What is the deadline to apply?
The Nursing Program Application deadline is the third (3rd) Friday in March, that precedes the desired academic year. All required materials, including transcripts and supporting documents, must be received by this date to be considered for admission. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Can I apply if I haven’t finished all my prerequisites?
Students may apply to the Nursing Program even if all prerequisite courses have not yet been completed. However, full admission will not be granted until all prerequisite and program requirements are successfully met prior to the start of the nursing sequence.
What are the admission requirements for the BSN Program?
Applicants must complete the Nursing Program Application, submit an official Acceptance Letter, and provide transcripts from all prior institutions. Admission requirements include completion of prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA and TEAS score as outlined in the nursing admissions criteria, a background check, drug screen, and proof of required immunizations. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as space in the program is limited.
How long does it take to complete the BSN Program? The BSN program is typically four years in length for full-time students. The first two years focus on general education and prerequisite courses, while the final two years consist of upper-division nursing coursework and clinical experiences. An accelerated or RN-to-BSN track is currently not available at Philander Smith University.
Where do students complete their clinical experiences? Clinical rotations are held at partner hospitals, community health agencies, and long-term care facilities within the region. Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of specialties, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal-newborn, mental health, and community/public health nursing. All clinical placements are coordinated by the Nursing Department.
What support and resources are available for BSN students? BSN students have access to academic advising, tutoring, skills and simulation lab practice, and mentoring opportunities. The program also offers access to state-of-the-art simulation and skills labs, counseling services, and library and technology resources to support both academic and personal success. Faculty members are available to provide guidance throughout the program.
What happens after completing the BSN Program? Graduates of the BSN program are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). After successfully passing the NCLEX, graduates can begin their careers as registered nurses in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community organizations. Many also choose to pursue graduate degrees such as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for advanced practice or leadership roles.
|