Mountain State University Nursing School Review

Mountain State University (MSU) is located in southern West Virginia, and is a private institution that was founded in 1933. Originally named, Beckley College, Mountain State University opened with 97 students and lectures were conducted in a local church. The enrollment at Mountain State University increased steadily as time went on, and have changed considerably in the last 20 years, going from a two-year college to a four-year college, which includes master’s level programs and most recently, doctorate programs. Mountain State University was coined in 2001 and is now home to programs in humanities, arts and sciences.

Mountain State University’s main campus is in Beckley, West Virginia, however, the college conducts programs via distance learning online, as well as a variety of other campuses. Mountain State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure, as well as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which is offered via clinical or administration/education concentrations.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Mountain State University combines general studies courses with humanities and social science courses. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is formed of a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practice, which takes place in hospitals, clinics, nursing home, long-term care facilities and physicians’ offices. This clinical training provides graduates with real life experience, in order to be successful members of the nursing profession upon graduation. Upon completion of the program, Registered Nurses can go on to work in a variety of health care environments. Mountain State University also offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) stream, for individuals who already hold RN licensure and wish to complete baccalaureate education.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is available at Beckley, Martinsburg, and Orlando campuses through the School of Nursing. Upon graduation, individuals will hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree, which will allow them to work in advanced standing in the profession of nursing. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University allows individuals to go on to progress in their nursing education by completing a doctoral degree eventually, or to go on and work in advanced standing in the nursing profession, thus advancing their skill set and knowledge base.

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University allows students to continue to work full-time or part-time while completing studies, since the classes are offered weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. Students can register as they have time available, and complete the degree on their own time. Individuals are also able to take courses during the day or at night, depending on their personal and employment schedule. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University offers two concentrations; Nursing Administration and Education and Family Nurse Practitioner. Individuals must choose which stream they would like to enter prior to applying to the Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University.

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) stream of the Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is for individuals who are interested in working in a clinical environment as well as in an environment where research and leadership are key. The graduate certificate program in Family Nurse Practitioner is available for individuals who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

The Nursing Administration and Education stream of the Master of Science in Nursing program is intended for individuals who wish to become top or mid-level leaders at various health care organizations, as well as teachers in educational environments. Upon graduation from the Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Administration and Education stream, individuals are readily prepared for a high-level career in nursing.

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Mountain State University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Atlanta, Georgia.

Contact:
Mountain State University
410 Neville Street
Beckley, WV 25801
Phone: (866)-367-6781

Reynolds Memorial Hospital Nursing Program Review

Reynolds Memorial Hospital (RMH) is located in Glen Dale, West Virginia and began as God’s Providence Home, which was an old farmhouse converted into an infirmary by B.M. Spurr, Archdeacon of the West Virginia Episcopal Diocese. The facility as it is today, was built in 1963 and is continually being added to and refurbished. Reynolds Memorial Hospital is licensed by the West Virginia State Health Department and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

The hospital is also a member of the Voluntary Hospital Association, Inc., the American Hospital Association and the West Virginia Hospital Association. The hospital conducts the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing.

B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing (LPN)

The B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission and the West Virginia State Board of Examiners for Licensed Practical Nursing. Upon graduation from the Practical Nursing (LPN) program at the B.M. Spurr School of Nursing, individuals can go on to apply to write the State Licensed Practical Nurse Examination, which allows successful individuals to go on and work as a Practical Nurse in a variety of healthcare environments including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices and many more. Practical Nurses are required to practice under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), licensed physician or a licensed dentist.

Individuals applying to the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing are required to submit an application form, which includes information on GED and/or high school GPA scores, as well as an outline of course prerequisites. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing program, must also include information on any previous nursing education, as well as state their GPA at that nursing program and their reason for leaving. Applicants must also provide a name and contact information for three individuals who are able to provide a personal reference, who have known the applicant in a supervisory capacity, such as teachers, employers, supervisors or counselors. Individuals are not permitted to include friends or family members as personal references.

The application form also includes a section where applicants must outline why they are interested in a career in practical nursing, as well as a description of hobbies and activities that the applicant enjoys. Applicants must also outline future plans, and education and career interests that they have for the future. Individuals applying to the B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing must also submit to a criminal background check, and provide updated immunization records. The Practical Nursing program at the B.M. School of Practical Nursing is one year in duration.

The application form for the Reynolds Memorial Hospital, B.M. Spurr School of Practical Nursing is available online through the hospitals website and applications can be made for a fee. If applicants have attended previous colleges, transcripts must be handed in with the application. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing program must also answer questions regarding financial aid requirements (if any), reasons he or she is interested in a career in practical nursing, activities and hobbies he or she enjoys and future plans.

Contact:
Reynolds Memorial Hospital
800 Wheeling Avenue,
Glen Dale, WV 26038
Phone: (304) 845-3211

Shepherd University Nursing School Review

Shepherd University is located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia and was established over 130 years ago. Shepherd University offers a variety of baccalaureate degrees including those in liberal arts, business administration, teacher education, and social and natural sciences, including nursing. Shepherd University also provides individuals with the option of taking certificate courses, rather than pursuing full degrees. Individuals do not have to attend courses at the Shepherd University campus in Shepherdstown, West Virginia; they can also attend courses online via distance studies. This allows more individuals to study through Shepherd University.

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

Shepherd University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program for individuals who already hold a Registered Nursing licensure (BSN to RN). The Registered Nursing track is intended for individuals who wish to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on a full-time or part-time basis. Individuals must hold previous experience in nursing in order to be admitted to this program and this is determined based on the individual nurses portfolio, which is assessed at the commencement of the application process. Shepherd University also offers a generic baccalaureate program for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), which derives the exact same outcome as the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program stream.

Upon acceptance of an individual’s application to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals will be sent an information package, with instructions on how to begin their application at the Department of Nursing at Shepherd University. The outline and handbook provides applicants with a checklist of requirements and deadlines as well as information on how to progress.

Prior to being accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Shepherd University, individuals must complete health insurance requirements, health data, immunization records and CPR certification. Individuals will not be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program without the aforementioned credentials. When being entered into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals must complete the Health Requirements Verification, which must be uploaded to the Immunization Tracker. Individuals must have their physician or nurse practitioner sign the document prior to being uploaded. Individuals must also submit to a physical examination and immunization verification prior to being accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shepherd University.

Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program must also provide both sides of their CPR Certification, and the only accepted certification in the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider course. Prior to being admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals must also submit a criminal background check, and a fingerprint card will be mailed to the residence of the applicant. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also provide Professional Liability Insurance for Nursing Students, which is required prior to beginning the program at Shepherd University. The fee for the insurance must be paid annually.

In order to progress through the nursing program at Shepherd University, individuals must take the Assessment Technologies Inc. achievement tests. This test requires a fee and at the end of the program the test will be administered in order to gauge the students ability to take the NCLEX examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals must pay these fees prior to the start of testing.

Prior to the commencement of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Shepherd University, individuals are given a Student Handbook and Policy Manual, which individuals must review prior to the beginning of the nursing program.

Contact:
Shepherd University
301 N King Street,
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Phone: (304) 876-5000

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Nursing Program Review

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College (SWVCTC) was established in 1971 in Saulsville, West Virginia. The community college was established due to a consolidation of two branches of Marshall University, located in Mingo and Logan Counties. The original Williamson Campus building was built in 1971 and new facilities have been constructed as the years have progressed. In 2007, a building was constructed, which is connected to the Lincoln County Comprehensive High School and is the first of its kind. In 2008, individuals were ushered into a 55,000 square foot Allied Health and Technology Center on the Logan Campus and currently plans are being completed for a technology facility to the campus in Williamson and the National Guard Armory Building.

SWVCTC has developed relationships with education institutions, including universities and private colleges, in order to provide opportunities for individuals who would like to complete associate degrees. Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College has agreements with these educational institutions across the state of West Virginia and the United States, and education is available through campus lectures, clinical practicum and distance learning online.

Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science Degree at SWVCTC is intended for individuals who wish to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The individuals studying in the Associate in Applied Science Degree at Southern West Virginia Community College learns to be a provider or care, manager of care and a member within the nursing discipline. The nursing program is conducted at the Logan Campus, however the Boone/Lincoln, Williamson, and Wyoming/McDowell campuses offer the program support courses as well.

In order to complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, individuals must complete the courses with a “C” minimum. The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing program must be completed within four years of admission. If an individual does not complete the program in four years, he or she will be dismissed from the program. If an individual wishes to be re-admitted into the nursing program, he or she must re-apply to the program and do so under new requirements if there are any.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who are enrolled in the nursing program, hold a current and valid Licensed Practical Nursing licensure and provide a copy of their Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure can get the Nursing 100 articulated credit prior to the program commencement. Individuals who hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure may challenge the Nursing 104 and Nursing 107 prerequisite courses, but must pay for the cost of the challenge examination on their own.

Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree program at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College may need to sit a competency examination in courses in order to progress through the curriculum.

Individuals who complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at SWVCTC, can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of West Virginia. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices and several other healthcare environments. Individuals who complete an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, often go on to complete additional degrees in nursing.

Contact:
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College
128 College Drive,
Saulsville, WV 25876
United States
Phone: (304) 294-2001

St. Mary’s School of Nursing Program Review

St. Mary’s Hospital, located in Huntington, West Virginia, is the largest medical center in Huntington. The teaching facility at St. Mary’s Medical Center (SMMC) is associated with the Joan C. Edwards Marshall University School of Medicine and trains students in a variety of specialties in the medical profession. St. Mary’s School of Nursing is located on the hospital grounds and is associated with Marshall University.

The St. Mary’s School of Nursing (SMSN) was founded in 1926 and is the oldest program in West Virginia. St. Mary’s School of Nursing has graduated over 3,000 individuals.

Upon graduation from Saint Mary’s School of Nursing, individuals become Registered Nurses. The Cooperative Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Program at St. Mary’s School of Nursing is conducted through a partnership between St. Mary’s Hospital and Marshall University. The Associate of Science in Nursing Program is two academic years in duration and the final degree obtained by the graduate is the Associate of Science in Nursing from Marshall University. Individuals can apply to the Associate of Science in Nursing program twice every year, once in August and again in January.

In order to apply from high school, individuals must hold a high school GPA of 3.00 and a minimum ACT Composite score of 21, as well as a minimum “C” grade on any college course already completed. Individuals applying to the Associate of Science in Nursing program, who already hold at least 12 college credits must hold a high school diploma or GED and must also hold a minimum of a “C” on any non-nursing courses that the individuals has already completed. Individuals applying with college credits must also hold a minimum of 2.00 QPA on all college work that he or she has undertaken at Marshall University. Individuals must also hold a minimum overall 2.00 QPA on all college work completed.

The program costs vary, depending on if the student is located in-state or in the metropolitan area. Tuition for in-state students, which includes fees, textbooks, and uniforms is over $13,000. Tuition for students in the metro area is over $16,000 with the same inclusions.

It is recommended that individuals applying to the St. Marys School of Nursing from high school have taken the college prep track, as well as English, Science, Math, and Social Studies.The Associate of Science in Nursing degree at St. Mary’s School of Nursing is accredited by the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Charleston, West Virginia and is nationally accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission in Atlanta, Georgia. Individuals enrolled in the Associate of Science in Nursing degree at St. Mary’s School of Nursing must take non-nursing courses including; Anatomy, Chemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition, English, Physiology and Psychology. Nursing courses at St. Mary’s School of Nursing include; Fundamentals of Nursing, Health Alteration, Psychiatric Nursing, Maternal-Child Nursing and Academic Success for the Associate of Science in Nursng Student.

The Associate of Science in Nursing program combines in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Clinical practicum is included in all nursing courses at St. Mary’s School of Nursing and can be completed at a variety of hospitals and medical centers in the area including; St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cabell Huntington Hospital, Midred Mitchell Bateman Hospital, Health South Rehabilitation Hospital, Mariner Health Care Center, Woodlands Retirement Center and various physicians offices and health care facilities in the local community.

Contact:
St. Mary’s School of Nursing
2900 First Avenue
Huntington, WV 25702
Phone: 304-526-1234

University of Charleston Nursing School Review

The University of Charleston (UC, UCWV), located in Charleston, West Virginia, is home to over 1,300 full-time students and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Charleston is one of 12 colleges nationally chosen as a model for first-year experience and has an alumni base of 14,000 people. Besides the Charleston campus, there are campuses in Martinsburg and Beckley; together with courses offered online.

The University of Charleston was founded by the Southern Methodist church in 1888 and became a college a year later. In 1901, it was named Morris Harvey College, in honor of its foremost donor. The college moved to Charleston to have access to a greater student base and became Morris Harvey College in 1942, as it disassociated itself from the church. In 1978, the Board of Trustees changed the name from Morris Harvey College to the University of Charleston.

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Charleston is home to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN) and the Associate Degree in Nursing program (ADN).

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing program is two academic years of study and the eventual degree obtained by the graduate is an Associate in Arts degree. After completing all of the curriculum, the graduate of the program is able to apply to write the West Virginia State Board of Examiners of Registered Professional Nurses examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). After obtaining Registered Nurse licensure, individuals can go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments including hospitals, physicians offices, long-term care facilities and more. Individuals who complete the Associate in Arts in Nursing degree, often go on to complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Charleston.

In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program at the University of Charleston, individuals must meet general admission requirements. Admission is competitive, and individuals must submit their cumulative GPA, ACT or SAT scores if they are a recent high school graduate and the number of credit hours completed if they have previously attended a college program. Individuals must also submit his or her nursing entrance test scores for admission to the Associate Degree in Nursing program at the University of Charleston. Individuals applying to the Associate Degree in Nursing program, who are recent high school graduates must hold a minimum of a 2.75 GPA on the 4.0 scale in all academic subjects taken on the secondary level. Individuals must have completed two levels of high school math as well. Individuals applying from high school must have a composite score of 21 or above on ACT test or total score of 1000 or above on the SAT test. If an individual does not have all of these requirements, the individual will be considered for admission again after completing 12 or more college credit hours with a 2.75 GPA or above.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Charleston is intended for individuals who wish to complete baccalaureate education in nursing. Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals are able to go on write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals must first be accepted into the University of Charleston, prior to being admitted in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Applications for the program are reviewed using the point scale weighing GPA, course work, and TEAS scores when there is a high volume of applicants.

In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Charleston, individuals must submit a copy of a University of Charleston Program Evaluation or a transcript that shows the individual holds a GPA of 2.75 or above. Individuals must also submit a TEAS score and a copy of their CPR certification as well as a copy of their current negative PPD tuberculosis test results or chest x-ray results. Applicants must also submit immunization records. Finally, individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also submiy a copy of a certified background check, a copy of current flu vaccination documentation and a letter of good standing and transcripts of course work and standardized testing if an individual is interested in transferring from another nursing program.

Contact:
University of Charleston
2300 Maccorkle Avenue Southeast,
Charleston, WV 25304
Phone: (800) 995-4682

West Liberty University Nursing School Review

West Liberty University (WLU) is located in West Liberty, West Virginia and is West Virginia’s oldest higher education university. West Liberty University was established in 1837 and provides programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels. West Liberty University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

West Liberty University is home to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for high school graduates. The university is also home to a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree track, for individuals who already hold their Registered Nurse licensure and wish to obtain a baccalaureate degree. Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at West Liberty University, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. After successfully completing the examination, individuals go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments as a Registered Nurse, including; physicians’ offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and many more. Many individuals practice as Registered Nurses for some time, and then go on to complete additional education at a master’s level.

Individuals interested in applying to the West Liberty University nursing programs, must first apply to West Liberty University and be accepted there, before being able to declare their major as nursing. Individuals must submit their high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores to the Admissions Office for entry into the program. Individuals must then use their freshman year, in order to complete prerequisites for the nursing program. After prerequisites are completed, individuals can go on to apply to the nursing program for admission. Individuals must hold a 2.8 GPA minimum of 28 college credit hours, in order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

In order to be admitted into the WLU BSN program, individuals must complete a variety of health requirements. Immunizations records must be submitted before clinical rotations begin and the records must come from the student’s physician. Individuals must also submit to an annual Tuberculosis testing and follow-up before clinical practicum begins.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (RN to BSN)

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is intended for Registered Nurses who wish to pursue undergraduate education. The accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is offered on one weekday, evening course or online, as it is intended for Registered Nurses who are currently employed and wish to fit education into their already busy lifestyle. If a Registered Nurse is enrolled in the program full-time, the program can be completed in three semesters. Registered Nurses may be able to obtain a certain number of credits based on life experience and work experience and this is determined when the applicant meets with a Nursing faculty member to review course plans. If the Registered Nurse is a graduate of an associate degree program, 72 credits from accredited two-year colleges can be transferred to West Liberty University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

West Liberty University’s Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is fully accredited and courses are offered online and on-campus. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at West Liberty University admits students on a rolling basis.

Contact:
West Liberty University
208 University Drive
College Union Box 101
West Liberty, WV 26074
Phone: 304-336-8076

West Virginia Northern Community College Nursing Program Review

West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) is located in Wheeling, West Virginia and was established in 1972 by the West Virginia Board of Regents. West Virginia Northern Community College is coeducational and is made of three campuses, which all host two-year community college programs. The programs at West Virginia Northern Community College include liberal arts, career-technical and community and continuing education. Most admissions are on a rolling basis, therefore students can apply at any time throughout the year.

West Virginia Northern Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) via general admission as well as a transition option for individuals who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN to ADN). The Associate in Applied Science Degree is available through West Virginia Northern Community College’s Wheeling, Weirton and New Martinsville campuses and all of the campuses have nursing advisors that can speak to potential applicants and discuss options for education in nursing.

West Virginia Northern Community College’s Associate in Applied Science Degree prepares graduates to be able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, businesses, hospices, physicians’ offices and a variety of other healthcare establishments. West Virginia Northern Community College makes it clear that individuals who work as Registered Nurses need to be able to stand for long periods of time, and be able to lift fifty pounds without difficulty and move quickly in order to best respond to emergencies.Registered Nurses are often required to work on weekends and overnight, so individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College should understand this and be ready to commit to this type of lifestyle when he or she becomes as Registered Nurse.

The Associate in Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College is composed of a combination of classroom instruction and clinical practice. Individuals registered in the Associate of Applied Science degree take courses in biological and behavioral sciences, as well as liberal arts and obviously nursing courses. The program is only available on a full-time basis and must be completed within two years. Individuals that apply to the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia Northern Community College must submit to a drug screening, criminal background check and submit the application directly to West Virginia Northern Community College. Upon completion of the National Council Licensure Examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse, individuals must apply to their selected state in order to be able to be licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse.

Prior to the criminal background check, individuals who have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, must identify this to the State or National credentialing boards. This may cause an individual to be denied entry to the nursing program at West Virginia Northern Community College. Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science degree must first be certified as a Nurse Aide, in order to be admitted into the program at West Virginia Northern Community College.

Contact:
West Virginia Northern Community College
Wheeling Campus
1704 Market Street,
Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: 304-233-5900

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College Nursing Program Review

Established in 1953, and located in Institute, West Virginia, Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College (KVCTC), was formerly known as West Virginia State Community and Technical College. The school offers a variety of degrees and certificates as well as continuing education, employee education, and transfer degrees. Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College are based in Institute on the West Virginia State University campus in the Cole Complex.

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College offer twenty-two associate degree programs and eleven certificate programs. Twelve collaborative degree programs and several certificates are also available at KVCTC. There are also a variety of credit and non-credit training options for business and industry employees through the Workforce and Economic Development Division at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College. There are several off-campus training sites available in the regions of Kanawha, Putnam, and Clay counties.

Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing (AAS), as well as a transition track for Licensed Practical Nurses to study to become Registered Nurses (LPN to RN). The nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses since 2007.

In order to apply to the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and must submit a transcript as proof of their studies. Individuals who are not seeking a degree are also able to apply to the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College, however, those individuals must apply as non-degree seeking students. Those individuals must submit a completed application form to the Student Services Admissions Office. If a student who is registered as non-degree wishes to change his or her status from non-degree to degree or certificate program, the individuals must submit the necessary forms to the Office of Student Services in order to change this status. At this point, the individual must complete the degree-seeking admission requirements for this change.

Individuals who have not yet completed high school may apply to Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College programs however, they must submit the following requirements; complete the consent form signed by his or her high school principal or counselor and parent, must have a 3.0 GPA at minimum, and Juniors can only take four credit hours per semester. Seniors can enroll for no more than seven credit hours per semester unless the Dean for Academic Affairs approves otherwise. Before registering for college-level English and/or math courses, these early application students must meet the prerequisite test scores necessary for the nursing programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College.

For pre-nursing information or information on the Allied Health programs at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College in general, individuals can contact 304-204-4043 for more information.

