Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Philander Smith University is designed to prepare compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable nursing professionals ready to meet the evolving needs of healthcare.

 

Who to Contact

Dr. Monica Debro, DNP, MSN, RN

Director of Nursing

Dr. Joycelyn Elders School of Allied and Public Health

Phone: (501)370-5219

Email: mdebro@philander.edu

Important Dates

Applications are currently being accepted for Fall 2026.

BSN Program FAQs

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.

BSN Admission Process and Requirements

Please review the following admissions requirements to apply for the degree.

Admissions Requirements 

  • Provide records of completion for high school diploma or GED Equivalency.
  • Complete all admission requirements for Philander Smith University.
  • Provide transcripts from all Colleges, Universities, or Nursing and Allied Health Programs attended to the Division of Nursing for academic advisement evaluation. Official transcripts are required through Parchment or the National Student Clearinghouse. Unofficial transcripts will be used for advisement only.
  • Submit ACT, SAT, and/or Accuplacer Next Generation Exam.
  • Possess a GPA of 2.5 or greater on prerequisites nursing courses with a grade “C” or greater.
  • Declare Nursing as a major.
  • Obtain an ATI TEAS entrance exam score of 65 or greater. Create an ATI student account by visiting www.atitesting.com to apply for the exam. Contact the Division of Nursing to receive the Self-Pay ID and Password required to take the TEAS exam product to add to your account.  Be sure to have results sent to PSU Division of Nursing; only official copies will be accepted.
  • Submit a copy of a TB skin test or chest x-ray.
  • Provide a current CPR card (must be AHA health care provider).
  • Provide a current immunization record showing an MMR (TDap within 10 years).
  • To apply for the BSN program, you must complete a BSN application and submit it to the Division of Nursing for advisor review. Final acceptance into the program can only be granted by the Director of Nursing.
  • Complete a criminal background check and drug screen from a predetermined company selected by the Division of Nursing.

***If transferring from another nursing program, please provide a Letter of Good Standing from the nursing program director. 

Due to the competitive nature of the application process, meeting minimum program admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program. Cohort size is limited by the availability of clinical sites.



Good luck and we look forward to Welcoming you to

Panther Country!

 
There are currently no active applications in this portlet.

General Resources

Take A Look at PSU Nursing Facilities!

PSU Nursing Department

 

BSN Curriculum

BSN-Degree Plan.pdf

 

ATI TEAS Exam Instructions

ATI-TEAS-Exam-Instructions.pdf