Bachelor of Science in Nursing
(B.S. Nursing)
Dear Prospective Student:
Thank you for your interest in the University of Northern Colorado and the School of Nursing Traditional program. The Traditional nursing program at the University of Northern Colorado involves five semesters including one summer semester of study. The first two pre-nursing years of your studies involve liberal education courses and required science support courses necessary for the baccalaureate nursing major. The nursing major courses and clinical experience occur in the last two years of study.
Selection of the pre-nursing major does not guarantee admittance to the upper division (junior level, clinical courses). Admission to the Clinical Nursing Program is based on a competitive application process.
Students may enroll in the University any semester for pre-nursing. The most advantageous semester of entry into pre-nursing for a transfer student will depend on that student's individual situation as to the number of nursing required support courses and general education courses that must be completed prior to entry into the upper division. Consultation with a nursing advisor after an evaluation of course work completed at another institution of higher learning is strongly recommended before the student makes a final commitment as to the semester of entry into the program.
If you are a student with prior college or university work you need to examine the nursing brochure carefully. All required support courses and approximately thirty-six semester hours credit of general education must be completed prior to entry into the clinical major. Not all required support courses are offered every semester so careful planning between you and your advisor will be necessary. Applicants who have completed another bachelor's degree from an accredited institution will be exempted from the University of Northern Colorado's general education requirements but still must complete all of the required nursing support courses prior to entry into the upper division clinical major.
In addition, you should be aware that screening for entry into the upper division clinical nursing major takes place in January preceding the May or August entry into the clinical major. Screening is based on 1) your cumulative grade point average and 2) a cumulative grade point average reflecting your work in prerequisite courses. Cumulative GPA (for the purpose of screening) is calculated by using the most recent 45 hours of coursework. CNA certification is a preapplication requirement.
The applications for admittance into the nursing program for summer or fall each year will be available online in the preceding Fall and will be due in January. An information meeting is held each Fall to explain applications and answer questions about the selection process and criteria.
A second degree program is also available. This is for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree. If admitted into the 2nd Degree program, the student would progress through five straight semesters.
