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 19^th 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

Adelphi University Nursing School Review

Adelphi University (AU, AdelphiU) started as a small private preparatory school in 1863. 30 years down the line, Adelphi preparatory school head found it important to establish a liberal arts college in the Brooklyn region. As such, Adelphi College; a woman’s college came into being in 1893. The two institutions remained intact but each operated independently.  The college separated from the preparatory academy and relocated to Garden City in Long Island. By 1946, the college had had tremendous growth and opened its doors for men. It was granted university status in 1963 as a private co-ed center of higher learning.

Nursing Programs at Adelphi University

The School of Nursing at Adelphi University offers 3 Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree tracks, 3 Master of Science in Nursing options and a PhD in nursing degree program. There is also a special Master of Public Health degree program designed for nurses. Besides the major degree programs, Adelphi University also offers a number of Continuing Education courses and Registered Nurses (RN) refresher courses. All the degree programs are approved by the New York State Board of Education and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Programs

As mentioned earlier, the school of nursing at Adelphi has 3 tracks leading to the Bachelor of Science in nursing:

BS in Nursing

This traditional nursing program is designed for recent high school graduates or transfer students of a pre-nursing program. The program has a curriculum designed to be covered in 4-academic years on a full time basis. Student takes general education and nursing courses in preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam so as to become registered nurses.

30 general education credits are covered during the freshman year. Starting from the sophomore going forward, all but one are nursing courses totaling to 94 credits. Those admitted as freshmen take their courses on a full time basis while transfer students have the option of a part time plan. Successful completion of the 124 credits for the generic degree enables students to take the NLCEX-RN exam for initial licensure as registered nurses.

RN to BS Program

This program; referred to as ASCEND at Adelphi, is designed for registered nurses who wish to advance and complete BSN degree. The curriculum for this track builds on prior nursing experience and focuses on deepening nursing expertise for the RN. It can be completed on a flexible study plan and is therefore suitable for the working RN. RN who are graduates of an Associate of Science in nursing program are exempted from taking all general education courses unlike those of Associate of Applied Science in nursing programs. On a further note, those who have graduated from a diploma program must take 24 credits from Excelsior College to be eligible for advanced standing.

Students take a mandatory 30 upper division nursing courses while the lower division and general education courses may be validated for advanced standing.  Courses are taken on a full time format of one day per week schedules; hence suitable for the busy RN. Completion all requirements lead to the award of a BSN degree.

BS in Nursing Second Degree Program

This program also referred to as Professional Acceleration to Healthcare (PATH) at Adelphi University is designed for career shifters wishing to enter professional nurses. Candidates must be graduates of an accredited bachelor program other than nursing. Students who have completed all pre-requisite courses for the BSN take 14 months to complete of the upper division BSN courses.

Students of the PATH program are admitted as cohort and progress as so for the entire period of study. Since the program has intensive curriculum coverage mode, students are advised to give-up any employment prior to starting on the program.  Courses commence on a summer semester and progress for another 4 semesters including a winter and 2^nd summer session. 62 credits are required for students to graduate with a BSN degree and gain eligibility to write the NCLEX-RN exam.

Master of Science in Nursing

Adelphi offers 3 Master of Science in nursing tracks and a special master of science in public health program. For the latter, candidates need not be registered nurses to be allowed to apply. The MSN tracks requires BSN prepared students or registered nurses with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree. All applicants must hold or be eligible for RN licensure in the state of New York and must have at least 2 years working experience a registered nurses.

However, RNs without a nursing baccalaureate degree must expect to take a number of undergraduate BSN courses before being allowed to take any MSN courses. Candidates who do not meet all MSN admission requirements may still be admitted at the discretion of the program director. Such candidates retain the status of Provisional Admission until they complete at least MSN credits to be recognized for regular admission. Each MSN track has 15 core courses and varying specialty course depending on the track chosen. The 3 tracks are:

• Master of Science: Adult Health Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science: Nursing Education
• Master of Science: Nursing Administration

For the Master of Science in Public Health MPH, students need to apply through the school of nursing but do not require a nursing degree to be accepted. The program is open to nurses and non-nurse candidates and offers a broad interdisciplinary approach to improving public health.

PhD in Nursing

The Doctor of Philosophy in nursing terminal degree is designed for MSN prepared candidates who wish to become nurse scholars. Adelphi University offers students the options of taking the curriculum requirements for this program on either a full time or part time basis. Students are admitted every fall semester in cohorts and proceed as such to the end. At least 54 credits of nursing and research courses are required to graduate.

Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (Continuing Education)

Adelphi University offers registered nurses a refresher course for those intending to get back to nursing practice after dormancy. There are also other continuing education courses on various topics designed for nurses as outlined below:

• RN Refresher course
• AHA Basic Life Support Certification (CPR)
• AHA Basic Life Support
• PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) course
• IV Training
• Infection Control
• Wound Care

All the above courses are offered on a face-to-face format at the 3 campuses of Adelphi University: Manhattan, Hauppauge and Garden City. RN should check for course offering dates regularly.

Contact:
Adelphi University
1 South Avenue, Garden City
NY 11530

SUNY Adirondack Nursing Program Review

SUNY Adirondack, previously known as Adirondack Community College (ACC), was founded in 1961 with the aim of bringing higher education close to the residents of 3 counties: Saratoga, Warren and Washington. It is a public 2- year college offering associates degrees and certificate program for career entry or transfer purposes.  ACC become part of the State University of New York (SUNY) and adopted a new name: SUNY Adirondack (SUNY ACC) in 2010. With this new name and association, the college now offers bachelor and master degree programs to its students at the SUNY Adirondack campus.

Nursing at SUNY Adirondack

The nursing program at SUNY Adirondack is a 2-year associate degree program that prepares both entry-level high school graduates and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the New York State Board of Education. Through other universities of the SUNY system, students can complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree right at Adirondack.

Nursing AAS

The Associate of Applied Science (ASS) program admits students twice annually for summer or fall and spring semesters.  Candidates interested in the fall or summer start dates must place their applications between 1^st Jan and 1^st Feb for evaluation. Those hoping for the spring semesters must do so between 1^st September and 1^st October. A January admission can be decided on a year to year basis and is dependent on the applications received.

After admission, students embark on a full time plan spanning 4 semesters. General education courses are covered in the 1^st year along with a few nursing courses. In the sophomore year, students take nursing and supporting science courses. A total of 68 credits: 30 general education and supporting and 38 nursing credits. All graduation requirements must be met within 7 semesters after the first nursing course. Successful completion of the curriculum requirements leads to academic eligibility to apply and take the NLCEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.

Practical Nurses Advancement Options

Graduates Practical Nurses (GPN) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) have the chance of joining the AAS program at the sophomore level. For the GPN case, candidates need not have licenses but must be eligible for one and graduated from an accredited PN program. To be eligible for advanced standing, GPN and LPN must take and pass a bridging nursing course before starting on 2^nd year nursing courses.

GPN and LPN automatically receive 6 credits in advanced standing for one 1^st year nursing course and can challenge by exam a further ten nursing credits.  Successful completion of the remaining courses leads to eligibility for the NLCEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

SUNY Adirondack Nursing Scholarships

Besides applying for the federal loans and grants, AAS students at Adirondack College can apply for the following institutional based scholarships:

• Sandra Schupp Memorial Nursing Scholarship
• Beverly Ross Memorial Scholarship
• Beth Karhan Lauren scholarship

The above scholarships are open to students who are at their 2^nd year level and enrolled on a full time basis.

Articulation Agreements

Graduates of the AAS program are advised to complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program by taking advantage of the SUNY transfer program. Nursing graduates may transfer to the following SUNY and non-SUNY college for a 4-year degree:

• Excelsior College
• Kaplan University
• SUNY Canton College Technology
• SUNY Plattsburgh
• SUNY Upstate Medical University

Contact:
Adirondack Community College
640 Bay Road, Queensbury,
NY 12804

American University of Beirut Nursing School Review

American University of Beirut (AUB) was founded in late 1866 following generous donations from the community. The university was initially known as Syrian Protestant College and its aim was to start a college offering American Education in the Middle East. The college put more emphasis on medical education right from the start with the school of medicine being the first academic affair of the college. A hospital affiliated with the college: American University of Beirut Medical Center was established along with a school of nursing. In 1920, the initial name of the college was changed to AUB to reflect an expanded college and its recognition as a US university.

Nursing at American University of Beirut

The Rafic Hariri School of Nursing at AUB was established in 1905. It opened along with AUB medical center and severed as an in-house training school for nurses. The school prides itself to be the first nursing school to be established in the Middle East and the first to be accredited outside the US by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The school offers a 4-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program, Master of Science in nursing (MSN) program and a BSN completion option for registered nurses.  There are also accelerated BSN opportunities for career shifters and the ability for dual undergraduate degrees. The programs are fully accredited by the CCNE.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a traditional full time 4-year program that prepares students for initial licensure as registered nurses (RN). Students are admitted as freshmen and start off with general education courses in the first year.  In the second year, nursing courses are introduced along other supporting science courses. In the 2^nd and 3^rd year, nurses come for fully loaded summer sessions and normal semester periods during the 4^th year.

In total, 30 credits in general education and 102 credits in nursing and supporting science courses. Successful completion leads education eligibility to sit for the National Colloquium Exam to become a registered nurse in Lebanon. Students also graduate with a Bachelors of Science in nursing degree.

RN-BSN Program

This RN to BSN program is designed for candidates who are already registered nurses in Lebanon or equivalent. The curriculum is scheduled to be completed in 3 academic years on a full time basis but not exceeding six calendar years on a part time plan. Courses are taught during summer sessions in 1^st and 2^nd years besides the normal semesters and only one semester during the 3^rd year.

Students may apply for validation of a number of nursing courses after admission into the program. However, on a normal basis, 90 credits of nursing courses are required for graduation with a BSN degree.

BA/BS –BSN Accelerated Program

This program is meant for students who already hold Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in other non-nursing fields.  Students who join this program are career shifters who want to become professional RN by earning a BSN degree. Since most general education courses are met in the prior program, students can complete the program in an accelerated format of 24 months. Completion leads to eligibility to write the National Colloquium Exam for licensure as registered nurses.

Dual Degree

Those in the BSN program may take another degree in tandem with the nursing program upon approval from the faculty. This program is advised for highly achieving students who wish to graduate with 2 degrees at the end of their study period.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program

AUB’s Rafic Hariri School of Nursing offers BSN-prepared students four options in the Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN). All candidates are required to a minimum of 1 year working experience as a RN in addition to a Valid RN licenses from the candidates’ place of practice. Although the ideal Master’s of Science in Nursing program candidates are those who have a cumulative grade 80, those with a average passing grade of 70 maybe admitted on a probation basis.

The curriculums for all tracks consist of 36 credit hours that can be completed in either full time or part time options.  No more than 6 credits can be transferred from other colleges into the AUB MSN tracks. MSN Students also have the chance of choosing between thesis and non-thesis options for graduation requirements. The following are the MSN tracks offered:

• MSN in Nursing Administration
• MSN in Community and Public Health (optional nursing education minor)
• MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health (optional nursing education minor)
• MSN in Adult Care (optional nursing education minor)

Contact:
American University of Beirut
3 Dag Hammarskjold, New York,
NY 10017

Arnot Ogden Medical Center Nursing Program Review

Arnot Ogden Medical Center; home to the Arnot Ogden School of Nursing (AOMC-SON) was established in 1888. It is part of the Arnot Health Group consisting of 3 hospitals located in the Southern and Northern Tier of New York and Pennsylvania respectively. Arnot Ogden School of nursing was opened three years after the hospital following the increasing needs of nurses. The hospitals and the school of nursing are independent non-profit making organization committed to providing health care and hospital-based nurse training to the residents around it.

Nursing Programs at Arnot Ogden School of Nursing

The school of nursing offers two curriculum options for students who wish to become registered nurses. The school offers a 3-year nursing diploma program with options for fresh entry students and those who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Both programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and are registered by the New York State Department of Education. Students are advantaged to have Arnot Ogden Medical Center and other two Premier hospitals for clinical rotations and direct patient experience before they get out of school.

Three Year Program Diploma in Nursing

The full time 3-year diploma program is designed to prepare entry-level high school graduates who wish to become registered nurses (RN). The diploma program accepts students each year for classes beginning September and candidates must place their applications before May 15^th each year. Prior to placing an application, candidates must take a Test of Essential Academic Skills exam (TEAS).

If admitted, students enroll for 25 general education and science semester hours at Elmira College since these are not offered at the school of nursing. During the freshman and 2^nd year level, a combination of general education and nursing courses are taken at both Arnot Ogden School of nursing and Elmira College. The senior level courses are exclusively nursing courses and are completed at the Arnot Ogden.

The school has a term study plan as opposed to the usual semester plans. Generally, courses are offered on a 13-week schedule on the start of each level after which students take a 3-week break. After resumption, another 13-week cycle starts and ends with a 1 week spring break followed by a 9-weeks term that ends with a long summer break. After successful completion of the 9 terms of 75 credits, students become eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides graduating with a Diploma in Nursing.

Practical Nurse (PN) to Registered Nurse (RN)

This option is developed to offer practical nurses the advancement opportunity to become registered nurses. Each student seeking advanced placement must apply for nursing credits validation and this leads to an individualized study plan for each LPN to RN student. Credit transfer for general education courses is allowed after students take the College Level Examination Program (CLEP).

Students under the advanced placement plan can choose from the full time and part time options. However, all requirements for graduation must be completed within 5 years after admission. After successful completion, students become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to make the transition into professional nursing. A diploma in nursing is also awarded.

Institution based-Scholarships

Arnot Ogden School of nursing has two in-house scholarship programs for its student nurses. The Arnot Ogden Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship is open to senior level students who demonstrates need coupled with good academic achievement. The Marguerite Shelgren- Endsley Scholarship program is meant for junior students who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.

Contact:
Arnot Ogden School of Nursing
600 Roe Ave, Elmira,
NY 14905

Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing Review

Beth Israel School of Nursing was founded in 1904 as part of the Beth Israel Medical Center. The nursing school served as a hospital-based training center for nurses without a formal nursing curriculum. In 1906, the school adopted a formal nurse training curriculum and hence started training professional nurses. In 1984, the school received a new name: Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing (PBISN) in honor of Seymour Phillips a former president of the school.

The Nursing Program-Philips Beth Israel School of Nursing

The nursing program at Phillips Beth Israel School of Nursing has undergone a lot of changes since its inception in 1904. The program started off as an in-house training school for nurses before moving on to a degree awarding school. The program is a 2-year associate of science in nursing program that prepares students to become professional registered nurses. It is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. It has articulation and affiliation status with a number of colleges to ensure career advancement for its students. Continuing education for nurses is also offered at the school in association with Continuum Health Partners.

The Nursing Program

The traditional nursing program is designed to run for 2 academic years on a full time basis. There is only one admission cycle per year and candidates are expected to have submitted their nursing program application by 1^st of April each year. The program accepts both fresh entry and transfer students. As a prerequisite for admission, all candidates must possess a Basic Life Support course in addition to current National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-RN exam scores.

In addition to the traditional plan, there are a number of program completion options including a 3-year part time plan and an evening schedule. Those interested in the former are admitted in the fall semester while evening students commence classes in the spring semester

Phillips Beth Israel School of nursing does not itself offer general education and science courses for the associate of science in nursing program. Instead, students admitted as freshmen take all the general education and pre-requite courses at Pace University which the school has affiliations with. A total of 33 credits must be completed at Pace or transferred from another college for students to be eligible for nursing courses.

At the 2^nd year level, students take 35 nursing courses on a face-to-face format. Successful completion of the entire curriculum gives the student education eligibility to apply and take the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure as a registered nurse. Students are also awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Note

PBISN has articulation agreements with Excelsior College and New York University. This enables its graduates to flawlessly transfer up-to 65 credits towards their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree programs.

Nurses Continuing Education

Phillips Beth Israel together with other partners of Continuum Health offers numerous Continuing education courses for registered nurses. The school is an approved provider of continuing education by the New York State Nurses Association. Courses at the Continuing education center are in the form of online courses, lecture based programs and nurse education workshops.

Contact:
Beth Israel Medical Center
776 Avenue of Americas, New York
NY 10001

Binghamton University Nursing School Review

Initially located in Endicott, Binghamton University (BU, Bing) was established in 1946 with the aim of educating war veterans returning from the Second World War. During its establishments, it was known as Triple Cities College: a young branch of Syracuse University. In 1950, the college became part of the State University of New York (SUNY) and adopted the name Harpur College. In 1992, Harpur College adopted the informal name Binghamton University still under the SUNY system and had by then, relocated to the current site in Binghamton.

Nursing Programs at Binghamton University

Binghamton University has numerous nursing programs to offer to qualified candidates under the Decker School of Nursing. The nursing school has programs ranging from bachelor degrees all the way to the two terminal degrees in nursing: Doctor of Nursing and PhD. It has generic, accelerated and baccalaureate degree completion options depending on the education level of the prospective candidates. Binghamton University also has a number of Continuing education options for registered nurses seeking contact hours or professional development. All programs in the school of nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

At the undergraduate level, Decker School of Nursing offers about 6 degree tracks all leading to the award of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees. The 6 tracks have a common curriculum but with many entry options. Therefore, the number of courses and duration are different depending on prior education of the students.

Freshman Program

The freshman nursing program at Decker school of nursing is open to all qualified high school graduates who do not have any prior college credits. It is a traditional 4-year program that moulds students to become registered nurses with a curriculum of general education and nursing courses of 128 credits: 52 nursing and 76 general, elective and pre-requisites. Students interested in the program must apply to the university during the fall of their senior year be eligible for selection.

Coursework is covered in the traditional classroom setting spanning 8 academic semesters on a full time basis. Successful completion of the required credit hours makes the students academically eligible to apply and write the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure as a registered nurse (RN). Besides, students are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

The Transfer Program

The transfer program has a number tracks under it including the completion and accelerated options.

i) Traditional Transfer Program

The traditional transfer nursing program at the Decker school of nursing is designed for transfer students who have completed all general education and prerequisite courses for the BSN. Preferably, those from a 2-year pre-nursing program are the most suitable candidates for this program. Students are admitted at the junior level to start on nursing courses for another 2 years of 4 semesters. A minimum of 52 upper division nursing credits must be completed for students to become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam for initial licensure and the award of the BSN degree.

ii) Associate Degree and Diploma Transfer Program for Licensed RN

This category carries the highest number of transfer programs under the undergraduate category. It is designed for RN graduates of accredited associate or diploma programs. All candidates for these tracks must show prove of an active and valid RN license during application. Registered nurses from diploma programs are required to complete Excelsior College Exams and earn 24 credits prior to making an application. Courses are offered in a hybrid format on online and classroom instructions and most are covered in 7-week cycles. Some selected courses are offered in a ‘live synchronous’ format.

Students have the options of choosing from the different periods of program completion from full time, accelerated or part time options.

The RN to BS Transfer Program Options:

• Four-semester program for currently licensed RN

This plan is designed for registered nurses who wish to complete their BSN coursework in the traditional pace. Classes for this track start only in fall and spring semesters. RNs that take this route need not have completed the pre-requisite courses before starting the upper division nursing courses i.e. they can be taken in tandem. Up-to 4 nursing courses in the 300 level may be challenged by examination in a summer session prior to enrollment for students to receive credit-equivalence.

• Three Semester Accelerated Plan

This RN to BS Accelerated 3-Semester Program Plan is designed for nurses who have completed all their prerequisite supporting courses. The coursework for this track is covered in summer, fall and spring semesters. All courses in the 1^st summer semester can be challenged via examination to enable transfer of more credits of the upper division category. Nurses who opt to challenge the 4 level 300 courses require only 24 credits to earn a BSN degree while those who do not take a total of 32 credits.

• Two Semester Accelerated Plan

This RN to BS Accelerated 2-semester plan; just like the 3 semester plan, is designed for registered nurses who do not have outstanding general education courses. The only difference with the prior plan is that students have a heavier workload for the 2 semesters. Students can still challenge up-to 4 level 300 nursing courses during the fall semester to enable coursework reduction. A total of 32 credits are required to be eligible for the BSN degree award or 24 credits for those who choose to take the challenge exams.

• 6-Semester Part time Plan

This part time plan is designed for the registered nurses who wish to extend their study period over six semesters and is most suitable for working nurses. Those interested in this track must have completed their general education requirements before applying. Just all the other completion tracks above, 4 level 300 nursing courses may be challenged to receive additional credits.

iii) Baccalaureate Accelerated Track (BAT) Program

This program is meant for students who hold a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing. Since most baccalaureate graduates have the required general education courses, students only need to take the 52 nursing major credits. Those who do not have the prerequisite courses can complete them at Binghamton or any other university or college of choice and this must be done prior to making the BAT application. The BAT is designed to be completed in 1 academic year consisting of 1 fall & spring semesters and summer I, II & III sessions. Admission and classes for this track start in the fall semester.

There is also a 2-year non-accelerated program for the same group of students as the BAT. Such students also take a curriculum of 52 nursing major credits and but on an extended period of time. Such students cover the required coursework in 4 usual fall and spring semesters; no summer sessions. Applicants must also have completed their general education courses at Binghamton University, a community college or any other accredited school.

Undergraduate Certificate Programs

The undergraduate nursing certificates at Decker School of Nursing are not specifically designed for nursing students but are also offered to students from other majors. Each certificate track has about 6-8 credits and are awarded separately from the BSN degree.

The 3 Forensics Health certificates options are designed with the intention of resume enrichment for the nursing graduates.

• Certificate in Forensic Health: Focus on Adults
• Certificate in Forensic Health: Focus on Children
• Certificate in Forensic Health across the Lifespan

Dominican Republic Community Health Program

This program is part of the undergraduates and graduate degree programs and helps students to have an international nursing experience. Students who choose this program visit the Dominican Republic during the summer session for a period of 3 weeks. Students give direct care to patients in two rural and remote areas of the republic. After the program, participating students receive 6 credit hours towards their degrees.

