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Colby-Sawyer College Nursing Program Review

Colby-Sawyer College (CSC) was established in 1837 when a group of ambitious New London citizens requested a Charter to operate a college. The team lead by Susan Colby served as teachers in the college which was then Co-ed. The family of Susan Colby generously donated to the college development and as such the college was named Colby Academy. In 1928, another ambitious president Leslie Sawyer helped change the college into a women’s college and renamed it Colby Junior College.  The junior college began offering baccalaureate degrees in 1943 and in 1975, the name was changed to Colby Sawyer College; reflecting names of two former presidents.

Nursing Program at Colby Sawyer College

Colby-Sawyer College offers one nursing program leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Details of the program are given below

B. Science in Nursing

This sole nursing program at the college leads to the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The program has a curriculum with strong liberal arts foundation courses for the entry-level candidates.  Prospective students for this program must first apply into the college to take general education courses. Students who successfully complete the general education and liberal arts courses must then apply again to be admitted into the nursing major during the sophomore year.

Completing the general education pre-nursing portion does not guarantee students a place in the nursing major. The selection process is competitive and merit based and depends on the outcomes of the pre-nursing program. However, transfer students from other colleges have slim chances of getting admission into the program as preference is given to the students who have taken liberal arts courses from Colby Sawyer. Such students are evaluated on an individual basis and on space availability.

Colby-Sawyer College has formed partnership with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical center where students of the college take most of their clinical practicum lessons.  Students visit the medical center once a week during the sophomore years and twice per week starting from the junior year. As part of program completion, students must take two capstone projects in the senior year. The two are a Clinical capstone and a Nursing Leadership Capstone. 

A total of 120 credits of both portions of the program are required to graduate from Colby Sawyer nursing program and all courses can be completed in 4years of 8 semesters. Completion of the curriculum leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and students will be eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Colby Sawyer Nurses Honor Society

There is a Colby-Sawyer College Honor Society chapter of the International Honor Society for Nurses. The honor society aims at improving the health of the community via dedicated scientific research and credible nursing practice. The members of this chapter are student nurses who maintain a GPA of 3.0 and rank among the top 35% of their nursing class.

Contact:
Colby-Sawyer College
541 Main Street, New London,
NH 03257

Great Bay Community College Nursing Program Review

Great Bay Community College (GBCC) has a long and complex history. From its founding year in 1945 as a State Trade School in Portsmouth, the college has undergone tremendous changes and numerous changes of names. The college has advanced from a trade school to a technical and vocational college and finally to the status of a community college it holds to date. The college had campuses in Manchester and Stratham but in 2008, when the college made its last name changes, all programs were concentrated at the pioneer campus leading to closure of the other two campuses.

The Nursing program at Great Bay Community College

Great bay community offers one nursing program that leads to the award of an associated degree in nursing.  The program is offered as a ladder program whereby, at pre-determined stages within the program, students can apply for licensure as Practical or assistant nurses. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.  There is also an advanced placement option for Licensed practical nurses who wish to complete the associate degree program to become registered nurses. Details are given below:

Nursing-Associate in Science

The associate degree in nursing at Great Bay community college provides a curriculum designed to prepare students to become registered nursing. Candidates for this program are expected to have completed their general education courses before applying. Eligible candidates must also complete a National League for Nursing (NLN) pre-admission RN exam no later than 2 weeks before application.

After admission into the program, students take 69 credits of nursing and supporting courses. Courses are designed to be completed in 4 semesters in 2 academic years. There are also full time and part time options of completing the program. However, part time students must complete the nursing courses within four years from the time of entry. Courses with clinical components may require evening or weekend sessions to complete clinical experience.

