Bachelor of Science in nursing (B.S.N.) programs are four-year degrees, the first two years of which are typically spent fulfilling a variety of general education requirements. While individual programs vary, most require that students complete 60 credit hours in the following areas: microbiology, anatomy, physiology, sociology, psychology, statistics, English composition, communications, humanities electives and social science electives. B.S.N. programs are often competitive, and students must maintain at least a C average in general education classes to be considered for admission. The most competitive schools of nursing often only admit those students who have earned a B average or better in general education courses.
Most B.S.N. degree programs preparing students to become registered nurses require that students take between 40 and 60 credit hours of core major nursing classes. Typically, B.S.N. programs demand that students complete courses in specialized areas of nursing study, including community health nursing, pathophysiology, adult nursing care, pediatric nursing care, gerontological nursing care, maternity nursing care, pharmacology, psychiatric and mental health care and critical care nursing. Students must maintain at least a C average (2.5 GPA) or better to remain in good standing.
B.S.N. degree programs require that students complete a clinical practicum in a participating medical facility, typically in a local hospital or acute care center. Such practicums generally require at least 100 hours of clinical work under the supervision of a specialized nurse or nurse educator. Students work directly with patients spanning all age groups. Students enroll in practicum courses in conjunction which their clinical work, and must present their clinical learning in a senior paper or clinical presentation.