Indian River State College Nursing Program Review
Indian River State College (IRSC) was founded in 1959 as a community college in Florida. The college has grown to offer over 150 academic programs including at the associate’s, certificate (undergraduate), and bachelor’s degree level. Student life at Indian River State College is flexible as students can take online courses, yet still have the opportunity to interact in a learning community by joining one of the many on-campus clubs and student organizations.
The college is notable for having several alumni as major league baseball players, a feat not always achievable by smaller colleges. The college has over 17,000 students, and maintains a community atmosphere, with small classes and access to academic counselors for one-on-one counseling. Indian River State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Indian River State College Nursing Degree Programs
Indian River State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Registered Nurse (RN)/Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The RN program is an entry-level degree program, which requires 72 credits and approximately 2 years to complete. Registered Nurses perform more complex care than certificated nurses in that they participate in patient education and monitoring medical machinery. Upon completion of the program, nurses will receive an ADN and will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN national certification exam to become registered nurses.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
The BSN program at Indian River State College is ideal for nurses seeking to advance their careers in the nursing field, as earning a BSN is the first step towards leadership and advancement opportunities for nurses. The program is designed for nurses who hold an associate in nursing degree (ADN) and work as registered nurses (RN). Requirements include a grade of “C” or better in pre-requisite courses, some of which may be taken at Indian River State College. Courses are delivered online and require students to have regular access to the computer. The program also offers a leadership and management track for nurses who desire to pursue leadership opportunities upon earning the BSN qualification. The program requires approximately 60 credits of nursing and general education requirements in order to earn the BSN.
Indian River State College Certificate Programs
Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
The certified nurse assistant program is ideal for students who want to work in a healthcare setting assisting nurses and other healthcare professionals in providing care to patients. The program is 165 hours and upon completion, students are awarded a certificate. Program length is 8 to 16 weeks depending on the schedule and location chosen.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program
The LPN program is a vocational program requiring 1,350 hours and the entry-level step into a nursing career. In addition to assisting with personal care, LPNs also perform routine medical tasks such as recording patient vitals and statistics. Upon completion of the LPN program, students are awarded a certificate and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Indian River State College’s (IRSC) Business and Technology Incubator
The Indian River State College Business and Technology Incubator is an online resource for students interested in pursuing entrepreneurial activities. The program offers office space, networking opportunities, and a full suite of business resources such as faxes, copiers, and scanners to aspiring entrepreneurs. Nurses with an entrepreneurial mind, perhaps those considering fields such as consulting, interpreting, or human resources management may find the business center on the campus of Indian River State College of particular interest.
Contact:
Indian River State College
3209 Virginia Avenue
Fort Pierce, FL 34981
Jacksonville University Nursing School Review
Jacksonville University (JU) is a private, non-profit, four-year university founded in Florida in 1934 as a community college, which offered evening courses to local residents. Currently the school offers over 70 different academic programs of study (majors, minors and concentrations).
Over 90% of incoming, first-year students receive financial aid and the college has a division 1 athletic program which has participation from hundreds of Jacksonville University students. With slightly over 3,000 students, class sizes are small and the average class size is about 16 students. Jacksonville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Jacksonville University Nursing Degree Programs
The School of Nursing at Jacksonville University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The School of Nursing strives to offer a liberal arts foundational education to their degree programs as well as opportunities for engaged learning. The university values student diversity and desires to see each student succeed. The university offers a variety of programs for nurses at the bachelor’s master’s and doctoral degree level.
Jacksonville University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Freshman BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
The freshman BSN program is designed for nurses with no previous nursing education that are entering the nursing profession after graduating from high school. The program requires a 3.2 GPA, grade of “B” or better in pre-requisite courses as well as minimum score of 1100 or 24 on the SAT and ACT respectively. Students in this program will benefit from exposure to nursing activities all four years of their education. The program is four years, during which some summer study may be required. Upon completion, students are awarded a BSN degree.
Traditional BSN
For students who have already begun their career in higher education, the three year traditional BSN is available. Admission requirements for the program include a minimum of 2.5 GPA in college coursework (non-nursing related) and at least 28 credits of nursing pre-requisites complete including Anatomy and Physiology and English. A grade of “C” or better must be earned in all pre-requisite courses, which may be repeated at most, one time. Students may also gain some credits through the CLEP exams which allow students to contest taking certain courses by passing an exam in a given subject area.
Transfer BSN
This program is ideal for students who have completed the first two years of general education towards a bachelor’s degree or who have earned an associate’s degree. Admission requirements to the program are nearly the same as those for the traditional BSN; however students are to meet certain requirements for specific courses including introductory philosophy and writing courses as well as courses in social science, humanities and fine arts. This program is approximately 2 years.
Second Degree to BSN
For students who have earned a bachelor’s degree and would like to complete a degree in nursing, an accelerated program is available to allow students to complete the requirements to earn the BSN degree. Admission requirements to the program are nearly the same as those for the traditional BSN. The program can be completed in less than one and one-half years, in approximately 16 months.
Online RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The online RN to BSN program is for currently practicing RNs who seek to take the next step in their career by earning a BSN qualification. The program is designed for nurses with active personal and professional lives, and can even be completed by nurses overseas in the military. Students in this program automatically receive 30 credits from earning their nursing license and are then required to earn a total of 120 credits to earn the BSN degree. The program can be completed on a full or part time basis asynchronously, meaning students do not have to log in at certain times to access coursework.
Jacksonville University Graduate Degree Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree Program
The MSN Nursing Program is ideal for nurses who demonstrate leadership aptitude and want to gain a leadership position in the nursing field or who desire to pursue doctoral study. Students choose from several concentrations for the program:
MSN Nursing Education
MSN Leadership in Healthcare Systems
MSN/MBA Master of Science in Nursing/ Master of Business Administration (Dual Degree Program)
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner (FNP/ENP)
Nurses in the MSN program complete 18-20 credits towards the MSN core nursing classes and additional credits based on their specialization.
The MSN Nursing Education and MSN Leadership in Healthcare Systems programs can be completed online. The program is available worldwide to US nurses in the military, offers online interaction with peers and faculty members, and allows practicum opportunities to be completed local to the student. The online programs can be completed 24 months on a full-time schedule.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree Program
The DNP program is designed for nurses who are and would like to remain in nursing practice will earn a post-master’s qualification. The program is designed for APRNs (Advanced Practice Registered Nurses) who will work while earning their DNP qualification. Admission requirements for the program are quite intensive and include an MSN degree from a program accredited by one of two nursing bodies (CCNE or NLNAC). An APRN or CNS licensure or eligibility to sit the exam, specialization with at least 500 hours of supervised clinical practice and certification in this area, an interview and a minimum of 3.3 MSN GPA are among other qualifications.
Jacksonville University Certificate Programs
Several of the MSN programs offer a post-master’s option in which nurses with an MSN can take the required courses to earn a specialization in a given area of practice. Upon completion of this option, the nurse will receive a post-master’s certificate outlining the coursework completed towards the specialization.
Nursing Lab at Jacksonville University
The nursing lab at Jacksonville University is a unique, hospital like environment in which students can gain hands on practice with a variety of procedures. The lab features special skills review stations in which nurses can be assessed on basic nursing skills such as IV insertion and also a real life birth simulator in the OB/GYN station.
Contact:
Jacksonville University
2800 University Boulevard North
Jacksonville, FL 32211
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Keiser University Nursing School Review
Founded in 1977, Keiser University is a private, for-profit institution centered on career preparation and technical skills which offers certificates and associate’s through doctoral degrees. Keiser University is based in Fort Lauderdale and has campuses throughout Florida in Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, and Tallahassee among other cities.
The campus serves over 13,000 students, most of whom are 25 or older. The university is geared toward the non-traditional student population with over two-thirds of students working while they attend classes.
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctorate degrees. Keiser University may also offer certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Keiser University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Review of Keiser University Nursing Degree Programs
Keiser University offers three nursing programs at the associates, bachelors and masters degree levels. The master and bachelor degree programs are offered online only.
Keiser University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The ADN program at Keiser University is for nurses seeking to earn a terminal degree in nursing. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing at specific campuses. Verify that the campus at which you will pursue the ADN program is accredited and approved. Admission requirements for the program include completion of the Wonderlic and TEAS test, an interview, a 3.0 GPA overall on general coursework, and a grade of “C” or higher in specific prerequisite courses.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) Program
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for Registered Nurses seeking to earn their BSN qualification. Critical thinking, collaboration and caring are all key areas of focus in the BSN program. The program strives to prepare nurses for care in community-based settings and despite being an online program has a clinical component. Prerequisites and admission requirements for the program include a current RN license, background check, and negative drug test, and a grade of “C” or better in specific prerequisite courses including statistics, speech communications, and literature. Students complete a total of 60 credit hours to earn the BSN qualification, of which certain courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. The BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Keiser University Graduate Degree Programs
Master of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN) Program
The Master of Science degree in Nursing (MSN) program at Keiser University offers a general focus in advanced nursing for nurses aspiring to leadership positions, a better understanding of and more experience in the nursing practice. The program is delivered entirely online. The program is designed according to the standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) for master’s degree programs. Caring is the cornerstone philosophy of the master’s degree program at Keiser University. Prerequisites and admission requirements for the program include a 2.7 GPA or higher in undergraduate coursework, a current unencumbered nursing license, and a BSN from a college with accreditation. Students are required to complete 33 credits to earn the MSN qualification, including a clinical practicum. Current positions, which are paid, cannot be used towards practicum credit.
Doctorate
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program graduate will possess advanced competencies for increasingly complex practice, faculty, and leadership roles in nursing. The curriculum focuses on integrating nursing science with knowledge from ethics, biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences as the basis for the highest level of evidence-based nursing practice. The program is comprehensive and time-efficient and fosters motivated, self-directed learners who are able to utilize the highest levels of education to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. The DNP program equips students with mastery in the areas of leadership, evidence-based practice, policy, scholarship, and interprofessional collaboration.
This program aims to fulfill the recommendations of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) guidelines as prescribed in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (October 2006) and The Doctor of Nursing Practice: Current Issues and Clarifying Recommendations (August 2015)
To receive a Doctor of Nursing degree, students must earn 36 graduate semester credit hours including Core courses (21 credits), DNP Project courses (4 credits, 60 clinical hours), Practice Immersion courses (8 credit hours, 480 clinical hours), and one elective course (3 credit hours). Courses in the DNP program are eight weeks in length and scheduled for one or two courses concurrently. The DNP Practice Immersion requires on-site hours at instructor-approved practice sites.
Transfer of graduate credits will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Thirty credit hours must be completed through Keiser University.
Contact:
Keiser University
5600 Lake Underhill Road
Orlando, FL 32807
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Florida Gateway College Nursing Program Review
Florida Gateway College (FGC), previously known as Lake City Community College (LCCC), was founded in 1947, and currently serves over 7,000 students annually. The college is based in Lake City Florida. Though it began as a college of forestry, students can now choose from a variety of programs in allied health, teaching, and even golf landscape management.
The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students will enjoy the campus because of the friendliness of the community, beautiful rural setting and favorable climate.
Review of Florida Gateway College Nursing Degree Programs
Florida Gateway College offers a diploma and degree program in nursing which has been in operation since 1964. The nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Florida Gateway College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The ADN program is ideal for nurses seeking to earn an associate’s degree for a career in the nursing practice. The course requires 72 credits to earn the ADN qualification. Students in the program will benefit from both a simulation lab on campus as well as local clinical practicums in small groups. Nurses who complete this course are eligible to sit for the national certification exam for registered nurses (RNs) as well as pursue the BSN program at Florida Gateway College.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree Program
The BSN program at Florida Gateway College is designed for current registered nurses who desire to complete a BSN degree to obtain increased opportunities in the nursing practice. Nurses who pursue the BSN program will be eligible for leadership opportunities such as managing other nurses as well as specific nursing units. Admission requirements for the program include at least one year of work as an RN within the past five years, an ADN from an accredited college and a current nursing license that is without restriction and unencumbered. Goals of the program include educating patients to improve overall health outcomes, sound decision-making skills, identity and appreciation for the nursing profession and a desire to pursue life-long scholarly inquiry. The program can be completed in approximately two years.
Florida Gateway College Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN-Licensed Practical Nurse Program)
The LPN program is ideal for nurses practicing at the vocational level. It is the entry-level step into the nursing profession. Admission requirements for the program include taking a standardized tests used for entry-level nurses to asses general academic and critical thinking skills. The test is the Practical Nurse Entrance Test (PNET) and is offered on the campus several times a year. Students must also have a high school diploma or GED and complete an application for both Florida Gateway College as well as for the nursing department to be considered for admission. Upon completion of the program, nurses will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). The program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
IV Therapy Certificate
Nurses who are practicing at the LPN level are eligible to receive a certification for IV therapy.
Contact:
Florida Gateway College
149 Southeast College Place
Lake City, FL 32025
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State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Nursing Program Review
The State College of Florida (SCF), Manatee-Sarasota, formerly known as Manatee Community College (MCC) was founded in 1957 and enrolls over 30,000 students each year. Several alumni of the college serve as current or former members of the House of Representatives. The College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students in the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota will find a variety of resources available to them as they prepare to enter the workforce. SCF has three campuses which are all in Florida. These are located at Bradenton, Lakewood ranch, and Venice in Florida.
Review of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Nursing Degree Programs
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota offers two nursing programs, one each at the associates and bachelors degree level for aspiring nurses. The nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The ADN program is both for nurses who hold an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) qualification and nurses without previous experience who seek to earn an entry-level degree in nursing. The program includes both classroom and clinical assignments based in both the Manatee and Sarasota areas. Nurses holding an ADN may function in a variety of healthcare settings and also assist in directing other LPNs and nursing assistants.
In order to gain entry into the program, nurses must apply and be accepted to the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, meet program prerequisites and take the nursing entrance exam (TEAS). The program is 72 credit hours, which can normally be completed in 2 to 3 years. Students with specific schedule requirements should note that evening classes cannot always be offered to accommodate student schedules. Upon completion of the program, nurses will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to become Registered Nurses.
The Transition Nursing program is an option for LPNs who demonstrate particular aptitude in nursing and hold at least a 3.0 GPA in previous coursework. This option allows nurses to skip certain courses, which would be a duplication of skills already learned. Nurses who are interested in this option should have at least 6 months of experience as an RN and receive a letter on their employer’s letterhead verifying their employment status.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree Program
The mission of the BSN program is to “Educate Nurses to be leaders in the art and science of nursing.” The BSN program was created to meet the demand for more nurse education programs in the Florida area. As a result, the BSN program educates current RNs (Registered Nurses) in Florida to complete the next step in their education. The BSN program trains nurses in key areas including informatics, leadership, management and nursing theory and research.
Admission requirements include a successful application to the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, a nursing license that is unencumbered, and a “C” or better grade in prerequisite courses. Prerequisite courses include general education courses such as in writing and humanities in addition to Anatomy and Physiology and Microbiology, courses required specifically for aspiring nurses. The program requires 120 credits total to receive the BSN qualification. At least 30 credits are normally awarded for the RN qualification.
Contact:
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
5840 26th Street
West Bradenton
FL 34207
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Mercy Hospital Nursing Program Review
Mercy Hospital is a private, not-for-profit, Catholic institution that offers hospital-based nursing programs for both certificated and degreed nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses respectively. Mercy Hospital is licensed by the Commission for Independent Education of the Florida State Board of Education.
The School and College of Nursing maintain relationships with other institutions. The School of Practical Nursing has graduated over 700 students since its beginning in 1981.
Review of Mercy Hospital Nursing Degree Programs
Mercy Hospital has two separate units for their education programs-the School of Practical Nursing and The College of Nursing. Mercy Hospital offers a unique setting for education programs as students train directly in the work place. The College of Nursing is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing and licensed by the Joint Commission. The School of Practical Nursing is licensed by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Mercy Hospital Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (ADN) Program
LPN to RN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse) ADN Program
The LPN to RN program at Mercy Hospital allows nurses to take the next step in their education by becoming a registered nurse (RN). This program teaches RNs to participate in all aspects of the healthcare process including promoting wellness, preventing injury and disease and educating patients. RNs also participate in monitoring care.
After completing general education requirements in Growth and Development, English Composition and Anatomy and Physiology, students may apply to the nursing program. Other admission requirements include attending an information session. Information sessions are offered each year, and space is limited, so be sure to book early if you have even the slightest interest in attending a nursing program at Mercy Hospital College of Nursing. You cannot submit an application without first attending an information session. The core nursing program can be completed in approximately 48 weeks after general education requirements are met. Upon completion of the program, nurses are eligible to take the national certification exam for RNs, the NCLEX-RN.
The LPN to RN program at Mercy University is accredited by the Joint Commission. The College of Nursing received the Magnet Award courtesy of the American Nursing Credentialing Center. This award honors excellence in nursing service.
Mercy Hospital Certificate Programs
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate Program
The Practical Nursing Certificate is offered under the School of Practical Nursing at Mercy Hospital. Students can choose from daytime and evening nursing programs.
The practical nursing program trains students to become LPNs who asses and treat basic patient needs. The LPN primarily works in collaboration with physicians and RNs to deliver patient care. Admission requirements for the program include a nursing entrance exam, application, three letters of reference, transcripts from previous schools and an interview. The program requires 1,439 hours and may be completed in three trimesters. The daytime program can be completed in 12 months, while the evening program requires 14 months.
Financial Aid at Mercy Hospital School of Practical Nursing
Financial aid is available to Mercy Hospital students who qualify. To qualify, students must normally apply using the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and meet qualifications to receive a Pell Grant.
Contact:
Mercy Hospital College of Nursing
3663 South Miami Avenue
First Floor – Mercy Tower Suite 1500
Miami, Florida 33133
Telephone: (305) 285-2777
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Miami Dade College Nursing Program Review
Miami Dade College (MDC) opened in 1960 as Dade County Junior College. Since 2003, the college has been offering bachelor’s degrees and serves over 140,000 students. The college has 8 campuses. Founded with the belief that every student should have access to education, the college offers a variety of education options including part and full time study and the opportunity for many students to take classes in more than one location.
Miami Dade College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Nursing Degree Programs
The School of Nursing at Miami Dade College has highly qualified faculty with professional experience to facilitate a great learning experience. The ADN and BSN programs of the School of Nursing at Miami Dade College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting (NLNAC) Commission.
Miami Dade College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
The ADN program can be completed on an accelerated basis, as a bridge option or generic option. All programs except the accelerated option are offered part and full time.
The ADN program is offered full or part time. Admission requirements include course pre-requisites with a grade of “C” or better, TEAS test (Test of Essential Academic Skills), and an overall GPA of 2.5. Students are evaluated based upon their TEAS exam scores and GPA in natural science courses. Students should also be careful of withdrawing from courses (i.e., earning a “W” on a transcript) as this can impact your admission prospects negatively.
All three ADN program options prepare students to become registered nurses (RNs) and sit the national exam for certification (NCLEX-RN).
The Generic ADN program is designed for students without a healthcare background. The program can be completed in 4 and 8 semesters respectively.
The Bridge ADN program is ideal for students with a licensed/certificated health care background such as LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses). The program offers the ADN qualification, and can be completed in 3 or 6 semesters for full and part time study respectively. Theoretical courses for the program may be taken online, but students are required to commit to on-campus courses for clinical selections.
The Accelerated ADN program is for students with a bachelor’s degree or higher in their education program that have proven their ability to successfully complete a degree program. Students should also have some preparation in nursing studies. This program is 3 semesters and can be completed in approximately one year. Due to the accelerated rate of study students are advised to avoid full time work and have the ability to devote a majority of their time to the program.
Students also have the option of earning an associate’s degree in pre-nursing, which would prepare them with the course pre-requisites necessary to transfer to a four-year nursing program. Students in this case should coordinate carefully with their intended transfer school to ensure all program pre-requisites are met.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Degree Program
Students in the BSN program are educated in advanced nursing practice and are taking the first steps to becoming leaders and innovators in the nursing practice. Admission requirements for the MSN program include having an ADN from a NLNAC accredited program and a GPA of 2.5 or higher both overall and in nursing courses. Students are required to take approximately 30 credits to earn the degree. The program offers a BSN upon completion.
Miami Dade College Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing (LPN-Licensed Practical Nurse) Program
The Practical Nursing program at Miami Dade College trains nurses to receive the entry-level nursing qualification, LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). The program has two admission dates per year. Admission requirements include taking the TABE (basic assessment of reading, writing and mathematics skills) test and the TEAS. Students must also earn a grade of “C” or better in pre-requisite courses. The program offers a certificate upon completion and is approximately one year. The program prepares students to take the national certification exam to become an LPN, (NCLEX-PN).
Contact:
Miami Dade College
300 N.E. 2nd Avenue
Miami, Florida 33132
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Nova Southeastern University Nursing School Review
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) was founded in 1964 as a small private higher education in Florida. Today the college enrolls over 28,000 students and claims to be the eighth largest, independent not-for-profit private institution in the United States.
Students at Nova Southeastern University can enjoy learning in a nurturing environment keen on forward-thinking without losing tradition. The Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Nova Southeastern University.
Review of Nova Southeastern University Nursing Degree Programs
The College of Nursing at Nova Southeastern University provides culturally-sensitive and competent nurse training to the over 1,200 nurses enrolled in their programs. The college offers baccalaureate through doctoral degrees from students aspiring to begin their nursing education and careers to nurses seeking career advancement. Bachelors and doctoral degree programs at Nova Southeastern University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Nova Southeastern University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Entry Level Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The Entry Level BSN program is designed for nurses without previous experience who are seeking to become registered nurses. Upon completion of the program nurses will earn a BSN degree and will be eligible to sit the exam for national RN certification, NCLEX-RN. The program can be completed in approximately 27 months. Prerequisites include chemistry, biology, social sciences and humanities courses.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program
The RN to BSN program is designed for RNs seeking to advance their career by earning a BSN degree. The program can be completed in as little as 2 months. Students may complete coursework towards the degree online or in a hybrid (campus-based and online) format.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing) Program
For RNs who would like to earn a BSN and Masters of Science in Nursing degree in less time than it would take to earn both degrees, they can participate in the RN to MSN program. The program offers three tracks:
MSN Nursing Education-for nurses who want to serve as staff educators or instructors in post-secondary settings
MSN Public/Community Health Nursing-for nurses who want to develop and expand careers in community settings or the public health department
MSN Health Systems Leadership-for nurses who desire a leadership position within a healthcare setting
The program can be completed in approximately three years and can take the course in both online and hybrid formats.
Nova Southeastern University Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
The MSN program is for nurses holding at least a BSN who would like to take the next step in their career towards advanced nursing and leadership opportunities. The program is delivered online and offers the following three tracks:
MSN Health Systems Leadership-for nurses who desire a leadership position within a healthcare setting
MSN Nursing Education-for nurses who want to serve as staff educators or instructors in post-secondary settings
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)-for nurses who want to specialize in treatment and care of the family unit
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Program
The researched based PhD in Nursing program at Nova Southeastern University is open to nurses with at least an MSN qualification. The program is delivered online and prepares nurses to serve in leadership and research roles in higher education settings. The course is 60 credit hours.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
The DNP program prepares nurses for leadership roles in the nursing setting, but does not require nurses to be Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). The program is delivered online and can accommodate the schedule of a working adult. Students in the program will complete 6-8 credits per term and graduate in approximately 6-8 terms.
Contact:
Nova Southeastern University
3301 College Avenue
Fort Lauderdale-Davie
Florida 33314-7796
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Palm Beach Atlantic University Nursing School Review
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private, Christian university founded in 1968. The School of Nursing is one of nine colleges and schools of the university, including disciplines such as business, ministry, and pharmacy. The university enrolls just over 3,500 students and students can enjoy a small student-faculty ratio of 13:1.
There are many opportunities for extracurricular involvement including 20 men’s and women’s sports programs, intramurals, student newspaper, and radio among other things. Palm Beach Atlantic University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Palm Beach Atlantic University Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at Palm Beach Atlantic University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. Ninety-five percent (95%) of students at Palm Beach Atlantic University who take the NCLEX-RN certification exam have passed over the past four years. Nursing students will enjoy resources such as small class sizes and a nursing lab equipped with the latest technology to assist in understanding and achieving academic goals.