Matriculated students of this associate program receive a curriculum designed in such a way that students can apply for additional licensure. This is done prior to meeting all program requirements for the following arrangements:

  • Nursing I- Additional Licensure as Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA)
  • Nursing II-Additional Licensure as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Students must apply for such licensure from the New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON). Otherwise, completion of the entire program grants students educational eligibility to apply and write the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Advanced Placement and Transfer Options

Students seeking transfer into the Associate degree in nursing at the college must have meet all prerequisite courses by challenging their prior courses. Transfer students need to take Excelsior College Exams in order to challenge transferable credits.

For Licensed Practical Nurses seeking advanced placement into the program, they should take 3 advanced placement exams from the same body. After advanced placement, students join the associate nursing program at the second year/ Nursing III level.  Completion of the advanced placement track leads to award of the Associate degree in nursing and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Contact:
Great Bay Community College
320 Corporate, Portsmouth,
NH 03801

Manchester Community College Nursing Program Review

Manchester Community College (MCC) history can be traced back to 1945 when it opened doors to students as State Trade School of Manchester. The school was established with the aim of offering quick career entry options for soldiers returning from the Second World War. As such, the college initially offered technical career training programs only. Through a long history, the college has had numerous changes of names and relocations in three different sites before settling to the current location in Manchester City Center. It prides to be the 2nd largest Community College in the state and offers 2-year degrees, professional development, certificate and transfer programs.

Nursing at Manchester Community College

The college has one nursing program on offer that leads to the award of an associate degree in nursing. The curriculum of the program is designed in such a way that prior to finishing the entire program requirements, students can apply for licensure as Nursing Assistants or Practical Nurses. This kind of a ladder program is also exhibited in other community colleges in the state. The nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.  Practical nurses may also seek advanced placement in the associate program as will be explained below.

Nursing

The nursing program at Manchester Community College leads to the award of an Associate of Science in nursing degree. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to become Registered Nurses (RNs) to provide direct patient care. Candidates for this program must have completed prerequisites course prior to making an application. Admission occurs every fall semester and candidates must have submitted their application by January 1st every year. If the class is not filled by the end of that date, applications may be extended to the 1st of July.

Prior to admission, students must complete the National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-admission exams for Registered nurses. This exam together with the outcomes of the prerequisites courses are used on a cumulative point system for competitive selection of the successful candidates. Usually, the 70 credit curriculum is designed to be completed in 4 semesters of 2 academic years on a full time basis.  However, students may choose the part time option but nursing courses must be completed within 4 years after enrollment. Clinical experiences may include evenings and weekends on a dynamic schedule with regard to times and locations.

Successful completion of the program grants the student eligibility to write the NLCEX-RN to become a registered nurse. However, as a ladder kind-of program, matriculated students may apply for additional licensure within the courses of the program besides the final RN licensure. In this case, students must apply to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON) after completing the following:

Nursing I- Licensure as Licensed Nursing Assistant (NLA)

Nursing II- Licensure as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Advanced Placement or Transfer

Transfer and advanced placement for LPNs is based on space availability. Such students who wish to get into the associate program must have completed prerequisite courses prior to admission.  Transfer students must take the Excelsior college exams in order to challenge their transferable credits. Practical nurses must hold active LPN licensure in New Hampshire to be allowed to apply. Additionally, they must take Advanced Placement into Nur112 course from Excelsior to be secure advanced placement in the 2nd year of the associate of science in nursing program.

Transfer to 4-year Colleges/ Universities

Manchester Community College has articulation agreements with a number of 4-year colleges and universities to ensure their nursing program graduates transfer flawlessly to a Bachelor of Science in nursing program. These are:

  • Emmanuel College
  • New England College
  • St. Joseph’s College of Maine
  • Endicott College,
  • Rivier College
  • University of New Hampshire

A dual admission program for MCC nursing program and Franklin Pierce University for their Bachelor of Science in nursing program is also available.