Graduate Programs

At the graduate level, Master, Doctor of Nursing practice and PhD programs are offered

Master of Science in Nursing

Binghamton University offers four Master of Science in nursing (MSN) programs with a further option of 4 functional roles for each. The programs are:

• Family Nursing
• Psychiatric Mental Health Programs
• Community Health Nursing
• Gerontological Nursing

These are the main MSN programs and each requires 48 credits to complete. Candidates must be BSN-prepared and must possess active and valid RN licenses to be eligible to apply. Basically, the curriculum for each program is designed to be completed in 2 years of full time. However, part time options of 3 or more years can be arranged upon request by the students. Those seeking credits transfer can only transfer a maximum of 12 graduate credits.

In addition to the main tracks, students must choose from the below 4 functional areas to go along with any of the above chosen tracks:

• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Practitioner
• Clinical Nurse Specialist

Doctor in Nursing Practice

This research-based program is designed to both BSN and MSN prepared students. All students must be willing to take the Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) functional roles in any of the following tracks:

• Family Nursing
• Psychiatric Mental Health Programs
• Community Health Nursing
• Gerontological Nursing

However those choosing the CNS role do not have the Psychiatric Mental Health Program as an option. Post- baccalaureate entry students require 77 credits to be covered in 3 academic years while the post-master’s students require 38 credits to be covered in 2 academic years to complete the program. This plan is for the full time students and part time plans can be arranged on an individual basis. In addition to the RN licenses for both tracks, the post-baccalaureate entrants are required to have at least 1 year RN working experience.

PhD in Nursing

This research-based terminal nursing degree welcomes MSN-prepared students only unlike the DNP. It requires 48-50 credits designed to be completed in two academic years on a full time basis. A third year is required for completing and defending the dissertation. Part time options for the track are also available on an individualized basis.

BU-LEARN

The Binghamton University- Lifelong Enrichment and Advancement for Registered Nurses (BU-LEARN) is a program that helps RNs to earn contact hours for license renewal. The university is a fully approved through the New York State Nurses Association by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to offer continuing education for nurses.

The continuing education and outreach department of the Decker School of Nursing is mandated to offer the various online and traditional classroom courses for the RN. Some of the featured courses are those in forensic health listed below:

• Forensic Health Essentials
• Forensic Health of Offender
• Forensic Health of Victims

Contact:
Binghamton University – SUNY
4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton,
NY 13905

Borough of Manhattan Community College Nursing Program Review

Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) was established in 1964 as the only community college in Manhattan. It served as a business training college operating from scattered rent office spaces in New York before it built its own campus in 1983 in lower Manhattan. The college is one of the 6 community colleges of the City University of New York (CUNY) system and prides itself to be the largest of them. BMCC currently offers a wide range of 2-year degrees in applied science, arts and sciences and it crusades for “Start Here, Go Anywhere” for its degree programs.

Nursing at Borough of Manhattan Community College

The nursing program at BMCC started off shortly after the college was established in 1967. The program is also the largest programs in all the CUNY system. The college offers a curriculum that prepares prospective students to become registered nurses. This associate degree program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and has 2 entry options: a day and Evening/weekend program.

Nursing Program – Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)

The nursing program is an Associate of Applied Science that offers qualified candidates the opportunity to become Registered Nurses (RN). Students are admitted twice annually for classes commencing fall and spring semesters for both day and part time programs. The curriculum consists of 65 credits: 33 from the nursing department and 32 from other departments for the general education and science requirements.

Students are admitted into the program as Undeclared Health (UDH) students and remain as such until all pre-requisites and general education courses are completed. A second application must be made to the nursing major program. Such students must apply to the nursing program before completion of the 30^th general education credit.

Late students are not allowed into the nursing major and are usually advised to apply for other majors. Students should note that successful completion of the UDH portion does not guarantee entry into the nursing major. After being declared as a nursing major, students take the 33 credits from the nursing department either in a part time or day plan

Weekend/ Evening Program

The weekend/ evening program is a part time option meant for students who work full time during the day. Students who choose this program have two evenings/week for the theory component and Saturdays for the clinical component. Classes for the weekdays option start from 5:45 pm to 9:15pm and that of the weekend from 8am to 4Pm. This part time option can be completed in three years while the day option takes 2.5 years. Since nursing courses are not offered in the summer sessions, students can take advantage of this period to go externship programs.

After completion of the required courses, students become eligible to write the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses besides being awarded an Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree.

Nursing Articulation Agreements

Borough of Manhattan Community College has formed articulation agreements with three universities to enable the nursing program graduates complete a 4-year degree.

• Universidad Del Sagrado Corazon
• State University of New York (SUNY) Empire State College
• Medgar Evers College (for the part-time students only)

Contact:
Borough of Manhattan Community College – CUNY
199 Chambers Street, New York,
NY 10007

Bronx Community College Nursing Program Review

Bronx Community College (BCC, BXCC)) is located in Bronx, which is a Borough of New York City. It is a branch of The City University of New York (CUNY), and it is a public institution. Bronx Community College requires that students provide documentation of immigration status or permanent residency before they begin their nursing clinical coursework. However, documentation of immigration status is not necessary before starting initial nursing coursework. Graduates from this community college may transfer up to 60 credits to other CUNY colleges if they want to continue their studies to earn their Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) degree.

Nursing Program

Associate in Science Degree (AAS)

This nursing program usually takes two years to complete, but if prerequisite courses are needed it could take an additional half year of studies. To earn this degree, students must have 67 credits. Upon graduation, the student may take the NCLEX exam to begin working as a Registered Nurse (RN). Students often choose to earn an AAS at Bronx Community College for different reasons. The primary reason is because they are able to begin work after only two years of training. There are many nursing programs available that RNs with an AAS may take to later earn their BSN.

Many RNs continue their education after earning their AAS because a BSN often leads to a more challenging nursing job with higher pay and more responsibility. Some students have not gained admittance to a baccalaureate program, and they have decided to earn their AAS before continuing their education in a BSN program. The requirements for a community college are almost always less demanding than those for a baccalaureate program. Another benefit of a community college is that the tuition is usually lower than that for a baccalaureate program.

Applicants to Bronx Community College’s RN program are chosen selectively. Students must have passing scores on both the CUNY and ACT Reading and Writing Skills Assessment Tests. A placement test for math is also required by CUNY, and the student must have a minimum score of 35 in arithmetic and 40 in algebra in order to take pharmacy courses. Other requirements are having a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 in preclinical classes. Two biology courses and one pharmacy course may be retaken once to increase a student’s GPA. Students must also have minimum grades of a “C” in preclinical English, Psychology, and Interpersonal Communication courses.

CUNY does not have a criminal background check, but clinical sites where students enrolled in the AAS Program work usually do require these. Because students often complete clinical work off-site at multiple locations, they may need to have several background checks. Students are responsible for the cost incurred for these tests. Also, any applicant who has charges pending or has ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor or of professional misconduct, negligence, or unprofessional conduct may enter the nursing program. The graduate is eligible to sit for the NCLEX administered by the State of New York, but the graduate may or may not be granted a license to work in the state.

Core requirements that lead to the AAS degree include courses entitled Composition and Rhetoric, Fundamentals of Interpersonal Communication, Introduction to Psychology, Pharmacology Computations, and Human Anatomy and Physiology. These courses lead to the first 15 credits earned. Students must also complete nine credits in Art Survey or Music Survey, Fundamentals of General Chemistry, Introduction to Sociology, and one activity course in Physical Education.

After these basic courses are completed, AAS students begin to earn credits in specialization courses, such as Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology and Infection Control, Nursing Process and Therapeutic Communication, Fundamental Skills in Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Nursing of the Adult I. Other required courses include Maternal, Newborn and Women’s Health, Nursing of the Adult II, Pediatric Nursing, and Nursing of the Adult III. These courses add up to a total of 38 credits. The remaining five credits may be chosen from Art, Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Literacy, Nutrition, Physics, Physical Assessment of the Adult, or from other electives.

Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the AAS Nursing Program if they meet all of the admission requirements of CUNY and pass the National League for Nursing (NLN) Profile examinations. They must also have at least one year’s experience working in an acute care environment in the last three years. The benefit of this program for LPNs is that they may receive 14 credits for passing examinations that are based on basic nursing courses that contain information that they have gained from their nursing experience. Credit is given for Nursing Process and Therapeutic Communication, Fundamental Skills in Nursing, Nursing of the Adult I, and Maternal, Newborn, and Women’s Health if the exams are passed. This eliminates one semester of studies for LPNs who may then earn their AAS in less time.

Licensed Practical Nursing Program

Bronx Community College-CUNY also offers a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program. It is an evening and weekend 56 credit certificate program. Upon graduation, students may take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. There are 22 credits in the program that are transferrable to the RN program at Bronx Community College if the student decides to move forward with their education. Also, after completing the first course of the LPN curriculum, students may take the Nurse Aide Competency Examination. Some of the required courses for this program may be completed online.

Because of the many applications received, space is very limited in the program and Bronx Community College is extremely selective about admitting students to the program. To be considered for the LPN program, applicants must pass the reading and writing skills test as well as an arithmetic and algebra test. Any required remediation courses must be completed. In addition, applicants must have a grade point average of 2.5 with a minimum grade of C in preclinical courses. A grade of C+ or higher must be earned in Biology. Applicants who score C- or lower in Communication, English, or Psychology courses will not be considered for admission to the program.

There are other prerequisites such as earning a satisfactory score on the verbal, math, and science sections of the National League for Nurses Pre-entrance Exam for Practical Nursing students. The test must be taken at Bronx Community College and may be repeated only once. Students with the highest grade point averages in prerequisite courses will be given priority. Once applicants have been accepted into the LPN program, they must maintain a C in all courses. Also, all of the required program courses must be completed within three years. To be eligible for graduation, LPN students must score at least 85 percent on the comprehensive medication dosage calculation examination.

Other admission requirements include proof of immigration status. Students must be permanent residents or international students with F1 status. Refugee status and other circumstances are also considered before admission is granted. Applicants must also pass the health exam at the College’s Health Services Office, complete Basic Cardiac Life Support, and purchase malpractice insurance through Bronx Community College. Students must also pay for their NCLEX-PN licensure exam after completing the LPN program. Many clinical facilities require background checks, criminal checks, and specific immunizations. Students may also be required to have urine tests for toxicology screening before beginning their clinical experience. Students are expected to spend a designated amount of hours completing their clinical experience.

The LPN Curriculum consists of 56 credits that are required to qualify for graduation. The Pre-Clinical Sequence consists of Fundamentals of Composition and Rhetoric or Composition and Rhetoric I, Fundamentals of Interpersonal Communication, Introduction to Psychology, and Human Anatomy and Physiology I for a total of 13 credits. The first semester of the nursing program includes Nursing Skills I, Mental Health Concepts, Practical Nursing Arts, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, and Nutrition in Physical and Emotional Disorders, totaling 15 credits. During the second semester, students must take Nursing Skills II, Medical Surgical Nursing I, Pharmacology as Applies to Health Sciences, and Microbiology & Infection Control. These courses add up to 12 credits. A summer session is also part of this program, and this is when Medical Surgical Nursing II is completed for four credits. The third and final semester consists of 12 credits, including Nursing Skills III, Psychiatric Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing, and Vocational Adjustment & Leadership. After completing these courses, the student is qualified to take the licensure exam.

Contact:
Bronx Community College-CUNY
2155 University Avenue
Bronx, NY 10453
1-718-289-5100

Broome Community College Nursing Program Review

Broome Community College (BCC) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is located about an hour’s drive from the state capital, one hour away from Syracuse, and about three hours from New York City. This community college is committed to learning, excellence, equity, diversity, and innovation. Broome Community College has an open admission policy to general courses. The school’s nursing department offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree for full-time students. In addition, they also offer an AAS evening and weekend program.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science

The AAS degree offered at Broome Community College prepares graduates from the nursing program to enter the workforce upon graduation. Graduates who want to continue their education to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) will also be prepared to transfer to a baccalaureate program upon graduation. Entry into the RN program is selective, and candidates must have the necessary math and science background that has been completed either in high school or at the college level. The AAS program takes two years to complete full-time when a student attends the day program. There is also a part-time evening and weekend program that takes three years to complete. New classes begin each August and January.

Since admission to the AAS program is selective, not all students who apply to the program are accepted. It is important that students submit their applications and academic information early. The Admissions Office begins accepting applications to the spring and fall semesters around one year before the student enters the school. If there are seats available, late applications may be considered. Students who are not granted admission because they do not have the proper background coursework may enroll at Broome Community College to take these courses. This does not guarantee admission to the AAS program in Nursing.

The two-year curriculum for full-time nursing students consists of four semester sessions. Each semester requires students to earn from 17 to 20 credits. The curriculum at Broome Community College is very structured and does not allow a lot of room for electives or additional classes. The nursing program is very focused and directed toward only the classes directly related to skills that RNs will need in their job.

Coursework for the first semester includes College Level Writing, Human Biology I, General Psychology, and Meeting Human Needs I. The spring semester of the first year requires the Social Science course, Meeting Human Needs II, Nursing Seminar, Human Biology II, Pharmacology, and Human Development.

The second year of the nursing curriculum is the time when much of the clinical learning occurs for AAS students. They may work and learn in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other medical facilities. At the college, AAS students must take Meeting Human Needs III, Meeting Human Needs IV, and Nursing Seminar during the first semester of the second year. Other required classes are General Microbiology or Pathogenic Microbiology and Pathogenic Microbiology Laboratory. During the final semester of the second year, students continue with clinical work and take Meeting Human Needs V, Meeting Human Needs VI, and either Communicating About Ideas and Values or College Writing II. Students need to have 71 credits to graduate, and at this time they must take the NCLEX-RN exam to receive licensure as an RN.

LPN to AAS Advance Placement Option

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may take the one credit Nursing Seminar course. Those who pass the course are given priority entrance to the AAS Program.

Contact:
Broome Community College – SUNY
P.O Box 1017,
Binghamton, NY 13902
(607) 778-5000

Cayuga Community College Nursing Program Review

Cayuga Community College (CCC), previously known as Cayuga County Community College (CCCC), is a liberal arts community college that is one of the 64 institutions that make up the State University of New York (SUNY) network of accredited schools. Located in central New York, Cayuga offers a Registered Nursing (RN) program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing at both campuses. Students often choose Cayuga because of its accessibility and the low tuition that is offered. Both the Auburn and Fulton campuses have over 4,000 students enrolled in their programs.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing

The Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing (AAS) offered at Cayuga prepares graduates to take the NCLEX exam that leads to certification as a Registered Nurse. Students must earn 69 credits and maintain at least a C+ in nursing and biology courses to qualify for graduation. Students must also complete the general education requirements of the college plus all required courses in the nursing curriculum. The AAS degree in Nursing prepares graduates to enter the work force as RNs. Many students choose to complete their Associate’s Degree in Nursing and begin working. At a later time, they may choose the option of continuing their education by enrolling in a Bachelor’s Degree program. Some nursing students purposely earn their AAS at a community college like Cayuga and then transfer to a Bachelor’s Degree program for two years to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This option saves money in the amount of tuition paid because a community college almost always has lower tuition than colleges and universities offering Baccalaureate Degrees.

Those who are interested in Cayuga’s AAS program must be admitted to the college first and then to the Nursing Program. Students are admitted to the Auburn campus program every year in the fall and at the Fulton campus every other fall on even years. Applications must be submitted, along with transcripts and other necessary information, around one year before the student wants to begin classes. Applicants must be high school graduates or equivalent and must pass the admission tests administered by Cayuga County Community College. In math, they must have minimum grades on the Cayuga placement test or on an entry level math course at the college. They must also have completed pre-calculus or higher in high school with a grade of C or higher. In addition, a grade of C or higher in high school or college biology and chemistry is required. A grade point average (GPA) of C in overall high school classes is also required.

Applicants must also take the Nursing Entrance Exam to gain entrance to the AAS program. They must earn a minimum grade of 70 on all sections of the exam. It is also suggested that the applicant has completed Biology 203 and 204 with a C+ grade or higher. The applicant must also pass the TOEFL exam if English is not their first language. An additional requirement is consenting to drug testing upon request and background checks. Admittance to the AAS Nursing Program is competitive, and those who apply are not necessarily admitted to the program. Applicants for licensure as an RN must be of good moral character, so they may not have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor or have charges pending against them.

Cayuga’s curriculum is arranged by semesters, and the AAS in Nursing takes four semesters to complete. In the first semester of the initial year in the Nursing Program, students take English I, Nursing Success Strategies, Fundamentals of Patient Care, Anatomy and Physiology I, and Physical Education. During the second semester, Nursing in Physical/Mental Health I, Health Assessment I, Introduction to Sociology, and Anatomy and Physiology II are required. The second year, first semester consists of Family/Community Nursing I, Nursing in Physical/Mental Health II, Health Assessment II, General Microbiology, Introduction to Psychology, and Physical Education. During the final semester, students take Effective Speech: Public Address, Family/Community Nursing II, Nursing in Physical/Mental Health III, Trends in Nursing, Pharmacology, and Developmental Psychology.

In addition to these courses, students must complete clinical nursing assignments in a variety of settings. These may include hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other health care facilities. Students are assigned to Oswego Hospital, Veterans Medical Center, Auburn Nursing Home, Auburn Memorial Hospital, University Hospital, Hutchings Psychiatric Center, or other facilities. They may also spend time working at the Oswego County Health Department locations or the Cayuga County Health Department locations. Theory instruction is also required online or via video conferencing. Students must also have CPR certification during their time in the Cayuga nursing program.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement

LPNs may gain a seat in the AAS program, but admittance is based on available space in Nursing 102. Applicants must meet all admission requirements and have a C+ or higher in Biology 203. In addition, English 101 and Biology 204 are suggested. Also, applicants must have graduated from an accredited LPN program in the past two years with a GPA of 3.0 or better. They must also take the Excelsior college online Fundamentals of Nursing Exam and score 80 percent or better. Applicants must complete the Nursing Department Skill Competency Evaluation with a satisfactory grade as well and then complete the Nursing Bridge Course that is a non-credit course. Once admitted to the AAS program, LPNs who have met all of the prerequisites may then complete the program with 60 credits.

Contact:

Auburn Campus
Cayuga County Community College – SUNY
197 Franklin Street,
Auburn, NY 13021
866-598-8883

Fulton Campus
Cayuga County Community College – SUNY
806 West Broadway,
Fulton, NY 13069

Clinton Community College New York Nursing Program Review

Clinton Community College (CCC) is a small residential campus with average class sizes of 18 students. There are just over 2,000 students who attend this college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) network. The campus is only an hour’s drive from Montreal, Quebec and very close to Burlington, Vermont. The college is located in a forested area that overlooks Lake Champlain.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Clinton Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) nursing program. Students may choose to complete the program in two or three years. Admission is selective, so not every applicant is granted admission to the program. Applicants must first apply for general admission to Clinton and then to the nursing program. About 70 freshman students are accepted into the nursing program each year. Preference is given to applicants with strong backgrounds in math and science who are judged to have the ability to be successful in the AAS program.

Applicants must meet academic and health requirements and must be emotionally stable and of an ethical character to be admitted to the nursing program. They must also be in excellent health and have the capability of moving heavy patients and of working under stressful conditions. The academic requirements are very competitive since so many applicants want to get into the nursing program. Applicants must have satisfactory ACT or SAT scores and they must have the ability to write at the college level. Health forms must also be submitted upon acceptance into the program. Students entering the program from high school must have completed college preparatory classes, including four units of English, three units of social science, two units of mathematics, and three units of natural science that included biology and chemistry. An overall average grade of 80 or better is expected.

Besides taking the required general education and nursing courses, students are expected to spend time in labs. One of these is the Nursing Skills Laboratory. This facility is used as part of some nursing courses, and students are expected to practice in the lab outside of classes. Here, students practice on patient dummies and perfect their skills in a variety of procedures. Nursing practice at Clinton Community College focuses on the person as a whole being whose culture, environment, and heredity affect their health. The Nursing Department emphasizes that students learn to practice holistic and humanistic care. The current nursing trends of disease prevention, the aging population, health promotion, and disaster preparedness are also focused on in preparing students to enter the workforce as RNs who will encounter experiences dealing with these subjects.

Clinton Community College’s two year program consists of four semesters of study and clinical work. Students must complete courses such as Dosage Calculations, Fundamentals of Nursing, including Lab Time, Medical Terminology, Medical and Surgical Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Phlebotomy. The first semester of the freshman year typically includes English Composition, Anatomy & Physiology, Introduction to Psychology, and Fundamentals of Nursing for a total of 17 credits. During the second semester of the first year, Anatomy & Physiology II, Human Development, Medical Surgical Nursing I, and Nursing Care/Child Bearing Family are the required courses. These courses account for 16 credits. In the second year during the first semester, Microbiology, Introduction to Sociology, Medical Surgical Nursing II, and Mental Health Nursing are the required courses that total 16 credits. The final semester consists of Literature & Composition, Medical Surgical Nursing III, and Pharmacology. These final classes total 16 credits.

The three year nursing program has six semesters in which the required courses are completed. Students do not choose this option, but are assigned to this program by the selection committee and admissions officers of the college. The student must maintain a minimum grade of C in all nursing, math, and science courses. When this year of prerequisite courses is completed, the student may enter the regular two-year nursing program, but they only take around 12 credit hours per semester. Students in this program must be enrolled full-time. During the first year, students take English Composition, Anatomy & Physiology I, Library Research Skills, Safety & First Aid, a Humanities Elective, Literature & Composition, and Anatomy & Physiology II.

The second year of the three year program requires that students take Fundamentals of Nursing, Introduction to Psychology, and Microbiology the first semester and Medical Surgical Nursing I, Nursing Care Child Bearing Family, and Human Development the second semester. In the first semester of the third year, students complete Medical Surgical Nursing II, Mental Health Nursing, and Introduction to Sociology. The final or sixth semester includes Medical Surgical Nursing III and Pharmacology.

