Nursing, B.S.

For individuals interested in serving their communities, USJ’s nationally-recognized Nursing program can prepare them for meaningful careers. Learning on campus, in a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory, and at clinical placements throughout the region, students gain a deep understanding of the nursing profession. They also have the opportunity to join the Student Nurses’ Association, the Iota Upsilon-at-Large Chapter, and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. Thanks to meaningful experiences both in and out of the classroom, students graduate ready for success in their health care careers.

Students interested in becoming a nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) must complete a four-year college Nursing program. At USJ, Nursing students complete a rigorous eight-semester degree program, which includes classroom instruction and experiential learning in clinical rotations. After graduation, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed nurses.

Do you want to be the best possible nurse? Are you willing to do the hard work of learning through lectures, simulations in the lab, and in an acute-care environment? Do you do well in the sciences and see Nursing as more than just liking people and caring for them?

If you are prepared for a rigorous education, support from world-renowned faculty, and are willing to push yourself to achieve your personal best, you should visit the USJ campus and see if we feel right for you. We graduate only exceptional nurses who are highly sought after by area health care institutions.

Apply online by contacting the admission nursing specialist. The University has rolling admission so you may submit your application at any time. You will need:

• A current transcript from high school or any other colleges you have attended
• Your SAT scores are optional
• Letters of reference (not required, but are a benefit)

Of course! Please get in touch with our admission counselors to make arrangements. We look forward to meeting you!

• In the fall semester of the sophomore year, each student completes a formal application to the department of Nursing. This must include a current transcript and you must pass a criminal background check.
• Prior to the first Nursing course, you are expected to be certified in CPR and have all immunizations necessary per the School’s health policy.
• At the time of application to the major, you must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0, in addition to B-(minus) or better in all science classes. Please see our Undergraduate Student Catalog for more specific information.
• You must maintain a 2.67 GPA during the first course and thereafter to progress in the major.

In order to become a nurse in a BSN program, students must complete a bachelor’s degree program in Nursing. At the University of Saint Joseph, this four-year program combines classroom instruction with clinical rotations to effectively prepare students for a challenging and meaningful career as a nurse. Following the completion of a bachelor’s degree, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed nurse.

A Registered Nurse (RN) is an individual who has earned an associate’s degree and has passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). A BS is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which requires an individual to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in Nursing before passing the NCLEX-RN. Earning a BS is highly encouraged in the field, as nurses with a BS are statistically more likely to be hired over those with an associate’s degree. Additionally, nurses with a BS tend to make more money than their RN counterparts, making a bachelor’s program a wiser long-term investment.