previous nursing skill, and is awarded with credit hours. This class is four semesters and is in the spring semester.

Graduates are to write to the National Council Licensure Examination board after completing all of the courses in the nursing program. There are two different boards to write to. National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurse’s (NCLES-RN). Then there is one for NCLEX for Practical Nurse’s (NCLEX-PN).

Contact:

Lawson State Community College
1100 Ninth Avenue SW
Bessemer, AL  35022
205.925.2515

[wpgmza id=”30″]

 

Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Nursing Program Review

The Lurleen B. Wallace Community College (LBWCC)  is a part of the Alabama Community College System serving the Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, and Geneva counties. This institution provides community programs such as sports, theatre, public golf courses as well as others. They pride themselves on educating individuals on how to be a creative and flexible addition to the workplace and offer courses in personal enrichment in addition to professional advancement.

Lurleen Wallace Community College Nursing Program Review

The Lurleen Wallace Community College offers a Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate program and an Associate Degree Nursing (RN) Mobility Program.  These programs offer an entry level education into the nursing field. Lurleen Wallace Community College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Completion of these programs does not guarantee graduates the right to take the national licensing exam, but does make them eligible to apply to take the exam. With knowledgeable and qualified instructors that add a level of experience to the instruction they provide, the program has received favorable feedback from graduates of their nursing programs. 

Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate Program

This program has a proven track record with outstanding state board grades, has exceptional lab facilities, and has received positive comments from employers who have hired graduates from this institution. After completion of this program, graduates may be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Graduates of this program, after being accepted and passing the national licensure exam are eligible to work in a variety of medical institutions including hospitals, private duty opportunities, doctor’s offices, public school systems, home health agencies, and many more. Students are required to complete clinical experiences in local medical facilities in order to complete the program. Four semesters of full time study are required in order to obtain this certificate.  Applicants to this program should have a passion for helping the general public in a health care setting and promoting excellent care across a variety of cultures.

Associate Degree Nursing – RN – Mobility Program

In order to apply for admission to this program, applicants must have a valid license in Practical Nursing. Two different tracks are available for this program. Track one is designed for students who have completed a standardized curriculum in nursing more than two years prior to applying for the program. This track includes 72 total credit hours in order for completion. Track two is designed for students who have completed the standardized curriculum within the preceding two years of applying.  This track includes 37 total credit hours beyond the hours already earned in the Licensed Practical Nursing Program. Clinical experiences are conducted in local hospitals as well as other medical settings.  Upon completion of this program, the graduate is eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN. After successful completion of the program and passing the licensing exam, employment opportunities in many different settings become available to the student. Students that complete this program can also go on to further their education at a four year institution.

Contact:

Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
1000 Dannelly Blvd.
PO Box 1418
Andalusia, AL 36420
(334) 222-6591

[wpgmza id=”29″]

 

Northeast Alabama Community College Nursing Program Review

Northeast Alabama Community College’s educational programs include technical and career as well as academic programs. It is a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges, and the Alabama Community College Association. This college boasts having education at freshman and sophomore levels to prepare students to continue their education as well as transfer programs and career and technical programs that are easily accessible and affordable to their students.

Northeast Alabama Community College Nursing Program Review

Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) offers several different ways for students to obtain their degree in nursing at several different levels. They offer a certificate program in Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), a training program in Nursing Assistant, an Associate in Applied Science Degree Mobility – LPN to Associate Degree Nurse, and an Associate in Applied Science Degree (ADN). The Associate Degree and Practical Nursing Programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta Georgia.

Nursing Assistant Training Program

The training program offered by this institution in Nursing Assisting is a program that provides students with the ability to enter the health care profession at an entry level position. This type of program doesn’t count toward any type of college credit or toward any degree.

Certificate in Nursing – Practical Nurse (LPN)

This program is designed to allow the student to obtain a certificate in Practical Nursing in order to be eligible to apply to sit for the national licensure examination. Completing this program does not guarantee the graduate the ability to take the licensure examination. After completing this program and successfully completing the licensure exam, graduates can enter the workforce in several different medical settings, including hospitals, home care agencies, hospice, doctor’s offices, and clinics. Students must qualify for admission to the college to be eligible to apply for this program.

Associate in Applied Science Degree Mobility – LPN to ADN

This type of degree is designed for students that already have their Licensed Practical Nursing degree and are looking to obtain their Associate Degree in Nursing.  In order to qualify for this course, students must have a valid license to practice practical nursing and apply for admission to the college. After successful completion of this program, graduates are eligible to apply to sit for the national licensure exam; however they must qualify to take the exam through set standards.

Associate in Applied Science Degree Nursing Program – ADN

This program is designed for the traditional entrance into a nursing career. Each student must successfully complete the courses in the program as well the clinical and laboratory experiences required. After the student has successfully completed the program, they are then eligible to apply to sit for the national licensing exam for RNs. After passing this exam, the student can apply to a variety of different medical institutions in order to obtain employment or go on to continue their education at a four year institution.

Contact:

Northeast Alabama Community College
PO Box 159
Rainsville, Alabama 35986
(256) 228-6001

[wpgmza id=”28″]

 

Northwest-Shoals Community College Nursing Program Review

Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) is located in Northwest Alabama and includes several different campuses in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, and Lawrence counties, and the west part of Winston county. This college is a result of a merger between Northwest Alabama and Shoals Community College in 1993. Northwest-Shoals Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and schools in order to give out Associate Degrees and Certificates.

Northwest-Shoals Community College Nursing Program Review

Northwest-Shoals Community College offers four different programs of study in nursing. A certificate program in Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN),a certificate program for Nursing Assistant, a Pre-Nursing (BSN) Associate in Science Degree, and a Registered Nursing Associate in Applied Science Degree (ADN) are available for students to apply. These programs are designed to allow the student to go straight into the workforce as a nursing professional or to continue their education at a four year institution.

Licensed Practical Nurse Training – Career Certificate

In this program, students will learn to become knowledgeable and efficient in the field of nursing by learning the most current methods, terms, and practices in the workforce. Topics taught under this program instruct the student how to maintain safe and ethical procedures while working in a medical establishment. LPNs operate under the supervision of RNs and other medical professionals while working. After successful completion of this program students are then eligible to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-PN) in order to obtain their license and start to work as a LPN. A multitude of opportunities open up for students who complete this program such as working in nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, and many other medical facilities.

Pre-Nursing (BSN) Associate in Science Degree

This program is geared toward students who want to go on to further their education in the field of nursing at a four year institution to obtain their Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. Students who are entering this program should check with the four year institution of their choosing to ensure that the courses taken are transferable. Completion of this program gives the student 60-64 total semester hours for transfer.

Registered Nursing Associate in Applied Science Degree (ADN)

This is a traditional program offered by NWSCC for a student to obtain their Associate in Applied Science Degree (ADN) in order to become a Registered Nurse. Students who complete this program will be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to go into the nursing industry as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Board of Nursing must approve the student before he/she can sit for the exam, so completion of the program does not assure that they will be able to take the exam. This program prepares individuals to enter into a variety of different medical setting with the knowledge needed to become a productive member of the nursing profession. Registered Nurses are accepted in most all medical facilities, so employment opportunities are promising for those who complete the program and pass the examination.

Nursing Assistant – Certificate

The Nursing Assistant Program offered by this college includes 80 hours of instruction. This program requires that the student be at least 18 years of age to sit for the State Nurse’s Aide Certification Exam. The program will educate the student on the basic health practices they will be carrying out after successful completion of the certification test. Employment opportunities for graduates are generally in nursing homes or home health settings.    

Contact:

Northwest-Shoals Community College
2080 College Road
Phil Campbell, Alabama 35581
(256) 331-6200

[wpgmza id=”27″]

Oakwood University Nursing Program Review

Oakwood University (previously known as Oakwood College) was originally founded in 1896 as an African-American educator in the South by the Seventh-day Adventist Church under the name Oakwood Industrial School. In 1904 the name changed to Oakwood Manual Training School, then again in 1917 to Oakwood Junior College, and then to Oakwood College in 1943. In 2008, Oakwood College became Oakwood University. The campus sits in north central Alabama in the city of Huntsville and is a Christian organization. Having been created to serve African Americans acentury ago, it thus belongs to what are considered HBCU (Historically black colleges and universities).

Oakwood University Nursing Program Review

The Department of Nursing at Oakwood University provides a unique view into the meeting of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of the patients that nurses meet on a daily basis. They offer three different programs to prospective students: Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) Program, Four Year Bachelor of Science Nursing Program, and a Five Year Bachelor of Science Nursing Program. These undergraduate nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and have the approval of the Alabama Board of Nursing.

RN to BSN Program

For prospective students with an existing and valid license to practice as a registered nurse in the state of Alabama may apply to this program. They must have completed an associate degree program in nursing or have equivalent credit. After successful completion of this program the student will have the ability to promote their career to a higher paying job and to further their education to a master’s or doctoral degree. Taking the already current RN degree to the next level of a BSN degree offers the opportunity to apply for higher salary jobs as well as jobs with more responsibilities. 

Four Year BSN Program

The four year BSN Program offered at Oakwood University is open to students who have been accepted by the college and meet the other requirements set by the Department of Nursing. This program mixes courses of general education with courses of nursing specific education. Students who complete this program are eligible to take the licensure exam to go obtain their license to work as an RN BSN. By taking the four year program, the student is eligible to go on to get a masters degree and then to get their doctorate if they choose to do so. Obtaining a four year degree in nursing can result in faster pay increases as well as more job opportunities within the health care field. The four year BSN Program is faster pace program than the five year BSN.

Five Year BSN Program

The five year BSN Program is available to students who have been granted admission to Oakwood University and meet the other specific requirements of the Department of Nursing. This program is designed to be slower paced than the four year BSN Program. This program works to prepare students to take the licensure exam to become able to work as an RN BSN. After completion of this program, graduates may choose to forego the workforce and continue their education to obtain a master’s or doctorate.

Contact:

Oakwood University
7000 Adventist Blvd NW
Huntsville, AL 35896
800-824-5312
(256) 726-7000

[wpgmza id=”26″]

 

Samford University Nursing School Review

Samford University is a Christian University located just outside of Birmingham Alabama. It was originally named Howard College in 1841 when it was first established in Marion Alabama. It is a private university that has a historic relationship with the Alabama Baptist Church. Samford is the largest private university in the state of Alabama.

Samford University Nursing Program Review

The nursing programs at Samford University operate under the name of Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing. The Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing was moved onto Samford University’s facilities in 1988. This university offers four different programs of study in the nursing field covering undergraduate and graduate studies. Students can choose to go to Samford University to study for their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs, Parish Nursing, or the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs

The school of nursing at Samford University offers prospective students several different options under the Bachelor of Science (BSN) Nursing Programs. Students can choose to take a traditional set of BSN courses that is designed for the first year college student who does not have a preceding bachelor degree. Another option is for the student to enroll in the five semester Second Degree BSN program. This program is designed for students who have a bachelor degree in another study besides nursing. The other option for prospective students is to take the fifteen month Accelerated Second Degree BSN program, which is also for those who hold a Bachelor degree in another field.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Several different programs are offered to future students under the MSN Program. Students can choose to take the track for Family Nurse Practitioner, which prepares them to take the position in a primary care situation when they successfully complete the national exams for certification. Students may also choose the track of Nurse Anesthesia. This program is designed to spend the 28 month period the program lasts to prepare students to write the national certification exam for nurse anesthesia. Another track students may choose to take is the Nurse Management Program that invites students to participate in creating plans of study for other managers. Yet another program students can choose under the MSN program is the RN to MSN program that allows experienced RNs to go earn a master’s degree within one program in about two years.

Parish Nursing

Under this program, students can choose a special kind of practicing in their nursing career. Parish Nursing allows RNs to go out into the field and work as a mission oriented nurse that helps integrate faith and health, educate the public on health care issues, become a personal analyst for health, an representative that refers patients to where they need to go, a manager who organizes volunteers, support group designer, or a health campaigner. These different positions allow the student to go out and make a difference in the world with their degree while gaining experience and completing the curriculum designed by the International Parish Nurse Resource Center.  

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs

This degree is offered to students as a one year, full time course of study, or a two year, part time, course of study. This program allows for the development of MSN graduates to move into greater leadership positions. Two different tracks are offered under this program. Administration track is available to teach students to improve patient care as well as carry out programs and establish organizations in the health care field. The second track students can choose is the Advanced Practice track. This prepares nurses to operate at the most advanced level of nursing.  

Contact:
Samford University
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, Alabama 35229
(205) 726-2011

[wpgmza id=”25″]

 

Shelton State Community College Nursing Program Review

Shelton State Community College was created as a result of the combination of Shelton State Technical College and the Tuscaloosa branch of Brewer State Junior College. It was merged with C.A. Fredd State Technical College in 1994. This two year college provides a wide range of areas of study for prospective students to choose where to start their education and get out into the workforce or continue their education afterward.

Shelton State Community College Nursing Program Review

Shelton State Community College offers two different two different pathways for students to choose from: Associate Degree Nursing/Practical Nursing or Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide. Under the ADN/PN program, students can choose to take the generic track to a twenty-one month ADN degree, the mobility track to get from an LPN to RN, or the 12 month PN track.

 Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)/Practical Nursing (PN) Program

Tracks under this program are approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. There are three tracks available to students wanting to go into nursing at Shelton State Community College.

  1. Students wanting to obtain their degree in Practical Nursing (PN) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can enter into the 12 month course that will lead to the student being educated on entry level nursing practices and will prepare them to sit for the NCLEX-PN to obtain their license.
  2. Students who already have a valid PN License can enter into the Mobility Track. The Mobility Track requires that the student has a background education in nursing specific courses as well as pre-requisite general education courses. After finishing the Mobility Track, students will be qualified to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination in order to go to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) or continue their education.
  3. Students coming into college wanting an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can take the ADN track. This is five consecutive semesters of full time study that will prepare the student to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam to go to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) or continue their education.

Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide

The Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide program at Shelton State Community College includes 24 credit hours of course work which prepares the prospective student to sit for the National Nurse Aide Certification Examination. Upon completion of the program and a good score on the exam, the student will be put on the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry. When the student successfully completes the second semester of courses, the will then be considered qualified to be employed in the Home Health Aide field. Students who choose to go into Nursing Assisting and Home Health Aide will be required to complete classroom instruction as well as lab and clinical experiences. The examination required to be employed as a Home Health Aide contains two different sections of written assessment and skills evaluation.in order to be certified, both parts of the test must be passed.  

Contact:

Shelton State Community College
9500 Old Greensboro Road
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405-8522
(205) 391-2211

[wpgmza id=”24″]

 

Southern Union State Community College Nursing Program Review

Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) is a public college that offers two year degrees. Located in the eastern part of central Alabama, this college provides career certificates, technical training, and academic programs that allow students to begin their careers with the knowledge and ability to go out with the training required to make them a crucial part of the charismatic, versatile, and educated individuals making up the professionals in the workforce today.

Southern Union State Community College was established in 1993. The college was the creation of the joining of Southern Union Junior College and Opelika State Technical College.

Southern Union State Community College Nursing Program Review

Southern Union State Community College offers five different programs to future students. The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN/RN) allows students to prepare for taking the NCLEX-RN and enter the nursing profession as an RN pending acceptance and passing of the licensing test. The Practical Nursing (LPN) program offers mid-level entry into the nursing field as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) after successful acceptance and passing of the NCLEX-PN. The Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aid program is designed for students seeking an entry level position to nursing. Paramedic to RN Mobility program offers the education of paramedics to prepare them for taking the NCLEX-RN in order to enter the nursing field as a Registered Nurse (RN). LPN to RN Mobility program is for students holding a current and valid license to practice practical nursing in order to gain the knowledge needed to apply to take the NCLEX-RN and advance their career to work as a Registered Nurse.

Associate Degree Nursing (RN)

The Associate Degree Nursing Program is conducted at the Opelika Campus. The program has been accredited but the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. This program can be completed in two years or five semesters. This program includes in-class instruction as well as clinical practices outside of the classroom. Each student who successfully passes this program is then eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Exam to gain the title of Registered Nurse. This program is designed to prepare students for the test as well as to prepare them to enter the workforce as a RN with the necessary abilities to be a productive and vital member of the profession.

Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN)

The Practical Nursing Program is conducted at the Wadley Campus and takes approximately one year or three semesters to complete. The program is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. Students who apply to this program and are accepted are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-PN and are awarded a certificate of completion. Students will gain the knowledge and experience required in classroom settings as well as clinical settings to enter the field of nursing as a LPN. In the position of LPN, students will be overseen by RNs and other medical professionals.

Nursing Assistant (CNA) / Home Health Aide

Under this program, students will learn the basic skills of entry level nursing. This program takes approximately one to two semesters to complete. After completion, the students will then be able to sit for the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program. This certification is required to gain employment as a CNA. Traditional classroom instruction along with clinical experiences is completed by the student to ensure that they have the knowledge to become a productive member of the team of nurses.

Paramedic to RN Mobility

This program, offered at the Opelika Campus allows Paramedics with at least twelve months of on the job experience in the past twenty months to gain the required education to be able to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN to enter back into medical settings with the title of Registered Nurse (RN). This program takes about one year or three semesters to complete. It is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

LPN to RN Mobility

Students who are interested in this course must have completed the standard curriculum set in place for the entire state of Alabama for Practical Nursing with in the previous two years. This program takes is conducted from the Opelika Campus. It takes approximately one and a half years to complete. Graduates will be considered eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN after completion of this program. This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing to educate students on how to become a responsible, ethical, knowledgeable member of the nursing profession as a Registered Nurse.

Contact:

Southern Union State Community College
750 Roberts Street
Wadley, AL 36276
(256) 395-2211

[wpgmza id=”23″]

 

Spring Hill College Nursing Program Review

Spring Hill College (SHC) is a private Catholic college located in Mobile, Alabama. This school is dedicated to bringing their students the most individualized learning experience possible. The faculty member to student ratio is thirteen to one. This college was established in 1830 as a boarding school where students could enter at age nine. This type of learning went on until 1935 when it became a college.