Palm Beach Atlantic University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The BSN program at Palm Beach Atlantic University is both for RNs and students without prior nursing experience. Students make their application to the BSN program in their sophomore year of study. The program can normally be completed in 8 semesters. Admission requirements for the program include passing the TEAS test (Test of Essential Academic Skills; commonly used as a nursing entrance exam), submitting previous academic transcripts, an essay, and recommendation letters. Throughout the program, students will be given standardized tests. A student who fails these tests continually may be dropped from the nursing program. The school offers guaranteed admission to students who attend Palm Beach Atlantic University as a freshman and hold a 3.5 GPA overall and a 3.25 GPA in science courses. Other students are required to hold a 3.0 and 2.5 GPA overall and in science courses respectively to earn admission into the nursing program. Students complete their program with a capstone course that synthesizes theory and practice in the nursing program.
Resources for Nurses at Palm Beach Atlantic University
There are many support options for students aspiring to complete their degrees at Palm Beach Atlantic University. In addition to offering financial aid, the school also has several local and school-based scholarship programs available to its students. In order to be considered for a nursing award, students must have at least a 2.5 GPA. Students in the program will have a wide variety of clinical experiences to choose from when completing their clinical practicum, and in some cases, students may serve in a mission opportunity abroad to gain increased cross-cultural exposure. In the past, nursing students have spent time in South America to present items to an orphanage on behalf of a student nursing association and further develop Spanish-speaking skills. Two nursing clubs are part of the Palm Beach Atlantic University nursing program, Nurses Christian Fellowship (NCF) and Palm Beach Student Nursing Association (PBASNA).
Contact:
Palm Beach Atlantic University
901 South Flagler Drive
West Palm Beach, FL 33401-6505
Palm Beach State College Nursing Program Review
Palm Beach State College (PBSC), previously known as Palm Beach Community (PBCC) College, is Florida’s first public community college and was founded in 1933. Today, the college offers certificate, associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs. There are over 50,000 students enrolled in the college’s four campuses, which now constitutes the 6th largest of out of the twenty-eight colleges in the Florida college system.
Palm Beach State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Palm Beach State College Nursing Degree Programs
The Practical Nursing certificate program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. The ADN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. The Patient Care Assistant program is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing.
Palm Beach State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing ADN Program
The Associate Degree in Nursing program is for nurses seeking to take the next step in their career by becoming Registered Nurses (RNs). Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the exam for national certification, NCLEX-RN. The program can be completed in two or three years for full and part time study respectively. Admission requirements for the program include the HESI RN entrance exam and a 2.5 GPA overall in all previous college coursework.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree Program
The BSN program allows nurses to progress in their career by taking on leadership roles. The program is designed for nurses holding an ADN and can normally be completed in two years as it is assumed the first two years of general education and requirements are completed during the ADN. Admission requirements for the program include a 2.5 GPA overall in previous coursework. This program can be completed both on-campus and online. Upon completion of the program with a 2.0 or higher overall GPA, students are awarded a BSN qualification.
Palm Beach State College Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate (Licensed Practical Nurse-LPN) Program
The LPN program is for nurses entering in the first part of their nursing education. The practical nursing program at Palm Beach State College prepares nurses to serve in a variety of nursing settings including geriatric, obstetric and pediatric settings. The program prepares nurses to take the national certification exam for practical nurses, the NCLEX-PN. The program is 1,350 hours and be completed in approximately 16 months.
Patient Care Assistant Program
The Patient Care Assistant expands on roles completed by the nurse assistant and involves providing support and care to patients under the direction of physicians and nurses. The program can be completed full or part time and in approximately 3.5 months. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded a CNA and Patient Care Assisting certificate as well as a Home Health Care Aide (HHCA) certificate. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the course to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida.
Contact:
Palm Beach State College
4200 Congress Avenue
Lake Worth, FL 33461
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Pasco-Hernando Community College Nursing Program Review
Founded in 1967, Pasco-Hernando Community College (PHCC) is the newest of the 28 higher education institutions in the Florida college system. The college offers a variety of online, day, evening, and weekend classes and also four locations to serve its students. The college enrolls over 17,000 students. Pasco-Hernando Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Pasco-Hernando Community College Nursing Degree Programs
The Health Programs unit at Pasco-Hernando Community College houses nursing programs. Nursing programs at Pasco-Hernando Community College are limited access meaning not everyone that applies to and meets the admission criteria of the program is accepted. The Associate of Science in Nursing degree program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Pasco-Hernando Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
RN (Registered Nurse) Program
The RN program at Pasco-Hernando Community College offers two options for nurses who desire to complete the entry-level ADN nursing degree. Students can choose from the Generic option, which is two years and ideal for students completely new to nursing. The Transition program is one year and is for LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) or students with a healthcare background, such as paramedics. Upon completion of the program, students earn an ADN and are eligible to sit the exam for national certification, NCLEX-RN. Admission requirements including passing the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and completing all pre-requisite courses with a “C” or better grade.
Pasco-Hernando Community College Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing (LPN) Program
LPNs perform a wide variety of clerical and basic patient care duties in healthcare settings including hospitals and community health centers. LPNs at Pasco-Hernando Community College are trained to work with a variety of patients and provide support under physicians and RNs. In most cases, LPNs provide basic care, ensure patients are comfortable, and provide referrals to senior health care professionals. The LPN program prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN exam for certification as a Practical Nurse. The program is approximately one year and 45 technical credits. Upon completion of the program, nurses receive a certificate and are also eligible to enter the transition option of the ADN program.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
Certified Nursing Assistants work in an entry-level healthcare role providing basic patient care. CNAs work under the supervision of registered and practical nurses. CNAs primarily provide personal care such as bathing, feeding, and assistance with mobility to patients. Upon completion of the program, nurses will receive a certificate and are eligible to take the exam to become certified nurse assistants in Florida. The program is 4 technical credits and can be completed in approximately one term of full-time study. Students may also complete the program on a part-time basis.
Nursing Clubs at Pasco-Hernando Community College
There are two nursing clubs available for students at Pasco-Hernando Community College. The Nightingale Nursing Club (NNC) provides opportunities for leadership and professional interaction opportunities with other nursing associations by electing officers, attending professional conferences, and raising money for scholarships through fundraisers. The NNC is for nurses at all levels of their education. The Nurses in Action club is for L and also participates in fundraising and other college events.
Contact:
Pasco-Hernando Community College
450 Beverly Court
Spring Hill, FL 34606
Pensacola State College Nursing Program Review
Pensacola State College, formerly Pensacola Junior College, was founded in 1948 as the first higher education institution in Pensacola. Today the college offers over 100 academic programs, including associate and bachelor degree programs to its 27,000 students.
Students will find many resources and activities available on campus to pursue their interests including an indoor pool, visual art gallery, tennis courts, concerts, student organizations and sports. Pensacola State College is ranked among the colleges awarding the most associates degrees in the nation. Pensacola State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Pensacola State College Nursing Degree Programs
The primary goal of the Department of Nursing at Pensacola State College is to provide quality education to nurses, regardless of their career level. Some of the earliest programs in operation at the university are the Associate Degree in Nursing and Licensed Practical Nursing programs. Today, the department has full-time and part-time staff and 23 faculty members to educate and mentor future nurses. The ADN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Pensacola State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program (RN)
The ADN program for RNs is designed to prepare students to take the first step in becoming RNs and receive training to sit the national certification exam for RNs, NCLEX-RN). Students are not required to have previous nursing experience for this program. Admission requirements include a 2.5 overall GPA and a 75% or higher composite score on the HESI A2 exam, an entrance exam for nurses. The HESI A2 exam topics include reading, vocabulary, math, grammar and Anatomy and Physiology. In order to earn the ADN qualification for the course, students must past a dosage examination, earn a grade of “C” or better in all courses and have a current CPR certification awarded by the American Heart Association. The program can be completed in approximately 2 years.
ADN Career Mobility Option
The ADN career mobility option is for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and paramedics seeking to advance their career by earning an ADN degree. Students can complete the program in just 4 semesters. Admission requirements are the same as for the traditional ADN program, but also include a current RN or paramedic license and a grade of “C” or better in all prerequisite coursework.
RN to BSN Program (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program at Pensacola State College is for nurses who hold an ADN and are seeking to take the next step in their career. Admission requirements into the program include a 2.0 GPA, active RN license and graduation from an accredited RN program. The BSN program focuses on training nurses in leadership, management research and theory. The 120 credit program may be completed in as little as 3 semesters, though students may take additional time if required. Students should meet a nursing program representative, such as the director or a counselor to develop a personalized academic plan. Each student’s program completion time will vary according to their background and the number of credits transferred. To earn the BSN degree from Pensacola State College, students should complete at least 25% of total credits at Pensacola State College and earn a grade “C” or better in all courses.
Pensacola State College Certificate Programs
Pensacola State College offers several certificate programs below, which allow registered nurses to gain experience and expertise in additional areas of nursing.
Perioperative Nursing
The Perioperative Nursing program trains nurses without previous experience in the operating room to work in surgical settings. In order to be accepted in the program, students must be RNs. The program is 9 credits and can be completed in one semester. While coursework is delivered online, students are required to attend a clinical practicum. Students in this program are trained and able to function independently in a perioperative setting upon completion of the program.
Practical Nursing Certificate (Licensed Practical Nurse/LPN) Program
The Practical Nursing Certificate prepares and trains nurses to work in an entry-level nursing setting performing basic tasks and receiving supervision from RNs and physicians. The program is a one-year program, and upon completion students receive a certificate. Admission requirements for the program include a 2.0 overall GPA, and meeting score requirements on a practical nursing entrance exam as well as a math exam unique to healthcare providers. Students are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a LPN upon completion of the course.
Nurse Assisting (CNA) Program
The CNA program trains students to work under the supervision of registered and practical nurses to provide basic patient care. The program is one semester and requires 3 courses. Students interested in the program should contact the department of nursing as the course has irregular offerings. The program prepares students to become Certified Nursing Assistants by examination in Florida.
Surgical Technology Program
The surgical technology certificate program prepares students to work alongside RNs and other health care professionals in a surgical setting. The program prepares students to serve as assistants before, during and after the surgical process. The program is twelve months. Admission requirements include a 2.0 GPA and satisfying minimum score requirements on the TABE (Test of Basic English Skills).
Resources for Students at Pensacola State College
Pensacola State College has several programs that will assist aspiring nurses in earning their qualifications. Currently, Pensacola State College awards over 26.7 million in financial aid to its students through a variety of methods including scholarships and work study. The college has several in-house scholarships awarded to students based on academic merit, financial need, community involvement, leadership and school service among other things. Pensacola State College assists students in planning their future beyond their degree program; the Center for Advising and Career Services assists student in planning their future careers and goals. Most technical programs have a 100% career placement rate.
Contact:
Pensacola State College
1000 College Boulevard
Pensacola, FL 32504
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Polk State College Nursing Program Review
Polk State College (PSC), formerly Polk Community College was founded in 1964 and serves over 20,000 students. Polk State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Polk State Colleges strives to provide a quality affordable education to Florida residents by providing certificate, associates and bachelors degree programs.
Review of Polk State College Nursing Degree Programs
Established in 1965 by a Kellogg Foundation Grant, the Department of Nursing at Polk State College is where over 60% of the Registered Nurses in Polk County graduated from. The Department prepares nurses for careers in a variety of settings as well as further education opportunities. Department of Nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Polk State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program
Polk State College offers a generic and transition option for aspiring students seeking to earn the ADN degree.
The Generic ADN option is best suited for nurses who have no previous nursing education. The program is two years and upon completion nurses are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Registered Nurse exam, NCLEX-RN.
The Transition ADN option is best suited for students who hold a basic healthcare qualification, including Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), paramedic, and physical therapist among others. The program is one year and allows these students to draw on their previous experience and advance through some of the basic healthcare courses.
Admission requirements for the program include several course pre-requisites demonstrated reading ability which can be met through standardized test scores or a previous college degree. Students are required to have a 2.5 or higher GPA at the time of application and to submit test scores for the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program is ideal for nurses with an associate’s degree or diploma to complete advanced training for leadership and skills in delivering evidence-based care. Admission requirements to the program including having an active RN license, graduating from an NLNAC accredited program and holding a 2.5 GPA or higher in all previous coursework. Upon completion of the approximately 2 year program, students earn a BSN. Some courses in the RN to BSN program are offered in a hybrid (online and on-campus) format; therefore students must have reliable access to the internet to pursue this course.
Resources for Nurses at Polk State College
There are many resources for nursing students at Polk State College. After completing nine credits of nursing coursework, students can join the award winning chapter of the Florida Nursing Student Association. The association promotes community, professional development and leadership skills among future nurses. Students will also benefit from a state-of-the-art laboratory complete with simulation mannequins and simulations of hospital settings. Aspiring nurses can also use the nursing media lab to gain increased exposure to nursing equipment and training through audio-visual materials.
Contact:
Polk State College
999 Avenue H NE
Winter Haven, FL 33881
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Santa Fe College Nursing Program Review
Santa Fe College was established in 1965 as Santa Fe Junior College to offer public higher education to residents of Alachua and Bradford counties in Florida. Today the college offers certificates, associate and bachelor degree programs. Though one of the youngest colleges in the Florida College system, the college has over 18,000 students enrolled in for-credit classes. Santa Fe College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Review of Santa Fe College Nursing Degree Programs
The ADN programs at Santa Fe College are approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Nursing programs at Santa Fe College seek to provide services to the community in addition to educating its students. Nursing programs at Santa Fe College are housed under the Health Programs unit.
Santa Fe College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate of Arts in Nursing
Nurses can earn an Associate of Arts Degree in Nursing, which is most ideal for students that are intent on pursuing a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program directly after completing their general education.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN or ASN) in Nursing
General ADN Program
The ADN program at Santa Fe College prepares nurses to take the national certification exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN), the NCLEX-RN. Students in the ADN program are assigned a faculty mentor in hope of increasing their chance of continuing with and graduating from the ADN program. Students are encouraged to seek advice from their mentors as often as needed, whether for study habits a difficult course or career opportunities. In addition to taking a nursing entrance exam test, admission requirements include a 2.0 overall GPA and the completion of at least 6 pre-requisite courses with a grade of “C” or better. Pre-requisite courses include General Psychology, Statistics, College Algebra, Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology, College Composition and a course in fine arts or humanities. The ADN program is approximately 2 years.
Bridge ADN Programs
The ADN program also offers a Bridge Program for LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and Paramedics who have earned health certificates and would like to complete an associate’s degree in nursing, the LPN to RN and Paramedic to RN programs. In addition to the admission requirements listed for the general ADN program, prospective students for the LPN to RN program must submit a copy of their current RN license and have at least 1 year of work experience. Prospective students seeking to enroll in the Paramedic to RN program should submit a copy of their Paramedic license and have at least 2 years of experience as a paramedic. Both programs are 72 credits. Because the program is accelerated students are required to demonstrate basic nursing competence in the first week of the program to maintain enrollment in the degree program.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The BSN program prepares nurses for a career in nursing with a comprehensive approach that covers nursing leadership, theory, research, culture and nursing care across the lifespan. Students may take most courses online although 3 courses, two including a clinical practicum and the other a lab based course must be taken in person. Admission requirements for the BSN program include a 2.5 overall GPA, an associates degree from an accredited program, a current RN license and completed prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better. Prerequisite courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Psychology or Sociology, Developmental Psychology and Nutrition. In order to earn the BSN qualification, students must demonstrate foreign language competency (at least 2 years at the high school or college level) if foreign language study has not taken place students must take foreign language courses.
Santa Fe College Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate
The Practical Nursing Certificate prepares nurses to take the first step in their nursing career through a vocational educational certificate. The program prepares nurses to sit the certification exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), NCLEX-PN. Admission requirements including taking the nursing entrance exam test by Kaplan and earning at least a 55% in both the reading and math sections. In addition, prospective applicants must demonstrate college level-proficiency in core college subjects of math, English and reading. Students can demonstrate proficiency through a standardized achievement test such as the SAT or a grade of “C” in better in a college course. The program is 3 terms and 1,350 hours.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
The CNA program prepares students to work in an entry level support role and sit the state certification exam to become a nursing assistant. Specifically the program prepares CNAs to serve in a nursing home or extended care facility. Students will complete a clinical practicum at a nursing home. The program is 165 hours and can be completed in one term.
Patient Care Assistant (PCA) Program
The Patient Care Assistant Program includes certificates for both the CNA and Home Health Care Aide. The program is 290 hours and also prepares nurses to sit for the state certification exam to become a CNA. An excellent feature of this program is the ability to complete clinical practicum in 3 settings, a nursing home, extended care facility and home setting in order to increase the student’s employability across different fields.
Home Health Care Aide
The Home Health Care Aide program trains students to provide care in a home setting. The program also includes a CNA certificate, which will aid in providing additional employment options for nurses. Students complete a clinical practicum both at the nursing home and in a home healthcare setting.
Nursing Lab at Santa Fe College
The nursing lab at Santa Fe College provides nurses with an opportunity to practice their nursing skills as much as necessary before being evaluated. The lab offers lifelike simulation opportunities as well as individual assistance from lab personnel when necessary. Students must make a reservation to use the equipment, which guarantees the equipment will be available when it’s needed. Study guides, videos and audio learning aides are available. In some cases items may be checked out overnight for student use.
Contact:
Santa Fe College
3000 NW 83rd Street
Gainesville, FL 32606
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Seminole State College of Florida Nursing Program Review
Seminole State College of Florida enrolls over 30,000 students and is the ninth largest college in the Florida College System. The college is based in Sanford/Lake Mary, but also has campuses in Oviedo, Altamonte Springs, and Heathrow. Seminole State College was founded in 1965 and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Through associates and bachelors degree programs, certificates and lifelong learning courses Seminole State College offers education options for students at all stages of their educational career.
Review of Seminole State College Nursing Degree Programs
The Nursing Department at Seminole State College prepares nurses to serve the needs of the community. The program continues to update its philosophy, originally developed in 1980, to reflect current perceptions of the nursing field and the education of professional nurses. Students at Seminole State College maintain a strong connection to the community through participation in the Florida Student Nursing Association (FSNA), in which students can gain valuable leadership experience. Through leadership positions students can influence nursing and healthcare policies in Florida. Students in FSNA can earn scholarships both for personal tuition fees as well as nursing programs for Seminole State College. Nursing programs at Seminole State College use and take advantage of internet resources to conduct courses. Students should have access to a computer and internet to complete assignments, interact with peers and faculty and view educational resources available.
Seminole State College offers nursing programs at the associate’s and career/technical certificate level for aspiring nurses.
Seminole State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing Associate of Arts Degree (A.A.)
Nurses who are interested in a four year nursing program may complete nursing program pre-requisites through the general AA program at Seminole State College. The program prepares students to meet nursing pre-requisites at the college of their choice.
To ensure students make the most of their program, and obtain the right pre-requisites, students should work with an academic advisor both from Seminole State College and their intended program.
Nursing prerequisite courses including in the AA nursing degree option include Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Developmental Psychology, chemistry, nutrition, microbiology, statistics, and sociology. The courses are commonly required prerequisites for nursing programs.
The nursing prerequisites include 31 credits of the 60 credits required to earn a general AA degree at Seminole State College.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/ASN) Program
The ADN program at Seminole State College offers two options for students aspiring to earn an ADN, a general track for students with no prior nursing education and a career-transition track for aspiring nurses with a healthcare background, such as LPNs and paramedics. The program is 22 months for students without prior education and approximately one year for other health care professionals. This program is limited access meaning not all students that apply and meet requirements will be accepted into the program. Admission requirements include submitting college placement test scores (or SAT/ACT scores), a 2.5 overall GPA in previous coursework and course and course pre-requisites. Students, excluding LPNS, participating in the career track option should have 2,000 hours of work experience in the past 3 years. LPNs should have at least 1,000 hours of work experience in the past 1.5 years, and past year graduates of Seminole State College’s LPN program are exempt the work experience requirement.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
In collaboration with the University of Central Florida, Seminole State University offers BSN program which assists nurses in earning their BSN and ADN concurrently. Upon completing their ADN courses at Seminole State College, students take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses and commence studies for their BSN. Courses for the BSN course are offered both on-campus and later in the course completely online. The course is about 6 semesters in total, and the BSN degree can be completed in as little as one semester after earning the ADN degree.
Seminole State College Certificate Programs
Seminole State College has certificate programs for nurses in various stages of their career. Though these programs do not qualify for federal student aid, students in this program may qualify for fee waivers and scholarships through Seminole State College. Students interested in waivers must still complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and submit results to Seminole State College.
Nurse Aide (CNA) Program
The Nurse Aide program (also referred to as the Orderly or Patient Care Technician program) at Seminole State College prepares nurses to become certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in Florida through taking the state certification exam. CNAs provide basic care, and are primarily concerned with personal hygiene, comfort and safety of their patients. Graduates of this program are specifically trained to work in the nursing home setting. The program is 165 hours and includes classroom, simulation lab practice and a clinical practicum completed in a healthcare setting such as a nursing home all under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). Admission requirements include a Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) test score, though no minimum score is required. Upon completion of the course students receive a certificate.
Advanced Home Health Care Aide (AHHCA)
The Advanced Home Health Care Aide program prepares CNAs to also provide care in the home setting. Students in this course will complete the same requirements as those for the CNA program, along with a 50 hour program dedicated to delivering care in the home setting. The total hours in the program is 215, and aspiring CNAs can complete the AHHCA certificate program immediately after passing their CNA course. Current CNAs may also participate in the course.
Patient Care Assistant (PCA) Program
The PCA program at Seminole State College expands upon the nursing role by providing nurses with the opportunity to earn the CNA and AHHCA certificates in addition to the PCA certificate. The PCA program prepares CNAs to work in additional healthcare environments outside of the nursing home. The PCA program is a total of 290 hours.
Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN) Program
The Practical Nursing Certificate Program is the first step towards becoming a professional nurse. This entry level program prepares Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to work in collaboration with and under the supervision of RNs and physicians. LPNs record patient information, care for personal needs and comfort, as well as take vital signs and give injections. LPNs interact with patients on a daily basis and are therefore a very significant part of the healthcare team. The LPN program at Seminole State College awards a certificate upon completion and prepares nurses to sit the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses, the NCLEX-PN. Upon completion of the 1,350 hour program nurses receive a certificate. Admission requirements to the program include a TEAS (entry level nurse exam) and TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) scores, transcripts of previous education and attending an information session.
Contact:
Seminole State College
100 Weldon Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
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South University, Tampa Nursing School Review
Located just 5 minutes from downtown, the Tampa, FL campus of South University has much to offer its students. South University, Tampa opened in 2006, though the college has been in operation since 1899. A key feature of the university is the strong sense of community among students.
Students get to know each other in the classroom and though extracurricular activities on campus. With amusement parks, theaters, professional sports games, and the beach students will never have a dull moment when studying at South University, Tampa. The Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredits South University, Tampa.
Review of South University, Tampa Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at South University, Tampa are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. South University, Tampa offers bachelors and masters degree programs for aspiring nurses.
South University, Tampa Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science (BSN) Program
Students without prior nursing education that are interested in becoming a nurse may enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at South University, Tampa. The program can be completed in as little as 13 quarters. The first 6 quarters focus on completing prerequisites and the latter 7 on completing the core requirements to earn the BSN. Upon completion of the program, students will earn a BSN and will be eligible to take the national certification exam for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). Course prerequisites to the BSN program include a College Algebra course and two math or science electives.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Practicing RNs who desire to take the next step in their career and education may pursue the RN to BSN program at South University, Tampa which can be completed in as little as 1.5 years. As with the BSN program, the RN to BSN program is developed according to core competencies and standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. A goal of the program is to strengthen the health community, particularly in rural settings.
South University, Tampa Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
The MSN program offered at South University, Tampa is ideal both for nurses who seek to expand their knowledge or maintain knowledge of current nursing practice and who are seeking to advance into roles in nursing leadership. The program offers three specialized tracks designed to fit nurses with varying goals in their careers.
