Lakeland Community College Nursing Program Review

Lakeland Community College (LCC) has been around since 1967 and was the very first college in the state that was founded by the vote of the people themselves. It is their priority to make higher education more accessible to students in the area.

Today, Lakeland Community College provides two-year transfer programs, paraprofessional and technical programs, general education, and professional educational counseling. Almost 21,000 individuals now attend the school every year in both credit programs and noncredit programs.

Lakeland Community College – Nursing Department

Lakeland Community College’s nursing department educates, empowers and enriches nursing students, so that they may eventually assume the caring responsibilities and roles needed of registered nurses.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Registered Nursing (RN) Degree

This program prepares students to work as registered nurses in nursing homes, hospitals and various other healthcare agencies. Daytime, evening and weekend options are all available for this particular program.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum score of 21 on the ACT or a minimum score of 1400 on the SAT. They must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry, biology and algebra, as well.

Graduates of this program can sit for the National Council Licensure Examination(NCLEX) to get state licensure and registration as registered nurses.

LPN to RN – Access to Registered Nursing

Advanced placement for LPNs can be taken by students through the ACCESS to RN option.

To apply, students need to have a current non-restricted license and must have finished the required courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5, as well as have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. They also need to have finished a year of work experience as LPNs.

Nursing Program Options

The High School Option

High school graduates and seniors can apply to the nursing program within two years of graduating. To apply, students will need to complete a college application; have a minimum score of 21 on the ACT or a minimum score of 1400 on the SAT; have a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry, biology and algebra; have a minimum GPA of 2.5; and meet with a school counselor.

The College Option

Students that don’t qualify for the high school option can choose this option instead. To apply, students will need to complete a college application; submit a transcript from high school or any college; have a minimum grade of C on the required courses; pass the pre-admission test; and meet with a school counselor. They will also need to take a Math Placement Test and pass it with a minimum grade of C.

The Advanced Education Option

Students who already have an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Allied Health, an Associate of Science Degree, or a Bachelor of Science Degree in natural sciences can take this option and skip the pre-admission test. However, all of the other requirements of the college option still apply for this option, as well.

Contact:
Lakeland Community College
7700 Clocktower Drive,
Kirtland, OH 44094-5198

Lorain County Community College Nursing Program Review

Lorain County Community College (LCCC) aims to introduce students to an environment that completely encourages personal growth and exploration, as well as a discovery of brand new interests. Lorain County Community College is the very first college in Ohio to provide podcast lectures on iTunes and to build a center for advanced technologies in business. It is also known to be the biggest provider of e-learning programs within Northern Ohio.

Lorain County Community College – Allied Health and Nursing

A lot of today’s careers happen to be in the healthcare industry, with personal satisfaction and career opportunities that are unmatched by any other professions. This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate of Applied Science Degree

Associate Degree Nursing (RN)

Lorain County Community College is partners with Bowling Green State University (BGSU), with which it works to bring this program to residents within the vicinity. All of the nursing courses will be held at BGSU, though, while the clinical components will be completed at various healthcare facilities within the state.

This program can be completed in two years of full-time study. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination for licensure as registered nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (ADN) Degree Program – LPN to RN Program

LPNs who seek advanced placement in nursing can do so through this program. To apply, students will need to complete the required prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.

This program is offered at Lorain County Community College’s main campus, as well as at BGSU, Medina County University Center and Eastern Gateway Community Campus.

Paramedic to RN Program

Lorain County Community College is partners with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, with which it works to bring this new access program to licensed paramedics that want to become registered nurses.

What makes this program unique is the fact that it can be completed online. As for the clinical and lab components of the program, they come in a flexible and unique design to suit each student’s convenience, as well. All of the clinical sites are at Cleveland Clinic campuses.

To apply, students need to have a minimum grade of C on the required prerequisite courses, as well as current license and two years of work experience. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination to become registered nurses.

Certificate of Proficiency

Practical Nursing (LPN)

This program is offered at Lorain County Community College’s main campus, as well as at the Medina Country Career Center. Graduates are allowed to sit for the NCLEX examination to become practical nurses.

Certificate of Completion

Nurse Aide Training

These courses are available at Lorain County Community College’s Learning Center at Wesleyan Village and at St. Joseph Community Center. They can be taken in the evenings, as well.

To apply, students need to have a high school diploma, a completed admission form, and a minimum grade of 71 on the COMPASS Reading score.

Continuing Education for Health Professionals

RN First Assistant (RNFA)

This online program is for advanced practice and preoperative nurses who want to become first assistants in the operating room. It consists of 2 credit nursing courses, which will include general, urological, gynecological, ENT, head and neck, orthopedic, plastic and reconstructive, neurosurgical, vascular, cardiac and thoracic surgery patient care.

Students will need to complete 135 hours as first assistants in surgery in total. These hours are flexible, though, and need to be arranged at the student’s hospital of employment.

Contact:
Lorain County Community College
1005 N. Abbe Road,
Elyria, OH 44035

Otterbein University Nursing School Review

Otterbein University (OU) enrolls around 3,000 students in their programs every year and is located in a residential community in Northeast Ohio. In total, Otterbein University has 44 minors and 73 majors available, including individualized study courses. They also have five graduate programs in their 140-acre campus.

Otterbein University – Department of Nursing

Graduates of this program will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).

This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and complete the required courses with a minimum grade of C.

Honors Program

It would be highly advisable for undergraduate nursing students at Otterbein University to take part in the Honors Program, so they can attend courses that are specially designed to provide intellectual challenges and stimulation for honor students.

Graduate Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

To apply for these certificate programs, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a valid registered nurse licensure in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This program takes 21 credit hours to complete and includes precepted clinical hours.

To apply, students will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.

MSN/MBA Program

This dual degree program combines business and nursing master’s degree programs and is designed for advanced practice nurses who want to take on positions in upper level management. This program can be completed in three years.

To apply, students will also need a minimum GMAT score of 500 and have at least two years worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.

Associate Degree in Nursing to Masters of Science in Nursing (ADN to MSN)

Nursing Service Administration (NSA)

This program prepares students for operational and administrative processes of nursing leadership and service management in various organizational settings.

To apply, students will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP)

This program takes 1000 clinical hours post-baccalaureate or two years to complete, with two courses taken per semester. Some of the courses in this program can be taken online, though face-to-face meetings will also be needed occasionally.

To apply, students will need to have a valid registered nurse license in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing.

Post Masters Certificates

To apply for these certificate programs, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a valid registered nurse licensure in Ohio and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

This program takes 37 hours to complete and a minimum grade of B- needs to be maintained in every course. There are distance learning options for this program, as well.

To apply, students will also need to have at least two years worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years. Graduates will be eligible to take the National Certification Exam to become family nurse practitioners.

Nurse Anesthesia

To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.

Advanced Practice Nurse Educator

To apply, students will need to have a master’s degree in nursing. They will also need to have at least a year’s worth of work experience in nursing from within the past five years.

Graduates will be awarded with a certificate of completion.

Continuing Education Courses

There are several continuing education courses available for nurses at Otterbein University.

Legal, Fiscal and Ethical Implications of Prescriptive Authority for Advanced Practice Nurses

This online course takes 7 contact hours to complete and meets the educational requirements related to the nursing rules and laws in Ohio needed in advanced pharmacology for nurses with a Certificate to Prescribe (CtP) in the state.

Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics

This online course takes 48 contact hours to complete and fulfills all of the requirements needed to prescribe in Ohio.

Camp Nursing

This online course takes 8 contact hours to complete.

Contact:
Otterbein University
1 South Grove Street,
Westerville, OH 43081

Ohio State University Nursing School Review

Ohio State University (OSU) was founded in 1914 and began as a 3-year diploma program called the Homeopathic Hospital Training Program for Nursing. In 1984, it became an independent college and it now provides excellent educational services for students who want to become leaders in healthcare, education and research.

Ohio State University College of Nursing

All of the nursing programs at Ohio State University have been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). They are also a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nurses (AACN).

Undergraduate Program

Ohio State University provides several options for undergraduate degrees in nursing, such as the pre-nursing option for those who want to finish their prerequisite nursing courses while working with academic advisors. Students also have the option to complete these prerequisite courses while studying at another university or taking another major at Ohio State University.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program takes at least four years of full-time study to complete, but students can choose to study part-time if they don’t mind waiting longer to get their degree. In terms of studying, this program includes 186 credit hours and pre-professional coursework that will need to be completed before graduation.

To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 3.2. They will also need to complete the State Nursing Assistant (STNA or SNA) course before starting the program.

Graduates will be able to take the National Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

RN to BSN Option

This option exists for students who need more access and flexibility in their study programs. Through this option, they can take their nursing courses online and simply visit Ohio State University for other non-nursing courses and advising.

This program takes 120 semester hours to complete and includes general education courses, prerequisite courses and required nursing classes. In order to graduate, students will need to complete at least 30 of the semester hours at Ohio State University itself.

To apply, students need to have an associate degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a valid RN licensure in Ohio. They also need to complete 9 of the required prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C.

Pre-Nursing Option

Students who wish to get a BSN degree can take this program. However, they will need to take prerequisites and work with an advisor to learn more about study skill strategies, academic problems and course planning.

To apply, students need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 25 and a minimum combined SAT score of 1185.

Master’s Program

Ohio State University provides several options for graduate degrees in nursing to educate students on everything that they need to know in terms of nursing foundations and theory.

The Traditional Master of Science (MS Trad) Option

Students with baccalaureate degrees in nursing can take this program to get a Master of Science in nursing.

To apply, students need to have a BSN or an RN licensure and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students who do not have Master’s degrees yet will also need to have a good score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Aside from that, students need to have completed undergraduate courses in nursing research, health assessment or research methods before admission.

The Graduate Entry (MS GE) Option

Students with baccalaureate degrees in other majors besides nursing can take this program to get a Master of Science in nursing. In general, this program takes around three years of full-time study to complete.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree in any major and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students who do not have Master’s degrees yet will also need to have a good score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Aside from that, students will need to have completed the 5 prerequisite courses and the STNA course. They will also need to choose their specialty of choice while applying for this program.

Graduates will be able to take the NCLEX-RN and get certification in their specialty of choice.

Graduate Specialities

Graduates will be able to get certification in one of these tracks: Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Science, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nursing and Health System Management, or Nurse Practitioner.

All of these areas will provide enough background for high education at the PhD and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) levels.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

CNSs are professionals in diagnosis, treating and alleviating illnesses in adolescents and adults. They also promote health and provide nursing care to special populations, like cardiac, burn and endocrine patients at hospitals and continuing care facilities.

Nursing Science

This track takes a year to complete when done full-time and two years to complete when done part-time. Summer classes can also be taken to lighten the load throughout the year.

Only traditional MS students will be considered for this track and it would be best suited for students who want to get a PhD research degree.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This track takes a year to complete when done full-time and two years to complete when done part-time. CNLs manage and provide comprehensive care at patients’ besides at acute care facilities. They take direct care of people in complicated situations, evaluate patient outcomes, and improve and change care plans as needed.

Graduates will be able to get certification as CNLs. Graduates aren’t meant to fill any unit management roles, though.

Nursing and Health System Management

Nurses in this specialty can take on management positions in public health agencies and hospital healthcare systems. It has two sub-specialties: Nursing Administration and Public Health Nursing.

Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)

Nurse practitioners are independent practitioners who are licensed to diagnose acute long-term and episodic illnesses. They also promote health and prevent illnesses.

To apply, students will need to have a master’s degree in nursing, two recommendation letters, graduate school transcripts and at least a year of full-time work experience in the field before starting their clinical courses.

Graduates will be able to take the necessary NCLEX and get certification as ACNPs through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This new option gives students the chance to take their courses online and finish their clinical experiences somewhere nearby, making it the perfect option for working RNs.

Through this specialty, students will be prepared for work as psychiatric mental health clinical nurse specialists (PMH CNSs) or nurse practitioners (PMH NPs). Graduates will qualify for both specializations and will be able to take the necessary certification examinations for them.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

This new option gives students the chance to take their courses online and finish their clinical experiences somewhere nearby, making it the perfect option for working RNs.

FNPs prepare students for advanced practice nursing in various clinical settings and graduates will be able to get certification as FNPs in primary care.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way and will be working in various hospital-based settings, community-based primary care settings, and developmental/follow-up clinics.

Students will need to have at least a year of full-time work experience in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unity (NICU) before taking their clinical courses, though.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way and will be working in various hospitals, clinics and schools.

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Students who take this track will be prepared for a lot of challenges along the way. It includes clinical experience, coursework and research.

Graduates will be able to get certification as Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners.

Nurse Midwifery

Nurse midwives provide women and families with competent and culturally sensitive care as needed to promote health and maintain health in the community.

Graduates will be able to get certification as nurse midwives from the American Colleges of Nurse Midwives Certification Council.

Post-Master’s Study Option

Practicing nurses with master’s degrees in nursing can take this program to get advanced specialty certification as needed.

To apply, students need to submit a post-master’s application, a disclosure form, a valid resume, a statement of purpose, previous college transcripts and two recommendation letters.

Continuing Education (CE)

Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing

Advanced practice nurses can take this program in order to get a certificate to prescribe. This program takes 60 contact hours to complete.

Doctoral Programs

Ohio State University’s College of Nursing has two doctoral level degrees available: the PhD and the DNP.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

This program is available for full-time study and part-time study.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing, good GRE scores from within the last five years, a current resume, a statement of purpose and three recommendation letters.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program is available for full-time study, which will take two years to complete, and part-time study, which will take three years to complete.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in nursing, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5, good GRE scores from within the last five years, a valid RN licensure in Ohio, a purpose of statement, college transcripts and three recommendation letters.

Contact:
Ohio State University
1585 Neil Avenue,
Columbus, OH 43210

Northwest State Community College Nursing Program Review

Northwest State Community College (NSCC) started out as the Four County Technical Institute back in 1968 before being renamed to Northwest Technical College in 1972. It didn’t become a community college until 1994.

Now, Northwest State Community College is a two-year public college that offers more than 300 subjects to their students through distance learning and traditional classes. They currently cater to around 6,771 students.

Northwest State Community College – Nursing Division

Northwest State Community College’s nursing division consists of degree and certificate programs with small class sizes for more personal interactions between teachers and students.

Before being admitted to these programs, potential students will need to take the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Examination (NLN PAX) for registered nursing programs and get a score higher than the 50th percentile for every tested area.

Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) or transfer to four-year degree programs at partnering schools, as needed.

The nursing programs at Northwest State Community College have all been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and have been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Registered Nursing (RN)

This program takes five semesters of 72 credit hours to complete and includes traditional courses, online courses, laboratory experience and clinical experiences.

Before taking their first course in clinical nursing, students will also need to get certification as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) first. Before they can graduate, on the other hand, they need to get a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.

Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Advanced Standing (LPN to RN)

LPNs who want to become RNs can take this program, which takes three semesters of 37 credit hours to complete and includes traditional courses, online courses, laboratory experiences and clinical experiences.

To apply, students will need to have a valid license in Ohio as a practical nurse. Before they can graduate, they will also need to get a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.

Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate

Students who want to become LPNs can take this program, which takes three semesters of 42 credit hours to complete and includes lectures, laboratory experiences and clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities. This certificate is required for the LPN to RN advanced standing nursing program.

Thanks to Northwest State Community College’s partnership with Wright State University’s Lake campus and Vantage Career Center, a part-time evening PN program is also available at Van Wert. All of the required remedial and general studies courses can still be taken at Northwest State Community College, though, all of which need to be completed before the clinical sequence begins.

Graduates will be able to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses.

Contact:
Northwest State Community College
22600 State Route 34,
Archbold, OH 43502

Mount Carmel College of Nursing Program Review

Mount Carmel College of Nursing (MCCN) is a private institution in Columbus, Ohio that has been around since 1903. To this day, it follows a Catholic code of conduct and has one of the biggest baccalaureate programs in Ohio.

This institution has been accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), and the American Dietetic Association Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE).

Mount Carmel College of Nursing Academic Programs

What makes the nursing academic programs at Mount Carmel College of Nursing really stand out is the small classes that they have. This results in more personal attention for each student.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Mount Carmel College of Nursing has the fourth biggest baccalaureate program in private college nursing programs in Ohio. Overall, there are three options available for students who wish to obtain a BSN degree at Mount Carmel: the traditional program, the second degree accelerated program, and the online RN-BSN completion program.

Traditional Four-Year BSN Program

Students who do not have any nursing experience yet are encouraged to take this program, which includes classroom theory, seminars and clinical experiences. This program can be taken at two locations: the Columbus campus or the Fairfield Medical Center.

Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Second Degree Accelerated BSN Program

Students who already have a bachelor’s degree in other majors can take this program to earn a BSN degree in only 13 months. It is available for full-time study of 40 hours a week, including laboratory and clinical courses. Evening and weekend courses may be involved, as well.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Online RN-BSN Program

This online program was made for students who need to work their professional life into their study program, so they can study at their own convenience and time. This program can be completed in as little as four semesters for full-time students and does not require any clinical hours. Part-time study is available, too, though. Priority is given to students from NLNAC-accredited pre-licensure nursing programs.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Overall, there are five tracks available for students who wish to obtain an MSN degree at Mount Carmel: the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus track, the Adult Health track, the Family Nurse Practitioner track, the Nursing Administration track and the Nursing Education track.

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus

RNs who want to provide healthcare services to adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical health conditions can take this on-site program.

To apply, students need to have a nursing degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts. A phone or personal interview will also be required, and a year of clinical experience would also be recommended.

Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

RNs who want to take on more advanced practice roles in nursing can take this program.

To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.

Family Nurse Practitioner

RNs who want to provide primary healthcare services to people of any age with acute illnesses can take this program.

To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.

Nursing Administration

Professional nurses who want to assume roles in administration and management can take this program.

To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.

Nursing Education

Professional nurses who want to teach nursing students about the responsibilities related to healthcare can take this program.

To apply, students need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of C for all prerequisite courses. They also need to have a current Ohio RN license, two reference letters, a typed statement of purpose, a current resume, and a set of college transcripts.

Graduate Certificate Programs

Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Trauma Focus

Master’s prepared RNs who want to provide healthcare services to adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical health conditions can take this on-site certificate program.

To apply, students need to have an MSN, a current registered nurse license in Ohio, current licensure and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Nurse Practitioner. They also need to have completed the required courses and have had at least three years of advanced practice experience.

Continuing Education Programs

At Mount Carmel College of Nursing, students can take various programs to improve their overall learning experiences all the more.

Online RN Refresher Program

Licensed RNs who haven’t worked in five years or more can take this online refresher program to start practicing nursing again in no time. This program includes online theory instruction, clinical experience with RN preceptors, and assigned reading.

Advanced Placement Program

This program is very competitive, but allows students who have the proper coursework to get a BSN degree in only five semesters.

To apply, students need to have completed the first two years of the nursing curriculum at Mount Carmel and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Contact:
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
127 South Davis Avenue,
Columbus, OH 43222

Mercy College Ohio Nursing Program Review

Mercy College of Ohio (MCO), previously known as Mercy College of Northwest Ohio (MCNO), is a traditional Catholic college that has been following the beliefs and traditions of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal and the Religious Sisters of Mercy since 1918. Because of this, the importance of both hospital care and well-prepared nurses is always focused on in their nursing program.

Mercy College is also sponsored by one of the biggest and most reputable healthcare systems in the country: Mercy and Catholic Healthcare Partners. The classes at Mercy College of Ohio also have the option to choose between traditional and online classes.

Mercy College of Ohio – Nursing Programs

Mercy College of Ohio prepares their students for a demanding yet vital career in nursing. Their nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

This program prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs) and takes 72 credit hours of full-time study to complete for the day program. For students who want to take the evening/weekend program, this means taking 10 semesters of part-time study to complete it.

To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.7. They need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 21 or a minimum SAT combined score of 950, as well. They also need to have passed the required high school courses with a minimum grade of C. All students interested in joining the ADN nursing day program will need to take the TEAS test, as well.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing – Completion

This completion degree program exists for students who already have RN licenses. It will help them develop themselves on a professional level and become real leaders and managers in the long run.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing – Prelicensure

This degree program prepares students to become RNs. Students who are already RNs, though, will be able to move into higher leadership and management positions after taking this program.

To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.7. They need to have a minimum ACT composite score of 21 or a minimum SAT combined score of 950, as well. They also need to have passed the required high school courses with a minimum grade of C. All students interested in joining the BSN nursing prelicensure program will need to take the TEAS test, as well.

RN to BSN Nursing Online Completion

This completion degree program takes 73 credit hours to complete and is only available online and exists for students who already have RN licenses. To apply, students need to be high school graduates and accredited college graduates with a minimum grade of C in all required courses.

Students who are non-accredited college graduates, however, will need to meet the extra requirement of completing 2 credit hours of the required courses in the RN to BSN program with a minimum grade of C, as well.

Contact:
Mercy College of Ohio
2221 Madison Avenue,
Toledo, OH 43604

Malone University Nursing School Review

Formerly known as the Cleveland Bible College, Malone University (MU) has been around since 1892 when classes merely took place in a Cleveland rented room. Affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church, Malone University has complete Christian foundations that provide strong educational experiences based on the Bible and in faith.

Overall, the tight-knit community at Malone University will help students explore their Christian faith and achieve their highest potential in education – and at very affordable rates, too.

Malone University – Nursing

All of the nursing majors at Malone University include 45 hours of study in cross-cultural settings.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Bachelor of Science Degrees in Nursing (BSN)

Students who take this program can gain the necessary skills and knowledge in nursing, while feeling accountable to God, themselves and those in need at the same time.

To apply, students submit the application form or apply online, get their official high school transcript and take the SAT or the ACT.

Degree Completion Program: Registered Nurse to BSN (RN to BSN)

Registered nurses who want to complete their BSN can finish this program in only 14 months of weekly evening classes at Malone University. This includes group projects and clinicals. Students also have the option to gain credit for prior learning.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a nursing diploma. They will also need to have finished at least six months of clinical practice and finished 60 transferable semester hours with a minimum grade of C.