Clinical practice is required at nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, and other health care facilities near the college. A combination of observation and direct patient care prepares nursing students at Clinton for their future career as an RN. Students are fully prepared to enter the workforce after completing this rigorous course of study offered at Clinton County Community College.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Clinton Community College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in conjunction with The Sage College. The program is called the 2 + 2 Program because students complete their first two years at Clinton and then transfer to four year colleges within the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Clinton Community College has an agreement with other schools in the SUNY system that their graduates may continue in the four year program after completing their studies at the community college. This program is also called the Bachelor’s Degree Pathway. Students in this learning track must complete their liberal arts and prerequisite classes before transferring to the four year program.

Contact:
Clinton Community College – SUNY
136 Clinton Point Drive
Plattsburgh, New York 12901
(518) 562-4200

College of Mount Saint Vincent Nursing Program Review

The College of Mount Saint Vincent (CMSV) is a private college that is located at the uppermost northwest corner of The Bronx in New York City. It is a small college with around 1,800 students. The campus consists of 70 acres of wooded areas that overlook the Hudson River. This is a Catholic college that was opened by the Sisters of Charity, but those of other faiths may attend. Two degrees in nursing are offered at this school. They are a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a four-year program of rigorous studies that prepares the graduate to take the NCLEX-RN exam. After passing this exam, the nurse will be granted licensure in the State of New York and can begin working. RNs with a BSN are in demand for many jobs that require four years of education. This degree takes longer to earn than an Associate Degree in Science in Nursing, but the pay for having a BSN is also much better than that for nurses with an Associate Degree.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the school, including satisfactory SAT or ACT scores. The average scores for students admitted to the college are at least 500 in the verbal and 500 in the mathematical sections of the SAT examination. College preparatory classes in high school must have been completed with acceptable grade point averages. The College of Mount Saint Vincent is somewhat less selective than other area schools since 74.5 percent of applicants are granted general admission to the college. If an applicant does not have the necessary background in math or science, there is usually a chance to take these courses on the college level before applying to the nursing program.

Students in the nursing program complete required courses the first year, such as English Literature, Introduction to Psychology, an art class, a history class, Writing for College, Modern Language, General Chemistry I and II, and Introduction to Professional Nursing. In the second year, students must earn credits in Economics, Sociology, The Life of Reason, The Life of Faith, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Health Promotion, Mathematical Computer Spread Sheet, Microbiology and Human Disease, Theoretical and Research Foundations of Nursing, and Health Assessment.

In the third year of studies, nursing students complete many classes that are specific to the nursing field. These include Introduction to the Care of the Adult and Aging Client, Human Pathophysiology, Pharmaco-Physiology, Childhood and Adolescence, Adulthood and Aging, Nursing Care of the Adult and Aged. Additional course requirements are World Literature and a junior level integrated course. The senior year of the nursing course includes Nursing Care of the Family I-Maternity Care, Nursing Care of the Family II-Pediatric Nursing, Nursing Care of the Community I-Psychiatric Nursing, Nursing Care of the Community II-Community Nursing, Process of Leadership in Nursing, Preceptorship, Independent Study in Nursing, and other courses. These are a senior level integrated course, mathematical modeling or Introduction to Statistics or Statistics. A total of 126 credits are necessary for graduation.

Students are assigned to a variety of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other health care facilities in the New York City area during their time at the College of Mount Saint Vincent to complete the clinical portion of their studies. Once 60 credits have been earned, students at the main campus at Riverdale may request to transfer to the mid-Manhattan College of Mount Saint Vincent campus to complete their clinical work.

Master of Science in Nursing Program

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is also offered at the College of Mount Saint Vincent for RNs who wish to continue their education. Requirements required for admittance to the MSN program are that the applicant has a BSN from an accredited school with a grade point average of at least 3.0 in undergraduate work. The applicant must be a licensed RN in New York State and must submit the application along with two references and an undergraduate transcript. Additional requirements are that the applicant must complete an interview with the Director of Graduate Nursing, pass the English Essay Examination, and have successfully completed nursing research and elementary statistics as an undergraduate. RNs that do not have a 3.0 average in their undergraduate work may enroll in the college as a nonmatriculated student in the four Core Nursing Courses. If a grade point average of 3.0 is attained, the student may then enter the matriculated program.

There are different MSN courses and programs that lead to different career goals. The first is in Administrative Nursing. The second option leads to an Adult Nurse Practitioner degree, and the third option is for RNs who want to become Nursing Educators. A fourth option is for a Family Nurse Practitioner degree. Classes that lead to a MSN may be taken on a part-time basis. Most classes are offered in the late afternoon or evening.

Students in Nursing Administration take different courses than those who want to become Nurse Practitioners or Nurse Educators. Nursing Administration students enrolled part-time may take Advanced Nursing Theory and Dynamics of Nursing Leadership for a total of 6 credits the first semester. Next, they must take Advanced Nursing Research and Ethics and Health Care Policy. In the second year, these students take Foundations of Health Care in the Fall Trimester, Financial Management Budgetary Control during the Mid Trimester, and in the Spring Trimester they take Law for Health Care Professional and Master’s Project Advisement. Courses required for the third year are Nursing Administration Theory, Nursing Administration: Seminar/Practicum and Master’s Project Advisement in the Fall Semester. The final semester is the Spring Semester when students take Nursing Administration Theory II, Nursing Administration Seminar/Practicum, and Master’s Project Advisement. Upon graduation, the student has earned 36 credits. Courses for the other two MSN degrees are very similar with an emphasis on Nurse Practitioner skills or those needed for Nursing Education.

Contact:
College of Mount Saint Vincent
6301 Riverdale Avenue,
Riverdale, NY 10471
(800) 665-CMSV

College of New Rochelle Nursing Program Review

The College of New Rochelle (CNR) is a private Catholic school that was once a women-only facility that was begun by the Ursuline nuns. It was the first Catholic college for women in New York State when it was founded. Three of the four schools are now co-ed, including the School of Nursing. This college is located in Westchester, about 16 miles north of Manhattan in New York City. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are offered at the College of New Rochelle. Almost 700 students are enrolled in these nursing programs.

Nursing Programs

There are five nursing programs available at the College of New Rochelle. These are an undergraduate program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a program for RNs seeking a BSN or Master of Science degree, a BSN program for those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program with several options, or several post-masters certificate programs. All of the programs are highly competitive and selective. Special consideration is given to students with volunteer experience, extracurricular activities, and for non-academic pursuits. After graduating from the nursing program and receiving a BSN, graduates must apply for licensure in New York. They must also take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that must be passed before licensure is granted.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree

The admission requirements for undergraduates are that they must have four years of English and of Social Studies, and three units of math and science. The average SAT score for those admitted to the nursing program is around 1040. Applicants must also have reference letters and write an essay explaining why they want to enter the nursing profession. Those admitted to the program must earn 120 credits to graduate. The curriculum is divided into semesters, and BSN students must complete eight semesters. Freshmen must take 15 credits their first semester, including Quantitative Reasoning, Writers’ Workshop, General Psychology, Concepts in Biology, and The Self in Context. For the Spring Semester of the freshman year, students take Research Essay, Anatomy & Physiology I, General Chemistry, Sociology, and an elective.

The second year of studies for sophomores includes these courses for the Fall Semester: Anatomy & Physiology II, Development Psychology, Elemental Statistics or Psychological Statistics, Transcultural Perspectives, and Nutrition. The Spring Semester for sophomores requires that Microbiology, Nursing I: Foundations for Nursing Practice, Health Assessment and Laboratory, and Pharmacology are completed. In the Fall Semester of the junior year, students take Psychosocial Nursing, Nursing II: Acute Health (Adult Health I), Nursing II: Synthesis: Acute Health (Adult Health I), Altered Physiology I, and an elective in Economics, Business, or Political Sciences.

The Spring Semester of the junior year means that BSN students must take Altered Physiology II, Nursing III: Parent/Child Health Nursing, Nursing III: Synthesis: Parent/Child Health Nursing, an Economics, Business, or Political Science elective or Introduction to Research. In the senior year Fall Semester, students must take Nursing IV: Chronic Health (Adult Health II), Nursing IV: Synthesis: Chronic Health (Adult Health II), Nursing IV: Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Nursing IV: Synthesis: Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, an elective or Introduction to Research. The final semester in the senior year, BSN students must complete Nursing V: Community Health Nursing, Nursing V: Synthesis: Community Health Nursing, Nursing VI: Transition to Professional Practice and Leadership, Nursing VI: Synthesis: Transition to Professional Practice and Leadership, Politics of Health Care, two electives, or Introduction to Research.

Students may also opt to complete the BSN program in three years by taking accelerated classes, including two summer sessions.

RN to BSN Program and RN to BSN to MSN Program

RNs with licensure in the State of New York who have graduated with Associate Degrees or from Nursing School programs may elect to earn their BSN at the College of New Rochelle. Some students go on to earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as well since there are 12 credits count towards the BSN and MSN degrees. RNs may opt out of some classes by taking the Excelsior College Examinations. Applicants may be able to earn credits in liberal arts and science classes by taking these exams. Applicants may opt out of additional courses by taking the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) for liberal arts and science classes. The college also offers an Accelerated RN-BSN Program that can be completed in 12 months of full time study. Students must first complete all required liberal arts and science courses and must have their professional RN licensure.

RNs who maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 may also pursue a Master’s Degree in one of the following tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Specialist in Holistic Nursing, Nursing and Health Care Management, or Nursing Education. The courses that are required for these MSN degrees are Health Assessment and Lab, Transcultural Perspectives in Health Care, community Health Nursing, Perspectives in Health Care Management, Advanced Role Development in Transformative Nursing, Theoretical Foundation for Advanced Nursing Practice, and Design and Methodology for Nursing Research. Upon the completion of these courses, students begin taking the advanced practice core courses in each of the specialty tracks. Students complete practicums and clinical work in their specialty area.

Post Master’s Certificate Program

The College of New Rochelle School of Nursing also offers six post-master’s certificates. The Family Nurse Practitioner Post Master’s Certificate Program requires 23 credit hours of study plus 765 clinical hours. To qualify for admission, the student must be an RN with a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Another post master’s certificate program offered at the School of Nursing is the Clinical Nurse Specialist in Holistic Nursing Post Master’s Certificate Program. Those with a master’s degree in nursing must complete 23 credit hours and 590 clinical hours. Another program, the Clinical Nurse Specialist in Holistic Nursing for Advanced Practice Nurses Post Master’s Certificate Program provides advanced placement for Nursing Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists. This certificate requires 14 credit hours and 300 clinical hours.

Another option for those with a master’s degree in nursing is to earn the Nursing & Health Care Administration Post Master’s Certificate. This program prepares RNs to work in administrative roles in healthcare. It consists of 22 credits and has a 135 hour practicum. RNs who want to become nurse educators may take the Nursing Education Post Master’s Certificate program to train to teach at the college level. There is a requirement of 22 credits plus 135 hour practicum required. The Long Term Care Administration Post Master’s Certificate Program is another option for RNs who hold a master’s degree in nursing. Fifteen credit hours are required to earn this certificate.

Contact:
College of New Rochelle
29 Castle Place,
New Rochelle, New York 10805
(914) 654-5000

College of Staten Island Nursing Program Review

The College of Staten Island (CSI) is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system and is one of its 11 senior colleges. Both bachelor and associate degrees are offered at this college, as well as master’s degree programs and a doctoral program in nursing. The College of Staten Island-CUNY is the largest college campus in New York City.

Nursing Programs

Students interested in any of the nursing programs at the CSI-CUNY must show proof of U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or F1 Status as an International Student. The applicant may also have been granted asylum or be admitted under other conditions related to residency status in the U. S. Applicants must also submit a physical report from their doctor and may be required to have a physical each year that they are in the program at the school. In addition, applicants must take the NLN PAX-RN CSI Test or the SAT I or SAT II-Biology. In addition, applicants must have a criminal background check. Applicants may not have any pending cases against them or have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, or they may not be granted licensure in the State of New York.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

The College of Staten Island-CUNY offers a two-year AAS program that qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN, a national examination for nursing program graduates that is required for licensure. Before being admitted to the AAS program, students are admitted to the college on the basis of their high school academic average, SAT scores, or GED scores. Students must have at least one semester’s residency at the school to qualify for admission to the program. The nursing program is competitive, so not everyone who applies for admission is chosen. Prerequisite courses that must be taken before acceptance into the AAS program are Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Communications Workshop, Introduction to Ethics, and Psychology.

Once students are admitted into the AAS program, there are 48 credits that must be completed. These are Bacteriology and Bacteriology Lab, Medical-Surgical Nursing I and II, Psychiatric Nursing, Family-Centered Maternity Nursing, Child Health Nursing, plus electives. Students also complete clinical work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. After graduation and working as an RN, this nurse may elect to continue his or her education by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

RN-BSN Program

RNs who want to pursue further education may enroll in this program. Applicants must be graduates of an AAS or Nursing School Diploma program. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 in previous courses is required. There are 66 pre-major credits required that are expected to be completed before beginning the nursing courses at the BSN level. These are Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Ethics, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology and Cellular Pathology, Microbiology and Cellular Pathology Laboratory. Other required classes are Principles of Chemistry I & II and Laboratories, Introduction to Probability and Statistics with Computer applications, Medical Dosage Calculations, Medical Surgical Nursing I, II, and III, Psychiatric Nursing, Family-Centered Maternity Nursing, and Child Health Nursing.

Once these courses are completed, students move into 40 credits related to the BSN. These include Pharmacotherapeutics, Introduction to Physics, Seminar in Professional Development, Interpersonal Dynamics for Professional Nurses, Health Assessment and Physical Examinations, Introduction to Research in Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Leadership in the Management of Patient Care, and Issues in Health Care and Professional Nursing. In addition six credits in nursing electives must be chosen.

Graduate Nursing Programs – Master of Science (MSN)

RNs who have earned their BSN may apply for one of the MSN programs at the College of Staten Island-CUNY. Programs offered are Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) or Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Practitioner (CNS/NP). The college’s MSN program emphasizes the care of diverse populations and cultural competency. Students are prepared for their future job as a leader, consultant, or educator during the time spent at the college. Both full time and part time options are available for the MSN program. The various tracks available on the graduate level are in Adult Health Nursing, Gerontological Nursing, or Nursing Education. Graduate students may also earn an Advanced Certificate in Cultural Competence. The College of Staten Island is one of the first schools in the U.S. to offer this track for nurses.

Doctoral Degree in Nursing Program

The College of Staten Island-CUNY  offers The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) program in conjunction with two other CUNY schools. They are Hunter College, Lehman College. Students may work with the department head to form their own program, or they may work with others at these colleges.

Contact:
College of Staten Island-CUNY
2800 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York 10314
(718) 982-2000

Columbia-Greene Community College Nursing Program Review

Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC) is a small college that is located in a rural area. There are around 2,000 students enrolled in this college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) schools. Degree programs for Associate Degrees are available at this school, including an Associate in Science that qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Science (A.S)

Students in the Nursing AS Program must have 67 to 68 credits earned to graduate. Admission requirements include attendance at a Nursing Information Session and demonstrating that the applicant is ready to complete the required courses. All nursing applicants must take the college placement test and demonstrate the ability to begin basic English, math, and biology courses. A reading test is required, and applicants must score 80 or higher. Those who do not meet the criteria for admittance to the nursing program may be admitted to Columbia-Greene Community college to take prerequisite courses. These students may first take Human Biology, General Biology, General Chemistry, and Introductory Chemistry before being admitted to the AS program. A minimum grade of 2.5 must be maintained during the time that the prerequisite courses are taken.

Other requirements for entry into the program are that the student must be in good health and must be able to handle the physical rigor of patient care, including bathing, lifting, and positioning patients. Students must also be trained in CPR and must attend the Nursing Orientation program in August. Other requirements are that the student must have liability insurance that can be purchased through the college. Students must be proficient in speaking, listening to, and writing English, and they must not have any pending charges or convictions for a misdemeanor or felony of any sort. Another requirement is that students must be able to work under stress since this will be part of their job as a RN.

The AS curriculum at Columbia-Greene Community College for the nursing program includes 33 to 34 semester hours in liberal arts courses. These are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Microbiology, Composition, Composition and Literature, Humanities Elective or Social Science Elective, Statistics or College Algebra, General Psychology, Life Span Development, and Introduction to Sociology. There are also 34 semester hours of nursing courses required. These are entitled Nursing I, II, III, and IV. During the first semester of the freshman year, students take Anatomy and Physiology, Composition, Statistics or College Algebra, and Nursing I. The second semester, or Spring Semester it is required that students take Anatomy and Physiology II, General Microbiology, General Psychology, and Nursing II. The second year, first semester consists of Life Span Development, Introduction to Sociology, and Nursing III. During the final semester, students take Composition and Literature, a Humanities Elective or Social Science Elective, and Nursing IV.

AS students are also required to complete laboratory work on campus after classes during practice times as they work towards mastering skills needed in their future jobs as RNs. They must learn to insert IVs, how to respond to patient’s emotional as well as physical needs, and numerous other issues that they will probably meet as RNs. Students must also complete hours of clinical nursing practicums in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities in the area surrounding the college campus.

Around the time of graduation, students should apply for their licensure as an RN. They must first pass the NCLEX-RN before licensure is granted. Students may also want to continue their education by transferring to one of the SUNY network colleges or to another school to earn their BSN. Most graduates of the AS program will enter the workforce and begin working in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare facilities.

Contact:
Columbia-Greene Community College – SUNY
4400 New York Route 23,
Hudson, NY 12534-4180
(518) 828-4181

Columbia University Nursing School Review

Columbia University, formally called Columbia University in the City of New York, is a private Ivy League college in New York City. It is the second most selective college in the U.S., behind Harvard. Located in Manhattan, Columbia University is a very large campus that is much like a city itself. There are two university branches located in Manhattan. Many different degrees are offered at this institution. The Nursing Programs at Columbia University are graduate programs with the exception of a combined Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

Nursing Programs

Combined BS/MS (ETP) Program for Non-Nursing College Graduates

This option is for those who already have a Baccalaureate degree but are non-nurse college graduates. It leads to both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). It is an accelerated program that combines required courses with clinical experience. It is designed for students who want to enter advanced specialized nursing such as nursing education or a nurse practitioner track. The nursing program prepares students to take the national NCLEX-RN exam that leads to licensure as an RN. The MSN portion of the program allows students to choose a specialty and to continue studies in their field of choice. Students begin their experience with patients their first semester of the BSN program in hospitals, clinics, and community centers.

With enough credits in basic courses from their undergraduate degree, including human anatomy, human physiology, and microbiology, and others, a student can complete both the BSN 60 credit hours in one year of three semesters. This program is not for most people since it is very demanding when attending classes full-time. It is possible to earn 19 credits in the Summer Session, 32 credits in the Fall Semester, and 9 credits in the Spring Semester. After completing these classes, a specialty is selected for graduate study leading to the MSN. This takes an additional one to three years, depending on whether the student attends part-time or full-time.

Master’s Degree Program

The Master’s Degree Program is another choice of nursing studies at Columbia University. It takes from one to three years depending on whether study is full-time or part-time. There are many Master’s Programs from which to choose from, including Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program, Adult Nurse Practitioner Program, Family Nurse Practitioner Program, and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program. Other choices are Nurse Anesthesia Program, Nurse Midwifery Program, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program, or Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program.

The University Statutory Certificate Program

This program takes one to two years to complete, dependent on whether the student opts to study full-time or part time. Nurses who already have a MSN may add these certificates to their credentials without completing the entire Master’s level curriculum. Choices of programs include Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program, Adult Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program, Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program, or Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program. Other choices are Nurse Anesthesia Certificate Program, Nurse Midwifery Certificate Program, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program, or Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program.

PhD in Nursing Program

Students who want to earn their PhD in Nursing must work on their degree full-time. It takes from three to five years to complete, depending on the student’s dissertation.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

This program at Columbia University takes two years to complete. The first year, two days of classes are required. Full-time residency is required the second year of studies and leads to The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This program requires 30 credits of science practice and practica, a full-time residency of one year, and the completion of case studies, scholarly papers, and published articles organized into a portfolio.

Joint Degree Programs:

Columbia University also offers two Joint Degree Programs. One of these is a combined Nursing and Business degree that leads to a Master of Science and Master of Business Administration (MS/MBA). This degree is ideal for Registered Nurses who intend to be nurse managers who are specialized in both nursing and business. The university also offers another joint degree, which is the Master of Science and Master of Public Health (MS/MPH). This degree fits the needs of RNs who want to be advanced clinical practitioners as well as public health administrators.

Contact:
Columbia University in the City of New York
617 West 168^th Street Suite 134,
New York, NY 10032
(800) 899-8895

Corning Community College Nursing Program Review

Corning Community College (CCC) is a two-year school that offers a variety of Associate Degrees and certificates. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system of colleges with around 5,000 students enrolled part-time and full-time. The college is located in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Students who are looking for an economical option for continuing their education often choose Corning Community College because of the variety of programs offered.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science Degree

Students who graduate from this program will be eligible to apply for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). They will also be qualified to take the NCLEX-RN, the national examination that is required before licensure is granted. Before being accepted into the Nursing Program, applicants must first be accepted into Corning Community College. Applicants must have a strong background in math and science from high school classes. Prerequisite classes of high school biology and chemistry with a minimum grade of 75 percent or college level courses with at least a C grade or higher are required before beginning nursing courses. Applicants are tested to determine if they need to be placed in math or English developmental courses that must also be completed before beginning any nursing courses.

Applicants must also submit the Health Form which includes a recent physical and required immunizations and screenings before beginning nursing classes. Students must also have documentation of health insurance coverage. They must be able to physically and mentally handle the function of caring for patients. Computer skills and keyboarding are other requirements that applicants must have. Applicants must also have a complete criminal background check and child abuse screening, and they must not have any cases pending against them or have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony. Other requirements include a CPR certificate through the American Heart Association and the Basic Life Support for the Professional Rescuer, sponsored by the Red Cross.