MSN Adult Health Nurse Practitioners (AHNP) -Advanced practitioner role offering care to adult patients (56 credit hours)
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)-Advanced care to families (62 credit hours)
MSN Nurse Educator-Combine passion for education and nursing to create academic education programs and teach aspiring nurses (48 credit hours)
Students in the AHNP and FNP tracks may take exams which will lead to national certification in these areas upon completion of the program.Registered Nurses (RNs) who have not yet completed a bachelor’s degree may enroll in the RN to MSN degree program.
Contact:
South University, Tampa
4401 North Himes Avenue #175
Tampa, FL 33614
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South University, West Palm Beach Nursing School Review
South University was founded in 1899, and in 1976 the West Palm Beach campus of South University was developed. With just under 1,000 students enrolled, students will enjoy small class sizes and a personalized learning experience.
With a brand new campus and new laboratories, students will enjoy modern state-of-the-art facilities. In addition, students can enjoy off-campus activities such as attending cultural events, playing sports and of course, visiting the beach. South University, West Palm Beach is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at South University, West Palm Beach are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. Nursing programs focus on instilling concrete career skills such as delegating responsibility, effective decision making and establish priorities to ensure nursing graduates are able to flourish in their careers.
South University, West Palm Beach Undergraduate Nursing Programs
In general admission to undergraduate programs at South University requires one to be a graduate of high school and have an SAT score of 900 (Act 19).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN program at South University, West Palm Beach prepares students with no previous nursing experience to deliver care to individuals and families in community-based settings. Admission requirements for the BSN program include an entrance exam, a 2.5 GPA overall and in pre-requisite courses, and a “C” grade or better in all previous coursework. Pre-requisite courses for the program include Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology and Chemistry. Factors influencing admission into the BSN programs are overall GPA, core course GPA, and entrance exam results. The program can be completed in about 13 quarters, the first 6 of which focus on program prerequisites. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs).
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
The RN to BSN program is ideal for nurses seeking to take the next step in their career. Through studies in this program, students will develop increased leadership ability in community-based healthcare settings. Graduates from the BSN program can work in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practice, community health agencies, and research institutes. Admission requirements for the RN to BSN program include an unencumbered RN license and graduation from an accredited ADN or diploma nursing program with a 2.5 or higher GPA in a nursing coursework. The program can be completed in about 17 months.
South University, West Palm Beach Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN program at South University, West Palm Beach offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization. The program prepares nurses for the national certification exam to become an FNP. In this program, nurses focus on learning effective techniques for health promotion and related behaviors for working with individuals and families in community-based healthcare settings. The FNP MSN program is 62 credits.
Admission requirements to the MSN programs at South University-West Palm Beach include an essay relating to the program goals and three letters of reference (including one letter each from a clinical and academic recommender). An unencumbered nursing license for the state where the nurse will complete coursework, graduation from an accredited BSN program with a 2.7GPA in the last 60 credit hours and a “C” or better in descriptive and inferential statistics as an undergraduate are additional requirements.
Contact:
South University, West Palm Beach
University Centre
9801 Belvedere Road
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
St. Petersburg College Nursing Program Review
St. Petersburg College (SPC) opened in 1927 as St. Petersburg Junior College with the goal of providing job skills and training to residents of the city who could not afford to travel to other cities for higher education. The college has grown from an enrollment of 102 students to over 64,000 in credit and non-credit programs.
According to recent statistics published by the college, 98% of students would recommend St. Petersburg College, 70% of students attend classes on a part-time basis and the average student is 28 years old. St. Petersburg College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
The college has over 1,000 nurses in training according to college statistics. The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is accrediting by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Nursing Department offers associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs and certificate programs. Through the University Partnership Center, students may enroll in graduate level nursing programs.
St. Petersburg College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN program prepares student without previous nursing education to serve as a nurse in healthcare settings and take the national licensing exam to become an RN, the NCLEX-RN. Students are required to complete 11 general education units before beginning the ADN program. Students must earn a “C” in all nursing program course pre-requisites. The program can be completed in 4 terms, and upon completion awards an ADN qualification. The ADN program is fully transferable to any Florida State BSN program including the BSN program at St. Petersburg College.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to ADN Transition Program
The LPN to ADN transitional program is for LPNs who hold a diploma and are seeking to take the next steps in their career by earning the ADN degree. The program can be completed in 3 terms. Upon completion students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the national certification exam for licensure as an RN.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
The RN to BSN program at St. Petersburg College is a degree completion program that allows RNs to build on their previous education and career experience to earn a bachelor’s degree. The program prides itself on accommodation, focused learning and flexible clinical practicum options. The RN to BSN program accommodates students by offering both face-to-face and online classes to accommodate a variety of learning schedules and needs. The program allows students to take one class at a time, but complete up to three courses in one term. Students work with their faculty supervisors to coordinate hours required for practicum experience which can be scheduled around each student’s busy schedule. Admission requirements for the program include a degree or diploma in nursing from a NLNAC accredited program, RN license, and completion of general education and foreign language requirements. Students should also have completed course pre-requisites in Anatomy and Physiology (levels 1 and 2), Microbiology and Statistics. The program length is 4 terms, and upon completion students will receive a BSN.
St. Petersburg College Graduate Nursing Programs
St. Petersburg College, in collaboration with the University Partnership Center offers several graduate program options which can be completed through other schools, including MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) and a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program. The programs and institutions which award the qualifications are below.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Nursing Education-University of South Florida
The MSN program offered through the University of South Florida offers a MSN in Nursing Education for nurses who would like to participate in education programs for aspiring nurses as well as patient education in a clinical setting.
MSN Population Health-Cleveland State University
Nurses interested in working in a community health or public service agency that focuses on population-based health care will find the MSN programs at Cleveland State University especially relevant. The program offers four concentrations in population-based health care for the MSN qualification. The four specializations are Specialized Populations, CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader), Nursing Education and Forensic Nursing. In the Specialized Populations track, students are able to choose which community or population they would like to explore for their studies.
The CNL specialization prepares nurses to be generalists specializing in providing and supervising care programs to individuals and groups. The role is not executive, but rather a practitioner role.
The Nursing Education specialization is specifically for nurses who would like to provide education as well as supervision to nurses in clinical education programs. In addition to developing a thorough knowledge of the nursing program, students will learn aspects of curriculum development, assessment and design to prepare for a career educating their nursing peers.
Nurses in the Forensic Nursing specialization are required to take courses which prepare them to care for victims and criminals while working in collaboration with law enforcement bodies and in some cases the judicial system. The fundamental courses of this program are similar to courses in the Specialized Programs concentration.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)-Case Western Reserve University
The DNP program is a practical nursing qualification program for nurses seeking to be the most qualified practitioners in their career. The program offers a Clinical Leadership track and an Educational Theory Track. The Clinical Leadership Track is suitable for nurses who would like to remain practitioners in the field, possibly through management and leadership positions in a healthcare organization. The Educational Theory track is suitable for nurses who would like to pursue careers educating future nurses, as there is a currently a large need for nursing faculty in nursing programs.
St. Petersburg College Certificate Programs
St. Petersburg College offers several certificate programs for students who are already RNs. Admission requirements for each program require nurses to have a valid, unrestricted, and unencumbered RN license and an ADN degree. Students can earn certificated in Critical Care (9 credits), Sepsis Awareness and Education (9 credits) and Emergency Care (11 credits).
Contact:
St. Petersburg College
6605 Fifth Avenue North
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
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University of Central Florida Nursing School Review
The University of Central Florida (UCF) was established in 1963 as Florida Technological University. Today the campuses serve 11 counties and over 58,000 students. Student life at the University of Central Florida is among the most vibrant in the nation with activities such as the UCF Equestrian Club and service learning opportunities.
Students also participate in conferences and organizations related to their field of interest. Based in the resort town of Orland, home to Disneyworld and Universal Studios among other amusement parks, students will never have a dull moment. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at the University of Central Florida consistently rank among the programs that receive the most funding from the National Institutes of Health. The College of Nursing offers modern classrooms and laboratories in addition to top qualified faculty that participate in all aspects of learning including teaching, academic research and community service. The College of Nursing was founded in 1979, and today continues to offer bachelors, masters and doctoral degree programs. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the bachelors, masters and Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The bachelor’s degree program is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing.
University of Central Florida Undergraduate Nursing Programs
The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs at the University of Central Florida are varied and delivered in several formats to accommodate a variety of students and nurses at different levels of their education. Admission requirements for the BSN programs include earning a 2.0 GPA or higher in pre-requisite courses including Anatomy and Physiology (1 and 2), statistics, introductory psychology or sociology and a course in human development.
Other prerequisites include an approved physical life science (such as chemistry), nutrition and Microbiology.
Basic BSN
Students apply to this BSN program after completing their general education and nursing prerequisites normally before their junior year. This program can be completed in 5 semesters, after which students will be earn a BSN degree and become eligible to take the national certification exam for registered nurses, NCLEX-RN.
The following three programs are for students without previous nursing education, who would like to complete a nursing degree and take the NCLEX-RN for national certification.
Concurrent ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing) to BSN
The Concurrent ASN to BSN program allows nurses to complete their ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) coursework simultaneously. Students in this program enroll in the ADN program offered through one of two partner schools, Seminole State College and Valencia College. Upon completing the ADN, students will have earned most of their BSN credits and complete the remaining BSN courses in just 1 or 2 terms. The program is delivered partially online and can be completed in 6 or 7 semesters. Upon completion, students will earn an ADN and BSN degree and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.
Accelerated BSN
The Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is for nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, and would like to earn a BSN. Students can complete this program in just 4 terms, and upon completion will earn the BSN qualification and are eligible to sit the exam for national certification as a registered nurse, NCLEX-RN.
Students who are RNs (Registered Nurses) are eligible for one of the following three programs, all of which are delivered online.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is designed for RNs who have completed a diploma or degree program in nursing an also hold an Associate of Arts (AA). The program may offer face-to-face classes, though this is not guaranteed. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded a BSN. The course can be completed full or part time and completion time will vary on course plan.
ASN to BSN Program
The ASN (also referred to as ADN) to BSN program, is for RNs who hold an Associate Degree in Nursing (RN to ADN) and would like to earn a BSN degree. This program is ideal for nurses who do not hold an AA, which is required for the RN to BSN program. This course may offer face-to-face classes, though this is not guaranteed.
RN To MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
The RN to MSN program allows RNs who would ultimately like to earn a MSN, to earn a BSN and MSN in less time than it would take to earn both separately. First, students are admitted to the RN to BSN program, upon completion of which courses are taken for the MSN. To be admitted to this program, a student must be a RN with an AA or meet the general education requirements for the University of Central Florida. Once in the MSN track, students are able to complete one of three specializations –Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, or Nursing Leadership and Management.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program
Two specializations, Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership and Management, are offered for the traditional MSN program at the University of Florida, which is delivered entirely online. Students are not required to take the GRE and should consult with a nursing advisor before formally applying to the program. Admission requirements for the program include two letters of recommendation, a BSN from an accredited institution and nursing license in the state or country in which the applicant will practice. The Nurse Educator track is 41 credits, and the Nursing Leadership and Management Track is 36 credits. The programs are 2.5 academic years, and upon completion students receive the MSN qualification.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP program offers advanced nursing study for nurses who would like to remain in practice, rather than taking a role in academia or research, which the doctoral PhD qualification usually leads to. The DNP program can be completed after earning a bachelor’s or a master’s degree.
Post-Baccalaureate DNP Program
The Post-Baccalaureate Program is for nurses who hold a BSN, and are seeking to earn a doctoral degree. Students in the program can choose one specialization from the following three-FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner), A/G NP (Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner) and A/G CNS (Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist). Students will be eligible to take licensing exams in their specialty upon completion of the program. In addition to a DNP, students will earn an MSN or certificate qualification related to their specialty. Depending upon the specialty and plan of study (part or full time), the program can be completed in 4 to 5 years.
Post-Master’s DNP Program
Nurses holding an advanced practice MSN or certificate can enroll in the Advanced Practice Nurse DNP program. The DNP program is designed for nurses holding an MSN or certificate seeking to pursue the highest qualification available in advanced practice nursing. The program can be completed in 2 to 3 years, full and part time respectively. The Nurse Executive DNP program is also a post-masters program ideal for current nurse executives seeking a doctoral level qualification. The program can be completed in 3 years.
PhD in Nursing (Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing) Program
The PhD in Nursing is designed for nurses who want to teach at the post-secondary level, and pursue research. Students in this program should have an MSN qualification and can complete it in 3 to 4 years.
Certificate Programs
Nurses with a BSN or higher, can pursue a graduate certificate as a Nurse Educator or CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist), which can be completed online. Either program can be completed in approximately one year.
Contact:
University of Central Florida
4000 Central Florida Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32816
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University of Florida Nursing School Review
What is now the University of Florida (UF, or U of F), began as East Florida Seminary in 1853. After taking over an academy, the institution later became a formal university in 1905. The University of Florida now serves over 50,000 students. The University of Florida is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Founded in 1956, the College of Nursing at the University of Florida has one of the most comprehensive nursing programs in the nation. Credited with offering the first practitioner programs in Florida as well as its first Nursing PhD, the College of Nursing at the University of Florida prides itself on being on the edge of innovation. Education programs seek to prepare students to work with diverse populations both domestically and abroad. The college has an international committee to ensure programs remain relevant internationally. With centers dedicated to cancer, genetics, brain and aging research, nurses will have ample opportunity to pursue their research interests. Nursing programs at the University of Florida are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Programs
Generic BSN
Students interested in studying nursing at the University of Florida must first complete general education requirements and pre-requisites for the nursing program, and are normally accepted to the nursing program in their junior year. Current students at the University of Florida as well as transfer students must apply directly to the College of Nursing for admission. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), a BSN is the standard minimum qualification for practicing nurses today. Admission requirements to the program include foreign language proficiency demonstrated in high school or college, and a 2.8 GPA overall and in nursing pre-requisites. The program may be completed in 4 semesters.
Accelerated BSN
The Accelerated BSN program is for aspiring nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Graduates of this program may be particularly valued by employers because of their interdisciplinary training. Admission requirements include taking the GRE and a 3.0 GPA or higher in previous degree coursework (only the last 60 credits of bachelor’s degrees are evaluated). The program can be completed in 4 semesters, upon which students will receive a BSN qualification.
Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The masters in nursing programs at the University of Florida are offered in four advanced practice specializations. Students may choose from the Nurse Midwifery, NNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner), CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist), and Psychiatric-Mental Health CNS/NP specializations. Several of the specializations are offered online, though nurses may be required to coordinate site visits and travel for clinical experiences. In addition to earning the MSN qualification, upon completion of their program, nurses will also be eligible to take the national certification exam in their given specialty. The MSN programs can be completed in 2 to 3 years depending on plan of study (part or full time) and specialty.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Degree Program
For nurses who would like to earn an advanced practice degree, the DNP program at the University of Florida is ideal. The program has a post-BSN and post-MSN option allowing nurses at various levels to pursue doctoral education.
BSN to DNP (Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice)
The BSN to DNP program is offered in the following specialties:
- ACNP (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- ANP (Adult Nurse Practitioner)
- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
The program can be completed in 2.5 to 5 years depending on if the student pursues full or part time study. Students in this program whose circumstances prevent completing the entire program can opt-out of the program and elect to receive the MSN qualification only. This option can be completed in 5 to 8 semesters.
MSN to DNP (Post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Program)
The MSN to DNP program prepares nurses to take a step further in advancing their careers through doctoral study. The areas of study available for the post-master’s DNP program are:
- ACNP (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- ANP (Adult Nurse Practitioner)
- Adult Health CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist)
- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Nurse Midwifery
- PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (Nurse Practitioner)
- NNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner)
Students in this program can expect to complete it in 1.5 to 3 years. Nurses who choose a specialization different from their MSN specialization or who do not have an MSN specialization may need additional time to complete coursework. The program is delivered primarily online, however students are required to attend courses in-person on occasion, and in each case will receive 2 months notice.
PhD in Nursing (Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program)
BSN to PhD
Exceptionally motivated BSN students can enroll in the BSN to PhD program to complete a PhD on an accelerated time frame. The PhD is ideal for nurses aspiring towards a career in academia or scholarly research. The program can be completed in 4 years. To be admitted, students must demonstrate an exceptional record of academic achievement.
PhD in Nursing
The traditional PhD program at the University of Florida is for nurses holding an MSN qualification. Research foci of the program are in aging and health, women’s health, bio-behavioral interventions and health policy. Preference for admission is given to students whose research interests or experiences align with the research foci of faculty and the PhD program. The program can be completed in as little as 3 years of full-time study.
North Florida PhD Nursing Consortium
Through the North Florida PhD Nursing Consortium, students from Florida A & M University, Florida State University, the University of North Florida and the University of West Florida may participate in the doctoral program offered by the University of Florida. The program delivers courses through streaming video and onsite.
Nursing Certificate Programs
Post-master’s Certificate Program
Nurses, who already hold an MSN qualification and would like to earn a national specialization in a given area, may do so through one of the College of Nursing’s many post-masters certificate programs. Upon completion of each program, nurses will earn a certificate and be eligible to take the licensing exam in their given specialty. Students may choose from the following areas of study to earn their certificate:
- ACNP( Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- ANP (Adult Nurse Practitioner)
- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Nurse Midwifery
- Nurse Educator
- NNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner)
- PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner )
- Psychiatric-Mental Health CNS/NP (Clinical Specialist/Nurse Practitioner)
- Clinical Nurse Leader
Nurse Educator Certificate
Nurses holding at least a master’s degree are eligible to enroll in the Nurse Educator certificate program which prepares nurses to deliver post-secondary training to aspiring nurses in an academic setting. This program is ideal for nurses with a doctoral degree seeking to teach at the post-secondary level. The program is 14 credits. Admission requirements for the program include an MSN and a current nursing license.
Contact:
University of Florida
1938 West University Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32603
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University of Miami Nursing School Review
The University of Miami (UM, or U of M) was founded in 1925 during a time of real estate explosion in the area. The university educates over 15,000 students and is ranked among U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges.” The University of Miami is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Students at the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Miami may participate in global research through two centers housed at the school. The Center of Excellence for Health Disparities Research (El Centro) center is dedicated to research that improves the health of minority groups. The WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Human Resources Development and Patient Safety seeks to understand the nursing shortage and maintain quality nursing education programs and opportunities. Students will also benefit from partnerships with the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and centers dedicated to research of cancer and the eye. Nursing programs at the University of Miami are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Nurse Anesthesia program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
Traditional BSN
The Traditional BSN program is designed to educate students with no prior nursing education to become registered nurses. The program is unique in that freshman are admitted directly to the nursing program and guaranteed a place in the upper division so long as students meet pre-requisites and maintain the GPA required to study in the program. Transfer students from other colleges and nursing programs are accepted as space is available. Transfer students are encouraged to consult an academic advisor prior to applying to the program. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded a BSN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, national certification exam for RNs (Registered Nurses). The program can be completed in 4 years for students admitted as freshmen.
Accelerated BSN
The Accelerated BSN program is for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Students may complete the course in as little as one year. Upon completion of the program, students earn a BSN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, national certification exam for RNs.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is designed for RNs holding a degree or diploma who would like to take the next step in their career by earning a BSN. The program can be completed in three semesters, upon which students are awarded a BSN qualification.
University of Miami Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Degree Programs
The MSN programs at the University of Miami are designed for nurses who want to become advanced professionals in their field. The program offers the following specializations:
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Acute Care/Adult NP (Nurse Practitioner)
- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Nurse Midwifery
- Nurse Education
Upon graduation from the program, students are eligible to take the certification exam for licensure in their specialization and receive an MSN qualification. The program completion times range from 3 to 7 semesters. A BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required for the MSN program as well as a current RN license.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
With a unique focus on health disparities, the DNP program offers nurses the opportunity to develop academic community while pursuing their classes in a cohort model. Nurses are encouraged to remain in practice as they complete the program, and a unique scheduling option is offered in hybrid format. Students attend classes one weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) of each month, and participate in clinical experiences and online assignments in between meetings. The program is 1 year and 38 credits. Admission requirements include an MSN (other master’s degrees may be considered), a current RN license, and a minimum 3.3 GPA in the MSN program.
PhD in Nursing (Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing)
For students seeking a doctoral degree with a scholarly and research focus, the University of Miami offers a BSN-PhD and MSN-PhD option.
BSN to PhD
Students in the BSN to PhD program choose from one of four areas of study-Health Disparities and Minority Health, HIV/AIDS and Infectious Diseases, Family & Maternal/Neonatal Health and Patient Safety. The program can be completed in approximately 3 years of study. The program can be completed in 9 semesters (including 2 summer semesters). Admission criteria for the program include an interview, competitive GRE scores and academic GPA, strong letters of recommendation and demonstrated interest in scholarly research.
MSN to PhD
In the MSN to PhD program, students choose from the same areas of study as the BSN to PhD program. The program can be completed in 6 semesters (traditional study; no summer semesters). Admission criteria are the same as the BSN to PhD program.
Nursing Certificate Programs
The Clinical Nurse Education certificate prepares nurses holding a BSN to provide education for nursing programs that train nurses prior to licensure as well as at healthcare facilities. The program is delivered online is 4 courses, 14 credits and can be completed in two semesters.
Overseas Study at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Students interested in overseas study opportunities will find a variety of opportunities available at nearly all levels of nursing education. Programs are available in Chile, Haiti, Mexico and Spain. In Chile, students will serve in rural communities administering immunizations and providing health education alongside Chilean nurses and faculty. Students will offer pediatric and pre-natal nutrition assessments and work in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Project Medishare in Haiti. Students interested in health care practices in other industrialized nations will find the opportunity to participate in supervised clinical experiences in Spain ideal. In Mexico, students will focus on familial care and learn about providing health care in environments with limited resources.
Contact:
University of Miami
1252 Memorial Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146
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University of North Florida Nursing School Review
Although a fairly young university founded in 1972, the University of North Florida (UNF) enrolls over 16,000 students. Students will enjoy the campus location, in close proximity to downtown Jacksonville and the Atlantic Ocean. The University of North Florida is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
The School of Nursing at the University of North Florida is under the Brooks College of Health. The school offers a comprehensive selection of nursing programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Nursing programs at the School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (CoA-NA). The School of Nursing takes their commitment to the community very seriously and in clinical experiences, students will work with underserved and at-risk health populations.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Programs
The School of Nursing offers three tracks for nurses pursuing a BSN qualification, from those without prior nursing experience to RNs (Registered Nurses). BSN programs at the University of Florida are approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. BSN programs in the School of Nursing have a community-based approach, in which the nurse is encouraged to develop and maintain relationships with the community and local agencies with which they work. Admission requirements for pre-licensure BSN programs include taking the TEAS exam (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
Pre-licensure BSN
The pre-licensure BSN program is for students without previous nursing education. Students must be college juniors and have met general college and nursing-specific course pre-requisites with a grade of “C” or better. Upon completion of the program, students will be eligible to take the exam for certification as an RN. After pre-requisites are complete the program may be completed in about 5 semesters.
Accelerated BSN
The Accelerated BSN program is designed for aspiring nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, but not an RN license. This program prepares students for the nursing career and licensure as an RN. Students must hold a bachelor’s degree before entering this program. The Accelerated BSN can be completed in 4 semesters, 3 of full-time study, and 1 part-time.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is designed for students who are RNs and seek to take the next step in their career and education by earning a BSN. The program can be completed in approximately one year and offers two formats, an on-campus and hybrid (online and campus-based courses) for student convenience. Students are encouraged to send letters of reference and personal statements (essays) with their application, though this is not a requirement.
Graduate Nursing Programs
Students applying for admission to a graduate program at the University Of North Florida School Of Nursing are required to submit standardized test scores for their admission. Students in the Nurse Anesthesia track must take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam). Students in all other MSN tracks and the DNP program may take the GRE or MAT (Miller Analogies Test). In cases in which a student did not earn a BSN from a college accredited by a nursing body (CCNE or NLNAC), students should contact the program director to determine eligibility for their desired graduate program.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Programs
Students interested in pursuing a master’s degree at the University of North Florida have 5 tracks to choose from. Four specialized tracks and a fifth option for RNs seeking to earn their MSN.