Contact:
Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College
2001 Union Carbide Drive,
S. Charleston, WV 25303
United States
Phone: (304) 766-3118

West Virginia University Nursing School Review

West Virginia University (WVU), founded in 1862 as an agricultural college, is the flagship member of the West Virginia higher education system. The school enrolls nearly 30,000 students each year, and offers a wide variety of programs at the baccalaureate level, master’s level, and doctoral level. Since the 1960s, when its baccalaureate nursing program was established, WVU has included undergraduate nursing education among its program offerings. In the 1980s, it added graduate-level nursing courses.

Now, nurses and prospective nurses can pursue bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees through WVU’s School of Nursing. All the nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

WVU offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in several different locations. Students can complete it on the main campus in Morgantown or at WVU Institute of Technology in Montgomery. Alternatively, a student can complete the first year of the program at Potomac State and transfer to WVU in Morgantown for the next three years, or he can complete the first two years at Glenville State College and transfer to WVU Tech in Montgomery for the remaining two years. The curriculum for the BSN program is the same, regardless of which location the student chooses. In total, a BSN student must earn 128 credits, which requires four years of full-time study. A BSN student may apply for admission to the program in the fall or spring semester. After completing the BSN program, a student is eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts to BSN

The Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts (BS/BA) to BSN program provides a way for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree to complete a BSN degree. Before enrolling in this program, however, a student must complete the following prerequisites: English 101 and 102, biology, chemistry, human physiology, human anatomy, microbiology, statistics, introductory psychology, introductory sociology or anthropology, developmental psychology, human nutrition, and college algebra. Once enrolled in the BS/BA to BSN program, a student must study on a full-time basis for five semesters to complete the program requirements. In total, she must earn sixty-four nursing credits. The BS/BA to BSN program is only available on WVU’s Morgantown campus, and it begins in the spring semester.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN

A Registered Nurse (RN) who has completed an associate degree or diploma nursing program can enroll in the RN to BSN track in order to complete his baccalaureate degree. WVU’s RN to BSN program is available online, although students do need to travel to campus occasionally for advising and other matters. Students in the RN to BSN program can go to Morgantown, Charleston, or Montgomery for these required sessions. The rest of the coursework can be completed via distance learning technology. Clinical rotations are included in the program, but students can schedule these in a location that is convenient. On a full-time basis, an RN can complete the RN to BSN program in just three semesters. Part-time study is also an option, however. This will require six semesters. In total, an RN needs to complete twenty-eight nursing credits, as well as any missing general education courses, in order to earn his BSN. An RN can begin the RN to BSN program in the fall, spring, or summer.

Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN/MSN

Through the RN to BSN/Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, a graduate of an associate degree nursing or diploma nursing program can progress smoothly through her BSN degree into the coursework for an MSN degree. WVU’s program is designed so that an RN can complete both degrees in eight semesters of full-time study. The RN in this program can continue working, since the coursework is available online. Students only need to travel to campus occasionally; when necessary, they may come to either Morgantown or Charleston. A student in the RN to BSN/MSN program will spend the first three semesters completing the required coursework for her BSN degree (twenty-eight credits), and the last five semesters completing coursework for her MSN degree in her chosen area of specialization (forty-four credits).WVU offers five tracks in its MSN program: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Leadership. An RN can begin the BSN portion of the program in the fall, spring, or summer, but must start the MSN coursework in the fall.

Master of Science in Nursing

WVU’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program trains nurses for advanced practice certification. In order to give students as much flexibility as possible, WVU offers the coursework for the MSN program online. Students only need to come to campus two or three times a semester for advising. When they do have to travel to campus, they can go to either Morgantown or Charleston. Clinical rotations are a required part of the MSN program. On a full-time basis, a student in the MSN program can complete the course requirements in five semesters (which includes one summer semester). On a part-time basis, a nurse will need to study for eight semesters (including two summer semesters) to complete his MSN degree. Regardless of whether he chooses to enroll in the MSN program full-time or part-time, he must start in the fall semester. Over the course of the program, he must take both core graduate nursing courses and courses in his chosen area of emphasis. Regardless of his chosen area of focus, he must earn forty-four credits. WVU offers five different tracks in its MSN program:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Nursing Leadership

Post-master’s Certification

The post-master’s certification program is open to nurses who have already completed an MSN degree. Through the post-master’s certification program, they are able to complete the coursework required to sit for another graduate-level certification exam without repeating any courses unnecessarily. Nurses on this track do not need to take core graduate nursing classes; they only need to complete the coursework for their area of focus. All of the tracks of the MSN program are available as post-master’s certification tracks. An MSN-prepared nurse can pursue certification as an FNP (nineteen credits), as a PNP (nineteen credits), as an NNP (twenty-five credits), as an WHNP (seventeen credits), and in Nursing Leadership (twenty-two credits). In addition WVU offers a post-master’s certification track that is not available as an MSN track: Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP). To become a GNP, a nurse must earn twenty-one credits. The classes for the post-master’s certification program begin in the summer and can be completed online.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

WVU’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is only open to nurses who have completed an MSN degree and earned advanced practice certification. The curriculum consists of at least forty credits. Along the suggested course sequence, a nurse can complete these credits over the course of eight semesters. The final two semesters are devoted to clinical practice. DNP students must begin in the summer semester. Classes for the DNP program are all available online; students only need to travel to campus occasionally throughout the program. When it is necessary to meet with an advisor in person, students can go to either Morgantown or Charleston. DNP students can complete the clinical hours in a location that is convenient for them.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

On the Morgantown campus, WVU offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing) program for nurse researchers and educators. The coursework for the PhD in Nursing program is not available online, but to make it more flexible for working nurses, WVU offers the coursework in the summer semesters. Over the course of four summers, spending six weeks at a time in Morgantown, students can complete the PhD in Nursing coursework. They also have the option of completing up to eighteen credits at a school closer to their home. According to the suggested course sequence, a student needs four full years to take the required courses. After completing the coursework, the PhD in Nursing student also needs to write a dissertation. The PhD in Nursing program is only open to nurses who have already completed an MSN degree.

Continuing Education

WVU is committed to providing continuing education for nurses and other healthcare professionals, allowing them to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing healthcare field. The majority of the continuing education courses are offered through the WVU Health Sciences Center Office of Continuing Education in Morgantown; this office administers a wide variety of on-site and online courses, and regularly hosts conferences. The list of courses is constantly changing. However, WVU consistently offers an online Parish Nursing class, to train nurses to practice their skills within a faith setting. Graduates of the basic Parish Nursing class can progress to an advanced Parish Nursing class. In addition, WVU offers an advanced pharmacology continuing education class through the health sciences division in Charleston.

Contact:
West Virginia University
1550 University Avenue,
Morgantown, WV 26506
Phone: (304) 293-0111

West Virginia University at Parkersburg Nursing School Review

West Virginia University in Parkersburg is affiliated with West Virginia University (WVU), and located in Parkersburg, West Virginia. West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVU Parkersburg, WVUP) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers community college programs and bachelor’s degrees. WVU Parkersburg, is the only community college in West Virginia that is accredited to offer baccalaureate degrees.

The nursing program available at West Virginia University at Parkersburg is the Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS). The degree is at the associate degree level and is intended for adults who are looking to pursue additional education. Individuals entering the Associate of Applied Science degree program usually hold licenses, certificates and credits for other institutions. Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science Degree usually go on to complete baccalaureate education at educational institutions. The Associate of Applied Science degree is composed of 60 credit hours and the degree is flexible so that individuals who are employed can pursue the program. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science degree can chose to use professional work experience in order to apply for college-level credit. Individuals are encouraged to submit a portfolio for entry into the program.

In order to graduate from the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia University – Parkersburg, individuals must complete 60 credit hours of education with a GPA of 2.0 on the 4.0 scale at a minimum. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science degree program must also have been out of high school for at least two years and are able to use what they completed during that time period as a part of their portfolio.

Individuals who graduate from the Associate of Applied Science degree at West Virginia University at Parkersburg are able to apply to write their NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in the United States. Individuals who become licensed as Registered Nurses, go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices and a variety of other healthcare environments.

Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in nursing at WVU Parkersburg can apply year round and can be completed online or through the admissions office. Individuals applying to the program must have submitted a Health Sciences application and must have included his or her high school transcript of GED certificate. Applicants must submit an ACT score of 19 or higher or an SAT score of 910 or above. If the applicant has completed any college level courses, he or she must submit a college transcript. Individuals applying to the West Virginia University – Parkersburg Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing must also have completed the Health Education Systems Inc. Admission Assessment Examination, with a score of 70 or above. Individuals writing the exam are responsible for the total cost of the examination.

Individuals who already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure (LPN), can apply for advanced standing (LPN to AAS) in the nursing program if they meet the admission criteria outlined for the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, hold a clean Practical Nursing licensure, submit a Practical Nursing School transcript and a college transcript that shows completion of prerequisites.

Contact:
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
300 Campus Drive
Parkersburg, WV 26104-8647
United States
Phone: (304) 424-8000

West Virginia Wesleyan College Nursing Program Review

West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) was founded in 1890 and is a private residential college, that has ties to the United Methodist Church. West Virginia Wesleyan College currently has almost 1,500 students and is home to 43 majors and 36 minors, as well as graduate programs. West Virginia Wesleyan College is located in Buckhannon, West Virginia.

The Nursing School at West Virginia Wesleyan College is intended to prepare individuals to enter the profession of nursing at a variety of levels. The nursing programs at West Virginia Wesleyan College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and approved by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Nurses. West Virginia Wesleyan College prides itself on the fact that its graduates have 100 percent employment placement.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is a four-year program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Upon graduation from the program, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses can go on to work in a variety of healthcare institutions, including; hospitals, hospices, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and a variety of other healthcare institutions.

Graduate Nursing Programs

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a variety of Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN) streams at the graduate level, including; Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. The classes at the nursing graduate level are small and the classes are collaborative between students and faculty. Both streams of the graduate level are 36 credit hours and can be completed in 16 months or part-time over several years. The classes take place in the afternoons and evenings, in order to account for the fact that most of the students will be employed in the nursing program. Individuals can take the program at a flexible pace, and can plan their own schedule. West Virginia Wesleyan College also offers two new Advanced Practice Nursing Concentrations including; Nurse Midwifery and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), which is in collaboration with Shenandoah University. Individuals who graduate from these programs will receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree from West Virginia Wesleyan and a Certificate of Endorsement in Nurse Midwifery or Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Shenandoah University.

In order to be admitted into the Master of Science in Nursing program at West Virginia Wesleyan College individuals must have graduated from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and hold a clean Registered Nurse licensure. Individuals must also hold a 3.0 undergraduate GPA on all previous college-level courses and have completed the application to West Virginia Wesleyan College. Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing program at West Virginia Wesleyan College must provide a statement of goals and objectives, as well as an official undergraduate transcript and CV. Individuals applying must also submit two letters of recommendation and submit their license in order to practice.

Contact:
West Virginia Wesleyan College
59 College Avenue,
Buckhannon, WV 26201-2600,
United States
Phone: (304) 473-8000

Wheeling Jesuit University Nursing School Review

Wheeling Jesuit University (WJU), a relatively small Catholic liberal arts university founded in 1954, is situated in the northern part of West Virginia, on the Ohio River. The school enrolls just over 1500 students each year from 26 states and over 20 countries. Wheeling Jesuit University offers over 50 programs of study on a 65-acre campus and a 550-acre retreat farm and research reserve.; most students are pursuing undergraduate degrees although the school also offers a variety of graduate programs.

For students who want to pursue careers in the healthcare field, WJU offers both undergraduate and graduate education in the nursing field. Its programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Wheeling Jesuit University offers a variety of nursing program including a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BA/BS to BSN), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN/MSN) or Master of Science in Nursing program and a Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has a standard, four-year curriculum. Incoming students spend their first year focusing entirely on WJU’s general education requirements and on the nursing prerequisite courses in the sciences and social sciences. In the first semester of his sophomore year, a BSN student can enroll in the first, one-credit nursing class. He continues with introductory nursing coursework in the spring of his sophomore year, and begins the intense nursing courses and clinical rotations in his junior year. Over the course of his four years at WJU, he must earn at least 135 credits. The four years of study prepare him for the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). If he passes this test, he can look for work as a Registered Nurse (RN) or pursue specialized nursing education at the graduate level.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated (BA/BS to BSN Program)

The BSN Accelerated program (also called the BA/BS to BSN program) is designed for baccalaureate-prepared students who want to switch careers. In order to be eligible for the program, a student must have a bachelor’s degree already; either a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science degree is acceptable. Regardless of her type of degree, however, she must have completed the following prerequisites: anatomy and physiology, chemistry, general psychology, developmental psychology, microbiology, and statistics. The BSN Accelerated program begins with a summer semester, and wraps up eighteen months later, in the fall. Over the course of these eighteen intense months, a student on the BSN Accelerated track must earn seventy-eight nursing credits. At the conclusion of the program, she is prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and start her new career as an RN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN

WJU offers another special track within its BSN program, specifically designed for RNs who are graduates of an associate degree or diploma nursing program. The RN to BSN program is tailored for working RNs, so all courses are offered online. Clinical rotations are included in the program, but nurses can schedule those in locations that are convenient for them. An incoming RN can receive up to thirty-nine advanced placement nursing credits, which will allow her to skip the lower-level nursing courses. She must take twenty-five credits of upper-level nursing courses through WJU, and complete any missing general education classes. For its general education requirements, WJU requires eleven credits of science classes and fifty-one credits in the liberal arts.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN/MSN

An RN who has an associate degree or diploma in nursing needs to complete his BSN degree before he can pursue a graduate nursing degree. WJU provides a specific path for an RN who wishes to do this, allowing him to earn both his BSN and his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. As the RN completes his BSN degree, he can substitute as many as five graduate-level nursing courses for the undergraduate-level nursing courses. The credits for these courses count for both the BSN degree and the MSN degree, enabling him to get a head start on his MSN coursework. Once he has completed the BSN degree and moved entirely into the MSN coursework, he can choose from among the three areas of specialization: Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Like the RNs on the RN to BSN path, an RN on the RN to BSN/MSN path can complete all the required coursework online.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Administration

An RN with a BSN degree can enroll in WJU’s MSN program, specializing in Nursing Administration. The program requires forty credits in total, which includes six core graduate nursing courses and eight courses in the Nursing Administration area of focus. The graduate student can complete all the coursework for this degree online, and can schedule clinical rotations in a location that is close to her home.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Education

The Nursing Education track of the MSN program is also offered online, to enable a working RN to complete the coursework at his own pace. He must take five core graduate classes, four clinical courses, and five courses in Nursing Education. In total, he must earn at least forty-two credits. The MSN Nursing Education program is only open to RNs who have already earned a BSN degree.

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program focuses on preparing students to be primary caregivers in rural areas of West Virginia. The program requires forty-eight credits in total, and includes ten core courses (both clinical and classroom) and four courses in the FNP area of specialization. The majority of the coursework can be completed online.

Post-Master’s Certification

After earning an MSN degree, a nurse can choose to return to school and work toward another graduate-level certification. WJU offers all three tracks of its MSN program as post-master’s certification programs. MSN-prepared nurses can skip the core graduate nursing classes and clinical rotations; they can complete the post-master’s certification program by taking the classes in their chosen area of specialization. The Nursing Education post-master’s track requires eighteen credits. The Nursing Administration post-master’s track requires twenty credits, and the FNP post-master’s track requires twenty-seven credits. All classes for the post-master’s certification program are available online; nurses may complete the required clinical rotations in a location that is convenient for them.

Contact:
Wheeling Jesuit University
316 Washington Avenue,
Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: (304) 243-2000

Catholic University of America Nursing School Review

The Catholic University of America (CUA) was established in 1887 by Catholic bishops under Pope Leo XIII and is the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States of America. Undergraduate education was first begun at the Catholic University of America in 1904 and now the school offers 12 schools and 21 research facilities. Catholic University is located near Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

CUA offers ecclesiastical facilities and offers degrees in canon law, philosophy and theology. There is also a Theological College at the Catholic University of America, which offers education in the priesthood. CUA is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and several disciplinary accrediting orgranizations depending on the school.

The School of Nursing offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing that involve studies in health policy, research and clinical practicum at a variety of healthcare institutions. The School of Nursing at the Catholic University of America offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), and master’s degree programs (MSN) in nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist offerings. Catholic University is also home to a Doctor of Nursing Practice option (DNP) and a Doctor of Philosophy program (PhD).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Catholic University of America is intended for individuals who are just starting their career in nursing. There are two ways to enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, the Basic Program and the Second Degree Program. The Basic Program is for individuals who do not have any prior baccalaureate education and the Second Degree Program is for individuals who already hold a baccalaureate degree, and wish to begin studying nursing for the first time. There is also a Bridge to Practice Model, for students who already have certain medical and surgical clinical experiences. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the District of Columbia Board of Nursing. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science program, must complete specific prerequisites and complete certain math requirements before being admitted to the nursing program.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing Program at the Catholic University of America is for students who wish to further their career in nursing as a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Advanced Community or Public Health Nurse Specialist or a Nurse Educator. Students can attend the Master of Science in Nursing on a part-time or full-time basis, as many students continue to be employed while taking the course. The Master of Science in Nursing program has several program options; Nurse Specialist Specialty Option in Advanced Public/Community Health Nurse, the Nurse Practitioner Program in Adult, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in primary care of combined acute and primary care. The Master of Science in Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is for individuals who already hold their undergraduate and masters education in nursing and wish to specialize in advanced nursing practice. The focus of the Doctor of Nursing Practice is on clinical studies.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program (PhD)

The PhD program at CUA prepares individuals to be nurse scientists and is incredible research driven. The program is 70 hours in length and 24 of those hours may be transferred over from master’s degrees. The credits in the PhD program are taken from courses in science, philosophy, research and support courses. Individuals must hold a statistics course at the graduate level, and if they do not have this, it must be taken during the course in the first semester. The program must be completed in five years on a full-time or part-time basis, and a dissertation must be completed by the end of study.

Contact:
The Catholic University of America
620 Michigan Avenue, N.E.
Washington, DC 20064

Howard University Nursing School Review

Howard University (HU), established in 1867, is located in Washington, DC. Howard University provides nursing education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for students who wish to practice in urban or rural environments. It is a historically black university.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program at Howard University includes a combination of liberal arts and nursing education with three study options; Generic, Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN) and Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) options. The Generic study option of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is intended for high school graduates who are beginning their career in nursing, or transfer students who have begun to study nursing at another accredited institution. Individuals must have completed their prerequisite courses, before applying to this program. The Generic program option is four years in duration and one summer session and is organized in two divisions.

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option and the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option lead to an undergraduate degree in nursing. The program is 124 credit hours, with 61 credit hours of prerequisites and 63 credit hours of required courses. Clinical practicum, which is a requirement of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Howard University is completed at health centers, hospitals and long-term care facilities in DC, MD and the Virginia tri-state area. Individuals entering this program must complete a total of 63 credit hours prior to starting the program.

Thirty nursing credit hours from their previous nursing program can be taken from a previous nursing program and the program can be completed in a minimum of one year of full-time study. Upon completion of the program, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare organizations including hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices, schools, long-term care facilities and many more various healthcare institutions.

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN) track is for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. If individuals have the following course; Fundamentals of Nursing, Introduction to Pharmacology, and Adult Health Nursing, they will be granted 11 academic credits. This program of study commences in the summer, and takes two consecutive years to complete.

Admission Requirements

In order to apply to the nursing programs at Howard University, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale. Individuals must hold a minimum American College Test score of 21 or an SAT score of 1000. Individuals must also submit two letters of recommendation; one from a teacher and another from a counselor. Individuals must submit an admission essay and a high school transcript, which shows completion of English, Sciences, Social Sciences, Mathematics and two years of a foreign language.

Contact:
Howard University
2400 Sixth Street, NW,
Washington, DC 20059
Phone: 202-806-6100

Trinity Washington University Nursing School Review

Trinity Washington University, established in 1904, is located in Washington, DC. Trinity Washington University began as a Catholic women’s college, and was started by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1897. The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur believed that women should be able to experience higher education, just as men had been able to for years. Originally intended as a women’s university, Trinity Washington University began accepting men into its evening and weekend programs in the 1960s.

Trinity Washington University is located three miles from Washington, District of Columbia and offers a free shuttle bus every 20 minutes between the main campus and the Brookland Metro stop on the city’s red line. The University offers four dorm halls, which is open to all students studying in the College of Arts and Sciences. Trinity Washington University is also home to an athletic facility called the Trinity Center for Women and Girls in Sports, and is available to all Trinity Washington University students.

