BSN Programs in Georgia
There are just under 20 different nursing schools in Georgia that are in our database and have Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing programs, with a total of 18 universities with BSN programs.
Atlanta is a major airport hub, and also home to the most nurses in the state.
Below are some featured online BSN or BS of healthcare programs, which you can get in touch with directly by clicking the “MORE INFO” button. These programs are currently accepting applicants and are 100% online. Following our featured list is the entire list of all nursing schools in Georgia.
Full List of BSN Programs in Georgia
Featured BSN programs accepting Georgia applicants
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Campus-based programs in Georgia
Albany State University
504 College Dr, Albany, GA 31705
Prior to submitting an application to the nursing department for the generic BSN, students must have taken at least 31 credit hours of the university core curriculum. Such include anatomy, physiology, English, science, microbiology among others. These must be completed with an overall GPA of 2.7 or better and with a grade of “C” or higher. Students must also take the university’s standardized entrance exams.
Unlike in other nursing schools, Albany nursing program has some general education courses taken along with the major nursing courses even at junior and senior level. The program takes 9 semesters to complete: 8 regular and 1 summer semester. The university honors program is open to enrich the experiences of bright students. Students enjoy scholarship opportunities and extracurricular activities while in the honors program.
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Armstrong Atlantic State University
11935 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31419
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree has a curriculum designed to prepare entry-level students take the NLCEX-RN exam. Students must first be admitted in the university and take core curriculum courses equivalent to 54 credit hours. Such courses must have an average GPA of 3.0 or better. The nursing program is a very competitive and is a limited access program hence a 2nd application to the department of nursing must be submitted after completion of the above mentioned credits. Selection of students to the major is based on nursing prerequisite GPA, an entrance exam (reading and writing), TEAS scores and total number of credits taken from the university catalog. Admissions occur twice annually for fall and spring semesters. The university also runs the Rho Si chapter of Sigma Theta Tau.
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Brenau University
500 Washington St, S. East Gainesville, GA 30501
The traditional pre-licensure BSN program has full time and part time study plans to cater for the needs of working undergraduate students. It is offered at the Gainesville campus after the merging of the university and Hall School of nursing. It is offered in two options: a full time option is offered at the Women’s college while a part time option is offered at the Weekend/evening College. Interested students must first complete university core courses and pre-nursing courses prior to applying to the major. Admission into the major is competitive and requires a minimum GPA of 2.75 on all nursing core courses and prior college work. It is a competitive nursing major designed to be completed in 5 semesters of 2 years: 4 regular and a summer session. Total completion period for students admitted as freshman is four years.
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Clayton State University
2000 Clayton State Blvd, Morrow, GA 30260
Admission in the BSN nursing is separate from admission into the university for lower division courses. Clayton has a lower division program whereby students take prerequisites and university core courses. Completion of these courses does not guarantee students admission into the nursing major. However, freshmen students who qualify for the university honors programs are guaranteed a spot in the nursing major if they meet the minimum requirements of admission in the school of nursing. University core curriculum must be completed with an overall GPA of 2.5 to be eligible for the major in addition to taking TEAS pre-entrance exam. New students are admitted in two annual cohorts in fall and spring. For students who wish to increase their employability, the university offers an option for double majors in the BSN and Health Care Management.
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Columbus State University
4225 University Ave, Columbus, GA 31907
General admission to the university and taking the general degree requirements is the first step towards applying for the basic nursing baccalaureate degree. Students admitted in the university complete courses in all the 5 areas A-E of general university courses. These categories include social sciences, math/technology/science, humanities/arts/ethics, essential skills and institutional options. All general education courses required for a nursing degree are used to calculate the overall GPA which must not fall below 2.75. Students with a maximum of 9 credit hours pending can still apply to the nursing department and take the outstanding credits after acceptance in the program. This is a limited access program and accepts students once annually for the fall semester start date. There are two slots for ROTC scholarships reserved for the BSN class.
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Emory University
1520 NE. Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322
The Bachelor of nursing science at Emory extends over 4 years and is divided into two parts. Part one of the program is designed for high school graduates to complete general education courses preferably at Emory and Oxford College though courses from accredited colleges will be accepted. Part two comprises of nursing and clinical courses and all students who meet admission requirements for the school of nursing are guaranteed progression. TEAS scores and minimum GPA of 3.0 are required to determine progression into the major. The major starts every fall semester.
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Georgia College and State University
231 Hancock St, Milledgeville, GA 31061
Students interested in the basic nursing degree program must first apply to the university and be accepted on a pre-nursing status. Pre-nursing status does not guarantee students a place in the major hence a supplemental application is needed. During this program, students take liberal arts and general education courses. Admission to the 2 year nursing major program is limited and very competitive. Admission criteria are based on GPA from earlier courses (minimum of 2.75), SAT/ACT scores, TEAS scores and Regents admission exam. The school of nursing has a Pre-nursing Residential Learning Community program designed for interested freshmen. Student who complete this program are unlike other students guaranteed of a spot in the major provided they remain active members and complete their pre-nursing courses with a grade “C” or better.
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Georgia Health Sciences University
1120 St. Sebastian Way, Augusta, GA 30912
GHSU offers only an upper division program of the nursing bachelors degree. This means that students have no option of completing lower division degree requirements onsite at the university. Instead, all students seeking the BSN must complete pre-nursing courses in accredited colleges of their choice. Nearing the end of the sophomore year, students can apply for transfer admission to GHSU. Applicants must have attained a minimum GPA of 2.80 for pre-nursing courses eligible for transfer in addition to submitting SAT-480/ACT 18 scores and a personal statement. Volunteer experience working as a shadow of a registered nurses is a plus during selection. There are numerous nursing scholarship programs available which are facilitated by the college of nursing.
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Georgia Southern University
1332 Southern Dr, Statesboro, GA 30458
Choosing BSN degree training at Georgia Southern University offers you a chance to study in one of the most scenic universities in the country. Freshmen need to be admitted first in the university and then to the school of nursing. General admission into the university is meant for students to complete prerequisite nursing courses required for the major. Such course categories include social sciences, essential skill, math/science/technology, humanities/ethics and institutional options. These must be completed with an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. If this requirement is met, students can apply for the Admission Assessment exam (A2). The applications are exclusively done and submitted online together with a standardized essay for the fall and spring admission cycles. Bright students can take the challenge and apply for university honors program.
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Georgia Southwestern State University
800 University Dr, Americus, GA 31709
The traditional BSN is one of the 4 ways in which students can earn a bachelor degree at GSSU. This NLNAC accredited program is designed for both freshmen and transfer students. Freshmen are first admitted in the university to fulfill the general requirements for nursing courses. Completion of these courses does not guarantee students admission in the nursing program. To be eligible for the next two years of the professional program, students must earn an overall GPA of 2.8 on prerequisites courses taken in the first 2 years. TEAS exam scores, a personal interview, patterns of course withdrawals and grades of science courses also form part of the selection process. Students may be given full admission if all criteria is met or conditional acceptance if all admission requirements are not met. There is a special Guaranteed Acceptance Program designed for select high school graduates interested in the BSN. This program allows students with exceptional GPA, ACT/SAT to obtain acceptance in the BSN just before graduating. Applications for this consideration are open for fall semester while the regular track accepts new student every fall and spring semesters.
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Georgia State University
141 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta GA 30302
Right at the heart of downtown Atlanta, Georgia State University offers students an urban and research based setting to complete a traditional BS with a major in nursing. This program is subdivided into phases. In the first phase, general admission into the university is required for which students are admitted to complete program prerequisites. If these are completed with an average GPA of 2.8, students can proceed to make another application to the school of nursing. TEAS pre-admission scores and TOEFL are also required during selection if students are not native English speakers in the case of the latter. New students are accepted in the 3-years full time professional phase for fall and spring admission cycles. Academically talented can enjoy numerous benefits if they apply and get accepted in the honors college.
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Kennesaw State University
100 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, GA 30144
During admission into the university as a freshman, students must declare their interest in the nursing BSN major. This enables students to take the correct general educations required for the nursing degree. The nursing program requires a supplemental application separate from the university admission. To be eligible for the second application, at least 7 out of the 12 pre-nursing courses must have been completed with an overall GPA of 2.7 or better. A TEAS pre-admission test must also be taken to facilitate selection. Classes for the major start every fall and spring semesters and take 5 semesters to complete: 4 regular and 1 summer semester. Extraordinarily bright students can seek membership into the university honors program.
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LaGrange College
601 Broad St, LaGrange, GA 30240
With its affiliation to the united Methodist Church, the university promotes spirituality nurturing in all its activities. Its 4 year BSN program accepts students once every fall semester for a 4 year progression plan. The plan has two parts whereby the first one is admission into the university to take general university and non-nursing support courses. The freshman and sophomore years are exclusively reserved for these courses. The second part is the nursing major course sequence designed for students who have satisfactorily met the BSN admission criteria. The entire program is designed to take 8 regular semester and 4 short summer sessions for completion of elective courses. Interested and excelling students can apply for induction at the Phi Theta chapter of Sigma Theta Tau honor society.
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Macon State College-Macon
100 College Station DR, Macon, GA 31206
Only students who start at Macon as freshmen are eligible for the traditional nursing BS degree. Following the fall freshman admission at Macon, students take core courses from the pre-licensure curriculum. By the end of this section of the program, students must have maintained a minimum GPA of 2.5 on all college work and 3.0 GPA on all courses of the nursing curriculum. The program has limited access and admission is selective and competitive. The Regents test in addition to the TEAS test is required prior to making an application for the major. Clinical and practical courses are reserved for the third and fourth years. Following completion of all degree requirements, students also become eligible to take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.
Mercer University
3001 Mercer University Dr, Atlanta, GA 30341
A 4-year pre-licensure track of the Bachelor of nursing science is offered at the Cecil B campus-Atlanta. The track comprises of 8 semesters divided into two parts: the prerequisites courses phase and the professional nursing phase. This is one of the few programs where students do not need separate application for the university and the school of nursing. During the pre-nursing period, students take liberal arts and major support courses. Each course is considered complete if the respective ATI test for the course is completed. After completing this package of about 57 credit hours, students can proceed to take the next 64 credits in nursing courses. The college will start offering nursing courses at their Macon campus by 2013. New students for the pre-licensure track are admitted once annually for classes starting fall semester.
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Piedmont College
165 Central Ave, Demorest, GA 30535
The undergraduate nursing bachelors program at Piedmont is one of the only two nursing programs offered by the school of nursing. This pre-licensure track is designed to take 4-academic years. The freshman and sophomore years have a curriculum comprised of general education courses that serve as a foundation for the nursing clinical courses. Clinical courses are reserved for the junior and senior years. Focus is geared towards community health issues. The program is offered at the Demorest campus and has fall, summer and spring admission cycles.
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Shorter University
20 Riverbend Mall, Rome, GA 30161
Shorter university has a baccalaureate degree nursing program designed to prepare students for initial licensure as registered nurses. Students considering taking a nursing major should enroll at Shorter University for prerequisite courses. Students enrolled at Shorter for pre-nursing courses will be given preference over transfer students during selection for the nursing major. Admission to the BSN major is selective, limited and competitive and is based on the number of credits taken at Shorter, overall GPA and GPA of English, Math and Biology courses. The overall GPA needs to be 2.8 or better. There is an only one admission cycle for classes beginning fall semester. Between the junior and senior years, students must attend a mandatory 4-week Study Abroad program which is a requirement for graduation.
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University of West Georgia
1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118
The university offers the BSN pre-licensure program at two campuses: main campus at Carrollton and the Newnan campus. Freshman students are admitted every summer semester to complete prerequisite nursing coursework in 6 areas of general university courses. A second application for the major should be done if students have attained an overall GPA of 2.75 or better on the first batch of courses. Selection is competitive and depends on GPA scores, number of courses taken at the university and residency in Coweta County. The program at Carrollton takes 6 semesters of full time study to complete while the Newnan campus takes 8 semesters with options of part time study. Academically bright students can apply for induction in the Pi Nu chapter of Sigma Theta Tau.
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Valdosta State University
1500 N. Patterson St, Valdosta, GA 31698
Students wishing to pursue the BS in nursing degree at the university must first get admitted in the university to take the BSN core curriculum. Students must complete all prerequisites courses with a minimum GPA of 2.8 to be eligible to apply for the nursing program. TEAS test scores at or above the national average are also required during selection. In total, the program takes 4 years to complete for those who start as freshmen at Valdosta: 2 years for the 60-credit core curriculum and 2 years for the 60 credit nursing curriculum.
Georgia Highlands College Nursing School Review
Georgia Highlands College (GHC) is based in Rome, Georgia and enrolls over 5,000 students annually. Georgia Highlands College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Though it was founded in 1970 as a 2-year college, the college is now a four-year institution.
Despite the fact that it is a small institution, Georgia Highlands College offers athletic programs for women and men including basketball, softball and baseball.
Nursing Degree Programs
The Nursing Program at Georgia Highlands College began in 1971 and graduated its first class of over 25 students two years later. The Nursing Department is housed under the Division of Health Sciences of Georgia Highlands College. The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program at Georgia Highlands College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Georgia Highlands College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
RN Program (Registered Nurse)
The RN Program at Georgia Highlands College prepares students for an entry level career in nursing. The program can normally be completed in two years. Upon completion of the program, Georgia Highlands College awards an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN, also called ADN). Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam, NCLEX-RN, to become RNs (Registered Nurses). Admission requirements to the nursing program include a minimum SAT score of 830 (no exceptions are made), completion of general education courses, and a minimum GPA of 2.5. Students who take the ACT standardized test may submit these scores to have them converted to SAT scores. Students with a bachelors degree who apply to the program are exempt from the SAT requirement.
