Appalachian State University Nursing School Review
Appalachian State University (ASU) is a public facility in Boone, North Carolina. It is a large university with over 17,000 undergraduates and over 3,000 postgraduates enrolled. The campus is in a scenic area in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are over 140 undergraduate and graduate majors. Appalachian State is one of the 16 universities that are part of the University of North Carolina system. The university has a textbook rental program that saves students a substantial amount of money over the years because they do not need to buy textbooks. The college has received many awards, including Sierra magazine’s Top 20 “Coolest” Schools.
Nursing Programs
Prelicensure BSN
Appalachian State offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for students who are not yet licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). Students who complete the program are eligible to take the national examination for licensure as an RN. The nursing program trains future nurses to work in many different settings, and they are prepared to enter the workforce as soon as they become licensed as RNs. The nursing department admits up to 40 qualified students each year. The program is designed to take eight semesters plus one 8-week summer session that is scheduled between the sophomore and junior year. Students need 124 credits to graduate, and they must meet all general education required to complete the BSN as well as the nursing courses and clinical experience.
Applicants to the nursing program at Appalachian must first be admitted to the university. Students may apply to the nursing department at the end of their sophomore year. They must have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher, complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills and score adequately, and complete an application to the department. All non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses must be completed by this time. Admission to the nursing program is competitive, so not all students who qualify will be accepted. Once students are admitted, they must maintain a grade of C or higher.
The university nursing department has had travel abroad opportunities for nursing students in the past. One of these trips was to the Yucatan region of Mexico during spring break with one of the faculty members for a study abroad experience. Students performed service work and evaluated healthcare in the foreign country. They also toured several nursing schools and spend time in Mayan villages where they worked in a rural clinic and went on home visits. Nursing students also distributed items in an orphanage, hospitals, nursing home, and a village school.
RN to BSN Program
This program is for Registered Nurses (RNs) and is designed for those who want to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It is a part-time program that allows RNs to continue working. Those who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (AND) or a Diploma in Nursing and their RN license to practice in North Carolina are eligible for this program. Many students who enter this program have completed their associate degree at one of the North Carolina community colleges. Appalachian State University has an articulation plan with these colleges that graduates will be admitted to their nursing program at Appalachian. Students must earn 62 credits, and some of these are taken from credits earned in the associate’s degree work. After students finish the first semester of the senior year, they receive 30 semester hours for prior learning and clinical knowledge. Students work in a cohort to complete projects and assignments, and they do not need to travel to Appalachian State since faculty members travel to various locations. Classes are held only one evening each week.
Contact:
Appalachian State University
University Drive,
Boone, NC 28608
(828) 262-2000
Barton College Nursing Program Review
Barton College is a small college in Wilson, North Carolina with a student enrollment of around 1,200 students. It was begun in 1902 by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). There is a very low student to faculty ratio of eleven to one. The college is nationally recognized for its deaf education, education, nursing, and social work programs. There is a strong emphasis on individual attention at the college. There are five residence halls on the 65 acre campus. Students attend Barton from 24 states and 9 different countries. Over 40 majors and programs are offered at the school.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Barton College offers a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program that is unique in that the faculty team teaches students. This enables faculty members to work together to present the curriculum by using a combination of all of their talents and knowledge to benefit students. Students have opportunities to study in Peru, Honduras, Costa Rica, rural Pennsylvania, and a Cherokee Indian reservation. Nursing students take general education courses during their first year and then progress to nursing courses and other general education courses in the second year. This plan allows students to complete the science prerequisites in their sophomore year.
Another interesting opportunity for nursing students at Barton is that they work internships for their clinical experience. Many of the hospitals and healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement or pay competitive salaries to students during this time. Barton offers scholarships to students in need of financial aid, and the State of North Carolina also awards a North Carolina Nurse Scholar award. Students may also apply for federal financial aid and numerous other nursing scholarships and grants that they may qualify to receive.
To qualify for admission to the college, students must have a high school diploma with at least 13 college preparatory units. It is expected that students have at least a 2.30 grade point average from high school classes. They must also take the SAT or ACT and score a minimum score of 890 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT. Students who are admitted must complete all of the nursing courses and clinical experience necessary for graduation with a BSN. At the completion of the program, students qualify to take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).
RN to BSN
This program is for RNs who have their associate degree who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 on their previous college-level work. Students must complete the prerequisite and core curriculum courses before applying to the nursing program, and they must maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average in these courses. This program requires part-time attendance so that the RN may continue working. It is a requirement that students must be a currently licensed RN to enter the program. Credits may be transferred from the student’s community college or junior college in amounts up to 64 semester hours. Students must complete the upper level nursing courses and clinical experience after the prerequisite liberal arts and science courses are finished. A total of 126 semester hours are required for graduation when students receive a BSN.
Contact:
Barton College
200 Atlantic Christian College Drive NE,
Wilson, NC 27893-2575
(800) 345-4973
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is located in Concord, North Carolina. It is a small college with around 500 students who enroll each year. There are five associate degree programs and three bachelors degree programs offered at the college. Cabarrus College of Health Sciences was started in 1942 to meet the need for Registered Nurses during World War II.
Nursing Programs
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
Cabarrus College offers an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN). The program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as entry-level nurses with a broad range of knowledge and experience. Clinical experience takes place in various hospital settings, providing experience in medical, surgical, pediatrics, and maternity rotations. At the completion of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Admission to the program requires that the applicant has completed Algebra II in high school or on the college level plus other prerequisite courses. The SAT or ACT is another requirement, and applicants must have acceptable scores on one of these exams. Applicants are also encouraged to apply for financial aid. Over 90 percent of the students attending the college receive some sort of financial aid.
Before being accepted into the college, students must have a negative drug test within 30 days before the first day of classes. They must also have a criminal background check and submit proof of health insurance coverage. Applicants must also pass a physical exam and be emotionally able to complete the program and work as a professional nurse. Proof of immunizations must be submitted, as well as evidence of passing the American Heart Association class for healthcare providers. Once accepted into the program, students complete the Pre-Nursing track of 28 semester hours of classes. If these are completed successfully by earning a minimum grade of a B in specified courses and a grade point average of 3.0, students are guaranteed admission to the ADN program.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the ADN program if they meet the general admission criteria and those for the ADN program. They must be currently licensed and submit reference letters. LPNs may receive credit for some of the courses that they took in their studies to become licensed practical nurses. These nurses may also take challenge exams, and if they pass them, they may be exempt from certain nursing courses.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)
This Bachelor of Science in Nursing program enables RNs who have an associates degree or a nursing diploma to complete their bachelor’s degree. Nurses are able to continue working while enrolled in the program since it is an online program. It can be completed either full-time or part-time, and requires six semesters on a full-time basis. Credits from the associate degree are considered individually for each student, it is possible to transfer up to 61 credits for previous courses taken. The Cabarrus College faculty works closely with students who are working towards their BSN. RN to BSN students may also earn a minor in Health Services Management and Leadership by completing 12 credits in health services on campus.
Contact:
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
401 Medical Park Drive,
Concord, NC 28025-3959
(704) 403-1555
Carolinas College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review
The Carolinas Healthcare System (CHS) is a very large provider of medical care in North Carolina. The Carolinas College of Health Sciences is the training facility that trains Nurses Aids, Registered Nurses, and other healthcare technologists and others. Carolinas College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is part of Carolinas Medical Center (CMC), which is part of Carolinas HealthCare System.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Nursing
The Carolinas College of Health Sciences offers a Pre-Nursing program for students who plan to enter a two-year or four-year nursing program. Students may enter the program in two different ways. They may have guaranteed admissions or a Pre-Nursing certificate program. To be guaranteed a seat in the nursing program at Carolinas College, students must complete four courses within three consecutive terms at the college. They must earn a grade point average of 3.25 in these courses. The courses are Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Medical Terminology, and College Math. Students who earn the required grade point average on these courses are placed on a waiting list, and when an opening occurs, they are admitted to the nursing program.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Carolinas HealthCare System offers a two-year program in nursing. This Associate of Applied Science degree program enables graduates to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. Students must be high school graduates or equivalent, or they may be a high school senior. The applicant must have completed biology, chemistry, and algebra in high school. If this was not done, the applicant must complete these courses before applying to the nursing program. Students take general education classes in the daytime, evenings, or on the weekend. Nursing classes are available only during the day. Clinical experiences begin during the first semester and take place one or two times each week. A total of 71 semester hours must be completed to graduate and take the NCLEX-RN exam. After that, RNs are able to begin working in many different healthcare facilities.
Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing
The Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing program is a four-year program that admits students to both the University of North Carolina (UNC) Charlotte and one of three Associate Degree Colleges. These community colleges are Carolinas College of Health Sciences, Central Piedmont Community College, and Gaston College. Students complete the first three years of studies at the Associate Degree College. They also take one course each semester at UNC. Then, the final year of studies for the bachelor’s degree takes place at UNC. Admission to this program is competitive. A combination of general education courses and nursing courses are taken during the three years at the Associate Degree College.
This unique program is a money-saving option for students because the bachelor’s degree institution charges more for tuition, yet the courses and credit are basically the same, wherever the courses are taken. Carolinas Healthcare System offers financial assistance to students who need financial aid. The finance 80 percent of the tuition for a student until the student graduates or leaves the nursing program. At that time, payments can be arranged. There are also grants, scholarships, federal student loans, or a federal work-study program available.
Contact:
Carolinas College of Health Sciences
1200 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 355-5043
Carolinas Healthcare System
200 South College Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 376-1787
Catawba Valley Community College Nursing Program Review
Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is located in Hickory, North Carolina. It was established in 1958 as part of the North Carolina Community College System. Over 5,000 students attend this community college, with 49 percent attending full-time and 51 percent attending part-time. Almost half of the students attending Catawba Valley receive some sort of financial aid.
Associate Degree Nursing Program – Associate in Applied Science
Catawba Valley Community College offers a Registered Nursing (RN) program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). Applicants to the program must be high school graduates or the equivalent. There is a series of steps that must be carefully followed when applying to this competitive nursing program. It is important that applicants know that if they apply online, the application is not processed until they meet with a Student Services Counselor before the application deadline. Simply submitting the application and not meeting with the counselor means that an applicant will not be considered for admission to the program in that particular year.
Other admission requirements are that the applicant’s high school or GED transcript must be submitted along with the application to the college. The transcript must be an official one that shows the graduate’s date of high school graduation. Those with a GED must also submit their scores along with their application. Official transcripts must be sealed, or they are not considered to be an official copy of the grades. If an applicant has completed any courses at another college, the transcript from these must also be submitted in a sealed envelope. Placement testing is required if an applicant does not meet the curriculum exemptions. In this case, Reading, Writing, Math, and Computer Competency placement tests are required. These tests must be passed with a satisfactory score, or if not, the applicant must complete the equivalent courses at Catawba Valley Community College before being considered for admission.
Applicants are also required to have completed a biology course in high school. If they have not taken biology, they will need to take it at the community college or at another college. The same is true of chemistry. A minimum grade point average is also required for any courses completed at the college, which must be a minimum of 2.50. Applicants with degrees who want to enter the nursing program must also have a minimum grade point average of at least 2.50 in their previous college-level work. In addition, mandatory attendance at a Nursing Success Seminar is required. These programs are held each month. If an applicant meets all of the above requirements, they qualify to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, another admission requirement. Those who are not admitted to the program may re-apply after meeting with a Student Services Counselor. There is no waiting list for the program, so applicants must re-apply each year that they want to be considered for admission to the nursing program.
The number of first year students admitted to the program each year varies, and a point system is used to determine which applicants are accepted. The point system is based on academic performance in high school or in any previous college work and the results of the TEAS exam. Once accepted into the program, students must attend an Orientation Session with the Department of Nursing, and they must have proof of Healthcare Provider CPR certification. A health exam is also required. In addition, applicants must have North Carolina Certified Nurse Aide I certification and a good record of working as a Nurse Aide.
The AAS program is either a daytime or evening program that takes a minimum of five semesters of full-time attendance to complete. The focus of the program is on the RN as a member of the interdisciplinary team that cares for patients. Students complete clinical experience at a variety of healthcare settings, and qualify to take the NCLEX-RN after completing the program. This national exam leads to licensure as a RN.
Catawba Valley Community College lists all of the additional costs that students should be prepared for when they apply to the program. These are for malpractice insurance, uniforms, nursing shoes, and equipment such as a stethoscope kit, bandage scissors, and more. This is very helpful for students who are budgeting for the expenses that they will incur as they move through the program. There are also fees for the NCLEX at $200, North Carolina State Board of Nursing fees of around $100, and fees for criminal background checks. Additional fees are around $1,000 for Board Review, graduation expenses, and miscellaneous fees.
Contact:
Catawba Valley Community College
2550 US Highway 70 SE
Hickory, North Carolina 28602-8302
(828) 327-7000
College of the Albemarle Nursing Program Review
The College of Albemarle (COA) is in northeastern North Carolina. It is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System that was established in 1960. There are three campuses, including the main campus in Elizabeth City and satellite campuses in Edenton and Manteo. The college has programs that allow students to finish high school and earn a GED. There is also distance education with a Course Management System called Moodle.
Nursing Programs
Nurse Aide Level I
This 144 hour course is an introduction to basic nursing skills. It includes communication, patient rights, vital signs, elimination, rehabilitation, emergency, and other topics that prepare graduates to earn a certificate as a Nurse Aide I. Graduates must pass a competency exam to be listed on the state registry. Applicants to the program must take a reading placement test or have completed a basic college level reading course.
