Ashland University Nursing School Review
Ashland University (AU) was founded in 1878, and is now a non-profit and private university, in affiliation with the Brethren Church. Its Judeo-Christian values set the foundation for its quality education and diverse environment. Its core value of “Accent on the Individual”, states that the Institute, “Pledges the best individual and collective efforts to challenge each person while offering the attention and encouragement that recognizes the uniqueness of everyone.” Ashland University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and authorized by the Ohio Board of Regents. It is a member of the Council of Graduate Schools, as well.
The Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Ashland University, teaches students the ethical, professional ways of leadership skills, patient care, and outstanding service in the nursing practice. The faculty is highly trained and qualified in the healthcare profession and shares their knowledge with the students with one-on-one instruction. The SCRUBS Society is an organization for students enrolled in the College of Nursing, to provide support and fellowship for students. At Ashland University there are two departments within the College of Nursing, Post-Licensure Nursing and Pre- Licensure Nursing. Admission Requirements for Ashland University’s Nursing Program must be met before enrolling into a Post-Licensure or Pre-Licensure Nursing Program.
Post- Licensure Nursing
The Post-Licensure Nursing Department offers three programs, Gerontology Certificate, Nursing- RN to BSN and School Nurse Licensure. The Gerontology Certificate is a non-degree online certificate program that teaches specifically about geriatric care. In the RN (Registered Nurse) to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, students with an RN, whom are already experienced in the medical field or trying to complete their education, can earn a BSN degree. In the School Nurse Licensure program, students will learn the skills needed to insure health needs are being met for each child in the school settings, along with counseling credentials for school-age children.
Pre- Licensure Nursing
The Pre-Licensure Nursing Department offers four programs, Gerontology Certificate, Nursing- Accelerated Track, Nursing- Advanced Entry, and Nursing- Traditional BSN.
Gerontology Certificate
The Gerontology Certificate is, again, an online specialty course, that can be taken in concurrence with the other nursing programs.
Accelerated Track
The Nursing- Accelerated Track gives students the ability to learn in a classroom, laboratory and clinical environment to further complement their bachelor’s degree, earning a BSN at an accelerated pace.
Advanced Entry
The Nursing- Advanced Entry program gives transferring students immediate placement into courses within the program, providing they have completed the prerequisites and met academic requirements needed for transfer. Along with completing the admission prerequisites, students must have an American Heart Association CPR Certification that is up to date, along with necessary equipment needed in classroom and laboratory settings. An Admissions Representative can further assist those students who are looking to transfer.
Traditional BSN Program
For those students starting out in their nursing education, they can begin a four year journey in the Nursing- Traditional BSN program. From the basics to advanced leadership skills, the Traditional BSN program provides comprehensive education in the nursing profession. The four year BSN degree will qualify the students to work in the healthcare profession, upon completion of the program.
Ashland University’s Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Healthcare Science provide multiple options for obtaining your Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. For new students, transferring students or healthcare professionals who want to further their education, there is a program at Ashland University that will put you on the right track.
Contact:
Ashland University
The Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences
335 Glessner Avenue,
Mansfield, OH 44903-2265
(419) 520- 2600
Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences Nursing Program Review
Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences (ACNHS) is a private college set in the large mid-western town of Canton, Ohio. Although the town may be large, the campus itself contrasts that with a small school feel that maintains a primary focus on educating medical professionals. The school focuses on teaching students dedicated to the pursuit of nursing or radiology.
Aultman has its roots in the late 1800s, opening shortly after Aultman hospital began servicing the people of Stark County. Since its initial approval by the State of Ohio in 1916, Aultman has trained thousands of health-care professionals working in Ohio and around the world. Expanding into degree programming in 2004, Aultman became an accredited college, changing its name to Aultman College of Nursing and Health Services. It is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA). With a mission of “serving current and emerging needs in Northeast Ohio and beyond through academically challenging and relevant degree and community education programs,” Aultman continues to look toward the future of health care. This focus on innovation and training can be seen in their state-of-the art classrooms, labs, and use of computer technology.
Nursing Program Overview
Students at Aultman work collaboratively on a rigorous outcome-based program. The small school setting allows for a student-centered culture that centers on service built around compassion and respect. While the commitment to academics is unquestionable, they also strive to build a community campus. Students have an array of activities to choose from: sports, clubs, and even leadership activities. They realize that learning to treat the whole person begins with developing the whole of the health-care giver.
Students who go through the program at Aultman immerse themselves in the skills and training needed to create the foundation for a lifelong health-services career. Classes include learning about the physical aspects of treating a body (biology, chemistry, etc…), but they don’t stop there because they teach a holistic approach to medicine. When graduates enter the workforce, Aultman makes sure they’re prepared to treat the whole patient. The proximity to Aultman Hospital offers students an additional opportunity beyond the walls of the classroom – hands-on volunteering experience.
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Program
Successful completion of the Associate of Science in Nursing Program qualifies graduates for an entry-level career in nursing. Upon completion of the program, students will have all the necessary training to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN). After passing their exam, graduates will be awarded a nursing license and become an RN. The program requires a commitment of 21 months–2 years. Clinical classes are a required component of our program, allowing practical application of nursing theory, and serve as an integral part of our curriculum. Curriculum is designed around the ever-changing face of health care, including: changing demographics, an aging population, cultural diversity, technological advances, and current medical trends. Professors work hard to implement a strong and innovative curriculum.
Contact:
Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences
2600 6th St. SW,
Canton, OH 44710
(330) 363-6347
Bowling Green State University Nursing School Review
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) is a 1338 acre residential campus that serves over 20,000 students. Rated one of the top 100 public universities nationwide by US News and World Report for its strong commitment to first year programs, students from around the U.S. and the world have chosen to matriculate in one of BGSU’s seven colleges.
Thirty minutes south of Toledo; the campus sits nested in a rural northwest setting. BGSU has a long history of education dating back to its beginnings in 1910, and continues to this day to be one of the top public universities in the U.S. The school boasts over seven colleges to choose from with the College of Health and Human Services serving as the home from its nursing programs.
Nursing Program Overview
The College of Health and Human Services houses BGSU’s Nursing Program. In partnership with the University of Toledo, the college has over thirty years of successful graduates to boast about. Students take the upper-level required coursework through the University at Toledo, but graduate with a BGSU degree upon completion. BGSU-UT Nursing programs are nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and fully approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Nursing students learn from Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory of Nursing, which is a system of care focusing on critical-thinking strategies to aid the patient in dealing with his or her health issues. Critical thinking is a large part of modern medicine and all students will be challenged to use their training in this pursuit.
Baccalaureate Degree Programs
Nursing Pre-Licensure (BSN) Degree:
Graduates are challenged by the four-year program designed to move students through an introduction to nursing, the body, and the pre-requisites they will need to build their foundational knowledge. Clinicals are completed in Junior and Senior years, offering a comprehensive program that prepares graduates for real-world application. Once students graduate, they are prepared to take the licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). Successful completion of the exam allows the student to become an RN and move on to graduate-level coursework in furtherance of their professional development.
RN to BSN Degree:
For students who wish to advance beyond their associate degree in nursing or diploma from a nursing program, this option is far more flexible. While working through the coursework, students develop along a more individualized track. Many students who choose this pathway are busy professionals who want to better their career opportunities, and the flexibility of four different pathways to a degree delivers on that opportunity. By choosing the length of program that works for them, ranging from two semesters to seven semesters, students can move forward in their nursing careers. Seven of the core nursing courses are offered online, laying the framework for busy students to manage both life and their dreams of higher education. This foray into the technological age proffers advantages in an age where more and more of our communication is taking place digitally.
Master of Science in Nursing
With ever changing roles in the medical field, becoming an expert in your field serves professionals who have their eyes on the future. With that knowledge in mind, Bowling Green University’s partnership with the University of Toledo offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Available via the BGSU Firelands Campus in Huron, students are able to pursue graduate-level work. Due to the joint nature of the program, interested students need to contact the school directly to find out more about the program.
Contact:
Bowling Green State University
Alumni Drive
Bowling Green, OH 43403
(419) 372-8207
Bryant and Stratton College Eastlake Nursing Program Review
Bryant and Stratton College Eastlake (BSCE) is a part of a proud educational experience stretching back 155 years. As one of the seventeen campuses of Bryant and Stratton College across four states (New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin), as well as an online division, they are proud to continue a tradition of high academic achievement that has seen thousands of graduates move into productive careers throughout the U.S. and abroad.
They focus on a personalized educational experience with a mission of: providing individuals with skills that are immediately transferrable to the workplace and to help them in their careers. This can be seen in every aspect of the Bryant and Stratton education experience. The Eastlake campus fulfills its mission in a small suburban setting just fifteen miles from the hustle and bustle of Cleveland, Ohio. This commuter campus provides students the opportunity to fit educational and career growth into their busy, modern lives.
Nursing Program Overview
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the nursing program utilizes laboratory and clinical experiences in preparing students for careers in twenty-first century healthcare settings. The modern nurse is far more than care giver and support staff. The modern nurse is an integral part of a health care team, collaborating with his or her colleagues on all healthcare decisions regarding patient care; 21st century nurses utilize a variety of skills to fulfill their team role.
Bryant and Stratton College strives to graduate nurses who are ready for this dynamic healthcare role. Training takes place with the help of computer-aided instruction, telecommunication technologies, clinical simulations, and other technical strategies, ensuring nursing program graduates are fully trained for the ever-changing technical landscape of healthcare.
They also place a great deal of focus on blending clinical decision-making with the role of personalized care for patients. Our students are trained to blend several core nursing care components that have been established by the National League for Nursing.
Those components include: professional behaviors, communication, assessment, clinical decision-making, caring intervention, teaching and learning, collaboration, and managing care. With health care needs changing as our society evolves and changes, this complement of skills will ensure our graduates find themselves immediately prepared for a nursing career and poised to further their education in the future.
Associate of Applied Science
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) nursing program of study is a two-year program geared toward preparing nurses to take the NCLEX-RN examination. This program blends nursing fundamentals with a strong liberal-arts foundation, educating the whole learner. Students take classes in a variety of areas in preparation for whatever nursing role they may take on in their future career.
The classes include, but are not limited to: pathophysiology, microbiology applications, medical and surgical nursing, geriatric and mental health nursing. Between course work, laboratory training, and clinical practicum, candidates are rigorously prepared for the application of nursing strategies and standards of care. The culminating experience is an internship, providing necessary hands-on experience for each student.
Contact:
Bryant and Stratton College – Eastlake
35350 Curtis Boulevard
Eastlake, Ohio 44092
(440) 510-1112
Capital University Nursing School Review
Capital University (CU) is the oldest Central Ohio university out there and is still considered to be one of the biggest and oldest North American universities that is Lutheran-affiliated. Founded in the year 1830, its main campus currently stands in Bexley, Ohio, one of the suburbs of Columbus.
Capital University – School of Natural Sciences, Nursing and Health
The School of Natural Sciences, Nursing and Health bring together experience and empirical investigation inside the classroom and beyond. Students will learn through both real-world experimentation and in-class discussions and are encouraged to constantly question assumptions.
The School of Natural Sciences, Nursing and Health has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The traditional nursing program at Capital University will require a completion of 134 semester study hours, which normally takes four years and one summer. Admissions are selective and will be based on the department’s admission policies. Students will receive a degree in BCN afterwards and will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse.
BSN Completion
This program exists for registered nurses who want to get a nationally-accredited baccalaureate degree. A program made especially to fit the schedule of an adult, it comes with an instructional and flexible format that will give nurses more chances of finding good professional opportunities in the long run. Students who already have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and any type of bachelor’s degree can actually get a BSN in only four semesters through this program.
Accelerated BSN Program
This program is made especially for students who already have a degree of any kind and want to explore the nursing field. The program only takes twenty months of full-time studying to complete. In general, it consists of five terms of fifteen weeks each, including one summer and involves hands-on experience right from the beginning.
RN to MSN Program
Registered nurses who already have a nursing diploma or associate’s degree can take this fast track program in order to get a more advanced degree much faster. To be qualified for this program, students will need to be admitted to the BSN completion program, have a recommendation from an advisor and credit for N402 and N315. Their cumulative GPA has to be at least 3.5, as well.
Graduate Nursing Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program will require a completion of 64 semester study hours, which normally takes two years and one summer. Students will receive a degree in MSN afterwards and will be allowed to sit for the licensure examination in order to become a professional nurse.
Students can learn in four different concentrations: administration, theology, legal studies and nursing education. For any of these options, students will need to put in the extra hours in order to complete the courses.
Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Certificate
Master’s-prepared nurses who want a wider scope of career opportunities can apply for this certificate program at Capital University. This program can be completed in four part-time semesters and requires an MSN degree or any health-related degree from a CCNE- or NLN-accredited program.
Contact:
Capital University
1 College and Main
Columbus, OH 43209-2394
Case Western Reserve University Nursing School Review
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) began as Western Reserve College back in 1826. It was founded not too far from where it is today – in Hudson, Ohio – and is famous for being one of the few institutions that actually welcomed the sciences and actively sought out innovation back in the day.
Case Western Reserve University – Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing is globally-recognized in nursing research and education. Because of this, it only makes sense that their goal is to produce dynamic and confident professionals in the field of healthcare in the end.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
For students who wish to get a BSN, there are a total of three different options for entry here: the freshman option, the transfer option for freshmen and the the transfer option for sophomores.
To get this degree, students will need to clock in at least 124 hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0, a minimum grade of C for every science and nursing course and at least 50 hours of credit in 300-level and 400-level courses.
This generic program usually lasts for four years, after which graduates can take the NCLEX licensure examination as registered nurses.
Graduate Entry Program
This program is available for baccalaureate-prepared students who already have a bachelor’s degree and have completed all of the prerequisite courses for undergraduates.
However, it is also available for Senior Year Students in Professional Studies (SYPS) who are currently enrolled in baccalaureate programs at participating accredited schools of the liberal arts.
Students need to have completed all of the required courses along with the required courses of their master clinical majors. Post-licensure students will be given the Master of SCience in Nursing (MSN) after all of the requirements have been met.
RN to MSN Bridge
Bridge programs are available for nurses who want to get a BSN or MSN degree. These programs might actually be the most efficient and fastest ways to get an MSN, even if a BSN has not yet been obtained.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
For students who wish to get a MSN, there are various different options for entry available. Students who already have their BSN can check out direct admissions, but there is also an RN to MSN program for diploma-prepared and ADN-prepared nurses, as well as nontraditional formats for full-time working students.
Students will need to have a RN licensure in the state, three recommendations and satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT). An accredited first degree nursing program must be completed, as well.
MSN majors usually require 40 semester hours and 500 clinical hours, though this will depend on the student’s chosen program.
Here are the MSN majors offered at the Frances Payne Bolton school of nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). Their subspecialties include Flight Nursing, Cardiovascular Nursing and Gerontology.
Blended Role (NP/CNS) Majors also exist, along with majors like Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Informatics and Nurse Midwifery.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
Registered nurses with MSN degrees can be admitted to the DNP program directly once they have satisfied all of the requirements. Students need to have graduated from an accredited university or college with a master’s nursing degree, have had an interview in person or by phone with the faculty in order to talk about their career goals, and have completed the necessary application.
Students will need to have satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT), as well, and need to have an advanced certification to practice nursing.
PhD in Nursing Program
One things that makes the PhD program of the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing unique is the fact that it has various scheduling options and entry points available.
Students with a MSN degree can directly enter the program and finish the core coursework during fall and spring with at least 3 credits of proposal development. A minimum of 57 credit hours is also needed for the nursing PhD.
Post-baccalaureates can also pursue the PhD program without a MSN degree and take the BSN-PhD fast track program instead, while students who prefer to go to school in the summer can pursue the Summer-Only PhD option.
There is also an accelerated option for those in a hurry to get their PhD and a non-degree option for students who want to enter the PhD Nursing Program in the future.
This program requires at least 57 semester hours, including the dissertation foundation and the dissertation completion.
Dual Doctorate DNP/PhD Program
Students interest in this dual program need to apply to both programs and indicate their interest in it on the cover sheet. An 11-credit overlap is allowed between both programs.
Students applying for this program may also apply for the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, as long as they agree to finish a teaching practicum and take the courses asked of them. Other funding opportunities are also available to these students.
Pre- and Post-Doctoral Training Opportunities
Traineeship positions emerge annually at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, depending on how much funding is available. These opportunities include the Advanced Education Nurse Anesthetist Program, the Discover Nursing Program, the Flight Nursing Program, the Geriatric Nursing Excellence Program, and Professional Nurse Traineeships.
Nursing Courses
There are various nursing courses available at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, including the General Nursing (NURS) Courses, the Nurse Anesthesia (NUAN) Courses, the Nursing Doctorate (NUND) Courses, the Nurse Practitioner (NUNP) Courses, and the Intensive/Distance-Friendly Courses.
Continuing Education Program
Professional enhances can advance the nursing discipline and broaden their knowledge through this program, which includes various conferences, workshops, certificate programs and symposia developed especially for nurses and alumni in northern Ohio and beyond.
Preceptor Program
In a nutshell, preceptors refer to licensed nurses who supervise nursing students as they go through their clinical experiences at the preceptors’ clinical agencies. Their responsibilities include helping students develop the clinical judgement and skills that they need in assessment and treat patients in real clinical settings.
In order to qualify for this program, students need to be ready to put in a lot of energy and time into the program. However, they will also enjoy rewards in networking and personal growth in the end.
Contact:
Case Western Reserve University
10900 Euclid Avenue,
Cleveland, OH 44106
Cedarville University Nursing School Review
Cedarville University (CU) is a learning community that is mainly centered around Christ – a fact that permeates and influences every aspect of the university and its programs. Ministry and missions are all integrated in the entire Cedarville experience.
As a matter of fact, Bible minors are required in every academic program at Cedarville University and chapels with authentic praise and relevant teachings of the bible are available on a daily basis along with discipleship groups and missions.
Cedarville University – Department of Nursing
The Cedarville University Department of Nursing hopes to prepare its students to use its programs as ministries for Jesus Christ. Graduates of this program will not just deliver care based on the science and art of nursing, the humanities and the behavioral and biological sciences; but also based on the Holy Bible.
The department of nursing in Cedarville University has national accreditations from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is also approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Ohio Board of Regents.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program usually takes four years to complete and will lead to a BSN degree. The goal of this program is to produce graduates that have fully mastered these four areas: culture, care, information management and godly living.
Students will have to finish 74 semester hours in major requirements, as well as 59 semester hours in general education requirements.
Cross-Cultural Nursing
This program exists for students who want to work on mission fields with cross-cultural people in the U.S. and abroad. Students will have to finish at least 16 extra credit hours for it, though.
Graduate Nursing Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program provides professional, advanced and in-depth practice study that builds on BSN foundations.
Students will have to finish 14 semester hours in core courses, 9 hours in advanced practice core courses, 4 hours in nursing capstone experience, as well as other necessary nursing courses as stated by the student’s chosen area of focus. The available areas of focus include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Global health Ministries (GHM).
The MSN program can usually be completed in two years if a full-time study plan is followed. However, there are also part-time study plans available for those who need them.
Nursing Camp
At Nursing Camp, students will get superior instruction in top-notch nursing facilities by a great nursing faculty. The best part is that this camp focuses on how important spirituality actually is in the field of nursing.
