Bryan College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

Bryan College of Health Sciences (BCHS), previously known as BryanLGH College of Health Sciences, has a history that can be traced back to 1922 when William Jennings Bryan donated his home to the Methodist church to establish Bryan Memorial hospital in Lincoln. When the hospital opened in 1926, so was the Bryan School of nursing which offered diploma nurse training under the hospital. In 2001, the Bryan School of Nursing was granted permission to offer nursing degrees in place of the diploma among other health programs. That achievement led to the change of name to BryanLGH College of health sciences and by 2005, the college had graduate level nursing programs on offer. The college is to date, affiliated with the BryanLGH Medical Center.

Bryan College of Health Sciences – Nursing Programs

The School of Nursing and the School of Nursing Anesthesia are mandated to offer the nursing degrees at Bryan College of Health Sciences. Programs range from certificate to graduate level degrees: one certificate, two undergraduate and two graduate level programs. Since the college is affiliated to three fine medical centers in the region, students are assured of excellent practical exposures in addition to the theoretical component of the programs. 

The undergraduate programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission while the Council on Accreditation of Nurses Anesthesia programs accredits the Nurse Anesthesia program.  More details on each of the program are provided below:

Basic Nursing Assistant

This is a one course program that trains entry-level students on basic nursing skills. Completion of this short course enables students to apply for certification and hence, be entered in the State of Nebraska Nurse Aid Registry. The course is approved by the Nebraska Dept of Health and Human Services

RN to BSN Hybrid Option

The Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) option at Bryan College of Health Sciences enables registered nurses the chance to earn a bachelor degree through a simplified hybrid option.  To complete the program, RNs require 64 nursing major credits. Candidates who have prove of practice as an RN can further apply for validation of 28 more clinical nursing credits towards the major. RNs who hold active licenses automatically receive 36 credit hours in recognition of prior education hence, easing off the required 64 credits required for a BSN outside the nursing major requirement.

General education courses are offered online while nursing courses are completed in a hybrid format. On this note, students only need to go to college on 3 occasions per term to complement the courses with a clinical component.

BSN

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at BCHS is meant for entry-level students who do not have prior nursing experience.  It is a full time program that requires 128 credit hours to complete.  64 of these are nursing major credits while 58 and 6 are general education and non-nursing electives credits respectively.  Theory and intense clinical practice in the affiliated hospitals including BryanLGH Medical Center prepare students to become eligible to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam for first licensure as registered nurses.

Graduate Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia

At BCHS, there is a dedicated school offering the graduate Nurse Anesthesia program. The School of Nurse Anesthesia offers this unique 33-month program to registered nurses who wish to earn an Advanced Practice RN status. The program involves intensive clinical exposure in community hospitals in a two-phase format.

During the phase I of the program, students undertake clinical and classroom courses in basic anesthesia for a period of nine months. In Phase II, more active clinical practice is done built upon 4 advanced anesthesia principles courses. This phase is long and takes 24 months to complete. Due to the intensive nature of the program, students need to be committed full time preferably with no employment during study. 71 or 73 credits are required to complete the program for project and thesis tracks respectively.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator

The Master of Science in nursing with a nurse educator concentration is a part time program that calls for BSN prepared students. The program takes two academic years inclusive of two summer sessions to complete. To graduate with the Master of Science in nursing-Nurse Educator degree, 36 credit hours are required.

Contact:
Bryan College of Health Sciences
5035 Everett St, Lincoln,
NE 68506

Central Community College Nursing Program Review

Central Community College (CCC) was established in 1971 following a state legislature vote that required each county in the state to be affiliated with a community college. As such, two distinct colleges: Columbus and Hastings came together to form Central Community College, one of the six community colleges in Nebraska. The community college then added two three more centers Kearney, Lexington and Holdrege to the colleges’ fraternity. Central CC services 25 counties of the state by through multiple campuses offering certificate, diploma and two years programs in various field of study.

Nursing at Central Community College-Nebraska

Under the nursing department of Central Community College, there are multiple nursing programs to choose from. Programs range from certificate to associate degree programs. In total, there are four nursing programs; three of which lead to an associate degree in nursing and one practical nursing program.  There are also refresher courses for each of the two mainstream nursing programs. The associate degree tracks are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The four programs are approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing. Campuses locations and specific details for each program given are below:

Practical Nursing

The Practical Nursing (PN) program at Central Community College leads to the award of a Diploma in practical nursing.  It is offered in multi-campus locations of the college namely, Kearney, Lexington, Columbus and Grand Island in 1year full time or 2 years part time options.  It is a career mobility program that requires 43-49 credit hours to complete and become eligible to write the NCLEX-PN exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

LPN Mobility

The practical nursing program through its mobility status offers an opportunity to its graduates to get into the Associate degree in nursing program (ADN). Students who wish to continue with the mobility program from the PN diploma must reapply afresh from the colleges Grand Island campus.

LPN-Certified

This is an additional course for licensed practical nurses who want to take extra tasks in nursing. Such include nasal-gastric tubes insertions, IV therapy and patient assessment and intervention.  The LPN-C course enables LPNs to have a wide scope of practice than usual LPN graduates.

LPN Refresher Courses

The refreshers courses for LPNs are meant to meet the required contact hours for re-licensure in Nebraska. The refreshers courses are also important for nurses who want to make a comeback after prolonged breaks from practice.

Registered Nursing

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year or three-year full time and part time program respectively offered in full at Grand Island campus. However, some selected courses of the program can be completed in three other locations namely Lexington, Columbus and Kearney. The freshman courses can be completed in the Grand Island or at Kearney and Columbus campuses.  Courses with a clinical rotation component can be completed at Lexington, Kearney and Columbus. However, the number of students taking clinical rotations at the latter two campuses is very limited and chances are high that most students remain in Grand Island. Having completed 72 credit hours, student become eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Advanced Placement for LPNs

Licensed practical nurses from other colleges may also complete the ADN program at Central Community College. Such students must complete advanced placement curriculum prior to admission into the ADN. After successful completion of the advanced health assessment course for LPNs and fulfillment of other academic requirements for the ADN, students join the program as sophomores. An additional 33 nursing credit hours must be completed to be eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN Refresher Courses

The RN refresher courses are meant to help registered nurses meet the requirement for re-licensure in the state.

Paramedic to RN Transition

For Paramedics who wish to become registered nurses, Central Community College offers them an opportunity to do so. Paramedics need to take 3 Paramedic to RN transition courses totaling to 7 credit hours upon for they receive advanced placement in recognition of their previous qualification. After completion of the transition courses, paramedics follow the same sequence of progression as the LPN to RN students.

Contact:
Central Community College
4500 63^rd Street, Columbus,
NE 68601

Creighton University Nursing School Review

Creighton University is a Catholic institution of higher learning strongly grounded and following the Jesuit Traditions. Its history dates back to 1878, when the wife of a late rich businessman in Omaha; Edward Creighton donated her husband’s inheritance in support of a school in Omaha through a will. The inheritance was given to a bishop and later, this bishop mandated the Society of Jesus to operate the university. Then known as Creighton College, it started off with two lays teachers and five Jesuits. Since then, the larger family of Creighton became engaged in the development of the college by way of more donations and establishment of affiliated colleges leading to the big milestones of success of the current university.