Spring Hill College Nursing Program Review

Spring Hill College provides prospective students with some of the top choices for entering the professional field of nursing in many health care settings with the know-how and skills training to begin their career. This college offers different options for future students looking to enroll in the nursing programs. Spring Hill College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader (MSN CNL), and a Continuing Studies Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional Program

In the traditional program for students to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), classes are held on campus during normal hours. Students learn the clinical techniques guided by professors, nurses, and other medical professionals, as well as learning academically in the classroom. These courses are designed to allow the student to become a meticulous, compassionate member of the nursing profession and teach the skills necessary to think quickly on their feet in emergency situations. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. Courses are laid out into two different divisions, lower and upper. The lower level courses provide the student with basic nursing knowledge in order to set the stage for the upper division courses. The upper division courses delve into the world of professional nursing knowledge.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) – MSN-CNL

This program is conducted online and is only available to students who have a current license to practice as an RN in the state in which they are practicing, have at least one year of practice in a clinical setting, have admittance to a facility in the health care division for research or be working in a clinical setting, and meet the admissions requirements for the college’s admission process. Completion of this program can lead to the student obtaining a Post Master’s Certificate – Clinical. Students will learn to become a productive leader in the world of clinical nursing and have the opportunity to move up in rank in the nursing profession.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Continuing Studies

This non-traditional program is designed to accommodate working adults who want to receive this degree but need flexible hours in which to take the classes. These classes are held during evenings and on weekends with online classes offered as well through this program. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

Contact:

Spring Hill College
4000 Dauphin St.
Mobile, Alabama 36608
(251) 380-4000
800-742-6704

[wpgmza id=”22″]

 

Troy University Nursing School Review

Troy University has over 60 teaching locations around the world. In Alabama, there are four campuses available for students: the Troy Campus, Montgomery Campus, Phenix City Campus, and the Dothan Campus. Troy University prides itself on giving students an individualized education with the convenience of online opportunities as well as in class instruction.

Troy University Nursing Program Review

Troy University offers an array of degree options for future students in the division of nursing. The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is offered to students as a 70 hour course of study that allows the student to gain the understanding and skills required to take the licensing exam to start their career as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree also allows the student to gain the skills and information to take the licensing exam to start their career as a RN, but with a higher level of education, which can lead to more job openings in the future and put the student on the track to continuing their education. Troy University also offers a graduate program for those students who have graduated from a baccalaureate program in nursing to obtain their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. There is also a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree offered to future students who have a BSN or MSN degree acquired from a nationally accredited institution. Students who are current holders of a license to practice as a RN may choose to take the RN to BSN/MSN Track. The BSN, MSN, and DNP Programs have National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC)   Accreditation.

Associate of Science in Nursing – ASN

This program is offered at the Montgomery Campus for students who are interested in the 70 hour program to help them obtain the title of Registered Nurse (RN). This program uses facilities for clinical experience within a 50 mile area of the campus and requires that students provide their own transportation to and from the scheduled clinical activities. After completion of this program, graduates will be awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing degree. Students may then be eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN to gain the title of Registered Nurse (RN). This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approve through the Alabama Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – BSN

In this program students will learn to be a productive and knowledgeable member of the nursing community while achieving the title of RN after successful completion of the NCLEX-RN. This program is conducted at the Troy Campus and is generally completed in four and a half years. The BSN program at Troy University prepares students to take an active role in the nursing community and work in a variety of different health care settings.

Master of Science in Nursing – MSN

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is an online program that is based out of the Montgomery, Troy, and Phenix City campuses. Three different avenues are available under this degree: Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Informatics, and Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is offered in both part time and full time enrollment options. Students enrolling in this program must hold a BSN and have a valid license to practice as an RN in the state in which the clinical work will be completed.

Doctor of Nursing Practice – DNP

This program is offered to students seeking the highest level of nursing training in order to provide the highest level of nursing care. This program is available online and upon completion, the graduate will be able to help develop the nursing community to better serve and treat the public and become a leader in the field in order to incorporate technology into the nursing field to provide the patients with the most current techniques available. Students must hold a BSN or MSN degree to be admitted into this program.

RN to BSN/MSN Track

This program is offered as an online course of study and is available on the Montgomery, Phenix City, Troy, and Dothan campuses. The program offers the most flexible clinical schedules for students by allowing the student to personalize the schedule around other obligations. Upon completion of this program, students will have more opportunity for advancement and will also be prepared to continue their education to a higher degree.

Contact:

Troy University
475 University Avenue
Troy, AL 36082
800-551-9716

[wpgmza id=”21″]

 

Tuskegee University Nursing School Review

Tuskegee University is situated in Tuskegee, Alabama. This college stresses the importance of education to career mobility. It was established in 1881 with Dr. Booker T. Washington as the first teacher. The school was promoted to University status in 1985 and began growing its programs to include doctoral programs in a variety of areas since then. Several different colleges of different studies quickly developed under the University’s name after that to allow for a greater diversity of students to be enrolled.

Tuskegee University Nursing Program Review

The nursing program at Tuskegee University (TU) operates under the School of Nursing & Allied Health. The School includes opportunities for students to study to achieve one of the following degrees: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy to become an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR), or Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Each of these programs of study stand accredited by the appropriate national accrediting agency.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – BSN

This program blends general education courses in with nursing specific courses to ensure that the student comes out of the program having a well rounded education. Students who have achieved an 80% or above on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), may enter this program in what is referred to as the Upper Division or the Professional Phase. Students who have not achieved this score will be required to begin at the Pre-Professional Phase.  This program has been approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program offered by Tuskegee University prepares students to enter the nursing profession with the ability to be a dynamic addition with the necessary training to be flexible in the field and keep up with the ever evolving technology and techniques.

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy – Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR)

This program is designed to prepare graduates to write for the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Students must go out in the workforce and complete six months of full time practice within 2 years of graduating from the program in order to be eligible to apply to write the exam. Only after successful achievement of these two steps will the graduate obtain the title of Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). This program generally takes a total of five years to complete. The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), which is a part of the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

This program is designed to prepare students to carry out difficult analysis in a health care setting as well as assist in patient care and relations between the medical facility’s medical staff and the patients. Students who choose to start this program will learn how to be meticulous in the studies leading to preventing diseases as well as treating diseases and everything in between.  This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Graduates of the program are able to sit for the certification exam that is executed by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (Board of Registry).

Contact:
Tuskegee University
1200 W. Montgomery Rd.
Tuskegee Inst, AL 36088
(334) 727-8500
800-622-6531

[wpgmza id=”20″]

 

University of Alabama Nursing School Review

University of Alabama is a public university and a doctoral level establishment. First named The University of the State of Alabama, this institution was formed originally as a seminary of learning in 1820. It wasn’t until 1827 that the campus was moved to Tuscaloosa. The University of Alabama (UA) prides itself on offering state of the art technology and employing the most qualified, exceptional staff to help enhance the education of its students.

University of Alabama Nursing Program Review

University of Alabama’s nursing programs are run under The Capstone College of Nursing division. There are several different programs that this sub-college offers for the students who are interested in obtaining education in the field of nursing. The students can start with an undergraduate degree and work their way up, or can achieve the undergraduate degree to begin working immediately in the professional, dynamic world of nursing upon successful licensing. However the student decides to go about obtaining their education through this university, the can be certain that however far they are wanting to take their education, this school offers programs to the highest possible level of the nursing profession.

Undergraduate Program – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Whether the student is just starting their educational journey(freshman students), has been training and gaining knowledge at another institution (transfer students), or already has one degree but looking to obtain a second degree (second degree students), the undergraduate program at University of Alabama has the background to met your career goals.. Programs are available under the BSN degree option for all three types of students. No matter which pathway fits the needs of the particular student, they all lead to graduating with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing and can help the student achieve better paying jobs, or promote a greater job market for the student to have the ability to access.

RN Options – RN to BSN Track or RN to BSN/MSN Track

Students who have already obtained the title of Registered Nurse (RN) can look into two different tracks to take in furthering their education. These programs are both designed around the working nurse. The RN to BSN Track can be completed in as few as three semesters if the student chooses to attend full time, however they do offer part time program in order to increase the flexibility for the student. The RN to BSN/MSN option is a faster speed program for those students who are looking to take their education to a higher level. This option allows for a RN to achieve two degrees in one program of study. The RN to BSN/MSN generally takes six semesters of study to complete.

Graduate Program – Case Management/Leadership

In this program, students can achieve their Master of Science in Nursing degree in as little as one year if the student attends full time. Part time students can achieve this degree in two years or over.  It is a collective program that offers students the ability to organize and run programs in order to help facilities become more cost effective and use what resources they already have to better serve their community and the individuals and families that share the community with them.

Graduate Program – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This program is designed to give students with extremely detail oriented personalities the ability and know-how to use that particular part of their personality to make the health care system in which they work run better and more efficiently. Graduates who go on to become employed in a position with this degree will more than likely be responsible for the observations of what works and what does not, and how the facility can be better run. Assessing data collected as well as putting findings into action to improve the facilities are generally the fundamental responsibility for graduates in the work force.

Graduate Program – Dual Degree MSN/MA in Management

This program is designed for those students seeking a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree as well as a Master of Arts (MA) in Management. Both of the programs of study can be taken online. This program option will prepare current RNs to take leadership roles in overseeing cases in nursing settings as well as general health care settings.

Graduate Program – Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This degree option allows the student to take their nursing career to the highest possible level. This doctoral degree provides the opportunity for better paying jobs and also roles in highly important leadership positions. Graduates of this program are responsible for providing care to individuals and families as well as making the health care facility a better and more effective place. Graduates of this program may also find employment setting up health care education plans for the communities in which they work.

Graduate Program – MSN/EdD or EdD for Nurse Educators

This program offers nurses the opportunity to teach future nurses on the practices and daily functions in the nursing work force. This program is designed to lead students through the process of obtaining their MSN and then going on to Doctorate of Education (EdD) for Nurse Educators. Students also have another option under this program to go straight to the EdD for Nurse Educators. Students applying to this program should have a strong desire to teach future nurses how to become productive members of the nursing community.

Contact:
University of Alabama
300 Bryant Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
(205) 348-2772

[wpgmza id=”19″]

 

University of Alabama Nursing School Review

The start of this institution came from a two-story home that was located in Birmingham, Alabama. Start-up money for this extension of the University of Alabama came from federal money in the 1930s. With the campus still located in Birmingham, the school offers a unique blend of social, cultural, as well as academic assets along with many others. This school has gained a reputation for being one of the top research facilities.

University of Alabama – Birmingham Nursing Program Review

The University of Alabama – Birmingham (UAB) offers a wide range of programs for all types of students. Whether they are striving to obtain their entry-level Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or are ready to obtain their Ph.D., this institution covers all the bases and everything in between. With six different degree options as well as non-degree options, students can start building a career in the nursing field and keep building on it for years to come without ever leaving the Birmingham campus.

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This program is designed for students who are just coming to the University of Alabama in Birmingham from high school or transferring from another institution. Traditional students wishing to be admitted into this program must complete the pre-nursing curriculum in order to apply to the School of Nursing. Transfer students should have taken pre-nursing courses as well as the mandatory general education classes at the institution they are transferring from before they can apply to the School of Nursing. Transfer students must also be admitted to UAB before apply. If the student is looking to enter the program through the Second Degree track, they must have a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in a field of study other than nursing that took 120 credit hours to complete before being admitted.

RN to BSN Mobility

This program is offered to students who already have a valid license to practice nursing as an RN, but would like to take their education and career to the next level. Students applying for admission to this program must have a hospital diploma or an ADN. This program is officially called the RN Educational Mobility Program (RNEMP). With this program, the student has the ability to open up more career opportunities as well as opportunities to take on jobs with greater responsibility.

AMNP – Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Pathway

This program is designated for students who have achieved a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing nor work in the nursing field as a registered nurse. The program is set up in two parts. The students will first complete the curriculum in order to be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. After they have completed this curriculum and passed the licensing exam, students are then eligible to begin working as an RN while completing the required courses for their MSN degree. The master’s phase of this program can be completed in four semesters through online courses and clinical experiences. After completing this part of the program, students may take the board certification exam in order to use the MSN-qualified title.

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

Under the Masters of Science in Nursing program, students receive training in advanced nursing techniques in order to open up new career opportunities in the nursing field and/or enter into doctoral studies. The options under this program are numerous. Students can choose from the following tracks under this program: Advanced Specialty Practice Tracks, Advanced Nursing Roles Specialty Tracks, Advanced Generalist Track, and Post-Baccalaureate or Post-MSN Certificates (generally leading to certification rather than an MSN degree).

DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice

This program offers three different areas within the program to assist students in studying advanced clinical specialty practice, leadership, and practice inquiry. Students then use the information learned in studying these topics to obtain a leadership position to help advance the medical facilities in which they become employed and set regulations and practices that will improve patient care.

Ph.D. – Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

This program is primarily for students interested in studying the research aspect of the nursing profession to help improve nursing standards. Graduates of this program will work with other professionals to conduct research into how to best assist patients in providing health care and health care education. This program is open to those individuals who have obtained a master’s degree and also has an option for those students who have graduated with a baccalaureate degree to begin straight into this program without first getting their master’s.

Non-Degree Options

Along with their many degree options, this institution also offers several non-degree programs in which the student can obtain certification in a certain area without credit to a degree. Students can choose from Post MSN Nurse Practitioner Option, Teacher in Nursing Certificate, Clinical Research Management Option, and Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) Post-Baccalaureate.

Contact:

University of Alabama – Birmingham
1530 3rd Avenue South
Birmingham, Alabama 35294
(205)934-4011

University of Alabama in Huntsville Nursing School Review

Located in southern region of the Appalachian Mountain range, this university offers a wide range of majors as well as being a part of a community that is rich with technology. This institution has been an independent campus within the structure of the University of Alabama community since 1969. Over 90% of the faculty members employed by the university have terminal degrees in their respective fields of study.  University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) has a diverse student body that leads to great networks of professionals for years to come.

University of Alabama – Huntsville Nursing Program Review

Along with the highly qualified staff that the University of Alabama in Huntsville School of Nursing employs, they also provide excellent training in the most current technologies. Under the school’s programs, students have the abilities to maximize the flexibility of their class schedules by using the online courses offered. Students of all education levels are welcomed with degrees offered in Undergraduate as well as Graduate Programs.

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

In this course of study, students will be instructed in the lower level, general education portion of the program in order to prepare them for the upper level, nursing specific portion. This program not only teaches students the techniques involved with starting their career in the nursing industry, but also teaches the ethical and behavioral aspects of the career. This program can be completed in a total of 129 credit hours. After completion of the program students are then able to apply to take the licensure exam to obtain employment as a Registered Nurse (RN).

RN to BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This program is set up to accommodate students who hold an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) and are interested in pursuing their Bachelor degree in order to open more doors in their career or to continue their education to a higher level of specified nursing practices. Students accepted into this program will be admitted to the second phase of the Bachelor program offered for students without a prior license.

RN to MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

This program is designed for those students who are seeking to go from an Associate degree straight into a Master’s degree program while obtaining their Bachelor degree within the programs curriculum. Under this program, students can choose from several different topics of study including, Family Nurse Practitioner, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Nurse Leader, and Leadership in Health Care Systems. This program generally takes two and a half years to complete, with the first year of study being aimed at achieving Bachelor degree status.

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing program at University of Alabama in Huntsville allows students to choose from different tracks to obtain the specific training in advanced nursing. There are five tracks available under this program: Family Nurse Practitioner, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Clinical Nursing Specialist, Leadership in Health Care Systems, and Clinical Nurse Leader. Upon completion of the student’s selected program, they are then able to apply to write the national exam for the area in which they graduated.

DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice

This 34 hour program is designed for students wishing to obtain employment in a clinical faculty setting. This program has an option to be completed through full time study or part time study. The student will be trained on the ways to carry out leadership roles in a health care facility and to work with other professional in order to promote excellence in patient care and work on the ways that patient care can be improved by looking at data and analyzing what regulations work best for the facility.

Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

This program is available to those students who have already gained their master’s degree in nursing. The certificate program can be completed in a total of 27 hours of in class instruction and 588 hours of clinical work. Students must complete some prerequisite courses in order to be eligible to gain entry to this program.

Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education Program

Students that have a master’s degree or are taking graduate education courses can apply to achieve this certificate. This program, which takes 15 in class instruction hours to complete, will prepare the student to educate future nurses on the practices and procedures in the nursing field.

Contact:

University of Alabama – Huntsville
301 Sparkman Drive
Huntsville, AL 35899
(256) 824-1000
800-824-2255

[wpgmza id=”17″]

 

University of Mobile Nursing School Review

University of Mobile (UM) is a private Christian institution that is associated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. This University began in 1961 under the name Mobile College. In 1993 it achieved University status, thus resulting in the name change to University of Mobile. Today, the institution is still holding true to its founding traditions of interlinking spiritual development and education through academic programs.

University of Mobile Nursing Program Review

The University of Mobile’s School of Nursing encourages students to treat patients with compassion and knowledge that includes caring for them on a spiritual and emotional level as well as caring for their physical needs. The programs available also teach future nurses how to deal with the stress of life and death scenarios that they will encounter on a daily basis. With a team of highly qualified professional instructors, students will obtain an all inclusive nursing education.

ADN – Associate Degree in Nursing

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at University of Mobile can be completed in a total of 70 semester hours or 5 semesters. During the student’s journey through this program, they will learn the basic skills necessary to become a critical thinker in the nursing field and the ethical and legal matters involved with being a professional in the nursing industry. After students successfully complete this program, they are then considered to be eligible to apply to write for the national exam for licensure to begin their career as a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduates of this program can apply for employment in a variety of different health care facilities including hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, as well as many others. Several prerequisites are required for admission to this program and students should check with a nursing advisor to ensure all requirements have been completed before applying.

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Students may opt to enter the eight semester, four year program to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This program is designed to prepare students to enter the world of professional nursing as well as continue their education. By obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, the student has the opportunity to apply for jobs with more responsibility and will allow for them to take a leadership role in the health care facility in which they become employed. After the student has completed this program, they are then eligible to apply to take the national exam for licensure to begin their professional career as a Registered Nurse (RN).