After being accepted into the nursing program and completing any prerequisite courses, students may be able to begin Nursing I. Seating in the course is limited so applicants are not guaranteed a seat if they finish prerequisites and classes are filled. Students also take Success in Freshman Nursing, Nursing II, Developing Critical Thinking in Nursing, Pharmacology for Nurses II, Basic Internet Strategies for Nurses, Nutrition: Its Therapeutic Role, Seminar for Entry into Nursing II, Clinical Nursing, and Issues & Perspectives in Nursing. Courses that are to be completed the second year of studies include Nursing III, Critical Thinking in Nursing III, Pharmacology for Nurses III, Introduction to Critical Care Nursing, Seminar for Entry into Nursing III, Nursing IV, Critical Thinking in Nursing IV, Pharmacology for Nurses IV.

Nursing electives are also required during the two year course of study. Some of these that students may choose from are Clinical Pharmacology & Nursing Management, Mentoring Experience, Fluid and Electrolytes, Nursing of Clients with Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension. The course, Nursing IV may be taken only when the student is within 15 credits of completing the program. It prepares students to take the NCLEX, the national examination that must be passed before licensure as a Registered Nurse is granted.

LPN Advanced Placement

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may apply to Corning Community College to pursue their AAS Degree in Nursing and receive credit for their LPN experience. The Advanced Placement option is only offered in the spring semester. Applicants must have completed Biology and Chemistry in high school with at least a 75% or higher grade within 10 years, or they may have completed these courses on the college level and earned at least a C grade. LPNs must also pass the Corning Community College Math Placement Test or take developmental math classes. They must also submit all of the documentation that is required by freshman students who are not LPNs. After opting out of beginning courses, students must complete the remainder of the AAS program.

Contact:
Corning Community College – SUNY
1 Academic Drive
Corning, New York 14830
(800) 358-7171

Crouse Hospital College of Nursing Review

Crouse Hospital College of Nursing (CHCON) has been educating RNs in New York for 95 years. This school offers a two-year Associate Degree program. Located in Central New York State, Crouse Hospital offers competitive tuition for students. The college offers a new Simulation, Learning and Technology Center for students to practice a variety of procedures in before beginning their clinical experience.

Two-Year Nursing Associate Degree Program

Crouse Hospital uses a selective process to admit students to its nursing program. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission to the program. Many students apply to this hospital because of the small classes and close relationships formed with faculty in the learning environment. Admission requirements include submission of the application form and fee and the student must have earned a high school diploma with a minimum overall average of 80 percent. Those with a GED or External Diploma are also considered. Applicants must have successfully completed Algebra, Biology, and Chemistry. Also, SAT or ACT scores must be satisfactory. Those who are selected for admission may be full-time or part-time students.

The full-time curriculum is a demanding one and requires the student’s time during and after class in many cases. During the first year of study in the first semester, students take Anatomy and Physiology I, Freshman Composition and Literature I, and General Psychology. The second semester consists of Therapeutic Communication, Nursing Process for Adult Care II, Anatomy and Physiology II, Principles of Nutrition, and Human Growth and Development. The second year, first semester consists of four nursing courses. These are Nursing Process for Child Healthcare, Nursing Process for Maternal-Newborn Care, Nursing Process for Mental Health Care, and Nursing Process for Non-acute Care. Also during this semester, liberal arts courses are required. These are General Microbiology and Freshman Composition & Literature II. The final semester consists of Nursing Process for Adult Care III, Pharmacology, Graduate Bridging Experience, and Introductory Sociology. Students also complete many hours of clinical care at Crouse Hospital.

Five Semester Part-Time Nursing Associate Degree Program

Students who have other obligations during the day, such as child care, may want to opt for the evening program at Crouse Hospital College of Nursing. This program is very concentrated into five semesters, and it is highly recommended that students are not employed full-time while enrolled in the nursing program. Only nursing courses are offered in the evening session, so students must complete Anatomy & Physiology I & II, English I and II (Freshman Composition and Literature I & II), General Psychology, and Introductory Sociology. Human Growth and Microbiology may be taken in the summer session.

Nursing courses that are offered in the evening program are Nursing Process for Adult Care I and Therapeutic Communication in the first semester, and Nursing Process for Adult Care II and Principles of Nutrition in the spring semester. During the second year, fall semester Nursing Process for Child Healthcare, Nursing Process for Maternal-Newborn Care, and Nursing Process for Non-Acute Care are offered. The fourth semester in the spring of the second year requires that Nursing Process for Adult Care III and Pharmacology be taken. The fifth and last semester in the fall consists of Nursing Process for Mental Healthcare and Graduate Bridging Experience.

Pre-Planned Extended Program

This program also leads to an Associate Degree, but it takes three years to complete. First year studies include Anatomy & Physiology I, Freshman Composition during the fall semester and Literature I, General Psychology, Anatomy & Physiology II, Human Growth and Development, and Introductory Sociology in the spring semester. The second year consists of Nursing Process for Adult Care I and General Microbiology in the fall semester as well as Principles of Nutrition, Nursing Process for Adult Care II, and Therapeutic Communication in the spring semester.

During the third year of study, fall semester Nursing Process for Child Healthcare, Nursing Process for Maternal-Newborn Care, Nursing Process for Mental Health Care, Nursing Process for Non-acute Care, and Freshman Composition and Literature II are taken. The sixth semester in the spring includes Nursing Process for Adult Care III, Pharmacology, and Graduate Bridging Experience. The credits for all options of earning the Associate Degree equal 70 credits.

Contact:
Crouse Hospital
College of Nursing
765 Irving Avenue
Syracuse, NY 13210-1625
(315) 470-74481

Daemen College Nursing Program Review

Daemen College (DC) is a private college near Buffalo, only a two-hour drive from Toronto and near the border with Ontario, Canada. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered at this school. The focus of Daemen College is to prepare students for future careers while helping students become well-rounded individuals who are experienced in liberal arts.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 1+2+1

Admission requirements for this program include an advanced Regent’s Diploma or equivalent, a minimum 88 percent overall high school average, and an SAT score above 1,000. In order to be admitted to the partner school, students must have completed 32 required credits at Daemen and have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75. After the third year of studies, an Associate Degree is awarded by the partner school, and graduates qualify to take the NCLEX licensure exam.

Daemen College has a 1+2+1 Curriculum that requires nursing students to take one Learning Community or two courses that have a common theme. They are taken at the same time. It is highly recommended that students take the Research and Presentation requirement of the core. Some courses may be taken at Daemen’s partner colleges, which are Erie Community College, Niagara County Community College, or Trocaire College. Required courses are Anatomy & Physiology I & II with Labs, Pathphysiology, Concepts of Professional Nursing Practice, Holistic Perspectives, Professional Nursing Practice I & II and Labs, Professional Issues, Professional Nursing Practice III and Lab.

Required courses that are outside of the major are English Composition, General Chemistry, Sustainable & Critical Relationships, and Survey of Statistics. Daemen students who are also completing courses at Erie Community College may take these courses there: Microbiology and Lab, Health Promotion and Lab, Health Maintenance and Lab, Physical Assessment, Health Restoration: Acute/Simple and Lab, Health Restoration: Acute/Complex and Lab, and Pharmacology for Nurses. These students may also choose to take either Composition & Interpretation of Literature or Composition & Readings in Science and Literature. They may also take Mathematics of Dosage Calculation for Patient Care, and Developmental Psychology. They will then complete Introduction to Psychology, Philosophy, and a Social Science elective plus eight other elective credits at Daemen in any area but nursing. The total credits equal 67 taken at Daemen and 60 taken at Erie Community College. Similar divided curriculum plans are available at the other two partner community colleges.

RN to BSN Program

RNs who have earned an Associate Degree or a Diploma in Nursing at an accredited school may apply to this program. Students must complete at least 60 credit hours of liberal arts and sciences, including lower division nursing credits from the previous studies. They must also have a car available for community experiences. Required courses include Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Pathphysiology, Health Assessment, Concepts of Professional Nursing Practice, Holistic Perspectives, Professional Nursing Practice I, II & III, Professional Issues, English Composition, and Survey of Statistics. The total program requires 120 credits; 60 of these may be from Associate Degree studies.

RN to MS Accelerated Programs

RNs that have a Baccalaureate Degree in a non-nursing field may complete this program. This program also allows RNs with an Associate Degree or Diploma to pursue the Adult Nurse Practitioner MS degree. These students must have a grade point average of 3.25 or higher and meet all admission criteria except for having a Baccalaureate degree. Students are required to complete courses that are built around the five Baccalaureate competencies, including Health Assessment, Community Health/Population-focused Health, Leadership/Management/Professional Development, Research, and Professional Commitment and Engagement.

Master of Science Programs

Daemen College offers several options for RNs who want to pursue their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The programs offered are Master of Science in Adult Nurse Practitioner, Master of Science in Nursing Executive Leadership, and Master of Science in Nursing Education. A BSN is required to enter these programs. Students must complete 36 to 38 credits including Theoretical Perspectives in Advanced Practice Nursing, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Thesis Project, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Physiology/Pathophysiology, Conceptual Basis for Advanced Practice Nursing, Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing, Introductory Topics in Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Selected Topics in Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse 1 & 2, Adult Primary Health Care I & II.

Certificate Programs

Daemen College also offers a certificate program for RNs who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program is called the Post-Baccalaureate Nursing Executive Leadership program. The program is designed for RNs who are either currently in management positions in nursing or those who want to pursue this career. Students must complete 34 to 36 credits to earn this certificate.

There are also two post-masters programs offered for RNs who have earned their Master of Science in Nursing. These are the Post-Master Adult Nurse Practitioner program and the Post-Master Nursing Education program. The program that leads to a certificate as a Nurse Practitioner requires a total of 36 to 38 credits. The program begins with 10 to 12 graduate nursing research core requirements that focus on research skills and a thesis project. The Nurse Practitioner Specialty Requirements consist of 26 credits in advanced nursing courses that prepare students to treat patients in a variety of medical settings. RNs who have a master’s degree and want to teach student nurses may earn their Nursing Education certificate by completing 30 credits. There is a nursing research core requirement just as there is for the Nurse Practitioner certificate. After this is completed, students focus on education courses that will help them prepare future nurses for their careers.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

RNs that have earned their MSN and want to continue their education may enter this program. The program requires a total of 36 credits plus a Scholarly Project equaling four credits. Another component of the program is a Clinical Internship. Students must complete 500 post-Master’s supervised clinical hours. This internship equals eight credits.

Contact:
Daemen College
4380 Main Street
Amherst, New York 14226
(716) 839-8225

Dominican College of Blauvelt Nursing Program Review

Dominican College (DC), also known as Dominican College of Blauvelt (DCB), is a liberal arts college that offers four-year degrees and Master’s Degrees in many areas. It is located only 17 miles from New York City (NYC). The suburban campus was once a women-only college that was started by the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt. One of the greatest advantages of this college is the small classes and low student to faculty radio of fifteen to one. Students are admitted to the various nursing programs by the use of a selective process, and a series of prerequisite courses must be completed before an application is considered.

Nursing Programs

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Those who wish to enter the BSN program must first be admitted to the Dominican College. Freshmen then apply to the nursing program at the end of their first year at the school. They must have at least a 2.7 grade point average and a C+ or better in natural sciences. In addition, a score of at least 76 on the TEAS basic skills assessment rest is required. Placement tests for Math and English must also be completed. Courses that must be completed before acceptance into the nursing program are Chemistry for Healthcare Professionals, Biochemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Freshman Seminar, General Psychology II, Speech, and Transitions to Nursing.

The BSN degree consists of 131 credits. Required nursing courses are Transitions I, Introduction to Professional Nursing, Principles of Health Assessment, Parent-Child Nursing, Professional Practice Concepts, Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Adult Health Nursing II, and Community Health Nursing. Other required courses include Introduction to Professional Nursing II, Pharmacologic Agents, Adult Health Nursing I, Family Health Nursing, Nursing Research, Nursing Leadership/Management, and Nursing Seminar. In addition, clinical experience is completed at a variety of health care facilities.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

This program is designed for those who have a Baccalaureate Degree in another discipline. It requires 58 credits that are completed in an accelerated trimester format. It is a full-time program that begins each May. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX for licensure. Applicants to the program must have completed Sociology, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology I & II, Chemistry I, Biochemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Statistics. In addition, Math and English placement tests are required. Students must have attained minimum grades of C+ in all science prerequisite classes.

The Accelerated BSN is also available in a 24 month weekend program. This option allows students to work while they earn their degree. The program consists of six trimesters and is open to those with a Baccalaureate degree in another discipline. Each trimester is made up of 12 weekends, including Saturdays and Sundays.

Accelerated RN-BSN

This program is designed for RNs who have a Diploma in Nursing or an Associate’s Degree in Nursing. Nursing courses are held each Wednesday, and students must take a liberal arts class another night. The program can be completed in 18 months without summer courses. Applicants to the program are required to have a grade point average of 2.7 in their previous college level studies.

LPN-BSN Program

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to continue their education and earn their BSN may apply for this program if they graduated from an accredited school and are currently licensed LPNs. Applicants may take exams that allow up to 11 credits for their previous experience in the healthcare field. Applicants must also complete prerequisite science courses before they will be considered for nursing courses. These include Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Chemistry, and Biochemistry. These must be completed with at least a 2.7 grade.

Graduate Program in Nursing Master of Science, Family Nurse Practitioner

This master’s program is designed to allow RNs who are BSN graduates to continue working while earning their master’s degree. They prepare to use their advanced nursing degree as Family Nurse Practitioners who may be primary healthcare providers in many settings. Students meet for class one or two evenings each week. Some of the coursework may be completed with online instruction as well. In addition to 42 credits in coursework, students must complete 750 clinical hours to graduate with this degree. Applicants are required to have at least one year’s experience as an RN to enter this program, and they must have earned at least a 3.0 grade point average in their undergraduate studies. Upon completion, graduates may sit for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Contact:
Dominican College of Blauvelt
493 Western Hwy.,
Orangeburg, NY 10962-1205
(845) 365-0486

Dutchess Community College Nursing Program Review

Dutchess Community College (DCC) is one of the 30 community colleges in the State University of New York system (SUNY). It is located near Poughkeepsie, New York, and the college has programs that lead to certificates or to associate degrees. There are around 10,000 students enrolled in Dutchess Community College. The popularity of this school is probably because over 60 academic programs are offered and because the school’s tuition is the lowest in the state. In addition, many students who were displaced because of the poor economy are enrolled for retraining to enter a new career.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

The Associate Degree of Applied Science (AAS) nursing program at Dutchess Community College is very selective in admitting students into the program. Because there are so many applicants, only residents of Dutchess and Putnam Counties are considered for admission to the day or evening programs. Some students move into one of these counties and live there for a minimum of six months to gain admittance to the college’s nursing program. Nursing graduates are qualified to sit for the NCLEX exam that is required before licensure is granted. The nursing program consists of four semesters that are completed in two years. Many students require five or six semesters to complete the program. This is because of limited space in courses or if developmental classes are required. Students must earn 70 or 71 credits to graduate.

Dutchess Community College has both a day and evening nursing program. Applicants for either the day or evening program must take the placement tests required by the college. The tests cover reading, writing, numerical skills, and biological science. If remedial courses are not required, accepted students may enroll in the two year program. Students who require remedial courses must enroll in the extended degree program. Before being accepted into the nursing program, students must complete 28 credits and maintain a 2.75 grade point average in these 28 credits. They must also decide if they want to attend the full-time day nursing program or the part-time nursing evening program.

Other prerequisites for admission to the nursing program are that students must have current CPR certification before beginning the first nursing course. It is also required that students have visual acuity, the ability to hear and to feel changes in skin temperature and texture, and they must also have the fine motor skills needed for this position. In addition, applicants must have the ability to lift 40 pounds and to stand or walk for five to eight hours. Communication skills are also important and applicants must have the ability to read, write, and speak at least by the time they have finished prerequisite courses. Emotional stability is also required because of the daily stress that is often a part of the nursing profession. Applicants may not have any pending cases against them or have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor or they may not be granted nursing licensure.

Once students are selected for the nursing program, they complete nursing courses each semester. In the two year program, Nursing 105 and 107 are completed in the fall semester along with other required courses. One nursing course is taken in the spring semester which is Nursing 112. The fall semester of the second year, two more courses required for the nursing program are taken. The final semester in spring of the second year requires three courses in nursing. Students complete their clinical experience at local clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities during the time that they take their nursing courses. The bulk of this is during the second year of the program.

Students in the extended program are required to complete 28 credits before beginning nursing classes, and all required coursework except for the nursing courses must be completed. A grade point average of at least 2.75 is required in these courses. Those who are accepted into the nursing program take two nursing courses in the spring semester, one in the fall and in the next spring semester, one in the summer, and three in the final fall semester. Clinical nursing experience is completed during the semesters that nursing courses are taken. Students practice at Dutchess Community College and then gain clinical experience at the local hospital, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. After completing all of the nursing courses in the two-year program or extended program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX exam. When they pass this test, graduates are granted their RN licensure and can begin working in the nursing profession.

LPN to RN Option

This program is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who must submit a copy of their license with their application. They must have strong clinical skills and nursing experience. The LPN to RN option is not an accelerated program, so it cannot be completed in one year. General education courses must also be completed to graduate, and there are 36 credits required in this category. The advantage of this program is that LPNs may receive credit for part of their work experience and receive advanced placement.

Contact:
Dutchess Community College
53 Pendell Road
Fairview, New York 12601
(845) 431-8000

D’Youville College Nursing Program Review

D’Youville College (DYC) is a private college of Roman Catholic tradition. It is located in Buffalo, New York and has enrolled students from around the world. D’Youville is a very small college with less than 3,000 students attending classes there. Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs are offered at this college in addition to advanced certificates for healthcare professionals.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science (BSN) Degree

D’Youville College offers a BSN program that has a strong emphasis on liberal arts. Students begin clinical classes in their sophomore year. To qualify for graduation, students must complete 131 credits in the four year program. Students take six credits of undergraduate management courses as well as collaboration and partnerships with patients, healthcare professionals and agencies, and a community-based emphasis. Prerequisites include high school chemistry or college prep chemistry, college level biology and chemistry, and a college level core course in psychology. Also, students must take a placement test for math and complete any required courses to get their math skills up to a level that is necessary for upcoming courses. Students must also take all of the liberal arts non-nursing courses that are required for the program including their electives. A minimum grade of C is required for all science and math classes as well as nursing courses. Students must also complete a rigorous clinical experience curriculum. Upon graduation, students may apply for their license but they must pass the NCLEX exam before it is granted.

Five Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Nursing (BSN/MS)

By attending D’Youville College for one additional year, students may earn both their BSN and MS. When the baccalaureate portion of the courses is completed, students may sit for the NCLEX licensing exam. Three different courses are counted for both the BSN and MS degrees, which makes completing the program faster than completing each program separately. Over the four years, students complete these courses that do not have prerequisites: Principles of Economics – Macro and Micro, English Communications I, Comparing World Civilizations, Growth of Western Culture, American Economic and Social History to 1865 and since 1865. Other courses in the nursing syllabus include Ethics/Religion and Social Responsibility, American Government and Economics, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Principles of Sociology, Social Problems, Principles of Management, and Introduction to Professional Nursing. Other courses require prerequisites such as high school chemistry or college prep chemistry, college level biology, and a math placement test. The nursing courses for this program are the same as for the four year BSN program. Students must maintain at least a C grade point average. When students are ready to begin graduate level courses, there are many courses that prepare them to specialize in advanced nursing.

Completion Program for RNs – AD-RN BSN

RNs that have an Associate Degree in Nursing may enter this program to earn their BSN. They may be exempted from up to 65 credits of course work for their experience, and some humanities courses may be met through CLEP exams. It takes two years of full-time study to complete this program, or it is possible to do this in the day or evening as a part-time student. A total of 130 credits must be completed. RNs are eligible to receive a 50 percent discount on tuition at D’youville College.

Combined BSN/MS Program for RNs – AD-RN BSN/MS

This program is designed for RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing who want to earn both their BSN and MS at the same time. Since some courses count towards both degrees, it is faster to earn the degrees at the same time rather than separately.

Combined BSN/MS in Community Health Nursing Program for RNs – AD-RN BSN/MS

This program is open to RNs with an Associate Degree who want to earn both their BSN and MS at the same time.

Combined BSN/MS in Family Nurse Practitioner for RNs

This program allows RNs with an Associate Degree to earn their BSN as well as a MS so that they may pursue a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Contact:
D’Youville College
320 Porter Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14201
(800) 777-3921

Ellis School of Nursing Program Review

The Ellis School of Nursing (ESON) offers an Associate in Science degree in Nursing to students upon graduation. It is a small school with about 122 students enrolled in their programs. Students commute to Ellis School of Nursing since there is no campus housing available. Applications should be submitted as early as possible, around a year before beginning classes. Students are notified of their acceptance in the spring. Applications that are submitted late will be considered if there are still available openings.

Nursing Program

Associate in Science Degree

ESON offers both a day program and an evenings and weekends program. Only U.S. citizens are admitted to the school since it is not authorized to admit international students. The application process includes submitting the application to the program along with the application fee and proof of high school graduation or graduate equivalency diploma. Applicants with strong backgrounds in verbal, math, and science classes are given preference for admission to the program, as well as those with a minimum average of 80 percent or better and ranking in the upper one-half of their class. Also, students must have taken and passed chemistry, biology, and algebra within the last five years. If applicants have taken either the SAT or ACT exam, these should be submitted along with their application and other documents. Two references are also required. Once a student is accepted into the program, he or she must have a health examination and screening and must earn their certificate in CPR.

There are additional admission requirements for evening and weekend applicants. These applicants must show completion of Anatomy & Physiology I & II and Microbiology. Applicants to either program must meet the functions, skills, and physical requirements necessary for a nursing career.

Once an applicant is accepted to the program, it will take four semesters and one summer session to complete. Ellis School of Nursing has agreements with various community colleges nearby so that their students can complete non-nursing courses on their campuses.