The admission application will also need to be completed, and a copy of the valid RN license and records that validate the student’s clinical requirements need to be provided, as well.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

This program has two tracks: the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track and the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) track. Both of these tracks complete advanced practice and graduate nursing core courses.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Track

Students who want to improve their overall access to good healthcare for their families and patients can take this program. Graduates will be able to treat all kinds of patients and prescribe and treat medicine, as well.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Track

Nurses who want to work with certain populations, certain settings, medical or disease subspecialties, certain kinds of care, or certain types of problems can take this program. They will also be able to keep working while earning their special degree at the same time.

Student Organizations

Nursing students of Malone University are highly encouraged to take part in their student organizations: the Malone Nursing Student Association (MNSA) and the Malone Nurses Christian Fellowship (MNCF).

BSN students are also highly encouraged to become members of the Ohio Nursing Student Association (ONSA) and the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). Doing so will allow them to take part at national and state levels to understand politics better and to keep growing beyond the confines of education and work.

Contact:
Malone University
2600 Cleveland Ave NW
Canton, OH 44709

Lourdes University Nursing School Review

Founded in 1943 as a part of the College of St. Theresa, Lourdes University (LU) now lies on 113 acres of woodlands within Sylvania, Ohio and focuses solely on Franciscan values. Aside from their top quality academic courses and the individualized attention that they give to their students, they also provide a lot of community outreach programs.

Lourdes University – College of Nursing

Lourdes University showcases a world of excellence in nursing education and the fields of public health, home care and emergency care. This program is especially made to meet the needs of every nursing student out there today.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science Degrees in Nursing (BSN)

Pre-Licensure to BSN

This program consists of 63 credit hours in nursing and 62 credit hours of general education and foundational courses, which can all be completed in four years. Graduates of this program can apply for licensure as a registered nurse and sit for the national licensing examination, NCLEX-RN.

Nurse Aide to BSN

This program provides a more flexible schedule for students with prior work experience and education in nursing. College credit will be given for this prior experience, as well. Graduates of this program can apply for licensure as a registered nurse and sit for the national licensing examination, NCLEX-RN.

Licensed Practical Nurse to BSN Program (LPN to BSN)

Practicing LPNs who want to become registered nurses can take this pre-licensure program in order to get a BSN degree. The program consists of 125 credit hours, 63 of which are devoted to nursing, and can be completed in four years. Other foundational courses are also included in this program.

To apply, students need to complete the prerequisite courses first and have a GPA of at least 2.5, as well as a grade of at least C in the required natural sciences courses.

Registered Nurse to BSN Program (RN to BSN)

Working students can take full advantage of this flexible program, by reaching their educational goals and getting a BSN degree as they work. Students with registered nurse licenses may also apply for an advanced standing admission, so as to get credit in upper division nursing for prior learning. There are no clinicals involved in this program and some web-enhanced courses are also available. Students also have the choice to study full-time or part-time.

To apply, students need to have professional liability insurance and a valid nursing license. They need to meet all of the requirements of general education and maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 in order to graduate.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Lourdes University has three master’s level concentrations that include core content in statistics, nursing trends, nursing theory, nursing research, healthcare policies, ethics, role development, nursing informatics, and diversity: Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader. Graduate certificates are available for all three concentrations.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree, a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, and a valid license as a registered nurse. An interview must also be completed with the program director.

Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Anesthesia Program (MSN: NAP)

This program was designed to build on students’ prior professional and baccalaureate education experiences and prepares nurses to provide nurse anesthesia services.

This program will take 28 months of coursework that includes clinical and didactic practicum. Students can only take this program full-time, though various methods will be used in the curriculum, such as distance education through video conferencing.

Graduates will be allowed to take the National Certification Examination (NCE) and become an advanced practice nurse once they have received the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Certificate.

Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator Program

Working adults can apply for this program, which takes seven semesters of 33 credit hours to complete and includes supervised clinical practicum experience. This particular concentration also has a graduate certificate program available.

Graduates will be allowed to take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam once all of the required practice hours have been completed.

Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Leader Program

Working adults can apply for this program, which takes seven semesters of 33 credit hours to complete and includes supervised clinical practicum experience. This particular concentration also has a graduate certificate program available.

Graduates will be allowed to take the Nurse Executive Certification exam once all of the required practice hours have been completed.

Registered Nurse to MSN Program (RN to MSN)

Registered nurses who have already graduated and have prior experience can take this program to earn an MSN faster than through the traditional program. Lourdes University is the only university in the area to provide this particular program.

Undergraduate Certificate Programs

Operating Room First Assistant (ORFA) Certificate Program

To apply, students need to have a valid RN license, have a valid Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) card, have two years of experience in the operating room, get 120 hours of practicum experience and get work experience verification.

Graduate Certificate Programs

Nurses with master’s degrees can take graduate certificate programs at Lourdes University, each of which can be completed in nine months and requires 12 semester hours. Their credits and also be transferred to other graduated programs.

Nursing Leadership Certificate Program

This alternative exists for students who don’t necessarily want another graduate degree, but would like more knowledge in administration and leadership. It includes the following courses: Leadership Foundations, Leadership and Organizational Behavior, Financial Tools for Leaders and Organizations, and a Leadership Seminar.

Nursing Education Certificate Program

This alternative exists for students who don’t necessarily want another graduate degree, but would like more knowledge, abilities and skills to teach in various settings. It includes the following courses: Perspectives on Teaching and Learning, Curriculum Design, Assessment and Evaluation in Healthcare Education, and Practicum in Advanced Nursing Roles.

Nurse Anesthesia Certificate Program

Registered nurses who already have an MSN might want be interested in this program, as well.

Contact:
Lourdes University
6832 Convent Blvd.,
Sylvania, OH 43560

Marion Technical College Nursing Program Review

Founded in 1970, Marion Technical College’s goal has always been to improve the opportunities that local residents have when it comes to quality education and employment.

Marion Technical College – Nursing Programs

The nursing program at Marion Technical college (MTC) was established in 1971. This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Registered Nursing (RN)

Degree: Associate of Applied Science

This program normally takes two years of full-time study to complete and includes nursing, general education and science courses. However, students do have the option to extend their study time to up to five years if they want to. Different clinical experiences are also included in this program.

Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination of the National Council of State Board of Nursing to become registered nurses.

Transfer – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Transition to RN: LPN to RN

LPNs who would like to earn a nursing degree can get a maximum college credit of 73 hours by completing Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) examinations, nursing clinical courses and specific proficiency tests at Marion Technical College.

To apply, students need to have an accumulative GPA of at least 2.5, a valid Ohio LPN license, and an official LPN school or college transcript.

Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to become registered nurses.

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

Marion Technical College provides more than 150 credit hours that can be transferred to the Ohio State University’s RN to BSN program, which is a more affordable option for registered nurses to get a BSN while staying in Marion Technical College.

To apply, students will need to have a diploma or an associate degree, a valid Ohio RN license, and a minimum GPA of 2.75. They will also need to complete the required pre-requisites with a minimum grade of C.

BSN to Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN): BSN to MN

Nurses who already have a BSN degree can complete an MSN at Marion Technical College, which includes a Nurse Practitioner track and an Educator’s track. Otterbein University will bring classes to the school through satellite distance learning.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum of one year working experience as a registered nurse.

State-Tested Nurse Aide (STNA)

This program was designed as a prerequisite to the RN program and to give students the chance to get better jobs with more valuable experience. There are no pre-requisites for this course and graduates will be prepared to take the STNA certification exam.

STNA Certification

Students who have completed the Nurse Aide Training course will be allowed to take the state testing examination for nurse aides, which will result in the STNA certification. This program includes clinical experience, classroom instruction, and laboratory experience.

RN to MSN

Students at Marion Technical College have the option to move onto the MSN program from an STNA on the same campus. This program was actually the first one in the area to allow the transfer of credits this way.

Contact:
Marion Technical College
1467 Mount Vernon Avenue,
Marion, OH 43302-5694

Miami University of Ohio Nursing School Review

Miami University (MU, Miami U, Miami of Ohio) opened in 1823 and is now know as “The Yale of the West”. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, though, since it is known all over the country as one of the top undergraduate public institutions to date.

There are currently around 16,000 students enrolled at Miami University, where there is a vast array of great academic programs available, all of which provide more personal attention than other similar institutions out there.

Aside from the main campus in Oxford, Ohio, Miami University also has one European campus in Luxembourg and three regional campuses, as follows: Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio; Miami University Middleton in Middletown, Ohio; and the Voice of America Learning Center in West Chester, Ohio.

Miami University – Nursing

The nursing program at Miami University can only be taken at the school’s campuses in Middletown and Hamilton, though some classes might take place at the West Chester campus or online. This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program focuses mainly on health promotion, restoration, maintenance, and prevention with family, clients, and client groups within certain health settings. A lot of activities are involved in this program, as well as weekly and bi-weekly clinical experiences.

To apply, students need to be high school graduates with a minimum ACT composite score of 23, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in certain science courses. They also need to have completed 12 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

Graduates will be able to sit for the National Licensing Examination – RN (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses (RN), provided they do not have any criminal background.

RN-BSN Completion Program (BSN)

This flexible program helps RN students work around their professional and personal responsibilities by giving them the option to study part-time or full-time.

The required courses in this particular program can also be taken in hybrid format with classroom meetings and online activities, or completely online. For the hybrid courses, students will need to choose between going to the West Chester campus or the Middletown campus. Two of the required courses are clinical, though, and need to be done at their respective healthcare facilities.

Aside from that, there are also 10 required liberal education courses for the BSN, but this will depend on which courses the students have completed in the past.

To apply, RN students need to submit their official high school, college and nursing school transcripts, as well as the nursing program’s application form. Aside from that, RN students also need to have a registered nurse license in Ohio and need to have completed the required courses.

School Nurse Licensure Program

By adding an extra 23 hours to the BSN program, students can get an Ohio School Nurse license. Students also have the option to attend this program on a part-time or full-time basis.

To apply, students simply need to submit the necessary application form. They also need to have a registered nurse license in Ohio and a BSN degree.

Contact:
Miami University
501 East High Street,
Oxford, OH 45056

North Central State College Nursing Program Review

The campus of North Central State College (NC State) is 600 acres big with gorgeous woods, streams and walking paths for their students to enjoy. A public community-based two-year college that serves North Central Ohio residents and provides top quality education, North Central State College has 60 associate degree and certificate programs available and boasts of 3500 enrolled students.

North Central State College – Nursing Programs

The nursing programs at North Central State College have all been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

Students who wish to obtain a Registered Nursing (RN) license can take this program, which takes five semester or seven quarters to complete and includes clinical classes.

To apply, students will need to have an official high school transcript, a minimum grade of C in certain required courses, and a minimum ACT Math test score of 21. Students will also be need to take the TEAS V and pass it with a minimum score of 65%. Before starting the first semester of this program, students will also need to have an active State-Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) certification.

Practical Nursing with Advanced Standing

Students who have already completed or have credit for various clinical nursing courses at North Central State College can take this program.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a current STNA certification. They also need to have completed a nursing course within the last four years and get 10 points on the Criteria for Advanced Standing. A Math test and Technical Skills test will also need to be taken before acceptance into the program.

Practical Nursing Articulation Option into Associate Degree Nursing

Practical nurses who want to get an RN license can take this programs, which consists of various clinical classes.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in all of the ADN classes and a minimum GPA of 2.5. They will also need to complete certain classes and take a Dosage Calculation test. Aside from that, they will need to have their official nursing transcripts and an online verification of a Practical Nursing license.

Certificate Programs

Students who want to complete certain courses faster than usual can take these programs. The same goes for those who simply want to benefit from having a certificate while taking an associate degree program.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Practical Nursing Certificate

Students who love people, in general, and enjoy helping them can take this certificate program, which takes four terms of 65 credit hours to complete. This includes both clinical experiences and classroom activities.

To apply, students will need to have an official high school transcript and will need to take the TEAS V and pass it with a minimum score of 65%. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the licensing examination for practical nurses.

State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) Certificate

In partnership with Madison Adult Career Center and Pioneer Career and Technology Center, North Central State College provides this certificate program that can be used towards a Health Services Technology Associate Degree. The amount of classes that students will need to for this program may vary.

Contact:
North Central State College
2441 Kenwood Circle,
Mansfield, OH 44906

Ohio Northern University Nursing School Review

Ohio Northern University (ONU) was founded in 1871 and is currently located on 342 acres of land in Ada, Ohio, providing a quaint small town atmosphere. This private university currently has around 3,611 students enrolled at their scenic campus and has 200 student organizations, 6 fraternities, 4 sororities and various intercollegiate sports, intramural sports, club sports, music events and theatrical events on offer.

This college is related to United Methodists and seeks to educate students and prepare them for useful and meaningful careers and lives, in general, by following Judeo-Christian ideals.

Ohio Northern University – Nursing

The distinctive features of Ohio Northern University’s nursing program includes the one year RN to BSN completion and the older adult care nursing courses. Students can also be directly accepted to the program and take nursing courses in their very first year at Ohio Northern University. Aside from that, the campus lab ratio also stands at 8:1.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and educates students to become professional nurses. Students in this program can also choose to become members of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students who join this program will learn the necessary skills and knowledge to become registered nurses in today’s healthcare workforce. The first two years in this program include general courses, social science courses and nursing science courses, while the following years include classroom activities and clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities.

To apply, students need to submit the necessary application along with their SAT and ACT scores and their high school transcripts. Other measures of their academic performance (class rank, GPA, standardized tests), extra-curricular activities, community activities, recommendations, hobbies, honors, interests, awards and personal statements will also be considered.

Graduates will be able to take the national licensure examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). However, they will need to maintain a minimum grade of C in every major nursing course and other required courses, as well as complete every clinical rotation in the program.

Pre-Licensure BSN Nursing Program

To apply, students will need to meet Ohio Northern University’s general admissions requirements. Aside from that, they will also need to be high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30, a minimum ACT score of 23, and a minimum composite SAT score of 1070. They will also need to have completed 2 math units and 6 natural science units. A criminal background check will also be required before acceptance into the program.

RN-BSN Completion Program

Practicing nurses can apply to this program if they want to get a baccalaureate degree while working. This program consists of 48 credit hours and four 12-week terms, including offsite classes and clinical experiences for the RN’s convenience.

To apply, students need to be pre-licensure nursing graduates and have a minimum accumulative GPA of 2.5. They also need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and maintain a minimum grade of C in every nursing core course and every other required course outside of nursing.

Contact:
Ohio Northern University
525 South Main Street,
Ada, OH 45810

Ohio University Nursing School Review

Ohio University (OU) provides enrichment through a very diverse educational experience. Their diversity is shown in various forms, as well, in order to enrich the unique educational experiences of their students, staff and faculty.

Ohio University – School of Nursing

The nursing program at Ohio University has been around since 1970. It offers a wide range of teaching methods and degree options to prepare students for careers in healthcare in the future.

There are three regional campuses available for Ohio University’s nursing programs: the Chilicothe campus, the Southern campus in Ironton and the Zanesville campus.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

This program has three main categories in terms of required courses: general education, prerequisite and nursing courses. Students will need to get a minimum grade of C in all of the prerequisite courses. Other than that, they also need to submit their high school transcripts, any college transcripts if applicable, and their official ACT scores.

Graduates will be allowed to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). They also have the option to join the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for two more years of education in advanced nursing. If preferred, the BSN program can be taken online.

This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, the Ohio Board of Regents and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

ADN Advanced Placement Program

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) need to meet the exact same admission requirements as students who want to apply for the regular ADN program. However, this program is only intended for practical nursing graduates who have already passed the NCLEX-PN exam.

LPN to RN Transitional Degree

To apply, students need to submit their high school transcripts, any college courses if applicable, a statement of purpose, and their LPN license number. They also need to have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0 or a minimum college GPA of 2.75, and a minimum grade of C in all of their completed courses. They will need to take the COMPASS placement test, as well.

RN to BSN Transitional Degree

This program provides RNs with the education that they need to get a BSN. It provides the option of online learning, as well, so students who cannot attend classes on campus still have the chance to broaden their educational experiences. In general, this program offers three options: the online bachelor completion option, the academic outreach initiative program and the 10-week program.

Online Bachelor Completion Program

This program exists for students who want to take the classes at Ohio University or through the Community College partnerships. However, students who aren’t affiliated with Ohio University in any way can still pursue this program online.

Academic Outreach Initiative Program

This online program mainly exists for nurses who already work at healthcare facilities and are looking for more convenient and affordable ways to continue their education.

To apply, students will need to be employed by a partner healthcare organization or facility.

10-Week Program

All of the courses offered in this program can now be accessed through Ohio University’s Blackboard Learning Management System.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program takes four years to complete and provides both clinical experiences in Southeast Ohio clinics and hospitals, and classroom courses in their main Athens campus.

To apply, students will need to be high school graduates who have successfully completed the college preparation program. They will also need to submit their high school transcripts, as well as have a minimum grade of 24 in their composite ACT and a minimum grade of 1590 in their SAT.

Graduates of this program will be able to sit for the licensing exam.

Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program was launched in 2005 and consists of four different specialties: nurse administrator, nurse educator, acute care nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. Students are allowed to pursue several tracks at once if they wish.

In general, this program takes six years to complete and students will need to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 in order to stay in the program.

To apply, students need to be registered nurses with valid licenses in Ohio, have a bachelor’s degree, have a minimum GPA of 3.00, complete all of the required courses and submit three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose.

ADN to MSN Bridge Program

Students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline and an ADN can enter this program, even if they do not have a BSN. This way, they can complete all of the BSN prerequisites and a specific set of BSN courses, so that they can eventually apply for the MSN program.

School Nurse License

Licensed RNs in Ohio can take this program as needed. RNs with a BSN can opt to  only take the extra courses needed to meet the licensure requirements. Conversely, RNs who want to complete the BSN at the same time can take this course along with the BSN program. RNs who want to complete a degree in another course, however, need to talk to their major advisors before applying for this program.

 Contact:
Ohio University
W379 Grover Center,
Athens, OH 45701

University of Toledo Nursing School Review

The University of Toledo (UT) was founded in 1872 and became part of the state university system by 1967. In July 2006, it merged with the Medical University of Ohio to create the third biggest public university in the state. Today, the school provides part-time and full-time study options, as well as day, evening and distance learning programs.

University of Toledo – College of Nursing

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Undergraduate Programs

Baccalaureate Nursing

Students who take this program will be prepared to provide nursing care in various healthcare facilities. It includes clinical experiences and regular college classroom courses, including general education and nursing courses. Students will need to complete their first two years at the main campus of the University of Toledo, and the rest of the curriculum at the Health Science campus.

To apply, students have to be high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum ACT score of 19. Registered nurses with a nursing license can also take this program online, though. To apply, they will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and complete the required prerequisite courses.

Graduates will be awarded the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing upon completion of the program.

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

In partnership with Bowling Green State University, students can now take this program if they already work as registered nurses and have a diploma or associate degree.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a valid RN license. They will also need to submit a  nursing portfolio.

Graduates will be awarded the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing upon completion of the program.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing Programs

Students who take this program will be prepared to become registered nurses in the healthcare field. This program is especially designed for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but aren’t registered nurses yet. It includes theory classes and clinical experiences at various healthcare facilities and takes two full-time years to complete.

To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of B in all of the prerequisite courses. They will also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume, two recommendation letters and their official transcripts.

Graduates will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and apply for an RN license. They will also have the chance to pursue certificates to enter advanced nursing roles as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners, or pursue advanced nursing degrees.

The MSN Tracks

To apply for any of these tracks, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a valid RN license in Ohio. They will also need to have completed an undergraduate statistics course. Aside from that, they also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume and two recommendation letters.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, though a part-time option is also available for students in need. It includes 600 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, though a part-time option is also available for students in need. It includes 500 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.

Nurse Educator

This track takes 39 credit hours to complete and includes curriculum development, clinical and classroom teaching strategies, evaluation principles, and teaching-learning processes. Full-time and part-time options are available for this track.

BSN to Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This track takes two years of full-time study to complete. It consists of 42 credit hours that include clinical and didactic courses, practice immersion, and scholarly and leadership activities. It also includes 420 hours of clinical and laboratory experience.

Graduate-Entry Clinical Nurse Leader (formerly GEMINI)

Students who take this program will be prepared to become registered nurses in the healthcare field. This program is especially designed for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but aren’t registered nurses yet. It includes theory classes and clinical experiences at various healthcare facilities and takes two full-time years to complete, consisting of 66 credit hours and includes 750 hours of clinical experience.

To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a minimum grade of B in all of the prerequisite courses. They will also have to submit a personal statement, a valid resume, two recommendation letters and their official transcripts.

Graduates will be allowed to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and apply for an RN license. They will also have the chance to pursue certificates to enter advanced nursing roles as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners, or pursue advanced nursing degrees.

Doctoral Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program has been around since 2007 and works with Wright State University to give students the chance to reach the top levels of clinical experience in the healthcare environment. Students have the option to take this program online or part-time, as well. This campus based/online DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

To apply, students will need to have an MSN, a valid national board certification in advanced clinical practice, a valid RN license and a minimum GPA of 3.3. They will also need to submit their official college transcripts, a personal statement, a valid resume and three recommendation letters.

Graduate Certificate Programs

These programs exist for students who have MSNs but wish to gain specialized knowledge for certification.

To apply, students will need to have an MSN and a valid RN license in Ohio. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a valid resume and two recommendation letters.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)

This program takes four part-time semesters of 25 credit hours to complete. It includes 600 hours of clinical and laboratory experiences. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the national FNP certification examinations.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-C)

This program takes 21 credit hours to complete. It includes 500 hours of clinical and laboratory experiences. Graduates will be allowed to sit for the national PNP certification examinations.

Nursing Education Certificate

Graduates will be awarded a certificate of completion that allows them to work as educators in various healthcare settings. This program takes 11 credit hours to complete.

Continuing Nursing Education

UT has a Center for Continuing Nursing Education that fulfills the continuing nursing education contact hours requirements of practicing nurses.  The delivery of these continuing education (CE) programs includes campus based and online classes.  Courses vary and may include topics that cover nursing research, nursing pharmacology and ethics.