LPN and Paramedic Career Mobility Program Hybrid Option
The Career Mobility Option is an ASN program for LPNs and Paramedics who desire to earn the RN qualification while working. The program offers a hybrid option, which means students will complete courses online and in-person. The two programs, LPN to RN Bridge and Paramedic to RN Bridge are listed below.
LPN-RN Bridge
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are eligible to complete the RN degree in less time than students without a healthcare background. The LPN to RN program is limited access; meaning that not every student that applies to the program is admitted. Admission requirements include a 2.5 GPA, SAT score of 830 or better, a TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) score and at least 1000 hours of clinical experience as an LPN.
Paramedic-RN Bridge
The Paramedic to RN Bridge program allows paramedics to complete the RN program in three semesters instead of two years. Admission requirements to the program include a GPA of 2.5 or higher, a TEAS test score, SAT scores and at least 1000 hours of clinical experience as a paramedic.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program)
The RN to BSN program at Georgia Highlands College is designed to provide RNs an opportunity to learn and develop skills necessary to perform as fully competent nurses in healthcare settings. Students will learn valuable skills such as communication and decision making as part of their nursing career. Admission requirements include holding a valid RN license.
Georgia Highlands College Highlands Association of Nursing Students (HANS)
HANS is the nursing student association for students of Georgia Highlands College and the nursing department encourages all students to become involved. In addition to facilitating professional development opportunities, students will gain valuable leadership skills through holding one of several officer roles in the club. Through these roles, students can gain experience that may translate to their nursing careers by affording the opportunity to learn leadership and responsibility. Available leadership positions include Public Relations, Community Service, Legislative, Secretary, President and Vice-President roles.
Contact:
Georgia Highlands College
25 Courthouse Road
Dallas, GA 30132
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Contact:
Georgia Highlands College – Floyd Campus
3175 Cedartown Highway, S.E.
Rome, Georgia 30161-3897
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Georgia Perimeter College Nursing School Review
Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) enrolls over 25,000 students annually. The college is accredited by the Commission on College, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Georgia Perimeter College is a 2 year college founded in 1964. The college has five locations in addition to Decatur including Alpharetta, Clarkston, Dunwoody and Newton.
Nursing Degree Programs
The ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing) program at Georgia Perimeter College is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Georgia Perimeter College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing Program- Generic Track
The ASN program at Georgia Perimeter College prepares nurses to take the NCLEX-RN to become RNs (Registered Nurses) in less time than traditional BSN programs by omitting courses in nursing theory. Students who desire a practical role in nursing will find the ASN program at Georgia Perimeter College ideal. Upon completion of all prerequisites, the nursing program can normally be completed in four semesters.
Competitive admission is a factor in the Georgia Perimeter College nursing program and GPAs are influential in admission decisions. Students need only complete one biology prerequisite course before applying to the program though taking all general education courses is recommended. Other admission criteria include a TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) score, 2.7 GPA in nursing prerequisite courses, a 2.0 GPA overall and eligibility for college level math and English (not remedial level college courses).
LPN to RN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse) Bridge Track
Students with a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification may apply for the LPN to RN Bridge track that allows LPNs to earn an ASN in less time than a student without a nursing background. The program can be completed in 3 semesters. Students attend a clinical on campus once a week, as well as a class on campus once each week. Admission requirements include the TEAS test and a letter from the employer stating employment duties and a performance evaluation.
Georgia Perimeter College Nursing Scholarships
Nursing students currently enrolled in a program at Georgia Perimeter College are eligible to apply for a nursing scholarship. Over 5 scholarships are offered and requirements vary. In genera, students must have a GPA of 2.5 to receive a scholarship, though requirements may be as high as a 3.0. Financial need is a factor for consideration. Students are required to submit a report of their financial aid situation, the SAR (Student Aid Report), which details any financial aid received. In addition, students should submit a statement outlining their financial need. In some cases, involvement in nursing activities or a recommendation from an instructor is required.
Georgia Perimeter College Tutorial Lab
The Tutorial Lab at Georgia Perimeter College offers private and group tutoring options in nursing-specific and general education areas. Students may go to the tutorial lab for assistance without a referral. The tutorial lab services are completely free and include hands on learning tools. Specific assistance in microbiology, anatomy, pharmacology and math skills for medical professionals is available.
Contact:
Georgia Perimeter College
3251 Panthersville Road
Decatur, Georgia 30034-3832
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Georgia Southern University Nursing School Review
Georgia Southern University (GSU) is a 4-year university based in Statesboro, Georgia. The Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Georgia Southern University. The university enrolls over 19,000 students and awards bachelor’s through doctoral degrees and certificates and was founded in 1906.
Students at Georgia Southern University can enjoy student life by walking around the scenic campus complete with ponds and a variety of plant life, participating one of several Division I sports teams or visiting nearby historic Savannah, Georgia.
Nursing Degree Programs
The Georgia Southern University School of Nursing is part of the College of Health and Professional Studies. Though a young program founded in 1995, the School of Nursing is a common choice among students seeking nursing education in Georgia. Philosophy of the School of Nursing includes accepting theory, evidence and research based practice, and using a student-centered approach. Georgia Southern University offers certificate through doctoral degree programs for students and nurses at all levels of their academic and professional career. Nursing programs at Georgia Southern University are approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The LPN program is also accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Georgia Southern University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Students interested in earning a BSN at Georgia Southern University must first apply to the nursing program and obtain acceptance to the program after completing program pre-requisites. Admission to the program is competitive and in order to be considered for admission students should attend an information session, complete the HESI A2 nursing entrance exam, hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and earn a “C” or better in specified nursing courses. The program can normally be completed in 4 semesters. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, National Council for Licensure Certification Exam for Registered Nurses.
LPN-BSN Program (Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The LPN to BSN program gives LPNs with an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) with the opportunity to earn a BSN that builds on their previous health care knowledge and experience. Admission requirements for the program include an LPN qualification from a program in Georgia, Georgia RN license and a minimum of one year of experience as an LPN within the past five years.
RN-BSN Online Nursing Program (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Admission requirements to the RN to BSN program include an overall 3.0 GPA, proof of RN License, and fulfillment of requirements in the Georgia RN-BSN articulation model. Students with a 2.7 GPA may be accepted on a provisional basis, which requires them to earn a “B” or better in the first six hours of coursework to remain in the program. There are two deadlines for the program, so students should be mindful to submit applications by either date as late applications are not reviewed. The program can generally be completed in four semesters and is completely online. Students are not required to attend a clinical practicum in-person.
Georgia Southern University Graduate Nursing Programs
Graduate Nursing programs at Georgia Southern University have consistently ranked in the top 15 nursing programs in the country by U.S. News and World Report.
RN to MSN Online Program
The RN to MSN degree program earns nurses both a BSN and MSN degree. The program is completed partly online as the BSN is 100% online and portions of the MSN require on-site attendance. Students can choose from a concentration as an FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) or Community Health CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist).
Students complete all admission and course requirements for the RN-BSN. Upon meeting those requirements and taking the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) or MAT (Miller Analogies Test), students apply for admission to the RN-MSN portion of the program.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing Program)
The MSN program at Georgia Southern University is offered in two specializations, FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) and Community Health CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist). Both programs prepare the nurse to take a certification exam in their specialty area upon graduation. Admission requirements to the MSN program including a BSN from a program accredited by a nursing body, Georgia RN license (other states are not accepted), interview and an undergraduate statistics course. The GPA requirement is 3.0, and students must take the MAT (Miller Analogies Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Exam) with a score of 44 and 450 on each section respectively. Students may be accepted to the program provisionally with a 2.7 GPA and scores of 36 and 350 on each section for the MAT and GRE respectively. Special accommodations may be made for students with an RN license who have a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. The MSN program does require some on-campus meetings. The MSN program may be completed in 2 to 3 years.
Post-MSN APRN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
The DNP program is designed for nurses who hold a MSN qualification and desire to work as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). In the future, students with a BSN, will be able to participate in the BSN to DNP program. The DNP program can be completed in 8 semesters (3 years) and is offered online. Admission criteria include a 3.0 GPA in the MSN program and evaluation of GRE or MAT scores.
Georgia Southern University Nursing Certificate Programs
Post-Master’s Certificate
Nurses with a masters degree who do not hold a specialization may earn a post-master’s certificate as a Community Health CNS or FNP. The program can be completed in 33 credits for the FNP specialization and 21 credits for the CNS specialization.
Georgia Southern University Nursing Study Abroad Programs
Nursing students who would like to gain international experience may participate in study abroad programs through MHIRT (Minority Health International Research Training) and in Costa Rica. The nursing program in Costa Rica is 2 weeks long, takes place in the summer and allows nurses to explore healthcare in Costa Rica through site visits and lectures. The MHIRT program offers a generous stipend to conduct research abroad with faculty in numerous countries including Germany, Thailand and England.
Contact:
Georgia Southern University
1332 Southern Drive Statesboro
GA 30458
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Georgia Southwestern State University Nursing School Review
In 1906, Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) was founded as the Third Agricultural and Mechanical School. Today the school enrolls over 3,000 students. Georgia Southwestern State University is in a rural setting 135 miles from Atlanta. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing degree programs at Georgia Southwestern State University are offered in four undergraduate tracks for nurses at all levels of nursing education. There is also a master’s degree option. Nursing programs at Georgia Southwestern State University are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Georgia Southwestern State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Track
The Traditional BSN Track is an upper-division admission program which requires nurses to apply and be accepted to Georgia Southwestern State University and complete nursing prerequisites before being accepted into the School of Nursing. The BSN program can normally be completed in four years. Admission criteria for the program include a TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) score, minimum 2.8 GPA on the last 30 credits of coursework, and completion of program pre-requisites. In some cases an interview may be required for admission into the program.
Accelerated BSN Track
Students can apply for the Accelerated BSN track at Georgia Southwestern University if they have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field other than nursing. The Accelerated BSN Track can normally be completed in 5 semesters (2 years) of study. Admission requirements include the TEAS and a 3.0 GPA or higher in the last 30 credits of coursework completed in college. As with the Traditional BSN track, students must apply to and be accepted to the university before applying to the nursing program.
LPN-BSN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Track
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may apply to the LPN to BSN program. Admission requirements for the program include a minimum 2.8 GPA and TEAS test score, among other factors. A grade of “B” or better in science courses is highly recommended for applicants. The program can normally be completed in four years (8 semesters) total.
RN-BSN Track
The RN to BSN tracks is an online option for nurses holding an RN license that are graduates of a ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or diploma program. The program is delivered online and students can choose a part or full time option. Applicants must demonstrate proof of a Georgia RN license and fulfillment of the requirements in the Georgia RN to BSN Articulation Model. The program can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time.
Georgia Southwestern State University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The MSN program at Georgia Southwestern State University is delivered online and offered in collaboration with Clayton State University and Columbus State University. Students in the program choose from a nurse leadership or nurse educator concentration. The MSN program can be completed in 36 to 38 hours.
Contact:
Georgia Southwestern State University
800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive
Americus, Georgia 31709-4693
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Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Nursing Program Review
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) is a small Georgia institution enrolling just over 3,000 students. Although a small institution, students have the opportunity to participate in on-campus life through sports and programs offered on campus such as baseball, soccer, softball and tennis.
The college was founded in 1906 and has a rich history, which is notated on the college campus. Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College offers three undergraduate programs for nurses interested in pursuing a BSN. Nursing programs at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Prerequisite courses for ADN programs listed below include the following: Composition I, Fundamentals of Computer Applications, Pharmacology for Health Professions, Human Anatomy & Physiology I and corresponding lab and Anatomy & Physiology II.
Generic Track
The generic track is a two year program that prepares nurses with an ADN qualification and the opportunity to sit the national Registered Nurse (RN) certification exam, the NCLEX-RN. The program has limited availability and not all students that apply to the program will be admitted. Admission requirements to the program include 2.5 or higher GPA in all coursework and a minimum grade of “C” in all prerequisites. In order to graduate from the nursing program, students must earn a “C” or better in all courses. Students are ranked according to their GPA; students with the highest GPA will normally be admitted to the nursing program.
One-year Registered Nurse (RN) Track
The one-year registered nurse program is for aspiring nurses with a healthcare background as a LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), Respiratory Therapist, Surgical Technician or Paramedic. The program allows students to use their previous education and experience to complete the RN course in approximately one year. Admission requirements to the program include pre-requisite courses including Human Anatomy and Physiology, an overall GPA of 2.5 and no more than 2 failures in nursing courses taken in previous programs.
Transfer Program
Students pursuing a nursing qualification may also complete the 2 year transfer program option which prepares students to transfer to a four year college after completing nursing prerequisites. For these programs students will complete general education requirements that include English, mathematics and physical education as well as biology and chemistry courses which are often required for the nursing major.
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Undergraduate Nursing Resources
There are several resources available to assist nursing students at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. During their program, students will participate in laboratory simulations which will provide valuable opportunities to practice high risk nursing situations with feedback. Students may also join the Georgia Association of Student Nursing (GASN), which is the state chapter of the National Student Nursing Association (NSNA). The GASN serves to mentor students and provide valuable resources to help them succeed in their education and careers.