In the fall session of the first semester, students take Foundations of Nursing Practice, Anatomy & Physiology I, Psychology, and College Composition. Foundations of Nursing Practice requires 15 class lab hours and 67.5 clinical lab hours in addition to 60 theory hours in the classroom. Future nursing courses also require additional lab hours. In the spring semester, students take Medical-Surgical Nursing, Anatomy & Physiology II, and Microbiology. The summer session consists of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing and Developmental Psychology. In the second year, fall semester students must take Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing, Transition into Professional Practice, and Introduction to Pharmacology. The final semester includes Nursing Care of Women & Children, Nutrition, and a Sociology elective.

Nursing students at Ellis School of Nursing also complete hours of clinical experience. They acquire experience in medical, surgical, pediatric, geriatric, and psychiatric nursing at Ellis Hospital, Bellevue Woman’s Center, and Ellis Health Center. Other community resources are used for community health nursing, rehabilitation, psychiatric, pediatric, and obstetrical clinical experience. Graduates of the program qualify to take the NCLEX national licensure exam.

Contact:
Ellis Medicine
1101 Nott Street,
Schenectady, New York 12308-2489
(518) 243-4471

Elmira College Nursing Program Review

Elmira College (EC) is a small private coeducational liberal arts college that is located in Elmira, New York. It is located in southern New York in an area that borders Pennsylvania. This four-year college offers around 35 areas of study that lead to a bachelor’s degree.

Nursing Program

Bachelor of Science

Elmira College offers both a full-time and part-time nursing program. Special accommodations can be made for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another related field or for Registered Nurses who want to earn their baccalaureate degree. This college offers small classes and a lot of individual attention. Clinical practice begins in the second year of studies. Students must complete many hours of clinical experience in all medical specialties including mental health, critical care, obstetrics, pediatrics, community health, medical/surgical, and rehabilitation. Elmira also offers a Term III in the summer that allows nursing students to acquire additional clinical or volunteer experience.

Admission requirements are to schedule a visit to see the campus and to meet some members of the faculty. Applicants are encouraged to spend a night to experience the college from a student’s point of view. At that time, the applicant can attend a class and meet with their admissions team. Each admission is considered individually, but students must be accepted into Elmira College before applying to the nursing program.

In addition to the required nursing courses, students must complete the general requirements of the college. A student must have at least 120 credits with a grade point average of at least 2.0 to graduate. To earn a Science Bachelor, students need at least 60 credit hours in liberal arts and sciences. Required general education classes include College Composition I and II, College Algebra, When Worlds Collide, and Order and Chaos. Students must also complete six credits in the Culture and Civilization category, such as United States Culture and Civilization and Non-Western Culture and Civilization. They must also complete one course from the Behavioral Social Sciences and one from Physical and Life Sciences with a lab, physical education, performing arts appreciation, and 60 hours of community service.

Those who are enrolled in the nursing program must also complete many nursing courses. These include Introduction to Nursing Science, Nursing Practicum I & II, Individual Nursing Care I, Care of the Client in a Developmental Crisis, and Nursing Care of the Adult in a Situational Crisis. Other required courses are Health Assessment and the Nursing Process, Professional Seminar, Individual Nursing Care III, Nursing Care of the Contemporary Family, Community Health Dynamics and Nursing Care, and Career Related Field Experience Nursing Practicum. There are also prerequisite and co-requisite courses that must be completed, including Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Epidemiology, Human Physiology and Pharmacology, Introductory Chemistry, and Ethics.

Other required courses are Introductory Psychology, Introductory Sociology, Evaluating Social Science Research, and Statistical Methods. Nursing courses amount to 83 or 84 credits. Students must have a minimum grade of C in their prerequisite courses to begin their first nursing course. After completing all of these courses, students may apply for graduation. They may also take the NCLEX which is the licensure exam to become a Registered Nurse in the State of New York.

Contact:
Elmira College
1 Park Place,
Elmira, New York 14901
(607) 735-1800

Erie Community College Nursing Program Review

Erie Community College (ECC) is part of the City University of New York (SUNY). It is a large two-year college in Western New York with around 13,000 students enrolled. There are three branches of Erie Community College that are located in Buffalo, Williamsville, and Orchard Park. The school offers over 90 associate degree and certificate programs, including a Registered Nursing program that is available in the northern section of Buffalo. Both a day and evening program are offered in nursing.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

Erie Community College offers a nursing program that leads to an Associated in Applied Science (AAS). The program can be completed in two years if students are not required to take remedial or developmental courses, but many students need longer than two years to complete. After graduating from the program, students will be ready to enter the workforce as beginning RNs. They will work in hospitals, public health agencies, nursing homes, doctor’s offices, schools, the military, and in other healthcare facilities.

Applicants must be high school graduates or have their GED. It is highly recommended that applicants have taken biology and algebra in high school. It is also desirable that applicants have completed volunteer or work experience in the healthcare industry. Prerequisites for admission to the nursing program are that an applicant attained an 86 percent overall grade point average in high school. If the applicant has taken any college level courses in the past five years, they must have earned a 3.0 grade point average. Applicants must also pass the A2 Entrance Exam to qualify to enter the nursing program. They must also pass the Erie Community College Math Placement Test or a developmental math course may be required. Another requirement is to pass the English Placement Test that is given at the college. The nursing program at Erie Community College is selective, and even if an applicant meets all of the requirements, he or she may not be accepted into the program. Admission is based on the space available and the academic qualifications of the student. It is also required that applicants submit all of the necessary documents well in advance.

During the first semester of the nursing program at Erie Community College, students take Anatomy and Physiology plus Lab for Biology. They must also take College Composition, Math Dosage Calculations for Patient Care and attain a minimum grade of 80 percent in this course. Other classes that are taken during the first semester are Health Promotion, Lab for Nurses, and Physical Assessment. The second semester consists of Anatomy & Physiology II, Lab for Biology, General Psychology, Health Maintenance, Lab for Nurses, and an elective in social sciences. During the second year of studies, the nursing program requires that Development Psychology, Health Restoration, Lab for Nurses, and Microbiology and Microbiology Lab must be completed. The final semester consists of Composition and Readings in Science and Literature or Composition and Interpretation of Literature, Health Restoration, Lab for Nurses and Pharmacology for Nurses. Upon completion, nurses are qualified to take the NCLEX national exam that leads to licensure.

Contact:
Erie Community College-SUNY
121 Ellicott Street,
Buffalo, New York 14203-2601
(716) 851-1000

Excelsior College Nursing Program Review

Excelsior College (EC) is a private college that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is a large school with over 30,000 undergraduates and over 1,000 graduate students. There are four schools at the college, including the School of Nursing where a variety of nursing options are offered. Excelsior College focuses on the adult learner and on removing obstacles that keep these learners from moving forward in their education.

Students of all ages are accepted, including those who have just graduated from high school. The student body is diverse with the average of students at 39 years. There are also many active-duty or reserve military personnel who are enrolled at Excelsior College. In addition, over 35% of the study body consists of those who have been underrepresented in higher education.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science Degrees (Nursing AS Degree / AAS Degree)

This nursing AS/AAS degree program is designed for those who have previous experience in the healthcare field, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), paramedics, military corpsmen, physicians or physician’s assistants trained outside the United States, respiratory therapists, licensed midwives, or those who have completed at least half of the clinical nursing credit hours with a minimum grade of C for an associate or bachelor’s degree. Students must earn a total of 67 credits. General education requirements are 31 credits and nursing courses are 36 credits.

Students must complete Excelsior College’s requirements for an associate degree, as well as required nursing courses. General education requirements are a written English course, Information Literacy, a humanities course, Life Span Developmental Psychology, a Sociology course, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Mathematics. The Associate in Science degree requires six electives, and the Associate in Applied Science degree requires six electives in arts and sciences. Required nursing courses are Transition to the Registered Professional Nurse Role, Essentials of Nursing Care: Health Safety, Essentials of Nursing Care: Health Differences, Essentials of Nursing Care: Chronicity, and Essentials of Nursing Care: Reproductive Health. Other required nursing courses include Health Differences Across the Life Span 1, 2, and 3, Focused Clinical Competencies Assessment, and Clinical Performance in Nursing Examination. Upon completion, the graduate qualifies to take the NCLEX for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BS in nursing)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree requires the completion of 121 credits by the student. These are divided between general education courses totaling 61 credits and nursing courses that total 60 credits. The general education courses include six credits of written English, Information Literacy, nine credits in Humanities, and three credits in Ethics. Fifteen credits of natural sciences and math, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Sciences Supportive of Nursing, and Statistics are also required. In addition, twelve credits of arts and sciences electives must be completed. Nursing courses that are required are Professional Socialization or Professional Transitions, Health Assessment and Promotion in Nursing Practice, Research in Nursing, Teaching and Learning in a Diverse Society, Management in Nursing Examination, Community-Focused Nursing Examination, Nursing Informatics, upper level nursing elective credits, and the final course that is Capstone. After completing these courses, the student is qualified to take the NCLEX exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Online Master of Science in Nursing

RNs with a BSN may enter the Master of Science in Nursing (MS) Program at Excelsior College. The programs offered by Excelsior at the master’s level are RN to Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Clinical Systems Management, RN to Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Nursing Informatics, or RN to Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Nursing Education. Graduate nursing core courses must be completed for any of these specialties. They include Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice, Professional Role Development and Ethics, Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Health Care Delivery Systems: Political, Social, and Economic Influences, and Community Nursing: Human Diversity and Public Health. These courses complete 19 credits.

Once the core courses for the master’s program are completed, students take courses that are tailored toward their specialty. The RN who is working towards a MS in Health Care Informatics must also take Issues in Health Care Informatics and Management Information for Decision Support. RNs working towards the Management MS complete Management of Clinical Systems, Management of Fiscal and Operational Systems, and Leadership in Organizational Systems. The final phase of the program is the Capstone Experience, which is a five credit practicum. RNs studying to earn their MS in Nursing Education take similar classes with an emphasis on educating future nurses.

Online RN to Master of Science in Nursing

This program is specifically designed for RNs who have an Associate Degree in nursing who want to earn both their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MS). Students must earn 60 credits in general education, including 12 in humanities, 6 in written English, 15 in social sciences and history, 15 in natural sciences and math, and 12 in arts and sciences electives. The nursing component of the bachelor’s degree program includes 30 hours of courses. After these courses are completed, students take the NCLEX-RN for their license as Registered Nurses. The nursing courses needed for graduating with a bachelor’s degree include Management in Nursing Examination, Health Assessment and Promotion in Nursing Practice, Teaching and Learning in a Diverse Society, Professional Socialization or Professional Transitions.

Three courses count for both the BSN and MS portions of this program are Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Health Care Delivery Systems: Political, Social, and Economic Influences, and Community Nursing: Human Diversity and Public Health. The courses required for the MS portion of the degree are dependent on the specialty that the student chooses for graduate work. The options include three different master’s degree specialties in management, informatics, or nursing education. The program choices are Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Clinical Systems Management, Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Nursing Informatics, or Master of Science in Nursing Specialization in Nursing Education.

Certificate Programs

Excelsior College also offers certificates to those who already hold a graduate degree. There are two certificates available at Excelsior from which to choose. These are a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Management or a Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education. Either certificate can be earned by completing four required courses that are delivered online. Each one lasts for 15 weeks.

Contact:
Excelsior College
7 Columbia Circle,
Albany, NY 12203-5159

Farmingdale State College Nursing Program Review

Farmingdale State College (FSC), previously known as State University of New York at Farmingdale or SUNY Farmingdale, is located on Long Island, north of New York City. Both associate and bachelor’s degrees are offered at this school. Around 7,000 students are enrolled, including some international students. There are about 500 students who live on campus. This college is a campus of the State University of New York (SUNY).

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing (PN)

Farmingdale State College offers a Practical Nurse Certificate Program that prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides basic nursing services to patients in hospitals and nursing homes. They work under a RN, dentist, or doctor. It takes 12 months of study to complete the program. Students must attend classes and complete clinical experience in the morning and afternoon. Applicants to the program must be high school graduates or have their GED. They must also have completed Biology with a laboratory, Chemistry with a Laboratory, and have two mathematics classes completed, such as Algebra and Geometry, or another higher level course. They must also pass the preadmission exam for entry into the program. Completing the prerequisites does not guarantee admission to the program.

Associate in Science in Nursing

Farmingdale State College offers an Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) program that allows graduates to take the NCLEX licensure exam to become Registered Nurses. It takes two years to complete unless the student needs development courses in reading, writing, or math. Applicants must submit evidence of mental and physical health with their application. They also need to take the required immunizations to complete their clinical experience working with patients. Academic prerequisites are two units of math in high school, and one unit of Laboratory Biology and Chemistry. Applicants must also pass the RN Pre-Admission test administered at the college.

Before being admitted to the nursing program, students must complete college level Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Composition: Rhetoric, and Introductory Psychology.

Once admitted to the ASN program, students must complete 37 credits in liberal arts and sciences, including Medical Microbiology, Physiological Chemistry, Composition: Rhetoric, Composition: Literature, and Introduction to Psychology. They must also take Child Development, Introduction to Sociology or Society and Health, Oral Communications, and an elective. Nursing courses include Health Assessment, Concepts & Practice of Nursing I, II, III, and IV, Clinical Pharmacology, Transition into Nursing Practice, and Nursing Seminar. Clinical experience is also required during the two years of study.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students accepted into the program must complete 121 to 125 credits in general education and nursing courses. When applying to the program, they must submit evidence that they are in good mental and physical health. They must also have the appropriate immunizations that are necessary for working with patients. BSN students must earn 60 credits in liberal arts and sciences, including Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Medical Microbiology, Bioethics, Composition: Rhetoric, Composition: Literature, and American History and Western Civilization. Other courses that are required are Statistics, Modern Language Levels I & II, Introduction to Psychology, Child Development, Society and Health, Oral Communications, an Arts course, Humanities course, and six credits of liberal arts electives.

The nursing courses that are required total 61 to 65 credits. These are Foundations of Nursing Practice I & II, Health Assessment, Clinical and Theoretical Foundations of Baccalaureate Nursing Practice, Development Nurses’ Ways of Knowing, and The Art of Nursing. They must also take Clinical Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, Health Promotion and Patient Education, Care of Individuals Experiencing Acute Health Changes, Care of Individuals Experiencing Chronic Health Challenges, Nursing Care of Children and the Child Bearing Family, Modes of Inquiry, and Nurse as Advocate and Change Agent. The courses Care of Individuals in the community or Community and Mental Health Nursing, plus nine credits from the Nursing Practicum, Senior Leadership Practicum, and Healthcare Organizations are also required. After all of these courses are completed, the student may apply to graduation and for licensure by taking the NCLEX to become a Registered Nurse.

Contact:
Farmingdale State College
2350 Broadhollow Road,
Farmingdale, New York 11735-1021
(631) 420-2000

Finger Lakes Community College Nursing Program Review

Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) is located in the west-central section of Upstate New York. Around 7,000 students attend this college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). There are four campuses, but the Canandaigua is the main campus. The nursing program is competitive, and not all applicants are admitted to the program.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

The AAS program at Finger Lakes Community College prepares students to enter a career as Registered Nurses (RNs). After completing the program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX national exam for licensure as Registered Nurses. The college prepares students through general education courses, nursing courses and labs include an audio-visual lab and state-of-art nursing lab. Students also receive computer-assisted instruction. To qualify for admission to the AAS program, applicants must be high school graduates or have an equivalency diploma. High school Biology is recommended and Algebra and Chemistry must have been completed in high school.

Those who have not completed these courses may take them at Finger Lakes Community College before admittance to the nursing program. Applicants must pass the Basic Skills test for English and must pass a physical examination and have the proper immunizations as well. Applicants must have the physical ability to work as RNs, including heavy lifting and being on their feet for most of their working hours. They must have the coordination needed to serve several patients at one time and adequate vision and hearing. They must also meet psycho/social skills requirements, such as respecting diverse cultures, using tactful communication, and being caring and empathetic.

Those who are accepted into the program may complete it in two years, or they may elect to take summer courses if they are available. A typical schedule for the first semester includes Freshman English, Introduction to Psychology, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Fundamentals of Nursing, and a physical education activity. The second semester typically includes Introduction to Literature, Developmental Psychology, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, and Nursing Care of the Adult and Child. During the second year, students take Nursing Care of the Adult and Child II, Microbiology, and Introduction to Sociology. The fourth semester consists of Maternal-Child Health Nursing, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, Nursing Seminar, one Humanities elective, plus a general elective. Nursing students also complete hours of clinical experience to gain hands-on knowledge while working with real patients.

Accelerated Associate in Applied Science for LPNs

This program may be completed in two semesters plus one summer session. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must be licensed. They are eligible to take the Finger Lakes Community College Challenge Exam or the Excelsior College Exam, and if they pass this test they may receive six credits for their knowledge gained while working as an LPN. The curriculum for this program typically includes Nursing Process, Nursing Care of the Adult and Child I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Development Psychology, and Introduction to Literature during the first semester. The summer session is made of two sessions.

During the first session, students complete Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, and in the second summer session, they take one Humanities elective, a General elective, and a Physical Education activity class. The fall semester then requires that Nursing Care of the Adult and Child II, Nursing Seminar, Microbiology, and Introduction to Sociology are completed. The final semester in the spring requires that Maternal-Child Nursing is completed. There is also clinical experience built into the program throughout the time that students are enrolled in Finger Lakes Community College. Students are eligible to graduate with their AAS and to take the NCLEX to gain licensure as Registered Nurses when all courses and clinical experience are completed.

Contact:
Finger Lakes Community College
3325 Marvin Sands Drive,
Canandaigua, New York 14424
(585) 394-FLCC

Finger Lakes Health- Geneva General Hospital Nursing Program Review

Finger Lakes Regional Health Care System (FLHSA)/Geneva General Hospital (GGH) is a nursing school that offers several programs that train nurses to work in the health care field. The school has a Certified Nursing Assistant program, a Licensed Practical Nursing program, and an Associate Degree nursing program. The College of Nursing offers day and evening and weekend class schedules to accommodate adult learners who want to continue their education.

Nursing Programs

RN Program – Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS)

The Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS) offered at the College of Nursing prepares students to enter a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). During the two year program, students have extensive hands-on experience with 675 hours of clinical practice. The ultra-modern nursing lab allows students to have virtual experiences to develop their clinical skills. The College of Nursing at Geneva General Hospital works in collaboration with Finger Lakes Community College. All liberal arts and science courses are taught by the community college’s faculty.

Admission to the College of Nursing is competitive. Applicants must be high school graduates or have their GED. They also must have earned at least a C in biology, chemistry, and two years of math including algebra in high school. Applicants who did not take these in high school may take them at Finger Lakes Community College, but they must be completed before applying for admission to the AAS program. Applicants must have current immunizations and be certified in CPR.

Those accepted into the program earn 68 credits, including 38 in nursing courses and 30 in liberal arts and sciences. During the two year program, students take Anatomy & Physiology I with a Lab, Introduction to Psychology, Freshman English, Nursing Science I, and Nursing Technology the first semester. During the second semester, Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab, Developmental Psychology, and Nursing Science II are completed. The second year, first semester consists of Microbiology, Introductory Sociology, and Nursing Science III. In the final semester of the program, students take Introduction to Literature, Ethics, Nursing Science IV, and Nursing as a Profession. After completing these courses, they may apply for licensure and take the NCLEX national exam.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program

Students must be high school graduates or have their GED to be admitted to the LPN program at Geneva General Hospital. They must have successfully completed a General Biology course, passed the English Pre-Placement Test, and have satisfactory references. Applicants are required to write a personal essay explaining why they want to enter the LPN program. In addition, they must have a satisfactory physical examination including the required immunizations. The LPN program takes 50 weeks to complete and it begins each September.

The curriculum consists of three trimesters. During the first trimester, Nursing I, Fundamentals of Nursing, Anatomy & Physiology I, and Freshman English I are taken. The second trimester consists of Nursing II, Anatomy & Physiology II, and Introduction to Psychology. The final trimester consists of Nursing III, English II, and Developmental Psychology. Students must maintain at least a C in all classes. Upon completion, graduates may take the NCLEX-LPN to obtain their license as Licensed Practical Nurses.

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Program

The Certified Nurse Assistant course at the College of Nursing includes classroom instruction plus supervised clinical experience. There 153 hours of training required, including classroom, lab practice, and supervised clinical hours. Upon graduation, students may apply for their certification as Certified Nurse Assistants.

Contact:
Finger Lakes Regional Health Care System/Geneva General Hospital
196 North Street,
Geneva, New York 14456
(315) 787-4000

Genesee Community College Nursing Program Review

Genesee Community College (GCC) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is located in northwestern New York State in a rural area. With just over 7,000 students enrolled in classes. This college offers over 50 programs that lead to either an associate’s degree or to certificates.

Nursing Program

Associate Degree in Applied Science

Genesee Community College offers an Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS) nurse training program to prepare graduates to enter the workforce. After completing the two-year program, graduates are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN national exam that qualifies them for licensure as Registered Nurses. Students are required to complete all of the general education courses required for an associate degree as well as courses that are specific to the nursing degree. The total amount of credits required is 71 credits. Graduates of the AAS program are prepared to transfer to a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program if they want to continue their education.

General education courses that nursing students take over the two-year period are General Psychology, Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan, and Introductory Sociology. They must also take English Communications 1 and 2. The Math and Science courses that are required are Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology 2, Pharmacology, and Microbiology. Nursing Courses are simply called Nursing 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. One of these is taken each semester. Other nursing courses are Leadership 1 and 2. Specific topics related to caring for adult and pediatric patients are covered in the nursing courses. Students are also required to spend many hours completing clinical experience hours taking care of patients and learning various procedures that they will need to perform independently as RNs.