Contact:
University of Toledo
2801 W. Bancroft St.,
Toledo, OH 43606

University of Cincinnati Nursing School Review

The University of Cincinnati (UC) was founded back in 1889 and has seen portrayed nothing but a sturdy history of excellence. Today, they have more than 2,700 students enrolled in various programs and their nursing program is ranked in the top 10% of nursing programs of the United States.

University of Cincinnati – College of Nursing

The University of Cincinnati provides various nursing programs, including a slew of master’s specialties and has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Students who take this program will be prepared to work as leaders, practitioners and scholars in the field of nursing. General nursing courses and clinical experience will be provided within the four years of full-time study entailed in the program.

To apply, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum high school GPA of 3.0, a minimum SAT score of 1050, a minimum ACT score of 23, and the necessary high school transcripts.

Students will need to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and complete all of the pre-nursing required courses in order to stay in the program. Graduates of this program will get a BSN.

Registered Nurse to BSN (RN to BSN)

Students who already have an RN license and a diploma can take this program to take advantage of the prior experience, further their education and get a BSN in the shortest amount of time possible. Students have both part-time and full-time options when it comes to this program, both of which are also available online with in-person clinical requirements. The part-time option will take at least two years to complete, while the full-time option will take one year to complete.

Accelerated MSN Program

Students who already have a degree and want to become RNs can take this program and then take one of the master’s programs afterwards. This program consists of three phases.

The first phase would be the RN pre-licensure phase, which takes around 35 credit hours to complete. The second phase would be the accelerated phase, which takes four full-time quarters to complete. Students will get a BSn degree after this phase before moving onto the last phase. The third and last phase would be the continuation phase, where students finish their master’s core courses. Students who complete all of the requirements will get an MSN after this phase.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Students who take this program will have their choice of tracks to pursue.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and will need to have completed at least 60 credit hours of the required sequential courses.

Acute Care Adult Health Nurse Practitioner

This track allows students to take on advanced nursing roles and takes two full-time years of 210 lab hours and 510 practicum hours under the supervision of nurse practitioner preceptors to complete. A part-time option is also available, though.

Graduates of this track can take the certification exams to become Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs).

Ambulatory Adult Health Nurse Practitioner

This track allows students to build on nursing basics of patient care to become nurses who focus on adult health promotion and provide disease prevention and management to their patients.

This track takes 500 practicum hours under the supervision of nurse practitioner preceptors to complete.

Graduates of this track can take the certification exams to become Medical-Surgical Clinical Nurse Specialists or Adult Nurse Practitioners.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This track allows students to build on their skills to care for people of every age in various healthcare settings. This track takes two full-time years of 540 hours of clinical hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though.

Graduates of this track will be able to take the national certification exam to become family nurse practitioners.

Nurse Anesthesia

This track allows students to build on their skills to administer anesthetics as needed. This track takes two years of full-time study to complete, which includes clinical experiences right from the start.

Occupational Health Nursing

This track allows students to plan, deliver and evaluate occupational health services and takes two full-time years of 540 practice hours in different businesses and industries to complete. A part-time option is also available, though, and no prior experience is needed for this particular program.

Graduates of this track will be able to take the AACN certification exam for community health clinical nurse specialists, as well as the COHN-S a year after graduating.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care

This track allows students to provide direct patient care management in various settings and takes two full-time years of 600 practicum hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though. To apply, students will also need to have at least a year of pediatric acute care nursing experience.

Graduates of this track will be able to take the Acute Care certification exam of the Pediatric Nurse Certification Board (PNCB).

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care

This track allows students to provide direct patient care management in various settings and takes two full-time years of 540 practicum hours to complete. A part-time option is also available, though. To apply, students will also need to have at least a year of pediatric nursing experience.

Graduates of this track will be able to take specialty certification exams through the PNCB and the ANCC.

Post Master’s Certificate Options

Students can supplement their master’s degrees with extra nursing specialties if they wish. These certificate options will depend on the student’s chosen coursework, though.

Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program was created due to the high demand for nursing leaders in today’s healthcare industry and takes around four full-time semesters of 45 credit hours to complete.

To apply, students will need to have an MSN, a minimum GPA of 3.25, a valid RN license and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three reference letters, as well as complete a satisfactory review.

Research-Focused Doctorate (PhD)

Students who want to do more research and further their knowledge and skills in nursing can take this program.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN or an MSN degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a minimum GRE score of 500. They will also need to submit their official transcripts, a statement of purpose and three reference letters.

Contact:
University of Cincinnati
3110 Vine Street,
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0038

University of Rio Grande Nursing School Review

Formerly known as Rio Grande College, the University of Rio Grande (URG) was founded in 1876 and provided educational services to Baptist ministers and teachers. The school was renamed in 1989 and is now located on a modern campus of 190 acres in Rio Grande, Ohio – a paradise of technology, learning, and creativity.

University of Rio Grande – Holzer School of Nursing

The University of Rio Grande’s Holzer School of Nursing gives students everything that they need to excel in nursing. However, it mostly focuses on promoting health, preventing sickness and caring for those in need.

This program has been approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate’s Degree Nursing (ADN) Programs

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing

Students who take this ADN program can prepare themselves for direct nursing care in various supervised healthcare settings through classroom courses, library work and clinical experiences. Upon finishing, ADN graduates will receive an Associatse of Applied Science Degree in Nursing.

To apply, students will need to be with high school graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a minimum grade of C in chemistry, biology and algebra. They will also need to take the COMPASS or ACT test and the HESI A2 Entrance Exam. To stay in the program, students will need to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

Graduates will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Advanced Placement Track (LPN to RN)

LPNs who want to prepare themselves educationally yet desire career mobility at the same time can take this innovative track to meet their needs. This track can be taken at the campus itself or online. These tracks are referred respectively as the Campus Based LPN to RN APT and the Online LPN to RN APT programs. APT stands for Advanced Placement Track.

The LPN to RN program can be completed in two semesters of full-time study, but part-time study is also available as needed.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of a nursing program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. They will also need to submit their high school and nursing transcripts upon application. They will also need to have a valid LPN license.

Students who plan to take this track online will need to take seven of the required nursing courses and four of the required general education courses online. The necessary clinical courses will need to be completed onsite at the appointed healthcare agencies, though.

Graduates will be awarded the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing Technology (AAS Degree) and will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and to apply for an Ohio RN license.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)

Students who wish to improve their skills and knowledge in nursing can take this program, which includes clinical experiences in various healthcare agencies.

To apply, students will need to submit their official transcripts and complete a satisfactory interview with a nursing faculty member. They also need to be graduates with a valid RN license in Ohio, a valid CPR certification card and evidence of current liability insurance coverage at the time of the interview. Aside from that, students will need to have completed all of the prerequisite course and medical history forms, as well.

Contact:
University of Rio Grande
218 North College Avenue,
Rio Grande, OH 45674

Trinity Health System School of Nursing Program Review

Trinity Health System (THS) provides care to service areas of hundreds and thousands of people and provides various outpatient and acute services on two campuses in Steubenville, Ohio. Every year, Trinity Health System (THS) also makes it a point to take part in various blood screening programs and health fairs every year.

Trinity Health System School of Nursing (THSSN)

Originally called the Ohio Valley Hospital School of Nursing, Trinity Health System’s School of Nursing was founded in 1912. It is currently operated and owned by a Catholic organization called the Franciscan Service Corporation.

This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), has been certified by the Ohio Board of Regents, and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Ohio Department of Education for Veterans’ Administration Benefits.

Registered Nursing (RN) Program

To apply, students will need to submit a completed application form along with their high school and college transcripts if applicable. Sometimes, references and personal interviews might be required, as well.

Students will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, a minimum grade of C on all required college courses, a minimum score of 18 on the ACT and a minimum score of 750 on the SAT. Aside from that, they will also need to take the HESI Exam at the Trinity Health System School and get a minimum score of 75% on it in order to apply.

Students who have already complete a four-year college degree in the last five years, though, will no longer have to submit any standardized test scores to apply.

Advanced Placement – Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN)

LPNs who want to apply to this dynamic and unique program will need to have a valid LPN license and the proper credentials to prescribe medications. Surgical and medical experience would be preferable,a s well.

To apply, students will also need to have a minimum grade of C in all of the practical nursing courses. In fact, if they have a minimum grade of C in college Chemistry, they will not need to have Algebra I or Chemistry I in their high school transcript anymore. There are no required pre-admission tests for this particular program.

Trinity Health System’s School of Nursing will give credit to students’ previous nursing education through the escrow-bypass advanced placement method.

Readmission Requirements

Students who were once in the Trinity Health System nursing program but have voluntarily or involuntarily left and want to be readmitted will need to meet the same curriculum requirements as everybody else. The Faculty Organization will then review and consider the requests and base their decisions on the current availability of space in the program and the students’ personal evaluations.

Some of the aspects that the Faculty might review would include the student’s previous academic files, the student’s reason for leaving, the amount of time that the student has been gone, the student’s past theory performances,, the student’s standardized and clinical test results, the amount of times that the student was placed on probation if ever, the amount of times the student had to repeat any final exams, and the student’s attendance while he attended the program.

Contact:
Trinity Health System School of Nursing
380 Summit Avenue,
Steubenville, OH 43952

University of Akron Nursing School Review

The University of Akron (UA) was founded in 1967 and has since then provided nothing but an excellent curriculum of various educational programs. There are more than 100 faculty members, half of which have doctoral degrees and others of which have completed their doctoral studies and have earned practice specialty certifications.

University of Akron – The College of Nursing

The University of Akron’s College of Nursing provides clinical experiences in various settings, with diverse patients and including a wide range of healthcare options overall. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the university is under review at the moment.

This program has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Undergraduate Programs

Baccalaureate Program (BSN)

This program takes roughly 130 hours to complete and nursing majors will  be prioritized depending on their science GPA.

To apply, students need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course. Pre-nursing students who do not complete their science prerequisite courses the first time can repeat the courses a second time. However, they will not be allowed to re-take the courses for the third time until five years have gone by since the last time they were re-taken.

Second Degree BSN (Accelerated BSN)

Students who have already completed another baccalaureate program, but wish to get a nursing degree afterwards can take this program. In general, this program takes four semesters and around 96 credit hours to complete. It consists of nurse services and hospital visits, as well as clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.

To apply, students need to have a baccalaureate degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit copies of their transcripts along with two recommendation letters, a personal statement and a resume. Aside from that, students will need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 before starting the course, as well.

Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree in nursing upon completing all of the requirements.

BSN for Registered Nurses (RNs) Sequence

The BSN for RN program has both full-time and part-time options available for students depending on their personal needs and exists especially for RNs who already have bachelor degrees, but what to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing.

This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite course. They will also need to maintain a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course in order to stay in the program.

BSN for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Sequence

The BSN for LPN program exists especially for LPNs who have already have a bachelor’s degree, but still want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing. It includes various learning activities, which build on each student’s prior experience and knowledge.

After all of the prerequisites have been completed, this program will take two and a half full-time years of around 130 credit hours to complete. Students can follow a part-time curriculum, though, if they’d prefer, and they will be given credit by exam for any previous experience as LPNs.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of an LPN program and have a valid LPN license, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 2.5. They will also need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 in every prerequisite and science course.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program consists of various advanced role specialties and practice specializations for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist. It also focuses on two particular dimensions – core courses and specialization courses – and is especially designed for working RNs.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses and an interview with the faculty, and submit an essay and three reference letters.

Advanced Practice Options

Adult/Gerontological Nursing Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

This option prepares its students to manage and provide advanced nursing care for people with complicated health conditions. Students who choose this option can either specialize in gerontological health nursing or adult health nursing.

Students who take gerontological nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Gerontological CNS and students who take adult health nursing will be able to take the certification exam for Medical/Surgical CNS through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Adult/Gerontological Nursing Nurse Practitioner (NP)

This option prepares its students to provide healthcare to people in various healthcare settings under the supervision of actual physician preceptors and nurse practitioners.

This option takes 47 credit hours to complete and students will need to complete at least 500 hours of clinical practice before they can take the national certification examination as an adult NP or gerontological NP. Completing this option will allow students to become Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs).

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, three recommendation letters, a minimum of a year of nursing experience in a gerontological or adult healthcare setting, and a BSN degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to complete every prerequisite course and an interview with a faculty member of this option.

A post-MSN certificate also exists for this particular track.

Child/Adolescent Acute/Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

This option prepares its students to provide acute or primary healthcare to children in various settings.

Graduates of this option will be able to take the certification from the ANCC to become Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.

Psychiatric Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner

These options prepare their students to provide mental healthcare to those in need in various settings and includes core courses in information management, theory, health policies, research, and pathophysiology.

Graduates of this option will be able to take three certification exams from the ANCC: Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Nurse Anesthesia

This option prepares its students to provide anesthesia care to patients who need to go through obstetrical and surgical procedures, as well as provide the skills that RNs need to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesists (CRNAs).

This program takes 60 credit hours and 27 months to complete and includes advanced pathophysiology, advanced physiology, core graduate nursing, chemistry, anesthesiology, physics and pharmacology courses.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of a baccalaureate nursing program and have a BSN, a valid ACLS certificate, a valid license in Ohio, a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a minimum of one year of adult critical care experience. They will also need to have a minimum of 8 hours in the shadow of an actual CRNA and submit various coursework transcripts.

Graduates of this option will be able to take the National Certification Examination to become CRNAs.

Nursing Services Administration

This option prepares its students for work in healthcare environments with community, acute, and long-term orientations.

MSN for RN Sequence

The MSN for RN program exists especially for nurses who want to get a baccalaureate degree in nursing and prepare for advanced nursing roles, like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthesist.

This program takes three full-time semesters to complete. Students also have the option to portfolio their experience in place of a clinical and won’t have to take any challenge exams.

To apply, students will need to have a valid RN license in Ohio, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course and a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Graduates will get a baccalaureate degree upon completing all of the requirements and will be able to continue on their chosen track at the master’s level. Overall, this program can take up to eight full-time semesters to complete.

PhD in Nursing

This joint program exists between Kent State University and the University of Akron to prepare students for teaching and applying nursing strategies as nursing scholars.

This program can be completed in three full-time years, though part-time study programs are also available.

To apply, students will need to have an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Certificate Programs

Nursing Education Certificate

This certificate exists to prepare students for full academic roles and the responsibilities of being a nurse educator in various educational settings.

Nursing Management and Business Certificate

This certificate exists to prepare post-master’s advanced practice nurses, post-baccalaureate nurses, and current PhD and MSN students for life as patient care leaders and managers in various organizational settings.

Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Post-MSN Certificate

This certificate exists solely for adult or gerontological CNSs.

Contact:
University of Akron
209 Carroll Street,
Akron, OH 44325-3701

Stark State College Nursing Program Review

Stark State College (SSC), previously known as the Stark State College of Technology (SSCT), is a two-year public institution that has more than 200 associate degrees, certifications and options available for various programs.

They also have partnerships with the University of Toledo and Franklin University, so students don’t actually have to leave the campus in order to get their bachelor’s degree of choice.

Stark State College – Nursing

This program has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

This program takes various settings into consideration, including hospitals, clinics, extended and long-term healthcare facilities, and various other healthcare agencies. Students who take this program can either opt for the day program or the evening and weekend program. Aside from that, they also have three roles to choose from: manager of care, provider of care and nursing member.

To apply to either program, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will need to submit the application form along with their ACT or COMPASS test scores and their original high school transcripts, wherein their biology and chemistry grades need to be at a minimum of C, as well.

Day Program

This program takes 72 credit hours or four semesters to complete and consists of hands-on classroom experiences, as well as clinical and laboratory experiences.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Evening and Weekend Program

Generally speaking, this evening and weekend program has the exact same nursing sequence as its day counterpart. However, the laboratory experiences in this program will be held at the campus of Stark State College itself, while the clinical and classroom experiences will mostly take place at the Mercy Medical Center.

Registered Nurse (RN) Completion for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program

This program takes 35 credit hours to complete.

Students who wish to join this program need to be graduates of a practical nursing program. They will also need to take any required developmental courses and have a valid Ohio LPN license. Aside from that, students will also need to submit the program application along with their high school transcripts and college transcripts.

In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in an LPN program and a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and other biology courses.

RN Completion for Paramedic

This program takes 44 credit hours or four semesters to complete and gives paramedics the chance to enter the nursing world and put their emergency services training into good use. Since this program follows the WEB Level II modality, paramedics won’t have any trouble fitting it into their work schedules.

To apply, students will need to be graduates of a paramedic program with a valid paramedic certificate in Ohio. They will also need to submit the necessary application form along with their high school transcripts.

In terms of grades, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra and other prerequisite courses, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in twelve hours of college courses, and complete the necessary developmental courses and the COMPASS Assessment test.

Graduates will be able to take the licensure examination and pursue more educational opportunities in the nursing field if they want to.

Contact:
Stark State College
6200 Frank Avenue NW,
North Canton, OH 44720

Southern State Community College Nursing Program Review

Southern State Community College (SSCC) is a two-year community college that was founded in 1975. It has four different campuses in Ohio that serve the Adams, Clinton, Brown, Highland and Fayette counties.

Southern State Community College has various associate degree and certificate programs available and all of the students can look into financial aid help, regardless of which program they choose to enroll in.

Southern State Community College – Nursing

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Associate’s Degree in Nursing Programs (ADN programs)

Associate of Applied Science Degree Nursing (AASN) Program

This nursing associates degree program takes 73 credit hours and 7 quarters to complete when taken full-time, and can be taken at the Central campus or the South campus of Southern State Community College. In a nutshell, this program entails registered nurses (RNs) taking care of sick patients and maintaining their health.

Students have the choice to finish some of the required general education courses before being admitted to this program if they wish. Staying in the program, however, would require students to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Nursing Transition Pathway

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who may want to get a degree can take this program through this particular pathway instead.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and should have taken the standardized LPN knowledge test and received the minimum required score within the last two years.

Aside from that, students will also need to have a minimum of 500 hours work experience as an LPN within the last two years, a valid nursing licensure and a minimum grade of C in the necessary prerequisite courses.

Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing (PN)

This program takes 50 credit hours and 4 quarters to complete and can be taken at the Central campus of Southern State Community College. In general, this program consists of regular classes, clinical experience and lab practices. In order to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of B on every nursing course and a minimum grade of C in every other prerequisite course.

To apply, students need to submit their high school and college transcripts, if applicable. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a minimum ACT score of 21. A minimum grade of C would also be required for several high school courses.

Graduates will be qualified to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses and apply for the Practical Nursing Certificate.

Contact:
Southern State Community College
100 Hobart Drive,
Hillsboro, OH 45133

Sinclair Community College Nursing Program Review

Sinclair Community College (SCC)  is somewhat related to Dayton YMCA. From 1887 to 1948, Dayton YMCA actually offered various classes for men alone. However, by 1948, it became Sinclair College and by 1989, it was chosen to become a member of the League for Innovation in the Community College as Sinclair Community College.

Now, Sinclair Community College has nineteen buildings and courses that are offered at various remote sites and online.

Sinclair Community College – Nursing

Sinclair Community College has graduated thousands of students since its inception in 1969.

This program has been approved by the State of Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Degree Programs

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program

Students can take this program if they want to become registered nurses. In general, this program consists of nursing and non-nursing courses, as well as clinical experience and classroom activities. There are five tracks that students can choose from: member in the discipline of nursing, manager of care, provider of care, patient teacher and communicator.

This program takes 8 quarters to complete and can be taken either part-time or full-time as preferred. However, all of the courses need to be taken sequentially either way. Students may also take general education courses before, during or after being admitted to the program.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum grade of C in every general education and nursing course and a minimum GPA of 2.0. To graduate, students will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of C.

Graduates will be qualified to sit for the National Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

Member in the Discipline of Nursing

This track consists mostly of professional growth, self-development, and continuous learning. This track ensures the best nursing standards, helps improve the field of nursing, communicates honestly, keeps things confidential and improves with the help of constructive criticism.

Manager of Care

This track consists mostly of collaborating with, delegating, accounting for, and respecting other workers in the healthcare field. This track is practiced on people with certain healthcare needs.

Provider of Care

This track consists mostly of critical thinking, accountability, commitment to healthcare and clinical competence. This track is practiced on any age of people with chronic or acute health needs, as well as those who need help restoring or maintaining good health.

Patient Teacher

This track involves using teaching plans that suit each patient’s learning needs, developmental levels and overall knowledge.

Communicator

This track involves promoting psychological safety, establishing and using effective communication, making referrals depending on each patient’s needs and knowing where to get the necessary resources.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Advanced Placement Track

This program takes 7 quarters and 91 credit hours to complete. Students will need to successfully complete certain courses in order to take this program, though.

Certificate Programs

Nurse Aide Training

Students can take this program if they want to become nurse aides in long-term facilities. In general, this program consists of both clinical and classroom learning experiences.

Graduates will be qualified to sit for a certification examination.

Contact:
Sinclair Community College,
444 West Third Street,
Dayton, OH 45402

Shawnee State University Nursing School Review

Shawnee State University (SSU) started out as the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969 before it merged with Scioto Technical College in 1975. In 1986, Shawnee State University became what it is today: an institution where learning is seen as a personal, professional and lifelong development process.

Shawnee State University – The Department of Nursing

In order to progress in Shawnee State University’s nursing programs, students will need to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses, as well as perform their clinical experiences in a satisfactory manner. Aside from that, their theory grades also need to average out to at least 76%.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and has been accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Associate Degree in Nursing

This program has been around since Shawnee State University was still the Portsmouth campus of Ohio University in 1969.

To apply, students might need to complete certain courses during the summer first. Other than that, they will also need to submit their high school transcripts and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and a minimum ACT score of 18. They will also need to complete an autobiography form.

Students with a minimum ACT score of 24 will be eligible for automatic acceptance to the program.

If students want to improve their chances of being admitted to Shawnee State University’s nursing program, they should start thinking about doing several things in high school, such as choosing science courses and algebra courses, taking their ACTs early, talking to nurses about their educational and professional path, talking to their counselors about nursing, and looking at all of their options in terms of college level courses. Naturally, they also need to remember that grades will always matter in the end.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program

To apply, students will need to have a valid Registered Nursing (RN) license, a valid CPR certification, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and recent health assessment and immunization. Preference is usually given to students with at least 15 hours or more beyond the traditional nursing degree and those who have already had half a year of nursing practice. Students will also need to submit a personal statement regarding the benefits of BSN.

