This four year program focuses on interdisciplinary study that involves liberal arts and science courses in addition to nursing studies. The program focus is divided into two parts—the first two years require completion of general education requirements while clinical rotations and nursing coursework comprise the final two years of study.
This two year program differs from a BSN in that in does not require extensive interdisciplinary study. The curriculum plan requires completion of only half of the nursing prerequisite coursework required for the BSN during the first year. The second year is devoted to nursing coursework and clinical rotations.
This two year program follows the same curriculum plan as an ADN. There is no difference between the programs other than the administrator of each program. An ADN program is generally administered by a community college, while a Diploma program is administered by a teaching hospital.
Foreign nurses are eligible to sit for the National Council for Licensure Examination (NCLEX) if the desired state board of nursing deems the academic program comparable to a U.S. program.
All graduates must complete the NCLEX-RN in order to receive licensure and practice as registered nurses.