MSN specialty tracks include CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist), PCNP (Primary Care Nurse Practitioner), CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader) and Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). The MSN programs may be completed in 2 to 3 years. With the exception of the CNL track, in which nurses operate as generalists, upon completion of their program students will receive an MSN qualification and are eligible to take the national certification exam for their specialization.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
A select group of RNs are able to enter the RN to MSN program each year which allows nurses to bypass the BSN to earn an MSN. The program trains nurses to become APRNs (Advanced Practice Registered Nurses) and FNPs (Family Nurse Practitioners). Upon completion of the 9 semester program, students can take the national certification exams both for APRNs and FNPs.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Degree Program
The DNP program offers a practical alternative for nurses who would like to earn a doctoral degree while maintaining their career in the nursing practice. The course is ideal for MSN qualified nurse who also hold a specialization. Other than this requirement, students are not expected to complete specific course pre-requisites. The program is 48 credits.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Nursing Program (In collaboration with the North Florida PhD Consortium)
The PhD in Nursing Science Program is offered to students at select universities throughout Florida through the North Florida PhD in Nursing Consortium. This program prepares nurses for doctoral study using a hybrid method involving two-way interactive video in which students can see and interact with their professors and classes on campus of participating institution. The PhD in Nursing Science degree will be awarded through the University of Florida, and therefore students must apply and enroll for the program through the University of Florida and meet their admission requirements. The PhD in Nursing Science Program is ideal for nurses with scholarly interest, as the program seeks to train nurses as researchers who contribute to the growing body of academic knowledge in the field of nursing.
Nursing Certificate Programs
FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) Certificate
Nurses, who hold an MSN, desire to earn a specialization and become an APRN, may complete the post-master’s FNP certificate, which will prepare the nurse to work with individuals and families across the lifespan. Nurses with other specializations who would like to add FNP to their skill set may also take the course. Upon completion of the 2 year program, nurses are awarded a certificate and are eligible to take the FNP certification exam.
Contact:
University of North Florida
1 UNF Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32224
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University of South Florida Nursing School Review
The University of South Florida (USF) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and serves over 45,000 students. The University of South Florida operates as system of individually accredited campuses (with the exception of USF Polytechnic, which is pursuing accreditation), with locations in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Lakeland and Sarasota Florida. The University of South Florida was founded in 1956.
Nursing Degree Programs
The College of Nursing at the University of South Florida is one of twelve colleges in the University of South Florida system. The BSN, MSN and DNP nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing.
USF Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Program
The University of South Florida, College of Nursing has three options for students who would like to earn a BSN. Students who have not yet earned an RN license may enroll in the Upper Division or Second Degree Sequence. Students holding an RN, may enroll in the RN to BS program.
Upper Division Sequence (Traditional BSN)
The Upper Division sequence is for nurses who have upper class standing and have met all general degree requirements and nursing prerequisites. Students who are admitted to the university as freshman will study pre-nursing. Admission requirements for the program are competitive and include a 3.2 or higher GPA in all coursework. Upon completion of the program, students will earn a BSN and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to become an RN (registered nurse). After pre-requisites are complete, the program is 6 semesters long.
Second Degree Sequence (BSN for students with bachelor’s degrees)
Students who hold a bachelors degree in another field, but would like to study nursing can complete the Second Degree Sequence. Students are prepared with nursing training to earn the BSN and receive national certification as an RN through the NCLEX-RN exam. Upon completing pre-requisites students can complete the program in 4 semesters. Admission requirements to the program include a minimum 3.0 GPA in all college coursework and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
RN to BSN
The RN to BS (more commonly known as RN to BSN) program at the University of South Florida prepares RNs to take the next step in their education and careers by earning a BSN. Students can pursue one of three unique focus areas programs-Leadership/Management, Patient/Staff Education or Clinical Excellence. The program can be completed in 5 semesters after pre-requisites are met.
USF Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
The University of South Florida has MSN programs both for nurses with a BSN or a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Specialization areas for advanced study in the nursing program include Adult Health, CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader), Family Health, Nursing Education, Oncology, Pediatrics, Adult/Occupational Health, Psychiatry/Mental Health and Nurse Anesthesia. General requirements for admission to the master’s program include a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of the BSN degree and a nursing license in good standing. Certain programs have additional requirements. The Adult and Family Health specializations are very competitive and students admitted are likely to exceed the minimum admission requirements. The oncology specialization prefers students to have at least one year of work experience. The programs range from 41 to 72 credits. Upon completion of the program nurses will be eligible to take the certification exam for specialization in their area of study.
MSN (for students without BSN degrees)
Specializations and requirements are generally the same for the MSN program for students with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA or higher in college coursework. The pediatrics specialization is not available in this course option. Upon completion of the 41-72 credit specialization program students are awarded an MSN and are eligible to take the specialization exam in their area of study.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing) Program
The RN to MS (more commonly RN to MSN) program provides RNs the opportunity to progress from an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or diploma program to the MSN program in nursing. Nurses are eligible to earn a BSN while completing the program if all general education and foreign language requirements are met.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Program
The DNP program is for MSN qualified nurses seeking to enhance their understanding of advanced practice nursing. Admission requirements for the program include a minimum 3.0 GPA in master’s coursework, a competitive score on the GRE (Graduate Record Exam), national certification in a specialization and an advanced practice nursing license (includes CNS, NP, CNM, CRNA certifications). In addition, nurses must have completed the following courses with a minimum “B” grade in their MSN programs: Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Physical Assessment, Research, and Theory.
PhD in Nursing (Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing) Program
BS to PhD (Bachelor of Science to Doctor of Philosophy) Nursing Program
The BS to PhD (more commonly referred to as BSN to PhD) program at the University of South Florida offers bachelor’s degree students the opportunity to purse a research-based doctoral degree in nursing while earning an MSN along the way. Admission requirements for the program include demonstrated research and leadership aptitude, personal interview and a 3.0 GPA or higher in the BSN program.
MS to PhD (Master of Science to Doctor of Philosophy) in Nursing Program
The MS to PhD (more commonly referred to as MSN to PhD) program at the University of South Florida is for MSN students seeking to earn a doctoral degree based in research. Admission requirements for the program include demonstrated research and leadership aptitude, a personal interview and a 3.0 GPA or higher in the MSN program.
University of South Florida Nursing Certificate Programs
Post-Master’s Certificate
Nurses who have earned an MSN and would like certification in a specific area can enroll in the post-master’s graduate certificate program. Graduate certificates are available in the following areas:
- CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader)
- Nursing Education
- ANP (Adult Nurse Practitioner)
- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- ONP (Oncology Nurse Practitioner)
- Occupational Health
- Hospice, Palliative Care and End of Life Studies
University of South Florida Non-Degree Programs
Nursing courses are available on a limited basis to non-degree seeking students in need of additional courses to complete a program or to meet prerequisites. Contact the USF College of Nursing to determine your eligibility to take a nursing course.
Contact:
University of South Florida
4202 E. Fowler Avenue
Tampa, FL 33620
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University of Tampa Nursing School Review
The University of Tampa (UT) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University of Tampa has origins in 1933 when Tampa Junior College became a university to serve graduates of local high schools. The campus in Plant Hall was transformed from the Tampa Bay Hotel, which was visited by some of the most famous people of the 20th century including the Queen of England, Theodore Roosevelt and Babe Ruth. The University of Tampa serves over 6,500 students.
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs at the University of Tampa are approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
The BSN program is ideal for students without nursing education seeking to earn a BSN. In this program, students first apply to the University of Tampa and then to the nursing department when pre-requisites are near completion. This program accepts upper division University of Tampa students as well as transfer students. Admission requirements for the program include the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and a letter of recommendation. The program is four years total (including pre-nursing) and requires 125 credits to complete.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is for nursing graduates from ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and diploma programs that hold an RN license and would like to obtain a BSN. Requirements for admission including an essay outlining goals for BSN program 2 letters of recommendation, and a 2.75 GPA in previous college coursework that is transferred into the program. One-hundred twenty-four (124) credits total are required for the RN to BSN qualification, though the final number of credits earned may vary slightly by student due to the number of credits transferred in. Transfer credits that are 10 years or older may not be accepted.
Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
MSN programs at the University of Tampa are available in two specializations, FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) and AHNP (Adult Health Nurse Practitioner). Upon completion of the program, students receive an MSN and are eligible to take the national certification exam in their specialty area. Admission to the program is highly competitive. Minimum requirements for admission to the MSN program include a 3.0 GPA from an accredited BSN program, a GRE score of 1,000 or higher or a course in Scholarly and Professional Communication in Nursing (NUR 600). Students who have a bachelor’s degree in a different field than nursing, but hold an RN license are eligible to apply and be accepted to the program as pre-MSN students. Pre-MSN students should pass the 3 required pre-requisite courses with a grade of “C” or better. The program can be completed in 8 or 9 semesters depending on the specialization.
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing)
The RN to MSN program allows RNs with an ADN to complete the BSN and MSN degrees in a combined program which requires less time than completing the programs separately. Upon completing the BSN requirements, students are awarded the BSN, and take the GRE (minimum score of 1,000) to qualify for entrance in to the MSN program. Students must also maintain a 3.2 GPA in all post-secondary coursework to maintain enrollment in the RN to MSN program. Upon completion of the program students will earn a BSN, MSN and are eligible to take the national certification exam in their field of study.
Contact:
University of Tampa
401 West Kennedy Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33606
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University of West Florida Nursing School Review
The University of West Florida (UWF) was founded in 1965 to serve students in Northwest Florida. It was the 6th college founded in the State University System of Florida. The university has very unique resources; it manages 24 historical sites and owns a private beach available for academic and recreational use. The university serves over 11,000 students and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing programs are housed under the School of Allied Health and Life Sciences. Nursing programs at the University of West Florida are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The program is unique in that only 40 students are accepted each year. The university strives to keep student numbers and cohort sizes small, so that personal support and resources are available to all students.
UWF Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Two undergraduate programs are available for students at the University of West Florida, an RN to BSN completion program and a traditional BSN option.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The BSN degree program prepares nurse generalists at the bachelor’s degree level. Students interested in this program are not admitted upon being accepted to the university. After completing program pre-requisites, nurses should complete an application specifically to the nursing program. Admission requirements include completing general education requirements for the University of West Florida or the equivalent, such as an Associate of Arts Degree (AA) from a community college. Students should have a 3.0 GPA in college coursework and take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Students must earn a “C” or better grade in all courses to graduate. The program can be completed in approximately 2 years, at which time students will receive a BSN and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN certification exam to become a RN.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
The RN to BSN program is designed for working RNs to complete their education requirements to obtain better nursing positions and lay the groundwork for graduate education. The program is offered online to accommodate the schedule of working RNs. The program requires 124 credit hours total to earn the BSN qualification with 32 of those hours being completed at the University of West Florida.
UWF Graduate Nursing Programs
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
The MSN program at the University of West Florida is available online and offers two tracks, Nursing Administration (NA) and Nursing Education (NE). Admission criteria for the program includes GRE scores a minimum 3.0 GPA in master’s coursework and a personal statement regarding why you are pursuing the MSN. The program can be completed in approximately 2 years.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Nursing Program (In collaboration with the North Florida PhD Consortium)
The PhD in Nursing Science Program is offered to students at the University of West Florida through the North Florida PhD in Nursing Consortium. This program prepares nurses for doctoral study using a hybrid method involving two-way interactive video in which students can see and interact with their professors and classes on campus of participating institution. The PhD in Nursing Science degree will be awarded through the University of Florida, and therefore students must apply and enroll for the program through the University of Florida and meet their admission requirements. The PhD in Nursing Science Program is ideal for nurses with scholarly interest, as the program seeks to train nurses as researchers who contribute to the growing body of academic knowledge in the field of nursing.
Contact:
University of West Florida
11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, Florida 32514
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Valencia College Nursing Program Review
Valencia College (VC) was founded in 1967 and serves over 41,000 students. With theme parks, cultural events, and over 60 student organizations, there is always a way for students to connect and stay involved in community at Valencia College. Valencia College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing Programs at Valencia College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing RN Program ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)
The ADN program at Valencia College is an introductory program for students seeking a nursing career. The program also prepares students to transfer to a BSN program at a public university. Students interested in transferring should ultimately consult with the transfer institution to ensure that all transfer requirements are met. The program can be completed in 5 terms (2 years). Upon completion of the program students are awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN, interchangeable with ADN) and are eligible to sit the exam for national certification as a registered nurse, NCLEX-RN. Admission requirements for the program include completing all college testing and general requirements (including courses in reading, mathematics and English). Other admission requirements are a 2.5 GPA or higher in all transfer coursework and a minimum grade of “C” in all nursing pre-requisites. The program is in high demand and limited access, meaning that all students who apply may not be admitted to the program.
Advanced Track ADN
Students who are currently working in healthcare, such as LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and Paramedics are eligible to enter the advanced RN track of the program due to their healthcare background. This program may be completed in 3 semesters (one year). The program is delivered in hybrid format in which students will complete their methodological and theoretical coursework online while attending weekly labs and clinical experiences in person. Students must take TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and the Valencia College admission test with satisfactory scores that would allow participation in the nursing program.
BSN ( Bachelor of Science in Nursing) through University of Central Florida
Students at Valencia College are guaranteed admission to a bachelor’s degree program at the University of Central Florida if they sign up for the Direct Connect program. Students interested in the nursing program should sign up for the Direct Connect program to receive admission to the nursing program. Students at Valencia College who complete the RN program are also eligible to transfer to the BSN program at Florida Christian College in Kissimmee, Florida.
Valencia College Continuing Education Nursing Programs
RNs who have been out of work for some time can take the Valencia College RN Refresher program offered through continuing education programs. The program is 12 weeks long and includes a review of basic areas of the nursing practice and specialty areas including professional issues and neonatal care. Upon completing the online course, which is RN Refresher Course 1, students will complete RN Refresher Course 2, which consists of a clinical practicum that is 96 hours. The practicum is in the medical-surgery area.
Contact:
Valencia College
190 South Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
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Beebe Medical Center Nursing School Review
Beebe Medical Center is a full service health care facility that offers inpatient, outpatient and emergency care, along with a full range of diagnostic services. In addition, there is the Beebe Medical Campus which offers a variety of medical services, including a nursing school. The center was founded in 1916 and is now a non-profit community hospital.
The Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing was founded in 1921 and is located at the Lewes, DE location. The School of Nursing has a skills lab where students can practice clinical care situations in a controlled setting. It also has a library with the latest medical reference books and periodicals available for nursing students, and a computer lab available for course assignments and independent studies.
Nursing Programs
Diploma in Professional Nursing
The curriculum at Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing is accredited by the NLNAC. Graduates of this program will be eligible to become Registered Nurses (RNs) by taking the state licensing exam. This is a two year program after all prerequisite courses have been taken.
Nursing program prerequisites are not offered at the school, and may be taken at a college near the student’s home, or at Delaware Technical & Community College, Owens Campus. Students may register for their Delaware Tech courses through the School of Nursing. Students are required to be high school graduates or equivalent, and it is recommended that they have taken high school level math and chemistry.
The prerequisite courses for this program are Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Intro to Computers, Composition, Sociology, Psychology, Medical Terminology, and Nutrition. Students must earn at least a B or higher in Anatomy and Physiology and a C or better in all other courses for their college credit to transfer to the School of Nursing.
In addition, all students must be a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) to begin the nursing program.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Program
Students are encouraged to continue their education in nursing. To help with this, Beebe Medical Center has articulation agreements with Wilmington University and the University of Delaware. Students that wish to continue on and earn their BSN degree will only need to complete one more year of study at Wilmington University. For those that wish to continue on to the University of Delaware, the University will work with them to create a degree completion plan.
Advanced Placement
Any students who is already a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and those students who have prior nursing experience are eligible to apply for advanced placement in the nursing program. All applicants must meet the admission requirements listed above, and LPNs must show proof of a current license. All students must also have CPR certification as a health care provider.
Students will need to have taken the prerequisites listed above in their previous nursing education, or will have to complete them before applying to the nursing program. Students who are already LPNs are exempt from taking the Medical Terminology course.
Nursing Assistant
Students who wish to become CNAs may take the Nursing Assistant program. This is a 150 hour course of study that teaches students to work in long-term and acute care, as well as in home care settings.
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Certified Nursing Assistant exam. CNA certification is required to apply to the Beebe Medical Center nursing program.
Contact:
Beebe Medical Center
424 Savannah Road
Lewes, DE 19958
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Delaware State University Nursing School Review
Delaware State University (DSU) was founded in 1891 as the State College for Colored Students. The name was changed to Delaware State College in 1947, and in 1993 became Delaware State University. DSU was started as a land grant college, and is proud of its agricultural and educational history. The university is one of the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation, and now serves a diverse student body.
The 400 acre campus and almost 4000 students give the University a small town feel, but the proximity to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington DC give it all the advantages of a large city.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree in Nursing
The BS Degree in Nursing program trains students to become entry level nurses to meet the needs of a culturally diverse population, and to begin their education for a career of ongoing study and specialization. To graduate from this degree program, students must take a total of 65 credit hours of nursing courses and 58 credits of General Education and Support courses, for a minimum of 122 credit hours. Most students will complete this program in four years.
Students are admitted to DSU as pre-nursing majors. To apply for the nursing program, students must complete their first fours semesters with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher and earn a passing score on the Nursing Admission Exam.
Students must take the following prerequisite courses to apply for the nursing program: Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, English Composition, Algebra, Sociology, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, Chemistry, Growth and Development, Fitness and Wellness, Global Studies, History, and Speech.
Once in the program, students will continue with classroom study and complete their clinical coursework in area health care facilities, including nursing homes, clinics, and hospitals. All students in the nursing program may become members of DSU’s Nursing Club.
Graduates of the BS program in nursing are allowed to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to BS Degree in Nursing Pathway
Students that are already licensed as LPNs will be awarded up to seven credit hours toward their BS degree if they can prove they have knowledge in selected areas of the nursing curriculum. LPNs that have further knowledge are allowed to challenge nursing courses for credit.
RN to BS Degree in Nursing
Students that are already RNs may enter the BS program. Once they complete the first nine credits in the program, they will be awarded 34 credits for their past educational experience. They must also have a minimum 2.0 GPA and hold a current RN license.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree
The MSN degree program was started in 2005. This two year program offers two areas of specialization: Community Health Nursing, which prepares nurses to work in community health centers, and Certified Nurse Educator, which prepares nurses to be certified nurse educators.
To apply, students must have a BS in nursing with a 2.5 overall GPA, and an average 3.0 GPA in their major courses. Students will take 36 to 39 credit hours for the degree, and those wishing to become certified in Community Health Nursing will need to complete a total of 54 to 57 credits.
Contact:
Delaware State University
1200 North DuPont Highway
Dover, DE 19901
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Delaware Technical Community College Jack Owens Campus, Georgetown Nursing Program Review
Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC) is the only community college in the state of Delaware. Delaware Tech was founded in 1967, and currently serves almost 6000 students at the Owens Campus. The Owens Campus in Georgetown is considered the birthplace of Delaware Tech.
Nursing Programs
Practical Nursing Diploma
This program is for students who have no prior nursing experience. A graduate of this program will be eligible to take the licensing exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). LPNs may work in assisted living facilities, long term care facilities, physician offices, and health clinics.
To apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and apply to the college. After taking the College Placement Test, they must also take any courses the placement test indicates they need. They are also advised to have taken Biology, English, and Psychology, as the grades earned in these courses are used to rank applicants for admission.
The LPN diploma program at Delaware Tech is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission, and has been approved by the Delaware Board of Nursing.
Delaware Tech employs a Retention & Recruitment Instructor who can tutor students and help develop study plan. Nursing skills can be practiced in the state of the art laboratory facilities. These items are to help students succeed in the program.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Students who want to become a Registered Nurse (RN) should pursue the ADN program. Graduates of this program will earn an associate degree and will be eligible to sit for the RN licensing exam.
To apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have taken high school chemistry, and have applied to the college. They must earn a passing score on the College Placement Test, and take any courses the test indicates they need. They are also advised to have taken Biology, English, Psychology, and Sociology, as the grades earned in these courses are used to rank applicants for admission.
Students are not allowed to apply to more than one nursing program at the school at one time. If they have already applied to the LPN program, they may not apply to the ADN program until the next cycle of applications.
ADN Advanced Placement
LPNs that want to become RNs may go through the Advanced Placement Program.
To apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have taken high school chemistry, and have applied to the college. They must earn a passing score on the College Placement Test, and take any courses the test indicates they need. They are also advised to have taken Biology, English, Psychology, and Sociology, as the grades earned in these courses are used to rank applicants for admission. In addition, they must hold a current LPN license.
Students that take this program full time will complete it in a year.
Other Health Care Related Programs – Medical Laboratory Technician
Delaware Tech offers a Medical Laboratory Technician program. This associate degree program takes five semesters to complete, and will prepare the student to take the certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Graduates of the program can work as a medical laboratory technician in hospitals, clinics, research centers, and pharmaceutical labs.
Delaware Tech has a connected degree program with the University of Delaware and Salisbury University to allow interested students to pursue a medical technology bachelors degree.
Contact:
Jack Owens Campus – Georgetown
Delaware Technical Community College
18800 Seashore Highway
P.O. Box 610
Georgetown, Delaware 19947
Tel: (302) 856-5400
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Delaware Technical Community College Stanton Campus, Newark Nursing Program Review
Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC) is the only community college in the state of Delaware. Delaware Tech was founded in 1967, and currently serves over 5000 students at the Stanton Campus. The Stanton Campus opened in 1973.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is for students who want to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduates of this program will earn an associate degree and will be eligible to sit for the RN licensing exam.
To apply, students must have taken the National League for Nursing (NLN) admission test, have taken high school chemistry or the college equivalent, and have applied to the college. They must earn a passing score on the College Placement Test, and take any courses the test indicates they need. They also need to take Anatomy, Physiology, Composition, Psychology, and Clinical Math prior to entering the program.
All nursing students must maintain certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) before enrolling in the first clinical nursing course, and throughout the course of their studies.
Students will be ranked for placement in the ADN program. Their ranking is based on their grade in Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology, their GPA in their General Education courses, their overall GPA, and their score on the NLN entrance exam.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
This program is for LPNs who want to enroll in the ADN program to become RNs. LPNs have the same admission requirements as other ADN applicants. They also must supply a copy of their current nursing license.
LPNs that apply to the ADN program will be accepted as space becomes available. Once accepted, they will take three Nursing Mobility Profile examinations. If they earn the minimum score on the exams, they will be accepted into the third semester of the ADN program. They must also take the RN Role Transition course the semester prior to entering the program. Once they pass the course, they will receive 18 credits for the Advanced Credit Practical Nurse course.
Transfer Students
Transfer students who want to enroll in the ADN program to become RNs will have the same admission requirements as other ADN applicants. To qualify for a degree from Delaware Tech, transfer students will need to take at least 24 credits from the school. 12 or more of these credits need to be nursing courses from the ADN program at Stanton Campus.
Connected Degrees
Delaware Tech has created articulation agreements with Delaware State University, University of Delaware, Wesley College, and Wilmington University to allow students to easily transfer to a four year institution and pursue a higher degree in nursing. Students must have taken all the required courses and meet the GPA requirements for the program. When they do, they may transfer to the four year college as a junior.
Interested students may pursue a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing through this arrangement.
Delaware Tech also has a credit transfer matrix agreement with Delaware State and University of Delaware that shows eligible transfer credits between these institutions.
Student Nurses’ Association
The Student Nurses’ Association is a College-supported organization that promotes nursing, supports nursing students and activities, and encourages health promotional activities throughout the community. Any student interested in the ADN program may attend a meeting.
Contact:
Stanton Campus – Newark
Delaware Technical & Community College
400 Stanton-Christiana Road
Newark, Delaware 19713
Tel: (302) 454-3900
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Delaware Technical Community College Terry Campus, Dover Nursing Program Review
Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC, or Delaware Tech) is the only community college in the state of Delaware. Delaware Tech was founded in 1967, and currently serves almost 5000 students at the Charles L. Terry Campus in Dover, Delaware. The Terry Campus, named for the Governor who created Delaware Tech, was opened in 1972.