The Nursing Camp includes a general introduction to Christian nursing philosophies, practical experience with various basic skills in nursing, one-on-one interactions with the faculty and other Cedarville students, an overview of various nursing career opportunities, as well as fellowship and fun.
Students who join the Nursing Camp will also finish the American Heart Association (AHA) CPR for healthcare providers.
Contact:
Cedarville University
251 N. Main Street,
Cedarville, OH 45314
Central Ohio Technical College Nursing Program Review
Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) has four campuses in total: one in Newark, one in Coshocton, one in Knox and one in Pataskala – all of which have different degrees on offer. There are 50 associate degrees available at COTC, in general.
Most students choose to go to COTC in order to gain applicable and hands-on experience for the real world. What makes COTC unique, though, is the fact that they have four campuses in the region. However, they also have online classes for their students’ convenience.
Central Ohio Technical College – Nursing Technologies
The Nursing Technologies program provides students with the skills that they need in order to become a nurse. Graduates will not just join the working world and become productive after graduating, but they will also be able to continue their education in order to earn more advanced degrees if they wish.
The Nursing Technologies program at COTC has been fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the Higher Learning Commission. It is also a member of the North Central Association and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Nursing Technology – Registered Nursing Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
This program offers the traditional study plan option of two years and includes both nursing and general education courses. However, the available spaces are very limited in this program and selections will be made competitively four times a year.
Students will need to complete 4 credit hours of Composition I, 5 credit hours of College Algebra and 1 credit hour of Principles of Computing with a minimum grade of C before they can be admitted to the program. After that, every nursing course will need to be followed sequentially according to the plan of study given to them.
Nursing Technology, One Year Certificate Program in Practical Nursing
This program exists offers a study plan option of one year and includes both nursing and general education courses. Graduates will be given a practical nursing certificate and will be able to take the exam to become a licensed practical nurse.
Students will need to complete 5 credit hours of Introduction to Biology and 5 credit hours of Introduction to Algebra with a minimum grade of C before they can be admitted to the program. After that, every nursing course will need to be followed sequentially according to the plan of study given to them.
Nursing Technology, COTC Certificate in State Tested Nurse Aid Program (STNA)
Before joining the STNA program, students need to have had formal courses in basic skills of healthcare at an actual hospital or clinic, and get in touch without eh Ohio Department of Health first in order to find out whether they have enough training and experience to quality for the program to begin with.
Students need to be at least 16 years of age in order to enroll in this program and will need to finish 5 credit hours and 8 contact hours in Basic Health Care Skills.
Contact:
Central Ohio Technical College
1179 University Drive,
Newark, OH 43055
Chamberlain College of Nursing in Ohio Program Review
Chamberlain College of Nursing (CCN, CCON) was founded in 1889 as a diploma school of nursing called the Deaconess College of Nursing, but is now a college of nursing that offers both ASN degrees and BSN degrees.
The school has 10 campuses in total with 1 campus in Virginia, Ohio, Texas, Indiana, Arizona and Missouri, and 2 campuses in both Florida and Virginia.
Chamberlain College of Nursing
With more than 120 years in providing nursing education, Chamberlain College of Nursing continues to provide personal and student-oriented learning with a proven nursing and healthcare education model. Flexible online study options are also available for those who need it.
Chamberlain College of Nursing is currently a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and schools and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The BSN program at Chamberlain College of Nursing usually only takes three years of full-time study to complete. Plus, students can jump right into the BSN program without any prior experience or pre-requisites.
To apply for this program, students need to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75; and an ACT composite score of at least 21, an SAT critical reading and mathematics reasoning score of at least 990 or an A2 Admission Assessment score of at least 75.
Second Degree BSN Program
The second degree BSN program is an accelerated study program for students who already have baccalaureate degrees. This program usually only takes 13 months to complete, but interested students need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 in order to apply for it.
To apply for this program, students will need to have a bachelor’s degree and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on all post-secondary coursework and on required prerequisites.
RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Option
Through this affordable and flexible online program, students can get a BSN degree in only 3 semesters. To apply, students will need a diploma with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 and an active RN license. Students will need to complete 67 nursing credit hours and 62 applied sciences and liberal arts credit hours in order to graduate.
RN-BSN to MSN Online Option
This program exists for registered nurses who want to advance their careers and education in a faster and more affordable manner. To apply, students will need a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in RN to BSN coursework, 25 hours of which have to have been taken at Chamberlain College of Nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
Students interested in the ADN program can either opt for online or on-site learning. The program usually takes 6 full-time semesters to complete and can only be taken at the Columbus, Ohio campus. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination.
LPN to RN Bridge Program
This program can either be done on-site or online and is especially made for qualified Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who are interested in getting an ADN to become registered nurses. The program can only be taken by Ohio residents at the Columbus, Ohio campus.
Graduate Nursing Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
This program consists of core courses in research, nursing theory, leadership, healthcare informatics and professional role development. To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and a current RN license.
Students may also choose from three specialty tracks: the executive specialty track, the educator specialty track or the informatics specialty track.
Executive Specialty Track
Students can advance their careers as nurse leaders through this program as it covers fundamental organization leadership foundations, including organizational change, decision-making and managerial communication.
Educator Specialty Track
Students can become nurse educators through this program as it covers important educational foundations, program assessment, program evaluation, curriculum development and instructional methods.
Informatics Specialty Track
Students can lead the new wave of high-tech patient care as informatics nurse specialists through this program as it covers data and information management, project management and healthcare information workflow management.
MSN and MBA Track Option
Through this program, students can earn their MSN degrees and MBA degrees online in a faster and more affordable manner. Graduates can then apply to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program if they so wish, which will be done at DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management.
Contact:
Chamberlain College of Nursing
1350 Alum Creek Drive,
Columbus, OH 43209
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Nursing Program Review
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (CSTCC) is a two-year public college that works under the Ohio Board of Regents. Nearly 20,000 students choose to enroll in day, evening and weekend courses in Cincinnati State and the international students that attend this school come from more than 75 different countries.
Cincinnati State has more than 100 majors, certificate programs and associate’s degree programs in Business Technologies, Health and Public Safety, Center for Innovative Technologies, and Humanities and Sciences.
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College – Health and Public Safety – Nursing Program
There are various programs under the Health and Public Safety division of this school, including Nursing. Under Nursing, they provide the Nurse Aide Training Certificate, the Nursing (RN) (NUR) program, and the Practical Nursing Certificate (PNC).
Graduates of these courses have often continued to purse a Bachelors in Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at these nearby colleges; College of Mount St. Joseph, Kettering Medical College of Ohio, Miami University, Northern Kentucky University, University of Cincinnati and Xavier University.
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College has accreditations from the State Department of Education, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Ohio Board of Regents. The Nursing Program is approved by the Ohio State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students who qualify for financial aid at Cincinnati State can enjoy top quality education at a more affordable price. Fortunately, there are a lot of different financial aid programs available at the school, including work-study, grants and loans, as well as Honors and institutional scholarships.
In order to qualify for financial aid, students need to be admitted to certain certificate-granting programs or eligible degree programs first. They must also meet satisfactory academic progress and remember to reapply for state or federal aid every year.
Campuses and Locations
The main campus of Cincinnati State can be found in the urban metropolitan yet classic Clifton area, where most of the offered courses; administrative and student services; recreation, library and athletic services can also be found.
The school also has a West Campus, though, which is located in Harrison, Ohio. This is where Aviation Maintenance Technology students take their courses, though other common courses are on offer there, as well.
Cincinnati State also has a Workforce Development Center (WDC) in Evendale, which provides workforce education and career training. It also provides college courses and personalized training for non-profit companies, public sector organizations and government agencies.
Facilities and Services
The campus of Cincinnati State offers top-notch technology, quality service and convenient meeting rooms that can be used for various events and meetings.
The classrooms are smart and equipped with modern technology, while the gymnasium and swimming pool are always well-maintained. Presentation spaces, banquet facilities and meeting areas are available, too.
Special Admission Requirements
The core courses that nursing students will need to take at Cincinnati State are similar to the core courses taken by the students of other health degree programs. The only difference is that the nursing students need to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 and a GPA of at least 2.5 for the first two curriculum terms in order to enter term three.
High school or college chemistry and biology are prerequisites for the nursing program, as well. To apply for clinical courses, on the other hand, students need to be state-tested licensed practical nurses or nurse aides in Ohio.
Contact:
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
3520 Central Parkway,
Cincinnati, OH 45223
Clark State Community College Nursing Program Review
Formerly known as the Springfield and Clark County Technical Education Program in 1962, Clark County Technical Institute (CCTI) in 1966 and Clark Technical College in 1972, Clark State Community College (CSCC) offers degree programs and classes specifically made to meet the community’s needs.
Springfield is currently home to two different campuses and to Clark State’s Performing Arts Center.
Clark State Community College – Registered Nursing
Clark State’s Registered Nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Through this program, graduates will get ready to work in beginning staff-level positions for registered nurses in extended healthcare facilities, hospitals and clinics, as well as in various other healthcare facilities as part of the healthcare team.
Registered Nursing
The nursing courses at Clark State can be taken in the traditional format or in an online format. Lab sessions will all be conducted on-campus, though.
To apply for this program, students need to have a Compass reading score of at least 75, a Compass writing score of at least 70, a Compass Basic Math score of at least 47, a Compass Algebra score of at least 29, and a GPA of at least 2.0.
Registered Nursing – Evening
Evening nursing courses are also available at Clark State. However, since these courses do not allow other evening classes to be taken at the same time, students will have to complete every other required course before enrolling into the evening nursing courses.
To apply for this program, students need to have a Compass reading score of at least 75, a Compass writing score of at least 70, a Compass Basic Math score of at least 47, a Compass Algebra score of at least 29, and a GPA of at least 2.0.
Registered Nursing – LPN to RN Transition
This Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) option provides a new sequence when it comes to nursing courses, wherein students can meet all of the educational needs of LPNs in order to become RNs. The course requirements are still the same as the ones in the regular RN program, though.
Other admission requirements for these clinical nursing courses would include a current Ohio LPN license, a recent practice of at least one year as an Ohio LPN, and a current professional certification as a CPR provider.
Registered Nursing – Paramedic to RN Transition
This degree has the exact same program requirements as the regular RN program, but the nursing sequences have been changed in order to meet the paramedics’ educational needs, as well.
Other admission requirements for these clinical nursing courses would include a current Ohio paramedic certification, a recent practice of at least three years as an Ohio paramedic, and a minimum grade of C for the prerequisite NUR 185 requirements.
Also, two years before entering their very first courses in clinical nursing, students have to complete the Nurse Aid Training course successfully or at least show proficiency of the skills and knowledge that is usually taught in that particular course.
Contact:
Clark State Community College
570 East Leffel Lane,
Springfield, OH 45505
Cleveland State University Nursing School Review
Founded in 1964 as a state-assisted university, Cleveland State University (CSU) now has 16,000 students, more than 150 student organizations and more than 1,000 different courses.
Cleveland State University – School of Nursing
Cleveland State’s School of Nursing programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and have been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. Cleveland State’s School of Nursing is also a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Council of Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs.
Undergraduate Programs
Basic BSN Program
To apply for this program, students will need to attend an information session, complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C, have a minimum prerequisite GPA of 2.75 and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. This program usually takes three years to complete.
Accelerated BSN Program
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree can take this alternative program in order to get their BSN degree in just four semesters of full-time study.
Students will need to complete every required clinical and theory course to get their BSN degree, including all nursing specialty content. Graduates of this program can then take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam in order to become a registered nurse.
RN to BSN Program
Registered nurses can take this program to get a BSN degree to help them advance in their careers. A flexible online plan is also available for working RNs and the required courses can be completed in only three semesters. Graduates who meet all of the MSN requirements can immediately join the MSN program after graduating.
Graduate Programs
MSN Program
Cleveland State’s School of Nursing provides an MSN program that focuses on population health. In this program, students get to choose from these four tracks: nursing education, specialized populations, clinical nurse leader (CNL) and forensic nursing.
To apply, students need to have an active and valid RN license in the U.S. and a BSN degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. They need to have completed a statistics course of some sort, as well.
MSN/MBA Program
This program is taught part-time and is a dual degree that accepts 9 hours of MSN core courses as electives for the Masters in Business Administration (MBA) program and 10 hours of MBA core courses as electives for the MSN program.
This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
PhD in Urban Education
This special program prepares nurses to take on faculty positions and leadership roles in nursing education. To apply, students need to have an MSN degree, recent experience in nursing education or practice, and an active nursing license.
Interdisciplinary Certificates
Interdisciplinary certificates are offered at Cleveland state in partnership with their other departments. These are the programs that are currently available: nursing education, gerontological studies, and school nurse licensure preparation.
Graduates may work in nursing schools at LPN levels or diploma levels, in leadership education and organizational programs and in continuing education programs. They may also apply for the National League for Nursings Certification for Nurse Educators.
Contact:
Cleveland State University
2121 Euclid Avenue,
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
College of St. Mount Joseph Nursing Program Review
College of St. Mount Joseph (MSJ, CMSJ) was founded by the Sisters of Charity in 1920. And, to this day, it is built on a liberal arts foundation, which includes ethical leadership in the curriculum.
Above everything else, College of Saint Mount Joseph is focused on delivering top quality academics to their students. Here, students aren’t just challenged to explore intellectual talents, but are also given the help that they need to discover new ways to serve the common good.
College of St. Mount Joseph – Nursing
This program is built on more than eighty years of experience in nursing education, wherein students have become very effective administrators, educators and practitioners in the field.
This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree/Day Track
To apply for this program, students will need to complete 98 hours of study – 21 hours of prerequisite courses, 59 hours of major courses and 18 hours of cognate courses.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Accelerated Track for Registered Nurses
To apply for this program, students will need to complete 63 hours of study – 18 hours of prerequisite courses, 24 hours of major courses and 21 hours of cognate courses.
Master of Nursing Program
Students who have always wanted to embark on a nursing career can reach this goal in only 15 months with the Master of Nursing program – and this already includes clinical experience. Students who have bachelor’s degrees in other fields of study can also take the full-time MN program to pursue a career in nursing. This program also opens up extra options in financial aid.
Nursing Scholarships
Catherine Relihan Scholarship
Every year, a student is awarded this scholarship upon entering the MN program at the College of Mount St. Joseph. This $5,000 scholarship is distributed over the program’s four semesters.
Robert Wood Johnson Scholarships for Master of Nursing Program
This scholarship is awarded to ten different students in the MN program and is worth $10,000 each. Groups who are underrepresented in the field of nursing and those who come from an economically-disadvantaged background are given preference for this particular scholarship.
Nursing Learning Labs
College of Mount St. Joseph has come up with Nursing Learning Labs as an effective and efficient solution to expand their facilities for their growing amount of students.
Aquinas Hall has been entirely renovated into a nursing center with two levels, where classrooms and labs have been expanded and new technology has been incorporated for a new level of nursing excellence altogether.
The entire design of the places efficiently uses space and and has even more room available to grow. Plus, it complements the clinical and classroom learning needed in the nursing curriculum very well.
The Nursing Leaning Labs are supported by the Campaign for Nursing Excellence – and this includes the expansion of equipment, technology and labs for the College of Mount St. Joseph’s entire nursing program.
Contact:
College of Mount St. Joseph
5701 Delhi Road,
Cincinnati, OH 45233-1670
Columbus State Community College Nursing Program Review
Columbus State Community College (CSCC) provides top quality education programs, which meet the community’s learning needs. With its dynamic curriculum, this college also responds to the community’s ever-changing needs and supports excellence in both teaching and learning.
Columbus State Community College – Nursing (NURS)
This program is built to prepare students to provide various healthcare services to people of every age and setting. There are two different program tracks available here: the online track and the traditional track.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Registered Nurse (RN) Associate Degree
This program lasts for seven quarters and includes knowledge from humanities, sciences and nursing.
To apply, students need to have a GPA of at least 2.6 and a valid practical nurse license (LPN) in Ohio. They must have completed the Nurse Aide Training Program and the HESI A2 with a minimum score of 75, as well. Graduates can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Online Registered Nurse Track
Students with a bachelor’s degree can take this program to become a nurse. Although these classes are taken online, clinical sites will still need to be attended for hands-on training.
The requirements for this program are exactly the same as the regular RN program. However, students will also need to have a bachelor’s degree and will need to write an essay as to why they would suit an online degree best. This program can be completed in seven quarters.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate
This program is a part-time program for the evenings and the weekends and can be completed in seven quarters. Students will need to complete 14 hours of arts and science courses and 22 hours in nursing courses in order to finish the program.
Graduates can sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Patient care assistants and nursing assistants can continue studying to become LPNs after successfully passing this program and the licensing examination.
LPN to RN
Students who have an LPN can get an associate’s degree with this program in order to take the RN exam.
Current Ohio LPNs can either apply for non-traditional credit for nursing courses within the first few quarters or enroll in other nursing courses and apply for non-traditional credit in other courses.
Nursing Certificates
Columbus State Community College offers various certificates to students who want to join the field of healthcare and to nurses who simply wish to expand their overall credentials.
A lot of healthcare providers actually look for students that have one of these certificates and they can also fulfill certificate requirements as required by the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Multi-Competency Health.
The Nursing Certificate courses available at Columbus State include the Nurse Aide Training Program Certificate (NURC 101), Special Topics/Wound Care (NURC 150), the Patient Care Skills Certificate (NURC 102), the Complementary Care Certificate, the Registered Nurse First Assistant Certificate, the Train the Trainer Certificate (NURC 250), and Pranic Healing.
Contact:
Columbus State Community College
550 East Spring Street,
Columbus, OH 43215
Community Mercy Health Partners Nursing Program Review
Community Mercy Health Partners (CMHP) provides top quality services for various stages of life with their hospitals, retirement communities, nursing homes, outreach services and rehab services in Champaign and Clark Counties.
Community Mercy Health Partners – Springfield Regional School of Nursing
CMHP’s affiliate, Springfield Regional School of Nursing (SRSN) offers a hospital-based program for registered nursing that lasts two years and emphasizes more on clinical experience. Students will also be given an Associate of Arts in Health Science if they complete an Urbana University residency.
SRSN has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Nursing Courses
The nursing program at SRSN is meant to last two years or five semesters and all prerequisite courses need to be completed beforehand. The nursing courses that are available are as follows: Nurse Aide Training, Pharmacological Math I, Pharmacological Math II, Seminar for Academic Success I, Seminar for Academic Success II, LPN to RN Transition, Nursing I, Nursing Seminar I, Nursing II, Nursing Seminar II, Nursing Informatics, Seminar for Academic Success III, Seminar for Academic Success IV, Nursing III, Nursing Seminar III, and Nursing IV.
The nursing clinical laboratory experiences, on the other hand, include classroom lab practice, special care areas, acute care areas, intensive care areas, mental health agencies, extended care agencies, maternal care agencies, child care agencies and community-based experiences.
Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP)
This course takes 85 hours to complete. Students will need to show proof of a valid negative 2-step TB test to apply for the program. Graduates will get a certificate and will be able to sit for the State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) exam.
To graduate from the nursing program, students need to earn at least 71 semester hours: 22 on general education and 49 on nursing, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00, get at least a C in every nursing course taken, and meet all financial obligations.