Contact:
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
2802 Moore Highway
Tifton, GA 31793-2601
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Albany State University Nursing School Review
Albany State University (ASU), founded in 1903, is a HBCU (Historically Black College University) originally founded as a Bible training program to provide religious education for African-Americans young adults. The college accepts students from all backgrounds and serves over 4,000 students. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
The Albany State University Nursing Program began in 1961 with 27 nursing students. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) accredits nursing programs at Albany State University. The programs at Albany State University are approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Albany State University offers several nursing programs for students without previous nursing experience, current RNs (registered nurses) as well as students pursuing graduate education.
Albany State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Generic BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The generic BSN can be completed in four years and is designed for nurses with no previous nursing education. Admission requirements to the Generic BSN program include a GPA minimum of 2.75 in all core nursing courses, the completion of several course pre-requisites and CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) and BCLS (basic cardiac life support) certification by the American Heart Association. The certification must be designated specifically for healthcare providers.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is ideal for RNs who would like to complete the next step in their nursing career by earning a BSN qualification. The program is 2 years. RNs whose previous educational experiences meet the criteria outlined in the Georgia RN-BSN Articulation Model are not necessarily required to take additional exams proving understanding and competency in nursing courses. In general, students in the undergraduate nursing program are required to maintain a 75% or higher grade in all nursing courses.
Albany State University Graduate Nursing Programs
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
The RN to MSN program is for RNs who desire to earn a graduate qualification. This program allows nurses to complete that goal in less time than it would require earning a BSN and MSN degree individually. Nurses in the RN to MSN program can choose from two tracks to complete their programs, FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) or EDU, which is an abbreviation for the Clinical Nurse Educator track. Upon completion of the program nurses will receive an MSN and nurses in the FNP track are eligible to take the national certification exam in their area. Both programs can be completed in 3 years. The program is delivered online.
Traditional MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Program
The traditional MSN program is also offered in two specializations, Nurse Educator (NE) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and is designed for nurses that have completed a BSN. The programs can be completed in two years. Admission requirements for the MSN program include a 3.0 overall GPA in previous nursing education; students must also complete a personal interview and the GRE or MAT with a score of 800 or 44 respectively.
Contact:
Albany State University
504 College Drive
Albany, Georgia 31705
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Armstrong Atlantic State University Nursing School Review
Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU) was founded in 1935 and currently serves over 7,000 students. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The campus is near the Savannah Downtown historic area, which is home to Civil War era buildings and homes. Armstrong Atlantic State University is part of the Georgia University System. The school has over 80 students organizations in which students can be involved.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at Armstrong Atlantic State University are approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Armstrong Atlantic State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The BSN program is ideal for students with no previous nursing education who would like to become an RN (Registered Nurse). Admission requirements to the program include a grade of “C” or better in all science pre-requisites and a 2.7 GPA overall in nursing pre-requisite courses. The BSN degree program requires 127 credit hours. Upon completion of the program, students will earn a BSN are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses.
RN To BSN/MSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing)
Registered Nurses have the option of completing a BSN or a BSN and MSN at Armstrong Atlantic University. The program can be completed full or part time. The BSN option is 127 hours, while the MSN option is approximately 156 hours.
Advanced Track LPN to BSN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The advantage of the advanced track in nursing is that LPNs can use their formal education and knowledge to receive up to 22 credits for their previous nursing education and knowledge gained through work experience. The program requires 128 credit hours to earn the BSN qualification.
Armstrong Atlantic State University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The MSN program is the first step in nurses becoming an advanced practice nurse and increasing their education opportunities. Areas of specialization in the MSN program include:
Adult Health CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist)
Nursing Administration
ANP (Adult Nurse Practitioner)
Advanced Practice Nursing
Upon completion of the program, students can take the relevant certification exam in their area of specialty in addition to earning the MSN qualification.
Armstrong Atlantic State University Nursing Certificate Programs
Post-Master’s Certificates
Post master’s certificates are available in several disciplines. The post-master’s certificate in Nursing Administration is for nurses holding a masters degree seeking further training to work in a nursing leadership role. The program is 21 semester hours. Nurses seeking to remain in practice may complete the Adult Health Nurse Practitioner which is 30 semester hours. The Adult Health CNS certificate prepares nurses to become specialists in adult care and advanced practice nurses; the program is 22 semester hours. A Gerontology certificate is also available in the health sciences department and is for nurses or any health professional working with aging populations. The program is 18 semester hours.
Contact:
Armstrong Atlantic State University
11935 Abercorn Street
Savannah, GA 31419
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Athens Technical College Nursing Program Review
Athens Technical College (ATC, or Athens Tech) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Athens Tech is a memebr institution of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG).
The college serves over 2,000 students and is located in Athens, Georgia. The college opened in 1966 to meet a need for vocational education in the state of Georgia with just 13 programs. Athens Technical College has grown to offer over 20 vocational programs leading directly to career opportunities for students in Georgia.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing degree programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The Practical Nursing program is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Athens Technical College also offers programs in various other health fields such as Health Information Technology and Patient Care Assisting.
Athens Technical College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing Program)
The ADN program prepares students without prior nursing education to become RNs (Registered Nurses). Admission to the ADN program is competitive, and students are admitted annually in the fall. Admission criteria include a score from the National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-Admission RN exam, college placement test scores, completion of general education requirements in math and English, and attending a program information meeting. Upon completion of the program, students earn an ADN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses. The program is 70 semester hours. Students must complete all pre-requisites and nursing courses with a minimum grade of “C.”
Accelerated Option for Practical Nurses
LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) may participate in the accelerated ADN program option which allows nurses to build upon their previous experience and education to earn the ADN.Upon completion of the program students will earn an ADN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition to the requirements for the general ADN program, students must have two years of work experience and have a current, valid LPN license. The program is also 70 credit hours.
Athens Technical College Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing (Licensed Practical Nurse/LPN) Program
The Practical Nursing (LPN) program trains nurses to provide care to patients under the supervision of RNs (Registered Nurses) and physicians. The program is the entry level step to the nursing field, and allows nurses to serve basic patient needs. The program accepts applicants once each spring and admission is competitive. Admission criteria to the program includes a 3.0 GPA overall on all high school and college courses and a National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-PN (Practical Nursing) entrance exam score. Other requirements include an SAT, ACT or college placement test score, completion of math and general education courses, and attendance to a mandatory pre-admission orientation. The program is 60 semester hours. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a diploma and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, National Council for Licensure Practical Nursing exam to become certified practical nurses.
Tech on Tuesdays at Athens Technical College
Tech on Tuesdays is an admission informational session offered to prospective students interested in applying to and attending Athens Technical College. If a student attends and applies for Athens Technical College at a Tech on Tuesday event, the application fee is waived.
Contact:
Athens Technical College
800 US Highway 29 North
Athens, GA 30601
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Augusta State University Nursing School Review
Augusta State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Augusta State University is located in Augusta, the second largest city in the state of Georgia. Since its establishment in 1785 as a school for boys, Augusta State University has undergone many changes. Today the college has over 50 academic programs and over 6,500 students.
In 2013, Augusta State University merged with the nearby Georgia Health Sciences University (GHSU) to form a new institution called Georgia Regents University (GRU).
Nursing Degree Programs
The Department of Nursing at Augusta State College has a variety of undergraduate nursing education programs to accommodate nurses of all backgrounds and skill levels. In 1967, the Department of Nursing at Augusta State College went into operation graduating its first class just four years later with 25 students. Today the department graduates quadruple that number annually. The nursing program is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Augusta State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
There are three tracks for the BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree programs at Augusta State University. General criteria and requirements for programs include the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), nursing-specific standardized test scores, a “C” average in all nursing coursework and an interview with an academic advisor. The GPA requirement is 2.5.
The BSN program is also available to students with a bachelor’s degree in another field, though there is no specific track for these students.
Basic BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The Basic BSN is for students without a background in nursing who are seeking to become RNs (Registered Nurses). The program is meant for upper division students, students who are likely in their junior year of their undergraduate program and have completed all nursing and general education requirements. The program can be completed in 4 years, from the time a student is a freshman to graduation from the nursing program.
LPN to BSN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The LPN to BSN program is for nurses who practice nursing at the vocational level and are seeking a BSN which is the foundation for graduate education and also increased responsibility, better job options and a higher salary in the nursing profession. The LPN to BSN program can be completed in 3 or 5 semesters full and part time respectively.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is ideal for nurses who have completed an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or diploma program and are practicing RNs. The program builds upon the skills and experience developed in the previous nursing education program as well from any work experience earned from the RN. Once enrolled in the nursing program, students can complete it in 2 or 3 semesters full and part time respectively.
Augusta State University Georgia Association of Nursing Students (GANS)
The GANS program at Augusta State University is an opportunity for nursing students to participate in nursing community and contribute to the nursing profession. Students participate in community health, political and recruitment events throughout the year all related to promoting and advancing the nursing profession. GANS is the state chapter of the National Student Nursing Association (NSNA).
Contact:
Augusta State University
2500 Walton Way
Augusta, GA 30904
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Augusta Technical College Nursing Program Review
Augusta Technical College (ATC, or Augusta Tech) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The college provides vocational education to students in east Georgia. Augusta Technical College serves over 4,500 students and has several campuses including Augusta, Thomson, Waynesboro and Grovetown. The college was founded in 1961 and awards associate degrees, certificates and diplomas.
Nursing Degree Programs
The college offers two nursing programs in the healthcare profession division. The two programs are Practical Nursing and ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing). Each program leads to certification as either a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). In addition to nursing programs, the college has a variety of other programs including surgical technology and emergency medical technology for students interested in healthcare fields. The Practical Nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The ADN program is a candidate for NLNAC accreditation.
Augusta Technical College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program
The ADN program prepares students to become Registered Nurses and earn an ADN. Program admission is competitive; students who apply may not necessarily be admitted into the program. Admission criteria for the program include a score on the NLN PAX-RN (National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Exam for Registered Nurses) and a 2.75 or higher GPA on all pre-requisite coursework. Upon applying to the college, students are admitted as pre-nursing students until they successfully complete program prerequisites. Upon completion of prerequisites, students submit a form to be considered for the nursing program. The program can be completed in 6 terms (about 2.5 academic years). Upon completion of the program, students receive an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN.
Augusta Technical College Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing (LPN) Program
The LPN program at Augusta Technical College prepares students for an entry-level career in nursing. Students are provided with a variety of clinical experiences in addition to theoretical courses to develop their nursing careers. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a diploma and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses, NCLEX-PN. Admission requirements to the program include a high school diploma or GED. The program can be completed in 5 terms and requires 60 credits to earn the diploma. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities.
Student Activities at Augusta Technical College
There are plenty of opportunities for students at Augusta Technical College to remain involved on campus and in activities. Students can participate in organizations including a student honor society, leadership organizations and student government. The college also hosts “Acoustic Café” which allows students to showcase their talents by performing on campus. Musicians, musical groups, poetry and spoken word are all welcome at the café. Augusta Technical College usually offers activities for students every month. Other activities have included free food days, disc golf and opportunities to volunteer in the community. Students are encouraged to become involved with local communities and professional organizations.
Contact:
Augusta Technical College
3200 Augusta Tech Drive
Augusta, Georgia 30906
Brenau University Nursing School Review
Brenau University (BU) is a private, not-for-profit institution based in Gainesville, Georgia. The university educates over 2,500 students annually and maintains a small student to faculty ratio of 11:1. Brenau University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Brenau University was founded in 1878 as a Baptist seminary for women. Today the university offers bachelors through doctoral degrees in areas such as nursing, business and education.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at Brenau University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. The Department of Nursing at Brenau University seeks to educate nurses that positively impact their patient’s lives. The university offers a variety of flexible class options for nurses of all levels that would like to pursue higher education and advanced career standing.
Brenau University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The BSN program at Brenau University prepares nurses to become competent leaders in their field. The program is offered both full and part time to accommodate working nurses. The part-time program has course options primarily in weekends and evenings to accommodate the busy nurse’s schedule. To earn the BSN, students must earn 120 semester hours. The program requires a residency of 31 hours. A unique aspect of the BSN program at Brenau University is that general education requirements are divided into learning areas which students must complete. Learning areas include World Understanding, Scientific and Analytic Curiosity, Artistic & Creative imagination, Communication and Language Fluency. Students must earn a 2.5 GPA overall and a 2.75 GPA in all nursing courses to successfully complete the program and earn the BSN. Upon completion of the program, students are also eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.
RN to BSN Bridge Program
The RN to BSN Bridge program is designed for RNs who are seeking advanced career standing by earning a BSN degree. The program also requires 120 credit hours to complete as does the general BSN program. Admission requirements include a 2.5 GPA overall and in nursing requirement courses and an ADN or nursing diploma.
Brenau University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
Brenau University offers an MSN program with three specializations, FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner), NE (Nurse Educator) and Nurse Leadership and Management. Admission requirements to the MSN program include a 3.0 GPA, GRE score, 1 year of work experience, and two letters of recommendation.
Standard Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) Degree Program
The Standard RN to MSN program allows nurses to complete their MSN in just 3 to 4 years of study. The program utilizes both 100% online and hybrid (a combination of on-campus and online) courses. Students can choose from three specializations-Families Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator or Nurse Leader/Manager. Admission requirements include a copy of the RN license, transcripts for all post-secondary education, a GRE (Graduate Record Exam) score and 2 letters of reference.