The nursing programs at Trinity Washington University are varied and are geared toward individuals who require a flexible schedule. Trinity Washington University offers entry level, pre-licensure and professional nursing degrees for individuals from all backgrounds. The University offers an evening and weekend format Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, a day format Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is available during the evenings or weekends or during the daytime. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is intended for individuals just beginning their nursing education and is composed of a combination of academic studies and clinical preparation. The start of the program consists of liberal arts courses, and is an initial framework for the students major in nursing. At the close of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals must complete clinical practicum in a variety of healthcare environments, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, physicians’’ offices and many others. At the completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University, graduates can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, (NCLEX-RN), which allows them to become certified as licensed Registered Nurses and allows them to practice in their field.

In order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University, individuals must hold a “C” grade or above in all SPS Core Curriculum and Pre-Nursing courses. Individuals must also hold a GPA of at least 2.5 and must have a satisfactory score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) test.Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity University must also submit updated immunization records, CPR certification, a criminal background check and a successful drug screening for admittance.

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

Individuals, who hold a Registered Nurse licensure after completing an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, can apply to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree. This program, allows Registered Nurses to complete baccalaureate studies. Other than holding a Registered Nurse licensure, the requirements for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are the same as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Trinity Washington University.

Contact:
Trinity Washington University
125 Michigan Ave. NE,
Washington, DC 20017
Phone: 202-884-9000

University of the District of Columbia Nursing School Review

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) was established in 1851 and became part of the public school system in 1879. The school was officially formed in 1955 as a teachers college, and was the merger of two existing schools; Miner Normal School and Washington Normal School. Today, the University of the District of Columbia offers 75 undergraduate and graduate academic degree programs through the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Public Administration, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law.

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

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at the University of the District of Columbia is fully accredited and is available for students who wish to study on a part-time and full-time basis, as many individuals continue employment as nurses while enrolled in education. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is designed for individuals who are already Registered Nurses and hold licensure to practice nursing in Washington, DC and the metropolitan area. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is approved by the DC Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia is focused on adult learners who are already professionals.

Associate in Applied Science in Nursing Degree (AASN)

The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AASN) and the accelerated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate in Applied Science in Nursing degree (AASN) are also offered at the University of District of Columbia. Students are required to complete clinical practice, laboratory work and in-class lectures in the program and the program prepares students to complete nursing practice to individuals from newborns to the elderly, in critical care, acute care, rehabilitation and home care settings. The University of District of Columbia also offers a Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA), for individuals just beginning their studies in the profession of nursing and a Home Health Aide Program, which is also for individuals who are new to the profession of nursing. All of these programs are offered at the University’s Community College Backus campus, which is located at 5171 South Dakota Street NE, WDC.

Admission Criteria

In order to be admitted into the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia, individuals must hold Registered Nurse licensure prior to applying to the program, and must show this licensure when asked. Individuals must already be practicing as a Registered Nurse in the state of DC, and be interested in pursuing baccalaureate education. Individuals applying to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of the District of Columbia must submit a criminal background check when applying to the program, and must also submit an up-to-date immunization record as well as a clear drug screen. Individuals must have completed all prerequisites before applying to the program.

Contact:
University of the District of Columbia
4200 Connecticut Avenue NW,
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 274-5000

Bellevue College Nursing Program Review

Bellevue College (BC), previously known as Bellevue Community College (BCC) offers programs on three campuses; Main campus, Robinswood Campus, and City University Campus, all of which are located in Bellevue, Washington. Bellevue College also provides courses on 25 additional sites in the community.

Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree in Nursing at Bellevue College prepares students to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which allows individuals to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Washington. Lectures are scheduled during the day and clinical practicum is scheduled during the days and evenings. The Associate of Applied Science Transfer Degree is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare institutions including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, schools, and many more healthcare environments.

The Nursing program offers both a part time and full time alternatives. Entry for the full time option is in the Fall/Winter and classes for the part time Bellevue nursing program students start in the Spring.

Admission Requirements

In order to apply to the Associate of Applied Science Transfer Degree, individuals must complete a Bellevue College Application and a Nursing Application. Individuals must then complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a minimum score of 74. Individuals must submit an official transcript and must have completed general education requirements with a GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in a given course. Required general education courses in include Chemistry and various Biology courses. Individuals must also submit a writing sample and go through an interview. Once qualified, applicants must take a COMPASS E-Write Test and submit a background check, a criminal history disclosure, immunization records and CPR card for healthcare providers.

Other Nursing Certificates/Programs

The four-month Registered Nurse (RN) Refresher Program is taught by local clinical experts and is offered twice every year. The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program combines in-class lectures with clinical practicum and prepares students to apply to write the NNAAP Examination for OBRA Nursing Assistant Registry and Certification in the State of Washington. Bellevue College also offers classes and training programs for CPR for Health Care Providers, IV Skills for Nurses and Venipuncture for Health Care Providers. In order to apply to these programs, individuals must attend an information session and complete an online application form. Individuals must then submit immunization records, proof of CPR certification, and a criminal background check.

Certified Nurse Aide’s work in a variety of healthcare organizations, under the supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and physicians. After some time as a Certified Nurse Aide, an individual may wish to begin studying to further his or her education in nursing in order to progress to the level of Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse.

At several times throughout the year, Bellevue College offers a variety of classes and workshops for healthcare professionals on their campus. The classes and workshops offered include; CPR for Health Care Providers, IV Skills for Nurses and Venipuncture for Healthcare Providers.

Contact:
Bellevue College
3000 Landerholm Circle,
SE Bellevue, WA 98007-6484
United States of America
Phone: (425) 564-1000

Big Bend Community College Nursing Program Review

The Nursing School at Big Bend Community College (BBCC) in Moses Lake, Washington, offers a Nursing Assistant Program (CNA), an Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN), and a Practical Nursing program (LPN).

Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant Program, individuals can go on to sit the Washington State Certification Examination, which allows individuals to be certified as a Nursing Assistant. The Nursing Assistant Program is approved by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services Aging and Disability Services Administration and the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. Graduates of the program work in long-term care facilities, community healthcare programs and other healthcare facilities and work under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and physicians. It is necessary to be a Certified Nursing Assistant in order to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program, as Certified Nurse Assistants are entry-level nursing professionals.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)

Upon completion of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Big Bend Community College, individuals can apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once individuals complete that examination, they are licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Big Bend Community College is two years in duration and allows individuals to begin working as Registered Nurses in a variety of healthcare organizations including; nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hospices, hospitals, schools, physicians’ offices and many more varied healthcare organizations.

Practical Nursing Program

After completing the Practical Nursing (PN) Program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse (LPN).

The program is four quarters in duration – fall, winter, spring and summer. Many individuals work for some time as Licensed Practical Nurses, and then go on to continue their education in order to become Registered Nurses and work in various healthcare organizations.

Applying to the Nursing Programs

Individuals can fill out the nursing program application online and must attach high school transcripts or college transcripts. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing or Associate Degree in Nursing programs must submit proof of their Washington State Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate. If an individual does not hold this certificate, it is mandatory to state when he or she expects to receive it. Applicants must submit Critical Thinking and TEAS test scores. Individuals who apply to any of the nursing programs at Big Bend Community College must hold CPR certification and must submit to a criminal background test and drug screening. Individuals must also complete a physical examination and present immunization records to the administrative office at Big Bend Community College.

Financial Aid is offered through Big Bend Community College, and several students are enrolled in the program. In order to find out more details on financial aid at Big Bend Community College, individuals can get in touch with the Administration Office directly to correspond on details and obtain further information.

Contact:
Big Bend Community College
7662 Chanute Street Northeast,
Moses Lake, WA 98837-3299,
United States
(509) 793-2222

Clark College Nursing Program Review

Clark College (CC), located in Vancouver, Washington, was founded in 1933 by a group of educators. Clark College was accredited four years after its inception and in 1948; the college was accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS)

Graduates of the Applied Science Degree in Nursing at Clark College, are able to apply to write the National Council Examination (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). If an individuals takes additional credits, they will be able to also graduate with an Associate of Arts degree. The Associate Degree in Nursing is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. In order to apply to the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, individuals must complete an application for admission form, and have taken prerequisite courses in Chemistry, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Microbiology, Nutrition and Lifespan Psychology.

All prerequisites must be completed with a 2.0 GPA or above. Individuals applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree will be required to attend a mandatory orientation and submit to physical examinations, submit proof of immunizations and a criminal background check. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, schools, physicians offices, long-term care facilities, and many more various healthcare organizations.

Clark College also offers a direct transfer program with Washington State University in Vancouver, Washington. Students who complete the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing at Clark College can go on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Washington State University in Vancouver. In order to graduate from this transfer agreement, students must complete additional credits.

Nursing Assistant Certification (CNA)

The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Clark College provides individuals with basic training including CPR and HIV/AIDS training. Upon completion of the Nursing Assistant Certification, individuals can go on to apply to write the State of Washington Nursing Assistant examination for State certification. In order to apply to the Nursing Assistant Certification program, individuals must be 18 years of agoe or above, hold a high school diploma or GED and provide proof of a TB test of clear chest x-ray within six months of program acceptance. Individuals must also provide proof of a criminal background check and attend a mandatory orientation program. Certified Nurse Aide’s work under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses or physicians, and is the entry-level to the profession of nursing.

After completing the Associate Degree in Nursing program, many individuals transfer to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program. Baccalaureate programs offering this transfer agreement include; University of Washington, Seattle, Washington State University, Northwest University, Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Walla Walla University.

Applying to Clark College

In order to apply to Clark College, individuals must complete an admission application and submit an academic plan essay. Individuals must submit a transcript from past academic institutions and a copy of his or her passport with the application fee. Individuals who speak English as a second language, must also provide English language proficiency test scores.

Contact:
Clark College
1933 Fort Vancouver Way
Vancouver, WA 98663
Phone: 360-699-6398

Columbia Basin College Nursing Program Review

Columbia Basin College’s Health Sciences Division is home to the school’s nursing program. The Health Sciences Division is located in the Health Science Center at Columbia Basin College’s Richland Campus. The Health Sciences Division is associated with 35 clinical facilities in the Benton and Franklin County area, which helps students build relationships with local healthcare facilities in order to complete their clinical practicum.

Columbia Basin College (CBC) offers a National League for Nursing Accredited Career Ladder Nursing program, which is conducted on campus. Individuals can enter the program at the beginning without previous nursing experience or training or as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at the Advanced Placement level. After the first year of the program, students are granted a Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate and can go on to write the Licensed Practical Nurse licensure examination (NCLEX-PN). After the second year of the program, students gain an Associate in Applied Science degree (AAS) and can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; nursing homes, hospices, hospitals, schools, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and many more varied healthcare organizations.

Entrance Requirements

Prior to applying to the nursing programs at Columbia Basin College, individuals must complete a variety of prerequisites. These courses provide individuals with points on the Admission Index Score, which helps gain entry. The courses that may be taken prior to admission include; Chemistry, Human A&P, English Composition, General Psychology, Lifespan Psychology, Microbiology, Math, and Communication Studies courses.

Individuals applying to the nursing programs at Columbia Basin College must submit immunization records, a current CPR card, and a clear criminal background check. Individuals must also hold a minimum GPA of 2.0 per course, in order to complete the one-year certificate and the Associate Degree in Nursing.

Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at Columbia Basin College is intended to prepare individuals for the Nursing Assistant Certification in Washington. Upon completion of the program, individuals receive a Certification of Completion and can take the certification examination. In order to apply individuals must provide a certificate of seven hours of HIV/AIDS Bloodborne Pathogens Training and a CPR certificate, as well as immunization records and a criminal background check. Course lectures take place three to four days a week and lab hours take place during the first four weeks. Clinical practicum is conducted at local healthcare institutions and attendance is mandatory. Students in the Nursing Assistant program are required to complete 50 clinical hours during the semester. Certified Nurse Assistants work in a variety of healthcare organizations, under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, or physicians. Certified Nurse Assistants are entry-level nursing professionals and often go on to complete additional nursing education, after working as Certified Nurse Assistants for some time.

All of the nursing programs at Columbia Basin College are accredited by the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Contact:
Columbia Basin College
2600 North 20th Avenue,
Pasco, WA 99301
Phone: (509) 547-0511

Eastern Washington University Nursing School Review

Eastern Washington University (EWU), located in Cheney, Washington has over 100 student clubs ad organizations and the alumni community consists of over 82,000 people. The Intercollegiate Nursing Alliance consists of three schools, Eastern Washington University, Washington State University (WSU)  and Whitworth University. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is offered at WSU College of Nursing, which is located in Spokane, Washington. This partnership allows students to be able to take all of their undergraduate degree prerequisites at the other universities, before going on to WSU College to finish the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

The Washington State University College of Nursing in Spokane, Washington, also offers a Master of Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (DNP). Ninety to 100 students are admitted into the College of Nursing every semester, with the majority of students coming from the partner universities.

Admission Requirements

In order to be admitted into the prerequisite nursing programs at Eastern Washington University, individuals must hold a 2.8 GPA or above in the Bachelor of Science prerequisite courses, with a minimum grade of 2.0 in any individual course. Individuals applying to the prerequisite nursing programs are required to go through a personal interview process. Individuals applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also submit proof of CPR certification, as well as submit to a drug screening and criminal background check. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program must also provide proof of immunization records, including all pertinent immunizations, in order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Prerequisite courses for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program include Anatomy/Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, and Statistics courses. All of the Eastern Washington University courses must be completed before individuals can start courses at Washington State University College of Nursing.

Individuals who successfully complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Washington State University, after completing the undergraduate requirements at Eastern Washington University, may go on to apply to sit the Registered Nurse licensure examinations. Registered Nurses (RN) work in a variety of healthcare fields, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, private homes and many more. After completing the Registered Nurse licensure, many individuals go on to become Nurse Practitioners and further their education.

Competition for entry into Eastern Washington University, and individuals who complete prerequisites are not necessarily guaranteed entry. While only the undergraduate degree in nursing is offered at Eastern Washington University, individuals can go on to complete post-graduate education in nursing at the universities included in the alliance affiliated with Eastern Washington University. Financial Aid and Scholarships are offered through Eastern Washington University and several students are provided with financial aid throughout the course of the academic year. Individuals must apply for financial aid through the administrative office at Eastern Washington University, however, financial aid is not guaranteed and a completed application form and fee must be submitted before financial aid can be granted.

Contact:
Eastern Washington University
526 5th Street,
Cheney, WA 99004
Phone: (509) 359-6200

Everett Community College Nursing Program Review

Everett Community College (EvCC) admits 9,000 students every year in a wide range of courses during the day, evening and weekends. Everett Community College also offers courses via distance studies on a full-time and part-time basis and offers a variety of two-year associate degrees, short-term certificates and industry certifications.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) & Registered Nurse Programs (RN)

Everett Community College prepares students for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Students can sit the Licensed Practical Nursing examination after four quarters in the program and currently Licensed Practical Nurses can be accepted as advanced placement students that into a nursing program that will eventually allow them to be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). In order to become a Registered Nurse, individuals must complete the National Council examination (NCLEX-RN) and then they can go on to work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; long-term care facilities, hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, schools, physicians’ offices, and many more varied healthcare organizations.

In order to apply to the nursing programs at Everett Community College, individuals fill out a personal information form and submit the application fee. Applicants must provide a criminal background check and passing scores on the Pre-Nursing Arithmetic Test or an acceptable Math score. Individuals must also submit official high school transcripts, showing grades in Algebra and Chemistry or an official GED score. Individuals must also provide official college transcripts, including required prerequisite courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above.

Nursing Assistant Certified (CNA) Program

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program at Everett Community College covers training in basic technical skills, mental health and social services needs of clients, clients’ rights, promotion of clients’ independence, communication and interpersonal skill development, safety and emergency procedures, rules and regulations that affect Nursing Assistant’s practice, as well as CPR instruction and HIV training. The program is completed in one academic quarter. Nursing Assistants are qualified to work in a variety of healthcare environments, such as clinics, hospitals, physician’s offices and long-term care facilities. Certified Nursing Assistants work under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse or physician and eventually Nursing Assistants usually go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses after their certification is complete and they have completed several hours of clinical practice in the field, as this is mandatory for the majority of Registered Nursing and Licensed Practical Nursing programs.

Individuals applying to the Nursing Assistant Certification Program, must provide high school transcripts, as well as immunization records, CPR certification and a criminal background check in order to be admitted to the Everett Community College’s nursing program.

Financial Aid is offered through Everett Community College and individuals interested in applying for financial aid can contact the Administration Office of Everett Community College directly for further information. Financial Aid is determined by “financial need” and every student is different. Individuals can also apply for scholarships through Everett Community College prior to program commencement. The cost of the programs differ depending on the specific program.

Contact:
Everett Community College
2000 Tower Street,
Everett, WA 98201
Phone: (425) 388-9100

Gonzaga University Nursing School Review

Gonzaga University (GU), located in Spokane, Washington has its history in Catholic and Jesuit education. Gonzaga University offers several programs in nursing, including; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Program (RN to MSN), a Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Gonzaga University’s nursing programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Gonzaga University is intended for individuals seeking licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Program is for individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse Licensure and are interested in obtaining a baccalaureate degree in nursing. The Master of Science in Nursing is for Registered Nurses who hold a licensure and a baccalaureate degree/ The Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing is for nurses who hold a Master’s degree in nursing, as well as a Registered Nurse licensure. Specialty areas of study are offered within the Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Program. The Doctor of Nursing Practice at Gonzaga University began during the spring of 2013.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Gonzaga University prepares students to sit the NCLEX-RN examination after graduation, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals can enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program three ways; Freshman Admit Program, Gonzaga students and Major-Ready Transfer Students.

The Freshman Admit Program entry allows students from high school to apply for admission. Once admitted, students can begin studying at the nursing program in the fall semester of their freshman year. During the first two years of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, individuals must hold a cumulative GPA of 2.9 and get a “C” grade in all prerequisite courses. Students can write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become a Registered Nurse upon graduation from the program. Gonzaga Students can also apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, if they are not admitted during their freshman year, but they cannot count nursing as their major. Major-Ready Transfer Students can apply in the Spring semester only and they must complete all nursing prerequisite coursework and apply into the nursing program as major-ready students. Individuals will be admitted based on their GPA and letters of recommendation, as well as personal letter of intent.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Gonzaga University offers several tracks of the Master of Science in Nursing Program including; Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Health Systems Leadership. The Master of Science in Nursing Program is intended for working nurses, so the program is available both on-campus and through distance learning, both on a full-time and part-time basis. Most students enroll in the program in 6-7 credits per semester and students have a maximum of five years to complete the program. The Master of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In order to be considered for the MSN program, students must submit an application, proof of a bachelor’s degree, a Registered Nurse licensure, a 3.0 GPA, a CV, MAT score and a personal statement, along with two letters of reference.

Post-Masters Certificate in Nursing (PMCN)

Individuals who already hold a master’s degree with a major in nursing may apply to the Post-Masters Certificate in Nursing at Gonzaga University. The certificates consist of 22-32 semester credits both in-class and through clinical practicum.All courses must be completed within five years. The Post-Masters Certificate in Nursing tracks include; Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, Psychiatric Mental Health and Health Systems Leadership.

Online Nursing Programs

Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Online Master of Science in Nursing program at Gonzaga University is intended for individuals who wish to pursue additional training as a Nurse Educator, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or Health Systems Leadership.

Online RN to MSN Degree

The Online RN to MSN degree option is intended for Registered Nurses with an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) or BSN degree, who wish to obtain higher level nursing education while still working in the field of Registered Nursing. Completing the RN to MSN degree online, allows individuals the flexibility to continue employment.

Those applicants with ADN/ASN degree qualifications will need 66 credits to graduate. Those students with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing will need only 36-47 credits to become online RN to MSN graduates.

Leadership skills, research approaches and ways to improve healthcare and patient outcomes will be the focus of this RN to MSN bridge program.Students are allowed to accelerate there progress through the program by taking several classes concomitantly instead of just one class. Just taking two online RN to MSN degree classes means that graduation is possible within about 3 years.

The online RN to MSN degree program at Gonzaga University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It offers a Nurse Educator Specialization and also the Health Systems Leadership specialization.

Contact:
Gonzaga University
502 East Boone Avenue
Spokane, WA 99258-0102
Phone: (800) 986-9585

Grays Harbor College Nursing Program Review

Grays Harbor College (GHC) was established in 1930 in Aberdeen, Washington and offers Associate degrees, GED and English as a second language. Grays Harbor College is accredited as a community college by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. College-level credits offered at Grays Harbor College are accepted by colleges and universities throughout the United States. Grays Harbor College is a member of the Association of Community College Trustees, the Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges, the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges and Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and the Northwest Association of Community and Junior Colleges.

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The nursing program at Grays Harbor College requires a minimum of a “C” grade before an individual can be considered for entrance into the program. Each of the core courses in the nursing program must be completed with a grade of a “B-“ or better and support courses must be completed with a “C” or better to stay in the nursing program.