Graduates will get an Associate of Arts in Health Sciences if the criteria is met and can apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Financial Assistance
Students in need of financial assistance can look into the following sources: the SRSN Loan, the Federal Nursing Student Loan, the Federal Direct Loan Program, the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Work-Study Program, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, the Ohio Air National Guard Scholarship, the Veteran’s Educational Benefits, the Ohio War Orphan’s Scholarship and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program.
Thanks to the generosity of area foundations and organizations, the amount of emergency loan funds and scholarships available is very limited. The students will be chosen depending on different factors, like their academic potential, financial need, funding level availability and achievements.
Every student that gets financial assistance in the end will need to maintain good grades while studying at the SRSN, as well.
Contact:
Community Mercy Health Partners
1 S. Limestone Street, Suite 700
P.O. Box 688
Springfield, OH 45502
Cuyahoga Community College Nursing Program Review
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) was Ohio’s very first community college. It opened in 1963 and is still the biggest public community college in Ohio. Tri-C provides top quality education at an affordable price with more than 140 technical and career programs and more than 1,000 credit courses available.
Tri-C has campuses in Highland Hills, Parma, Brunswick, Westlake and downtown Cleveland, as well as Corporate College locations in Westlake and Warrensville Heights.
In an effort to transition from hospital based curriculums so as to offer their nursing students higher academic standards and more advanced nursing degrees beyond the nursing diploma, Huron School of Nursing at Huron Hospital has closed and transitioned their nursing program to Cuyahoga Community College.
Cuyahoga Community College – Division of Nursing Education
Cuyahoga Community College’s Division of Nursing has two programs: the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Registered Nursing and the Certificate in Practical Nursing, both of which are very individualized and use laboratory work and classroom instruction for hands-on experience.
Cuyahoga Community College has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
This nursing program takes two years to complete and can be taken as a day program or an evening and weekend program. There are three tracks available for this program: the accelerated track, the LPN to ADN track, and the generic track.
The Generic Track
This program has day sessions and evening sessions. To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a diploma, and need to have completed the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.
The LPN to ADN Access Track (LPN to RN)
This program only has evening sessions and only 24 students will be accepted into the program every year. It is set to be completed in only three semesters.
To apply, students need to have a Practical Nursing license, a high school diploma, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and a minimum of one year clinical experience. They have to meet all of the admission requirements of the nursing program, as well, and complete all of the prerequisite core courses with a minimum grade of C.
The Accelerated Track
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree can join this program. The program can be completed in four terms. To apply, students need to meet all of the prerequisite requirements, clear and complete a background check and pass the entrance exam.
Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse. Other RN program graduates take this exam, too.
Practical Nursing Certificate of Proficiency Program
This certificate program takes two semesters and one summer session to complete and has both day and evening tracks. Only 64 students are accepted into the day program and only 40 students are accepted into the evening program every year.
Students will need to meet the prerequisite criteria before admission, which includes seeking advise from counseling, completing the prerequisite course work of the desired track or program, and getting a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Students who have a valid State-Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) certification can bypass credit for parts of the program or get credit by articulation.
Contact:
Cuyahoga Community College
700 Carnegie Avenue,
Cleveland, OH 44115
Edison Community College Nursing Program Review
Formerly known as Edison State General and Technical College, Edison Community College (ECC) was founded in 1973 and is known to be the first general and technical college in the state. Today, they have two campuses available: the Piqua main campus in Piqua, Ohio; and the Darke County campus in Greenville, Ohio.
More than 3,000 students are currently enrolled in Edison Community College and there are around 30 technical fields on offer, as well as various baccalaureate transfer programs, continuing education options and developmental courses.
Edison Community College – Nursing
Edison Community College’s nursing program takes two years to complete. It consists of five terms of sequential courses, but can also be extended over more than two years if students take various science or general science classes per semester before joining the nursing program.
Classes will be held in laboratories and classrooms, while clinical training will be done in area hospitals, nursing homes and community centers. To apply and stay in the nursing program, students will need to earn a minimum grade of C in every nursing, anatomy, physiology and microbiology course that they take.
To apply and stay in any of the nursing programs, students will need to earn a minimum grade of C in every nursing, anatomy, physiology and microbiology course that they take.
The nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Graduates will get the Associate of Applied Science degree and will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Registered Nursing Option
This option will take 70 credit hours to complete over four semesters. Students of this program will be taught how to be a provider of care, a manager of care and a member of the profession.
LPN/ADN Nursing Option
This transition degree program will help Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) grow into Registered Nurses (RNs). This option will take 70 credit hours to complete and consists of four terms of sequential courses. Only 18 students are chosen to join this program every year.
To apply, students will need to complete all of the listed prerequisites, have an LPN licensure in Ohio, and complete a basic LPN transition course. Graduates will get the Associate of Applied Science degree and will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Financial Aid
For students who need other funding sources for college, Edison Community College has various student grants, loans, scholarships and work-study programs available.
Students grants and scholarships are types of gift aid where students who meet the requirements don’t need to repay the loans. Grants are usually awarded based on students’ financial needs, while scholarships are usually awarded by merit.
Loans can also help students pay for their college education, but need to be repaid after graduation. There various kinds of loans out there, so students will need to review all of their options before making their final decision.
Work-study program allow students to work on-campus part-time as they attend classes. These programs usually come with regular work schedules, regular paychecks and supervisors, as well as other special benefits.
Contact:
Edison Community College
1973 Edison Drive,
Piqua, OH 45356
Firelands Regional Medical Center Nursing Program Review
Firelands Regional Medical Center (FRMC) is the most comprehensive and biggest resource for top quality medical care in Ohio, with more than 250 ailed health practitioners and physicians on staff that represent more than 35 specialties altogether.
The Firelands Regional Medical Center as it is known today is actually a combination of three Sandusky hospitals that came together into one top-notch regional medical center to serve the needs of everybody in the area.
Firelands Regional Medical Center – School of Nursing
With a history that dates all the way back to 1903, this nursing program provides comprehensive curriculum programs for the RN program, the LPN to RN program and the RN to BSN program.
However, Firelands Regional Medical Center is known to be a completely smoke-free and nicotine-free facility. Therefore, students who wish to work at Firelands Regional Medical Center after graduating will not be hired if they are social or occasional smokers. In fact, applicants that are being considered will all have to take a nicotine test prior to getting hired at the facility.
The Firelands Regional Medical Center nursing program has been accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).
RN Program
This program will take three years of full-time study to complete. Graduates will get a nursing diploma and an Associate of Science degree by the end of it.
LPN to RN Program
This program allows licensed practical nurses to become registered nurses through two different options, depending on their personal needs: the accelerated two-year fast lane program or the regular three-year program.
Graduates of the regular program will get an RN diploma and an Associate of Science degree, while graduates of the accelerated program will only get the diploma.
RN to BSN Program
This program gives registered nurses the chance to get a BSN degree. Students can also take online courses to conveniently fit their working schedules if they would prefer to do so.
Graduation Policies
Students will need to complete all of the required courses before they can graduate. Aside from that, they will need to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 and a grade of at least C in every nursing course. They should also have good ethical conduct, as well as follow all of the school’s rules.
Students will also have to attend the Live ATI NCLEX Review for two days before graduating. All financial obligations need to be met prior to graduation, as well.
Financial Aid
Firelands Regional Medical Center provides financial aid to students who need help paying for general fees, instructional fees, nonresident fees, meals, room, books, personal expenses and transportation.
There are generally four kinds of financial aid up for grabs: employment, scholarships, grants and loans. Scholarships and grants are also known as “gift aid”, whereas employment and loans are also known as “self-help aid”.
The majority of financial aid types at Firelands are coordinated by students and although a lot of them are applicable to full-time students, part-time students may still apply for grants, employment, scholarship and low-interest loans.
Contact:
Firelands Regional Medical Center
1111 Hayes Avenue,
Sandusky, OH 44870
Franciscan University of Steubenville Nursing School Review
The Franciscan University of Steubenville (FUS) has been around for a bit more than 60 years and is now known to be a leader in passionately Catholic and academically excellent education. The University integrates both reason and faith into their teaching in one gorgeous hillside campus.
The Franciscan University of Steubenville currently has more than 2,100 undergraduate students and 400 graduate students that represent 13 countries in total. There are more than 40 undergraduate programs and 7 graduate programs for students to choose from, as well.
Franciscan University of Steubenville – Nursing
Undergraduate Nursing
Students in this program will be given one of the best technical nursing educations to date. To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, complete all of the required coursework, and be committed to the nursing profession as a whole.
Once admitted, students have to maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 and a grade of at least C in every nursing course and required sciences.
Registered nurses who wish to apply to the program, on the other hand, need to be graduates of accredited nursing schools and must have a current nursing license. All required courses need to have been completed with a minimum grade of C, as well.
Graduate Nursing
This program has been in the Franciscan University of Steubenville curriculum since 1999 and was designed to help students get ready for more advanced roles in nursing. This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
To apply, students need to submit the graduate admission application, two recommendations letters and all college transcripts.
Post-Master Certificates
To get an MSN degree through this program, students will have to complete 46 hours for the Education Specialist Track or 48 hours for the Family Nurse Practitioner Track, depending on which track they choose to follow.
The Education Specialist Track
This program will prepare students to become advanced practice nurse educators for families, hospital patients, healthcare consumers, and communities. They will also acquire the ability and the knowledge to evaluate and use the effectiveness of instructional methods, curriculum theories, learning theories and teaching theories to teach in different educational, hospital and community settings.
The Family Nurse Practitioner Track
This program will prepare students for national certification by a national credentialing center. It will also help students apply for the State Board of Nursing, so they can practice nursing in the real world.
Special Programs
BS to MSN Program
Nursing undergraduate students at the Franciscan University of Steubenville can take 9 graduate nursing credits that they can apply to an MSN degree in case they want to get a master’s degree in nursing. Students will need to get permission for this, though.
RN to MSN Program
Registered nurses who do not have a bachelor’s degree yet can take this program to progress to the master’s level with fewer redundancies. They can choose a maximum of 10 credits from graduate courses to finish the BSN, which they can then apply to a master’s degree.
Graduates who complete the coursework and get enough credits will get a BSN degree, with which they can progress to the master’s degree in their track of choice.
Contact:
Franciscan University of Steubenville
1235 University Blvd.,
Steubenville, OH 43952
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science Nursing Program Review
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science (GSC) is a non-profit private institution of higher education, which serves the area of Southeastern Indiana, Southwestern Ohio and Northern Kentucky. It is also a subsidiary of the Good Samaritan Hospital and TriHealth, Inc.
GSC has been serving the needs of healthcare professionals, as well as the entire community, for more than 114 years now. They are committed to maintain their spot as the regional leader of providing healthcare and nursing education in a hospital-based and unique Catholic college environment.
Other goals of GSC include the emphasis of Christian value orientations to real life; the creation of a caring environment where students can feel a sense of personal satisfaction; the promotion of academic excellence in nursing; and overall community service.
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science – Nursing
Undergraduate Nursing
The Good Samaritan Hospital nursing program has been around since 1896 and continues to provide top quality Catholic nursing education to this day. This program can be completed by full-time students in two years.
To apply, students need to be high school graduates and U.S. citizens with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50.
Graduates will obtain the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree upon completion of the program. They will also be able to sit for the state licensure examination as registered nurses.
The Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Regents and the Ohio Board of Nursing.
BSN Completion
In cooperation with the College of Mount St. Joseph, Regis University, the University of Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky University, Thomas More College, the University of Phoenix, and Indiana Wesleyan, this program is now available for students who wish to complete the BSN.
To apply, students will need to complete all of the requirements of Good Samaritan College’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree. Graduates will take around two years of full-time study to complete the BSN.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree
Students can complete this program in two years and one summer of full-time study. Graduates will get the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. They will also be able to sit for the state examination for licensure as registered nurses.
Student Services
The Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science helps students obtain good careers in healthcare by providing a vast array of student support services, as follows.
Academic Assistance
This program exists in an individualized program of learning. It provides one-on-one instructions with learning specialists, as needed. Some skills that are addressed in this program include time management, study skills, test-taking techniques and note-taking techniques. Learning specialists can also refer students for special learning or comprehensive evaluation needs.
Assessment Testing
This type of testing is done before students are admitted to the Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science to begin with. The ACT’s diagnostic COMPASS is administered here to measure the student’s skills and knowledge in reading, mathematics and writing. The student’s skills in critical thinking are also assessed through the Assessment Technologies Institute’s Entrance Critical Thinking test.
Contact:
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science
375 Dixmyth Avenue,
Cincinnati, OH 45220
Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development Nursing Program Review
Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development (GOITCD) is in one of the nation’s biggest career and technical education areas and has provided career development, economic development and workforce development services to southwest Ohio ever since the year 1970.
Great Oaks has numerous adult workforce development locations – one each in Cincinnati, Wilmington, Milford and Washington Court House; and four in Cincinnati itself. Students will need to find out on their own whether they can take their classes in their preferred location of choice.
Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development – Nursing
Great Oaks provides entry-level programs for health training, including the Patient Care Assistant program and the State Tested Nursing Assistant program. The training options include a week in the Patient Care Assistant program, two weeks in the State Tested Nurse Assistant program, and five weeks in the State Tested Nursing Assistant and Patient Care Assistant program.
The Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Department of Education and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI).
State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)
This training program teaches students how they can provide personal care skills in the presence of licensed nurses. This is the prerequisite program for the PCA training program.
In general, this program takes two weeks to complete and includes clinical training at a proper healthcare facility. Graduates are allowed to take the STNA state test, after which they will be able to work in a proper healthcare, hospice care and home care facility.
Graduates will also receive the Great Oaks Certificate of Completion and get 6 credits in total at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
This training program teaches students how they can provide acute surgical and medical care in the presence of licensed nurses.
To apply for this program, students need to have already passed the STNA class. In general, this program takes 40 training hours to complete within a single week.
Graduates will receive the Great Oaks Certificate of Completion and get 3 credits in total at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.
STNA/PCA Training
This training program teaches students how they can provide direct patient care, as well as acute surgical and medical care, in the presence of licensed nurses.
In general, this program takes five weeks to complete and consists of one week of PCA training, two weeks of STNA training and two weeks of career coaching.
Graduates are allowed to take the STNA state test, after which they will be able to work in a hospital or care facility. Graduates may also avail of follow-up and placement services if needed.
Aside from that, graduates will also receive the Great Oaks Certificate of Completion and get 9 credits in total at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.
Practical Nursing
This program can be taken at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, where students can earn credits as they get ready for the PN exam.
Contact:
Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development
3254 E. Kemper Road,
Cincinnati, OH 45241-1581
Hocking Technical College Nursing Program Review
Hocking Technical College (HTC) was founded in 1968 and now serves 6,000 students with steady growth occurring every year. With a 2,300-acre campus in Nelsonville, Ohio, Hocking College is full of history, culture, nature and art. They have a second campus in New Lexington and an Energy Institute in Logan, as well.
Hocking Technical College has more than 50 associate degree programs available and provides students with top quality education that is affordable and flexible at the same time.
Hocking Technical College – Nursing
Hocking Technical College’s nursing program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Practical Nursing – PN Program
This nursing program usually takes two years to complete, but Hocking Technical College also provides a unique Career Ladder program, wherein students can enter at different levels, depending on their career goals and educational background. Level I of the program is a full-time program filled with day classes.
After Level I of the program has been completed, students will get a Practical Nursing Diploma. Once the level has been completed and all of the clinical and academic requirements have been met, students can proceed to Level II.
Overall, the program will prepare students for practice and licensure as licensed practical nurses. As such, graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become licensed practical nurses.
Enrichment Quarter
Licensed Practical Nurses coming from other programs of nursing and graduates of the Level I PN program who haven’t been in school for 18 months or more can take the Level II program after completing one or two quarters of this enrichment program.
In a nutshell, this program prepares a practicing Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for level two of Hocking Technical College’s nursing program. Full-time students can complete this program in one quarter, but can extend it over two quarters, too, if they wish.
Registered Nursing – Level II (RN)
PN graduates at Hocking Technical College who have met all of the required clinical and academic requirements may move to Level II of the nursing program. The same goes for students who finish the Enrichment Quarter within one or two quarters.
This nursing program comes with a lot of hands-on clinical experience that will come from nearby hospitals, home healthcare agencies, long-term healthcare facilities, camps, schools and clinics. Transportation will not be provided by the school and students will need to complete up to 14 hours of clinical experience per week throughout the entire program.
Graduates of this program will obtain an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and will be able to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become registered nurses.
Housing
Hocking Technical College is the only two-year college in the state that provides college-owned residence halls, so they will definitely provide students with a unique experience. Although students don’t necessarily have to live on campus while studying at Hocking Technical College, a lot of them do choose to take full advantage of this opportunity.
Students who join the living learning communities at Hocking Technical College tend to enjoy a better academic experience overall, thanks to the support services and the convenience that comes with living on campus.
Contact:
Hocking Technical College
3301 Hocking Parkway,
Nelsonville, OH 45764
Hondros College Nursing Program Review
Hondros College (HC), founded in 1981, is a private college based in Ohio. The college offers professional degree programs in several fields of study including nursing, real estate, insurance, home inspections, securities and personal training. Hondros College has locations near all major cities in Ohio, Westerville (Columbus), Independence (Cleveland), Fairborn (Dayton) and West Chester (Cincinnati).Students at Hondros College can pursue undergraduate education from the certificate to the baccalaureate level. The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools accredits Hondros College.
Nursing Degree Programs
Hondros College has applied for accreditation for its nursing programs with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The programs are currently in an applicant status with CCNE. The college offers three nursing programs for students at various levels of education. Nursing programs at Hondros College are approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Hondros College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Practical Nursing (PN) Program
Students at Hondros College who are new to the field of nursing will first enter the Practical Nursing (PN) program. The Practical Nursing program prepares students for certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Upon completing the one year program, nursing students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to obtain LPN certification. Upon earning certification, nurses can obtain experience directly as an LPN or pursue further studies to earn the RN degree.
Students in the practical nursing program have the option of earning STNA (State Testes Nursing Aide) certification after their first months of studies. Aspiring nursing students can then work as a nurse’s aide while continuing to further their education.
RN Associate Degree in Nursing Program
The RN program at Hondros College is a six quarter program which prepares students with an Associate degree and ability to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program accepts graduates of the college’s LPN program as well as students who received an LPN certification from another institution. The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program involves a hybrid method, with nurses taking classes online and in-person.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program)
The RN to BSN program is an online nursing degree program for registered nurses who want to take the next step in their education and earn a bachelor’s degree. The program is completed online in its entirety and requires four quarters of study for most nursing students. Upon completion of the nursing program, students will earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Students are then prepared for increased responsibility in their current placement or to pursue graduate studies.
Admission to the Nursing Program at Hondros College
Hondros College admits nursing students quarterly to minimize wait times and allow students to begin their course of study as quickly as possible. Prior to applying, the college recommends that students attend information sessions, which are held on all four campuses. The HESI Assessment Exam, a nursing program application and interview constitute the admission process. There are no prerequisites to applying for the nursing program.
Financial Aid for Hondros College Nursing Programs
Hondros College offers comprehensive financial aid options for their students. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine their eligibility for financial aid. In addition, some students may qualify for the payment plan which allows tuition to be paid in several installments. The financial aid website also has special sections for students interested in scholarships, as well as veterans who may qualify for specific types of aid. Each campus has a financial aid team to assist students through the financial aid process.
