Foundational Sciences:
* Anatomy & Physiology: Detailed study of the human body's structure and function. Often a two-semester sequence (Anatomy I & II and Physiology I & II).
* Microbiology: Study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
* Chemistry (General, Organic, and sometimes Biochemistry): Essential for understanding the chemical processes within the body and how medications work.
* Physics: Understanding basic physics principles can be helpful in certain aspects of healthcare technology and patient care.
Nursing Core Courses:
* Fundamentals of Nursing: Introduction to nursing practice, including basic skills like assessment, medication administration, and patient care.
* Medical-Surgical Nursing: Care of adult patients with a wide range of medical and surgical conditions.
* Maternal-Newborn Nursing: Care of pregnant women, newborns, and their families.
* Pediatric Nursing: Care of children and their families.
* Community Health Nursing: Focus on health promotion and disease prevention within communities.
* Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing: Care for individuals with mental health disorders.
* Pharmacology: Study of drugs and their effects on the body.
* Nursing Research: Understanding research methodologies and their application to nursing practice.
* Nursing Leadership and Management: Developing leadership skills for roles in healthcare settings.
General Education Requirements:
Most BSN programs also require students to complete a number of general education courses in areas like:
* English Composition and Literature: Developing strong writing and critical thinking skills.
* Mathematics: Usually at least college algebra.
* Social Sciences (Sociology, Psychology, etc.): Understanding the social determinants of health and human behavior.
* Humanities: Courses in areas like history, philosophy, or the arts.
Clinical Rotations:
A significant component of a BSN program is clinical experience. Students will spend time in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community agencies, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced nurses. These rotations are often integrated throughout the curriculum.
It's crucial to consult the specific curriculum of the BSN program you are interested in, as requirements can vary. The university's website will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.