A BSN, what it is and what it means…

Many universities offering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing require a separate application process for the school of nursing. This is even if you are already attending that college as an undergraduate student. Check with your school for the deadlines for applications. The application process can be tough and admission criteria are set high so prepare early.

If you are an undergraduate student now and you think you will want to become a nurse, there are some things you should do now.

Make sure you know what classes you will need as prerequisites to apply to the nursing program. Most schools require a Basic English class, biology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and college algebra or statistics. These are just a few of the common classes to expect. If you are smart, and I know you are because you want to be a nurse, than you will check with your school of choice to find out their specific requirements.

Also, you need to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Most schools, BSN and otherwise, are starting to require this prior to applications being accepted. I have heard that even of some of the medical schools that are now requiring this. I think it is great and believe it is a good way to make sure nursing is for you before diving in head first.

When deciding on a program, there are several factors you need to consider. First make sure the school is accredited with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). There are several accrediting agencies, and if a school has more than one accreditation that is GREAT! However, the CCNE is the one recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as the national accreditation agency for nursing schools.

To see if the school you are interested in has the stamp of approval from the CCNE, check this website.

Another thing to look at when deciding on a BSN program is whether the school is private or public. In 2006, the average price for ONE year, including room and board at a private institution was $33,000. For a public university, that number is $16,400. Staggering I know. Don’t you worry. You can always look in our nursing scholarships page for tips on offsetting that cost.

I will stress again that you should request to see how previous students have done on the NCLEX for your school choices. Low pass rates may indicate that the school is not properly preparing their students for the biggest hurdle on getting into nursing. And while I am on it, yes you will grow to loathe the NCLEX.

Now good luck! When school gets hard, just remember, once you are done you will officially be Nancy Nurse, RN, BSN.

Click here for more information about a BSN.

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