Contact:
Manchester Community College
1066 Front St, Manchester,
NH 03102

Nashua Community College Nursing Program Review

Nashua Community College (NCC) founded in 1970 forms part of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH). The college received its current name in 2008 together with the other six community colleges in the state from the common New Hampshire Community Technical Colleges. As a community college, the main emphasis is on two-year degree programs meant for career-entry or for transfer purposes. It also offers certificate courses, workforce development, non-credit courses and lifelong learning opportunities to the residents of Nashua and beyond.

The Nursing Program at Nashua Community College

Like all other community colleges under CCSNH, Nashua Community College department of nursing offers one nursing program that leads to the award of an Associate of Science in nursing degree. The program is fully approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Licensed Practical Nurses from the state are also welcome to seek advanced placement into the associate nursing program to become registered nurses. More details about this program are given below:

Nursing

The curriculum of the Associate of Science in Nursing is designed to prepare students to become registered nurses. The curriculum leads to educational eligibility of students to apply and write the NLCLEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses.

Candidates for this program are expected to take the TEAS V test from the Assessment Technology Institute before applying to the program. Potential students are also expected to have completed pre-requites courses before making their applications. During the competitive selection, the TEAS V test scores and those of earlier pre-requisites courses are considered. It is also worth noting that preference is given to New Hampshire residents. This means that out-of-state candidates are considered on a space-availability basis. 

Upon admission, students can choose between the 2-year or 3-year curriculum plans to complete the 71 nursing and supporting courses. Unlike the 2-year study plan, the 3-year plan has a lighter course-load per semester and also has a summer session. All courses must be completed within five years after taking the first nursing course. Completion of the coursework grants students eligibility to apply for NLCEX-RN exam.

Advanced Placement and Transfer

Transfer students wishing to get admitted into the nursing program must submit their transcripts for credit transferability evaluation.  Such credits must not be more than five years old and must carry a grade not lower than B- (Minus). On the other hand, Licensed Practical Nurses in the state are welcome to challenge up-to 7 nursing credits through standardized exams. All other general courses may also be evaluated for transferability. Un-licensed practical nursing graduates who meet all the associate of science in nursing admission requirements may also be considered for admission.

Continuing Education for Nursing Graduates

Nashua Community College encourages graduates of the nursing program to take advantage of the articulation agreements between the college and other 4-year colleges. Such agreements that ensure smooth transition into baccalaureate nursing programs have been maintained with:

  • Rivier College
  • Franklin Pierce University
  • University of New Hampshire
  • St. Joseph College of Maine

Contact:
Nashua Community College
505 Amherst Street, Nashua,
NH 03063

New Hampshire Technical Institute Nursing Program Review

New Hampshire Technical Institute (NHTI), the college destined to become Concord’s Community College was founded in 1965 as an engineering college. Years later, the college introduced non- engineering programs and this warranted the change of name to represent the modern status yet giving credit to the past. The college offers about 30 associate degree programs, 30 certificate programs and the only diploma in Practical Nursing. It is one of the colleges that offer all its programs in one campus location.

Nursing Programs at NHTI
The college offers three nursing programs: two leading to the associate degree in nursing and the only diploma in the college in practical nursing.  The programs are approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Besides the mainstream programs, the college also offers Continuing Education for nurses.  The College has also recently been approved by the American Bar Association to start offering a Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate.

Nursing Program Practical Nursing Diploma

The practical nursing program offers a curriculum that prepares students to take the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Prior to admission, students must complete a NHTI placement testing. Admission is very competitive and selection is based on cumulative point system derived from the score from the placement and prerequisite college courses.

Classes commence in January each year and progresses for three semesters including a summer semester. The coursework is designed to be completed in one year of full time study otherwise; students can take more time but not exceed two years from admission date. A total of 42-43 credits are required to become eligible to graduate with a Practical Nursing Diploma and take the NCLEX-PN exam.