RN-BSN Completion Program

This program consists of 34 credit hours. It builds on students’ associate degree diplomas and prepares registered nurses for proper practice in various settings. This program provides a very flexible schedule, so students can take their courses online if they wish or through clinical preceptors.

To apply, students will need to have an associate’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.5, a valid RN license, a valid CPR certification, a completed health physical exam and current immunizations.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Transition Program

LPNs might receive advanced placement during their associate degree program’s second semester if they complete certain courses with a minimum grade of C.

Other than that, students will also need to have a valid LPN license in order to apply to this program.

Contact:
Shawnee State University
940 Second Street,
Portsmouth, OH 45662-4344

Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing Program Review

The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing (HEMSPN) was founded in 1957 and today, they provide a full-time educational program for students who are interested in becoming nurses in the future.

Practical Nursing

The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has a strict nursing curriculum that focuses on children to senior citizens and includes medication administration and IV therapy. From Monday to Friday, students will go through clinical experiences and theory courses, although afternoon and weekend classes are sometimes part of the curriculum, too.

In general, the curriculum at the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing lasts for 44 weeks and follows three main concepts: the nursing process, basic human needs, and wellness-illness of life. The curriculum mainly consists of formal classroom settings, though clinical experiences, theory courses, nursing lab settings are all a part of the curriculum, as well.

To apply, students need to submit their official high school transcripts, the application and the application fee on time, as well as complete the FAFSA. They will also need to make an appointment to take the ACT WorkKeys pre-entrance test. Students will also need to take a medical terminology course.

Before starting at the school, students will also be required to attend the enrollment orientation. If requested, they can also make an appointment to discuss their options for financial aid.

Students who graduate from this Practical Nursing (PN) school usually end up with a slew of career opportunities in various hospitals, physician’s offices, long-term healthcare facilities, and home care agencies.

Any successful graduate of the PN program will be able to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in any state. Graduates with licenses are also allowed to join a baccalaureate (BSN) or associates nursing degree program to become registered nurses.

This program has been approved by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Board of Nursing, and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

To provide their students with satisfactory clinical experiences, the Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing has teamed up with various healthcare agencies, including the Salem Community Hospital, the Essex of Salem, Briarfield Manor, the Forum Health’s Childbirth Center, the Crandall Medical Center, the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities, Hospice of the Valley, and the East Liverpool City Hospital. They are also affiliated with various community healthcare agencies, though.

Financial Aid

Financial aid exists for qualifying students via Title IV funding, as well as other loans and grants.

Direct Subsidized Loans

This loan is based on need and won’t be charged with interest while the student is still in school. Also, repayment schemes will not begin until half a year after school has ended.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

This loan, on the other hand, isn’t based on need. Instead, its amount will depend on the dependency status of the student. Interest will start from the beginning, though. However, the repayment schemes will begin half a year after school has ended, as well.

Pell Grant

Unlike loans, the Pell Grant doesn’t need to be paid back. This grant exists for undergraduate students without professional or bachelor’s degrees.

Contact:
Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing
Salem City Schools,
230 North Lincoln Avenue, Suite 3,
Salem, OH 44460

Owens Community College Nursing Program Review

Owens Community College (OCC) was founded as a technical institute in 1965 and was named after a Toledo inventor named Michael Owens who is famous for mechanizing bottle blowing.

Today, they have two campuses – one in Perrysburg Township and one in Findlay – as well as learning centers in Maumee and Toledo. Overall, they provide 130 different academic programs that can lead to various exciting careers.

Owens Community College – School of Nursing

This program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, but is currently working towards re-establishing their accreditation with the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

School of Nursing Programs

Registered Nursing (RN) Program

This program prepared students to become registered nurses in various healthcare faculties.

To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their SAT or ACT scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.

Licensed Practical Nurse/Associate Degree Nursing Progression Program (LPN to RN)

Licensed practical nurses who take certain nursing courses ad meet the needs of LPNs enrolled in an ADN program can take this program to prepare themselves for various healthcare settings.

To apply, students will need to submit their high school and college transcripts, their LPN STEP test scores, and their TEAS test score. A minimum grade of C would also be required for chemistry or biology courses.

They will also need to have an LPN license, a high school diploma, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students who are already graduates from the Practical Nursing program in Owens Community College and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 will also get 2 bonus points on the admission tally form.

The LPN Standardized Testing to Evaluate Preparedness (STEP) is a pre-admissions test with eight topics based on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) test plan and can be taken at either of the Owens Community College campuses.

School of Nursing Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing Certificate Program

Practicing Nursing graduates can take this program to prepare for various nursing positions in healthcare vicinities.

To apply, students will need to be high school graduates with a minimum grade of C in high school chemistry and algebra. If students are already college graduates, then they need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0, as well.

Students also need to have a Nurse Aid Training Program certificate in order to apply for this program and complete the TEAS test with a minimum score of 50% in each of the available categories.

During the program, students will also have to maintain a minimum grade of C in all of their courses.

State-Tested Nurse Assistant Training Course (STNA)

This training program prepares students for the Ohio State Testing and Competency Evaluation Program and is mandatory for nurse assistants in Ohio who want to work in long-term healthcare.

In general STNAs provide assistance to patients and work while being supervised by licensed nurses. Some of their responsibilities include basic personal care and nursing skills, like making beds and helping with meals, bathing, grooming, positioning, dressing and walking. They also provide licensed nurses with important information.

At the moment, this training course doesn’t qualify for financial aid, though.

Contact:
Owens Community College
3200 Bright Road,
Findlay, OH 45840

FORTIS College in Centerville Nursing Program Review

Formerly called RETS College, Fortis College in Centerville is a modern institution located on nine acres of Centerville, Ohio, where all of the labs and classes take place. Fortis College provides various diploma programs and associate degree programs for distance education to accommodate the needs of their students every year.

Fortis College has campuses all over the country, including Atlanta, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia.

The school has been accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), and the Accrediting Commission of the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).

Fortis College Centerville – Nursing

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, South Carolina, Indiana, Virginia and Utah. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.

This program is ideal for students who are just starting out in the field of nursing, as well as students who want to advance their Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) careers. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

Practical Nursing (PN) Program

This program is available at select campuses of Fortis College. Aside from the one in Centerville, other Fortis College campuses that have this program on offer include Florida, Arizona, Virginia and Pennsylvania. The program might vary from one campus and state to the next, though.

This program is ideal for students who want to become PNs and consists of hands-on experience in clinical environments. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become practical nurses with licenses.

Other Nursing Programs

Although unavailable at the Centerville campus of Fortis College, the school also offers other nursing programs, such as the following:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated Program)

This program is only available in the Florida campuses of Fortis College and students who are already nurses with a BSN can keep working at hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, nursing care facilities and schools while studying. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

PN-RN Associated Degree Bridge Program

This program is only available in the Nashville, Tennessee campus of Fortis College. PNs who want to advance their careers can take this program, as can career-minded LPNs who cannot attend other programs due to work. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses with licenses.

Vocational Nursing

This program is only available in the Texas campuses of Fortis College. Graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become vocational nurses, as well as the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

 Contact:
Fortis College Centerville
555 E Alex Bell Road,
Centerville, OH 45459

Urbana University Nursing School Review

Urbana University (UU) was founded in 1850. Although placed in a relatively small college campus altogether, it is very proud to have a liberal arts education on offer that focuses more on individual attention for each student and closer connections with the faculty members.

Urbana University – College of Nursing

This program has been at Urbana University since 2003 and is affiliated with the Springfield Regional School of Nursing. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the  Ohio Board of Regents and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program exists to prepare students for nursing practices where they can serve their community in terms of healthcare as nursing professionals, managers and leaders.

To apply, students will need to have a valid registered nurse (RN) license and a valid CPR certification. They will also need to get a background check, an immunization validation, a TB screening and a health assessment done.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program builds on what Urbana University’s BSN program has to offer and focuses on more advanced teachings of nursing practice, research, and theory. It includes two different tracks: Nursing Education and Nursing Administration.

Classes

Although Urbana University does have several online courses on offer, it sadly does not have an online nursing course on offer. Because of this, all students who wish to take nursing at Urbana University should be prepared to visit the school to finish their degree.

What makes Urbana University stand out from the rest of other colleges out there is the fact that you will get the proper attention that you deserve. Despite the fact that the university is big enough to provide various highly sought-after study programs, each class is small enough to provide students with proper individualized attention.

The campus itself can be found in Urbana, Ohio, providing a safe, small and convenient location of learning. It is also very close to Columbus and Dayton, Ohio.

There are many students that are currently attending Urbana University, creating a very diverse student population that is highly involved in varsity athletics, performing arts, student activities and club sports.

Aside from that, Urbana University is known to be one of the most affordable options for continuing educations. This is partly because their students can apply for scholarships, depending on their talents in performing arts, academics and athletics.

Financial Aid

Students at Urbana University all follow the university’s mission while working with one another, with the school, and with the rules of the government. The university provides great financial to those in need to help them reach their goals in education and in their careers.

The financial aid department in Urbana University helps their students find, get and take full advantage of all of their financial resources. They also provide top-notch guidance and service with respect, empathy and sensitivity to all of their students’ families.

Contact:
Urbana University
579 College Way,
Urbana, OH 43078

Ursuline College Nursing Program Review

Mother Mary of the Annunciation Beaumont founded Ursuline College (UC) in 1871 because she realized that women needed a proper form of higher learning. This is how the first women’s college came about in both Ohio and the United States, in general.

Ursuline College – The Breen School of Nursing

This program has been at Ursuline College ever since 1975. This program has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It has also been accredited and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degrees

BSN Program

To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum high school GPA of 2.75, a minimum composite ACT score of 20 or a minimum SAT score of 1000, and a minimum grade of C+ in algebra I, biology and chemistry.

For students who already have college credit, they will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a recommendation letter and proof of having been a former nursing student.

Accelerated/Second Degree BSN Program

This 15-month-long program exists for second-degree students who already have baccalaureate degrees and want to pursue one in nursing. It includes every course required for the regular BSN program, but can be finished in a shorter span of time.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum grade of C in every prerequisite course, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the sciences within the last seven years. All prerequisite courses will need to be taken before the semester begins.

Graduates will get a BSN degree and will be able to take the National Certified Licensing Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nursing (RN).

RN – BSN Program

This program exists to suit any student’s personal and professional schedules by giving students the chance to take their courses online or as hybrid courses as needed. Students with prior learning can also earn a maximum of 39 credits.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a diploma and complete the entire application process. Registered nurses will generally need to complete 19 nursing hours and 30 hours of other courses.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Students who take this program will need to complete 26 hours of core courses. After that, they will have to choose a track or subspecialty that suits their educational needs. Their choices include Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Palliative Care or Nursing Education. They can also take Post Master’s Certifications, if they wish.

To apply, students will need to submit their official transcripts and prove that they have completed a baccalaureate nursing program. Aside from that, they also need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0, three recommendation letters, a valid Ohio RN license, and a minimum of a year’s experience working as an RN. If requested, they will need to complete an interview with a faculty member or program director, as well.

Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Program

ANPs provide independent or team care and they focus on disease prevention, health maintenance, patient education and counseling. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FNPs incorporate the coursework of ANPs and help students get ready to provide primary health care to people of every age. This program takes 43 credit hours to complete.

Palliative Care Subspecialty Concentration

Palliative care provides therapies that are meant to support and comfort patients of different religions, beliefs, cultures, traditions and values who have fatal diseases. This program takes 24 credit hours to complete.

Nursing Education

This subspecialty exists for students who want to be an ANP or FNP. This program takes 39 credit hours to complete.

Post Master’s Certification

Any student who finishes an MSN track can get a post master’s certificate for their track of choice. To do this, they will simply need to take the associated courses and complete certain advanced core courses.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This program is relatively new and opened in 2010. It exists for students who have an MSN and want to become leaders in the field through doctoral level education.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a valid resume, a valid RN license for Ohio, and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They will also need to submit any official transcripts and two recommendation letters.

 Contact:
Ursuline College
2550 Lander Road,
Pepper Pike, OH 44124

Walsh University Nursing School Review

Seven founding Brothers once had the vision to create a college campus out of 50 acres of alfalfa and this vision of theirs came true in 1960 when they opened Walsh College. Now known as Walsh University (WU), this Catholic college continues to grow with more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees currently available.

Walsh University – School of Nursing

This program prepares students to work as a registered nurse (RN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Undergraduate Degrees

Nursing (Pre-Licensure)

This program takes four years to complete and students can be admitted in two different ways. They can either directly admitted due to a scholarship or can be admitted as pre-nursing majors.

In order to continue in this nursing major, students will need to complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.

RN – BSN School for Professional Studies Option for the RN

This program exists for RNs who already have associate degrees and want to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This flexible option is ideal for students who want to study no a part-time or full-time basis.

Accelerated BSN

This second-degree program exists for students who already have bachelor’s degrees but want to become nurses.

To apply for this program, students will need to have a bachelor’s degree and meet all of the admission requirements of Walsh University. They also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all prerequisite courses. Students might need to  have an interview with the committee of the School of Nursing before being admitted to the program.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

This program prepares post-baccalaureate RNs for advanced careers in the following tracks: Academic Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Leader. Both of these programs are mainly offered online, so that busy nurses can complete their requirements at their utmost ease and convenience.

To apply for this program, students will need to complete the admission application, the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and a statistics course. They will also need to have a valid RN license, a valid resume and a minimum of a year’s working experience in nursing. Aside from that, students will need to submit all of their official transcripts, a personal essay and two recommendation letters. They will also need to have an interview with the committee of the program.

Academic Nurse Educator

This track started in 2005 and the primary roles that these educators eventually fulfill are those of teacher, collaborator and scholar.

To complete this track, students will need to complete 39 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 16 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 310 clinical hours.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

To complete this track, students will need to complete 36 credit hours in total: 12 foundation course credit hours, 13 practice application course credit hours and 11 expert knowledge credit hours. They will also need to complete 480 clinical hours.

Online Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree

This program prepares students for a masters degree in healthcare while following Judeo-Christian values at the same time. The online format exists of small classes that encourage student participation and assure personalized attention. It also includes important opportunities for hands-on learning.

 Contact:
Walsh University
2020 East Maple Street,
North Canton, OH 44720

Wright State University Nursing School Review

Wright State University (WSU) is responsible for starting the very first baccalaureate nursing program within Dayton, Ohio.

Wright State University – College of Nursing and Health

This program has been fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This program takes four years to complete and prepares students for a lot of different careers in various healthcare settings.

To apply, students will need to complete the admission application and submit their official transcripts. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and take the admission assessment exam at Wright State University. Aside from that, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 2.75.

Graduates will be able to take the National Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

ADENA Cohort Program

This program also takes four years to complete and is dedicated to students who would rather finish their courses in Chillicothe, Ohio instead of in Dayton, Ohio.

RN – BSN Completion Program

RNs who already have associate degrees in nursing can take this flexible program to accommodate their regular work schedules.

To apply, students will need to complete the admission application, as well as all of the prerequisite courses for Wright State University. They will also need to have a valid RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Baccalaureate Education Accelerates Career Opportunities in Nursing (BEACON) Program

This accelerated program takes 24 months to complete and exists for college graduates who want to become nurses. The courses in this program are offered both face-to-face and online, or in hybrid mode, and consists of 5 graduate nursing courses.

To apply, students will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and complete all of the prerequisite courses. Conversely, to stay in the program, students will need to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.

Master of Science in Nursing (MS) Program

This program prepares nurses for advanced courses in various specialty tracks, including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administration, School Nursing, Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Leader.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

This track needs to be completed within 5 years, though students can either enroll as full-time students or part-time students. It also takes 52.5 credit hours and 500 clinical hours to complete and consist various subspecialties, as seen below.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and at least two years of full-time experience as RNs. They will also need to complete and submit a statement of goals along with their college transcripts.

Graduates will be able to sit for advanced practice certification exams.

Healthcare Administration

This track includes courses on human resource management, strategic planning and financial management and includes creative practicum opportunities.

School Nursing

This track takes 59 credit hours to complete and consists of both clinical and classroom experiences.

To apply, students will need to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid CPR certification tand a valid RN license for Ohio. They will also need to submit all of their college transcripts and a statement of goals.

Graduates will be able to sit for the school nurse licensure exam.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Family Nurse Practitioners provide general healthcare in a lot of different settings to people of different ages. This track can either be taken in class or online.

To apply, students will need to submit a valid resume, a meaningful essay, two recommendation letters, and a statement of goals. They will also need to have a BSN, a valid RN license for Ohio, a minimum of a year’s full-time experience in nursing and go through a personal interview.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This tracks prepares advanced entails nurses to provide care for infants and children up to 21 years old.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, at least a year’s full-time experience in nursing, and a PALS certification. They will also need to complete a basic course for physical assessment.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

Through this track, students will be prepared to become clinical leaders at unit levels and to manage and create unit-based healthcare microsystems.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license in Ohio, and 1-2 years of clinical experience as an RN. They will also need to submit a statement of goals.

Bridge Program

Students with associates degrees in nursing can take this track to enter the master’s program in nursing earlier than usual.

To apply, students will need to have a nursing diploma, an RN license and a baccalaureate degree. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

This program takes 36 credit hours and 520 clinical hours to complete and is also offered as a part-time program.

Contact:
Wright State University
160 University Hall,
3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.,
Dayton, OH 45435

Xavier University Nursing School Review

Xavier University (XU) was founded in 1831 as Jesuit-Catholic college. To date, it has three colleges, in general, and is known to be one of the few Jesuit universities in the country.

Xavier University – Nursing

This program began in 1995 and is now accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Undergraduate Nursing

To apply to undergraduate nursing programs at Xavier University, students will need to complete high school chemistry first. They will also need to submit all of their official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70. To stay in the program, students will need to maintain this same GPA, as well.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This holistic, community-based program educates its students in communication, cooperation and coordination with various other healthcare experts. This program takes four years to complete.

Graduates will be allowed to take the holistic nurse certification examination.

BSN – MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Honors Program

This program allows graduating senior students to finish their master’s degree with a CNL track in just one year. To apply, students will need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20.

Graduate Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses

This would be the entry program that students need to take to become registered nurses in the end.

Educational Mobility Option

Students can take this option to enter the MSN program if they already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.

RN to MSN

This program exists for RNs who already have experience in the nursing field but do not have a bachelor’s degree yet. Through this program, they can get an MSN faster.

However, to apply, students will need to have at least two years of full-time RN work experience, and a great academic record. This program takes 18 semester hours to complete.

Graduates will be allowed to move into graduate programs if they complete this program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MBA

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MEd

This program takes 54 credit hours to complete and prepares students to teach and administer in various educational settings.

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Dual Degree Program – MSN/MSCJ

This program takes 46 credit hours to complete.

To apply, students will need to have a registered nurse license, an official college transcript and a minimum grade of C in an undergraduate statistics course. They will also have to submit a statement of goals or a portfolio, and three references.

Graduates will get two different degrees upon completion of this program: the MSN and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration

This concentration will prepare nurses to become advanced generalists that can provide nursing care at the actual point of care. This concentration takes 43 credit hours to complete and can be taken part-time or full-time.

To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time experience in nursing.

Post Master’s Certificate Programs

MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

This certificate program is open to licensed RNs who already have an MSN. It usually takes 4 semesters and 21 credit hours to complete on a part-time basis.

Graduates will be able to take the certificate exam to become CNLs.

 Contact:
Xavier University
3800 Victory Parkway,
Cincinnati, OH 45207

Youngstown State University Nursing School Review

Youngstown State University (YSU) has a ton of programs for students to choose from in seven different colleges: the Beeghly College of Education, the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, the College of Fine and Performing Arts, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of STEM, the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and the Williamson College of Business Administration.

Youngstown State University – Department of Nursing

This department maintains only the best standards in nursing and has so far prepared a ton of professional nurses that are well-qualified in the field.

This department has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) and has been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Generic Track

Students who wish to get a BSN degree have two tracks to choose from at Youngstown State University. This generic track exists for students who do not have any diplomas yet.

This program takes 127 semester hours to complete, 71 of which are nursing hours. It also includes 960 clinical hours and 90 on-campus laboratory hours. In general, this program can be completed in 8 semester if students take at least 14 hours each semester.

To apply, students will need to have completed the required pre-nursing courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.80. They will also need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in all of their other college work.

Graduates will need to have completed all of the necessary baccalaureate nursing courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

RN/BSN Completion Track (for current RNs)

A registered nurse (RN) who already has a diploma can take this track in order to help their career grow more. Any previous education of up to 44 semester hours can be awarded to RNs who have successfully completed their first three courses in nursing.

To apply, students need to have a CPR certification, a valid RN license in Ohio or be graduates of an approved program in nursing. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

School Nurse Licensure (Certificate)

This certificate program helps students build on their undergraduate education and turn them into effective members in the professional community at school. This program takes 18 credit hours and 300 practicum hours to complete.

To apply, students need to have an RN license in Ohio.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Registered Nurses

This program exists for nurses with baccalaureate degrees and strong foundations in making decisions, thinking critically and practicing nursing, in general. There are three tracks to this program, including clinical nursing, school nursing, and nurse anesthesia.

To apply, students will need to have a BSN degree, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a valid RN license, and a valid CPR certificate. They will also need to complete all of the prerequisite undergraduate courses and submit their GRE scores, official college transcripts, a letter of intent and three reference letters.

Graduates will be able to take the national certification examinations to practice as advanced practice nurses.

Contact:
Youngstown State University
One University Plaza,
Youngstown, OH 44555

Dickinson State University Nursing School Review

Dickinson State University (DSU) is a public university in Dickinson and is part of the North Dakota University System. It is located in the small city of Dickinson that has a population of around 18,000 residents. The university was founded in 1918 as a normal school, or school to train teachers. The university offers over 75 fields of study and has 10 academic departments. There are also two-year programs offered by the university, with a specialization in teacher education. A graduate program in education has recently been added to the offerings at the university. Several nursing programs are also offered at the university.