Nurse Aide Level II
This course takes 176 hours of class, laboratory, and clinical learning experience to complete. Graduates must take the competency evaluation to be listed on the state registry. This course prepares students to perform higher level skills to care for residents of nursing homes or patients in various healthcare settings.
Practical Nursing
The College of the Albemarle offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program. Admission is competitive, and not all of those who apply are admitted to the program. Although the college has an open admission, this is not true of the PN program. To be considered for the program, applicants must be a “qualified applicant” who has adequately passed the placement tests in Reading, English, and Math. After receiving test scores, applicants are expected to make an appointment with a Student Development counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken before their application to the PN program is considered. A minimum grade of C is expected in each subject of the placement test, or applicants must take remedial courses at the college before applying to the PN program.
Other requirements to become a “qualified applicant” include submitting an application that includes an official copy of their high school transcript or the transcript from any college that the applicant has attended. Applicants must be high school graduates or have earned a GED. They must have earned at least a grade point average of 2.0 in high school coursework. Those with college experience must have a grade point average of at least a C on any coursework. In addition, all of the applicant’s scores on the TEAS test, the admission test for the Nursing Department, must be satisfactory after taking the test one time. It is mandatory that applicants meet with the nursing faculty for a pre-admission meeting at their assigned time or they will not be considered for the program.
There are also very stringent requirements that applicants must meet after being accepted into the PN program. For example, an applicant must attend an orientation session. The other usual requirements must also be met, such as a physical exam, having required immunizations and health requirements, having liability insurance, and having completed a CPR course. Before beginning clinical rotations, students must have criminal background checks, drug and alcohol screening, and sex offender checks. Students may complete the PN program in three semesters totaling 47 credit hours. These hours include classwork and clinical experience. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their license as a Practical Nurse.
Associate Degree Nursing
Another opportunity for students at the College of the Albemarle is to earn an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses (RNs) have many different employment opportunities in doctor’s offices, industry and community agencies, hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, and other healthcare facilities. Students complete liberal arts and sciences classes to meet the college’s requirements for an Associate Degree, as well as specific nursing courses required to graduate with an ADN. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Admission to the ADN program is competitive, and there are specific steps that applicants must closely follow to be considered for the program. One of these is that applicants to the ADN program must have completed Nurse Aid I training. This is a good opportunity for those who are unsure if they really want a career in nursing to experience the career before completing the required education to become an RN. The College of Albemarle has an articulation agreement with Mid-Atlantic Christian University allowing students who want to complete both an ADN and Bachelor of Science Biblical Studies to earn both degrees in four years. Earning only the ADN degree takes 2 years to complete.
LPN-ADN Option Program
A nurse who is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may choose to enter the nursing program at the college of Albemarle that leads from an LPN degree to an ADN. Nurses who want to enter this program must have completed four college transfer courses and have a grade of at least a C in them. It is also required that the applicant is licensed to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse, and at least one year’s clinical practice experience is required. A pre-admission meeting is also mandatory, and failing to meet with the nursing faculty results in not being accepted into the nursing program. Students accepted into the program are granted 8 semester hours after meeting all of the admission criteria and acceptance into the program. The result of receiving the 8 credits is that only 10 credits must be completed for the Fall Semester of the first year of studies rather than 18 credits.
Contact:
College of the Albemarle
1208 N. Road Street,
PO Box 2327
Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27906-2327
(252) 335-0821
Davidson County Community College Nursing Program Review
Davidson County Community College (DCCC) is a small two-year college between Lexington and Thomasville in North Carolina. This college offers certificates, diplomas, and Associate Degrees in over 50 programs. Davidson Community College has around 3,400 students enrolled, and some graduates choose to continue their education at the University of North Carolina since Davidson has an articulation agreement with this university. Davidson is a member of the North Carolina Community College system of 58 community colleges in the state.
Nursing Programs
Practical Nurse Education
Davidson County Community College offers a Practical Nurse Diploma program that prepares students for a career as a Practical Nurse (PN). Although PNs are being phased out of hospital work as they hire mostly Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree trained nurses, PNs have many opportunities to work in clinics, private practice, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. This program is truly unique in that it is one of the only hybrid practical nursing programs in North Carolina. Even more unique is the fact that it is the only practical nursing online program in North Carolina.
Admission to the program is very competitive, and all of the steps leading to being accepted into the program must be carefully followed by those hoping to begin the program. Students must first complete an online application for admissions and then request to have their official high school and any college transcripts sent to Davidson. Other steps to be taken are to take the placement assessment and apply for financial aid. When the results from this test are available, the applicant must make an appointment to meet with the Admissions Counselor assigned to him or her. Then, a new student Orientation is needed, along with an academic advisement appointment. At that time, courses are selected and the student registers for the upcoming semester.
To determine whether an applicant qualifies for admission to the program, they must be a high school graduate or have a GED. Applicants must also have acceptable scores on Davidson’s placement assessment. Physical checkups are necessary, as well as criminal background checks and a drug test. Applicants are given priority if they live in Davidson or Davie County and for their scores on the entrance test and for Biology if taken at Davidson County Community College. Once an applicant is accepted into the program, all courses are completed online. Applicants complete clinical experience at local hospitals and other healthcare facilities as well. After completing the program, graduates become Licensed Practical Nurses by taking and passing the NCLEX-PN.
Associate Degree Nursing
The college also offers an Associate Degree Nursing that is an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Admission to the program is competitive, and residents of Davidson or Davies Counties are given priority admission. Other factors that determine whether or not an applicant is accepted into the program are entrance test scores and the grade attained when taking Biology at the college. Only students who are high school graduates or those with a GED are considered. Applicants must also have good physical health and clean drug tests and background checks. The college does not keep a waiting list, so applicants must re-apply each year if they are not accepted into the program the first time. Also, students must have completed a Nurse Aide course that consisted of 70 hours of training and 40 hours of clinical instruction before they are allowed to begin nursing classes. It is not necessary to be a Nurse Aide before applying since training can be completed before enrolling in the nursing program. In the meantime, students can complete liberal arts and science classes.
The AAS program in nursing usually takes two years or four semesters to complete, but many students take an additional semester to take the general education required courses. They may then begin nursing courses and clinical experience. At the completion of all required academic work, students may take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.
LPN-ADN Option
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have been employed in their field for at least a year in an acute or long-term care facility may apply for the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing program. The entire program, except for the first three days is available online. This has been very convenient for working LPNs who are not able to quit their job to attend classes full-time. Taking online courses allows students to complete their work according to their work schedule. Some of the clinical experience may be completed at the site of the LPNs current employment, but not in the same department. At the completion of the program, graduates are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.
Contact:
Davidson County Community College-Davidson Campus,
297 Davidson Community College Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
(336) 249 -8186
Davidson County Community College-Davie Campus,
1205 Salisbury Road, Mocksville, NC 27028
(336) 751-2885
Duke University Nursing School Review
Duke University (DU) is a private research university with around 15,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs. The campus is very large, with over 8,600 acres and three campus locations in Durham and a marine lab in Beaufort. Although the university has ties with the United Methodist Church, it is a nonsectarian institution. There is a large Medical Center on the campus, and undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing are offered at Duke. Duke University School of Nursing is ranked Number 7 in nursing schools in the U.S. by a popular nationwide magazine survey.
Nursing Programs
Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing
The Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is the only undergraduate nursing degree offered at Duke University. It is designed for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and have decided to go into nursing. The program is also known as a second degree nursing program. Students must have completed all of the pre-requisite courses before enrolling in the program. After these courses have been completed, the ABSN takes 16 months to complete. The program makes it convenient for students to continue to earn their Master’s Degree since up to 15 credits in the ABSN program also count as graduate credits. A unique advantage of this program is that clinical experience is completed at Duke University Health System and at locations around the world. This provides a rare opportunity for nursing students to study abroad while completing their ABSN. When students have completed the program, they are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure as Registered Nurses.
To qualify for admission to the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any major with a minimum grade point average of 3.0. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required unless applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.4 or higher.
Master of Science in Nursing Program
The Master of Science in Nursing Program at Duke University is the basis for many advanced nursing specialties, such as nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, and more. From 39 credits to 60 credits must be completed to obtain the MSN degree. Both full-time and part-time programs are available. All MSN courses are offered online at least one semester each year, which makes it convenient for students to complete coursework according to their own schedule. The admission requirements for all of the MSN specialty nursing programs is the same unless noted below. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing with a Bachelor’s degree in another field.
Although not required, it is highly recommended that applicants have worked as a nurse for at least one year. An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 is required, as well as the Graduate Records Exam unless an applicant’s undergraduate grade point average is 3.4 or better. In addition, an applicant should be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) or eligible for licensure. Three professional letters of recommendation are also required, a personal statement by the applicant, and a personal interview. Decisions for admitting students to the MSN program are made on an individual basis.
There are four main categories of advanced nursing specialties available at Duke University’s MSN program, which are Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Non-Clinical, and Nurse Anesthesia. After completing each of the programs, students qualify to take the national exam for certification in their specialty. Each of these is discussed below.
Nurse Practitioner Specialties
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Both part-time and full-time options are available for RNs who want to specialize in acute care by becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. These nurses care for patients who need intensive care for many different reasons, and they may serve as the patient’s primary medical caregiver. In this MSN program, students advance their knowledge in clinical skills and participate in clinical rotations that provide experience in many different environments.
Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Specialty
This Nurse Practitioner specializes in cardiovascular patients and serves as the main healthcare provider of routine care for these patients. Those who have graduated from the program have found employment in outpatient diagnostic testing centers, heart failure clinics, inpatient and outpatient cardiology, and internal medicine. The Duke Heart Center is ranked Number 10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty
Students in this program complete clinical experience in many different environments to prepare them to work as generalists in caring for adults. There are 612 hours of clinical experience required, including residency. Graduates from this program have found jobs in outpatient clinics at hospitals, specialty practices, clinics, and private practices.
Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty
Graduates from the Family Nurse Practitioner program are trained to provide primary care for all ages. Duke University makes it as easy as possible to earn a MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner by offering part-time or full-time study and distance courses for working professionals. Another unique opportunity offered to students is the chance to complete clinical work at international sites.
Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Geriatrics is a growing field in nursing, and the Gerontological Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs to care for elderly patients. They provide the primary care for these patients. Students are mentored by leaders in long-term care and clinical geriatrics fields, and they may have sub-specialty concentrations in cardiology, oncology, or acute care. There are opportunities for global perspectives on health in the aged in this program.
Oncology Nurse Practitioner Specialty
Students in this program are trained to be experts in cancer epidemiology, pathophysiology, immunology, genetics, prevention, symptom management, and end-of-life care. Students are able to become Oncology Nurse Practitioners and combine this with a clinical nursing specialist major. Students have the opportunity to complete their residency at the Duke Cancer Center, ranked #7 in the nation for cancer care. This Oncology Nurse Practitioner program is one of only a few in the U.S.
Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program
This program prepares nurse specialists to care for infants and children who have complex and rapidly changing clinical conditions. These Nurse Practitioners work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, inpatient units, and rehabilitative and other outpatient facilities. This program is the only acute care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program in North Carolina. Students may choose to complete training in primary and acute care on a part-time or full-time basis.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) Program
Outstanding pediatric nurses are eligible to enter this program to train to be a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who provides primary care to children of all ages. Students learn prevention, management of acute and chronic pediatric illness, behavioral issues, and health maintenance. Clinical experience takes place in schools, health departments, pediatric practices, and other healthcare settings.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Specialty
This program prepares students to provide primary healthcare to newborns and their families. Students learn to care for low and high-risk neonates in many different settings. The program may be customized to meet the needs of nurses in various situations, and there are both part-time and full-time options available.
Non-Clinical Specialties
Nursing and Health Care Leadership
Students interested in earning a MSN in Nursing and Health Care Leadership will learn financial management and other basics of nursing leadership. New and innovative ways of thinking of nursing leadership are emphasized in this program that prepares graduates to work in hospitals, government, and other healthcare organizations.
Nursing Education Specialty
This MSN program prepares nurses to teach in nursing schools and universities. Students learn methods for teaching adults, curriculum and program development and evaluation, and more. The program is totally online and is designed to be completed on a part-time basis. In addition, students work with master teachers at nursing schools, such as Duke University’s School of Nursing.
Informatics Specialty
The Informatics Specialty that leads to a MSN prepares graduates to work as health informaticians and recognizes the importance of electronic healthcare data to improve the health of humans. The program is distance-based and requires that students are on campus only three days each semester. Those with a bachelor’s degree may complete the program in two years.
Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) Specialty
This program lasts for 28 months of full-time study and prepares students to administer anesthesia to patients as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. There are 60 credits required to complete the program, and at its completion students are prepared to take the national certification exam.
Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner Specialty Concentration
This specialty concentration is open to students in the Adult Primary Care or Acute Care, Gerontology, Family, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specialty tracks of Duke’s MSN degree program. This concentration has three courses that focus on musculoskeletal practice. Students must complete two didactic courses and one clinical course to complete this program. The university awards a certificate to graduates of the program.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing
Those who have already earned their MSN may complete additional advanced nursing programs to earn a Certificate in Nursing. Specialties include all of the above options for MSNs, except students do not need to take Master’s Level courses that they have already completed. Students with another Master’s Degree will also be individually considered for the program individually by the nursing faculty. Non-nurse applicants are considered only for the Clinical Research Management program. They must have a Master’s Degree or Graduate Degree from a discipline approved by the nursing faculty.
Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics
This program is designed for healthcare professionals with a Bachelor’s Degree. This certificate program requires that 18 credits are completed, and it focuses on gaining specialized knowledge in health informatics.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This advanced degree prepares RNs to fulfill roles as nurse leaders in healthcare teams to improve the care, patient outcome, quality, and more. Applicants must have either a BSN with a 3.0 grade point average. RNs with a MSN may also enroll in the program. Those with a BSN will need to complete between 73 and 94 credits, depending on which advanced practice specialty is selected. Students should plan on focusing on their advanced practice specialty for the time required, which is usually around 18 months to 2 years of full-time study. Then, it takes an additional 5 semesters to complete the DNP. RNs with a MSN must have a degree in an advanced nursing practice specialty, such as Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, Nurse Administrator, or Nurse Informatics. The program takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete.
PhD Program
This program is designed for RNs with a MSN who want to have a career in academic and research settings. Graduates of the program are prepared in research methods and for an entry-level teaching role in an academic setting. Full-time study is required for this program, and all students receive fellowships that pay tuition, stipend, and fees.
Postdoctoral Fellowship Program
Trajectories of Chronic Illness and Care Systems
Each associate admitted to this postdoctoral program works with a mentor who has a common research interest who will supervise the associate’s research. Different areas of study are available, such as adult health, child health, and aging and family caregiving, prematurity and low birth weight infants, and others.
Non-degree Enrollment Option
Those with a Bachelor’s Degree may take classes in certain nursing specialties that lead to a MSN without being formally admitted to the Duke University School of Nursing. Available specialties are Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care, Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing and Health Care Leadership, and Nursing Education. Financial aid is not available for these courses.
Specialized Programs
These programs meet the specific needs of students in a variety of situations who want to continue their education at Duke University.
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree
This program allows those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another discipline to earn their BSN in only 16 months. Graduates may then take the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam.
Continuing Nursing Education Credit (CEU) Opportunities
The Duke University School of Nursing offers experiences that provide CEUs for nurses throughout the year.
Online and Distance Learning
Many programs at Duke University are available as distance-based online programs, including the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Students in the DNP program, which is an alternative to the typical on-campus program, can conveniently work during the day and complete their coursework in the evening or when their personal schedule permits. Required on-campus days are limited to a 3-day orientation and 2 to 3 days per session, amounting to 8 or 12 days required on-campus for the duration of the program.
The MSN program is also distance-based and do not require that students go to the Duke campus at all. Some specialty programs do require students to go to campus one or two times each semester to meet as a group.
There are four distance-based Nurse Practitioner specialties, which are Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care (Post-Master’s Certificate only), Family Nurse Practitioner, and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner.
Making a Difference in Nursing II
This program at Duke University is for high achieving or high potential minority students. The purpose of the program is to inspire those who are seniors in college or those who have completed a non-nursing undergraduate degree to pursue higher level nursing degrees in education, practice, research, and in other areas. Financial assistance and scholarships plus stipends are available. The program consists of three components. These are the Summer Socialization to Nursing Pre-entry Program when scholars participate in a six-week summer residential program to learn about careers in professional nursing and opportunities in nursing at Duke University, the Continuing Connectivity Program, which keeps students completing their education at another facility connected with their mentors at Duke, and Succeed to Excellence Program. This program provides social support and financial stipends and scholarships to those who enter the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Military Programs
Active duty military students who are sent to Duke University by the military for full-time studies in the graduate nursing program usually do not pay tuition beyond what the military funds for them. Clinical experiences typically take place at a military treatment facility, and a former military officer is assigned as the student’s mentor or advisor for the duration of the student’s studies.
Contact:
Duke University
Durham, NC 27708
(919) 684-8111
Durham Regional Hospital Nursing Program Review
Durham Regional Hospital (DRH) is part of the Duke University Health System (DUHS). It joined this system in 1998. There are 369 beds in the hospital and over 500 doctors on the medical staff. Durham Regional Hospital opened in 1976 and was known as Durham County General Hospital. The Watts School of Nursing (WSN, WSON) is affiliated with the hospital. It is North Carolina’s oldest nursing school. Over 3,000 nurses have graduated from the Watts School of Nursing since 1985.
Nursing Program
Associate of Science Degree in Health Science
Watts School of Nursing has an articulation agreement with Mount Olive College so that nursing students working towards their Associate of Science Degree in Health Science can earn a science degree from Mount Olive. Students then complete their nursing courses and clinical experience at Watts School of Nursing. There are prerequisite courses required, and these are completed at Mount Olive College at their Triangle Park campus and at the Watts campus, and the nursing courses are taught at Watts School of Nursing. After graduating with the Associate of Science Degree in Health Science, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). RNs have opportunities to work in many different healthcare settings, such as doctor’s offices, clinics, community centers, and many departments in hospitals, including medical-surgical, psychiatric, maternity, and critical care units.
Admission to the Watts School of Nursing is competitive, and even if a student meets all of the admission criteria, it is not guaranteed that there will be room in the program for all applicants. Only citizens of the U.S. or legal permanent residents are accepted. Those interested in the Associate Degree must apply to both Mount Olive College and to Watts School of Nursing. All applicants must have background checks before being accepted into the program and a preadmission test is also required. Once this test has been passes, applicants may submit their application along with their official high school transcript or GED. Applicants must have completed 18 hours of courses at Mount Olive College before beginning the nursing curriculum, and they must earn at least a grade of C in these courses. A course in Basic Life Support Training must also be completed. It is also necessary that applicants pass a physical exam. References from three professionals or employers must also be submitted. It is important that Licensed Practical Nurses realize that this program at Watts School of Nursing does not award advanced placement for them.
Watts School of Nursing has a philosophy that the student and his or her family, or the married or independent student must carry the burden for their education. The belief is that financial aid is only a supplement for available resources that the family has. Financial aid is available for those who demonstrate low income and inability to pay for their tuition in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. The Financial Aid office works with students to ensure that their tuition for both Watts School of Nursing and Mount Olive College are covered.
Students in the program take nursing courses at Watts’ four large classrooms and labs where practice and simulation take place. Clinical experience takes place at Durham Regional Hospital and at other community-based settings and hospitals in the area, including Duke University. Housing is not provided for students, so if they do not live at home, they must find their own housing while they are in the program. The program typically takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete between the liberal arts courses at Mount Olive College and the nursing courses at Watts School of Nursing.
Contact:
Durham Regional Hospital-Watts School of Nursing
2828 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 200,
Durham, North Carolina 27701
East Carolina University Nursing School Review
East Carolina University (ECU) is located in Greenville, North Carolina. It is the third-largest university in the University of North Carolina system with almost 28,000 students enrolled in various programs. Nursing is one of the most popular programs, and East Carolina is renowned for this and for some of its other programs. There are over 100 Bachelor’s Degree programs, 85 Master’s Degree programs, 21 Doctoral programs, and 62 Certificate programs at the university.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
East Carolina University offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that takes four years plus one summer session to complete. After the prerequisite courses are completed in humanities and sciences, students may apply for admission to the nursing program. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. There is a demand for nurses and opportunities to work in many settings besides hospitals, such as schools, community agencies, clinics, doctor’s offices, and others.
Many applicants want to attend East Carolina University’s College of Nursing because it is one of the eight schools in the U.S. to be recognized for the way it teaches nursing students. The College of Nursing has been awarded a Center of Excellence for 2011 to 2015 by the National League for Nursing. The College of Nursing offers much more than great teaching, such as the housing opportunity offered for intended nursing majors. Thirty freshmen with the intention of becoming RNs live in the same dorm and take classes together in their first two semesters at the university. They work together to prepare to take the nursing school entrance test, practicing time management and test taking skills.
RN to BSN
Registered Nurses (RNs) with an Associate Degree who want to continue their education have the opportunity to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with this program. There are many opportunities for RNs by choosing East Carolina University’s program, such as the fact that there are no placement exams and students receive 34 semester hours of advanced placement to senior status. Students need to only complete 34 additional hours to qualify for graduation. Courses are online, which is a very convenient way for working professionals to complete their work. The program is specifically designed for working RNs who may complete their BSN on either a part-time or full-time basis. This means that it takes either three, four, or five semesters to complete the program. Another convenience is that the practicum and field experience are completed in the area close to the student’s home.
RN to MSN
The Registered Nurse (RN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is designed for RNs with an Associate Degree who want to earn their MSN. Students do not earn their BSN. This program is highly selective, and students must complete their undergraduate prerequisite courses and 15 to 18 semester hours of RN to BSN coursework before they may enter the MSN program. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in the BSN courses to qualify for the program. The MSN courses are mainly online courses. Students must choose one of the following advanced nursing specialties to focus on after completing the general MSN courses.
Adult Nurse Practitioner
This MSN program prepares RNs to serve as primary healthcare of adults. The entire program is taken online, and students need only to go to the campus on 9 dates. Only 25 students are admitted annually to the program. There are at least 45 semester hours of coursework plus 616 clinical practicum hours required for this program. Either a part-time or full-time curriculum may be chosen. The full-time plan takes two years to complete and the part-time program can be completed in three years. Graduates take the national certification exam to become Adult Nurse Practitioners.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
This MSN program prepares RNs to work in complex care settings. Students focus on specializing in adult medicine and gerontology in this 42 credit program. At graduation, students take the national certification exam to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist. An additional option is to complete another 3 credit course in Critical Care. This also requires a certification exam after its completion. The courses are offered online and the program takes two years of full-time study or three and one-half years of part-time study.
Nursing Leadership
This MSN program prepares students to become leaders in the healthcare field. Students choose from Leadership in Acute Care Health Systems, Leadership in Community-Based Health Systems, or Leadership in Health Care Educational Systems. Students learn financial and human resource management, law and regulation, and more. There is also a required 252 hour practicum in the student’s focus area. A total of 41 credit hours are also required, and they are all offered online.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
RNs who want to work with newborns and their families may want to continue their education with this online MSN program. Graduates take the national exam to become a certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. All courses are offered online and 41 credit hours are required for graduation. The full-time curriculum takes 18 months to complete, while the part-time plan takes two and one-half years to complete.
Family Nurse Practitioner
This MSN program is an online program that is designed to prepare RNs to practice nursing in primary healthcare settings. Students are required to go to the university campus only 9 times over the course of their studies. At least 50 credits must be completed plus 728 clinical practicum hours. Graduates take the national exam that leads to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The full-time version of the program takes two years to complete and the part-time plan takes five years to complete.
Nurse-Midwifery
This MSN online program is offered to prepare students for a career in Nurse-Midwifery. Graduates take the exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. There is a special need for graduates to work in rural areas where there is a great need for this nurse specialist. At least 50 credits are needed for graduation, and students may complete the program on a full-time basis in two years or part-time basis in three years.
Nursing Education
This MSN program prepares RNs to become Nurse Educators. North Carolina law requires Nurse Educators to have a minimum of two years of clinical experience, so students must have one complete years’ experience before enrolling in the program. The program requires that 36 to 39 credits are completed. Students may work on either a full-time or part-time basis. Upon graduation, students take the Certified Nurse Educator Exam.
Nurse Anesthesia
East Carolina University also offers a Nurse Anesthesia program that must be completed on campus for five semesters. This 28 month program prepares students to take the national certification exam. Afterwards, Nurse Anesthetists work in hospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare facilities.
Post-Master’s Certificates
RNs who have already earned their MSN may complete the advanced nursing specialty programs and receive a certificate in this area. All programs prepare students to take national exams for certification. These programs are Adult Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, Nurse Anesthesia, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Leadership, or Family Nurse Practitioner. Nursing Education is also available.
MSN Alternate Entry Option
This program is designed for those with a baccalaureate degree in another field of study. It is an accelerated program that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. There are two phases of this program. The first phase that prepares students to become RNs and to meet licensure requirements requires 39 credits. The next phase that prepares nurses for a career in advanced nursing requires 39 to 50 credits, depending on the specialty that is selected. The total credits required are anywhere from 78 to 89.
PhD Program
This program is designed for nurses who want to become researchers or teach nursing education. The length of study depends on the individual student. Graduates from this program are prepared to work as administrators in public and private healthcare organizations, as university faculty, policy makers and analysts, and researchers.
Contact:
East Carolina University
600 Moye Blvd.,
Greenville, NC 27834
Fayetteville State University Nursing School Review
Fayetteville State University (FSU) is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina and is part of the University of North Carolina (UNC) System. Around 6,000 students attend the university that was begun in 1867 by African-American men to educate black teachers. Today, this liberal arts college offers Bachelor’s degrees in 43 areas, Master’s degrees in 22 areas, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership. The diverse student body and faculty add to the cultural richness that is experienced by students who attend this university.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Four Year Track
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program takes four years to complete and consists of 126 credits. After completing the program, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. Students are also prepared to continue on to graduate studies in nursing if they want to pursue an advanced nursing degree. There are two divisions in the nursing curriculum, which are the pre-nursing and upper division nursing. Students must complete three semesters and one summer semester of prerequisite courses in the pre-nursing component before being admitted to the upper division. When they begin the upper division, they must complete five semesters of studies and clinical experience.
Even if a student completes all of the pre-nursing prerequisite courses, it is not guaranteed that the student will be accepted into the upper division. A minimum grade of C or better must be earned in the prerequisite courses, and students must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.8 and of 2.75 or better in math and science. Students must also obtain a passing score on the TEAS pre-nursing admission test, have the required physical exam and the proper immunizations, and pass the background check and drug screens. In addition, students must submit a writing sample and complete an interview with the Admission, Progression, and Retention Committee.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN Track
In the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Track, students must have an Associate Degree of Diploma from a nursing school. This program is designed to allow these nurses to complete their BSN which can lead to more challenging and interesting positions in the nursing field. Those accepted into the program need to complete 74 credits after receiving credit for their previous nursing studies. Once all of the liberal arts and science courses have been completed to meet the general education requirements of Fayetteville, students begin the upper nursing division courses. They also complete clinical practice at various healthcare facilities nearby.
