Radford University Nursing School Review
Radford University (RU) established in 1910 in Radford, Virginia, and took over a year to complete. In 1913, Radford University started its first session. Radford University is going to be expanding in the next several years, with plans currently in process for a 112,000 square-foot wellness center on the campus, which will be completed in 2013. In 2014, Radford University will be home to a 115,000 square-foot Center for the Sciences, which will house a lab and energy efficient classroom spaces.
Radford University’s School of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN), a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track (RN to BSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Radford University trains students to be able to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including; Physician’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes and home healthcare. Upon completion of the BSN program, graduates go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Radford University is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). For those wanting to remain in Southwestern Virginia after graduating and getting licensed, employees include LewisGale Medical Center, Medical Facilities of America, LewisGale Hospital Montgomery and the Veterans Administration in Salem, VA.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track (RN to BSN Program)
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Track is intended for Registered Nurses who wish to pursue a baccalaureate degree in nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is available online, as it is intended for working Registered Nurses.
Applicants to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track, must hold an associate degree or diploma and must have passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. Applicants must be Registered Nurses in Virginia and be accepted into Radford University. The Registered Nurse track can be completed in three semesters, and can also be completed on a part-time basis. Students need only attend Radford University campus twice per semester, and all other schoolwork can be completed online.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP)
Applicants to the Doctor of Nursing Program at Radford University must provide three letters of reference from professional contacts and three recommendation forms. Applicants must provide GRE scores and official transcripts from all prior higher-education institutions. Applicants must write a letter outlining career goals and why he or she is interested in the Doctor of Nursing Program.Applicants must also submit samples of prior academic writing as well as a resume including education and proof of clinical practice hours.
After the application has been sent in, individuals will be asked to submit all licenses and certifications and go through an interview process. Specializations in the Doctor of Nursing Program at Radford University include; Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery Initiative and Psychiatric Mental Health. Upon graduation from the Doctor of Nursing Program, graduates can go on to sit certification exams for the specific specialization as listed above. The Doctor of Nursing Program can be completed full-time or part-time and must be completed within eight years.
Contact:
Radford University
801 East Main Street,
Radford, VA 24141,
United States
(540) 831-5000
Sentara College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review
The Registered Nursing (RN) Program at Sentara College of Health Sciences (SCHS) is located in Chesapeake, Virginia and accepts applicants on a rolling basis for all of the Allied Health Programs. The nursing program at Sentara College of Health Sciences has an application deadline, dependent upon the deadline for the specific program start date. The population at Sentara College of Health Sciences is composed of 500 students and 40 faculty members. Sentara College of Health Sciences is spread over two campuses, with the main campus located in Chesapeake, Virginia and the distance-learning center in Hampton, Virginia.
Sentara College of Health Sciences now offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) with three tracks; Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track (LPN to BSN) and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track (RN to BSN). All of the tracks are located at both campuses.
Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is composed of 79 credits, which includes over 1000 clinical practicum hours. The program starts once every year in August and classes are taught Monday through Friday. Clinical practicum can be completed in the evenings and weekends if desired and testing is completed online if required.Upon graduation, students can apply to write the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. This examination is a requirement in order to practice nursing in the United States.
All applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED in order to be considered for admission into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Sentara College of Health Sciences also offers an early admission track for high school seniors to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)
The Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Sentara College of Health Sciences is composed of 67 semester credits, including 945 clinical practicum hours. In order to be admitted into the Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, applicants must hold Practical Nurse licensure. The program is taught between Monday and Friday and clinical practicum takes place during the week, and often during evenings and weekends. All testing can be completed online at the convenience of the student. Upon graduation from the program, students are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. When applying to the program as a Licensed Practical Nurse, students are given 13 credits to apply to the first semester. Two of the credits are clinical credits and the final credit is Care Partner.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program can be done on a full-time or part-time basis and is intended for nurses who are already licensed as a Registered Nurse and are interested in holding a baccalaureate degree. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program consists of 48 credits.
As a second-degree student into any of the nursing programs at Sentara College of Health Sciences, students must hold a “C” grade or above in all general education courses. General education courses are not available for completion at Sentara College of Health Sciences, so they must be completed elsewhere and transferred.
All nursing programs at Sentara College of Health Sciences are accredited by the national accreditor, Association of Independent Colleges and Schools.
Contact:
Sentara College of Health Sciences
1441 Crossways Boulevard,
Chesapeake, VA 23320,
United States
(757) 388-2900
Shenandoah University Nursing School Review
Shenandoah University (SU) is a small liberal arts university located in Winchester, Virginia. Shenandoah University is home to the Division of Nursing, which is the largest health division at the University. The nursing program was founded officially in 1962, when the Winchester Memorial Hospital decided to transfer its nursing program diploma to Shenandoah University. At initiation, the program was a two-year Associate of Science degree with a nursing major.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Shenandoah University offers three tracks in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program; Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Transfer Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track (RN to BSN). The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing track is a four-year program, which is for individuals interested in entering the nursing profession for the first time. The program is held at the Winchester Campus. The Transfer Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shenandoah University is for students who are transferring from another institution.
This program begins in the Fall or Spring semesters and takes five academic semesters to complete. In order to apply to this program, students must have completed all prerequisite courses and general education requirements.The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track is intended for students who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure. Students can complete this program via part-time or full-time study and after completing all prerequisite courses, students can complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing in two semesters full-time study.
Northern Virginia Campus is home to the Accelerate Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The accelerated degree program is 15 months long, and is intended for students who already hold a baccalaureate degree in another field and wish to change careers to nursing. The program is considered to be incredibly intense, so students should not be employed while undertaking the Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Shenandoah University.
Graduate Degrees in Nursing
Shenandoah University is home to several graduate degrees in nursing, including the Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing degree (RN to MSN), which has several different tracks including; Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Health Systems Management, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Nurse-Midwifery. The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing program at Shenandoah University is intended for students who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure, but do not hold a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Students must take 13 credits of undergraduate nursing Bridge Courses and 37-48 credits of graduate courses, which is dependent on their chosen specialty. Shenandoah University offers two graduate endorsement initiatives; the Midwifery Initiative and the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Initiative. Both of the initiatives are collaborative programs between Shenandoah University and participating schools.
Shenandoah University also offers post-masters certificate programs in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, and Psychiatric Mental Health.
Doctor of Nursing Program
The Doctor of Nursing Program (DNP) at Shenandoah University begins in August of every year and classroom lessons are scheduled on Wednesday and Thursday. Clinical placements are scheduled by the faculty and are at the convenience of the hospital or medical institution hosting the placement.The two streams of the Doctor of Nursing Practice include; the Post-Masters Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) stream.
Contact:
Shenandoah University
1460 University Drive,
Winchester, VA 22601,
United States
(800) 432-2266
Southside College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review
Southside College of Health Sciences (SCHS), located in Colonial Heights, Virginia is open to students over 18 years of age. If students are below 18 years old, he or she must be a high school graduate or hold a GED or high school equivalent. Southside College of Health Sciences applicants must hold specific program prerequisites and have graduated from a regionally accredited high school, or state-recognized homeschooling program. All of the programs have various entrance prerequisites that must be satisfied before students can be admitted into the programs at Southside Regional Medical Center.
The Nursing Program at the Southside College of Health Sciences offers an Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing Degree (AAS). Upon graduation from the Associate of Applied Science degree at the Southside Regional Medical Center Professional Schools, graduates can go on to apply to sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), in order to become a Registered Nurse (RN). After passing that examination, Registered Nurses go on to work in hospitals, physician’s offices, long-term care facilities, and several other health care institutions.
Admission Criteria
In order to be admitted to the Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing degree at Southside College of Health Sciences, applicants must be a Graduate of an accredited high school or GED (General Equivalency Diploma) and Successful completion of the following high school or college developmental courses with a “C” or better in Biology, Chemistry, Algebra and Algebra II.
*Pre-requisites only need to be taken at the college level if not taken in high school or did not receive a “C” or better.
A co-requisite is a college-level course incorporated into the program curriculum. These courses are not required to apply but highly recommended to take prior to applying. Co-requisites are to be completed at a regionally accredited institution. Southside College of Health Sciences does not offer co-requisites. See the college website for a complete list of co-requisite classes.
Pre-admission test (ATI TEAS) meeting a minimum score of 66%. Applicants may attempt to take the ATI TEAS test twice per admission cycle while allowing 15 days between attempts for remediation. The test will be administered remotely and the fee will be paid directly to ATI.
Attend an Information Session prior to the application deadline. Click here for dates and information.
Applicants who are not a U.S. citizen by birth must provide immigration or citizenship documentation. The school does not participate in the SEVIS program.
Negative complete criminal history and child protective screens.
Negative drug screen.
Admission Process
The admission process to the Southside Regional Medical Center Professional Schools is comprised of a personal interview and tour, an application form, and an application fee. Applicants must also submit all high school transcripts as well as transcripts from all post-secondary education. Applicants must also complete full health history and submit immunization records, which must include immunizations against measles, mumps, rubella, and Varicella.
Financial Aid
Financial Aid is available for individuals who are taking 12 or more credits per semester. Financial Aid is available to students who require it and comes in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, or a combination. Financial Aid is awarded on a needs basis, rather than on a scholastic aptitude basis and the amount varies, depending on the individual students’ needs. Scholarships, grants, and loans may be applied to the cost of attending Southside Regional Medical Center and are credited directly to the individual student’s account. In order to maintain financial aid throughout the duration of the program, individuals must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0, successfully complete 67% of all classes in which they are registered, and complete the program for which they have registered within 150% of the program length.
Contact:
Southside College of Health Sciences
430 Clairmont Court
Suite 200
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
804-765-5000
www.schs.edu
We’ll help you decide!
Thomas Nelson Community College Nursing Program Review
Thomas Nelson Community College (TNCC) is located in Hampton, Virginia, and is part of the system of community colleges. Thomas Nelson Community College serves Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg as well as the counties of James City and York. Thomas Nelson Community College offers associate’s degree programs for technical and paraprofessional workers, as well as programs for transfer to baccalaureate degree programs students. Diploma and certificate programs are also offered as well as industrial and continuing education programs.
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS)
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing at Thomas Nelson Community College is intended to educate individuals interested in entering the field of nursing for the first time and to begin educating individuals who are interested in going on to attend four-year nursing programs. Upon graduation from the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program from the Thomas Nelson Community College, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing Program at Thomas Nelson Community College is fully accredited by the NLNAC and approved by the Commonwealth of Virginia Board of Nursing.
Admission Process
Individuals interested in the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing Program at Thomas Nelson Community College must first apply to Thomas Nelson Community College, in order to enroll in the Pre-Nursing Curriculum. Individuals must then complete college placement tests and developmental courses required for admission. Applicants must then submit official high school and college transcripts and have completed all prerequisites, which include high school Algebra or Math 03 or higher. Applicants must also have completed high school level Chemistry with a grade “C” or above and high school equivalent biology and English, each with a “C” or higher. When applying to the nursing program, students must hold a 2.50 GPA or above and must complete the nursing entrance examination –the TEAS V test.
Certified Nurse Aide Program (CNA)
The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) program at Thomas Nelson Community College is a two-month program, for individuals 16 years of age or above. The two-month Certified Nurse Aide program prepares individuals to work in direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, long-term care facilities, and many more healthcare establishments. In order to become Certified Nurse aides, individuals must write the Virginia Nurse Aide Examination, after completing the program at Thomas Nelson Community College. Certified Nurse Aide usually works for a number of years, and then goes back to school in order to continue their nursing education by obtaining a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse licensure.
Individuals applying to the Certified Nurse Aide Program at Thomas Nelson Community College must have CPR certification and must have updated immunization records. Individuals applying must also complete a criminal background check and drug screening, prior to being admitted into the program.
Contact:
Thomas Nelson Community College
99 Thomas Nelson Drive,
Hampton, VA 23666,
United States
(757) 825-2864
Tidewater Community College Nursing Program Review
The Tidewater Community College Beazley School of Nursing opened in 1970 and graduated its first class two years later. Graduates of Tidewater Community College’s nursing programs go on to work in the state of Virginia and throughout the United States. The nursing program at Tidewater Community College (TCC) is located on the school’s Portsmouth campus and general education courses take place at any of the four campuses. The nursing program through Tidewater Community College, is also available at Eastern Shore Community College.
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Tidewater Community College offers a Certified Nurse Aide program, which prepares individuals 16 years of age and above, to work at the entry level in the profession of nursing. Many individuals work as Certified Nurse Aide’s and then go on to complete additional education in nursing, in order to advance in the workforce. Certified Nurse Aide’s work under the supervision of Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses.
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS)
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing is intended for students who wish to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. Graduates of the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at Tidewater Community College go on to work in hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and long-term care facilities, among many other health care institutions.
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program at Tidewater Community College takes five full-time semesters to complete and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission. All applicants to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program must attend a nursing information session and students are admitted in the fall semester and the spring semester.
Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Options (LPN to RN)
Tidewater Community College allows Licensed Practical Nurses to become Registered Nurses via two track options; articulation track or advanced placement track. The articulation track grants credits based on previous education in a Licensed Practical Nursing program. The Advanced placement track is intended for Licensed Practical Nurses, who have graduated from an accredited nursing program and have met the requirements for the Tidewater Community College Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program. Licensed Practical Nurses with work experience are the only individuals able to apply to this track of the program.
How to Apply
In order to apply to the nursing programs at Tidewater Community College, individuals must first apply for admission to the college and attend the Nursing Information Session. Individuals must then complete the Tidewater Community College entrance tests in Reading, English and Math. Individuals must have completed high school prerequisites with a minimum “C” grade or above, as well as Orientation to Health Care. Applicants must then complete the Nursing Math Diagnostic Exam or the Nursing Admission Assessment Exam and have a minimum GPA of 2.5.After filling out the nursing application through Tidewater Community College, individuals must then submit an official transcript from previous post-secondary education. Applicants to the Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse track do not need to sit the Nursing Admission Assessment Exam.
Applicants must also submit physical examination and laboratory testing as well as criminal history and sex offended and crimes against minors background checks. Applicants must also hold an up-to-date CPR license.
Tidewater Community College also runs a Certified Nurse Aide program, which is composed of 120 hours of in-class instruction and clinical practicum. Upon completing the Certified Nurse Aide program, students must sit the Certified Nurse Aide Exam for State certification in Virginia. In order to receive the final course certificate, students must have a “C” average.
Contact:
Tidewater Community College
121 College Place,
Norfolk, VA 23510-1938
University of Virginia Nursing School Review
The University of Virginia (UVA) was founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819 and is made up of eleven schools located in Charlottesville, Virginia. The College at Wise is located in southwest Virginia. The University of Virginia is home to over 50 bachelor’s degrees and over 80 master’s degrees as well as six educational specialist degrees, and law and medicine degrees, and over 55 doctoral degrees.
The School of Nursing at the University of Virginia offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nurse Practitioner (DNP), and a Ph.D. in Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Virginia is intended for students entering post-secondary education from high school for the first time. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program take courses in anatomy, physiology, growth and development, pharmacology, pathophysiology, administration, and nursing practice and upon graduation go on to sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Virginia is four years in duration.
The University of Virginia also offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN), which is intended for individuals who are already Registered Nurses and wish to complete baccalaureate education. The program can be completed in 21 months on a part-time basis and classes are offered one day every week, so that students can continue to work as a Registered Nurse and their employment is not disrupted. Students in this track must enroll in 30 credits and upon completion will receive 41 credits for being a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses with an undergraduate degree in a non-nursing field can apply for the Clinical Nurse Leader program, which grants students with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree after 41 credits have been completed.
Students in the BSN degree can also enroll in one or two classes on a non-degree basis as a non-degree, visiting student. MSN students can also enroll as visiting students, as can Doctoral students. The nursing programs at the University of Virginia also accept International Visiting Students for one semester or one academic year and enroll in courses that they can eventually transfer to their home country, so they are classified as exchange students.
Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing Program (MSN)
The Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing Program: Clinical Nurse Leader is intended for students who already hold a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field. Individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing are also able to apply to the Clinical Nurse Leader Program. The University of Virginia admits students every summer and the program is 24 months long on a full-time basis.
In order to be considered for admission into the Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of Virginia, individuals must hold a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a nationally accredited school and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate education. Individuals must also have completed prerequisites courses prior to enrolling in the Master of Science in Nursing program. The GRE is required for individuals with a 3.25 GPA or lower and individuals must submit three reference letters and a copy of his or her resume. Interviews are sometimes requested, so individuals should be prepared.
Other than the Clinical Nurse Leader Program, masters degree programs in nursing include the following specializations; Acute and Specialty Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader for RNs, Family Nurse Practitioner Program (FNP), Health Systems Management Track, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program, Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Program, Public Health Nursing Leadership Program, Public Health Nursing Leadership combined with Family or Pediatric and Nurse Practitioner Preparation. skill
MSN/MBA Joint Degree Program
The University of Virginia also offers a joint Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration option. The Dual MSN/MBA Program is a joint venture between the School of Nursing and the Darden Graduate School of Business Administration. This degree program will help enhance the management skills of health care leaders by using theoretical and practical training methods to advance the clinical and administrative abilities of the students.
Applicants can choose to complete the MSN courses only and therefore be awarded the MSN in Health Systems Management upon completion. These Health Systems Management Masters students will need to finish all the courses of the degree program through distance learning. There is the option of doing the courses on a part-time basis though. Those who wish to attend the MBA part of the program will need to do so on a full-time basis on campus at Charlottesville, Virginia.
Graduates of the MSN/MBA and MSN in Health Systems Management will academically be prepared for executive management roles in health care systems, and health care policy.
Certificate Programs
The University of Virginia offers certificate programs in the following; Acute & Specialty Care CNS Program, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program, Family Nurse Practitioner Program, Health Systems Management Program, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program, Psychiatric Mental Health Program (CNS or PMHNP), Public Health Nursing Leadership Program and Wound, Ostomy, Continence (WOC) Nursing Program.
Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
The University of Virginia has two doctoral programs in nursing; the Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) and the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) program. The programs are intended for the working nurse and students must complete research projects in clinical or evidence-based practice for the DNP and methods-based for the Ph.D. Individuals applying for the Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of Virginia must hold a BSN or MSN degree and those applying for the DNP must have an MSN degree with a clinical specialization. Upon applying to the program, individuals must state what type of research he or she is interested in pursuing.
Contact:
University of Virginia
400 Ray C. Hunt Drive
P.O. Box 400229
Charlottesville, VA 22902
University of Virginia’s College at Wise Nursing School Review
Located in Wise, Virginia, the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA-WISE) is a four-year college is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. University of Virginia’s College at Wise was founded in 1954 and is home to 2,000 students and offers 30 majors, 32 minors, 24 teaching licensures and seven pre-professional programs.
The Department of Nursing at UVa-Wise offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which is full approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, students must complete prerequisite courses in general education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program has two tracks, one for individuals who have not yet completed their nursing licensure, which is the Pre-Licensure track and another for Registered Nurses (RN) wishing to complete their baccalaureate degree.
Upon graduation from the Pre-Licensure program in nursing, individuals can apply to sit the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Virginia College at Wise, and successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination, individuals can go on to work as Registered Nurses in various healthcare organizations. These healthcare institutions include; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, physicians’ offices, and many more healthcare organizations. Individuals who complete their Registered Nursing licensure, often work for several years as Registered Nurses, and then go on to complete additional education in the field of nursing, at the Masters and Doctoral levels.
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (RN to BSN) is for the working nurse and is offered at both University of Virginia’s College at Wise and the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon and can be completed on a full-time and part-time basis. This program is intended for nurses who work full-time hours in nursing, and wish to complete baccalaureate education on a part-time basis, in order to potentially complete additional nursing education at a later time – either at the Masters level, or at a doctoral level, as baccalaureate education is a requirement for further post-graduate education.
Admission
In order to apply to the University of Virginia’s College at Wise nursing program, individuals must complete Biology and Chemistry prerequisites and be enrolled in Anatomy or Physiology and must hold a minimum 2.75 GPA in all general education requirements. In order to be admitted into the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing track, individuals must satisfy the above, and must also submit official transcripts from previous academic institutions, as well as from hospitals. Registered Nurses must also provide their licensure number. All applicants must submit a criminal background check and a drug screening, and must provide up-to-date CPR certification and immunization records.
The University of Virginia College at Wise offers scholarship programs, and information can be found on the college’s website.
Contact:
University of Virginia’s College at Wise
1 College Avenue,
Wise, VA 24293, United States
(888) 282-9324
Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program Review
The Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program (VATNP) was established in 1972 and is composed of three colleges; Mountain Empire Community College, Southwest Virginia Community College and Virginia Highlands Community College, serving the counties of Tazewell, Buchanan, Russell, Dickenson, Wise, Lee, Scott, Smyth, and Washington.
The nursing program at Virginia Appalachian Tricollege is the largest in the state of Virginia, and students that graduate from the program earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AAS) over two years, with students earning a total of 69 semester credits. Upon graduation from the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, individuals go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
The Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program is approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. Individuals who already hold a Practical Nursing licensure can apply to the Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nursing (LPN to RN) track. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) can enter the program in the second year, however, these individuals must show strong standing as a Licensed Practical Nurse and must satisfy all prerequisites of the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing.
Prerequisites for the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing include courses in Biology, Chemistry and Algebra and individuals must hold a minimum of a “C” grade or above. The prerequisites may be taken at Mountain Empire Community College, Southwest Virginia Community College and Virginia Highlands Community College – the three colleges in the tricollege.
Admission into the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing
All of the course prerequisites must be completed prior to applying to the Associate in Applied Scienec Degree in Nursing and individuals must sit the Compass or Asset Test scores, with no need for additional work in English, Reading or Math. High school students must submit a transcript with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above in all high school work. Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing must also sit the Nursing Entrance Test, which is a general comprehensive test, which is used to determine program placement. Individuals applying to the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, must also complete CPR certification and a drug screening, as well as a criminal background check, and immunization records, prior to being admitted into the program.
Individuals who complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing, and obtain their Registered Nurse licensure through the completion of the National Council Licensure Exam, can go on to begin working as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare organizations. Registered Nurses can work under the supervision of a physician in hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, physicians’ offices, schools and many more various healthcare organizations.
Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program does not keep a waiting list for its nursing programs, so individuals must reapply the following year if he or she is not admitted for the requested year of study. In order to obtain financial aid, students must contact the admissions office of the college.
Contact:
Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program
Mountain Empire Community College
3441 Mountain Empire Road
Big Stone Gap, VA, 24219
Phone: 276-523-2400
Southwest Virginia Community College
724 Community College Road,
Cedar Bluff, VA 24609
Phone: 276-964-2555
Virginia Highlands Community College
100 VHCC Drive Abingdon,
Abingdon, VA 24210,
Phone: 276-739-2400
Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Program Review
Mountain Empire Community College is located in the rural setting of Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) is a public 2 year college serving students in Norton (city), and Scott, Wise, Dickenson and Lee counties. The college serves over 3,000 students and is part of the Virginia Community College System. The Virginia Community College system was established in 1966, with the Mountain Empire Community College campus being established in 1971.
Students of all ages and backgrounds find a home at the college, including both adult students and those continuing schooling immediately after completing their higher education. The college awards associate’s degrees and certificates in nursing, engineering, and business among other fields. Mountain Empire Community College is accredited by The Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Nursing Programs
The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program at Mountain Empire Community College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. The nursing department at Mountain Empire Community College offers nursing programs for Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), including nursing mobility and career advancement programs and opportunities. Mountain Empire Community College is one of three colleges in the Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program (VATNP).