Contact:
Hondros College
4140 Executive Parkway,
Westerville, OH 43081
Rhodes State College Nursing Program Review
Formerly known as Lima Technical College, James A. Rhodes State College was officially chartered as a state-assisted public higher learning institution in 1971 and now provides career education programs and degrees, industry and business consulting, and non-credit workforce development. The name has been shortened and the college is now more commonly known as Rhodes State College (RSC).
James A. Rhodes State College also provides programs for high school students, wherein they can get high school or college credit by attending college classes. This gives them the opportunity to challenge themselves and jumpstart their college careers early on. Students will need to meet the eligibility requirements first, but the programs are easy to apply for.
With more than 4,100 students, Rhodes State College hopes to instill the values of caring, integrity, responsibility, quality and respect in them through its practices and policies.
James A. Rhodes State College – Division of Nursing
The nursing program of James A. Rhodes State College exists for qualified students who are interested in becoming part of a health team that provides patient care. It has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Associate Degree Program for Registered Nursing (RN)
This program revolves around the traits of each student, the general nursing process, and the main ideas of Associate Degree Nursing, as required by the National League of Nursing.
Weekend and evening classes might not always be available for this program and will depend on the availability of instructors in the field.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in specific program courses and all required science courses, a minimum of 2.5 as their college GPA, a state-approved nurse aide training certificate of completion, and proof of enough mental and physical health to join the nursing program.
Graduates will obtain an Associate Degree of Applied Science and will be able to sit for the National Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in Ohio.
LPN to ADN Transition Program
This special program exists for any Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) that wants to extend their study courses and get in with advanced standing. This program must be completed in five years or less.
To apply, students need to meet the same requirements as other students, as well as be graduates of practical nursing and have proof of a valid license.
Practical Nursing Certificate
This certificate program exists to prepare graduates to provide basic bedside care as practical nurses in the presence of registered nurses or doctors. This certificate program can be completed in one year, but students can request to extend this time due to employment commitments, academic deficiencies or mere personal choices.
To apply for this certificate program, students need to have a high school diploma, a minimum grade of C in all of their required coursework, a minimum of 2.0 as their college GPA, and proof of enough mental and physical health to join the nursing program.
Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses, but are still encouraged to complete the Associate Degree Nursing Program.
Contact:
Rhodes State College
4240 Campus Drive,
Lima, OH 45804
Kent State University Nursing School Review
Kent State University (KSU) was founded in 1910 as a teacher training school and is now considered to be a premiere Ohio collegethat provides cultural, economic and workforce development for the state.
Kent State University – College of Nursing
Kent State University provides a great nursing program wherein professional administrators and faculty members help students improve their educational and professional success through individual advising, guidance, program planning and clinical experiences at various healthcare facilities around the state.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Since 1971, this program has prepared students for the healthcare delivery system through clinical and class instruction. This program takes four years to complete and is offered at the regional campuses in Geauga, Stark, Trumbull, and Salem, as well.
To apply, students will need to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, and a grade of at least C in certain courses.
Accelerated Nursing Program
To apply for this program, students will need to meet the same admission requirements as other students, as well as have a baccalaureate degree in any program. Students with extracurricular, class-related, volunteer or job-related experience will be given higher consideration for admission.
Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)
This online degree program exists for registered nurses (RNs) who want to get a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing, advance in nursing and improve themselves in healthcare altogether.
Online Traditional RN-BSN Curriculum
This program teaches RNs all about disease risk reduction and prevention. Students will need to complete 11 nursing courses and electives in seven weeks, but students have six admission dates to choose from and can either do part-time study or full-time study.
Online RN-BSN Degree with Health Informatics
Students now have the option to choose a specialized field in this program: health informatics. In a nutshell, health informatics refers to a science that focuses on how to capture, analyze and manage health information as applicable to patient care improvements.
Online RN-BSN Degree with a Public Health Certificate
The Public Health Certificate integrates important aspects of disease prevention and health promotion. Students who complete this program will understand public health issues more and will be prepared to practice in community health and public health positions.
Online RN-BSN/MSN Degree in Nursing Education
With this program, students can get a BSN degree while getting credits for an MSN degree at the same time.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN Program)
Graduates of the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program are awarded the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) degree upon successful completion of the course. This ADN program requires 71 credit hours that combines both nursing education and liberal education courses. It can be completed in two full-time years.
Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (LPN-ADN)
To apply for this program, students need to be licensed practical nurses who are graduates of any approved program, and have completed the required developmental courses and pre-admission courses. This program requires 63 credit hours.
Paramedic to Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (Paramedic-ADN)
To apply for this program, students need to be certified paramedics who are graduates of any approved program, and have completed the required developmental courses and pre-admission courses. This program requires 63 credit hours.
Master’s Degree in Nursing
Students who wish to earn a Master’s Degree in Nursing have two main concentrations to choose from: clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Students who opt for the clinical nurse specialist concentration can choose to address the healthcare needs of adults, seniors, children or mental health patients. There are part-time and full-time study plans available for this concentration, as well as online courses.
In general, this program provides preparation for certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), networking and mentoring opportunities, and 500 hours of clinical practice with supervision in the case of adult and senior concentrations.
Nurse Practitioner
Students who opt for the nurse practitioner concentration can choose to join the acute care program, the adult primary care program, the family program, the geriatric program, the pediatric program, the psychiatric program, or the women’s health program. There are part-time and full-time study plans available for all of these programs, as well as online courses.
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will be prepared to provide acute care within legal parameters. In general, it takes 42 credit hours to complete and includes both clinical and core courses. This means that it can usually be completed in two full-time years or three part-time years, depending on the student.
The program includes three courses: Acute Care NP, Acute Care Therapeutics, and Acute Care NP Role Practicum. To apply for this program, students need to have a minimum of three years nursing experience, and two years intensive care experience.
Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (APCNP)
Students who take this program will be prepared to give adult care in ambulatory settings. To apply for this program, students need to have a minimum of three years nursing experience.
Graduates will be given the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and will be qualified to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. They will also be eligible to get ANCC certification.
Family Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will learn important skills for health promotion, illness prevention, illness management and risk detection. To apply for this program, students need to have a minimum of two years clinical experience as registered nurses.
Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will learn all about health promotion, illness prevention, illness management and risk detection. Graduates will be qualified to become an adult care NP or a family NP. They will also be eligible to get ANCC certification.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will learn to help with illness prevention, health promotion, acute care, chronic care and risk identification of children up to 21 years old.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will be prepared to administer advanced mental health care on patients that need it.
Graduates will be able to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam to become a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). They can also apply for a Certificate to Prescribe (CTP) from the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this program will focus on primary women’s care. Graduates will usually get to choose to work within medical centers, free clinics, physician’s offices, education and administration, or planned parenthood clinics.
MSN Education
This program prepares students for academic nursing roles. To apply for this program, students will need to acquire educational principles and theories, as well as advanced knowledge in the field.
To apply, students need to have a registered nursing license in Ohio, a BSN or MSN degree and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
MSN/MBA Program (Dual Degree in Nursing and Business Administration)
Students who want to integrate business with nursing skills and knowledge can take this program. It consists of 63 credit hours. If taken full-time, students can complete the program in three years. If taken part-time, students can complete the program in four to five years.
MSN/MPA Program (Dual Degree in Nursing and Public Administration)
Students who want to integrate the public policy and public sector with nursing skills and knowledge can take this program. It consists of 54 credit hours. If taken full-time, students can complete the program in two to three years. If taken part-time, students can complete the program in four to five years.
Post-Master’s Nursing Certificate
Through Kent State University’s nursing programs, students can develop their foundation for post-graduate studies if they want. The post-master’s nursing certificate programs that they can choose from include Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing and Healthcare Management, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education PM Program ( Nurse Educator PM Program), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric CNS, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Doctoral Nursing Program (PhD in Nursing Program)
This joint program is provided by both Kent State University and the University of Akron. It is meant to prepare nursing students for scholarship in integration and discovery.
To apply, students need to have a BSN and an MSN and a minimum GPA of 3.0. There are part-time and full-time study plans available for this program.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP Degree)
This program is relatively new and prepares students to apply research evidence in clinical practice, as well as contribute to healthcare improvements through direct practice, practice scholarship, policy change, and system evaluation.
To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0, a valid national APRN certification and a valid RN license in Ohio. This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Contact:
Kent State University
800 E Summit St.,
Kent, OH 44240
Kettering College Nursing Program Review
Kettering College (KC), previously known as Kettering College of Medical Arts (KCMA), is a coeducational college that opened in 1967 and now conducts instruction in the sciences, the arts, and allied health professions. It is chartered by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and owned by Kettering Medical Center.
Kettering College provides certificate programs, various bachelor degree options, a Master of Physician Assistant Studies and two-year Associate of Science degrees.
Kettering College of Medical Arts – Nursing Education
Kettering College’s nursing department has been around for over 30 years and continues to educate caring and skilled healthcare professionals in a completely Christian environment.
This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Nursing Degrees
Three-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Prelicensure
This program prepares students for professional practice in nursing. It consists of a total of 126 semester credits, 64 of which are from the arts and sciences general studies and 62 of which are from nursing. This program can be completed in three years of full-time study.
To apply, students need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 for every prerequisite course. Graduates are allowed to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in their state of choice.
Three-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with Advanced Placement for LPNs
This program prepares students for professional practice in registered nursing. This program can be completed in three years of full-time study.
To apply, students need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 for every prerequisite course and complete the 30 hours of the necessary prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C. Graduates are allowed to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in their state of choice.
Bachelor’s Completion in Nursing
This program exists for registered nurses who already have associate degrees. It consists of a total 48 semester credits, 30 of which need to be taken at Kettering College itself. All of the courses of this program are available online, as well, and students have the choice to do part-time or full-time study. Either way, the courses need to be completed in five years at most.
To apply, students need to have an associate degree and a registered nurse license. They also have to complete the student personal statement form found on the school’s website.
Admission Requirements
To apply to Kettering College, in general, students need to have a minimum high school or college cumulative GPA of 2.3 and a minimum ACT composite score of 19 or a minimum SAT combined score of 1350. Students also need to complete the student personal statement form found on the school’s website. In some cases, a math placement test will also need to be taken.
Financial Aid
Students in need may apply for financial aid to help them meet their educational expenses at Kettering College. The available types of financial aid include grants, scholarships, subsidized and unsubsidized federal direct loans, federal work study, student employment, parent PLUS loans and graduate PLUS loans.
Contact:
Kettering College
3737 Southern Blvd.,
Kettering, OH 45429
Lakeland Community College Nursing Program Review
Lakeland Community College (LCC) has been around since 1967 and was the very first college in the state that was founded by the vote of the people themselves. It is their priority to make higher education more accessible to students in the area.
Today, Lakeland Community College provides two-year transfer programs, paraprofessional and technical programs, general education, and professional educational counseling. Almost 21,000 individuals now attend the school every year in both credit programs and noncredit programs.
Lakeland Community College – Nursing Department
Lakeland Community College’s nursing department educates, empowers and enriches nursing students, so that they may eventually assume the caring responsibilities and roles needed of registered nurses.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Registered Nursing (RN) Degree
This program prepares students to work as registered nurses in nursing homes, hospitals and various other healthcare agencies. Daytime, evening and weekend options are all available for this particular program.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum score of 21 on the ACT or a minimum score of 1400 on the SAT. They must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry, biology and algebra, as well.
Graduates of this program can sit for the National Council Licensure Examination(NCLEX) to get state licensure and registration as registered nurses.
LPN to RN – Access to Registered Nursing
Advanced placement for LPNs can be taken by students through the ACCESS to RN option.
To apply, students need to have a current non-restricted license and must have finished the required courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5, as well as have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. They also need to have finished a year of work experience as LPNs.
Nursing Program Options
The High School Option
High school graduates and seniors can apply to the nursing program within two years of graduating. To apply, students will need to complete a college application; have a minimum score of 21 on the ACT or a minimum score of 1400 on the SAT; have a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry, biology and algebra; have a minimum GPA of 2.5; and meet with a school counselor.
The College Option
Students that don’t qualify for the high school option can choose this option instead. To apply, students will need to complete a college application; submit a transcript from high school or any college; have a minimum grade of C on the required courses; pass the pre-admission test; and meet with a school counselor. They will also need to take a Math Placement Test and pass it with a minimum grade of C.
The Advanced Education Option
Students who already have an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Allied Health, an Associate of Science Degree, or a Bachelor of Science Degree in natural sciences can take this option and skip the pre-admission test. However, all of the other requirements of the college option still apply for this option, as well.
Contact:
Lakeland Community College
7700 Clocktower Drive,
Kirtland, OH 44094-5198
Lorain County Community College Nursing Program Review
Lorain County Community College (LCCC) aims to introduce students to an environment that completely encourages personal growth and exploration, as well as a discovery of brand new interests. Lorain County Community College is the very first college in Ohio to provide podcast lectures on iTunes and to build a center for advanced technologies in business. It is also known to be the biggest provider of e-learning programs within Northern Ohio.
Lorain County Community College – Allied Health and Nursing
A lot of today’s careers happen to be in the healthcare industry, with personal satisfaction and career opportunities that are unmatched by any other professions. This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Associate Degree Nursing (RN)
Lorain County Community College is partners with Bowling Green State University (BGSU), with which it works to bring this program to residents within the vicinity. All of the nursing courses will be held at BGSU, though, while the clinical components will be completed at various healthcare facilities within the state.
This program can be completed in two years of full-time study. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination for licensure as registered nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (ADN) Degree Program – LPN to RN Program
LPNs who seek advanced placement in nursing can do so through this program. To apply, students will need to complete the required prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.
This program is offered at Lorain County Community College’s main campus, as well as at BGSU, Medina County University Center and Eastern Gateway Community Campus.
Paramedic to RN Program
Lorain County Community College is partners with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, with which it works to bring this new access program to licensed paramedics that want to become registered nurses.
What makes this program unique is the fact that it can be completed online. As for the clinical and lab components of the program, they come in a flexible and unique design to suit each student’s convenience, as well. All of the clinical sites are at Cleveland Clinic campuses.
To apply, students need to have a minimum grade of C on the required prerequisite courses, as well as current license and two years of work experience. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination to become registered nurses.
Certificate of Proficiency
Practical Nursing (LPN)
This program is offered at Lorain County Community College’s main campus, as well as at the Medina Country Career Center. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination to become practical nurses.
Certificate of Completion
Nurse Aide Training
These courses are available at Lorain County Community College’s Learning Center at Wesleyan Village and at St. Joseph Community Center. They can be taken in the evenings, as well.
To apply, students need to have a high school diploma, a completed admission form, and a minimum grade of 71 on the COMPASS Reading score.
Continuing Education for Health Professionals
RN First Assistant (RNFA)
This online program is for advanced practice and preoperative nurses who want to become first assistants in the operating room. It consists of 2 credit nursing courses, which will include general, urological, gynecological, ENT, head and neck, orthopedic, plastic and reconstructive, neurosurgical, vascular, cardiac and thoracic surgery patient care.
Students will need to complete 135 hours as first assistants in surgery in total. These hours are flexible, though, and need to be arranged at the student’s hospital of employment.
Contact:
Lorain County Community College
1005 N. Abbe Road,
Elyria, OH 44035
Otterbein University Nursing School Review
Otterbein University (OU) enrolls around 3,000 students in their programs every year and is located in a residential community in Northeast Ohio. In total, Otterbein University has 44 minors and 73 majors available, including individualized study courses. They also have five graduate programs in their 140-acre campus.
Otterbein University – Department of Nursing
Graduates of this program will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).
This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and complete the required courses with a minimum grade of C.
Honors Program
It would be highly advisable for undergraduate nursing students at Otterbein University to take part in the Honors Program, so they can attend courses that are specially designed to provide intellectual challenges and stimulation for honor students.
Graduate Nursing Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
To apply for these certificate programs, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a valid registered nurse licensure in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
This program takes 21 credit hours to complete and includes precepted clinical hours.
To apply, students will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.
MSN/MBA Program
This dual degree program combines business and nursing master’s degree programs and is designed for advanced practice nurses who want to take on positions in upper level management. This program can be completed in three years.
To apply, students will also need a minimum GMAT score of 500 and have at least two years worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.
Associate Degree in Nursing to Masters of Science in Nursing (ADN to MSN)
Nursing Service Administration (NSA)
This program prepares students for operational and administrative processes of nursing leadership and service management in various organizational settings.
To apply, students will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP)
This program takes 1000 clinical hours post-baccalaureate or two years to complete, with two courses taken per semester. Some of the courses in this program can be taken online, though face-to-face meetings will also be needed occasionally.
To apply, students will need to have a valid registered nurse license in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing.
Post Masters Certificates
To apply for these certificate programs, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a valid registered nurse licensure in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
This program takes 37 hours to complete and a minimum grade of B- needs to be maintained in every course. There are distance learning options for this program, as well.
To apply, students will also need to have at least two years worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years. Graduates will be eligible to take the National Certification Exam to become family nurse practitioners.
Nurse Anesthesia
To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.
Advanced Practice Nurse Educator
To apply, students will need to have a master’s degree in nursing. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.
Graduates will be awarded with a certificate of completion.
Continuing Education Courses
There are several continuing education courses available for nurses at Otterbein University.
Legal, Fiscal and Ethical Implications of Prescriptive Authority for Advanced Practice Nurses
This online course takes 7 contact hours to complete and meets the educational requirements related to the nursing rules and laws in Ohio needed in advanced pharmacology for nurses with a Certificate to Prescribe (CtP) in the state.
Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics
This online course takes 48 contact hours to complete and fulfills all of the requirements needed to prescribe in Ohio.
Camp Nursing
This online course takes 8 contact hours to complete.
Contact:
Otterbein University
1 South Grove Street,
Westerville, OH 43081
Ohio State University Nursing School Review
Ohio State University (OSU) was founded in 1914 and began as a 3-year diploma program called the Homeopathic Hospital Training Program for Nursing. In 1984, it became an independent college and it now provides excellent educational services for students who want to become leaders in healthcare, education and research.
Ohio State University College of Nursing
All of the nursing programs at Ohio State University have been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). They are also a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nurses (AACN).
Undergraduate Program
Ohio State University provides several options for undergraduate degrees in nursing, such as the pre-nursing option for those who want to finish their prerequisite nursing courses while working with academic advisors. Students also have the option to complete these prerequisite courses while studying at another university or taking another major at Ohio State University.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program takes at least four years of full-time study to complete, but students can choose to study part-time if they don’t mind waiting longer to get their degree. In terms of studying, this program includes 186 credit hours and pre-professional coursework that will need to be completed before graduation.
To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 3.2. They will also need to complete the State Nursing Assistant (STNA or SNA) course before starting the program.
Graduates will be able to take the National Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
RN to BSN Option
This option exists for students who need more access and flexibility in their study programs. Through this option, they can take their nursing courses online and simply visit Ohio State University for other non-nursing courses and advising.
This program takes 120 semester hours to complete and includes general education courses, prerequisite courses and required nursing classes. In order to graduate, students will need to complete at least 30 of the semester hours at Ohio State University itself.
To apply, students need to have an associate degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a valid RN licensure in Ohio. They also need to complete 9 of the required prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.
Pre-Nursing Option
Students who wish to get a BSN degree can take this program. However, they will need to take prerequisites and work with an advisor to learn more about study skill strategies, academic problems and course planning.