Fayetteville State University has an extraordinary amount of activities for students to participate in, including over 75 clubs and organizations, including 9 Greek fraternities and sororities. The university also has a radio station, a theater company, and the college is an NCAA Division I school in athletics with football for men and basketball, volleyball, and other sports for men and women. In addition, the university is ranked as one of the safest campuses in North Carolina.
Contact:
Fayetteville State University
1200 Murchinson Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28301
(910) 672-1111
Fayetteville Technical Community College Nursing Program Review
Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System (NCCC). It is on the Fort Bragg army base in North Carolina and has provided education to those in the military since 1961. Many military students attend this college because of its close proximity to the army base. Military personnel, their spouses, and children often continue their education at Fayetteville Technical Community College. The college offers online courses, accelerated sessions, and more options that make attending college manageable for military personnel as well as others who want to continue learning. Many different programs are offered at the college, including nursing.
Nursing Programs
Nursing Assistant
This program leads to a certificate as a Nursing Assistant. These healthcare workers work under the supervision of licensed professionals in many different healthcare environments. Graduates may be eligible to be listed on a registry as a Nursing Assistant I or Nursing Assistant II. Nursing Assistants work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, for home health agencies, nursing homes, and extended care facilities. Applicants must have CPR Certification, vaccinations required for healthcare workers, and TB screening before entering the program. After completing Nursing Assistant I, students may take Nursing Assistant II.
Practical Nursing
The Practical Nursing (PN) program offered at Fayetteville leads to a Diploma for graduates. The program can be completed in three semesters of study. The program prepares students to work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, long term care facilities after they complete the program. Graduates must take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their licensure to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Applicants must be high school graduates and must have completed a Biology, Algebra, and Chemistry class. If these courses were not completed in high school, the applicant must take them on the college level before acceptance into the PN program. An important fact to know before enrolling in this program is that not all of the courses are transferrable to an Associate Degree program if the student intends to earn this degree in the future.
Fayetteville Technical Community College offers financial aid for students who want to complete an Associate Degree, but financial aid is not always available for those pursuing a Diploma in Nursing. Applicant should contact the Financial Aid office to determine if they are eligible for this help in paying their tuition. The college also offers child care financial assistance that pays for day care while a parent attends classes.
Associate Degree Nursing
Fayetteville offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program for students who wish to become a Registered Nurse. Applicants must first take the courses needed to become a Certified Nurse Assistant I and be listed on the North Carolina Registry before applying to the ADN program. The program takes 5 semesters to complete. Licensed Practical Nurses may enter the program if they have worked in a healthcare setting for 3,600 hours within the past four years. After completing all of the general education requirements plus the nursing courses and clinical experience, students take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licensure to work as Registered Nurses.
Financial aid is often available for students enrolled in the ADN program. They need to complete the Financial Aid application after applying for admission to the college. Another convenience for parents is the financial aid available for child care that enables the parent to continue his or her education.
Contact:
Fayetteville Technical Community College
P.O. Box 35236
2201 Hull Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28303
(910) 678-8400
Gardner-Webb University Nursing School Review
Gardner-Webb University (GWU, GW) is a private Christian college not far from Boiling Springs, North Carolina at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is affiliated with the Baptist religion and has around 4,300 students enrolled at the university. There are 60 undergraduate majors that students may choose from, including nursing. There are many opportunities for service projects offered at the university whose mission is “Faith, Service, & Leadership.” Gardner-Webb is continually named as one of the Top 100 universities. The student body is a diverse one with students from 21 foreign countries and from 37 states. There is always something for students to do after studying is finished because there are over 50 clubs and organizations at Gardner-Webb.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing
Gardner-Webb offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Admission to the program is competitive, and even if an applicant meets all of the prerequisites for the program, he or she may not be admitted since only a limited number of seats are available. Applicants must apply to the university first and then to the nursing department. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on all college-level work so far to qualify for the program. Minimum scores of 1050 on the SAT or 22 on the ACT are also required. A satisfactory score is also necessary on the TEAS pre-nursing program admission test. Biology, chemistry, and algebra must be taken at the college-level if they have not been taken in high school. In addition, applicants must have a satisfactory criminal background check.
It is not required that applicants have certification as a Nurse Assistant, but this is a requirement of the Associate Degree in Nursing program so it must be completed before nursing courses are begun. At the end of the program that takes four to five semesters to complete, the student is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that takes four years to complete. A total of 64 to 70 credits in general education requirements must be completed plus 63 credits of nursing courses.
RN to BSN (Degree Completion)
The university offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for RNs who have an Associate Degree in Nursing. RNs with a Diploma in Nursing may also apply to this program. Those with an ADN may receive a maximum of 40 hours of nursing credit after completing 9 hours of nursing courses. Requirements for admission include current licensure as an RN and a grade point average of at least 2.5 in college courses that have been completed. Applicants must also have a clear background check and must have a 12 panel urine drug screen before enrolling in nursing courses or in beginning clinical experience.
Master of Science in Nursing
Gardner-Webb University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Applicants must first apply to the university’s Graduate School and have a criminal background check. A BSN is required for admission, but under certain circumstances, those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another area may be accepted. A grade point average of at least 2.70 is necessary in undergraduate work. Applicants must be currently licensed as RNs. Another requirement is a satisfactory score on the GRE and three letters of recommendation.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The university offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for RNs who have a MSN. Admission is competitive, and not all applicants are accepted into the program. Applicants must first apply to the Graduate School and they must have a 3.20 grade point average in their other college-level coursework. The number of years that a nurse has spent working in a specialty practice has an influence on whether or not the nurse is accepted into the program.
Contact:
Gardner-Webb University
110 South Main Street,
P.O. Box 997
Boiling Springs, NC 28017
(800) 253-6472
Lees-McRae College Nursing Program Review
Lees-McRae College (LMC) is a small private college located in Banner Elk, North Carolina in Appalachia near the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Cherokee National Forests. Situated over 4,000 above sea level, there is a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains from the campus. Lees-McRae is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Less than 1,000 students attend the college that began as a college for women in 1899. There are 22 majors and 16 minors offered at Lees-McRae College and class sizes are an average size of 15 students.
Nursing Program
RN to BSN Program
Lees-McRae offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is designed for nurses who want to complete their baccalaureate degree. The program does not require prerequisite courses because students take general education and nursing courses after enrolling in the program. This RN-BSN program is different than others in several ways. Besides not requiring any prerequisites, it is based on an Associate Degree Program and RNs receive recognition for their past nursing courses. Classes are held only one night each week from 5 PM until 9 PM, which allows RNs to continue working a day shift. Also, the nursing program includes upper level general education courses that are built into it.
The nursing program is a 2 + 2 program. RNs with an Associate Degree enter the program as a junior with two years of studies left to complete. Many times, other colleges advertise that an RN can complete his or her BSN in one year, but they do not mention the 1 to 2 years of prerequisite classes that are required. Students work together in cohort to complete the four semesters required to complete the BSN. Admission requirements are that the applicant must be working as an RN at least 20 hours per week and must hold current licensure as a RN. Lees-McRae College has a transfer agreement with community college in North Carolina that allows RNs who have graduated with an Associate Degree to transfer to Lees-McRae.
Lees-McRae College offers a very helpful financial aid package to all extended campus students that also applies to nurses in the RN-BSN program. Tuition at the college costs $2,750 per semester, and students receive $17,950 in grant aid per academic year. This includes funds from the college, state, and federal aid, including the Federal Pell Grand and North Carolina Need Based Scholarship if the student qualifies to receive this. Whereas a full year’s tuition would normally cost $23,450, with the grant aid each academic year, students are only responsible for paying $5,500 each academic year, or $11,000 for two years needed to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine if they qualify for state and federal loans. This is a very generous grant that is usually difficult to find, and for RNs who live in the area, it makes completing a bachelor’s degree something possible to do.
Contact:
Lees-McRae College
191 Main St. W, Banner Elk, NC 28604
(828) 898-8814
Lenoir-Rhyne University Nursing School Review
Lenoir-Rhyne University (LRU) is a small liberal arts college with almost 2,000 students enrolled in programs at the college. Lenoir-Rhyne is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The university has received awards in several categories, including teaching, community, and others. The School of Nursing at the university offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Licensure (BSN) Program
In this program, students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students must first apply to the university. This program is competitive and not all students in pre-nursing are admitted to the nursing program when they apply to it at the end of the second year of studies. Factors that affect whether or not the applicant is accepted are the overall grade point average in the courses that were completed during the first two years at the university and the pre-nursing test score. Students must have completed 60 credits in the pre-nursing curriculum or be close to completing 60 credits with a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in their first two years at the university.
Students attending other universities may also transfer into the pre-nursing program at any time during their freshman or sophomore years. They must have completed all prerequisite courses and have earned a minimum grade point average of at least 2.7 in them. Students accepted into the program complete upper level general education requirements and mostly nursing courses, including clinical experience. The university also has a simulation lab where students practice nursing skills before beginning their work with actual patients. At the completion of the senior year, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licenses as Registered Nurses.
Gateway Program
This program is a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for those with an Associate Degree. Applicants must have a current license as an RN. They must also have finished 56 semester hours of pre-nursing courses before beginning the BSN program, and a minimum grade point average of 2.5 must be attained. RNs may challenge 2 clinical nursing courses and 5 non-clinical courses that they may be exempt from if they meet the criteria to bypass these courses.
Master of Science in Nursing
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is also offered at Lenoir-Rhyne University at two of the university’s locations in Hickory and in Asheville. There are two tracks that RNs may choose from, which are Education or Administration. The MSN Administration concentration prepares students to work in administrative roles in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The MSN Education concentration prepares nurses to teach students in nursing schools, colleges, and universities in a variety of nursing programs. Applicants to the program must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in the last 60 hours of the program and no grade lower than C in the prerequisite courses of statistics and nursing research. If an applicant has graduated with a BSN within the last 6 years, the GRE is not required. Each track of the MSN program consists of nursing graduate core courses plus direct care core courses. The remaining 18 credits consist of courses related to the advanced nursing specialty of either Administration or Education. A Capstone Project or Thesis is 6 of the last 18 credits before graduation.
Contact:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
625 7th Avenue NE,
Hickory, NC 28601
(828) 328-7300
Mitchell Community College Nursing Program Review
Mitchell Community College (MCC) is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains around 50 miles north of Charlotte or 50 miles southwest of Winston-Salem in North Carolina state. The college features open enrollment at a tuition rate that is lower than what students would pay at 4-year colleges or universities. Associate Degrees and certificates are offered in a variety of programs at the college. Mitchell Community College offers opportunities for students to participate in student organizations and to participate in study abroad programs such as the Journey to Israel. Students have an opportunity to experience a unique culture and to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tel Aviv. Mitchell also offers a Nursing Program for those interested in studying to become a Registered Nurse.
Nursing Program
Associate Degree Nursing
Mitchell Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program that takes two and one-half years to complete. The nursing program is competitive so not every applicant is accepted into the program. Those who are accepted are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). RNs are in demand in many different healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, community sites, industries, schools, and others. Students must complete 17 credits of general education courses required by Mitchell. There are 56 credits of nursing courses required to graduate from this program. Students also complete clinical experience at various healthcare facilities in the area.
Those who are interested in the nursing program at Mitchell Community College must first complete an application to the college. They must then schedule the placement tests, which are in reading, English, math, and algebra. When the results from the tests are available, a nursing advisor is assigned to the applicant, and at that time he or she will discuss the possibility of the applicant’s eligibility to enter the program. If accepted into the program, the pre-nursing test or TEAS test should be taken. After that, applicants must apply to the nursing program.
Mitchell Community College also requires applicants to be high school graduates or to have their GED, and they must have a grade point average of at least 2.5. Once accepted into the program, all students in the nursing program must maintain a grade of C or better. Students who do not have high school chemistry or biology must complete these courses on the college level to qualify for the nursing program. Applicants must also be a Nursing Assistant I and be currently listed on the Nurse Aide I Registry from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Those who are interested in a career as a Registered Nurse must have satisfactory physical and emotional health and must have current CPR certification.
Once accepted into the program, students complete their general education and science requirements plus nursing courses that include clinical experience. There are medical centers, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities where students complete the clinical part of their education at Mitchell Community College.
Contact:
Mitchell Community College
500 West Broad Street,
Statesville, North Carolina 28677
(704) 878-3200
North Carolina A&T State University Nursing School Review
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (North Carolina A&T, NC A&T or A&T) is located in Greensboro on a 200 acre campus. There is an additional 600 acre university farm. Over 10,000 students attend the university and are enrolled in a variety of programs, including a nursing program.
The university is classified as a doctoral and research institution. North Carolina A & T was founded in 1891 as a land-grant institution. It has a long history of civil rights legacy, and the first sit-in at a lunch counter in 1960 was by NC A & T students. It is home to the largest agricultural school among black colleges and also has the largest number of African-American engineers at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels. There are also 40,000 alumni who hold leadership positions worldwide.
Nursing Programs
BSN Traditional Program
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers a traditional program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This program takes four years to complete and students earn 127 credits, including general education credits, nursing credits, and clinical experience. Students are prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level Registered Nurses (RNs) after earning their bachelor’s degree. They may take the NCLEX-RN near the time of graduation. This exam leads to licensure as a RN. Students who do not meet the admission requirements to enter the nursing program may still be admitted to the university. They then take general education courses for their freshman year, as well as pre-nursing courses. They must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.8.
The nursing program is divided into a Lower Division and Upper Division. Freshmen and sophomores are in the Lower Division and must complete the general education courses required for these years of the program. Students who enter the Upper Division of the nursing program are officially nursing students.