School of Nursing at Creighton University

The school of nursing at Creighton University (CU) has been offering nursing program for more than 50 years.  Programs in the school include different tracks for baccalaureate, master and doctoral nursing for qualified candidates. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing. The various entry points into the nursing programs at Creighton suit the educational levels of different student groups as explained below:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Two routes lead to the award of Bachelor of Science in nursing degree as outlined here:

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The traditional BSN at Creighton University is designed for entry-level nursing students. Under this program, student s can further choose from the four paths available

i)        Beginning or Transfer students

Candidates for this program are those who are coming in as freshmen or those transferring from a pre-nursing program from other colleges. For those who begin as freshmen, the following study options are available

• Traditional four –year study plan
• Traditional five-year study plan
• Traditional study abroad option

Those who enter the program as transfer students take two years to complete the program if they have all the required prerequisite courses. The program is offered in two campuses of the university in Hasting and Omaha. However, students who start as freshmen must be enrolled in Hasting campus but transfer students can enroll in either. Students who choose the study plans with a study abroad option must take a summer session to compensate the time for which they will be studying abroad. 128 credit hours are required for graduation and eligibility to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

ii)      Pre-Med Nursing Path

The pre-med nursing path is designed for candidates who anticipate to enter medical school after the completing their nursing program. This program carries a more workload than the above mentioned path. Students must complete 149-160 credit hours, with a minimum of 36credits of pre-med courses. Two study plans are offered:

• Pre-Med Nursing Four year Plan
• Pre-Med Nursing Five Year Plan

For the four years study plan, students take extra 3 summer sessions after the 1^st academic year apart from the senior year.  For the five years option, students take summer sessions only after the 3^rd and 4^th years. However, those who choose this option have a greater advantage of taking more pre-med credits as compared to the four year plan. Five year students can take as much as 160 credits meaning more will be transferable to a future medical school.

iii)    Army ROTC  Path

For students wishing to become nurse corps in the army, Creighton University has an option for them. Students who choose courses in the ROTC path have the advantage of getting full scholarships for the tuition fees.  Nurse who train under the Army ROTC path are those who wish to serve in the army as nurse leaders and managers. Like the pre-med path, students who take this path have two study plans to choose from:

• Army ROTC Four year Plan
• Army ROTC Five year Plan

Each of the above students attend summer military camps for which they earn credits, the only difference in the two programs is the course workload for each semester as the five year plan is less loaded.  Additionally 4-year students take their summer sessions after the sophomore and junior years while the 5-year students take theirs summers after the 3^rd  and 4^th  years. The program is offered in Omaha campus and requires a maximum 141-147 or 148-151 credits hours for the four and five year plans respectively.

iv)   Air force ROTC Path

This option is open to qualified candidates who wish to become nurse corps in the Air force. Just like their army counterparts, they enjoy scholarships towards their tuition fees.  For this program, only the four year study plans is available. 133-138 credit hours are required for graduation from this program which is offered only in Omaha campus.

BSN Accelerated

The Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) accelerated program at Creighton is designed for student with a baccalaureate degree in another field. It takes a full time study plan that spans one academic year. Due to the rigorous nature of the program students are advised not to engage in employment during the one year of study.

Admission into the program occurs on a rolling basis and students are admitted into the Omaha and Hastings Campuses. For the Omaha campus, admission is for semesters starting January and August while those who wish to be enrolled at the Hastings campus must wait August each year. 58 nursing major courses equally divided between three academic semesters are required to graduate from the BSN accelerated program at Creighton University and to gain eligibility to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Graduate Nursing Programs

At Creighton University, there are a number of master’s level tracks, 2-doctor of nursing entry options and a number of post masters’ certificate programs as outlined below:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree Programs

The Master of Science in nursing is meant for BSN-prepared students who want to gain Advanced Practice Registered Nurses status among other master-level specialties. Usually, all the graduate nursing programs at Creighton are offered on a hybrid format. On this note, students take most of their courses online and come for on-site instructions every Wednesday. This makes the programs ideal for working nurses. Below is a list of available programs. 

• Clinical Nurse Leader
• Advanced public Health/ Global Health Nursing
• Clinical Systems Administration Track

Under the two Advanced Practice RN tracks (APRN), the following options are available:

Clinical Nurse Specialist

• Pediatric Nurse Specialist
• Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist

Nurse Practitioner

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Acute Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Adult acute care Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Generally, all tracks take two years to complete under the full time hybrid learning format.  Additionally, all students are free to add nurse educator courses to their curriculum even though there is no dedicated track for nurse educators. Students who may be willing to take additional gerontology, oncology and cardiology courses can add them to their curriculums too. But these are only offered on a three-year cycle basis.

Post –Baccalaureate to DNP

The Doctor of Nursing Practice at Creighton welcomes BSN students who want to earn their master and terminal degrees in nursing simultaneously. The program allows students to take a shorter time to earn a masters level specialty together with the DNP. Students willing to take this program must take 70 to 73 credit hours depending on the master level specialty they choose.

All the above master level tracks (apart from the Clinical Nurse Leader track) listed above are available to those who take this path. Generally, the program takes 3 full-time years to complete but part time studies can be arranged for individual students. Just like the masters programs, students can choose to take additional education, oncology, cardiology and gerontology courses just like explained on the masters’ category.

Post-Masters to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree Program

This program welcomes candidates who have earned their master of science in nursing or Master of Science degree. PM-DNP Students are supposed to choose from the following roles which must also be relevant to the specialty tracks they took at masters’ level:

• Advanced Public Health/ Global Health
• Clinical Systems Administration
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Certified Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Practitioner

Courses in oncology, gerontology, cardiology and education offered on a three-year cycle can also be added. Specific details for adding these courses apply to those explained on the master level category.

Post Masters Certificates

For MSN prepared students, three post masters nursing certificate programs are available at Creighton University namely:

• Neonatal
• Adult Health
• Family

Contact:
Creighton University
2500 California Plaza, Omaha,
NE 68178

Clarkson College Nursing Program Review

Clarkson College idea was conceived by Bishop Robert Clarkson towards the end of the 1800s.He had wanted to establish a nursing school in Omaha. After his death in 1884, his visionary idea was taken-up by his wife who helped complete a women’s nursing school in Omaha Good Samaritan Hospital in 1888. As part of the hospital, the school operated as Bishop Clarkson Memorial School of Nursing.

Due to financial challenges, the college closed down in the 1950s but re-opened in 1960 as Clarkson College following donations. After re-opening, the college became a co-ed college by admitting the first male students in 1969. Currently, Clarkson College offers various health-related study programs besides nursing.

Nursing at Clarkson College

As a dedicated health college, Clarkson College (CC) has so much to offer to prospective student nurses. Programs range from the diploma in practical nursing to masters level nursing programs and post-masters certificates.  The college also has cooperation with Grace University to allow students to take two degrees as will be explained below. The Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in nursing tracks at Clarkson are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and also approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing. Additionally, there is a Nurse Anesthesia master level track that is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. Clarkson is also an approved provider of several Nurse Refresher courses. More details on each program are given below:

Practical Nursing

For candidates looking forward to start their nursing careers as practical nurses, Clarkson College has this opportunity for them. The Practical Nursing Diploma program takes two years of six semesters to complete through a part-time study plan only. The program also accepts Certified Nursing Assistants who want to advance their nursing skills.