Accelerated RN to MSN Degree Program
RNs who would like to complete an MSN as quickly as possible can do so in as little as 2 to 3 years plus one additional semester in Brenau University’s Accelerated RN to MSN degree program. Ultimately the student’s concentration will determine how quickly the course is completed. Students choose from the same concentrations offered in the Standard RN to MSN Program, but complete their undergraduate courses in one semester and graduate courses over the next 2 to 3 years. Admission applications are accepted once annually by March 1st and requirements are the same as those of the Standard RN to MSN program.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Program
The DNP program at Brenau University prepares MSN qualified nurses with work experience to complete the highest qualification available in clinical nursing practice. Admission requirements to the program include a minimum 3.0 GPA in MSN coursework, a GRE score and three letters of recommendation. The program is delivered in hybrid format, with both online and on-campus courses required. Students in the program can choose from a Leadership and Management track or an Advanced Nursing Practice track.
Brenau University Nursing Certificate Programs
In addition to the MSN programs, nurses can earn post-masters certificate in the Nurse Educator (NE) and FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) Specializations.
Contact:
Brenau University
500 Washington Street Southeast
Gainesville, GA 30501
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Clayton State University Nursing School Review
Clayton State University (CSU), based in Morrow, Georgia, enrolls just over 6,500 students. The college offers certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Clayton State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Clayton State University’s School of Nursing seeks to prepare educated nurses from a variety of backgrounds to work in wide-ranging roles and cultural settings within the nursing practice. The school offers bachelors, masters and degree completion programs for Registered Nurses (RNs). The School of Nursing programs at Clayton State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Clayton State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Basic Licensure Track BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The Basic Licensure BSN is an upper division nursing program which admits aspiring nurses from Clayton State University and other schools that have completed the minimum requirements necessary to earn a nursing qualification. To be eligible for the program, students must have a 2.5 overall GPA and in nursing coursework. Admission requirements for the program include an ACT/SAT score and TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Providing all lower division coursework and requirements are met, the upper division coursework of the program can be completed in 4 semesters. Students in the BSN program are eligible to apply for a double major in Healthcare Management.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is completed online and allows RNs to maintain their work schedule while working towards the BSN. The program includes an in-person 90 hour clinical practicum. To be eligible for the program, students must be nurses with an ADN or diploma. The program can be completed in 3 semesters.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
The RN to MSN program offers nurses the opportunity to earn a BSN and MSN in less time than it would take to earn both degrees separately and is offered completely online. The program offers a Leadership or Education specialization for the MSN portion of the degree. This program does not include a clinical requirement. The program can be completed in 6 semesters.
Clayton State University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The MSN program at Clayton State University offers two specialization options in Leadership and Education. Admission requirements include a GRE score, three letters of reference, a personal statement and TOEFL scores for international applicants. MSN programs require 36 to 38 credit hours for graduation. The programs can normally be completed in 5 semesters full time. The program can also be completed part-time in approximately 4 years.
Resources for Nurses at Clayton State University
Clayton State University School of Nursing has several scholarship opportunities for nurses each year primarily based on financial need. Students who are interested in scholarships should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for scholarship consideration. Nurses may also participate in the nursing student association, honor society and overseas study program focused on health in Guatemala.
Contact:
Clayton State University
2000 Clayton State Boulevard
Morrow, Georgia 30260-0285
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College of Coastal Georgia Nursing Program Review
The College of Coastal Georgia (CCGA), formerly known as Coastal Georgia Community College, was founded in 1961. The college enrolls over 3,000 students annually and awards associates and bachelors degrees. The College of Coastal Georgia is part of the University of Georgia system and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Nursing Degree Programs
The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at the College of Coastal Georgia offers undergraduate ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs. Nursing programs at the Coastal College of Georgia are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
College of Coastal Georgia Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Undergraduate programs at the School of Nursing prepare students to enter the workforce and lay the foundation for further graduate study.
ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing) Program
The ASN program (more commonly known as ADN, Associate Degree in Nursing) prepares students without previous experience in nursing to begin their careers in the nursing profession. The program requires students to maintain a 2.5 GPA overall and a minimum grade of “C” in core academic courses (English, science and math). Upon completion of the program students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN.
Advanced Placement ASN for RNs
Current LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) can build upon their previous education and experience to complete the ADN in a shorter time than students without a nursing background. Admission requirements are the same as those for ADN students. Additionally, students should have graduated from the LPN program within 5 years. Experience working in a structured health care setting is also a requirement for students in this course. Upon completion of the program students will receive an ADN are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
The BSN program at College of Coastal Georgia is a pre-licensure program meaning students do not need previous nursing experience or a nursing license to apply. Students are admitted to the program after completing general education requirements in nursing and for the BSN degree. Admission requirements for the program include a 2.75 GPA, a minimum grade of “C” in math and science courses, and a score on the Regent’s and TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exams. Upon completion of the program, students receive a BSN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. The program requires 120 semester hours.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
The RN to BSN program at College of Coastal Florida assists Registered Nurses in completing the next step in their education and careers. Admission requirements for the RN to BSN program include graduation from an ADN or diploma nursing program and acceptance to College of Coastal Georgia (students must apply separately to the nursing program).
To graduate students must maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA in the course. The program requires 127 semester hours.
Contact:
College of Coastal Georgia
One College Drive
Brunswick, Georgia 31520
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Columbus State University Nursing School Review
Columbus State University (CSU) enrolls over 8,000 students annually and awards bachelor’s through doctoral degrees, as well as certificates. Columbus State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The university was founded in 1958. Students praise the University for its small-campus feel and extracurricular programs and funding available to support such pursuits.
Nursing Degree Programs
The School of Nursing at Columbus State University have received national distinction for their nursing programs. The BSN program at the School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Columbus State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
For students without previous nursing education, the BSN degree program at Columbus State University provides general education and training. The program is an upper-division program designed for students who have met nursing requirements in the first two years of their higher education. The program requires 2 years (four semesters) for students who have met all general requirements to complete the remaining courses necessary to earn the BSN. Upon completion of the program students will earn a Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree and will also be eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN. Admission test requirements for the program include completing a nursing-specific entrance exam and also the Regents’ exam. Students should earn a GPA of 2.75 or better in all nursing pre-requisite courses and pass all laboratory and science classes with a minimum grade of “C.”
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program provides nurses with additional education and knowledge of the nursing profession. The program is delivered online and asynchronous meaning that students can complete the program from their home at their convenience, as specific logon times are not required. The 12 month program is small, and allows students to complete the required clinical in their home community. Admission requirements to the program include a valid Georgia RN license, a 2.5 GPA in nursing courses and prerequisites and a grade of “C” or better in all science and laboratory classes.
Columbus State University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The MSN program at Columbus State University offers two specialization options, Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator. The Nurse Leader program prepares nurses to develop innovative ways of providing care in the clinical setting. The Nurse Educator program focuses on educating future nurses and aspects of higher education such as curriculum design and assessment. The program offers a variety of completion options to cater to each student’s needs and schedule. This nursing masters course can be completed full time in 2 years (4 semesters). Part time and online courses are also available. Admission requirements for the program include a BSN from a program accredited by a nursing body (NLNAC or CCNE), 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores. Students with a 2.75 GPA may be accepted to the MSN program provisionally.
Contact:
Columbus State University
4225 University Avenue
Columbus, GA 31907
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Columbus Technical College Nursing Program Review
Columbus Technical College (CTC) educates over 4,000 students in Columbus, Georgia. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and offers certificates and associate’s degrees. In 1961, when the college (commonly called Columbus Tech) began offering classes, programs were auto and appliance focused. Today there are programs in healthcare, business and early childhood education among others.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at Columbus Technical College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Nursing programs are housed in the School of Health Sciences. In addition to nursing programs, many other healthcare programs are offered including surgical technology, residential care assistant, health care assistant, healthcare science and respiratory care.
Columbus Technical College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The ADN program prepares students to complete the basic requirements necessary to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Upon completion of the program, students will receive an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN. Admission and enrollment requirements include being 16 years of age, COMPASS (college entrance exam) results, a 2.5 GPA or better, and a nursing specific entrance exam score. The program is 72 hours and can be completed in 6 semesters. Admission to the ADN program is competitive and students are ranked, in part, according to grades earned in pre-requisite courses.
LPN to RN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse) Program
For students who hold an LPN, the LPN to RN program allows nurses to build on their previous academic and career preparation to earn an ADN. Upon completion of the program, students will receive an ADN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. The program is 72 hours and can be completed in 6 semesters.
Columbus Technical College Graduate Nursing Programs
Practical Nurse Diploma (Licensed Practical Nurse-LPN)
The LPN program at Columbus Technical College prepares vocational nurses to serve in a basic care role under the supervision on Registered Nurses (RNs) and physicians. The program prepares nurses to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses, NCLEX-PN. Upon completion of the program students receive a diploma. Admission to the LPN program is competitive and not all students who apply will be admitted. Basic admission requirements for the program include COMPASS (a college placement exam) results in Math and English. Students must also have a 2.0 GPA. The program is 73 credit hours. The program can be completed in four semesters. As part of the program, students will participate in clinical experiences offering the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom and receive feedback.
Nurse Aide Certificate (CNA Program)
The Nurse Aide Certificate is 13 semester hours and trains students to assist in providing basic care to patients under the supervision of LPNs and RNs. Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED. Students may be accepted into the program at age 17. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate and are eligible to take the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam to be a CNA in the state of Georgia.
Contact:
Columbus Technical College
928 Manchester Expressway
Columbus, Georgia 31904-6572
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Dalton State College Nursing Program Review
Dalton State College (DSC) is a small, public college in Dalton, Georgia. It offers certificates, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. The college enrolls just under 6,000 students and is part of the University System of Georgia. Dalton State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Dalton State College (named Dalton Junior College at its foundation) was founded in 1963. The college’s location in Dalton city, makes the college an ideal community to complete education programs. The city was named by the US Chamber of Commerce among the top four communities with an effective business and education partnership. Furthermore, though Dalton is a small city in itself, it is however located between the bustling cities of Chattanooga and Atlanta.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at Dalton College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The School of Nursing educates nurses to become generalists able to function in a range of settings and roles within the field of nursing. DSC offers a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for working Registered Nurses, an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate program.
Dalton State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Program
The ASN (more commonly referred to as ADN) program prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs) in an array of healthcare settings. The program is 72 semester hours. Admission requirements to the program include an SAT/ACT or COMPASS (college entrance exam) score. Depending on a student’s overall scores and academic background, they will be placed in one of three academic plans. The plans indicate the number of course prerequisites that a student must complete before being considered for the nursing program. For example, students in Plan 1 (qualification for Plan 1 includes a bachelor’s degree or an SAT score above 960) need only complete 10 hours of prerequisites before being considered for the nursing program. Students in Plan 3 must complete 24 hours of prerequisites before being considered for admission into the nursing program. Prospective students can increase their chance of being considered for the nursing program sooner by earning competitive scores on standardized tests (i.e., SAT, ACT or COMPASS) or holding a degree. Upon completion of the program, a student may take the NCLEX-RN to become a Registered Nurse.
RN-BSN Program (Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program for the Registered Nurse)
This is a new program and is currently going through the process of being accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). This RN to BSN program is open to students who are gaduates of an Associate of Science in Nursing or Diploma program within the past 4 years. If you completed your ASN or Diploma more than 4 years ago, you will need to present documentation that shows that you have 1000 hours or more of practical nursing working experience withing the past 3 years. Applicants will also need to have a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who would like to take the next step in their career through earning a BSN degree can do so in Dalton State College’s RN-BSN Program. In the program, classroom sessions will be no more than once per week as the nursing courses will be taken partially online and partially in class. This program is ideal for those looking for an LPN to RN program.
Dalton State College Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Program
The LPN program at Dalton State College prepares students for entry-level careers in nursing. LPNs provide general care to patients across the lifespan. The program requires clinical experiences which may require travel. The program is 66 credit hours and upon completion, students are awarded the LPN diploma and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN (National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses) to become a LPN.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
The CNA program requires just 3 courses and can be completed in one semester. Graduates of the CNA program are eligible for employment in a variety of settings including home healthcare programs. Upon completion of the program Certified Nursing Assistants will receive a diploma and can take the certification exam to become a CNA in the state of Georgia.
Contact:
Dalton State College
650 College Drive
Dalton, Georgia 30720-3797
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Darton State College Nursing Program Review
Darton State College (DC), a part of the University System of Georgia, awards certificates and associate’s degrees. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Darton College has many resources for its students including the Center for Adventure Leadership which was built for students but also trains executives from around the nation. Darton State College was founded in 1963 and currently enrolls over 5,500 students annually.
Nursing Degree Programs
Associate degree level Nursing programs at Darton College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Darton College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program
Admission requirements for the ADN program include a 2.5 GPA and completion of 3-5 prerequisite (core) classes. Students are also required to take an entrance test and the Computer READI reading assessment. Admission to the program is competitive and students are admitted based on GPA, test scores, and the number of prerequisites completed among other things. After program prerequisites are complete, the program can be completed in 5 semesters. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, the NCLEX-RN.
LPN to ADN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate Degree in Nursing) Advanced Option
Students who are also Licensed Practical Nurses may participate in an accelerated version of the ADN program. LPNs take a challenge exam, which would exempt them from the first two semesters of the nursing program. LPNs should have at least one year of practical experience to be admitted to the advanced option. Other admission requirements for the LPN to ADN program are the same as those for the ADN program. After program prerequisites are met, the program can be completed in 3.5 semesters. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, the NCLEX-RN.