Applicants who live in North Carolina must have a SAT score of at least 800 and a high school grade point average of 3.0 or better. The ACT test is also accepted with a minimum score of 17. Out-of-state applicants must have a SAT score of at least 950 and a grade point average from high school of 3.0. Students who do not meet the admission criteria may take general education courses and prerequisites for the nursing program if they are admitted to the university. They must earn at least a 2.8 in these courses. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are considered individually for admission to the program.
Accelerated BSN Option
The university also offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) option for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another area. Applicants must have a minimum grade point aver of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies to be considered for the program, as well as have a variety of science courses completed before being accepted into the program. Students earn 58 credits in one year in this program, and since the curriculum is very challenging, students are not able to work at an outside job while enrolled in this program. Students begin nursing courses and also complete clinical experience at nearby medical centers and other medical facilities. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.
BSN Completion Option
There is currently a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion option for Registered Nurses who have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing that is pending at the university level. If approved, students will be able to complete their bachelor’s degree. They will receive up to 47credits for their college-level work that they have completed, plus they will be required to complete the university requirements at North Carolina A & T State University plus upper level nursing courses. RNs interested in this program may apply online at this time.
Contact:
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
1601 E. Market Street,
Greensboro, NC 27411
(336) 334-7500
North Carolina Central University Nursing School Review
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is located in Durham and is part of the University of North Carolina system. There are around 8,600 students enrolled in programs at the university that lead to baccalaureate, master’s, professional, and doctoral levels. The university has a history of training Black teachers and other professionals when college education was very limited in the South. The university was founded in 1909 as a religious training school and began adding baccalaureate and additional degrees over the years. It is located only three miles away from Duke University.
Nursing Programs
Traditional BSN
North Carolina Central University offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that can be completed in four years. This program is designed for high school graduates, transfer students, and licensed practical nurses. The nursing program is divided into the lower and upper divisions. Students must complete the lower level courses in liberal arts and sciences before being admitted to the nursing program. Pre-nursing courses must also be completed before entering the program. If the applicant meets all of the requirements and is admitted to the nursing program, studies focus on higher level nursing courses and clinical experience. At the end of the program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national certification exam that must be passed to become a Registered Nurse.
Students in their first year at the university must take placement exams in English, math, biology, and foreign language studied in high school. The results of the tests are used to place students in the courses that are needed, and if necessary, remedial courses must be completed before taking college level courses.
RN-BSN
There is also a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offered at the university. This program offers RNs the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree while obtaining credit for the courses completed while studying for their associate’s degree. The program is web-enhanced and students only go to the university campus several times during their program. Students must first complete the General Education Curriculum before beginning the nursing bridge course that officially begins their upper level nursing courses. A foreign language is a general requirement of the university that must also be completed by students in this program. The university also requires 15 mandatory service hours each semester, and student in this program are also expected to complete this work.
ABSN (Accelerated)
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is specifically designed for second degree students who receive 60 credits from their first degree. Students are required to complete the general education requirements and pre-nursing courses before beginning the upper level nursing program. Applicants must take the TEAS exam to determine if the applicant is ready to begin the nursing program. Although applicants may be accepted who have a grade point average of 2.5, the competitive cumulative grade point average is 3.0 or higher. Students in this program must also meet the foreign language requirement of the university and they must also work 15 hours each semester to complete community service. Once nursing upper level courses are started, the program can be completed in 16 months. Graduates are then eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Contact:
North Carolina Central University
1801 Fayette Street,
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 530-6100
Queens University of Charlotte Nursing School Review
Queens University of Charlotte (QUC) is located in Charlotte and has around 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students. Queens is a private Presbyterian university that was founded in 1857 as a women only college. The college became co-educational after World War II. The John Belk International Program has received national recognition for its study programs for juniors and seniors at the college who travel to various countries around the world. Some of the places that students have studied are Hong Kong, Ireland, Vietnam, and South Africa.
Nursing Programs
ASN in Nursing
Queens offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that prepares students to enter the workforce as Registered Nurses (RNs). Graduates take the NCLEX-RN national exam to become licensed as RNs. Graduates are prepared to work in many different healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, schools, doctors’ offices, and others. The current ASN program can be traced back to the nursing diploma program at Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing that was opened in 1903. The nursing school and Queens University of Charlotte’s nursing program merged in 2004. The two-year program includes liberal arts and science courses plus nursing courses that also include clinical practice. Admission to the ASN program is on an individual basis and is most based on the applicant’s academic history.
BSN in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offered at Queens prepares students to work in many different healthcare facilities and specialties. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure to practice as a professional nurse. Some graduates go forward with their education to earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree or to earn a doctoral degree. Students complete all of the general education requirements for the university plus courses related to the nursing field. Clinical experience takes place at hospitals and other area healthcare facilities. Students in this four year program have an opportunity to participate in the university’s John Belk International Program. The BSN program is designed for students who are 18 to 22 years of age. Adults who want to earn their BSN have the opportunity to take classes in the evening so that they may continue working full or part-time. There is a special program for adults at Queens that is called the Hayworth College Undergraduate Program that offers flexible advising and other services to working adults.
RN-BSN
Queens offers this program for RNs with an associate degree or diploma. RNs may complete their bachelor’s degree either online or in the classroom. The program lasts for four semesters and requires daytime classes. There is no foreign language requirement for students in the program. Students must complete the Queens University of Charlotte Career Mobility Scholarship for the bridge course. They may do this with a 50 percent savings in tuition. There are also scholarships that are awarded according to student need and merit, such as the William Randolph Hearst Nursing Scholarship and Preceptor scholarship. The university offers tuition deferment as well. Applicants who have earned their ASN at the Presbyterian School of Nursing have all 41 credits transferred to the RN-BSN program. If an applicant has earned an associate degree elsewhere, 36 credits are transferred after the bridge course is completed.
Minor in Health Services
Another option for students in the BSN program is to also earn a Minor in Health Services. This involves completing 14 credits plus Introductory Statistics.
MSN in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares students for advanced practice. Students choose from three areas of concentration, which are Health Systems Management, Clinical Nurse Leader, or Nurse Educator Practices. At the completion of the programs, graduates take the certification exam to gain national certification in the specialty area that they have studied. All students in the graduate program take 15 credit hours in nursing core courses and must earn 36 to 38 credits depending on their concentration. Some of the advantages to working towards a MSN at Queens University are that students take part in small interactive classes that are held in the evening. This allows working RNs to continue in their professional careers while working on their graduate degree. Also, the university offers tuition deferment that allows students to graduate and move into a higher paying nursing position before being required to pay their tuition. There are also scholarships available for those who qualify and financial aid is available as well.
Admission requirements to the graduate program in nursing are that the applicant must be currently licensed as an RN with an unrestricted license. A BSN is required, but those with a bachelor’s degree in another are considered on an individual basis. A grade point average of 3.0 or higher is required as well, and applicants with grade point averages lower than 3.0 may take the GRE and will be considered if they have a verbal and math combined score of at least 1000. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation and must be computer proficient.
The following three concentrations lead to a MSN in a specialty area of advanced nursing practice.
Health Systems Management Concentration
Besides completing the graduate level nursing core courses, students complete courses in business such as Law and Ethics and others. Courses in health care administration and nursing management are also part of this program. The program requires a health care practicum and nursing capstone project.
Nurse Educator Practice Concentration
This concentration leads to a MSN and also prepares the student to teach nursing students on a variety of levels including nursing school programs, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, and to serve as a community educator. Students learn the basics of teaching and learning in nursing, how to develop curriculum, and evaluation of nursing students. A practicum in nurse education and a capstone project are required for this concentration.
Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration
This program focuses on the clinical care of patients including health assessment, clinical outcomes, and management of the healthcare environment. A residency is required for this concentration that leads to a MSN.
MSN-MBA Combined Program
This Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is combined with an additional Master of Business Administration degree. Students who plan to go into management of various community organizations, hospitals, clinics, and other facilities sometimes prefer to earn this dual degree to enhance their credibility as a nurse administrator. All of the requirements for the MSN must be completed in the school of nursing, and business courses must be taken at the McColl Graduate School of Business. Admission to the program is on an individual basis.
MSN in Nursing (RN-MSN)
This program is designed for RNs enrolled in Queens RN-BSN program who want to earn their master’s degree in nursing. Students choose from one of the three concentrations of Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator Practices, or Health Systems Management. To qualify for this program, RNs must first apply to the RN-BSN program. This requires completing all prerequisite courses with a grade of C- or better. The applicant must also be a registered nurse. Students then work on their BSN and apply to the RN-BSN program after completing courses at Queens. They must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 to qualify for the MSN program in the last 60 hours of studies that they have done at the university. One of the advantages of enrolling in this program for students who want to get their MSN is that 9 credits apply for both the BSN and MSN. The applicant must complete the BSN before enrolling in the MSN program.
Graduate Certificate in Health Systems Management
RNs who have previously earned their MSN who want to continue their education by studying an advanced nursing practice area may earn a certificate in one of the three MSN special concentration areas. The program consists of completing 15 credits in health systems management. At the completion of the courses, graduates take the certification exam and are granted a certificate in this specialty area.
Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nurse Leader
RNs who have a MSN may earn a certificate as a clinical nurse leader by completing this program. A residency of 6 credit hours is required in addition to the mandatory courses. At the completion of the program, RNs take the national exam for certification in this specialty area.
Graduate Certificate in Nurse Educator Practices
There is a great need for nurse educators, and this program at Queens prepares RNs who already have a MSN to enter this field of nursing. Students complete 15 credits in curriculum building and education courses for teaching student nurses.
Contact:
Queens University-Charlotte
1900 Selwyn Avenue,
Charlotte, NC 28274
(704) 337-2200
Randolph Community College Nursing Program Review
Randolph Community College (RCC) is located in Asheboro. There are more than 25 degrees offered at the college, including nursing. Around 3,200 students are enrolled at the college. The college was established in 2008 and is a collaborative effort with Pfeiffer University and Salem College. All of these are located in Randolph County, and students have the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree by combining classes that are offered at these institutions. RCC is a member college of the North Carolina Community College System.
Nursing Programs
Nursing Assistant
The Nursing Assistant program at Randolph Community College prepares students to be listed on the registry as a Nursing Assistant I and Nursing Assistant II. These workers are employed in doctors’ offices, home health agencies, nursing homes, extended care facilities, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Admission to the program is based on how many seats are available in the program. Once it is filled, no more students will be accepted despite the open enrollment policy of the college. Phase I studies require a high school diploma or GED. In addition, applicants must take the placement tests required by the college, and if the minimum scores are not met then students must take remedial courses. For Phase II of the Nursing Assistant program, students must have CPR certification. Students must be available for clinical experience assignments at various times throughout the day, and they must be willing to travel up to 50 miles for these assignments.
Associate Degree Nursing
Randolph Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing for students who wish to pursue a career as a professional Registered Nurse (RN). Although admission to the college is on an open enrollment basis, the nursing program has admission requirements and accepts students on a competitive basis. The program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. Graduates from the program have opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, schools, industrial sites, and others. There is an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) Day program and an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) Evening and Weekend program available at the college.
Applicants who are interested in the program must first apply to Randolph Community College and take the placement testing that is required. Official high school transcripts and any college transcripts must be submitted. Applicants must have a grade of C or higher in high school biology and chemistry and high school algebra. If they do not have these, they must take them on the college level and earn at least a C in these courses. A grade point average of at least 2.5 is mandatory throughout the nursing program. Applicants must also take the TEAS exam to demonstrate that they have the academic readiness to complete the program.
Another important requirement is that applicants must have successfully completed Nurse Aide I training, including the clinical experience. They must have CPR certification and pass a physical and emotional health exam. The college uses a numerical ranking system to admit students that is based on TEAS scores. Points are also awarded for college level courses completed and the applicant’s high school grade point average. Residents of Randolph County are also given preference when determining which applicants to admit to the program.
Contact:
Randolph Community College
629 Industrial Park Avenue,
Asheboro, NC 27205
(336) 633-0200
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Nursing Program Review
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) is a large institution in Rowan and Cabarrus Counties. About 22,000 students are enrolled at this college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System. There are diploma, certificate, and associate degree programs offered at the college, and a significant number of students transfer to four-year colleges and universities after graduating from Rowan-Cabarrus. There are six different sites where branches of the college are located.
Nursing Programs
Practical Nursing
A practical nursing program is offered at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College that prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN exam that is required to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program prepares LPNs to work in many different healthcare facilities, especially long-term care, home health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, and others. It takes three semesters to complete this program, and students earn 44 credits in this time. The curriculum is convenient for working students since courses and clinical rotations may be scheduled during the daytime, evenings, or weekends. Those enrolled in the program must maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their coursework.
Admission to the Practical Nursing program is competitive and only 30 students are admitted each year. A selective point system is used to choose applicants for the program based on results of the TEAS pre-nursing exam that indicates an applicant’s academic readiness to complete the program. Half of the applicant’s points come from the result of the TEAS and the other half is dependent on the applicant’s high school or college grades and classes completed, residency of the applicant, and work experience. Graduates from the program receive a diploma.
Associate in Arts Pre-Major Nursing
Students who plan to transfer to a four-year program after graduating with an associate degree may enroll in this program. After the two year program is completed, a student may transfer to the four-year program and begin completing junior-level courses in nursing.
Associate Degree Nursing
The college’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) is a two-year program that prepares students to enter the workforce as entry-level Registered Nurses (RNs). A student may take the NCLEX-RN national certification exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse after completing the program. The graduate RN has many opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, schools, industrial sites, and other healthcare facilities. Some graduates continue their education by completing their bachelor’s degree at one of the institutions that works in collaboration with Rowan-Cabarrus by accepting students who graduate from the community college.