Nursing Programs

Associate in Applied Science in Practical Nursing Program

The university offers an Associate in Applied Science Practical Nursing (AASPN) program. Students learn therapeutic nursing interventions and must complete 66 credits to complete the program. When a student is ready for graduation, the NCLEX-PN exam is taken to obtain licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse. The program is competitive because only 43 students are enrolled each year. Students must complete at least 67 credits to graduate from the program. Students are required to apply to both the university and to the Department of Nursing. A physical plus a criminal background check are required. Applicants must be high school graduates with a grade point average of at least 2.25. A North Dakota University System application must be submitted to Dickinson State University.

Vocational LPNs may apply to complete the second year of the AASPN program if they are interested in completing their associate degree. The candidate must have graduated from an approved PN program with a minimum grade of C in chemistry and other courses. Applicants may take the PN Fundamentals Exam to receive credit for nursing courses that they have taken in their PN studies.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program

Dickinson State offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Completion Program for RNs who want to complete their BSN. After the credits from the student’s associate degree have been transferred, most students only need to complete around half of the credits that are needed to earn the bachelor’s degree. Students must have completed core courses in high school that include 4 units of English, 3 units of math such as Algebra I and above, 3 units of science such as biology, chemistry, physics, or physical science, and 3 units of social studies. Candidates without this academic background may be admitted to an associate degree program until they complete these courses. The nursing program is competitive and only 32 students are accepted each year.

Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 2.5 on their previous college level work and must have at least a C in any prerequisite courses taken before being accepted into the nursing program. The BSN completion program requires students to meet all of the general education requirements of a bachelor’s degree. Students then complete advanced nursing courses and complete clinical experience before graduation.

Contact:
Dickinson State University
291 Campus Drive,
Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 483-2507

Jamestown College Nursing Program Review

Jamestown College (JC) is a small private college located in Jamestown, North Dakota. There are about 1,000 students enrolled in this liberal arts college that was founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1883. Jamestown College is known for its science and nursing programs. The student to faculty ratio is 13 to 1, so students are able to get the extra help that they need. Students live in the on-campus residence halls at Jamestown College.

Nursing Program

Nursing

Jamestown College offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The program prepares students for a career as a professional nurse who is knowledgeable and ready to work in a variety of healthcare facilities. The college has a reputation of placing 100% of its graduates in many different hospitals, clinics, and other places all over the United States, including the famous Mayo Clinic and others. Applicants who are interested in entering the nursing program must first apply to the college and be accepted into Jamestown College. A minimum high school grade point average of 3.25 is required, and the preferred ACT score is 24 or 1100 on the SAT. It is highly recommended that applicants have had biology and chemistry while they were in high school.

Those who are accepted into the program are expected to maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 on the prerequisite nursing courses that they complete at the college. Once enrolled in the nursing program, students may not get a grade less than C on nursing course. Acceptance into the program is competitive, and the decision of which students are admitted relies primarily on applicants’ grade point averages. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as Registered Nurses (RNs).

RNs and LPNs

RNs and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the BSN program at Jamestown College. They may take an orientation and transition module or preparation of portfolios to receive credit for the nursing courses that they completed while studying for their nursing careers. Previously earned college credit can also be transferred to meet the general college requirements of the college. Each RN or LPN may take a different amount of time to complete the program since some students will require fewer courses than others, depending on how many credits were transferred into the BSN program. There is also a full-time or part-time option.

All BSN students complete their clinical experience at diverse clinical settings. Some of these are the James River Correctional Center, North Dakota State Hospital, Jamestown Regional Medical Center, Anne Carlsen Center for Children, and Sanford Hospital. There are also international travel opportunities for nursing students who may choose to travel to Chogoria, Kenya during their senior year. This experience counts as clinical experience since students travel to a hospital in the jungle and visit villages to provide nursing care and medicine. Students also have the chance to visit orphanages and schools and to go on a safari while they are there. Another international opportunity for seniors is to Nha Trang, Vietnam and Taipei, Taiwan. Students experience the modern medical facilities in these countries and can experience healthcare and eastern medicine.

Contact:
Jamestown College
6000 College Lane,
Jamestown, ND 58405
(701) 252-3467

Sanford College of Nursing Program Review

Sanford College of Nursing (SCN), previously known as the Medcenter College of Nursing (MOCN), is located in Bismarck, North Dakota. The facility includes classrooms, a computer lab, library, conference rooms, study areas, and four clinical learning labs. Students use the computer lab for computer-assisted instruction programs, for nursing care planning, and as a place to write papers and complete other assignments. The college has learning labs that simulate patient care rooms and equipment that students use for practice purposes. There is also a simulation lab where students practice on “patients” before they move on to treat human patients.

Nursing Program

The nursing program is a four-year program that prepares students for many different entry level positions in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, schools, and other healthcare facilities. Those who are interested in attending the Sanford College of Nursing should complete an application. Applicants are considered individually, and admission is based on scholastic ability and achievement. Potential students must also show that they have maturity and integrity before being admitted to the program. Applicants must first enroll in the general education prerequisite courses before applying to the nursing program. A grade point average of at least 2.5 in this academic work is required. Students must complete all of the prerequisites before enrolling in the junior year of the nursing program.

Students are required to have complete criminal background checks before beginning any clinical experience. Those who have been convicted of felonies and some other crimes are not permitted into the healthcare facility to complete their clinical experience. In addition, students with convictions may not be granted a license to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). For this reason, background checks are required by the college. If an applicant has been convicted of any criminal offence besides a minor traffic offense, admission will probably not be granted. It is important that prospective nursing students realize that even if they meet all of the minimum requirements, it does not guarantee that they will be admitted to the nursing program.

The focus of the nursing program at the Sanford College of Nursing is to prepare students to become leaders in the healthcare systems in which they work. Students receive experience in many different settings while they are students at the college, and the Sanford Medical Center (SMC) is one of the main clinical experience sites for students. They also rotate to a variety of community agencies, schools, and clinics. Students are well-prepared to take the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse, the NCLEX-RN.

Also, the college realizes that many students need financial aid to complete their nursing degree. Some of the sources of financial aid are grants, loans, student employment, and scholarships. An outstanding opportunity for students who do not want to pay student loans for years is the Sanford Health Nursing Student Tuition Loan Program. It is available to all good students who meet all of the admission requirements who would like Sanford Health Health Systems to employ them as Registered Nurses. Those graduates who choose to work with Sanford Health Systems (SHS) or any of its affiliates may have their nursing student loan cancelled. If you opt to work elsewhere, you have the option to directly repay the loan amount you borrowed. There are also Federal Work-Study Programs available. In this program, students work in community jobs for minimum wage pay. This money can be used to pay for tuition and college expenses.

Contact:
Sanford College of Nursing
512 N. Seventh Street,
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 323-6271

Minot State University Nursing School Review

Minot State University (MSU, MiSU) is located in Minot, a city in north central North Dakota. It is the fourth largest city in the state. The university was founded in 1913 and started as a normal school to train teachers.

Today, it has around 3,400 students who are in 60 undergraduate programs or graduate programs. Minot State is a member of the North Dakota University System that is made up of 11 colleges and universities with doctoral, master, baccalaureate, and community colleges.

Minot State is close to a major air force base and to the Turtle Mountain Region and Garrison Dam/Missouri River area. The university draws most of its students from North Dakota, Montana, and from several Canadian areas. There are also several Native American communities that are located in the area and who can be found at Minot State as faculty members and students.

Nursing Programs

BSN Degree

The Department of Nursing at the university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Students are prepared to meet the nursing shortage that is expected to continue to grow greater in upcoming years. Students are prepared to work at many different healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, retirement homes, schools, community agencies, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare settings. During the four years of the program, students take the general education requirements of the university plus nursing core courses. They also complete rotation at a variety of healthcare settings to prepare them for their careers. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs).

Applicants who want to enter the nursing program must first be accepted by Minot State University. Also, all science courses must be completed before students are admitted to the program. Students must have a grade point average of 2.75 and must have earned at least a C in each support course. Support courses require a grade point average of 2.8. Another requirement is that applicants must take the TEAS test and have a satisfactory score on this test. Applicants who were born outside of the U.S. or Canada must complete the TOEFL exam and score a minimum score of 79 or minimum paper based score of 550. Admission to the nursing program is decided through a point system.

RN to BSN Online

The university also offers an RN to BSN program that is completed online. RNs who want to complete their bachelor’s degree in nursing must meet the general education requirements of the university as well as the nursing program requirements. The program is designed to be flexible and to meet the needs of working nurses. Students may complete the program on either a full-time or part-time basis. Once credits from the student’s associate degree are transferred to Minot State, the student must complete the remainder of the 128 credits needed for the BSN. This can be accomplished full-time in a minimum of 15 to 18 months, depending on how many courses a student must complete. RNs can expect to have more job opportunities after completing the program and graduating. Many agencies require RNs with a BSN, including federal agencies, the military, public health agencies, and companies that hire nurses for management positions.

Contact:
Minot State University
500 University Avenue West,
Minot, ND 58707
(800) 777-0750

North Dakota State College of Science Nursing Program Review

North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is a two-year college that is part of the North Dakota University System. It was established in 1903, and today offers degrees, certificates, and diplomas in over 80 programs. It is located in Wahpeton, a small city of less than 8,000 residents. This college is different from most community colleges because it provides a university experience for students. There are residence halls, intramural athletics, intercollegiate athletics, and many programs that students may become involved in during their time at North Dakota State College of Science.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nursing

This unique program prepares students for a career as a Practical Nurse with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Most Practical Nursing (PN) programs lead to a diploma rather than to a two-year associate degree. This program at North Dakota State College of Science has be ranked as number one out over 1,000 other practical nursing programs in the U.S. The college has a record of 100 percent of the graduates who took the NCLEX-PN national exam leading to licensure passed it on their first try. Students complete 68 credits over four semesters. Graduates have opportunities for employment at many different healthcare facilities.

Students begin taking nursing courses in the first year of studies. Students also complete liberal arts and science classes that are required for the degree. Admission requirements include a high school diploma with at least a C average and an ACT score of at least 15 or an Aptitude Examination for Practical Nursing with a minimum score. Students must first be accepted into the college and complete at least 12 credits of the nursing curriculum in one semester or 6 credits in a summer semester. A grade of C or higher is required before the student may apply to the Practical Nursing Program.

Bridge to AAS Practical Nursing

This program is designed for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who have a certificate or diploma who want to further their education. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree in Practical Nursing. Students are usually able to transfer some general education credits from their previous nursing studies. Graduates from the program may apply to transfer into an associate degree program in Registered Nursing or into a bachelor’s degree program in nursing.

Associate in Science in Nursing

This program is offered by the college to LPN graduates who have an AAS in Practical Nursing. Students have the opportunity to complete their Associate in Science in nursing degree. Upon graduation, they take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Students must complete 72 credits of liberal arts and science courses plus the required nursing courses. Students also complete clinical experience in rotations to a variety of medical settings. Applicants must have an Associate in Applied Science or an Associate in Science Practical Nursing degree and must be currently licensed. They must have a grade average of at least C in these courses. They must also complete the Assessment Technologies Institute assessment exam and attain a satisfactory score. A point system is used to determine which students are accepted into the program, and those with the highest scores on the assessment exam and previous courses taken are admitted to the program.

Contact:
North Dakota State College of Science
800 Sixth Street North,
Wahpeton, ND 58076-0002
(800) 342-4325

North Dakota State University Nursing School Review

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a research university that has been rated as one of the top 108 public and private universities in the U.S. The university is part of the North Dakota University System. It is located in Fargo and has around 14,000 students. It began in 1890 as the North Dakota Agricultural College. Today, the university has agricultural research extension centers that cover close to 20,000 acres. There are 102 bachelor’s degree programs, 66 master’s degree programs, and 44 doctoral programs, and 10 graduate certificates offered at the university. The university is more affordable than many others and tuition is around 11 percent less than other colleges and universities in the region.

Nursing Programs

Baccalaureate Degree Pre-Licensure Track

The Baccalaureate Degree Pre-Licensure Track is a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). The pre-nursing program consists of the first two semesters at the university. It is open to all high school graduates interested in becoming professional nurses. Students must first be admitted to the university. During their first year, students take liberal arts and science courses and do not begin the nursing major until the beginning of the sophomore year. Admission to the program is competitive, and students must have a grade point average of 3.0 in their freshman courses to apply to the program. Most of the students who are admitted have substantially higher grade point averages.

Students applying to the nursing program must have a background check that includes a criminal background check and FBI check. The proper immunizations and vaccines are also required since students may be exposed to blood and body fluids. They must also maintain professional behavior once admitted to the program. Students complete all of the university’s bachelor’s degree requirements plus nursing core courses and electives. Clinical experience is also completed once students are in the nursing program.

LPN-BSN Track

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have an associate degree in nursing may apply to enter this program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The program is designed to meet the needs of working LPNs and is convenient to fit into their schedule since most of the program is completed online according to the nurse’s schedule. It usually takes six semesters for LPNs to complete the program, including summers. Students are required to take some coursework on campus during the summer semesters. Depending on the amount of credits that may be transferred to the BSN program, students often need to complete some prerequisite courses before entering the program. Applicants take an advanced placement test to determine how many credits they will be allowed to transfer to the BSN program. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Master’s Degree

Master of Science

This program is designed for RNs who have a BSN. Applicants must apply to the university’s graduate admissions department by submitting an application and an official transcript. Also, the GRE is required and the scores must be sent to the graduate admissions office. A copy of the applicant’s RN unencumbered license must also be submitted, along with a statement of purpose and three professional letters of recommendation. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on their undergraduate studies to qualify for this program. Students must complete the core nursing courses required for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). In addition, the courses related to the concentration chosen by the student must also be completed. The concentrations are discussed below.

Family Nurse Practitioner/Doctor of Nursing Practice

Nurses with a BSN may enter this MSN program and also complete their Doctor of Nursing Practice. A grade point average of at least 3.0 is required on undergraduate work. Applicants must be licensed RNs with an unencumbered license. In addition, they must complete a Graduate School application and submit three professional references plus a written narrative explaining their professional experience and future nursing goals. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree requires at least 86 credits to complete. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average in their coursework. In addition, a dissertation, clinical dissertation, or thesis is required.

Nurse Educator

This MSN program requires a minimum of 39 credits to complete. Students are prepared to teach undergraduate nursing students and to educate staff and patients in a variety of settings. Coursework includes strategies for teaching, curriculum development, and evaluation. A grade point average of 3.0 or higher is required for the courses in the program. Students also complete a practicum of teaching experience.

Doctor of Nursing Practice MS-DNP/FNP

This program is designed for RNs who have completed their MSN and wish to pursue an advanced nursing degree. The program leads to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) degree. Students are prepared to provide the most advanced nursing care to families and their members of all ages. The DNP program prepares the nurse practitioner for leadership and clinical roles in many different healthcare settings. The program is a distance delivered program that focuses on preparing nurses to serve those who do not receive regular medical treatment. It takes three years of full-time study to complete the program, including summer sessions. The part-time program takes four years to complete including summer sessions.

Contact:
North Dakota State University
1340 Administration Avenue,
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 231-8011

Presentation College Nursing Program Review

Presentation College (PC) is located in Aberdeen, South Dakota. It is a Catholic private college that was established in 1922. Around 790 students are enrolled at the college. Students of all faiths attend the college that offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificate programs. Although many different programs are offered at the college, it is known for its health and medical programs. Nursing is the most popular program at Presentation College, and students who are looking for a small college with a very low student to faculty ratio will want to consider attending this college.

Nursing Programs

Baccalaureate Nursing Program

Presentation College offers a Baccalaureate Nursing Program that leads to a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN). Students take all of the required courses for a bachelor’s degree plus specialty nursing courses to prepare them for their career as a nurse. At least 127 credits are necessary for graduation. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN that is required for licensure as a Registered Nurse after completing the program. Clinical experience is an important part of the program that prepares RNs to enter the workforce and work directly with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, community agencies, and other healthcare facilities. A BSN prepares students for leadership roles in nursing if they begin working after graduation, or it is the preparation needed to continue studying for a master’s degree in nursing.

BSN Completion Program for RNs (RN to BSN)

Presentation College requires applicants to have a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Also, SAT scores must be at least 860, or an applicant must have an ACT score of at least 18. Applicants with scores below these are sometimes accepted on probation. The college also accepts students who were home schooled or who have completed their GED. The BSN completion program for RNs (Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BSN) is designed for nurses who have already earned their Associate degree or who have a diploma in nursing. The program can be completed in about half the time that it takes to complete a traditional BSN since credits from the nurse’s previous coursework can usually be transferred to the bachelor’s degree program.

LPN to BSN Completion

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to BSN Completion program is designed to allow LPNs who are currently licensed to earn their BSN. It takes between four to six semesters to complete the program that is all online. Clinical experience is also at one of the college’s virtual sites. Since students choose when they complete their work, they can keep working as they earn their BSN. At the end of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

RN to BSN Completion

RNs can complete their BSN through Presentation College’s online program. All parts of the program are offered online, and clinical experience is completed near the student’s home area. The program takes 16 months to complete and can be done while the student works full-time. Applicants must have current licensure as an RN.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Presentation College offers a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that trains students for entry-level jobs as a Registered Nurse. Students are trained in the technical side of nursing care, but they also take some liberal arts and science courses. At the completion of the nursing courses and clinical experience, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

Contact:
Presentation College
1500 N. Main Street,
Aberdeen, SD 57401
(800) 437-6060

University of Mary Nursing School Review

The University of Mary (U-Mary) is located in Bismarck, North Dakota. It is a liberal arts private, Catholic university with over 3,000 students enrolled in its programs. Besides the university’s location in Bismarck, it has other locations in North Dakota, Montana, Missouri, Kansas, Arizona, and Rome, Italy. There are 52 undergraduate programs, 8 master’s degree programs, and 1 doctoral degree program.

The college is known for being very affordable for a private university. Students have the opportunity to take an entire semester of studies in Rome at the Rome Campus. The university has a unique guarantee that students will complete their bachelor’s degree in four years or the college will fund your fifth year without cost to the student. The student must keep a minimum grade point average and not fail any classes to qualify for this guarantee.

Nursing Programs

Nursing

The University of Mary offers either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in nursing. The program prepares students to work in many healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and other settings, or to continue studies to complete a Master of Science in Nursing. Students complete their clinical experience in public health agencies, nursing homes, community agencies, and other facilities. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse. To qualify for admission for the program, candidates must have a grade point average of at least 2.75 or higher, and they must earn at least a C in the prerequisite courses for the nursing program. There is a preadmission exam that must be taken before being admitted to the nursing program and students must have a criminal background check, physical exam, and must have CPR certification.

Nursing – LPN to BS

This program is designed for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with either a certificate or associate degree who wants to complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in nursing prepares the graduate to take the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure as a Registered Nurse. Most courses are online so that students do not need to attend classes each day. This allows nurses to continue working. To be admitted to the program, the student must be a currently Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with a grade point average of 2.75 or higher. Candidates must take the LPN Comprehensive Predictor Exam and earn a satisfactory score. The student who is accepted into the BS program must earn at least 128 credits.

Nursing – RN to BS

The Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) program is for nurses who have an associate’s degree who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. Students in the program work in a cohort format which makes completing projects easier to do. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.75 on their previous coursework and at least an average of 2.0 in nursing courses. Students are able to continue working during the program and can complete the program in about two years after the credits from their associate’s degree have been transferred to the college.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner FNP

This Master of Science in Nursing program offers some unique features that are not found at every college or university. The program is partially online and also requires classes at the college. Visits to the college are limited. Clinical experiences are another requirement of this program. A unique feature is that the program can be completed in only 15 to 18 months. Also, the GRE is not required, so nurses do not need to spend time studying for this exam that is usually required for admission to graduate programs. Candidates for the program must be currently licensed RNs with an unencumbered license and a BSN. An undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 or better is also required. Students in the program are prepared to deliver primary care to members of families of all ages. The program requires that students complete 53 semester credits and 900 clinical hours.

MSN Nurse Administrator

This Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares nurses to work as leaders in clinical settings and in other facilities within the community. It is designed for RNs who have previously completed a bachelor’s degree. Courses are offered either on-site or online, and both options are accelerated. Students have the opportunity to complete the program in only 15 to 18 months to earn this MSN degree. Applicants must have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 or better. A total of 36 credits are required to complete this program.

Diploma/ADN to MSN: Nurse Administrator

This program is designed for RNs with a diploma or associate degrees who want to add to their credentials as professional nurses. There are two bridge courses in this program that are related to community health and leadership. Prerequisite courses are statistics, chemistry, microbiology, psychology, and English.

MSN Nurse Educator

The University of Mary offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator program. Students in the program learn to teach undergraduate nurses as well as patients and staff in hospitals and other healthcare facilities and in the community. Two accelerated program choices are available, which are to complete the program on site or online. The advantages to this program are that it can be completed in only 15 to 18 months with a MSN degree. Also, students do not need to take the GRE to be admitted to the program. Applicants must have a BSN with an undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.75. This program requires that 41 credits are completed.

Contact:
University of Mary
7500 University Drive,
Bismarck, ND 58504
(800) 288-6279

University of North Dakota Nursing School Review

The University of North Dakota (UND) is located in Grand Forks and was founded in 1883. It is a public university that has over 14,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs. It is the only school that offers law and medicine in the state of North Dakota. The university is known for its School of Aerospace Sciences for training pilots from around the world. The university offers many other programs, including nursing.

Nursing Programs

Traditional 4 Year BSN

The university offers this program for students who want to prepare for a career as a professional nurse. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students take liberal arts and sciences plus prerequisite courses before beginning the nursing program. Applicants must apply to both the university and the College of Nursing. Those who apply must have a grade point average of at least 2.50 on the courses that have been completed at the University of North Dakota. About 56 students are admitted each semester, and students are chosen by using a point system. Those accepted into the program focus on nursing courses and clinical experience at a variety of clinical sites in the area. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Nurses with a BSN are in demand all over the United States, and the number of professional nurses is expected to increase in the future.

Accelerated BSN

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is open only to students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Applicants must apply both to the university and to the College of Nursing, and the amount of time required to complete the degree depends on how many credits from the applicant’s previous bachelor’s degree can be transferred to the nursing program. A grade point average of 3.0 in previous college level work is preferred. Admission is competitive since only 16 students are admitted each year. Once a student has met all of the prerequisites by completing required coursework before beginning the nursing program, an accelerated curriculum of nursing courses and clinical experience must be completed. When the program is completed, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licenses to practice as a Registered Nurse.