Nursing Programs
Practical Nursing Studies (LPN Program)
This program teaches students the skills necessary to become an entry level nurse. Graduates of the program will be allowed to take the licensing exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Those who complete this program will earn a diploma in practical nursing, and will be qualified to work in hospitals, long term care, home health care, and doctor’s offices.
Students wishing to enroll in this program will need to apply to the college and submit any high school or college transcripts. They will need to take the College Placement Test or complete college level Math, Reading and English courses. Students need to get a passing score on the National League for Nursing (NLN) eligibility exam. They will also need to complete the prerequisite courses of Composition, Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of 2.5 or higher.
Students that wish to continue on and earn their associate degree at Delaware Tech Terry Campus may transfer the credit from their diploma program.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program prepares students to be Registered Nurses (RNs) and provide patient care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long term care facilities, and public health centers. Students completing this program will earn an associate degree and will be eligible to take the RN licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). Graduates may go on to work in the field of nursing, or pursue a higher degree at another institution.
Before applying for this program, students should take the NLN eligibility exam and should have a GPA of 2.5 or higher in Anatomy and Physiology. They will also need to apply to the college and submit any high school or college transcripts. They must take the College Placement Test or complete college level Math, Reading and English courses, and complete the prerequisites of Microbiology, Clinical Math, and Composition.
The Terry Campus offers a full time daytime program, a full time evening and weekend program, and a part time program of study for the ADN degree.
ADN Advanced Placement
This program is for LPNs who want to advance in the nursing profession and continue their education. Students will be given credit for prior nursing education.
Before applying for this program, students should take the NLN eligibility exam for RNs and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher in Anatomy and Physiology. They will also need to take Composition, Human Development, and Clinical Math before starting the ADN nursing courses.
Once admitted into the program, students will take the Transition: Professional Nursing course.
Connected Degrees
Delaware Tech has created articulation agreements with Delaware State University, University of Delaware, Wesley College, and Wilmington University to allow students to easily transfer to a four year institution and pursue a higher degree in nursing. Students must have taken all the required courses and meet the GPA requirements for the program. When they do, they may transfer to the four year college as a junior.
Interested students may pursue a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing through this arrangement.
Delaware Tech also has a credit transfer matrix agreement with Delaware State and University of Delaware that shows eligible transfer credits between these institutions.
National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA)
The NSNA and the Delaware Student Nurses’ Association (DSNA) are professional organizations open to students in the ADN program. Students who join will network with other student nurses at various levels of study, participate in community outreach programs, and in scholarship fundraisers. It is recommended for students and graduates to be members of professional nursing organizations, to stay on top of what’s going on in the nursing profession.
Contact:
Terry Campus – Dover
Delaware Technical Community College
100 Campus Drive
Dover, Delaware 19904-1383
Tel: (302) 857-1000
University of Delaware Nursing School Review
Founded in 1743, to meet the need for an educational institution for local clergymen, the University of Delaware (UD) has gone on to enroll over 20,000 students in any given semester, with most being undergraduates. The university is a Carnegie Research University, and undertakes a high level of research in several fields. The University of Delaware is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Review of University of Delaware Nursing Degree Programs
What began as the Department of Nursing in the year of 1962 is now the University Of Delaware’s School of Nursing. The school has a threefold mission of providing liberal and professional education, a research-based nursing program and service to the community through volunteer programs. Three nursing certificate programs, three undergraduate nursing degree programs and six graduate nursing degree programs are offered. The school is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
University of Delaware Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Traditional Nursing Program- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The traditional program educates both high-school graduates and current college students seeking to enroll in the nursing field. The program operates in an immersion format, focusing on providing necessary education and skills while allowing the students to practice these skills in a clinical setting. The school also offers an immersion laboratory in which nurses can explore a variety of critical care situations including surgery, health assessment and maternity. Students in this 4-year, 122 credit program will earn a Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing.
Accelerated BSN Nursing Program (ABSN)
The Accelerated Nursing Program is for students with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing seeking to earn a BSN qualification. The accelerated program is a 17 month full-time program. Students must have earned a 3.0 GPA or higher in their previous nursing program. Domestic and international students must have their credits evaluated for transferability, which could affect the time required to complete the program.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing (RN to BSN) Program
Licensed nurses not yet holding a degree can participate in the RN to BSN program to complete the last two years of their undergraduate education. Registered nurses interested in this program may receive a free transcript evaluation by contacting the school. Students receive credits for their previous education and experience and must complete 60 more credits to receive the BSN degree. Nurses must hold a 2.5 GPA from previous educational qualifications. The program is offered completely online.
University of Delaware Graduate Degree Programs
Admission requirements for graduate degree programs vary. In general students must hold at least a RN qualification from a school accredited by a nursing body, and also recent Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores. Students should have at least one year of experience.
University of Delaware Masters Degree Nursing Programs
Registered Nurse to Master’s of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) Program
The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) degree program is for nurses who do not hold an undergraduate or BSN degree and would like to earn an MSN. The program coursework is completed online and students participate in a clinical practicum in their location. Students may choose from the following concentrations for their MSN degree:
- MSN Clinical Nurse Specialist (CSN) (Both Adult and Child Specializations)
- MSN Health Services Administration Degree (HSAD)
- MSN Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP)
- MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) (offered in conjunction with Thomas Jefferson University)
Admission requirements include that students must have a 3.0 GPA from previous education experience. Students complete from 44-47 credits. A unique feature to this program is that students earn both a BSN and MSN degree, while most RN to MSN programs only award the MSN qualification.
The programs are offered in both an online and hybrid program format to suit students’ schedules. Most classes that are offered on-campus are offered in the afternoons after 3pm, in order to suit the demands of working nurses.
University of Delaware Nursing Doctoral Degree Programs
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing program at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive education in nursing research and leadership which will prepare them for a career in academia or leading a health care organization.
The course requires students to gain necessary research experience through working as assistants on research projects and completing their own research dissertation. Generous financial aid packages which offer a living stipend and health benefits are available on a competitive basis. The course requires 41 credits to complete. Students are awarded a PhD in Nursing Science. The programs is the first of its kind in Delaware.
University of Delaware Certificate Programs
Basic School Nursing Certificate
The Basic School Nursing Certificate allows nurses to fulfill the Delaware Department of Education’s requirements to use their degree to work in a school setting. The program fulfills the gap in training for school nurses that traditional nursing programs do not provide. The program is delivered in 6 modules over a total of 90 hours.
Participants in this Department of Education approved program will receive a certificate in Basic School Nursing from the University of Delaware.
CNS, ANP and FNP Post Master’s Certificate
Students holding an MSN qualification have the opportunity of advancing their study by earning a post-graduate master’s certificate as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The area of concentration can be decided upon by the student and time varies according to the certificate concentration chosen. Students must have at least one year of experience before pursuing a post-master’s certificate.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The University Of Delaware School Of Nursing offers generous financial aid opportunities and referrals to outside scholarship opportunities. The financial aid package for doctoral students includes a stipend, health benefits and tuition fees covered. Students must be enrolled full-time to receive financial aid and work a minimum of 20 hours. The school also advertises several external award opportunities including the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) in which students can receive a scholarship for working in an underserved community. The NHSC scholarship offers full tuition and school fees support for service. Several students have also offered $10,000 scholarships through the New Careers in Nursing Scholarship (NCIN) program. The NCIN scholarships are for students of backgrounds underrepresented in nursing or from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Contact:
University of Delaware
401 Academy Street
Newark, DE 19716
Tel: (302) 831-2000
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Wesley College Nursing Program Review
Founded in 1873 and holding the distinction as the oldest private college in Delaware, Wesley College is located in historic downtown Dover. The college offers over 30 areas of study including nursing, business, education and fine arts. The student body of Wesley College represents 28 states and 18 countries.
Offering a small, student-focused learning environment the college enrolls just over 2,000 students and has a student-faculty ratio of 17:1. Wesley College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and affiliated with the United Methodist Church.
Review of Wesley College Nursing Degree Programs
The Department of Nursing at Wesley College embraces lifelong learning, holistic approach to the nursing profession and a dynamic education that serves the individual nurse, profession and the broader community as key facets of their program. Students will obtain an education that incorporates scholarly inquiry, critical thought and collaboration. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) accredits nursing programs at Wesley College. The programs are approved by the Delaware State Board of Nursing.
Wesley College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree Program
Students can enter Wesley College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program without taking nursing classes or meeting other qualifications. Students will take a practical approach to learning with clinical practicums beginning in the freshman year of the program. Students have the opportunity to gain experience locally, nationally and abroad. In their senior year, students will complete an intensive practicum which will apply knowledge learned throughout four years of study required to earn the BSN qualification. Among other requirements, students must have a clean background, 3.0 GPA in nursing courses and 2.5 overall GPA to earn the BSN qualification.
Wesley College Graduate Degree Programs
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing) Degree Program
The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) degree program at Wesley College offers LVNs, LPNs, and nurses with a BSN or Registered Nurses with an associates degree the opportunity to earn a Masters Degree in Nursing (MSN). In this program, students will take their practical experience to the next level to go from their current positions to an advanced nursing role. Students take evening classes and have the option of completing a thesis, though it is not required. Core credits for the masters program vary according to the qualification of the student entering the program.
Wesley College Certificate Programs
Certificate in Laboratory Science
Nurses who seek careers as researchers or further study in medicine will benefit from the certificate in laboratory science program, which offers nurses the opportunity to develop in-depth research skills not traditionally offered in the BSN or MSN programs. Nurses will take courses in chemistry and biology to prepare for laboratory work in a variety of settings. The course is 15 credits.
Post Master’s Nursing Education Certificate
A post masters certificate in Nursing Education is available for nurses holding an MSN qualification who desire the necessary skills and qualification to teach in post-secondary nursing programs and other settings. The course requires 15 credits and nurses holding a bachelor’s degree may be considered for the post-MSN qualification pending board approval.
Faith Based Nursing Partnership Certificate
The Faith Based Nursing Partnership Certificate program awarded by Wesley College in conjunction with Partners in Parish Nursing (an interfaith organization dedicated to parish nursing) offers the opportunity to participate in a 90 hour program that teaches nurses how to care for the spiritual needs of their patients. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Parish Nursing Certificate.
Extracurricular Activities at Wesley College
Extracurricular activities including volunteer and service learning programs, research assistantships, cooperative education and internships are an essential part of many academic programs at Wesley College. There are over 30 organizations students can choose to be a part of, and there is even a charter school on campus with which students can volunteer.
Contact:
Wesley College
120 North State Street
Dover, Delaware 19901
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Wilmington University Nursing School Review
Delaware based Wilmington University (WilmU) offers online and campus-based degrees in Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey. Approximately 13,000 students enroll in Wilmington University’s bachelors, masters and doctoral programs each year. Wilmington University offers flexible learning options which cater to a variety of student groups including traditional day classes and opportunities for non-traditional students on weekends and in evenings.
Despite its name, the university is located near to Wilmington near New Castle and was founded in 1968 as Wilmington College. Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Review of Wilmington University Nursing Degree Programs
Nursing degrees at Wilmington University are offered under the College of Health Professions. The college also awards degrees in Allied Health in addition to Nursing. A wide variety of nursing options are offered from completing RN qualifications to seeking advanced level master’s degrees or certificates. The college has a generous transfer credit acceptance policy, which acknowledges the previous work and experience completed to advance to a higher level of study. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits bachelor’s and master’s nursing degree programs.
Wilmington University Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Pre-RN (Pre-Registered Nurse) Program
The Pre-RN program allows nurses in the process of completing their associate’s degree to take classes for the Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree part-time. This program is subject to approval and students must meet pre-requisites before enrolling in courses. Students will be able to take classes with current BSN students and get the resources available to their peers.
RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing)
Designed for nurses interested in further study at the graduate level or advancing their career, the RN to BSN program at Wilmington University instills the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the present nursing environment. Students are prepared in the basics of nursing to serve in a variety of settings and can therefore choose a wide variety of career options from this point. Students can enroll on a part or full-time basis and complete a clinical practicum as part of the course. Students applying to the program are required to submit a copy of their RN license, transcripts and submit to a background check and drug testing. Because students are transferring previous credit, the college also accepts CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) which offers college credit to nurses for knowledge gained through work experience. The BSN program requires 120 credits to complete and total time to completion depends on the number of credits transferred in.
RN to BSN Pathway
The RN to BSN pathway program is for students who have studied and worked in another field, and are now aspiring to a BSN. A significant amount of previous credit can be awarded for previous study. Students can complete as little as 31 credits at Wilmington University to earn their BSN.
Wilmington University Graduate Degree Nursing Programs
Wilmington University Master’s Degree Programs
Nurses desiring an individualized MSN program will find the variety of concentrations and customizable program meets their needs. Students can earn a Master of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN) with an interdisciplinary approach taking classes in other colleges such as Business and Education. Students can choose from the following concentrations:
MSN Nursing Leadership
The MSN Nursing Leadership course offers three specializations all with the goal of producing a nurse knowledgeable and able to lead in their chosen area of expertise. The program is ideal for nurses seeking a more administrative role in the field of nursing.
Executive– The executive track is ideal for nurses who desire to take an entrepreneurial approach with their degree or hold a management position in a health care setting
Educator- Whether working with patients or peers, the nurse educator program will prepare the nurse to teach and lead others through important aspects of health care
Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC) – The Legal Nurse Consultant is prepared to tackle the legal aspects of nursing and health care practice
All programs are designed to train nurses to be leaders and inform policy in their chosen area of practice. The program can be completed in as little as two years and as long as five years.
MSN Nurse Practitioner
For nurses who would like to maintain practice in their fields while having the opportunity for increased leadership opportunities and mobility in their position, the MSN Nurse Practitioner program is an excellent fit. Courses in the Nurse Practitioner programs meet the criteria set out by several nursing bodies including the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC). The program offers the following two specializations:
Family –Ideal for nurses seeking to work with a variety of age groups in the family setting
Adult/Gerontology-Ideal for nurses who would like to serve adult and aging populations
The programs can generally be completed in 28 to 42 months and require a clinical practicum of at least 600 hours. Students are required to hold a “B” average in certain courses.
MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs (Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration)
Students who desire to earn an MBA in conjunction with their MSN may do so through completing a 51 credit program requiring courses in both the College of Business and Health Professions. Advising and mentoring is available to students to meet the dual requirements of the college. Students have two options to choose, though both options will award an MSN degree and also a focus in Health Care Administration. Students can choose from:
Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Management with a focus in Health Care Administration MSN MSM/HCA
Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration with a focus in Health Care Administration MSN MBA/HCA
Students will choose courses from a specific guide.
Wilmington University Nursing Certificate Programs
Hispanic Cultural Certificate
The Hispanic Cultural Certificate provides nurses with the intercultural skills and understanding to work with the growing Hispanic population in the United States. The program is open to all registered nurses, whether holding a bachelor’s or associate’s degree or diploma. The program can be completed in just 18 credits and has a required practicum serving in a community health setting specifically geared to serving a Hispanic community.
Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC) Certificate
RNs with a BSN can become experts in the legal requirements of nursing, health care practice and organizations through the Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate. The course is 18 credits, completed 100% online, and has a practicum for students to gain experience in the realm of nursing and law.
Post Master’s Certificate
Two post-master’s certificates are available for those in administrative and practitioner positions. The courses offer concentrations similar to those in the Nursing Leadership and Nursing Practitioner MSN courses but are designed to help the nurses keep up with changing standards in the profession as well as meet educational requirements needed to be successful in their current position. A clinical practicum (minimum of 240 hours) is required to complete the course, though additional hours may be required.
Contact:
Wilmington University
320 North Dupont Highway
New Castle, DE 19720
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Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing Review
The Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing (BHSN) opened in 1884, and is the oldest nursing school in Connecticut. The original nursing school was located in Bridgeport Hospital. In 1915, Elizabeth Oliver Hall was constructed and the nursing program was moved there, and remains there today. Elizabeth Oliver Hall is connected to Bridgeport Hospital by a walkway tunnel that is used by the nursing students.
A small school, Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing admits just 125 students each year. Bridgeport has courses in Nursing, Surgical Technology, and Sterile Processing.
Nursing Programs
Diploma in Nursing
The Diploma in Nursing is an intensive two year program offered in conjunction with Bridgeport Hospital. The Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing only offers the nursing courses. The non-nursing courses may be taken at other colleges. Bridgeport has an agreement with Housatonic Community College, who offers all the pre- and co-requisite courses required to complete the Diploma in Nursing course.
To apply to the program, students will need to take English Composition and Chemistry (usually taken in high school).
Students are also encouraged to take their co-requisite courses prior to starting the nursing program. These are Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Child Physiology and Development, Microbiology, Sociology, Public Speaking, and a 3 credit elective course.
Credit for all non-nursing pre- and co-requisite courses may be transferred as long as the course grade is a C or better.
Students will take forty nursing credits and thirty credits made up of behavioral, biological, and social sciences. After students finish the program, they will receive a Diploma in Nursing, and will be eligible to apply for the Registered Nurse (RN) state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).
Partial Evening Program
The first year of the Diploma in Nursing program is offered as a partial evening to offer flexibility for students with other commitments. Lab and clinical hours are offered in the evening as an alternative to daytime slots. After the first year, however, students must attend all courses in the daytime.
Accelerated RN Program
The accelerated program allows students to graduate the program one semester early. They will take the same amount of courses, but will continue their studies through the summer between the first and second years of the program. To qualify for the accelerated program, students must have completed their first year studies, have taken all co-requisite classes, have a GPA of 3.0 or better in their nursing classes, and request admission into the program two months prior to the start.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to RN Articulation Bridge Program
The LPN to RN bridge program is designed to prepare LPNs for successful advanced placement entry to the Diploma in Nursing program. This is a 3 credit online course that students will take after being admitted into the Diploma program.
Students must first complete the pre- and co-requisite courses for the Diploma program. After completing the online Bridge course and the Transition for the LPN course, students will be admitted into the second year of the program, and be able to bypass the first year nursing courses.
Associates Degree Program
Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing has an agreement with Housatonic Community College to allow BHSN students to pursue an Associate in Science Degree in Nursing. Students are eligible for this program if they graduate from the BHSN Diploma program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam for licensing, complete a required English course, take another 16 credit hours and apply to the Housatonic nursing program.
Surgical Technology Program
This is a full time program that begins each Fall. This 10 month accredited program prepares students to be a member of the surgical team. Students will attend four 10 week terms with classes four days a week. They will also spend time in clinical situations and gain experience in a variety of surgical areas.
To apply, students must be a high school graduate or equivalent and must submit any school transcripts, their TEAS score, proof of citizenship, three references, and a 250-300 word essay.
Students will take the National Certifying Examination for Surgical Technologists before they graduate, and will receive their Surgical Technology Certificate when they complete the program.
Sterile Processing Program
Students in this program will learn the guidelines set by the Certification Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution. This course is for 10 days spread over a three to five week period, and covers both classroom and clinical education. Upon completion, students receive a Certificate and are allowed to take the certification exam for Sterile Processing Technician.
To apply, students must be a high school graduate or equivalent and must submit any school transcripts, their TEAS score, proof of citizenship, two references, and a paragraph on why they want to take the program.
Contact:
Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing
200 Mill Hill Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06610
Capital Community College Nursing Program Review
Capital Community College (CCC) was formed when Greater Hartford Community College and Hartford State Technical College merged in 1992. CCC is a two year urban college that currently enrolls over 4500 students each semester. Over 85% of the students enrolled are in degree or certificate programs. CCC has one of the most ethnically diverse student populations in New England.
Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Capital Community College is part of the associate degree program available through the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP), which is offered at 6 community colleges in Connecticut. The programs all have the same admissions standards and policies.
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
The nursing program at CCC was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.
The Nursing Program is four semesters in length, after completing the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, including 30 General Education credits and 38 Nursing credits.
The prerequisites for the program are English with a grade of C or better, as well as Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have Math and Chemistry at the high school level or the college equivalent, demonstrate computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses.
To apply, students submit a common online application to CT-CCNP, and indicate Capital Community College as their college of first choice to attend. The school will select 75% of the students in the program based on their TEAS score, GPA, and grade in Anatomy and Physiology. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening.
After graduation, students are allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. LPNs that hold a current license and meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation.
To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the General Education requirements of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must complete two LPN Transition Bridge courses.
External Transfer Nursing Students
Students that have taken one or more nursing courses elsewhere may apply to transfer them CT-CCNP for advance placement in the associate degree program.
Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. To be considered, they must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. External transfers are considered when space is available. To graduate from Capital Community College, students must earn at least 25% of their credit hours there.
Continuing Education
Continuing education for nurses and other health care professionals is offered at Capital Community College’s Health Professions Institute. Some of the courses offered are Nurse Aide Certification, Certificate CNA Refresher, Patient Care Technician, Personal Care Attendant Training Program, and Nurse Re-Entry.
Contact:
Capital Community College
950 Main Street
Hartford CT 06103
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Gateway Community College CT Nursing Program Review
Gateway Community College (GWCC) has been educating students in the New Haven area for over 40 years. With over 14,000 students enrolled each year, it is the second largest community college in the state. Gateway students have the benefit of a brand new, 360,000 square foot campus in a thriving community.
Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Gateway Community College is a component of the associate degree program available through the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP). The CT-CCNP is offered at 6 community colleges in Connecticut. The six schools all have the same admissions standards and policies.
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
The nursing program at Gateway was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.
The Nursing Program takes four semesters to complete after taking the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, including 30 General Education credits and 38 Nursing credits.
The prerequisite courses for the Gateway nursing program are English with a grade of C or better, as well as Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have taken Math and Chemistry at the high school level or the college equivalent, have demonstrated computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must also have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses.
To apply, students will submit a common online application to CT-CCNP, listing Gateway Community College as their first choice of college to attend. The school will rank students based on a combination of their TEAS score, GPA and grade in Anatomy and Physiology, and select 75% of the positions based on rank order. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening.
Gateway Community College offers evening nursing classes for students. Required lab and clinical courses are offered days, evenings, and weekends. Students will spend their clinical hours at various health care facilities either in the Greater New Haven area, or in the state of Connecticut.
After graduation, students are allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. LPNs that are currently licensed and meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation.
To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the prerequisite General Education courses of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must take two LPN Transition Bridge courses.
External Transfer Nursing Students
Students that have taken nursing courses elsewhere may apply to transfer credit for them to CT-CCNP for advance placement in the associate degree program.
Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. To be considered, they must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. External transfers are considered as space is available. To graduate from Gateway Community College, students must earn at least 25% of their credit there.
Contact:
Gateway Community College
Long Wharf Campus
60 Sargent Drive
New Haven, CT 06511
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Central Connecticut State University Nursing School Review
Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) is made up of five schools and offers undergraduate through doctorate programs. CCSU is dedicated to education in the community, and over 85% of graduates remain in Connecticut. Over 11,000 students are enrolled each semester.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program allows students with no prior education in nursing to earn their BSN degree. The program begins with students taking pre-nursing, and applying to the nursing program in the spring of their first year of study. The next three years are spent as a nursing major. Students will have to earn a minimum of 127 credits to graduate.
Students must first be admitted to CCSU and enrolled in pre-nursing. Applicants are admitted to the program in the fall semester only. To be able to apply to the pre-nursing program, students must have a 550 score or greater on the Math section of the SAT or a 24 in Math on the ACT, to be eligible to enroll in Chemistry of Allied Health.
Transfer students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 and a 3.0 or better in science courses, as well as a B- or higher in any nursing courses already completed, if any.
Pre-nursing students may apply to the BSN program after they have been admitted to CCSU, have completed at least 14 credits and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70, have a grade of C or higher in Chemistry of Allied Health, and a B- or better in Introduction to Nursing Theories. These are the minimum criteria for application, and do not guarantee admittance into the program. Priority is given to first year CCSU students, and then to CCSU students that changed their major to pre-nursing.
This is a four year program due to the order in which nursing courses must be taken. Even students that have a prior bachelor’s degree will need fours years to complete them.
After graduation, students will be allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).