The ADN program accepts 60 students into the day program and 20 students for the evening program. The admission process is selective and is based on a point system that analyzes the results of the TEAS exam and the applicant’s work experience, academic work, and residency in either Rowan or Cabarrus Counties. Applicants must also attend an information session about the program and must have completed biology and chemistry in high school or on the college level. The applicant must also demonstrate computer literacy. Additionally, students must be currently listed on the Nurse Aide I Registry as a Nurse Aid, according to North Carolina guidelines. Those not accepted into the program may be placed on an alternate list. If an opening occurs in the nursing program, an applicant from the alternate list is chosen.
Contact:
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
1333 Jake Alexander Blvd. South,
Salisbury, NC 28146
(704) 637-0760
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Nursing School Review
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC, UNC-CH, UNC Chapel Hill) is located in Chapel Hill and is a public research university. It is one of the institutions claiming to be the oldest public university in the U.S. It is a very large university with almost 30,000 students enrolled in 77 undergraduate, 107 master’s, and 69 doctorate and programs. The university has the reputation of being one of the best universities in the world. As a research university, inventions such as the low-dose x-ray machine and a drug delivery system for cancer patients. There are also many activities that students may participate in such as more than 320 study abroad programs in 71 different countries.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the university may be pursued in several ways. A student may complete two years of upper division courses in the School of Nursing after finishing two years of lower division courses in the General College. Those who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in another field may pursue the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) degree. In addition, there is a Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN option for professional nurses who have completed an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing.
Students working on their BSN as their first degree are admitted to the program on a competitive basis. Applicants must have completed at least three of the five required science courses within the past ten years and must have earned a minimum grade of C. Other factors that are considered by the admissions committee are the student’s academic performance, writing ability, community service history, and abilities to successfully complete the BSN program. Students working on their second degree may complete the BSN program in one of two ways. They may either complete the BSN six semester curriculum, or they have the option of completing it in four semesters in the Accelerated BSN program. These students have 60 credits transferred from their first degree to their BSN. All BSN students must complete all of the upper division nursing courses and clinical experience before taking the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to certification as a professional Registered Nurse.
BSN students with high grade point averages of at least 3.4 are eligible to complete undergraduate research during their last two semesters in the program. The student is assigned to an advisor who guides the student in an independent study honors project. All graduates of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill are eligible to apply for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the college after graduation.
The university’s RN to BSN program is indefinitely suspended due to budgetary constraints.
Master of Science in Nursing
RNs with a BSN may want to continue their studies for a career in advanced practice that requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Students admitted to the program must complete the MSN core courses plus those related to their concentration. The various concentrations are discussed below.
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
This program prepares nurses to provide primary care for adults aged 13 years to the end of life. The program may be pursued on either a full-time or part-time basis, and at the completion of the courses, graduates take the exams to become certified as Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners. Full-time students can complete the program in four semesters and one summer practicum session while part-time students require six semesters and one summer term. Students in this program may choose an Oncology Focus program that prepares them to provide care for patients with cancer as a nurse practitioner. Students learn diagnostic methods and treatment of various types of cancer. Admission criteria include a B average or better in undergraduate work, competitive GRE scores, and at least one year of clinical experience working as an RN, preferably in the specialty area that the applicant wishes to pursue. At the completion of the program, students are granted their MSN and take the national exam for certification as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
Health Care Systems
This MSN prepares RNs for positions as nurse leaders in a variety of healthcare settings, including management, education, informatics, human resource management, and other areas. The Health Care Systems program offers advanced practice in the following areas: Administration, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, Education, Informatics, or Outcomes Management. Those accepted into the program must choose one of these specialties, such as Administration that emphasizes human and financial resource management or Clinical Nurse Leader, a 32 credit program that focuses on clinical care of patients in hospital and other settings.
The Nurse Educator concentration prepares RNs to instruct student nurses in various educational settings, and the Education concentration prepares RNs to facilitate patient education, staff development, or to work in academic settings. Informatics teaches students to manage and process the data, information, and knowledge needed to practice nursing in the best ways, and Outcomes Management focuses on innovative ways to improve patient and systems outcomes. Full-time student complete the program in five semesters and part-time students require three to five years for completion.
Dual Degree MSN/MSIS or MSN/MSLS
The School of Nursing and the School of Information and Library Sciences offer two dual degree programs at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. The Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Information Science (MSN/MSIS) and the Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Library Science (MSN/MSLS) prepare RNs to focus on Informatics to meet the needs of today’s healthcare environment. Earning one of these dual degrees takes less time than pursuing the degrees separately. Students may complete either of these degrees in three academic years. Applicants must first apply for graduate study in the School of Nursing. Students accepted into the graduate nursing program must then apply to the School of Information and Library Sciences after completing some of the graduate nursing courses.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Primary Care
This MSN program prepares RNs to provide primary care to infants, children, adolescents, and their families. Full-time students are required to study for four semesters and one summer practicum while part-time students usually take six semesters plus one summer term. Applicants to the program are required to have at least a B average in their nursing courses plus competitive GRE scores of at least 1000 in verbal and quantitative scores. In addition, RNs are expected to have worked in a professional healthcare setting for at least one year before applying to the program.
Family Nurse Practitioner
This MSN program in advanced nursing practice trains RNs to serve as the primary care provider for all members of a family. Both full-time and part-time studies are available. Students who are interested in global health or other areas of healthcare may pursue studies related to their interests through clinical placements, elective courses, and the Master’s Paper.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
This MSN specialty area of advanced nursing practice prepares RNs to provide primary care to patients by serving as psychotherapists and case managers in a variety of healthcare settings. Students may complete courses on a full-time or part-time basis, and clinical placements are in mental health centers and inpatient settings as well.
Post-Master’s Programs
RNs who have already completed a MSN degree may earn certificates in the specialty areas offered in the MSN program. These are Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, including the Adult Oncology focus, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Health Care Systems, including Administration, clinical Nurse Leader, Education, and Informatics. Other areas that present an opportunity to earn a certificate are Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Primary Care, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After completing any of these programs, graduates sit for the certification exam that leads to licensure in the specialty nursing area.
Doctoral Program
RNs interested in furthering their studies may complete the Doctoral Program at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Students focus on advanced data management, research that adheres to the standards of scientific integrity, and other research skills. A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing is awarded after a student completed all course requirements and a dissertation. Need-based financial aid is available as well as merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships for students interested in this doctoral program in nursing.
Pre- and Postdoctoral Fellowships
Doctoral Fellowship applicants must be enrolled in the Doctoral Program at the university. Postdoctoral Fellowship candidates must have earned a doctoral degree in nursing or in a related field.
Contact:
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
153A Country Club Road,
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514
(919) 966-3621
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Nursing School Review
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC, UNC Charlotte) is a public research university located in the city of Charlotte. It is a large university with over 25,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. There are 90 bachelor’s degree programs, 62 master’s degree programs, and 19 doctoral programs offered at this university. The University of North Carolina-Charlotte is known for facilitating more small businesses than any other learning institution in the country. It is the fastest growing university in the state as well. The campus is situated on 1,000 acres and is only two hours from the mountains and three hours from the Atlantic Ocean.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) RN to BSN
Professional Registered Nurses (RNs) who have an associate’s degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing may complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Before entering the BSN program, students must complete all prerequisites, general education, and foreign language course requirements. Once these are finished, the RN to BSN curriculum requires 30 credits. This is usually completed in one year of full-time studies. There are two ways to complete the BSN, which are through distance education or through the on-campus program. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 grade point average in their previous college level studies and they must maintain at least a grade of C in their prerequisite courses at the university.
Applicants have the option of testing out of the foreign language requirement, or if an applicant has studied the same language for at least three years in high school, he or she may be exempt from this requirement. Applicants must first apply to the university and then to the School of Nursing. When 120 credits have been completed, students may apply for graduation and receive a BSN.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing—Upper Division Nursing Major
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a four-year program that includes all of the courses required for a bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte in addition to specific nursing courses and clinical experience. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). In this program, students complete the general education requirements at the lower level and the nursing courses once they are accepted into the nursing program upper level. Applicants enter the program as pre-nursing students. Graduates are trained to work in many different healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and others. Some students decide to continue their education by pursuing a master’s degree in nursing.
Applicants to the pre-nursing program who are transfer or students who have changed their major must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their previous university work. Acceptance into the pre-nursing program does not automatically mean that a student is accepted into the nursing program. Applicants are expected to have an average of at least B in the prerequisite courses. In addition, applicants must be listed in the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry as a Nurse Aid before beginning coursework in the upper division. Students must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the prerequisite courses as well. The degree requires 124 credits before graduation.
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN program at the university prepares RNs for a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner. These healthcare professionals are primary care providers for the entire family, from infants to the elderly. Students must take the MSN core courses as well as the specialty courses related to this concentration. At the completion of the program, the graduate may sit for the certification exam to be permitted to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Students must complete 46 credits, and this usually takes 27 months if the student is working on a full-time basis or 39 months for part-time studies. Applicants must have current licensure as an RN, and must have completed a BSN.
Applicants with degrees in other fields are considered, but they must first complete courses from the RN-BSN program. In addition, satisfactory scores from the GRE or MAT are required. Applicants should also have an overall grade point average of 3.0 in the last 60 credits that they have completed. One year’s experience as a professional RN is also required. Applicants must also be computer literate. The program requires 600 hours of supervised clinical experience, and only one C is allowed. Students must earn all B’s to progress in the program.
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Anesthesia
Students working on their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) may choose to specialize in the Nurse Anesthesia concentration. This program requires 27 months of full-time study, and applicants must have an unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina. A BSN is also required. Applicants must also take the GRE or MAT and have satisfactory scores on these tests. A grade point average of at least 3.0 on all college work after high school is also required. In addition, applicants must have at least 18 months of full-time critical care experience with adult patients. Graduates take the national exam to become licensed as Nurse Anesthetists.
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Administrator
This concentration of Nurse Administrator in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares nurses to work as department managers in hospitals and other health care facilities. Some graduates with this degree work in health departments or in nursing schools. After completing 36 credits in 27 months of part-time online study, students take the certification exam in Nursing Administration or Nursing Administration Advanced. Applicants must have satisfactory GRE or MAT scores, an unrestricted license as a RN, and a BSN degree. Those who wish to enter this field but have a baccalaureate degree in another area may also apply for the program, and the required nursing courses will be built into their curriculum. Also, one year of nursing experience is preferred, and applicants must be computer literate.
Master of Science in Nursing – Community Public Health Nursing
This MSN program prepares RNs for a career in public health nursing. Graduates work in public health departments, industries, schools, and other community-based agencies. The program requires the completion of 38 credits that can be completed in 36 months of part-time studies. Admission requirements are satisfactory scores on either the GRE or MAT, an unrestricted license as an RN, and a BSN from an accredited university. If the degree is not in nursing, the required courses are built into the curriculum. A grade point average of 3.0 is preferred, as is one year’s professional experience as an RN.
RN/MSN Early Entry Program
The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Early Entry Program is designed for outstanding students who want to pursue a MSN. Applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to both the RN to BSN program plus the graduate program that is chosen. The MSN specialty areas available in this program are Family Nurse Practitioner, an on-campus program, Community Public Health Nursing, a distance education program, Nurse Educator, a distance education program, and Nurse Administrator, a distance education program. These concentrations require 36 to 46 graduate credits, depending on the specialty. All coursework in the RN to BSN program must be completed except for 10 hours of graduate credit that count for both the BSN and MSN. Students must maintain a 3.0 in all graduate courses.
Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator
This program prepares RNs to teach student nurses and to work as a Nurse Educator. Graduates with two years of full-time teaching experience will qualify to take the certification exam for Nurse Educators. Students must complete 39 credits that may be completed in 30 months of part-time study. Applicants to the program must have an unrestricted RN license and a BSN degree or other baccalaureate degree. If the applicant’s degree is in another field, the nursing courses required for licensure are built into their curriculum. In addition, satisfactory scores on the GRE or MAT are required. Applicants are expected to have a 3.0 average in their college level work, and it is desirable that they have at least one year’s experience as a professional nurse. Applicants must also be computer literate.
Certificates
Graduate Certificate – Nursing Administrator – Distance Education
This program is designed for RNs with a BSN and for RNs with master’s degrees. The program requires four specialty courses in nursing administration that equal 12 credits. The certificate takes one year of part-time study to complete. Applicants must have a current unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina, a BSN, and three letters of recommendation.
Post Master’s Certificate in Advanced Practice Registered Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
This program requires 21 credits to earn a certificate in advanced practice nursing. RNs with a MSN will be prepared to enter advanced practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. All courses must be completed within four years and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 must be attained. Family Nurse Practitioner graduates work in primary care practices, community based clinics, public health departments and in other healthcare settings. The program can be completed in two years. Admission requirements include a MSN, licensure as a RN in North Carolina, satisfactory GRE or MAT score, and certain prerequisite course completion within the past three years. Students spend a minimum of 600 hours of supervised clinical experience as a Nurse Practitioner student, and they must maintain a B or better to progress in the program.
Graduate Certificate – Nurse Educator – Distance Education
This program is designed for nurses with a BSN or MSN. It consists of four courses or 12 credits that can be completed in one year. Applicants must have an unrestricted nursing license in North Carolina and they must have three letters of professional recommendation. Graduates receive a certificate after passing the national exam.