Nursing Associate Degree

The nursing associate program offers a curriculum designed to prepares students to become registered nurses by taking the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission is competitive and is also based on the cumulative system point system as of the practical nursing program.  Those students who make their applications before November 21st may be considered for an Early Action Admission. The program has two entry options: a Day Option for entry-level students and a LPN-RN Advancement Option. Admission occurs every fall semester.

For the generic day option, students must take 72-73 credits at NHTI community college which can be completed in 2 years but not in more than 4 years. Satisfactory completion of the coursework awards the students an Associate in Science in nursing degree: a transferable degree. Students also become eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN).

Nursing Program LPN-RN Advancement Option

LPNs who wish to become registered nurses are welcomed to take this route. Candidates must have current LPN licenses for the state of New Jersey to be allowed to take the National League for Nursing (NLN) Acceleration Challenge Exam.  The scores for this exam are used for selection purposes. After admission, students take a LPN-RN Advancement Course to receive advanced placement into the associate degree.

Nursing Professional Development

New Hampshire Technical Institute  is an approved provider of nursing Continuing Education through the state’s board of nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The college also offers a certificate program for those interested in becoming legal nurse consultants.

Articulation Agreements

RN graduates from NHTI have the opportunity to take advantage of the existing articulation agreements. This enables them to transfer seamlessly to the Bachelor of Science in nursing programs in the following universities:

  • University of New England
  • Franklin Pierce University
  • University of New Hampshire

Contact:
New Hampshire Technical Institute
31 College Drive, Concord,
NH 03301

River Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

River Valley Community College (RVCC) was founded in 1968 to meet the higher education needs of residents of Claremont. The college is located in a rural setting with a rich and diverse culture of students from all walks of life. In the effort to reach-out to more communities, the college has established an academic center at Keene. Qualified candidates can choose from the 19 associate degree programs and 19 certificate and diploma programs.

Nursing Programs at RVCC

River valley Community College has four nursing programs to offer to qualified candidates. Two of the tracks lead to an associated degree in nursing: an entry-level option and an advanced placement option for licensed practical nurses (LPN). There is also a practical nursing diploma and a nursing assistant certificate program. The programs are approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. The diploma and associate tracks are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Nursing Assistant Certificate

The Nursing Assistant certificate program prepares students to become licensed nursing assistants. The program consists of one course of 144 hours: 24 in clinical labs, 72 in supervised direct patient care and 48 of classroom theory instructions.  The course is scheduled to be completed in 8 weeks on a part time study plan: 2 evenings and 1 weekend day per week. After completion, students become eligible for national exams to become Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNA) besides being awarded the Nursing Assistant Certificate from RVCC

Practical Nursing Diploma

The practical nursing program provides a curriculum that enables students become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Those seeking admission into this program must have completed a nursing assistant course and have a LNA license to practice in the state. Such status must be maintained throughout the program.  6 courses consisting of 31 credits must be taken at RVCC to be eligible to graduate with a practical nursing diploma. Satisfactory completion also leads to eligibility to take the NLCEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses.

Associate Degree in Nursing

The curriculum for the associate degree in nursing prepares students to become registered nurses. Candidates must have a LNA license for New Hampshire to be allowed to apply to the program. In addition, students must also take the National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-admission exam.

Students need to complete 69 credit hours from either Claremont or Keene campuses or complete the general education courses prior joining the program. All nursing courses must be completed within 5 years from the date of entry into the program. Successful completion of the coursework grants eligible to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse. Students are also awarded the Associate of Science in nursing degree; a degree that is both career-oriented and transferable.

Advanced Placement Option-For Practical Nurses

This is designed for LPNs who wish to earn an associate degree in nursing and become registered nurses. This program begins every summer where students take 4Transition PN to RN courses. Candidates whose credits from the practical nursing do not transfer automatically must complete an Accelerated Challenge Exam with a minimum score of 80%. This enables such students gain transferability their PN program credits.

After admission, students get matriculated in the associate program at the 2nd year level. Satisfactory completion leads to the award of the Associate of Science in nursing besides gaining eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.