Students are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) besides graduating with a transferable diploma in practical nursing.  49 semester credits are required for this eligibility. Graduates of this program are welcome to continue in Clarkson College and earn a baccalaureate degree through the LPN to BSN Program.

LPN to BSN

Licensed Practical Nurses who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree are welcome to have the transition at Clarkson College. This is an on-campus track that can be completed on either a full time or part time basis.  Candidates must have active and unencumbered LPN licenses for any state in the country. The LPN to BSN advanced placement requires students to complete 2 transition courses of 3 credit hours each upon which they receive 13 nursing semester credits. To earn the BSN from Clarkson, students must complete 40, 21 and 69 general education, support and nursing major credits respectively. Some of these are covered in the advanced placement status and through application for credit validation. Completion of the program enables students to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN)

RN to BSN

Registered nurses who wish to take their education level a notch higher can pursue the very flexible and accelerated RN to BSN program at Clarkson College.  The right candidates must hold active RN licenses and must have transferable credits from their associate degree program. Student enrolled to this program receive 43 nursing semester credits towards the 130 credits required for the BSN either by direct completion of coursework or through validation. Other general education and support credits may be received through validation of the associate degree credits.

Students are required to take 3 BSN transition courses for them to be allowed to take other nursing major courses. It is also allowed for students to request validation of 1 level 400 nursing course and its equivalent clinical course to earn the student an extra 4 credit hours. RNs can choose to complete their coursework on either a full-time or part-time basis.  For both options, courses can be completed either online or onsite depending on the flexibility need of the student. Clinical experience may also be earned at a student’s place of choice preferably their place of work after the faculty at Clarkson College approves such a setting.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing at Clarkson College is an entry-level program designed for pre-licensure students; otherwise, other classes of students may look at the two advanced placement options. The program requires students to take the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses. It is a traditional 4-year full time program requiring 130 credits to complete: 40, 21 and 69 credits in general education, support and nursing major courses respectively.

Gateway to Success Minority Nursing Scholarship

Minority candidates for this program may benefit from the Gateway to Success Minority Nursing Scholarship.  The beneficiaries of this scholarship program receive $10,000 annually towards offsetting their tuition fees at Clarkson College.  The funds are awarded for the four years of study provided the student remains in good standing in academic excellence. Beneficiaries are also entitled an additional $5,000 after completing a summer internship program each year at The Nebraska Medical Center.

Grace University Co-op

This joint program between Clarkson and Grace University enables students to graduate with two degrees on a dual enrollment basis. Students under this program undertake nursing studies at Clarkson and biblical studies at Grace University. At the end of both programs, students graduate with Biblical Studies and BSN degrees from the respective schools. Students in the practical nursing program are also welcome for this dual degree program.

RN to MSN

The RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program gives a chance to highly ambitious registered nurses to complete a master of science in nursing degree without the repetitive work of both the Bachelor and masters level curriculums. The program is ideal for busy RNs who want to have an individualized plan of study. As such, students can complete their coursework via online mode and very minimal one-on-one instructions with the faculty. Candidates of the RN to MSN program are those interested in taking any of the following 4 master specialty options:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Health Care Administration
• Family Nurse Practitioner

However, students are also free to exit the program at BSN level

Those who choose any of the 2 nurse practitioner options must be ready for on-site instruction for selected clinical courses otherwise; other courses and the other 2 tracks can be completed entirely online. Before taking the MSN level courses, students must complete the required BSN courses i.e. the courses for both levels are not taken in tandem.

Master of Science in Nursing

The traditional Master of Science in nursing program calls for BSN prepared students who might be interested in any of the 4 listed specialty options above in addition to a Nurse Anesthesia option. The courses are offered entirely online with minimal on-site competency validation visits.  Students who choose the Health care administration and education option may transfer up-to 9 credits from other schools. However, the nurse practitioner options do not accept any credit transfers.

Nurse Anesthesia Option

The nurse anesthesia option has a slightly different and engaging curriculum. The program is also not offered online like is the case with the other MSN tracks at Clarkson. Students can choose from two study plans as outlined below:

Full time: This study plan requires students to complete 12-months didactic period after which they proceed to an 18-month clinical experience phase, totaling to 30months of full time commitment.

Extended Track: This option enables student to take their didactic courses in an extended period of 24 months of lesser course load followed by a progression into an 18 months clinical phase.

Post MSN Certificates

The post MSN certificate programs are designed for MSN-prepared students who want to become certified in the following areas:

• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Health Care Administration
• Family Nurse Practitioner

The courses are offered online with a few on-site instructions for students taking the nurse practitioner options.

Professional Development

Clarkson has been approved by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to offer the following professional development and lifelong courses:

• Nurse Refresher course
• Nurse Aide Course
• Basic & Advanced Life support Courses
• Infection Prevention Course
• Medication Aide Course
• Abuse and Neglect Course

Contact:
Clarkson College
101 S. 42 Street, Omaha,
NE 68131

College of Saint Mary Nursing Program Review

The College of Saint Mary (CSM) was first envisioned by Catherine McAuley, the founder of Sisters of Mercy Tradition. When she passed on, Mary Gallagher took-up the dream and established the college of Saint Mary in 1923. The college was dedicated at educating the girl child and so is its vision to date. The college started-off as a two-year liberal arts college but later added other fields of study in its curriculum list. By 1958, the college of Saint Mary had established more campus buildings and better infrastructure and was then accredited as four-year women’s College under the Sisters of Mercy tradition; a status it maintains to date.

Nursing Education at College of Saint Mary

The college has various nursing programs which were started back in 1969. The college offers qualified candidates entry level nursing opportunities with programs ranging from practical nursing to a masters level nursing degree. Four degree programs are offered in the undergraduate category and one in the graduate level. The programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission while the Practical nursing program is approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing.

Practical Nursing Program

This is a day program designed to meet the education needs of entry-level nursing students. The program takes one year to complete with classes commencing on the summer session each year. Upon completion of the required 42 credits, students become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) besides being awarded a Certificate in Practical Nursing from the college.

Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate Degree in Nursing (LPN-ASN)

This too is a full time day program that can be completed in one academic year. Candidates must have an active LPN licenses from the state and an Advanced Challenge Exam scores. Classes commence in a summer session whereby, students take the Bridging LPN to ASN course. After completing this 3-credit hour course, students receive advanced standing into the ASN program and progress for another 3 semesters to complete the nursing courses alongside core courses required by the college. Students are awarded an Associate of Science in nursing degree and become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become Registered Nurses (RN).

Associate Degree Program (ASN)

The associate of science in nursing at the College of Saint Mary welcomes female candidates interested in an entry level professional nursing program.  This traditional program can be completed through two study plans. Plan One is a Nursing 2 Track Program that enables students to complete the requirements of the associate of science degree in two years. Upon completion of this program, students must apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RNs). After the two years, the curriculum is designed in such a way that students can choose to progress for another two years and complete the junior and senior years of a Bachelor of Science degree, but only if they passed the NCLEX-RN at plan one.