RN to BSN Program for Career Nurses

This program is set up for adult or non-traditional students who are already working in the field of nursing. Applicants must have finished the curriculum for a basic level nursing program within three years of a applying or have been working in the nursing industry for three of the past five years at the time of application. This program can be completed in approximately three semesters. Successful completion of this program makes the student eligible to take the certification exam in order to use the BSN in their professional title.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nursing Education/Administration

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offered at the University of Mobile is designed for the working nurse who would like to take their education to the next level. This MSN program has a major of Nursing Education/Administration. The major is centered around teaching nurses who would like to obtain knowledge on how to become a teacher and administrator. Students will be taught on the principals of educating future nurses and how to effectively carry out plans and help facilities to provide caring, cost effective services to patients. 

Contact:

University of Mobile
5735 College Parkway
Mobile, AL 36613
(251) 679-9293

[wpgmza id=”16″]

 

University of North Alabama Nursing School Review

The University of North Alabama (UNA) is nestled in the northwestern corner of the state and has been in service to students since 1830 when it was opened under the name of LaGrange College. Over 70 percent of the instructors at this institution hold doctorate degrees in their respective fields. University of North Alabama presents over 60 undergraduate courses of study to prospective students as well as graduate courses in seven.

University of North Alabama Nursing Program Review

The College of Nursing & Allied Health that operates under the University of North Alabama offers several different programs both in class and through online studies. These programs of study are designed to be student oriented and provide each student with a program of study that will fit into their lifestyle as well as create more opportunities for them to advance in the field of nursing no matter what their current education level is at the time of application.

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional)

This traditional program is designed for students who are just starting their educational journey in the nursing division. This program schedules 128 semester hours that include basic education fused with nursing specific education. This program generally takes four years to complete. Graduates of this program are considered eligible to take the national exam for licensure. Passing of this exam grants these students the opportunity to apply for employment as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of different health care facilities.

Accelerated Alternative – BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Students who have graduated from another accredited institution, or have completed the necessary courses to attain a Bachelor degree in a study other than nursing may be eligible to apply for the accelerated alternative option provided at the University of North Alabama College of Nursing & Allied Health. This program lasts approximately 15 months and applicants must have completed the same requirements as is necessary to enter the traditional BSN program. Students who complete the program successfully are eligible to apply to take the national licensure exam to obtain the title of Registered Nurse (RN).

RN to BSN – Flex-Track Online

This program is available to students who have already acquired the title of Registered Nurse (RN) and are looking for a jump in career that will open doors in the nursing field that require a higher level of education.  This program includes 30 semester hours of instruction as well as clinical experiences in the field. The program has been made with the working RN in mind with multiple responsibilities that need to be taken into consideration when choosing to further their education. 

RN to MSN Option

This program’s courses are all offered online. While clinical experiences are required, they are scheduled in the student’s community on their schedule. Taking the RN to MSN courses allows for the student to achieve both a BSN and MSN degree in one program of study.

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing – Online Program

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offered at University of North Alabama provides two different tracks for students to choose between. Nursing in Teaching-Learning Environments prepares nurses educate the nurses of the future in the techniques used in the field. This option would be fitting for the student who is interested in taking part in educating in an academic situation. The Leadership option is a good fit for individuals who currently hold a leadership type position in their current working environment. Successful completion of either option results in the awarding of a MSN degree.

Contact:

University of North Alabama
1 Harrison Plaza
Florence, AL 35632-0002
(256) 765-4100

[wpgmza id=”15″]

 

University of South Alabama Nursing School Review

University of South Alabama (USA) is located on the Gulf Coast and was established in 1963 and opened in 1964. The university is a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of South Alabama Nursing Program Review

The University of South Alabama College of Nursing strives to challenge its students to achieve to the highest level of their desired education in a way that fits their lifestyles. This institution facilitate creative, compassionate individuals to become a positive addition to the nursing industry and promote themselves to making a difference in their community, the program, as well as the health care system on a personal patient level.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN)

The main objective in this program is getting students prepared for the aspects they will come into contact with on a daily basis once employed in the nursing field. The program promotes professional behavior while training the students to interact with the culturally diverse general public. Using state-of-the-art technology, this institution teaches students about information management systems in order to create a better quality of care for each patient no matter their age or the setting in which they are being treated. Under this program, students are prepared to take the NCLEX in order to get licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN). Several different tracks are available for students under this program. Students can choose from the Traditional Four Year Pre-Licensure Track, Accelerated BSN/MSN Track, and the RN to BSN Track for Associate Degree/Diploma Prepared RNs.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program is designed to train nurses in the science of advanced nursing techniques. Students who complete this program can also go on to achieve their doctoral degree. This program hones in on training individuals to become members of the industry who can go on to improve upon the system as a whole by taking leadership positions and making the most of research data in order to make advances in individual patient care. Under this program of study, students have several different options in how to complete their education to receive the MSN degree. The Post BSN option is intended for RNs having a BSN. Post MSN Certificate option is intended for RNs who are seeking education in a specialty in the nursing profession. Students who choose this option can choose from a variety of specialties offered.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This degree prepares students for the most advanced level of nursing. Graduates have the ability to gain the highest level of leadership positions in the industry. They exit the program with the knowledge and skills to organize and maintain low cost, quality care for patients across the life cycle as well as in different cultural settings. Available tracks offered under this program are the BSN to DNP option and the Post Master’s DNP. Both programs are conducted online. BSN to DNP offers specialties in several different categories as well as offering several different Subspecialties. The Post Masters DNP program offers two different options for students to achieve this level of education.   

Contact:

University of South Alabama
307 N University Blvd.
Mobile, AL 36688
(251) 460-6435

[wpgmza id=”14″]

 

University of West Alabama Nursing School Review

The University of West Alabama (UWA) was established in 1835. The school closed for a time and then reopened, when shortly afterward, in 1876, the school excluded entrance of boys. The name of Livingston Female Academy was a result. The institution was a private organization until 1907. From 1907 until now, it is run under control of the State.

University of West Alabama Nursing Program Review

The Division of Nursing under the University of West Alabama is designed to accommodate students who want to obtain entry level training in the nursing industry in order to start their career as a Registered Nurse (RN). This division is dedicated to making students stand out among their peers by providing essential training associated with become a nurse and making a positive impact on the health care system as well as the patients that they will be dealing with on a daily basis.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

This two year program offers training in both general education as well as nursing specific training in order to produce a well rounded graduate who has the competency in the field of nursing to provide a positive care experience for the colleagues they work with as well as the patients for which they will be providing the care. This two year program’s essential function is to prepare the student for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). In order to qualify to apply for this exam, students must successfully complete the program and be awarded an Associate Degree. Completion of the program does not guarantee that the student will be eligible to take this exam. Students who choose to enroll in this program must participate in clinical experiences and must abide by the standards set by the Alabama Board of Nursing as well as the establishments in which the clinical experience will be conducted. Students are also responsible for finding transportation to and from the clinical experiences.

Articulation Program with University of Alabama for BSN

The University of West Alabama has teamed up with the University of Alabama in order to offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Students can take the courses required before moving on to the BSN program at University of Alabama at the University of West Alabama. After the graduate has passed the licensure examination and completed the courses required before applying to the BSN program, students are then able to obtain their BSN degree in order to use it in their professional title or go on to further their education. Continuing education courses are available through on line courses at University of Alabama.

Student Nurses’ Association

This organization is a automatic membership guarantee for all students who are enrolled in the nursing program at University of West Alabama. In this organization, students become a member of the team who is organizing their own program of study. One student is chosen every year to sit in on staff meetings about the curriculum that is going to be taught. The members also participate in community benefiting actions to enrich the lives of others in their community.

Contact:
University of West Alabama
100 U.S. 11
Livingston, AL 35470
(205) 652-3400

[wpgmza id=”13″]

 

Wallace State Community College Nursing Program Review

Wallace State Community College is a student-oriented place of higher education that has served its community for years and plans to for years to come. Housing is available onsite with campus security for the students’ peace of mind. This institution also offers a wellness center on campus in case of an emergency.

Wallace State Community College Nursing Program Review

Wallace State Community College offers two different courses of study under the traditional nursing definition. These programs are designed to prepare students, both with training in the classroom and training in the field through clinical experiences, to deal with the situations that nurses are put into daily. The programs are strategically planned in order to give the student a blend of general education knowledge as well as nursing-specific knowledge. The main goal of the nursing program at Wallace State Community College is to produce critical thinking, intuitive, caring, and compassionate members of the nursing industry who will provide a fresh outlook and technology training associated with the modern nursing profession.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

In the Licensed Practical Nursing Program offered at Wallace State Community College, students are taught the necessary skills to be the primary caregiver for a range of patients who coverages from birth to late adulthood. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are overseen by Registered Nurses and other medical professionals. Basic care is the primary responsibility of an LPN. If the student is unsure about whether or not they want to go into the LPN program, Wallace State Community College has set up a Pre-Nursing Advisement center in order to help students make the correct decision in choosing this program. This program fuses classroom instruction as well as clinical work to help train students. The goal of this program is to prepare students to take the national licensing test in order to gain the title of Licensed Practical Nurse. Upon successful passing of the program and the exam, students can either seek employment as an LPN or go on to continue their education. In some cases, students choose to work as an LPN while continuing their education. Most generally, some work experience is required before continuing education can be acquired.

Registered Nursing (RN) – Associate in Applied Sciences Degree (AAS)

Wallace State Community College also offers the Pre-Nursing Advisement Center for students who are interested in becoming an RN.  RNs function under the direction of doctors providing patients with care through the operation of machinery, providing the patient with health care education and emotional support, communicating with the patients’ friends and family, and aiding in the rehab services for the patient during recovery times. RNs can work in long-term care facilities as well as emergency care units. The goal of this program is to prepare the student to take the national licensure exam in order to gain the title of RN. Completion of the program does not necessarily mean that a student will be able to take the exam. After completion of the program and passing the exam, students can then go out into the workforce to gain employment in a health care facility as an RN.

Contact:

Wallace State Community College
801 Main Street
Hanceville, AL 35077-5462
(256) 352-8000

Alaska Vocational Technical Center Nursing School Review

Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), is home to the two Alaska Institute of Technology campuses located in Seward and Anchorage. AVTEC is an initiative of the state government of Alaska to offer vocational training to the community in facilitation of quick entry in occupations.

It offers hands-on training on various fields that require skilled man-power. The college accepts interested students over the age of 18 and with high school or GED diplomas to enroll in the various courses. Students at AVTEC enjoy low tuition fees that enables them access satisfactory training required to secure jobs.

Nursing at Alaska Vocational Technology Center

AVTEC has two campuses: the main campus at Seward and the Allied Health center in Anchorage. All nursing/allied health programs are offered only at the Anchorage Area Training site. The allied health department offers three tracks designed for entry-level nursing positions. There is the nursing assistant course for students who wish to become nurse aides and the licensed practical nursing program. The Certified Nurse Aide Reciprocity (CNA) is designed for CNA’S from other states who wish to gain practice eligibility in the state of Alaska.

Certified Nurse Assistant

The CNA program is based in Anchorage and responds to the acute shortage of nurse aides across the state. The program usually has two classes running simultaneously with one class being in the clinical portion while the other is in the classroom instruction portion. The track runs for 8 weeks/ 38 training days and admission is continuous throughout the year.

Each cycle of the 8 weeks has 230 hours of learning with the first 4 weeks of study being in the lab skills, classroom instruction and basic life support skills. In the last four weeks, students become immersed in direct patient care. The format used is 1, 2 and 3 patients per student during the 1st, 2nd &3rd and 4th week in assisted living homes in Anchorage area. The actual breakdown of the 230 hours CNA course is 114 hours of classroom and lab, 108 hours of Clinical practice and 8 hours of Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers. Students who successfully complete the CNA program become eligible to take the Certified Nurse Aide Exam as required for certification by the state of Alaska.

CNA Reciprocity Course

The reciprocity course is meant to help CNA’s from other states to become eligible to work as CNA’s in the state of Alaska. The process of taking the reciprocity course is individualized for each student according to the screening results obtained by the Division of Occupational Licensing and sent to AVTEC. Prior to starting on the course, the CNA must obtain a letter from the Occupational Licensing division indicating the areas the student needs training on. Upon completing the required training hours, students apply for “Verification of Training for Alaska Nurse Assistant Registry and certification exam for licensure to work in Alaska

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

The program prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses in nursing homes and long term care facilities. Applicants must be in possession of a current CNA certificate which must be maintained until completion of the program. Current certification in Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers is also required. Students without a high diploma must submit ACCUPLACER test scores. The program is designed to take 176 training days with 1212 hours of both classroom instructions and clinical practice. New students are admitted twice annually in January and mid August.

Note

The LPN program graduates may earn college credits that can be transferred to the 1st year of the 2-year Associate of Applied Science for registered nurse Programs at all University of Alaska system campuses.

Contact:

AVTEC-Alaska’s Institute of Technology
1251 Muldoon Road, Anchorage
AK 99504

[wpgmza id=”10″]

 

Kenai Peninsula College Nursing Program Review

Kenai Peninsula College (KPC) is a community campus that forms part of the larger Alaska University Anchorage (UAA). The college was commissioned in 1965 to offer adult basic education for the military base in the Kenai Peninsula.  The college operated in temporal and rented space before putting-up its own building in what is currently the Kenai River Campus.

The college has expanded and offers over 35 certificate, bachelor, associate and occupational endorsement programs. The college has also acquired three other sites including a campus at Kachemak Bay and 2 extension sites at Anchorage and Resurrection bay. The College is also a center of distance and online education for the University of Alaska Anchorage

Nursing At Kenai Peninsula College

As a community campus of University of Alaska Anchorage, KPC offers qualified students the occupation-oriented Associate of applied science in nursing program. The program through UAA is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and is approved by the Alaska board of nursing. This is the only nursing program offered at KPU.

Associate of Applied Science Degree

The school of nursing at UAA recently established an extension program to offer the AAS program at two campuses of KPU; at the main campus in Kenai River and the Kachemak Bay Campus. The first cohort of 8 students started the program at the Kenai River campus in the fall of 2012 while the Kachemak Bay campus admitted is first cohort of 8 students in spring 2012.

Interested students should note that with the next admission cycle after pioneer class of 2012, KPC will be offering alternating admission at the two campuses with 14 students being admitted in each campus. This precisely means that if one campus admits students this year, it will not admit new students the next year. Instead, the other campus will have its admission period. This arrangement has been put in place owing to the limited resources for clinical rotation sites.

Both campuses have competitive admission and eligible candidates are required to have completed all general education courses.  All applications must be sent via the school of nursing at University of Alaska Anchorage with students indicating the campus of interest.  A high school GPA of 2.0 and 3 letters of recommendation are required to be admitted to take the general education courses. Students are also required to take a Nurse Entrance Test. Ranking for competitive and selective admission is based on all factors above.

Upon admission, students take all theory coursework in online formats or via interactive video sessions coordinated from UAA of other UAA sites. However, students must avail themselves at their respective campus to take the clinical courses. Sometimes, due to limited availability of certain clinical rotations and learning resources around KPC, students may be required to travel to anchorage for clinical classes.

In total, students take four consecutive semesters to complete the 70-credit curriculum and earn the Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree. They also gain eligibility to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Contact:

Kenai Peninsula College
156 College Rd, Soldotna.
AK 99669

[wpgmza id=”9″]

 

Kodiak College Nursing Program Review

Kodiak University received its name in 1987 after it was transformed from a community college to become part of the statewide University of Alaska System. As such, the college is one of the community campuses of the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). It is a small 2-year public university that serves about 1000 students.

It offers a number of undergraduate certificate programs, transferable associate degrees and occupational endorsements to the community around Kodiak. The college delivers its academic programs through traditional classrooms in addition to alternative formats including web-based, synchronous learning and self-paced formats.

Nursing at Kodiak College

Through University of Alaska Anchorage, Kodiak College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing degree for beginning students. In addition to the 2-year nursing track, there is also a Certified Nursing Assistant program for those wishing to start a nursing career at entry-level as nurse aides. Through UAA, the AAS registered nurse (RN) program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and also approved by the Alaska Board on Nursing.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The 140 hours program admits new students each fall semester. Candidates must be aged 18 years and above and must have a high school or GED diploma. The curriculum is a one 7-credit course consisting of clinical and lecture classes. In the 140 hours, students take a minimum of 80 hours of supervised clinical practice. This is done during the weekends, weekdays and selected evenings sessions. The remaining 60 hours are reserved for classroom instruction and theory classes. Upon completion of the 140 hours track, students can take the Certified Nurse Aide examination required for certification in the state Alaska.

Associate of Applied Science-Nursing

Through the school of nursing at UAA, Kodiak College brings the AAS curriculum closer to the community in Kodiak. It is a 2-year full time track designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. First, students need to apply and get admitted as pre-nursing majors at UAA to complete the program’s pre-requisites courses. First-time applicants must have completed high school algebra, biology and chemistry and earned a high school GPA of 2.0. It is important for applicants to denote Kodiak College as their campus of choice in the application form. It is also good to note that those interested in the Kodiak Program are admitted for classes beginning spring semester unlike the UAA main campus program which starts in fall.

After admission, students take the pre-qualification curriculum and to gain eligibility for the nursing courses. Prior to taking any nursing courses, students must have completed at least 15 of the 33 credit hours in the general education curriculum. In addition, pre-nursing students must also take the Nursing Pre-Entrance Exam, the SAT/ACT tests or the ACCUPLACER test and submit their scores for review.

The entire track has a curriculum of 70 credit hours: 33 general education and 37 credits of nursing and clinical courses. Nursing courses can be taken over a period of four years. Upon completion, students earn an occupation-based Associate of Applied science in nursing degree and become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Contact:

Kodiak College
117 Benny Benson Dr.
Kodiak
AK 99615

[wpgmza id=”8″]

 

University of Alaska Fairbanks Nursing School Review

In the early 1900’s, the federal government offered a land grant and funds to establish Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines  which was to become University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF). By 1922, the college welcomed the first student body of six students.