Mountain Empire Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing Associate Degree Leading to RN
The Nursing Associate Degree Leading to RN program prepares students to serve on a healthcare team in a variety of settings. The program is 2 years and leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree designed to prepare nurses who are entering a career after earning a degree, rather than pursuing four year education. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, to become a licensed RN. Admission criteria include a 2.5 GPA in high school (or 2.0 or higher GPA in college coursework) and a score in the 45th percentile or higher on a nursing entrance exam. Students interested in the program should submit an application directly to the Health Sciences program before their deadline. Students may participate in a 2 year program (Track 1) or 3 year part-time program (Track 3) with classes held on evenings and weekends.
Advancement Placement: Summer LPN to RN Bridge Summer Program
LPNs with a minimum of one year of work experience that have completed all of the general education requirements for the nursing program are eligible to take a summer bridge course allowing for advanced standing in the nursing program. LPNs in the summer bridge course will complete the RN program in less time than those in the traditional RN program. Recent LPN grads that do not yet have nursing experience may be eligible for the program by gaining work experience while simultaneously enrolled in the program. The LPN to RN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse) program offers a 1 year option (Track 4) or 2 year part time option (Track 5), the latter of which is suitable for recent LPN grads with little experience.
Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate Leading to LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
The Nursing Certificate Leading to RN provides education to serve as an entry-level nurse. Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate in practical nursing and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses, NCLEX-PN, to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Admission criteria include a 2.5 GPA and satisfactory performance on the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). The program can be completed in one year (three semesters).
Nursing Assistant CNA Program
The Nursing Assistant program provides education and training necessary to work alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals in a healthcare setting. The program can be completed in 2 years and is 28 academic credits. Upon completion of the program, students will take exam to become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). CNAs provide personal care to patients, including assistance with their comfort and mobility.
Contact:
Mountain Empire Community College
3441 Mountain Empire Road
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Southwest Virginia Community College Nursing Program Review
Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) is part of the Virginia Community College system and is based in Cedar Bluff, Virginia. Over 3,500 students are educated in the outskirts of Virginia at Southwest Virginia Community College. Southwest Virginia Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The college opened in Virginia in 1968 just two years after the Virginia Community College system was established in 1966.
Students at Southwest Virginia Community College will benefit from a student centered approach in which their goals and educational needs are put in the forefront by faculty and staff. In addition to the main campus in Cedar Bluff, the college holds classes at various community centers in Tazewell, Russell, Buchanan and Dickenson counties.
Nursing Programs
Nursing programs at Southwest Virginia Community College are part of the Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program (VATNP). Nursing programs at Southwest Virginia Community College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. Southwest Virginia Community College offers 5 nursing programs all leading to Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing and eligibility to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, NCLEX-RN (if licensure has not already been earned)
Southwest Virginia Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Track 1 -Nursing Two-year plan
Recent high school graduates and aspiring nurses without previous nursing education or experience can become a Registered Nurse (RN) in two years through the Track 1, Nursing Two-year plan program at Southwest Virginia Community College. The program can be completed in 5 semesters (which includes one summer) upon completion of the program; students earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Track 1 is an intensive course which is suitable for students able to dedicate a majority of their time to the nursing program.
Track 2- Health Services Certificate + 2 years
Students who need flexibility as they earn their degree usually find Track 2 of the nursing program, Health Services Certificate an ideal option. An added benefit to the Track 2 Nursing program is that students receive a Health Sciences Certificate while completing their general nursing courses. The program requires a minimum 6 semesters (approximately 2 years), but can take up to 3 years depending on the student’s individual schedule.
Track 3 Part-time Evening/Weekend RN Nursing
The part-time evening/weekend course offers students with career and personal responsibilities the opportunity to complete the AAS degree in up to four years. Students complete all general education requirements before beginning nursing courses. Nursing classes are offering evenings, weekends, and through online platforms.
Track 4 LPN to RN Bridge
The LPN to RN program allows LPNs to build on their previous education and experience to earn an AAS in less time than students in the general AAS tracks. After students complete general education courses (17 hours) nursing education coursework can be completed in just one year. LPNs take courses in the summer to accelerate their standing in the nursing program. Students begin courses in the second year of the nursing program, and take the same courses as nurses in other tracks.
Track 5 Part-time Evening/Weekend LPN to RN
The LPN to RN Bridge offers a less accelerated option for LPNs seeking a career change as an RN. Students complete the same requirements as students in Track 4, but in a slower time frame. Students will earn an AAS and eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN upon completion of the LPN to RN program. The Part-time Evening/Weekend LPN program can be completed in 3 years.
Southwest Virginia Community College Nursing Certificate Programs
Practical Nursing Certificate
The Practical Nursing Certificate consists of a four semester program that educates students in the procedures and methods necessary to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate and practical nursing and take the NCLEX-PN exam to earn a certificate as a Practical Nurse. The program is 48 academic credits.
Contact:
Southwest Virginia Community College
724 Community College Road,
Cedar Bluff, VA 24609
Virginia Highlands Community College Nursing Program Review
Over 3,000 students are enrolled in certificate and associate degree programs at Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC). Virginia Highlands Community College is one of twenty-three colleges in the Virginia Highlands Community College system. In 1967, Virginia Highlands Community College was founded; one year after the Virginia Community College system was established. The college serves students in the city of Bristol as well as Smyth and Washington counties.
Though the college began offering only career-oriented technical programs, throughout the years Virginia Highlands Community College has expanded its offerings to include the Center for Business and Arts Array program in addition to numerous educational programs in business, education, healthcare, science, and technology. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Nursing Programs
Virginia Highlands Community College is part of the Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program (VATNP) along with two other colleges. Nursing programs at Virginia Highlands Community College are offered through the Division on Nursing and Allied Health and include other health programs such as occupational and physical therapy, health sciences, and medical technology. The RN nursing programs at Virginia Highlands Community College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. The Tricollege program began in 1972.
Virginia Highlands Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing Track 1: 2 Year Curriculum Plan
An intensive, two-year academic program is offered for nurses who would like to complete all required courses for the AAS in Nursing degree in two years of full-time coursework. The Nursing AAS program prepares students to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (RN), NCLEX-RN. Upon completion of the program, students receive an AAS, which is a type of ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) for nurses that would like to pursue a career in the nursing vocation immediately rather than transfer to a four-year institution to earn a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing).
Nursing Track 2: Health Sciences Certificate Plus 2 Year Curriculum Plan
Nursing Track 2 allows students to complete the 2-year degree program in a less intensive format than Nursing Track 1. Students in Nursing Track 2 will earn a Health Sciences Certificate in the course of completing their general education requirements. Upon completion of the program, students will earn an AAS and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN upon completion of the program.
Nursing Track 3: Part-time Evening/Weekend (AAS)
For students whose schedule can only accommodate distance learning, weekend and evening courses on a part-time basis, Nursing Track 3 is a great option. Admission criteria for the program include 20 academic credits of general education which may be completed upon admission to the nursing program, but before nursing courses began. The part-time Nursing Track 3 program can be completed in 3 to 4 years of study.
Nursing Track 4: LPN to RN Bridge Curriculum (AAS)
In the LPN to RN Bridge program, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) can pursue an RN license without repeating nursing courses and re-learning information obtained through professional experience. The LPN to RN program begins with a summer bridge course that reviews critical areas of nursing education not covered in the LPN program. The program can be completed in one year once general education nursing courses are completed.
Nursing Track 5: Part-time Evening/Weekend LPN to RN Program (AAS)
LPNs who would like to complete the nursing program on a part-time schedule can pursue the part-time LPN to RN course with an evening, weekend, and online courses. Admission criteria to the LPN to RN program include 2,000 hours (approximately one year) of work experience as an LPN, a valid RN license, and acceptance to the nursing program. The Nursing Track 5 LPN to RN program can be completed in 3 years.
Contact:
Virginia Highlands Community College
100 VHCC Drive,
Abingdon, VA 24212-0828
Virginia Commonwealth University Nursing School Review
Established in 1968, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) has two campuses; Monroe Park Campus and MCV Campus, as well as several branch campuses and satellite locations including. The branch and satellite campuses include; Inger and Walter Rice Center for Environmental Life Sciences, VCU Medical Center at Stony Point, VCU School of the Arts in Qatar, VCU School of Medicine Inova Campus, VCU School of Pharmacy Inova Campus and VCU School of Social Work, in Northern Virginia.
Virginia Commonwealth University is home to over 32,000 students and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Associate of Colleges and Schools. Virginia Commonwealth University offers 60 baccalaureate programs, 67 master’s programs, 40 doctorate degrees, 3 professional degrees and 41 certificate programs.
The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing was established in 1893, offers programs from baccalaureate to doctorate and has a partnership with the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. The bachelor’s programs at Virginia Commonwealth University include a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program (RN to BSN).
Traditional & Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Individuals applying to the Traditional or Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs must provide transcripts from previous colleges attended and must hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above on all college coursework. Individuals must also have a minimum SAT of 900 or ACT composite score of 19. Individuals applying to the accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing track must also complete prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, developmental psychology covering the lifespan and statistics.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program (RN to BSN)
In order to be considered for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program individuals must be in good standing from their previous college, hold a 2.5 GPA or above and be a graduate from an accredited diploma or associate degree in nursing program. Individuals must also hold a current, clean Registered Nurse licensure or have authorization to practice as a Registered Nurse in the state of Virginia, the District of Columbia of a United States possession or territory.
Traditional & Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing Program (MSN)
The traditional Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares students for a career in advanced nursing practice, and concentrations include; Adult Health – Acute Care Nursing, Adult Health – Primary Care Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health, Family Health Nursing, Nursing Administration and Leadership, and Women’s Health Nursing. In order to be admitted to the Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing Program, individuals must hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing and hold a minimum GPA of 2.5 in all college coursework. Individuals must have a minimum SAT of 900 or a similar score on the ACT or GRE. Applicants must also have completed coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, developmental psychology covering the lifespan and statistics.
Registered Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing Program (RN to MSN)
The Registered Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing Program at Virginia Commonwealth University requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree and be in good standing at their previous college. Individuals must also be a graduate of an accredited diploma or associate degree in nursing program. Applicants must have a clean Registered Nurse licensure or be authorized to practice as a Registered Nurse in Virginia, the District of Columbia or a United States possession or territory. Applicants must also hold a 2.7 GPA on all coursework and have completed the following courses prior to program commencement; anatomy, physiology, English composition, statistics, philosophy, humanities, general psychology, development psychology, general sociology, college lab science, microbiology, and nutrition. If the applicant holds a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing, education requirements can be satisfied, however, applicants must still complete four credits in anatomy, four credits in physiology, four credits in microbiology, three credits in developmental psychology and three credits in statistics. GRE scores are required for the program if the applicants GPA is less than 3.25 after the Bachelor of Science portion of the Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Program. The same requirements are necessary for the Traditional Master of Science in Nursing Program at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Post Masters Certificate Programs
As a Registered Nurse (RN), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), individuals may wish to seek additional certification. Virginia Commonwealth University offers the following certificate programs for RNs: Adult Health – Acute Care Nursing, Adult Health – Primary Care Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health, Family Health Nursing, Nursing Administration and Leadership and Women’s Health Nursing.
Traditional PhD, Post MS to PhD and Post Bachelor of Science to PhD Programs (Post BS to PhD)
The School of Nursing has two ways to enter the PhD programs. Applicants to the Post MS to PhD option must hold a baccalaureate degree and a master’s degree, one of which must be in nursing. If an individual holds a baccalaureate degree in nursing, he or she can apply to the post-BS to PhD option. To apply to the PhD Program programs at Virginia Commonwealth University, individuals must be in good standing from their previous college and must hold a baccalaureate and a master’s degree. One of the previous degrees must be in nursing. Applicants must also hold a clean Registered Nurse licensure or be authorized to practice in the state of Virginia, District of Columbia or a United States territory. Applicants must hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 in graduate studies and have completed all statistics courses with a minimum “B” grade. Applicants must submit GRE scores of 800 on verbal and quantitative sections.
Contact:
Virginia Commonwealth University
1111 West Broad Street,
Richmond, VA 23284,
United States
(804) 828-0100
Wytheville Community College Nursing Program Review
Wytheville Community College (WCC), located in Wytheville, Virginia, serves Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth and Wythe counties and the city of Galax. Wytheville Community College offers courses day and night, as well as on weekends and courses are available at the Crossroads Institute in Galax, the Smyth County Education Center as well as distance learning programs. WCC’s nursing school offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) and a Practical Nursing program (PN).
Associate Degree Program in Nursing (ADN)
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) Program at Wytheville Community College is two years in length and is intended to prepare students to become Registered Nurses (RN). Upon graduation from the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. The nursing program at Wytheville Community College is approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the Virginia State Board of Nursing and has received accreditation from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Admission Requirements
Individuals interested in applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program must hold a high school diploma and submit satisfactory scores in English and Algebra through placement tests. Individuals must hold prerequisites in chemistry and biology at a high school level, with a minimum grade of “C” or above. Applicants must have scored above the 45th percentile rank on the ATI/TEAS or similar scores on the NET or NLN nursing preadmission tests. Wytheville Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program has an advanced placement option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who can receive credit for first-year nursing courses and go straight into the second year of the program. Individuals applying to the advanced placement track must satisfy all of the above requirements and must also attend the Nursing Information Session, have updated immunization records and a clear drug screen and criminal background check. Applicants must hold updated CPR certification. Individuals applying to the advanced placement track must also show Practical Nurse licensure when enrolling.
Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
The Practical Nursing Program at WCC is five semesters in length and includes a semester through the summer. Upon completion of the Practical Nursing Program, individuals can apply to write the NCLEX-PN examination in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse. In order to be admitted into the Practical Nursing Program at Wytheville Community College, applicants must be a high school senior in a dual-credit high school program, or a high school graduate. Applicants must have completed prerequisites in biology and algebra with a minimum “C” grade or above. High school applicants must apply through their school’s guidance department and adults must apply through the Office of Admissions and Records at Wytheville Community College. Through either of these avenues, individuals must supply high school transcripts, college transcripts, and placement test scores.
Contact:
Wytheville Community College
1000 East Main Street
,
Wytheville, VA 24382
(276) 223-4700
(800) 468-1195
Bridgerland Applied Technology College Nursing Program Review
Bridgerland Applied Technology College (BATC) is located in Logan, Utah and has been funded by the Utah State Legislature for 40 years.
Certified Nurse Aide Program (CNA)
Bridgerland Applied Technology College, sometimes referred to as Bridgerland Tech College, offers a Certified Nurse Aide Program, which educates students on knowledge necessary for basic human care. The course is made up of a combination of online learning and in person lectures. The program takes three months to complete and registration and tuition payments must take place every quarter. Programs run year round, so students can apply to start at any time, as long as there is adequate space in the program.
The Certified Nurse Aide program is available during weekdays at the Logan Main Campus. Students must be 18 years or older to apply and must have a high school diploma or GED. A criminal background check is required for clinical practicum and students will not be able to begin class until it has been completed. Applicants must hold a CPR certificate. Certified Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments, under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse or Physician.
Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
The Practical Nursing Program at Bridgerland Applied Technology College is taught in a lab setting as well as a classroom setting. The Practical Nursing Program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. The first semester of the program includes courses such as Fundamentals in Nursing, Caring for the Client Requiring Drug Therapy, Human/Workplace Relations and Clinical Applications I. The program’s second semester includes; Caring for the Adult, Caring for the New Family, Employment Preparation for the Practical Nurse, and Clinical Applications II.
Once the program is complete, graduates can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN), which when completed, will allow the individual to be a licensed Practical Nurse. Licensed Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, nursing homes and a variety of other healthcare organizations throughout the United States.
The program is 10 and a half months in duration and tuition fees include books and uniforms. Applicants to the program must write a basic academic test, which takes three hours to complete. The test includes sections on language, mathematics, reading and abilities in nursing. Travel to Logan, Brigham City, Tremonton and Salt Lake City is required for clinical practice and a criminal background check is required before students can begin. Drug screens and proof of CPR certification is also required. The Practical Nursing Program is available for a Spring and Fall semester start, and classes take place during weekdays, with some clinical practice occurring during the evening. Classes are located at the Logan Main Campus.
In order to apply to the program, students must hold a high school diploma or GED and complete all registration requirements, including tuition deposits.
Applicants to all of the nursing programs must submit to a criminal background test, as well as a drug screening and physical examination. Applicants must also provide proof of CPR certification when applying to the nursing programs at Bridgerland Applied Technology College.
Contact:
Bridgerland Applied Technology College
1301 W 600 N,
Logan, UT 84321,
United States
(435) 753-6780
Brigham Young University Nursing School Review
Brigham Young University (BYU, The Y) was established in 1875 as Brigham Young Academy, in an area that is now considered Provo’s city center. Brigham Young was the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his teachings are still central to Brigham Young University’s beliefs. In 1891, the university moved to its current location on University Avenue and 12 years later, its name changed to Brigham Young University.
Today, Brigham Young University is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and is a part of the Church Educational System. The university has 10 colleges and offers courses in continuing education, undergraduate and graduate education.
Established almost 60 years ago, the College of Nursing at Brigham Young University offers baccalaureate and graduate degrees in nursing taught under Christian principles.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
In order to graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at BYU, individuals must satisfy all university requirements including education requirements and religious education, 30 credit hours in residence at the Provo campus, and a minimum of 120 credit hours. In order to graduate, students must have a minimum of a 2.0 GPA.
In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, students must hold a minimum “C” grade or above in all required courses. Students are admitted on a points-based system. Once admitted to the program, students must complete specific required courses in order to graduate.
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Brigham Young University, individuals go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become licensed Registered Nurses. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and many other healthcare organizations. Individuals who become Licensed Registered Nurses often work for several years in a healthcare institution, and then go on to complete additional education at a masters level through an accredited educational organization throughout the United States.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The Master of Science in Nursing includes a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practice. Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and submit Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores, as well as a resume, current Registered Nurse licensure from the state of Utah, and a basic statistics course. Applicants must also go through an interview process and the application deadline is December 1st for a Spring semester start.
Prior to graduation, students are required to write a thesis, work on a clinical assignment or complete a paper on a clinical problem. In order to graduate, students must complete all credit hours including mandatory courses and electives. The program usually takes two to three years to complete, although students are permitted a total of five years, as students often take the program part-time, so that they can continue working.
All of the nursing programs at Brigham Young University require applicants to complete a drug screening and criminal background check prior to being admitted into the program. Applicants must also submit proof of his or her CPR certification.
Contact:
Brigham Young University
1 University Hill,
Provo, UT 84606,
United States
(801) 422-1211
USU College of Eastern Utah Nursing School Review
Established in February of 1937, the Utah State University College of Eastern Utah (USU Eastern, CEU) is located in Price, Utah. The College of Eastern Utah offers certificates, degrees and transfer programs in a variety of disciplines, using both in-class lectures, online training and clinical practice.
The nursing program at the College of Eastern Utah is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and is approved by the Utah State Board of Nursing. There are three program options available to students; a Certified Nursing Assistant Program, a Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing for Practical Nursing Licensure and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree, after which graduates can go on to obtain Registered Nurse licensed.
Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant Program is a six to eight week course, comprised of in-class lectures and clinical practice. The classes take place during the day on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s and clinicals take place on Friday’s. Students are mandated to complete four clinical practicums within the eight-week course schedule.
Certificate of Practical Nursing for LPN Licensure
The Certificate of Practical Nursing for Licensed Practical Nurse Licensure is a two and a half semester curriculum, which starts in the Summer semester. Upon successful completion of this program, graduates can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-PN, in order to obtain Practical Nurse Licensure. Applicants can begin submitting applications in January. Individuals who complete the NCLEX-PN examination successfully can go on to work in a variety of healthcare environments including; schools, physicians’ offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and many other healthcare organizations.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree (AAS)
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Degree is a two and a half semester program, offered at the Price and San Juan campuses beginning in the Summer semester and applications are due by January of the same year.The program is offered at the Uintah Basin Campus in December, with applications due in September of the same year. Graduates of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program, can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN, which will qualify them to be a Registered Nurse. If students wish to complete an Associate of Science Degree as well, they can take four general education courses.
Entrance Requirements
Entrance to the College of Eastern Utah’s nursing programs is competitive, and selection is based on work experience, prerequisites, GPA and entrance exam results. Applicants must hold a minimum GPA of a “B-“ for both programs, and applicants to the Certificate of Practical Nursing for LPN Licensure program, must have successfully completed the TEAS examination. After admission, all applicants must complete a criminal background check and go through drug screening. Applicants must also go through a physical and mental examination, and provide immunization records in order to be accepted into the program. Individuals applying to the nursing programs at the College of Eastern Utah must also submit proof of CPR certification.
Contact:
Utah State University- College of Eastern Utah
451 E 400 N,
Price, UT 84501-2699,
United States
(435) 613-5000
Davis Applied Technology College Nursing Program Review
Davis Applied Technology College (DATC) was established in 1978 and serves the Davis and Morgan counties. Formerly called Davis Area Vocational Center, the college has eight campuses; Bridgerland, Davis, Dixie, Moutainland, Ogden-Weber, Tooele, Southwest and Uintah Basin. Students at Davis Applied Tech College do not need to wait for a specific semester to start – classes are always open, so students can start at any time. Full-time students can attend college classes for $1.50 per hour, and high school students can attend free of charge. Students can also student at DATC, Weber State University and University of Phoenix, in order to obtain credits.
Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant educated students on how to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and doctor’s offices as Nursing Assistants. Certified Nursing Assistants work with patients with mental health issues, as well as those that are cognitively impaired. The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Davis Applied Technology College, also certifies students in CPR. The admission fee is $40, and tuition for high school students is $50, and $305.45 for adults. In order to process the Certified Nursing Assistant certificate, students must pay $40.
Applicants must be 16 years old or above, and must pass the Davis Applied Technology College admissions test in reading. Applicants must also submit TB skin tests and Hepatitis B immunization records.
Semesters are 99 hours long (or three months) and run on Monday to Thursday from 3pm-6pm or 6pm-9pm and programs start on a rolling basis.
Practical Nursing Program (to become LPN)
The Practical Nursing (PN) Program at David Applied Technology College includes a combination of classroom lectures and clinical practice. Upon completion of the program, graduates can apply to an Associate Degree in Science in order to progress into the next level of nursing. The PN Program at Davis Applied Technology College is accredited through the National for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Atlanta, Georgia. The Certified Nursing Assistant Program and math courses are prerequisites for the Practical Nursing Program.
Applicants to the Practical Nursing Program are selected based on a points system, which is divided into three areas. Area one is the GPA and is worth the most points. A student’s high school GPA is used, unless an applicant has 15 or more college credits. Area two is regarding prerequisites and points are given for three or more prerequisites. More points are also given if an applicant has a GPA or 3.0 or higher in prerequisite courses. Area three awards points based on additional elements, such as reference letters, practical work experience, and previous degrees from accredited institutions. Application dates for the Practical Nursing Program are November 1 – February 14 for an August start date and April 1 – June 17 for a January start date. Classes take place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8am – 2:30pm and clinical practice is held on Thursdays and Fridays at various hospitals in the community.The program is 10 months in length (930 credit hours) and is held at the Main Campus.