LPN to RN Program (Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse)

This program is designed to allow a Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) to earn their RN degree. The students in this program must complete all of the general education and nursing courses that all students must take, except that if they pass the exam that is given by Genesee Community College, they may receive credit for Biology and two introductory nursing courses. The exam covers topics that LPNs studied while obtaining their license as well as general nursing knowledge that they have gained in their work as LPNs. Students must take English Communications 1 and 2, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan, Introductory Sociology, Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and nursing courses. The nursing courses are PN to RN Transition, Intro to ADN, Nursing 3, Leadership 1, Nursing 4, Leadership 2, and Nursing 5. This totals 57 credits. If an LPN does not opt out of courses from passing the preliminary test, 76 credits are required. Upon graduation, students may apply to take the NCLEX national exam for licensure.

Before students are allowed to graduate, they must score at least 80 percent on the class related to dosage calculation. In addition, students must pass a dosage calculation exam. Prerequisites for entering the nursing program at Genesee Community College are that the applicant must be in good physical and mental health. He or she must also have current immunizations and be certified in CPR. Nursing students must also attend a class on child abuse and infection control. Before students begin their clinical experience, they must have a drug and alcohol screening at their own expense. A positive test result may cause the student to be dismissed from the nursing program. In addition, anyone who has a case pending for a felony or misdemeanor offence or who has been convicted of these may not be granted their RN licensure by the State of New York. All nursing students must carry malpractice insurance that is purchased through Genesee Community College.

Contact:
Genesee Community College – SUNY
College Road
Batavia, NY 14020
(585) 343-0055

Hartwick College Nursing Program Review

Hartwick College (HC) is a private, four-year liberal arts and sciences college. It is non-denominational and has been in existence since 1797. Classes at the college are very small with a student-faculty radio of 11:1. There is a diverse student population of only 1,500 students that originate from 30 different states and 22 countries. There are several options that students may elect to take to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Although the college is located in a rural setting, clinical experience requires many hours of hands-on work in hospitals in nearby large city areas.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Hartwick College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students may complete the program in the standard way by working for four years on their baccalaureate degree, or they may take the Accelerated 18 Month Program. The college also offers an Accelerated Summer Program. Students are expected to be high school graduates who have completed four years of English, three years of a modern or classical foreign language, three years of math, two years of laboratory science plus one additional science, two years of history, and two years of social science. SAT or ACT scores are required for nursing majors. A visit to the Hartwick campus and interview with an admissions officer is not required, but is highly recommended.

Prerequisite and co-requisite courses for nursing students include Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Basic Microbiology, Fundamentals of General Organic and Biological Chemistry, Developmental Psychology, one Sociology course, Statistics, Physical Assessment, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology. The courses in the nursing major that are required are Fundamentals of Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing I, Women’s Reproductive Health, Medical-Surgical Nursing II, and Rural Health. In addition, BSN students must take Transcultural Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing, Psychosocial Nursing, Community Health, Trends & Issues in Professional Nursing, Nursing Research, Leadership & Management, Thesis, and Independent Practicum. After completing all of the coursework, students are eligible for graduation and to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Accelerated Summer Program

Hartwick College offers an accelerated summer program for students who have begun studying in another major and want to switch to the nursing program. It is also appropriate for transfer students who have some college credits from another college, but are not yet nurses. In addition, those who want to have nursing as a second degree can benefit from this program. The advantage of the Accelerated Summer Program is that the BSN program can be completed in three years rather than four years. Students in the program take courses for the first two summers of the program. It is required that prerequisite courses have been completed before entering this program.

Accelerated 18 Month Program

This program is designed for those who have a baccalaureate degree in another discipline, or those who have a substantial amount of credits already completed on the college level. Students entering this program must have completed all prerequisite and general education requirements needed for the BSN at Hartwick College. Those admitted to this program must have a 3.0 grade point average in previously earned college credits. They must also meet the health requirements of the program and have a CPR certificate before beginning the courses. Students must carry a heavy course load in three semesters to complete this program. After 18 months and successfully completing all required courses, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.

RN Mobility Program

Hartwick College accepts RNs who have associate degrees or who have earned a nursing diploma as candidates for a bachelor’s degree. RNs may receive credit for many of the courses that they completed for their associate degree, proving an advanced standing in the course. Students may attend classes either full-time or part-time while working towards their bachelor’s degree.

Rural Health Nursing

This experience in nursing is comprised of the Rural Health Nursing course. It lasts for four weeks and is designed to allow students to see the differences in the rural culture and how the beliefs of this group affect the health of the farmers and others who live in a rural setting. The course includes clinical experience in many settings, including homeless shelters, soup kitchens, home health care visits, and a farm where they will see the health issues that may affect those living on farms.

Transcultural Nursing

Nursing students who would like to experience life in Jamaica or the West Indies may take the Transcultural Nursing course. The focus of this course is for students to see how the culture and beliefs of a group of people affects their health. Clinical experience includes vising hospitals and clinics and teaching health at preschools.

Contact:
Hartwick College
One Hartwick College Drive,
Oneonta, New York 13820
(607) 431-4000

Helene Fuld College of Nursing Review

Helene Fuld College of Nursing (HFCN) is a private college located in Central Harlem in New York City. All classes are taught on campus, including liberal arts and science courses and nursing courses. There are about 400 students who attend this college full-time or part-time. This College of Nursing provides opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses to step up to become RNs who have an Associate Degree.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

Helene Fuld College offers a nursing program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Requirements for admission to the college include never having been charged or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor in any state or country. Also, applicants should not have been required to surrender their license for professional misconduct or have any charges pending against them for this offense.

Admission requirements to the program are that the applicant must be a high school graduate or have a GED, should be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen, and must be a current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with at least one year’s experience. Also, the applicant must take reading comprehension, mathematics, and basic nursing skills tests administered by computer and score satisfactory percentages on all of these. The college also requires a writing entrance exam, and the applicant must be proficient in writing to enter the program. In addition, three references are required. Students must complete an introductory course in Selected Topics in Chemistry and Mathematics at the college. It is also an option to pass a challenge exam in these areas to bypass this course. Applicants must have the necessary physical and mental ability to handle to job of being an RN, including clear speech, visual and auditory acuity, a sense of smell that is able to detect changes in odors, and a sense of touch that is needed for nursing. They must also be physically able to lift patients and to do a variety of lifting and other physical work.

The AAS program takes one year of full-time studies to complete. The year is divided into quarters. Students take Selected Topics in Chemistry and Math, Anatomy and Physiology I, Medical-Surgical Nursing I, Introduction to Psychology, and English I during the first quarter. The second quarter consists of Anatomy & Physiology II, Psychiatric-Community Mental Health Nursing, Human Development, and English II. During the third quarter, students must complete Anatomy & Physiology III, Parent-Child Health Nursing, and Introduction to Sociology. The fourth quarter consists of Microbiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing II, and Professional Foundations. There are also hours of clinical experience that are required before a student qualifies to graduate and to take the NCLEX-RN. Clinical experience is completed in a variety of settings that provide experience in psychiatrics, obstetrics, adult and pediatric care, and other nursing care. Students may also elect to complete the RN program over a period of two years. This requires taking classes year-round at a lighter course load.

All students must maintain a minimum 2.4 grade point average for all of their classes. Students must complete 36 quarter-credits in nursing at Helene Fuld College and 42 quarter-credits in specified general education courses. Students who would like to continue their education and earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing may transfer their AAS credits from Helene Fuld College to many other four-year colleges in New York.

Contact:
Helene Fuld College of Nursing
24 East 120^th Street
New York, New York 10035
(212) 616-7200

Hudson Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) is located in Troy, which is in the eastern part of New York State near the Vermont and Massachusetts borders. HVCC is affiliated with  the State University of New York (SUNY) network.  This large suburban college has over 13,000 undergraduate students, including some from 30 different countries. The college offers over 70 degree and certificate programs including nursing.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

Hudson Valley Community College uses a selective process to admit students to its Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program. Students must complete general academic subjects for an associate degree plus courses that are required for the nursing major. The goal of the program is to prepare nurses to enter the workforce as RNs after graduation. Clinical experience is a large portion of the program and takes place in hospitals, health and educational facilities, and extended-care facilities. The college offers a full-time day program or a part-time evening program. The full-time program can be completed in two years, but it takes four years to complete the part-time program.

Admission requirements include a high school diploma with a 75 or above high school average for Regents Diploma or 85 or above for a Non-Regents Diploma. Student should have completed Math I, Algebra, and Biology and Chemistry with labs at 75 or above for Regents or 85 or above for Non-Regents. High school Physics is also preferred. Students should have a B in non-credit bearing courses and at least a C in credit bearing math and science classes. Once students are accepted into the nursing program at Hudson Valley, full-time students take Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, Orientation, Nursing I, and Bridging Education and Practice Simulation for a total of 16 credits. The second term requires that they take Anatomy and Physiology II, Composition II, Nursing II, Bridging Education and Practice Simulation II, and Developmental Psychology. This amounts to 17 credits. During the second year of nursing, the first term is comprised of Nursing III, Bridging Education and Practice Simulation III, Abnormal Psychology, and a Social Science elective, totaling 17 credits. The final term requires that Nursing IV, Bridging Education and Practice Simulation IV, and a Humanities elective must be taken. There are also many hours of clinical experience that are required during the two years of study.

The four year curriculum for part-time students includes Composition I and a Social Science Elective during the first term, Composition II and a Humanities elective during the second term, and Microbiology and Anatomy and Physiology I during the third term. The fourth term requires that Anatomy and Physiology II and Developmental Psychology. During the fifth term, students take Orientation, Nursing I, Bridging Education and Practice Simulation I, and Abnormal Psychology. In the sixth term, students take Nursing II and Bridging Education and Practice Simulation II. The final year requires that students complete Nursing III and Bridging Education and Practice Simulation III the first term and Nursing IV and Bridging Education and Practice Simulation IV during their final term. When the program is completed on either a full-time or part-time basis, students may graduate and take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Contact:
Hudson Valley Community College
80 Vandenburgh Avenue,
Troy, New York 12180-6096
(877) 325-4822

Hunter College Nursing Program Review

Hunter College (HC) is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) and is located in Manhattan on the Upper East Side. The college has over 100 fields of study and six schools including The School of Nursing. There are several nursing degrees offered for undergraduate and graduate students at this large, prestigious nursing program. The School of Nursing is on the Brookdale Campus on 25^th Street at 1^st Avenue near the Veterans Administration Hospital, New York University Medical Center, and Bellevue Hospital.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is offered at Hunter College of Nursing. It is called the Generic Pathway and is for undergraduate students. When the program has been completed, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX national exam for licensure as a Registered Nurse. If students want to continue their education and earn their Master’s Degree in Nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) coursework prepares them to do this. Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Each year, 100 students are admitted, but they are not guaranteed a seat into the program. Students must have a very high grade point average and score on the Pre-RN exam to be considered for admittance to the program. Those admitted to the program must have health insurance, liability insurance, a CPR certificate, and medical and immunization records that are current. Students must also have malpractice insurance and are usually required to have criminal background checks.

It takes 120 credits to earn the BSN and a minimum grade of C must be earned in all classes. General education requirements must be finished before admittance to the nursing program. They are called Lower Division courses. These are Chemistry 120 and 121, Biology 120, Biology 122, and Biology 230. Students then begin their studies by taking English Composition, Quantitative Reasoning, U.S. History, Literature in English, a Humanities elective, Visual & Performance Arts, Chemistry and Lab, and Biology. Other required general education requirements are Biology 230, and Pluralism and Diversity courses. Once students have completed these courses, they may apply to the Upper Division courses.

Students who apply to the College of Nursing must be matriculated undergraduate students at Hunter College, and they must have at least a 3.0 grade point average. Students who are admitted usually have a grade point average of 3.5. Students must have completed at least 60 credits before beginning the Upper Division courses. In addition, students must have U.S. citizenship, and must be permanent residents, or have been granted some type of refugee status.

Students accepted into the Upper Division must attend classes full-time. They take Introduction to Nursing, Nursing 1, and Essentials of Pharmacology during the first semester. During the second semester, Nursing 2, Nutrition in the Nursing Process and Nursing Research must be taken. The third semester requires that Nursing 3, and two nursing electives are taken. In the final semester, Nursing 4, Nursing Management and Leadership, and Nursing and Society are taken.

Accelerated Second-Degree Pathway (A2DP)

This Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is for students who have a non-nursing baccalaureate degree. It consists of 50 credits that are earned over 16 months of full-time study. Students may take the NCLEX, the national exam that is required for licensure as a Registered Nurse after completing the program. Prerequisite courses include General Chemistry with lab, Organic Chemistry with lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Introduction to Statistics, Microbiology, English Composition, General Psychology, and Developmental Psychology of the Life Span. Students who are admitted to the nursing program take Introduction to Nursing, Nursing 1, and Pharmacology the first quarter. They take Nursing Nutrition the second quarter, and Nursing 2, Pathophysiology, and Nursing Research & Theory the third quarter. In the summer quarter, students then take Nursing 3. Their final quarter is in the fall when they take Nursing 4 and Leadership and Systems.

The RN Pathway (RN-BSN)

Students admitted to this program must be a practicing RN in New York State. Students may be given credit for some of their previous nursing courses, and they must complete all of the required Lower Division general academic courses before being admitted to the Upper Division nursing courses. Students must complete two years or four semesters in the Upper Division and take Nursing and Societal Forces and Nursing Culturally Diverse Families during the first semester. The second semester, they take Health Assessment Throughout the Lifespan and a nursing elective. Third semester requires Nursing Research & Theory and Promotion of Wellness in the community. The last semester, students take Advancement of Roles & Relationships in professional nursing, and two nursing electives.

Nursing students in the Upper Division also spend a significant amount of hours on clinical experience. They work in many different types of health care to gain experience with pediatric and adult care, as well as psychiatric and other specialties.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

Hunter College offers a wide variety of specialty choices for RNs who already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and who want to advance their nursing careers by specializing in a particular patient care area. Programs take up to five years to complete and consist of around 42 credits in graduate-level courses. Since most RNs are working during the day, most classes are held on weekends or in the evening. One of these is the Adult Nurse Practitioner program that prepares nurses to deliver primary care for adults. These specialty RNs work in community health centers, clinics, hospitals, wellness centers, and other locations within the community. Another graduate-level specialty is Adult Health Nursing/Clinical Nurse Specialist. The focus of this program is to educate students in caring for patients in medical and surgical specialties. Graduates from the program will be prepared to work in acute care or other specialty nursing services, mostly in hospitals.

The master’s level program entitled Clinical Nurse Leader is a program that prepares RNs with a BSN to move into management roles that carry heavy responsibilities. After graduation, they will be able to manage floors or departments in hospitals or to work for government agencies or corporations that need a nurse leader. This program of study offers a clinical practicum at the RNs current place of employment. RNs who have graduated from this program are considered advanced generalists in nursing.

Another choice of Master of Science (MS) degrees for those with a BSN is the Community/Public Health Nursing degree. This course of study prepares RNs to work in public health and community-based agencies. Students may also opt to earn a dual degree which consists of a Masters in Nursing and a Masters in Public Health. A similar degree offering is the Community/Public Health Nursing/Urban Public Health program. These two dual degree programs require 57 credits of courses before graduation.

Hunter College offers three other MS programs for nurses, including the Gerontological/Adult Nurse Practitioner program that prepares RNs to work with older adults in a variety of settings. Students in this program learn about wellness and illness in adults of all ages. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing/Nurse Practitioner program presents advance practice methods for RNs who work in psychiatric centers or who provide primary care for the mentally ill. Another MS program is Nursing Administration/Public Administration. The focus of this program is to prepare RNs to assume leadership roles in a variety of health care settings.

Post Master’s Degree Certificates

Many times it is helpful to have more than one master’s degree. An RN who would like to add on another master’s degree to the Master of Science (MS) in nursing that they already have may want to complete one of Hunter College’s post master’s degree certificates. With these degrees, it is not necessary to start at the beginning by taking all of the courses required for someone without a master’s degree. A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate can be earned by taking classes part-time. It usually takes from three to five semesters to earn the 15 to 24 credits needed for a post master’s certificate. Hunter College also offers a Post-Master’s Advance Certificate in Nursing Education .This program consists of four courses and typically takes four semesters to complete. One of them is a 135 hour of practice teaching.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program consists of 90 credits and 1,000 hours of clinical experience that are earned over a period of four years. Full-time study is required to complete the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Those accepted into the program must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on their undergraduate studies. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is also required, and applicants must have a minimum score of 1200 on math and English combined. The City University of New York (CUNY) also offers a doctoral program for nurses with a MS degree who want to continue their studies. This particular program leads to a Nursing Science (DNS) degree. It is designed to train nurses to be leaders in nursing in many healthcare settings.

Contact:
Hunter College-CUNY
695 Park Avenue,
New York, New York 10065
(212) 772-4000

Jamestown Community College SUNY Nursing Program Review

Jamestown Community College (JCC) is part of the SUNY system of schools located in the southwestern part of New York State. The school has an open admission policy. There are over 4,000 students enrolled in the college. Three other campuses are in New York and in Pennsylvania. Jamestown offers degree and certificate programs in various fields, including an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science

Jamestown Community College offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) nursing degree that prepares students for a career as a professional Registered Nurse (RN). Students receive a wide variety of classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience in a variety of settings to prepare them for this career. Students must complete the general academic requirements for an associate degree as well as the specific nursing courses that are related to the AAS. A total of 71 credits must be completed. After graduation, the student is qualified to take the NCLEX exam which is the national licensure exam required to be a Registered Nurse.

Admission requirements to the nursing program include being a high school graduate or having earned a GED. The SAT and ACT tests are not required. Students must take a placement test and pass all sections of English and Math. If developmental courses are required in these areas, the student is able to take them at Jamestown Community College. Students who have not completed college preparatory classes in high school may also take these at the college level.

Students must take Humanities, English Composition II, an English elective, two Social Sciences classes, General Psychology I, and Life Span Development as part of the required non-nursing courses. Seventeen credits of mathematics and sciences must also be completed, as well as Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Nutrition, and Problem Solving with Mathematics. These general requirement courses equal 29 credits. Core nursing courses are 40 credits and include Basic Pharmacology & Dosage Calculations, Foundations of Nursing, Health Restoration, Pharmacology for Nurses, Health Restoration and Maintenance I & II, Pathophysiology I & II, and Health Assessment. Two electives are also required to be taken. Students complete many hours of clinical experience at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. They gain experience in adult and pediatric care, obstetrics, psychiatric and mental health, and in other areas that they may work in after graduation.

The outcomes expected after a student has completed the nursing program are that he or she will be able to identify nursing diagnoses and demonstrate appropriate care of patients based on current nursing standards. The graduate will also be able to use effective communication in health assessments and nursing care. Also, the graduate will be able to use pharmacological principles when administering medication to patients. With a caring and compassionate attitude, graduates will be able to care for a wide variety of culturally diverse patients. RNs will also act as leaders and work with the medical team in a way that is ethical and acceptable nursing care.

Contact:
Jamestown Community College – SUNY
525 Falconer Street
Jamestown, New York 14702
(716) 338-1000

Jefferson Community College NY Nursing Program Review

Jefferson Community College (JCC) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). There are almost 4,000 students who attend this college. It is a two-year college that offers numerous degree and certificate programs, including nursing. There are two nursing programs. They are the weekday nursing program for full-time students and the Weekend Nursing Scholar Program for part-time students. Both of the programs take two years to complete. After graduation, students may transfer to one of the SUNY four-year programs to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or to another college to earn a higher degree.

Nursing Program

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Jefferson Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science nursing program that is a two-year program. The program prepares students to enter nursing upon graduation as Registered Nurses (RNs) who are able to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other facilities. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX which is the test for RN licensure. Over 90 percent of Jefferson Community College’s RN graduates passed this test on their first attempt in past years, so this school is rated one of the best in the state. Students interested in the RN program should submit their application and required documents as soon as possible because the number of students admitted is limited.

Students must be admitted to Jefferson Community College and also apply to the nursing program for admission with a separate application. Applicants must be high school graduates or have a GED. They must also have scored a C or better in high school biology and chemistry in the past 7 years. They may also have taken biology and chemistry in college and earned a C or better. In addition, applicants must have minimum math prerequisites or take a math placement test at Jefferson and score at the college readiness level. They must also take an English test and score at the college entry level. Applicants must have proof of immunizations and a health evaluation that is submitted with their application. Also, a CPR certificate is required before admittance to the nursing program. All prerequisite courses must be completed before being admitted to the nursing courses.

Required nursing courses equal 39 credit hours. They are Nursing 1 (Basic Needs), Maternal & Newborn Health, Medical/Surgical 1, Pharmacology, Interruption in Basic Needs: Acute/Chronic, Interruption in Basic Needs: Psycho/Social, Interruption in Basic Needs: Complex, and Nursing 5 (Nursing Practice Seminar). Students also complete many hours of clinical experience during the time that these courses are taken. Courses that must be taken to meet science requirements are Microbiology, and Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2. Students must also meet the college’s requirements for humanities and social science. These are the courses Research and Composition, Literature and Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Life Span Development, and a Social Science elective. Students must also take a physical education course. All of the required courses add up to a total of 68 credits that are necessary for graduation. In addition, students must attain 100 percent competency in medication calculation.

LPN to RN

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may earn enter the program with advanced standing by passing an Excelsior College Examination and a clinical examination by the nursing department. If the applicant passes the Excelsior College Fundamentals of Nursing Exam, the LPN may then opt out of beginning level RN courses at Jefferson Community College.

Contact:
Jefferson Community College – SUNY
1220 Coffeen Street,
Watertown, New York 13601
(888) 435-6522

Keuka College Nursing Program Review

Keuka College (KC) is located in a rural area in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. It is a four-year residential independent college with a low student-faculty radio of 14:1. Around 2,000 students are enrolled at Keuka. There is an undergraduate and a graduate nursing program available at Keuka.

The undergraduate nursing program is only for Registered Nurses (RNs) who already have an associate degree in nursing, and not for students who have not yet earned a degree in nursing. The courses are offered at various hospitals and medical centers in New York so that working RNs do not need to travel to Keuka Park for classes.