Graduate Certificate in Community Health
This program is designed for students who want to work in community or public health. After completing the program, graduates take the exam leading to certification in this area. There are 15 credits required for this program, including six core courses, three restricted electives, and two other elective courses.
Post Master’s Certificate in Nurse Anesthesia
This program is designed for RNs who have completed a MSN who want a career as a Nurse Anesthetist. The program requires 27 months of full-time study. Applicants must have an unrestricted license as an RN in North Carolina, a MSN and BSN, satisfactory GRE score, and a grade point average of 3.0 for all undergraduate work. Other requirements are that applicants are expected to have 18 months of full-time critical care experience with adults. Graduates from the program take the national exam for certification as a Nurse Anesthetist.
Contact:
University of North Carolina-Charlotte
9201 University City Blvd.,
Charlotte, North Carolina 28223-0001
(704) 687-8622
University of North Carolina at Greensboro Nursing School Review
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG, UNC Greensboro) is a public university located in Greensboro. It is part of the University of North Carolina system, and there are over 100 undergraduate, 61 masters, and 26 doctoral programs offered at the university that has over 18,500 students enrolled in various programs. The school was established in 1891. It is continually ranked as one of the top academic institutions in the U.S., based on student performance, value, and academics. The School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro has been named a Center of Excellence by the National League of Nursing for three consecutive terms.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The university offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for students who want to prepare for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). The program can be completed in four years, but it is very rigorous so some students choose to complete it in five years instead of four years. There are four parts to the program which include the general education core courses, nursing prerequisites and co-requisites, upper division major courses, and electives that are necessary for meeting the baccalaureate degree requirements. A total of 122 credits are necessary to complete the program. At that time, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.
The University of North Carolina-Greensboro has some special requirements that are unique to the university. These are mandated for all students working on bachelor’s degrees. There are two intensive writing courses required. One may be in nursing and the other can be a non-nursing writing course. In addition, students must take two speaking intensive courses. One must be in nursing and the other can be a non-nursing course. A foreign language is not required for a nursing degree, but nursing students must also take four global perspectives courses, and one of these must be a nonwestern course.
Students must have a 3.0 grade point average before enrolling in nursing courses. The university recommends that students apply to the nursing program in their sophomore year. Only those who have received formal, written notice of acceptance to the program can be assured that they have made it into the program. Since the nursing program is very competitive, applicants usually have grade point averages that are much higher than 3.0. The faculty recommends that students work as Certified Nurse Assistant I or II during the summers between academic years.
BSN for Second Degree Students
This BSN program is designed specifically for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field. The program usually takes three years to complete. Students do not have to take the general education core requirements, and once they have finished the courses that are prerequisites for the nursing program, they usually begin nursing classes. Students then complete nursing courses, clinical experience, and any electives or other courses required for the program. At the completion, a graduate is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure as a Registered Nurse.
RN to BSN (2+Program)
Registered Nurses with an associate degree or those who have graduated from a state approved nursing program may enter this program as a day or night student. Students require various amounts of time to finish their BSN depending on how many course are required to reach the 122 credits needed to graduate. Applicants must have a North Carolina RN license without restrictions before beginning the program. RNs may take special exams on various areas of nursing, and if they pass the exam up to 30 credits will be awarded. All students in the program must complete a minimum of 31 semester hours in residence at the university. Also, the university has articulation agreements with North Carolina community colleges, so students who graduate from one of these with their associate’s degree in nursing are guaranteed to enter the University of North Carolina-Greensboro with at least 30 hours towards their bachelor’s degree.
RN to BSN (Diploma Program)
RNs who have graduated from an accredited diploma nursing program may enter this program to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have an unrestricted license in nursing in North Carolina. The amount of time to complete the program varies with the number of courses that are required for the BSN. Students in this program must complete all of the courses that traditional nursing students working towards their bachelor’s degree must take.
Triad Education Center RN to BSN Program
This program is offered at the Triad Education Center which is close to the Piedmont Triad Airport. RNs who enter the program can earn their BSN in two years in most cases. Students attend classes only one day each week and complete independent learning activities, web-based activities, and may complete their assignments on a flexible schedule. This program is designed for the working RN who needs to work studies into the busy nursing schedule that they must follow.
RN to BSN Outreach Program
This program is offered for working nurses who want to earn their BSN. It is a part-time program that is held at the Northwest AHEC building next to the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory each Wednesday. University faculty travel to this location to teach classes to nurses. The program can be finished in five semesters, and students are admitted only at the start of the program which is every two years. Students in the program may take the nursing exams offered by the university to be awarded up to 30 credits.
Master’s Program
The university offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a variety of concentrations. After completing core courses in the program, students complete the required courses in their concentration. Applicants to the Master’s Program at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and satisfactory scores on the GRE or MAT. It is preferred that applicants have worked for at least one year as an RN. Those applying for admission to the nurse anesthesia program must have at least one year’s experience working in critical care nursing. RNs must have an unrestricted license to practice nursing in North Carolina as well as CPR certification. Each of the concentrations is described below.
Nursing Administration
This MSN concentration is an online course that requires 36 credits to complete. Students must complete 12 lab hours each week as well as courses that deal with the law, policy, and economics of healthcare, nursing case management, and advanced nursing courses. A thesis or critique in research in nursing project is also required as a capstone project.
Nurse Anesthesia
This program leads to a MSN in Nurse Anesthesia. It requires 50 semester hours for the degree and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Graduates of this program take the national exam to become Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
Nursing Education
This MSN program can be completed online, and it can be completed in 36 hours. Students learn advanced nursing in addition to education courses in which they practice designing curriculum and evaluating students’ work. Students also complete practicums in teaching student nurses.
Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
The university offers the Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Concentration for RNs. It takes 50 credits to graduate from this program. Students must be practicing RNs, but this is a full-time program. RNs complete 12 lab hours each week in addition to the coursework that must be completed. The program can be completed in 5 semesters.
Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Concentration – Part Time
This program prepares RNs to provide primary care to older adults. It requires seven semesters to complete, including 12 hours of lab work each week and a practicum at the end of the program.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs
RNs with a bachelor’s degree may earn a certificate in a variety of concentrations, such as Nursing Administration, Nursing Case Management, Nursing Education, and Gerontological Nursing. Students must complete at least 12 credits during a two-year period. Credits earned may apply towards a degree program in the Graduate School.
Post-Masters Certificate in Nurse Anesthesia
RNs that have previously completed their MSN may complete a program to earn a certificate in an area of advanced nursing such as Nurse Anesthesia. It takes 41 semester hours to complete this program or four semesters of full-time studies. At the completion of the program, students take the national exam to become certified Nurse Anesthetist.
Post-Masters Certificate for the Adult Nurse Practitioner/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
This program may be completed on a part-time basis and requires the completion 41 credits. In addition, 12 hours of lab work is required each week. At the completion of the program, students receive a certificate ad take the national exam for certification as a Nurse Practitioner.
MSN/MBA Program
Students at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro may want to earn a dual degree. They can earn both their MSN and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the 54 semester hour program. It takes 5 years of part-time study for RNs to earn this dual degree.
MSN Outreach Program
This MSN program is offered to RNs who have a BSN. It provides an opportunity for nurses to earn their MSN on a part-time basis. Classes are taught by university faculty at the Northwest AHEC building which is next to the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory each Tuesday from 1 pm to 8 pm. There are 8 semesters in the program that takes four years to complete. Applicants are required to have a 3.0 average to qualify for admission.
PhD Program
The PhD program at the university requires that applicants have satisfactory GRE scores and that the exam was taken within the last 5 years. Applicants must also have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on any previous graduate work. At least 57 credits are required for graduation with a PhD in nursing. Applicants must be licensed RNs, have CPR certification, and carry liability insurance. Students may not take longer than 7 years to complete the program.
Study Abroad Program
Students who are enrolled in the traditional BSN four-year program, RN to BSN, or graduate MSN students in the anesthesia program may participate in an international experience. The practicum requirement may be completed through this program to the Dominican Republic from 7 days.
Contact:
University of North Carolina-Greensboro
112 Moore Building,
Greensboro, NC 27412
(336) 334-5000
University of North Carolina at Pembroke Nursing School Review
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP, UNC Pembroke) is one of the schools in the University of North Carolina system. It is a public school that is located in the college town of Pembroke. It was founded in 1887 and was originally formed to teach Native American teacher since there was a need for these teachers in the area. This master’s level university has over 6,000 students and offers 41 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The university features small classes with a student to teacher ratio of around 15 to 1, allowing students to get the help that they need from the faculty.
Nursing Programs
BSN Pre-Licensure
The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for high school graduates who want to pursue a career as a professional nurse. The four-year program requires 124 credits in liberal arts and sciences as well as nursing courses and clinical experience in nearby healthcare facilities. At graduation, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). After passing the exam, RNs are able to work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and other industries. Another option is to continue their education to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for a career in an advanced nursing specialty.
BSN Pre-Licensure applicants must first apply to the University of North Carolina (UNC) -Pembroke and begin taking classes before declaring a major. The first 62 hours of general education courses must then be completed, including all nursing prerequisite courses. In addition, a grade point average of 2.8 or better must be maintained on all coursework before entering the nursing program. Students accepted into the program are then expected to maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average in all nursing courses. Applicants must also meet all of the other requirements related to their physical, mental, social, and communication skills to remain in the program.
RN-BSN Program
The University of North Carolina-Pembroke offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. RNs who are currently licensed in North Carolina or who have a multi-state license and who have either an associate degree or diploma in nursing may apply for the program. Students in the program must complete 53 credits out of the 62 credits required to meet the general education nursing core. It is also necessary to complete 16 prerequisite nursing courses before beginning the BSN nursing courses. Students must have a grade point average of at least 2.8 on all college level work to qualify for the nursing program. Once students begin the BSN nursing courses, a grade point average of at least 2.0 must be maintained.
Many students who are enrolled in the BSN may complete financial aid forms. Many students at the university receive some sort of financial aid, and there are also scholarships available for nursing students. After completing an application to the University of North Carolina-Pembroke, candidates are strongly encouraged to complete financial aid forms to determine what type of financial aid they may qualify to receive.
Contact:
University of North Carolina-Pembroke
1 University Drive, Pembroke, NC 28372
(910) 521-6000
University of North Carolina Wilmington Nursing School Review
The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW, UNC Wilmington) is a public university that is located in Wilmington, North Carolina. Wilmington is a coastal city located between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the University of North Carolina System universities with about 14,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs at the school. It was founded in 1947 and was a junior college when it first opened. The university has received prestigious ratings by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, Kiplinger’s, Fiske Guide to Colleges, G.I. Jobs, and Princeton Review.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science: Nursing Prelicensure
This four year program prepares students for a career as a professional nurse. It also prepares those who want to continue their education to earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a doctoral degree. After completing the general requirements for the university, nursing courses, and clinical experience, students take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Nursing students have an opportunity to take part in international programs offered at UNC Wilmington. One of these is working and studying in El Salvador and Guatemala. Students meet nursing students and medical students from this region to discover more about healthcare in Central America. They also work at a clinic, providing medical care to patients in the area. Another program is a trip to Peru, South America. During a two week period, students learn about the global healthcare system and experience a different culture. This program is incorporated into one of the nursing courses.
Students entering the nursing program after completing high school must first be accepted into the university. Admission is competitive, and not all students are accepted. There is no guarantee that a student who is accepted into the college will also be accepted into the nursing program since students do not declare a major until the end of their sophomore year. The University of North Carolina-Wilmington receives almost 11,000 applications from prospective freshmen, but only 1,950 students are accepted. The middle 50 percent of accepted first year students scored between 1130 and 1250 in reading and math on the SAT and between 530 and 620 on the SAT writing portion. The middle 50% SAT scores were between 1,670 and 1,870. Middle ACT scores were 23-28. These middle scores are substantially higher than those for many other colleges and universities.
Bachelor of Science: RN to BS
This program allows an RN to complete a Bachelor of Science degree after completing an associate degree. Those accepted into the program may transfer a maximum of 64 credits from a two-year college. If the student has completed a previous bachelor’s degree in another field, up to 93 credits may be transferred. Students must complete all of the liberal arts and science courses required by the university plus nursing courses and clinical experience. Three to six credits in a foreign language are required for a BSN. Students usually complete the RN-BSN program in three semesters. All nursing courses are completed online for this program.
Master of Science: Family Nurse Practitioner
This program prepares RNs with a BSN to provide primary care to family members of all ages. The program is available on a full time or part time basis. The full time program consists of 2-1/2 years of study. Part time student need 3-1/2 years to complete the program that requires the completion of 46 to 47 credits, including practicums and clinical experience. At graduation, students take the national exam that leads to licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program
Nurses who have already completed their MSN may enter this program to earn a certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is on a part time basis and takes 2-1/2 years to complete 25 credits. Students do not take advanced nursing courses that they completed while working on their MSN. At the completion of the program, these students take the national exam to be licensed as Family Nurse Practitioners.
Post Master Certification: Nurse Educator
This program prepares RNs for a career as an instructor of pre-licensure nurses at various college levels of learning. It takes 12 credits to complete on a part time basis by being enrolled for one year. The program is open to RNs who already have a MSN. Students learn about curriculum design and instruction, evaluation, and teaching strategies. There is also a residency that is required.
Contact:
University of North Carolina-Wilmington
601 South College Road,
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
(910) 962-3000
Wayne Community College Nursing Program Review
Wayne Community College (WCC) is a two-year college located in the town of Goldsboro. It is a large college that has about 14,000 students enrolled in its programs. The college is also the location of the Wayne Early/Middle College High School. Sixty students are accepted from the high school into Wayne Community College each year. The college was begun in 1957 as an industrial college before becoming a community college. Today, over 70 degree, diploma, certificate, and continuing education programs are offered at the college. The affordable tuition makes continuing education a possibility for many residents of the area around Wayne Community College.
