BSN degree admission requirements vary according to college. Individuals will generally be required to complete prerequisite courses in mathematics, biology, anatomy and physiology before applying to a BSN program. Applicants will also usually be required to earn a certain grade point average (GPA) in their pre-nursing coursework. Many colleges encourage applicants to have an employment background in the allied health field or spend time volunteering in a health care setting prior to applying.
BSN degrees generally take about four years to complete. Whether an individual is enrolled as a full-time or part-time student will determine how long the program takes to complete. Once students have been enrolled in a BSN degree program, they will generally be required to maintain full-time enrollment status. Attending college full-time and completing summer courses when possible may help students complete a BSN degree in a shorter amount of time.
The method of instruction of a BSN degree varies according to the program. Students who complete traditional BSN degree programs will receive instruction in the form of lectures, labs and clinical practicum hours under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. Some programs are offered through distance learning but will generally require students to complete approved lab or clinical practicum hours.
The courses required for a BSN degree will vary according to college. That said, students will generally be required to take nursing courses in areas including geriatrics, pediatrics, mental health, maternity and surgery. Many BSN degrees also require students to complete courses in management, leadership, community health and research. BSN students planning on a certain nursing specialty may be given the opportunity to take electives in that area of nursing.
Completion of a BSN degree program does not guarantee employment as an RN. Students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse, or the NCLEX-RN. It is important for students to choose a BSN degree program that is accredited, as students who have completed unaccredited programs are not eligible to take the licensure examination. Individuals should check with their State Board of Nursing and the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. to find out whether a program is accredited.