Transfer Options

River Valley Community College has articulation agreements to enable RN graduates to transfer seamlessly to complete a 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing degree from:

  • Franklin Pierce University
  • University of New Hampshire
  • University of Vermont

Contact:
River Valley Community College
1 College Drive, Claremont,
NH 03743

Rivier College Nursing Program Review

Rivier College (RC) was established in 1933 as a catholic private college. The college was named in honor of Mary Rivier, the founder of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.  The college was initially located in Hudson but 8 years down the line, it relocated to Nashua its current location. The college still follows the catholic tradition of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs that are grounded in its original mission of “Education of the Whole Person”.

Nursing Programs at Rivier College

The Division of Nursing at Rivier College offers both undergraduate and graduate level nursing programs. In the undergraduate category, the college has an associate degree track, advanced placement for practical nurses, a traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing track and a completion program for Registered Nurses. At the graduate level, there are four Master of Science in nursing (MSN) tracks. The MSN tracks have two entry options each as will be explained below. All the programs are accredited by the National League in Nursing Accrediting Commission and are approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.

Associate of Science in Nursing (Evening)

The Associate of Science in nursing (ASN) professional track is meant to prepare students to become competent registered nurses. This program is offered exclusively on an evening study plan therefore, a fit for students who wish to work during their study period. While completing the nursing courses, students take two evenings and choose between two weekend days or a 12-hour weekend day for clinical experience. Students also take 2 evenings for theory coursework per week.

72 credits are required to complete the program whereby, 42 credits are general education and 42 nursing courses. Courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters with only one courses being offered in the summer session. Completion of the program awards the student an Associate of Science in Nursing degree and eligibility to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RN).

Students may also seek transfer into the ASN program at Rivier. Rivier has articulation agreements with most Community Colleges in the state; most transfer students are accepted flawlessly. In the situation that the transfer students do not come from a school with articulation agreements with Rivier College, such students must be ready to complete half of the ASN courses at Rivier. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) seeking advanced placement to the ASN program are required to take a Nursing Transition course. This enables them to receive advanced placement in the 2nd year of the ASN program.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BS (Online)

The RN to BS online degree is open to registered nurses from Rivier ASN program and any other from accredited diploma or associate nursing programs.  The curriculum is designed to build on prior nursing experience as students advance to earn a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Due to its flexibility, it is suitable for RNs who wish to maintain their employment status while working towards their degree.

Generally, students must be able to transfer a minimum of 60 credits from their earlier program to be allowed to apply. If this requirement is met, 24 nursing major and 18 general education credits must be taken at Rivier in 2 years of full time study. Since the baccalaureate program requires 126 credits to complete, the remaining credits must be chosen from a pool of additional elective courses. Part time study plans can be arranged on an individual basis for students who wish to take 1-3 courses per semester. Students are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after completion.

Professional Track Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Day)

The undergraduate nursing program is designed for recent high school graduate who wish to become registered nurses. The program is the form of a traditional 4-year full time day program that prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses. After admission into the program, students take core and general courses in the freshman year and start on nursing courses at the sophomore level. After completing all required courses at the junior year, students must apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam and be licensed as registered nurses.

Only students who take the NLCEX-RN exam at this level are allowed to progress to the senior year. Successful students who make it to the senior level must take a professional Capstone project to be eligible for graduation.  The entire program requires 57 general education and 66 nursing major credits. Additional credits must be taken from a pool of elective courses to fulfill the required 126 credits needed for the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.

Master of Science in Nursing

There are four graduate nursing tracks available at Rivier College. Each of these programs has two entry options as follows:

Bridge Option for Non-nursing Baccalaureate Prepared Nurses

This bridge option entry path is designed for registered nurses with a Baccalaureate degree in another non-nursing field. Since it is a generalist track students must take a post-master program to be eligible for certification in their respective areas.