Nursing Programs

RN to BSN Program (Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing)

This nursing program is designed for adults who are Registered Nurses (RNs) with work experience in the nursing profession. Most of the courses in the program are related to the RNs current workload and patient care. Those admitted to the program must have an associate degree and want to advance their careers in their profession. By obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing, the RN is qualified to work in management positions in hospitals, clinics, and in public health facilities. After graduating from this program, RNs are ready to work in community health, military health, and in acute care, specialties, outpatient medicine, and other areas of healthcare.

Keuka College offers the courses for the Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) nursing program in many different locations around New York State. Some of these are Rochester General Hospital in Rochester, St. Joseph’s College of nursing in Syracuse, and United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. There are many more locations as well. RNs must complete the curriculum of 13 courses that amount to 34 credits. Classes meet one weeknight each week for four hours. It is also required that students spend around 5 to 8 extra hours outside of class for completing case studies, assignments, group work, online discussions, and to complete readings. The required nursing courses are Integrative Studies II: Adult Learning Theory and Practice, Nursing History, Professional Development, Nursing Research, Health Assessment, Genetics in Nursing, and Family Health Nursing. Other required courses are Epidemiology, Community Health Nursing, Business Planning for Health Care, Nursing Leadership, Professional Practice Issues, and Senior Field Period.

Master of Science (MS) in Nursing

The Master of Science (MS) degree in nursing offered at Keuka College is focused on preparing graduate-level nurses to teach nursing courses to others. There is currently a shortage of nurse educators in the U.S. Students develop instruction plans, evaluate ways of assessing learning needs, and complete courses in this specialty learning program. The locations where courses are offered are in Elmira at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center, in Victor at the FLCC-Victor Campus Center, in Syracuse at the Onondaga Community College, and in Binghamton at Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital.

Twelve courses totaling 37 credits are required to earn this degree. Students meet one weeknight each week for four hours. An additional 8 to 12 hours are required for reading and to complete assignments, group work, online discussions, and case studies. The courses are Issues and Trends in Leadership and Management I, Nursing Theory and Research, Advanced Health Assessment, Nursing Informatics, Issues and Trends in Leadership and Management II, and Advanced Pathophysiology/Pharmacology I and II. The other required courses are Philosophy and Theories of Teaching and Learning, Teaching and Learning Environments and Governance, Teaching and Learning Methods, Education Internship, and Professional Seminar/Capstone. Once the 37 credits are earned and clinical experience has been completed, the student may graduate and receive a Master of Science (MS) in Nursing. Those with this level of education are often able to find jobs teaching at community colleges or nursing schools.

Contact:
Keuka College
141 Central Avenue,
Keuka Park, New York 14478
(315) 279-5000

Kingsborough Community College Nursing Program Review

Kingsborough Community College (KBCC, KCC) is located in Brooklyn, which is a borough of New York City. This college is Brooklyn’s only community college. It is part of the City University of New York (CUNY). Over 38,000 students attend this college. The student body is very diverse with students from over 100 countries who speak more than 65 languages. A large percentage of students who attend Kingsborough continue their education after graduation to earn a bachelor’s degree. The campus is located on the Atlantic Ocean and Jamaica Bay and Sheepshead Bay on 71 acres.

Nursing Program

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Applicants to the nursing program at Kingsborough Community College must first be admitted to the college and then complete prerequisite courses before being considered for the nursing program. Kingsborough has open admission to the general college courses, but the nursing program is selective due to the large number of applications received each year. To be admitted to the college, applicants must be high school graduates or must have their GED diploma. There is an application fee that must be sent to the Admissions Office along with proof of immunizations. Because there are many immigrants and foreign students in New York, proof of immigration status is required for non-citizens of the United States.

New students at Kingsborough must take placement tests to determine whether or not remedial courses are required in math or English. Students must have basic skills equivalent to a beginning college level before going to the next step in their education, which is to complete the Pre-Clinical Component of the nursing program. These courses consist of English, Psychology, Biology, and another Science course. A grade point average of 2.5 in these four courses, plus a B in one of the two science courses must be earned to be considered for the nursing program. In addition, students need to take and pass the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission RN examination (PAX-RN) before being admitted to the nursing program.

Applicants also need to pass the CUNY Assessment test or meet all requirements for the ACT in Reading and Writing and for Mathematics developmental coursework. Admittance to the nursing program depends on the space available, as well as the applicant’s Pre-Clinical course average and scores from the PAX-RN. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have the opportunity to be assigned to Advanced Placement for Licensed Practical Nurses. They may receive credit for several courses by passing the National League for Nursing Accelerated Challenge Exam (ACE).

Students in the nursing program are expected to be of good moral character. Students must have criminal background checks and may not be granted licensure as a Registered Nurse if he or she has been convicted of a felony or other crime. Kingsborough does not require criminal background checks as an admission requirement, but the clinical sites where nursing students gain their clinical experience usually do require these before students are allowed near patients. If a student is dismissed from a clinical site because of a failed background check, they are also dropped from the nursing program.

Before starting clinical experience, nursing students must also have physical examinations and all immunizations that are required. They must be physically and mentally healthy without any addiction to drugs, alcohol, or behavior altering substances. Students must be able to lift, push, bend, stand, and walk for many hours during the day during their clinical experience, and they will also be required to do this during their careers as Registered Nurses. Students must also carry malpractice insurance that may be purchased from the college. In addition, they must have CPR certification. It is also required that students pass the Drug Calculation Test, which is part of the course Drug Calculation in Nursing, with a minimum score of 80 percent.

Completing the nursing program at Kingsborough Community College takes five semesters, which is less than many colleges require for an AAS in Nursing. However, the Pre-Clinical courses must be taken into account, and completing these takes at least one full semester. Students who require remedial courses may need to take two or three courses to complete these as well. Once a student is taking nursing courses, there is a summer session that is also required. After completing all nursing courses and clinical experience work, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that is required for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Attending Kingsborough Community College provides the unique opportunity for students in the nursing program to live and attend school in New York City. Although there are not housing facilities on the campus, students can choose to live in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, or in any other area of the city. Transportation is easy with the subway system stopping close to the college. Another advantage of attending this community college is that there are many hospitals and healthcare facilities in this very large city. This enables students to have a wide variety of clinical experiences to prepare them for their career. If a student wants to continue his or her education, it is easy to transfer to another CUNY college that offers a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Kingsborough Community College offers child care facilities for those with young children. This service makes it possible for many women to enroll in the college who would not ordinarily be able to do so. The cost of tuition is low, and most students qualify for some financial aid, depending on their income. Another way that the college makes earning a degree possible for many students is through the student tutoring that is offered. This is helpful to students who are completing their pre-nursing or remedial coursework. Once a student in enrolled in the nursing program, he or she may request help from faculty members. Nursing students are expected to spend time after class in labs to practice skills that will be needed in their career.

Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

Kingsborough also offers a Certified Nurse Aide program that requires 96 classroom hours and 30 hours of supervised clinical experience. CNAs assist RNs and LPNs with direct patient care. After completion of this program, students qualify to take the New York State Certified Nurse Aide examination.

Contact:
Kingsborough Community College-CUNY
2001 Oriental Boulevard,
Brooklyn, New York 11235-2398
(718) 265-5343

LaGuardia Community College Nursing Program Review

LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC, LGCC, LCC) is one of the City University of New York (CUNY) colleges. It was voted as Number One in the Top Three large community colleges in the U.S. in a national survey. Over 50 associate degree programs are offered at LaGuardia, including nursing. LaGuardia Community College is a large school with over 17,000 students enrolled. Many students choose this school because of their very low tuition fees. Many students complete the first two years of their education at this school for economic reasons and then complete their bachelor’s degree at one of the other CUNY schools.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

LaGuardia offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing that requires 66 credits before graduation. Nursing courses are offered only in the day, and semesters last for 12 weeks. The actual nursing program requires that four 12-week semesters must be completed. Before entering the nursing program, students must first complete the general education and prerequisite courses. All students are admitted to LaGuardia Community College must have a high school diploma or GED diploma. Students from other countries must submit proof of secondary education equivalent to a high school diploma.

Applicants must complete assessment and placement tests in Basic English and math skills unless they have attained a minimum score of 480 on the SAT exam or 20 or higher on the ACT. Graduates from New York who have a New York State Regents diploma and have an average of at least 75 percent in English are also exempt from the English portion of the test. Those who have an average of at least 75 percent in Algebra, Geometry or Algebra 2 and Trigonometry are also exempt from this testing.

If an applicant to the college needs to improve his or her basic skills, this may be accomplished through remedial courses at the college. Proof of required immunizations must also be submitted at this time. Also, if students have not taken Introductory Chemistry and other college prep classes in high school, these may be taken at LaGuardia too. Before being considered for admittance to the nursing program, students must complete Biochemistry, Human Biology, Microbiology, English, Psychology, and Medical Dose Calculations at LaGuardia Community College. Students must maintain minimum grades in these courses and then may apply to the nursing program.

CUNY community colleges, like LaGuardia, are known for providing peer tutors and many other sources of help to students who need support while completing any pre-nursing courses. One of the unique offerings at LaGuardia to help students get a head start on their college studies is the First-Year Institute. Students can get a strong start to their college education by taking a basic skills course, receive tutoring, and meet with counselors at no cost. Once a student has begun courses, there are other helpful programs that offer academic support, such as the Bridges to the Future Program. Minority students have a chance to gain research experience in science, math, or computer science through this program. Those who hope to qualify for the nursing program may take advantage of the help that they can get in completing their preliminary studies.

Another program is the College Discovery Program that is offered at CUNY community colleges. This program provides tutorial services and financial aid stipends to students for educational expenses. It also consists of counseling and remedial instruction for students who need an extra boost to their studies. Students must have resided in New York City (NYC) for at least one year to qualify for this program. The CUNY COPE Program is designed for students who receive public assistance. Tutoring, child care, and help with transportation to LaGuardia are benefits of this program. When a student graduates, job placement is also part of the program. LaGuardia Community College also has enrichment programs, such as Study Abroad Program, Enriched Off-Campus Summer Programs, and others. Nursing students do not qualify for these programs due to the heavy course schedule that they carry and the summer semester that is required for completing core nursing courses and clinical experience.

Also, if students have not taken Introductory Chemistry and other college prep classes in high school, these may be taken at LaGuardia too. Before being considered for admittance to the nursing program, students must complete Biochemistry, Human Biology, Microbiology, English, Psychology, and Medical Dose Calculations at LaGuardia Community College. Students must maintain minimum grades in these courses and then may apply to the nursing program. Once all of the prerequisite courses are completed and students have been accepted into the nursing program, there are 33 credits that must be earned in sequential order. During this time, students also complete their clinical experience. They may then apply for licensure and take the NCLEX national exam to become a licensed RN.

Practical Nursing Certificate Program

LaGuardia Community College also offers a Practical Nursing Certificate Program. It requires that students earn 48 credits. This is usually accomplished in a one year period. Students must meet the same requirements for U.S. residency as those applying to the RN program. During the Pre-Clinical Phase, students must complete Composition I, Psychology, Mathematics of Medical Dosages, Human Biology I & II and maintain a 2.5 or better grade point average in these courses. When students begin the Practical Nursing segment of their studies, they must take a Fall I, Fall II, and Spring I sessions of courses. This is a full-time program that requires 30 to 40 hours each week in class or studying. Graduates are then ready to take the national exam, the NCLEX-PN to become certified as Practical Nurses.

One advantage to completing this program is that Licensed Practical Nurses may take the New York State PN-RN Transition Course to meet all admission criteria of the RN program. Many students do this to cut down on the required coursework to become a RN.

Contact:
LaGuardia Community College – CUNY
31-10 Thomson Avenue,
Long Island City, New York 11101
(718) 482-7200

Lehman College Nursing Program Review

Lehman College (LC) is a public institution that is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) schools. With over 12,000 students, it is considered to be a large college. One of the main attractions that Lehman College offers is yearly tuition of less than $500 for in-state students. Lehman also offers small classes with over 40 percent of all classes having fewer than 20 students. There are many majors offered, including several undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.

Nursing Program

Students who would like to enter any of the nursing programs at Lehman College-CUNY must first meet the general admission requirements of the school. It is necessary to complete at least 60 credits before gaining admission to the nursing program.

Professional Nursing Program

Lehman’s Bachelor of Science degree in nursing program is designed for non-nurses and Registered Nurses who are licensed in New York State. This program prepares students to take the NCLEX, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. It also prepares those who want to continue their studies to earn a graduate degree to have the BS degree in nursing that they need before taking graduate courses. Nursing students complete a rigorous clinical experience at culturally diverse medical facilities in the Bronx and Westchester areas. Lehman has honors projects available for students who qualify as well as independent study for qualified students.

Generic Nursing Program

This program is designed to be completed in four years. Students must finish all of their general education requirements and prerequisite courses in the first two years, and they must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.75 in these courses. They are General and Organic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Microbiology. Students may then pass the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission RN Test. At this point, students must have proof of citizenship or legal alien status. They may then continue into the nursing core courses if they are accepted into the program. During the last two years at Lehman, nursing courses and clinical experience are focused on.

Bachelor of Science for Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses (RNs) who have an associate degree or a diploma in nursing and are licensed in New York State may enter the Bachelor of Science program. RNs must complete 60 college credits with a grade point average of 2.5 or better before they begin the nursing program to earn their bachelor’s degree. There are full-time and part-time options for RNs to earn this higher degree. RNs may opt out of many of the beginning nursing courses if they have passed these at the undergraduate level. This is referred to as the 37.5 Credit Major in Nursing, Bachelor of Science (BS).

37.5 Credit Major in Nursing, BS

In this program, RNs with either an associate degree or a diploma in nursing are exempt from the first two years of nursing courses that undergraduates who are not nurses must take. RNs may earn their Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing by completing the 60 prerequisite general education courses and then 37.5 credits in the nursing major. These are some of the courses that undergraduates typically take in their last two years of study.

Accelerated (Generic) Nursing Program

This program at Lehman College is designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another discipline and meet the admission requirements for the Nursing Department. These students follow the Generic Nursing path in this full-time program. Accelerated nursing courses are held every semester and in two summer sessions. This is also known as the 75-Credit Major in Nursing, BS.

75-Credit Major in Nursing, BS

This program is the same as the Accelerated (Generic) Nursing Program for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline. Students must complete prerequisite science classes and foundation courses before starting to take the 48 credits required for nursing.

MS Program in Nursing

Lehman College offers several graduate programs in nursing, such as the Master of Science (MS) Program in Nursing. To qualify for this course, students must have a bachelor’s degree with a nursing major from an accredited college or university. They must have a minimum grade average of B in their undergraduate studies. Applicants must be Registered Nurses in the State of New York and must have references from a current employer or a former instructor or academic advisor. Another requirement is that applicants must pass the Department’s Graduate English Proficiency Exam. The graduate program consists of 43 credits to earn a Master of Science in Parent-Child Nursing, Adult Health Nursing, or Nursing of Older Adults. Full-time students may complete the program in three semesters, and part-time students require four years to complete required courses and clinical experience.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

This graduate program in nursing is for full-time students. It consists of many of the same courses that are required for other MS programs in nursing at Lehman, including those that are required for a Master of Science in Parent-Child Nursing, Adult Health Nursing, or Nursing of Older Adults. In addition, students in the pediatric nurse practitioner program also take courses related to this field.

Adult Nurse Practitioner Program

Students in this graduate nursing program also must complete most of the graduate-level nursing courses that are required for other majors in nursing. They must also complete specific courses that are relevant to their specialty of adult nurse practitioner.

Certificate Programs

Post-Masters Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner

Registered Nurses who already have a MS in nursing may earn a certificate rather than going through the entire master’s degree program in nursing at Lehman College. A total of 30 credits are required that are completed in two years.

Post-Masters Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This program consists of 24 credits that must be completed to earn this certificate. Students must already hold a BS in nursing and must maintain a 3.0 grade point average while in this post-masters certificate program.

Certificate in Nursing Administration

Applicants to this program must hold a MS in nursing and must have two letters of recommendation. They must complete 15 credits and maintain a 3.0 grade point average or better.

Certificate in Nursing Education

To earn this certificate, applicants must hold a master’s degree in nursing, have two letters of recommendation, and must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or better.

Contact:
Lehman College-CUNY
250 Bedford Park Boulevard West
Bronx, New York 10468
(718) 960-8000

Le Moyne College Nursing Program Review

Le Moyne College (LMC) is a private college in Syracuse, New York that was founded by the Jesuits. It is a Roman Catholic school that has over 3,500 students enrolled in various programs. Most students live on campus in residence halls or townhouses. This school offers many community service activities and attempts to prepare students to use their abilities to promote a more just society. There are service learning projects and internships and study abroad programs that are offered to expand the college experience for students. Le Moyne College offers 30 different majors, including undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science Program in Nursing

This program is a 64 credit Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing for RNs who have an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma. Le Moyne College has a strong emphasis on liberal arts and science courses that all students take for all majors. RNs must complete the required liberal arts and science courses that were not taken during their studies for their associate’s degree or nursing diploma. This unique program can usually be completed in two years as students take higher level nursing course along with required liberal arts courses. A typical first semester for a RN would include the courses Health Assessment, Professional Issues & Trends, Major Authors, Western/World Civilizations, and Philosophical Foundations of Western Thought, rather than all nursing courses.

Dual Degree Partnership in Nursing (DDPN)

This nursing program involves Le Moyne College and St. Joseph’s College of Nursing. Students begin at Le Moyne by taking two full-time years of courses. They then complete two full-time years of study at St. Joseph’s College of Nursing. This degree leads to a bachelor’s degree in nursing after earning a total of 133 credits. When both programs have been completed, students are eligible to take the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse, the NCLEX.

Post-Baccalaureate RN to MS Certificate

This program at Le Moyne College is designed for the RN who has a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Once completed, the student qualifies to continue studying in the Master of Science program at the college. Students have the option of completing five prerequisite courses part-time in the evening. They may also transfer credits in some cases to make the prerequisite requirements even less. The five courses are Introduction to Statistics, Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, Research in Nursing, and Transition to Advanced Nursing Practice.

Master of Science

This program is offered to those who already have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Nurses who already have a master’s degree in nursing or in a related field may earn a certificate by completing this program. The Master of Science Program in Nursing offers two tracks. These are in nurse education or nurse administrator roles. A total of 39 credits are required for both of these tracks. The curriculum consists of 12 credits in human diversity, social issues, ethics, health care delivery, and research. In addition, there is a specialty focus made of 9 credits in adult health and illness. Other required courses consist of 18 credits. It takes two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study to complete this graduate program.

After graduation, RNs who have completed the nurse educator concentration will be prepared to serve as in-service educators, community educators, or patient/family educators. They may serve as faculty members in schools of nursing or as staff development coordinators as well. Those who complete the nurse administrator track will be prepared to work in healthcare agencies as managers and administrators. Both of these concentrations require a capstone scholarly project.

Contact:
Le Moyne College
1419 Salt Springs Road
Syracuse, NY 13214
(800) 333-4733

Long Island College Hospital Nursing Program Review

Long Island College Hospital (LICH) is a teaching hospital in Brooklyn, a borough of New York City. It has existed since 1858 and was the first hospital in the U.S. to use stethoscopes and anesthesia. It was also the first skyscraper hospital anywhere in the world. The college is affiliated with the State University of New York (SUNY). Long Island College Hospital is now a part of SUNY Downstate Medical Center’s University Hospital of Brooklyn. Students are encouraged to live on campus where residential buildings are located across the street from the hospital and classroom areas.

Nursing Programs

Students who attend Long Island College Hospital/SUNY Downstate Medical Center have the advantage of taking courses and training near the hospital that they will also complete their clinical experience in. Although they may be required to complete some of this experience at other locations, it is very convenient to have all of the facilities required for their education in one central location.

Accelerated BS in Nursing

This is a 15 month Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing, full-time program that is open only to those who have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Admission requirements include having a grade point average of 3.0 in undergraduate studies and maintaining a C in prerequisite courses at the College of Nursing. The Test of Essential Academic Skills Version Five is also required with a minimum score of 75 percent in math and 70 percent in reading. Students are required to take 60 credits of concentrated nursing courses and clinical experience. They must have met all of the prerequisites, including 65 credits that are transferred to qualify for the (BS). After completing the required coursework, students will qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. RNs will also be prepared to continue their studies on the graduate level.

Nursing RN-BS Program

Long Island College Hospital/SUNY Downstate Medical Center also offers a Nursing Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science Program. The program is open only to RNs who have their licensure by the time they would begin classes. Applicants who have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in their nursing studies are preferred. Once accepted into the nursing program, it can be completed in three full-time studies or on a part-time basis. Each semester is 16 weeks long. A benefit of this program is that working nurses who attend part-time may apply the nursing and other theories to their current nursing job.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

This program leads to a Master of Science in nursing. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and be licensed as RNs in New York State. At least one year of clinical experience is preferred, and applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies. The curriculum consists of 41 credits and takes two years to complete, including two summers of full-time study and clinical experience. A clinical nurse specialist is qualified to work with patients and their families, as well as with groups and communities. The specialty may focus on a particular population such as adults, mothers and infants, or others or on where the nurse works, such as critical care or emergency room. It can also be identified by the disease or medical subspecialty like diabetes or cancer. These nurses also work with particular kinds of problems such as pain or stress. After completing the Master of Science degree, graduates are qualified to take the national certification exam.

Nurse Anesthesia Program

This graduate program in nursing requires 61 credits that can be completed in 27 months when the student attends classes full-time. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and be licensed as an RN in New York State. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.3 in their undergraduate studies. The curriculum consists of two full years of study plus two summers and a third year practicum in the fall semester. After completing the program, graduates may take the examination given by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.

Nurse Midwifery Collaborative Program

Applicants to this program must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and must be licensed RNs in New York State. They must have a 3.0 grade point average in their undergraduate studies and have earned at least a C in Statistics, Nursing Research, and Undergraduate Health/Physical Assessment Skills in their undergraduate nursing studies. This program requires 52 credits that can be completed in two years by full-time students or in three years by part-time students. Upon graduation, students may take the American Midwifery Certification Board national certification examination.