Contact:
Davis Applied Technology College
550 East 300 South,
Kaysville, UT 84037,
United States
(801) 593-2500
Dixie State University Nursing School Review
The nursing programs at Dixie State University (DSU), previously known as Dixie State College of Utah (DSCU, or DSC), are administered in the Russell Taylor Health Science Center, which is located near Dixie’s Medical Center. The Nursing program is hosted here, as well as all of Dixie State University’s allied health programs.
School of Nursing and Allied Health
The School of Nursing and Allied Health offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing and a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing. They no longer have a Practical Nurse certificate program. Anyone interested to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may complete the first two semesters of the Associate degree in Nursing program to be allowed to sit the practical nurse licensing exam (NCLEX-PN). They will however also need to pass a 1 credit PN transition course (NURS 2590) at the nursing school.
Upon graduation from the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (AASN), students can go on to apply to write the state exam in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree and the Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing are both accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC).
Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN)
As a graduate of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) at Dixie State University, individuals can apply to write the state licensure exam, to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, physician’s offices and many other healthcare environments.
Registered Nurse to Baccalaureate Degree Nursing Program (RN to BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree is for Registered Nurses, who wish to obtain a baccalaureate degree, in order to progress in their career. Individuals who complete the RN – BSN program at Dixie State University, individuals must already hold a Registered Nurse licensure, and wish to complete baccalaureate education in nursing. Individuals who complete the RN-BSN program, go on to pursue further education in nursing and/or advance their careers in the field of nursing. The outcome of the program is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN).
CNA Program
Over 200 students each semester complete the DSU Nurse Assistant (CNA) program. The Nurse Assistant classes are taught at various times and locations so as to be accessible to more students. The CNA course curriculum involves laboratory, classroom and practical clinical training. The Nurse Assistant course equals 4 credit hours.
Admission
In order to apply to the Nursing programs at DSU, applicants must first be accepted into Dixie State University. After acceptance into the university as a whole, students must then apply to the nursing programs. All applicants must hold a minimum “C” grade in all prerequisites and hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher in those courses. Applicants must hold a Certified Nurse Assistant certificate with a “B” grade or above, submit an essay and complete the Kaplan entrance exam. In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, applicants must have completed an Associate Degree in Nursing program, be a licensed Registered Nurse and have completed all nursing prerequisites with a minimum “C” grade or higher, with a 3.0 GPA. After being granted admission, students must submit immunization records and submit to a criminal check and drug screening.
Applications for the Associate Degree in Nursing Program for the Fall semester are due between February 1st and March 31st. Applications for Spring semester are due between July 15th and September 15th.Applications for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program for the Fall semester are due between April 1st and June 1st.
Courses are taught during the week, and currently not offered during evenings or weekends, however, some prerequisites are taught online. Courses for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program are taught online.
Contact:
Dixie State University
225 South 700, St. George,
UT 84770-3875,
United States
(435) 652-7500
Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College Nursing Program Review
Established in 1971, Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College (OWATC), often called Ogden-Weber Tech College, is located in the Wasatch Mountains. The college educates over 9,000 every year, with over 300 technical skills courses in over 50 programs. Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College offers three types of education; Technical, Employer and Community and Custom Fit.
The Technical education helps train students for better jobs, the Employed and Community education help graduates progress in their current career, and Custom Fit education is available to help individuals update their skills for a specific need of a business in the community.
Practical Nursing Program (PN)
Individuals interested in applying to Ogden-Weber Applied Tech College’s Practical Nursing Program must hold a high school diploma or GED. The Practical Nursing Program is a nine-month program that requires students to already hold prerequisites from an accredited university or college program. The program consists of in-class lessons, as well as practical lab hours and clinical practice and is about 30 hours a week.
Upon graduation, students will receive a Practical Nursing Certificate in order to apply to write the National Council of Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to be certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College is affiliated with Weber State University, and graduates of the Practical Nursing Program will receive credits toward an Associate Degree in Nursing Degree. Applications to the program are due between February 1st and March 1st for the Fall semester. In order to apply, students must hold a high school diploma, a Nursing Assistant Certification and prerequisite courses as well as a GPA of 2.50 or above. Successful applicants must also submit to a criminal background check. Applicants must also complete a physical exam, as well as provide immunization records.
Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant Program allows graduates to seek employment in hospitals, nursing homes and home healthcare settings. The Nursing Assistant Program is about one month long, and a total of 110 hours and upon graduation, individuals can apply to write the state certification exam. Applicants must be 16 years old and must go through a criminal background check, drug screening and provide immunization records. Students in the program must complete eight hours of clinical practicum prior to graduation. Classes are taught both during the day and evening, and students are able to choose the time that best suits their schedule.
OWATC also offers refresher classes in the Nursing Assistant Program, which is intended for individuals who wish to renew their certification, over a 48-hour or 86-hour period. The refresher course does not have an application deadline date, as students can apply on a rolling basis. Individuals who wish to complete the Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College certificate in nursing must have been a former Ogden-Weber Tech College Nursing Assistant student, and their certificate must be expired for more than ten months at the time of application. Individuals who wish to complete this certificate must purchase the correct uniform and the curriculum. Individuals applying to the program need not complete a drug screening or background check and individuals must complete the program in 60 hours or two weeks.
Contact:
Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College
200 North Washington Blvd.,
Ogden, UT 84404-4089
(801) 627-8300
Provo College Nursing Program Review
Located in Provo, Utah, Provo College (PC) offers degree and diploma programs for first-time students as well as individuals interested in updating their skills.
Provo College offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN) in order to prepare individuals to apply to write the state licensure exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurses work in hospitals, physician’s offices and other healthcare settings. The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program is comprised of in-class instruction, laboratory work and clinical practicum. The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing is 24 months in duration and located at the Provo campus.
The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program has several required general education courses including; Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry and Human Development Across the Lifespan. In order to apply, individuals must submit their prerequisite course scores or test scores. There are several core program courses required once admitted to the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program including; Foundational Basis for Nursing, Therapeutic Treatment Modalities, Nursing Care, Acute Care Nursing, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Patient Care Management and many others. Provo College’s Associate Degree in Nursing Program is accredited by the Utah State Board of Nursing and the college is accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Upon graduation, students are able to apply to write the state licensure examination in order to become a Registered Nurse. Individuals who complete the program and go on to become Registered Nurses, can work in a variety of healthcare institutions including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospices, schools, physicians’ offices, and many other healthcare organizations. Graduates of the nursing program at Provo College are trained in patient care, nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, therapeutic treatment interventions, medical and surgical as well as critical care nursing, leadership, mental health nursing, mother/baby and pediatric nursing, and community nursing. Graduates of the nursing program at Provo College are also taught licensure examination preparation, so that they can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.
Admissions
In order to apply to Provo College, individuals must hold a high school diploma or GED, complete the enrollment agreement or admissions application and submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.
Enrollment and Financial Aid
It is easy to enroll in the nursing program at Provo College, and can be done online or by mail. The faculty at Provo College is available to answer questions regarding financial aid and application information. In order to apply for financial aid, individuals must first apply for admission to the college and complete all of the Financial Aid Checklist. All of the Financial Aid Checklist items can be completed by scheduling an appointment with a Financial Services Representative or via printable forms through Provo College’s website. Individuals, who apply for financial aid, will be provided with a Tuition Planning Worksheet, and this form outlines the exact amounts of funding that individual students are able to receive once classes commence.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant Program at Provo College is intended to train students to work as nursing assistants in various healthcare organizations. The program is 80 hours, which includes in class lectures, skills laboratory and clinical practicum. Twenty-four of the 80 hours are clinical practice. Upon completion of the program, individuals can sit the licensure examination in the state of Utah, in order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Individuals must pay for the program prior to the program commencing and must purchase all textbooks and supplies.
Individuals enrolled in the program must complete all of the program requirements before being able to graduate and must prove that they are at least 16 years of age before being admitted into the program. Students must obtain BLS or CPR certification prior to being admitted into the program and must provide documentation of completion.
Contact:
Provo College
1450 West 820 North,
Provo, UT 84601,
United States
(877) 777-5886
Salt Lake Community College Nursing Program Review
Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) was established in 1948 and is now home to more than 60,000 students across 13 campuses. Salt Lake Community College also offers online courses in a variety of credit and non-credit courses. Salt Lake Community College also has partnerships with several schools in the community and beyond.
Salt Lake Community College’s Nursing Program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing (AAS) and an Advanced Placement Program for Practical Nurses (AAS for Advanced Placement) interested in obtaining an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of Atlanta, Georgia. Courses are offered at the Jordan Campus.
Individuals planning on applying to the Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing at Salt Lake Community College must first complete the Certified Nursing Assistant Certification (CNA) program, which is a prerequisite to the degree program. Individuals must submit proof of Certified Nursing Assistant Certification four months prior to the start of the semester.
After the first year of study in the Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing, students are able to apply to the Licensed Practical Nursing program in order to complete their Practical Nursing licensure. Upon completion of this stream of the program, individuals can go on to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become licensed as a Practical Nurse in the state of Utah. Individuals who complete the whole Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing program, can go on to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to be licensed as a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses and Practical Nurses go on to work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, hospices, schools, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities, and many more healthcare institutions.
Often, individuals who complete a degree in nursing, in order to obtain a nursing licensure, go on to apply to a four-year university program, in order to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Salt Lake Community College also offers a Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing (LPN to RN) transition option, which allows individuals who already hold a Licensed Practical Nursing licensure, to go on to compete further education in order to obtain their Registered Nurse licensure through the Salt Lake Community College Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing program.
In order to apply to the Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing program at Salt Lake Community College, students must apply to Salt Lake Community College first. Individuals must first submit all transcripts from prior education, and then submit prerequisite scores at the time of their Health Sciences online application.
In order to apply to the Advanced Placement in Nursing option, students must submit an application to the college, along with transcripts, a copy of Licensed Nurse Practitioner license and proof that they have completed all advanced placement classes with a minimum “C+” grade or higher. Individuals must also complete the HESI examination with a 76% minimum. Advanced placement classes include; Math for Health Sciences, Biology, Human Anatomy, Intro to Writing, Physiology, Chemistry, Human Growth and Development, Foundations in Nutrition, and Pathophysiology.
Contact:
Salt Lake Community College
4600 South Redwood Road
Salt Lake City, UT 84123
Phone: (801) 957-7522
Snow College Nursing Program Review
Snow College (SC) offers two nursing programs through its Allied Health department; a Practical Nursing Program and a Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide Program. The Practical Nursing program grants students a Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing and allows them to apply to write the Utah examination to become licensed as a Practical Nurse in the state of Utah. The first year of the Practical Nursing program qualifies as the first year of a Registered Nursing program.
In order to apply to most nursing programs in the United States, individuals must already be certified as nursing assistants. Upon graduation from the Nursing Assistant Program at Snow College, individuals can go on to apply to write the state certification exam. In order to apply to the Nursing Assistant Program, students must be a minimum of 17 years old and must pass an entrance exam comprised of math and reading questions.
Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)
In order to apply to the Nursing Assistant Program at Snow College, students must be 16 years of age or older. Applicants must also have a GPA of 2.0 or higher and an ACT score of 16 in math and 15 in reading. Applicants must also have completed 12 college credits successfully. The program must be completed within one college semester, which includes lab work, in-class lectures and clinical practicum. Before the semester begins, students must submit a criminal background check. Classes are offered at Richfield, Delta Ephraim, Eureka, Filmore, Nephi, Piute and Wayne campuses. Almost all nursing programs in the United States require individuals to hold a Nursing Assistant Program certificate in order to apply to a higher level nursing program. Individuals who complete the Nursing Assistant Program, go on to work under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse, and then usually advance their skills for career progression through further education.
Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
Licensed Practical Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare environments, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN). Students of the Licensed Practical Nursing Program will take courses in the Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, Medical Surgical Nursing and Pediatric-Maternity Nursing. Snow College recommends that students working on their pre-requisites for the Licensed Practical Nursing Program also work on earning their Associate of Science Degree in Nursing at the same time. Prerequisites for the Licensed Practical Nursing Program at Snow College total 40 credits and include; Introduction to Writing, Nursing Assistant, Human Anatomy Lab, Human Physiology, General Psychology, Principles of Nutrition, and many others. Medical Terminology, Drug Dosages and Calculations, and Human Development are not required courses for the Licensed Practical Nursing Program, but they are highly recommended. The Licensed Practical Nursing Program also offers a fast track option, which can be completed in three semesters.
Individuals who complete the Licensed Practical Nursing program at Snow College go on to write the NCLEX-PN examination, in order to become Licensed Practical Nurses. Licensed Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations, including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, physicians’’ offices and many more.
Contact:
Snow College
150 College Avenue East,
Ephraim, UT 84627,
United States
(435) 283-7000
Southern Utah University Nursing School Review
Established over 110 years ago, Southern Utah University (SUU) was previously a teacher training facility and now offers graduate, baccalaureate, technical and associate degree programs.
The Department of Nursing at Southern Utah University is part of the College of Science and Engineering and admits 20 pre-licensure students in the spring and fall semesters. The Department of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing for students who are new to the nursing profession. In order to apply to the Department of Nursing, students must submit a cumulative GPA, work/school history a personal essay and professional references. The application deadline for the Fall program is February.
In order to apply to the nursing program, students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and a minimum “C” grade or above in all prerequisite courses. Students must also have completed prerequisite courses including General Education Core and Required Support Courses, with only 18 prerequisite courses left to complete. Students must first be accepted into Southern Utah University, before applying to the Nursing Department. Upon application, students must submit transcripts, as well as the Application to the Department of Nursing packet.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, students must complete 12 prerequisite hours in math and lab science.
Southern Utah University offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) transition program. The program is ideal for Registered Nurses who are interested in completing a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Southern Utah University also offers a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, which is recommended for individuals entering the nursing profession for the first time. In order to be admitted into the Spring semester for the Registered Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, students must apply before December of the previous year.
Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Southern Utah University, go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, schools and many more healthcare institutions. Registered Nurses often wish to advance their careers in nursing, so a baccalaureate degree is useful to have, as it is a prerequisite for Masters and Doctoral programs in nursing across the United States.
In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) or the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) transition program at Southern Utah University, individuals must complete a criminal background check and a drug screening. Individuals applying to the nursing programs must also provide proof of CPR certificate and immunization records, which are completely up to date. If an individual is applying to the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Transition Program, he or she must provide proof of a clean Registered Nursing licensure at the time of application. Admissions to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is competitive and individuals must first be admitted into Southern Utah University, prior to filling out an application to the Nursing Program.
Contact:
Southern Utah University
351 W Center Street,
Cedar City, UT 84720
United States
(435) 586-7700
Uintah Basin Applied Technology College Nursing Program Review
Established in 1968, Uintah Basin Applied Technology College (UBATC) was first called the Uintah Basic Area Vocational Center as a center for adult and high school education. The college has been in its current location since 1975 and the name was changed to Uintah Basic Applied Technology College in 1990. Today, the campus is composed of nine campuses and in 2007, funding was granted for a new campus in Vernal, with the new campus completed in 2009.
Nursing Assistant Program (CNA)
Nursing Assistants work in hospitals and long-term care facilities as well as many other healthcare environments. The Nursing Assistant Program at Uintah Basin Applied Technology College consists of 66 in-class hours and 24 clinical practicum hours. Students are required to complete a math and reading test with 80% or above and must be at least 16 years of age or older in order to apply. The program covers patient care, infection control, CPR, anatomy and physiology and common medical disorders and appropriate interventions, as well as preparation for the Certified Nursing Assistant state test exam.
Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
Students of the Practical Nursing Program at Uintah Basin Applied Technology College are trained to be able to work in the healthcare profession under a registered nurse, physician or primary health care provider. In order to apply to the PN program, students should have taken nurse assistant courses, medical terminology courses, anatomy and physiology courses and other medical courses in high school. Applicants must be 18 years or older and hold a high school diploma or GED, including grade 12 math, reading, language and spelling.
Nursing applications must be submitted by July for the Fall semester. Students are accepted based on a points system and points are granted based on the following criteria; residency in the Tri County Area, prerequisites and GPA scores, academic experience, letters of reference, work experience, and proof of valid Certificate in Nursing Assistant. The Practical Nursing program costs roughly $2,500, including books, fees, supplies and tuition. In order to graduate from the Practical Nursing program at Uintah Basin Applied Technology College, students must have completed all courses with a “C” grade or above. After completing the program, students can then go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, which tests the knowledge and skills acquired in the Practical Nursing Program. After completion of the exam, individuals can go on to practice as a Practical Nurse in a variety of healthcare environments including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, and many more healthcare organizations.
In order to apply to the nursing programs at Uintah Basin Applied Technology College, individuals must complete a criminal background check and drug screening, as well as provide immunization records and proof of CPR certification. Applicants must also submit to a physical examination, to prove that they have a clean bill of health at the time of application.
The nursing programs at Uintah Basic Applied Technology College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission of New York.
Contact:
Uintah Basin Applied Technology College
1100 East Lagoon Street,
Roosevelt, UT 84066-3099,
United States
(435) 722-4523
University of Utah Nursing School Review
Founded in 1850, the University of Utah (U of U, The U) is located in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains in Salt Lake City. It is within a 40 minute drive of seven different world-class ski resorts, and is the perfect place for students who are dedicated to maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. The University also has plans to be carbon-neutral by 2050.
More than 31,000 students enroll in the University of Utah each semester. There are over 72 undergraduate majors and over 90 graduate majors available to choose from. The University Hospital is ranked as one of the nation’s best hospitals, and the University of Utah Health Care system is ranked first in the country in patient satisfaction, mortality rates, readmission rates, patient safety, and core quality measures.
Nursing Programs
The College of Nursing at the University of Utah is located in the Annette Poulson Cumming Building and lessons there combine in-class lectures, laboratory work and clinical practice. The University of Utah is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and the College of Nursing’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The College of Nursing also has approval from the Utah State Board of Nursing.
Undergraduate Programs:
The Undergraduate Programs offered at the College of Nursing at the University of Utah include; Nursing Early Assurance Program, Baccalaureate Program, Accelerate Baccalaureate Program, and the Registered Nurse – Bachelor of Science Online Program (RN to BSN Online Program).
The Nursing Early Assurance Program is available for high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing. The Nursing Early Assurance Program allows high school students to pre-secure a place in the Baccalaureate Nursing Program, while still in high school. Applicants must submit an application by February for the Fall semester.
The Baccalaureate Program at the College or Nursing is for students who would like to pursue a career in nursing at the university level. In order to apply to the program, students must provide their prerequisite GPA as well as their cumulative GPA. Students must also submit letters of recommendation, as well as a short personal essay, samples of community service work, work experience and a personal interview. The College or Nursing also offers an accelerated baccalaureate degree in nursing (Acclerated BSN program), which is for students who already hold a baccalaureate degree, and are interested in pursuing a career in nursing. The application deadline for the baccalaureate program is January or tfhe Summer semester.
The Registered Nurse – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) transition program starts in the Fall semester and requires four semesters to complete. The program is available online, and targets the working Registered Nurse, who is likely employed. The program can be completed in 16 months and requires prerequisite courses.
Baccalaureate Program
This program is for students beginning their nursing career. Those who complete the program will earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing degree, and will be able to take the state Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam. This program admits 64 students once a year in the fall, and is highly competitive. There is no waiting list for this program.
Students will spend the first two years at the University in Pre-Nursing, taking general education courses. To be eligible to apply to the nursing program, students must have taken at least 45 credit hours of general education classes, completed the prerequisite classes with a grade of at least a C and a GPA of 3.0, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8, and submit transcripts for any schools attended outside of the University of Utah. They will also need to have three letters of recommendation, complete the essay questions from the College of Nursing, have a professional resume, and have an interview.
The prerequisites for this program are General Biology, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Elementary/General Chemistry, Bio-Organic Chemistry, Statistics, Nutrition Intervention, Growth and Development, Intro to Medical Microbiology, and Pathophysiology.
Students that are admitted to the program must complete the following before they will be allowed to enroll in clinical courses: have a physical exam, current immunizations, a current TB test, be certified in CPR/Basic Life Support, complete OSHA/HIPAA training, have a drug screen and a background check.
Accelerated Baccalaureate Program
This program is for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field of study, and now want to pursue a career in nursing. It is an accelerated, four semester course of study.
The admission requirements and prerequisites for this program are the same as for the traditional Baccalaureate program, except that students must have a bachelor’s degree in place of the 45 credit hours of general education classes.
RN to BS Online
This program is for students who are already licensed RNs, who wish to earn their BS in Nursing degree. This program admits students each fall. It is a part time, online program that is designed for the working nurse, and can be completed in 16 months.
To be eligible to apply to the online RN to BS program, students must have completed an associate degree in nursing program, be currently licensed as an RN, completed the prerequisite classes with a grade of at least a C and a GPA of 3.0, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8, and submit transcripts for any schools attended outside of the University of Utah. They will also need to have three letters of recommendation, complete the essay questions from the College of Nursing, and have a professional resume.
The RN to BS program prerequisite classes are Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Elementary/General Chemistry, Bio-Organic Chemistry, Statistics, Nutrition Intervention, Growth and Development, Intro to Medical Microbiology, and Pathophysiology.
Students in this program may follow the Geriatric Nursing Leadership (GNL) emphasis while pursuing their degree. This specialty track is also available as a Certificate, for students who already have an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Graduate Degrees and Certificates:
The University of Utah’s College of Nursing offers several graduate degrees and certificates in nursing. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD Philosophy Distance) program is offered as a distance-learning program and is intended for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a master’s degree in nursing.
The Master’s to Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) Program is for advanced nursing practice, for students who hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing and would like to continue their nursing education or progress in their nursing career. The University of Utah also offers a Bachelor’s to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) program, for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree and wish to complete a doctoral degree in nursing. The specializations and certificate programs include; Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery & Women’s Health, Psychiatric/Mental Health, and the Primary Care certificate. All of the programs must be completed in one or two academic years. All of the certificates also require students to hold a baccalaureate degree before applying to the certificate programs. The University of Utah also offers Nursing Informatics (NI), which can be completed as either a Bachelor’s to Master’s of Science program or a post-graduate certificate. Also there is a Teaching Nursing program, which can also be completed as a Bachelor’s to Master’s of Science program or as a post-graduate certificate program.
Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This eight semester program is designed to train nurses the advanced specialty skills needed to care for populations at various stages of the lifecycle. Students must take this program full time over the course of three years, including summer semesters, and will achieve the highest level of clinical practice in nursing.
This program has three specialty tracks, in Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Depending on the specialty chosen, students will complete 81 to 90 credit hours.
It is recommended that students have two years of experience in nursing practice prior to starting this program. Students interested in applying must be admitted to the University’s Graduate School, have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, an RN or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license, a GPA of at least 3.0, and have a personal interview.
Students must also complete the prerequisite courses of an elementary statistics course and an upper-division advanced physiology or pathophysiology class, each with a grade of B or higher. They will also need to take the GRE if their GPA is lower than 3.2.
This program is also offered as a Distance Program to students living in the Intermountain Region, including Nevada, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, or in Utah but at least a one hour drive away from campus. The distance program is offered through internet classes, with clinicals in the student’s home community. Students will be required to travel to campus twice a semester at their own expense.