Ft. Benning ADN and LPN to ADN Nursing Programs
Military professionals and civilians serving on the Ft. Benning military base may take part in customized versions of the two ADN programs, both the pre-licensure and advanced option for healthcare professionals. The program offers a hybrid option which allows students to complete fewer clinical hours than students in the traditional programs. Students interested in the program are still required to meet course pre-requisites and requirements. Students must take the HESI A2 nursing entrance exam as well as the COMPASS test (a basic academic skills test).
Online Hybrid Nursing Program
The online hybrid program at Darton State College offers the opportunity for aspiring Registered Nurses to take all required courses online. Students are still required to take all exams in-person at the Albany campus. Clinical practicum experiences will also be completed in the Albany area on a varied schedule (rotations may include weekends). Admission requirements include a personal essay, previous online learning experiences, and a 2.5 or higher overall GPA.
RN to BSN Completion Program
Darton State College is in the process of obtaining accreditation and approval from nursing bodies for the RN to BSN program, which would allow nurses with LPNs and ADNs to complete their BSN. The college has obtained developmental approval by the Georgia Board of Nursing. The RN to BSN program is a hybrid course (both online and on-campus courses are required) and can be completed in as little as 3 semesters. Admission to the program is selective, and students should have a 3.0 GPA in previous coursework and have completed all course prerequisites to be considered for the program.
Contact:
Darton State College
2400 Gillionville Road
Albany, Georgia 31707-3098
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Emory University Nursing School Review
World-renowned Emory University receives the most funding of any university in Georgia. The college places a great deal of importance on teaching and creating a learning community which exposes students to great educators and leaders of today. The university regularly hosts internationally-renowned authors and professionals including Emory University graduates.
Emory University (EU) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Emory University was founded in 1836 as Emory College by the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Nursing Degree Programs
The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University has numerous opportunities for students new to nursing and experienced nurses eager to draw upon the endless research resources that Emory University has to offer. In addition to participating in a variety of research programs, nurses at Emory University may also participate in service learning opportunities.
The school has several programs dedicated to providing care to underserviced and at-risk communities, deemed vulnerable populations. Programs also examine community-based care. The BSN and MSN programs of the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The School of Nursing is named for the wife of Emory philanthropist Robert Woodruff, Nell, who left nursing school to pursue a life with Mr. Woodruff. Despite leaving the nursing school, Mrs. Woodruff served as a nurse aide during World War I and later volunteered in the Emory Hospital.
Emory University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Emory University offers undergraduate programs from the pre-licensure stage to accelerated programs which allow students to complete the bachelor’s and master’s degree in a joint program. Upon completion of all BSN programs, in addition to earning the BSN, students are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Upon being accepted to Emory University, students pursue the first two years of their general education requirements before applying and being accepted to the BSN program. The BSN program trains nurses in the clinical and theoretical aspects of nursing. Admission requirements include three letters of recommendation and a personal statement. The admission committee gives preference to BSN applicants with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Second Degree BSN
Aspiring nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing may apply for and be admitted into the Second Degree BSN program. Nearly 40% of students at Emory University pursuing a BSN have degrees in other fields. The program requires students to complete 7 pre-requisite courses if they were not met in college, and then complete 4 semesters (2 years) of nursing courses to earn the BSN.
BSN-MSN Segue (Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing)
The combined BSN and MSN program is for aspiring nurses with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing who desire to become a nurse practitioner or midwife. Specialties for the program include:
A/G NP (Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner)
FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Family Nurse-Midwife
PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) – Primary Care
WHNP (Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner)
The program can be completed in 7 to 9 semesters total; four semesters are required to complete the BSN and an additional 3 to 5 for the MSN. Students can choose to complete this course on a full or part time schedule.
ABSN/MSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing)
Students with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing who aspire to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) can take the dual BSN/MSN option which allows students to complete the BSN and MSN in sequence. Students in this program will complete the BSN in 4 semesters and the MSN in 3 to 5 semesters depending on the course specialty that is chosen. The program requires 7 to 9 semesters (15 months) total.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
RNs with an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or diploma that have not yet completed a BSN can complete the BSN and MSN together in an accelerated program. Students can complete this program on a full or part time schedule. Admission requirements to the program include a list of accomplishments, personal statement, one letter of recommendation and graduation from an ADN or LPN program accredited by a nursing body.
Emory University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Program
Admission into the traditional MSN program at Emory University requires a BSN earned from a program accredited by a nursing body (CCNE or National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission). The MSN program can be completed in 3 to 5 semesters full time or part time, which would require additional semesters to complete coursework. The MSN program is awarded in a variety of specialty areas which prepares nurses to take national certification exams in their area of specialty. Specialization areas include the following:
ACNP (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
A/G NP (Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)
ENP (Emergency Nurse Practitioner)
FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Family Nurse-Midwife
Health Systems Leadership
Nurse-Midwifery
PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) – Acute Care
PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) – Primary Care
WH/AH NP (Women’s Health/Adult Health Nurse Practitioner)
WHNP (Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner)
Women’s Health Care (Title X)
MSN/MPH (Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Public Health) Dual Degree Program
Nurses who seek to enhance their employability, skills and knowledge can apply for the MSN/MPH dual degree program. The program trains and prepares nurses for an MSN as in the traditional MSN program, and nurses also take courses to earn an MPH. The program can be completed in just 6-7 semesters by eliminating MSN courses that are replicated in the MPH program. Upon completion nurses are awarded both an MSN and MPH.
PhD in Nursing (Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing)
The PhD program at Emory University offers an option for both BSN and MSN qualified nurses. The program can be completed in 4 or 5 years depending on the student’s qualification. Students in the program will gain valuable teaching experience through the TATTO (Teaching Assistant Training and Teaching Opportunity Program) which trains prospective PhD graduates for a teaching career in academia.
BSN-PhD (Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing)
Nurses holding a BSN who have an ultimate goal of pursuing a career in academia can choose the BSN to PhD program. The BSN to PhD program for nurses with a BSN requires 5 years to complete. Students do not need research experience to be admitted to the program, but should express research interests.
MSN-PhD (Master of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing)
The PhD in nursing prepares nurses for a career in academia and research in higher education. Nurses will benefit from the many research resources available at Emory University in addition to the resources of other health programs, such as the Schools of Medicine and Public Health. The MSN to PhD option for MSN qualified nurses requires 4 years to complete. Students must complete the program on a full time basis as a part time option is not currently offered.
Contact:
Emory University
201 Dowman Drive
Atlanta, Georgia 30322
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Georgia College and State University Nursing School Review
Georgia College and State University (GCSU) awards associate’s through master’s degrees. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Georgia College and State University was founded in 1889 as a higher education institution to serve women. Today the college enrolls over 6,500 students including men and women.
Nursing Degree Programs
The BSN and MSN nursing programs at Georgia College and State University are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Georgia College and State University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Upon completion of the following BSN programs, students earn the BSN qualification and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program allows nurses with a diploma or ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) to complete the BSN degree in just 3 semesters of full time study (part time study is available). The program is delivered online, though an occasional campus meeting may be necessary.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
The BSN program at Georgia College and State University prepares students for a career in nursing through providing core nursing courses in the final two years of bachelor’s study. The Pre-Nursing Learning Community offers the unique opportunity for freshman pre-nursing majors to interact with their peers before being enrolled into the nursing program. The program also guarantees admission to the nursing program for students who maintain a 3.0 GPA, are an active participant in the learning community; complete all minimum requirements, and all nursing prerequisites with a minimum grade of “C.” The learning community opportunity provides pre-nursing students dorm style housing, nursing-specific activities, and offers networking and community building prospects for aspiring nurses.
Georgia College and State University Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Program
An FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) specialization is offered in the MSN program. Students can choose to complete the program full or part time, with courses being delivered online. The course can be completed in 6 semesters full time or 9 semesters part time.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP program is an online program which awards nurses the highest certification in clinical nursing practice. The course is designed for nurses with an MSN qualification and is 37 credits. The program takes about 2 years (5 semesters) to complete. Admission requirements include a minimum 3.2 GPA for consideration, though a 3.5 GPA is recommended. Additionally, students are not required to take the GRE.
Georgia College and State University Nursing Certificate Programs
Post-master’s FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) Certificate
The FNP post-master’s certificate is designed for nurses with an MSN qualification who would like to complete a specialization as an FNP. The program can be completed in 6 semesters of full time study.
Oncology Nurse Navigator Certificate
Registered Nurses who have an interest in working with cancer patients can take the online course in oncology offered through the continuing education department. Nurses will earn 60 contact hours through the course, which requires 2 to 3 months to complete.
Contact:
Georgia College and State University
231 West Hancock Street
Milledgeville, Georgia 31061
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Georgia State University Nursing School Review
The Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions is one of eight schools/colleges at Georgia State University’s campus in Atlanta. Together, these colleges serve more than 32,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Of these 32,000 students, approximately 500 are in the nursing school.
Since its foundation in 1968, over 5000 students have passed through the nursing programs at Georgia State University (GSU), and these graduates, who have a 90-percent pass rate for licensing exams, prove that the nursing school prepares them well for the healthcare profession. Georgia State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; the Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing itself is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
To begin the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, a student must complete prerequisites in English, math, biology, chemistry and physics with a minimum GPA of 2.8. (Admission statistics show, however, that the average GPA of an accepted student for the traditional BSN program is about 3.75.) Not including prerequisites, the BSN program takes three years of full time study. Students who have already completed undergraduate coursework can apply to the ACE (Achieving the Curriculum Expeditiously) Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This program, not counting already-completed undergraduate coursework, takes only 16 months to complete, but requires a very substantial time commitment (approximately 81 hours a week). The nursing school welcomes transfer nursing students too, and offers a Transfer Track to help them transition into either of the two BSN programs.
Master of Science in Nursing
Registered nurses (RN) who wish to pursue additional education can become either Clinical Nurse Specialists or Nurse Practitioners through the Master of Science program with a major in nursing. RNs with either a baccalaureate or a diploma/associate degree are invited to apply, although RNs without a baccalaureate degree will need to demonstrate professional excellence and take additional courses (through the RN to MS Bridge Program). Once accepted to the program, nurses can choose among six specialties, including adult medicine, children’s health, family medicine, perinatal/women’s health, psychiatric mental health, and nursing leadership in healthcare innovations (a nonclinical program) focusing on Nursing Informatics &
Nursing Administration. Graduates of this leadership masters program are eligible to sit for either the Nurse Informatics or Nurse Executive Credentialing exam.
RN to MS
An RN without a baccalaureate degree who has been working in the nursing field for at least one year is eligible to apply to the RN to MS Bridge Program. Through this program, the nurse takes all the prerequisite coursework in order to enter the Master of Science in Nursing program.
Post-Master’s Certification in Nursing
A nurse who already has his Master of Science in nursing in one area can also become certified at the master’s level in another area. Through the Post-Master’s Certification in Nursing program, he can take graduate-level coursework in his new area of study (adult medicine, children’s health, family medicine, perinatal/women’s health, or psychiatric mental health) and then sit for the certification test to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist or Nurse Practitioner in that particular area.
Doctor of Philosophy
An experienced nurse who wishes to turn to teaching and research can go through the Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing Doctor of Philosophy program. As a prerequisite, the nurse must already have her master’s degree in nursing. This program is hybrid, consisting of both online and onsite classes. There is no clinical component. The program focuses on preparing nurses to lead in the nursing field, by educating others, promoting health awareness, and protecting at-risk populations. Students in this program must take 60 credit hours, 9 of which are dedicated to a doctoral dissertation.
Contact:
Georgia State University
30 Courtland Street Southeast
Atlanta, GA 30303
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Gordon State College Nursing Program Review
Founded in 1852, Gordon State College (GSC) is one of Georgia’s oldest colleges. It became part of the University System of Georgia in 1972. It is an ideal setting for students who thrive on small classes (the student-faculty ratio is 25 to 1), a close-knit campus community (the college has approximately 5000 students), and a rural setting (the college is located in Barnesville, in middle Georgia).
Gordon College has five academic divisions, including Nursing and Health Sciences, which is accredited by the Georgia Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. More than 1,600 nurses have passed through this program since its foundation in 1974. Here is a review of the nursing programs offered in this academic division:
Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (ASN)
To earn an associate degree in nursing from Gordon College, a student must plan on studying for three years. This includes prerequisite courses in anatomy, algebra, English, Human Growth and Development, microbiology, American history, and at least one humanities elective. Students must earn at least a C in all prerequisite classes. Gordon accepts transfer credits for these classes, but the biology classes must have been taken within the last five years. If core classes are already complete, a student should be able to earn an associate degree in two years. The practical aspect of the program focuses on ministering to the community. Students do clinical rotations in the homes of patients, in acute-care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community outreach centers. Students who complete the Associate of Science in Nursing Degree can take the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN). After successfully passing this exam, a graduate is a registered nurse (RN).
LPN to RN Bridge Program
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) who wishes to become a registered nurse can apply to the LPN-RN program after gaining one year of experience as an LPN. In order to apply, the LPN must take a dosage calculation test, a skills test, and the LPN STEP test, which will help students and educators to identify areas to improve and assess preparedness. This program begins in the spring only, and takes three semesters to complete. Summer classes are not offered. As with the traditional Associate of Science in Nursing program, at the end of the LPN-RN Bridge program, a graduate is eligible to take the NCLEX to become an RN.
