The Department of Nursing offers a basic program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and eligibility to take the required R.N. licensure examination (NCLEX-RN). This option represents an opportunity for a broad-based liberal education and a strong base for professional nursing practice. Theoretical nursing knowledge is applied in a variety of practice settings, including hospitals, community health agencies, long-term care facilities, and other institutional and community based settings.

Review the Semester Curriculum

Bachelor of Science Nursing Requirements:
Students apply for admission to the nursing major in March of their first year. Sixteen courses in nursing are required, including NURS 215, 220, 230, 250, 305, 330, 335, 340, 355, 410, 435, 440, 445, 455, 465, and 475. In addition, the following related courses are required:

CORE 100; LIBA 410; CHEM 109; BIOL 221, 222, 239, 240, 340; PSYC 110, 280, 360; WRTG 109; SOCY 124; MATH 200; THEO 204, PHIL 210, or PHIL 212. A letter grade of "C" or better must be attained in BIOL 221, 222, 340, CHEM 109, THEO 204, PHIL 210, or PHIL 212 and MATH 200. 

Pre-requisite courses, which need to be completed prior to admission to the nursing major include: CHEM 109; BIOL 221, 222; PSYC 110; WRTG 109; SOCY 124.

To complete the general education distribution requirements, two courses in the aesthetic foundation, one from the historical consciousness foundation, one theology course; and one multicultural foundation course must be selected. Additionally, CORE 100 is required of all Briar Cliff first year students. All other general education requirements may be met in the above required courses. Documentation of physical health status obtained upon admission to the major must also be on file in the Health Office. Immunization must include hepatitis B vaccination (or signed waiver on file), a second MMR, an annual Mantoux test, and proof of varicella immunity. The Nursing faculty will certify the general education service component and competencies in information technology, moral/ethical reasoning, oral communication, research and writing in this major. A letter grade of "C" must be attained in both theory and clinical components of all nursing courses and a cumulative GPA of 2.75 maintained for admission and progression in the program. 

NOTE: It is the responsibility of students to establish realistic academic loads (in light of work and family obligations) which permit them the time needed to satisfactorily meet course and program requirements.