BSN for RNs (RN/BSN)
This RN to BSN program allows Registered Nurses (RNs) to continue their education and earn their BSN. Students will complete 25 nursing credits, will receive up to 35 credits for previous nursing coursework through the articulation agreement, and the remaining credits will be University requirements for graduation. To receive a degree from CCSU, students must complete at least 30 credits at the university.
To apply to this Bachelor of Science in Nursing for RN’s program, students must be licensed Registered Nurses in Connecticut, have malpractice and health insurance, get nursing faculty advisement, have CPR certification, have current immunizations and a background check, and finish the BSN program within five years of taking Introduction to Nursing Education.
Nursing Lab
CCSU has a Nursing Learning Center where nurses may practice skills in a high tech hospital simulation.
The Learning Center offers students the opportunity to practice with actual supplies and equipment on manikins. They will become comfortable performing procedures in simulation before moving to real patients in a clinical setting. In addition to the equipment, the Learning Center also has reference books and DVDs available.
Study Abroad
Nursing majors have the opportunity to study abroad through the Center for International Education. Students will participate in a CCSU affiliated program and learn about other cultures, become more independent, earn credit toward graduation, and enhance their resumes.
Contact:
Central Connecticut State University
1615 Stanley Street
New Britain, CT 06050
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Fairfield University Nursing School Review
Fairfield University is a Jesuit school that was founded in 1942. The university has over 5000 students enrolled each semester, and offers 41 undergraduate majors, 38 advanced degrees, and 26 certificate programs.
The School of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate level degrees. The School is affiliated with over 50 health care agencies, so students may experience a variety of settings in their clinical education.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional
This program is a four year course of study designed to prepare students to be compassionate nurses in a variety of healthcare systems. The program requires a total of 130 credits to graduate.
After graduation, students will receive a BSN and be eligible to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).
BSN – Second Degree
The BSN Second Degree program is for students that have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This accelerated program allows students to complete their nursing requirements and complete earn a degree in 15 months.
To qualify for the program, students must have a 3.0 GPA or higher prior to admission. Students must earn at least 60 credits at Fairfield University toward their BSN to graduate.
Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN
This program builds on the RN’s existing skills in an individualized program to earn a BSN. RNs may earn up to 30 credits for advanced placement in the program through the articulation agreement between nursing programs. They may also challenge courses for credit.
RNs who wish to apply to this program must have a current nursing license, resume, personal statement, transcripts, and personal references.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Clinical Nurse Leaders have a leadership role in health care and are responsible for evaluating and changing the way health care organizations provide care to patients. CNL master’s students will complete a three year course of study with 38 credit hours.
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Graduates of the FNP program will provide care to people of all ages, focusing on disease prevention and health promotion. They will be eligible to take the certification exam from either the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to become a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. The program requires 47 credit hours of classes and practicum over three years to complete.
MSN – Healthcare Management
Nurses in this program are prepared to take on leadership and management roles in health care facilities. This three year program takes 39 credits of study and practicum. Graduates of the program will have met the educational requirements for ANCC certification, but they will still need to meet the work experience requirements.
MSN – Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
In this program, advanced practice nurses learn to care for adults suffering from various mental illnesses such as anxiety, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Graduates may become licensed as Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners by taking the ANCC exam. To complete the program, students must take 47 credits of courses and practicum over a three year period.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP is a clinical program for advanced nursing practice. Students can either follow the BSN to DNP pathway or the post-master’s DNP program to earn their degree. BSN graduates must have a 3.0 GPA or higher to begin the program. Students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees will be considered for the program on an individual basis. MSN students must have a 3.2 GPA or higher.
Students may follow the Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, or Nurse Anesthetists track. The credits required for these programs are 72, 74 and 75, respectively.
Contact:
Fairfield University
1073 North Benson Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
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Goodwin College Nursing Program Review
Goodwin College began as Data Institute Business School in 1962. It evolved and took on its current name in 1999. Goodwin received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) in 2004, after becoming a non-profit organization. It currently enrolls over 3000 students, and has the second largest nursing program in the state.
Nursing Programs
Associate in Nursing
The Associate in Nursing program was designed for working students, with day, evening, weekend and online courses available to students for their general education requirements. This is one of the largest and most popular nursing programs in the state. A two year course of study, students are also able to complete all of their prerequisites at Goodwin.
To be admitted to the nursing program, students must be enrolled in the college, take the National League for Nursing (NLN) Anatomy and Physiology exam with a score of at least 50% on it, have a 2.7 GPA or better in at least 14 credits of coursework, complete Math, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology with a C grade or higher, and qualify on the College Placement Exam to take English.
Students are advised to have completed Microbiology before entering the nursing program.
Applicants will be selected by their ranking in a point system based on prior degrees, completion of nursing or related courses, cumulative GPA, NLN pre-admission test, and hours of community service.
To graduate, students will have completed 25 General Education credits, 11 non-nursing core credits, and 35 nursing core credits. All nursing and science courses must have a grade of C or better. They must also pass the NLN exit exam.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who wish to continue their education may do so and pursue an associate degree under the Connecticut Articulation Model. If they hold a current nursing license, they may take the 3 credit bridge course and a 1 credit clinical evaluation. If they pass both of these, they will receive 12 credits and advanced placement in the nursing program.
Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This RN to BSN program is designed to allow RNs to earn a bachelors degree in nursing. Students will receive up to 35 credits for prior education after successfully completing Foundations of Professional Nursing. This program takes 16 months to complete full time, 32 months part time, or can be customized to fit the needs of the student.
To apply to this program, students must be enrolled in Goodwin College, have a nursing diploma or associate degree, and be a currently licensed RN. This program requires at least 121 credits to graduate.
Other Health Care Related Programs
Associate in Medical Assisting Certificate
Medical Assistants are proficient in clinical and administrative skills. They work with physicians in doctors’ offices and clinics. Goodwin College offers both a Certificate and an Associate in Medical Assisting degree. Students enroll in both programs and earn their Certificate first, then continue on for their degree.
After graduating with an Associate degree, students will be allowed to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant exam and the Registered Medical Assistant exam.
Associate in Science Degree in Respiratory Care
Respiratory Therapists perform both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with patients of all ages. The program at Goodwin College will prepare students to take the entry-level and advanced practitioner level exams given to Respiratory Care Practitioners.
Paramedic Certificate
The Paramedic Certificate program at Goodwin College readies students to take the paramedic licensing exam for Connecticut. Graduates of the Paramedic Certificate program can apply their credits earned toward an Associate Degree in Homeland Security or Health Sciences.
Phlebotomy and Laboratory Services Certificate
Students in this program will learn laboratory skills, specimen processing, and quality control testing in a variety of clinical settings. Students that graduate the certificate program will be allowed to take the Registered Phlebotomy Technical examination.
Contact:
Goodwin College
One Riverside Drive
East Hartford, CT 06118
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Naugatuck Valley Community College Nursing Program Review
Naugatuck Valley Community College (NVCC) was founded in 1962 and gained its current name in 1992. It is a public, two year college serving the Waterbury region. NVCC offers daytime, evening and weekend courses to meet the needs of busy students. The college has articulation agreements with all of the 4 year state schools and many of the private institutions in Connecticut, making it easy to transfer to a bachelors program at the end of your studies here.
Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Naugatuck Valley Community College is part of the associate degree program available through the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP), which is offered at 6 community colleges in Connecticut. The six schools all have the same admissions standards and policies.
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
The nursing program at NVCC was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.
The Nursing Program takes four semesters to complete after taking the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, with 30 of these as General Education credits and 38 as Nursing credits.
The prerequisite courses for the NVCC nursing program are English with a grade of C or better, as well as Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have taken Math and Chemistry at the high school level or the college equivalent, must demonstrate computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must also have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses.
To apply, students will submit an online application to CT-CCNP, indicating NVCC as their first choice of college to attend. The school will rank applicants based on a combination of their TEAS score, GPA and grade in Anatomy and Physiology. Applicants will then be selected based on rank order for 75% of the open slots. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening.
NVCC offers required lab and clinical courses during the day, evenings, and weekends. Students will spend their clinical hours at various health care facilities in the area. Sites will be assigned by nursing faculty.
After graduation, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduation from the program does not guarantee an RN license.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. Currently licensed LPNs that meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation.
To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the prerequisite General Education courses of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must take two LPN Transition Bridge courses.
External Transfer Nursing Students
Transfer students that have taken nursing courses at other schools may apply to transfer credit for them to CT-CCNP for advance placement in the associate degree program.
Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. They must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better o be considered for the program. External transfer students are considered as space is available. To graduate from a CT-CCNP school, students must earn at least 25% of their credits at that school.
Contact:
Naugatuck Valley Community College
750 Chase Parkway
Waterbury, CT 06708
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Norwalk Community College Nursing Program Review
Established in 1961, Norwalk Community College (NCC) was the first two-year, public college in Connecticut. There are 6500 students enrolled, and NCC offers nearly 1000 different credit and non-credit courses to choose from.
Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Norwalk Community College is part of the associate degree program available through the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP), which is offered at 6 community colleges in Connecticut. The six schools all have the same admissions standards and policies.
Associate in Science Degree in Nursing (ASN)
The nursing program at Norwalk Community College was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.
The Nursing Program takes four semesters to complete after taking the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, with 30 of these as General Education credits and 38 as Nursing credits.
The Norwalk nursing program prerequisite courses are English with a grade of C or better, as well as Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have taken Math and Chemistry at the high school or college level, must demonstrate computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must also have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses to be eligible to apply to the program.
To apply to the associate in science nursing degree program, students will submit a standardized online application to CT-CCNP, indicating Norwalk Community College as their first choice of college to attend. The school ranks applicants based on a combination of their TEAS score, GPA, and grade in Anatomy and Physiology. Applicants will then be selected based on rank order for 75% of the open slots. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected for the program will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening later.
Norwalk Community College offers lab and clinical courses at various health care facilities in the area.
After graduation, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduation from the program does not guarantee an RN license.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. Currently licensed LPNs that meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation.
To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the prerequisite General Education courses of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must take two LPN Transition Bridge courses.
External Transfer Nursing Students
Transfer students that have taken nursing courses at other schools may apply to transfer credit for them to CT-CCNP for advance placement in the associate degree program.
Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. They must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better o be considered for the program. External transfer students are considered as space is available. To graduate from a CT-CCNP school, students must earn at least 25% of their credits at that school.
Certified Nurses Aide (CNA) Certificate
The CNA Certificate program is a non-credit program at Norwalk Community College. This is a 12 week, 108 hour course, with 36 hours of classroom time and 72 hours of hands on clinical practice. After completing the program, students are awarded state certification allowing them to work in long term care facilities. To register, students must first pass a math, reading and verbal skills test.
Contact:
Norwalk Community College
188 Richards Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
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Quinnipiac University Nursing School Review
Quinnipiac University (QU) is a private institution that has over 8000 students enrolled. Founded in 1929, this school has three campuses (Mount Carmel, York Hill, North Haven), state of the art facilities and is located a mere 90 minutes from New York City and two hours from Boston.
The School of Nursing is located in a 180,000 square foot facility on the North Haven campus.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program is for those who are beginning their nursing careers. Graduates of the BSN program will be ready to practice as nursing generalists in the field of health care. The BSN program will prepare students to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).
Students will complete all prerequisite coursework by the end of their sophomore year to be able to enter the Nursing program their junior year. They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better to continue in the program, and must receive a C or better in all nursing courses and labs.
The prerequisite courses for the nursing program are Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Statistics. In addition, students must take general education courses of English, Fine Arts, Social Science, Humanities, and open electives. It takes a minimum of 127 credits to graduate the BSN program.
Quinnipiac offers a summer internship program, the Mid State Medical Center Summer Clinical Internship, for nursing students prior to entering their senior year of studies. This 10 week elective course consists of 36 hour workweeks, and students will have seminars and assignments to complete. Students accepted into the internship will be paid a salary.
Accelerated BSN for Second Degree Students
The Accelerated BSN program was designed for students who already possess a bachelor’s degree in another subject, and now wish to enter the nursing profession. This is a one year program where students only take nursing courses, provided they have already met the program prerequisites, listed above.
Students may be admitted to this program if they graduated from an accredited program, have a 3.0 GPA or better, and have taken the prerequisite courses. The prerequisites must have been taken in the last 5 years with a grade of at least a C average.
This program requires a minimum of 132 credits to graduate.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP program is available to students who have a bachelor’s degree and an RN license. Graduates will be able to provide advanced health care to a variety of patients. Students must have a current RN license and a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply.
DNP students have a choice of three specialty areas of study: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. The Family Nurse Practitioner track requires 75 credits to complete, while Adult Nurse Practitioner and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner each require 68 credits.
If taken full time, all three specialties of the DNP program can be completed in three years. Courses and clinical experiences are offered two days a week, allowing students to continue working if desired. There is also a part time, four year option available. During this program, students will be able to work full time during the first two years, and part time during the last two years.
Students will be required to put together a portfolio of capstone projects throughout the course of their studies. This portfolio will be evaluated by nursing faculty for a pass/fail grade in their final semester.
Post Master’s Doctoral Options
The Post Masters options are for nurses who hold a master’s degree in nursing or a related field. Students who are advanced practice nurses (APRNs) may pursue Care of Individuals or Care of Populations, each of which require 33 credits to complete. If the student is not an APRN, they may study Care of Individuals. Both options last two years.
Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE)
This program is accredited by the Connecticut Nurses Association, and is offered on campus once a year. Students meet twice, and attendance is mandatory at both sessions.
Contact:
Quinnipiac University
275 Mount Carmel Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518-1908
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Sacred Heart University Nursing School Review
Sacred Heart University is a Catholic institution, founded in 1963. It is the second largest Catholic school in New England, and currently enrolls over 6400 students. More than half of the students in attendance at SHU graduated in the top quarter of their high school class. The average class size is under 22 students, and the student to faculty ratio is 13 to 1.
The Nursing Program at SHU is part of the College of Health Professions.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN program educates students in the practice of nursing in various health care settings. Graduates of the program will be able to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX-RN).
Students enter the university as pre-nursing majors, and become nursing students as sophomores after they have been accepted in the program, completed the prerequisites and have a 3.0 GPA or better. The BSN program requires a minimum of 122 credits for graduation. The required freshman courses are English, Psychology, Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Math, and History. Students must receive a C+ or higher grade in all science courses.
RN to BSN
RNs who have a diploma or associate degree in nursing may earn their BSN degree at SHU. Students must have a 2.5 GPA or higher, a current RN license, and have malpractice insurance to apply.
All of the nursing courses and most of the non-nursing courses are available online. Students will receive up to 30 transfer credits from their prior nursing education through the Connecticut Nursing Education Articulation Plan.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Students interested in the MSN program may study full or part time, but they must complete the program within six years of starting it. The MSN program has four tracks:
- Clinical Nurse Leader – can be taken completely online, and requires 12 core MSN credits and 24 specialized credits.
- Family Nurse Practitioner – many courses can be taken online, and requires 33 credits on top of the core MSN program. In addition, students may take a 30 hour advanced pharmacology course and apply to be licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. There is also a 33 credit Post-Master’s certificate program for nurses who already hold an MSN.
- Patient Care Services Administration – can be taken completely online, and requires 12 core MSN credits and 24 specialized credits. This program is also offered as a certificate program.
- Nursing Education – can be taken completely online, and requires 12 core MSN credits and 27 specialized credits.
To apply to the MSN program, students must have a BSN degree and a 3.0 GPA or higher. They must also hold a current RN license, submit a statement of professional goals, resume, letters of recommendation, and take an interview.
RN to MSN
RNs may take this accelerated program to earn their MSN degree. This program substitutes graduate level courses for many of the undergraduate nursing courses, thereby allowing the student to finish the program faster. They will be awarded a BSN after taking 121 credits at the 300-400 level.
BSN to MSN students may take the same four tracks of Clinical Nurse Leader, Patient Care Services Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Depending on which track they take, students will take from 151 to 154 credits.
To apply students must have a GPA of 2.5 or better, a current RN license, resume, recommendations, statement of professional goals, and complete an interview to apply. It is also preferred that they have at least one year of work experience as an RN.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP program combines education focused on practice with practical clinical research. Students may pursue a track in Doctoral Leadership in Health Care, or Doctoral Clinical Practice in Health Care.
Courses are offered online and students must attend two residencies on campus each semester. These programs are competitive, and students must have a GPA of 3.2 or higher to be considered, as well as an MSN in the field of study, a current RN license, an advanced practice nursing license, letters of recommendation, and an interview.
Students will meet with an advisor to design a plan of study. Students must take 33 credits of core DNP classes, and six credits of elective courses based on the track taken. They will also complete a dissertation.
Home Health Care Management for RNs – Certificate
This program is for management level nurses who must meet Connecticut’s Department of Public Health requirements. RNs who do not have a BSN degree and are in management positions must take at least six credits in community health or health care management.
Nursing Education – Certificate
This 10 credit program can be awarded at the bachelor’s or graduate level, depending on the student. It is designed to help a student’s skills in education as a nursing faculty member at a school or health care facility. These courses can be taken as a standalone certificate program, or as electives in the BSN or MSN program.
Contact:
Sacred Heart University
5151 Park Avenue
Fairfield, CT 06825-1000
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University of Saint Joseph Nursing School Review
The University of Saint Joseph (USJ), previously known as Saint Joseph College (SJC), is a Catholic school founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1932 as a liberal arts college for women. It remains as the only four year women’s college in the state of Connecticut. USJ also offers coed graduate and professional studies. The student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1, and the average class has 16 students in it.
The School Of Health And Natural Sciences at USJ offers several options for undergraduate and graduate nursing studies.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The traditional BSN program is for students with no previous nursing experience and for transfer students. Students are admitted into the nursing program at the beginning of their sophomore year. To stay in the program, students must maintain a 2.33 GPA or higher in nursing classes until graduation. Students will take 51 credits of core nursing courses, in addition to their General Education and Science requirements.
Graduates are eligible to take the state license exam for Registered Nurses (RNs).
BSN Second Bachelor’s Degree
This program is for students with a bachelors degree in another program, who want to earn a BSN and get their RN license. To apply, students need a 3.25 cumulative GPA or better, and a grade of B or better in their science courses.
Multicultural RN-BSN
The RN to BSN with Multicultural Health concentration prepares nurses to work with diverse populations, assess cultural health factors, communicate in Spanish, and promote Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS standards) in health care.
Nursing Dual Admission
Students who are starting on their associate degree in nursing may apply for dual admission to the RN to BSN program. If accepted, they will be guaranteed admission to the University of Saint Joseph after completion of an accredited associate program in nursing.
The University of St. Joseph allows transfer of 38 nursing credits from the associate degree program, and usually will award another 38 credits toward the BSN degree.
Master’s Program in Nursing
The Masters program at USJ is for students with a bachelors degree and an RN license. Students have the choice of studying to be Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners, or Nurse Educators.
The program allows students to take core courses, then design their own program according based on their specialty and interests.
To apply, students must have a GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate program, be a licensed RN, complete an essay, have reference letters, and complete an interview.
The Master’s program requires completion of 24 core credits. The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration requires an additional 22 credits of study, Nurse Educator needs another 9 credits, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner needs 20 credits. In addition, they must complete a scholarly research project.
Post Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
This program is for nurses with master’s degrees in the program who want to become certified as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. This program requires 12 credits of study to complete.
If a student has a masters in a different nursing specialty, they can arrange to create their own plan of study to complete this certificate program.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
RNs with a Masters Degree in Nursing may apply to the DNP program. The DNP is designed to teach students the principles of advanced nursing practice and health promotion.
This program is a two year course of study with online courses, and students will complete 39 credits to finish. Students must have a 3.2 GPA to apply, along with GRE scores, reference letters, an RN license, an essay, and an interview.
Guyana Immersion Experience
USJ’s Guyana Immersion Experience was established by the Division of Nursing in 2002, and now includes students and faculty from several other departments as well.
Participants travel to Guyana each January to provide education and health care, as well as conduct research. This program gives students the opportunity for growth and learning, and helps them become citizens of the world.
Contact:
University of Saint Joseph
1678 Asylum Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117-2791
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Saint Vincent’s College Nursing Program Review
Saint Vincent’s College (SVC) was founded in 1905. Originally St. Vincent’s School of Nursing, it has evolved into a leader in health science education. This Catholic school offers a variety of programs to over 550 students each year. The majority of students are women.
Nursing Programs
Associate in Science – Nursing
The associate degree nursing (ADN) program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The course of study includes class time, labs, and clinical practice. Graduates of the program will complete at least 72 credits and be eligible to take the license exam (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses (RNs).
Students may apply to the limited slots available for this program if they have taken high school biology and chemistry or the equivalent with a C grade or better within the last 5 years.
Once in the program, students need to earn a grade of B- or higher in each nursing class to be able to progress to the next level. All other classes must be taken with a C+ grade or higher. If a student earns lower than a B- in more than one nursing course, they will be dropped from the program. Also, if a student fails a clinical course, they will be dropped from the program.
SVC is affiliated with St. Vincent’s Medical Center, a modern acute care medical facility. Students will perform their clinical courses there, and at other area health care facilities.
Advanced Standing for Licensed Practical Nurses
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) wishing to gain advanced placement in the associate degree program must meet the admission criteria listed above, and submit transcripts from their previous nursing education. According to the Articulation Model for Nurse Educational Mobility in Connecticut, LPNs may be awarded up to 16 credits toward the associate degree program.
To qualify for articulation, LPNs must have a current license. They will be required to complete any general education courses, an online bridge course, and a nursing transition course prior to taking the final year of nursing courses.
Advanced placement is also an option for students who do not hold a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Any student may challenge courses, whether clinical or theory.
Online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This online RN to BSN program is available to Registered Nurses currently licensed in Connecticut who want to earn their BSN degree. To graduate, students will complete at least 125 credits, and must finish the program within four years of starting.
Through the Connecticut State Articulation Model, students may apply for advanced placement credit to be applied toward their BSN. Graduates of the SVC associate degree program may earn up to 84 credits as follows: 36 credits for General Education, 36 credits for Nursing, and 12 credits for additional courses taken either at St. Vincent’s or at another school.
Students that graduated from an associate degree program at another school may also earn up to 36 Nursing credits and 48 General Education credits, for a total of 84.
Graduates of a diploma program may earn up to 30 General Education and 30 Nursing credits, for a total of 60.
All courses must have a grade of C or higher and must be equivalent to a class from SVC for the credit to transfer.
Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
All students in the SVC nursing program must be CPR certified each year, and proof must be submitted each fall semester. Students may take the course offered throughout the year at SVC at their own expense.
RN Refresher Certificate
SVC offers an RN Refresher Certificate for RNs who wish to return to acute care practice after being away from it. This is a 152 hour, seven week program that will reinforce previously learned skills, update advances in technology and practices, and provide hands-on practice in a nursing skills lab and a clinical setting.
This program is open to anyone with a current Connecticut RN license. Students must apply to the Continuing Education Office of St. Vincent’s College.
Contact:
Saint Vincent’s College
2800 Main Street
Bridgeport, CT 06606
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Southern Connecticut State University Nursing School Review
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) enrolls almost 12,000 students each year, yet their student to faculty ratio is just 15 to 1, giving them a small college feel. Southern began as a two year teacher training school in 1893, and became a four year institution in 1937. It gained its current name in 1983 and was made part of the state’s University System.
The Nursing Program is part of the College of Health and Human Services.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN nursing program at Southern has been in place since 1969 and is National League for Nursing accredited. The traditional BSN program requires students to complete 128 credits to graduate, at which time they will be allowed to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
To apply for the 4-Year Traditional Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree program, students must first complete 11 prerequisite courses in the subjects of English Composition, Statistics, Math, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Physics. Students must have a 3.0 GPA or higher in these courses to enter the program. It should take the first two years of study, including summer, for students to complete these prerequisites.
Once a student is admitted into the undergraduate nursing BSN program, it will take four years to complete it from start to finish on a full time basis. The BSN program may be taken full time or part time, and students are admitted once a year.
Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) BSN
The ACE program is for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study, who now want to earn their BSN. As long as the requirements listed above have been met, this intensive program takes 12 months to complete.