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – BS to DNP
This doctorate program is designed to train students to care for acutely and critically ill patients in a variety of settings. It is eight semesters long, and students will take 85 credit hours over the course of three years, including two summer semesters. Students will also complete approximately 1000 hours of clinical study. This program is only available full time.
The program follows the core curriculum of the Primary Care Nurse Practitioner BS to DNP program, and has the same admission requirements. Students will meet with their specialty director to customize their own course of study.
This program is also available as a Post-Graduate Certificate.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner – BS to DNP
This program prepares students to take the certification exam to become Neonatal Nurse Practitioners. This full time program takes 8 semesters (three years to complete), and will require 1000 hours of clinical practice. Some courses in this program are available online.
Students must meet the admission requirements for the Primary Care Nurse Practitioner BS to DNP program. In addition, students will need to have at least two years of experience as an RN in a Level III Neonatal ICU. Students will also need to have taken Clinical Physiology within the last five years.
Nurse Midwifery and Women’s Health – BS to DNP
This is the oldest program of its kind west of the Mississippi, and allows students to complete two specialties at once. Students may complete the final year of this full time, three year program in their home community. Some of the classes have an online option available.
To apply, students must meet the requirements of the Primary Care Nurse Practitioner BS to DNP program. Nurses with a year of labor and delivery experience will be given preference for admission.
This program is also available as a Post-Graduate Certificate, and will take one to two years to complete.
Psychiatric/Mental Health – BS to Master of Science (MS)
This program prepares students to take the state licensure, National Board Certification, and APRN exams for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. This five semester, full time program takes two years to complete, and students seeking certification will need to complete 3000 clinical hours. Students have the option to take some of the courses for this program online.
To be able to apply, students must be admitted to Graduate School, have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, be licensed as an RN or APRN, have a GPA of at least 3.0, and may have to have an interview. Students will need to take the GRE, unless their GPA is at least 3.2.
Students must also complete the prerequisite courses of an elementary statistics course and an upper-division advanced physiology or pathophysiology class, each with a grade of B or higher.
There is also a Psychiatric/Mental Health Post Graduate Certificate available. The Certificate program takes two years (five semesters) to complete.
Nursing Informatics – BS to MS
This program is unique in that it gives students the chance to work with Informatics students in other divisions. This program may be taken full time in two years or part time in three years, and requires 40 credit hours. Some courses have online options.
The entry requirements for this program are the same as for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Master’s program, except that the only prerequisites are the bachelor degree in nursing and licensure.
Students also have the option of a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Nursing Informatics. This 15 credit hour program is ideal for working nurses, or for those who are pursuing another degree option. It can be completed in two semesters. Students may choose courses that allow them to take the certificate program solely online, but should be aware that doing so may lengthen their time of study.
Teaching Nursing – BS to MS
Students interested in becoming nursing faculty may take this 36-40 credit hour program. Students may complete the program in two years if attending full time, or three years if part time.
The entry requirements for this program are the same as for the Master’s program in Psychiatric/Mental Health, including the prerequisite courses. Students will also need to take Clinical Physiology.
Those who are interested in earning a Teaching Nursing Post Graduate Certificate may take the 15 credit hour program in as little as two semesters. The Post Masters program is offered as distance learning for students in the Intermountain Region, who are at least an hour’s drive away from campus.
Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program
This program is the study of the process and issues related to aging. Students may earn a master’s degree, undergraduate certificate, or graduate certificate in this program. Though this is not a nursing degree, it is a recommended course of study for nurses, and students may develop a personalized degree program to suit their needs.
The master’s program is a full or part time, two to three year course of study. Students may apply if they have a bachelor degree and a GPA of at least 3.0. They will need to take the GRE if their GPA is less than 3.2.
Both certificate programs can be completed online, and are each 15 credit hours. Students applying to the graduate certificate program need to have a bachelor’s degree.
MS to DNP
This program of study is based on the Essentials of Doctoral Education as outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). It prepares students for the increasing complexity and technology use in health care. This program requires at least 33 credit hours of coursework, and may be taken full or part time. The program is offered as a combination of online courses and monthly campus visits.
Students who wish to apply must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but their master’s degree may be in any subject. They must also be admitted to the Graduate College, be a licensed RN or APRN, have a GPA of at least 3.0, and have a personal interview. Students with a GPA of less than 3.2 will need to take the GRE. There are no prerequisites for this program.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Distance Program
This program is for nurses who wish to pursue a career in research. Students may be admitted with either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or a Master’s Degree in Nursing or a related course of study. Students admitted that do not have a master’s degree will have to take an additional nine credit hours of classes.
Students in the PhD program will complete nine semesters of coursework and must pass written and oral exams to be admitted into the dissertation phase of the program. Dissertations must be completed within seven years of starting the PhD program, but otherwise have no set schedule.
This is a distance program that students may take from anywhere without relocating to Utah. All students, however, must attend an annual three-week campus immersion experience, and an annual research conference.
Students applying with a bachelor’s degree in nursing must have a GPA of at least 3.3, GRE scores, and demonstrate potential for a research career. Those with a master’s degree must meet the same requirements and have a GPA of at least 3.5.
All applicants need to provide a writing sample, a written statement of research goals and interests, professional references, a resume or curriculum vitae, RN or APRN license, and have an interview.
University of Utah Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence
This center is one of nine in the nation that was established to increase the nursing faculty specializing in geriatric nursing.
Through the support of the Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence, the University of Utah is able to offer geriatrics/gerontology individualized learning opportunities at all degree levels.
Veteran’s Administration (VA) Nursing Academy
This is a partnership with the Salt Lake VA Medical Center and the College of Nursing. It provides recruitment of VA nurses and staff into the College of Nursing, and supports increased student enrollment. This partnership is designed to improve nursing practice, education, and research.
Center on Aging
This interdisciplinary program supports research and educational programs on gerontology at the University. The Center sponsors undergraduate and graduate certificate programs, such as the Interdisciplinary Gerontology Program, listed above.
Undergraduate Research Scholar Program
This program is designed to foster research for undergraduates in nursing and gerontology. Students will work toward the Undergraduate Research Scholar designation with mentoring and support from faculty. Students that participate are eligible to work with faculty on research or creative projects. There is funding available for these studies.
Students that participate in two semesters of research with a recognized faculty member, participate in the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), present at a UROP symposium, and publish in the Undergraduate Research Abstracts Journal are eligible for the designation of Undergraduate Research Scholar, which will appear on their transcript in the Awards section.
Contact:
University of Utah
201 Presidents Circle,
Salt Lake City, UT 84112,
United States(801) 581-7200
Utah Valley University Nursing School Review
Utah Valley University (UVU) is located in Orem, Utah and is home to over 28,000 students. Utah Valley University offers over 55 baccalaureate programs and several master’s degrees.
Nursing Program Admission Process
In order to apply to the Associate of Science in Nursing with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing completion program (ASN/BSN), individuals must submit their prerequisite GPA score, along with their Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Test and take part in an interview. Applicants must have taken several prerequisite courses before applying including’; General Biology, Elementary Chemistry, College Algebra, Human Nutrition, Human Development, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology and Introduction to Writing. All of the prerequisites must be completed with a minimum “B-“ grade or above, and Biology must be completed with a minimum “C-“ grade or higher. Applications for the Fall semester need to be submitted between April and May. Applications for the Spring semester are due between August and September.
Students are only able to transition into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program after they have graduated from the Associate in Science in Nursing program and applying for Registered Nurse license. After individuals have passed the NCLEX-RN, they can apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. Individuals are now Registered Nurses, and can go on to complete their baccalaureate education in nursing.
The Licensed Practical Nursing Pathway Program (LPN Alternate Admission) is intended for individuals who are interested in a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Upon completion of the program, students can apply to write the NCLEX-PN, which will certify them as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
There is also a Pre-Nursing Track program available, for individuals interested in obtaining their prerequisites from Utah Valley University.
Master of Science in Nursing
Admission to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is based on an online application process. Students must hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Individuals must already be a Registered Nurse and have completed an undergraduate course in statistics. Individuals must also submit a Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score and have a GPA of 3.2 or above. Individuals must also submit professional letters of recommendation with their application.
The Master of Science in Nursing program at Utah Valley University is intended for students who hold a baccalaureate in nursing from an accredited university and would like to pursue a career in nursing at a higher level.The program is four semesters long and the first semester of the program includes courses in leadership development, nursing informatics, advanced nursing theory and roles and collaboration in nursing education. The second semester includes classes in advanced nursing research, curriculum design and development and teaching/learning in a classroom setting. The third semester of the program includes courses in advanced nursing in health systems and policy, evaluation of learning outcomes, teaching and learning in clinical settings and a thesis project. The final and fourth semester of the program includes a continuation of the thesis program and a final course on teaching practice.
Contact:
Utah Valley University
800 West University Parkway,
Orem, UT 84058, United States
(801) 863-8000
Weber State University Nursing School Review
Established in 1889, Weber State University (WSU) offers over 200 programs to over 24,000 full and part-time students in Ogden, Utah. Weber State University offers associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as several certificate programs both online and in person during the day or in the evening for students who need to continue their employment while attending school.
Weber State University – School of Nursing
The Nursing Program at Weber State University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and students in the nursing program go on to work in hospitals, physicians offices and several other healthcare settings. The nursing programs at Weber State University include an Associate of Science in Nursing (RN), a Bachelor of Science Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN), and a Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN). Applications for the Fall semester for the Associate of Science in Nursing are due in February and the Master of Science in Nursing deadline is March. March is also the deadline for the Registered Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program and March is also the Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program (PN to RN) deadline. When applying to a Spring semester start, students must submit applications to the Associate of Science degree by September, and by October for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. October is the deadline for the Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Program for a Spring semester start.
Students can enter the program by five different streams, the Practical Nursing Program, the Registered Nursing Program, the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in nursing Program and the Master of Science in Nursing Program. The Practical Nursing option leads to a certificate and Practical Nurse licensure, after the students passed the state examination. The Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse program and the Associate’s degree Registered Nursing options both lead to associate’s degrees and licensure as a Registered Nurse. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program mandates that applicants hold a Registered Nursing licensure before being able to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. The Master of Science in Nursing program requires students to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, in order to apply to the program.
Weber State University’s School of Nursing offers an Honors Program in the Bachelor’s degree. In order to obtain an Honors Degree, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above and register with the university honors program. The students must arrange a meeting with the nursing honors advisor prior to the commencement of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, in order to plan objectives for the program and projects. Students must complete 12 hours of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing courses, which are pre-designated as honors courses and complete a final honors course during their final semester of study.
All graduates of the nursing programs at Weber State University are required to write state licensing examinations in order to obtain licensure and begin practicing in the United States.
Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
Students who take this program will be prepared for work as licensed practical nurses in entry-level clinical practices under the eye of a registered nurse (RN).
To apply, students will need to submit the application form, complete all of the prerequisite courses, and prepare the necessary proof for credit transfers if needed. General counseling would also be advised.
Graduates of this program will get an institutional certificate and be allowed to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Exam to become practical nurses (NCLEX-PN).
PN to RN (RN Completion)
This program gives working PNs or students who are eligible to get a PN license the chance to advance their skills, earning potential and careers within the entire healthcare system.
This program takes 86 credit hours to complete for an Associate of Science degree or 68 credit hours to complete for an Associate of Applied Science degree.
To apply, students will need to have completed all of the non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council of State Boards of Nursing licensure exam to become registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Associate of Science (AS)
This program prepares students to practice as registered nurses. However, working students are advised not to work more than 24 hours every week while taking this program since it will take up a lot of time and consists of intensive learning courses.
To apply, students will need to have completed all of the non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.
Graduates will be able to take the National Council of State Boards of Nursing exam to become practical nurses (NCLEX-PN) or registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Bachelor of Science for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)
Students who are already RNs can take advantage of their previous experience through this program and advance further into the world of professional nurses through it. This program follows a hybrid format, which means that students will have to take face-to-face classes and online classes. Students may also look into a part-time schedule, though.
This program is usually completed in four semesters, though some students get to complete it in three semesters with the approval of the administration. To do this, students will simply need to increase their current credit load to 12 to 16 hours a semester instead of the usual 8 to 10 credit hours. Either way, this program needs to be completed in five years or less.
To apply, students will need to have completed all of the non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C. Students with at least two years of professional RN experience may get course credits by completing various challenge examinations.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Registered nurses who already have a BSN can take this program to prepare themselves for careers as nurse educators or nurse administrators. This program follows a hybrid format, which means that students will have to take face-to-face classes 20% of the time and online classes 80% of the time.
Working students are advised not to work more than 24 hours every week while taking this program, though, since it will take up a lot of time and consists of intensive learning courses.
To apply, students will need to have a BSN degree and a valid RN license in Utah. They will also need to complete an advanced college writing course that has been approved by the program.
Graduates of the education track will be allowed to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator Exam given by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), while graduates of the administration track will be able to sit for the Nurse Executive-Advanced Certification Examination given by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Contact:
Weber State University
3848 Harrison Blvd.,
Ogden, UT 84408-3903
Westminster College in Utah Nursing Program Review
Westminster College (WC) was founded in 1875 and is a private liberal arts college located in Salt Lake City (SLC), Utah. Westminster College offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs to almost 3,000 students from over 30 countries around the world.
Westminster College’s School of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing Anesthesia (MSN – Nursing Anesthesia), a Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN – Education) and a Master of Science in Nursing– Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner). Westminster College also offers certificate programs as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Westminster College offers an international nursing student exchange program with a nursing program at a university in Chiang Mai, Thailand. In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Westminster College, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.70, hold a strong GPA in prerequisites and submit a personal essay. Students must also have good references, and pass a criminal background check and a drug screening from a Westminster College approved laboratory.
Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSN – Nurse Anesthesia)
The Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia is accredited from the Council on Accreditation. The program is 29 months long, and begins at the end of every August. Clinical rotations take place at the beginning of September of the following year. The program is comprised of 64 credit hours, with the application deadline as October 31. Students can complete clinical practicum throughout Utah, Idaho, Texas, California and Colorado. Applicants on average must hold a GPA of 3.34 or above and a GRE score of 971.
Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN – Nursing Education)
The Master of Science in Nursing Education is composed of 15 credit hours, which must be earned in one year. Graduates of the program are able to apply to write the NLN certificate exam, which is for Nursing Education majors to go on and teach the profession of nursing. Admission to the program is held on a rolling basis and the program starts in the Fall semester.
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner)
The Master of Science in Nursing for a Family Nurse Practitioner is intended for working nurses, who wish to become licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, who are able to prescribe medication. Due to the fact that most students are employed nurses, classes are only one or two days each week and meet in the afternoon or evening, as well as some weekends. The application deadline for the Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner Program is March for the Fall semester start.
In order to apply to the Graduate Nursing programs, students must submit a personal statement as well as three professional recommendations. Students must also provide their Practical Nursing licensure, and a resume. Applicants must submit to a criminal background check and a drug screening and provide transcripts, GRE scores and an immunization record, as well as a physical and mental health certificate.
Westminster College also offers certificate programs in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator, for individuals who have completed their nursing education and wish to update their nursing skills and certification in order to advance personally or professionally.
Contact:
Westminster College
1840 South 1300 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84105,
United States
(801) 484-7651
Castleton State College Nursing Program Review
Established over 30 years ago, Castleton State College (CSC) of Vermont is home to almost 2,000 undergraduate students and has 30 programs, which prepare students for fulfilling careers. Castleton State College founded its firs Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in only a few years ago, and graduates its first class in 2010.
Castleton State College offers three types of nursing degree; a two-year associate’s degree program, a four-year bachelor’s degree program and a Bachelor in Science program, which is intended for Registered Nurses who hold an associate in science diploma.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) Completion (BS. NUR)
The Bachelor’s degrees in nursing at Castleton State College have two streams. One stream is a four-year degree program, which is intended for high school students, applying to pursue a career as a nurse. The two-year Bachelor in Science program option is for those nurses who already hold a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure and want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs, applicants must hold combined critical reading and math SAT scores of 1000 or higher and must have graduated in the upper quarter of their high school class. Post-secondary work will be evaluated, and students must go through an interview process.
Those applicants, who wish to apply as a Registered Nurse, must hold a valid license in the state of Vermont. Castleton State College does not state how long this degree option will take, as each transfer candidate is evaluated individually, however, all Registered Nurses will be granted 34 nursing credits toward their bachelors degree. Applicants must also present several prerequisite courses, with a “C” grade or above.
Individuals who complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to complete their licensure as a Registered Nurse and begin employment in the healthcare field as a nurse.
Associate in Science in Nursing degree (ASN)
Upon graduation from the Associate Degree in Nursing program from Castleton State College, students are able to apply to write the NCLEX-RN exam, in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse. Applicants must apply directly through Castleton State College, and hold a combined critical reading and math SAT score of 1000 or higher, have graduated from the upper quarter of their high school class and have met with the head of the Nursing department. Students will also be judged on their post-secondary work. Not all students must take all courses. If a students holds a Practical Nursing Licensure, they can write a challenge exam, and potentially be exempt. The Associate’s Degree in Nursing Program can be completed in two years, and all courses must be completed with a minimum “C” grade or higher.
Agreement with University of Vermont
Castleton State College has an agreement with the University of Vermont for Bachelor of Science in Nursing students to be admitted into the prescribed RN to BS program of study at the University of Vermont. Once students have completed the RN-BS program and degree requirements, individuals can receive a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing from the University of Vermont.
Contact:
Castleton State College
86 Seminary Drive,
Castleton, VT 05735
802-468-1213
Norwich University Nursing School Review
Located in Northfield, Vermont, Norwich University (NU) is a private military university, which offers 30 undergraduate degrees. Norwich University is home to over 2,300 cadets, as well as over 1,000 graduate students. The University was founded in 1819.
The College of Mathematics and Sciences at Norwich University is home to the Department of Nursing, which offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and an Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, individuals can go on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), in order to become a Registered Nurse and work in a number of healthcare environments, including; hospices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, physicians’ offices and many more.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Norwich University includes a combination of in-class lectures and clinical practicum and has relationships with several facilities in the surrounding area, including Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and University of Vermont’s Fletcher Allen Medical Center. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program go on to work in US Army and Navy hospitals worldwide. Several students also pursue opportunities at Army and Navy hospitals for their summer internship.
In order to progress through the nursing program at Norwich University, students must achieve a minimum “C” grade or above in all nursing courses and a minimum “C” grade or above in all science courses throughout the duration of their education. An “S” grade is required in all practical courses.
In order to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, students must provide an official copy of their transcript or GED. Applicants must also provide their SAT I and/or ACT test scores. The writing portion of the ACT is not required, however, it is recommended for admission. Applicants must also provide a personal essay for admission, which outlines why they are passionate about a career in nursing and what makes them unique. Letters of recommendation are not a requirement, but are recommended for application.
The deadline for application to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is February for Fall enrollment and November for the following Spring enrollment. International applicants must fill out a separate application form and are evaluated under individual requirements. Individuals must first be accepted into Norwich University before they can apply to the nursing department at Norwich University.
Master of Science in Nursing Program (MSN)
The Master of Science in Nursing Program at Norwich University is an online program intended for individuals who are already nurses, and wish to advance their professional careers as nurses.The MSN program is six credits in duration and eleven weeks long. All coursework for the MSN program can be completed in 18 months if desired by the individual.
Individuals who complete the Master of Science in Nursing program at Norwich University can go on to apply to write the state certification exam, in order to progress their careers in nursing.
Contact:
Norwich University
158 Harmon Drive,
Northfield, VT 05663, United States
(802) 485-2000
Southern Vermont College Nursing Program Review
Southern Vermont College (SVC) was established in 1926, in Bennington, Vermont and is a private and independent college. The average class size at Southern Vermont College is 17 students and there are just over 500 students in the entire student body. Southern Vermont College also offers 18 majors, as well as several study abroad programs.
Southern Vermont College has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree, which is available to individuals who already hold an associate’s degree and diploma in nursing and is therefore a Registered Nurse. Southern Vermont College also offers an Associate Degree in Nursing Program.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is intended for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). Individuals who graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination, in order to become a Registered Nurse. Individuals enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, usually apply after completing the Associate’s Degree in Nursing Program at Southern Vermont College.
Students can fast track through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program if they already hold several of the prerequisite courses. Individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse licensure through completing an associate’s degree program, can complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Southern Vermont College in two years, rather than the usual four years for program completion.
In order to graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Southern Vermont College, students must pass both the clinical practicum and lecture components of all of the nursing courses.
Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN)
Graduates from the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Southern Vermont College can apply to write the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become a Registered Nurse. In order to be admitted to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program, students must first apply and be admitted to Southern Vermont College. After acceptance into Southern Vermont College, students then go on to apply to the Division of Nursing. Applicants must go through a criminal background check prior to entering the program. Applicants must also hold SAT scores of 500 in verbal and 500 in math and must have completed high school biology and chemistry courses with a minimum “C” grade or above.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) can also apply to Southern Vermont College’s Associate Degree in Nursing Program and must score 50% or above on the National League of Nursing Examination. If students score 50%, they can apply for advanced placement in the Associate Degree in Nursing Program.
In order to graduate from the nursing programs at Southern Vermont College, students must complete the core requirements for both the Associate Degree in Nursing Program and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. Graduates must have a minimum of 69 credits for the Associate Degree in Nursing Program and 51 credits for Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.
Contact:
Southern Vermont College
982 Mansion Drive,
Bennington, VT 05201,
United States
(802) 447-4000
University of Vermont Nursing School Review
Located in Burlington, Vermont, the University of Vermont (UVM) has over 10,000 undergraduate students and almost 2,000 graduate students, as well as over 400 medical students. There are over 100 majors for students to choose from at the University of Vermont, with over 90% of faculty with a PhD designation.
College of Nursing and Health Sciences
The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Vermont offers several nursing degrees including undergraduate and graduate programs. The undergraduate programs include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BS) and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (RN-BS). The graduate programs at the University of Vermont include; a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). In 2013, the University of Vermont will offer a Post Master’s Certificate – Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BS)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at the University of Vermont is for individuals interested in entering the nursing profession at an undergraduate level. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program begin nursing courses from the first year of the degree, but are also able to take courses in other majors. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum is composed in-class lectures as well as clinical practicum. After graduating from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program can go on to apply to a graduate in Nursing program.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BS) to Master of Science in Nursing Program (RN to BS to MS)
This program is intended for individuals who already hold a Registered Nurse Licensure and are currently employed. The program also offers a distance learning option, and has done so for seven years. The program is most often completed in three years, but can take up to five years. Most of the courses can be taken online, however, one course must be completed on campus and can be finished during the course of one week over the summer semester. Students must complete clinical practicum, which can be done in the student’s hometown. Individuals can also complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MS) program at the University of Vermont.
Master of Science in Nursing (MS)
The Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of Vermont is for professional nurses who wish to advance their nursing education and nursing career. The Master of Science in Nursing offers several courses of study including; Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing and a Master of Science for Certificate-Prepared Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs).
All graduates of the program are eligible for national certification in their chosen specialty and programs can be taken on a part-time or full-time basis. The MS program is 54-60 credits.In order to be admitted into the MS program, individuals must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, and must be eligible for RN licensure in Vermont. Individuals must also complete the GRE and have a GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also have an undergraduate statistics course, three letters of recommendation, practice experience is preferred and individuals must have previous basic physical assessment coursework.
Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN)
The Master’s Entry Program in Nursing at the University of Vermont, is for individuals who have graduated from an undergraduate program in nursing. The program is 12 months long, and graduates can go on to apply to write the NCLEX-RN, which is required to obtain Registered Nurse Licensure. Once the graduate acquires the Registered Nurse Licensure, they have to select a Master’s stream; Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Advanced Practice Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse. The Advanced Practice Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Program will no longer be available after 2013. The application deadline for these programs is December 1, 2011. In order to apply, students must have three letters of recommendation and provide transcripts and GRE scores. Students must also provide a personal essay.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program (Primary Health/Nurse Practitioner)
The Post-Master’s Certificate Program in Primary Health/Nurse Practitioner at the University of Vermont is intended for Registered Nurses who already hold a Master’s degree in nursing from an accredited educational institution. Individuals who complete the certificate program can go on to sit the American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Adult or Family Nurse Practitioner certification examination.
Contact:
The University of Vermont
85 South Prospect Street,
Burlington, VT 05405,
United States
(802) 656-3131
Vermont Technical College Nursing Program Review
Vermont Technical College (VTC, Vermont Tech) was established in 1866 and currently hasa little over 1,700 students.
The Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) at Vermont Technical College provides students with an Associate of Science in Nursing certificate and allows them to continue on to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at the Vermont Technical College is offered at several campuses in Vermont including; Putnam/Bennington Campus, Thompson/Brattleboro Campus, Fanny Allen/Williston Campus, Randolph Center Campus, Lyndon, St. Albans, Newport, White River Junction, Middlebury, Springfield, and Morrisville. The other nursing program offered at Vermont Technical College is the Practical Nursing Certificate, which is also offered at several of the aforementioned campuses.
The Practical Nursing (PN) program is just over 10 months long, and begins in August and is completed in June of the following year.When students receive the Practical Nursing certificate, they can go on to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). If successful, a student can then become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The second year of the program is for students to obtain the Associate Degree. After completing the program, they can go on to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
If a student already holds a Practical Nurse Licensure or Registered Nurse Licensure, but it is expired – he or she can update their licensure at Vermont Technical College.
The Vermont Tech Practical Nurse certificate is 160 hours in duration, and is composed of an even split between in-class lectures and practical course-work. There is a lot of one-on-one training between students and faculty. The total cost of the program is $1,500.
The ADN program is 240 hours, with an even split between in-class lectures and clinical practicum. The program is broken down into three phases, with phase one consisting of in-class theory and coursework. The second phase of the program is clinical and is completed outside of the classroom setting. A students progress in the second phase of the program is determined by a clinical preceptor, who is someone who has a resume with the Vermont State Board of Nursing and who has been assigned by a hospital to evaluate the student. The cost of the program is $1,500 and includes materials for the course as well as all lecture fees. Students must purchase their own tools and pay for their own travel expenses associated with traveling between clinical practice locations.
Individuals who apply to the nursing programs at Vermont Technical College must submit to a criminal background check and drug screening, and must provide proof of CPR certification and immunization records prior to being admitted into the nursing programs. Individuals must first be admitted into Vermont Technical College before being considered by the nursing department.
Upon completion of the nursing programs at Vermont Technical College, individuals can go on to work as Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses, depending on the academic path that he or she chose. Individuals in nursing often work in a variety of healthcare organizations including; hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, schools and many more healthcare environments.
Contact:
Vermont Technical College
124 Admin Drive, Randolph Center,
VT 05061, United States
(802) 728-1000
Abilene Christian University Nursing School Review
Abilene Christian University (ACU) was founded in 1906 as The Childers Classical Institute, with the financial help of the congregation of the Church of Christ in Abilene. The name was changed to Abilene Christian College in 1920, and then to ACU in 1976.
ACU currently enrolls about 4700 students each year. Students may choose from 67 undergraduate degrees, 25 master’s degrees, and one doctoral program. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16 to 1. The city of Abilene has a population of 115,000 and is an All-America City.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program is for entry-level nurses. Students will, upon graduation, be allowed to take the licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) to become Registered Nurses (RNs). Students will complete at least 131 credit hours for this degree program and will be required to pass an exit exam.
Students will enter Abilene Christian University and spend the first two years in the Pre-Nursing program. During this time, they need to complete the core nursing prerequisite courses, earn a minimum 3.0 GPA, get two faculty recommendations, successfully complete the nursing entrance exam, supply proof of their CPR certification, and be in good physical health to be considered for the nursing program.
Students must complete the prerequisite courses of Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Pathophysiology with a grade of at least a B before they may begin the nursing program. They are also required to take Intro to Nursing, or they may earn a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) certificate instead to qualify.
Once in the program, all upper-level nursing courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher, or the student will not be allowed to stay in the program. They must also have health insurance and professional liability insurance, and maintain their CPR certification.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN program at ACU is designed to train students to become advanced practice nurses and assume leadership roles in the profession.
To be eligible to apply, students must have an RN license, at least one year of nursing experience, letters of recommendation, Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification, up-to-date immunizations, and have an interview with the program director. Students will also need to supply their transcripts and GRE scores.
This is a 38 credit hour program, with a functional major in administration and education. Students also have the option of taking the 44 credit Family Nurse Practitioner program. Students are required to finish their degree program within six years of starting it.
ACU also offers students a Post-Master Advanced Practice Nurse Certification. Applicants must have an MSN degree and will meet with the program director and the dean of the School of Nursing to determine their course of study.
Body and Soul Program
This is a program at ACU designed to help students enter health-related professional schools. Nursing students may participate in a variety of programs, including shadowing RNs in hospitals and private practice, visits to Nurse Practitioner and DNP programs, medical mission trips, and career advising.
Pursuit Program
Nursing students may assist nursing faculty by serving as research assistants, or perform faculty-guided research under the Pursuit Program. Pursuit gives students the opportunity for hands-on experience in research and creative expression.
Contact:
Abilene Christian University
1600 Campus Court,
Abilene, TX 79601
Phone: (325) 674-2000
Alvin Community College Nursing Program Review
Alvin Community College (ACC) was founded in 1948 as part of the Alvin Independent School District. It moved to its current location in 1963 and became a standalone community college in 1972. In 1998, the Pearland College Center was added as a remote campus.
ACC enrolls over 4000 students each semester and offers classes in the local high schools of Alvin, Manvel, Pearland, and Dawson, in addition to the two campus locations.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program
This program provides the educational foundation for students wishing to enter the field of nursing. Students that successfully complete the program will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and will be eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Alvin Community College graduates consistently have a pass rate on the NCLEX that is higher than both the state and national averages.
The ADN program is designed to be completed in two years, after finishing prerequisite classes. The prerequisites for the program are Composition I, and Anatomy and Physiology I and II. Students may also take other general education courses in the program prior to actually entering the program. To graduate, students must complete a minimum of 70 credit hours. Students are admitted in the Fall and Spring semesters. All students applying to the program must submit their ACT or SAT scores.
Students will perform their clinical rotations at local hospitals, and at the world renowned Texas Medical Center in Houston.
The ADN program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
LVN to ADN Transition Program
This program is designed to allow a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to continue their education, earn their ADN degree, take the NCLEX, and become a Registered Nurse (RN). This is a one year program (three semesters, including summer) that admits new students in May of each year.
To be eligible for the program, students must have taken Composition I, General Psychology, Life Span Growth and Development, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Microbiology.
Applicants must have a current LVN license or be scheduled to graduate from an LVN program. If they graduated over a year prior, they must have recent LVN work experience. Once accepted into the program, students will take two Concepts of Nursing Practice for Articulating Students courses. After completing these courses, students will receive 14 credit hours for prior nursing coursework.
LVN Program
Students interested in becoming an LVN may apply to this program. This course of study takes one year (three semesters, including summer) to complete and starts in June of each year. This is an intense, 44 credit hour program that will teach students the basic nursing skills required for an entry level nurse.
Graduates will receive a Vocational Nursing Certificate and are allowed to sit for the state licensing exam for LVNs.
Nurse Refresher Continuing Education
This program complies with the Texas Board of Nursing curriculum requirements for nurses who have been out of the workforce and wish to re-enter the profession. Nurses that have been out of clinical practice for over four years and have allowed their license to expire must take a refresher course to return to work as a nurse.
This program consists of six weeks of online theory class work, 80 hours of patient care under direct RN/LVN supervision at area hospitals or clinical locations, and an on-campus skills lab, which is held at the Alvin Community College main campus.
To apply, students must have a background check, be current on their vaccinations, and be in good standing with the Texas Board of Nursing.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNAs work closely with nurses and provide hands-on patient care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other health care situations. They are an important part of any health care team.
The CNA program is divided into three sections: Nurse Aide for Health Care-Lecture, Nurse Aide for Health Care-Clinical, and Nurse Aide for Health Care-Skills Lab. These courses are taken concurrently during one semester.
To be able to apply to the program, students must be at least 16 years old, CPR certified, and able to read and write in English. They will need to apply to the program, submit to a background investigation, and test negative for TB.
Graduates of the program may take the standardized exam of skills and knowledge. When they pass the exam, they will be put on the Texas Registry as a Certified Nurse Assistant.
Contact:
Alvin Community College
3110 Mustang Road,
Alvin, TX 77511
Amarillo College Nursing Program Review
Amarillo College (AC) is a public community college that was founded in 1929 to serve the West Texas area. The school has six campuses and an outreach center, to cover a three county area. AC enrolls nearly 12,000 academic students and almost 28,000 continuing education students each semester.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Nursing Associate of Science (AS)
AC offers an AS degree in Pre-Nursing. This degree program is designed to parallel the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program at a four year school. This allows the student to transfer seamlessly into a four year program.
In the Pre-Nursing curriculum at AC, students will take 42 hours of general education courses and 17 hours of major course requirements. They will also receive advisement as to what electives to take, based on what school they plan on transferring to.
Traditional Generic ADN Program (Associate Degree Nursing -ADN)
This program is designed to teach students the basics of the nursing profession, so that they may enter the workforce after graduation. This program takes five semesters or 28 months to complete. After graduation, students will be eligible to take the state’s Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam. Graduates of this ADN program will be conferred a Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nursing.
Admission to the ADN program is based on a point system, and is limited to the number of spaces available in the program each fall and spring semester. Applicants are ranked based on their GPA in the general education courses they’ve taken, their score on the HESI Admission Assessment exam, how many general education courses they’ve completed with a grade of C or higher, and whether or not they are a resident of one of the 26 Texas panhandle counties.
The general education courses for this degree program are Speech, Composition I, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Contemporary Mathematics, General Psychology, and Principles of Nutrition.
Fast Forward ADN
This program allows students to take an accelerated path through the ADN program. Students that enroll in this course of study will graduate 18 months after admission into the program. This program begins once a year during the second summer session.
To apply, students must have completed the general education courses for the ADN program (except Speech and Humanities), take the HESI exam, have a GPA of 3.0 or better, and be a resident of one of the Texas panhandle counties.
Fast Forward Transition (LVN to RN Program)
This program is an advanced placement option for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who wish to earn their AAS degree and become RNs. It takes approximately 12 months to complete the program, which begins once a year during the first summer session.
Students must have an active LVN license and LVN work experience in the past four years, or have been enrolled in an LVN program during that time. They must complete the same general education courses required for the Fast Forward program, and take the HESI exam.
Vocational Nursing Program
The Vocational Nursing Certificate is a one year program to prepare a student to become aLicensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Students will take a total of 44 credit hours to complete this program. Graduates will be eilligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) so as to become licensed vocational nurses.
To be eligible to apply to the program, students must be high school graduates or equivalent, and take the prerequisites of Anatomy and Physiology I and Principles of Nutrition.
Nursing Continuing Education
AC has a Center for Continuing Healthcare Education that offers Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) courses. Nurses must take 20 hours of CNE courses every two years to maintain their licenses.
The Center also offers a program in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for interested students. This entry level program can be finished in 12 weeks or less. Students will need to show proof of current immunizations, and complete a criminal background check to be able to enroll. The CNA classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends.
Contact:
Amarillo College
1314 S Polk Street,
Amarillo, TX 79101
Angelo State University Nursing School Review
Angelo State University (ASU) is a part of the Texas Tech University system and was founded in 1928. It is located in San Angelo, a West Texas community with a population of 100,000.
ASU enrolls just over 7000 students each semester. The University offers over 100 majors, with 67 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. With a student to faculty ratio of just 19 to 1, ASU is a public school with a private school feel.
Nursing Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)
This Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is for students who want to earn an AASN degree and take the state licensing exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs). The program requires a minimum of 67 credit hours to complete.
To be eligible to apply, students must take the TEAS V nursing entrance exam, complete a background check and drug screening, have a minimum 2.5 GPA and have earned at least a C in all math and science courses, and submit their ACT or SAT scores.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Transition Programs
This program is for LVNs who are seeking an AASN degree and want to become RNs. Students have two options of study.
The first option is to take the traditional program, which has a combination of classroom and online courses. Students will take the Transitions course, and then take the remainder of the AASN program courses.
The second option is the LVN-RN Hospital Affiliate Program. This accelerated program focuses on mental health, pediatric, and maternal-child nursing through clinical experience, online courses, and printed study materials. It also includes a capstone clinical experience.
To be eligible to apply, students must have a current LVN license and take the TEAS V exam. Students applying to the Hospital Affiliate Program must be practicing in an acute care situation.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program trains beginning nurses in the basics of patient care. Graduates of this program will receive a BSN degree and be eligible to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX).
Students take general education courses during their first two years of study at ASU, and are admitted into the nursing program their junior year. To be eligible to apply, students must take the TEAS V nursing entrance exam, complete a background check and drug screening, have a minimum 2.5 GPA, have earned at least a C in all math and science courses, and submit their ACT or SAT scores.
This program has been approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
RN to BSN Program
This program is for students that have completed the AASN program at ASU or another accredited program and now want to earn their BSN degree. Students must have a current RN license, a GPA of at least 2.5, a completed background check, and two professional letters of reference to apply.
Transfer student may apply up to 66 credit hours of courses to their BSN program. Students must take their last 30 credit hours at ASU in order to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN program at ASU is offered through Blackboard, an online course delivery system. Clinical time is done at the nearest clinical site to the student’s city of residence, and required time on campus is kept to a minimum.
MSN students can choose the following areas of specialization: Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, or Nurse Educator. They may also choose the Collaborative Nurse Practitioner Program, which is offered with Texas Tech. This program allows them to specialize in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, or Geriatric Nurse Practitioner.
To apply to the program, students must have a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, have taken Statistics and Pathophysiology with a C or better, demonstrate computer literacy, submit letters of recommendation, an essay, and show proof of a current RN license.
RN to MSN
Students with an AASN degree from an accredited nursing program may apply to this program. This is also an online program, and the specializations are the same as for the MSN program above.
Students that want to earn their BSN degree in addition to their MSN may do so by completing an additional 9 credit hours of courses toward the BSN program.
Students may apply to the program if they have an AASN degree from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, have taken Statistics and Pathophysiology with a C or better, demonstrate computer literacy, submit letters of recommendation, an essay, and show proof of a current RN license. They must also complete 90 undergraduate credit hours prior to starting their graduate level classes.
Post Master’s Certificate
This program is also delivered online. Students may specialize as Clinical Nurse Specialists, Family Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Educators, or Registered Nurse First Assistants.
To apply to the program, students must have an RN license, letters of recommendation, CPR certification, updated immunizations, and a background check. Students must have either an MSN degree or an RN license and a non-nursing masters degree, depending on the program they wish to follow.
Contact:
Angelo State University
2601 W. Avenue N,
San Angelo, TX 76909
Austin Community College District Nursing Program Review
Austin Community College District (ACC), founded in 1973, has grown into the main institution for higher education for eight counties in Texas. Currently the college has eight campuses and two more in progress, along with 11 educational centers and numerous other locations. ACC serves an area of 7100 square miles, and enrolls over 45,000 credit students each semester.
With over 235 degrees and certificate programs, ACC has something to offer everyone. The college has strong minority enrollment, and scholarship awards are at a record high. It is also a top transfer college, and its students do as well or better, on average, than four-year university freshmen. Nationwide, ACC ranks in the top ten of all community colleges for Associate Degrees awarded in both health-related professions, and in registered nursing.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Traditional Track
The ADN Traditional Track program provides basic nursing education for an unlicensed student. Classes are offered in the classroom or online. Students will take 33 credit hours of non-nursing classes, followed by 38 credit hours of nursing specific classes. The program begins each Fall and Spring semester.
To be eligible to apply to the program, students must be admitted to ACC, have current immunizations, complete the prerequisite courses with a 2.7 GPA or higher, and take the HESI Admission Assessment exam. The prerequisites for this program are Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology for Health Professionals, and college level Math. All of these courses must have a grade of C or higher to be accepted.
Students that successfully complete this program will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. They will also be allowed to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX). The NCLEX pass rate for ACC graduates is 98%.
ADN, Mobility Track
This program is for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), Emergency Medical Services (Paramedic), Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapist Assistants, Surgical Technologists, Medical Lab Technologists, Respiratory Therapy Assistants, Dental Hygienists, or students who are graduates of a Radiology or Sonography program. Students must be licensed or board certified in their field, and must maintain this license throughout the course of their ADN studies.
The mobility track program is 36 credit hours of general education courses, and 26 credit hours of nursing classes. To be eligible to apply, students need to meet the same criteria as for the Traditional ADN program, as well as take Intro to Psychology, Human Growth and Development, Speech, and a Humanities elective. This program begins once a year in the Fall semester.
ADN, Alternate Entry
This program is for LVNs who graduated from the ACC LVN program in the prior 14 months. Students will need to meet the same criteria as for the Traditional ADN program to be able to apply. They will also need to take Intro to Psychology and Human Growth and Development. They do not need to have a current LVN license. Students will be accepted into the program if space is available. Once accepted, they will skip the Level 1 classes and begin in Level 2.
LVNs that do not meet the entry criteria for the Alternate Entry program may apply for the Traditional or Mobility Track programs.
Vocational Nursing
The Vocational Nursing program is a four semester, 53 credit hour program that trains unlicensed students to become entry level nurses. Graduates of the program are allowed to take the LVN licensing exam.
Students must complete the prerequisite courses of Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, Essentials of Medical Terminology, and Pharmacology for Health Professionals with a C grade or higher. Students will need to verify they are up to date in their immunizations, and meet TSI (testing) requirements or take the COMPASS test if exempt. An advisor will determine the testing requirements for each student.
Texas Tech Accelerated Bachelor’s Program
ACC has an articulation agreement with Texas Tech for ADN students who wish to transfer and complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. ADN graduates that meet the admission requirements at Texas Tech will automatically be admitted into their BSN program.
ADN graduates from ACC that already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in another field may enter Texas Tech’s Second Degree Web-Based BSN program. This program takes 12 months to complete, and students may remain in Austin while they take it.
ACC also has articulation agreements with other area universities for those interested in transferring after completing their ADN degree.
Continuing Education
ACC has a variety of course offerings in their Continuing Education Health Professions Institute, including Nursing Re-Entry, Certified Nurse’s Aide, LVN Refresher Theory, CPR for Healthcare Professionals, and many others. These courses are held in various campus locations. Students may register for these courses through ACC.
Contact:
Austin Community College District
5930 Middle Fiskville Road,
Austin, TX 78752-4390
Baptist Health System School of Health Professions Nursing Program Review
The Baptist Health System is a large healthcare provider in South Texas and the San Antonio area. It has many facilities, includes five acute-care hospitals, a regional children’s center and women’s health center, rehabilitation services and imaging centers, in addition to the School of Health Professions. The Baptist Health System School of Health Professions (BHSSHP) is commonly referred to as the Baptist School of Health Professions (BSHP).
In 1903, the Baptist Health System started the Department of Professional Nursing, a nursing school. This was followed in later years by other health sciences schools, such as Surgical Technology, Medical Imaging Technology, and Vocational Nursing. These programs evolved into what is now known as the School of Health Professions.
Nursing Programs
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Nursing
The AAS program is a five semester, 65 semester credit program. Students are admitted to the program in January and August.
To be eligible to apply to the program, students must have taken the prerequisite courses of Anatomy and Physiology with a lab, Introduction to Psychology, and Microbiology with a lab.
Students that apply to this program will need to fill out an online application and email the Admissions Advisor to verify receipt. They will also need to pass the TEAS V admission exam, submit high school or GED transcripts or diploma/certificate, take the Gallup survey, and submit proof of having taken the prerequisite courses with a C or better grade.
Admission is based on the student’s GPA, TEAS V score, and results of the Gallup survey. This program is popular and not all students that apply will be admitted.
Students that successfully complete this program will graduate with an AAS degree, and will be eligible for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX).
Vocational Nurse
The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program is for students wishing to begin a career in nursing at the entry level. This program takes one year to complete.
To apply to the program, students must be at least 18 years old.They will need to apply online to the program, take the TEAS V exam, complete the Gallup survey and submit their high school or GED diploma or certificate.
Students will also need to complete the prerequisites of Anatomy and Physiology, and Growth and Development. If they plan on continuing their education in the future, it is advised to also take the Anatomy and Physiology lab at this time.
LVN to RN Advanced Placement
This program is available for LVNs who wish to earn their AAS degree and become licensed as RNs.
Advanced placement is offered to LVNs that have met the entry requirements and taken the prerequisite courses for the AAS program. They must also hold a current Texas LVN license, and have three months of LVN work experience in the last year, or 6 months of work experience in the last two years. Students that don’t have recent work experience may take a refresher course.
If admitted into the program, LVNs will begin during the second semester of the AAS program.
This program is designed to reduce cost and time for the student by recognizing nursing courses they have already finished and eliminating the need to repeat them.
Perioperative Nursing
This program is for the RN who wants to be a part of the surgical team and care for surgical patients. This program is part of the Department of Surgical Technology, and takes 20 weeks to complete 17 semester credits. Graduates will earn a Certificate of Perioperative Nursing, and be eligible to earn certification by taking the Certification Board Perioperative Nursing CNOR exam.
To apply, students must be licensed RNs, or be eligible to take the NCLEX licensing exam. In order to receive their certificate of completion for the program, students that don’t already have their RN exam must pass the test before the end of the course.
Contact:
Baptist Health System – School of Health Professions
8400 Datapoint Drive,
San Antonio, TX 78229
Baylor University Nursing School Review
Baylor University (BU) is the oldest continually operating university in Texas, having been founded in 1845 by Baptist pioneers. A private, Christian school, Baylor enrolls over 15,000 students today. The University offers 151 undergraduate degrees, 76 master’s degrees, and 33 doctoral programs. Baylor’s main campus is in Waco, and the Louise Herrington School of Nursing is located in Dallas, less than two hours away.
Students at Baylor have an active social life. The campus boasts 260 different organizations and clubs, as well as 42 national and local fraternities and sororities. Baylor also has 19 varsity sports, and is a member of NCAA Division I and the Big 12 Conference.
The Master’s Degree program at Baylor’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing is ranked by US News and World Report as 64th in the country.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program is for the unlicensed student who wants to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Students will take their first two years of pre-nursing courses at Baylor’s Waco campus or another approved university, and the final two years of the nursing program is located at the School of Nursing in Dallas. Students that complete this program will earn a BSN degree and will be able to take the state licensing exam (NCLEX) to become an RN.