Nurse Practitioner Program

This program prepares RNs to care for family members of all ages and to treat common acute and chronic health problems. The curriculum consists of 44 credits that may be earned in six, eight, or nine semesters. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and must be licensed RNs in New York State. They must also have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on their undergraduate studies. After graduation, students may take the national certifying exam and apply for the Nurse Practitioner Certificate in New York State.

Contact:
University Hospital of Brooklyn at Long Island College Hospital
SUNY Downstate’s Medical Center
350 Henry Street, 7^th Floor
Brooklyn, New York 11201
(718) 780-1071

Long Island University Brooklyn Campus Nursing School Review

Long Island University: Brooklyn (LIU Brooklyn), is a private college located in Brooklyn, which is a borough of New York City. It is a very large college with almost 11,000 undergraduate and over 7,000 graduate students. Attending Long Island University offers the chance to experience New York and its theaters, museums, and other attractions.

The college offers many degrees and the diverse student body includes students from many different countries. There are undergraduate degrees, combined degrees, and various master’s degrees in nursing offered at Long Island University. Some of the master’s degree programs are presented in a blended format with almost half of the course offered online.

Nursing Programs

BS In Nursing

Students who are interested in obtaining a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing have many choices in how they can earn their degree. There is a full-time day track, part-time day track, part-time evening and weekend track, and a full-time 15 month accelerated second degree track for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline. Applicants to the program must be high school graduates who have an 85 percent high school average over four years or an SAT score of at least 1000. After being admitted to the nursing program, students must take a placement test in reading, English, and math. Students must maintain a grade point average of 2.5 in their science courses at Long Island University-Brooklyn.

Once a student begins the nursing core courses, he or she must also maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or better. Completing the co-requisite courses is also required. Students must also complete 100 hours of community service. The program consists of two phases – the Pre-Professional Phase and the Professional Phase. During the Pre-Professional Phase, all of the liberal arts and sciences courses are completed. The Professional Phase consists of nursing courses and clinical experience. After completing all of these courses, the student may apply for licensure and take the NCLEX to gain the license needed to work in New York State as a Registered Nurse.

Accelerated 15-Month Full-Time Track (RN-BS Connection Program)

If someone who already has a bachelor’s degree in any discipline wants to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, this can be done in the Accelerated 15-month full-time track program. Students must first complete Statistics, Psychology, Sociology, Developmental Psychology, Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology, General Chemistry, and Introduction to Organic and Biochemistry and maintain a grade point average of 3.0 in these. They must also successfully complete the Nursing progression examination. After completing the required nursing courses and clinical experience, the graduate may then take the NCEX national exam for licensure in the State of New York required for employment as a RN.

MS Executive Program for Nursing and Healthcare Management

This Master of Science (MS) in Nursing and Health Care Management combines advanced nursing courses with business courses related to nursing. It prepares nurses to management positions in hospitals, community health agencies, and businesses. A total of 43 credits are required for this program, consisting of 495 class hours and 420 clinical hours. At the completion of the program, students will qualify to take the national certification exam by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Applicants to the program must be licensed RNs in New York State, must have taken undergraduate courses in statistics and research, and must have a grade point average of 3.0 in nursing courses. Two years of clinical experience are preferred, but one year will be considered. They must also complete a personal interview and submit three professional references and their personal statement of professional goals.

BS/MS in Nursing/Adult Nurse Practitioner

RNs with an associate degree may earn their Bachelor in Science and Master in Science degrees with this 160 credit program. The Adult Nurse Practitioner provides primary care in many different healthcare settings. Graduates of the program may take the Adult Nurse Practitioner exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center to become certified in this specialty. To be admitted to the program, applicants must be licensed in the U.S. and must be eligible for licensure in New York State. They may have one year’s clinical experience, but two years are preferred. They must also have minimum grade point averages of 3.0 in science and nursing courses.

BS/MS in Nursing/Executive Program for Nursing & Health Care Management

This program is for RNs with an associate’s degree in nursing who want to pursue management positions in nursing homes, hospitals, and other agencies. Students first complete the courses needed for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and then complete the Master of Science coursework that includes advanced nursing courses as well as business related nursing courses. At the end of the program, graduates may take the national test required for certification.

MS in Adult Nurse Practitioner (Blended Format)

This program is for those who have a Bachelor of Science in nursing and wish to pursue graduate studies. It consists of 41 credits to prepare graduates for careers as an adult nurse practitioner. There are 495 class hours and 600 clinical hours required to complete the program. Students may then apply to take the certification exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Applicants must be licensed RNs in New York State and must have at least one year’s clinical experience, although two years of experience are preferred. The undergraduate courses of statistics and research must have been completed, and the applicant must have a grade point average of 3.0 in undergraduate nursing courses. A personal goal statement, three references, and a personal interview are also required.

MS in Family Nurse Practitioner (Blended Format)

This program prepares RNs who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing to provide care for families in many different settings. This program consists of 49 credits that must be completed to graduate. The credits are made of 555 class hours and 900 clinical hours. After these are completed, students may take the American Nurses Credentialing Center exam for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and licensure in New York State may apply to the program. They must have a 3.0 grade point average in their undergraduate nursing courses and have taken health/physical assessment and statistics and research on the baccalaureate level. Two years of experience are preferred, but one year of clinical experience is considered. Also required are a personal interview, three professional references, and a personal statement of professional goals.

MS in Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (Blended Format)

This graduate level program consists of 43 credits. It prepares RNs to care for older adults in many healthcare settings. Students learn to help geriatric patients maintain and restore health. There are 525 hours of class required for this program and clinical hours required amount to 600 hours. After graduating, students may take the certification exam to be certified as a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. To qualify for the program, RNs must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and be licensed in the State of New York. They must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average in nursing courses and completed health/physical assessment and statistics and research as undergraduates. In addition, it is preferable that they have two years of clinical experience, but one year’s experience is considered. Applicants must complete a personal interview; submit three professional references, and a personal statement of professional goals.

MS in Nurse Educator (Blended Format)

This graduate program leads to a Master of Science in Nurse Educator. It prepared the RN who has a bachelor’s degree to learn the educational aspects of teaching nursing. The applicant must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the undergraduate nursing courses. It is also required to have licensure as an RN in New York State and at least one year’s clinical experience. Two years of experience are preferred. Applicants must also submit three professional references, a statement of professional goals, and must complete a personal interview.

Tests that are required are for analytical writing and basic computer competency. It is also required that a health assessment course and research and statistics were completed. A Nurse Educator/MS requires 36 credit hours. This amounts to 510 class hours and 60 clinical hours. Students must take advanced nursing courses plus education courses. Upon graduation, they may apply for certification as a Nurse Educator.

Advanced Certificate in Adult Nurse Practitioner

This program is designed for RNs who have a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing. It leads to certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner. The program consists of 33 credit hours consisting of 375 class hours and 600 clinical hours. After completing the program, students may take the national exam required for certification as Adult Nurse Practitioner.

Advanced Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner (Blended Format)

RNs who have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing may add the Family Nurse Practitioner certificate to their credentials. These advanced practice nurses are able to care for the entire family and their healthcare. The program consists of 41 credits or 435 class hours and 900 clinical hours. After graduating, students are eligible to take the exam for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Advanced Certificate in Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (Blended Format)

This program is designed for RNs who already have earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing. They will be trained to care for older adults in many healthcare settings such as hospitals and assisted living facilities. Thirty-five credits are required for this program, or 405 class hours and 600 clinical hours. Graduates may take the certification exam necessary for certification as a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner.

Contact:
Long Island University-Brooklyn
1 University Plaza
Brooklyn, New York 11201-8423
(718) 488-1011

Long Island University C. W. Post Campus Nursing School Review

Long Island University (LIU) is located in the Village of Brookville, only 50 minutes from New York City. The Long Island University C. W. Post Campus (LIU Post) is the largest of the institution’s campuses and spreads across 307 acres that are on the north shore of Long Island. Almost 9,000 students attend this university, coming from all parts of the world.

Over 260 programs are offered that lead to bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. Students choose whether to live on campus or to commute. The university offers over $110 million in financial aid each year. This college offers small classes of only 15 to 20 students and a community atmosphere that inspires learning.

Nursing Programs

BS in Nursing (For RNs Only)

Long Island University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BS) in nursing for Registered Nurses (RNs) who would like to earn their bachelor’s degree or to continue their education on the graduate level. A BS in nursing is often required for public health nursing, or to be a school nurse or forensic nurse. There is a much better chance of advancement for the RN who holds a bachelor’s degree. RNs with an associate degree have an advantage by attending this college because 28 credits that were earned as they were studying for their associate degree are transferred to the bachelor’s degree RN program. This policy applies to graduates of diploma nursing schools as well. This means that students begin with 28 credits of nursing already completed.

The BS program for RNs requires that students complete 128 credits, minus the 28 from their associate degree. Up to 72 credits may be transferred from other colleges if an applicant has other college courses completed. Admission requirements are that the RN must be licensed in New York State and have either an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The applicant’s grade point average in these studies must be 3.0 or better. Once an RN is admitted to the bachelor’s program, the liberal arts and sciences classes that are required for all graduates must be met. In addition, 37 credits of upper level nursing courses must also be taken. Lab work and clinical experience are also part of the program.

MS in Advanced Practice Nursing: Clinical Nurse Specialist

RNs with a bachelor’s degree in nursing may apply to enter this graduate level nursing program. It consists of 39 credits that are completed in six semesters of part-time study. When the program is completed, RNs may apply for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. A clinical nurse specialist may work in many different healthcare settings. They are leaders in the nursing team who are responsible for consulting with other staff and for designing patient education programs and more. Admission requirements are that the RN must have a current New York State license and one year of clinical experience is preferred. Applicants who have not taken a Health Assessment course as undergraduates will be required to take this plus a research course if they did not yet take this class. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their undergraduate work.

MS in Family Nurse Practitioner

Another graduate level program offered at Long Island University is the Master of Science (MS) in Family Nurse Practitioner. This is a 46 credit program that takes six semesters to complete when attending classes part-time. After completing the program, graduates will qualify for a New York State Certificate as a family nurse practitioner. They may also take the national board certification test administered by one of the agencies that provide this exam. Family nurse practitioners are qualified to provide primary care to families. They diagnose medical problems and provide healthcare in doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, and other settings.

To be admitted to the program, RNs must be currently licensed in New York State. They must have a bachelor’s degree and a year of clinical experience is desirable. Undergraduate studies must have been completed with a minimum 3.0 grade point average. A personal interview and professional recommendations are also required. The prerequisite coursework includes a Health Assessment and undergraduate research course.

MS in Nursing Education

A Master of Science (MS) in Nursing Education is also offered at Long Island University. This program trains RNs to fill positions as nurse educators for nurses of all levels. Almost half of the required courses are taught online, which is very convenient for working RNs. The program requires 33 credits and can be completed in five semester part-time plus one summer session. Two semesters of teaching practice are included in this program. Applicants must be RNs who are licensed in New York State, and it is preferred that candidates have at least one year of clinical experience. Applicants must also have an undergraduate research course and a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0. Upon graduation, students may take the certification exam to acquire national certification as a nurse educator.

Advanced Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner

RNs who already hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing may study to become a family nurse practitioner with this program. When the program courses have been completed, they may apply for certification to practice as a family nurse practitioner and be qualified to provide primary healthcare to families. This is a 27 credit program that can be completed in four semesters of part-time studies. Applicants to the program must be RNs who are licensed in New York State. At least one year of clinical experience in nursing is desired, and applicants should have a 3.0 grade point average in their graduate studies. Prerequisite courses include advanced physiology, pathophysiology, and advanced health assessment.

Advanced Certificate in Nursing Education

RNs interested in nursing education may earn a certificate if they already have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing. It typically takes four semesters and one summer session to complete the 21 credit program. After completing these, the RN will be qualified to take the certification exam that is necessary to teach all levels of nurses. Almost half of the courses are taught online, which is very convenient and allows the student to study according to their own schedule. To be admitted to the program, the candidate must have a 3.0 grade point average in master’s level nursing work, and the RN must be currently licensed in the State of New York. One year of clinical experience is preferred. Applicants must have a personal interview and submit two professional references. They must also send a personal statement of their reason for wanting to pursue this course of study along with their application.

Contact:
Long Island University-C.W. Post Campus
720 Northern Boulevard
Brookville, New York 11548-1300
(516) 299-2900

Maria College of Albany in New York Nursing Program Review

Maria College of Albany in New York is a nonprofit, independent, coeducational school that has almost 1,000 students. The emphasis of this college is to serve others. The Sisters of Mercy were the founders of the college that started in 1958. Maria College is located in northeastern New York. Both full-time and part-time programs are available, as well as online courses that make higher education possible for many of those who would otherwise not be able to complete college courses.

Nursing Program

Practical Nurse Certificate (PNC) Program

Maria College offers a Practical Nurse Certificate program that may lead to graduate to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) after passing the required licensing exams. It is an ideal starting place for students who want to enter nursing, but do not want to spend a long time in school. The LPN program requires 48 credits, and 32 of these may be transferred to the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program if a student decides to continue his or her education after earning their LPN certificate. The program can be completed in six semesters. There are 29 nursing credits and 18 or 19 liberal arts credits required. After completing the LPN program, students may sit for the New York State National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Passing this exam means that the graduate’s licensure will be granted and the LPN may begin working in a variety of healthcare settings.

Admission requirements for the LPN program are a high school diploma or the equivalent, and a placement test in math and language arts if the applicant does not have adequate SAT scores. If required, the students must complete remedial course work before being admitted to the LPN program. They must also have their CPR certification and have passed a physical examination. The LPN program at Maria College makes it convenient for students to earn their certification because of two different tracks that are offered. Track one was developed for students who want to begin working as an LPN after completing the program. This student takes classes on weekends on a part-time basis. Track Two is the second option that is designed for those who want to transfer to the ADN program at Maria College after finishing their LPN studies. More of the credits earned are eligible to be transferred than in Track One.

Associate Degree in Nursing

Maria College has one of the few nursing programs in Albany that offers clinical experience at the same time as formal classroom work. Coursework for the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) are offered during the day and in the evening as well. Applicants to the program must have their CPR certificate and a satisfactory health examination on file. Students must maintain at least a grade of C in their courses required for the ADN, and both the theoretical and clinical components of the course must be passed or the course will need to be repeated. This may be done only once.

LPNs may seek advance placement when they apply for admission to the ADN program. After completing a six-week review course, they are eligible of receiving seven credits in nursing and will not need to take introductory nursing courses. LPNs may also take the LPN-RN Transition Course (PN-RN). After completing this LPN to RN program, LPNs may qualify for 15 credits in nursing. Two prerequisite courses that must be taken after the Transition Course are Nursing 198 and Nursing 199. In addition, 23 of the required liberal arts courses must be taken. After this, LPNs may enter the program as seniors who may then take senior-level nursing courses.

An option for graduates from Track II of the Maria College PNC program is the Pathway to becoming an RN. These LPNs have already earned the first year of credits needed for an ADN. If an LPN graduate does not enter the program right after graduation, they must have passed the NCLEX-LPN and worked for six months before being admitted to the ADN program.

All students in the ADN program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN after graduation.

Bachelors Degree in Nursing

This college also offers a Nursing RN to BS Degree Program. It is designed for RNs with associate degrees who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The focus of the program is to educate the student about the older adult, informatics and alternative and complimentary theories. This focus is in response to the aging population of New York State and of Albany. Applicants to the program must be licensed RNs who have graduated from an accredited ADN program. Graduates of diploma programs are also considered. Applicants must have at least a 2.5 average in their previous educational work and must pass the health requirements for the college. Two references are also required.

Students are expected to take the following prerequisite courses: 3 credits of English Composition, 3 credits of Developmental. Life Span Psychology, 8 credits of Anatomy and Physiology, 4 credits of Microbiology, and 12 liberal arts electives. At least 48 credits must be completed with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 or at least 60 college credits through both courses at Maria and transfer credit. All of the college’s requirements for a bachelor’s degree must be met in addition to nursing courses and clinical experience completion. After completing the program, students are qualified to take the NCLEX for licensure.

Contact:
Maria College
700 New Scotland Avenue,
Albany, NY 12208
(518) 438-3111

Medgar Evers College Nursing Program Review

Medgar Evers College-CUNY is a senior college in The City University of New York (CUNY) that offers both associate and baccalaureate degrees. Located in Brooklyn, a borough of New York City, the college was established in 1970. It is named after the civil rights activist who helped the first black student attend the whites-only University of Mississippi in 1962. He was assassinated in 1963. Over 7,000 students attend this college that offers many different programs, including a three step career ladder for nurses, including Practical Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Medgar Evers College-CUNY Nursing Programs

Nursing PN

The practical nursing (PN) certificate at the college takes 18 months to complete over three semesters. The college offers a full-time day program. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, and they must complete all basic skills course work before being admitted to the nursing major. The CUNY Skills Assessment Examinations are also required before admittance to the PN certificate in Practical Nursing (CPN). The subjects tested are reading, writing, and math. Also, the pre-entrance exam must be taken. Admission requirements are medical clearance from New York State Department of Health, passing the clinical, skills lab, and theory portions of each nursing course, and having a CPR certificate. Students must also have malpractice liability insurance and nursing uniforms. After completing the program, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-LPN exam for licensure that is required before they begin working as Practical Nurses.

Nursing AAS (RN)

Medgar Evers College (MEC) also offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. After completing this program, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN to be licensed as Registered Nurses. This program is the middle step in the three-step career ladder offered at this school. This program can be completed in five semesters, and it begins with one semester of the pre-clinical sequence of courses followed by a two year nursing sequence of courses. Students begin their coursework only after being admitted to the clinical sequence. This requires passing all three CUNY assessment tests in reading, writing, and math. Then, the required English and science courses must be taken with at least a 2.7 grade point average. Applicants must also take the pre-admission exam given by the college and must have attended Medgar Evers for at least one semester.

To begin the nursing courses, students must pass a physical exam, have their CPR certificate, malpractice insurance, and must wear the student nurse uniform during clinical experience. All clinical nursing courses must be passed with a grade of B- or better. Once all clinical experience has been completed plus 64 credits have been earned, the student qualifies to take the NCLEX-RN.

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Nursing BSN

The highest nursing degree offered at this school is the Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing. This degree opens many career avenues for RNs, especially in leadership and higher paid jobs. The BSN program is specifically designed for RNs who already have their AAS who want to continue their education. To be admitted to the program, applicants must be an RN with current licensure in New York State. When admitted to the BSN program, RNs are granted 60 credits towards their BSN, providing a very big start to begin their higher level studies. Only 60 more credits must be earned for the baccalaureate degree. Students must maintain a grade point average of at least a C in all classes, and all BSN students must also pass the College Proficiency Examination (CPE) to qualify for graduation. They must complete all of the required courses for the BSN that total 120 credits before graduation.

View Other BSN Programs >>

Contact Information

Medgar Evers College-CUNY
1650 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11225-2017
(718) 221-1795

Mercy College NY Nursing Program Review

Mercy College (MC) is a four year private institution that began in 1950. The college offers small classes with an average student/faculty ratio of 17:1. There are over 10,000 students at Mercy College and 90 undergraduate and graduate programs. Dobbs Ferry is Mercy College’s main campus, and branches are located in the Bronx, Manhattan, White Plains, and Yorktown. The Dobbs Ferry campus is only minutes from Manhattan, offering the opportunity for students to visit the theater, museums, and other attractions.

Nursing Program

Mercy College offers financial aid for students in need and offers scholarships for academic achievement. There are scholarships for those in graduate nursing programs as well as for undergraduate nursing programs. The Greater New York Association of Nurse Recruiters, Tylenol, National Black Nurses Association, Minority Nurse, and National Hispanic Nurses Association all offer financial aid or scholarships. In addition, The National Student Nurse Association offers aid up to $2,500. There are also scholarships and grants for nurses who enter specific areas of need, such as Respiratory Nursing Scholarships, or Emergency Nurses Association, or Emergency Nurses Association.

Nursing (RN to BS) Bachelor’s Degree

Mercy College has a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in nursing for Registered Nurses (RNs) who have an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing. The program is for RNs who want to continue their education. Students may attend this program either full-time and complete it in two years, or part-time and complete the program in two to three years. RNs may transfer a good portion of the credits that they earned while studying for their associate’s degree. Each student’s case is handled individually. During the last two years of the BS nursing program, the BS-RN program combines liberal arts and sciences with upper division nursing courses. Some of these courses are physical assessment, cultural diversity, community and global health, leadership, health policy, informatics, and statistics and research.

Nursing Administration Master’s Degree

This master’s degree is designed for RNs with baccalaureate degrees who want to continue their education by pursuing a master degree in nursing administration. Graduate nursing courses include nursing theory, research, financial and human resource management, strategic planning, health policy, and organization performance. Two capstone courses and a 120 hour practicum are also part of this program. After completing all of the program requirements, students qualify to take the certification exam to obtain their nursing administration certificate. They may then work in management level jobs in healthcare settings such as hospitals, medical centers, and others.

Completing this program usually takes two years. Traineeship money is available as well as faculty loan monies. Financial aid may also be obtained through scholarship websites that include Scholarship for Nursing Educators, Senator Patricia McGee Nursing Scholarship, and Nurses’ Educational Funds. This program is available at the Dobbs Ferry Campus and also online.

Nursing Education Master’s Degree

This program prepares RNs who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing to earn their master’s degree in nursing education. The program usually takes two years to complete and includes two capstone courses and a 120 hour practicum. After completing the program, graduates may take the exam leading to certification as a nurse educator. The Mercy College Dobbs Ferry and Bronx campuses offer this program, and it is also offered entirely online. Scholarships and grants may be available, along with financial aid to help nurses pay for their graduate education expenses.

Contact:
Mercy College
555 Broadway,
Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522
(877) MERCY-GO