RN to BSN Completion Degree
The RN-BSN Completion Degree program is the most recent addition to the Gordon College Nursing Division. This program allows an RN who has an associate degree/diploma to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. In order to enter the program, a student must have an active nursing license from the Georgia Board of Nursing, and have already completed 60 credit hours of core classes with a minimum GPA of 2.5 (if a student is coming from the Gordon College Associate of Science in Nursing program, these courses should already be complete). If enrolled full time, a student can complete this program in three semesters. The classes are hybrid, some online and some onsite. Students must complete two clinical rotations as well. Completion of the RN to BSN degree program will help a nurse to understand the physical, cultural/social, spiritual, and psychological needs of her patients, and minister appropriately to them.
Contact:
Gordon State College
419 College Drive
Barnesville, GA. 30204
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Kennesaw State University Nursing School Review
Kennesaw State University (KSU), situated conveniently close Atlanta in Cobb County, started out as a junior college with 1000 students back in 1963. Now, with over 24,000 students, it is the third-largest institution of higher learning in the state, and has been a university since 1996. Among the many areas of study available at Kennesaw State University, the nursing program is one of the most popular and is, in fact, the biggest nursing program in Georgia.
The WellStar School of Nursing at Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Education for Nursing. Graduates of the WellStar School of Nursing have a high rate of success on licensing exams, and go on primarily to work in the famous medical facilities in Atlanta, with the U.S. military, and in the underserved southern area of Georgia.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is the traditional route for students to become Registered Nurses (RN). There are twelve prerequisite courses for the program, at least seven of which must be completed at the time of application. An applicant must also take the TEAS entrance exam. Typically, a student would declare nursing as an intended major, take the prerequisite courses during the first year of study at Kennesaw State University, and then apply to the BSN program. Admission to the program is highly competitive even among those who are already students at Kennesaw State University. At the end of the program, which typically takes four years including prerequisites, a student earns a baccalaureate degree and is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN).
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
A student who has already completed a degree in another field does not need to retake prerequisite courses for nursing. He can apply to the accelerated BSN program, which takes only four semesters as opposed to the eight semesters of the traditional BSN program. As with the traditional BSN program, there are twelve prerequisite courses. If he didn’t complete all of these in the course of getting his first degree, he must take them before beginning the accelerated BSN program. He is also required to take the TEAS exam.
RN to BSN Program
An RN who holds an associate degree or diploma can earn a full baccalaureate degree through the RN to BSN program. While she must take all the necessary general core classes, she can skip some of the nursing classes through the advanced placement option. She must enroll in a three-credit class called Concepts of Nursing. If she successfully completes this class on the first try, she can skip the sophomore and junior nursing classes, and begin at the senior level.
Master of Science in Nursing – Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program
The WellStar College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program that prepares experienced RNs (who have been working at least three years in the field) to earn certification as Family Nurse Practitioners. The program requires forty semester hours, including clinical rotations. At the end of the program, an RN has the skills and knowledge necessary to function as a primary care provider, and is eligible to sit for the certification exam to become a nurse practitioner.
Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Care Management and Leadership Program
The MSN in Advanced Care Management and Leadership program is 100-percent online, and requires 15 months to finish. It is open to RNs with at least a year of work experience. This program is an ideal opportunity for an RN who is interested in the process of implementing rapidly changing healthcare policies, learning about managing problems and decision-making in the healthcare field, learning about leadership strategies and developing leadership skills. At the end of the 15-month program, the graduate can become certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Doctorate in Nursing
While working on a Doctorate in Nursing (DNS), a nurse will learn the finer skills of healthcare research, hone leadership skills in order to implement healthcare policies, particularly among at-risk populations, and learn practical and theoretical skills to help her educate new nurses. The competitive program is open to nurses who already have an MSN, and the admission process includes an in-person interview with the WellStar School of Nursing’s Doctoral Admissions Committee. Once accepted, a student must commit to sixty semester hours of work, twelve of which are dedicated to a doctoral thesis. The class structure is hybrid, half online and half onsite. The onsite classes take place on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing the student to continue working while studying.
Contact:
Kennesaw State University
1000 Chastian Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
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LaGrange College Nursing Program Review
LaGrange College, located about sixty-five miles southwest of Atlanta, started out as an academy for women in 1831. It is now a coeducational, four-year college offering fifty-three academic programs, and serving about 1000 students. The college prides itself on its small class sizes, with a ratio of eleven students to each faculty member.
While the college has strong science programs, it is a traditionally liberal arts college, and continues to emphasize the liberal arts as an important component of a well-rounded education. All students are required to take core liberal arts classes. The college also has a strong tradition in the arts, with renowned programs in drama, music, and art. LaGrange College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Nursing Program Overview
Drawing on its roots as a Methodist school, the nursing program at LaGrange College focuses on serving patients emotionally and spiritually as well as physically. As part of their training, the nursing students get involved in the community and work in many different healthcare settings, helping them to realize the many different possible applications of a nursing degree. The nursing program shares LaGrange College’s commitment to expanding educational horizons through off-campus/abroad study. The schedule of the junior- and senior-level nursing courses allows nursing students to study abroad in January of their junior and/or senior years. They can pursue classes and independent research relating to nursing, or round out their liberal arts education. The nursing program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
LaGrange College offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This requires four years of study to complete. As LaGrange College takes pride in its history as a liberal arts school, liberal arts core classes are a key component of the BSN program. In addition to sixty-one nursing credits, a student is required to take forty-six common core credits. Students in the nursing program must earn at least a C in all nursing classes, and maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 in all classes. Students who are interested in the BSN program must apply and be accepted to LaGrange College, and then apply separately to the nursing program. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is part of the application process. After successfully completing the BSN degree program, a student can take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and earn certification as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Option (RN-BSN Program)
An RN with a valid license to work in Georgia can opt to complete his baccalaureate degree through the BSN Completion Option. All the nursing classes that he took while earning his associate degree or diploma will be taken into consideration. If he successfully passes the first six credit hours, his previous nursing credits will be accepted as transfer credit. Based on his previous education and his professional experience, an RN in the BSN Completion program also has the option of testing out of three classes: Health Assessment, Pharmacology, and Nutrition.
Contact:
LaGrange College
601 Broad Street
LaGrange, GA 30240
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Macon State College Nursing Program Review
Macon State College (MSC), which began as a two-year college in 1965, has an emphasis on preparing students for careers, particularly for careers that are vital to the South. Now it is a four-year college, but it has kept its commitment to career development. While not overlooking the importance of core liberal arts classes, Macon State College focuses on professional programs, and is proud of its emphasis on technological developments.
Among these professional programs are three in the nursing field, offered through the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, which has accreditation through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Below is a review of the three available nursing programs at Macon State College:
Associate of Science in Nursing
To earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, students must commit to at least two years of study, not including all the core classes required by Macon State College. The program begins in both the fall (at the Macon campus) and the spring (at the Warner Robins campus). To apply for this program, a student must already be enrolled at Macon State College and have a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all previous classes. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a required part of the application process.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a traditional four-year course of study. Students in this program spend the first two years taking common core classes. After completing these core classes, maintaining a GPA of 2.5, students officially apply to the BSN program. If accepted, they spend the third and fourth year learning nursing skills. Unlike the ASN program, the BSN program only begins once a year, in the fall, on the Macon campus. The program also welcomes students who have already earned a degree in a different field. They are invited to transfer as many classes as possible, and then continue on with the rest of the required core classes and all of the nursing coursework. At the end of the BSN program, a student can take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and, if she passes successfully, begin working right away as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN
An experienced RN who has an associate degree or diploma in nursing can complete his baccalaureate degree through Macon State College’s RN to BSN program. Completing a baccalaureate degree is an important step toward opening up new professional paths and advancing in the nursing career. The RN-BSN program at Macon State College requires sixty credit hours of both core classes and nursing classes. However, there are prerequisite classes as well. If an RN did not complete all of these prerequisites in the course of earning his associate degree or diploma, he must take them before beginning the RN-BSN program. As with the traditional BSN program, the RN to BSN program begins in the fall at the Macon campus.
Contact:
Macon State College
100 College Station Drive
Macon, GA 31206
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Medical College of Georgia Nursing Program Review
The College of Nursing at Georgia Health Sciences University (also home to the Medical College of Georgia) actually began as part of the University of Georgia in Athens. In 1956, it joined with the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) in Augusta, as part of a decision to turn the medical college into a health sciences university.
The nursing school offered the first undergraduate program in the college. It has since expanded to offer master and doctoral degrees in nursing as well, and now has a huge range of offerings for potential students to review.
In 2013, Georgia Health Sciences University and Augusta State University merged to form Georgia Regents University.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Georgia Health Sciences University (GHSU) is not a traditional four-year baccalaureate program. Georgia Health Sciences University does not offer some core curriculum courses that are necessary for graduation, so students who wish to pursue this program must attend another college to earn credit for courses in English, algebra, humanities, fine arts, science, and social sciences. Typically, a student must spend at least two years at another school taking these classes, and apply to transfer to Georgia Health Sciences University at the end of her sophomore year. After transferring, the BSN program requires five semesters. At the end, the graduate may take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and earn certification as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader (Pre-licensure)
Although the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) program is a master’s program, it is designed for students who are not yet RNs. Applicants must have a baccalaureate degree, but in a field other than nursing. The program takes four semesters to complete, and at the end, a graduate can take the NCLEX to become an RN and take the CNL certification exam through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. As a working CNL, a graduate will focus on working with multiple healthcare providers in order to coordinate and direct patient care.
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner
An experienced RN who wishes to advance his career can pursue continuing education through the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offered at Georgia Health Sciences University. He has two specialization options: family medicine, leading to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and pediatric medicine, leading to certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). Both programs are available in Augusta, Athens, and Columbus. RNs may pursue these programs either full-time or part-time, and also have the additional flexibility of mostly online classes. Full-time, the MSN program requires 22 months, and part-time, it requires 34 months. At the end, graduates take certification exams offered by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Anesthetist
The MSN program in nursing anesthesia is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. It prepares students to plan and administer anesthesia care to patients and it takes seven semesters to complete. The first three are in the classroom, with the majority of the rest of the coursework taking place in a clinical setting. On average, students in this program spend about 2000 hours in a clinical setting. The program is open to students who already have a BSN.
Post-Master’s Certification
A nurse who has already earned an MSN in one field can continue expanding her career options through a post-master’s certification program. At Georgia Health Sciences University, nurses can earn certification as Family Nurse Practitioners, Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, or in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. The program requirements are based on the traditional MSN program requirements.
Doctor of Nursing Programs
Georgia Health Sciences University offers a Doctor of Nursing program in three different areas. Nurses who wish to focus on research should consider the PhD in Nursing program, which is designed to get nurses involved in cutting-edge research, especially in conjunction with the university’s Center for Nursing Research. The program takes nine semesters on a full-time basis and twelve semesters on a part-time basis, and is only open to nurses with MSN degrees. A nurse who wishes focus on practical nursing as opposed to research and wants to take more of a leadership role working in a healthcare setting should consider the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This hybrid (partly online, partly onsite) program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Within the DNP program, a student can choose to concentrate on acute care, leading to certification as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or a Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (CCNS). The DPN program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education.
Contact:
Medical College of Georgia
Georgia Health Sciences University
1120 15th Street
Augusta, GA 30912
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Mercer University Nursing School Review
Although no longer affiliated with the Baptist church, Mercer University draws on its roots as a Baptist school by emphasizing community service, both on its three campuses in Macon, Atlanta, and Savannah, and in the surrounding communities. It remains committed to its liberal arts foundation, while also focusing on giving students the professional knowledge they need for careers in a technologically advancing world.
One area of professional study at Mercer University is nursing. The Georgia Baptist College of Nursing at Mercer University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in nursing, and is approved by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Georgia Baptist College of Nursing has two options for students who wish to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The pre-licensure track is available for students who do not yet have certification as Registered Nurses (RN). This track includes a substantial time commitment to general core classes (fifty-seven credit hours) in addition to sixty-four credits of nursing classes. At the end of the curriculum, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and become RNs. An RN who holds an associate degree or diploma can go back to school to earn a full BSN degree through Georgia Baptist College of Nursing RN-BSN program. The program requires thirty-two credit hours, in addition to any required general education courses. The classes are typically arranged to accommodate a work schedule.
Master of Science in Nursing
After earning a BSN and working in the nursing field, a nurse may wish to expand her career options by pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Georgia Baptist College of Nursing offers an MSN program with three different areas of specialization. Nurses can specialize in nursing education, in acute care (leading to certification as an Acute/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist), or in family medicine (leading to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner). Becoming a Nurse Educator requires thirty-eight credit hours; becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist requires thirty-seven credit hours. To become a Family Nurse Practitioner requires forty-nine hours.
Nurse Educator Certificate Program
A nurse who has already earned an MSN can receive certification as a Nurse Educator. This is not a degree program. It requires fifteen credit hours in total, six of which are a teaching practicum.
Doctorate in Nursing Program
There are two available options for nurses to earn a doctoral degree. A nurse can earn a Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing. He would choose the PhD program if he wishes to prepare for expanding his career in the areas of education, research, and leadership. This program typically takes six semesters to complete. Completing it on a part-time basis is an option, although the college gives preference to full-time applicants. A nurse who wishes to focus on practical healthcare management strategies and leadership skills should opt for the DNP program. It can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. On a full-time basis, the program requires five semesters. Part-time, it requires eight semesters. Both doctoral programs are only open to nurses with MSN degrees.