The Nursing Program is six semesters, a total of two academic years, and leads to an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Registered Nursing (RN). Upon completion of the program, individuals can apply to sit the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Individuals applying to the nursing program, have usually taken a year of admission in support courses prior to being admitted into the program. Individuals who take the Personal and Vocational Relationships course prior to the program, will get the Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing and can apply to sit the NCLEX-PN licensure examination, in order to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Individuals who already hold a Practical Nurse licensure and want to complete the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Registered Nursing, can apply to start the program in the second year (LPN to RN program). After completing the LPN to RN program, the Licensed Practical Nurse can sit the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices, and schools, as well as several other various healthcare institutions. Registered Nurses work under the direct supervision of physicians.

In order to be admitted into the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing Program, individuals must submit immunization records, a CPR certification, and a criminal background check. Students must hold illness/injury insurance, which can be purchased from Grays Harbor College. Clinical practicum is scheduled during the day and evening hours, and sometimes during the night and on the weekends. This is done in order to make it possible for students to be immersed in a variety of experiences. Students must make their own way to the clinical practicum and provide proof of vehicle insurance when asked by the nursing department at Grays Harbor College. The Associate in Applied Science Degree Nursing Program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Contact:
Grays Harbor College
1620 Edward P. Smith Drive,
Aberdeen WA 98520
Phone: (360) 538-4026

Lower Columbia College Nursing Program Review

Founded in 1934, Lower Columbia College (LCC), located in Longview, Washington has a total student population of over 8,000, 60% of which are female. Lower Columbia College offers 300 Associate of Applied Science degrees and 169 certificates and 125 high school designations.

Lower Columbia College offers a variety of certificate and degree options in nursing. The Nursing Assistant Certificate (CNA), the Practical Nurse Certificate of Proficiency (PN), the Registered Nurse Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree (AAS), the LPN2RN Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree (LPN to RN) and the RONE Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree.

Nursing Assistant Certificate (CNA) Program

The Nursing Assistant Certificate, is an 8-credit certificate and provides students with basic nursing care skills and provides them with the opportunity to work under a licensed nurse upon graduation from the program.

Practical Nurse Certificate of Proficiency (PN)

The Practical Nurse Certificate of Proficiency from Lower Columbia College is a four semester program, which allows students to sit the NCLEX-PN examination upon graduation, in order to go on to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Registered Nurse Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree (AAS)

The Registered Nurse Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree at Lower Columbia College is earned when students complete the nursing curriculum. After completing the curriculum, students can go on to sit the NCLEX-RN examination, which enables students to become Licensed Registered Nurses (RN).

LPN2RN Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree (LPN to RN)

The LPN2RN Associate in Applied Science Transfer (LPN to RN) Degree Proram is intended for Practical Nurses who wish to become Registered Nurses via two options; the Campus Based Option and the eLearning option, which allows students to take the program through online studies. This eLearning option is basicallythe online LPN to RN program is highly desired by Licensed Practical Nurses who are currently in nursing jobs as it allows them flexibility to do their RN degree studies while working.

Nursing theory classes are online while the laboratory based practical and clinical skills parts of the course are done in locations around Longview, Washington State within 10 weeks in the summer.

Graduates from both the online LPN to RN eLearning program or the campus based option are awarded the Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree (AAS-T) upon successful completion of the course.

RONE Associate in Applied Science Transfer Degree

The Rural Outreach in Nursing Education in Applied Science Transfer Degree at Lower Columbia College provides nursing education for individuals located in rural areas in the state of Washington.

Nursing Program Admission Requirements

In order to be admitted into the nursing programs at Lower Columbia College, applicants must complete the placement test in Math, Reading and Writing. If individuals have previously attended college, they must submit their transcripts and scheduling a meeting with the education planner of the nursing program. Once all prerequisites have been completed with a minimum GPA of 2.8, individuals may apply to the nursing program and applicants will be notified by mail of their status. Individuals who are applying to nursing programs that require previous nursing experience (like the LPN2RN program), must provide proof of previous nursing licensure before being admitted into the program.

Prior to being admitted into any of the nursing programs at Lower Columbia College, individuals must provide CPR certification proof, as well as drug screening results, and a criminal background check. Individuals must also submit to a physical examination, as well as immunization records. Lower Columbia College’s nursing programs are accredited by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Atlanta, Georgia.

Financial aid is available at Lower Columbia College, through both loans and scholarships and more information can be obtained through the Administrative Office at Lower Columbia College. Students must ensure all materials are submitted through the Administration Office on deadline, in order to be eligible for financial aid.

Contact:
Lower Columbia College
1600 Maple Street,
Longview, WA 98632-3907
Phone: (360) 442-2000

Seattle University Nursing School Review

Seattle University (SU), established in 1891 is located in Seattle, Washington and is a Jesuit Catholic university in Capitol Hill. Seattle University is home to 7,900 students in a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs in a total of eight schools and colleges.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Seattle University prepares students to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses go on to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities and a variety of other healthcare environments. Students at Seattle University are accepted as first-year students, as long as they have a 2.75 GPA and a 3.0 in prerequisite courses. Seattle University’s College of Nursing has a 20,000 square foot clinical laboratory on property.

Master of Science in Nursing Program (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing Program at Seattle University prepares students for senior practice in nursing at a variety of healthcare environments, such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities and several other healthcare institutions. Seattle University offers two graduate options for professional nurses and individuals wishing to switch careers and have experience in non-nursing professions. For individuals who are already certified as professional nurses, Seattle University offers two tracks – Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Community/Public Health Nursing. The Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program is for professional nurses who wish to become Primary Care Nurse Practitioners. The Advanced Community/Public Health Nursing track is intended for professional nurses who wish to work in an advanced fashion in the field of Community and Public Health nursing.

Individuals who do not have a degree in nursing there is an Advanced Practice Nursing Immersion program, which is intended for nurses who wish to become Primary Care Nurse Practitioners or Advanced Community Public Health Nurses. The Master of Science in Nursing degree readies graduates to be able to write the National Certification Examinations in their specified area.The specializations for Nurse Practitioner include; Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Addictions Focus. The specializations for the Advanced Community/Public Health Nursing track include; Leadership and Program Development and Post-Master’s Certificates in Family Primary Care, Adult/Gerontological Primary Care, Nurse Midwifery, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Addictions Focus Advanced Community/Public Health Nursing.

Doctor of Nursing Program (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Program at Seattle University is offered in the Fall semester yearly, with on-campus classes, as well as weekend study and online course offerings. Individuals applying to the Doctor of Nursing Program at Seattle University must hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from an educational institution.

Clinical Performance Lab

Seattle University is home to a 20,000 square foot clinical performance lab, which was built thanks for a $5 million donation. The lab simulates a hospital and clinical environment and opened in 2005. The College of Nursing programs uses the lab for its laboratory work for all students in the BSN, MSN and DNP programs.

Contact:
Seattle University
901 12th Avenue,
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone: (206) 296-6000

Shoreline Community College Nursing Program Review

Shoreline Community College (SCC), located in Shoreline, Washington, was founded in 1964 on land from the Boeing family. Shoreline Community College offers over 100 professional/technical programs, academic programs, and workforce training. The Shoreline Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The Shoreline Community College Nursing Program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and is nationally accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

The Nursing Program at Shoreline Community College has graduated over 2,400 students in the last 45 years. The Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences in Nursing (AA ASN) or the Applied Arts and Sciences Transfer in Nursing degrees are offered by Shoreline Community College. Upon completion of the nursing programs, individuals are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Washington.

Applications to the nursing programs at Shoreline Community College are accepted on an ongoing basis and prerequisites for the nursing program may be taken at Shoreline Community College if necessary. Shoreline Community College also accepts prerequisites completed at other educational institutions.

The prerequisites for the Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences in Nursing or the Applied Arts and Sciences Transfer in Nursing degrees at Shoreline Community College include completion of individual courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or above. Individuals must also complete English 101 or a higher level writing course prior to admission to the program, as well as a Reading, Algebra, and Mathematics COMPASS test score, that has been completed within one year of the application time. Individuals must also have completed a five-credit Chemistry course with a supervised lab within the past 10 years for applicants that do not hold nursing licensure. Individuals, who hold a Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure, must have completed a Chemistry course within the last 15 years. Applicant must have completed a five-credit Anatomy course and a five-credit Physiology course with a supervised lab, within the last five years for all applicants, and within 10 years for Licensed Practical Nurse applicants.

Shoreline Community College accepts three types of applicants; Generic, Advanced Placement, and Transfer Applicants. Generic Applicants are those who have never been enrolled in a nursing program. Advanced Placement applicants are those who hold Licensed Practical Nurse licensure and Transfer Applicants are those applicants who have previously been enrolled in another nursing program. Licensed Practical Nurse applicants must have met all prerequisites of Generic applicants, but they must also show their Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure prior to being admitted into the program. Transfer Applicants must also meet all prerequisites as outlined for the Generic applicants and have completed all non-nursing courses with a minimum of a 2.0 GPA or higher. Individuals applying through the Transfer Application must have a passing grade in all nursing courses that have previously been attempted and be currently enrolled in an American nursing program or have been enrolled in the last year.

Contact:
Shoreline Community College
16101 Greenwood Avenue North,
Shoreline, WA 98133-5696,
United States
Phone: (206) 546-4101

Skagit Valley College Nursing Program Review

Skagit Valley College (SVC) is located in Mount Vernon, Washington and offers a Registered Nursing Program. Admission to the Skagit Valley College Registered Nursing Program (RN) is competitive and requires minimum requirements in order to be considered.

All applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or higher in Science prerequisites including; Human A&P in Biology, Chemistry and Microbiology. Individuals applying to the Skagit Valley College program in nursing must also have a 3.0 GPA at a minimum in all required nursing prerequisites including Science prerequisites, English Composition, college-level math, General Psychology and Lifespan Psychology and a Certificate of Nursing Assistant Licensure from any state in the United States.

Individuals applying to the Skagit Valley College program must complete an interview with the Nursing Admissions Committee and when accepted, individuals will be notified. Applications can be admitted in person, or online. A completed Registered Nursing application must be submitted by the deadline date outline don the Skagit Valley College nursing website. When applying to the Skagit Valley College Registered Nursing Program at Mount Vernon Campus, individuals must submit the Mount Vernon Campus Nursing Program Personal Information & Application Form. Individuals applying to the program must also submit a transcript from other educational institutions. Individuals must submit their Certified Nursing Assistant Licensure (CNA) and a copy of their Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure if they have completed it. A copy of their American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR Card is also required for admission to the Skagit Valley College Registered Nursing Program and all application packets must be completed and submitted to the Skagit Valley Mount Vernon Campus Nursing Office by the deadlines outlined on the college’s website.

Transfer students are also accepted into the Registered Nursing Program at Skagit Valley College, however, they must have completed all of the prerequisites of the Generic applicants and must be in good standing at their current college program.

Individuals who graduate from the Skagit Valley Registered Nursing program are eligible to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become a Licensed Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare institutions, including; hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, hospices and many more. Graduates of the program receive an Associates Degree in Registered Nursing.

Skagit Valley College also offers a Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program (LPN to RN) program, which is intended for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to obtain the necessary skills in order to become certified as a Registered Nurse. Individuals who complete the LPN to RN program must go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become certified as a Registered Nurse. Skagit Valley College also offers a Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN) and a Nursing Assistant Program (CNA). The Certificate in Practical Nursing program is conducted at Whidbey Island Campus and is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. The program is full-time and is four semesters long. There is also a part-time Practical Nursing program available, which is seven semesters in length. Individuals who graduate from the Practical Nursing Certificate can apply to write the State Licensing Examination for Practical Nursing and become certified as a Practical Nurse.

The Nursing Assistant and Aids Education Program is approved by the state of Washington and is composed of 35 lecture hours and 50 clinical hours of Nursing Assistant introduction and training. Upon completion of the program students are eligible to write the State Licensing Examination for Nursing Assistants.

Contact:
Skagit Valley College
2405 East College Way
Mount Vernon, WA 98273 – 5899
United States
Phone: 360-416-7600

South Puget Sound Community College Nursing Program Review

South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) is located in Olympia Washington on over 100 acres of woodland. Students come from Thurston County and across the United States, and South Puget Sound Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and recognized by the Secretary of the United States Department of Education. South Puget Sound Community College’s main campus is located in Olympia, with another supporting campus; Hawks Prairie Center, located in Lacey, Washington.

The nursing programs at South Puget Sound Community College include; the Associate Degree in Nursing Education (ADN), a Certificate in Practical Nursing (PN) and a Certificate as a Nursing Assistant (CNA). The Associate Degree in Nursing Education is for graduates to become certified as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and many other healthcare institutions. Individuals who graduate from the Associate Degree in Nursing Education go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, which certifies them as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses are able to administer medication and treatments, as well as a series of other responsibilities. Registered Nurses are entitled to work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices and schools, as well as many other various healthcare organizations.

The Certificate in Practical Nursing is for individuals who wish to work in a variety of healthcare environments. Practical Nurses work under the supervision of Registered Nurses and Physicians. Graduates from the Certificate in Practical Nursing program at South Puget Sound Community College go on to apply to write the NCLEX-PN examination in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse.

The Certification as a Nursing Assistant Program at South Puget Sound Community College readies graduates to work as nursing assistants in nursing homes, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and a variety of healthcare environments. Individuals who graduate from the Nursing Assistant Certification Program, go on to take the Certification Examination for Nursing Assistants, in order to become licensed in the state of Washington. Courses in the Nursing Assistant Certification program at South Puget Sound Community College include; body mechanics, restorative and rehabilitation techniques, reality orientation, and the assistant’s role in the health care team.

The Certified Nurse Assistant Program is eight weeks in duration, or two semesters and the Licensed Practical Nurse program is one-year in duration. The Registered Nurse Program is two-years long. Licensed Practical Nurse candidates, who apply to the Registered Nurse Program must provide proof of their Licensed Practical Nurse licensure. All students will complete their clinical practicum at a local hospital or other health care agency and Registered Nursing Program students will shadow an experienced nurse through their clinical practicum.

Individuals applying to the nursing programs at South Puget Sound Community College must have completed all of the nursing prerequisites and must submit immunization records, proof of CPR certification, and a criminal background check prior to being accepted into the any of the nursing programs.

Contact:
South Puget Sound Community College
2011 Mottman Road SW,
Olympia, WA 98512
Phone: (360) 754-7711

Tacoma Community College Nursing Program Review

Tacoma Community College (TCC), located in Tacoma, Washington offers 46 professional and technical programs accounting, allied health, business, health information management, information technology, office professional, human services professional, logistics, medical office and para educator. Almost 15,000 students are enrolled in Tacoma Community College every year, with 64% being women and 34% being men.

Tacoma Community College has 43% part-time students and 57% full-time students, with some completing academic transfer to a four-year institution, some in workforce training, some in basic skills education and others completing continuing education or enrichment courses for their current profession. Individuals who attend Tacoma Community College transfer to the University of Washington Tacoma, Evergreen State College, the University of Washington Seattle, Central Washington University and many other local Universities.

Associate in Pre-Nursing Degree

The Associate in Pre-Nursing Degree (DTA/MRP Transfer Degree) at Tacoma Community College is the first two years of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. After the pre-nursing degree in completed individuals will be granted an Associate in Pre-Nursing Degree from Tacoma Community College, before they transfer to a baccalaureate program in nursing. Individuals complete this program and then transfer to a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program after they have completed all of the courses, which are prerequisites for a baccalaureate program in nursing. After completing the pre-nursing program at Tacoma Community College, students are not able to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. This examination can only be completed once individuals have completed their Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at an accredited educational institution.

Individuals applying to the pre-nursing program at Tacoma Community College must have completed Math, Chemistry and Biology courses in high school. Applicants to Tacoma Community College are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor once they are accepted into Tacoma Community College.

Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program at Tacoma Community College is for students who are interested in pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse. The graduate is awarded an Associate in Applied Science Degree and can go on to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses and then begin a career as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare institutions.

Applicants to the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing Program must complete all prerequisites and course requirements over a maximum of three years and can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Individuals can apply to the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing Program on a full-time Registered Nurse Generic point of entry or a part-time Registered Nurse Generic entry. The full-time RN Generic Option is for students who already have a nursing background and the program is taught over six semesters over a two-year period. This option is ideal for individuals who are working less than 20 hours every week. The part-time Registered Nurse Generic entry option, is intended for individuals who do not have a nursing background, but would rather attend school on a part-time basis. This option offers courses twice per week and students attend lectures in one semester and clinical practicum in the next semester.

This program also offers an AAS Advanced Standing for LPN Plan, which is an entry option for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to become Registered Nurses.

Contact:
Tacoma Community College
6501 South 19th Street,
Tacoma, WA 98466,
United States
Phone: (253) 566-5000

University of Washington Nursing School Review

The University of Washington (UW, UDub) was established in 1861 in what is now downtown Seattle, Washington.

The School of Nursing at the University of Washington offers a variety of undergraduate programs including; a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN), and an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing option (ABSN). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing option is for individuals who wish to go on to take the licensure examination in order to become a Registered Nurse (RN). The accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing option is for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing program, who wish to take the examination in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The University of Washington offers a four-semester program that modifies the Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum for individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion is for individuals who wish to complete baccalaureate education and is offered at the University of Washington Bothell campus and the University of Washington Tacoma campus. Upon completion of this track, individuals usually go on to complete higher levels of nursing education including a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing.

In order to be admitted into the nursing programs at the University of Washington, individuals must have a college-level GPA of 3.0 or above and have completed at least four of the prerequisite courses with a 3.0 in each course. Applicants to the nursing programs must also submit personal statements, a resume outlining volunteer and healthcare experience, community service and cultural awareness, as well as three recommendation letters from healthcare, academic and character references. Applicants to the nursing programs must have 200 hours of healthcare experience, either on a volunteer or paid basis from a minimum of 12 months prior to the submission of the application. After students have passed the first round of admission, they are asked to attend a proctored essay session.

The University of Washington offers a variety of graduate programs in nursing including a Master of Nursing (MN), Master of Science (MS), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science. The Master of Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs are for Registered Nurses who wish to advance their nursing careers.

The Master of Nursing offers a variety of specialties including; adult clinical nurse specialist, adult nurse practitioner (generalist, adult acute care, adult/older adult, infectious disease, rural adult), advanced practice community-health systems nursing (cross-cultural nursing and global health, occupational and environmental health nursing, healthy aging, communities for youth, rural health), neonatal clinical nurse specialist, neonatal nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, perinatal nurse specialist, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and an independent thesis. A concurrent MN/MPH degree is also available at the University of Washington.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Washington admits licensed Registered Nurses and has a variety of specialties. Applicants who already hold a Master of Nursing in a specialty may apply to the same specialty at a doctorate level. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is completed when students write a clinical investigative project.

The Ph.D in Nursing Science Program is intended for individuals who are interested in a research-based degree and wish to work closely with faculty. In order to complete the Ph.D in Nursing Science Program at the University of Washington individuals must submit a dissertation.

All of the graduate programs can be completed on a part-time basis. Applicants to the graduate programs must satisfy all prerequisite requirements and must hold a Registered Nurse licensure.

Finally, the Graduate Certificate Program in Advanced Practice Nursing (GCPAPN) is intended for students who have already completed a graduate degree and wish to complete a certificate program. Certificate options include; Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (APMHNP), Advanced Practice Environmental Health, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), Infant Mental Health, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Midwifery.

Contact:
University of Washington
1410, NE Campus Parkway,
Seattle, WA 98195-5852,
Phone: (206) 543-2100

Walla Walla Community College Nursing Program Review

Walla Walla Community College (WWCC), located in Walla Walla, Washington was established in 1967 and graduated 850 students that year. Today, Walla Walla Community College is home to over 13,000 students every year. Walla Walla Community College has its home campus at the Clarkston Center, which is in Clarkston, Washington, as well as campuses in Asotin and Garfield counties. Walla Walla Community College also has a facility at the Washington State Penitentiary.

The nursing programs at Walla Walla Community College include a Practical Nursing (LPN) degree and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Walla Walla Community College also offers a Nursing Assistant Program (CNA). Graduates of the Practical Nursing degree can go on to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse (PN). Graduates of the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Walla Walla Community College can go on to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which enables them to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RN).

Practical Nursing Degree (LPN)

Walla Walla Community College offers a degree in Practical Nursing. Individuals who complete the Practical Nursing degree go on to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

In order to be admitted into the Practical Nursing program at Walla Walla Community College, applicants must have completed all of the prerequisites outlined, with a minimum 2.0 GPA, and must apply through Walla Walla Community College, before applying to the nursing program directly. Individuals applying to the Practical Nursing Degree must also submit a criminal background check, immunization records with all immunizations up to date and CPR certification.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Walla Walla Community College requires applicants to submit a criminal background check, immunization records and CPR certification when applying to the program. Graduates of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Walla Walla Community College can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments and can administer medications and treatment.

Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Walla Walla Community College is intended for individuals interested in starting out in the profession of nursing. Certified Nursing Assistant graduates can go on to work in healthcare environments, as support staff for Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses. Individuals who complete the Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Walla Walla Community College usually go on to complete programs in Practical Nursing or Registered Nursing or work as Certified Nursing Assistants in a variety of healthcare environments such as, hospitals, physician’s offices, long-term care facilities, schools, hospices and many other varied healthcare institutions.

Contact:
Walla Walla Community College
500 Tausick Way
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Tel: (509) 522-2500

Walla Walla University Nursing School Review

Walla Walla University (WWU) is four-year, private university awarding associate’s through master’s degrees. The university was established in 1892 and is affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist denomination. Walla Walla University has several off-campus centers in Anacortes, Washington; Billings and Missoula, Montana and Portland, Oregon. Over 1,500 graduate and undergraduate students are enrolled at the University. Walla Walla University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and also by the Accrediting Association of Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Schools, Colleges and Universities.

Nursing Programs

The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program at Walla Walla University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The BSN program was first accredited in 1953. The nursing program at Walla Walla University is ideal for students who would like to be taught in the Seventh – day Adventist tradition.

Walla Walla University Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Nursing

The Nursing program at Walla Walla University offers a Bachelors of Science (BS) degree with a major in Nursing instead of a BSN. The BS degree is a general bachelor’s of science degree rather than a degree specifically for the nursing qualification. However, both degrees are designed for and prepare nurses to work in healthcare settings. The BSN program can be completed in four years. Students should note that while the first two years of the nursing program take place in College Place, Washington, the last two years of the nursing program are held in Portland, Oregon. The BSN program consists of class work and clinical practicum experiences to prepare students for the nursing profession.

Admission Requirements

Students must first apply and be accepted to Walla Walla University before applying to the nursing program. Once accepted to the nursing school, students are admitted as pre-nursing and should apply to the nursing program at the end of the freshman year of study.Transfer students are also accepted to the nursing program.Admission requirements to the nursing program include a minimum 2.75 GPA and satisfactory scores on the nursing exams which include the Accuplacer Reading Comprehension and Arithmetic tests and Health Sciences Reasoning Test.

Upon completion of the four-year nursing program, students receive a BSN and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become an RN (Registered Nurse).

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) Applicants

Though a separate BSN program for nurses with experience does not exist at Walla Walla University, LPNs and RNs that enter the nursing program at Walla Walla University are eligible to receive up to 15 credits for previous coursework. Admission requirements for LPNs and RNs include a minimum 2.75 GPA and valid nursing license. LPNs and RNs must take validation exams to receive credit for previous coursework and experience.

Nursing Student Organizations at Walla Walla University

In addition to pursuing studies at Walla Walla University, students can participate in Walla Walla University’s Student Association or Nursing Honor Society. The Nursing honor society, Lambda Psi, is open to students with an excellent academic record who are in the junior or senior year of the nursing program. Only individuals in the top 35% of the nursing class are eligible to join the honor society. Lambda Psi holds events for its members throughout the year including a job fair.

Contact:
Walla Walla University
204 South College Avenue,
College Place, WA 99324

Washington State University Nursing School Review

Washington State University (WSU), with its main campus located in Pullman, Washington is one of the United States’ top 60 public research universities, with four campuses; Pullman, Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Vancouver. Washington State University also offers courses online, through WSU Online. The total student population across all of Washington State University’s campuses is over 27,000.

The Nursing programs at Washington State University include a Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN). Washington State University also offers graduate degrees in nursing, including; a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Washington State University, individuals must hold a 2.5 GPA of higher in prerequisites for the upper-division nursing major and a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher in prerequisite courses. A writing portfolio may be required for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Washington State University.  Washington State University also offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN) for individuals who are already Registered Nurses, who wish to acquire baccalaureate education in order to progress through nursing education. Washington State University also offers a Registered Nurse to Master of Nursing Program (RN to MSN), for individuals who hold a Registered Nurse licensure, who wish to pursue a Masters education nursing.

Master of Nursing Program (MN)

The Master of Nursing Program at Washington State University is intended for nurses who wish to practice, teach or administer programs in community medical settings. The program has several core courses including; Health Care Policy Analysis, Research and Thesis or Clinical Project. The Specialty Core includes topics in Epidemiology, Transcultural Health, Community Analysis and Program Planning, Health Promotion, Family in Community, Information Management and Role Practicum. All of the programs require a Program Management course, which can be completed at Washington State University, except for the Education and Individualized Study option.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program at Washington State University is intended for nurses who wish to pursue further education in their field in order to advance their scientific career. The program is a hybrid that combines online and in-person education so that students from around the world can study at Washington State University. Individuals applying to this program, must hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN).

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice at Washington State University offers three specializations; Family Nurse Practice, Advanced Population Health Practice, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Practice. The Doctor of Nursing Practice will be offered commencing in the Fall of 2012, and students will only be able to enter this program, after completing a baccalaureate or Masters degree in nursing from an accredited university program.

Contact:
Washington State University
1630 NE Valley Road,
Pullman, WA 99163
Phone: (509) 335-2776

Wenatchee Valley College Nursing Program Review

Wenatchee Valley College (WVC), located in Wenatchee, Washington provides programs in liberal arts, professional and technical skills, basic skills and continuing education. The district that Wenatchee Valley College covers includes, Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan counties and is located between Seattle and Spokane. Wenatchee Valley College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the US Department of Education. The nursing program at Wenatchee Valley College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, a specialized accrediting board recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the US Department of Education.

Wenatchee Valley College offers several programs in nursing including; Nursing Assistant Certification (CNA), Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN), and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). After completion of the first year of the Associate Degree in Nursing, individuals can take the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse (PN). The nursing program takes place at the Wenatchee and Omak campuses and has several prerequisites that must individuals must satisfy prior to being admitted. All of the nursing programs involve clinical work, and students are assigned day and evening shifts in a variety of healthcare institutions, therefore students must be available to take on courses during day or evening when commencing the program. Students in their second year of study have to work evening shifts or Saturdays and all students are given clinical practicum that is out of the local area. Students must have their own transportation, in order to be able to commute to clinical practice that may be organized outside of his or her local area.

Admission

The nursing programs at Wenatchee Valley College begin in the Fall quarter and every other spring. Individuals who wish to apply to the nursing programs at Wenatchee Valley College, must first apply to Wenatchee Valley College and then to the nursing school. Individuals applying to the nursing programs must be 18 years or older at the time of admission.

Individuals applying to the Wenatchee Valley College, must first fill out the application form for the college and then the Nursing Program application form. Individuals must submit a high school transcript, or GED certificate to all previous institutions attended. Individuals applying to the nursing programs must have taken the Test of Essential Academic Skills and must hold a cumulative GPA of 2.5 from college courses. Completion of all prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or above must also be submitted. Individuals must have completed core science courses in Biology, as well as English prerequisite courses.

After being admitted into the nursing program of their choices, applicants must submit a $50 non-refundable acceptance deposit and go through a criminal background check. Individuals must also purchase annual liability insurance and one-year accidental health insurance. Applicants must provide immunization records and their CPR card. Accepted individuals must also provide documentation of 7 hour HIV/AIDS education training and a negative drug test.

Contact:
Wenatchee Valley College
1300 5th Street,
Wenatchee, WA 98801-1799
Phone: (509) 682-6800

Whitworth University Nursing School Review

Established in 1890, Whitworth University (WU) is located in Spokane, Washington and has an enrollment of over 3,000 students every year. Whitworth University, previously known as Whitworth College (WC), offers 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and has a newly opened science facility. Whitworth University is part of a consortium that was established by Whitworth, Washington State University and Eastern Washington University.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Whitworth University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which prepares individuals who graduate to be able to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Washington. Registered Nurses go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices and several other healthcare facilities. Individuals who complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing designation, often go on to complete their Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN), in order to further their career in nursing.

Course requirements in order to be admitted in to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program include Biology, Microbiology, Intro Chemistry, BioOrganic Chemistry, including labs, Nutrition, Intro Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Intro Sociology. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Whitworth University builds on these prerequisites during the first two years at Whitworth University. After those first two years, students must complete the final two years of the program at the College of Nursing, Washington State University College of Nursing in Spokane and in Yakima. In order to be admitted to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Whitworth University individuals must hold a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or above. A cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher in prerequisite courses in the upper-division nursing program. The minimum acceptable grade is 2.0. Whitworth University may conduct a personal interview as a part of the admission process to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Whitworth University International Programs

Whitworth University welcomes students interested in studying from Whitworth University from abroad. Students come to Whitworth University from over 20 countries worldwide and admission requirements include; an essay on why you wish to attend Whitworth, a TOEFL score, an autobiography, a financial guarantee, a high school/college transcript, a WES evaluation, a recommendation letter and a deposit for tuition. Many students at Whitworth University are also interested in completing a study-abroad program, which Whitworth University encourages. Whitworth University has a Costa Rican Center, which offers general education courses, including; Spanish language at a variety of levels, Latin American history, politics, or theology, ecology or environmental science and religious studies. The Costa Rican Center is also currently the home of the Jan Term programs, which are offered to freshman students who hold an honors admission. The Costa Rican campus is also home of the Central America Study Program, and other major-specific programs.

Whitworth University offers financial aid and scholarships, and the Admissions Office should be contacted for questions and concerns regarding Financial Aid options. New incoming students and transfer students are eligible to apply for financial aid.

Contact:
Whitworth University
300 West Hawthorne Road,
Spokane, WA 99218
(509) 777-1000

Yakima Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Yakima Valley Community College (YVCC), located in Yakima, Washington was founded in 1928. Yakima Valley Community College is a public college that offers programs in adult education, English as a Second Language, lower division arts and sciences and professional and technical education courses, as well as courses in community service.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Yakima Valley Community College is six semesters in duration. The majority of students who apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing program, complete the prerequisite courses prior to entry. The Associate Degree in Nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation and approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing program from Yakima Valley Community College, individuals go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare organizations including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, physicians’ offices and many more various healthcare institutions.

The Associate Degree in Nursing from Yakima Valley Community College provides students with experience in; Gerontological Nursing, Pediatric nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Obstetrical Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Oncological Nursing, Mental Health Nursing and Emergency Nursing.

Practical Nursing Degree (LPN)

The Practical Nursing degree at Yakima Valley Community College is four semesters in duration, and upon completion individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination in Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN), in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. The Practical Nursing degree is approved by the Washington State Assurance Commission. The program is offered in the Fall, Winter and Spring at the Yakima Valley Community College, Yakima campus. The Practical Nursing program at Yakima Valley Community College is composed of a combination of in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice and individuals must be available to potentially travel outside of their local area for clinical practice. Practical Nurses work in various healthcare organizations including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and physicians’ offices under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

Individuals applying to both of the nursing programs at Yakima Valley Community College, must have completed all prerequisites with a minimum “C” grade or above. Yakima Valley Community College will not accept individuals who have not completed prerequisites including; Lifespan Psychology, Chemistry, Math, and Introduction to Statistics.

Individuals applying to the nursing programs at Yakima Valley Community College must submit a criminal background check and clear drug screening prior to being admitted into the nursing programs. Individuals must also submit immunization records and CPR certification before Yakima Valley Community College will accept them into any of the nursing programs. Individuals interested in completing a nursing program at Yakima Valley Community College must also complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS).

Financial Aid is also available at Yakima Valley Community College and individuals who wish to apply for financial aid must contact the college directly for information. Students are encouraged to visit the Deccio Higher Education Center on the Yakima Campus during office hours and Grandview campus students can visit that campus of call 509-882-7008 for information.

Contact:
Yakima Valley Community College
1000 South 12th Avenue,
Yakima, WA 98902-4375,
United States
(509) 574-4600

Blue Ridge Community College Nursing Program Review

Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) was established over 40 years ago and is located in Weyers Cave, Virginia. Blue Ridge Community College offers associate degrees, certificates and diploma programs in several disciplines. Blue Ride Community College is ideal for individuals looking to update their skills, as well as those finishing high school and interested in starting out in a new career path. Blue Ridge Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in Georgia.

The nursing programs at Blue Ridge Community College include an Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Health Technology, with a major in nursing. Upon completion of the program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become a Registered Nurse. The program is approved by the State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Prior to applying to the program, students must complete a criminal background check and a drug screening in order to complete the clinical practicum portion of the program. Students must also complete general education courses prior to the program commencement and must hold a minimum “C” grade or higher in the selected prerequisites.

In order to be accepted into the clinical practicum segment of the program, students must complete nursing courses with a minimum 80% or above. If individuals do not satisfy this requirement, they must re-apply to the program. The application deadline for the program is August 5, and priority for entry is given to residents of Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, Augusta County, Rockingham County and Highland County. Residents must have lived in the aforementioned areas for a minimum of one year prior to application. Individuals may be required to supply proof of residency, which can include tax returns, employment income, car registration, and documents, which prove insurance status.

Admission to the program is competitive, and students must provide a high school diploma, a 45% on the math and reading portions of the nursing entrance exam. Students can also complete the ERI, NLN, HESI and ATI exam instead. Applicants must have completed high school biology and algebra with a minimum “C” grade or above. Students must also have a 2.5 GPA or above in college coursework.

High school students are also sometimes admitted to the program, but they must hold a high school GPA of 3.0 or above, and a 45% of the math and reading portions of the entrance exam. High school students must also hold a “C” grade or above in high school biology and algebra and hold an SAT score of 530 and above in reading and 520 and above in math. High school applicants must also include a high school transcript in their application. Advance placement students are given preference at time of application.

Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program (LPN to RN)

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are also give advance placement into the nursing program and are only required to complete three semesters of study in the summer period. LPNs can also complete the program on a part-time basis, which can take over three years to complete, if only one class is taken per semester.

RN to BSN Programs

Students who complete the nursing program at Blue Ridge Community College, who already hold a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure from another academic institution, can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at a four-year institution. This RN to BSN option is offered through James Madison University, University of Virginia, Eastern Mennonite University, Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University.

Contact:
Blue Ridge Community College

Box 80, One College Lane

Weyers Cave, VA 24486
Phone: (540) 234-9261

Bon Secours Richmond Health System Nursing Program Review

The Sisters of Bon Secours got together in 1824 in France in order to help heal the sick. Over 100 years ago, the Sisters of Bon Secours came to America and began working in hospitals and other healthcare establishments. Almost 50 years ago, the Sisters opened St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia and in 2005 St. France Medical Center was opened.

Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)

The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Bon Secours Richmond Health System (BSRHS) was established in 1997 and is composed of a seven-week curriculum of 146 total hours. Week one consists of classes from Monday to Thursday from 9am-1pm, and there is an afternoon session once every week. Week four consists of clinical practice three mornings per week and week five and six consist of five full days of clinical practice. The final week of the program is composed of class time.

The classes include Body Systems, Infection Control, Safety and Emergency Measures (including CPR), Personal Care Skills, Mental Health and Social Service Needs of Clients, Skills for Basic Restorative Care and many others.

Tuition for the program is over $800, which can be paid in weekly installments over the duration of the course. The costs included in the course are training costs, course materials, CPR certification, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff and all textbooks. Once a student qualifies for the program, Bon Secours Richmond Health System will conduct interviews. The Certified Nursing Assistant Program is the most junior level of nursing education and is often a requirement for individuals to advance through nursing education, and thus the career of nursing.

Baccalaureate Degrees in Nursing

Bon Secours Richmond Health Center is also affiliated with the Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing, which offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing option (RN to BSN), and a diploma in nursing.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is composed of 68 credits in nursing and 56 credits in other college level courses. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program admits students twice per year and is available to individuals who are already Registered Nurses with a year of experience. The minimum GPA is 2.5 on the 4.0 scale and individuals must have a “C” grade or better to be admitted. Students must also have achieved all prerequisites. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse and begin practicing in the United States. Registered Nurses work in various healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, schools, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, and many other varied healthcare organizations.

Finally, the Diploma in Nursing program requires students to have taken college level courses in biological sciences, social sciences and humanities at accredited colleges. Upon graduation, individuals will have received 66 credits in nursing and 44 credits in other college level courses.

Contact:
Bon Secours Richmond Health System
5715 Monument Avenue,
Richmond, VA 23226-1825,
United States
Phone: (804) 281-9740

Centra Health School of Practical Nursing Program Review

The Centra Health School of Practical Nursing has a 12-month practical nursing program, which readies individuals to apply to write the National Licensure examination to become a licensed practical nurse (NCLEX-PN). The Practical Nursing Program is composed of in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Centra only offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program.

In order to be admitted into the Centra Health School of Practical Nursing (CHS PN, CHSPN, CSPN), commonly referred to just as Centra School of Practical Nursing, individuals must hold a GPA of 2.0 or above on the 4.0 scale, or have a GED score of 45 or above. Individuals must have completed Algebra with a minimum of a “C” grade. Individuals must have completed the SAT test with a minimum score of 800 in Critical Reading and Math. If an individual has completed some college level courses, those will be used for admission rather than an SAT score. Applicants must also provide health records, a drug screening and a criminal background check, as well as reference letters as requested. The deadline for application is mid-June for semester commencement in January of the following year.

The Centra School of Practical Nursing is made up of three semesters over a 12-month period. In the first semester, students cover Basic Human Biology, Developmental Psychology, Principles of Nutrition and Human Development, Fundamentals of Nursing, Introduction to Pharmacology and Medical-Surgical Nursing Level I. In the second term of the Practical Nursing Program, students cover Medical-Surgical Nursing Level II, Psychosocial Nursing and Family-Centered Nursing. In the third and final semester, students cover Medical-Surgical Nursing Level III, and Issues and Trends in Nursing. The nursing program at Centra is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, schools, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, and many more healthcare environments.

Centra School of Practical Nursing also offers a 46-week accelerated program, which consists of four levels of study. Level one is 11 weeks, level two is 12 weeks, level three is 11 weeks and level four is 12 weeks in duration. Students must hold a minimum “C” grade in order to advance in the program.

The Practical Nursing program offers IV therapy, which is an integral part of all four program levels. Once the individual has completed the program, and is licensed by the state, he or she will be able to perform IV therapy as a result of this program.

Admissions into Centra School of Practical Nursing

Individuals applying to the Centra School of Practical Nursing must have a high school diploma or a GED of 500 or higher and must be 18 years old and must pass the entrance examination. Individuals applying to the school must also provide transcripts, references, CPR certification and will receive a pre-admission information session invitation, which they must attend once they have completed the entrance examination successfully.

There are no prerequisites required for the Centra School of Practical Nursing Program (PN), and the program can be completed in one year. A graduate can go on to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) once they take and pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse) licensing examination.

Contact:
Centra Health School of Practical Nursing
1920 Atherholt Road,
Lynchburg, VA 24501
United States

Dabney S. Lancaster Community College Nursing Program Review

Dabney S. Lancaster Community College (DSLCC) consists of 23 community colleges in Virginia in the counties of Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt, and Rockbridge.

The nursing programs at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College include; Practical Nursing Program (PN), an Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) and a Licensed Nurse Practitioner Bridge to the Registered Nurse Program (LPN to RN Transition Program).

Practical Nursing Program (PN)

The Practical Nursing Program at DSLCC is offered at the Rockbridge campus. The program is not currently available though and has been delayed until Fall of next year.

The Practical Nursing Program is 41 credits, begins every July and is a certificate program in order to prepare students to apply to write the Practical Nurse Licensing Examination. The program is accredited by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and after graduation, students can apply to write the NCLEX-PN and become licensed practical nurse (LPN) practitioners. Practical Nurses can work in a variety of heathcare organizations including; hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, physician’s offices, schools, and many more healthcare organizations. After completing this program, many students go on to apply to the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College.

Practical Nursing Program classes take place daily for seven hours every day and are composed of in-class lectures and clinical practicum through local hospitals.

Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College is currently not available, but will be offered again commencing in Fall 2012. Applications are due in April 2012. There are three options in the Associate Degree in Nursing Program; Nursing Level I: Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), which is a three semester certificate program, Nursing Level II: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree (AAS) which leads to a Registered Nurse licensure (RN), which is two additional semesters, and a bridge program (LPN to RN Bridge). The bridge program is for students who currently hold Licensed Practical Nurse credentials and have held this status for at least a year. Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing, students can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become a licensed Registered Nurse. This program is not currently offered, but will be offered again shortly.

The prerequisites for the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College include general education courses and a few specific courses in order to be admitted. The Associate Degree in Nursing Program is taught at the main campus.

Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

The Certified Nurse Aide Program at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College is composed of 6 credits, which includes classroom hours and clinical hours. The Certified Nurse Aide Program does require students to hold liability insurance, as students will be working in close contact with members of the local community in healthcare settings during clinical practicum and lab work. Dabney S. Lancaster Community College obtains the insurance for students, but students are directly responsible for their practice and behavior.

Contact:
Dabney S. Lancaster Community College
1000 Dabney Drive,
Clifton Forge, VA 24426,
United States
Phone: (540) 863-2800

Eastern Mennonite University Nursing School Review

Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) is located in Harrisonburg, Vermont and is a faith-based university, which offers undergraduate and graduate education, as well as seminary programs in Christian education.

Eastern Mennonite University offers several different nursing programs with small class sizes. Nursing programs include; a nursing program for Registered Nurses to take the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN), a Licensed Practical Nurse program (LPN), as well as a second degree option in nursing and a Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management.

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

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Eastern Mennonite University is offered one evening or morning every week, so that Registered Nurses can continue employment in their field while advancing their education. The program can be completed in eighteen months on a full-time basis. The evening courses begin in January and April and meet between 6pm and 10pm. The daily courses begin in August and go from 9am to 1pm. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis. In order to apply to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Eastern Mennonite University, applicants must submit an application through the main university office, which includes official transcripts from all post-high school education. Individuals must also submit a writing sample and autobiography. Applicants must also work on an academic plan with an advisor.

Accelerated Program for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN Program)

Eastern Mennonite University’s Nursing College offers an accelerated stream to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing for Licensed Practical Nurses. Licensed Practical Nurses must hold prior experience in their field in order to be admitted to the program, as well as similar program application requirements as listed above. Licensed Practical Nurses must complete certain portions of the nursing coursework, however, it is based on the individual and their previous experience and can be worked out with a member of the faculty. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program consists of several standardized tests after specific program components, and these tests must be completed by Licensed Practical Nurses if they have completed the course.

Second Degree Option

Individuals who have already obtain a baccalaureate degree or higher are welcome to apply for admittance into the Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing Program at Eastern Mennonite University. Specific nursing prerequisite courses are required for entry and some courses can be transferred for credit. Part-time study is available for this degree option.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

– MSN with a Leadership and Management track

The Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management at Eastern Mennonite University runs in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters and has several options for completion including; 24 months full-time, 48 months part-time and a 37 hour online option. The program is designed for working nurses, who would like to continue working while advancing their education. The tuition for the program is $500 per credit hour, with a $50 set-up fee, which covers initial costs. Individuals who obtain a Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management become managers in hospitals, supervisors in healthcare facilities and educators. For those MSN studies graduates wanting certification, completing the program means that you will be elligible to academically sit for either the Nurse Executive Board Certification Exam (ANCC) or the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader Exam (AONE).

Often graduates of the Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management go on to obtain a PhD in Nursing.

– MSN with a Leadership/School nursing track

This program trains you to manage the health care of children of school age based on each child’s individual needs. This is a post baccalaureate program which upon finishing, you will gain school nurse certification. There are 13 credits of coursework in the program.

Both MSN tracks involve class sizes that are small. There is a combination of online distance learning and virtual classes for the MSN programs. Practical clinical training will be organized to be at a medical setting near the MSN student’s home residence.

Contact:
Eastern Mennonite University
1200 Park Road, Harrisonburg,
VA 22802, United States
Phone: (540) 432-4000

George Mason University Nursing School Review

George Mason University (GMU) is a public university founded in 1956. In that year it was known as George Mason College until in 1972 it was renamed as George Mason University. GMU is located minutes from Washington, D.C. The University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in many disciplines from health care and engineering to the arts with strong programs in basic and applied sciences. There are four campuses at George Mason University; Fairfax, Arlington, Prince William and Mason in Loudoun.

Its Graduate program in nursing has been ranked as being among the top programs in the USA by the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Health and Human Services is home to the School of Nursing at George Mason University. Students that are enrolled in the School of Nursing (SON) can choose any of the following programs provided they meet the entry requirements established by the university.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

There are three pathways to choose from to complete the BSN. All three prepare students to detect, prevent diseases in their early stages and encourage better health awareness among patients. Graduates from the undergraduate program can work in health care facilities and hospitals such as Inova Fairfaz Hospital, Mary Immaculate Hospital,Bedford Memorial Hospital, just to name a few. The three pathway programs are:

1)  BSN Traditional Pathway: This is a two-year full-time program that accepts applications on a space available basis and completed prerequisite courses. Students interested in applying must complete all general education and nursing prerequisite courses by the end of school’s spring term. Some of the 11 general education prerequisites include: General Psychology, Fine Arts, English Composition and Quantitative Reasoning. The prerequisite courses for the nursing course include: Biomedical Ethics, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Developmental Psychology, Statistics and Nutrition. Applicants must have the accepted GPA in nursing prerequisite coursework and general education/elective prerequisite coursework of 3.0 and 2.0 respectively.

2)  BSN Accelerated Second Degree Pathway: This is a 12-month program that is open to students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Applications are accepted only during the fall term and students must commit to the full-time program. All nursing pre-requisite courses for the BSN traditional pathway must be completed by the end of Mason’s spring semester. Students must also have a GPA of 2.75 in the undergraduate degree or a 3.0 for the last 30 credits of undergraduate degree, or a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. The application deadline for the BSN Accelerated Second Degree Pathway is different from the general application deadline.

3) RN to BSN Pathway: Applicants to this program must be registered nurses and have an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The course can be completed within one year on a full-time basis. It is also possible to complete the curriculum part-time. Only applicants that have completed the general education and nursing prerequisite course requirements can apply to the program. Students are also required to have a current RN license.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Graduate Nursing Programs

The graduate programs at the College of Nursing include; Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Joint MSN/MBA Track, Nursing Administration Concentration, Nurse Educator Concentration, Nurse Practitioner Track, Nursing PhD Program and a Nursing RN to MSN Pathway.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice allows graduates to be able to apply to write one of four certification exams; Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist and Child/Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. The program is offered both online and at the Prince William or Fairfax campuses.

Students at the George Mason University College of Nursing can also take a joint Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration degree, as well as Masters concentrations in Nursing Administration, Nurse Education, and Nurse Practitioner. The College of Nursing also offers a pathway for Registered Nurses to complete their Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Master’s Programs

The schools master´s programs are accredited by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Nursing Administration Concentration, MS

The school adopts a one-on-one approach to the program to better capitalize on the skills, competencies and experience of each student. It is also keen on ensuring that students meet their professional and person goals while enrolled in the Nursing Administration Concentration program. Students that enroll in the program will be trained and adequately prepared to undertake management/ and or administrative roles in different health care settings. They will also gain the necessary knowledge for clinical, education and research roles where aspects around decision, policy and operation are key areas in the organization. Only applicants with a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 issued by an accredited institution can enter the program. They must also hold a current active U.S. RN license and have completed a statistics course. The course can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Nurse Educator Concentration, MSN

Students enrolled in this program will gain the necessary experience and knowledge to undertake roles as a nurse educator in hospitals and community health care centers. They will also be able to work in nursing schools as faculty members guiding students that want to become nurses. The admission requirements into this program are the same as those for the nursing administration concentration. Some admission requirements not previously covered above include: the overall academic performance with courses covered during the undergraduate phase is an integral part of admission. In addition to this, students must demonstrate skills in research and ability to write at graduate level is also important.

Nurse Practitioner Concentration

This program along with the two specialties are offered through the partnership between George Mason University and The George

Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Only applicants with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework can enter the program. Additional admission requirements include an active R.N license, completed undergraduate statistic course and strength of the undergraduate record and any post baccalaureate coursework among others. There are two specialty areas that students can apply to to enter the program: the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and the Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP).

1) Family Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care (FNRP): This course is comprised of both clinical and theoretical components. Students must complete 800 hours of clinical practice. They can complete the entire program in 2 years if they decide to take the full-time route. Additionally, there is the part-time route which gives added flexibility to most students and these are able to complete in 2.5- 3 years. The program is built up on a 50 credit curriculum that is covered over 4 semesters and 1 summer.

2) Adult Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care (ANRP): A total of 600 clinical hours must be completed in this program. Students can either complete the program on a part-time or full-time basis. Those that choose part-time can complete the entire course in 2.5- 3 years depending on the number of credits that are taken. A full-time approach guarantees faster completion of 2 years again depending on the credits taken.

RN to MSN Pathway, MSN

Applications are welcome from registered nurses that can demonstrate active roles over the last two years in health care jobs and have successfully completed the nursing and general education prerequisite courses. Those that have been active for one year can also apply. At the end of the program they will earn a master of science in

nursing (MSN) degree. Admission to the program is accepted twice yearly in the fall and spring semesters. Students must complete 30 credit general education prerequisites that consist of courses such as: Information Technology, Psychology, Sociology or Anthropology, etc. They must also complete 21 credits of designated nursing prerequisite courses and 12 credits of electives. For the MSN concentration they will have the option to specialize in any of the following areas:

1)Nurse Educator

2)Nurse Practitioner (Adult Nurse Practitioner Concentration)

3)Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration)

4)Nursing Administration

Advanced Clinical Nursing Concentration, MSN

This program was suspended in fall 2011 and applications are currently not being accepted. For information purposes only, the program was only for those that had a current RN license and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 with 60 credits of undergraduate work. Students were trained to work in hospitals, ambulatory and community settings. This information will be updated if the program is offered again in the future.

Doctoral Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice, DNP

This course prepares students to become experts as nurse administrators, nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. The school uses innovative ways to deliver the content of the curriculum through online mediums, advanced clinical expertise and executive format. It is offered at both the Fairfax and Prince William campuses. Successful completion of the program adequately prepares students to engage in leadership roles in both clinical practice and nursing administration.The concentrations for the DNP include:

1) Advanced Clinical Nursing

2) Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP)

3) Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

4) Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP)

5) Nursing Administration

Doctoral Programs in Nursing

Students that are interested in assuming leadership roles in many health care organizations will find this program an interesting option to consider. The course taps into students’ individual choices to create a curriculum that is channeled towards their specific goals. Students will be able to choose their required coursework, dissertation studies, selection of supporting electives and independent studies. There are 48 credits in total which is comprised of 27 credits for scientific base/research core, 9 credits of cognate courses and 12 credits for dissertation.

For the cognate courses, students will get the assistance of their advisor to choose from existing doctoral level university courses. These courses can range from anywhere in women’s health, nursing administration, preventive care, just to name a few. Applicants must fulfill the requirements for degree status at the school and have one year working experience as a RN prior to sending in their applications for the course. They must also present evidence of prerequisite graduate level courses in applied statistics. Academic achievements through a master’s degree in nursing or a master’s degree in a related field with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution are also compulsory.

Graduate Certificates

Nursing Administration

Only students with a master’s degree in nursing or are enrolled in a MSN program will be considered for entry into this program. The program consists of 15 credits. Students are awarded the certificate after successful completion of all courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and not having more than three credits with a minimum of C. The certificate program presents the various concepts of nursing administration which are covered in the five courses: Administrative Theory in Nursing, Practicum in Nursing Administration I, Administrative Strategies in Nursing, Practicum in Nursing Administration II and Nursing Admin Financial Mgmt/Financial Management in Health Systems.

Nursing Education

Students are trained in this program to assume roles as nurse educators in both academic and health settings. The course builds on the concepts of nursing education and ties this into the various foundation courses in education. Only applicants with a master’s degree in nursing or that are currently enrolled in a MSN program will be considered for admission. Only students that maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and do not have more than 3 credits with a grade C will be awarded the certificate. The entire program consists of 15 credits.

Contact:
George Mason University
4400 University Drive,
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 993-1000

Germanna Community College Nursing Program Review

Germanna Community College is part of the Virginia Community College System and was established in 1970. The Locust Grove campus is between Culpeper and Fredericksburg and offers several two-year programs.

The Nursing and Health Technologies Department offers several nursing programs including a Career Studies Certificate to be a Nurse Aide (CNA), a Practical Nursing Certificate (PN), a Surgical Scrub Nurse Program, a Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Pathway (LPN to RN) and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program (AAS).

Nurse Aide (CNA)

In order to apply to the Nurse Aide Certificate at Germanna Community College, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and complete a series of College placement tests with an 81 in Reading, 76 in Writing, and 37 in Math. If an applicant does not achieve these minimum scores, he or she must enroll in Reading Improvement II, Preparation for College Writing II, and Basic Arithmetic before being able to enroll in the Nurse Aide Certificate Program. Applicants must also go through a criminal background check, as well as physical examinations and drug screenings. Applicants must also provide an immunization record.

Practical Nursing Certificate (PN)

The Practical Nursing Certificate at Germanna Community College is 11 months long and upon graduation students can apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. The Practical Nursing Certificate is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. In order to apply to the program, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and must have completed prerequisite courses with a minimum “C” grade or above. Applicants must also have completed a COMPASS placement test showing college-level readiness. Applicants will be required to submit a criminal background check and students with a 2.5 GPA or higher will be given preferential admission. Applications for the program are due by February 1 for the Summer semester at Locust Grove Campus.

Prior to being admitted to the Practical Nursing Certificate Program, students must complete physical and dental exams, proof of CPR certification, an updated immunization record, current professional liability insurance proof, as well as a drug screening. Students must also hold personal health insurance.

Surgical Scrub Nurse

In order to apply to the Surgical Scrub Nurse program, students must hold a Practical Nurse Licensure in the state of Virginia. The program is composed of 12 credits including Fundamentals of Surgical Care, Introduction to Perioperative Nursing and Advanced Perioperative Nursing.

Licensed Practical Nurses for Advanced Placement (LPN to RN)

The Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse applicant is not required to write any entry tests, however, he or she must meet specific prerequisite requirements. LPN to RN applicants are required to submit immunization records and drug screens, as well as proof of liability insurance and health insurance.

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Nursing

The Associate of Applied Science Degree is a two-tear program. Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science Degree, students can apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination exam in order to become a Registered Nurse. The final degree that graduates will hold is an Associate in Applied Science degree with a major in Nursing. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

In order to be admitted to the program, students must hold a high school diploma or GED and have completed specific high school prerequisites with a grade of “C” or above. Applicants must complete the COMPASS placement test with college-level readiness scores in writing, reading and math. Applicants are also required to submit a criminal background test, a drug screen, immunization records and physical and dental examinations. Applications to the program are by February 1 and July 1.

Contact:
Germanna Community College – Locust Grove
2130 Germanna Highway
Locust Grove, VA 22508-2102
Phone: 540-423-9030

Global Health College Nursing Program Review

Global Health College (GHC), until 2011 known as Global Health Nurse Training Services (GHNTS), was established in 2004. It was started as a practical nursing program based out of Alexandria, Virginia. Global Health Nurse Training Services is composed of approximately 250 students at a time.

The Global Health College Program is home to several various nursing programs including; an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing/Registered Nurse, a Practical Nursing Program/Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Nursing Assistant Program/Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Associate Degree in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS – RN)

The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program at the Global Health College is intended for students who hope to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program, students are able to apply to sit the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become a Registered Nurse and apply to positions in a variety of healthcare environments.

The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program is 18 months long if an individual has completed all necessary prerequisites. If there are prerequisites still outstanding, students can complete the program in 24 months. Prerequisites can be transferred from other institutions.

In order to apply, individuals must sit the entrance exam, which consists of English and Math. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED and have updated immunization records, including Hepatitis B. Individuals must also hold CPR certification and must provide a letter of recommendation for entry. Individuals must also provide a criminal background check. Applicants must hold a minimum “B” grade or above in prerequisites including English, Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Medical Terminology and several other courses.

Practical Nursing Program (PN Program)

The Practical Nursing (PN) Program at Global Health Nurse Training Services prepares students to be able to sit the NCLEX-PN in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse (LPN). In order to graduate from the Practical Nursing Program, students must attend all classes and clinical practicums, maintain a “B” grade average and follow all rules and regulations. In order to be accepted into the program, students must submit a criminal background check and drug screen and provide updated immunization records and proof of CPR certification.

Nursing Assistant Program/Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The Nursing Assistant Program at the Global Health Nurse Training Services prepares students to work in a variety of healthcare environments as a Certified Nursing Assistant. The program is 10 weeks long and includes two sessions every week. After submitting an application online or by mail, individuals must get in touch with the Admissions Office and schedule an appointment to write the entrance exam. After completing the entrance exam, students must provide an online background check and go through a physical examination in order to provide a clean bill of health.

Applicants must provide proof of a high school diploma or GED and provide updated health and immunization records. Individuals must also show proof of CPR certification and submit a criminal background check.

The Practical Nursing Program at Global Health College is accredited by the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission and the school is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Contact:
Global Health College
25 South Quaker Lane,
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 212-7410

Hampton University Nursing School Review

Hampton University (Hampton U, HU), located in Hampton, Virginia, is home to a variety of programs in liberal arts, as well as technical degrees and graduate degree programs. It has a long standing legacy with its role in providing education to freedmen in the 19^th Century. It is historically a black university that started as Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute and grew considerably after the Civil War due to financial support from American Missionary Association. Hampton University is rooted in African-American traditions and has been since its inception.

Today it offers 68 undergraduate programs, 27 master’s degree programs, and 6 doctoral degree programs and 2 specialist programs in education degrees. Among these is its nursing program which offers several options to students interested in assuming traditional and non-traditional roles in this area.

School of Nursing

The Hampton University School of Nursing, which opened in 1891, offers baccalaureate programs, both traditional and accelerated as well as master’s degrees in nurse practitioner, administrator and educator. Hampton University also offers a doctoral degree in family and family-related nursing research. The School of Nursing offers programs in Hampton and Virginia Beach as well as online learning options. The School of Nursing is home to 339 undergraduate students and 44 students at the graduate level. All of the nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The undergraduate program is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Upon graduation from the undergraduate programs in nursing, students are able to apply to write the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science (B.S)

This is a four year program that builds on liberal arts, science and nursing subjects. The school adopts a two-tier admission policy in which students are admitted in the Lower Division and Upper Division. However, first time students are admitted to the Lower Division. Freshman students have to submit three letters of recommendation, whereas transfer students must submit one letter to get into the program. Transfer students can only request credit transfer for general education courses only if they completed courses at an accredited college or university. All courses must have a grade of “C” of higher.

Accelerated BS Program

This is a three year program in which new students are accepted to the Lower Division before they are transferred to the Upper Division. During the first year of the program students undertake different liberal arts, science and nursing subjects. Some of these subjects include: Biology, History, Communication and Physical Education. The second and third year are spent entirely on Upper Division subjects focused around nursing with option for electives. Students that wish to gain credit from non-nursing courses may take the ACT-PEP or CLEP examinations according to the University policy. There is also the possibility to gain advanced standing if they present an academic record that supports the request.

RN to BS Program

This is a three year program with one summer semester. In the third year and summer semester strong emphasis is placed on nursing courses. Those that wish to gain credit for non-nursing courses may take the ACT-PEP or CLEP examinations. During the first year of the program students must complete 33 credits consisting of general education subjects such as Biology, Communication, Sociology, and English, just to name a few.

LPN to BS

This is a three year course that is designed for licensed practical nurses that want to gain their bachelor of science. The first year and one semester of the program fall under the Lower Division category. During the summer period students may choose an elective, Physical education, Psychology or Mathematics and Introduction to Statistics.The entire program consists of 115 -116 credits.

RN to MS Program

This is a three year program with the only summer semester focusing on Trends, Issues and Leadership in Nursing and Nursing Practicum and Issues in Research Seminar. It is considered a career advancement program and students can graduate from the Registered Nurse Sequence after attaining 121 credits.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science (MS) Degree Program

Only students that have a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from an accredited institution can enter the program. They must also have completed an undergraduate course in statistics and physical assessment. In addition to this, one year of clinical assessment beyond the baccalaureate degree prior to clinical courses is also necessary. There are several specialty areas and three functional role development areas being offered for the MS program. They are:

Specialty

– Advanced Adult Nursing

-Community Health Nursing

-Community Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing

-Family Nurse Practitioner

Functional role development

Administration: Students can take this role development course with any of the specialties except Family Nurse Practitioner. The combination of these key areas equips students with the necessary knowledge to undertake roles in home care agencies, hospitals, out-patient facilities among others at the management level.

Education: This role development course can be taken with clinical specialty in Advanced Adult Nursing, Community Health Nursing and Community Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing. The program prepares nurses to be teachers in collegiate programs or baccalaureate degree nursing education. During this program, students are taught all the essentials of delivering in a classroom and clinical setting. Students are taught to use systems approach when teaching students and in a clinical setting.