Plan two is a Nursing 3 Track Program where students take courses that meet the requirements of the ASN degree together with selected baccalaureate courses in 3 years. During the 2^nd and 3^rd summers of study, students are required to take selected courses that count towards a bachelor’s degree.  Such courses are also taken alongside the sophomore and third year courses of the ASN program. After completion of the third year, students must apply for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses. After passing the NLCEX-RN exam, students can flawlessly continue for another year to complete senior year courses of the baccalaureate program to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Bachelor Degree (RN to BSN Program)

This completion program is designed for registered nurses apart from those from College of Saint Mary. Transfer students entering this program can complete the coursework in one academic year provided all core courses have been met. Completion period is also dependent on the number of credits validated from the earlier program. A total of 128 credit hours must be completed on either a full time and part time basis which may take longer. RNs can complete their courses in a hybrid format of online and onsite classes. Onsite classes are scheduled on a one day/week basis.

Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in nursing (MSN) with a concentration in nursing education is the only graduate nursing program at College of Saint Mary. It is a hybrid program consisting of web-enhanced and onsite curriculum delivery modes. The program takes exactly two years to complete with an equal course load of 9 credit semesters in 4 semesters.  Candidates for this program must be BSN-prepared.

Contact:
College of Saint Mary
7000 Mercy Road, Omaha,
NE 68106

Metropolitan Community College Nursing Program Review

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) was formed as a result of consolidation of 8 technical community colleges in the eastern region of Nebraska. Following this merge in 1974, the assets, programs and personnel from each technical college in Omaha and those of Eastern Nebraska came together to form Metropolitan Technical Community College. The new campus, set on different locations chose Fort Omaha to be the central Campus of the other 8 campus locations of the college. In 1992, another legislature was passed to remove the word ‘Technical’ hence the current name Metropolitan Community College.

Nursing Programs at Metropolitan Community College

The nursing programs at the college are offered at South Omaha campus. 1 two-year associate of science in nursing program is offered and certificate programs in practical nursing and nursing assistant.  The associate degree program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the practical nursing program is approved by the Nebraska state Board of Nursing. Details pertinent to each program are given below:

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

This is a course that requires 59 hours of classroom work and 23 hours of clinical experience to enable students to be entered in the states registry of nurse aides. The course is offered in several locations of the college and also available in day, evening and weekends study options.  Classes commence in winter and spring each year. After completion of the 18 units, students can apply for state evaluation upon which they become Certified Nursing Assistants.

Medication Aide

The medication aide course from metropolitan requires students who are already certified as CNAs. Student are free to self-register for this course and upon completion, they can apply to take the state competency exams. Completion of the course enables the medication aides to work as medication administrators under the supervision of registered nurses. Those who pass the competency exams are also entered in the states’ medication aide registry.

Nursing-Practical (LPNCE)

The practical nursing program at Metropolitan Community College is a career mobility program that enables students to apply for the NCLEX-PN exam or continue to the associate of science in nursing degree. The curriculum takes one year of three quarters to complete at the South Omaha Campus on a full time basis. During the 3 quarters, students take a total of 35 nursing credits and 12 general education credits. A separate 19.5 general education credits must have been completed before application for the program. In total, students require 66.5 credits to be allowed to graduate with a Certificate of Achievement and take the licensure exams. Students may choose to exit at this point and become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) or progress into the associate degree program as will be explained below.

Licensed Practical Nurse-Certified (LPN-C)

The LPN-C course is designed for LPNs who want to additional education so as to get certification in more nursing roles than those of the LPN. Such extra roles include administration of IV therapy, Nasal gastric interventions among others. The course is offered in the evening, weekends and holiday hours and takes 11 weeks to complete.

Nursing- Associate Degree (ASNAS)

The Associate of Science in nursing (ASN) program is a continuation program and all students must have earned a LPN licensure to be allowed into the program. Because students already have 35 nursing credits from the first year of the LPN mobility program, they will only require an additional 22 nursing credits for the second year of study. All credits in the first year including the general education ones count towards the ASN degree.

An additional 20 courses in general education must be added during the 3 quarters of the second year, bringing it to a total of 42 credits in the second year. Therefore, for students to graduate from metropolitan community college with an associate degree, they will require 108 credits all completed in two academic years. By then students become eligible to apply for the NLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Contact:
Metropolitan Community College
5300 North 30^th, Omaha,
NE 68111

Midland University Nursing School Review

With its initial location in Kansas, Midland University have come a long through a number of mergers. It was founded in 1887 under the Evangelical Lutheran Church.  About 22 years later, the Midland College, as it was known then, moved from Kansas to Fremont in Nebraska. Here, the college merged with Luther junior college to form what was known as Midland Lutheran College (MLC).  Recently, in 2010, the college gained full university status and as such, dropped the name ‘Lutheran’ to become Midland University (MU).

Nursing at Midland University

Nursing at midland university has three major nursing tracks that lead to the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. One of the baccalaureate tracks is a traditional entry level program while the other two are completion programs for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs).  Two minor nursing tracks in nutrition and gerontology fulfill some of the requirements of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree requirements. A certified nursing assistant course is also offered. The Baccalaureate programs are accredited by the National League in Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. Specific program details are provided below:

Certified Nursing Assistant Course

At Midland University, qualified candidates have the opportunity of starting a nursing career at the most basic point as a nursing assistant. The nursing assistant course takes 76 hours of both classroom and clinical experience to complete.  Students earn a certificate in nursing assisting and are entered in the state’s Nurse Aide Registry upon completion of state competency exams.

Traditional BSN

The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year full time program that prepares entry-level students to become registered nurses. The curriculum consists of 55 nursing major credits and 42 supporting courses which must be taken at Midland. Other credits required for graduation are derived from either of the two minor nursing tracks offered ie Nutrition or gerontology minor credits. Each of the minor tracks consists of 24 credit hours bringing the total number of credits to graduate with a BSN to 121.

As a church affiliated university, the nursing at midland University promotes holistic nursing in bringing wellness, shaping societal structures and moral responsibly in a strong liberal arts foundation. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

LPN Connection (LPN-BSN)

This program is specifically designed to meet the career advancement needs of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who wish to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The LPN Connection students receives advancement placement after completion of 3 freshman and sophomore level courses. Midland also recognizes all equivalent non-nursing credits of LPN programs.  Students enrolled in this program are then required to complete any other remaining supporting courses in addition to all junior and senior level nursing courses required for the BSN at Midland.

Those enrolled for this program must meet their assigned faculty advisor to device a personalized method of covering the courses depending on the number of courses transferred from the LPN program. After completion of the program, students are awarded a BSN degree besides gaining eligibility to apply the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RNs).

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program at Midland University aims at building on prior nursing experience to enable RNs complete a baccalaureate degree. Students are tested in order to receive general education courses while validation procedures are carried out to enable transfer of nursing courses.  Once the actual number of transferable credits is determined, the credits are escrowed into the student account and they only take the remaining courses to fulfill the BSN requirements. Again, students come-up with a personalized plan of study depending on the credits received.

Note

The two minors: Gerontology and Nutrition consist of credits that make-up the requirements of the BSN degree. Since there are 55 nursing major and 42 supporting and liberal arts credits, student can choose between the two minors for the remaining credits.

Contact:
Midland University
900 N Clarkson Street, Fremont,
NE 68025

Mid-Plains Community College Nursing Program Review

Mid-Plains Community College (MPCC) like all other community colleges in Nebraska was established after a legislature to merge all junior, technical and vocational colleges into six community colleges. As such, McCook junior college and North Platte junior college joined Mid-plains Vocational Tech College.  This merge led to the change of name to Mid-plains Tech Community College but the name tech was dropped to form the current name. To date, McCook Community College (MCC) and North Platte Community College (NPCC) remain as distinct Divisions of Mid-Plains Community College.

