Bachelor of Science in Nursing : BSN Degree

Colleges and universities of all sizes offer traditional BSN programs. Students seeking to enter a traditional BSN program also can expect to have to meet traditional entrance requirements. These include:

  • Adequate high school achievement
  • Minimum scores on either the ACT or SAT exam
  • Interest in and commitment to nursing

Completion of the BSN program qualifies students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to gain licensing as a Registered Nurse.

A typical course of study in the bachelor's degree program includes concentration on general biological sciences, psychology, math, and cultural studies during the freshman and sophomore years. The junior year introduces nursing-specific material, including topics such as transcultural nursing and health promotion. The senior year advances the student to nursing theory, nursing research, nursing management, specialty preceptorship, and preparation for professional nursing practice.

Most traditional BSN programs require enrollment at a physical campus. Several schools offer online classes, but as nursing is a physical profession, programs also requires physical processes.

Studying at a college or university whose BSN program is accredited either by The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), could offer students many options for a future career path.