Nurse Practitioner: Students are exposed to the advanced concepts that enable them to meet the health care needs of different types of people in a community/group/family or individual setting. The course is specifically targeted towards those that wish to undertake Family, Pediatric Primary Care, or Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program

The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and School’s Commission on Colleges to offer doctoral programs. The program prepares students to use the research skills and knowledge they gain to better serve underserved families and thus improve the type of health care solutions that are offered to these populations. They will be prepared to assume leadership roles in nursing science, nursing practice and nursing education. Among other roles, students are trained to construct, test and modify theories taking into consideration the impact these have on the social, economical and cultural and scientific community.

Students must have a master of science in nursing degree (MSN) from an accredited institution and have a GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. They must also, among other requirements, have a current valid license to practice professional nursing in any state.

Distance Education program

Students interested in undertaking the role of Pediatric Nurse Practitioner can select the PhD and Master of Science program which are offered as distance education options. The school uses the Blackboard Academic Suite™ as a Web-based tool to deliver online courses. Students must have the latest version of JAVA installed on their computer to access the program.

In Summary:

Undergraduate Programs

Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BS) must submit a criminal background check, a physical examination annually, immunization records, liability insurance, and CPR certification. The application process to the Hampton University School of Nursing is two tiers; lower division and upper division. Upper Division applicants are those who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at another post-secondary institution and would like to transfer, as well as those students who would do not have a declared major and would like to make nursing their declared major. Upper Division applicants must hold specific academic requirements.

Those Upper Division applicants must complete lower division courses and hold a University GPA of 2.7 or above. Applicants must also hold a “C” grade at minimum in all courses including; English, communication/speech, nutrition and all prerequisite math and science courses. Hampton University also offered an advanced placement option for applicants in high academic standing. Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses are admitted to the undergraduate programs with advanced placement as long as their license is without fault for programs including the LPN to BS program and the RN to BS program, for individuals who are already licensed as either a Licensed Practical Nurse or a Registered Nurse respectively. The College of Virginia Beach also offered an accelerated BS program

Graduate Programs

The School of Nursing at Hampton University also offers a Master of Science degree (MS) with three specific divisions; education, administration and nurse practitioner. The nurse practitioner stream has three specializations; pediatric, women’s health and family. There is also a Master of Health Administration degree. Clinical options include Community Health, Advanced Adult and Community Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing. If an individual has already earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, he or she is able to apply to complete a Master of Science in Nursing.

Hampton University’s School of Nursing also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for Nurse Practitioners and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Nursing. The PhD program in nursing focuses on families and family-related research and has a nurse educator stream as well. In order to apply to any of the doctoral programs in nursing, students must hold a master’s degree in nursing.

Contact:
Hampton University
100 E. Queen Street,
Hampton, VA 23668
Phone: (757)727-5000

James Madison University Nursing School Review

James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia offers 69 undergraduate programs, 31 master’s programs, two educational specialist programs and seven doctoral programs.James Madison University is currently home to 19,722 students in undergraduate and graduate programs.

The Department of Nursing at James Madison University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program (RN to BSN) and a Chronic Illness Minor. The graduate programs available at James Madison University include a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with specializations in various Post Master’s Certificate Programs.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Upon graduation of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, students are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN, to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at James Madison University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines classroom education, as well as laboratory work and clinical practicum. In order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at James Madison University students must hold a GPA of 2.8 or above and hold a minimum “C” grade in a variety of nursing prerequisite courses including; math and a series of biology courses.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program also has a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track (RN to BSN program), which is intended for Registered Nurses who are interested in pursuing baccalaureate education. The program is offered through online learning, so that Registered Nurses can maintain their career and study at the same time.

Minor in Chronic Illness

The Minor in Chronic Illness at James Madison University is open to all undergraduate students at the university. In order to declare the minor, students must hold a minimum of 18 credits, with no more than six credits in the selected major going toward the minor. The two essential credits include Impact of Chronic Illness, which is three credit hours and Living Successfully with Chronic Illness, which is also made up of three credit hours.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing at James Madison University offers five concentrations including; Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Midwifery and Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.

Once an individual completes the Master’sof Science in Nursing degree program or if they are already advanced practice nurses with a master’s degree, they are eligible to take the certificate program that is appropriate for them. These certificates are referred to asPost-Masters Certificate Programs. They include:

Nurse Administrator Certificate, Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Certificate, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Certificate, Adult Nurse Practitioner Certificate and the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certificate. Students can then take the examination through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The Master of Science in Nursing Program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

To apply to the Graduate School of Nursing at James Madison University, individuals must hold a Registered Nurse Licensure and a Bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.8 on the 4.0 scale. Individuals must provide GRE or Miller Analogy Test scores and proof of clinical experience. Individuals must have taken undergraduate courses in Statistics and Health Assessment and hold a minimum “C” grade or above. Applicants must hold CPR certification and must submit health records at the time of application. Applicants to the Graduate School of Nursing at James Madison University must also provide two letters of recommendation.

Successfully completing any of the post MSN certificate programs means that you are prepared and allowed to sit for the certification exam relevant to your post MSN certificate.

Contact:
James Madison University
800 South Main Street,
Harrisonburg, VA 22807,
United States
Phone: (540) 568-6211

J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Nursing Program Review

J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College (JSRCC) was established in 1972 in the city of Richmond, Virginia. The college is the third largest college in the Virginia Community College System and has three campuses and five off-campus sites. JSRCC also encourages distance learning and offers over 20 occupational/technical degree programs, 9 certificate programs and 5 two-year college transfer programs.

The School of Nursing and Allied Health at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College is located at the Downtown Richmond Campus and offers programs that lead to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) or certificate degree including Registered Nursing (RN), Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), and a Certified Nurses Aide (CNA).

Registered Nursing Program (RN)

The Registered Nursing Program at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College is intended for individuals who would like to work as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, nursing homes and physician’s offices. Upon completion of the Registered Nursing Program at JSRCC, students can apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Practical Nursing Program (LPN)

The Practical Nursing Program at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College prepares graduates to be able to write the NCLEX-PN, which certifies individuals as Licensed Practical Nurses.

In order to apply to the Practical Nursing Program, applicants must submit an official high school transcript or GED and complete J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College’s placement tests in reading, writing and mathematics. After all of this is complete, students must submit completion of prerequisite courses and take the Kaplan Pre-Admission Exam, on which students must score a minimum of 45 in reading and math. Applicants must also provide proof of CPR Certification and pass a pre-entrance health examination. J. Seargent Reynolds Community College also offers a LPN to AAS degree, for individuals to complete their Associate in Applied Science degree when they already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

In order to apply to the Certified Nursing Assistant Program, students must submit an online application. After submitting the application students can register for classes online and pay tuition. Once registered, students can purchase textbooks and workbooks and begin reading the initial chapters of the workbook. Students must also complete activities on the Blackboard prior to the first day of classes. Students must bring their TB test to the first day of class and review the technical standards for Nurse Aide students, which are posted online.

Prerequisite Programs

The prerequisite program in nursing and allied health is intended to prepare students for the nursing programs offered at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. After completing the certificate program, students can apply to the nursing programs. JSRCC also offers a pre-practical nursing certificate, which is intended to prepare students who would like to obtain the prerequisites necessary to apply to the Practical Nursing Program at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.

Contact:
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College
1651 East Parham Road,
Richmond, VA 23228-2201,
United States
Phone: (804) 371-3000

Jefferson College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

Jefferson College of Health Sciences (JCHS) was founded in 1914 by Dr. Hugh Trout Sr. in an effort to increase the number of trained and qualified nurses in Southwest Virginia. At the time, the school was known as Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing and quickly became recognized by theAmerican Hospital Association in 1926 after being approved by the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association in 1923. Over the years, major renovation has improved the school’s capacity to receive more students and offer different types of programs geared towards the health care sector. The nursing programs include:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure Track

This program is offered in a collegiate setting. Students are trained to undertake a professional career in nursing. They are also given the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary forum to better understand the healthcare system. After completion, they can take the NCLEX-RN examination for RN licensure.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Post-Licensure BSN Track

This program is designed for registered nurses that want to be trained for professional leadership while obtaining their bachelor of science in nursing. Students that have a sound academic foundation can challenge credits or present acceptable credentials for advanced placement. This is a distance learning course that uses an individual approach while building on the knowledge and experience of each student. This gives each student more flexibility to pursue professional ascension while securing a sound academic background in the process. Students that have an Associate Nursing Degree or Diploma will benefit from the content of the program. Class sizes a relatively small to ensure that the professor-teacher ratio is acceptable and that every aspect of the learning process if fully capitalized.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Accelerated Pre-Licensure Track

This is an intense full-time program that gives students the opportunity to get a BSN degree in 16-months. It is offered to those that have a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field. Both classroom instruction and clinical practice are used throughout the course.After successful completion, students can sit the NCLEX-RN examination for RN licensure.

Master of Science in Nursing

There are currently two programs being offered to students that want to get their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree: Nursing Systems Management and Nurse Clinician Educator specialty.The programs adopt a flexible approach by using both classroom and online settings to deliver the content of the curriculum. There are both full-time and part-time options available to students. The former can complete the program in 2 years. The program accepts registered nurses (RN) with a bachelor degree in nursing (BSN) or those with a BSN in another field. Students that do not have a BSN must complete 2-3 leveling courses. They must also have completed and passed college level statistics course with a C or higher and have a Current Registered Nurse Licensure to work in any state of territory of the USA.

The Master of Science in Nursing Program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Upon graduation, individuals can apply to take the American Nurse Credentialing Center certification exam, as either a Board Certified Nurse Executive or a Board Certified Nurse Executive Advanced. After two years working in nurse education, individuals can take the National League for Nursing examination in order to be certified as a Nurse Educator.

Financial Aid

Students can tap into Federal and State financial aid to cover costs towards their education. There are also local healthcare organizations that provide tuition support for attendance. The following financial aid sources are being offered by the State of Virginia:

1) Tuition Assistance Grant Program, (VTAG)

2) College Scholarship Assistance Program (CSAP) administered by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia

3) General Assembly Nursing Scholarships administered by Community Health Services, Virginia State Health Department

For Federal assistance, students can choose from the following:

1) Federal Pell Grant

2) Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

3) Federal William D. Ford Direct Lending Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)

4) Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)

5) Federal Work Study (FWS)

Some scholarships available include:

1) Debra Kimmel McNamara Nursing Scholarship

2) Stanley Kamm Memorial Nursing Scholarship

3) James Sublett Nursing Scholarship

4) Dr. Fredrick Louis Troxel Nursing Scholarship

Contact:
Jefferson College of Health Sciences
101 Elm Avenue, SE,
Roanoke, VA 24013

John Tyler Community College Nursing Program Review

John Tyler Community College (JTCC) was established over 40 years ago and offers a variety of courses at two campuses; Chester and Midlothian to over 14,000 students every year. John Tyler Community College is the fifth largest college in the Virginia community college sector.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

The Associate of Applied Science Program at John Tyler Community College is intended for students who wish to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. In order to be admitted to the Associate of Applied Science Program, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED and have scored satisfactorily on college placement tests in English and math. Once accepted to the Associate of Applied Science program, students must prove that they hold CPR certification and provide a criminal background check and drug screening. Students must also submit a dental and physical examination as well as immunization records. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Once admitted, students must obtain insurance for accident and personal health.

There are two tracks available in the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program; traditional and Hybrid Distance Education. The traditional track holds classroom sessions on Mondays through Fridays during the day. Clinical practicum is held during the evenings and/or on weekends. Hybrid Distance Education track classroom sessions are held online and clinical practicum is held during the days, evenings and/or weekends. The nursing program is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission.

Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science at John Tyler Community College, individuals can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, hospices, schools, and many more healthcare organizations.

Application Requirements

In order to apply to the Associate of Applied Science program at John Tyler Community College, individuals must be 18 years of age or older and hold a high school diploma or GED and submit official transcripts to the Office of the Registrar at John Tyler Community College. Applicants must first apply to John Tyler Community College, before they can apply to the School of Nursing specifically. Applicants must complete all pre-entry testing and be placed into the curriculum by the Counseling Center at John Tyler Community College. All prerequisite English, math and science courses must be completed prior to registration.

The Associate of Applied Science program is five semesters long and the first semester includes the prerequisite courses. The final four semesters include nursing courses. Individuals should apply to either the traditional track of the Associate of Applied Science program or the hybrid track, which is intended for students who cannot attend the program in person or those who prefer to study nursing in an online environment. Since the Associate of Applied Science program at John Tyler Community College is highly intensive, it is not recommended that students work while enrolled in the program.

Contact:

John Tyler Community College-Chester Campus,
13101 Jefferson Davis Highway,
Chester, VA 23831-5316

John Tyler Community College-Midlothian Campus,
800 Charter Colony Parkway,
Midlothian, VA 23114-4383

Liberty University Nursing School Review

Established in 1971, Liberty University (LU) is the largest private non-profit university in the United States. Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is also the largest Christian university in the world with over 230 programs of study.

College of Arts and Sciences at Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) track and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for graduate students.

Undergraduate Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Liberty University is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing.Graduates of the Liberty College Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, go on to become Registered Nurses in Critical Care Emergency, Oncology Wards, Nurses in the Army, Navy or Air-Force and many other varied healthcare environments. Some of the nursing courses include; Introduction to Nursing, Nursing Concepts, Medical Terminology, Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, Caring for the Childbearing Family, Strategies for Mental Health Care and many other varied courses, which are all worth varying levels of credit hours, to a total of 56 credits for graduation. Upon completion of the program, graduates go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to be licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN Completion Program) is designed for Registered Nurses, who wish to continue their education by completing a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Registered Nurses who wish to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Liberty University must first fill out a distance learning application, since the program is only available online. Applicants must also submit proof of his or her Registered Nurse Licensure as well as official transcripts. Once accepted into the program, Registered Nurses have 31 credit hours, which get applied to their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

In the practical clinical training courses, the student to faculty ratio is 10 to 1, so students receive focus and attention from their educators which permits a better and faster learning environment for the student nurse.

Graduate Programs

The Liberty University Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program is intended for individuals who wish to pursue a career as a Nurse Educator. The Master of Science in Nursing is 36 credit hours and has one track: Nurse Educator. There is no residency requirement for the course; however, the Master of Science in Nursing at Liberty University takes 16 weeks to complete. The Master of Science in Nursing is approved by the Virginia State Council of Higher Education and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In order to apply to the Master of Science in Nursing, students must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, or a Bachelor’s degree in another discipline with a minimum 3.0 GPA and must complete various nursing prerequisite prior to admittance into the Master of Science in Nursing program. Applicants must also submit current and clean Registered Nurse Licensure, as well as official undergraduate transcripts from all post-secondary education. Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing Program at Liberty University must also have at least one year of practice as a Registered Nurse on their CV.

Both the RN to BSN and MSN programs are taught through online distance learning methods so as to allow working nurses an ability to work and study at the same time.

Contact:
Liberty University
1971 University Boulevard,
Lynchburg, VA 24502-2213,
United States
(434) 582-2000

Lynchburg College Nursing Program Review

Lynchburg College (LC), located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a liberal arts college that is home to 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students and offers 39 undergraduate majors and six graduate degrees, as well as two doctoral programs in education and physical therapy.

Undergraduate Program in Nursing

Lynchburg College’s School of Health Sciences and Human Performance offers a nursing program that is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and the baccalaureate nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Lynchburg College is intended to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). Upon completion of the program, students can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to earn their Registered Nurse Licensure.

The application for Lynchburg College can be completed either online or via paper application and there is no admission deadline, as admissions are conducted on a rolling basis. The early decision deadline for admission is November. Applicants must submit their high school transcript for admission, as well as SAT I scores in critical reading and math. Applicants must also submit a personal essay and a letter of recommendation is favorable, but not required for admission. In order to be admitted to the undergraduate nursing program, students must have completed English, Social Studies, Math, Science and Foreign Language.

RN to MSN Pathway

If you are a registered nurse and do not posses a Bachelors of Science (B.S) Degree, then Lynchburg College offers you a way to get into the Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) program without having a BSN or equivalent. This RN to MSN program is the firstin Central Virginia. You will need to select which MSN track you want to pursue. The options are the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) track or the Nursing education track. Any RN with a Bachelors Degree from another field outside of nursing will need to first complete 4 online bridge courses (Health Assessment, Research and Evidence Based Practice, Community and Public Health, Leadership and Ethics) before being allowed into MSN study. Those registered nurses with only an ADN (Associates Degree), Diploma or equivalent; will need to have a minimum of 57 credit hours. They too will also have to complete the online bridge courses (9 hours). You do not have to have your GRE but you will need to meet the MSN course prerequisites which include English, History, Ethics, Psychology, Chemistry, Nutrition, Anatomy & Physiology.

Graduate Program in Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Lynchburg College is heavily based in research practice. The program is intended for students who currently hold a baccalaureate nursing degree and a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure without restrictions. The program includes online and classroom lessons. This mixture in training format allows more flexibility for those MSN students who hold jobs. Clinical training lessons will be held in hospitals and taught by the Lynchburg College nursing professors.

There are two streams in the Master of Science in Nursing Program at Lynchburg College: Clinical Nurse Leader and Nursing Education. There is also a dual-program option, which is a Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration track. The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) track is for nurses who wish to continue working in healthcare environments in an advanced nature. The Nursing Education track is for those individuals who wish to work in academic environments or would like to train staff members in healthcare settings. The Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration dual-program option is for those students who would like to combine nursing practice with business practice in their future career as an administrator or manager in a healthcare setting. Both the Clinical Nurse Leader and Nursing Education tracks are 37 hours in duration and can be completed both on a full-time or part-time basis. The Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA) track is 67 credit hours in duration.

Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing Program at Lynchburg College must hold a Registered Nurse licensure in the state of Virginia that is unrestricted and must have successfully completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and Health Assessment with a “C” grade or above. Applicants must also hold current CPR certification and have updated health records.

The BSN and MSN programs at Lynchburg College are accredited by SACSCOC (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges). The college is also accredited to award doctorate degrees.

Contact:
Lynchburg College
1501 Lakeside Drive,
Lynchburg, VA 24501,
United States
(434) 544-8100

Marymount University Nursing School Review

Marymount University (MU) is a Catholic university that was founded in 1950 as Marymount College. It started out as a two-year women’s school, but started accepting male students in 1972. The school has held on to its Catholic roots which is evident in its stance to pursue spiritual and intellectual development in unison. It offers a wide range of graduate and undergraduate programs and thus succeeds in reaching a large number of students on a yearly basis. Nursing students will find both graduate and undergraduate programs of interest in nursing. These include:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students interested in getting their BSN at the university can choose three main routes to make this possible:

1)   A traditional four-year BSN program: This program prepares students to work as registered nurses after they have taken the state board examination (NCLEX-RN). It is open to both freshmen and transfer students. The number of years to complete the program varies on the type of students and their academic history. A freshman that is just entering the nursing program can finish the program in four years, whereas a transfer student’s completion date will depend on the number of credits being transferred and the courses covered at the previous university.

2)   An accelerated BSN program: This program can be completed in four semesters. It is aimed at students that have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing course. It is the perfect option for those that wish to change careers.

3)   A hybrid online RN -to-BSN program: This program is perfect for a working registered nurse (RN) that has an active RN license. It is specially targeted and developed for students that want to have more job possibilities by getting their BSN. Students must complete 36-80 credits. However, this will depend on their academic history and if they gained advance placement for previous college coursework. 

Graduate Programs

Marymount University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with two streams; Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nursing Education. Both streams require students to hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing prior to application. The clinical practice involved in the Master of Science in Nursing Program takes places throughout Washington, DC and the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Marymount University also offers a post-master’s certificate program, which prepares graduates to apply to write certification examinations. The certificate is composed of 30 credits in classes like Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Primary Care of the Family and Professional Role Development of the Family Nurse Practitioner. Marymount University also offers a post-masters certificate in Nursing Education, which is composed of 25 credit hours in courses like Advanced Health Assessment and Advanced Pharmacology.

Marymount University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) designation, which is open to students who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and those with a non-clinical or clinical Master of Science in Nursing. Nurses who hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice designation are at the highest level in the nursing profession. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is designed for nurses who are currently employed and would like to pursue PhD education on a part-time basis. Students are able to enroll for the Fall semester only.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program

This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students have the following two options to choose from to gain more advanced knowledge in specific areas in nursing:

1)   Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner: Students that are keen on working with the family will be trained throughout this program to undertake the various roles in this area.  Throughout the program they are exposed to both clinical and laboratory settings that aid in the detection and evaluation of common illnesses. Students must complete 42 credits to be awarded the degree. Some of the courses covered in this program include:  Advanced Pharmacology, Health Care Research, Nursing and Health Care Systems and Organizations and Primary Care of the Family just to name a few. Upon completion, they can take the certification exams administered by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Committee.

