BSN Program

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I enter the BSN program as a part time student?

No. Once you have been accepted into the program you will have a full time course load. (Please see course plan of study)

How long is the nursing program?

Three academic years are required once a student is admitted into the BSN program. Application to the BSN program is made after the student has obtained at least 30 hours of course work that includes Composition I and II, College Algebra, and at least (8) semester hours of the required laboratory sciences.

 

Can I go through the nursing program quicker?

No.  Once you are admitted into the BSN program, it will take six semesters to complete the course work.  Each semester builds upon content from the previous semesters.

 

May I take nursing courses in the summer and graduate sooner?

You cannot graduate any faster by taking summer courses.  A few nursing courses are offered in the summer months.  These courses are taught in an effort to help students have a lighter load during the regular fall and spring semesters.  Because each of the core fall and spring semesters build upon one another, this will not get you through the BSN program any faster than six semesters.

 

What grade point average (GPA) do I have to have to apply to the BSN program?

You must have a 2.8 GPA or higher to apply to the BSN program.  Selection into the program is based upon your GPA ranking in the applicant pool and completion of the application requirements.

*All courses completed which apply toward the BSN degree will be included in calculating the GPA for application including any repeated grades.  Courses that do no apply toward the BSN degree will not be included in the GPA calculation.

Do I have to have microbiology to apply to the program?

You must have two of the five lab sciences (each course must be complete - course/lab combined.

• BIO 2203/2201  Anatomy & Physiology I & Lab
• BIO 2223/2221  Anatomy & Physiology II & Lab
• BIO 2103/2101  Microbiology for Nursing & Allied Health & Lab
• CHEM 1043/1041  Fund Concepts of Chemistry & Lab OR  CHEM 1013/1011 General Chemistry I & Lab
• CHEM 1052  Fund Concepts of Chemistry II OR CHEM 1033 Intro to Organic/Biochemistry (No Lab)

 

When can I apply to the BSN program?

For fall admission into the BSN program, you must submit your completed nursing application form by June 15th.  Applications are available April 30th either from this Nursing website or from the School of Nursing Office (Rm. 203)

 

When will I find out if I am accepted or not?

Letters of acceptance are mailed as soon as the BSN Admissions and Credits Committee review applications-generally by the middle of July.
 
Students entering the BSN program are required to have completed a Health Care Provider Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation course (i.e., adult, child, infant, and choking). This course may be obtained at the local Red Cross, American Heart Association or community hospital.  A card or letter demonstrating completion of the course must be presented.  Annual proof of certification is required while in the BSN program. 

 

Where will I go for clinical?

The BSN program uses a variety of clinical settings during all six semesters of the nursing program.  You will have clinical rotations in several acute care and rehabilitation hospitals and mental health facilities (both inpatient and outpatient), We also utilize public health units, clinics, and home health agencies.  You will have the opportunity to care for patients of all ages--from newborns to the elderly.

 

Is a car required?

Yes.  You must have access to transportation for clinical courses.  You will be required to go to community agencies, hospitals and clinics.  During the senior year, several county agencies around Jonesboro are also used for clinical.