Nursing at Mid-plains Community College

There are three nursing programs at Mid-Plains Community College. An associate of science in nursing degree program is available and is accredited by the National League in Nursing Accrediting Commission.  Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) also have a chance to complete the associate degree through advanced placements option. A Diploma in practical nursing that is approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing is also offered. For those who wish to become nursing assistants, there is a short Basic Nurse Aide courses on. More details on each program are provided below:

Basic Nurse Aide

This is a very short course that trains students to become nursing aides. The course enables students to become eligible to take state competency exams to become certified nurse aides.

Practical Nursing Education Program

The Practical nursing program at Mid-Plains Community College leads to the award of a practical nursing diploma.  It is a full time program that takes 12 months to complete and prepares students to be eligible to write the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses.  Classes for the program start on fall semester and is designed to be finished in the summer semester. 40 credits are required for graduation with the diploma.

LPN-C

Mid-Plains Community College also offers LPNs a post graduate course for those who want to become certified in intravenous therapy. Students must first pass the NCLEX-PN exam to be allowed to take the IV therapy course. Those who complete get the title Licensed Practical Nurses-Certified (LPN-C)

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

The associate degree program is a traditional two-year program that commences in August each year. Other than fresh entry candidates, Mid-plains has also formed dual enrollment agreements with a number of high schools in Nebraska. This enables senior year high school students to earn some credits towards the associate degree in nursing before enrolling at Mid-plains. Admission into the program is selective and students are required to have completed a nursing assisting course within the last 6 months prior to application. The program also requires candidates who hold current employment at the time of application failure to which; they must undergo a nursing assisting skills check.

The ADN requires 72 credit hours to complete, some of which are taken during a summer semester. All nursing courses are taken at Mid-Plains Community College while non- nursing courses can be completed at Mid-Plains, McCook or North Platte-South Campus. Completion of the programs awards the student an Associate Degree I Nursing and eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse (RN). There is an opportunity for LPN advancement as explained below:

LPN to RN Bridge Program for Advanced Placement

The LPN to RN Bridge course is open to licensed practical nurses that hold LPN licenses for the state and want to become RNs. The bridge course equivalent to 3 credit hours must be completed for students to receive advanced placement into the ADN.

Contact:

Mid–Plains Community College
601 W State Farm Road, North Platte,
NE 69101

McCook Community College
1205 East Third St, McCook,
NE 69001

North Platte Community College
1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte,
NE 69101

Nebraska Methodist College Nursing Program Review

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) was founded in 1981 to offer a diploma in nurse training. The college started under the Methodist Health System to which it is affiliated to up-to date. As the college was expanding, it started offering other allied health programs besides nursing. In 1989, the college was allowed to start offering four year baccalaureate nursing program and master programs were introduced in 2000. Nebraska Methodist College has so much to offer for the prospective nursing student since it is ‘health’ college only.  Students enjoy its benefits of a small, private dedicated health institution of higher learning.

Nursing Programs at Nebraska Methodist College

Nursing was the pioneer program at this Methodist Health System affiliated program. The program has therefore been developed and improved over a long period to ensure students get the best out of their studies. Nebraska Methodist College starts preparing future nurses from the Nursing Assisting level all the way to the Master level.  Several track options for the Bachelor and Master of Science in nursing dominate the nursing program list. All bachelor and master programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is also well known for its numerous online nursing program options.

Nurse Aide

The nurse aide is short but intensive course that trains students to become nursing assistants with emphasis on the aging population. The course takes five weeks to complete with classes being held at Josie Harper campus of Nebraska Methodist College. The last three days of the program involve an intensive clinical experience at Methodist Hospital. Classes meet every Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays, but students can be called upon for testing on Wednesdays. A sixth week is needed for State examinations and testing so that students can become certified in this field and be entered in the state’s Nurse Aide Registry.

Medication Aide

Candidates of the medication aide course must have completed a nurse aide course to be allowed to apply. In addition students must be currently listed in the state’s Nurse Aide Registry and provide prove of current placement as a nurse aide. The course includes the medication aide basics outlined on the states Medication Aide Act and takes four weeks to complete on a full-time basis. Over 7 admission cycles are done each year.

Nursing (BSN) Traditional

The traditional Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) at Nebraska Methodist College takes four years to complete. This pre-licensure program has a strong emphasis on community based nursing and takes a holistic approach to nursing. One interesting thing about the program is that students start on clinical nursing experience from the 2^nd semester of the freshman year. All courses are offered in a mixed version, such that general education and support courses are covered in tandem throughout the program.

Qualified candidates can place their applications at any time of the year but enrollment occurs in fall and spring semesters. After completion of the 127 required credits, students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN).

Nursing (BSN) Accelerated

This program is designed for those interested in changing their careers and switching to nursing. Candidates with a non-nursing associate or bachelor’s degree from a nationally accredited institution are welcome to apply. Students engage in an intensive study program to ensure they complete all nursing and supporting courses in 15 months of full time study

Courses for this Accelerated (ACE) program are offered in a hybrid format with majority courses being offered on-site and some selected ones online.   A minimum of 74 credits must be completed at Nebraska Methodist College to be allowed to graduate with a second degree in nursing. Students also become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. On a further note, there is a dedicated ACE BSN scholarship for students enrolled in this program; The Kathryn Montgomery ACE Scholarship.

LPN to BSN Degree Completion Program

This program is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to make the transition into professional nursing. Candidates must have active and unrestricted LPN licenses besides meeting other general admission requirements. LPNs achieve the Advanced Placement status by completing 2 LPN transition courses. After passing the transition courses, 11 credits are awarded to the student BSN account. Upon admission, students must complete all support and general education courses in Phase I before progressing to the nursing courses in Phase II. Completion leads to eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

Online RN to BSN

The online registered nurse (RN) to BSN at Nebraska Methodist College is open to RNs who wish to take their education a level higher by completing a baccalaureate nursing degree. Candidates must have active licensures as RNs and must be holders of an associate or diploma in nursing. The curriculum for the program consist of 60 credits hours – 33 in nursing and 27 in general education.  Courses are offered online for 18 months but can also be completed on a longer part time basis. Only two courses have a clinical component that requires on-campus visits.

The program is completed in 2 phases whereby during phase I, all general education courses are completed. Phase II of the program is exclusively for the nursing major courses. There is also a special RN to BSN program for RN employees of Nebraska Methodist Hospital as explained below.

RN to BSN Nursing Academy NMH Nurses

This program is similar to the generic RN to BSN track above with regard to the admission requirements, number of courses, curriculum delivery mode and progression phases. However, to join this program, candidates must have worked at the Nebraska Methodist Hospital for at least 2 years. Through appraisal and service executive approval, RNs are able to join the nursing academy and study as a cohort group until completion.

The benefits of joining the academy include getting full sponsorship for completion of the 60 credits required. However, as pay back for the sponsorship, all nurses in this NMH nurses Academy must work for at least 24hrs/week during the period study and extend after graduation for another five years.