RN to MS Option

This option is designed for the Registered nurse graduates of associate or diploma nursing programs. Candidates of this track must show prove of a current unrestricted RN license and at least two years of working experience. Unlike the former track, students in this option are eligible to apply for National Certification in their respective areas of the MSN chosen.

Following any of the two options explained above, students can chose the following Master of Science in nursing specialty areas:

  • M.S Nursing (Adult Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [PMHNP]) Track
  • M.S Nursing (Nurse Education [NE]) Track
  • M.S Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner [FNP])Track

A M.S Nursing: Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) Degree Completion program that do not follow the above two options is also offered. It is meant for certified APRNS who wish to complete MSN degree requirements

Post-Master’s Certificates

Rivier College also offers Post-Master’s certificate programs in the following areas:

  • Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
  • Nursing Education
  • Family Nursing

Contact:
Rivier College
420 South Main Street, Nashua,
NH 03060

Saint Anselm College Nursing Program Review

Saint Anselm College (SAC) was established by the Benedictine Monks of St Mary’s Abbey in 1889. During its early years, the college offered philosophical and theological courses only. By 1895, the college was granted the power to offer other standardized degree programs with a strong liberal arts outlook.  To this date, the college holds on to its founding Benedictine traditions and is as such, strongly affiliated to the Catholic Church.

Nursing Programs at Saint Anselm College

Nursing programs at the college are offered by the department of nursing. The department has three programs: a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in nursing completion track a traditional 4-year baccalaureate track and a program that offers Continuing Education. The programs have unconditional accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. The Continuing Education program is also approved through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

RN to BSN Program

The RN to BSN program is designed to help registered nurses (RNs) complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree in a flexible and relatively short period. Candidates for this program must be in procession of an active and unrestricted RN license. Admitted students transfer most of their associate of diploma program credits to the BSN program.

Courses are covered in a flexible hybrid format of both online and on-site classes at the Manchester campus.  For full time students, coursework is designed to be completed in 15 months on a rotating 8-week schedule. However, for busy students course load per semesters is very flexible and has no minimum requirements. This means that students can take even one or two courses per semester on a rotating 7-week schedule on a part time study plan. Completion times for such plans vary depending on the number of courses taken per semester. A total of 120 credits must be completed through direct transfer, challenging exams and from Saint Anselm Courses.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in nursing degree curriculum is meant to train qualified students for initial licensure as registered nurses. It is a traditional 4-year baccalaureate program offered on a full time basis. Students are admitted as freshmen and starting on their first nursing courses at the 1st year level. 120 credits are required for students to be eligible for graduation and applying for the NLCEX-RN to become licensed registered nurses.

Continuing Nursing Education (CNE)

The CNE department is an autonomous department but still operates within the Saint Anselm nursing department. The department is an approved provider of CNE through the states board of nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.  The department offers courses that help nurses in New Hampshire and the larger New England Region to obtain Contact hours for license renewal.

The CNE department offers contact hours in form of conferences held in scheduled year-round times.  Conferences can be in the formats of multi-days, one-day, half-day or evening schedules. The College also offers a number of online continuing education courses.

Sigma Theta Tau- Epsilon Tau Chapter

Saint Anselm College has the Epsilon Tau chapter of the international honor society for nurses. Highly achieving senior year students are welcome to this chapter where scholarship, leadership and research to enhance the wellness of the society.

Contact:
Saint Anselm College
100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester,
NH 03102

St. Joseph School of Nursing Review

St. Joseph School of Nursing (SJSON) was established in 1908 along with the St. Joseph Hospital; it’s mother hospital.  The school of nursing started off by offering on-site hospital training for nurses by awarding them nursing diplomas. They discontinued the diploma nursing program and in place of that, introduced a practical nursing program. Later on, the school re-introduced the registered nursing program as an associate degree program. The school serves the resident health training center for nurses under the mandate of St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua.