LPN to BSN

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) by completing this program. Credit is given for some of the nursing courses that they have taken. Students must meet all of the university’s requirements for bachelor’s degree students in addition to the required coursework and clinical experience that the College of Nursing mandates. At the end of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.

RN to BSN

This Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for nurses who have previously earned an associate degree or who have a diploma in nursing. There are 129 credits required for the BSN, and typically students can transfer around 130 credits from their previous nursing studies to the program. There is a full-time program as well as a part-time program for RNs who must continue working while they are in the program. Students who opt for the full-time program can complete it in one year, but this depends on how many credits a student has to transfer to the BSN program.

MS Tracks

The university offers a variety of Master of Science (MS) degrees with specialties in Nurse Anesthesia, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric and Mental Health, Nursing Education, Gerontological Nursing, and Advanced Public Health Nursing. All students in the MS programs must complete the basic core nursing courses required by this degree in addition to the advanced nursing practice coursework required by the specialty that they choose. Each of these is discussed below.

Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia Track

This program trains RNs with a BSN to take the national exam for certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). The program requires 78 credits that are completed in 28 months of full-time study. Applicants must have completed a statistics course, College Algebra or an ACT score of 26 or more. They may also test out of this course on the university math placement test. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or better and a current license as an RN. Two years or more experience working in a critical care setting is desired, but students with one year’s experience are considered. Applicants are also required to have completed an advanced Biochemistry course. Only 12 students are accepted into this highly competitive program each year.

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

This program is online and prepares RNs with a BSN to provide primary care to all family members. Five semesters are required, including one summer session. Students must complete from 59 to 61 credits and 645 clinical hours. At the completion of the program, graduates take the national exam for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Psychology and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist or Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This MS program is offered by the university via online delivery except for one week each year. Students must complete between 61 and 63 credits to earn their MS as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. Those who want a career as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner must earn between 60 and 62 credits. Both programs prepare RNs to specialize in mental health issues, while the Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs to provide primary care for patients with mental health issues. Applicants are expected to have a current license as an RN and to have a grade point average of 3.0 or better in the last two years of undergraduate courses. They must also have completed a statistics course and must have at least one year of experience as an RN.

Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Education Track

The university offers this MS program for RNs who want a career in nurse education. Students are prepared to teach undergraduate nursing students and to provide staff training and education in a variety of healthcare settings. They also specialize in patient education. A post-master’s certificate is also available to those who have already completed their MS in nursing. The program is offered online for RNs who are working and are unable to take time off to further their education.

Master of Science in Nursing – Gerontological Nursing

This is an online program that prepares RNs with a BSN to work with elderly patients. Students must choose to enter the Gerontological Nurse Practitioner or Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist program. Applicants must have a current RN license, have completed a statistics course, and have a minimum grade point average of at least 3.0 for their last two years of undergraduate studies. The program may be completed full-time in 5 semesters or part-time in 8 or 9 semesters.

Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Public Health Nurse Track

This program prepares RNs with a BSN to work in leadership positions in public health, both in clinical settings and in administration. Applicants are required to have a statistics course completed, a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the last two years of their undergraduate studies, and current licensure. One year’s experience as an RN is preferred.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

This doctoral program is designed for RNs with a MS who want to further their education to prepare for a career in research or college level teaching positions in nursing. There is also an entry point for post-baccalaureate students who are RNs with a BSN who have master’s degrees in other fields. The amount of time required to complete the program depends on the area that the student chooses as a focus.

Contact:
University of North Dakota
2901 University Avenue Stop 8264,
Memorial Union Room 314,
Grand Forks, ND 58202
(800) 225-5863

United Tribes Technical College Nursing Program Review

The United Tribes Technical College (UTTC) is an accredited college through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. UTTC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, functioned by the following five tribes: the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the Spirit Lake Tribe, the Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indian, and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. It is commissioned by the state of North Dakota. The UTTC was originally established for American Indians to receive training and employment placement and since has become affiliated with all nationalities abroad. Native Americans and people of all backgrounds are given the opportunity to be provided with an excellent education in a variety of choices of study.

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Practical Nursing (AASPN)

The United Tribes Technical College’s Practical Nursing Department (PN), requires its interested students to complete its Admission Requirements before a student is considered into the program. Admission requirements include: demonstration of physical capabilities required in the nursing profession; successful completion of BIO 220 and NUR 101; current enrollment or completion of NUR 203, NUR 206, BIO 221, and BIO 203; a GPA of 2.50 or higher; and a criminal background check report may not have any convictions of felonies, any reports on a health care abuse registry, and may not have any convictions of a crime against a minor in order to be accepted into the program. General Education requirements for the AASPN are necessary for admission into the Practical Nursing program as well.

In the first year of entrance, the Introductory Nursing Courses provide students with classroom theory and skill labs to teach the basics of the nursing profession along with the ethical and legal practices of the nursing industry. Courses that teach the different age groups, such as geriatric and children care for example, give the diverse knowledge of patient interaction and responsibilities required. Quality health care delivery to patients and professionalism towards staff and team members are just a few things taught in the introductory courses.

The next semesters enrolled for an AASPN, the student will be given the opportunity to learn in a medical environment as well as the classroom by following faculty around various clinical settings. Learning through hands-on experience, while still under the supervision of highly skilled staff, is what gives UTTC’s students the advantage of becoming confident and accomplished nursing professionals. All staff of the nursing faculty have at least a Master’s Degree in Nursing. A review course for the licensing exam is given towards the end of completing the program. Once the program is completed, students are fully prepared to apply for the national licensure exam (NCLEX-PN) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Graduate students are then ready for the real world upon achievement of the exam. Graduates are employed through facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, home health, hospice, or nursing home and rehabilitation centers. The UTTC’s AASPN is a nationally accredited program through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and is approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

Contact:
United Tribes Technical College
3315 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 255-3285

SUNY Institute of Technology at Utica-Rome Nursing Program Review

The State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome (SUNYIT) is located in Central New York State north of Utica. The campus is very large with over 700 acres of land. Utica is a city that has many parks and activities that SUNYIT students attend. Students from all over the state attend this university to earn their bachelor’s degree or to work on a graduate degree. The housing options on campus are two townhouse type buildings and one residence hall that was just recently built. SUNY-Institute of Technology-Utica/Rome also has many planned student activities, including athletics, clubs, and various organizations for students.

Nursing Program

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

SUNYIT Utica/Rome offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in nursing for those who are already Registered Nurses (RNs). RNs must have either an associate degree in nursing or a diploma from a diploma nursing program. Students may attend either full-time or part-time. There are also outreach sites that offer courses blending distance learning technology with traditional classroom teaching. Students complete additional liberal arts and sciences classes as well as nursing courses that cover contemporary nursing practice, nursing research, comprehensive health assessment, and more. To qualify for graduation, students are required to have 124 credits. RNs may usually transfer 30 credits in nursing and up to 34 credits in liberal arts and sciences, so the time to complete the bachelor’s degree program is reduced.

Applicants who want to attend this program at SUNYIT Utica/Rome must have a minimum grade point average of 3.2 on the last 30 credits that they earned at the undergraduate level. They must have completed one year of experience working as a nurse, and they must be currently registered as an RN in New York State. To qualify for graduation, students must have a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all courses and no less than a C in each nursing course.

SUNYIT-St. Elizabeth College of Nursing 1 + 2 + 1 Partnership

This program allows students to earn two degrees in four years. It is intended for high school students who enter college immediately after they graduate. Those who are accepted into the program begin their freshman year at SUNYIT and then attend St. Elizabeth College of Nursing for the second and third years. At the end of the two years at St. Elizabeth, students graduate with an associate degree and are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN. At St. Elizabeth, they will work over 590 hours of clinical time in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. For their final year, they take all of their classes at SUNYIT to earn their bachelor’s degree. Students may live at SUNIT on campus for the entire period of four years. To apply for admission to this program, students need SAT or ACT scores, two letters of recommendation, and their high school transcript. Although admission is very competitive, students are admitted on an individual basis.

Albany Outreach Program

This program is designed for RNs in the Albany who want to complete their Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. It is a part-time program that allows nurses to continue working. Many of the courses are available online, which is a convenience for working nurses. It usually takes four years to complete the program since only two courses of six to eight credits are taken each semester. Students must go to Hudson Valley Community College for their nursing courses and arts and science courses. The SUNYIT nursing faculty travels to Hudson alley to teach the nursing courses.

Ulster Outreach Program

The SUNY Ulster Campus in Stone Ridge also offers a part-time study nursing program for RNs who want to earn their bachelor’s degree. Some courses are available online, and students must travel to the SUNY Ulster Campus for nursing and arts and science courses. The SUNYIT nursing faculty teaches the nursing classes. Students also need to travel to the Utica campus to take Nursing 490. RNs with either an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing are admitted to the program.

BS/MS ANP Program

This Bachelor of Science/Master of Science Adult Nurse Practitioner program is open to applicants who are RNs with an associate degree in nursing. Students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 in all courses taken at SUNYIT to qualify to remain in the program. All graduate nursing courses require a 3.0 as well, and the student may not have more than two Cs on record at the time of graduation. This nursing program is accelerated and required a lot of commitment and devotion to succeeding in learning the material in courses and earning the grades needed to remain in the program. Students who fail to keep their grades at 3.0 or higher are dropped down to the RN to BS program. Students must complete a total of 120 credits to earn their BS with a major in nursing. There is a residence requirement of 30 hours for the graduate portion of the program, and at the program completion, students take a national exam to be certified as Adult Nurse Practitioners.

BS/MS FNP Program

RNs with an associate degree in nursing who wish to become Family Nurse Practitioners may want to enter SUNYITs Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) Family Nurse Practitioner Program. Students must maintain a 3.0 in all nursing courses and may not have more than two Cs at the time of graduation. Students who do not maintain their grades will be dropped down to the RN to BS program. There is a 30 hour residence requirement to complete the program. At the time of graduation, students take the national exam to become certified to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner in New York State.

BS/MS Nursing Administration

RNs who are interested in a career in nursing administration may want to complete both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in one program at SUNYIT. This accelerated program requires that a grade point average of at least 3.0 is maintained in all courses taken at SUNYIT and also a 3.0 in all graduate nursing courses. The residence requirement is 30 hours, and students may complete some of the coursework online. At the time of graduation, students take a national exam that leads to certification as a nurse administrator.

Accelerated BS/MS Nursing Education

This program requires three years of full-time study to complete. Two summers are also required. Students complete education courses and a practicum to practice teaching methods. At the completion of the program, they may take the national certification exam to become Nurse Educators.

Contact:
State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome
100 Seymour Road,
Utica, New York 13502
(315) 792-7100

Appalachian State University Nursing School Review

Appalachian State University (ASU) is a public facility in Boone, North Carolina. It is a large university with over 17,000 undergraduates and over 3,000 postgraduates enrolled. The campus is in a scenic area in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are over 140 undergraduate and graduate majors. Appalachian State is one of the 16 universities that are part of the University of North Carolina system. The university has a textbook rental program that saves students a substantial amount of money over the years because they do not need to buy textbooks. The college has received many awards, including Sierra magazine’s Top 20 “Coolest” Schools.

Nursing Programs

Prelicensure BSN

Appalachian State offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for students who are not yet licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). Students who complete the program are eligible to take the national examination for licensure as an RN. The nursing program trains future nurses to work in many different settings, and they are prepared to enter the workforce as soon as they become licensed as RNs. The nursing department admits up to 40 qualified students each year. The program is designed to take eight semesters plus one 8-week summer session that is scheduled between the sophomore and junior year. Students need 124 credits to graduate, and they must meet all general education required to complete the BSN as well as the nursing courses and clinical experience.

Applicants to the nursing program at Appalachian must first be admitted to the university. Students may apply to the nursing department at the end of their sophomore year. They must have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher, complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills and score adequately, and complete an application to the department. All non-nursing courses and prerequisite courses must be completed by this time. Admission to the nursing program is competitive, so not all students who qualify will be accepted. Once students are admitted, they must maintain a grade of C or higher.

The university nursing department has had travel abroad opportunities for nursing students in the past. One of these trips was to the Yucatan region of Mexico during spring break with one of the faculty members for a study abroad experience. Students performed service work and evaluated healthcare in the foreign country. They also toured several nursing schools and spend time in Mayan villages where they worked in a rural clinic and went on home visits. Nursing students also distributed items in an orphanage, hospitals, nursing home, and a village school.

RN to BSN Program

This program is for Registered Nurses (RNs) and is designed for those who want to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It is a part-time program that allows RNs to continue working. Those who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (AND) or a Diploma in Nursing and their RN license to practice in North Carolina are eligible for this program. Many students who enter this program have completed their associate degree at one of the North Carolina community colleges. Appalachian State University has an articulation plan with these colleges that graduates will be admitted to their nursing program at Appalachian. Students must earn 62 credits, and some of these are taken from credits earned in the associate’s degree work. After students finish the first semester of the senior year, they receive 30 semester hours for prior learning and clinical knowledge. Students work in a cohort to complete projects and assignments, and they do not need to travel to Appalachian State since faculty members travel to various locations. Classes are held only one evening each week.

Contact:
Appalachian State University
University Drive,
Boone, NC 28608
(828) 262-2000

Barton College Nursing Program Review

Barton College is a small college in Wilson, North Carolina with a student enrollment of around 1,200 students. It was begun in 1902 by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). There is a very low student to faculty ratio of eleven to one. The college is nationally recognized for its deaf education, education, nursing, and social work programs. There is a strong emphasis on individual attention at the college. There are five residence halls on the 65 acre campus. Students attend Barton from 24 states and 9 different countries. Over 40 majors and programs are offered at the school.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Barton College offers a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program that is unique in that the faculty team teaches students. This enables faculty members to work together to present the curriculum by using a combination of all of their talents and knowledge to benefit students. Students have opportunities to study in Peru, Honduras, Costa Rica, rural Pennsylvania, and a Cherokee Indian reservation. Nursing students take general education courses during their first year and then progress to nursing courses and other general education courses in the second year. This plan allows students to complete the science prerequisites in their sophomore year.

Another interesting opportunity for nursing students at Barton is that they work internships for their clinical experience. Many of the hospitals and healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement or pay competitive salaries to students during this time. Barton offers scholarships to students in need of financial aid, and the State of North Carolina also awards a North Carolina Nurse Scholar award. Students may also apply for federal financial aid and numerous other nursing scholarships and grants that they may qualify to receive.

To qualify for admission to the college, students must have a high school diploma with at least 13 college preparatory units. It is expected that students have at least a 2.30 grade point average from high school classes. They must also take the SAT or ACT and score a minimum score of 890 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT. Students who are admitted must complete all of the nursing courses and clinical experience necessary for graduation with a BSN. At the completion of the program, students qualify to take the NCLEX-RN for their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

RN to BSN

This program is for RNs who have their associate degree who want to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 on their previous college-level work. Students must complete the prerequisite and core curriculum courses before applying to the nursing program, and they must maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average in these courses. This program requires part-time attendance so that the RN may continue working. It is a requirement that students must be a currently licensed RN to enter the program. Credits may be transferred from the student’s community college or junior college in amounts up to 64 semester hours. Students must complete the upper level nursing courses and clinical experience after the prerequisite liberal arts and science courses are finished. A total of 126 semester hours are required for graduation when students receive a BSN.

Contact:
Barton College
200 Atlantic Christian College Drive NE,
Wilson, NC 27893-2575
(800) 345-4973

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is located in Concord, North Carolina. It is a small college with around 500 students who enroll each year. There are five associate degree programs and three bachelors degree programs offered at the college. Cabarrus College of Health Sciences was started in 1942 to meet the need for Registered Nurses during World War II.

Nursing Programs

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

Cabarrus College offers an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN). The program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as entry-level nurses with a broad range of knowledge and experience. Clinical experience takes place in various hospital settings, providing experience in medical, surgical, pediatrics, and maternity rotations. At the completion of the program, students take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Admission to the program requires that the applicant has completed Algebra II in high school or on the college level plus other prerequisite courses. The SAT or ACT is another requirement, and applicants must have acceptable scores on one of these exams. Applicants are also encouraged to apply for financial aid. Over 90 percent of the students attending the college receive some sort of financial aid.

Before being accepted into the college, students must have a negative drug test within 30 days before the first day of classes. They must also have a criminal background check and submit proof of health insurance coverage. Applicants must also pass a physical exam and be emotionally able to complete the program and work as a professional nurse. Proof of immunizations must be submitted, as well as evidence of passing the American Heart Association class for healthcare providers. Once accepted into the program, students complete the Pre-Nursing track of 28 semester hours of classes. If these are completed successfully by earning a minimum grade of a B in specified courses and a grade point average of 3.0, students are guaranteed admission to the ADN program.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may enter the ADN program if they meet the general admission criteria and those for the ADN program. They must be currently licensed and submit reference letters. LPNs may receive credit for some of the courses that they took in their studies to become licensed practical nurses. These nurses may also take challenge exams, and if they pass them, they may be exempt from certain nursing courses.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

This Bachelor of Science in Nursing program enables RNs who have an associates degree or a nursing diploma to complete their bachelor’s degree. Nurses are able to continue working while enrolled in the program since it is an online program. It can be completed either full-time or part-time, and requires six semesters on a full-time basis. Credits from the associate degree are considered individually for each student, it is possible to transfer up to 61 credits for previous courses taken. The Cabarrus College faculty works closely with students who are working towards their BSN. RN to BSN students may also earn a minor in Health Services Management and Leadership by completing 12 credits in health services on campus.

Contact:
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
401 Medical Park Drive,
Concord, NC 28025-3959
(704) 403-1555

Carolinas College of Health Sciences Nursing Program Review

The Carolinas Healthcare System (CHS) is a very large provider of medical care in North Carolina. The Carolinas College of Health Sciences is the training facility that trains Nurses Aids, Registered Nurses, and other healthcare technologists and others. Carolinas College of Health Sciences (CCHS) is part of Carolinas Medical Center (CMC), which is part of Carolinas HealthCare System.

Nursing Programs

Pre-Nursing

The Carolinas College of Health Sciences offers a Pre-Nursing program for students who plan to enter a two-year or four-year nursing program. Students may enter the program in two different ways. They may have guaranteed admissions or a Pre-Nursing certificate program. To be guaranteed a seat in the nursing program at Carolinas College, students must complete four courses within three consecutive terms at the college. They must earn a grade point average of 3.25 in these courses. The courses are Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Medical Terminology, and College Math. Students who earn the required grade point average on these courses are placed on a waiting list, and when an opening occurs, they are admitted to the nursing program.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Carolinas HealthCare System offers a two-year program in nursing. This Associate of Applied Science degree program enables graduates to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam that leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse. Students must be high school graduates or equivalent, or they may be a high school senior. The applicant must have completed biology, chemistry, and algebra in high school. If this was not done, the applicant must complete these courses before applying to the nursing program. Students take general education classes in the daytime, evenings, or on the weekend. Nursing classes are available only during the day. Clinical experiences begin during the first semester and take place one or two times each week. A total of 71 semester hours must be completed to graduate and take the NCLEX-RN exam. After that, RNs are able to begin working in many different healthcare facilities.

Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing

The Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nursing program is a four-year program that admits students to both the University of North Carolina (UNC) Charlotte and one of three Associate Degree Colleges. These community colleges are Carolinas College of Health Sciences, Central Piedmont Community College, and Gaston College. Students complete the first three years of studies at the Associate Degree College. They also take one course each semester at UNC. Then, the final year of studies for the bachelor’s degree takes place at UNC. Admission to this program is competitive. A combination of general education courses and nursing courses are taken during the three years at the Associate Degree College.

This unique program is a money-saving option for students because the bachelor’s degree institution charges more for tuition, yet the courses and credit are basically the same, wherever the courses are taken. Carolinas Healthcare System offers financial assistance to students who need financial aid. The finance 80 percent of the tuition for a student until the student graduates or leaves the nursing program. At that time, payments can be arranged. There are also grants, scholarships, federal student loans, or a federal work-study program available.

Contact:

Carolinas College of Health Sciences
1200 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 355-5043

Carolinas Healthcare System
200 South College Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 376-1787

Catawba Valley Community College Nursing Program Review

Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is located in Hickory, North Carolina. It was established in 1958 as part of the North Carolina Community College System. Over 5,000 students attend this community college, with 49 percent attending full-time and 51 percent attending part-time. Almost half of the students attending Catawba Valley receive some sort of financial aid.

Associate Degree Nursing Program – Associate in Applied Science

Catawba Valley Community College offers a Registered Nursing (RN) program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). Applicants to the program must be high school graduates or the equivalent. There is a series of steps that must be carefully followed when applying to this competitive nursing program. It is important that applicants know that if they apply online, the application is not processed until they meet with a Student Services Counselor before the application deadline. Simply submitting the application and not meeting with the counselor means that an applicant will not be considered for admission to the program in that particular year.

Other admission requirements are that the applicant’s high school or GED transcript must be submitted along with the application to the college. The transcript must be an official one that shows the graduate’s date of high school graduation. Those with a GED must also submit their scores along with their application. Official transcripts must be sealed, or they are not considered to be an official copy of the grades. If an applicant has completed any courses at another college, the transcript from these must also be submitted in a sealed envelope. Placement testing is required if an applicant does not meet the curriculum exemptions. In this case, Reading, Writing, Math, and Computer Competency placement tests are required. These tests must be passed with a satisfactory score, or if not, the applicant must complete the equivalent courses at Catawba Valley Community College before being considered for admission.

Applicants are also required to have completed a biology course in high school. If they have not taken biology, they will need to take it at the community college or at another college. The same is true of chemistry. A minimum grade point average is also required for any courses completed at the college, which must be a minimum of 2.50. Applicants with degrees who want to enter the nursing program must also have a minimum grade point average of at least 2.50 in their previous college-level work. In addition, mandatory attendance at a Nursing Success Seminar is required. These programs are held each month. If an applicant meets all of the above requirements, they qualify to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, another admission requirement. Those who are not admitted to the program may re-apply after meeting with a Student Services Counselor. There is no waiting list for the program, so applicants must re-apply each year that they want to be considered for admission to the nursing program.