Graduate Nursing at Nebraska Methodist College

At graduate level, Nebraska Methodist College has two entry options for its 2 Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks as explained below:

RN to MSN Nurse Educator & RN to MSN Nurse Executive

This program is designed to help the RN to progress faster in completing master level education. The curriculum is designed to avoid repetitive mirroring of courses hence saving time. RNs take 18 credits of RN to MSN bridging courses that help cover concepts of the BSN curriculum and then progress to take the 36 MSN courses. The two tracks are available on both full time and part time study plans. 

Students taking the Nurse Educator track can take advantage of The Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP).  Although this is a federal loan, it is the only of its kind in the state and Nebraska Methodist College students are the only ones who receive such funding. However, the loan can only be granted to students who are enrolled in the full time study plan.

Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Nurse Educator and Nurse Executive

The two tracks are exclusively offered online and each carries an equal course load of 36 credit hours. Both programs can be completed in two years of full time study but part time study plans can be made on request. The candidates for this program must be BSN-Prepared and must have current unencumbered RN licensure prior to application. Qualified candidates of the full time Nurse Educator track can to benefit from the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) financial assistance.

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Nebraska Methodist College offers two Post- MSN certificate programs in the two tracks mentioned above i.e. Nurse Educator and Nurse Executive.  Both programs are offered online and consist of 14 credit hours each. Ideal candidates for these post-master’s programs are MSN graduates although Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS) graduates with non-nursing fields may be considered on an individual basis.

Contact:
Nebraska Methodist College
720 North 87^th Street, Omaha,
NE 68114

Nebraska Wesleyan University Nursing School Review

Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU) history can be traced back to 1887. It was established as a liberal arts college under the United Methodist Church of America. The college has developed in size and the number of programs but still holds on the foundation of liberal arts and the strong Methodist Christian learning environment. The university has two campus locations, one in Lincoln which is also the main campus and another one in Omaha.

Nursing Programs at Nebraska Wesleyan University

Nursing degrees at the university start with completion programs implying that pre-licensure students are not enrolled. The only pre-licensure nursing students admitted in the university are those who want to complete the general education courses required in the 1^st and 2^nd years of a Bachelor of Science in nursing.  There are 3-Bachelor and Master of Science tracks which have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The three programs are offered under the Wesleyan Advantage(Adult Programs)  Two post-master’s certificate in nursing programs are also offered. More details for each program are given below:

Pre-Nursing Advising

This program is designed for prospective nursing students who want to complete their registered nursing program for initial licensure at another school. Students only take general education courses required for the first two years. Since Nebraska Wesleyan University does not prepare students for Registered Nurses (RN) licensure, students must transfer to community colleges or other universities to complete professional nursing courses.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) at Nebraska Wesleyan University is a RN to BSN completion program. It aims on building on prior nursing experience for RNs who hold current licensure. Candidates must also have graduated from a nationally accredited diploma or associate program.

RNs require 33 nursing major credits and up-to 45 general education credits and 9 supporting credits to complete the BSN program. Generally, the program is designed to take one year but a part time slower pace depending on the students needs. The program is offered in full at both campuses of the university.

Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in nursing (MSN) has two entry paths for RN and BSN prepared students. Details are given below:

RN to MSN Program

This program is designed for high achieving students who are ready to take-up a changeling career mobility path. For this program, Nebraska Wesleyan University requires candidates who hold active unrestricted RN licenses. Candidates must also have at least one year working experience within the last three years.

Students who choose this program have the advantage of graduating with two nursing in one program. Since the RN to MSN curriculum has a comprehensive BSN curriculum, students will be awarded both degrees. But this is not an exit program and students must complete the entire program to graduate with both degrees. The program is suitable for working RNs since classes are conducted one day/ week at both university campuses in 8-week sessions. For the MSN specialty, students can choose from Nurse Educator or Nurse Leader/ Manager Tracks.

BSN to MSN

The Wesleyan Advantage BSN to MSN is a part time program offered at both Omaha and Lincoln campuses. The program is suitable for working and adult students since the classes are conducted one day/ week in 8-week sessions.  The 41 credits curriculum is designed to take two years to complete. Like the RN to MSN track, students have the Nurse Educator or the Nurse Leader tracks as the specialization options.

Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing

The post graduate certificate in nursing is designed for students who want to become certified as Nurse Educators or Nurse Leaders. The program is offered under the Wesleyan Advantage adult programs and is therefore suitable for working RNs. Like other programs under the Wesleyan Advantage programs at Nebraska Wesleyan University, courses are conducted 1 day/ per week in 8-week sessions cycles.

Contact:
Nebraska Wesleyan University
5000 St. Paul Avenue, Lincoln,
NE 68504

Northeast Community College Nursing Program Review

Northeast Community College (NCC, NECC) was formed as a result state legislature to merge junior and technical colleges. As such, Northeast Community College began operations after merging of Northeast Nebraska Technical College and Northeast Nebraska College.  Since, 1973, the community college has been serving Nebraska in an area representing 20 counties.  After the merge, it had the names ‘Nebraska Technical’ which were later dropped in 1991 to the current name. It offers 1 and 2-years degree, vocational, technical and liberal arts programs through four centers across Nebraska.

Nursing at Northeast Community College

At Northeast, future nursing candidates have the opportunity to choose from a number of programs available. There are two training programs for Nurse and Medication Aides and an Associate of Science in nursing degree program. The Associate degree is offered as a career mobility track whereby, students can choose to exit after the first year and earn a Diploma in practical nursing. On the other hand, students who do not wish to complete their nurse training can apply for the Pre-professional or the Transfer program. The associate degree program is fully approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Details are given herein:

Basic Nurse Aide

The Basic Nurse Aide is a short 1-course training program that helps entry level students to work as nursing assistants. The course consists of 3 credit hours and prepares students for certification as nurse aides.

Medication Aide

The medication Aide program prepares the students to become assistants in all medication matters like drug administration, classification, rules, ordering and commonly used drugs.  The 3-credit hours training follows the requirement set on the state’s Medication Aide Act.

Nursing-Pre-Professional

The pre-professional nursing program offers qualified students a chance to complete general education courses required to complete an associate or diploma nursing program. Coursework completed can also be transferred to a 4-year college to cover some of the 1^st and 2^nd year general education requirements for a bachelor of science in nursing.

Students must completed 60 general education credits by choosing to earn an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree but with a pre-professional nursing focus.

Nursing-Transfer-UNMC

This unique program is meant for qualified candidates who enroll at Northeast for either an AA or AS degree with a plan to join University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) for their Bachelor of Science degree. This program does make students to gain eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam but it only covers 60 credits of both nursing and general education course required for 1^st and 2^nd year at UNMC. If the requirements of this program are successfully met, students seamlessly articulate into the Bachelor of Science degree program at UNMC.

Nursing

At Northeast Community College, the professional nursing program is a career mobility program where students can choose from the two options below:

Diploma-Practical Nursing

The first year of this career mobility nursing program starts with 23 nursing courses and 18 general education credits bringing it to a total of 41 credits. After completion of the first year, there is an option to exit as students are usually eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Associate Degree Nursing

 Those students who choose not to take the NCLEX-PN exam can continue and complete another two semesters of 31 credits. Having finished a total of 71 credits, such students graduate with an associate degree in nursing and become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Contact:
Northeast Community College
801 East Benjamin Avenue, Norfolk,
NE 68701

Southeast Community College Nursing Program Review

Following the implementation of a statewide community college system, Southeast Community College (SCC) was formed. The college was formed in 1973 after vocational, junior and technical colleges in counties in the Southeast Nebraska region merged. Some of the colleges that formed the current Southeast Community college were Milford, Lincoln and Fairbury and Southeast colleges. The college serves 15 counties in the Southeast through three campuses in Milford, Lincoln and Beatrice and 4 extended education centers.