The college continued to receive funding and expanded from its initial focus in mining and agriculture.  To reflect this expansion to liberal arts, teaching, sciences and engineering, the college changed its name to UAF in 1931. Today, UAF serves as a land grant public research university and the Flagship campus of the Alaska University System.

Nursing Programs a University of Alaska-Fairbanks

UAF does not directly offer degree programs leading to registered nurse licensure. However, it offers a preparatory/prequalification program for the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing degree that enables students to transfer to its sister institution; University of Alaska Anchorage.  The program for Fairbanks-prepared students and those directly admitted at UAA is offered at the Community and Technical College which is part of the university of Alaska system. In addition to this, UAF also offers a short occupational endorsement program for those willing to become certified nurse aides

Pre-Nursing Qualification

The pre-qualification program is offered by the department of allied health as an early preparation for students willing to take the AAS at University of Alaska Anchorage.  Ideal candidates must have a high school diploma or GED to be eligible to apply to this program. The certificate in Pre-nursing Qualification program consists of a curriculum of pre-requisite and co-requisites courses that form part of the AAS program in addition to a foundation clinical course. Towards completion of this short program, students can place an application for anchorage campus register nurse (RN) track. It should be noted that the certificate program does not grant the students mandate to carry-out any nursing related tasks. However, the curriculum offers more than the basic requirements of general education course needed for the AAS program.

While completion of the certificate program enables students to become highly competitive for admission in the AAS program at the sister university, it does not guarantee them a place in the AAS track. Graduates of the pre-nursing qualification certificate must take the Nurse Entrance Test just like other applicants at UAA. If applications are successful, students transfer to Anchorage to take the nursing and clinical courses after which they can take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Nurse Aide

The nurse aide is a short certificate/ occupational endorsement program offering theory and basic nursing skills for students wishing to kick-start their nursing career as members of a health care team in the very basic/ entry level. Candidates for this track must show prove of high school diploma or a GED and 10th grade reading by exam. Upon completion, students become eligible to apply and take the Alaska Nurse Aide exam after which they become certified nurse aides. Such students are also entered in the states nurse aide registry.

Contact:

University of Alaska Fairbanks
505 South Chandalar Dr, Fairbanks.
AK 99775

[wpgmza id=”7″]

 

University of Alaska Southeast Nursing School Review

Nestled in the rural area of Juneau, University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) forms part of the statewide University of Alaska System. It was established in 1987 after consolidation of three community colleges in Juneau. It serves students through its main campus based in Juneau and two satellite campuses in Ketchikan and Sitka. The university offers a number of academic programs at certificate, undergraduate and master level.

Nursing Programs at University of Alaska Southeast

UAS offers three nursing programs one of which is meant to prepare registered nurses (RN). The RN track is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing program offered through the University of Alaska Anchorage. There is also a short Certified Nurse Assisting program in addition to a pre-nursing qualification certificate program that serves as a preparation to students who want to enter professional nursing programs. The 2-year associate track through the UAA is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing.

Certified Nurse Aide

The certified nurse aide (CNA) is offered in all three campuses of UAS during fall and spring semesters. Each campus has its own format of offering this short certificate program. Students in the Juneau main campus take a 9-credit course designed to train students in basic nursing skills within a period of 155 hours: 75 lecture hours and 80 hours of lab. The program is offered in partnership with Juneau Pioneers home and Wildflower court. 

At Ketchikan campus, students take 10 weeks to complete the program with classes being held twice a week. The first six weeks are designed for classroom instruction while the last three-four weeks are spent in clinical practice at local care agencies mainly Ketchikan Medical Center. Ketchikan CNA students have access to scholarships for the CNA program.

Those at the Sitka campus take the course in a semester-long format with the theory portion being offered online and in weekly onsite classes for lab and clinical sessions.  All students who complete the curriculum successfully become eligible to take the state’s Certified Nurse Aide Examination to become Certified Nurse Aides.

Pre-Nursing Qualifications

This program has a curriculum of pre and co-requisite courses designed for students who wish to take professional nursing program later i.e. associate or bachelor degrees. The curriculum mainly consists of General Education Requirements (GER) applicable for nursing programs in the University of Alaska System and beyond. The Certificate in Pre-Nursing Qualification (CPNQ) requires students to take at least 52 credits in GER and nursing support courses. This by far exceeds the basic requirement for the nursing associate degree. Students must note that completion of this program does not permit them to undertake any nursing tasks as no certification or licensure is granted. Further completion of an associate of bachelor degree program and licensure is required to gain practice eligibility.

AAS Nursing through UAA

All students interested in the AAS program for registered nurses must apply directly to the Anchorage campus. Cohorts are admitted every fall and spring semesters to undertake the program from UAA but on site at any of the 3 campuses of UAS. Prior to starting any courses, students must have gained enrollment and pre-nursing status from UAA. Candidates also need to take the Pre-Nursing Exam for ranking and selection purposes. The curriculum consists of 70 credit hours: 33 hours in GER and support courses and 37 in nursing and clinical courses.

The format used in delivering the curriculum is both traditional and alternative modes. The 15 credits of GER and 18 non-nursing support credits are completed onsite at the 3 campuses. On the other hand, all clinical courses are offered directly by UAA through internet-based formats, video conferencing or interactive synchronous formats. Being based at any of the 3 campuses means that students take clinical onsite courses coordinated by that campus. However, on rare occasions, students may be required to travel to Anchorage for certain clinical classes especially pediatric and obstetrics lessons. Successful students become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Contact:

University of Alaska-Southeast
11120 Glacier Highway, Juneau
AK 99801

[wpgmza id=”5″]

 

Is Nursing Right For Me?

Even with the looming news of a countrywide nurse shortage and the projection of a good paying and stable job for new nurses, the question would be, “is nursing just for everyone?” The “rush for gold”, the dreams of landing the most promising career and joining the cushioned class of workers could be leading you something that you have never figured-out quite well what it all entails. In this guideline, we will give you the full picture of what becoming a nurse entails and whether it is the right career for you. Basically, it’s just answering some of these questions that will help you know whether you are up-to a nursing career.

Nursing-What is Nursing?

Well, this could be the first question you should be asking yourself if you are thinking of becoming a nurse. Nursing entails working under the supervision of a physician most of the time giving basic care to patients. Depending on the level of education you will have, you will do tasks that range from bathing patients, administering drugs, simple diagnosis and healthcare managerial jobs.  What a nurse does precisely depend on polices governing the work scope of nurses in the state they are working in and their level of training. In this regard, a licensed practical nurse (LPN) would have to do more bedside care than a registered nurse who has earned an associate or bachelors degree. Similarly, some states allow LPNs to administer drugs while in other states it is prohibited.

What Does the Typical Life of a Nurse Look Like?

To be quite frank, nurses do not enjoy as much freedom like other careers. Usually, nurses work on 12-hours shifts that can be either day or nights. However, there are no rigid rules of when a nurse can be on duty as they can be called upon anytime. It is always good to be prepared for emergency situations that could mean you going back to work even after completing your normal shift or having to extend shifts for long beyond your stipulated hours.

Activities in a typical day include but not limited to having hospital rounds with the physician, supervising junior staff like the nursing assistants and practical nurses, administering all types of therapy, counseling among others. Other nurses may be in managerial positions and this would involve some kind of administrative work while other still do not see doors of hospital and instead work with communities.

Rush for Money versus Calling/Passion?

As much the nursing career sounds a lucrative one, one must distinguish an illusion versus clarity.  It is easier for people who are passionate about caring for the sick than those seeking returns. Think of nursing as a messy career that will involve you having to do some unpleasant tasks like bathing patients. If such a question would be difficult to answer, it could be wise if you decided to start at the very basic level like a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) before committing too much time only to relent later. If you start as a CNA and cannot handle it, then quite frankly it would not be any easier up there even as a Registered Nurse (RN)

Seek Advice-Shadow a Nurse

Maybe this is the best way to know whether nursing is the path you should follow. Having someone to look at and walk in their shoes gives you a correct insight about their career. You will certainly hear their compliments and complains alike about their career. Seek unbiased advice from nurses who have been there for a long time. Shadowing a nurse therefore helps you evaluate whether you would like to be in the position they are in. If you  get pissed-off too often along the way, you may consider changing your career as nursing requires a passionate, patient and caring person.

Self Assessment/Personality

You may have all the future outlooks, salary ranges, various options of becoming a nurse, but at the end of it all, you will spend more than half of your life in your career than on anything else. You must self assess yourself and your decisions must overrule those of any other person. If you understood all of the above situations, ask yourself whether you will want to commit yourself for a lifetime. 

It doesn’t matter what your parents, spouse, friends or those around you are thinking about you. At the end of the day, the career will not involve them one bit. The bottom line is-Do not take a career to impress anyone. It is your career and will form most your other life. Never get into a career that you would dread waking-up the next day to do the same thing, it won’t just work.  

Grades, Prior Experience And Qualifications

Nursing is one of the few programs where students are given strict admission requirements. In almost all universities and colleges, registered nurse programs are not open to any person who feels like applying. Selective and competitive admissions are usually observed in many nursing programs. It would be better if you kept your GPA scores high to be on the safe side during selection processes.

Some prior related work experience may be used to give students more points in an admission ranking system. If you have no experience, you may lose a chance to get into the nursing profession. On the other hand, no students can be allowed to take licensure as a nurse if they have un-cleared felonies, are involved in drugs or have some limiting medical conditions like TB, hepatitis etc.

Making the Decision

Careful evaluation of each of the above situations may help you conclude whether the nursing career is for you. If you obviously do not fit, do not force your way, do not get a career just for the sake of it.

Is Nursing A Good Career Choice?

Well, it depends on how you look at it. There are several factors that come into play when classifying a career as good or not so good. First are the individual preferences and expectations of what a career should do for you. On the other hand, your thoughts of nursing should not solely be inclined on one side of your understanding as this may bring a bias in classifying nursing as good or bad. Below, we look at the glittering and dull sides of the nursing career.

Reasons Why Nursing Is Considered A Good Career

  1. Countrywide and globally, qualified nurses are in high demand as the needs of caring for the aging population and disabled increase.  Like in any market, when demand is high, prices shot and this is exactly what is happening in the nursing profession. Since nurses are in acute shortage, every nursing facility is trying to keep or acquire any nurses they can with an attractive remuneration package. In most cases, the attractive payment can be attributed to the large number of people joining way above the earlier decision of taking nursing as a calling/passion.
  2. With regard to the above note on nurse shortage, the US government sometimes provides incentives to cater for tuition fees for any citizens willing to shift their careers into nursing. Such awards and incentive saves the student money and is therefore a factor classifying nursing as a good career especially for career changers
  3. Until the deficit is met, it would be right to say that most career changers in nursing are likely to benefit from fast-paced schooling formats. A fast paced program means that the student take the least time in school and enter the working profession fast. This is also another plus for people who are looking forward to start earning quickly.
  4. For nurses who joined the profession due to passion or a calling, the act of helping sick people come into good health is also a satisfaction by itself. This by far surpasses all other kind of glittering aspects of the nursing career. Getting into a profession where you always look forward to changing people lives can have so much positive psychological reward.
  5. As much as nurses can be seen to be working long hours, at most, they have the option of choosing which hours suit them best. Unlike a day job, some nurses may feel more energetic to work at night and their request to work in the night shift would certainly be honored. Basically, nurses get to choose what time/shift they would be most productive.
  6. Most employers want their nurses to advance their education. As such, it is common observation to find employers offering scholarship programs for their nurses who wish to advance and earn bachelor or masters of Science in nursing degrees. Other employers still may offer onsite training programs to help keep their nurses abreast with emerging issues in the healthcare sector. Such special considerations are not so common in every other profession.

What Makes Nursing A Little Scary

With all the coloring on the cake about nursing as a career, there are a number of issues that makes it a no for some people.

  1. It is no doubt nurses have some of the oddest tasks in the health care sector. Being in contact with very sick, extremely aged or even dying patients may not be that appealing at times. Nurses may have to learn to deal with not-so good situations they come across during their duties
  2. Another aspect that puts-off a large number of people from nursing is the fact of being on call all the time. If you cannot sacrifice your luxury, holiday, family outing, some deep sleep because of work, then nursing is not just the right career for you. Nurses should be ready to work anytime they are called-upon especially during emergencies or peculiar situations.
  3. Being a nurse means being involved in some messy work. This includes but not limited to bathing, feeding and keeping the general hygiene of patients. It may involve coming across unpleasant body fluids, blood, etc. This may not be suitable for person who nauseate on small messy things.
  4. Different patients have different manners, behaviors and personalities. Being a nurse means that you can accommodate the ill-mannered, the high tempered the soft spoken, the ignorant and any other classes of patients. If you are not endowed with patience and emotional stability, you may end-up losing it as a nurse.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Alabama

Auburn University at Montgomery
101 Moore Hall, 7461 East Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117. Tel: 334-244-3658.
Auburn University Montgomery (AUM) is located on a 500-acre campus seven miles east of downtown Montgomery, Alabama. It was founded in 1967 as a separately administrated branch campus of Auburn University.

Known for its challenging curricula, AUM was recognized by The Princeton Review as the “Best Southeastern College.” Established in 1979 with an objective to train professional nurses to provide patient-centered, evidence-based care for culturally diverse populations, the Auburn University at Montgomery School of Nursing offers several nursing degree programs, including the Accelerated Nursing Degree Program (AND). This accelerated BSN program allows students who have already earned a bachelors degree in another field to quickly begin nursing careers after completing the professional nursing training curriculum in three semesters and one summer term of study. To qualify for admission, the applicant must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5 and must complete the prerequisite pre-nursing courses. The application deadline is May 10.

Samford University

Samford University
800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, AL 35229,

205-726-2011

Samford University was founded in1841by the Alabama Baptist Convention. It was originally called Howard College, named after British philanthropist John Howard. As a Christian university, Samford cultivates intellectual, vocational, and ethical proficiency while promoting service to others, and social and civic responsibility. The Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing (IVMSON) at Samford University was established in1922 by the Birmingham Baptist Association. In 1955, IVMSON became the first program in Alabama to be accredited by the National League for Nursing. The nursing program transferred to Samford University in 1973 following a merger agreement with the Baptist Health System. IVMSON offers a number of nursing degree programs, including the 15-month Accelerated Second Degree BSN option. The 2nd Degree BSN is designed for students who have earned a bachelors degree in another field. Students enrolled in this accelerated BSN program have intense clinical and classroom experiences and must attend summer classes. Upon graduation from this accelerated second degree BSN Program, the graduate is eligible to take the licensing examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). To qualify for admission into this accelerated BSN program the applicant must also have completed all prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0 in each course. An interview is required. The application deadline is February 15.

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama

Capstone College of Nursing, Box 870358, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0358,
(800) 313-3591

The University of Alabama (UA) is a public university located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Founded in 1831, it is the original and largest university in the University of Alabama System. It is fondly and proudly known as the “Capstone” of the Alabama public college system. The University of Alabama has consistently ranked as a top 50 public university in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report, and in 2011 had the highest ranking of any university in the state of Alabama. In addition to its excellent academic programs, the UA also offers a complete cultural and social experience.

The Capstone College of Nursing of the UA prepares students with the scientific and practical foundation to enter careers in nursing. In addition to the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program, Capstone offers the Second Degree program for students who already have a bachelors degree in another field and now wish to pursue a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Through this accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, students can complete the classroom and clinical BSN requirements in 5 semesters. To qualify for admission into this BSN second degree program the applicant must have also completed the prerequisite coursework. The application deadline is March 15.

University of North Alabama

University at North Alabama
1 Harrison Plaza, Florence, AL 35632,

256- 765-4100

The University of North Alabama (UNA) is Alabama’s oldest four-year public university. Occupying 130 acres in Florence, Tuscumbia, Sheffield and Muscle Shoals, the UNA was originally founded as LaGrange College in 1830 by the Methodist Episcopal Church. Since its establishment the University of North Alabama has developed into an influential regional university that provides a wide array of educational opportunities for students through undergraduate and graduate programs in the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Nursing and Health. UNA has an enrolment of over 7,100 students each year and boasts over 50,000 alumni in Alabama, the southeast and all over the world.

The University of North Alabama College of Nursing & Allied Health was established in 1973 with a commitment to providing quality and accessible nurse education opportunities. In addition to its Traditional BSN program, the UNA also offers an Accelerated BSN alternative program. This ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree program allows students to complete the classroom and clinical requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 15 months. To qualify for admission into this BSN the applicant must have a non-nursing bachelors degree and must have completed the prerequisite classes. The application deadline is January 31.

University of South Alabama

University of South Alabama
College of Nursing, HAHN 3068, 5721 USA Drive N., Mobile, AL 36688,

251- 445-9500

The University of South Alabama (USA) is a public university located in Mobile, Alabama. It was created in 1963 by the Alabama legislature, replacing the extension school programs operated in Mobile by the University of Alabama. It is the only major public university in the upper gulf coast. USA is divided into ten different schools, with an enrollment of approximately 15,000. It is particularly known for its medical research and health-related programs at the College of Allied Health Professions, College of Medicine, College of Nursing and Auburn School of Pharmacy. The College of Nursing offers several different degree programs, including a special Accelerated BSN track for highly motivated students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. The Accelerated BSN Nursing program is based at the Baldwin County campus. It is a 12- month program at the end of which students are awarded the BSN degree. Admission to this BSN accelerated program is very competitive and selective. Applicants must have already earned a bachelors degree in another field and must also have completed all prerequisite courses. An interview may be required, during which an assessment will be made of the applicant’s verbal communication skills. The application deadline is April 1 to begin in July and August 1 to begin in January.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Arizona

Brookline College
Brookline College was founded in 1979 as the Arizona Institute of Business and Technology offering business and technical programs. Its mission was to provide quality educational programs with innovative approaches that support a diverse student body and provide the academic, professional and cognitive skills for successful integration into the workplace.