Contact:
Mercer University
1400 Coleman Avenue
Macon, GA 312007
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Mercer University – Cecil B. Day Graduate and Professional Campus
3001 Mercer University Drive
Atlanta, GA 30341
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Mercer University – Savannah Campus
4700 Waters Avenue
Savannah, GA 31404
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Middle Georgia College Nursing Program Review
Middle Georgia College (MGC), part of the University System of Georgia (USG), offers a few baccalaureate programs and a whole range of associate degree and certificate programs. While it has some programs in the humanities, the college has focused on career development since its foundation and is still committed to preparing students to enter the working world. It focuses on in-demand careers and careers that are vital to the Georgia economy, particularly in the health sciences field, business, agriculture, education, and criminal justice.
In particular, it has a very strong aviation program and a separate campus to accommodate it. Besides the aviation classes at the Eastman campus, the remainder of the programs are offered at the Cochran and Dublin campuses. Both campuses offer nursing programs, which are accredited by the National League for Nursing and the Georgia Board of Nursing. Here is a review of the two available options at Middle Georgia College for nursing students:
Associate of Science in Nursing
Students at Middle Georgia College can earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree in as little as two years (including summer semesters). These two years include general education classes as well as nursing classes. However, a student who has taken advanced placement classes in high school may even be able to skip some of the general education requirements and shorten the program length even further. The program begins each fall at both the Cochran and Dublin campuses, and application to the program is separate from application to Middle Georgia College. Usually, a student would enroll at Middle Georgia College and complete the majority of core requirements before applying to the ASN program. Not every applicant is accepted. To be considered, an applicant must maintain a GPA of 2.5 in all general education classes. The Health Education Systems, Inc (HESI) test is also required for application to the program. Throughout the program, the student must continue to maintain a 2.5 GPA. If he fails a class, he must reapply to the program and re-acceptance is not guaranteed. After completing the program requirements, a student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and begin practicing as a nurse. Through its Job Resource Center, Middle Georgia College uses its ties with the local medical community to help place graduates in nursing positions.
Pre-Nursing Program
A full Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree opens doors, and sets a nurse up for career advancement. While a student cannot obtain the full baccalaureate degree at Middle Georgia College, he can save money by going through the pre-nursing program before transferring to a more expensive four-year institution. This pre-nursing program requires two years, during which the student takes core nursing classes. At the end of the program, she is not ready to take the NCLEX, but she is ready to transfer into a full BSN program at another school, which should require only two additional years of study.
Address:
Middle Georgia College
1100 Southeast 2nd Street
Cochran, GA 31014
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Middle Georgia College – Aviation Campus
71 Airport Road
Eastman, GA 31023
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Middle Georgia College – Dublin Campus
1900 Bellevue Road,
Dublin, GA 31021
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North Georgia College & State University Nursing School Review
Although North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) is designated as the Military College of Georgia and a State Leadership Institution, it is not just for military students. The four-year institution is open to all students, although there is a strong presence and support for ROTC students. The Department of Nursing in the School of Science & Health Professions shares the commitment to supporting the military.
As a designated Partner in Nursing Education with the U.S. Army, the department trains many cadets for work as military nurses. The School of Science & Health Professions offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in nursing, all of which are approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Georgia Board of Nursing. Here is a review of the available programs:
Associate of Science in Nursing
North Georgia College & State University offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree at its main campus in Dahlonega, as well as on the campus of Gainesville State College and the Forsyth County campus of Lanier Technical College. The program requires two years, and consists of core general education requirements as well as nursing classes and clinical rotations. It begins each fall. The college offers a special ASN track for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), called the LPN to RN Bridge/Career Mobility Program. Based upon their previous education and their work experience, they can skip several of the foundational nursing courses in the ASN program. They begin in the summer semester and join the rest of the second-year ASN students for the remaining two semesters. At the end of the ASN program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and begin working as Registered Nurses (RN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Students who have already earned an ASN or diploma in nursing are eligible to enter North Georgia College & State University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program requires fifty-seven credit hours on top of the ASN credit hours, although ROTC students should note that the military may have additional requirements beyond the college requirements. Courses are offered in both an online and a traditional format, and begin each fall.
Master of Science in Nursing
North Georgia College & State University offers two different Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. One is for nurses who wish to teach nursing, to allow them to become certified Nurse Educators. The program consists of thirty-five credit hours, and students learn skills such as teaching skills and curriculum development. The program is geared toward nurses who already have a BSN, but there is a transitional track for nurses who earned a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing.
There is also a shorter, fifteen-credit, Post-master’s certification track for nurses who have already earned an MSN. North Georgia College & State University’s other MSN track is for nurses who wish to become Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP). The program specializes in preparing nurses to be primary care givers in underserved, rural areas. During their 780 clinical hours, program participants become involved with the Appalachian Nurse Practitioner Clinic, which serves uninsured patients from the surrounding areas. In addition to the clinical hours, students in this program take forty-six credit hours.
Contact:
North Georgia College & State University
82 College Circle
Dahlonega, GA 30597
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Georgia Northwestern Technical College Nursing Program Review
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC), based in Rome, Georgia, was created in 2009 from a consolidation of Northwestern Technical College (NTC) and Coosa Valley Technical College (CVTC). Both Northwestern Technical College and Coosa Valley Technical College shared a commitment to workforce development, so by pooling their resources together, they are now able to have a huge offering of professional programs.
With eight different campuses, the new Georgia Northwestern Technical College is the biggest professional college in the northwest-Georgia area. The college serves over 16,000 students each year (including non-credit continuing education students and advanced high school students) and focuses on training and preparing students to work in rapidly growing career fields, including the healthcare field, the manufacturing and industrial field, and the business and information technology field. The college offers a wide range of associate, diploma, and certificate programs in the healthcare field, including an associate degree and a diploma option in nursing. The nursing programs are both accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission and the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Associate of Science in Nursing
Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program is offered on the Walker County Campus only. Students can opt to take the program either on a quarter schedule or a semester schedule. The program is composed of a general education component, nursing classes, and a clinical component. Students can begin the general education classes during any semester or quarter. The nursing classes begin in the fall. The college also offers an accelerated track for students who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). While these students still have to fulfill all the general education requirements, they draw on their previous education and work experience in order to skip some of the nursing classes and so shorten the program length. At the end of the ASN program, students take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and seek work as Registered Nurses (RN).
Practical Nursing Diploma
A student who wishes to start working as a nurse in the shortest amount of time can go through Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Practical Nursing Diploma program. This program is just as intensive as the ASN program in terms of the nursing course work, but it only requires six prerequisite classes. The program is offered on both the Floyd County campus and the Walker County campus. At the Floyd County campus, students can begin the diploma program in any semester; at Walker County campus it starts in the fall only. Both day and night classes are available. At the conclusion of the program, students can take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX_PN) and, if successful, begin work immediately as LPNs. This is the shortest entry path into the nursing profession and, after getting some work experience, the LPN has plenty of opportunities to earn a higher degree in the nursing field (for example, through Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s accelerated transition track for an LPN to ASN).
Contact:
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
1 Maurice Culberson Drive
Rome, GA 30161
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Piedmont College Nursing Program Review
Piedmont College, a traditional liberal arts college, has a residential campus in rural Demorest in North Georgia and a commuting campus near downtown Athens. The college prides itself on its faculty, which is focused on teaching rather than research, and its small class sizes. (The student to faculty ratio is fourteen to one.) Approximately 2800 students attend the college, studying liberal arts as well as a few professions such as business, education, and nursing.
The Piedmont College Daniel School of Nursing at the Demorest campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, with several different available tracks, depending on the incoming student’s previous education and nursing experience. Piedmont College (PC) is approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; the Daniel School of Nursing is approved by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Pre-Licensure
Students who have no previous nursing experience enter the Daniel School of Nursing BSN-Pre-Licensure program. This is a traditional, four-year program, assuming that the student has no advanced placement credit or transfer credit. Students spend the first two years fulfilling core classes and prerequisites. In their sophomore year, students apply to Piedmont College’s nursing school. This is a separate application process from the Piedmont College application process, and admission is not guaranteed, even if a student is already enrolled and taking classes at Piedmont College. If accepted, the student spends the next two years learning nursing skills, both in the classroom and in clinical settings. After completing the BSN-Pre-Licensure curriculum, a student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN). If successful, she can begin working as a Registered Nurse (RN) immediately.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN Track
If a student has already earned an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, he does not need to complete all the classes that a traditional nursing student needs to take. Instead of spending eight semesters earning a BSN, as in the traditional BSN Pre-Licensure program, an RN can earn his BSN in just three and a half semesters. This time frame assumes that he has already completed his core requirements in the sciences, English, math, social sciences, etc. If these are not complete, he will need to factor in additional time to take these courses. The nursing courses in the RN to BSN program take place one day a week so that the RN can continue to work while studying.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – LPN-BSN Track
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can also obtain a BSN at the Daniel School of Nursing. As with the RN-BSN program, this accelerated option allows a student to skip some nursing classes in the traditional BSN program, based on her work experience and her nursing diploma. For LPNs who wish to advance in the nursing field, this LPN to BSN bridge option is a wonderful opportunity. At the end of the program, the LPN is eligible to take the NCLEX_RN. If she passes, she becomes an RN and can expand her career options.
Contact:
Piedmont College
165 Central Avenue
Demorest, GA 30535
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Piedmont College in Athens
595 Prince Avenue
Athens, GA 30601
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Savannah Technical College Nursing Program Review
Savannah Technical College is focused on turning out graduates who can succeed in their chosen professional fields. Over 5000 students attend the college each semester, studying in over seventy professional programs. Savannah Technical College (STC, or Savannah Tech) awards associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates, and operates in multiple locations, including Savannah, Hinesville/Ft. Stewart, and Effingham County.
Savannah Technical College has a strong reputation for its healthcare programs, and offers a wide range of options for entry-level training. Among these programs is the Practical Nursing Diploma program, which is approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Georgia Board of Examiners of Licensed Practical Nurses.
Practical Nursing Diploma
The quickest way for a prospective nurse to enter the nursing field is to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This provides immediate opportunities for employment, and leads naturally to further education and career advancement at a later date. Savannah Technical College has a PN program to prepare LPNs for entry into the nursing profession. But before actually applying to the LPN program, a student needs to complete a Health Care Assistant Certificate of Credit, specializing as a nurse aide. This entails nine classes, most of which are also applied to the LPN program requirements. Including these classes, the program takes four semesters, and requires sixty credit hours. Of the required classes, only three are general education requirements (English, math, and psychology). Other than these three classes, a student begins right away with nursing classes and clinical rotations. At the end of the program, the student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX_PN) and look for work as an LPN.
Other Options
While Savannah Technical College does not have any nursing programs other than the Practical Nursing Diploma, there are other ways to enter the field. A student can consider a short program to become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). While taking only a minimal amount of time and costing very little, this will allow her to enter the nursing field. After gaining some work experience, she can decide if becoming a nurse is a good career choice for her, and go back to school to become an LPN or RN. The CNA program at Savannah takes only one semester and requires only four classes.
Alternatively, completing the Health Care Assistant Certificate of Credit program as a nurse aide is a required part of the LPN program, but the certificate is useful in and of itself. A student could earn this certificate by taking nine classes and go immediately to work as a nurse aide without going on to the remainder of the LPN program. As with the CNA program, this would allow a student to decide based on experience if nursing is the right career path for him. He can go back to complete the LPN program at a later date. Similarly, a student could earn a certificate of credit through the Patient Care Assistant Program. This takes two semesters and requires seven classes. A student can go from this program to employment as a nurse aide. Some of the courses in the program would be transferred if the student decided to go back to school at a later date to become an LPN or RN.
Contact:
Savannah Technical College
5717 White Bluff Road
Savannah, GA 31405
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South Georgia College Nursing School Review
While South Georgia College (SGC), in rural southeastern Georgia, began in 1906 as an agricultural and mechanical school, it has rapidly expanded to become a four-year institution. But despite its status as a four-year school, it still focuses mainly on two-year associate degree programs. Several bachelor degree programs are available as well.
The college is a member of the University System of Georgia, and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. South Georgia College has a strong nursing division, which offers an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing and just recently added a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program as part of the college’s transition to a four-year school. The nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Associate of Science in Nursing
The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program at South Georgia College is a two-year program, consisting of seventy-two credit hours. The curriculum includes a few general education classes such as English. At the end of the program, the student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN).
Associate of Science in Nursing – LPN to RN Bridge Program
South Georgia College also offers an accelerated track for students who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). On the basis on his nursing diploma and work experience, the LPN is allowed to skip most of the first-year nursing classes that a traditional ASN student must take. He is still required to take the upper-level nursing courses as well as all the core requirements. This track consists of sixty-four credit hours, and also allows the graduate to take the NCLEX_RN.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at South Georgia College is a recent addition. This program is intended for practicing Registered Nurses (RN) who hold an ASN to gain a full baccalaureate degree. The program is not intended as a direct-entry for students who have no previous nursing experience or education; students without nursing experience who wish to attend South Georgia College must begin at the ASN level. The program requires sixty credit hours of general education courses and sixty-two credit hours of nursing classes. A student may have completed some of these classes in the course of becoming an RN, and these credits may be transferred.
