Cedar Crest College Nursing Program Review

Cedar Crest College (CCC) is a private women’s college based in Allentown, Pennsylvania that awards bachelor’s through master’s degrees and certificates.  The college was founded in 1867 and though it has retained its status as a women’s college, evening classes are open to male students. Twenty-seven countries and 20 states are represented in Cedar Crest College’s 1,400+ students. Cedar Crest College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Nursing Programs

The BSN (Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing) and MSN (Master’s of Science in Nursing) programs at Cedar Crest College are NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission) accredited.   

Cedar Crest College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

BS (Bachelor’s of Science) with Nursing Major

The BSN degree prepares students for work as an entry-level nurse with the preferred entry-level baccalaureate qualification. After completing the 123 credit program in approximately four years of study, nurses qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The NCLEX-RN is the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses which every nurse must pass to qualify for practice. Graduates of Cedar Crest College have above average pass rates on the exam. LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and RNs (Registered Nurses) may take qualifying exams to earn credit towards the BSN program based on study in previous degree programs. There is a separate degree completion program for RNs.

BSN for RNs

Ideal for RNs (Registered Nurses) seeking better career opportunities and a foundation for graduate education in nursing, the RN to BSN program is specifically designed with experienced RNs in mind. RNs are admitted to the program without testing. Admission requirements for the RN to BSN program include licensure to practice as an RN in Pennsylvania, a minimum GPA of 2.5 in previous coursework and graduation from a nursing program or 1,000 hours of work experience within the past three years. Nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program approved by the state board.

Nursing Double Major and Minor Options

Students in the nursing major have the option of selecting an academic minor in fields such as Gerontology, School Nursing and Health Management. The minor programs range from an additional 17 to 20 credits. Nursing students also have the option of pursing a double major in nursing such, such as psychology or art therapy.

Cedar Crest College Graduate Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Nursing Education and Nursing Administration are the two MSN specializations offered at Cedar Crest College. The MSN program is based on the evidence-based practice model, and MSN students are required to complete an evidence based practice project. Students attend the program one night weekly, thus allowing most working nurses to maintain their professional schedule. The MSN program can be completed in two years.

Cedar Crest College Nursing Certificate Programs

School Nurse Certificate

The School Nurse certificate program is composed of 8 core units. To be admitted to the program, students must have a 2.5 GPA, a bachelor’s degree, and at least one year of experience as an RN. Upon completion of the program, students can register for and complete School Nurse Certification.

Contact:
Cedar Crest College
100 College Drive,
Allentown, PA 18104