In 2009 the institution was renamed Brookline College.  It has campuses in Phoenix, Tucson, Tempe and Albuquerque and offers online degree programs. Brookline College offers a nursing program that helps prepare students for careers in nursing that will require them to plan and implement nursing care in a variety of settings.  In addition to the traditional BSN degree program, Brookline College also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing for Baccalaureate Degree Graduates program that allows those who already have an undergraduate degree in a field other than nursing to be eligible to sit for the registered nurse licensure examination after only 15 – 16 months of education. This accelerated BSN program is offered at the Phoenix and Albuquerque campuses and involves a limited amount of classroom learning in order to maximize clinical experiences at premier hospitals and healthcare facilities.  To qualify for admission applicants must also have received at least a 75% on the HESI Admission Assessment Examination and must have completed the prerequisite course work prior to admission.

Brookline College Phoenix Campus
2445 W. Dunlap Avenue, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85021-5820
Tel: 602-242-6265

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a Christian university owned by Grand Canyon Education and located in Phoenix, Arizona. GCU was created in 1949 by Arizona Southern Baptists. Grand Canyon Education, Inc. bought Grand Canyon University in February 2004. GCU provides both graduate and undergraduate campus-based and online education in several fields of study.

Through its College of Nursing, Grand Canyon University offers over 20 different undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.  GCU has joined in a partnership with St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center (SJHMC) to offer an on-site fast track Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program. This ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program allows students with Bachelors degrees to complete the classroom and clinical work to achieve a BSN in 20 months.  To qualify for admission to this accelerated BSN program, the applicant must also have completed the prerequisite coursework.

Grand Canyon University
3300 West Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017,
Tel: 602-639-7500

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public university based in Flagstaff, Arizona.  Established in 1899, it was originally named the Northern Arizona Normal School.  In 1966 the Arizona Board of Regents recommended that the school change its name to Northern Arizona University. Today NAU has approximately 5,000 students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus and has more than 30 statewide locations. It offers nearly 150 combined undergraduate and graduate degree programs and offers online degree programs.  At NAU the School of Nursing is part of the College of Health and Human Services.  It offers both a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and an Accelerated BSN program for students who have earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing.  The program allows qualified students to earn a BSN in 12-months of rigorous classroom and clinical education.  The requirements for admission to this 2nd degree Accelerated BSN program include having a minimum Kaplan test score of 70, with at least a 60 in the science portion. The applicant must also have completed the prerequisite coursework. The program is very competitive, admitting only 30 students per year.

Northern Arizona University
South San Francisco Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86011,
Tel: 928-523-9011

 

Accelerated BSN Programs in Arkansas

Arkansas State University
College of Nursing and Health Professions, PO Box 910, Jonesboro, AR 72467-0910. Tel: 870-972-3074.
Arkansas State University (ASU) is a public university located in Jonesboro, Arkansas and is part of the Arkansas State University System.  In 1909, the Arkansas legislature created ASU as an agricultural training school called First District Agricultural School.  In 1967 the Arkansas Legislature promoted the school to university status and changed its name to Arkansas State University.

Today ASU has over 13,000 students and offers 43 different degrees in 156 fields of study.  The ASU College of Nursing and Health Professions offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a Second Bachelor’s Degree Accelerated option.  This accelerated 2nd degree BSN program allows students who have already earned a bachelors degree in another field to earn a BSN degree in one year.  To qualify for this second degree ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, the applicant must also have completed the required prerequisite course work.  Special consideration will be given to applicants who are proficient in Spanish and to those who have a degree in a clinical health care field.  The application deadline is March 15.

Accelerated BSN Programs in California

California State University, Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330. Tel: 818-677-1200.
California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is a public university in the Northridge neighborhood of the San Fernando Valley. CSUN is part of the California State University (CSU) system. It was founded first as a satellite campus of California State Los Angeles, but became an independent college in 1958 named San Fernando Valley State College. In 1972 the school was renamed California State University, Northridge.

CSUN offers a variety of undergraduate nursing degrees through its College of Health and Human Development. The Accelerated BS in Nursing provides a pathway for those with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing to become registered nurses in an abbreviated, intense schedule. Coursework and clinicals required to earn the BSN degree are completed within four semesters. Upon completion of this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, graduates will be able to begin nursing careers with the ability to convey information in the professional context, guide decision-making using scientific and humanistic perspectives and demonstrate the ability to implement the delivery of nursing services in a variety of settings. To qualify for admission, the applicant must have a bachelors degree with a GPA of at least 3.0. The applicant must have completed all prerequisite pre-nursing courses with at least a “C” in each course. The application deadline is December 1.

California State University, Sacramento

California State University, Sacramento

6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819,
916-278-6011

California State University, Sacramento (Cal Sac) is a public university located in Sacramento, California. It is part of the California State University system. It was founded in 1947 as Sacramento State College. In 1960 Sacramento State became part of the California State University, and changed its name to California State University, Sacramento in 1971. Cal Sac is located on a 300-acre campus that includes miles of pedestrian and bicycle trails along the American River Parkway. Currently, the university has a total enrollment of approximately 29,000 students and has seven different colleges offering 60 different undergraduate degrees and over 50 graduate degrees.

Together with California State University, Stanislaus, Cal Sac offers a joint Accelerated Second Bachelor of Science in Pre-Licensure Nursing program for students who already have a bachelors degree in a different field. The program utilizes curriculum models and instruction from both schools. This Accelerated BSN program allows the motivated student to complete the requirements for a BSN degree after 16 months of full-time, intensive classroom and clinical work. A portion of the classroom instruction is completed online. Students complete clinical rotations at healthcare facilities near Sac State. To qualify for admission to this accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, the applicant must also have completed the prerequisite pre-nursing courses. The application deadline is February 1.

California State University, San Marcos

California State University, San Marcos

333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd., San Marcos, CA 92096,
760-750-4000

California State University, San Marcos (Cal State San Marcos) is a public university that is part of the California State University system. Founded in 1989, Cal State San Marcos offers 44 undergraduate programs and 11 graduate programs on a technology-rich campus. Cal State San Marcos started its School of Nursing in 2006 at its College of Education, Health and Human Services. Funded by a grant from the Kaiser Foundation, Cal State San Marcos now offers an innovative Accelerated BS in Nursing program that provides a pathway for those with a bachelors degree to earn a BSN in an abbreviated, intense 24-month schedule. This accelerated 2nd degree BSN program requires 78 units of study, including 27 units of clinic work. To be eligible for admission to this BSN accelerated program, applicants must also complete the Pre-Nursing Core classes. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with a program start date in August.

Concordia University Irvine

Concordia University Irvine

1530 Concordia West, Irvine, California 92612,
818-677-1200

Concordia University Irvine is a private, liberal arts university established in 1972 as Christ College. It is affiliated with the Lutheran Church. In 1993 it became a part of the national Concordia University system, and its name was changed to Concordia University Irvine. The undergraduate Nursing Program at Concordia University Irvine includes a Second Degree Accelerated BSN program for students with a bachelors degree who want to join the nursing profession. This accelerated second degree BSN program allows students to complete the requirements for a BSN in 3 semesters. The program includes 90 clinical hours in a public health facility in order to prepare students to apply for the California Public Health Certificate. To qualify for admission into this accelerated BSN program, applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirements in both their undergraduate coursework and program prerequisite coursework. The application deadlines are February 1 and June 1.

Loma Linda University

California State University, Northridge

18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330,

818-677-1200

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a private, health sciences university located in Southern California. Established in 1906 by Seventh Day Adventists, Loma Linda University seeks to integrate science, health and Christianity to further the healing ministry of Christ. LLU has eight different schools and offers over 55 different programs. The School of Nursing has been in existence from the time that LLU was established. It now offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees, including the BA/BS to BS track. The BA/BS to BS track is geared to students who have a bachelors degree, but have decided to pursue a nursing career. The BA/BS to BS track is an accelerated program that allows participants to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 5 quarters. For admission, students are required to take the prerequisite coursework. Like the other BSN programs at LLU, this accelerated BSN program prepares candidates for professional nursing careers in both community and acute settings. The application deadlines are March 31, August 15 and November 1.

Mount Saint Mary’s College

Mount Saint Mary’s College

12001 Chalon Road, Los Angeles, CA 90049,

(310) 954-4000

Mount St. Mary’s College (the Mount) is a private, Catholic university located in Los Angeles. Founded in 1925 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Mount St. Mary’s undergraduate program is open to women, while its professional programs, including its nursing programs are open to both men and women. The nursing program at Mount Saint Mary’s College was the first to offer a Bachelors of Science in Nursing program in the state of California. Currently, in addition to the traditional BSN Program, the Mount also offers the Accelerated Baccalaureate Nursing Program. Using the same curriculum as the traditional BSN program, this accelerated BSN degree program allows the student to earn a BSN in 12 months. The program consists of an intense, condensed schedule that begins in May and ends in May of the following year. To qualify for this second degree BSN program, students must also have taken the prerequisite classes and receive at least an 84% on the Department of Nursing Math Test. The application deadlines are March 15 and November 1.

National University

National University

11255 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037,

800-628-8648

National University was established in 1971 to provide affordable access to quality, relevant education to a diverse, local community of students. Since then, it has grown to become the second-largest private, nonprofit university in California. Focusing on the adult learner, NU offers over 100 degrees, certificate and credential programs, including 35 online degree programs and over 300 online courses. NU has several campuses in San Diego County as well as regional locations throughout California.

To meet the increasing demand for nurses in the state of California, the NU’s Department of Nursing offers several undergraduate nursing degree programs designed to teach therapeutic and critical thinking skills to prepare students to work effectively in a multicultural environment. NU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Accelerated Post-Bachelor Degree program allows qualified students to complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on an intense, abbreviated schedule. It is offered at the San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno and Sherman Oaks Campuses. In addition to meeting the undergraduate admission requirements for NU and the pre-nursing course requirements, the admission requirements include completing a proctored written essay.

Samuel Merritt University

Samuel Merritt University

3100 Summit Street, 3rd Floor, Oakland, CA 94609,

510-869-6511

Samuel Merritt University (SMU), formerly Samuel Merritt College, is a private institution that was founded in 1909 as a hospital based nursing school affiliated with Samuel Merritt Hospital. Both Samuel Merritt College and Samuel Merritt Hospital were named in memory of Dr. Samuel Merritt, a physician and one time mayor of Oakland, California. SMU is currently affiliated with Sutter Health and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center and has campuses in Oakland, Sacramento and San Mateo.

SMU is a health sciences university offering degrees in several health-related fields, including nursing. The School of Nursing is nationally recognized for its clinical and academic excellence. It provides more new registered nurses in California than any other school. Among several degree program offered by the School of Nursing, SMU offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing that allows students to achieve a BSN degree after a 12-month intensive academic program. To qualify for admission, students must complete the prerequisite coursework and submit three separate writing samples. The application deadline varies by campus: Oakland (September 1), Sacramento (July1), and San Mateo (July 1 and September 1). However, applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until all spaces are filled.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Colorado

Colorado Christian University
8787 West Alameda Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80226. Tel: 800-443-2484.
Colorado Christian University (CCU), formerly known as the Denver Bible Institute, is a nondenominational, private Christian university established in 1914. CCU strives to offer academic excellence in a Christ-centered community. CCU’s main campus is located in Lakewood, Colorado, 10 miles west of Denver. CCU also has regional campuses throughout Colorado and offers online degree programs. There are now over 3,500 students enrolled at CCU in over 50 programs.

Through the College of Adult and Graduate Studies (CAGS), CCU offers a Pre-Licensure BSN program for adult learners who wish to pursue careers as licensed, professional nurses. Depending on the student’s previous academic experience, this accelerated BSN program may take up to 3 years to complete. In order to be admitted into the program, the student must first apply to the CAGS and demonstrate successful completion of General Education coursework and Biological Science coursework. Then the student must apply to the nursing program. Applications for admission to CAGS are reviewed on a rolling basis. The nursing program application deadline is in July.

Colorado State University, Pueblo

Colorado State University, Pueblo

6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819,
916-278-6011

Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU-Pueblo) is a part of the Colorado State University System. CSU-Pueblo occupies a 275-acre campus in the culturally rich city of Pueblo, near the Rocky Mountains and a short distance from Colorado Springs and Denver. CSU-Pueblo was established in 1933 as Southern Colorado Junior College. By 1985 the school was known as the University of Southern Colorado and was integrated into the Colorado State University System. In 2003 the name was changed to Colorado State University-Pueblo. The academic programs at CSU-Pueblo focus on Health and Science, Public Service, Quality of Life, Business and Technology and Education.

The Department of Nursing offers the Degree Plus to BSN Nursing Accelerated Option for students seeking a career as a licensed nurse, who already have a bachelors degree in another field. This BSN Accelerated nursing program allows the student to complete 14 months of intensive classroom and clinical work, culminating in receiving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. For admission to the 2nd Degree BSN program at CSU-Pueblo, in addition to having a bachelor’s degree, the student must also have completed prerequisite coursework in behavioral, social and natural sciences. The application deadline is in May.

Denver School of Nursing

Denver School of Nursing

1560 Broadway, Suite 1350, Denver, CO 80202

303-894-2430

The Denver School of Nursing (DSN) is a private institution established in 2003 with a mission of providing diverse educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing and other health-related fields. The DSN is owned by Baltimore, Maryland based Education Affiliates, Inc. It is located in the Lodo section of downtown Denver. Among several degree programs, the DSN offers the BSN Completion Option to professionals who have earned a bachelors or associate degree in another discipline, but wish to pursue a nursing career. The DSN’s BSN accelerated nursing program requires seven quarters of clinical and class study that typically takes 21 months of full-time attendance. As part of the application process to this accelerated BSN Degree program, the admissions committee will review each candidate’s transcript to determine how many prerequisite course credits the candidate will be able to transfer. The application deadlines are January 1, April, July 1 and October 1.

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver

890 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204,
303-556-2400

Metropolitan State University of Denver (Metro State) is a public university located in the Auraria neighborhood of Denver, Colorado. It was founded in1965 by the Colorado legislature. Metro State is now organized into 4 colleges and offers over 100 degrees and certificate programs. The Department of Nursing at Metro State offers an Accelerated Option program that allows students to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after 17 months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must already have a bachelors degree in another field and must also have completed the prerequisite coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The application deadline is September 1.

Regis University

Regis University

3333 Regis Boulevard, Denver, Colorado 8022,

800-388-2366

Regis University is a private, Jesuit university based in Denver, Colorado. Originally known as Las Vegas College, it was established in 1877 in Las Vegas, New Mexico and moved to Morrison, Colorado in 1884. Currently located in Denver, Regis has three colleges: Regis College, College for Professional Studies and Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions. Following the Jesuit tradition, Regis University provides a value-centered learning experience that gives students the tools to become leaders and positively impact in the community.

The nursing program at Regis University began in 1988 when Loretto Heights College became a part of Regis University to form the Loretto Heights School of Nursing (LHSON), a part of the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions. To meet the needs of students who have a bachelors degree, but seek a career change, LHSON offers the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In this second degree BSN program students complete the nursing clinical and classroom work after three 15-week semesters. Admission requirements also include completing prerequisite coursework and meeting all of the undergraduate admission requirements of Regis University.

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

1420 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, Colorado Springs, CO 80918,
719-255-8227

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) is a public institution that is part of the University of Colorado System. The University of Colorado has held classes at various locations in Colorado Springs since the 1920s. With the help of David Packard, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard, in 1965 UCCS found a permanent location in the Cragmor neighborhood of Colorado Springs. The Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Science was established in 1904 and merged with UCCS in 1997. Beth-El College offers 7 different programs leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated Option. This 16-month accelerated BSN nursing program is for bachelors degree holding students who wish to earn a second bachelors degree in nursing. To qualify for admission to this accelerated BSN program, the student must also have completed the general education and nursing prerequisite classes. The application deadlines are November 1 and December 1.

University of Colorado Denver

University of Colorado Denver

13120 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045,

303-724-1812

Founded in 1912, the University of Colorado Denver (UCD) is one of the three public universities that make up the University of Colorado System. UCD has two campuses: the Denver campus, also known as the Auraria Campus and the Anschutz Medical Campus. The Auraria campus is located in the Auraria section of downtown Denver. The campus is shared with the Community College of Denver and the Metropolitan State College of Denver. The Anschutz Medical Campus is located in Aurora, Colorado on the site of the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center. It is home to UCD’s health sciences-related schools, including the College of Nursing.

The College of Nursing offers three different paths to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This top accelerated BSN program is designed for students with a bachelors degree and now seek to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. To qualify for admission to this highly competitive and intensive accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, within 10 years prior to applying, the student must have completed the prerequisite coursework including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, general chemistry and statistics. The application deadlines are June 15 for the spring semester and October 15 for the summer semester.

University of Northern Colorado

University of Northern Coloradao

School of Nursing, Gunter Hall 3080, Box 125, Greeley, CO 80639,
970-351-2293

The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) is a public university founded in 1889 as a teacher’s college called the State Normal School of Colorado. Since then, the school changed its focus and expanded its curricula to include over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. To reflect these changes, in1975 the school changed its name to the University of Northern Colorado. Its 240-acre campus is located in Greeley, Colorado, with easy access to Denver.

UNC’s School of Nursing is part of the College of Natural and Health Science. The School of Nursing teaches its students to treat patients holistically and to strive to allow the patient to be active in the decisions related to his or her care. The School of Nursing offers three routes to attain the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Second Degree Program. Designed for students who already have a college degree, this accelerated second degree BSN program allows the qualified student to complete the requirements for a BSN in 20 months. To qualify for admission to this accelerated BSN program (ABSN), the student must have completed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) coursework and be able demonstrate that he or she will have taken all of the School of Nursing prerequisite coursework prior to beginning the program. The application deadline is in January of each year.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Connecticut

Fairfield University
1073 N. Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824. Tel: 203-254-4000.
Fairfield University is a private, Jesuit school founded in 1942 by the Society of Jesus. It is located on a 200-acre campus in Fairfield, Connecticut. The mission of Fairfield University is to both foster religious and ethical values and to develop the intellectual potential of its students. It offers over 80 graduate and undergraduate degree programs in 10 schools.