Due to the high demand for this program, only the first 120 students that apply each year will be considered for admission. Students must have a 3.0 GPA to apply.
RN to BSN
This program has a flexible admission policy for RNs who have graduated from an associate degree or diploma program, and who want to earn their BSN.
Students will be granted 30 credits from prior education in accordance with the Connecticut Articulation Agreement, plus additional credit for equivalent courses if they have any. Students may also challenge certain general education courses and test out of them for credit. Associate degree students may transfer a maximum of 75 credits, diploma students up to 63 credits, and those who were in a 4 year program up to 90 credits.
Students must take the prerequisites of English Composition, Statistics, Math, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Statistics with a grade of C+ or better to apply for the program.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program allows students to continue professional growth and apply theory and knowledge, provide leadership, and conduct research.
Students must be a licensed RN with a BSN degree to apply. Applicants must submit an essay and letters of reference. There are three MSN programs students may choose to study:
- Nursing Education – for nurses who wish to teach, this program requires 24 credits of core master’s classes and 18 credits of specialized nurse educator courses. Students must also complete a thesis or special project to graduate.
- Clinical Nurse Leader – this program requires 24 credits of core classes and 12 credits of clinical courses, plus 500 clinical hours of practice and a thesis or special project.
- Family Nurse Practitioner – this program requires 24 credits of core classes, 18 Family Nurse Practitioner specialization courses, and a thesis (6 credits) or a research project (3 credits). Students will also complete 660 hours of clinical practice.
Bridge Program
RNs that have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing can enter the MSN program through the Bridge Program. This is a flexible program with many online offerings in addition to traditional classes.
To apply, RNs must be currently licensed and demonstrate they have the skills of a BSN graduate by taking National League for Nursing challenge exams. They must also show proof of having taken Research, Statistics, and Health Assessment.
Post Master’s Certificates
SCSU offers Post Master’s Certificates for students who already hold an MSN degree. These are offered in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, and Clinical Nurse Leader. Students need to hold a current Connecticut RN license to apply.
The FNP Certificate takes two years, 27 credits of study, and 660 hours of clinical practice to complete, and qualifies graduates to take the nurse practitioner certification exam.
The Nurse Educator Certificate is a 9 credit option with 12 hours per week of clinical experience.
The Clinical Nurse Leader Certificate requires 6 credits of study to complete the program.
Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Nursing Education
This program is offered in collaboration with Western Connecticut State University and is the only one of its kind in Connecticut, and one of a few in the United States. It is designed to train nurses to be nursing faculty.
The program is mostly offered online, and also includes on campus residencies at the beginning of the program, after the first year, and after the second year of study.
Only 25 students are admitted into this program each year. Students must have a current RN license, an MSN degree, GRE or MAT scores, references, a resume, and personal statement. The program requires 51 credits of study including a dissertation.
Contact:
Southern Connecticut State University
501 Crescent Street
New Haven, CT, 06515
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Three Rivers Community College Nursing Program Review
Following a state legislature to merge community and technical colleges, Three Rivers Community College (TRCC) was formed. This was in 1992 when Mohegan Community College and Thames Valley State Technical College merged. The college picked the new name in reflection of its location around three rivers in Connecticut.
With a main campus on New London Turnpike, the college has other two satellite campuses in Ella and Groton in the effort to reach more communities and fulfill its mission as a community college. Three Rivers has almost 4000 enrolled students and over 2500 continuing education students in attendance every year.
Nursing Programs
The nursing program at Three Rivers Community College is offered under the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program (CT-CCNP). It is an innovative common program offered in six community colleges in the state. The admission requirements to get into the program are similar and the curriculum is also common. Students interested in the program must apply to their community college of choice and as such, take the nursing program from that particular college. The program also provides LPNs with a bridge program to make the transition into nursing. Accreditation for this common program is granted by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Associate of Science Degree in Nursing
Three Rivers community college is one of the six participating colleges that offer the CT-CCNP associate degree in nursing (ADN). The program is designed for both fresh-entry level students and also LPN to RN students.
This ADN program takes four semesters to complete after taking the prerequisite courses. Students must take 68 credits to graduate, with 38 of these as Nursing credits and 30 as General Education credits. The nursing program was individually approved by the Connecticut State Board of Examiners for Nursing.
The prerequisite courses for the Three Rivers nursing program are English with a grade of C or better, and Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of C+ or higher. Students must also have taken Math and Chemistry at the high school level or the college equivalent, must show computer proficiency, and have taken the TEAS test. Students must also have a 2.75 or better GPA in all prior college courses.
To apply, students submit an online application to CT-CCNP, stating Three Rivers Community College is their first choice of college to attend. The school will rank all applicants based on a combination of their TEAS score, GPA and grades in Anatomy and Physiology. Applicants will then be selected based on rank order for 75% of the open slots. The other 25% of the slots will be filled by random selection. Applicants that aren’t selected will be placed on a waitlist based on their rank, in case there is an opening.
Three Rivers offers required lab and clinical courses during the day, evenings, and weekends. Students will spend their clinical hours at various health care facilities in the area. Sites will be assigned by nursing faculty.
After graduation, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Graduation from the program does not guarantee an RN license.
*Note: Students interested in joining the program must apply to the community college they wish to study in. Admission into each college is independent though the selection criterion is similar. Students are also encouraged to indicate a 2nd choice college besides the primary First choice college. This second application is done in the same application form; therefore, students do not have to complete a second application form. This is meant to increase the chances of getting admission if other colleges do not get the required candidates from their selection basis.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Advanced Placement
The CT-CCNP follows the LPN Articulation Model of the Connecticut League of Nursing. LPNs that are currently licensed and meet all the CT-CCNP admission requirements may apply for articulation. In other words, For Connecticut based Licensed Practical nurses, advanced placement is allowed if they hold current Connecticut licenses. Eligible candidates are required to complete a Connecticut LPN Transition Bridge course which must be taken at Charter Oak State College. An additional CT-CCNP LPN Transition Course will also be required for students to receive advanced standing.
This LPN bridging provision is available to Connecticut LPN graduates while out of state transfer cases are only considered on a space availability basis. All evaluation for transfer eligibility is done by the college of first choice.
To enter the third semester of the associate degree program, LPNs must have completed the prerequisite General Education courses of Microbiology, Psychology, Life Span Development, and Sociology with a grade of C or higher, and must take two LPN Transition Bridge courses.
External Transfer Nursing Students
Students that have taken nursing courses at other schools may apply to transfer credit for them to CT-CCNP for advanced placement in the associate degree program.
Students must complete the CT-CCNP application for external transfer, as well as a request for credit evaluation. They must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better to be considered for the program. External transfer students are considered as space is available. To graduate from a CT-CCNP school, students must earn at least 25% of their credits at that school.
Continuing Education – Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
This is a 120 hour program to teach individuals the skills required to give basic care to patients. Graduates of the course will be qualified as Home Health Aides and will have their names placed on the State Certified Nurse Aide Registry.
To apply, students must pass a Math and English comprehension test, or provide proof of college level courses. Students must also have a high school diploma and TB test within the last year.
Continuing Education – Patient Care Technician
This program is made up of one month of twice a week classes and one month of twice a week clinical practice. Students will learn to give direct care, monitor vital signs, and record patient information.
Students must be a certified CNA with at least 3 months of work experience in the field. They must also provide immunization records and have a TB test within the last year.
Health Career Pathways Certificate Program
This program provides students with a foundation to begin their healthcare career. Students will take courses in Biology, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Chemistry, Algebra, and English. Credits earned in this program may be applied toward healthcare program requirements at any member of the Community College system of Connecticut. This program requires 28 credits to complete.
Educational Advancement for CT-CCNP Graduates
Graduates of Three Rivers Community College and all others of the CT-CCNP program have the choice of taking advantage of the articulation agreements that exist with 4-year BSN programs. Agreements have been made between Three Rivers Community College for graduates wishing to take the RN to BSN degrees at:
- Southern Connecticut State University
- Fairfield University
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (Online Program)
- Saint Joseph College
- Sacred Heart University
- University of Hartford
- Western Connecticut State University
- St Vincent’s College
Two more has articulation agreements for those seeking a direct RN to MSN are available at:
- Yale University School of Nursing
- Sacred Heart University
Contact:
Three Rivers Community College
574 New London Turnpike
Norwich, CT 06360
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University of Connecticut Nursing School Review
The University of Connecticut (Uconn) was founded as the Storrs Agricultural School in 1881. It became the University of Connecticut in 1939, and now enrolls over 22,000 students each year. Uconn is among the top 20 public universities in the country, according to US News and World Report.
The Uconn School of Nursing has been named as a Center of Excellence by the National League of Nursing (NLN). The academic nursing programs at the school are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate College Nursing of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Commission (AACN).
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing
This program is for students wishing to enter the field of nursing. The first four semesters are spent building an educational foundation with general education and science courses. Most of the nursing courses will be taken during the last four semesters, along with the clinical coursework. To graduate, students must earn at least 127 credits and have a GPA of at least 2.5. Graduates of the program may sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensure exam.
Master of Science (MS) in Nursing
The MS program prepares nurses to become advanced practice specialists. Core classes of the MS program are offered either in classrooms or online. Students may complete the program full time or part time. Applying to UCONN Graduate School can all be accomplished online.
The MS program offers the following specialty tracks for the MS degree:
- Adult/Gero Acute Care – this 45 credit program prepares graduates to take the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification.
- Adult/Gero Primary Care – this program is 47 credits, and allows graduates to take the Adult Nurse Practitioner exam for certification.
- Clinical Nurse Leader – students will take a minimum of 34 credits to graduate, and be allowed to take national board certification.
- Family Nurse Practitioner – this program requires 47 credits and allows students to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification.
- Neonatal Acute Care – after completing 43-45 credits, students may sit for the Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist exam.
Post-Master’s Certificates
RNs with MS degrees can pursue an area of clinical concentration with a Post-Master’s Certificate. To apply, students must have a 3.0 GPA from their MS program.
The three Post-Masters Certificates available at UConn are Adult Acute Care, Adult Primary Care, and Neonatal Acute Care.
RN to MS
Self-directed students with an associate degree or diploma in nursing and a current RN license may apply to the RN to MS program. Students will take a combination of General Education courses, Nursing courses, and RN to MS courses.
To be eligible, students must start the program within six years of graduating from their RN program. Students may transfer general education credits from their previous education provided they earned a C or higher. They will also earn at least 30 nursing credits and up to another 30 credits, per the state articulation agreement.
Masters Entry into Nursing (MEIN)
This is a three year program for students who hold a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. The first year is devoted to learning basic nursing skills, and at that point students will be awarded a basic nursing certificate and be allowed to take the RN license exam. During the next two years, students will take the required nursing courses and earn both a bachelors and a masters degree.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
UConn has the first DNP program in Connecticut. This program supports nursing professionals that prefer a non-research based doctoral program. This program takes nine semesters to complete if taken full time.
The specialties available in the DNP program are:
- Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner: Acute Care
- Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner: Primary Care
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Acute Care: Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Neonatal Acute Care: Nurse Practitioner
BS to DNP
Students that hold a BS degree in nursing and want a career in advanced practice nursing (APRN), as a Nurse Executive, or as clinical faculty may apply to the DNP. This program has the same specialties available as the traditional program.
Post Master’s DNP
The Post Master’s DNP is the highest degree of professional expertise and allows students to specialize in an individual area. Students must have an MS degree in Nursing and certification in their specialty. This course of study is two years if taken full time.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD program in nursing prepares nurse leaders to pursue quantitative and qualitative research methods and advance the scientific body of knowledge of nursing. To enter the program, students must have at least a bachelor’s degree and a 3.25 GPA.
This is a three year program if taken full time.
BS to PhD
Students with a BS in nursing can apply to the PhD in nursing program. This program is for nurses who wish to specialize in research, public policy, nursing philosophy, and theory. They must have a 3.25 GPA and be eligible for RN licensing in Connecticut.
Study Abroad
The School of Nursing has a Study Abroad program to allow students to immerse themselves in clinical experiences in another culture. Most programs require a GPA of 2.5 or higher to apply, and nearly all of them are open to juniors and seniors, with many open to sophomores. Students may apply for this program online.
Urban Service Track
The Urban Service Track is dedicated to training skilled health care workers to care for the underserved populations of Connecticut. Participants come from the School of Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine, and Dental Medicine. Known as Urban Health Scholars, they are eligible for financial assistance and scholarships. Interested students may apply to the University of Connecticut Health Center.
Contact:
University of Connecticut
115 North Eagleville Road
Storrs-Mansfield, CT 06269
Tel: (860) 486-2000
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University of Hartford Nursing School Review
In 1957, three schools merged to become the University of Hartford (U of H). The school has grown from a commuter college to a large residential university serving the Hartford community. The University of Hartford enrolls over 7000 students each semester, and offers over 80 undergraduate and over 30 graduate majors.
Nursing Programs
Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program is for the RN who wishes to earn their BSN degree and further their nursing education. The BSN program does not accept freshmen. This part time program is designed to meet the needs of working students. Classes are offered once a week in late afternoon or evening. Students are also encouraged to take equivalent courses at community colleges when convenient. However, they will need to take their final 30 credits at University of Hartford.
Students with an associate degree or diploma in nursing may transfer into the University of Hartford. They will be granted 60 credits or more toward their BSN program. This program generally takes students two to three years to complete.
To be eligible to apply, students must have a current RN license and have earned a C grade or higher in all previous nursing classes.
Master of Science (MS) in Nursing
The MS in Nursing program has three areas of focus, listed below. To be eligible to apply, students must have a BSN degree from an accredited institution, a current RN license or be eligible for one, and one year of RN work experience. They must also submit their professional goals and a resume, letters of recommendation, and have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.
MS in Nursing – Nursing Education Focus
This program is designed for nurses who wish to pursue a career in education. The focus is on curriculum development and theories of learning and teaching. Students may take this flexible, 34 credit course of study part time while they continue working. Most students complete the program in two to four years.
MS in Nursing – Nursing Management Focus
The Nursing Management program is for nurse leaders and managers who work in acute and long term care facilities. The program requires 34 credits to complete, and focuses on leadership and administration as it pertains to nursing. The program may be personalized for each student to fit their goals, and generally takes two to four years to complete.
MS in Nursing – Public Health Focus
This program is for nurses who have roles in public health departments, global health care, and a variety of school and occupational health settings. Graduates focus on public health care policy and theory. This is a 34 credit program that takes from two to four years to complete, depending on how many classes students wish to take at one time. The program may be personalized to fit each student’s career goals.
Post Masters Certificate in Teaching for Nurses
This is a 12 credit program to train nurses as confident nurse educators. Students in this program already have an MS degree in Nursing, and are interested in becoming faculty at a nursing school or educating a specific patient population. This program may be started in either the fall or spring semester.
Project Horizon
This community outreach project is part of the Center for Health, Care and Well-Being. Nursing students have been offering health and education services to schools, neighborhood agencies and the homeless for over 25 years.
Volunteers give four to six hours per week and attend a class focused on cultural issues, diversity, and family values.
Contact:
University of Hartford
200 Bloomfield Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117
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Western Connecticut State University Nursing School Review
Western Connecticut State University (WestConn, or WCSU) was founded over 100 years ago and has two campuses in Danbury, CT. These campuses, which are 3 miles apart, are the Midtown and West Side campuses. WCSU is a public, liberal arts university. It enrolls over 6,000 students each semester to join its various courses. The student to faculty ratio is 16 to 1, so students will be assured to receive personalized attention.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing
The BS in Nursing program is for the beginning nurse. The program accepts 60 students each year, and offers small class sizes and one of the highest pass rates for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam in Connecticut.
Students begin as pre-nursing majors, and then are admitted to the nursing program beginning their sophomore year. To be eligible to apply, students must have completed or be currently taking Writing, Communications, Psychology, Sociology, Chemistry, and Math. They must have a 2.5 GPA or better.
Students must earn a C grade or higher in all nursing courses to remain in the program. To graduate, students will need to take a minimum of 125 credits.
RN to BS Program
This program is for RNs that have graduated from associate degree or diploma programs and who want to earn their BS degree in Nursing. To graduate from Western, students need to have taken a minimum of 30 credits or one half of the required courses for their major, whichever is greater, at the University. This program may be taken full time or part time.
Students with an RN license will receive up to 75 transfer credits toward their degree. Those that completed the associate degree in nursing are eligible to earn additional transfer credit up to 75 credits, and those who attended a four year college may earn up to 90 credits that can be applied to general education, elective, or major classes.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
This program is designed for nurses who want to prepare for a role in leadership, education, or management. Courses are offered in the evenings, and this program will take about four years to complete part time. Students must complete their degree program within six years of starting the program.
The MSN program has two specialty areas, and each one requires a minimum of 36 credits to complete.
The Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) specialty requires an additional 540 hours of clinical practicum study to complete. Students that successfully finish this course of study may take the national certification exam.
The Advanced Nursing Practice: Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) specialty is a clinical based program with more elective choices.
All MSN students are required to complete a thesis project.
Post-Master’s Adult Nurse Practitioner
This program gives adult nurse practitioners with an MSN degree the preparation to take the certification exam for adult nurse practitioners. To take this program students must have taken Advanced Clinical Pharmacology or be licensed as an advanced practice registered nurse in Connecticut or New York, and must have had continuing education or skills testing in the last 5 years.
Doctoral Preparation for Nurse Educators (EdD)
This program is the result of a collaboration between Western Connecticut State University and Southern Connecticut State University, and is designed to address the shortage of qualified nursing faculty. Aimed at MSN graduates with clinical experience, this program teaches nurses to be effective faculty members.
The EdD program is taught online, and requires students to attend residencies on campus before the program starts, and in the summer after year one and year two. Students will take 51 credits including a dissertation to complete the course of study.
Contact:
Western Connecticut State University
181 White Street
Danbury, CT 06810
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Yale University Nursing School Review
Yale University can trace its history back to 1701, when a college for arts and sciences was started. Renamed Yale College in 1718, the school has grown until present day, with over 11,000 students enrolled. Yale has been called the most beautiful urban college in America.
Yale School of Nursing (YSN) was founded in 1923, and was the first university program to train nurses in an educational setting, as opposed to an apprenticeship program.
Nursing Programs
Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN program trains students to become clinician-scholars in selected specialties and in research. This program is preparation for a wide variety of leadership roles.
To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree. They may already be a Registered Nurse (RN), or have no previous nursing experience. Those that are already licensed RNs can complete the program in two years if taken full time. There is also a part time study option available. Students will take a minimum of 40 credit hours to complete the program.
Students who have bachelors degree but no previous nursing experience can enter the Graduate Entry Pre-Specialty in Nursing (GEPN). This is a full time course of study, and takes two years plus a summer semester to complete. GEPN students will be qualified to sit for the RN licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) after their first year of study. GEPN students will take 80.9 credits to complete their degree, which includes the nursing courses required for the licensing exam.
The MSN program offers the following specialties:
- Adult Advanced Practice Nursing (AAPN) – offers tracks in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Acute/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Oncology Nurse Practitioner.
- Adult-Gerontological, Family, and Women’s Health – focuses on caring for diverse populations. Students will be prepared to take the certification exam for the specialization track they studied.
- Nurse-Midwifery – prepares nurse-midwives to provide care to women. Graduates will be eligible to take the American Midwifery Certification Board exam.
- Nursing Management, Policy and Leadership (NMPL) – this part time, online program prepares nurses to engage in management and think strategically.
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) – students learn to provide care to children and adolescents. After graduation, students may apply for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certification.
- Psychiatric-Mental Health – prepares students to provide mental health care to patients at all stages. Graduates may apply to be psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners.
Post Master’s Certificates (Post-M.S.N.)
To apply for this program, students must have a current RN license, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, a master’s in a clinical specialty, and at least one year of clinical experience after completing their master’s degree. Students will submit an application, resume, personal statement, MSN transcript, and letters of recommendation.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program
The PhD program focuses on the research of health systems, clinical settings, and health care policy. This program is run by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Yale.
Students in this program must complete 12 core PhD courses, plus six courses in their specialization area. Students may take specialization courses in nursing or in a subject related to their dissertation.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This program is for nurses in their mid-career who want to participate in the decision making process in health care systems. Applicants must hold an MSN in a related field and be licensed as an RN or advanced practice nurse.
This program may be completed in one year if taken full time, or two years if part time. The program is 38 credits, including a Capstone project.
Post-Doctoral Program
This program is designed to prepare nurses to perform research in health management and the risk of developing certain health conditions. PhD program students will be invited to apply for the Post-Doctoral program if their research is in line with the program.
Students also have two other opportunities for post-doctoral work: Fellows, which are funded by an outside source, or Associates, which are Yale funded grants.
Joint Degrees
The university offers a joint degree between nursing and divinity. Students may either earn an MSN and a Master of Arts in Religion (MAR), or an MSN and a Master of Divinity (MDiv). The first option is a three year program (four for GEPN program students), and the second option is a four year program (five for GEPN). Potential applicants need to meet with the MSN specialty director and the associate dean for academic affairs to determine if their program will work. Students in the Nurse-Midwifery specialty are not eligible for this program.
Students may also pursue a joint degree in nursing and public health. They will earn an MSN and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in three years, or four if they are GEPN students. Students must apply to both the School of Nursing and the School of Public Health. Students in the Nurse-Midwifery specialty are not eligible for this program.
Students may earn an MSN and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in three years, or four if they are in the GEPN program. Applicants must meet with the master’s program chair and the associate dean of academic affairs to determine if this program will work before they apply.
Contact:
Yale University
38 Hillhouse Avenue
New Haven, CT 06511
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Adams State University Nursing School Review
Adams State University (ASU), previously known as Adams State College, was founded as a teachers’ college in 1921. Serving Southern Colorado as a small, public liberal arts school, Adams State currently enrolls about 3700 students a semester.
Nursing Programs
Both of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs offered at Adams State are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
BSN – Traditional Degree Program
The traditional BSN program is a four year degree. Students take prerequisite courses and apply to the program at the end of their first year. They are generally accepted into the program and start their nursing courses at the beginning of their second year. This is a pre-licensure program. After graduation, students will be eligible to take their state licensing exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs)
To apply for the BSN program, students must have been accepted at Adams State and have a 3.0 GPA in their general education courses and their nursing prerequisite courses. Final acceptance into the program depends on maintaining a 3.0 average through the first semester of the sophomore year. Students must be computer literate. Prior to applying, students need to have completed Basic Nursing Skills or a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. In addition, they must submit a resume, a background check, an autobiographical 500 word essay, and provide two recommendation letters from former employers, instructors, coaches, or members of the clergy.
The prerequisite courses required for admission into the BSN program are English, Psychology, Sociology, Statistics, Math, Nutrition, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, History and Humanities. All courses must have a minimum grade of C- or better, except for the Math, Statistics and Science classes, which must have a C or better.
RN to BSN Degree Program
RNs wishing to obtain their bachelors degree may apply to the RN to BSN program. Students will get credit for coursework completed while working toward their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and will take upper level nursing and general educations courses to complete their BSN at ASU.
To apply to the RN to BSN program, students must be currently licensed as RNs and have a minimum 2.5 GPA in their previous coursework. It is recommended that students apply to the program after or near their ADN graduation.
Along with their application and official transcripts, students will need to submit a copy of their RN license, a background check and an essay on honesty, initiative and empathy, 500 words long.
To graduate, students must have their RN license and have 34 hours of RN transfer credits, 36 hours of nursing major courses, 50 hours of supporting and general education course, for a minimum of 120 hours.
San Luis Valley Center for Clinical Excellence
The San Luis Valley (SLV) Center for Clinical Excellence is a joint nursing educational program for Adams State College, Trinidad State Junior College, San Luis Valley Regional Medial Center, and Valley Wide Health Systems. The center provides educational resources for students of nursing as well as experienced nurses already practicing. It was designed to help qualified nurses graduate, and to improve the quality of healthcare in the San Luis Valley.
Contact:
Adams State College,
208 Edgemont Blvd.,
Alamosa, CO 81101
Tel: (719) 587-7011
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Aspen University Nursing School Review
Founded in 1987, Aspen University is committed to helping students get ahead with superior, affordable education. Aspen University has always been an online university, and was the first accredited school to have an online MBA program. Aspen University prides itself on offering online course programs that let students pursue their education on their own schedule while leading busy lives.