The number of first year students admitted to the program each year varies, and a point system is used to determine which applicants are accepted. The point system is based on academic performance in high school or in any previous college work and the results of the TEAS exam. Once accepted into the program, students must attend an Orientation Session with the Department of Nursing, and they must have proof of Healthcare Provider CPR certification. A health exam is also required. In addition, applicants must have North Carolina Certified Nurse Aide I certification and a good record of working as a Nurse Aide.

The AAS program is either a daytime or evening program that takes a minimum of five semesters of full-time attendance to complete. The focus of the program is on the RN as a member of the interdisciplinary team that cares for patients. Students complete clinical experience at a variety of healthcare settings, and qualify to take the NCLEX-RN after completing the program. This national exam leads to licensure as a RN.

Catawba Valley Community College lists all of the additional costs that students should be prepared for when they apply to the program. These are for malpractice insurance, uniforms, nursing shoes, and equipment such as a stethoscope kit, bandage scissors, and more. This is very helpful for students who are budgeting for the expenses that they will incur as they move through the program. There are also fees for the NCLEX at $200, North Carolina State Board of Nursing fees of around $100, and fees for criminal background checks. Additional fees are around $1,000 for Board Review, graduation expenses, and miscellaneous fees.

Contact:
Catawba Valley Community College
2550 US Highway 70 SE
Hickory, North Carolina 28602-8302
(828) 327-7000

College of the Albemarle Nursing Program Review

The College of Albemarle (COA) is in northeastern North Carolina. It is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System that was established in 1960. There are three campuses, including the main campus in Elizabeth City and satellite campuses in Edenton and Manteo. The college has programs that allow students to finish high school and earn a GED. There is also distance education with a Course Management System called Moodle.

Nursing Programs

Nurse Aide Level I

This 144 hour course is an introduction to basic nursing skills. It includes communication, patient rights, vital signs, elimination, rehabilitation, emergency, and other topics that prepare graduates to earn a certificate as a Nurse Aide I. Graduates must pass a competency exam to be listed on the state registry. Applicants to the program must take a reading placement test or have completed a basic college level reading course.

Nurse Aide Level II

This course takes 176 hours of class, laboratory, and clinical learning experience to complete. Graduates must take the competency evaluation to be listed on the state registry. This course prepares students to perform higher level skills to care for residents of nursing homes or patients in various healthcare settings.

Practical Nursing

The College of the Albemarle offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program. Admission is competitive, and not all of those who apply are admitted to the program. Although the college has an open admission, this is not true of the PN program. To be considered for the program, applicants must be a “qualified applicant” who has adequately passed the placement tests in Reading, English, and Math. After receiving test scores, applicants are expected to make an appointment with a Student Development counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken before their application to the PN program is considered. A minimum grade of C is expected in each subject of the placement test, or applicants must take remedial courses at the college before applying to the PN program.

Other requirements to become a “qualified applicant” include submitting an application that includes an official copy of their high school transcript or the transcript from any college that the applicant has attended. Applicants must be high school graduates or have earned a GED. They must have earned at least a grade point average of 2.0 in high school coursework. Those with college experience must have a grade point average of at least a C on any coursework. In addition, all of the applicant’s scores on the TEAS test, the admission test for the Nursing Department, must be satisfactory after taking the test one time. It is mandatory that applicants meet with the nursing faculty for a pre-admission meeting at their assigned time or they will not be considered for the program.

There are also very stringent requirements that applicants must meet after being accepted into the PN program. For example, an applicant must attend an orientation session. The other usual requirements must also be met, such as a physical exam, having required immunizations and health requirements, having liability insurance, and having completed a CPR course. Before beginning clinical rotations, students must have criminal background checks, drug and alcohol screening, and sex offender checks. Students may complete the PN program in three semesters totaling 47 credit hours. These hours include classwork and clinical experience. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their license as a Practical Nurse.

Associate Degree Nursing

Another opportunity for students at the College of the Albemarle is to earn an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) to become a Registered Nurse. Registered Nurses (RNs) have many different employment opportunities in doctor’s offices, industry and community agencies, hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, and other healthcare facilities. Students complete liberal arts and sciences classes to meet the college’s requirements for an Associate Degree, as well as specific nursing courses required to graduate with an ADN. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Admission to the ADN program is competitive, and there are specific steps that applicants must closely follow to be considered for the program. One of these is that applicants to the ADN program must have completed Nurse Aid I training. This is a good opportunity for those who are unsure if they really want a career in nursing to experience the career before completing the required education to become an RN. The College of Albemarle has an articulation agreement with Mid-Atlantic Christian University allowing students who want to complete both an ADN and Bachelor of Science Biblical Studies to earn both degrees in four years. Earning only the ADN degree takes 2 years to complete.

LPN-ADN Option Program

A nurse who is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may choose to enter the nursing program at the college of Albemarle that leads from an LPN degree to an ADN. Nurses who want to enter this program must have completed four college transfer courses and have a grade of at least a C in them. It is also required that the applicant is licensed to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse, and at least one year’s clinical practice experience is required. A pre-admission meeting is also mandatory, and failing to meet with the nursing faculty results in not being accepted into the nursing program. Students accepted into the program are granted 8 semester hours after meeting all of the admission criteria and acceptance into the program. The result of receiving the 8 credits is that only 10 credits must be completed for the Fall Semester of the first year of studies rather than 18 credits.

Contact:
College of the Albemarle
1208 N. Road Street,
PO Box 2327
Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27906-2327
(252) 335-0821

Davidson County Community College Nursing Program Review

Davidson County Community College (DCCC) is a small two-year college between Lexington and Thomasville in North Carolina. This college offers certificates, diplomas, and Associate Degrees in over 50 programs. Davidson Community College has around 3,400 students enrolled, and some graduates choose to continue their education at the University of North Carolina since Davidson has an articulation agreement with this university. Davidson is a member of the North Carolina Community College system of 58 community colleges in the state.

Nursing Programs

Practical Nurse Education

Davidson County Community College offers a Practical Nurse Diploma program that prepares students for a career as a Practical Nurse (PN). Although PNs are being phased out of hospital work as they hire mostly Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree trained nurses, PNs have many opportunities to work in clinics, private practice, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. This program is truly unique in that it is one of the only hybrid practical nursing programs in North Carolina. Even more unique is the fact that it is the only practical nursing online program in North Carolina.

Admission to the program is very competitive, and all of the steps leading to being accepted into the program must be carefully followed by those hoping to begin the program. Students must first complete an online application for admissions and then request to have their official high school and any college transcripts sent to Davidson. Other steps to be taken are to take the placement assessment and apply for financial aid. When the results from this test are available, the applicant must make an appointment to meet with the Admissions Counselor assigned to him or her. Then, a new student Orientation is needed, along with an academic advisement appointment. At that time, courses are selected and the student registers for the upcoming semester.

To determine whether an applicant qualifies for admission to the program, they must be a high school graduate or have a GED. Applicants must also have acceptable scores on Davidson’s placement assessment. Physical checkups are necessary, as well as criminal background checks and a drug test. Applicants are given priority if they live in Davidson or Davie County and for their scores on the entrance test and for Biology if taken at Davidson County Community College. Once an applicant is accepted into the program, all courses are completed online. Applicants complete clinical experience at local hospitals and other healthcare facilities as well. After completing the program, graduates become Licensed Practical Nurses by taking and passing the NCLEX-PN.

Associate Degree Nursing

The college also offers an Associate Degree Nursing that is an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Admission to the program is competitive, and residents of Davidson or Davies Counties are given priority admission. Other factors that determine whether or not an applicant is accepted into the program are entrance test scores and the grade attained when taking Biology at the college. Only students who are high school graduates or those with a GED are considered. Applicants must also have good physical health and clean drug tests and background checks. The college does not keep a waiting list, so applicants must re-apply each year if they are not accepted into the program the first time. Also, students must have completed a Nurse Aide course that consisted of 70 hours of training and 40 hours of clinical instruction before they are allowed to begin nursing classes. It is not necessary to be a Nurse Aide before applying since training can be completed before enrolling in the nursing program. In the meantime, students can complete liberal arts and science classes.

The AAS program in nursing usually takes two years or four semesters to complete, but many students take an additional semester to take the general education required courses. They may then begin nursing courses and clinical experience. At the completion of all required academic work, students may take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

LPN-ADN Option

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have been employed in their field for at least a year in an acute or long-term care facility may apply for the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing program. The entire program, except for the first three days is available online. This has been very convenient for working LPNs who are not able to quit their job to attend classes full-time. Taking online courses allows students to complete their work according to their work schedule. Some of the clinical experience may be completed at the site of the LPNs current employment, but not in the same department. At the completion of the program, graduates are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.

Contact:

Davidson County Community College-Davidson Campus,
297 Davidson Community College Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
(336) 249 -8186

Davidson County Community College-Davie Campus,
1205 Salisbury Road, Mocksville, NC 27028
(336) 751-2885

Duke University Nursing School Review

Duke University (DU) is a private research university with around 15,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs. The campus is very large, with over 8,600 acres and three campus locations in Durham and a marine lab in Beaufort. Although the university has ties with the United Methodist Church, it is a nonsectarian institution. There is a large Medical Center on the campus, and undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing are offered at Duke. Duke University School of Nursing is ranked Number 7 in nursing schools in the U.S. by a popular nationwide magazine survey.

Nursing Programs

Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing

The Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is the only undergraduate nursing degree offered at Duke University. It is designed for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and have decided to go into nursing. The program is also known as a second degree nursing program. Students must have completed all of the pre-requisite courses before enrolling in the program. After these courses have been completed, the ABSN takes 16 months to complete. The program makes it convenient for students to continue to earn their Master’s Degree since up to 15 credits in the ABSN program also count as graduate credits. A unique advantage of this program is that clinical experience is completed at Duke University Health System and at locations around the world. This provides a rare opportunity for nursing students to study abroad while completing their ABSN. When students have completed the program, they are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to gain licensure as Registered Nurses.

To qualify for admission to the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any major with a minimum grade point average of 3.0. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required unless applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.4 or higher.

Master of Science in Nursing Program

The Master of Science in Nursing Program at Duke University is the basis for many advanced nursing specialties, such as nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, and more. From 39 credits to 60 credits must be completed to obtain the MSN degree. Both full-time and part-time programs are available. All MSN courses are offered online at least one semester each year, which makes it convenient for students to complete coursework according to their own schedule. The admission requirements for all of the MSN specialty nursing programs is the same unless noted below. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing with a Bachelor’s degree in another field.

Although not required, it is highly recommended that applicants have worked as a nurse for at least one year. An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 is required, as well as the Graduate Records Exam unless an applicant’s undergraduate grade point average is 3.4 or better. In addition, an applicant should be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) or eligible for licensure. Three professional letters of recommendation are also required, a personal statement by the applicant, and a personal interview. Decisions for admitting students to the MSN program are made on an individual basis.

There are four main categories of advanced nursing specialties available at Duke University’s MSN program, which are Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Non-Clinical, and Nurse Anesthesia. After completing each of the programs, students qualify to take the national exam for certification in their specialty. Each of these is discussed below.

Nurse Practitioner Specialties

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Both part-time and full-time options are available for RNs who want to specialize in acute care by becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. These nurses care for patients who need intensive care for many different reasons, and they may serve as the patient’s primary medical caregiver. In this MSN program, students advance their knowledge in clinical skills and participate in clinical rotations that provide experience in many different environments.

Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Specialty

This Nurse Practitioner specializes in cardiovascular patients and serves as the main healthcare provider of routine care for these patients. Those who have graduated from the program have found employment in outpatient diagnostic testing centers, heart failure clinics, inpatient and outpatient cardiology, and internal medicine. The Duke Heart Center is ranked Number 10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Students in this program complete clinical experience in many different environments to prepare them to work as generalists in caring for adults. There are 612 hours of clinical experience required, including residency. Graduates from this program have found jobs in outpatient clinics at hospitals, specialty practices, clinics, and private practices.

Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Graduates from the Family Nurse Practitioner program are trained to provide primary care for all ages. Duke University makes it as easy as possible to earn a MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner by offering part-time or full-time study and distance courses for working professionals. Another unique opportunity offered to students is the chance to complete clinical work at international sites.

Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

Geriatrics is a growing field in nursing, and the Gerontological Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs to care for elderly patients. They provide the primary care for these patients. Students are mentored by leaders in long-term care and clinical geriatrics fields, and they may have sub-specialty concentrations in cardiology, oncology, or acute care. There are opportunities for global perspectives on health in the aged in this program.

Oncology Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Students in this program are trained to be experts in cancer epidemiology, pathophysiology, immunology, genetics, prevention, symptom management, and end-of-life care. Students are able to become Oncology Nurse Practitioners and combine this with a clinical nursing specialist major. Students have the opportunity to complete their residency at the Duke Cancer Center, ranked #7 in the nation for cancer care. This Oncology Nurse Practitioner program is one of only a few in the U.S.

Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

This program prepares nurse specialists to care for infants and children who have complex and rapidly changing clinical conditions. These Nurse Practitioners work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, inpatient units, and rehabilitative and other outpatient facilities. This program is the only acute care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program in North Carolina. Students may choose to complete training in primary and acute care on a part-time or full-time basis.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) Program

Outstanding pediatric nurses are eligible to enter this program to train to be a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who provides primary care to children of all ages. Students learn prevention, management of acute and chronic pediatric illness, behavioral issues, and health maintenance. Clinical experience takes place in schools, health departments, pediatric practices, and other healthcare settings.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Specialty

This program prepares students to provide primary healthcare to newborns and their families. Students learn to care for low and high-risk neonates in many different settings. The program may be customized to meet the needs of nurses in various situations, and there are both part-time and full-time options available.

Non-Clinical Specialties

Nursing and Health Care Leadership

Students interested in earning a MSN in Nursing and Health Care Leadership will learn financial management and other basics of nursing leadership. New and innovative ways of thinking of nursing leadership are emphasized in this program that prepares graduates to work in hospitals, government, and other healthcare organizations.

Nursing Education Specialty

This MSN program prepares nurses to teach in nursing schools and universities. Students learn methods for teaching adults, curriculum and program development and evaluation, and more. The program is totally online and is designed to be completed on a part-time basis. In addition, students work with master teachers at nursing schools, such as Duke University’s School of Nursing.

Informatics Specialty

The Informatics Specialty that leads to a MSN prepares graduates to work as health informaticians and recognizes the importance of electronic healthcare data to improve the health of humans. The program is distance-based and requires that students are on campus only three days each semester. Those with a bachelor’s degree may complete the program in two years.

Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) Specialty

This program lasts for 28 months of full-time study and prepares students to administer anesthesia to patients as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. There are 60 credits required to complete the program, and at its completion students are prepared to take the national certification exam.

Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner Specialty Concentration

This specialty concentration is open to students in the Adult Primary Care or Acute Care, Gerontology, Family, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specialty tracks of Duke’s MSN degree program. This concentration has three courses that focus on musculoskeletal practice. Students must complete two didactic courses and one clinical course to complete this program. The university awards a certificate to graduates of the program.

Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing

Those who have already earned their MSN may complete additional advanced nursing programs to earn a Certificate in Nursing. Specialties include all of the above options for MSNs, except students do not need to take Master’s Level courses that they have already completed. Students with another Master’s Degree will also be individually considered for the program individually by the nursing faculty. Non-nurse applicants are considered only for the Clinical Research Management program. They must have a Master’s Degree or Graduate Degree from a discipline approved by the nursing faculty.

Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics

This program is designed for healthcare professionals with a Bachelor’s Degree. This certificate program requires that 18 credits are completed, and it focuses on gaining specialized knowledge in health informatics.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This advanced degree prepares RNs to fulfill roles as nurse leaders in healthcare teams to improve the care, patient outcome, quality, and more. Applicants must have either a BSN with a 3.0 grade point average. RNs with a MSN may also enroll in the program. Those with a BSN will need to complete between 73 and 94 credits, depending on which advanced practice specialty is selected. Students should plan on focusing on their advanced practice specialty for the time required, which is usually around 18 months to 2 years of full-time study. Then, it takes an additional 5 semesters to complete the DNP. RNs with a MSN must have a degree in an advanced nursing practice specialty, such as Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, Nurse Administrator, or Nurse Informatics. The program takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete.

PhD Program

This program is designed for RNs with a MSN who want to have a career in academic and research settings. Graduates of the program are prepared in research methods and for an entry-level teaching role in an academic setting. Full-time study is required for this program, and all students receive fellowships that pay tuition, stipend, and fees.

Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

Trajectories of Chronic Illness and Care Systems

Each associate admitted to this postdoctoral program works with a mentor who has a common research interest who will supervise the associate’s research. Different areas of study are available, such as adult health, child health, and aging and family caregiving, prematurity and low birth weight infants, and others.

Non-degree Enrollment Option

Those with a Bachelor’s Degree may take classes in certain nursing specialties that lead to a MSN without being formally admitted to the Duke University School of Nursing. Available specialties are Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care, Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing and Health Care Leadership, and Nursing Education. Financial aid is not available for these courses.

Specialized Programs

These programs meet the specific needs of students in a variety of situations who want to continue their education at Duke University.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree

This program allows those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another discipline to earn their BSN in only 16 months. Graduates may then take the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam.

Continuing Nursing Education Credit (CEU) Opportunities

The Duke University School of Nursing offers experiences that provide CEUs for nurses throughout the year.

Online and Distance Learning

Many programs at Duke University are available as distance-based online programs, including the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Students in the DNP program, which is an alternative to the typical on-campus program, can conveniently work during the day and complete their coursework in the evening or when their personal schedule permits. Required on-campus days are limited to a 3-day orientation and 2 to 3 days per session, amounting to 8 or 12 days required on-campus for the duration of the program.

The MSN program is also distance-based and do not require that students go to the Duke campus at all. Some specialty programs do require students to go to campus one or two times each semester to meet as a group.

There are four distance-based Nurse Practitioner specialties, which are Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner Cardiovascular Care (Post-Master’s Certificate only), Family Nurse Practitioner, and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner.

Making a Difference in Nursing II

This program at Duke University is for high achieving or high potential minority students. The purpose of the program is to inspire those who are seniors in college or those who have completed a non-nursing undergraduate degree to pursue higher level nursing degrees in education, practice, research, and in other areas. Financial assistance and scholarships plus stipends are available. The program consists of three components. These are the Summer Socialization to Nursing Pre-entry Program when scholars participate in a six-week summer residential program to learn about careers in professional nursing and opportunities in nursing at Duke University, the Continuing Connectivity Program, which keeps students completing their education at another facility connected with their mentors at Duke, and Succeed to Excellence Program. This program provides social support and financial stipends and scholarships to those who enter the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Military Programs

Active duty military students who are sent to Duke University by the military for full-time studies in the graduate nursing program usually do not pay tuition beyond what the military funds for them. Clinical experiences typically take place at a military treatment facility, and a former military officer is assigned as the student’s mentor or advisor for the duration of the student’s studies.

Contact:
Duke University
Durham, NC 27708
(919) 684-8111

Durham Regional Hospital Nursing Program Review

Durham Regional Hospital (DRH) is part of the Duke University Health System (DUHS). It joined this system in 1998. There are 369 beds in the hospital and over 500 doctors on the medical staff. Durham Regional Hospital opened in 1976 and was known as Durham County General Hospital. The Watts School of Nursing (WSN, WSON) is affiliated with the hospital. It is North Carolina’s oldest nursing school. Over 3,000 nurses have graduated from the Watts School of Nursing since 1985.

Nursing Program

Associate of Science Degree in Health Science

Watts School of Nursing has an articulation agreement with Mount Olive College so that nursing students working towards their Associate of Science Degree in Health Science can earn a science degree from Mount Olive. Students then complete their nursing courses and clinical experience at Watts School of Nursing. There are prerequisite courses required, and these are completed at Mount Olive College at their Triangle Park campus and at the Watts campus, and the nursing courses are taught at Watts School of Nursing. After graduating with the Associate of Science Degree in Health Science, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs). RNs have opportunities to work in many different healthcare settings, such as doctor’s offices, clinics, community centers, and many departments in hospitals, including medical-surgical, psychiatric, maternity, and critical care units.

Admission to the Watts School of Nursing is competitive, and even if a student meets all of the admission criteria, it is not guaranteed that there will be room in the program for all applicants. Only citizens of the U.S. or legal permanent residents are accepted. Those interested in the Associate Degree must apply to both Mount Olive College and to Watts School of Nursing. All applicants must have background checks before being accepted into the program and a preadmission test is also required. Once this test has been passes, applicants may submit their application along with their official high school transcript or GED. Applicants must have completed 18 hours of courses at Mount Olive College before beginning the nursing curriculum, and they must earn at least a grade of C in these courses. A course in Basic Life Support Training must also be completed. It is also necessary that applicants pass a physical exam. References from three professionals or employers must also be submitted. It is important that Licensed Practical Nurses realize that this program at Watts School of Nursing does not award advanced placement for them.

Watts School of Nursing has a philosophy that the student and his or her family, or the married or independent student must carry the burden for their education. The belief is that financial aid is only a supplement for available resources that the family has. Financial aid is available for those who demonstrate low income and inability to pay for their tuition in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. The Financial Aid office works with students to ensure that their tuition for both Watts School of Nursing and Mount Olive College are covered.

Students in the program take nursing courses at Watts’ four large classrooms and labs where practice and simulation take place. Clinical experience takes place at Durham Regional Hospital and at other community-based settings and hospitals in the area, including Duke University. Housing is not provided for students, so if they do not live at home, they must find their own housing while they are in the program. The program typically takes 2-1/2 to 3 years to complete between the liberal arts courses at Mount Olive College and the nursing courses at Watts School of Nursing.

Contact:
Durham Regional Hospital-Watts School of Nursing
2828 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 200,
Durham, North Carolina 27701

East Carolina University Nursing School Review

East Carolina University (ECU) is located in Greenville, North Carolina. It is the third-largest university in the University of North Carolina system with almost 28,000 students enrolled in various programs. Nursing is one of the most popular programs, and East Carolina is renowned for this and for some of its other programs. There are over 100 Bachelor’s Degree programs, 85 Master’s Degree programs, 21 Doctoral programs, and 62 Certificate programs at the university.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

East Carolina University offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that takes four years plus one summer session to complete. After the prerequisite courses are completed in humanities and sciences, students may apply for admission to the nursing program. After completing the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. There is a demand for nurses and opportunities to work in many settings besides hospitals, such as schools, community agencies, clinics, doctor’s offices, and others.