Admission to the School of Nursing is competitive, and priority is given to applicants that have taken at least 32 credits of their 66 credits of general education classes at Baylor in Waco. To be eligible to apply, students must have a 3.0 GPA, with all grades being at least a C. Students must also have completed at least 44 credits of their general education classes, including at least two of the four Science courses.
To apply, students will need to submit a Nursing application, transcripts from any schools other than Baylor, and their HESI admission test scores. Students are admitted into the program in the Spring and Fall semesters.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Students may pursue their MSN degree with a major in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or Advanced Neonatal Nursing (NNP).
Students who wish to follow the FNP program must be licensed as an RN, have a bachelor’s degree in any course of study, a GPA of at least 3.0, at least one year of work as an RN, GRE or MAT scores, a writing sample, and have taken an undergraduate statistics course. The FNP program requires 39 credit hours to complete, and graduates may take the exam for national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
The NNP admission requirements are the same, except students must have at least two years of neonatal critical care nursing. This is a 37 credit hour program, and graduates will be allowed to take the national certification exam for Neonatal Nurse Practitioners.
Both of these majors also have Post-Master’s Certificate options available, for students who already hold a master’s or doctorate degree in nursing.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
This program is for students interested in advanced practice in Nurse Midwifery (NM). This is a 75 credit hour, eight semester program of study. Graduates of this program will be eligible to sit for the American Midwifery Certification Board certification exam.
To apply, students must have a current RN license in Texas, a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 GPA or better, letters of recommendation, have an interview, a writing sample, and GRE scores from the last five years. It is also preferred, though not required, for students to have one year of Labor and Delivery clinical experience, experience in observing birth, or training and experience as a doula.
Gerontological Nursing Initiative (GNI)
This is a program started by Baylor University to expand gerontology education for RNs who care for older adults. The GNI will host continuing education opportunities throughout the year, and will develop and provide online education for caregivers to better care for the geriatric population. All classes will provide contact hours toward Continuing Nursing Education (CNE).
Mission and Parish Nursing
The School of Nursing offers faith-based missionary and parish nursing opportunities for interested students. These are anything from a few hours of local community outreach, to a multiple week trip overseas.
Contact:
Baylor University
700 S. University Parks Drive,
Waco, TX 76706
Blinn College Nursing Program Review
Blinn College (BC) in Texas was established in 1883. The Brenham Campus, 90 miles east of Austin, was the first location. Blinn has three other campuses in Bryan, Schulenburg, and Sealy, and serves a 13 county area. Started as a private Methodist college, Blinn eventually became a public junior college in 1937. The college enrolls almost 18,000 students, and is one of the largest community colleges in Texas.
For students looking to further their education at a four year institution, Blinn has one of the highest transfer rates in the state. Almost 75% of all transfer students from Blinn go on to Texas A&M University, but students also transfer to the other top universities in the state, as well.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
The ADN program for Blinn College is offered at the Bryan Campus, in the Texas A & M Health Science Center. This program is for unlicensed students and takes two years to complete, after completing a semester of prerequisite courses. Students are admitted to the program twice a year, in the Fall and Spring Semesters.
To apply, students must first apply to and be accepted by Blinn College, and then apply to the ADN program. Students must supply any college transcripts, proof of computer literacy, take the TEAS exam, submit an essay, and show proof of Hepatitis B vaccination.
The prerequisites for this program are College Algebra or Mathematic Analysis I, General Biology I, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and a Social or Behavioral Science Elective.
Students that graduate the program and earn at least a C grade or higher in all courses are eligible to become Registered Nurses (RNs) by taking the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX).
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Transition Option
This program is offered at the Texas A & M Health Science Center in Bryan, as well as at the Schulenburg Campus. Students must have a current LVN license, and at least one year of nursing experience. Applicants are admitted to the program once a year in the Summer semester. It takes one year to complete this program.
Students will need to complete the same prerequisite courses as the ADN program, plus English Composition & Rhetoric, Lifespan Growth and Development, Pharmacology, and Health Assessment Across the Lifespan.
Vocational Nursing Program
Blinn College offers the Vocational Nursing Program at the Bryan and Brenham Campuses. This program trains students to become entry-level LVNs. This program is 12 months long, and starts in the Fall semester.
Students may apply to the program by applying to Blinn College, attending a mandatory information session, taking the TEAS exam, completing their Hepatitis B vaccination series, and applying to the Allied Health Program.
Students that graduate from this program will earn a Certificate of Vocational Nursing. They will also be allowed to take the licensing exam for LVNs, and the Nursing Jurisprudence Exam (NJE). Once they have passed both exams, they may practice as LVNs.
Continuing Education
The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) program is part of the Continuing Education Health Care Professionals series at Blinn College. Students will earn a Certificate of Completion for the CNA program.After completing the program, the student is eligible for the Texas Certified Nurse Aide Registry exam.
The prerequisite for this program is a high school diploma or GED. Students will take a total of 104 contact hours of courses, labs, and clinical training. Classes are held on campus, and clinical sessions are supervised by RNs or LVNs at local long-term healthcare facilities.
After becoming a registered CNA, students have the option of studying to become a Certified Medication Aide, who may then administer medications under supervision. This program requires 140 contact hours of training, and graduates are eligible to take the exam for the Texas Certified Medication Aide Registry.
Articulation Agreements
Blinn College has entered into a number of articulation agreements with area four-year universities. Students that complete the ADN program and want to go on to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) may do so based on the terms of the agreement. Blinn has agreements for BSN transfers to Prairie View A&M University, Texas A&M Corpus Christi and HSC Universities, the University of Texas at Austin, Tyler, Houston, and Brownsville, Stephen S. Austin State University, and West Texas A&M University.
Contact:
Blinn College
902 College Avenue,
Brenham, TX 77833
Brookhaven College Nursing Program Review
Brookhaven College (BHC) is one of seven colleges in the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD). It was founded in 1978 to serve the Northwest part of Dallas County. The school enrolls almost 13,000 degree students, and over 8000 continuing education students.
Brookhaven has a Core Curriculum that allows students to take at least 42 credit hours that will transfer as a block to any public Texas college or university. This program makes it easy for students to begin their studies at Brookhaven in an affordable environment, and then continue on at a four year institution. The Core Curriculum also allows students to earn an associate degree by taking an additional 19 credit hours.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN)
This is an accelerated program. Students will attend class for 16 months, including summers, and will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Graduates will be eligible to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX). Since the program’s inception in 2004, Brookhaven students have a better than 90% pass rate on the NCLEX.
Brookhaven admits about 60 students into the ADN program each fall, and about 40 each spring. Admission to the program is competitive. Students are given a numerical score based on their admission materials, and ranked according to their score. Students with the top scores will be invited to interview. The score from the interview is then added to the student’s previous score, for their final admission score.
The admission score is based on having a GPA of 2.75 or higher, at least a C grade in all prerequisites, the required courses that have been completed, and the HESI A2 exam score, plus the interview score.
The prerequisites for this program are English Composition I, Introductory Chemistry I or General Chemistry I, Anatomy and Physiology I or Applied Anatomy and Physiology I, and General Psychology. Students are also recommended to complete as many of the support courses as possible, as these are included in the point system for admission. These include Anatomy and Physiology II or Applied Anatomy and Physiology II, Nursing Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Foundations for Nursing Practice, Dosage Calculations for Nursing, Lifespan Growth and Development, End of Life Issues, and a Humanities/Fine Arts elective.
Students accepted into the program will be required to complete a background check and drug screen before they may begin their clinical course work.
Continuing Education
The Workforce and Continuing Education Division is dedicated to providing individual and corporate training to suit the needs of students and companies.
The Health Care Careers Program offers a Home Health Care and Hospice Aide program. To apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students will complete 80 contact hours of course work, and will learn basic skills of patient care and be able to apply their knowledge to the home care setting. After completing the program, students will be allowed to take the National Home Health Care Aide certification exam.
Students that are Certified Home Health Care Aides may continue on to the Nurse Aide Certification course. To qualify, will also need to have had three doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, have taken Basic Cardiac Life Support for Healthcare Providers, and undergo a background check.
This course is aimed at those who plan to work in long-term care. Students will complete 88 hours of classes, 60 hours of lab and lecture, 24 hours of clinical, and four hours of makeup/remedial time. After completing this course, students may take the state certification exam for Nurse Aides.
Articulation Agreements
Brookhaven College has articulation agreements with the nursing programs at Texas Tech University and the University of Texas, Arlington. Students transferring to these four year universities to pursue their BSN degree will receive credit for prior coursework and experience.
According to the articulation agreement with Texas Tech, ADN students will receive 28 credit hours in transfer credit toward their general education courses, and 41 credit hours for advanced placement in the BSN program. That leaves the Brookhaven graduate with an additional 51 credit hours left to ear toward their degree.
According to the agreement with the University of Texas, Arlington, students from Brookhaven many begin earning their BSN while still at Brookhaven. Students will complete the Pathways Program Participant Form during their first year of nursing classes at Brookhaven, and in their last year they will apply to UT Arlington’s Professional Nursing Pathways program.
After they finish their ADN degree, they will be admitted to UT Arlington’s BSN program. They may finish their BSN degree in as little as 13 months.
Contact:
Brookhaven College
3939 Valley View Lane,
Farmers Branch, TX 75244-4997
Central Texas College Nursing Program Review
Central Texas College (CTC) began in 1967 as a community college to serve an 11 county area, in addition to Fort Hood and the correctional facilities in Gatesville. It began programs on-site at Fort Hood in 1970, and in 1974 expanded overseas to Europe. The success of these moves led to greater expansion to military personnel around the world in 1976 and again in 1980.
CTC also pioneered broadcasting telecourses to students in 1970, and moved into videoconferencing in the 1990s. In 1998, CTC offered its first online course, and continues to expand its online offerings today.
The college has administrative areas that are called campuses. Three of these, Central (main), Fort Hood, and Service Area (other Texas locations), are in Texas. The remaining campuses, Continental, Europe, Navy, and Pacific Far East, are located throughout the world.
CTC enrolls over 50,000 civilians, military personnel, and incarcerated students in degree, certificate, and training programs.
Nursing Programs
Nursing Associate Degree (ADN)
This program provides the instruction and clinical practice needed for students to become ready to practice in various healthcare settings. It is two years long, and admits students in the fall and spring semesters. Graduates of the program earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and are allowed to sit for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX).
To apply to the ADN program, students must first be admitted to CTC. After being admitted to the college they should complete the prerequisites for the program, which are Introduction to Nursing, Anatomy and Physiology I, General Biology, and Composition I. They must earn a grade of C or higher in these classes. Students may also complete Pharmacology, lab science courses, and other non-nursing degree courses during this time if they wish.
Students may apply to the ADN program by submitting transcripts for all colleges attended previously, completing the HESI A2 admission assessment exam, completing the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) exam, having a GPA of at least 2.5, schedule an appointment at CTC for degree counseling, and scheduling a mandatory Small Group Interview Meeting.
Students admitted into the program must be up to date on their immunizations, be certified in CPR, and have a negative background check and a negative drug screen.
The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission has accredited this program, and it is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Transition
This program is for LVNs who wish to earn an AAS degree in nursing and become RNs. It takes three semesters to complete after all prerequisites are met, and students may enter in the fall or spring semesters.
Students must meet the requirements listed above for the ADN program. They must also hold a current LVN license, have one year of full time or two years of part time work experience as a nurse, and provide work references. The experience requirement may be waived if students graduated from an accredited LVN program with at least a B average, have a current license, have a letter from the director of their LVN program recommending a waiver, and have completed all LVN Transition prerequisites.
The prerequisite courses for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Biology I, Composition I, General Psychology and Microbiology.
Once admitted into the program, students will take Transition from Vocational to Professional Nursing and Clinical Nursing – LVN Transition. After completing these two classes, students will receive 16 credit hours for prior nursing coursework.
Paramedic to ADN
This program admits students once a year in the spring. Students will earn an AAS degree after three semesters of study, not including prerequisites.
To be eligible to apply to this program, students must have been employed full time in the past year or part time in the past two years as a Paramedic. They will need to submit two work references, including one from their current supervisor. Students will also need to meet the requirements listed above for the ADN program.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Biology I, Composition I, General Psychology, Microbiology and Pharmacology.
Once admitted to the program, students will take Concepts of Nursing Practice I for Articulating Students, and Clinical Nursing for Articulating Students. Once these are complete, they will receive 8 credit hours for previous studies.
Vocational Nursing
This program is a 12 month certificate program that prepares students to be licensed as an LVN, and begin practicing entry-level nursing. Classes are offered at Central Campus, and clinical locations are in the surrounding areas. Students are admitted into the program in the fall and spring semesters.
To apply to the program, students will need to submit transcripts from high school or the equivalent, and any colleges attended. They will also need to complete the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) exam, or if exempt, the THEA (TASP), ASSET, ACT Accuplacer, or COMPASS. They also need to take the HESI admission exam, and attend a small group meeting with the Nursing Coordinator.
Certified Nurse Aide
This is a program that takes about four months to complete, and includes evenings and weekends. Students will take 64 hours of classes and 24 hours of clinical time to earn a Certificate of Completion. They will then be allowed to take the state certification exam.
To be admitted, students must be high school graduates or equivalent, be current on immunizations, submit two references, and complete a background check.
Emergency Medical Technology Program
This program of study is under the Department of Nursing, and offers students the chance to earn an AAS degree. This is a two year, six semester, 69 credit hour course of study.
After finishing the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic and Clinical courses during the first semester of the program, students are able to take the certification exam to become an EMT Basic.
Students that continue on with the program are eligible for the EMT Advanced certification exam after completing Introduction to Advanced Practice, Trauma Management, Patient Assessment and Airway Management, and the EMT Practicum.
Students may take the certification exam for Paramedics after continuing the program and completing Cardiology, Medical Emergencies, Special Populations, Assessment Based Management, EMS Operations, and two more EMT Practicum.
Those that would like to become Paramedics without earning their AAS degree may follow the curriculum for the EMT Certificate of Completion, which takes four semesters and 33 credit hours to complete. They may also take selected parts of the curriculum to obtain the classes needed to become certified as EMT Basic or EMT Advanced.
To apply to the program, students must have completed a CPR course within the last year, submit a copy of high school, GED, or college transcripts, take the HESI admission exam, document their TSI status, have up to date immunizations, have a physical exam within the last six months, and pass a drug screening and background investigation.
Contact:
Central Texas College
P.O. Box 1800,
Killeen, TX 76540-1800
Cisco College Nursing Program Review
Cisco College (CC) is the third school to be opened in Cisco, Texas, after the Britton Training Institute closed in World War I, and Randolph College closed its doors in 1936. Cisco College began as part of the Cisco Independent School District in 1940. It became successful and was separated from the public schools in 1956.
Today Cisco enrolls almost 5000 students. The school has a student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1, guaranteeing students the personalized attention they desire. This is an affordable option for higher education, and Cisco offers associate degrees as well as certificate programs.
Cisco College has two campuses. The main one in Cisco is located about 150 miles from Fort Worth. The Abilene Educational Center is located about 40 miles away in Abilene.
Nursing Programs
The nursing programs are only available at the Abilene Campus.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is for students wishing to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This is a two year program, after completing the prerequisite courses, and graduates will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. They will also be allowed to take the licensing exam for RNs.
Prerequisites for this program are English, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Life Span Growth and Development, Government, College Algebra or Elementary Statistics, and a Humanities or Fine Arts elective.
To apply, students must first be admitted to Cisco College. They must submit their high school or GED transcripts, have completed the prerequisite courses with a grade of at least a C, be current on their immunizations, and take the ACCUPLACER pre-entrance test.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Option
This program is for people already practicing as LVNs, who want to earn their AAS degree in nursing and become an RN. This is a one year program, and graduates will be able to take the RN licensing exam.
The prerequisites for this program are the same as for the ADN program. In addition, students in this program will need to take Concepts of Nursing Practice in order to continue on with the ADN program classes.
Vocational Nursing
This is an entry level program designed to prepare students to become LVNs. The program takes three semesters to finish, after prerequisites are complete. Graduates will receive a Vocational Nursing Certificate, and be eligible to take the licensing exam for practical/vocational nurses. Licenses are granted by the Texas Board of Nursing.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Lifespan Growth and Development.
To apply to the program, students must first be admitted to Cisco College. They must submit their high school or GED transcripts, be current on their immunizations, and take the ACCUPLACER pre-entrance test.
Students will be admitted to the program based on the number of nursing related courses they have already completed, the cumulative GPA of the courses completed, whether or not they have at least a 2.5 GPA, and what the date is on their application. Students are admitted into the program twice a year, in the fall and spring, and admission is competitive.
Other Allied Health Department Programs
Cisco offers AAS degree programs in Medical Assisting and Respiratory Therapy. Students that are interested in a certificate program may study Pharmacy Technician or Surgical Technician.
Contact:
Cisco College
101 College Heights,
Cisco, TX 76437
College of the Mainland Nursing Program Review
College of the Mainland (COM) began educating students in temporary quarters in 1967, and moved into its current location in 1970. COM enrolls over 5000 students each year in degree, workforce development, and continuing education programs. The college offers almost 70 different degree and certificate programs to students.
In addition to the main campus in Texas City, COM holds classes at Clear Springs High School, North County Campus, and the Allied Health Center in League City, as well as the Delmar Campus, Cosmetology Lab, and COM Cast Center in LaMarque. The COM Learning Center is also in LaMarque, to serve the North County area.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is for students wishing to begin their career as a Registered Nurse (RN). The ADN program requires completion of 72 credit hours, and students who complete it will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. They will also be prepared to take the licensing exam to become RNs.
Students are admitted to COM as Pre-Nursing. They must take the prerequisite courses of English Composition I, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Microbiology with grades of at least a C, and a GPA of at least 2.8, to be able to apply to the program. It is also recommended that students take Composition II, Nutrition, Pathophysiology, Introduction to Psychology, Lifespan Development, Fundamentals of Fitness and Wellness, Medical Terminology, Health Assessment, and a Humanities or Fine Arts elective, as these courses are also used to rank applicants.
To apply, students must have a GPA of at least 2.8 on all nursing curriculum classes, no more than one D or F in a science class, take the TEAS exam, be eligible to take College Algebra, meet the TSI requirements, and meet with an advisor to create an Educational Development Plan (EDP).
Applicants to the ADN program are ranked by an Applicant Placement System, and are admitted into the program in rank order as space is available. The ranking is based upon students’ TEAS scores, how many nursing science courses they’ve completed and what grades they’ve earned, as well as how many support classes they’ve taken and what grades they’ve received.
Certificate of Vocational Nursing
This program prepares students to enter nursing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), and takes three semesters to complete. Students that complete the program will receive a Certificate of Vocational Nursing and be able to take the licensing exam to become an LVN. This program admits students once a year in January.
To be able to apply to this program, students must have a high school or equivalent diploma, meet the TSI requirements, be eligible to take Intermediate Algebra, complete an online orientation, fill out an EDP and have it signed by an advisor, be current on immunizations, and have a current CPR certification.
The prerequisites for this program are Vocational Nursing, Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Health, Essentials of Medication Administration, Basic Nursing Skills, Gerontology, Advanced Nursing Skills, and Introductory Clinical – Practical Nurse.
LVN to RN Transitional Track
This program allows LVNs to continue their education and bridge to the ADN program, where they may earn their AAS degree and become RNs. To be eligible, students must hold a current LVN license, be currently employed as a nurse, or have graduated from their LVN program within the last year. They must also meet all of the entry requirements for the ADN program.
The prerequisites for this program are Composition I, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Introduction to Psychology, Lifespan Development, Pharmacology, and Foundations of Fitness and Wellness.
Once admitted to the program, students will take Transition from Vocational to Professional Nursing, and the Clinical that goes with it. Once they have successfully completed these two classes, they will receive advance standing and be given 11 credit hours for prior nursing studies.
Continuing Education
COM offers several Continuing Education programs in health care. Students must apply for Continuing Education through the Public Service Careers Building, which is across the street from the main campus. They will need a driver’s license or photo ID, a Social Security card, physical examination form and proof of immunizations, and criminal history and background check to apply.
- Nurse Aid for Healthcare I and II – This is the classroom and clinical for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, and is a total of 82 contact hours. Students must complete both to be able to take the state CNA exam. Course tuition includes CPR certification and malpractice insurance.
- CNA Refresher – This course is for former CNAs who wish to become recertified. Students will be able to attend any ongoing CNA course or clinical, to be able to pick up what they need to refresh their skills and knowledge. Students must provide proof of former CNA certification, and have a letter from the Department of Aging and Disability (DAD) showing they have permission to retest.
- Medication Aide – This program prepares students to take the state exam to become Certified Medication Aides. It requires 142 contact hours to complete. There is also a Medication Aid Update course available for students wishing to update their certification.
High School Articulated Credit
High school students may get a head start on their college careers by earning college credit before graduation. Students may earn credit toward an AAS degree in Nursing.
To begin the process, high school students will complete a Petition for Award of Articulated Credit and file it with the Director of Educators Alliance for Articulated Credit at COM. They will also need to file a copy of their official high school transcript.
Students will be given credit for any college equivalent course they complete in high school. Once they enter COM, their credits will appear on their transcript. If they took a course that does not apply to their AAS major, it will show up as an elective.
Contact:
College of the Mainland
1200 Amburn Road,
Texas City, TX 77591
Collin College Nursing Program Review
Collin College (CC) in Texas, previously called Collin County Community College District (CCCCD, CCCC) began by teaching classes at area high schools in 1985. It has grown to become the only public college in the county. It currently has over 100 degree and certificate programs, and enrolls over 53,000 students.
The college offers classes at its network of campuses, area businesses, or online. Campuses are located in McKinney (Central Park Campus and the Collin Higher Education Center-CHEC), Plano (Courtyard Center and Spring Creek Campus, Frisco (Preston Ridge Campus), Allen (Allen Center), and Rockwall (Rockwall Center).
Nursing Programs
Collin College is the only Center of Excellence in Nursing Education in the state of Texas. This designation has been given by the National League for Nursing to only 19 of the more than 1800 nursing programs in the country.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is for unlicensed students who want to become practicing Registered Nurses (RNs). Courses for the ADN program are only offered at the Central Park Campus. Students are admitted to the program in the fall and in the spring. Students that complete this program will be awarded an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and will be allowed to take the RN licensing exam.
To be able to apply to the ADN program, students need to take the prerequisite classes of Statistics, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Microbiology, with a 2.5 GPA. They also need to submit their transcripts and TSI test results, take the PSB Nursing School Aptitude exam, and show proof of immunizations.
Applicants are assigned points based on the grades they received in their biology and math courses, their GPA in prerequisite courses, their cumulative GPA, and their results on the PSB Nursing School Aptitude Exam. Applicants will be ranked based on the points they receive.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)/Paramedic Bridge Program
This program is for students who are already either an LVN or a Paramedic. Students must have at least one year of work experience in their field. There are two tracks for this program.
Track I allows students to enter the ADN program in the second semester. Students in this track will sit for the Nursing Accelerated Challenge Exam (NACE) – PN to RN. After passing this exam, they will show their knowledge of first semester nursing competencies, and take Transition from Vocational/Paramedic to Professional Nursing. Once they finish the transition course, they will receive credit for the Integrated Nursing Skills I and Introduction to Professional Nursing for Integrated Programs classes. If students fail any of these requirements, they may apply to enter the standard ADN program.