To apply, students need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 25 and a minimum combined SAT score of 1185.
Master’s Program
Ohio State University provides several options for graduate degrees in nursing to educate students on everything that they need to know in terms of nursing foundations and theory.
The Traditional Master of Science (MS Trad) Option
Students with baccalaureate degrees in nursing can take this program to get a Master of Science in nursing.
To apply, students need to have a BSN or an RN licensure and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students who do not have Master’s degrees yet will also need to have a good score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Aside from that, students need to have completed undergraduate courses in nursing research, health assessment or research methods before admission.
The Graduate Entry (MS GE) Option
Students with baccalaureate degrees in other majors besides nursing can take this program to get a Master of Science in nursing. In general, this program takes around three years of full-time study to complete.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree in any major and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students who do not have Master’s degrees yet will also need to have a good score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Aside from that, students will need to have completed the 5 prerequisite courses and the STNA course. They will also need to choose their specialty of choice while applying for this program.
Graduates will be able to take the NCLEX-RN and get certification in their specialty of choice.
Graduate Specialities
Graduates will be able to get certification in one of these tracks: Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Science, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nursing and Health System Management, or Nurse Practitioner.
All of these areas will provide enough background for high education at the PhD and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) levels.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
CNSs are professionals in diagnosis, treating and alleviating illnesses in adolescents and adults. They also promote health and provide nursing care to special populations, like cardiac, burn and endocrine patients at hospitals and continuing care facilities.
Nursing Science
This track takes a year to complete when done full-time and two years to complete when done part-time. Summer classes can also be taken to lighten the load throughout the year.
Only traditional MS students will be considered for this track and it would be best suited for students who want to get a PhD research degree.
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
This track takes a year to complete when done full-time and two years to complete when done part-time. CNLs manage and provide comprehensive care at patients’ besides at acute care facilities. They take direct care of people in complicated situations, evaluate patient outcomes, and improve and change care plans as needed.
Graduates will be able to get certification as CNLs. Graduates aren’t meant to fill any unit management roles, though.
Nursing and Health System Management
Nurses in this specialty can take on management positions in public health agencies and hospital healthcare systems. It has two sub-specialties: Nursing Administration and Public Health Nursing.
Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
Nurse practitioners are independent practitioners who are licensed to diagnose acute long-term and episodic illnesses. They also promote health and prevent illnesses.
To apply, students will need to have a master’s degree in nursing, two recommendation letters, graduate school transcripts and at least a year of full-time work experience in the field before starting their clinical courses.
Graduates will be able to take the necessary NCLEX and get certification as ACNPs through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
This new option gives students the chance to take their courses online and finish their clinical experiences somewhere nearby, making it the perfect option for working RNs.
Through this specialty, students will be prepared for work as psychiatric mental health clinical nurse specialists (PMH CNSs) or nurse practitioners (PMH NPs). Graduates will qualify for both specializations and will be able to take the necessary certification examinations for them.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
This new option gives students the chance to take their courses online and finish their clinical experiences somewhere nearby, making it the perfect option for working RNs.
FNPs prepare students for advanced practice nursing in various clinical settings and graduates will be able to get certification as FNPs in primary care.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way and will be working in various hospital-based settings, community-based primary care settings, and developmental/follow-up clinics.
Students will need to have at least a year of full-time work experience in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unity (NICU) before taking their clinical courses, though.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way and will be working in various hospitals, clinics and schools.
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way. It includes clinical experience, coursework and research.
Graduates will be able to get certification as Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners.
Nurse Midwifery
Nurse midwives provide women and families with competent and culturally sensitive care as needed to promote health and maintain health in the community.
Graduates will be able to get certification as nurse midwives from the American Colleges of Nurse Midwives Certification Council.
Post-Master’s Study Option
Practicing nurses with master’s degrees in nursing can take this program to get advanced specialty certification as needed.
To apply, students need to submit a post-master’s application, a disclosure form, a valid resume, a statement of purpose, previous college transcripts and two recommendation letters.
Continuing Education (CE)
Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing
Advanced practice nurses can take this program in order to get a certificate to prescribe. This program takes 60 contact hours to complete.
Doctoral Programs
Ohio State University’s College of Nursing has two doctoral level degrees available: the PhD and the DNP.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
This program is available for full-time study and part-time study.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing, good GRE scores from within the last five years, a current resume, a statement of purpose and three recommendation letters.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This program is available for full-time study, which will take two years to complete, and part-time study, which will take three years to complete.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in nursing, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5, good GRE scores from within the last five years, a valid RN licensure in Ohio, a purpose of statement, college transcripts and three recommendation letters.
Contact:
Ohio State University
1585 Neil Avenue,
Columbus, OH 43210
Northwest State Community College Nursing Program Review
Northwest State Community College (NSCC) started out as the Four County Technical Institute back in 1968 before being renamed to Northwest Technical College in 1972. It didn’t become a community college until 1994.
Now, Northwest State Community College is a two-year public college that offers more than 300 subjects to their students through distance learning and traditional classes. They currently cater to around 6,771 students.
Northwest State Community College – Nursing Division
Northwest State Community College’s nursing division consists of degree and certificate programs with small class sizes for more personal interactions between teachers and students.
Before being admitted to these programs, potential students will need to take the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Examination (NLN PAX) for registered nursing programs and get a score higher than the 50th percentile for every tested area.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) or transfer to four-year degree programs at partnering schools, as needed.
The nursing programs at Northwest State Community College have all been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and have been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Registered Nursing (RN)
This program takes five semesters of 72 credit hours to complete and includes traditional courses, online courses, laboratory experience and clinical experiences.
Before taking their first course in clinical nursing, students will also need to get certification as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) first. Before they can graduate, on the other hand, they need to get a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Advanced Standing (LPN to RN)
LPNs who want to become RNs can take this program, which takes three semesters of 37 credit hours to complete and includes traditional courses, online courses, laboratory experiences and clinical experiences.
To apply, students will need to have a valid license in Ohio as a practical nurse. Before they can graduate, they will also need to get a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
Students who want to become LPNs can take this program, which takes three semesters of 42 credit hours to complete and includes lectures, laboratory experiences and clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities. This certificate is required for the LPN to RN advanced standing nursing program.
Thanks to Northwest State Community College’s partnership with Wright State University’s Lake campus and Vantage Career Center, a part-time evening PN program is also available at Van Wert. All of the required remedial and general studies courses can still be taken at Northwest State Community College, though, all of which need to be completed before the clinical sequence begins.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses.
Contact:
Northwest State Community College
22600 State Route 34,
Archbold, OH 43502
Mount Carmel College of Nursing Program Review
Mount Carmel College of Nursing (MCCN) is a private institution in Columbus, Ohio that has been around since 1903. To this day, it follows a Catholic code of conduct and has one of the biggest baccalaureate programs in Ohio.
This institution has been accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), and the American Dietetic Association Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE).
Mount Carmel College of Nursing Academic Programs
What makes the nursing academic programs at Mount Carmel College of Nursing really stand out is the small classes that they have. This results in more personal attention for each student.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Mount Carmel College of Nursing has the fourth biggest baccalaureate program in private college nursing programs in Ohio. Overall, there are three options available for students who wish to obtain a BSN degree at Mount Carmel: the traditional program, the second degree accelerated program, and the online RN-BSN completion program.
Traditional Four-Year BSN Program
Students who do not have any nursing experience yet are encouraged to take this program, which includes classroom theory, seminars and clinical experiences. This program can be taken at two locations: the Columbus campus or the Fairfield Medical Center.
Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Second Degree Accelerated BSN Program
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree in other majors can take this program to earn a BSN degree in only 13 months. It is available for full-time study of 40 hours a week, including laboratory and clinical courses. Evening and weekend courses may be involved, as well.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Online RN-BSN Program
This online program was made for students who need to work their professional life into their study program, so they can study at their own convenience and time. This program can be completed in as little as four semesters for full-time students and does not require any clinical hours. Part-time study is available, too, though. Priority is given to students from NLNAC-accredited pre-licensure nursing programs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Overall, there are five tracks available for students who wish to obtain an MSN degree at Mount Carmel: the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus track, the Adult Health track, the Family Nurse Practitioner track, the Nursing Administration track and the Nursing Education track.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus
RNs who want to provide healthcare services to adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical health conditions can take this on-site program.
To apply, students need to have a nursing degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts. A phone or personal interview will also be required, and a year of clinical experience would also be recommended.
Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
RNs who want to take on more advanced practice roles in nursing can take this program.
To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.
Family Nurse Practitioner
RNs who want to provide primary healthcare services to people of any age with acute illnesses can take this program.
To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.
Nursing Administration
Professional nurses who want to assume roles in administration and management can take this program.
To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.
Nursing Education
Professional nurses who want to teach nursing students about the responsibilities related to healthcare can take this program.
To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.
Graduate Certificate Programs
Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus
Master’s prepared RNs who want to provide healthcare services to adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical health conditions can take this on-site certificate program.
To apply, students need to have an MSN, a current registered nurse license in Ohio, current licensure and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Nurse Practitioner. They also need to have completed the required courses and have had at least three years of advanced practice experience.
Continuing Education Programs
At Mount Carmel College of Nursing, students can take various programs to improve their overall learning experiences all the more.
Online RN Refresher Program
Licensed RNs who haven’t worked in five years or more can take this online refresher program to start practicing nursing again in no time. This program includes online theory instruction, clinical experience with RN preceptors, and assigned reading.
Advanced Placement Program
This program is very competitive, but allows students who have the proper coursework to get a BSN degree in only five semesters.
To apply, students need to have completed the first two years of the nursing curriculum at Mount Carmel and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Contact:
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
127 South Davis Avenue,
Columbus, OH 43222
Mercy College Ohio Nursing Program Review
Mercy College of Ohio (MCO), previously known as Mercy College of Northwest Ohio (MCNO), is a traditional Catholic college that has been following the beliefs and traditions of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal and the Religious Sisters of Mercy since 1918. Because of this, the importance of both hospital care and well-prepared nurses is always focused on in their nursing program.
Mercy College is also sponsored by one of the biggest and most reputable healthcare systems in the country: Mercy and Catholic Healthcare Partners. The classes at Mercy College of Ohio also have the option to choose between traditional and online classes.
Mercy College of Ohio – Nursing Programs
Mercy College of Ohio prepares their students for a demanding yet vital career in nursing. Their nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
This program prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs) and takes 72 credit hours of full-time study to complete for the day program. For students who want to take the evening/weekend program, this means taking 10 semesters of part-time study to complete it.
To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.7. They need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 21 or a minimum SAT combined score of 950, as well. They also need to have passed the required high school courses with a minimum grade of C. All students interested in joining the ADN nursing day program will need to take the TEAS test, as well.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing – Completion
This completion degree program exists for students who already have RN licenses. It will help them develop themselves on a professional level and become real leaders and managers in the long run.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing – Prelicensure
This degree program prepares students to become RNs. Students who are already RNs, though, will be able to move into higher leadership and management positions after taking this program.
To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.7. They need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 21 or a minimum SAT combined score of 950, as well. They also need to have passed the required high school courses with a minimum grade of C. All students interested in joining the BSN nursing prelicensure program will need to take the TEAS test, as well.
RN to BSN Nursing Online Completion
This completion degree program takes 73 credit hours to complete and is only available online and exists for students who already have RN licenses. To apply, students need to be high school graduates and accredited college graduates with a minimum grade of C in all required courses.
Students who are non-accredited college graduates, however, will need to meet the extra requirement of completing 2 credit hours of the required courses in the RN to BSN program with a minimum grade of C, as well.
Contact:
Mercy College of Ohio
2221 Madison Avenue,
Toledo, OH 43604
Malone University Nursing School Review
Formerly known as the Cleveland Bible College, Malone University (MU) has been around since 1892 when classes merely took place in a Cleveland rented room. Affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church, Malone University has complete Christian foundations that provide strong educational experiences based on the Bible and in faith.
Overall, the tight-knit community at Malone University will help students explore their Christian faith and achieve their highest potential in education – and at very affordable rates, too.
Malone University – Nursing
All of the nursing majors at Malone University include 45 hours of study in cross-cultural settings.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Bachelor of Science Degrees in Nursing (BSN)
Students who take this program can gain the necessary skills and knowledge in nursing, while feeling accountable to God, themselves and those in need at the same time.
To apply, students submit the application form or apply online, get their official high school transcript and take the SAT or the ACT.
Degree Completion Program: Registered Nurse to BSN (RN to BSN)
Registered nurses who want to complete their BSN can finish this program in only 14 months of weekly evening classes at Malone University. This includes group projects and clinicals. Students also have the option to gain credit for prior learning.
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a nursing diploma. They will also need to have finished at least six months of clinical practice and finished 60 transferable semester hours with a minimum grade of C.
The admission application will also need to be completed, and a copy of the valid RN license and records that validate the student’s clinical requirements need to be provided, as well.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
This program has two tracks: the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track and the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) track. Both of these tracks complete advanced practice and graduate nursing core courses.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Track
Students who want to improve their overall access to good healthcare for their families and patients can take this program. Graduates will be able to treat all kinds of patients and prescribe and treat medicine, as well.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Track
Nurses who want to work with certain populations, certain settings, medical or disease subspecialties, certain kinds of care, or certain types of problems can take this program. They will also be able to keep working while earning their special degree at the same time.
Student Organizations
Nursing students of Malone University are highly encouraged to take part in their student organizations: the Malone Nursing Student Association (MNSA) and the Malone Nurses Christian Fellowship (MNCF).
BSN students are also highly encouraged to become members of the Ohio Nursing Student Association (ONSA) and the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). Doing so will allow them to take part at national and state levels to understand politics better and to keep growing beyond the confines of education and work.
Contact:
Malone University
2600 Cleveland Ave NW
Canton, OH 44709
Lourdes University Nursing School Review
Founded in 1943 as a part of the College of St. Theresa, Lourdes University (LU) now lies on 113 acres of woodlands within Sylvania, Ohio and focuses solely on Franciscan values. Aside from their top quality academic courses and the individualized attention that they give to their students, they also provide a lot of community outreach programs.
Lourdes University – College of Nursing
Lourdes University showcases a world of excellence in nursing education and the fields of public health, home care and emergency care. This program is especially made to meet the needs of every nursing student out there today.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Bachelor of Science Degrees in Nursing (BSN)
Pre-Licensure to BSN
This program consists of 63 credit hours in nursing and 62 credit hours of general education and foundational courses, which can all be completed in four years. Graduates of this program can apply for licensure as a registered nurse and sit for the national licensing examination, NCLEX-RN.
Nurse Aide to BSN
This program provides a more flexible schedule for students with prior work experience and education in nursing. College credit will be given for this prior experience, as well. Graduates of this program can apply for licensure as a registered nurse and sit for the national licensing examination, NCLEX-RN.
Licensed Practical Nurse to BSN Program (LPN to BSN)
Practicing LPNs who want to become registered nurses can take this pre-licensure program in order to get a BSN degree. The program consists of 125 credit hours, 63 of which are devoted to nursing, and can be completed in four years. Other foundational courses are also included in this program.
To apply, students need to complete the prerequisite courses first and have a GPA of at least 2.5, as well as a grade of at least C in the required natural sciences courses.
Registered Nurse to BSN Program (RN to BSN)
Working students can take full advantage of this flexible program, by reaching their educational goals and getting a BSN degree as they work. Students with registered nurse licenses may also apply for an advanced standing admission, so as to get credit in upper division nursing for prior learning. There are no clinicals involved in this program and some web-enhanced courses are also available. Students also have the choice to study full-time or part-time.
To apply, students need to have professional liability insurance and a valid nursing license. They need to meet all of the requirements of general education and maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 in order to graduate.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Lourdes University has three master’s level concentrations that include core content in statistics, nursing trends, nursing theory, nursing research, healthcare policies, ethics, role development, nursing informatics, and diversity: Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader. Graduate certificates are available for all three concentrations.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree, a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, and a valid license as a registered nurse. An interview must also be completed with the program director.
Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Anesthesia Program (MSN: NAP)
This program was designed to build on students’ prior professional and baccalaureate education experiences and prepares nurses to provide nurse anesthesia services.
This program will take 28 months of coursework that includes clinical and didactic practicum. Students can only take this program full-time, though various methods will be used in the curriculum, such as distance education through video conferencing.
Graduates will be allowed to take the National Certification Examination (NCE) and become an advanced practice nurse once they have received the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Certificate.
Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator Program
Working adults can apply for this program, which takes seven semesters of 33 credit hours to complete and includes supervised clinical practicum experience. This particular concentration also has a graduate certificate program available.
Graduates will be allowed to take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam once all of the required practice hours have been completed.
Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Leader Program
Working adults can apply for this program, which takes seven semesters of 33 credit hours to complete and includes supervised clinical practicum experience. This particular concentration also has a graduate certificate program available.
Graduates will be allowed to take the Nurse Executive Certification exam once all of the required practice hours have been completed.
Registered Nurse to MSN Program (RN to MSN)
Registered nurses who have already graduated and have prior experience can take this program to earn an MSN faster than through the traditional program. Lourdes University is the only university in the area to provide this particular program.
Undergraduate Certificate Programs
Operating Room First Assistant (ORFA) Certificate Program
To apply, students need to have a valid RN license, have a valid Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) card, have two years of experience in the operating room, get 120 hours of practicum experience and get work experience verification.
Graduate Certificate Programs
Nurses with master’s degrees can take graduate certificate programs at Lourdes University, each of which can be completed in nine months and requires 12 semester hours. Their credits and also be transferred to other graduated programs.
Nursing Leadership Certificate Program
This alternative exists for students who don’t necessarily want another graduate degree, but would like more knowledge in administration and leadership. It includes the following courses: Leadership Foundations, Leadership and Organizational Behavior, Financial Tools for Leaders and Organizations, and a Leadership Seminar.
Nursing Education Certificate Program
This alternative exists for students who don’t necessarily want another graduate degree, but would like more knowledge, abilities and skills to teach in various settings. It includes the following courses: Perspectives on Teaching and Learning, Curriculum Design, Assessment and Evaluation in Healthcare Education, and Practicum in Advanced Nursing Roles.
Nurse Anesthesia Certificate Program
Registered nurses who already have an MSN might want be interested in this program, as well.
Contact:
Lourdes University
6832 Convent Blvd.,
Sylvania, OH 43560
Marion Technical College Nursing Program Review
Founded in 1970, Marion Technical College’s goal has always been to improve the opportunities that local residents have when it comes to quality education and employment.
Marion Technical College – Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Marion Technical college (MTC) was established in 1971. This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Registered Nursing (RN)
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
This program normally takes two years of full-time study to complete and includes nursing, general education and science courses. However, students do have the option to extend their study time to up to five years if they want to. Different clinical experiences are also included in this program.
Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination of the National Council of State Board of Nursing to become registered nurses.
Transfer – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Transition to RN: LPN to RN
LPNs who would like to earn a nursing degree can get a maximum college credit of 73 hours by completing Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) examinations, nursing clinical courses and specific proficiency tests at Marion Technical College.
To apply, students need to have an accumulative GPA of at least 2.5, a valid Ohio LPN license, and an official LPN school or college transcript.
Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to become registered nurses.
RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): RN to BSN
Marion Technical College provides more than 150 credit hours that can be transferred to the Ohio State University’s RN to BSN program, which is a more affordable option for registered nurses to get a BSN while staying in Marion Technical College.
To apply, students will need to have a diploma or an associate degree, a valid Ohio RN license, and a minimum GPA of 2.75. They will also need to complete the required pre-requisites with a minimum grade of C.
BSN to Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN): BSN to MN
Nurses who already have a BSN degree can complete an MSN at Marion Technical College, which includes a Nurse Practitioner track and an Educator’s track. Otterbein University will bring classes to the school through satellite distance learning.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum of one year working experience as a registered nurse.
State-Tested Nurse Aide (STNA)
This program was designed as a prerequisite to the RN program and to give students the chance to get better jobs with more valuable experience. There are no pre-requisites for this course and graduates will be prepared to take the STNA certification exam.
STNA Certification
Students who have completed the Nurse Aide Training course will be allowed to take the state testing examination for nurse aides, which will result in the STNA certification. This program includes clinical experience, classroom instruction, and laboratory experience.
RN to MSN
Students at Marion Technical College have the option to move onto the MSN program from an STNA on the same campus. This program was actually the first one in the area to allow the transfer of credits this way.
Contact:
Marion Technical College
1467 Mount Vernon Avenue,
Marion, OH 43302-5694
Miami University of Ohio Nursing School Review
Miami University (MU, Miami U, Miami of Ohio) opened in 1823 and is now know as “The Yale of the West”. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, though, since it is known all over the country as one of the top undergraduate public institutions to date.
There are currently around 16,000 students enrolled at Miami University, where there is a vast array of great academic programs available, all of which provide more personal attention than other similar institutions out there.
Aside from the main campus in Oxford, Ohio, Miami University also has one European campus in Luxembourg and three regional campuses, as follows: Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio; Miami University Middleton in Middletown, Ohio; and the Voice of America Learning Center in West Chester, Ohio.
Miami University – Nursing
The nursing program at Miami University can only be taken at the school’s campuses in Middletown and Hamilton, though some classes might take place at the West Chester campus or online. This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program focuses mainly on health promotion, restoration, maintenance, and prevention with family, clients, and client groups within certain health settings. A lot of activities are involved in this program, as well as weekly and bi-weekly clinical experiences.
To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum ACT composite score of 23, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in certain science courses. They also need to have completed 12 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Graduates will be able to sit for the National Licensing Examination – RN (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses (RN), provided they do not have any criminal background.
RN-BSN Completion Program (BSN)
This flexible program helps RN students work around their professional and personal responsibilities by giving them the option to study part-time or full-time.
The required courses in this particular program can also be taken in hybrid format with classroom meetings and online activities, or completely online. For the hybrid courses, students will need to choose between going to the West Chester campus or the Middletown campus. Two of the required courses are clinical, though, and need to be done at their respective healthcare facilities.
Aside from that, there are also 10 required liberal education courses for the BSN, but this will depend on which courses the students have completed in the past.
To apply, RN students need to submit their official high school, college and nursing school transcripts, as well as the nursing program’s application form. Aside from that, RN students also need to have a registered nurse license in Ohio and need to have completed the required courses.
School Nurse Licensure Program
By adding an extra 23 hours to the BSN program, students can get an Ohio School Nurse license. Students also have the option to attend this program on a part-time or full-time basis.
To apply, students simply need to submit the necessary application form. They also need to have a registered nurse license in Ohio and a BSN degree.
Contact:
Miami University
501 East High Street,
Oxford, OH 45056
North Central State College Nursing Program Review
The campus of North Central State College (NC State) is 600 acres big with gorgeous woods, streams and walking paths for their students to enjoy. A public community-based two-year college that serves North Central Ohio residents and provides top quality education, North Central State College has 60 associate degree and certificate programs available and boasts of 3500 enrolled students.
North Central State College – Nursing Programs
The nursing programs at North Central State College have all been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Students who wish to obtain a Registered Nursing (RN) license can take this program, which takes five semester or seven quarters to complete and includes clinical classes.
To apply, students will need to have an official high school transcript, a minimum grade of C in certain required courses, and a minimum ACT Math test score of 21. Students will also be need to take the TEAS V and pass it with a minimum score of 65%. Before starting the first semester of this program, students will also need to have an active State-Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) certification.
Practical Nursing with Advanced Standing
Students who have already completed or have credit for various clinical nursing courses at North Central State College can take this program.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a current STNA certification. They also need to have completed a nursing course within the last four years and get 10 points on the Criteria for Advanced Standing. A Math test and Technical Skills test will also need to be taken before acceptance into the program.
Practical Nursing Articulation Option into Associate Degree Nursing
Practical nurses who want to get an RN license can take this programs, which consists of various clinical classes.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in all of the ADN classes and a minimum GPA of 2.5. They will also need to complete certain classes and take a Dosage Calculation test. Aside from that, they will need to have their official nursing transcripts and an online verification of a Practical Nursing license.
Certificate Programs
Students who want to complete certain courses faster than usual can take these programs. The same goes for those who simply want to benefit from having a certificate while taking an associate degree program.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Practical Nursing Certificate
Students who love people, in general, and enjoy helping them can take this certificate program, which takes four terms of 65 credit hours to complete. This includes both clinical experiences and classroom activities.
To apply, students will need to have an official high school transcript and will need to take the TEAS V and pass it with a minimum score of 65%. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination for practical nurses.
State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) Certificate
In partnership with Madison Adult Career Center and Pioneer Career and Technology Center, North Central State College provides this certificate program that can be used towards a Health Services Technology Associate Degree. The amount of classes that students will need to for this program may vary.
Contact:
North Central State College
2441 Kenwood Circle,
Mansfield, OH 44906
Ohio Northern University Nursing School Review
Ohio Northern University (ONU) was founded in 1871 and is currently located on 342 acres of land in Ada, Ohio, providing a quaint small town atmosphere. This private university currently has around 3,611 students enrolled at their scenic campus and has 200 student organizations, 6 fraternities, 4 sororities and various intercollegiate sports, intramural sports, club sports, music events and theatrical events on offer.
This college is related to United Methodists and seeks to educate students and prepare them for useful and meaningful careers and lives, in general, by following Judeo-Christian ideals.
Ohio Northern University – Nursing
The distinctive features of Ohio Northern University’s nursing program includes the one year RN to BSN completion and the older adult care nursing courses. Students can also be directly accepted to the program and take nursing courses in their very first year at Ohio Northern University. Aside from that, the campus lab ratio also stands at 8:1.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and educates students to become professional nurses. Students in this program can also choose to become members of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Students who join this program will learn the necessary skills and knowledge to become registered nurses in today’s healthcare workforce. The first two years in this program include general courses, social science courses and nursing science courses, while the following years include classroom activities and clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities.
To apply, students need to submit the necessary application along with their SAT and ACT scores and their high school transcripts. Other measures of their academic performance (class rank, GPA, standardized tests), extra-curricular activities, community activities, recommendations, hobbies, honors, interests, awards and personal statements will also be considered.
Graduates will be able to take the national licensure examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). However, they will need to maintain a minimum grade of C in every major nursing course and other required courses, as well as complete every clinical rotation in the program.
Pre-Licensure BSN Nursing Program
To apply, students will need to meet Ohio Northern University’s general admissions requirements. Aside from that, they will also need to be high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30, a minimum ACT score of 23, and a minimum composite SAT score of 1070. They will also need to have completed 2 math units and 6 natural science units. A criminal background check will also be required before acceptance into the program.
RN-BSN Completion Program
Practicing nurses can apply to this program if they want to get a baccalaureate degree while working. This program consists of 48 credit hours and four 12-week terms, including offsite classes and clinical experiences for the RN’s convenience.
To apply, students need to be pre-licensure nursing graduates and have a minimum accumulative GPA of 2.5. They also need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and maintain a minimum grade of C in every nursing core course and every other required course outside of nursing.
Contact:
Ohio Northern University
525 South Main Street,
Ada, OH 45810
Ohio University Nursing School Review
Ohio University (OU) provides enrichment through a very diverse educational experience. Their diversity is shown in various forms, as well, in order to enrich the unique educational experiences of their students, staff and faculty.
Ohio University – School of Nursing
The nursing program at Ohio University has been around since 1970. It offers a wide range of teaching methods and degree options to prepare students for careers in healthcare in the future.
There are three regional campuses available for Ohio University’s nursing programs: the Chilicothe campus, the Southern campus in Ironton and the Zanesville campus.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program has three main categories in terms of required courses: general education, prerequisite and nursing courses. Students will need to get a minimum grade of C in all of the prerequisite courses. Other than that, they also need to submit their high school transcripts, any college transcripts if applicable, and their official ACT scores.
Graduates will be allowed to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). They also have the option to join the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for two more years of education in advanced nursing. If preferred, the BSN program can be taken online.
This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, the Ohio Board of Regents and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
ADN Advanced Placement Program
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) need to meet the exact same admission requirements as students who want to apply for the regular ADN program. However, this program is only intended for practical nursing graduates who have already passed the NCLEX-PN exam.
LPN to RN Transitional Degree
To apply, students need to submit their high school transcripts, any college courses if applicable, a statement of purpose, and their LPN license number. They also need to have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0 or a minimum college GPA of 2.75, and a minimum grade of C in all of their completed courses. They will need to take the COMPASS placement test, as well.
RN to BSN Transitional Degree
This program provides RNs with the education that they need to get a BSN. It provides the option of online learning, as well, so students who cannot attend classes on campus still have the chance to broaden their educational experiences. In general, this program offers three options: the online bachelor completion option, the academic outreach initiative program and the 10-week program.
Online Bachelor Completion Program
This program exists for students who want to take the classes at Ohio University or through the Community College partnerships. However, students who aren’t affiliated with Ohio University in any way can still pursue this program online.
Academic Outreach Initiative Program
This online program mainly exists for nurses who already work at healthcare facilities and are looking for more convenient and affordable ways to continue their education.
To apply, students will need to be employed by a partner healthcare organization or facility.
10-Week Program
All of the courses offered in this program can now be accessed through Ohio University’s Blackboard Learning Management System.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program takes four years to complete and provides both clinical experiences in Southeast Ohio clinics and hospitals, and classroom courses in their main Athens campus.
To apply, students will need to be high school graduates who have successfully completed the college preparation program. They will also need to submit their high school transcripts, as well as have a minimum grade of 24 in their composite ACT and a minimum grade of 1590 in their SAT.
Graduates of this program will be able to sit for the licensing exam.
Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program was launched in 2005 and consists of four different specialties: nurse administrator, nurse educator, acute care nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. Students are allowed to pursue several tracks at once if they wish.
In general, this program takes six years to complete and students will need to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 in order to stay in the program.
To apply, students need to be registered nurses with valid licenses in Ohio, have a bachelor’s degree, have a minimum GPA of 3.00, complete all of the required courses and submit three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose.
ADN to MSN Bridge Program
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline and an ADN can enter this program, even if they do not have a BSN. This way, they can complete all of the BSN prerequisites and a specific set of BSN courses, so that they can eventually apply for the MSN program.
School Nurse License
Licensed RNs in Ohio can take this program as needed. RNs with a BSN can opt to only take the extra courses needed to meet the licensure requirements. Conversely, RNs who want to complete the BSN at the same time can take this course along with the BSN program. RNs who want to complete a degree in another course, however, need to talk to their major advisors before applying for this program.
Contact:
Ohio University
W379 Grover Center,
Athens, OH 45701
University of Toledo Nursing School Review
The University of Toledo (UT) was founded in 1872 and became part of the state university system by 1967. In July 2006, it merged with the Medical University of Ohio to create the third biggest public university in the state. Today, the school provides part-time and full-time study options, as well as day, evening and distance learning programs.
University of Toledo – College of Nursing
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Undergraduate Programs
Baccalaureate Nursing
Students who take this program will be prepared to provide nursing care in various healthcare facilities. It includes clinical experiences and regular college classroom courses, including general education and nursing courses. Students will need to complete their first two years at the main campus of the University of Toledo, and the rest of the curriculum at the Health Science campus.
To apply, students have to be high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum ACT score of 19. Registered nurses with a nursing license can also take this program online, though. To apply, they will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and complete the required prerequisite courses.
Graduates will be awarded the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing upon completion of the program.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
In partnership with Bowling Green State University, students can now take this program if they already work as registered nurses and have a diploma or associate degree.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a valid RN license. They will also need to submit a nursing portfolio.
Graduates will be awarded the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing upon completion of the program.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing Programs
Students who take this program will be prepared to become registered nurses in the healthcare field. This program is especially designed for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but aren’t registered nurses yet. It includes theory classes and clinical experiences at various healthcare facilities and takes two full-time years to complete.
To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of B in all of the prerequisite courses. They will also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume, two recommendation letters and their official transcripts.
Graduates will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and apply for an RN license. They will also have the chance to pursue certificates to enter advanced nursing roles as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners, or pursue advanced nursing degrees.
The MSN Tracks
To apply for any of these tracks, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a valid RN license in Ohio. They will also need to have completed an undergraduate statistics course. Aside from that, they also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume and two recommendation letters.
Family Nurse Practitioner
This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, though a part-time option is also available for students in need. It includes 600 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, though a part-time option is also available for students in need. It includes 500 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.
Nurse Educator
This track takes 39 credit hours to complete and includes curriculum development, clinical and classroom teaching strategies, evaluation principles, and teaching-learning processes. Full-time and part-time options are available for this track.
BSN to Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
This track takes two years of full-time study to complete. It consists of 42 credit hours that include clinical and didactic courses, practice immersion, and scholarly and leadership activities. It also includes 420 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.
Graduate-Entry Clinical Nurse Leader (formerly GEMINI)
Students who take this program will be prepared to become registered nurses in the healthcare field. This program is especially designed for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but aren’t registered nurses yet. It includes theory classes and clinical experiences at various healthcare facilities and takes two full-time years to complete, consisting of 66 credit hours and includes 750 hours of clinical experience.
To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of B in all of the prerequisite courses. They will also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume, two recommendation letters and their official transcripts.
Graduates will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and apply for an RN license. They will also have the chance to pursue certificates to enter advanced nursing roles as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners, or pursue advanced nursing degrees.
Doctoral Programs
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This program has been around since 2007 and works with Wright State University to give students the chance to reach the top levels of clinical experience in the healthcare environment. Students have the option to take this program online or part-time, as well. This campus based/online DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
To apply, students will need to have an MSN, a valid national board certification in advanced clinical practice, a valid RN license and a minimum GPA of 3.3. They will also need to submit their official college transcripts, a personal statement, a valid resume and three recommendation letters.
Graduate Certificate Programs
These programs exist for students who have MSNs but wish to gain specialized knowledge for certification.
To apply, students will need to have an MSN and a valid RN license in Ohio. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a valid resume and two recommendation letters.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)
This program takes four part-time semesters of 25 credit hours to complete. It includes 600 hours of clinical and laboratory experiences. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the national FNP certification examinations.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-C)
This program takes 21 credit hours to complete. It includes 500 hours of clinical and laboratory experiences. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the national PNP certification examinations.
Nursing Education Certificate
Graduates will be awarded a certificate of completion that allows them to work as educators in various healthcare settings. This program takes 11 credit hours to complete.
Continuing Nursing Education
UT has a Center for Continuing Nursing Education that fulfills the continuing nursing education contact hours requirements of practicing nurses. The delivery of these continuing education (CE) programs includes campus based and online classes. Courses vary and may include topics that cover nursing research, nursing pharmacology and ethics.
Contact:
University of Toledo
2801 W. Bancroft St.,
Toledo, OH 43606
University of Cincinnati Nursing School Review
The University of Cincinnati (UC) was founded back in 1889 and has seen portrayed nothing but a sturdy history of excellence. Today, they have more than 2,700 students enrolled in various programs and their nursing program is ranked in the top 10% of nursing programs of the United States.
University of Cincinnati – College of Nursing
The University of Cincinnati provides various nursing programs, including a slew of master’s specialties and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Students who take this program will be prepared to work as leaders, practitioners and scholars in the field of nursing. General nursing courses and clinical experience will be provided within the four years of full-time study entailed in the program.
To apply, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum high school GPA of 3.0, a minimum SAT score of 1050, a minimum ACT score of 23, and the necessary high school transcripts.
Students will need to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and complete all of the pre-nursing required courses in order to stay in the program. Graduates of this program will get a BSN.
Registered Nurse to BSN (RN to BSN)
Students who already have an RN license and a diploma can take this program to take advantage of the prior experience, further their education and get a BSN in the shortest amount of time possible. Students have both part-time and full-time options when it comes to this program, both of which are also available online with in-person clinical requirements. The part-time option will take at least two years to complete, while the full-time option will take one year to complete.
Accelerated MSN Program
Students who already have a degree and want to become RNs can take this program and then take one of the master’s programs afterwards. This program consists of three phases.
The first phase would be the RN pre-licensure phase, which takes around 35 credit hours to complete. The second phase would be the accelerated phase, which takes four full-time quarters to complete. Students will get a BSn degree after this phase before moving onto the last phase. The third and last phase would be the continuation phase, where students finish their master’s core courses. Students who complete all of the requirements will get an MSN after this phase.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Students who take this program will have their choice of tracks to pursue.
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and will need to have completed at least 60 credit hours of the required sequential courses.
Acute Care Adult Health Nurse Practitioner
This track allows students to take on advanced nursing roles and takes two full-time years of 210 lab hours and 510 practicum hours under the supervision of nurse practitioner preceptors to complete. A part-time option is also available, though.
Graduates of this track can take the certification exams to become Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs).
Ambulatory Adult Health Nurse Practitioner
This track allows students to build on nursing basics of patient care to become nurses who focus on adult health promotion and provide disease prevention and management to their patients.
This track takes 500 practicum hours under the supervision of nurse practitioner preceptors to complete.
Graduates of this track can take the certification exams to become Medical-Surgical Clinical Nurse Specialists or Adult Nurse Practitioners.
Family Nurse Practitioner
This track allows students to build on their skills to care for people of every age in various healthcare settings. This track takes two full-time years of 540 hours of clinical hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though.
Graduates of this track will be able to take the national certification exam to become family nurse practitioners.
Nurse Anesthesia
This track allows students to build on their skills to administer anesthetics as needed. This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, which includes clinical experiences right from the start.
Occupational Health Nursing
This track allows students to plan, deliver and evaluate occupational health services and takes two full-time years of 540 practice hours in different businesses and industries to complete. A part-time option is also available, though, and no prior experience is needed for this particular program.
Graduates of this track will be able to take the AACN certification exam for community health clinical nurse specialists, as well as the COHN-S a year after graduating.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
This track allows students to provide direct patient care management in various settings and takes two full-time years of 600 practicum hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though. To apply, students will also need to have at least a year of pediatric acute care nursing experience.
Graduates of this track will be able to take the Acute Care certification exam of the Pediatric Nurse Certification Board (PNCB).
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
This track allows students to provide direct patient care management in various settings and takes two full-time years of 540 practicum hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though. To apply, students will also need to have at least a year of pediatric nursing experience.
Graduates of this track will be able to take specialty certification exams through the PNCB and the ANCC.
Post Master’s Certificate Options
Students can supplement their master’s degrees with extra nursing specialties if they wish. These certificate options will depend on the student’s chosen coursework, though.
Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This program was created due to the high demand for nursing leaders in today’s healthcare industry and takes around four full-time semesters of 45 credit hours to complete.
To apply, students will need to have an MSN, a minimum GPA of 3.25, a valid RN license and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three reference letters, as well as complete a satisfactory review.
Research-Focused Doctorate (PhD)
Students who want to do more research and further their knowledge and skills in nursing can take this program.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN or an MSN degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a minimum GRE score of 500. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a statement of purpose and three reference letters.
Contact:
University of Cincinnati
3110 Vine Street,
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0038
University of Rio Grande Nursing School Review
Formerly known as Rio Grande College, the University of Rio Grande (URG) was founded in 1876 and provided educational services to Baptist ministers and teachers. The school was renamed in 1989 and is now located on a modern campus of 190 acres in Rio Grande, Ohio – a paradise of technology, learning, and creativity.
University of Rio Grande – Holzer School of Nursing
The University of Rio Grande’s Holzer School of Nursing gives students everything that they need to excel in nursing. However, it mostly focuses on promoting health, preventing sickness and caring for those in need.
This program has been approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Associate’s Degree Nursing (ADN) Programs
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Students who take this ADN program can prepare themselves for direct nursing care in various supervised healthcare settings through classroom courses, library work and clinical experiences. Upon finishing, ADN graduates will receive an Associatse of Applied Science Degree in Nursing.
To apply, students will need to be with high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a minimum grade of C in chemistry, biology and algebra. They will also need to take the COMPASS or ACT test and the HESI A2 Entrance Exam. To stay in the program, students will need to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Graduates will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Advanced Placement Track (LPN to RN)
LPNs who want to prepare themselves educationally yet desire career mobility at the same time can take this innovative track to meet their needs. This track can be taken at the campus itself or online. These tracks are referred respectively as the Campus Based LPN to RN APT and the Online LPN to RN APT programs. APT stands for Advanced Placement Track.
The LPN to RN program can be completed in two semesters of full-time study, but part-time study is also available as needed.
To apply, students will need to be graduates of a nursing program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. They will also need to submit their high school and nursing transcripts upon application. They will also need to have a valid LPN license.
Students who plan to take this track online will need to take seven of the required nursing courses and four of the required general education courses online. The necessary clinical courses will need to be completed onsite at the appointed healthcare agencies, though.
Graduates will be awarded the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing Technology (AAS Degree) and will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and to apply for an Ohio RN license.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)
Students who wish to improve their skills and knowledge in nursing can take this program, which includes clinical experiences in various healthcare agencies.
To apply, students will need to submit their official transcripts and complete a satisfactory interview with a nursing faculty member. They also need to be graduates with a valid RN license in Ohio, a valid CPR certification card and evidence of current liability insurance coverage at the time of the interview. Aside from that, students will need to have completed all of the prerequisite course and medical history forms, as well.
Contact:
University of Rio Grande
218 North College Avenue,
Rio Grande, OH 45674
Trinity Health System School of Nursing Program Review
Trinity Health System (THS) provides care to service areas of hundreds and thousands of people and provides various outpatient and acute services on two campuses in Steubenville, Ohio. Every year, Trinity Health System (THS) also makes it a point to take part in various blood screening programs and health fairs every year.
Trinity Health System School of Nursing (THSSN)
Originally called the Ohio Valley Hospital School of Nursing, Trinity Health System’s School of Nursing was founded in 1912. It is currently operated and owned by a Catholic organization called the Franciscan Service Corporation.
This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), has been certified by the Ohio Board of Regents, and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Ohio Department of Education for Veterans’ Administration Benefits.
Registered Nursing (RN) Program
To apply, students will need to submit a completed application form along with their high school and college transcripts if applicable. Sometimes, references and personal interviews might be required, as well.
Students will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, a minimum grade of C on all required college courses, a minimum score of 18 on the ACT and a minimum score of 750 on the SAT. Aside from that, they will also need to take the HESI Exam at the Trinity Health System School and get a minimum score of 75% on it in order to apply.
Students who have already complete a four-year college degree in the last five years, though, will no longer have to submit any standardized test scores to apply.
Advanced Placement – Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN)
LPNs who want to apply to this dynamic and unique program will need to have a valid LPN license and the proper credentials to prescribe medications. Surgical and medical experience would be preferable,a s well.
To apply, students will also need to have a minimum grade of C in all of the practical nursing courses. In fact, if they have a minimum grade of C in college Chemistry, they will not need to have Algebra I or Chemistry I in their high school transcript anymore. There are no required pre-admission tests for this particular program.
Trinity Health System’s School of Nursing will give credit to students’ previous nursing education through the escrow-bypass advanced placement method.
Readmission Requirements
Students who were once in the Trinity Health System nursing program but have voluntarily or involuntarily left and want to be readmitted will need to meet the same curriculum requirements as everybody else. The Faculty Organization will then review and consider the requests and base their decisions on the current availability of space in the program and the students’ personal evaluations.
Some of the aspects that the Faculty might review would include the student’s previous academic files, the student’s reason for leaving, the amount of time that the student has been gone, the student’s past theory performances,, the student’s standardized and clinical test results, the amount of times that the student was placed on probation if ever, the amount of times the student had to repeat any final exams, and the student’s attendance while he attended the program.
Contact:
Trinity Health System School of Nursing
380 Summit Avenue,
Steubenville, OH 43952
University of Akron Nursing School Review
The University of Akron (UA) was founded in 1967 and has since then provided nothing but an excellent curriculum of various educational programs. There are more than 100 faculty members, half of which have doctoral degrees and others of which have completed their doctoral studies and have earned practice specialty certifications.
University of Akron – The College of Nursing
The University of Akron’s College of Nursing provides clinical experiences in various settings, with diverse patients and including a wide range of healthcare options overall. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the university is under review at the moment.
This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Undergraduate Programs
Baccalaureate Program (BSN)
This program takes roughly 130 hours to complete and nursing majors will be prioritized depending on their science GPA.
To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course. Pre-nursing students who do not complete their science prerequisite courses the first time can repeat the courses a second time. However, they will not be allowed to re-take the courses for the third time until five years have gone by since the last time they were re-taken.
Second Degree BSN (Accelerated BSN)
Students who have already completed another baccalaureate program, but wish to get a nursing degree afterwards can take this program. In general, this program takes four semesters and around 96 credit hours to complete. It consists of nurse services and hospital visits, as well as clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
To apply, students need to have a baccalaureate degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit copies of their transcripts along with two recommendation letters, a personal statement and a resume. Aside from that, students will need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 before starting the course, as well.
Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree in nursing upon completing all of the requirements.
BSN for Registered Nurses (RNs) Sequence
The BSN for RN program has both full-time and part-time options available for students depending on their personal needs and exists especially for RNs who already have bachelor degrees, but what to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing.
This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite course. They will also need to maintain a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course in order to stay in the program.
BSN for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Sequence
The BSN for LPN program exists especially for LPNs who have already have a bachelor’s degree, but still want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing. It includes various learning activities, which build on each student’s prior experience and knowledge.
After all of the prerequisites have been completed, this program will take two and a half full-time years of around 130 credit hours to complete. Students can follow a part-time curriculum, though, if they’d prefer, and they will be given credit by exam for any previous experience as LPNs.
To apply, students will need to be graduates of an LPN program and have a valid LPN license, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 2.5. They will also need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite and science course.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program consists of various advanced role specialties and practice specializations for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist. It also focuses on two particular dimensions – core courses and specialization courses – and is especially designed for working RNs.
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses and an interview with the faculty, and submit an essay and three reference letters.
Advanced Practice Options
Adult/Gerontological Nursing Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
This option prepares its students to manage and provide advanced nursing care for people with complicated health conditions. Students who choose this option can either specialize in gerontological health nursing or adult health nursing.
Students who take gerontological nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Gerontological CNS and students who take adult health nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Medical/Surgical CNS through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Adult/Gerontological Nursing Nurse Practitioner (NP)
This option prepares its students to provide healthcare to people in various healthcare settings under the supervision of actual physician preceptors and nurse practitioners.
This option takes 47 credit hours to complete and students will need to complete at least 500 hours of clinical practice before they can take the national certification examination as an adult NP or gerontological NP. Completing this option will allow students to become Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs).
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, three recommendation letters, a minimum of a year of nursing experience in a gerontological or adult healthcare setting, and a BSN degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete every prerequisite course and an interview with a faculty member of this option.
A post-MSN certificate also exists for this particular track.
Child/Adolescent Acute/Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
This option prepares its students to provide acute or primary healthcare to children in various settings.
Graduates of this option will be able to take the certification from the ANCC to become Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.
Psychiatric Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner
These options prepare their students to provide mental healthcare to those in need in various settings and includes core courses in information management, theory, health policies, research, and pathophysiology.
Graduates of this option will be able to take three certification exams from the ANCC: Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Nurse Anesthesia
This option prepares its students to provide anesthesia care to patients who need to go through obstetrical and surgical procedures, as well as provide the skills that RNs need to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesists (CRNAs).
This program takes 60 credit hours and 27 months to complete and includes advanced pathophysiology, advanced physiology, core graduate nursing, chemistry, anesthesiology, physics and pharmacology courses.
To apply, students will need to be graduates of a baccalaureate nursing program and have a BSN, a valid ACLS certificate, a valid license in Ohio, a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a minimum of one year of adult critical care experience. They will also need to have a minimum of 8 hours in the shadow of an actual CRNA and submit various coursework transcripts.
Graduates of this option will be able to take the National Certification Examination to become CRNAs.
Nursing Services Administration
This option prepares its students for work in healthcare environments with community, acute, and long-term orientations.
MSN for RN Sequence
The MSN for RN program exists especially for nurses who want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing and prepare for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist.
This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.
To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree upon completing all of the requirements and will be able to continue on their chosen track at the master’s level. Overall, this program can take up to eight full-time semesters to complete.
PhD in Nursing
This joint program exists between Kent State University and the University of Akron to prepare students for teaching and applying nursing strategies as nursing scholars.
This program can be completed in three full-time years, though part-time study programs are also available.
To apply, students will need to have an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Certificate Programs
Nursing Education Certificate
This certificate exists to prepare students for full academic roles and the responsibilities of being a nurse educator in various educational settings.
Nursing Management and Business Certificate
This certificate exists to prepare post-master’s advanced practice nurses, post-baccalaureate nurses, and current PhD and MSN students for life as patient care leaders and managers in various organizational settings.
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate
This certificate exists solely for adult or gerontological CNSs.
Contact:
University of Akron
209 Carroll Street,
Akron, OH 44325-3701
Stark State College Nursing Program Review
Stark State College (SSC), previously known as the Stark State College of Technology (SSCT), is a two-year public institution that has more than 200 associate degrees, certifications and options available for various programs.
They also have partnerships with the University of Toledo and Franklin University, so students don’t actually have to leave the campus in order to get their bachelor’s degree of choice.
Stark State College – Nursing
This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
This program takes various settings into consideration, including hospitals, clinics, extended and long-term healthcare facilities, and various other healthcare agencies. Students who take this program can either opt for the day program or the evening and weekend program. Aside from that, they also have three roles to choose from: manager of care, provider of care and nursing member.
To apply to either program, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will need to submit the application form along with their ACT or COMPASS test scores and their original high school transcripts, wherein their biology and chemistry grades need to be at a minimum of C, as well.
Day Program
This program takes 72 credit hours or four semesters to complete and consists of hands-on classroom experiences, as well as clinical and laboratory experiences.
Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Evening and Weekend Program
Generally speaking, this evening and weekend program has the exact same nursing sequence as its day counterpart. However, the laboratory experiences in this program will be held at the campus of Stark State College itself, while the clinical and classroom experiences will mostly take place at the Mercy Medical Center.
Registered Nurse (RN) Completion for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program
This program takes 35 credit hours to complete.
Students who wish to join this program need to be graduates of a practical nursing program. They will also need to take any required developmental courses and have a valid Ohio LPN license. Aside from that, students will also need to submit the program application along with their high school transcripts and college transcripts.
In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in an LPN program and a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and other biology courses.
RN Completion for Paramedic
This program takes 44 credit hours or four semesters to complete and gives paramedics the chance to enter the nursing world and put their emergency services training into good use. Since this program follows the WEB Level II modality, paramedics won’t have any trouble fitting it into their work schedules.
To apply, students will need to be graduates of a paramedic program with a valid paramedic certificate in Ohio. They will also need to submit the necessary application form along with their high school transcripts.
In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra and other prerequisite courses, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in twelve hours of college courses, and complete the necessary developmental courses and the COMPASS Assessment test.
Graduates will be able to take the licensure examination and pursue more educational opportunities in the nursing field if they want to.
Contact:
Stark State College
6200 Frank Avenue NW,
North Canton, OH 44720
Southern State Community College Nursing Program Review
Southern State Community College (SSCC) is a two-year community college that was founded in 1975. It has four different campuses in Ohio that serve the Adams, Clinton, Brown, Highland and Fayette counties.
Southern State Community College has various associate degree and certificate programs available and all of the students can look into financial aid help, regardless of which program they choose to enroll in.
Southern State Community College – Nursing
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Associate’s Degree in Nursing Programs (ADN programs)
Associate of Applied Science Degree Nursing (AASN) Program
This nursing associates degree program takes 73 credit hours and 7 quarters to complete when taken full-time, and can be taken at the Central campus or the South campus of Southern State Community College. In a nutshell, this program entails registered nurses (RNs) taking care of sick patients and maintaining their health.
Students have the choice to finish some of the required general education courses before being admitted to this program if they wish. Staying in the program, however, would require students to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.
To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.
Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Nursing Transition Pathway
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who may want to get a degree can take this program through this particular pathway instead.
To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and should have taken the standardized LPN knowledge test and received the minimum required score within the last two years.
Aside from that, students will also need to have a minimum of 500 hours work experience as an LPN within the last two years, a valid nursing licensure and a minimum grade of C in the necessary prerequisite courses.
Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing (PN)
This program takes 50 credit hours and 4 quarters to complete and can be taken at the Central campus of Southern State Community College. In general, this program consists of regular classes, clinical experience and lab practices. In order to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.
To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.
Graduates will be qualified to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses and apply for the Practical Nursing Certificate.
Contact:
Southern State Community College
100 Hobart Drive,
Hillsboro, OH 45133
Sinclair Community College Nursing Program Review
Sinclair Community College (SCC) is somewhat related to Dayton YMCA. From 1887 to 1948, Dayton YMCA actually offered various classes for men alone. However, by 1948, it became Sinclair College and by 1989, it was chosen to become a member of the League for Innovation in the Community College as Sinclair Community College.
Now, Sinclair Community College has nineteen buildings and courses that are offered at various remote sites and online.
Sinclair Community College – Nursing
Sinclair Community College has graduated thousands of students since its inception in 1969.
This program has been approved by the State of Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Degree Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program
Students can take this program if they want to become registered nurses. In general, this program consists of nursing and non-nursing courses, as well as clinical experience and classroom activities. There are five tracks that students can choose from: member in the discipline of nursing, manager of care, provider of care, patient teacher and communicator.
This program takes 8 quarters to complete and can be taken either part-time or full-time as preferred. However, all of the courses need to be taken sequentially either way. Students may also take general education courses before, during or after being admitted to the program.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in every general education and nursing course and a minimum GPA of 2.0. To graduate, students will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of C.
Graduates will be qualified to sit for the National Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Member in the Discipline of Nursing
This track consists mostly of professional growth, self-development, and continuous learning. This track ensures the best nursing standards, helps improve the field of nursing, communicates honestly, keeps things confidential and improves with the help of constructive criticism.
Manager of Care
This track consists mostly of collaborating with, delegating, accounting for, and respecting other workers in the healthcare field. This track is practiced on people with certain healthcare needs.
Provider of Care
This track consists mostly of critical thinking, accountability, commitment to healthcare and clinical competence. This track is practiced on any age of people with chronic or acute health needs, as well as those who need help restoring or maintaining good health.
Patient Teacher
This track involves using teaching plans that suit each patient’s learning needs, developmental levels and overall knowledge.
Communicator
This track involves promoting psychological safety, establishing and using effective communication, making referrals depending on each patient’s needs and knowing where to get the necessary resources.
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Advanced Placement Track
This program takes 7 quarters and 91 credit hours to complete. Students will need to successfully complete certain courses in order to take this program, though.
Certificate Programs
Nurse Aide Training
Students can take this program if they want to become nurse aides in long-term facilities. In general, this program consists of both clinical and classroom learning experiences.
Graduates will be qualified to sit for a certification examination.
Contact:
Sinclair Community College,
444 West Third Street,
Dayton, OH 45402
Shawnee State University Nursing School Review
Shawnee State University (SSU) started out as the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969 before it merged with Scioto Technical College in 1975. In 1986, Shawnee State University became what it is today: an institution where learning is seen as a personal, professional and lifelong development process.
Shawnee State University – The Department of Nursing
In order to progress in Shawnee State University’s nursing programs, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses, as well as perform their clinical experiences in a satisfactory manner. Aside from that, their theory grades also need to average out to at least 76%.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Associate Degree in Nursing
This program has been around since Shawnee State University was still the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969.
To apply, students might need to complete certain courses during the summer first. Other than that, they will also need to submit their high school transcripts and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and a minimum ACT score of 18. They will also need to complete an autobiography form.
Students with a minimum ACT score of 24 will be eligible for automatic acceptance to the program.
If students want to improve their chances of being admitted to Shawnee State University’s nursing program, they should start thinking about doing several things in high school, such as choosing science courses and algebra courses, taking their ACTs early, talking to nurses about their educational and professional path, talking to their counselors about nursing, and looking at all of their options in terms of college level courses. Naturally, they also need to remember that grades will always matter in the end.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
To apply, students will need to have a valid Registered Nursing (RN) license, a valid CPR certification, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and recent health assessment and immunization. Preference is usually given to students with at least 15 hours or more beyond the traditional nursing degree and those who have already had half a year of nursing practice. Students will also need to submit a personal statement regarding the benefits of BSN.
RN-BSN Completion Program
This program consists of 34 credit hours. It builds on students’ associate degree diplomas and prepares registered nurses for proper practice in various settings. This program provides a very flexible schedule, so students can take their courses online if they wish or through clinical preceptors.
To apply, students will need to have an associate’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.5, a valid RN license, a valid CPR certification, a completed health physical exam and current immunizations.
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Transition Program
LPNs might receive advanced placement during their associate degree program’s second semester if they complete certain courses with a minimum grade of C.
Other than that, students will also need to have a valid LPN license in order to apply to this program.
Contact:
Shawnee State University
940 Second Street,
Portsmouth, OH 45662-4344
Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing Program Review
The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing (HEMSPN) was founded in 1957 and today, they provide a full-time educational program for students who are interested in becoming nurses in the future.
Practical Nursing
The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has a strict nursing curriculum that focuses on children to senior citizens and includes medication administration and IV therapy. From Monday to Friday, students will go through clinical experiences and theory courses, although afternoon and weekend classes are sometimes part of the curriculum, too.
In general, the curriculum at the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing lasts for 44 weeks and follows three main concepts: the nursing process, basic human needs, and wellness-illness of life. The curriculum mainly consists of formal classroom settings, though clinical experiences, theory courses, nursing lab settings are all a part of the curriculum, as well.