Nursing Programs
Practical Nursing
Wayne Community College offers a Practical Nursing program for students who want to enter this career. They will be prepared to work in hospitals, home health facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities after graduating. Graduates will also be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN to become licensed as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). They will also receive a diploma from the college in Practical nursing. There is a high demand for all kinds of nurses, including LPNs. The college accepts only 15 to 20 applicants into the LPN program each year, so admission is very competitive.
The Practical Nursing program is one of those at the college that are referred to as Allied Health Limited Programs. Applicants who are interested in entering this program need to print the packet available online. It is important to follow all directions in the packet and to submit all of the necessary documents and the application before the deadline. Admission is granted according to a point system, and only those who have completed all of the requirements are considered for admission. Applicants must either take the college placement tests or submit their SAT or ACT scores. Minimum SAT scores must be 1,000 or higher.
The point system used for admission to the program is based on several criteria. These are grades from college work that has been completed and the applicant’s overall grade point average from high school or college.
Associate Degree Nursing
Wayne Community College also offers an Associate Degree in Nursing. Admission to the program is competitive, and applicants must follow all steps of the application process to be considered for the program. Applications to the college and to the nursing program are required. In addition, applicants must either take the college placement tests or submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants must also provide proof that they have taken a chemistry course in the past ten years, and they must have a background check and submit the results to the admission office. Students for the program are chosen on a point system that depends on the applicant’s overall grade point average in high school or college plus the grade point average that has been earned in the prerequisite courses.
The program is a two-year combination of liberal arts and sciences courses and nursing courses and clinical experience. Students are trained to enter the workforce as entry level Registered Nurses (RNs). At the completion of the program, the graduate takes the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.
Advanced Standing Alternative for Licensed Practical Nurses
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the Associate Degree Nursing program if they are currently licensed and have a grade point average of at least a C in their Practical Nursing courses. Students in the program may transfer up to 31 credits from their previous nursing courses, and 72 credits are required for the Associate Degree Nursing. Qualified applicants are admitted to the program if space is available.
Contact:
Wayne Community College
3000 Wayne Memorial Drive,
Goldsboro, NC 27534
(919) 735-5151
Western Carolina University Nursing School Review
Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university that is part of the University of North Carolina system. It is located in Cullowhee in the western part of the state and is one of the oldest four-year universities in the state system. The campus is close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is between the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. There are around 12,000 students attending the university that offers both undergraduate and graduate activities. Western Carolina University was founded in 1889 and now offers more than 120 academic programs.
Nursing Programs
BSN Pre-Licensure Program
The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure Program that prepares graduates for a career as a professional nurse. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Those who are interested in the program must first be accepted into the university. They must then begin taking lower division courses before applying to the School of Nursing. Only after they are accepted are they able to begin taking nursing courses. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the 60 credits that are required before being eligible to begin the nursing program. In addition, applicants must have an SAT Critical Reading/Verbal score or at least 500 and must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and have adequate scores on this test. During the nursing program, students complete nursing courses and their clinical experience.
Accelerated BSN Option
This program is for students who want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing with an accelerated option. It is referred to as the ABSN program because it is designed for those who already have completed a bachelor’s degree in another field who want to become professional nurses. The program is completed in 12 months and is a full-time program for students who can devote themselves to a full-time program. Classes are held five days each week for around eight hours each day. Clinical experience is in the evening or on the weekends, so the program requires a time commitment from students. Students may take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure after completing the program. To qualify for the program, applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in their college level work, and they must take the TEAS exam. They must also have completed all of the prerequisite courses. This program is highly selective. The applicant’s grade point average, TEAS score, resume and cover letter score, and interview with the ABSN Admissions Committee determine whether or not an applicant is granted admission to the program.
WNC RIBN Option
This program is the Western North Carolina Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nurses (RIBN) Program. Students are admitted to Western Carolina University and to A-B Tech to earn an associate degree and then a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The difference between this program and the BSN Pre-Licensure program is that students may begin working as an RN at the beginning of their fourth year in the program. This enables a student to pay for most of the three years of education that they have completed. For the first three years of the program, students attend A-B Tech’s Asheville campus. Then, the fourth year is taken at A-B Tech’s Enka Campus.
RN to BSN Program
This is an online program that enables Registered Nurses (RNs) to complete their BSN. There are 24 hours of online courses and 8 hours of upper division online electives that must be completed within two years on a part-time basis. An advantage of this program is that students may transfer up to 60 credits that they earned while studying for their associate’s degree. Another advantage is that the program is very affordable at less than $5,000 for the entire program, including textbooks.
RN to MS(N) Early-Entry Option
Students in the RN to BSN program who would like to continue their education to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree are eligible to apply to enter this program. Students may then take up to 8 hours of graduate level MSN courses in one of the MSN concentrations as they complete their BSN. By doing this, the courses count for both the BSN and MSN degrees and reduce the total number of credits that must be completed.
Graduate: Master of Science (Nursing)
This program is for graduates of a BSN program or for those who are in the WCU RN to MS(N) Early-Entry Option. Besides completing basic core courses that are required for the master’s degree, students also choose a concentration and complete courses that are related to it. These are discussed below.
MS(N) Nurse Educator
This program is designed to prepare RNs who have completed their BSN to become educators of student nurses. They are also prepared to educate staff and patients. All courses are taught online, and students choose whether they want to complete a thesis or project option. A total of 38 to 39 credits are required, and students take courses part-time. Applicants should have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on the last 60 hours of undergraduate work, and must have completed statistics and research courses. They must also have at least one year’s clinical experience as an RN in the past five years. In addition, either the GRE or MAT exam is required.
There is also a Post-Graduate Certificate Program for RNs who have already completed their MSN. This program takes 18 credits to complete in five semesters. Applicants to the Certificate Program must have their MSN and GRE scores are not required.
MS(N) Nurse Administration
This master’s degree program prepares nurses to work in leadership positions. It is an online program except for practicum placements that are near the student’s home. Either a thesis or scholarly project must be completed. The program requires 40 or 41 credits, and student take classes on a part-time basis. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 on the last 60 hours of their undergraduate studies and must have completed statistics and research courses. They must also be licensed as an RN and have at least one year of clinical experience. Either the GRE or MAT exam is required.
MS(N) Nurse Anesthesia Program
This program prepares RNs to work as Nurse Anesthetists and takes 28 months to complete. During this time, students take at least 66 course credits. This highly competitive program admits only 14 students into each cohort class, and this is less than 20 percent of the number of applicants who want to be admitted. Applicants must have at least one year’s experience in full-time critical care in a hospital setting. Students must take the GRE and have satisfactory scores plus a grade point average in the last 60 hours of undergraduate studies of at least 3.0.
MS(N) Family Nurse Practitioner
This program prepares nurses to work with family members of all ages and leads to a master’s of science degree. This is an online program, or students may take classes on the Enka campus. Those who already have a MSN may apply to the Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program. A total of 49 to 53 credits are required, depending on whether the student chooses to complete a thesis or project option. The Post-Master FNP Certificate Program requires 38 credits to complete. Admission requirements are that the applicant must have a BSN and a grade point average of at least 3.0 during the last 60 credits completed. A statistics course and research course are also required. In addition, the applicant must be licensed as an RN and have at least one year’s clinical experience as a RN. Satisfactory GRE scores are also required. For the Certificate Program, GRE scores are waived, and the applicant must have a MSN.
Contact:
Western Carolina University
102 Cordelia Camp,
Cullowhee, NC 28723
(828) 227-7317
Western Piedmont Community College Nursing Program Review
Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) was founded in 1964 and is a member of the North Carolina Community College System. It is located in Morganton, a small city that has been given awards as one of the best small towns in the USA. The college has an enrollment of around 13,000 students who are in associate degree programs or one of three transfer associate degrees. There are more than 36 associate in applied science degrees in healthcare, industry, business, and education offered at Western Piedmont. The college offers courses available through distance learning that make it easier for working adults to complete their associate degree while meeting their family and work responsibilities.
Nursing Program
Associate Degree Nursing
Western Piedmont Community College offers a two-year program for those interested in becoming professional nurses. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science. Graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that is required for nurses to be licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). Nurses are in demand in many healthcare sites, including hospitals, clinics, schools, factories, home health care, doctor’s offices, and other places in the community. Admission to the program is competitive, and applicants must closely follow the requirements for admission to be considered for the program.
An application to Western Piedmont Community College must be submitted, but even if an applicant meets the requirements for admission, it is not guaranteed that the candidate will be admitted to the program. Applicants must take a Reading exam and score 81 or better, or they make take a college level English course and earn at least a C in it. They must score 70 or higher on the Compass Writing exam or complete a college level English course with a grade of C or better. In Math, applicants need to score at least 47 on the Pre-Algebra exam or complete a college level Math course with a C or higher. In addition, they must take an Elementary Algebra exam and score at least 46 or higher, or they may take a college level Math course and earn at least a C in the course. It is also required that applicants have completed high school college preparatory chemistry with a grade of C or better, as well as biology with a C or better. Applicants must also test out of computer literacy or complete a college level course in this subject.
A grade point average of at least 2.5 is required in all college level work. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is offered by the college, and students must take this test. Applicants must have completed a nursing assistant program as well. A point system is used for admitting students to the nursing program. Admission test scores, placement scores, and grade point averages from high school and any college work that has been completed are used to determine which applicants are chosen for the program. The college also recommends that applicants have completed Anatomy & Physiology I and II before starting the nursing program. Once admitted, students must maintain minimum grade point averages.
Newly admitted students are required to attend an Orientation to Nursing, and state law requires that nursing students must be physically and emotionally healthy. A physical exam is required for this purpose. Students must also pass a urine drug test and background test. Once all of the liberal arts and science prerequisite courses have been completed, students begin nursing core courses and complete clinical experience. Tuition at Western Piedmont Community College is very reasonably priced, and some students finish the associate degree program and then transfer to a four-year college to finish their bachelors degree.
Contact:
Western Piedmont Community College
1001 Burkemont Avenue,
Morganton, NC 28655
(828) 438-6000
Winston-Salem State University Nursing School Review
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is located in Winston-Salem and is a traditionally black public research university. It has been highly rated for being one of the best colleges in the South. There are around 6,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate and grade programs at the university. The institution began in the late 19th century as a training school for African American teachers. Today there are more than 40 undergraduate programs and 10 graduate programs.
Nursing Programs
Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Winston-Salem State University is the fourth largest producer of nurses in North Carolina. The university’s Clinical Laboratory Science program was the first Internet based degree program in the North Carolina System and was one of the first in the USA. The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students without college backgrounds to enter the workforce as Registered Nurses (RNs). The program takes four years to complete and focuses on a liberal arts education for students who also complete nursing courses and clinical experience. Students must complete 62 credits in general education and support courses before being admitted to the nursing program.
Those who are interested in attending this nursing program must apply to Winston-Salem State University. Those entering the university from high school are admitted depending on their academic record, high school grade point average, and scores on the SAT or ACT tests. Students admitted to the university are not guaranteed admission to the nursing program. The nursing program admits students based on their SAT or ACT score and reading score. Other factors that are taken into consideration are the grades that students received in science courses and their grades in the Lower Division Nursing courses. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 2.6 in the courses that are taken at the university. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Accelerated Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Option
The university offers this program for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. These students must apply directly to the Division of Nursing. Each year, 45 students are admitted to the program that takes 13 months to complete. Applicants are required to have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.6 or better, SAT score of 470 or higher in Verbal/Critical Reading or an ACT English score of 19 or better. The university also requires a reading placement test. Priority admission is given to students who have earned a grade of C on their first try to pass life or physical science courses. After completing the required nursing courses and clinical experience, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as an RN.
Master of Science in Nursing
RNs who have completed their BSN and who want to move into advanced nursing may be interested in this program. The university offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with two concentrations. These are Family Nurse Practitioners and Advanced Nurse Educators. Students complete core courses that are required for the MSN and then focus on the specialty classes that prepare them for their chosen concentration.
MSN Advanced Nurse Educator – Full-Time Plan of Study
The Advanced Nurse Educators program prepares nurses to teach nursing students in undergraduate programs and to provide staff development positions in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Students are also prepared to fill clinical education positions such as educating patients in wellness and in chronic illness treatment. Students who attend full-time are able to complete the program in two years.
MSN Advanced Nurse Educator – Part-Time Plan of Study
The requirement for the part-time program is the same as for the full-time program except that student complete the program in three years instead of two years. A total of 39 credits must be earned. The university allows up to six years for completion, but no longer than that amount of time.
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner – Full-Time Plan of Study
The Family Nurse Practitioners program focuses on training RNs to provide primary care to family members of all ages, especially those who do not have regular access to medical care. A total of 51 credits and 700 clinical hours are required, and these are completed in five semesters.
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner – Part-Time Plan of Study
The requirements for this program are the same as for full-time students except that courses are completed over seven semesters.
Certificate Programs
Post-Master’s
Advanced Nurse Educator (ANE) Certificate
This program is designed for RNs who have already completed their MSN. Students complete 27 credits and are awarded a certificate upon completion of the program.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certification
This program takes from 12 to 18 months to complete when a student has previously finished a MSN. Between 33 and 37 credits are required plus 672 hours of clinical experience.
Post-Baccalaureate
Nurse Educator Certificate
This program consists of 15 credits that students must complete. Courses cover curriculum and instruction methods and the program includes an education residency of four credits.
Contact:
Winston-Salem State University
601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27110
(336) 750-2000