Nursing Programs Offered

As a nursing school, Saint Joseph offers only nursing related programs. There is an Associate of Science in nursing program, a practical nursing program and a Nursing Assistant Course.  The practical nursing and associate degree programs are fully approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing and the Practical nursing program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).  The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree program has recently achieved accreditation with the NLNAC. Practical nurses also have a chance to make the transition into the associate program to become professional nurses.

Nursing Assistant Course

This is a fast-paced course that prepares entry-level students to work as nursing assistants in health agencies. Qualified candidates are expected to take a pre-entrance exam to facilitate selection. Admitted students start with simple to complex nursing theory concepts for a period of 90 hours. Students then progress to take another 54 hours of clinical experience in St. Joseph Hospital, hospice centers and other home care centers.  After completion of the required 144 hours, students become eligible to take the nursing board exams for certification as Nursing Assistants.

Practical Nursing

The Practical nursing program at St. Joseph has a curriculum that leads to the award of a Practical Nursing Diploma. Students are a required to take a total of 42 credit hours of theory and 12 hours of clinical experience.  The program can be completed in 4 semesters on a full time study plan at the Nashua campus. Alternatively, students can opt for the 3-semester accelerated track offered at Keene Campus only. For the track at Nashua campus, classes commence in September while those of Keene commence in May. After completion, students become eligible to apply for the NLCEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)

PN Refresher Course

This is a 148-hour curriculum designed to help the dormant practical nurse to re-enter the workforce. Students must obtain a temporary license before being admitted into the program and apply for full licensure after completion.

Associate of Science in Nursing Degree Program

The associate program has a curriculum that prepares students to become eligible for licensure as registered nurses.  Coursework consist of 68 credits hours designed to be completed in 2 academic years of five semesters. It is a full time track and classes commence in September each year. Completion of the coursework leads to educational eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

LPN to RN Transition

This is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to become RNs. It is a 1-year track that admits qualified LPNs to take a Transition Course in the summer session and later join the main associate class in July as sophomores. Students become eligible to write the NLCEX-RN exam after completion of the Associate program coursework.

Contact:
St. Joseph School of Nursing
5 Woodward Avenue, Nashua,
NH 03060

Salter School of Nursing and Allied Health Nursing Program Review

Initially known as the Health Care Training Associates, Salter School of Nursing and Allied Health (SSNAH) serves the residents of Manchester, New Hampshire as a Vocational and technical nurses training center. This post-secondary vocational training center was established to meet the training needs of students who wish to enter the nursing or allied heath careers from the most basic entry-level points.  The school has a curriculum that aims at developing students nursing career with a strong base that enhances career mobility into higher nursing education.

Nursing Programs at Salter School of Nursing & Allied Health

Nursing programs are the major programs under this post-secondary vocational and technical training center. As a vocational centre, the education level does not go beyond the practical nursing level but serves the purpose of students wishing to start from the foundation level upwards.  The focus is on career-oriented, on-the-job training required for entry in employment in the healthcare field.

 Two programs under the nursing docket are a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) Program and a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) track. The LPN track is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Specific details on each program are given below:

Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA)

This program is offered at the Manchester campus and is meant to meet the education needs of students wishing to become nursing assistants. It is a 1-course program requiring 145 hours of both theory and clinical experience.  60 hours are dedicated for clinical experience and 85 hours for the theory component. The 60 clinical hours are completed at a long-term care facility while the theory and lab sessions are conducted at the Salter school of nursing.

The course gives emphasis on long term care, rehabilitation and acute care centers.  Students focus on Basic Life Support for adults, Infants and children patient groups.  Students serve an externship during their final term at Salter through assistance by the school’s Career Services Department to secure such externships. After completion, students become eligible to apply to New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON) for licensure as nursing assistants.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Salter school of nursing provides the technical training that helps students meet the of the Board of Nursing standard requirements of a practical nurses. Students must have licensure as LNA prior to application into the program, otherwise, students must complete 145 hours of the LNA courses along with the LPN courses.

