California State University, Fullerton Nursing School Review

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

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

Entry Level BSN (EL-BSN)

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

LVN-BSN

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

LVN 30-unit option

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

Entry Level MSN

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

RN-BSN Campus Program

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

RN-BSN Distance Program

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

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

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

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

Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology

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

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

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

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

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

MSN CRNA

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

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

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

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP)

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

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