Track II lets students enter the ADN program in the second year. Students must be able to complete all the requirements for Track I, and have work experience in medical/surgical and mental health. Students will need to complete the Nursing Care of Adults I and the Comprehensive Psychiatric Nursing exams, and show their competency in second semester nursing skills. Students will then receive credit for the courses of Integrated Nursing Skills II and Integrated Care of the Client with Common Health Care Needs.
To qualify for either of these tracks, students must meet the selection criteria for the ADN program, and be eligible for admission based on the point system used. They must also take the prerequisites of Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Composition/Rhetoric I, Statistics, General Psychology, and Life Span Psychology.
Enhanced Skills Certificate (ESC) – Healthcare Case Management
This certificate introduces students to specialized topics and practice with healthcare case management. This program is nine credit hours. Students must have an AAS in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, or be licensed in a healthcare field.
Certified Nurse Assistant
Collin College offers a Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA)/Marketable skills course. This course is a combination of lecture, skills, and clinical time. Students will earn a Marketable Skills Achievement Award, and be allowed to sit for the CNA licensing exam.
This is a 14 credit hour course. To apply, students must have a high school or equivalent diploma, be 17 years old, have a driver’s license, health insurance, and CPR certification, be up to date on immunizations, have a clean drug screen, and submit the forms for a background check.
There is a non-credit version of this class available through Collin College’s Continuing Education program.
Associate of Arts (AA) Nursing Field of Study (FOS)
This is a program designed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to set up a curriculum for the lower level BSN courses. The curriculum will meet the lower level BSN requirements of all public, four year Texas institutions. Students that complete the 38 credit hour program will be awarded a certificate stating they are ready to transition to a BSN program.
While taking the FOS program, students at Collin are admitted to the ADN program, but will not earn an AAS degree or be allowed to take the RN licensing exam. To earn the AA degree, students must take an additional 28 credit hours of general education classes.
Texas Tech Concurrent Admission
Students that want to earn their AAS degree and then transfer to a four year university may consider the Texas Tech Concurrent Admission program. This articulation agreement allows students to declare their intent to transfer to the Texas Tech University Health Science Center and take the RN to BSN program. By doing this, students have provisional admission to the School of Nursing.
To apply, students in the ADN program must have a GPA of at least 2.5, and have earned at least a C in all pre-nursing classes. They must also have completed at least 52 credit hours of general education courses. If they are already ADN graduates, they must be licensed as RNs.
Contact:
Central Park Campus
2200 W. University Drive
McKinney, TX 75071
Phone: 972-548-6790
Spring Creek Campus
2800 E.Spring Creek Parkway
Plano, TX 75074
Phone: 972-881-5790
Collin Higher Education Center
Northeast corner Hwy 121 and 75 Central
3452 Spur 399
McKinney, TX 75069
Phone: 972-599-3100
Allen Center
300 Rivercrest Boulevard
Allen, TX 75002
Phone: 972-377-1060
Courtyard Center
4800 Preston Park Boulevard
Plano, TX 75093~
Phone: 972-985-3790
Rockwall Center
2610 Observation Trail
Rockwall, TX 75032
Phone: 214-771-4573
Preston Ridge Campus
9700 Wade Boulevard
Frisco, TX 75035
Phone: 972-377-1790
Covenant School of Nursing Program Review
The Covenant School of Nursing (CSN, CSON) was founded in 1918 as the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. Covenant has graduated over 3700 students in the past 90+ years, and is the oldest nursing school in the South Plains area of Texas.
The School of Nursing is affiliated with Covenant Health System, a comprehensive health organization serving West Texas and East New Mexico, an area covering 62 counties with a population of 1.2 million.
Students at Covenant have the opportunity to join the Texas Nursing Students Association (TNSA) and the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) while attending school. Both of these organizations foster networking and mentoring in the field of nursing, and provide aimed at improving health care in the state and the nation.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Nursing Status
Before students may enter the diploma program at the School of Nursing, they must complete prerequisite classes at an accredited university or college. These courses are English I and II, or English I and either Speech or Spanish, Chemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Introduction to Psychology, Nutrition, US History I, Microbiology, Human Growth and Development, US Government, and an Elective.
Students must earn at least a C grade in each of these classes, and their GPA must be at least 2.5.
Diploma Program
Applicants to the nursing program must take the TEAS pre-entrance exam, and submit an application with an autobiography, official transcript from high school or equivalent, official college transcripts, entrance exam scores, and five references. Students may have to have an interview with the nursing careers counselor.
Applicants are admitted into the program starting in January and in August. If they aren’t selected, they will be placed on an alternate list.
The diploma program takes 76 weeks to finish. Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn a Diploma in Nursing and be allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX).
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Advanced Credit Program
This program is for LVNs who wish to earn their Diploma in Nursing and become licensed RNs. Depending on their ATI testing scores, students may have their curriculum shortened from 76 weeks to 38 to 57 weeks. Students with a prior GPA of less than 3.0 will be required to complete at least 57 weeks, regardless of their ATI score.
Students interested in this program will need to meet the requirements for the Diploma program, including the pre-entrance testing and prerequisite courses required. Students must also have graduated from an accredited LVN program and be currently licensed. If they graduated within the last two years, there is no work experience required. Otherwise, they must have at least one year of LVN work experience within the last three to five years.
Transfer Students
Students wishing to transfer into the Covenant Nursing Program must meet the same requirements as for the Diploma program. They also need a letter from their old school stating they were in good standing, as well as documentation of the courses they have taken.
Transfer students are required to complete one semester of classes at Covenant before their prior nursing courses are transferred, and they must complete at least 38 weeks of the program in order to be eligible for the Diploma.
Partnership with Lubbock Christian University (LCU)
Graduates of Covenant’s diploma program are able to take advantage of a streamlined transfer process to LCU, where they may earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Students must first pass the NCLEX and become employed as a nurse to enter the program. They must also have taken Stats, Genetics, Bible, and Intro to BSN in a summer semester during their diploma program.
Generally, students will start at LCU within three months of graduating from Covenant. Once they enter LCU, they will take two semesters of courses designed to fit into a working nurse’s schedule. Students that complete these courses will earn their BSN degree.
Shadowing
Anyone who thinks they may be interested in a career in nursing, but isn’t certain, may make arrangements to shadow a nurse at Covenant Health System. This opportunity to observe a real patient care setting is designed to help in the decision-making process for adults and high school students.
Other Healthcare Related Programs
In addition to the School of Nursing, Covenant also has a School of Radiology and a School of Surgical Technology. The Covenant Medical Library is also available to nursing students, as well as physicians, nurses, and staff.
Contact:
Covenant School of Nursing
Covenant Health Systems,
2002 W. Loop 289 Suite 120,
Lubbock, Texas 79407-1704
Del Mar College Nursing Program Review
Del Mar College (DMC) has over 22,000 students enrolled, and serves the Texas Coastal Bend area. DMC has two campuses, East and West, and two centers, and has been educating students since 1935.
Almost half of DMC’s students are age 25 or older, and just over half of them are women. The college offers over 190 degree and certificated programs to students. According to state data, 88% of all DMC students were either employed or attending school within a year of graduation.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Nursing
This two year program is for students who intend to transfer to a four-year institution and complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Students should contact the school they plan to transfer to, and make sure this program matches their requirements.
Students that complete this program will graduate with an Associate of Arts (AA) degree.
Registered Nurse (RN) Education
Students in this program will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nursing. They will also be eligible to take the state RN licensing exam. This program is delivered on campus at the West Campus, or online through the e-Learning program.
To be eligible to apply to this program, students must have completed the prerequisite classes with a grade of C or higher. They must also have a GPA of 2.5 or better, and take the HESI assessment exam.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Essentials of Medical Terminology, Basic Health Profession Skills, and Pharmacology.
Applicants to the program will be ranked based on their GPA and HESI scores. The program admits students in the fall and spring, and those not admitted will be placed on an alternate list.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Bridge
LVNs that wish to earn their AAS degree and become licensed as RNs have three options at DMC. They may enter the regular AAS program and complete the courses. They may submit a letter requesting entrance to the RN program based on space available, if they are graduates of the DMC LVN program and were licensed within the last two years and have completed all the prerequisite classes. Or they may apply to the LVN to RN Bridge program.
Students who take the Bridge program will take Transitional LVN-RN and a clinical course. After successfully completing these two classes, they will earn 15 credit hours for previous nursing education, and will articulate into the third semester of the RN program.
To be eligible for the Bridge program, students must be licensed as LVNs and have met the entrance criteria for the RN program, including completing the prerequisite courses. They must also be CPR certified, and have at least 2000 hours of LVN work experience in the past three years if they graduated from their LVN program within the last five years. If they graduated over five years ago, then they must have been employed during the prior six months as an LVN, as part of the 2000 hours. If they graduated within the last three years, the work requirement is waived.
The prerequisites for this program are Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Psychology, Basic Chemistry, Lifespan Growth and Development, Microbiology and Clinical Pathology, Composition I and II, Introduction to Ethics, Medical Terminology, Basic Health Profession Skills, Speech, and Pharmacology.
Vocational Nursing (VN)
Students that wish to become LVNs may take this program to earn a Certificate of Vocational Nursing and be allowed to take the LVN licensing exam. The VN program takes three semesters to complete.
To apply to this program, students must have completed the prerequisite classes of Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Essentials of Medical Terminology, Basic Health Profession Skills, and Pharmacology, with a grade of C or higher. They must also have a GPA of 2.5 or better, and take the HESI assessment exam.
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
This program gives students the education required to prepare for the state CNA certification exam. Students will take the Certified Nurse Aide and Clinical courses concurrently.
To be able to apply, students must be proficient in English reading, writing, and speaking, have up to date immunizations, and complete a background check.
Contact:
Del Mar College
101 Baldwin Blvd.,
Corpus Christi, TX 78404-3897
East Texas Baptist University Nursing School Review
East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) is located in the community of Marshall, a historic town of 25,000, which is just outside of Longview, TX and Shreveport, LA. Located in a recreational and tourist region, ETBU is also near the Caddo Lake State Park and Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, with public areas for fishing, hiking, picnicking and camping. The area features many other outdoor recreational activities, festivals, and events.
The university has been part of the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1912. ETBU has over 40 programs of study, and currently enrolls 1200 students. The student to faculty ratio is 16 to 1, and the average class size is 20 students. Of the full-time faculty, over 85% have earned doctorate or terminal degrees.
ETBU has its own living mascot, a 500 lb Siberian Tiger named Sarge that lives at a big cat sanctuary at the Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge.
Nursing Programs
Pre-Nursing
Freshmen students wishing to study nursing at ETBU are enrolled in the Pre-Nursing program. For two years, they will take 60 credit hours of general education courses, in preparation for the professional nursing program.
Students may take their general education classes at another college or university and transfer credit to ETBU. Due to variations in curriculum from school to school, students are not guaranteed that all courses will transfer. The transfer of credit for nursing courses will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Professional Nursing Program
Students may apply to the Professional Nursing Program during the second semester of their sophomore year.
To be able to apply, students must already have been accepted into ETBU. They must complete the application for the School of Nursing, complete a one page narrative on why they want to be a professional nurse, and submit a two inch square headshot photo. They must also submit a recommendation from a former teacher either in high school or college, and a personal recommendation. In addition, they will need to submit an ETBU health information form, their CPR and immunization record, and consent to a criminal background check.
Students will also need to take the TEAS preadmission assessment exam and earn a qualifying score, and have a GPA of at least 2.8 in their Pre-Nursing courses, with grades of at least a C in their behavioral and natural sciences, English, statistics, and Introduction to Nursing classes.
Once students successfully complete this program, they will be awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. They will also be prepared to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN). ETBU has a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN. More than 90% of all ETBU RN program students find employment before graduation.
The nursing program at ETBU has been approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Butterfield Memorial Foundation
ETBU was recently awarded a grant from the Butterfield Memorial Foundation, to fund scholarships for students in the School of Nursing. The grant will benefit students enrolled in the upper level nursing classes, and scholarships will help encourage students to complete the program and graduate.
The Butterfield Memorial Foundation chose ETBU for this grant because of the success of the program in retention, graduation, and licensing, and also because of student demographics and the integration of Christian faith into the nursing curriculum.
Contact:
East Texas Baptist University
One Tiger Drive,
Marshall, TX 75670
El Centro College Nursing Program Review
El Centro College (ECC) was first opened in 1966, and is the flagship college of the Dallas County Community College District. Its name reflects its central location in downtown Dallas. It is made up of the El Centro Downtown Campus, the Bill J. Priest Campus, and the West Dallas Campus. El Centro enrolls over 9000 students each semester.
El Centro was the first college in the district to offer nursing classes to students. With its established hospital relationships, students will have the opportunity to take their clinical rotations in the finest healthcare facilities in the area.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Students who take this program will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. This program is 71 credit hours and takes two years to complete. After graduation, students will be able to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam (NCLEX).
The ADN program accepts about 60 students each fall and spring at El Centro and also at North Lake College, which is a satellite campus for the program. Students that take their ADN classes at North Lake will receive their degree from El Centro.
To apply to this program, students must first be admitted by El Centro College, take the prerequisite courses, and take the HESI A2 test. The prerequisite courses for the ADN program are Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology I or Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, College Algebra, Introduction to Psychology, and Basic Health Profession Skills I. Students must have at least a 2.5 GPA, and have earned a C grade or higher in these courses. Students may also take support courses before they are admitted into the nursing program.
Students are assigned points that are used for ranking and admission to the program. The points are assigned based on the GPA of their prerequisites, the GPA of their support courses, their HESI A2 scores, and their previous health care experience.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Bridge
LVNs may continue their education, earn their AAS degree, and become licensed RNs through the Bridge program. Students are admitted into this program twice a year.
To be eligible to apply to this program, students must be currently licensed LVNs, and must have at least six months of recent nursing experience. They must also have been admitted to El Centro College, complete the prerequisite courses with grades of at least C, take the HESI A2 exam, have at least a 2.0 GPA, and take the Continuing Education nursing skills and math review course.
The prerequisites for this program are Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology I or Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, College Algebra, and Basic Health Profession Skills I. These courses must be completed with a GPA of at least 2.5. In addition, students must take Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology II or Human Anatomy and Physiology II, General Microbiology, Developmental Psychology, and Intro to Speech Communications, all completed with a grade of C or better.
Applicants will be rated by point system based on GPA, prerequisite grades, and HESI test scores. Once accepted into the program, students will take three bridge courses concurrently, made up of lecture, skills, and clinical practice. When they successfully complete those courses, they will enter the third semester (second year) of the ADN program. When they finish the program, they will receive an additional 14 credit hours for previous nursing coursework.
Enhanced Skills Certificate – Perioperative Nursing
This two semester internship teaches nurses the theory and skills to care for patients in a surgical setting, with an emphasis on scrub and circulating roles. Students that are current licensed RNs and who are CPR certified are eligible for this program. After completing the internship, students receive an Enhanced Skills Certificate.
Applicants must be admitted to El Centro, submit official transcripts, complete the Physical Examination and Immunizations Record form, show CPR and RN license documentation, and have health insurance. Applicants are admitted into the program on a first come, first served basis.
Vocational Nursing
Students interested in entry level nursing may take this program and earn a certificate of completion. Those who successfully finish will also be eligible to take the licensing exam to become LVNs. About 30 students are admitted to this program each fall semester.
To apply to the Vocational Nursing program, students must have graduated from high school or have a GED, be admitted to El Centro, complete the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements, finish the prerequisite courses, attend an informational session, and take the HESI A2 exam.
The prerequisites for this program are Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology I or Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, and Introduction to Speech Communications or Fundamentals of Public Speaking. These courses must be completed with a GPA of at least 3.0. It is also recommended that students take Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology II or Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Basic Health Profession Skills I, and Pharmacology for Health Care Professions.
Applicants are selected based on the GPA of their prerequisites, support courses, HESI scores, and prior healthcare experience.
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
This program is offered through Continuing Education. To apply, students must score at least 35 on the Test of Adult Basic Education. They must also have a valid photo ID and Social Security card, up to date immunizations, and CPR certification. If they aren’t CPR certified, they will be required to take CPR for the Healthcare Provider during the program.
This program is 60 hours of lecture and lab time, and 40 hours of clinical time. After finishing the program, students are able to take the state skills and written exam for CNAs. Those that pass will be listed on the Texas Certified Nurse Aide Registry.
The Continuing Education department also offers refresher courses for CNAs, LVNs, and RNs.
Contact:
El Centro College
801 Main Street,
Dallas, TX 75202
El Paso Community College Nursing Program Review
El Paso Community College (EPCC) began enrolling students in 1971. EPCC currently enrolls over 27,000 credit students and over 8000 continuing education students each year.
The college has over 130 degree or certificate programs of study, as well as continuing education, distance education, and dual credit for high school students. EPCC has six campuses around the El Paso area to serve its students.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
This program is for students who want to become Registered Nurses (RNs). Students that complete this program will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and will be allowed to take the state licensing exam for RNs. Applicants are admitted into this four-semester program in the fall and spring semesters.
To be eligible to apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete the ACCUPLACER tests, take the prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher, have a GPA of at least 2.5, attend a Health Careers Orientation, and submit all transcripts. The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Pharmacology, and Introductory Math or a higher level math course. It is also recommended that students take Microorganisms and Disease, as this class is used in the applicant ranking process.
Students must also be CPR and first aid certified, have current immunizations, complete a physical exam, and attend an online orientation before their application will be considered. Students will be ranked on their GPA for their prerequisites, excluding math, plus Microorganisms and Disease.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN Transition Program
This program is for LVNs who want to earn their associate degree in nursing and become licensed RNs. Once students are admitted into the program, they will receive credit for their LVN coursework under the Texas Nursing Articulation Plan, and will enter the ADN program in the third semester. This program begins every fall and spring semester, and in the summer if faculty are available.
To apply, students need to have an active LVN license and be currently employed as a nurse, have a minimum of 6 months full time or 1 year part time LVN experience, and have a reference from their current employer. They must also complete the following prerequisites: Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Pharmacology, Microorganisms and Disease, Human Growth and Development, and Introductory Math or a higher level math course.Students will also need to take the Health Assessment course before being admitted.
Applicants are ranked and admitted based on their GPA of the prerequisite classes.
Paramedic to RN Transition
This program is for licensed Paramedics who want to become RNs. This program admits students in the fall semester.
Students must be currently employed as a Paramedic, have a letter from their current employer, and have at least six months of full time or one year of part time work experience in the field. They must also complete the following prerequisite classes with a grade of C or higher: Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Pharmacology, Microorganisms and Disease, Introduction to Psychology, Expository English Composition, and Introductory Math or a higher level math course. It is recommended that students also take Human Growth and Development, Business Computer Applications or other computer course, and Fundamentals of Effective Speech or Organization and Professional Communications.
Applicants are ranked and placed in the program based on their cumulative GPA on their prerequisite courses.
LVN Nursing
This is a three semester program designed to prepare students for a Vocational Nurse Certificate of Completion, and to take the licensing exam to become an LVN. Students are admitted into the program each fall and spring semester.
To apply, students must be enrolled in EPCC, take the ACCUPLACER tests, attend the Health Careers Orientation, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and submit all transcripts.
Students will also need to take the following prerequisites with a grade of at least C and a minimum 2.5 GPA: Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Pharmacology, and Introductory Math or higher.
Applicants need to have a CPR certificate, first aid certificate, current immunizations, a physical exam, the Physical Technical Standard form, and take an online nursing orientation before they will be ranked. Ranking is based on students’ GPA in the prerequisite classes, excluding math.
It is recommended students also take Introduction to Psychology, Human Growth and Development, and an elective prior to starting the program.
Nursing Assistant
This is a seven week program offered through Continuing Education. Students will take class every day on campus for four weeks, and have clinical experiences for three weeks. After that, they will take the Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
In order to be admitted to this program, students must be at least 17 years old, be CPR certified by an American Hearth Association Healthcare provider, have certification in first aid, have at least an 8th grade reading comprehension, have a physical exam, be current on immunizations, have a negative TB test, and have a background and drug screen.
Contact:
El Paso Community College,
9050 Viscount Blvd.,
El Paso, TX 79925
Galveston College Nursing Program Review
Open to students since 1967, Galveston College (GC) is dedicated to providing quality education to the residents of Galveston Island, as well as the surrounding communities. GC enrolls about 2400 credit students and almost 5000 continuing education students each semester.
Galveston Island is 32 miles long and just 2.5 miles wide, and has some of the best preserved Victorian architecture in the nation. It also features miles of beautiful beaches, restaurants, hotels, and shopping, and is just 40 miles away from Houston, the fourth largest city in the nation.
Nursing Program
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
This program begins in the fall semester. Students will take a two year course of study, with 72 credit hours, and will graduate with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing. They will also be prepared to take the licensing exam (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses (RNs).
Admission to this program is competitive. Students will be awarded points based on their GPA, entrance scores, prerequisites and science classes, and general education courses taken.
To apply, students must be admitted to the college, have current immunizations, a clear background investigation, submit all transcripts, satisfy the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), complete or be enrolled in all prerequisites, and submit an application to the program. They must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 as well as a 2.5 GPA in their prerequisite classes.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I, Introduction to Chemistry I, Essentials of Medical Terminology, General Psychology, and Introduction to Algebra or a higher math class.
The recommended general education courses that will also be used in admission ranking are Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology for Science Majors, Composition I, Lifespan Growth and Development, Computers in Healthcare, and a Humanities or Arts elective.
Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) to ADN Transition Program (EMT to ADN/ Paramadic to ADN)
Licensed Paramedics may take this program to earn an AAS in Nursing and become RNs. Students that meet the admission criteria will enter the ADN program during a summer session, and will complete it within a year.
Applicants to the program are selected competitively, using the same criteria as for the traditional ADN program. EMT-P Transition students must show proof of licensure, have at least one year of part time work experience as a Paramedic or have been a full time student while working part time, have a background check, be up to date on all immunizations, be admitted to the college, submit transcripts, satisfy TSI requirements, and take all prerequisites. They must also have a 2.5 GPA both cumulatively and in their prerequisite courses.
The prerequisites for the Transition program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology for Science Majors, Introduction to Chemistry I, Composition I, a Humanities or Arts elective, Essentials of Medical Terminology, General Psychology, Health Assessment, and Introduction to Algebra or a higher math class.
General education courses used in ranking students are Lifespan Growth and Development, Computers in Healthcare, and Pharmacology. It is recommended, but not required, that students take these before applying.
After admission to the program, students will take Nursing Skills for Articulating Students and the clinical course, and Transition to Nursing Practice. When they successfully complete these courses, students will receive 14 credit hours for prior education and experience.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to ADN Transition Program
Nurses with an LVN license may apply to this program to earn their AAS degree and become licensed RNs.
Entrance to this program is competitive, and applicants are ranked using the same criteria as for the traditional ADN program. LVN Transition students must have proof of licensure, have worked at least part time for one year as an LVN or have worked part time while a full time student, have a background investigation, have current immunizations, be admitted to the college, submit transcripts, satisfy TSI requirements, and complete all prerequisites. They must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA, and also a 2.5 GPA in their prerequisite courses.
The prerequisites for the Transition program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology for Science Majors, Introduction to Chemistry I, Composition I, a Humanities or Arts elective, Essentials of Medical Terminology, General Psychology, and Health Assessment. They must also either test out of or take Introduction to Algebra or a higher math class.