2)  Post-master’s Family Nurse Practitioner certificate: This program is comprised of 30 credits that are covered through 5 courses: Advanced Pathophysiology I & II, Advanced Assessment and Health Screening for the Family Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Pharmacology, Professional Role Development of the Family Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care of the Family I & II. At the end of the program, students are eligible to take the certification examinations offered by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Committee provided there are no hindrances.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)This is a part-time program with admissions only during the fall semester. It is geared towards working nurses and meets the requirements established by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students that have a BSN or non-clinical MSN and also those that have a clinical MSN are welcome to apply. All students will prepare a doctoral project on the clinical area of interest. They will also be expected to prepare a manuscript in a refereed journal. They can also choose to prepare a project appropriate for a regional or national conference. Students entering with a BSN must complete 72-74 credits, whereas those with a non-clinical MSN must complete 60-62 credits and those with a clinical MSN 30-32 credits.

Contact:
Marymount University
2807 North Glebe Road,
Arlington, VA 22207
Phone: (703) 522-5600

Norfolk State University Nursing School Review

Norfolk State University (NSU) was established in 1935 in Norfolk, Virginia, and was originally called Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University. Seven years later, the university was renamed, Norfolk Polytechnic College and then in 1944 the Virginia Legislature mandated that the school become part of Virginia State College. Norfolk State University became fully independent in 1969 and is now the largest predominantly African-American university in the United States, offering a variety of programs at the undergraduates and graduate levels.

Undergraduate Programs

Norfolk State University offers an Associate of Science degree (ADN) as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program. Both programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. The complete list of nursing degree programs at Norfolk State University includes; BS Nursing (LPN to BSN), the BS Nursing (RN to BSN) and the BS Nursing (2nd degree program).They are outlined as follows; the Associate of Science degree in Nursing prepares students to become technical nurses, who can work in a variety of healthcare environments with various patients. The Associate of Science degree has two tracks, one is for students who do not have any nursing experience and the other is for Licensed Practical Nurses. The traditional track can be completed in two years and a summer session. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) can complete the program in three semesters.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is for students who already hold an associate degree in nursing. Norfolk State University also offers a second-degree option for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses, in order to begin practicing as a Registered Nurse.

In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing at Norfolk State University, students must first apply to Norfolk State University by February before the Fall semester. Students must then apply directly to the Nursing Department. In order to be admitted into the Associate Degree in Nursing program, applicants must have completed two units of math and two units of science at the high school level or above with a minimum of a “C” grade or higher.Applicants must also hold a 2.5 GPA or higher in high school or any applicable college credits.

In order to be admitted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Norfolk State University, students must first be admitted into Norfolk State University, and then apply to the Nursing Department by February for Fall admission. Individuals must hold a GPA of 2.5 or above in Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology and Microbiology. Applicants must have completed prerequisite courses and must submit all official transcripts from previous college education. Applicants to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track must submit proof of Registered Nurse licensure.

Graduate Programs

Norfolk State University offers two tracks in the Master of Science (MSN) in Nursing Program; the Clinical Nurse Leader track and the Nurse Educator track. The Clinical Nurse Leader Program is for nurses interested in continuing employment in a variety of healthcare environments and would like to work at a management level. The Nurse Education Program track is intended for nurses who are interested in working as nurse educators and are interested in conducting research at an educational level.

Contact:
Norfolk State University
700 Park Avenue,
Norfolk, VA 23504, USA
Phone: 757-823-8600

Norfolk Technical Center Nursing Program Review

Norfolk Technical Center (NTC), previously referred to as Norfolk Technical Vocational Center (NTVC) offers a variety of programs to prepare students for careers in business and marketing, engineering and technical careers as well as health and human service careers. Norfolk Technical Vocational Center accepts high school students in grades 10, 11 or 12 who are currently attending Norfolk High School and are in good academic standing. Adult students are also accepted at Norfolk Technical Center, but they must be 20 years of age or older and must hold a high school diploma or GED.

Practical Nursing Program (To Become an LPN)

The Practical Nursing (PN) Program at Norfolk Technical Center is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and the Virginia Department of Education Career and Technical Division and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The Practical Nursing Program is intended for students who wish to purse a career as a nurse in a variety of healthcare environments. Upon graduation from the Practical Nursing Program, individuals are able to apply to write the National Council of Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, in order to gain their licensure as a Practical Nurse (LPN).

CSPN is an Interactive Learning Environment: knowledge, skills and attitudes can best be developed through the correlation of theory and practice. When students join faculty in taking responsibility for their learning, true learning takes place.

In order to apply to the Practical Nursing Program at Norfolk Technical Center, applicants must submit the application form, along with a $45 non-refundable application fee. Applicants must hold a high school diploma and have a “C” grade or above or a 2.25 GPA in order to apply. Adults applying to the Practical Nursing Program must have a HS transcript or GED and must pass an entrance examination, and go through an interview process. Adult applicants must also provide three professional reference letters when applying for admission to the Practical Nursing Program. Adults may also be required to submit work references and complete a waiver of confidential information and allow the school to conduct background checks.

Applicants to NTC must also pass the Text of Essential Academic Skills and obtain the national average. The test must be taken on the Norfolk Technical Center’s campus and is computer based, taking place in March and April of each year.

Classes in the Practical Nurse Licensure Program for Level I begin at 8am and end at 1:30pm. The Level I classes run for nine months between September and June of the following year and are conducted every other day. The course is composed of in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Level II classes run from 8am to 2pm and also runs for nine months between August and the following April. Classes are held daily and are a mixture of in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Grants are available for students who fall into a specific income category and hold various qualifications. Tuition cost for an adult is $3,200 and high school student tuition cost is roughly $330, including books, criminal background testing, uniforms, Certified Nurse Assistant licensure, and lab fees.

Contact:
Norfolk Technical Center
1330 North Military Highway
Norfolk, VA 23502, USA
Phone: (757) 892-3300

Northern Virginia Community College Nursing Program Review

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA, NVCC) was established in 1964 and is located in Annandale, Virginia. Northern Virginia Community College is the largest educational institution in the state of Virginia and is home to over 75,000 students. Northern Virginia Community College has campuses in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge and educational centers in Arlington, Manassas and Reston. Northern Virginia Community College offers degrees at the associate’s level as well as certificate programs for individuals interested in furthering their current career. Northern Virginia Community College also offers a variety of courses through distance learning.

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Associate of Applied Science Degree at Northern Virginia Community College is intended for students who wish to become a Registered Nurse. Upon graduation from the Associate of Applied Science Degree, students can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes amongst others.

There are three tracks available in the Associate of Applied Science Degree at Northern Virginia Community College; the traditional four-semester track, the accelerate online/hybrid track, and the momentum 2+1 track.

Traditional Registered Nurse (RN) Track

The traditional track is completed over four semesters and does not require summer courses. The program delivery includes classroom lectures, recorded online lectures, practical lab and clinical skills training.

Online Hybrid Registered Nurse Track

The accelerate online/hybrid track is completed over four semesters and conducts a portion of the courses online. Web based technologies like “eNOVA” and “Blackboard” are used to deliver part of the necessary the content for this course so as to allow more flexibility for the student nurses. Clinical training and laboratory practice is completed in the Northern Virginia locality and is supervised by NOVA faculty. Online Hybrid Registered Nurse Track students will take part in online nursing classes at specified time blocks. Prerequisites for this nursing course amount to 12 credits and must be completed before you apply to this nursing track.

Momentum 2+1 Registered Nurse (RN) Track

The Momentum 2+1 track is conducted over six semesters and prepares students to eventually transfer to a university to go on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) . This track is available online and in hybrid formats. This track is ideal for students who have just graduated from high school or those without any college credit. 6Sixsemesters for this track will be taken at the medical education Campus at Northern Virginia Community College and2 at George Mason University (GMU).

In order to be admitted to the Associate of Applied Science Degree, students must complete the online nursing information session. Students must hold a high school diploma or GED and have completed high school algebra and two units of high school science with a minimum “C” grade or above. Applicants must also complete the Nursing Pre-Admission Test and complete prerequisite courses with a minimum “C” grade or above. Applicants must hold CPR certification and must submit to a health examination prior to admission. Once accepted into the program, students must maintain a minimum “C” grade overall, in order to successfully complete the program.

LPN to RN Transition Track

The Associate of Applied Science Degree program also accepts students who are already Licensed Practical Nurses and wish to become Registered Nurses. These individuals must pursue the advanced placement option to the traditional track and can do so through the online LPN to RN Information Session. Licensed Practical Nurse applicants must first successfully complete a variety of prerequisite courses, which will prepare them for a career as a Registered Nurse. Licensed Practical Nurses can only apply to the Associate of Applied Science Degree at Northern Virginia Community College through the traditional track.

The nursing program at Northern Virginia Community College is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Georgia.

Contact:
Northern Virginia Community College
4001 Wakefield Chapel Road,
Annandale, VA 22003-3796

Old Dominion University Nursing School Review

Old Dominion University (ODU), formerly known as Old Dominion College is a public university that was founded in 1930. The school is noted for its reputation in online distance learning degrees. It boasts modern facilities with the latest 21^st century teaching technology. With 69 bachelor’s degrees, 56 master’s degrees, 41 doctoral degrees and 2 educational specialist degrees, students have a wide list of options to choose from to enter their career choice. There are also more than 50 degree programs by satellite, online, video-streaming and CD-ROM. The school also enjoys an active student life with 250 student organizations offering a wide range of activities and causes to defend.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program prepares students for entry-level profession in acute care, community setting, ambulatory care and rehabilitation home. Students can choose from the following two tracks:

1)  Pre-licensure: This option is for students that do not hold a RN license and want to take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a registered nurse (RN).They are prepared with foundation courses that use a variety of classes, laboratory experiences and clinical experiences for the bachelor’s degree. The program is aimed at high school graduates, associate’s degree and adults that wish to change their careers. It is also open to students that have bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing course.

2)  Post-licensure: This course is geared towards students that are already registered nurses and wish to gain their BSN. Students can either choose to attend classes on the Norfolk campus or any of the distance learning options available. These options range from online, video streaming or live televised videos with one way videos and one way audios known as TELETECHNET.

Master of Science in Nursing

Students interested in obtaining their MSN can choose from the following options:

1)  Family Nurse Practitioner: Students are trained to prepare primary care services to family and individuals whilebeing trained with clinical experiences. During the program, they acquire the necessary skills to diagnose acute and chronic illnesses. In addition to this, they learn how to manage health-related issues and maintain them. After successful completion students can take the FNP certification from the American Nurses’ Association or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. All 47 credits must be taken and passed with satisfactory grades. A written comprehensive test is also given at the end of the last semester and this too must be passed before taking theFNP certification exam.

2)  Nurse Anesthesia Program: This program was established in 1995 and is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. The course is directed to any RN that holds a baccalaureate degree and has a current unrestricted license to hold a Master’s degree in Nursing and sit the National Certification Examination for nurse anesthesia. This is a 28-month program that covers 82 credits. It is divided into two phases, with the first phase being an introductory to the courses geared towards preparing students with skills and knowledge to undertake advanced nursing practice in nurse anesthesia. The second phase is the practical aspect of the course where students focus on both general and regional aesthetic techniques. Applicants must also have CCRN certification and current certification in BLS, ACLS, and PALS among other admission requirements.

3)  Nurse Educator: This course is offered through the collaboration between ODU and other schools of nursing within and outside of Virginia to deliver a web-based program that can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. Students that choose the full-time program will be able to complete the 39-credit program in one year, whereas those that opt for a part-time arrangement will be able to finish the course in two years. For those that choose the post-master’s curriculum, they will need to complete 15-18 credits over 3 semesters. The school uses the latest teaching technology through audio and video conferences and online chats among others to deliver the course to students.

4)  Nurse Administrator: Students can choose between a full-time, part-time or certificate curriculum to complete this program. Whatever the choice, they will be exposed to all the theory that forms the foundation of various leadership practices in the real world. They will be trained to be effective leaders and thus undertake different types of leadership roles across a wide spectrum in areas such as: public health care, nursing/health care administration, clinical leadership, military health care just to name a few.

5)  Nurse-Midwifery Graduate Program: ODU in conjunction with Shenandoah University offer this program. Students can either choose to do the program on a part-time or full-time basis and are eligible to take the national nurse-midwifery certification examination if there are no pending issues.A Full-time course guarantees a two year completion, whereas part-time guarantees a three year completion date. The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education of the American College of Nurse-Midwives has given its stamp of approval on Shenandoah University Nurse-Midwifery Program. After successful completion, graduates receive their Master of Science in Nursing from ODU and a certificate of participation from Shenandoah University.

6)  Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner: This course prepares students to become primary health care providers in women’s health. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to participate inprofessional organizations. The course covers 45-credit hours and each student must complete 616 hours of clinical. At the end, they must also pass a written comprehensive test. They will then be eligible to sit the National Certification Corporation certification exam. Student clinical placement is possible through health departments, OB-GYN office practices, and specialty women’s clinics.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

This program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students can choose the BS-MSN to DNP program which can be covered 8 semesters on a full-time basis or 14 semesters on a part-time basis. The course starts in August. The Postmasters is another option that can be covered in four semesters on a full-time basis or seven semesters on a part-time basis. Other options include:

–  WHNP to DNP (full-time/ part-time)

–  NP to DNP (full-time/ part-time)

Distance Learning

ODU has a long standing tradition of distance learning for more than two decades. The school uses the following mediums to deliver content for different courses:

1)  Online: This is a flexible option that allows students to establish their own schedule. They are able to access course material and assignments from any location without having to worry about scheduled class meeting times.

2)  TELETECHNET: Lectures are scheduled every week using the University’s satellite Network to deliver different types of web-based formats. Students can access these through one-way video and two-way audio in Virginia and other states. Students have the option to also access Upper division cluster courses as well.

3)  Video Streaming: With the implementation of Sametime or a Virtual Instructional Assistant (VIA), it is possible for students to attend live classes without having to leave their homes and from any geographical location. The courses are scheduled during specific times during the week. Students can see the lecturer in real time, but the lecturer cannot see them.

Undergraduate Options: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Students that are enrolled in the RN to BSN program will have access to online, TELETECHNET and video streaming resources to get course work and see live lecturers. They will also be able to enroll in the RN to BSN/MSN option once they have completed one semester of the RN to BSN program.

Graduate Options – Masters of Science in Nursing and Doctorate in Nursing Practice

Students enrolled in the Master of Science in program will be able to access the web-based format for the following specialties.

1)  Nurse Midwifery

2)  Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

3)  Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator

4)  Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program is web-based and students can access the listed formats above to progress throughout the course. Once every semester, however, students attend weekend residency seminars on the Norfolk campus.

Core graduate nursing courses for the Nurse Anesthesia MSN role are also offered through web-based format. These include:

1)  Theoretical Foundations for Nursing Practice

2)  Research: An Introduction to Design

3)  Research: Methodologies and Application

In summary:

Undergraduate Programs

The Nursing School at Old Dominion University is part of the College of Health Sciences and offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program.  The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers two tracks; pre-licensure and post-licensure. The pre-licensure nursing track is intended for students who would like to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing and then apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program include high school students, students with associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees in fields other than nursing who are interested in a new career in nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Old Dominion University includes a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practicum.

The post-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is intended for students who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure and would like to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in order to further their career in nursing. Courses are conducted at Old Dominion University’s main campus in Norfolk part-time or via distance learning, so that students can continue practicing as a Registered Nurse while completing their Bachelor of Science degree.

In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Old Dominion University, students must submit an application by February. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, long-term care facilities, schools, physicians’ offices and many more healthcare institutions.  

Graduate Programs

The Nursing College at Old Dominion University offers several streams in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program including; Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. The majority of graduate students in the nursing program at Old Dominion University complete the program via distance learning, as they continue their nursing employment, while working on their education. The Master of Science in Nursing is also available in-person. In order to apply to any of the Master of Science in Nursing Program streams, students must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited university program.

Old Dominion University also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for nurses who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and wish to continue their nursing education. The Doctor of Science in Nursing program is eight full-time or 14 part-time semesters, which begin in August. Old Dominion University also offers a postmasters program in Advanced Practice and Nurse Executive, which can be completed in four full-time and seven part-time semesters.

Contact:
Old Dominion University
5115 Hampton Boulevard,
Norfolk, VA 23529

Patrick Henry Community College Nursing Program Review

Patrick Henry Community College (PHCC) is located in Martinsville, Virginia and was established in 1962 as a branch of the University of Virginia’s School of General Studies. Patrick Henry Community College has been in its current location for over 40 years and today offers 29 associates degree programs and 13 certificate programs.

Associate in Applied Science – Health Technology in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing at Patrick Henry Community College is a two-year program for individuals interested in pursuing a career in nursing. The program is four semesters long and prepares students to work in a variety of nursing environments. The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing is accredited by the Virginia Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

In order to be admitted into the Associate of Applied Science Program at Patrick Henry Community College, students must first be accepted into the college. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED and complete the COMPASS test before they can submit a nursing application. Applicants must have completed two units of algebra, one unit of geometry and two units of high school science with a minimum “C” grade or above in order to be admitted into the program. Applicants must hold a 2.5 GPA or above and must sit the Pre-RN Admission Examination, The Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) test, which is the final step in the admission process. The test includes sections on reading, vocabulary, mathematics and grammar.

Individuals, who already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure, may apply to the Associate of Applied Science program via advanced placement. Licensed Practical Nurses must have graduated from an accredited practical nursing school and must have passed the Licensed Practical Nursing Licensure examination and hold an unrestricted license. Licensed Practical Nurses must also have taken the prerequisite courses prior to being admitted into the program.

Nurse Aide Training Certificate (CNA)

The Nurse Aide Training Certificate at Patrick Henry Community College mandates that applicants hold a “C” grade prior to being admitted. The Nurse Aide Training Certificate takes one semester of full-time study to complete and is designed to prepare students to sit the Nurse Aide certification examination in Virginia. Prerequisites for the course include English and mathematics courses. In order to graduate from the program, students must complete; Health Care Technician I, Health Care Technician II, Therapeutic Communication in the Health Care Setting, First Air and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Introduction to Microcomputers, and College Survival Skills courses. The courses listed are 17 credit hours in length and lead to a certificate in Nurse Aide Training.

Practical Nursing Certificate (PN)

The Practical Nursing Certificate at Patrick Henry Community College is a one-year full-time program. A graduate of the Practical Nursing Program go on to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses and once successful can begin to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the state of Virginia.

Applicants to the program must hold a high school diploma or GED and must have an average of a “C” grade or above. Students must first apply to Patrick Henry Community College, and once accepted, then apply to the specific Practical Nursing Certificate program. Applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA throughout the duration of the program in order to graduate.

Contact:
Patrick Henry Community College
645 Patriot Avenue,
Martinsville, VA 24112,
United States
(276) 638-8777

Piedmont Virginia Community College Nursing Program Review

Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is located in Charlottesville, Virginia and is one of 23 community colleges in Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Piedmont Virginia Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate degrees. Piedmont Virginia Community College was established in 1972 and is currently home to over 7,000 students.

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS)

The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at Piedmont Virginia Community College prepares graduates to work in a variety of healthcare environments. The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing Program is the first step to a career in nursing, as students can then apply to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. Upon graduation, students can apply to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse.

Applicants who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree, can apply to the joint Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program through Piedmont Virginia Community College and Old Dominion University. Students can complete both the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at the same time as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree in two years.

Piedmont Virginia Community College also offers a Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing transition program (LPN to BSN Transition Program), which allows Licensed Practical Nurses to become Registered Nurses. Licensed Practical Nurses can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination upon completion of the program, in order to become a Licensed Registered Nurse. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) can obtain credit for specific nursing courses, based on their previous experience.

All applicants to the nursing programs at Piedmont Virginia Community College must submit to a criminal background check and a drug screening. Applicants must also submit their immunization record as well as official transcripts from previous education.

The nursing programs run both full-time and part-time, in order to cater to students who are working while employed.

Practical Nursing Certificate (PN)

The Practical Nursing Certificate at Piedmont Virginia Community College is a one-year certificate program, which prepares graduates to apply to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses. Success on the NCLEX-PN examination allows an individual to practice and become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Practical Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes and physician’s offices.

In order to be admitted to the Practical Nursing Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College, students must complete the COMPASS placement test or complete college-level courses with a minimum “C” grade or higher. Applicants must score a 520 on their SAT and complete specific courses with a minimum “C” grade or above and a GPA of 2.5 of above. Applicants must complete a nursing interest essay and the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Exam with a minimum score of 45%.

Applicants to the Practical Nursing Certificate Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College must submit to a criminal background check and drug screening prior to admission. Applicants must also submit immunization records and official transcripts of all prior educational institutions.

Contact:
Piedmont Virginia Community College
501 College Drive,
Charlottesville, VA 22902-7589,
United States
(434) 961-6551