All courses at Aspen University are held online, and there are no set class times, so students may “attend class” at any time and from any location that is convenient for them. Students attend Aspen from all 50 states and from around the world. Students log into class via the Internet, and participate in the course discussions. Instructors can be reached by email and through the online class discussions.
Nursing Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN program at Aspen University is part of the College of Health Professions and Studies, and is designed to prepare nurses for leadership positions in management, education, and clinical settings. Courses are held online for students’ convenience, and clinical practicum courses are performed under direct supervision.
Aspen University offers MSN specialties in nursing administration and management, and nursing education. The Master of Science in Nursing program at Aspen is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
The MSN program requires students to take 15 credits of core courses, 18 credits of Administration and Management, 18 credits of Nursing Education, and a 3 credit Capstone course. The Capstone course is a custom-designed course where students will come up with an individual, comprehensive nursing research project. Students are advised to choose a topic of professional or personal interest to research. The Capstone course has a 6 month time limit, and is intended to have students apply theories, and principles to an actual nursing related issue.
Students will also be required to take two proctored exams during the MSN program. One will be given at the midpoint of the program, and one at the end. Students will go to an approved testing center and take the four hour exam. Exams are made up of three essay questions, and are open book.
Registered Nurse (RN) to MSN Bridge Program
The online RN to MSN Bridge Program at Aspen University is designed to assist RNs who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and want to earn an MSN degree. Students will not receive a BSN degree during the program, but instead will graduate with an MSN in either nursing administration and management or nursing education.
Students begin the program by taking 21 credits of undergraduate nursing classes (bridge courses), to prepare them for the demands of the MSN program. Once they have completed these credits, students will move on to their specialty and complete another 36 credits of graduate courses. All classes will be completed online, and clinical practicum courses are done under the supervision of a mentor. Students will also be required to take two proctored exams at an approved testing center.
Students that take this program full time can complete it in as little as two years.
Other Health Care Programs
Aspen University also offers other programs in the College of Health Professions and Studies.
Psychology and Addiction Counseling
Aspen University offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Psychology and Addiction Counseling. To be allowed to take the National Certified Counselor Examination, the exam many states use as a licensing exam for counselors, students taking either program must complete a 540 hour practicum prior to graduation.
Physical Education and Sports Management
Aspen’s Master of Science in Physical Education and Sports Management will prepare students for careers in coaching and sports management.
Contact:
Aspen University
720 Colorado 2 #1150
Denver, CO 80246
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Colorado State University-Pueblo Nursing School Review
Colorado State University, Pueblo (CSU-Pueblo) was established in 1933 as a junior college, and became a four year university in 1965. The university enrolls 5000 students each semester and offers 26 bachelor degrees and six master degree programs.
Nursing Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Basic BSN)
The Basic BSNThe university enrolls 5000 students each semester and offers 26 bachelor degrees and six master degree programs. program was designed for the student who wishes to enter a nursing career and currently has no nursing license or prior degree. Students will complete a total of 120 credits, including 74 credits of nursing classes, to earn their BSN.
Students will study their first year at CSU-Pueblo as pre-nursing, then apply to the nursing program during their second year. To apply they must have a minimum 3.25 GPA for all courses, and must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better.
Graduates will be qualified to take the National Certification and/or Licensing Exam (NCLEX) to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Licensed Practical Nurses BSN Option (LPN-BSN)
The LPN to BSN option is for LPNs or others who have completed an accredited nursing program to earn their BSN degree. Per CSU-Pueblo’s articulation agreement, students may transfer 7 nursing credits to count toward their degree.
To apply to the program, students must supply a copy of their current nursing license, in addition to meeting the requirements listed for the Basic BSN program.
Registered Nurse to BSN Option (RN-BSN)
The RN to BSN option is for students who are working RNs and already hold an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing. They must also have a current license in nursing from the state of Colorado.
To develop their course of study, students will meet with an RN-BSN advisor. The program will be designed with the student in mind, and can be accelerated, full time, or part time. Course options will be standard, online, or a mixture of both.
Students admitted to this program will receive 33 transfer credits, and will take 43 credits of general education and 33 credits of nursing courses. Students enter the RN-BSN program as juniors.
Degree Plus to BSN Nursing Accelerated Option
The Degree Plus to BSN option allows students who have a non-nursing bachelors degree and no nursing license to pursue their BSN degree. This is a challenging, fast-paced program that allows students to complete their BSN and be eligible to take the RN licensing exam in just 14 months.
Students must meet with a pre-nursing advisor to develop their program. They will be expected to take a minimum of 30 hours of coursework at CSU-Pueblo.
Paramedic to BSN Accelerated Option
Paramedics who graduated from an accredited program may earn their BSN with the Paramedic to BSN accelerated option. This program focuses on applying theories and experience to increasingly complex situations.
Students must meet with a pre-nursing advisor to develop their program. They will need to take a minimum of 30 hours of classes at CSU-Pueblo.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (MS) – Nurse Educator
The MS – Nurse Educator program will prepare students to be college level faculty, teach in hospital based technical or nursing schools and be staff educators in health care facilities. Students must complete at least 360 contact hours of teaching, and complete the coursework over five to six semesters, if full-time. Students will then take two more semesters to work on either a thesis or research project. Graduates will have met the National League for Nursing Certification education requirements.
Post Master’s Nurse Practitioner to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The DNP program readies students to be experts in their advanced nursing area of expertise. This program has over 1100 hours of clinical immersion. Nurses in this program will be prepared for clinical practice at the highest level available in nursing. The DNP program has three emphasis programs available, listed below.
Adult/Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
The ACNP is a fast-paced program designed to prepare students to provide acute care for adult patients. It is expected that students will complete the coursework and a minimum of 570 clinical practice hours in five semesters while attending school full time. Graduates will be eligible to take the exam for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification.
Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Emphasis (ACNP-FNP)
The ACNP-FNP trains students to provide advanced care to all patients. It is a full-time, six semester program with over 1050 hours of clinical practice required. Graduates can take both the exam for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification and the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis (PMHNP)
The PMHNP program is to train nurses in advanced psychiatric and mental health care. This program is five to six semesters long when taken full time, and students are required to complete a minimum of 570 clinical practice hours.
Contact:
Colorado State University – Pueblo,
2200 Bonforte Blvd.,
Pueblo, CO 81001-4901
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Colorado Mesa University Nursing School Review
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) was founded in 1925, and was previously known as Mesa State College (MSC) until it was officially renamed in 2011. CMU has over 8100 students enrolled, and offers over 90 programs of undergraduate study. Almost 75% of all students are enrolled are attending school full time, and are traditional-aged students.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN program is structured to prepare graduates to practice as Registered Nurses (RNs) after passing the state licensing exam.
To graduate students must complete a minimum of 126 semester hours, 68 of which will be nursing courses. A minimum of 28 of these must be taken at CMU (for transfer students). Students must have a 2.0 GPA or higher in all coursework.
The BSN program is typically four to five years long for full time students, depending on whether they take classes during the summer semester or not.
Online RN to BSN Program
The RN to BSN program at CMU is an online program for Registered Nurses (RNs) with an associate degree to earn their bachelors degree. Designed for the working nurse, RNs can complete this program full time over the course of a year, or part time in two years. Courses can be completed online or in a more traditional classroom setting.
According to the Colorado Articulation model, CMU may award RNs a total of 38 transfer credits for previous nursing education. An advisor will determine what courses will still need to be taken.
Students may apply to the program if they have a current Colorado RN license, proof of their CPR for the Caregiver certification, and a background check.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-BSN
LPNs may challenge Nursing Diagnosis/Medical Terminology for credit. They must also get IV certification before applying to the program. Otherwise, they will need to take the rest of the courses in the BSN program.
Practical Nursing (PN)
CMU encourages students interested in nursing careers to become LPNs, work as a nurse, and then continue their education. The PN program prepares students to take the state LPN licensing exam, and to be primary caregivers. After obtaining their LPN license, students may pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or their BSN.
To apply to the PN program, students must first be accepted into CMU and show they have reading and writing skills at a college level.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (LPN-AAS)
The LPN to AAS program (LPN to ADN) allows students to continue their education path to graduate with an AAS degree, take the state licensing exam and become RNs. The program is three semesters of study for those who are already LPNs.
To apply, students must have graduated from a state approved LPN program, have passed LPN licensing exam, and have a current LPN license in the state of Colorado. They must also show they have worked as an LPN within the last six months, have their IV certification, and have current certification for CPR for the Professional Caregiver.
Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology
The two year program involves classes and clinical practice, and will prepare the student to graduate with an AAS degree and be allowed to take the national registry exam for certification as a Registered Technologist (RT). Graduates will be qualified for basic duties in radiology.
Admission to the program is limited due to the amount of clinical facilities in the area. Applicants are recommended to have taken high school or college level courses in Biology, Physics and Chemistry before applying. Students will be selected for the program based on their Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test (HOBET) scores, academic preparation, aptitude, and number of program slots available.
To continue with the program, students need to maintain a GPA of 2.0, and must earn a 2.0 or higher grade in each Radiologic Technology course they take.
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Radiologic Technology
The BAS program in Radiologic Technology allows students with an AAS to earn their bachelor’s degree and become certified in one or more additional specialty areas. To apply for the program, students must have graduated from the AAS program and be certified as an RT. If students have completed a certificate program and not an AAS, they must contact the program director for consideration.
Students must apply to both CMU and the Radiologic Technology program to be considered. The BAS program takes approximately four full time semesters to complete, and students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better. The specialty fields students may pursue include CT, MR, Mammography and Cardio/vascular Imaging.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-1)
The EMT-1 program will train students to administer care to patients at accident scenes and while transporting them in an ambulance. The EMT-1 program requires an application to CMU and the EMT program, a high school diploma or equivalent, letters of recommendation, CPR certification, and an interview. After admission to the program, students will need to pass a background investigation to be allowed to continue.
The EMT-1 program requires 10 semester hours of classes, and 195 hours of time in an ambulance or emergency room. Graduates of the program may take the state or national certification test to become Registered Emergency Medical Technicians.
Emergency Medical Responder
The Emergency Medical Responder program is for students wishing to become certified as Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Responders (NREMR). Students must take the three hour First Responder course, and do not need to apply to CMU.
Paramedic
To enter the Paramedic program, students must be currently certified as EMTs and must maintain this certification throughout the program. Students will work toward either a Certificate or Associate of Applied Science degree.
When applying for the AAS degree program, students must indicate whether they are applying for the traditional (classroom) or hybrid (online and classroom) program.
After graduation, students will be able to take the exam to become certified as paramedics.
The Paramedic program is a two year course of study if taken full time. Students must apply to both CMU and the Paramedic program. They must also take the HOBET test, and submit letters of reference, a copy of their EMT certification, and CPR certification.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN degree prepares students to become leaders in the field of nursing. The program has an emphasis either in Advanced Nursing Practice or Nursing Education.
This degree program is for RNs who have a BSN. To apply students must have a current RN license, a 3.0 or better in their undergraduate nursing courses, submit transcripts and letters of recommendation, submit an essay about nursing, and complete an interview if required.
Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to remain in the program. The MSN program is expected to take four years, and requires a thesis or research project.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-Family Nurse Practitioner
The DNP degree allows students to become Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP). The program takes six years to complete and requires over 1000 hours of clinical practice, as well as completion of a research project. Students are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA or better to remain in the program.
To apply to the DNP program, students must have a BSN, have an RN license, have a GPA of 3.0 or better in undergraduate nursing classes and any prior graduate coursework, submit transcripts and letters of recommendation, submit an essay about nursing, and complete an interview if required.
Contact:
Colorado Mesa University
1100 North Avenue
Grand Junction, CO 81501-3122
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Metropolitan State University of Denver Nursing School Review
Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSUD, Metro State, or MSU Denver), previously called Metropolitan State College of Denver (MSCD), has been serving students in downtown Denver since 1965. Currently Metro State enrolls 24,000 students, and nearly 80% of alumni remain in the Denver area or in Colorado.
Though it is one of the largest public colleges in the nation, Metro State prides itself on small class sizes and accessible staff. The school offers three campus locations, and weekend, evening, and online classes to meet the needs of busy students.
Nursing Programs
Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Completion Option (BRNCO)
The BRNCO is structured for students who have completed an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and are licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). The program admits students yearly in the Fall semester. After prerequisites are met, the program is a one year course of study if taken full time, or two years if taken part time.
In order to be eligible to apply, students must be admitted to MSU Denver, have a diploma in nursing or an ADN degree, a current RN license, and should have taken a Statistics course prior to admission to Metro State. If they have not taken Statistics, they will have to take it during their first semester in the program.
The application for the BRNCO program requires completion of a total of 39 credits of General Education classes in Multi-Cultural Health Care, English, Math, Communications, History, Arts, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences.
In order to graduate, students will need to have completed a minimum of 120 credits, including the up to thirty hours transferred from their ADN degree or prior qualified nursing education.
This program has been continually accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) since1976.
The BRNCO program is also offered at the campus of Front Range Community College, through Metro State’s Extended Campus program. The program admits students once a year in the Fall semester, and is a two year, part time program, offering classes on Wednesdays.
Accelerated Nursing Option (ANO)
The ANO is a second degree program, geared toward students with a non-nursing related bachelor’s degree. Students are admitted once a year in the Spring semester. This is a 17 month long program over four consecutive semesters, including summer. This program requires classroom time, labs, and clinical rotations, and students should expect assignments during the day, evening, and on weekends. Graduates will receive a BSN and will be allowed to take the licensing exam to become an RN (NCLEX-RN).
Metro State has a competitive admissions process, and looks at students’ prior GPA, academic experience, work and volunteer experience, certifications, honors, a personal essay, and resume. In addition, students will need to pass a drug test and background check.
Prerequisite courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, Nutrition, Human Growth and Development, and Clinical Pathophysiology must be completed with a 2.5 GPA or higher.
The ANO program has been accredited by the NLNAC and approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing.
Department of Health Professions
In addition to the Department of Nursing, Metro State offers other health care related programs in the Department of Health Professions. The department offers majors in Health Care Management, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Integrative Therapeutic Practices, and Recreation Professions. As an alternative, students may take these subjects as a minor degree program to complement another major. The department also offers minors in Pre-Healthcare and Gerontology.
Contact:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
1201 5th Street
Denver, CO 80217
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Otero Junior College Nursing Program Review
Otero Junior College (OJC) was founded in 1941. It is a highly reputable and affordable institution for students to begin their journey in higher education or to earn a degree. Over 97 percent of OJC students continue on to a four year college or gain employment after graduation.
Nursing Programs
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN program is structured to give students the education and practical knowledge to become practicing nurses. Upon graduation, students will earn their Applied Science Degree (AASN), and be eligible to sit for the state licensing exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
To be eligible to apply, students must apply to OJC and take the prerequisite courses of Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, and Human Growth and Development. These courses must all be completed with a grade of 2.5 or higher.
After completing the prerequisites, students may apply to the nursing program by submitting an online application and passing a background and drug test.
The ADN program is a two year course of study if taken full time. Students may take the traditional program (daytime classes) or the non-traditional program (evening and weekend classes). The program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and approved by the Colorado Community College System.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may apply for entry into the second year of the ADN program by completing the prerequisites listed above and providing a copy of their LPN license, in addition to their LPN course transcripts. They also must complete the LPN to RN Transition course with a grade of C or higher.
Practical Nursing
LPNs provide patient care under the direct supervision of a doctor or RN. They may also supervise nursing assistants and aides. The Practical Nursing certificate program at OJC offers students the chance to earn a Certificate of Practical Nursing and take the state licensing exam to become an LPN.
Students must have completed the prerequisite courses of Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, and Human Growth and Development, with a GPA of 2.5 or better, to enter the ADN program. After completing the first two semesters of the ADN program, students may opt to leave the program and take the Transition to Practical Nursing. Upon completion, they will receive their Certificate of Practical Nursing. This program is offered full time with traditional daytime classes, or part time, with evening and weekend classes.
Nursing Assistant
OJC offers a Nursing Assistant program in cooperation with hospitals in the area. Students who complete this program will be qualified to work as nursing assistants in nursing care facilities, hospitals, and mental health facilities. Upon completion, students will be able to apply for state of Colorado Nurse Aide Certification.
The Nursing Assistant program is one semester long and requires two courses: Certified Nurse Aide Health Care Skills and Nurse Assistant Clinical Experience. It is recommended that students also take the Medical Terminology course.
Students may enter the program by registering at OJC and for the two required courses, listed above.
Medical Assistant
The Medical Assistant program trains students to handle the administrative and clinical functions that keep a medical office running smoothly. OJC has two programs for Medical Assistants: the Associate of Applied Science Degree, and Certificate Program.
The AAS degree program is two years in length and requires 60 hours of classes to complete. The Certificate program is one year long and requires completion of 30 hours of classes.
Contact:
Otero Junior College
1802 Colorado Avenue
La Junta, CO 81050
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Pueblo Community College Nursing Program Review
Pueblo Community College began as Southern Colorado Junior College in 1933. A series of name changes followed, and it became Pueblo Community College (PCC) in 1982. Today PCC is a state leader in health care education and offers over 50 associate degree programs. Besides the main campus in Pueblo, PCC has branch campuses in Freemont, Durango and Mancos, CO. The average age of the student body is 29 years old.
Nursing Programs
Associate of Applied Science Degree, Nursing (ADN)
The ADN program is designed for students who wish to begin a career in nursing. After completing the program, graduates will have an AAS degree, and be allowed to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
To be eligible to apply to the program, students must have basic math and reading skills, and have completed the prerequisites of English, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Human Growth and Development with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
To apply, students must take the TEAS exam, have a negative drug test, a successful background check, and complete CPR for Health Care Providers. They must also file a letter of intent with transcripts to the Nursing Department.
There is no waiting list for this program. If a student is not selected, they must apply again the following term.
The PCC Nursing Program is a full time program for the first year. After the first year, students may request to switch to part time (evenings and weekends) if the courses are being offered.
Students that already have completed courses to be a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may transfer up to 20 credits into the program, per the Colorado Articulation for non-PCC graduates. They will also need to take the Transition from LPN to ADN course, in addition to meeting the ADN requirements above.
The ADN program is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing, and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Practical Nursing
PCC has a program for students wishing to pursue a Certificate in Practical Nursing. To do so, they must begin the ADN program and successfully complete the first two semesters. At that point, they are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam for LPNs (NCLEX-PN). They may then leave the program, or continue working toward their AAS degree and eventual RN license.
Nurse Aide
The Nurse Aide Mini Certificate program qualifies students to work as an entry-level caregiver, such as a nursing assistant, nurse aide, attendant or orderly in home health care or in a health care facility.
Students that successfully complete the courses of Certified Nurse Aide Health Care Skills, Nurse Assistant Clinical Experience, and Advanced Nurse Aid Clinical will earn a Nursing Aide Certificate.
To apply for this mini certificate program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have basic English, Reading and Math skills, and complete a background check, drug screening, CPR training, and immunizations. They must also have malpractice insurance.
Psychiatric Technician
The Psychiatric Technician Certificate program prepares students to work in health care situations as a psychiatric caregiver. This program is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing.
Students must complete the prerequisites of Math and Basic Anatomy and Physiology, and any courses recommended by the PCC Basic Skills Assessment Test, before they can apply for the program.
Once they have finished the prerequisites, students may complete the application for the program. If not selected, they must reapply the following term.
After acceptance, students will complete 25 hours (two semesters) of coursework. Those who complete the program will be awarded a certificate and will be allowed to sit for the state licensing exam.
Contact:
Pueblo Community College
900 West Orman Avenue
Pueblo, CO, 81004
Tel: (719) 549-3200
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Regis University Nursing School Review
Regis University, a Jesuit school, was originally founded in 1877 in New Mexico. It was moved to Morrison, CO, in 1884, and settled into its current home in Denver in 1887. Regis currently enrolls 16,000 students and offers traditional classroom classes as well as online options for undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs.
The Loretto Heights School of Nursing is part of the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions (RHCHP).
Nursing Programs
Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN program at Regis is a four year program for those who have no prior nursing experience or degree. Applicants are chosen competitively based on academic performance, recommendations, writing skill, and healthcare and volunteer experience.
To graduate, students must complete 128 semester hours of general education, science, and nursing courses. Students will also have over 750 hours of clinical experiences to gain real life experience in health care facilities throughout the Denver area. After earning their BSN degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to earn their Registered Nurse (RN) license.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Students that have a non-nursing bachelors degree are eligible for the Accelerated BSN program. This full time, one year program requires over 750 hours of clinical practice and 57 semester hours of nursing courses. After completion of the program, students are eligible to take the state RN licensing exam.
CHOICE BSN
The CHOICE (Connecting Health Occupations with Innovative Curriculum and Experience) BSN program is for students who are currently working in health care and want to continue to do so while they earn their degree. Students do not have to have a degree prior to starting the program. Classes are offered two evenings per week with clinical rotations on the weekends, for six consecutive semesters. The program will be completed within two years.
RN-BSN Completion
The RN to BSN Completion program is for working registered nurses who want to keep working while completing their BSN. Registered Nurses can be awarded between 33 and 72 hours of credit based on their Registered Nurse (RN) license and previous coursework, per the Colorado Articulation Model. These hours are awarded upon completion of the student’s first practicum experience.
RN to Master of Science, Nursing (MS)
This program combines the RN-BSN program with the Master of Science in Nursing program to allow students to complete both their BSN and MS degrees. Classes are taken on campus or online, and can be taken in an accelerated, eight week format. The campus program meets once a week, and the online program has no set class time.
Students will first earn a BSN, and then the MS degree. In the master’s program, students will select a focus area of either management or education. Each focus area requires a 105 hour practicum class.
MS Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
Working RNs with a BSN may earn their master’s degree in Leadership in Health Care Systems, with a focus in either management or education. Classes are offered on campus or online, and can be taken in an accelerated, eight week format. The campus program meets once a week, and the online program has no set class time.
The program consists of 13 courses that will take about 24 months to complete.
MS Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
This program is for RNs who hold a BSN degree and who wish to pursue a career in providing family health care. Classes are offered on the main campus every other weekend. Students must take clinical courses beginning the second semester of the program. The clinical courses will total 630 hours, with half of those taken in the last semester of the program.
Part of the curriculum includes preparing for the national certification exam. This full time program can be completed in 22 months.
MS Nursing Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
This program is aimed at students with a BSN degree who are interested in a career in providing care for high-risk newborns. This program is two years long and classes are offered in traditional semesters and in eight week sessions. In addition, students will complete 630 clinical hours of study.
MS Completion for Certified Nurse Practitioners
This program is designed for RNs that already hold a bachelor’s degree, are certified as nurse practitioners, and don’t want to change their clinical specialty. The program offers areas of emphasis in ethics, theoretical frameworks, and policy and research. The program consists of at least 39 semester hours and has an optional thesis.
MS Degree in Nursing Articulation for Certified Nurse Practitioner
This program is for the already practicing nurse practitioner without an MS degree who wishes to pursue their MS as a Neonatal Nurse or Family Nurse Practitioner specialist. The program requirements will vary based on the student’s prior education, certification, and clinical practice. The program at a minimum requires 38 to 43 semester hours.
Post Master’s in Nursing Certificate Program
Designed for the MS graduate who wants to specialize in their nursing practice, the Post Master’s Certificate option offers the chance to become a health care educator or nurse practitioner without having to earn another MS degree.
The Health Care Education graduate certificate requires 12 hours of classes and takes one year to complete. The NNP or FNP specialization certificate takes 12 to 34 hours to complete, and graduates of the program are then allowed to take the national certification exam for their focus specialty.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The post-masters DNP program at Regis is offered entirely online, and focuses on advanced practice and leadership skills in order to offer service to underserved, vulnerable populations.
The DNP program has two areas of focus: Advanced Practice Nurse, and Advanced Leadership in Health Care. This online program is full time and takes six semesters to complete.
Contact:
Regis University
3333 Regis Boulevard
Denver, CO 80221
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