In addition, students are recommended to take these general education courses, as they are used in ranking applicants for admission: Lifespan Growth and Development, Computers in Healthcare, and Pharmacology.
Once admitted to the program, students will take a Medical-Surgical Clinical and Transition to Nursing Practice. When these have been completed, students will be awarded 14 credit hours for prior education and experience.
Vocational Nursing Certificate
Galveston College offers a program for students wishing to become entry-level nurses. The Vocational Nursing Certificate program is one year long, and after completing it students may take the state licensing exam to become LVNs.
To apply, students must be admitted to the college, have current immunizations, a background check, submit all transcripts, satisfy the TSI, complete or be enrolled in all prerequisites, and submit an application to the program. They must have a GPA of at least 2.5 in their prerequisite classes, as well as a cumulative 2.5 GPA.
The prerequisites for this program are Essentials of Medical Terminology, Essentials of Medication Administration, and Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Heath. Students will also need to test out of or take Introductory Algebra or a higher math class. In addition, it is recommended that students take Nutrition or Nutrition and Diet Therapy I, Essentials of Medial Law/Ethics for Health Professionals, and Pharmacology. These general education requirements are used in the ranking process for program applicants.
Any student that is not selected and applies the following year is automatically given two more ranking points.
Continuing Education
Nurse Aide for Health Care
This is a Continuing Education program for entry-level nursing assistants. To apply, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students will take 86 hours of coursework and clinical practice, and will also be required to become certified in CPR for Health Care Providers.
Clinical-Nurse/Nursing Assistant/Aide (CNA Program)
Students that want to become Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) may enroll concurrently in this program while taking the Nursing Assistant courses. This program is an additional 24 hours of classroom and clinical time. Once students finish this program, they will be eligible to take the state certification exam.
Medication Aide
Medication Aides may administer certain medications to patients. CNAs that are currently employed in long-term care facilities are eligible to take this course. This is a 140 hour program, and after completing it students will be able to take the state licensing exam.
Contact:
Galveston College
4015 Avenue Q,
Galveston, TX 77550
Grayson College Nursing Program Review
Grayson College (GC), also sometimes called Grayson County College (GCC), was founded over forty years ago to serve the area around Denison. The college enrolls over 5000 students each semester, and offers over 70 degrees and certificates.
Grayson has three campuses: the Main campus in Denison, South campus in Van Alstyne, and West Extension in Denison.
Nursing Programs
Nursing, Associate Degree
Students that take the classes in this program in sequence will complete the education requirements to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Graduates are then eligible to take the licensing exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Admission to this program is competitive, and admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the program.
Students wishing to apply to the program must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a college cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, one college math course or 2 years of high school math with a grade of C or higher, college level Anatomy and Physiology I and II with a C grade or better, take the Evolve Admission test, and have a complete immunization record.
It is also recommended that students take the general education courses of Microbiology, English Composition I and II, General Psychology, Lifespan Psychology, Sociology, Speech, and College Algebra or Elementary Statistics. These courses will be used in ranking, and need to have a grade of C or higher.
Applicants will be ranked for selection based on whether their application is complete, their grades on their prerequisites and any completed general education courses, their Evolve test score, and their district residency.
This nursing program has been fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLCAC), and is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to RN
LVNs may take this program to gain advanced placement into the traditional associate degree nursing program. This will allow them to earn their AAS degree and take the RN licensing exam. It takes about a year to finish this program.
Once admitted into the program, students will take two transitional entry classes, Transition from Vocational to Professional Nursing and Care of Clients with Common Needs. Once they have completed these courses, they will receive 14 credit hours for their prior nursing education and experience, and will then enter the traditional program in the third semester.
To apply, students must be currently licensed as an LVN, have a letter from their current nursing employer detailing their work history, have a high school diploma or equivalent, proof of graduation from an LVN program, a cumulative college GPA of 2.5 or higher, take the Evolve Admission test, and have a complete immunization record. They must also have taken one college math course or 2 years of high school math with a grade of C or higher, college level Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, General Psychology, Child & Lifespan Development, English I, and Sociology, all with a C grade or better.
Applicants are accepted into the program based on a numerical ranking system. Points are assigned for grades on prerequisite and any completed general education courses, Evolve test scores, and residency in the district.
University Transfer Pre-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Students who are interested in transferring to a four-year institution and earning a BSN degree may be interested in the Pre-BSN program. This curriculum is designed to replicate the first two years of a BSN program. Students will take 64 credit hours of classes and earn an AAS degree. It is not guaranteed that the curriculum will fulfill the requirements at all four-year universities.
Certified Nurse Aide
This program is available through the Center For Workplace Learning. This 80 hour program combines class time with clinical experience. Students will be required to have a background check and be up to date on their immunizations. Students that complete the program may take the state certification exam.
Contact:
Grayson College
6101 Grayson Drive (Hwy. 691),
Denison, TX 75020
Hardin-Simmons University Nursing School Review
Founded in 1891 as Abilene Baptist College, Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) is a private university, and has been affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941. The campus sits on over 200 acres in Abilene.
HSU enrolls almost 2500 students each semester. The school has a student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1, giving students the opportunity to get to know their professors. Though located in a large metropolitan area with a population of 133,000, HSU has a small town feel.
Nursing Programs
The Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing (PHSSN) is a group of schools made up of HSU, Abilene Christian University, and McMurry University. This program is the only one of its kind, and is a model for other programs looking to provide a professional nursing program that is both efficient and of high quality.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Students in this program will graduate with a bachelor’s degree and will be eligible to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam. Students will take prerequisite classes their first two years, and will be admitted to the nursing program at the beginning of their junior year.
The prerequisites for this program are Introduction to Chemistry I and II, College Algebra or Quantitative Reasoning, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Life Span Development, Microbiology, Statistics, Introduction to Nursing Skills, and Pathophysiology.
Students are eligible to apply to the program if they have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, have earned at least a C in all nursing core classes and a B in Anatomy and Physiology I and II and Pathophysiology, taken the HESI nursing entrance exam, have two references from nursing instructors, and completed all prerequisites.
RN to BSN
This program is for students who have completed an associate or diploma in nursing from an accredited program and have an RN license. Once they enter the program in the fall, students will be able to complete it in two semesters.
RN to BSN students must take the same general education courses as traditional BSN students. To apply to the program, they must be admitted to HSU, and have completed at least 45 semester hours of prerequisites.
Students will need to take the National League for Nursing (NLN) RN Mobility Exam (ACE II). When they successfully complete the exam, they will be awarded 29 semester hours for upper-division nursing classes. Students may also test for credit in Health Assessment, Mental Health, Pharmacology, and Pathophysiology.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
This is a two year Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Students will complete 44 semester hours of classes, including 20 hours of core classes. FNP students will also complete 778 hours of clinical practice.
To apply for this program, students must have a BSN degree from an accredited nursing school. They will need to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0, a 3.0 GPA in their nursing courses, and GRE scores. Students must also be licensed RNs, have at least one year of clinical practice experience, three letters of recommendation, a completed PHSSN application, and be certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Education and Administration
This is a two year MSN program. Students will complete 33 semester hours of classes, including 20 hours of core classes. Education and Administration students will also take 180 hours of clinical practice.
To apply to the program, students must meet the same requirements as for the FNP master’s track.
Post-Masters Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) Certificate
This is a two year Post-Master’s program, with an FNP focus. Students will complete at least 21 semester hours of classes.
To be able to apply, students need to have an MSN degree from an accredited nursing school and a current RN license. They will need to meet with the program director to determine the courses needed for their program.
To graduate, they will need to have a GPA of at least 3.0, and finish all designated classes. Students are required to complete this program within six years of being accepted.
Contact:
Hardin-Simmons University
2200 Hickory,
Abilene, TX 79698
Houston Baptist University Nursing School Review
Houston Baptist University (HBU) opened its doors in 1963 after many years of work and planning by the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It currently has six colleges, offers over 40 majors, and has 2500 students enrolled.
HBU’s first 50 years have been chronicled in a book, An Act of Providence, written by Vice President Emeritus Dr. Don Looser. This book has won the History Writing Award for Institutional History, given by the Texas Baptist Historical Society.
Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This program is designed to prepare students to care for families, individuals, and communities. Students that successfully complete the program will graduate with a BSN degree, and will be able to take the state Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
To be able to apply students must be admitted to HBU, have attended a nursing information session, have at least a 3.0 GPA in their science courses and cumulatively, complete the HESI entrance exam, complete all prerequisites with a grade of C or higher, complete the HBU proficiencies in Writing, Math, Computer, and Reading, and have a clear background check.
The prerequisites for this program are Writing for Wisdom I and II, Introduction to Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Introductory Chemistry, Math for Critical Thinking (or a higher level Math course), General Psychology, Introductory Statistics for Behavioral Science, Human Growth and Development, American and Texas Government I, Christianity, and Humanities and Fine Art electives.
The program is a total of 127 semester hours. To graduate, students may not earn a grade lower than a C in their nursing core courses. They must also maintain at least a 2.5 GPA.
BSN – Honors
This is a program for students who have been selected into the Honors College (HC). It combines classes from the HC curriculum with the BSN program. Students will meet with an advisor to receive their course information.
RN to BSN
This program is for RNs that want to earn their bachelor’s degree. It allows students with a nursing background to document their previous education and experience. This will allow them to enter the BSN program with advanced placement.
Students must be currently licensed as an RN, and have at least six months work experience as a nurse. They will need to meet the eligibility requirements for the BSN program, be certified both in CPR and AED, have health insurance and a recent physical exam, meet with the Dean or an advisor, have a GPA of at least 3.0, take the HESI admission exam, pass the Math for Nurses test, and meet HBU’s requirements for proficiency in Math, Writing, Reading, and Computer.
RNs will also take the HESI exit exam. If they score above a 900, they will be awarded 25 semester hours of credit for prior courses. If they do not achieve a 900 on the test, they will have to enroll in the courses that they are deficient in.
Students will also have to take the following prerequisites: Pathophysiology, Care of Individuals III, Care of Vulnerable Populations, Nurses in the Community and Nursing in the Community, Senior Seminar: Applied Nursing Research and Externship, and Professional Issues and Nurse Leadership.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to BSN
This program is for LVNs that wish to earn a bachelor’s degree and become licensed RNs. Students applying must be currently licensed as LVNs, and have at least six months of recent LVN work experience. They will also need to meet the eligibility requirements for the BSN program, be certified in CPR and AED, have a recent physical exam and health insurance, meet with the Dean or an advisor, have a GPA of at least 3.0, take the HESI admission exam, pass the Math for Nurses test, and meet the HBU requirements for proficiency in Reading, Math, Writing, and Computer.
Students applying under this program will be allowed to challenge Care of Individuals I and II for credit. Otherwise, they will need to meet the remainder of the BSN program’s requirements for classes.
Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Students that are transferring from another program or re-entering HBU’s nursing program are allowed to challenge any nursing courses that they have received a grade of at least a C in. Students will need to be admitted to HBU, and submit course descriptions and syllabi for any course they wish to challenge to the Dean. Once approved, students will be allowed to take a challenge exam for each course they wish to transfer. Those who score a 75% or above on the challenge exam will have their transfer credit accepted.
Nursing Scholarships
There are a number of scholarships available to students enrolled in nursing or health related programs. While many are available through outside organizations and are open to students at other schools, there are several that are only open to HBU nursing students. These include:
- Margaret C. Clendenin
- C. Gus Glasscock, Jr. Nursing Scholarship
- Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship
- Memorial Hermann School of Nursing Alumni
- Gwen A. and Michael J. Mellinger Endowed Scholarship for Nursing
- Myrtle Heiman Endowed Scholarship
- The Reverend D.R. Pevoto Scholarship
Contact:
Houston Baptist University
7502 Fondren Road,
Houston, TX 77074
Howard College Nursing Program Review
Howard College (HC) educated its first students in 1946 in what had been the hospital of the former Army Air Force Bombardier School in Big Spring. A few years later the college was moved to its current location in the southeast part of town.
The college currently has four campuses, including the main one in Big Springs, Lamesa, San Angelo, and the Southwest College Institute for the Deaf (SWCID). HC also offers classes for incarcerated students in facilities provided by the Big Springs Federal Correctional Institution and the Eden Detention Center. HC serves 13 counties in West Texas, an area covering 13,000 square miles, and enrolls over 4000 students each semester.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) – Registered Nurse (RN)
This is a two year program designed to train beginning nurses to care for patients. Students who successfully complete this program will be awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree, and will be eligible to take the RN licensing exam and become a professional nurse. This program is only offered at the Big Spring campus. During the second year of this program, students will take their lecture classes online.
To be able to apply for this program, students must be admitted to the college, complete the prerequisite courses with a grade of at least a C, submit a copy of their Certified Nurse’s Aide (CNA) certificate or transcript, take the TEAS V entrance exam, have a background check, and be up to date on immunizations.
The prerequisites for this program are taking the CNA course, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Freshman Composition I, and Microbiology. Students will also need to take Business Computer Applications before they may begin their online courses during their second year.
Students may also take the general education courses required for the degree prior to entering the ADN program.
Admission to this program is competitive. Students will be assigned points based on their grades in the prerequisite courses, their TEAS scores, and be ranked based on their total points.
HC has articulation agreements with two West Texas universities. After graduation, students may choose to transfer to one of them and continue their nursing education.
Accelerated (Transition) ADN Program
This is a 12 month program for those who have gone through the vocational nursing program, and who want to become RNs. This program is only offered at the Big Spring campus. Students are admitted to this program in the Summer I semester. All of the lecture courses for this program are taken online.
To apply to the program, students will need to be admitted to the college, show an official transcript showing grades of C or better for all prerequisites, provide their transcripts from their vocational nursing education, take the TEAS V exam, have a background check, and have up to date immunizations.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Nutrition, Lifespan/Growth and Development, and Business Computer Applications.
Vocational Nursing
This is a 12 month program that prepares students to provide care to patients under the supervision of an RN or physician. This program is offered at the Big Spring and San Angelo campuses. Students that finish this program will receive a Certificate of Vocational Nursing, and will be allowed to take the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) state exam.
To be able to apply to the program, students must be admitted to the college, take the pre-THEA reading exam, take the prerequisite classes with a C grade or better, take the PSB Aptitude Exam for Practical Nursing, show proof of immunizations, and have a background check.
The prerequisites for this program are to be a licensed CNA, and take Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Nutrition, and Lifespan/Growth and Development. It is also recommended that students take Microbiology prior to starting the program, due to potential scheduling conflicts.
Certified Nurse Aide
Completion of this program is required before students may apply to the ADN or vocational nursing programs.
Students applying to this program must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English. They must also have a background check, a social security card, driver’s license, and shot records showing current immunizations.
This course is 90 hours, and may be taken in the daytime or in the evenings. Classes are offered at the Big Spring campus.
Contact:
Howard College
1001 Birdwell Lane,
Big Spring, TX 79720
Kilgore College Nursing Program Review
After oil was discovered in the area, the town of Kilgore was incorporated in 1931, and Kilgore College (KC) soon followed in 1935. The school enrolls 12,000 students each semester at both the main campus in Kilgore and the Longview campus. The college also has a Police and Fire Training Facility, and the Overton Agricultural Center.
Kilgore College is home to the East Texas Oil Museum, detailing the history of the independent oil producers that founded the area. It also sponsors the annual Texas Shakespeare Festival, which has been bringing professional theatrical productions to the area each summer for over 25 years.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program will teach students the basics of patient care. Students who successfully complete this program will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and will be allowed to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
This program is 16 months long, including one summer session. Students are admitted into the program every fall and spring semester. About 60 students are admitted each semester.
To apply, students must complete the prerequisite courses, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, take the TEAS V admission test, and read at a 13th grade level or above. All prerequisites must have a grade of C or better. Students will also have to complete a background and drug test before being admitted. Admission to the program is competitive, and is based on prerequisite class grades and admission test scores.
The prerequisite classes for this program are Chemistry for Health Sciences, Grammar and Composition, Nutrition, Introductory Psychology, and Anatomy and Physiology I and II. Students may also take as many non-nursing support classes as they want before applying.
This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing (NLN) and the Texas Board of Nursing (TBN).
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
This program is designed to prepare students to perform basic nursing skills as a part of the nursing team. The course of study is three semesters over the course of 12 months, and students will complete 47 credit hours of classes. Applicants are accepted in the fall and spring semesters. Students who successfully finish the program will be awarded a certificate of completion and will be allowed to take the state LVN licensing exam.
To be able to apply, students will need to pass the Accuplacer exam, have a high school diploma or equivalent, be in good mental and physical health, have their Hepatitis B injections, and have a clear background and drug screening.
Students will also need to take a five-day course, Communication Skills for the Workplace, prior to being accepted. They may also take the Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Health and Nutrition classes prior to applying. While these are not required for admission, the grades earned will be used in ranking applicants, and will increase the chances of acceptance. Students will also receive additional ranking points for attending a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) class before applying.
CNA
CNAs provide direct patient care under the supervision of a nurse. Students must be at least 16 years old to take this course, and have a background investigation. Classes are available either during the day or evening. After completing the program, students are allowed to take the state certification exam for CNAs.
Contact:
Kilgore College,
1100 Broadway,
Kilgore TX 75662-3204
Lamar University Nursing School Review
Lamar University (LU) is one of the fastest growing universities in Texas. It enrolls 14,000 students each semester, and offers 100 programs of study. Founded as South Park Junior College in 1923, it became Lamar College in 1932, and a state supported four year college in 1951. It became Lamar University in 1991, and entered the University of Texas system in 1995.
Lamar University has a 19 to 1 student to faculty ratio, was awarded an A for the quality of its core curriculum, and has been named a doctoral research university by the Carnegie Foundation.
The JoAnne Gay Dishman Department of Nursing is the first endowed program at the university.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is designed to train students to become beginning nursing practitioners. The program is two years long, and a total of 69 credit hours. Students that successfully complete the program will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and will be allowed to take the state Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
To apply to the program, students will need to be admitted to Lamar University, take the HESI entrance exam, meet the TSI requirement, complete all prerequisite classes with a grade of at least a C, and have a GPA of at least 2.5 both cumulatively and in science courses.
The prerequisites for this program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, English Composition, and College Algebra. It is also recommended that students take the class Nursing as a Profession prior to admission.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Students are admitted into this four year program every fall and spring semester. To apply, students must take Pathophysiology and Theories in Nursing, as well as all prerequisite classes, have at least a C in all prerequisites, a 2.5 GPA or higher in all prerequisites and in all science courses, and take the HESI admission test.
The prerequisites for the BSN program are Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, English Composition I and II, Nutrition, College Algebra, Chemistry for Allied Health Sciences, Philosophy of Knowledge, Lifespan Development, and US History I and II.
Students will begin their nursing core courses in their sophomore year of studies.
RN to BSN
This program is for nurses who already have an ADN degree and are currently licensed RNs. Students’ ADN transcripts will be evaluated prior to admission in the program, to determine where they are in the BSN sequence.
RN students applying to the BSN program must meet the same entrance requirements as traditional BSN students. The prerequisites for this program are the same, except RN students are not required to take American History.
RN students are given 32 credit hours of upper division classes in escrow that will be added to their transcript in the last semester of the program.
Masters Degree in Nursing (MSN)
The masters program at Lamar University has two tracks, Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. Both of these tracks are available online.
Nursing Administration is designed to prepare nurses to be leaders in the rapidly changing healthcare field. This program is a total of 37 credit hours, and may be taken either full time or part time.
Nursing Education is for nurses who wish to become nursing faculty. This is also a 37 credit hour program that may be taken full or part time.
To be able to apply for either program, students must have taken an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of C or higher, have a GPA of at least 3.0 for all previous college coursework, GRE or MAT scores from within the last five years, a current RN license, and a background check.
There are also Post-Master’s certificates in both Nursing Administration and Education. Each program requires 20 credit hours of study, and students must have an MSN degree, a 3.0 GPA, a clear background check, and an RN license to be able to apply.
MSN/Master of Business Administration (MBA) Dual Degree
This program is for nurse executives who want to become well-rounded leaders with a background in business, finance, nursing administration, and managerial roles. Students that wish to pursue this degree program will need advising by both departments. This program requires 61 credits to complete. The admission requirements are the same as for the other MSN programs.
The Caring Place
This is an initiative started by the Department of Nursing, designed to support nursing students and help them achieve success in their programs. It provides a central place for information about the programs and courses, offers facilitated learning, and helps students take an active role in their own learning.
The Caring Place is located in the Mamie McFadden Ward Health Sciences Building, and selected resources are also available online at the Virtual Caring Place.
Contact:
Lamar University
4400 S M L King Jr. Parkway,
Beaumont, TX 77710
Laredo Community College Nursing Program Review
Laredo Community College’s 200 acre campus is located on the banks of the Rio Grande River in downtown Laredo, TX. The college was founded in 1947, and is located on the site of historic Fort McIntosh.
Today Laredo Community College (LCC) has a second campus, South Campus, in South Laredo, which opened in 2004 and features the latest in technology and architecture. More than 12,000 students enroll in the College each semester
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
This program trains students to care for patients in a variety of settings. This is a two year program, and students who successfully complete it will graduate with an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Graduates will also be eligible to sit for the state Registered Nurse (RN) licensing exam.
Students that wish to apply to the ADN program will need to take placement assessment tests or meet the TSI requirements, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, complete the prerequisite classes with a grade of at least a C, take a standardized nursing pre-admission exam, have a background check, and be up to date on their immunizations.
The ADN prerequisites are Composition I, Life Span Growth and Development, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Introduction to the Profession of Nursing.
This program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
ADN – Transition Program
The ADN Transition program is a way for those already working in health care to continue their education and become licensed RNs. This program can be finished in as little as three semesters, and students will graduate with an AAS degree.
To qualify for this program, students need to be a graduate of a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program, a licensed Emergency Medical Services Paramedic with an AAS degree, or a Health Professional and graduate of an associate, bachelor, or master program, with experience in direct patient care. Documentation of the student’s degree, license, and a recommendation are required.
Students will also need to take placement assessment tests or meet the TSI requirements, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, complete the prerequisite classes with a grade of at least a C, take a standardized nursing pre-admission exam, have a background check, and be up to date on their immunizations.
The prerequisite classes for this program are Composition I, General Psychology, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Life Span Growth and Development, Introduction to Computing, and Introduction to the Profession of Nursing.
Once students complete the transition courses, they will receive 9 credit hours for past courses and experience.
Vocational Nursing
This is an intensive one year course with classroom and clinical components, designed to train students to practice basic patient care. Upon finishing, students will receive a certificate of completion and will be allowed to take the state licensing exam for LVNs.
To be eligible to apply, students will need to take the Compass test, demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and math, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, complete all prerequisites with a grade of at least C, and take a pre-entrance exam.
The Vocational Nursing prerequisite classes are Lifespan Growth and Development and Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Assistants. Students may opt to take Anatomy and Physiology I and II in place of A & P for Medical Assistants.
Nursing Assistant
Students who wish to learn the entry-level skills required to be a nursing assistant may take this program. This is a one semester certificate program. This program is also offered as dual enrollment for high school students.
The prerequisites for this program are to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and to have a tenth grade or higher reading level. In addition, students will need to submit all transcripts, a letter of reference, and apply for admission to the program.
Once students complete the program, they will be allowed to take the Texas Department of Aging and Disabilities exam for certification.
Contact:
Laredo Community College
West End Washington Street,
Laredo, TX 78040