The Fairfield University School of Nursing offers an Accelerated Second Degree Program that allows students who have a bachelors degree in another field to achieve a BSN after 15 months of full-time classroom and clinical work. To qualify for admissions to this 2nd degree BSN program, the applicant must have completed all general education coursework required to receive an undergraduate degree from Fairfield University, as well as basic science coursework. The application deadline is November 1 for June enrollment.

Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University

275 Mount Carmel Ave., Hamden, CT 06518,

203-582-8200

Quinnipiac University is a private university in Hamden, Connecticut. It is located at the foot of Sleeping Giant Mountain, 8 miles from New Haven and less than 2 hours from New York City. It was founded in 1929 as Connecticut College of Commerce by Samuel W. Tator. In 1951 it was renamed Quinnipiac College after the Quinnipiac Indian tribe. After expanding its academic programs, the school’s name became Quinnipiac University in 2000. Quinnipiac currently offers undergraduate and graduate programs through five colleges and schools.

The School of Nursing is located on Quinnipiac’s North Haven campus in a 180,000 square foot facility that it shares with the School of Health Sciences. In addition to its traditional path to achieving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, Quinnipiac’s School of Nursing offers an Accelerated BSN for Second Degree Students. This ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program uses a curriculum based on the student’s prior academic preparation, allowing the nursing BSN requirements to be completed in one calendar year of full-time study. The application deadline is January 2.

Southern Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University

501 Crescent Street, New Haven, CT 06515,

203-392-5200

Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is one of the four universities that are part of the Connecticut State University System. Its campus is in the West Rock neighborhood of New Haven. Since its establishment in 1893 as New Haven State Normal School, a 2-year training school for teachers, Southern Connecticut State University has grown into a modern, diversified university offering over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and employing over 700 faculty members.

The Department of Nursing graduated its first class of 13 students in 1973. Since then the school has grown to offer both undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees, including the Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) program. The ACE program is an accelerated BSN program that allows qualified students to complete the requirements to earn a BSN in 12 consecutive months. To qualify for this full-time program, the student must already have a bachelors degree and have completed the 8 prerequisite classes. The application deadline is August 1. However, because of the competitiveness of this program, only the first 120 applications received will be reviewed.

University of Connecticut

University of Connecticut

249 Glenbrook Road, Storrs, CT 06269,
860-486-2000

The University of Connecticut (UConn) is a public university founded in 1881 by Charles and Augustus Storrs. It was originally called the Storrs Agricultural School. The name of the school was changed in 1939 to the University of Connecticut to reflect the shift in curriculum to a liberal arts focus. The main campus is located in Storrs, Connecticut with five regional campuses: Avery Point, Greater Hartford, Stamford, Torrington, and Waterbury. UConn now offers over 100 majors and 24 undergraduate and graduate degrees.

The School of Nursing was founded in 1942. Among its several degree programs, the School of Nursing offers the Master’s Entry into Nursing (MbEIN) – Accelerated Pre-Licensure program. This accelerated BSN program is offered at the Storrs, Avery Point, Waterbury and Stamford campuses and is designed for students who have a already earned a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. It allows such students to earn a BSN degree and to qualify to take the RN licensure exam after one calendar year of study. To qualify for this program, the student must complete the prerequisite science and statistics coursework. The application deadlines are January 31, June 30 and August 31.

University of Saint Joseph Connecticut

University of Saint Joseph Connecticut

1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117,

860-232-4571

The University of Saint Joseph Connecticut is a private, Catholic institution founded in 1932 by the Sister of Mercy with a mission to establish a liberal arts college for women. It is located in West Hartford, Connecticut about 100 miles from Boston and 100 miles from New York City. It offers undergraduate degrees to women and graduate degrees to men and women.

The Department of Nursing at University of Saint Joseph offers several options for students to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Second Degree Program. This accelerated BSN program is designed to give students who already have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing the opportunity to earn a BSN on an accelerated schedule. Students must have completed 3 of the 5 science prerequisite classes prior to applying for admission. Applicants are not permitted to retake prerequisite science classes due to a low grade. The application deadline is February 15.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Washington DC

The Catholic University of America
620 Michigan Ave., N.E., Washington, DC 20064. Tel: 202-319-5000.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a private, Catholic university located on 193 acres in the Brookland neighborhood of Washington, DC. It was founded in 1887 by the U.S. Catholic bishops with the consent of Pope Leo XIII as a research and graduate studies institution. It is the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States. Catholic University began to offer undergraduate degrees in 1904. Continuing its mission to combine academic excellence with Catholic spirituality, the CUA now offers over 240 undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Among several degree programs, the School of Nursing offers a five semester undergraduate Second Degree Program option leading to the BSN degree. This 2nd degree BSN program is open to students who, within 10 years of applying, have earned a bachelors, masters or doctorate degree in a field other than nursing, and who have completed the prerequisite coursework. The application deadline is May 15. However, students are encouraged to apply early as admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis for this competitive program.

George Washington University

George Washington University

2030 M Street, NW, Washington, DC, 20036,

202-994-7901

George Washington University (GW) is a private university located on 43 acres in the Foggy Bottom section of Washington, DC. It was established by Congress in 1821 as The Columbian College in the District of Columbia. Following an agreement with the George Washington Memorial Association, in 1904 the Columbian changed its name to George Washington University. In addition to its main campus in Washington, DC, GW has two other campuses: Mount Vernon and Virginia. GW is made up of 10 schools and colleges and offers online learning opportunities. The newest school is the School of Nursing.

The first nursing school at GW opened in 1903. After experiencing many changes over the next 100 years, including closing for a time due to the effects of the Depression, in 2010 a new GW School of Nursing opened, and in 2011 the US News & World Report ranked it a top 50 nursing school. The School of Nursing offers the 4 semester, 15-month Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing to students who have earned a bachelors degree in major other than nursing. Classes for GW’s second degree BSN nursing program are held at the Ashburn, Virginia campus. To be eligible for admission to this accelerated BSN program, the student must have earned a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 and must have completed the following prerequisite coursework: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, Nutrition, and Ethics. The application deadline is February 15.

Howard University

Howard University

620 Michigan Ave., N.E., Washington, DC 20064,

202-806-7456

Howard University is a private, historically black university located on 256 acres in Northwest Washington, DC. It was founded in 1869 by General Oliver Otis Howard, a Civil War hero, to educate African-American clergy. It soon expanded to include liberal arts and medical curricula. Howard now has grown to 13 schools and colleges and offers and over 100 degree programs, and enjoys a diverse study body. The College of Nursing and Allied Health, Division of Nursing at Howard offers 4 tracks to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The Advanced Placement Track is designed for students who have earned a bachelors degree, allowing the student to complete the coursework and clinical for the BSN on an accelerated schedule. To qualify for admission to this second degree BSN program, the applicant must also have completed all prerequisite classes.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Delaware

University of Delaware
150 South College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716. Tel: 302-831-2805.
The University of Delaware (UD) is public institution located in Newark, Delaware.  It is the largest university in the state of Delaware.  Founded in 1743 in New London, Pennsylvania by Rev. Dr. Francis Alison, the school relocated to Newark in 1765 and in 1921 became the University of Delaware.  UD is currently organized into seven colleges and three schools.  It offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The Department of Nursing was established in 1962 as a part of the College of Arts and Sciences and became the College of Nursing in 1966.  Today the School of Nursing is part of the College of Health Sciences. To accommodate the needs of students and the nursing profession, the School of Nursing established multiple paths for achieving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.  In 1994 it created the Accelerated 2nd Degree program for adult learners with a bachelor’s degree in a major other than nursing.  This second degree BSN program requires 17 months of full-time study.  All prerequisite science artwork must have been completed within 10 years of applying to this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program.The application deadline is April 1.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Florida

Barry University
11300 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL 33161. Tel: 305-899-3800.
Barry University is a private, Catholic institution located on a 122-acre campus in Miami Shores, Florida, a suburb of Miami. It is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Miami. Founded in 1940 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, Barry University was initially a college for women known as Barry College for Women.

It was named after Mother Mary Gerald Barry who served as the school’s president from 1940-1961. After expanding its curriculum to offer several graduate programs and opening these programs to both men and women, in 1981 the school was renamed Barry University.

The Barry University Division of Nursing offers a quality academic experience in an environment that values diversity, creativity and spirituality. It admitted its first students in 1953. Since then, the Division of Nursing program has expanded to offer 3 paths to achieving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the addition of the Accelerated Option in 1983. This accelerated BSN program is designed for students with bachelors degrees who want to change careers to nursing. The program allows students to earn a BSN after 15 months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program the student must complete all 12 prerequisite classes prior to matriculation. The program is offered only on Barry’s Miami Shores Campus. The application deadline is October 15.

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing

5200 Belfort Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32256,
904-251-8110

Chamberlain College of Nursing is a for-profit, private nursing school based in Downers Grove, Illinois, with several locations across the United States, including in Jacksonville, Florida. It was established in 1889 as the Deaconess School of Nursing. In 2005 Deaconess was acquired by DeVry, Inc. In addition to its traditional BSN program, Chamberlain also offers a Second Degree BSN Option to adult learners who have already earned a bachelors degree in another field. This accelerated BSN program uses the same curriculum as its traditional BSN program, but is designed so that students can complete the program in 13 months. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, in addition to having a bachelors degree, the student must also have completed the 16 prerequisite coursework. The application deadline varies by location.

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University

777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431,

561-297-3000

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public university located on 5,860 acres in Boca Raton, Florida on the site of the former Boca Raton Army Airfield. It has six satellite campuses in southeast Florida. FAU was founded in 1964 by the Florida legislature with 867 students in five colleges. FAU now has ten colleges and over 28,000 students.

The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing was created in 1979 and was originally a Division of the College of Social Sciences. In 1990 it became a separate college. It is named to honor Christine E. Lynn who, along with her late husband, Gene M. Lynn, provided financial support to help fund the establishment of the College of Nursing. The BSN Accelerated Program was introduced in 2003. This accelerated BSN program is designed for students with bachelors degrees who wish to become a registered nurses. The program allows students to earn a BSN in after 12 months of intense, full-time study. To qualify for this accelerated BSN degree program, the student must complete all 10 prerequisite science and statistics classes prior to matriculation. The program is offered only at the Boca Raton Campus. The application deadline is in November and classed begin in May.

Florida State University

Florida State University

98 Varsity Way, MC 4310, Tallahassee, FL 32306,

850-644-3296

Florida State University (FSU) is a public university located on a 451-acre campus in Tallahassee, Florida. It is part of the Florida State University System. FSU dates back to 1951 when the Florida legislature authorized the establishment of West Florida Seminary. A new charter was issued in 1883, making West Florida Seminary a part of Florida University. FSU now has 16 colleges and offers over 275 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

FSU’s School of Nursing admitted its first class of BSN candidates in 1950. Since then the School of Nursing has grown to offer both undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees, with different paths to achieving those degrees. The Accelerated BSN program is available to highly motivated students with bachelors degrees who desire a career change. The program provides qualified students with the same academic and clinical experience as the traditional BSN program on an accelerated, intensive 12-month schedule. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must also have completed all 13 nursing prerequisite classes. The application deadline is February 1 for fall admission.

Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University

2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211,

904-256-7000

Jacksonville University (JU) is a private university located in the Arlington neighborhood of Jacksonville, Florida, near the St. Johns River. It was founded in 1834 by William J. Porter as a two-year college called William J. Porter University. By 1958 the school has expanded its curriculum to offer four-year degree programs and changed its name to Jacksonville University. JU is now has six colleges and offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The School of Nursing at Jacksonville University prepares students to practice nursing in complex health care environments, with an emphasis on diversity, clinical experience and caring. It offers a 2nd Degree BSN program to students with a bachelors degree seeking a career change. This accelerated BSN program allows students to earn a BSN degree after 16 months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN second degree program, the student must also have completed the prerequisite classes. The prerequisites include: Human Anatomy & Physiology, General Chemistry with lab, Microbiology, Human Nutrition, Human Growth and Development and Statistics. The application deadline is December 1.

Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College

300 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33132,

305-237-8888

Miami Dade College is a public institution located in Miami, Florida. It is part of the Florida College System. Founded in 1959 as Dade County Junior College with a mission to provide a college education to anyone who desired one, it was Florida’s first integrated junior college. Over the next twenty years the school grew to one of the largest colleges in the Florida, offering over 50 degrees and certificates. In 2003 it began to offer four-year degrees and changed its name to Miami Dade College.

The Miami Dade College School of Nursing offers several tracks to achieve the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated Option. This accelerated BSN program is designed for students with bachelors degrees who desire to become registered nurses. It exempts the student from taking the General Education courses and allows the student to earn a BSN after one year of full-time study. To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, the student must have completed the seven prerequisite classes. The application deadline is May for the Fall term and September 1 for the Spring term.

University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida

4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando, FL 32816,

305-899-3800

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a public institution located on a 1,415-acre campus near downtown Orlando, Florida. UCF was founded in 1963 by the Florida legislature as the Florida Technological University to train students for careers at the nearby Kennedy Space Center. The school changed its name to the University of Central Florida in 1978 to reflect its expanded academic focus. UCF now offers over 200 degree programs through twelve colleges and several campuses.

The College of Nursing at UCF was created in 1979 and offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including the Accelerated Second Degree BSN program. This accelerated BSN program allows students to earn a BSN after four consecutive semesters of full-time study. The program includes classroom learning as well as service and clinical requirements in culturally diverse, medically underserved areas. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must also have completed the nursing prerequisite coursework. The program is offered only at the Orlando Campus. The application deadline is January 15.

University of Florida

University of Florida

201 Criser Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611,

352-392-1365

The University of Florida (UF) is public institution located on a1200-acre campus in Gainesville, Florida. Founded in 1853 as East Florida Seminary, the University of Florida evolved into a nationally respected institution with 16 colleges and over 200 undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs.

The College of Nursing at UF has the oldest BSN program in Florida. As part of the J. Hillis Miller Health Science Center, the College of Nursing offers its students a unique opportunity to access the resources of a network of interdisciplinary health facilities and programs. The College of Nursing offers both a generic BSN program and an Accelerated BSN program. This second degree accelerated BSN program is designed for students with non-nursing bachelors degrees who want a career change. The program allows students to earn a BSN after completing a shortened, intensive course of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must complete seven prerequisite classes prior to matriculation. The application deadline is February 1.

University of Miami

University of Miami

5501 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146,
305-284-2211

The University of Miami is a private institution located in Coral Gables, Florida. It was founded in 1925 by a group of local residents who believed that a university was needed to benefit the Miami community. In 2011 Worth magazine named the University of Miami the most fiscally-responsible nonprofit organization in the United States. It is currently organized into twelve colleges and schools and offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies was established in 1948, making it the oldest nursing program in South Florida. Committed to service to society, the School of Nursing has developed curricula that is community-based and that emphasizes cultural competency. It offers six undergraduate degree programs, including the addition of the Accelerated BSN that allows students to earn a BSN in after 12 months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must complete all 8 prerequisite classes prior to admission. Students must receive a C or better in each of the prerequisite classes and may only repeat 1 class. The application deadlines are March 1 for May entry and October 1 for January entry.

University of North Florida

University of North Florida

1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224,

904-620-1000

The University of North Florida (UNF) is a public institution located on 1381 acres of lakes and nature trails near downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Founded in 1969, it is part of the State University System of Florida. UNF is currently organized into five colleges and offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The Brooks College of Health at the University of North Florida opened in 1988. It offers degree programs in several health fields, including three options for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), each with a community-based curriculum that emphasizes clinical experiences and service to medically underserved populations. The Accelerated Prelicensure BSN allows students to earn a BSN after 3 ½ semesters full-time study, starting with the summer. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have completed the 8 prerequisite classes. The application deadline is January 15.

University of South Florida

University of South Florida

4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620
813-974-2301

The University of South Florida (USF) is a public institution located in Tampa, Florida. Founded in 1956 by the Florida legislature, it is part of the State University System of Florida. UNF is currently organized into 13 colleges and offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In addition, USF offers several programs for adult learners including certificate programs, professional degrees and noncredit courses. The University of South Florida College of Nursing offers the Second Degree Sequence to students who already have earned a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field. It allows students to earn a BSN after only four semesters of rigorous, full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have completed the eight nursing prerequisite classes. Admission to the second degree BSN program at USF is very competitive. In addition to considering the student’s GPA and prerequisite coursework, the student’s volunteer work, leadership ability and work experience will also be considered. The application deadline is January 15.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Georgia

Emory University
1518 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30329. Tel: 404-727-3956.
Emory University is a private, Methodist university located in the Druid Hills section of Atlanta, Georgia. It was founded in 1870 in Oxford, Georgia by the Georgia Conference of Methodists, and named after Methodist bishop John Emory. Asa Candler, the founder of Coca-Cola, donated the land on which the school’s first buildings were erected. It was recently ranked 20th among national universities by US News and World Report.

Emory currently consists of 11 schools and colleges, with an annual enrollment of over 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University evolved from the Wesley Memorial Hospital Training School for Nurses that was established in 1905. Years later after the school moved to Emory’s campus and separated from the hospital, it was renamed after Nell Hodgson Woodruff, a former School of Nursing student and wife of Coca-Cola magnate Robert Woodruff. The 2nd Degree BSN program allows students to earn a BSN degree after four semesters of full-time study. To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, the student must have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the seven prerequisite classes prior to fall matriculation. The application deadline is in January for fall entry.

Georgia Southwestern State University

Georgia Southwestern State University

800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive, Americus, GA 31709,

877-871-4594

Georgia Southwestern State University is a public university located in Americus, Georgia. It is part of the University System of Georgia. Established in 1906, Georgia Southwestern now has 5 colleges and offers over 75 degree programs. The School of Nursing offers the Second Degree Accelerated BSN program that allows students who already have undergraduate degrees to earn a BSN on a fast track basis. To be eligible for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have a non-nursing bachelors degree and must have completed the science and nursing prerequisite coursework prior to admission to the program. In addition, prior to completing the program, the student must complete the United States and Georgia history coursework as required by the University System of Georgia. The application deadlines are in May 1 for the Fall term and November 1 for the Spring term.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University

University Plaza, Atlanta, GA 30303,

404-413-2500

Georgia State University is a public university located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Its central location allows students easy access to Atlanta’s many cultural and historical attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center and the Georgia Dome. Founded in 1913, Georgia State’s original curriculum focused on mining engineering. Over the years its curriculum has expanded significantly to now offering 52 degrees in over 200 fields of study.

The Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions was established in 1968. In addition to the Traditional BSN program, it offers a 16 month ACE (Achieving the Curriculum Expeditiously) Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing program for students with a undergraduate degree. This rigorous program requires 81 hours per week of classroom, clinical, laboratory work and study time. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have a bachelors degree and must have completed the 12 prerequisite classes. The application deadlines are March 1 for the Fall term and October 1 for the Spring term.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University

1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30144,
(770) 423-6000

Kennesaw State University is a public university located 20 miles north of Atlanta in Kennesaw, Georgia, near Kennesaw Mountain. Originally named Cobb County Junior College, the school was founded in 1963 by the Georgia Board of Regents. After it evolved into a four-year college and expanded its curricula, in 1968 the school was renamed Kennesaw State University. With over 24,000 students, Kennesaw State is the third largest university in Georgia.

The 45-year old Wellstar School of Nursing at Kennesaw State is the largest nursing program in Georgia. For students who wish to pursue nursing careers and who already have a bachelors degree, the Accelerated Baccalaureate Program allows students to earn a BSN degree after four months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must also have completed the 12 prerequisite courses within ten years of applying. Prerequisite classes completed more than 10 years of applying must be retaken. The application deadlines are January 31 for the Fall semester and June 30 for the Spring semester.

Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University

1300 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31698,

229-333-5959

Valdosta State University (VSU) is a public university located on a 168-acre campus in Valdosta, Georgia. Valdosta also has satellite campuses at the Kings Bay Naval Base in Camden County and at the Moody Air Force Base in Lowndes County. Founded in 1906 by the Georgia state legislature, VSU was initially called South Georgia State Normal College. Over the years the school went through numerous name changes as its curricula evolved. In 1993 it became Valdosta State University.

The Valdosta State University College of Nursing was established in 1968 to address the need for registered nurses in South Georgia. Students who have already earned a bachelors degree may pursue a BSN at the College of Nursing in the Accelerated BSN Program for Second Degree Students. This second degree BSN program allows students to earn a BSN degree after four terms of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program the student must also have completed the prerequisite coursework before matriculation. The application deadline is December 1 for the May entry.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Idaho

Idaho State University
921 South 8th Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83209. Tel: 208-282-3215.
Idaho State University (ISU) is a public institution located in Pocatello, Idaho, with 3 additional campuses throughout the state.  It was founded in 1901 by the Idaho legislature as the Academy of Idaho.  After going through several name changes, in 1963 the school became known as Idaho State University to reflect its growth and expanded curricula.  ISU is now made up of 6 colleges and offers over 285 programs of study.

The Idaho State University School of Nursing is located on ISU’s Meridian campus.  It offers three paths to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated Nursing Program.  To qualify for this program, the student must already have earned a bachelors degree, but wishes to make a career change.  This 2nd degree BSN program allows the student to earn the BSN degree in 4 semesters.  The student must also have completed the 9 prerequisite classes prior to matriculation.  This intensive ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program accepts only 30 students each year.  The application deadline is in the middle of September for Spring admission.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Illinois

In Illinois, there are quite a few accelerated BSN degrees to choose from – over 10. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing
Broadway at 11th Street, Quincy, IL 62301. Tel: 217-228-5520.
Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing is a private institution located in downtown Quincy, Illinois as part of the Blessing Hospital complex. Initially known as the Blessing Hospital School of Nursing, it was founded in 1861 by the Board of Managers of Blessing Hospital. Later, after Cedric H. Rieman left the school a substantial endowment in memory of his wife, the name of the school was changed to the Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing.

Blessing now offers several degree programs on its own and in partnership with Culver-Stockton College and Quincy University. In 2003 Blessing started the Advanced Placement Track for second degree students seeking the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The program allows students to earn a BSN after two years of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must also complete the prerequisite classes. The prerequisite classes include: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, English Composition, and Speech. The application deadline is November 1 for April entry.

Bradley University

Bradley University

1501 W Bradley Ave., Peoria, IL 61625,

309-676-7611

Bradley University is a private university located on 85 acres in the West Bluff section of Peoria, Illinois. Originally known as Bradley Polytechnic Institute, Bradley was founded in 1897 by Lydia Moss Bradley in memory of her husband and children. The name was changed in 1946 to Bradley University. Named a top-ranking Midwestern school by US News and World Report, Bradley now has seven schools and colleges and over 6,100 students.

Created in 1956, Bradley University’s Department of Nursing offers an Accelerated Track to achieve the BSN degree. The program allows students to earn a BSN after 15 months of rigorous, full-time study. To qualify for this accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, in addition to having a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing, the student must have completed all ten prerequisite classes prior to admission.

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing

1221 North Swift Road, Addison, IL 60101,
630-953-3660

Chamberlain College of Nursing is a private, for-profit nursing school with its corporate headquarters in Downers Grove, Illinois, and several locations across the United States, including in Addison, Illinois. It was established in 1889 as the Deaconess School of Nursing. In 2005 Deaconess was acquired by Illinois-based, DeVry, Inc. In addition to its traditional three-year track to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, Chamberlain offers a Second Degree BSN Option to adult learners who have already earned a bachelors degree in another field. This accelerated BSN program uses the same curriculum as its traditional BSN program, but is designed so that student can complete the program in 13 months. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have a bachelors degree with an cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and must have completed the 16 prerequisite classes. The application deadline varies by location.

Illinois State University

Illinois State University

100 N University Street, Normal, IL 61790,
309-438-2181

Illinois State University (ISU) is a public university located in Normal, Illinois, 137 miles southwest of Chicago. Founded in 1857 by the Illinois legislature as the Illinois State Normal University, a teacher’s college, ISU is the oldest university in Illinois. Since then the school has changed its curriculum from a teacher education-focused program to a liberal arts program, and in 1968 changed its name to Illinois State University. ISU now offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs

The Mennonite College of Nursing was established as a private college in 1919 and became the sixth college at Illinois State University in 1999. It offers three programs to achieve the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated BSN Program. This accelerated BSN program is designed for students with bachelors degrees who wish to become registered nurses. The program allows students to earn a BSN after 15 months of rigorous, full-time study, starting in May and ending in August of the following year. To qualify for this BSN second degree program, the student must have completed all nine prerequisite science and statistics classes prior to admission. The application deadline is June 15 for entry in May of the following year.

Lewis University

Lewis University

1 University Parkway, Romeoville, IL 60446,
815-838-0500

Lewis University is a private, Catholic university located 30 miles southwest of Chicago in Romeoville, Illinois, adjacent to Lewis Airport. Originally called the Holy Name Technical School, Lewis University was founded in 1932 by the Chicago Archdiocese and Bishop Bernard J. Scheil. It was renamed in honor of Frank J. Lewis, a local philanthropist who provided funding to construct several of the school’s buildings. Initially Lewis was an aeronautics school. Its resources were used to help train pilots during World War II. In 1944 the school began to expand its curriculum to include traditional liberal arts classes. In 1973 the school’s name was changed to Lewis University. It has been cited by both The Princeton Review and US News and World Report as one of the best regional schools.

The College of Nursing and Health Professions at Lewis University offers a learning environment that emphasizes small classes with individualized attention combined with Catholic values of compassion and community. Among its degree programs, the College of Nursing and Health Professions offers the Accelerated Bachelors to BSN Program that allows students to receive the BSN degree in two years. Available at several of Lewis University’s campuses, this accelerated BSN program is designed for the individual seeking a career change. The program is offered in 8 week segments that include classroom work during the week and clinicals on the weekends. To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, the student must have taken the prerequisite science coursework as well as the mission-based classes, including Ethics, Cultural Diversity and Intergroup Relations and Theology. Applications are accepted and admission is offered on a rolling basis.

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago

1032 W. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660,

773-274-3000

Loyola University Chicago is a private, Catholic university located in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1870 as St. Ignatius College, it is the largest Jesuit, Catholic University in the United States. It has 6 campuses in the Chicago area, one campus in Rome, Italy and 10 colleges and schools. The school changed its name to Loyola University Chicago in 1909.

Loyola’s Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing was created in 935 and was the first fully accredited nursing school in Illinois. The School of Nursing is located on Loyola’s Health Sciences Campus in Maywood, Illinois. It offers three undergraduate nursing degree programs, including the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This accelerated BSN program allows students to earn a BSN degree after 16 months of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have a bachelors degree and must have completed 37 hours of prerequisite coursework prior to matriculation. The application deadlines are May 1 for the Fall term and November 1 for the Spring term.

Methodist College of Nursing

Methodist College of Nursing

415 St. Mark Ct. Peoria, IL 61603,

309-672-5513

The Methodist College of Nursing is a private institution located in Peoria, Illinois. Established in 1900 by the Deaconesses of the Methodist Episcopal Church, it is now owned by the Methodist Medical Center of Illinois. The Methodist College of Nursing offers three options to obtain the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Second Degree Accelerated BSN that allows students to complete the coursework for the BSN in five semesters of continuous, full-time study. This accelerated second degree program is designed for working adults, with many of its classes offered in the evening, on weekends and online. To qualify for this accelerated BSN program, the student must have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the eight prerequisite classes. The application deadlines are April 15 for the Fall term and September 15 for the Spring term.

Resurrection University

Resurrection University

3 Erie Court, Oak Park, IL 60302,
708-763-6530

Resurrection University is a private, Catholic institution located in Oak Park, Illinois. It was founded in 1914 as West Suburban School of Nursing. Resurrection University now is a health sciences school, owned by Presence Health, a Catholic nonprofit organization. It offers nursing degrees with flexible schedules to accommodate working, adult learners. The Fast Track BSN program at Resurrection University allows students to complete the requirements for the BSN degree in 5 semesters. To qualify for admission, the student must have completed both the prerequisite general education classes and the prerequisite nursing support classes. The application deadlines are April 1 for the Fall term and September 1 for the Spring term.

Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL 62026,

888-328-5168

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a public institution located in Edwardsville, Illinois, about 20 miles from St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1957 in response to the lack of post-secondary institutions in the area, SIUE remains committed to the Southwestern Illinois community. The School of Nursing at SIUE conferred its first BSN degrees in 1966 and now has over 5000 alumni who have earned degrees from three different BSN programs, including the Accelerated Option. This accelerated BSN degree program allows students to earn a BSN after 3 semesters and one summer of full-time study. The program includes the same classroom and clinical work that is offered in the traditional BSN program on an accelerated schedule. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have completed the nine prerequisite classes within seven years of applying. The application deadline is April 1.

Trinity College of Nursing

Trinity College of Nursing

2122 25th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201,

309- 779-7700

Trinity College of Nursing is a private nursing college located in Rock Island, Illinois. The history of Trinity College goes back to the late 19th century when four different hospitals and affiliate nursing schools served the Quad Cities: Moline, IL, East Moline, IL, Davenport, IA, and Bettendorf, IA. Over the years these nursing schools and other nursing training programs merged to ultimately become the fully accredited Trinity College of Nursing in 1998. Trinity College is now associated with Trinity Regional Health System, a nonprofit organization serving Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. There are three options for earning the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Trinity College. The accelerated BSN-A program allows students to earn a BSN after completing a 15-month, intensive course of full-time study. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have completed the six prerequisite science and statistics classes.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Indiana

There are a decent number of accelerated BSN degrees to choose from in Indiana, and many colleges have on-campus locations. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

Ball State University
2000 W. University Avenue, Muncie, IN 47306. Tel: 765-289-1241.
Ball State University (Ball State) is public university located on a 700-acre campus on the northwest side of Muncie, Indiana. Ball State dates back to 1899 with the founding of Eastern Indiana Normal School, a teacher’s college. In 1922, after Frank Ball and his four brothers provided financial support the school was renamed Ball Teacher’s College.

Following several decades of growth in enrollment and expansion of academic programs, in 1965 the Indiana General Assembly voted to rename the school Ball State University. Ball State now annually enrolls over 22,000 students in 7 colleges.

Ball State School of Nursing combines traditional classroom learning with clinical and online modules. The School of Nursing also offers several admissions options for students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, including the 19-month track that allows students to finishing the BSN coursework in an intensive, 19-month period. To qualify for this accelerated BSN program, in addition to have a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field, the student must also have completed the prerequisite classes and must submit a handwritten paper on nursing. Applications for admissions are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Indiana University-Northwest

Indiana University- Northwest

3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408,

888-968-7486

Indiana University (IU Northwest) is a public institution that is part of the Indiana University System. Its main campus is on 36 acres in Gary, Indiana, with a satellite location in Portage. It was founded in 1963 by the Indiana legislature. It currently has over 5,000 students and over 250 faculty members.

Committed to providing a strong science and liberal arts foundation to students seeking nursing careers, IU Northwest School of Nursing provides a number of options for achieving the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the BA/BS to BSN Mobility Option. This 2nd degree BSN program allows students to earn a BSN after 18 months of full-time study. To qualify for this accelerated BSN program, in addition to having a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing, the student must have completed the prerequisite classes prior to admission. The prerequisite classes include: Anatomy and Physiology, Microorganism in Nature and Disease Biology, Statistics, Life Span Development, Math, and Chemistry of Life. The application deadline is in January.

Indiana University- Purdue University-Indianapolis

Indiana University- Purdue University-Indianapolis

420 University Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202,

317-274-5555

Indiana University- Purdue University-Indianapolis (IUPUI) is a public university located in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. It was created in 1969 with the merger of the regional Indianapolis campuses of Indiana University and Purdue University. Currently, IUPUI has over 30,000 students and offers over 250 degree programs in 21 schools.

The School of Nursing at IUPUI is the largest nursing school in the United States, providing Indiana with over 40% of its bachelor degree holding nurses. The School of Nursing offers the Second Degree Option to students who have earned a bachelors degree in another field, and now wish to transition to a career in nursing. This accelerated BSN program involves 20 months of full-time, intensive study that includes classroom work, clinicals and community-based practical experience. To qualify for this program, the student must have completed the prerequisite coursework prior to admission. The application deadlines are in September for the spring term, January for the summer term and March for the fall term.

Indiana University- South Bend

Indiana University- South Bend

1700 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, IN 46634,
574-520-IUSB

Indiana University- South Bend (IU South Bend) is a public university located in South Bend, Indiana, and is the third largest school in the Indiana University System. IU South Bend traces its roots to 1916 when IU South Bend was an extension of Indiana University Bloomington. In 1967 IU South Bend conferred its first four-year degrees. It has since expanded to an annual enrollment of over 2,200 undergraduate and graduate students in 8 colleges and schools.

The School of Nursing at IU South Bend is part of the College of Health and Sciences. Qualified students with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing may earn a BSN after 15 months of study through the Second Degree BSN Program. In this intensive accelerated BSN program, classwork and clinicals are scheduled for 35-40 hours per week. To qualify for this BSN second degree program, the student must have completed all prerequisite general education and science classes prior to matriculation. The application deadline is in February.

Marian University

Marian University

3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222,

317-955-6000

Marian University is a private, Catholic university located four miles northwest of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. It was founded in 1851 by the Oldenburg Franciscans to train teachers to serve residents of southern Indiana. The School of Nursing at Marian University was established in 1977, and by 1987 received accreditation by the Indiana State Board of Nursing to confer associates and bachelors nursing degrees. The School of Nursing now offers the BSN Accelerated Program to students with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines. Through this accelerated BSN program, students earn the BSN degree after 12-15 months of intensive study. Clinicals are completed at Marian’s Louis C. Gatto Nursing Resource Center, followed by practical experience in nearby community-based hospitals. To qualify for this second degree accelerated program, the applicant must have completed the prerequisite coursework. If a student has not completed all of the prerequisites, options are available for completing it at Marian. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for January entry.

Purdue University

Purdue University

502 N. University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2069,

765-494-4004

Purdue University is public institution established by the Indiana State Assembly in 1869. It is located in West Lafayette, Indiana on land donated by local businessman, John Purdue. Purdue has grown to become the second largest university in Indiana. It annual enrolls over 39,000 students, and offers over 190 degree programs in 10 schools and colleges. It was recently cited by The Princeton Review as one of the country’s “best values” for colleges.

The nursing division at Purdue dates back to 1963 as a program on the West Lafayette campus within the Department of Applied and General Studies. In 1979 the Board of Trustees created the School of Nursing, which is now part of the College of Health and Human Science. Among its degree programs the School of Nursing offers the Second Degree Accelerated Baccalaureate Program in Nursing. It is designed for students who hold a bachelors degree in another discipline and now wish to pursue a BSN. This ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a 15-month program during which students must complete 32 credits of pre-nursing requirements and 59 credits of nursing requirements. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the student must have taken the prerequisite science coursework. The application deadline is in January of each year for May entry.

Purdue University Calumet

Purdue University Calumet

2200 169th Street, Hammond, IN 46323-2094
219 -989-2400

Purdue University Calumet is public university located in Hammond, Indiana, 25 miles southeast of Chicago. It is part of the Purdue University System. Purdue University Calumet started offering classed in Hammond in 1946, and moved to its current 194-acre site in 1951. The school is organized into 6 different schools. The School of Nursing offers 4 options for achieving the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, including the Accelerated BS Option for Second Degree Students. This accelerated BSN program allows students with a general education foundation from earning a bachelors degree in another field to earn a BSN on an accelerated schedule. To qualify for this second degree BSN program, the applicant must have a BSN in another field of study and must have completed the 8 prerequisite classes prior to matriculation.

Saint Mary’s College

Saint Mary’s College

8 Havican Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556-5001,
574-284-4680

Saint Mary’s College is a private, women’s Catholic college with a 75-acre campus of gardens, lawns and historic buildings in Notre Dame, Indiana. With a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual support, Saint Mary’s was founded in 1844 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Today Saint Mary’s offers 30 different degree programs to its annual enrollment of over 1,500 women. It has consistently ranked as one of the 100 “Best National Liberal Arts Colleges” in the U.S. News & World Report.