Study Abroad
While studying nursing requires a substantial time commitment and often precludes spending a semester abroad, South Georgia College has arranged study abroad programs that a nursing student can fit into his schedule. It offers summer study abroad classes in Russia, France, England, Spain, and Germany. If a student needs to use the summer semester for nursing classes, there is also the option of a short study abroad program in Costa Rica that takes place in May, between the spring and summer semesters.
Scholarships
Even at a state school, tuition can be very expensive. There are options for this issue at South Georgia College. In addition to financial aid, prospective students at South Georgia College can look into the South Georgia College Foundation Scholarship Program. The scholarship program offers over eighty different scholarships with different eligibility requirements. A student does not need to apply to each scholarship separately. He only needs to fill out a general scholarship application.
Contact:
South Georgia College
100 West College Park Drive
Douglas, GA 31533
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Southwest Georgia Technical College Nursing Program Review
On its campuses in Thomasville, Grady County, and Mitchell County, Southwest Georgia Technical College provides students in southwestern Georgia with the opportunity to learn and advance in their chosen professions, including health sciences, business, industrial technology, and computer sciences.
Part of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), the college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and awards associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates to its graduates. One of its largest academic divisions is the School of Health Sciences, which offers more than twenty different program options, including two programs in nursing.
Associate of Science in Nursing
Southwest Georgia Technical College (SWGTC) offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree on its main campus in Thomasville. The program is also available in Valdosta, in collaboration with Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. The program begins in Thomasville in both the spring and the fall, and in Valdosta in the summer. In total, the program requires six semesters of study; two semesters are devoted to prerequisites (including several science classes, English, and math) and four semesters to the college’s general education requirements and nursing classes. A total of seventy-two credit hours is required for graduation. Southwest Georgia Technical College also offers a variation of the standard ASN program for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who wish to earn a full associate degree. This LPN-ASN bridge option begins in the spring only, and allows the LPN to skip a full semester’s worth of nursing classes. Seventy-two credit hours are still necessary for graduation, but some of these can be transferred from the LPN’s previous education. At the end of the ASN program, students are prepared to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and begin working as Registered Nurses (RN). The ASN program is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Practical Nursing Diploma
For a swift entry into the nursing field, a student at Southwest Georgia College can opt to get a diploma in practical nursing rather than going through the full ASN program. This requires only sixty credit hours, and typically takes five semesters. One semester is devoted to prerequisites and four semesters focus on nursing skills. The program is offered on the main campus in Thomasville, beginning in the fall, and on the Grady County campus, beginning in the spring. Successful completion of the program allows a student to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX_PN) and seek work right away as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). (The college boasts an 85-percent job placement rate for program graduates.) At a later date, if she wishes to advance in the nursing field, the LPN can use her Practical Nursing Diploma and work experience to bridge into a program such as Southwest Georgia Technical College’s LPN-ASN Bridge Program, as described above. The Practical Nursing program at Southwest Georgia Technical College is approved by the Georgia Board of Examiners of Licensed Practical Nursing.
Contact:
Southwest Georgia Technical College
15689 U.S. Highway 19 North
Thomasville, GA 31792
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Thomas University Nursing School Review
Thomas University in southern Georgia, which began as Birdwood College in the 1950s, averaged fourteen students per graduating class until the 1970s. Since the 70s, the school has expanded rapidly, but it still focuses on maintaining small classes (the student to faculty ratio is ten to one). It serves mainly commuters and online students, but has some on-campus residential facilities as well. The university offers about twenty programs, including bachelor degrees, master’s degrees, and certificates. Five of these programs are in nursing, making Thomas University (TU) an excellent option for nurses who wish to advance in the nursing profession.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN
Thomas University does not offer a way for a student with no previous nursing education or experience to enter the nursing field, but it does offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to Registered Nurses (RN) who hold an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree or a diploma in nursing. The program is set up so that RNs can continue working throughout the 15 months of study. The classes meet once a week on campus for a half-day, and students complete the remainder of the work online. Students must complete 120 credit hours to receive the BSN degree, but typically students who hold an ASN have already fulfilled most of the core requirements/prerequisites, and are also eligible to receive credit for thirty-six credits toward the nursing classes. The RN to BSN program is offered on Thomas University’s main campus in Thomasville, as well as at the satellite campuses in Moultrie, GA and Tallahassee, FL. A highlight of the program is a study abroad opportunity in China, through the university’s partners Wenzhou Medical College and Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The RN-BSN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and approved by both the Georgia Board of Nursing and the Florida Department of Education Commission for Independent Education.
Master of Science in Nursing
Working RNs who are willing to commit to twenty months of study can earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Thomas University. As with the RN to BSN program, classes meet once a week for a half-day at the Thomasville campus (program is not available at the satellite campuses) and the rest of the work takes place online. The program consists of 24 credit hours of core classes, which focus on theoretical topics such as healthcare policies/theories, leadership in healthcare, and healthcare management strategies. After completing these core classes, the student can opt for a twelve-credit concentration in either nursing education or a twelve-credit concentration in nursing administration.
Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration
Thomas University has an unusual program for Registered Nurses who are interested in becoming leaders in healthcare settings and implementing and directing healthcare policies. RNs can earn a dual degree through the MSN-MBA program. It is open to RNs who hold either a BSN, MSN, or MBA, although the amount of classes required varies depending on the incoming student’s previous education. In total, not counting credits that transfer, the program requires fifty-four credits. This program is available on the main campus in Thomasville and, like the other nursing programs, is hybrid in format. Classes take place onsite and online, allowing the nurse to continue working full time while studying.
Graduate Certificates
RNs with a BSN are eligible to get a graduate certificate without going through the entire MSN program. While MSN students need to take twenty-four credit hours of core classes in addition to twelve hours of specialization in nursing education or nursing administration, graduate-certificate students can simply take the twelve credit hours in either nursing education or nursing administration. While these programs don’t confer a degree, they do provide RNs with the necessary information and foundation to move into education or administration in their field. The graduate certificates are offered on the Thomasville campus, and delivered in a hybrid format.
Contact:
Thomas University
1501 Millpond Road
Thomasville, GA 31792
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University of West Georgia Nursing School Review
Offering 106 programs of study to approximately 11,600 students, the University of West Georgia (UWG) is one of the biggest schools in the state. It confers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and certificates in the arts, humanities, sciences, mathematics, education, business, and nursing.
The School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing, offers programs at both the bachelor’s level and the master’s level.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Pre-Licensure
The University of West Georgia offers a traditional, four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program at its Carrollton campus, as well as a part-time option on its Newnan campus. (Although the Newnan program is part-time, classes are offered in the daytime and the program is not structured for students who wish to work full-time.) The program is intended for students who have no experience or education in the nursing field. It consists of sixty credit hours of core classes and sixty credit hours of nursing classes and clinical rotations. The BSN program begins with a summer semester; a student begins the program after having completed all core requirements. At the end of the program, a student can take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN).
Please note that since August 2011, CNA certification is compulsory for those who start nursing programs in June. Those prospective nursing students with a valid Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License from the state of Georgia are exempted from this pe-requisite. Neveretheless, certified and licensed healthcare/medical professionals like those with Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) training will still need to have completed CNA certification. Those with CNA certification but have not been practicing for two years or more will need gain recertification.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN
This is a RN to Bachelor’s Bridge Program. Experienced, working Registered Nurses (RN) are eligible to complete a full baccalaureate degree through the University of West Georgia’s RN-BSN program. This program would be an excellent option for an RN who holds an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree and wishes to expand his career potential. The program is offered on the main campus at Carrolton, at Newnan, as well as through Georgia Highlands College in Rome. At least half of the program takes place online, allowing flexibility for Registered Nurses who are working. As with the traditional BSN Pre-Licensure program, the RN to BSN program requires 120 credits for graduation. A student in this program must complete 60 credits of core classes (and is welcome to transfer classes he has already taken toward these 60 credits, if applicable). His ASN degree and work experience as an RN, however, allow him to transfer up to forty-four credits toward the nursing component of the BSN program. He only needs to complete sixteen credit hours of nursing classes. The program begins once a year in the fall.
Master of Science in Nursing
The University of West Georgia prepares nurses to for leadership in the nursing field through its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. For a student who already holds a BSN, the MSN program requires four semesters of full-time study. The student chooses one of two tracks within the MSN program: nursing education or healthcare systems leadership. If she specializes in healthcare systems leadership, she is eligible to receive certification as a Clinical Nurse Leader from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. There is also a special RN to MSN option for RNs who wish to complete their BSN degrees and MSN degrees at the same time. This program begins each fall, and the program length varies depending on the amount of core classes a student needs to fulfill.
Post-Master’s Certification
A nurse who has already earned an MSN can choose to gain certification in either nursing education or healthcare systems leadership without completing the full MSN program. He can take ten credits toward his specialization and sit for the corresponding national certification exam.
Contact:
University of West Georgia
1601 Maple St.
Carrollton, GA 30118
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Valdosta State University Nursing School Review
Located in southern Georgia, Valdosta State University (VSU) offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees to over 13,000 students. As part of the University System of Georgia, it serves mainly students from Georgia (approximately 90 percent of the student body).
The university is focused on fulfilling the economic needs of the region. In particular, the College of Nursing was founded in 1967 in response to a request from the chairman of a local hospital, who was having difficulty finding nurses to work in the area. Since the start of its first baccalaureate program, the College of Nursing has grown rapidly and continued to fill the needs of southern Georgia. The College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Pre-Licensure
The first program started by the College of Nursing at Valdosta State University was the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, and it continues to be the most basic route into the nursing field. Prospective students do not need any previous nursing experience or education to pursue this degree. After enrolling at Valdosta State University, they must complete sixty credit hours of core university requirements, and then apply to the College of Nursing. Typically, a student is ready to apply to the College of Nursing by the end of sophomore year. If accepted, the student continues on to four semesters of nursing classes in preparation for taking the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and beginning work as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated Program
If a student decides to pursue nursing after earning a degree in a different field, he can apply to the BSN – Accelerated Program. As with the traditional BSN program, he must complete sixty credit hours of core university requirements. However, since he has already completed another degree, it is very likely that he has already met most if not all of these requirements. Excluding any core classes that he needs to finish, the accelerated BSN program takes four semesters. It always begins with a summer semester, and progresses without a break through the next fall, spring, and summer semesters. At the end, a student is qualified to take the NCLEX_RN.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN
An RN who holds an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, a valid Georgia RN license, and has completed the necessary sixty credits of core classes can apply to the RN to BSN program. This is designed for working RNs who wish to complete it on a part-time basis. It takes four semesters, and requires twenty-eight credits.
Master of Science in Nursing
An RN who wishes to expand her nursing skill set and take more of a leadership role in a healthcare setting has two options for graduate education at Valdosta State University. The College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with two different tracks. A nurse can study to become a Nurse Practitioner (Adult Health) or to become a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL). Both programs require a minimum of thirty-six credits, including clinical hours and a thesis or project. While the MSN programs are intended for RNs who already hold BSN degrees, the College of Nursing does offer a special track for an RN to complete the RN-BSN program and bridge directly into the MSN program. This progression typically requires two and a half years of study.
Contact:
Valdosta State University
1500 North Patterson Street
Valdosta, GA 31698
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West Georgia Technical College Nursing Program Review
In 2008, West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) came into existence as a result of a merger of West Central Technical College and West Georgia Technical College. The new college is the second biggest technical college in the state, and serves students in the counties of Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson, Heard, Meriwether, and Troup.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has approved West Georgia Technical College to confer associate degrees, as well as diplomas and certificates. The college offers over 110 different programs, all geared toward meeting the needs of businesses and preparing students to work in a changing economic climate. Since healthcare is a rapidly expanding and changing field, health science is an area of focus for West Georgia Technical College, which offers fourteen different areas of study in the healthcare field. As part of its large School of Health Sciences, West Georgia Technical College offers two different tracks for prospective nurses. Here is a review of the two available programs:
Practical Nursing Diploma
The Practical Nursing Diploma program at West Georgia Technical College prepares students to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX_PN) and work as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). In order to prepare students for the exam and the work, the Practical Nursing Diploma program requires students to complete fifty-nine credits of nursing coursework, on top of six prerequisite classes that must be completed before even starting the program. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in all prerequisite classes in order to be considered in the program’s competitive admission process. Clinical rotations are a key component of the program, allowing the students to get hands-on experience. The program boasts a 98-percent job placement rate, and is approved by the Georgia Board of Licensed Practical Nurses.
Associate of Science in Nursing
The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree requires a larger time commitment from students, but it opens up more career opportunities than a Practical Nursing Diploma. At the end of the ASN program, a graduate is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX_RN) and work in a variety of healthcare settings, from acute-care facilities to long-term care facilities to patients’ homes to schools. In order to prepare for this career, prospective ASN students must complete five prerequisite classes in English, math, sciences, and psychology, before applying to the ASN program. Admission to the program is competitive, and is separate from admission to West Georgia Technical College. Students must score 85 percent on the National League for Nursing Pre-RN Admission Entrance Exam, and show a GPA of 3.0 in all prerequisite classes. If accepted to the program, they must complete seventy-five credit hours to be eligible for graduation. In addition to core classes and science classes and computer classes, students study adult nursing and parent-child nursing. The ASN program at West Georgia Technical College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
Contact:
West Georgia Technical College
176 Murphy Campus Blvd.
Waco, GA 30182
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