The program courses are taken in a period of 5 terms for nursing and supporting courses. The first term is short and entails current NLA license post assessment. Medical Assistants (MA) can also join the program after providing proof of licensure and official transcripts from the post-secondary education institution attended.

Coursework is designed to be completed during day or evening programs which require 24 hours of clinical experience per week on every weekend. Students may request for part time schedules to complete the coursework which can be arranged on an individual basis. Students also serve an externship during their final term at Salter through assistance by the school’s Career Services Department to secure such externships.

Contact:
The Salter School of Nursing & Allied Health
60 Rogers Street, Manchester,
NH 03103

University of New Hampshire Nursing School Review

University of New Hampshire (UNH) was founded in 1866 in Hanover to meet the education needs of rural families. In the early years, it was known as New Hampshire College of Agriculture. In 1893, the college received a land-grant in Durham and later, relocated from Hanover to the new and current location. It put more emphasis to liberal arts programs and by 1923; the college was offering a wide range of programs.  This led to a legislature that changed its name to University of New Hampshire to reflect the expanded and more diverse programs.

Nursing Programs at New Hampshire University

Nursing programs in the university are offered in the College of Health and Human Services. There are two undergraduate nursing programs: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN degree programs. On the graduate category, there are 3 tracks in the Master of Science in nursing, a Direct-Entry option and 1 Post-Master’s Certificate program.  All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The BSN program is a traditional full time 4-year baccalaureate program that prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses. Qualified students are admitted as freshman and start off by taking general education courses. The program is peculiar in that students start on nursing courses in the sophomore year- all but 1 courses covered in the second years are nursing courses.  Students must also take a capstone project in the senior as a graduation requirement. A total of 8 general education and 31 nursing courses are required to prepare the students to apply for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides eligibility to be awarded a BSN degree.

RN Baccalaureate Program – RN-BP (RN to BSN)

The RN baccalaureate program is designed for registered nurses who wish to earn a BSN degree. Candidates must meet the BSN admission requirements besides having a current and unrestricted RN license. Students meet the 128 credit requirements by transferring their diploma or associate program credits, challenge exams and by taking courses at the Durham Campus.  Courses are offered on both full-time or part-time study plans and admission occur in fall and spring semesters.

Due to the disparity on the number of courses challenged and transfered, all students develop an individualized study plan with their advisors.  The RN-BP program welcomes associate degree nursing graduates from all 7 Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) colleges. Such applications are must be done no later than 1st March of the last semester of study at the community college.  Applicants from CCSNH with articulation agreements with the university are given preference over RNs from other colleges.

Graduate Program in Nursing

The graduate program offers the following 3-master of science in nursing MSN) degree tracks:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
  • Evidence –Based Nursing

Within the Evidence Based track, students can complete additional courses in clinical nursing education. Those who complete the FNP and CNL tracks become eligible to apply for national certification exams in their respective areas.

Direct Entry Master’s in Nursing Program

This program admits non-nursing bachelor degree holders who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses. The curriculum is designed in such a way that student will cover the BSN and Master’s requirements without repetition hence saving time and money. However, students remain as provisional Master of Science students until they complete 64 credits courses required to take the NLCEX-RN exam. These are taken on an accelerated mode and include a summer session.

After taking the licensure exam, the provisional status is lifted and they continue to take another 13 credits for the Clinical Nurse Leader track. In 5-semesters of full time accelerated study, students complete 73 credits and earn a Master of Science in Nursing- Clinical Nurses Leader degree and eligibility for certification. All courses for this track commence in January each year

Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

University of New Hampshire offers the above named program for Master-prepared students. Those seeking such certification may complete between 30 to 39 credits depending on the masters courses taken earlier.

Contact:
University of New Hampshire
105 Main Street, Durham ,
NH 03824