Many applicants want to attend East Carolina University’s College of Nursing because it is one of the eight schools in the U.S. to be recognized for the way it teaches nursing students. The College of Nursing has been awarded a Center of Excellence for 2011 to 2015 by the National League for Nursing. The College of Nursing offers much more than great teaching, such as the housing opportunity offered for intended nursing majors. Thirty freshmen with the intention of becoming RNs live in the same dorm and take classes together in their first two semesters at the university. They work together to prepare to take the nursing school entrance test, practicing time management and test taking skills.

RN to BSN

Registered Nurses (RNs) with an Associate Degree who want to continue their education have the opportunity to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with this program. There are many opportunities for RNs by choosing East Carolina University’s program, such as the fact that there are no placement exams and students receive 34 semester hours of advanced placement to senior status. Students need to only complete 34 additional hours to qualify for graduation. Courses are online, which is a very convenient way for working professionals to complete their work. The program is specifically designed for working RNs who may complete their BSN on either a part-time or full-time basis. This means that it takes either three, four, or five semesters to complete the program. Another convenience is that the practicum and field experience are completed in the area close to the student’s home.

RN to MSN

The Registered Nurse (RN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is designed for RNs with an Associate Degree who want to earn their MSN. Students do not earn their BSN. This program is highly selective, and students must complete their undergraduate prerequisite courses and 15 to 18 semester hours of RN to BSN coursework before they may enter the MSN program. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in the BSN courses to qualify for the program. The MSN courses are mainly online courses. Students must choose one of the following advanced nursing specialties to focus on after completing the general MSN courses.

Adult Nurse Practitioner

This MSN program prepares RNs to serve as primary healthcare of adults. The entire program is taken online, and students need only to go to the campus on 9 dates. Only 25 students are admitted annually to the program. There are at least 45 semester hours of coursework plus 616 clinical practicum hours required for this program. Either a part-time or full-time curriculum may be chosen. The full-time plan takes two years to complete and the part-time program can be completed in three years. Graduates take the national certification exam to become Adult Nurse Practitioners.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

This MSN program prepares RNs to work in complex care settings. Students focus on specializing in adult medicine and gerontology in this 42 credit program. At graduation, students take the national certification exam to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist. An additional option is to complete another 3 credit course in Critical Care. This also requires a certification exam after its completion. The courses are offered online and the program takes two years of full-time study or three and one-half years of part-time study.

Nursing Leadership

This MSN program prepares students to become leaders in the healthcare field. Students choose from Leadership in Acute Care Health Systems, Leadership in Community-Based Health Systems, or Leadership in Health Care Educational Systems. Students learn financial and human resource management, law and regulation, and more. There is also a required 252 hour practicum in the student’s focus area. A total of 41 credit hours are also required, and they are all offered online.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

RNs who want to work with newborns and their families may want to continue their education with this online MSN program. Graduates take the national exam to become a certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. All courses are offered online and 41 credit hours are required for graduation. The full-time curriculum takes 18 months to complete, while the part-time plan takes two and one-half years to complete.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This MSN program is an online program that is designed to prepare RNs to practice nursing in primary healthcare settings. Students are required to go to the university campus only 9 times over the course of their studies. At least 50 credits must be completed plus 728 clinical practicum hours. Graduates take the national exam that leads to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The full-time version of the program takes two years to complete and the part-time plan takes five years to complete.

Nurse-Midwifery

This MSN online program is offered to prepare students for a career in Nurse-Midwifery. Graduates take the exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. There is a special need for graduates to work in rural areas where there is a great need for this nurse specialist. At least 50 credits are needed for graduation, and students may complete the program on a full-time basis in two years or part-time basis in three years.

Nursing Education

This MSN program prepares RNs to become Nurse Educators. North Carolina law requires Nurse Educators to have a minimum of two years of clinical experience, so students must have one complete years’ experience before enrolling in the program. The program requires that 36 to 39 credits are completed. Students may work on either a full-time or part-time basis. Upon graduation, students take the Certified Nurse Educator Exam.

Nurse Anesthesia

East Carolina University also offers a Nurse Anesthesia program that must be completed on campus for five semesters. This 28 month program prepares students to take the national certification exam. Afterwards, Nurse Anesthetists work in hospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare facilities.

Post-Master’s Certificates

RNs who have already earned their MSN may complete the advanced nursing specialty programs and receive a certificate in this area. All programs prepare students to take national exams for certification. These programs are Adult Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, Nurse Anesthesia, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Leadership, or Family Nurse Practitioner. Nursing Education is also available.

MSN Alternate Entry Option

This program is designed for those with a baccalaureate degree in another field of study. It is an accelerated program that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. There are two phases of this program. The first phase that prepares students to become RNs and to meet licensure requirements requires 39 credits. The next phase that prepares nurses for a career in advanced nursing requires 39 to 50 credits, depending on the specialty that is selected. The total credits required are anywhere from 78 to 89.

PhD Program

This program is designed for nurses who want to become researchers or teach nursing education. The length of study depends on the individual student. Graduates from this program are prepared to work as administrators in public and private healthcare organizations, as university faculty, policy makers and analysts, and researchers.

Contact:
East Carolina University
600 Moye Blvd.,
Greenville, NC 27834

Fayetteville State University Nursing School Review

Fayetteville State University (FSU) is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina and is part of the University of North Carolina (UNC) System. Around 6,000 students attend the university that was begun in 1867 by African-American men to educate black teachers. Today, this liberal arts college offers Bachelor’s degrees in 43 areas, Master’s degrees in 22 areas, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership. The diverse student body and faculty add to the cultural richness that is experienced by students who attend this university.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Four Year Track

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program takes four years to complete and consists of 126 credits. After completing the program, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses. Students are also prepared to continue on to graduate studies in nursing if they want to pursue an advanced nursing degree. There are two divisions in the nursing curriculum, which are the pre-nursing and upper division nursing. Students must complete three semesters and one summer semester of prerequisite courses in the pre-nursing component before being admitted to the upper division. When they begin the upper division, they must complete five semesters of studies and clinical experience.

Even if a student completes all of the pre-nursing prerequisite courses, it is not guaranteed that the student will be accepted into the upper division. A minimum grade of C or better must be earned in the prerequisite courses, and students must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.8 and of 2.75 or better in math and science. Students must also obtain a passing score on the TEAS pre-nursing admission test, have the required physical exam and the proper immunizations, and pass the background check and drug screens. In addition, students must submit a writing sample and complete an interview with the Admission, Progression, and Retention Committee.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN-BSN Track

In the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Track, students must have an Associate Degree of Diploma from a nursing school. This program is designed to allow these nurses to complete their BSN which can lead to more challenging and interesting positions in the nursing field. Those accepted into the program need to complete 74 credits after receiving credit for their previous nursing studies. Once all of the liberal arts and science courses have been completed to meet the general education requirements of Fayetteville, students begin the upper nursing division courses. They also complete clinical practice at various healthcare facilities nearby.

Fayetteville State University has an extraordinary amount of activities for students to participate in, including over 75 clubs and organizations, including 9 Greek fraternities and sororities. The university also has a radio station, a theater company, and the college is an NCAA Division I school in athletics with football for men and basketball, volleyball, and other sports for men and women. In addition, the university is ranked as one of the safest campuses in North Carolina.

Contact:
Fayetteville State University
1200 Murchinson Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28301
(910) 672-1111

Fayetteville Technical Community College Nursing Program Review

Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) is a community college that is part of the North Carolina Community College System (NCCC). It is on the Fort Bragg army base in North Carolina and has provided education to those in the military since 1961. Many military students attend this college because of its close proximity to the army base. Military personnel, their spouses, and children often continue their education at Fayetteville Technical Community College. The college offers online courses, accelerated sessions, and more options that make attending college manageable for military personnel as well as others who want to continue learning. Many different programs are offered at the college, including nursing.

Nursing Programs

Nursing Assistant

This program leads to a certificate as a Nursing Assistant. These healthcare workers work under the supervision of licensed professionals in many different healthcare environments. Graduates may be eligible to be listed on a registry as a Nursing Assistant I or Nursing Assistant II. Nursing Assistants work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, for home health agencies, nursing homes, and extended care facilities. Applicants must have CPR Certification, vaccinations required for healthcare workers, and TB screening before entering the program. After completing Nursing Assistant I, students may take Nursing Assistant II.

Practical Nursing

The Practical Nursing (PN) program offered at Fayetteville leads to a Diploma for graduates. The program can be completed in three semesters of study. The program prepares students to work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, long term care facilities after they complete the program. Graduates must take the NCLEX-PN to obtain their licensure to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Applicants must be high school graduates and must have completed a Biology, Algebra, and Chemistry class. If these courses were not completed in high school, the applicant must take them on the college level before acceptance into the PN program. An important fact to know before enrolling in this program is that not all of the courses are transferrable to an Associate Degree program if the student intends to earn this degree in the future.

Fayetteville Technical Community College offers financial aid for students who want to complete an Associate Degree, but financial aid is not always available for those pursuing a Diploma in Nursing. Applicant should contact the Financial Aid office to determine if they are eligible for this help in paying their tuition. The college also offers child care financial assistance that pays for day care while a parent attends classes.

Associate Degree Nursing

Fayetteville offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program for students who wish to become a Registered Nurse. Applicants must first take the courses needed to become a Certified Nurse Assistant I and be listed on the North Carolina Registry before applying to the ADN program. The program takes 5 semesters to complete. Licensed Practical Nurses may enter the program if they have worked in a healthcare setting for 3,600 hours within the past four years. After completing all of the general education requirements plus the nursing courses and clinical experience, students take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licensure to work as Registered Nurses.

Financial aid is often available for students enrolled in the ADN program. They need to complete the Financial Aid application after applying for admission to the college. Another convenience for parents is the financial aid available for child care that enables the parent to continue his or her education.

Contact:
Fayetteville Technical Community College
P.O. Box 35236
2201 Hull Road,
Fayetteville, NC 28303
(910) 678-8400

Gardner-Webb University Nursing School Review

Gardner-Webb University (GWU, GW) is a private Christian college not far from Boiling Springs, North Carolina at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is affiliated with the Baptist religion and has around 4,300 students enrolled at the university. There are 60 undergraduate majors that students may choose from, including nursing. There are many opportunities for service projects offered at the university whose mission is “Faith, Service, & Leadership.” Gardner-Webb is continually named as one of the Top 100 universities. The student body is a diverse one with students from 21 foreign countries and from 37 states. There is always something for students to do after studying is finished because there are over 50 clubs and organizations at Gardner-Webb.

Nursing Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing

Gardner-Webb offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Admission to the program is competitive, and even if an applicant meets all of the prerequisites for the program, he or she may not be admitted since only a limited number of seats are available. Applicants must apply to the university first and then to the nursing department. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on all college-level work so far to qualify for the program. Minimum scores of 1050 on the SAT or 22 on the ACT are also required. A satisfactory score is also necessary on the TEAS pre-nursing program admission test. Biology, chemistry, and algebra must be taken at the college-level if they have not been taken in high school. In addition, applicants must have a satisfactory criminal background check.

It is not required that applicants have certification as a Nurse Assistant, but this is a requirement of the Associate Degree in Nursing program so it must be completed before nursing courses are begun. At the end of the program that takes four to five semesters to complete, the student is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that takes four years to complete. A total of 64 to 70 credits in general education requirements must be completed plus 63 credits of nursing courses.

RN to BSN (Degree Completion)

The university offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for RNs who have an Associate Degree in Nursing. RNs with a Diploma in Nursing may also apply to this program. Those with an ADN may receive a maximum of 40 hours of nursing credit after completing 9 hours of nursing courses. Requirements for admission include current licensure as an RN and a grade point average of at least 2.5 in college courses that have been completed. Applicants must also have a clear background check and must have a 12 panel urine drug screen before enrolling in nursing courses or in beginning clinical experience.

Master of Science in Nursing

Gardner-Webb University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Applicants must first apply to the university’s Graduate School and have a criminal background check. A BSN is required for admission, but under certain circumstances, those with a Bachelor’s Degree in another area may be accepted. A grade point average of at least 2.70 is necessary in undergraduate work. Applicants must be currently licensed as RNs. Another requirement is a satisfactory score on the GRE and three letters of recommendation.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The university offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for RNs who have a MSN. Admission is competitive, and not all applicants are accepted into the program. Applicants must first apply to the Graduate School and they must have a 3.20 grade point average in their other college-level coursework. The number of years that a nurse has spent working in a specialty practice has an influence on whether or not the nurse is accepted into the program.

Contact:
Gardner-Webb University
110 South Main Street,
P.O. Box 997
Boiling Springs, NC 28017
(800) 253-6472

Lees-McRae College Nursing Program Review

Lees-McRae College (LMC) is a small private college located in Banner Elk, North Carolina in Appalachia near the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Cherokee National Forests. Situated over 4,000 above sea level, there is a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains from the campus. Lees-McRae is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Less than 1,000 students attend the college that began as a college for women in 1899. There are 22 majors and 16 minors offered at Lees-McRae College and class sizes are an average size of 15 students.

Nursing Program

RN to BSN Program

Lees-McRae offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is designed for nurses who want to complete their baccalaureate degree. The program does not require prerequisite courses because students take general education and nursing courses after enrolling in the program. This RN-BSN program is different than others in several ways. Besides not requiring any prerequisites, it is based on an Associate Degree Program and RNs receive recognition for their past nursing courses. Classes are held only one night each week from 5 PM until 9 PM, which allows RNs to continue working a day shift. Also, the nursing program includes upper level general education courses that are built into it.

The nursing program is a 2 + 2 program. RNs with an Associate Degree enter the program as a junior with two years of studies left to complete. Many times, other colleges advertise that an RN can complete his or her BSN in one year, but they do not mention the 1 to 2 years of prerequisite classes that are required. Students work together in cohort to complete the four semesters required to complete the BSN. Admission requirements are that the applicant must be working as an RN at least 20 hours per week and must hold current licensure as a RN. Lees-McRae College has a transfer agreement with community college in North Carolina that allows RNs who have graduated with an Associate Degree to transfer to Lees-McRae.

Lees-McRae College offers a very helpful financial aid package to all extended campus students that also applies to nurses in the RN-BSN program. Tuition at the college costs $2,750 per semester, and students receive $17,950 in grant aid per academic year. This includes funds from the college, state, and federal aid, including the Federal Pell Grand and North Carolina Need Based Scholarship if the student qualifies to receive this. Whereas a full year’s tuition would normally cost $23,450, with the grant aid each academic year, students are only responsible for paying $5,500 each academic year, or $11,000 for two years needed to complete their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine if they qualify for state and federal loans. This is a very generous grant that is usually difficult to find, and for RNs who live in the area, it makes completing a bachelor’s degree something possible to do.

Contact:
Lees-McRae College
191 Main St. W, Banner Elk, NC 28604
(828) 898-8814

Lenoir-Rhyne University Nursing School Review

Lenoir-Rhyne University (LRU) is a small liberal arts college with almost 2,000 students enrolled in programs at the college. Lenoir-Rhyne is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The university has received awards in several categories, including teaching, community, and others. The School of Nursing at the university offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Nursing Programs

Pre-Licensure (BSN) Program

In this program, students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students must first apply to the university. This program is competitive and not all students in pre-nursing are admitted to the nursing program when they apply to it at the end of the second year of studies. Factors that affect whether or not the applicant is accepted are the overall grade point average in the courses that were completed during the first two years at the university and the pre-nursing test score. Students must have completed 60 credits in the pre-nursing curriculum or be close to completing 60 credits with a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in their first two years at the university.

Students attending other universities may also transfer into the pre-nursing program at any time during their freshman or sophomore years. They must have completed all prerequisite courses and have earned a minimum grade point average of at least 2.7 in them. Students accepted into the program complete upper level general education requirements and mostly nursing courses, including clinical experience. The university also has a simulation lab where students practice nursing skills before beginning their work with actual patients. At the completion of the senior year, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to obtain their licenses as Registered Nurses.

Gateway Program

This program is a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for those with an Associate Degree. Applicants must have a current license as an RN. They must also have finished 56 semester hours of pre-nursing courses before beginning the BSN program, and a minimum grade point average of 2.5 must be attained. RNs may challenge 2 clinical nursing courses and 5 non-clinical courses that they may be exempt from if they meet the criteria to bypass these courses.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is also offered at Lenoir-Rhyne University at two of the university’s locations in Hickory and in Asheville. There are two tracks that RNs may choose from, which are Education or Administration. The MSN Administration concentration prepares students to work in administrative roles in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The MSN Education concentration prepares nurses to teach students in nursing schools, colleges, and universities in a variety of nursing programs. Applicants to the program must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 in the last 60 hours of the program and no grade lower than C in the prerequisite courses of statistics and nursing research. If an applicant has graduated with a BSN within the last 6 years, the GRE is not required. Each track of the MSN program consists of nursing graduate core courses plus direct care core courses. The remaining 18 credits consist of courses related to the advanced nursing specialty of either Administration or Education. A Capstone Project or Thesis is 6 of the last 18 credits before graduation.

Contact:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
625 7^th Avenue NE,
Hickory, NC 28601
(828) 328-7300

Mitchell Community College Nursing Program Review

Mitchell Community College (MCC) is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains around 50 miles north of Charlotte or 50 miles southwest of Winston-Salem in North Carolina state. The college features open enrollment at a tuition rate that is lower than what students would pay at 4-year colleges or universities. Associate Degrees and certificates are offered in a variety of programs at the college. Mitchell Community College offers opportunities for students to participate in student organizations and to participate in study abroad programs such as the Journey to Israel. Students have an opportunity to experience a unique culture and to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tel Aviv. Mitchell also offers a Nursing Program for those interested in studying to become a Registered Nurse.

Nursing Program

Associate Degree Nursing

Mitchell Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program that takes two and one-half years to complete. The nursing program is competitive so not every applicant is accepted into the program. Those who are accepted are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN, the national exam required to receive licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). RNs are in demand in many different healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, community sites, industries, schools, and others. Students must complete 17 credits of general education courses required by Mitchell. There are 56 credits of nursing courses required to graduate from this program. Students also complete clinical experience at various healthcare facilities in the area.

Those who are interested in the nursing program at Mitchell Community College must first complete an application to the college. They must then schedule the placement tests, which are in reading, English, math, and algebra. When the results from the tests are available, a nursing advisor is assigned to the applicant, and at that time he or she will discuss the possibility of the applicant’s eligibility to enter the program. If accepted into the program, the pre-nursing test or TEAS test should be taken. After that, applicants must apply to the nursing program.

Mitchell Community College also requires applicants to be high school graduates or to have their GED, and they must have a grade point average of at least 2.5. Once accepted into the program, all students in the nursing program must maintain a grade of C or better. Students who do not have high school chemistry or biology must complete these courses on the college level to qualify for the nursing program. Applicants must also be a Nursing Assistant I and be currently listed on the Nurse Aide I Registry from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Those who are interested in a career as a Registered Nurse must have satisfactory physical and emotional health and must have current CPR certification.

Once accepted into the program, students complete their general education and science requirements plus nursing courses that include clinical experience. There are medical centers, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities where students complete the clinical part of their education at Mitchell Community College.

Contact:
Mitchell Community College
500 West Broad Street,
Statesville, North Carolina 28677
(704) 878-3200

North Carolina A&T State University Nursing School Review

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (North Carolina A&T, NC A&T or A&T) is located in Greensboro on a 200 acre campus. There is an additional 600 acre university farm. Over 10,000 students attend the university and are enrolled in a variety of programs, including a nursing program.

The university is classified as a doctoral and research institution. North Carolina A & T was founded in 1891 as a land-grant institution. It has a long history of civil rights legacy, and the first sit-in at a lunch counter in 1960 was by NC A & T students. It is home to the largest agricultural school among black colleges and also has the largest number of African-American engineers at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels. There are also 40,000 alumni who hold leadership positions worldwide.

Nursing Programs

BSN Traditional Program

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers a traditional program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This program takes four years to complete and students earn 127 credits, including general education credits, nursing credits, and clinical experience. Students are prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level Registered Nurses (RNs) after earning their bachelor’s degree. They may take the NCLEX-RN near the time of graduation. This exam leads to licensure as a RN. Students who do not meet the admission requirements to enter the nursing program may still be admitted to the university. They then take general education courses for their freshman year, as well as pre-nursing courses. They must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.8.

The nursing program is divided into a Lower Division and Upper Division. Freshmen and sophomores are in the Lower Division and must complete the general education courses required for these years of the program. Students who enter the Upper Division of the nursing program are officially nursing students.

Applicants who live in North Carolina must have a SAT score of at least 800 and a high school grade point average of 3.0 or better. The ACT test is also accepted with a minimum score of 17. Out-of-state applicants must have a SAT score of at least 950 and a grade point average from high school of 3.0. Students who do not meet the admission criteria may take general education courses and prerequisites for the nursing program if they are admitted to the university. They must earn at least a 2.8 in these courses. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are considered individually for admission to the program.

Accelerated BSN Option

The university also offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) option for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another area. Applicants must have a minimum grade point aver of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies to be considered for the program, as well as have a variety of science courses completed before being accepted into the program. Students earn 58 credits in one year in this program, and since the curriculum is very challenging, students are not able to work at an outside job while enrolled in this program. Students begin nursing courses and also complete clinical experience at nearby medical centers and other medical facilities. At the completion of the program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed as Registered Nurses.

BSN Completion Option

There is currently a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion option for Registered Nurses who have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing that is pending at the university level. If approved, students will be able to complete their bachelor’s degree. They will receive up to 47credits for their college-level work that they have completed, plus they will be required to complete the university requirements at North Carolina A & T State University plus upper level nursing courses. RNs interested in this program may apply online at this time.

Contact:
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
1601 E. Market Street,
Greensboro, NC 27411
(336) 334-7500