As part of its nursing program, Saint Mary’s Colleges offers the Accelerated Option Program where the student is admitted as a transfer student and the BSN requirements are modified to accommodate the accelerated schedule. To qualify for this accelerated BSN program, the student must have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the prerequisite classes. The application deadline is in February of each year.

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University

1600 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-464-5096

Valparaiso University is private, Lutheran institution based in Valparaiso, Indiana, 50 miles southeast of downtown Chicago. Established in 1859 as the Valparaiso Male and Female College, it was one of the first coeducational universities in the United States. In 1906 it was rechartered as Valparaiso University and developed a reputation for providing a low-cost, high quality education, as noted in The Barron’s 300: Best Buys in College Education. Valparaiso now offers over 70 academic programs in 5 colleges, including the College of Nursing.

Training at the College of Nursing emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, combined with cutting-edge technology to provide the student with a unique learning experience. The Virtual Nursing Learning Center simulates an actually hospital environment complete with equipment and interactive mannequins. The College of Nursing offers several different paths to achieving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated Option. This second degree BSN program is designed for transfer students who have general education and science credits and for individuals seeking a second degree. Qualified students can complete this BSN accelerated program in 15 months. To qualify for admission, the applicant must have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing or at least 57 transfer credits and must have completed the 12 prerequisite classes.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Iowa

There are not many accelerated BSN degrees offered at Iowa colleges (only one by our count, but let us know if you come across any that we are not aware of and we can add it to our directory). You might consider an online program (featured below).

Allen College
1990 Heath Street, Waterloo, IA 50703. Tel: 319-226-2000.
Allen College is a health science college located in Waterloo, Iowa.  It was established in 1925 as Allen Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and was a part of Allen Memorial Hospital.  The institution has since changed its name to Allen College and is now part of Allen Health Systems, an affiliate of the Iowa Health System.

Allen College offers a nursing program that emphasizes training students to work in a culturally diverse environment and that encourages community service.   The Accelerated Option allows students to complete the classroom work and clinicals necessary to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 15 months.  To qualify for this accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, the applicant must have already completed at least 64 hours of classwork at an accredited college or university or have earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing.  In addition, the applicant must have completed the prerequisite classes prior to admission. Applications for admissions are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Kansas

By our count, there are only two accelerated BSN degrees at schools in Kansas. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below. You might consider an online program, especially if you live in more remote areas of Kansas.

MidAmerica Nazarene University
2030 E. College Way, Olathe, KS 66062-1899. Tel: 913-782-3750.
MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU) is a private, Christian institution located on a 100-acre campus in Olathe, Kansas, near Kansas City, Missouri.  Founded in 1966, MidAmerica Nazarene University is one of 8 universities affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene.  MNU enrolls over 1,700 students and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 40 majors.

The School of Nursing and Health Science offers an Accelerated BSN Program for students with bachelors degrees seeking to make a career change.  The accelerated bachelors in nursing  program allows students to complete the classroom work and clinicals necessary to earn a BSN in 12 months.  To qualify for this 2nd degree BSN program, the applicant must have a bachelor degree, must be an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) who has completed at least 64 hours of college coursework, or must have completed at least 90 hours of college coursework.   In addition, the applicant must have completed the prerequisite classes prior to admission.  The prerequisite classes include:  Human Growth and Development/Child Development, Intermediate Algebra, or higher level algebra course, English Comp I, Public Speaking, Anatomy and Physiology, Human Nutrition, Probability and Statistics and Ethics. The application deadline is in May.

Wichita State University

Wichita State University

1845 Fairmount St. Wichita, KS 67260,

316-978-3456

Wichita State University (WSU) is a public university located on a 300-acre campus in Wichita, Kansas.  The Wichita campus has been noted for its large outdoor sculpture collection.  WSU also has satellite campuses in Derby and Maize.  WSU was founded in 1886 by the Rev. Joseph Homer Parker.  It was originally a private, congregational school called Fairmount College.  In 1926 Fairmount College became a public non-denominational school called Municipal University of Wichita.  In 1964 its name was changed to Wichita State University.

The School of Nursing began in 1967 as a department within the University College, offering only the bachelors degree.  Since then it has received approval to confer graduate level degrees and is now part of the College of Health Professions.  The School of Nursing now also offers several options for achieving the BSN degree, including the Accelerated BSN Option.  Designed for students who have already earned a bachelors degree, this second degree BSN program allows qualified students to earn a BSN degree after 15 months of intensive classwork and clinicals, including weekend and evening scheduling.   The program begins each year in May and ends in August of the following year.  To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, the applicant must have a bachelors degree from another field and must have completed the prerequisite classes prior to admission.  The application deadline is in September.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Kentucky

There are a handful of accelerated BSN degrees to choose from in Kentucky, and many of the universities have on-campus locations. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

Bellarmine University
2001 Newburg Rd, Louisville KY, 40205. Tel: 502-272-8131.
Bellarmine University is a private Catholic school located on a 135-acre campus in Louisville, Kentucky. Named after Cardinal Saint Robert Bellarmine, it was founded in 1950 by Archbishop John A. Floersh. Bellarmine is organized into 6 schools and college, annually enrolls over 3,200 students, and offers degrees in over 50 undergraduate and graduate majors.

The Donna and Allan Lansing School of Nursing and Health Sciences offers multiple health science programs, including undergraduate and graduate nursing degree programs. The Accelerated Second Degree BSN program is designed for students who have earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. This ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is 12-months long, divided into 3 14-week semesters. During the program students attend classes two to three days a week and are in clinical settings two to three days a week. To qualify for this accelerated BSN program, the applicant must have a bachelors degree and must have completed the 6 prerequisite classes prior to matriculation. The application deadline is in March.

Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University

521 Lancaster Ave, Richmond, KY 40475,

859-622-1000

Eastern Kentucky University is a public school located on an 880- acre campus in Richmond, Kentucky, with 6 additional regional campuses and centers. Eastern Kentucky University was founded in 1874 as Central University. In 1922 it became known as Eastern Kentucky State Normal School and Teachers College, and in 1966 the name was changed to Eastern Kentucky University. The nursing program at Eastern has been in existence for over 35 years, providing nursing professionals to the local community, including rural Appalachia. The 2nd Degree BSN Option allows qualified students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after 21 months of intensive classwork and clinicals. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the applicant must have a bachelors degree and must have completed the 5 prerequisite science and statistics classes prior to admission. The application deadline is in March.

Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University

1 Nunn Dr., Highland Heights, KY 41099,

859-572-5100

Northern Kentucky University is a public school located on a 390- acre campus in Highland Heights, Kentucky, 11 miles southeast of Cincinnati, Ohio. The Department of Nursing is part of the College of Health Professions and has clinical affiliations with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and other distinguished health care facilities in and around Cincinnati. The Accelerated BSN program is designed for bachelor degree holding students who want to transition to nursing careers. This BSN accelerated program is rigorous in that it incorporates the traditional 3 years of BSN degree coursework into 16 months of full-time study. The admission requirements include having completed the following prerequisite coursework: Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Healthcare Informatics, Nutrition, Introductory Statistics, and Growth and Development. The application deadline is in February for fall admission.

Spalding University

Spalding University

845 South Third St., Louisville, Kentucky 40203,

502- 585-9911

Spalding University is a private, Catholic university located in Louisville, Kentucky. Founded in 1814, Spalding University is affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and is named after Catherine Spalding, the founder of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Today Spalding University prides itself on offering an innovative mixture of traditional learning environments with service and distance learning opportunities. The School of Nursing is one of the oldest nursing schools in Kentucky. It was one of the first nursing schools to offer the two year RN to BSN weekend only college program and now also offers the 2nd Degree BSN program. This accelerated BSN program is designed for students with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing, who would like to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The traditional BSN classroom and clinical curriculum is adapted to an accelerated schedule consisting of 8 6-week sessions. Both day and night class schedules are available. To qualify for this program the applicant must have completed the 9 prerequisite science classes. The application deadline is in November of each year.

University of Kentucky

University of Kentucky

410 Administration Drive, Lexington, Kentucky 40506,

859-257-9000

The University of Kentucky (UK) is a public school located on a 800- acre campus in Lexington, Kentucky. UK was founded in 1865 by John Bowman as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky. It is now the largest university in Kentucky and, according to U.S. News and World Report, is the highest ranked research university in the state. The College of Nursing was created in 1960 in response to the shortage in Kentucky. The Second Degree BSN option is available to students who have earned a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field. The program involves five semesters of intensive full-time study, culmination in the receiving the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. To qualify for this BSN accelerated program, the applicant must have a bachelors degree and must have completed the prerequisite classes prior to admission. The application deadline is in March.

University of Louisville

University of Louisville

2301 South 3rd street, Louisville, KY 40208,

502-852-5555

The University of Louisville is a public university located in Louisville, Kentucky. It was founded in 1798 as the Jefferson Seminary. Over the years the university evolved from Jefferson Seminary to Louisville Medical Institute and finally, in 1846, the Kentucky legislature renamed and reconfigured the institution into the University of Louisville. The University of Louisville School of Nursing, located in the health sciences center, offers a variety of undergraduate academic programs that lead to becoming a registered nurse. The Accelerated 2nd Degree Program is for students who have already earned a bachelors degree in a different field. Students first take the prerequisite courses in the Lower Division, followed by taking the nursing courses in the Upper Division. This accelerated BSN program takes 2 years to complete. The application deadlines for the Lower Division are in April, July and December. The deadline for the Upper Division is in March.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Louisiana

There are a few accelerated BSN programs in Louisiana, most of which offer only campus based programs. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

Louisiana College
1140 College Drive, Pineville, LA 71360. Tel: 318-487-7127.
Louisiana College is a private, Baptist institution located on a 81-acre campus in Pineville, Louisiana. Founded in 1906, it now offers 70 academic programs of study and enrolls 1,459 students.

The School of Nursing and Allied Health offers three tracks for earning the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The Accelerated BSN program allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after 4 semesters of full-time classroom and clinical work. Clinicals take place in hospitals and clinics in and around the Pineville community. In keeping with its mission of faith-based learning, service opportunities are available at Enterprise Baptist Church, the Working People’s Free Clinic, and the Manna House. To qualify for this BSN accelerated nursing degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the prerequisite classes. There are typically 40 students enrolled in this 2nd degree BSN program.

Louisiana State University-Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

Louisiana State University-Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

1900 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA 70112,
504-568-4106

Louisiana State University is a public health sciences institution located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Founded in 1931, it is now home to 6 schools: the School of Public Health, the School of Medicine, the School of Allied Health Professions, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Dentistry, and the School of Nursing. The School of Nursing offers three tracks for earning the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The Career Alternative RN Education program allows students to earn a BSN degree after less than 2 years of full-time classroom and clinical work. To qualify for this accelerated BSN degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the following prerequisite classes: Biology and Biology Laboratory, Microbiology, and Physical Science. The application deadline is in January for the fall term.

Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University

500 Western Avenue, Hammond, LA 70402,

985-549-5393

Southeastern Louisiana University is a public university located in Hammond, Louisiana, with satellite campuses in Baton Rouge, Abita Springs, Walker and Manchac. Founded in 1925 by Linus A. Sims, it was originally called Hammond Junior College. Today it is organized into 5 colleges and enrolls over 15,000 graduate and undergraduate students. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers the Accelerated Track for earning the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after 2 years of full-time classroom and clinical work. To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the prerequisite classes. Portions of this second degree accelerated BSN program occur at both the Hammond and Baton Rouge campuses. The application deadline is in September for spring admission and February for summer admission.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Maine

There are only two universities in Maine offering accelerated BSN degrees. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

University of Maine Fort Kent
23 University Dr., Fort Kent, ME 04743. Tel: 207-834-7500.
The University of Maine Fort Kent is a public college located on a 54-acre campus in Fort Kent, Maine, near the Canadian border.   It was founded in 1878 by the governor of Maine as the Madawaska Training School.  As the school expanded and changed its curriculum, its name was changed several times until in 1970 it adopted its current name. Today the school offers several associate and bachelors degree programs, as well as many online degree options.

The nursing division offers 4 options for obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including the Accelerated BSN (ABSN).  This BSN accelerated program allows students to earn a BSN degree after 4 semesters of full-time classroom and clinical work.  To qualify for this second degree BSN program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the prerequisite classes with a grade of “C” or better in each.  The prerequisite classes include: anatomy, physiology and statistics.  Though not required, completing the following classes prior to matriculation is strongly encouraged:  Microbiology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, Growth and development across the lifespan and Transcultural Care in Nursing.  The application deadline is in February.

University of Southern Maine

University of Southern Maine

96 Falmouth Street, Portland, ME 04104,

800-800-4876

The University of Southern Maine is a public college located in Portland, Maine with additional campuses in Gorham and Lewiston.  It is part of the University of Maine System.  Founded in 1878 as the Gorham Normal School, it later merged with the University of Maine at Portland.  In 1978 it adopted its current name.  Today, the University of Southern Maine offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in 13 colleges and schools, and has a distance learning program. The School of Nursing offers 3 options for obtaining a BSN degree, including the Accelerated Program. This accelerated BSN track allows students to earn a BSN degree after 15 months of full-time classroom and clinical work.  The program begins in May of each year with the students graduating in August of the following year. To qualify for this 2nd degree BSN program the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing with a GPA of at least 3.3, and must have completed the 3 prerequisite classes with a grade of “C” or better in each.  The application deadline is in October.

Accelerated BSN Programs in Maryland

There are a decent number of accelerated BSN degrees to choose from in Maryland, and many colleges have on-campus locations. Featured online programs and the full list of accelerated bachelor’s of science in nursing programs are highlighted below.

Bowie State University
14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD 20715-9465. Tel: 301-860-4000.
Bowie State University is a public college located on a 300-acre campus in Bowie, Maryland, in between Baltimore and Washington, DC. It is part of the University System of Maryland and is the state’s oldest historically black university. It was founded in 1865 by the Baltimore Association for the Moral and Educational Improvement of Colored People to train African- American teachers. It was originally called the Baltimore Normal School.

The institution went through several name changes until 1988 when it achieved university status and its name was changed to Bowie State University. Today, Bowie State offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in 4 colleges. The nursing department offers an Accelerated BSN track that allows students to earn a BSN degree after 18 months of full-time classroom and clinical work. To qualify for this BSN second degree program the student must have completed all general education classes necessary for a bachelors degree and must have completed the prerequisite math and science classes with a GPA of at least 3.0. The application deadline is in February.

Coppin State University

Coppin State University

2500 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21216-3698,
410-951-3000

Coppin State University is a public university located on a 50-acre campus in Baltimore, Maryland. It is part of the University System of Maryland and is a historically black university. It was founded in 1900 as the Colored High School by the Baltimore City School Board to train African-American elementary school teachers. By 1902 the teaching training program had expanded to a 2-year program and in 1926 was renamed the Fanny Jackson Coppin Normal School in honor of Fanny Jackson Coppin, an African-American leader in teacher education. Having expanded its curriculum beyond teacher education, its name was changed to Coppin State University. Today, Coppin State offers over 40 degree programs in 7 schools and colleges.

The Helene Fuld School of Nursing offers the Accelerated Second Degree BSN program to adult learners who already have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. The program focuses on disease prevention, health promotion, pharmacology, women’s health assessment, informatics, pathophysiology, mental health and health of families and populations. To qualify for this 2nd degree BSN program, the student must also have completed the prerequisite coursework prior to admission. The application deadline is in April.

Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University

School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205,
410-955-4766

Johns Hopkins University is a private, research university located on a 140-acre campus in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1976 after Johns Hopkins, a Quaker philanthropist, bequeathed funds for the establishment of a school in Baltimore. Today, Johns Hopkins offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate academic programs in 9 schools. The nursing training program as Johns Hopkins was created in 1889 at the same time that the Johns Hopkins Hospital was established. The School of Nursing became a separate division in 1983. The Accelerated Program was first offered at the School of Nursing in 1990. It allows students with a bachelors degree in another discipline to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 13 months. To qualify for this BSN second degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the 5 prerequisite classes with a grade of “B” or better in each. The prerequisite classes include: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan, and Statistics. The application deadline is in November for summer entry and January for fall entry.

Salisbury University

Salisbury University

1101 Camden Ave., Salisbury, MD 21801,

410-543-6000

Salisbury University is a public college located on a 173-acre campus in Salisbury, Maryland. It was founded in1925 as Maryland State Normal School to train elementary school teachers. By 2001 the school had expanded to offer several bachelors and masters degrees, and the name was changed to Salisbury University. Today, Salisbury University offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in 4 schools. For 15 consecutive years Salisbury University was named one of the “Top Public Regional Universities in the North” by U.S. News & World Report.

The Department of Nursing offers 3 tracks to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree: the Traditional Track, the RN to BSN Track and the 2nd Degree Track. The 2nd Degree Track allows students to earn a BSN degree after 3 semesters of full-time classroom and clinical work. Clinical rotations begin in the fall semester and take place in hospitals and clinics within a 30-60 minute drive from campus. To qualify for this ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the 6 prerequisite classes. The application deadline is in December for fall entry.

Stevenson University

Stevenson University

1525 Greenspring Valley Road, Stevenson, MD, 21153-0641,

877-468-6852

Stevenson University is a private university located on a 60-acre campus in Stevenson, Maryland. It has a second campus in Owings Mills. It was founded in 1947 as Villa Julie College by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur as a one-year Catholic training school for medical secretaries. Since then the school has become independent of the Catholic Church, adopted a liberal arts curriculum and changed its name to Stevenson University. Today Stevenson University enrolls over 4,000 students and offers over 30 degree programs. The school of nursing provides several flexible ways for students to pursue a career in nursing, including the Second Bachelors program. This accelerated BSN track allows students to earn a BSN degree after 16 months of full-time classroom and clinical work. To qualify for this BSN second degree program, the student must have already earned a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and must have completed the 9 prerequisite classes with a grade of “C” or better in each. The application deadline is in February.