Nursing Programs at Southeast Community College

Southeast Community College offers nursing programs at Lincoln and Beatrice campuses and online. The programs range from short-term training in nursing assisting to practical nursing and associate degree in nursing. The college has also been approved by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to offer a number of continuing education courses for nurses.  The associate degree program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the practical nursing program is approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. More info on each program offered is given below:

Nursing Assistant

The nursing assistant course at Southeast prepares students to work as assistants in long-term care facilities or hospitals with emphasis on the aging population. The course is offered at the colleges’ Continuing Education (CE) center in Lincoln and requires 100 hours of clinical and theory instructions. After completion, students are entered in the state’s Nurse Aide Registry after passing the state certification exams.

Medication Aide

This is also a short term training course that follows the set out Medication Aide Act requirements.  The course prepares students on giving medication and monitoring patient response to such medication among other drug-related matters.  It is offered at the CE center and has two admissions annually.

Practical Nursing

The practical nursing program at Southeast leads to the award of a Diploma in Practical Nursing. The diploma has a huge course load of 76 credit hours including those that are required prior to admission. Courses for the program are offered at the Beatrice and Lincoln campuses on a full time basis for a period of one year.

 A 2-year part time track is also offered at Geneva, Lincoln, Beatrice and Fall City in Nebraska.  Students may also choose to complete the program online and as such, all courses with a clinical component must be taken at the aforementioned 4-campuses.  Completion of the gradation requirements leads to eligibility to write the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses. For LPNs wishing to become registered nurses, Southeast Community College has an advanced placement option for them.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

For those wishing to become registered nurses, the associate degree program offers them the opportunity.  This program is offered only at the Lincoln campus with some few selected courses being offered online. Prior to application, candidates must have been certified as nursing assistants and placed in the nurse aide registry.

The ADN curriculum consists of 108 credit hours inclusive of pre-admission pre-requisites. Satisfactory completion leads to eligibility to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides being awarded the Associate of science in nursing degree. Southeast Community College also welcomes LPN students who wish to make the transition into professional nursing. These students take 1 transition course in order to receive advanced placement for the ADN.

Continuing Education

Southeast Community College is approved to offer quite a number of CE courses for nurse. Some of the CE courses are offered online while other are offered at the Continuing Education center in Lincoln. Courses offered online include:

• Certificate in Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing
• Legal Nurse Consulting
• Certificate in Gerontology

Others offered at the CE center include:

• RN/LPN Refresher –(Bi-annual)
• LPN-Certified-(Bi-annual)
• Trauma Nursing Core Course
• Several Annual Nurses Conferences

Contact:
Southeast Community College
4771 West Scott Road, Beatrice,
NE 68310

Union College Nursing Program Review

Union College was opened in 1981 after a group of Seventh Day Adventists sought to open a church affiliated college in the Lincoln area. The college is based in Lincoln and still maintains strong ties with the seventh day Adventist denomination. The college has strong Christian values but students from all walks of life are welcome to study at Union. It offers accredited and comprehensive programs in more than 50 baccalaureate majors to a local and international student community.

Nursing at Union College

Union College (UC) offers a curriculum that leads to the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN). Three BSN tracks fall under the nursing academic division each with a different entry option. The program enrolls Advancement students from Practical nursing program, Registered nurses and fresh pre-licensure students. The nursing program at Union is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. More details on each of the programs are given below.

BSN Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing at Union is designed for entry-level pre-licensure students. It takes the form of a traditional 4-year degree program that requires 128 credits to complete. Students are admitted as freshmen and start on the general education courses during the 1^st year while nursing courses start at the second year. Completion of this program makes the student eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse (RN). The program provides advancement and completion opportunities for RNs and LPNs as explained below.

LPN to BSN Second Step Program

At Union College, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are offered the opportunity of obtaining advanced standing for the BSN program. LPNs with Nebraska licensure enrolled to this program receive highly discounted tuition fees. For placement into the BSN, LPNs take assessments administered by the Assessment Technology Institute after paying a separate fee. The assessment is offered in two steps and can only be taken once for Union College placement.  The outcome of the ATI tests determines where the student will be placed for the BSN.

Generally, students who receive advanced placement for the BSN must complete the 128 credits required for graduation. Some of the courses are earned by advanced placement and after validation of equivalency with those of Union. LPN students are allowed to complete some of their courses at any other 4-year institutions but must complete the last 30 credits at Union.  The LPN to BSN second step Program takes six semesters of full time study to complete although part time plans can be arranged. Either way, the program must be completed within six years after enrollment. Students earn a BSN degree and become eligible to write the NCLEX_RN exam to become registered nurses (RN)

RN to BSN Completion

This program is designed to meet the education advancement needs of RNs who wish to complete a Baccalaureate degree. RNs from accredited diploma or associate programs are welcome to apply to the RN to BSN completion track. Candidates must have current RN licensure to be allowed to apply. Upon acceptance into the program, students are subjected to some selected nursing courses equivalent to 9 credits hours. Those who complete these successfully receive 31 hours of nursing credits in place of the 9.  Others general education courses can be validated for equivalency with those of Union College to facilitate transfer.

Courses can be completed on a full time or part time basis but must be completed within six years.  Students require 57 nursing major credits of which, the last 30 must be completed at Union. Completion awards the students a BSN degree.

Contact:
Union College
3800 South 48^th Street, Lincoln,
NE 68506

University of Nebraska Medical Center Nursing School Review

University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) was founded in 1881 as an independent Medical College in Omaha. The college operated as a dental college until 1902 when it became part of University of Nebraska System. From that point, pharmacy, allied health and nursing programs were added and by 1942, the college had its first graduate programs. UNMC prides itself to being the only academic medical center in the state and strives to offer quality health care through innovative research in all its health programs.

College of Nursing at UNMC

The college of nursing at UNMC dates back to 1917. Through these years, the college has developed innovative and top tier nursing programs to suit the needs of most prospective nursing students.  From bachelor degree programs to master tracks and doctoral degrees, students are bound to get a program that suits them. The college delivers the nursing program curriculum through its five campuses spread across Nebraska namely: Kearney, Lincoln, Norfolk, Omaha and Scottsbluff.  All programs at the college are approved by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the bachelor tracks are approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. Precise information about to each program is given herein:

Bachelor’s BSN

For the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) prospective students, three tracks are available at UNMC College of nursing. However, all the programs are kind of completion programs as explained below:

• Traditional BSN Program

The traditional BSN program requires 120 credit hours to complete. Candidates for this program are pre-licensure but do not complete all their courses at UNMC. The college of nursing only offers 62 nursing major credits and as such, students must complete the other 58 prerequisites courses from a pre-nursing program in a 4-year college or university, or opt to take them at any University of Nebraska via on-campus or online modes.