To apply, students need to submit their official high school transcripts, the application and the application fee on time, as well as complete the FAFSA. They will also need to make an appointment to take the ACT WorkKeys pre-entrance test. Students will also need to take a medical terminology course.
Before starting at the school, students will also be required to attend the enrollment orientation. If requested, they can also make an appointment to discuss their options for financial aid.
Students who graduate from this Practical Nursing (PN) school usually end up with a slew of career opportunities in various hospitals, physician’s offices, long-term healthcare facilities, and home care agencies.
Any successful graduate of the PN program will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in any state. Graduates with licenses are also allowed to join a baccalaureate (BSN) or associates nursing degree program to become registered nurses.
This program has been approved by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Board of Nursing, and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
To provide their students with satisfactory clinical experiences, the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has teamed up with various healthcare agencies, including the Salem Community Hospital, the Essex of Salem, Briarfield Manor, the Forum Health’s Childbirth Center, the Crandall Medical Center, the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities, Hospice of the Valley, and the East Liverpool City Hospital. They are also affiliated with various community healthcare agencies, though.
Financial Aid
Financial aid exists for qualifying students via Title IV funding, as well as other loans and grants.
Direct Subsidized Loans
This loan is based on need and won’t be charged with interest while the student is still in school. Also, repayment schemes will not begin until half a year after school has ended.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
This loan, on the other hand, isn’t based on need. Instead, its amount will depend on the dependency status of the student. Interest will start from the beginning, though. However, the repayment schemes will begin half a year after school has ended, as well.
Pell Grant
Unlike loans, the Pell Grant doesn’t need to be paid back. This grant exists for undergraduate students without professional or bachelor’s degrees.
Contact:
Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing
Salem City Schools,
230 North Lincoln Avenue, Suite 3,
Salem, OH 44460
Owens Community College Nursing Program Review
Owens Community College (OCC) was founded as a technical institute in 1965 and was named after a Toledo inventor named Michael Owens who is famous for mechanizing bottle blowing.
Today, they have two campuses – one in Perrysburg Township and one in Findlay – as well as learning centers in Maumee and Toledo. Overall, they provide 130 different academic programs that can lead to various exciting careers.
Owens Community College – School of Nursing
This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, but is currently working towards re-establishing their accreditation with the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
School of Nursing Programs
Registered Nursing (RN) Program
This program prepared students to become registered nurses in various healthcare faculties.
To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their SAT or ACT scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.
Licensed Practical Nurse/Associate Degree Nursing Progression Program (LPN to RN)
Licensed practical nurses who take certain nursing courses ad meet the needs of LPNs enrolled in an ADN program can take this program to prepare themselves for various healthcare settings.
To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their LPN STEP test scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.
They will also need to have an LPN license, a high school diploma, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students who are already graduates from the Practical Nursing program in Owens Community College and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 will also get 2 bonus points on the admission tally form.
The LPN Standardized Testing to Evaluate Preparedness (STEP) is a pre-admissions test with eight topics based on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) test plan and can be taken at either of the Owens Community College campuses.
School of Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate Program
Practicing Nursing graduates can take this program to prepare for various nursing positions in healthcare vicinities.
To apply, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra. If students are already college graduates, then they need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0, as well.
Students also need to have a Nurse Aid Training Program certificate in order to apply for this program and complete the TEAS test with a minimum score of 50% in each of the available categories.
During the program, students will also have to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.
State-Tested Nurse Assistant Training Course (STNA)
This training program prepares students for the Ohio State Testing and Competency Evaluation Program and is mandatory for nurse assistants in Ohio who want to work in long-term healthcare.
In general STNAs provide assistance to patients and work while being supervised by licensed nurses. Some of their responsibilities include basic personal care and nursing skills, like making beds and helping with meals, bathing, grooming, positioning, dressing and walking. They also provide licensed nurses with important information.
At the moment, this training course doesn’t qualify for financial aid, though.
Contact:
Owens Community College
3200 Bright Road,
Findlay, OH 45840
FORTIS College in Centerville Nursing Program Review
Formerly called RETS College, Fortis College in Centerville is a modern institution located on nine acres of Centerville, Ohio, where all of the labs and classes take place. Fortis College provides various diploma programs and associate degree programs for distance education to accommodate the needs of their students every year.
Fortis College has campuses all over the country, including Atlanta, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia.
The school has been accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), and the Accrediting Commission of the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).
Fortis College Centerville – Nursing
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, South Carolina, Indiana, Virginia and Utah. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.
This program is ideal for students who are just starting out in the field of nursing, as well as students who want to advance their Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) careers. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.
Practical Nursing (PN) Program
This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, Arizona, Virginia and Pennsylvania. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.
This program is ideal for students who want to become PNs and consists of hands-on experience in clinical environments. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become practical nurses with licenses.
Other Nursing Programs
Although unavailable at the Centerville campus of Fortis College, the school also offers other nursing programs, such as the following:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated Program)
This program is only available in the Florida campuses of Fortis College and students who are already nurses with a BSN can keep working at hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, nursing care facilities and schools while studying. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.
PN-RN Associated Degree Bridge Program
This program is only available in the Nashville, Tennessee campus of Fortis College. PNs who want to advance their careers can take this program, as can career-minded LPNs who cannot attend other programs due to work. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.
Vocational Nursing
This program is only available in the Texas campuses of Fortis College. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become vocational nurses, as well as the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
Contact:
Fortis College Centerville
555 E Alex Bell Road,
Centerville, OH 45459
Urbana University Nursing School Review
Urbana University (UU) was founded in 1850. Although placed in a relatively small college campus altogether, it is very proud to have a liberal arts education on offer that focuses more on individual attention for each student and closer connections with the faculty members.
Urbana University – College of Nursing
This program has been at Urbana University since 2003 and is affiliated with the Springfield Regional School of Nursing. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the Ohio Board of Regents and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program exists to prepare students for nursing practices where they can serve their community in terms of healthcare as nursing professionals, managers and leaders.
To apply, students will need to have a valid registered nurse (RN) license and a valid CPR certification. They will also need to get a background check, an immunization validation, a TB screening and a health assessment done.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program builds on what Urbana University’s BSN program has to offer and focuses on more advanced teachings of nursing practice, research, and theory. It includes two different tracks: Nursing Education and Nursing Administration.
Classes
Although Urbana University does have several online courses on offer, it sadly does not have an online nursing course on offer. Because of this, all students who wish to take nursing at Urbana University should be prepared to visit the school to finish their degree.
What makes Urbana University stand out from the rest of other colleges out there is the fact that you will get the proper attention that you deserve. Despite the fact that the university is big enough to provide various highly sought-after study programs, each class is small enough to provide students with proper individualized attention.
The campus itself can be found in Urbana, Ohio, providing a safe, small and convenient location of learning. It is also very close to Columbus and Dayton, Ohio.
There are many students that are currently attending Urbana University, creating a very diverse student population that is highly involved in varsity athletics, performing arts, student activities and club sports.
Aside from that, Urbana University is known to be one of the most affordable options for continuing educations. This is partly because their students can apply for scholarships, depending on their talents in performing arts, academics and athletics.
Financial Aid
Students at Urbana University all follow the university’s mission while working with one another, with the school, and with the rules of the government. The university provides great financial to those in need to help them reach their goals in education and in their careers.
The financial aid department in Urbana University helps their students find, get and take full advantage of all of their financial resources. They also provide top-notch guidance and service with respect, empathy and sensitivity to all of their students’ families.
Contact:
Urbana University
579 College Way,
Urbana, OH 43078
Ursuline College Nursing Program Review
Mother Mary of the Annunciation Beaumont founded Ursuline College (UC) in 1871 because she realized that women needed a proper form of higher learning. This is how the first women’s college came about in both Ohio and the United States, in general.
Ursuline College – The Breen School of Nursing
This program has been at Ursuline College ever since 1975. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degrees
BSN Program
To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum high school GPA of 2.75, a minimum composite ACT score of 20 or a minimum SAT score of 1000, and a minimum grade of C+ in algebra I, biology and chemistry.
For students who already have college credit, they will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a recommendation letter and proof of having been a former nursing student.
Accelerated/Second Degree BSN Program
This 15-month-long program exists for second-degree students who already have baccalaureate degrees and want to pursue one in nursing. It includes every course required for the regular BSN program, but can be finished in a shorter span of time.
To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the sciences within the last seven years. All prerequisite courses will need to be taken before the semester begins.
Graduates will get a BSN degree and will be able to take the National Certified Licensing Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nursing (RN).
RN – BSN Program
This program exists to suit any student’s personal and professional schedules by giving students the chance to take their courses online or as hybrid courses as needed. Students with prior learning can also earn a maximum of 39 credits.
To apply for this program, students will need to have a diploma and complete the entire application process. Registered nurses will generally need to complete 19 nursing hours and 30 hours of other courses.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Students who take this program will need to complete 26 hours of core courses. After that, they will have to choose a track or subspecialty that suits their educational needs. Their choices include Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Palliative Care or Nursing Education. They can also take Post Master’s Certifications, if they wish.
To apply, students will need to submit their official transcripts and prove that they have completed a baccalaureate nursing program. Aside from that, they also need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0, three recommendation letters, a valid Ohio RN license, and a minimum of a year’s experience working as an RN. If requested, they will need to complete an interview with a faculty member or program director, as well.
Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Program
ANPs provide independent or team care and they focus on disease prevention, health maintenance, patient education and counseling. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
FNPs incorporate the coursework of ANPs and help students get ready to provide primary health care to people of every age. This program takes 43 credit hours to complete.
Palliative Care Subspecialty Concentration
Palliative care provides therapies that are meant to support and comfort patients of different religions, beliefs, cultures, traditions and values who have fatal diseases. This program takes 24 credit hours to complete.
Nursing Education
This subspecialty exists for students who want to be an ANP or FNP. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.
Post Master’s Certification
Any student who finishes an MSN track can get a post master’s certificate for their track of choice. To do this, they will simply need to take the associated courses and complete certain advanced core courses.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
This program is relatively new and opened in 2010. It exists for students who have an MSN and want to become leaders in the field through doctoral level education.
To apply for this program, students will need to have a valid resume, a valid RN license for Ohio, and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit any official transcripts and two recommendation letters.
Contact:
Ursuline College
2550 Lander Road,
Pepper Pike, OH 44124
Walsh University Nursing School Review
Seven founding Brothers once had the vision to create a college campus out of 50 acres of alfalfa and this vision of theirs came true in 1960 when they opened Walsh College. Now known as Walsh University (WU), this Catholic college continues to grow with more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees currently available.
Walsh University – School of Nursing
This program prepares students to work as a registered nurse (RN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Undergraduate Degrees
Nursing (Pre-Licensure)
This program takes four years to complete and students can be admitted in two different ways. They can either directly admitted due to a scholarship or can be admitted as pre-nursing majors.
In order to continue in this nursing major, students will need to complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
RN – BSN School for Professional Studies Option for the RN
This program exists for RNs who already have associate degrees and want to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This flexible option is ideal for students who want to study no a part-time or full-time basis.
Accelerated BSN
This second-degree program exists for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but want to become nurses.
To apply for this program, students will need to have a bachelor’s degree and meet all of the admission requirements of Walsh University. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all prerequisite courses. Students might need to have an interview with the committee of the School of Nursing before being admitted to the program.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program prepares post-baccalaureate RNs for advanced careers in the following tracks: Academic Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Leader. Both of these programs are mainly offered online, so that busy nurses can complete their requirements at their utmost ease and convenience.
To apply for this program, students will need to complete the admission application, the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and a statistics course. They will also need to have a valid RN license, a valid resume and a minimum of a year’s working experience in nursing. Aside from that, students will need to submit all of their official transcripts, a personal essay and two recommendation letters. They will also need to have an interview with the committee of the program.
Academic Nurse Educator
This track started in 2005 and the primary roles that these educators eventually fulfill are those of teacher, collaborator and scholar.
To complete this track, students will need to complete 39 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 16 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 310 clinical hours.
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
To complete this track, students will need to complete 36 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 13 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 480 clinical hours.
Online Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree
This program prepares students for a masters degree in healthcare while following Judeo-Christian values at the same time. The online format exists of small classes that encourage student participation and assure personalized attention. It also includes important opportunities for hands-on learning.
Contact:
Walsh University
2020 East Maple Street,
North Canton, OH 44720
Wright State University Nursing School Review
Wright State University (WSU) is responsible for starting the very first baccalaureate nursing program within Dayton, Ohio.
Wright State University – College of Nursing and Health
This program has been fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program takes four years to complete and prepares students for a lot of different careers in various healthcare settings.
To apply, students will need to complete the admission application and submit their official transcripts. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and take the admission assessment exam at Wright State University. Aside from that, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75.
Graduates will be able to take the National Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
ADENA Cohort Program
This program also takes four years to complete and is dedicated to students who would rather finish their courses in Chillicothe, Ohio instead of in Dayton, Ohio.
RN – BSN Completion Program
RNs who already have associate degrees in nursing can take this flexible program to accommodate their regular work schedules.
To apply, students will need to complete the admission application, as well as all of the prerequisite courses for Wright State University. They will also need to have a valid RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Baccalaureate Education Accelerates Career Opportunities in Nursing (BEACON) Program
This accelerated program takes 24 months to complete and exists for college graduates who want to become nurses. The courses in this program are offered both face-to-face and online, or in hybrid mode, and consists of 5 graduate nursing courses.
To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and complete all of the prerequisite courses. Conversely, to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
Master of Science in Nursing (MS) Program
This program prepares nurses for advanced courses in various specialty tracks, including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administration, School Nursing, Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Leader.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
This track needs to be completed within 5 years, though students can either enroll as full-time students or part-time students. It also takes 52.5 credit hours and 500 clinical hours to complete and consist various subspecialties, as seen below.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and at least two years of full-time experience as RNs. They will also need to complete and submit a statement of goals along with their college transcripts.
Graduates will be able to sit for advanced practice certification exams.
Healthcare Administration
This track includes courses on human resource management, strategic planning and financial management and includes creative practicum opportunities.
School Nursing
This track takes 59 credit hours to complete and consists of both clinical and classroom experiences.
To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid CPR certification tand a valid RN license for Ohio. They will also need to submit all of their college transcripts and a statement of goals.
Graduates will be able to sit for the school nurse licensure exam.
Family Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioners provide general healthcare in a lot of different settings to people of different ages. This track can either be taken in class or online.
To apply, students will need to submit a valid resume, a meaningful essay, two recommendation letters, and a statement of goals. They will also need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum of a year’s full-time experience in nursing and go through a personal interview.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
This tracks prepares advanced entails nurses to provide care for infants and children up to 21 years old.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, at least a year’s full-time experience in nursing, and a PALS certification. They will also need to complete a basic course for physical assessment.
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Through this track, students will be prepared to become clinical leaders at unit levels and to manage and create unit-based healthcare microsystems.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license in Ohio, and 1-2 years of clinical experience as an RN. They will also need to submit a statement of goals.
Bridge Program
Students with associates degrees in nursing can take this track to enter the master’s program in nursing earlier than usual.
To apply, students will need to have a nursing diploma, an RN license and a baccalaureate degree. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
This program takes 36 credit hours and 520 clinical hours to complete and is also offered as a part-time program.
Contact:
Wright State University
160 University Hall,
3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.,
Dayton, OH 45435
Xavier University Nursing School Review
Xavier University (XU) was founded in 1831 as Jesuit-Catholic college. To date, it has three colleges, in general, and is known to be one of the few Jesuit universities in the country.
Xavier University – Nursing
This program began in 1995 and is now accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Undergraduate Nursing
To apply to undergraduate nursing programs at Xavier University, students will need to complete high school chemistry first. They will also need to submit all of their official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70. To stay in the program, students will need to maintain this same GPA, as well.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This holistic, community-based program educates its students in communication, cooperation and coordination with various other healthcare experts. This program takes four years to complete.
Graduates will be allowed to take the holistic nurse certification examination.
BSN – MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Honors Program
This program allows graduating senior students to finish their master’s degree with a CNL track in just one year. To apply, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20.
Graduate Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses
This would be the entry program that students need to take to become registered nurses in the end.
Educational Mobility Option
Students can take this option to enter the MSN program if they already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.
RN to MSN
This program exists for RNs who already have experience in the nursing field but do not have a bachelor’s degree yet. Through this program, they can get an MSN faster.
However, to apply, students will need to have at least two years of full-time RN work experience, and a great academic record. This program takes 18 semester hours to complete.
Graduates will be allowed to move into graduate programs if they complete this program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00.
Dual Degree Program – MSN/MBA
To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.
Dual Degree Program – MSN/MEd
This program takes 54 credit hours to complete and prepares students to teach and administer in various educational settings.
To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.
Dual Degree Program – MSN/MSCJ
This program takes 46 credit hours to complete.
To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.
Graduates will get two different degrees upon completion of this program: the MSN and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice.
Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration
This concentration will prepare nurses to become advanced generalists that can provide nursing care at the actual point of care. This concentration takes 43 credit hours to complete and can be taken part-time or full-time.
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time experience in nursing.
Post Master’s Certificate Programs
MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
This certificate program is open to licensed RNs who already have an MSN. It usually takes 4 semesters and 21 credit hours to complete on a part-time basis.
Graduates will be able to take the certificate exam to become CNLs.
Contact:
Xavier University
3800 Victory Parkway,
Cincinnati, OH 45207
Youngstown State University Nursing School Review
Youngstown State University (YSU) has a ton of programs for students to choose from in seven different colleges: the Beeghly College of Education, the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, the College of Fine and Performing Arts, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of STEM, the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and the Williamson College of Business Administration.
Youngstown State University – Department of Nursing
This department maintains only the best standards in nursing and has so far prepared a ton of professional nurses that are well-qualified in the field.
This department has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Generic Track
Students who wish to get a BSN degree have two tracks to choose from at Youngstown State University. This generic track exists for students who do not have any diplomas yet.
This program takes 127 semester hours to complete, 71 of which are nursing hours. It also includes 960 clinical hours and 90 on-campus laboratory hours. In general, this program can be completed in 8 semester if students take at least 14 hours each semester.
To apply, students will need to have completed the required pre-nursing courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.80. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in all of their other college work.
Graduates will need to have completed all of the necessary baccalaureate nursing courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
RN/BSN Completion Track (for current RNs)
A registered nurse (RN) who already has a diploma can take this track in order to help their career grow more. Any previous education of up to 44 semester hours can be awarded to RNs who have successfully completed their first three courses in nursing.
To apply, students need to have a CPR certification, a valid RN license in Ohio or be graduates of an approved program in nursing. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
School Nurse Licensure (Certificate)
This certificate program helps students build on their undergraduate education and turn them into effective members in the professional community at school. This program takes 18 credit hours and 300 practicum hours to complete.
To apply, students need to have an RN license in Ohio.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses
This program exists for nurses with baccalaureate degrees and strong foundations in making decisions, thinking critically and practicing nursing, in general. There are three tracks to this program, including clinical nursing, school nursing, and nurse anesthesia.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license, and a valid CPR certificate. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite undergraduate courses and submit their GRE scores, official college transcripts, a letter of intent and three reference letters.
Graduates will be able to take the national certification examinations to practice as advanced practice nurses.
Contact:
Youngstown State University
One University Plaza,
Youngstown, OH 44555