Those who meet the 52 pre-requisites courses become eligible candidates for the traditional BSN at UNMC. Classes for the program commence on August each year and take 4 normal semesters to complete. There are five campuses as mentioned above, to choose from and part time options can also be arranged. Generally, a completion timeline of 4 years of full time study plan is needed if students transfer promptly to UNMC after taking prerequisites. Students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and become eligible for initial licensure as registered nurses (RN) after taking the NLCEX-RN exam

• Accelerated BSN

The Accelerated BSN is an intensive 1 year program designed for baccalaureate graduates of other non- nursing programs. Like the traditional BSN, students must have completed their pre-requisite courses at a 4-year college. However, most students have this requirement met from their earlier baccalaureate program hence, only need to take the 62 credits at UNMC.  The program is offered at Lincoln, Omaha and Scottsbluff campuses on a full time basis only.

Candidates are admitted annually on the semester commencing May and progress for a 13-week summer session and 2 16-week fall and spring semesters. Due to the intensive nature of the program, students may be required to attend evening and weekend sessions for their clinical rotations. It is strongly advised that students give-up their employment owing to the rigorous nature of the program. Completion leads to the award of a second degree Bachelor of Science in nursing from UNMC and eligibility to take NCLEX-RN exam.

RN to BSN

The program is meant for currently registered nurses (RN) who wish to advance their education from diploma or associate degree levels. The program is very flexible and is offered exclusively online via distance learning modes. Courses for the program can be completed at the students pace anytime with a few exceptions requiring synchronous/live online instructions from UNMC.  Like the other BSN tracks, students must have completed their pre-requisite courses prior to admission.

It is a relatively short program that requires only 20-24 nursing credits since students are awarded up-to 42 credits in recognition of their diploma or associate degree. The program accepts students each spring semester for either the 1-year full time or the 1.5-3 years part time study plan.

Master’s MSN

At UNMC, BSN-Prepared candidates are welcome to apply for the Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks offered. A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and several Nurse Practitioner (NP) advanced practice registered nurse tracks are available as listed below:

• Acute Care NP
• Primary Care NP
• Adult Gerontological CNS
• Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• Family NP
• Nurse Leader/Executive
• Nurse Educator
• Pediatrics Primary Care NP
• Women’s Health NP

All courses for the MSN are delivered in online/ distance learning modes. Some courses can be taken at the students pace anytime via asynchronous modes while others require synchronous video conferencing. Students are free to conduct research and clinicals at their areas of convenience but must be supervised by UNMC-appointed preceptors.  Usually, all tracks require 6 semesters of 3 years on a full time basis and 4-5 years in a part-time plan.

Dual Training

For all the listed specialty tracks above, one may choose to have the Nurse Educator courses concurrently in a dual training plan. In this case, students graduate with 2 specialty options; the nurse educator and any other track.

Post master’s PMC

UNMC offers post masters certificate (PMC) training programs in all MSN tracks listed above.  The curriculum delivery mode, clinical requirements and suggested study plans are similar to those of the MSN.  In addition, students can choose to take Nurses Education Training as their PMC of choice for their particular MSN specialty rather than a generic nurse educator PMC track.

UNMC also receives grants to offer special accelerated PMC programs. Students who enroll for these 3-tracks receive funding for their programs namely:

• Psychiatric Mental Health- Sprint Track Certificate (PIPN)
• Nurse Leader Executive Advanced Development  (LEAD)
• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Accelerated post masters certificate (GNP-MAP)

Advanced Rural Hospital Care Program (ARHC)

This is also a special post master‘s program designed for MSN graduates with a Family Nurses Practitioner (FNP) specialty. UNMC receives federal grants to train nurses on emergency and advanced critical nursing skills for rural hospital settings. The program takes three years of federal-funded training of both distance and interactive skills development at UNMC.

Doctor of Nursing Practice-DNP

The DNP program at UNMC is designed for MSN-prepared graduates with any MSN specialty tracks. It is a practice-based terminal degree that prepares nurses who are able to translate research findings into real clinical practice. The curriculum consists of 35 post master’s credit hours with courses from both the UNMC college of Health Sciences and College of Nursing.  Students may choose from the full time or the part time study plans.

Doctor of Philosophy-PhD

The PhD in nursing unlike the DNP is a terminal nursing degree with a focus of preparing nurse scholars and researchers. The program has three focus areas of research in nursing education, Quality Health Systems, Health Promotion & Management of risked and chronically ill populations.

Postdoctoral

The postdoctoral nursing training at UNMC is open to all students who have earned a terminal degree in nursing. DNP or PhD graduates enter the training program as Post-doctorate Research Fellows under the Niedfelt Nursing Research program. The aim of the program is to strengthen the research skills of students. For applications, students must contact the post-doctorate office at UNMC

Continuing Education (CE)

UNMC is approved to offer CE needs for nurses. Registered nurses can take the CEs as live programs of teleconferencing or face-to face conferences.  The college also offers online CE courses offered by other approved CE alliances. All the CE programs at the university are approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. The university is an American Nurses Credentialing Center accredited provider of nursing CE courses.

Contact:
University of Nebraska Medical Center
42^nd and Emile Street, Omaha,
NE 68198

Western Nebraska Community College Nursing Program Review

Western Nebraska Community College (WNCC) is one of the six community colleges in the state of Nebraska. Following a state legislature to merge junior, technical and vocational colleges in 1973, the college came into being. Three colleges: Alliance School of Practical Nursing, Nebraska Western College and Western Nebraska Tech College merged to form Western Nebraska Community College area. Although the colleges remained as distinct entities, in 1988, all three colleges dropped the different names to the current name. The college serves western Nebraska counties through 3 campuses in Sidney, Scottsbluff and Alliance.

Nursing at Western Nebraska Community College

Three nursing programs are offered at the college. For students wishing to transfers to other 4-year colleges to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing, there is a pre-professional nursing program. The other two programs are a practical nursing track leading to a diploma award and an associate degree program for preparation of registered nurses.  The latter two are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and are approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. Details for each track are given below:

Nursing/Pre-Professional

The pre-professional nursing program is designed to help students cover the basics of the freshman and sophomore year requirements for a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree. Although the courses can transfer to any 4-year university or college, the setting of the curriculum has put in place the requirements by the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) BSN program.

The curriculum consists of 58 general education and supporting courses. Students wishing to transfer to other colleges/universities other than UNMC must contact their future college to ensure they have course equivalence.  Students should note that following completion of this program does not award eligibility to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Nursing (Practical)

This program has a curriculum that prepares nurses to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Western Nebraska Community College requires that candidates for this program to have completed a Basic Nurse Aide (BNA) course prior to application. After enrollment, the curriculum is set to be completed in three semesters on a full time basis. After completing the required 48.5 credits, students are awarded a Diploma in Practical Nursing and are eligible to write the NLCEX-PN exam.

Associate Degree Nursing

The associate degree in nursing is open for both entry-level candidates and LPNs who wish to have advanced standing in the professional nursing program.  All candidates must have completed a BNA course and entered in the State’s Nurse Aide Registry prior to application. For entry-level students, 44 nursing credits and supporting courses must be completed in 4 full semesters and 1 short summer session of 4 credits.  Students must complete a separate 21 general education credits before starting on the 44 mentioned above.

LPNs that apply for advanced placement join the program at 2^nd year level after completing a bridging course. Completion of this curriculum ensures the students are educationally prepared to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides being awarded an Associate of Science in nursing degree.

Contact:
Western Nebraska Community College
1601 E. 27^th Street, Scottsbluff,
NE 69361