B.A./B.S.-to-B.S.N. Pathway
School of Health Sciences

Those who already hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in another field with a GPA of 2.5 or better can prepare to move into the nursing profession with this pathway, which is structured to fit around full-time employment.  Applicants with a significant number of college credit hours and a GPA of at least 3.0 may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on available space. Applications must include official transcripts of all college-level study.

While students are not required to repeat general education or required supporting classes, they must complete a set of prerequisites before enrolling in upper-division nursing courses. Students who enter the program without a bachelor’s degree are required to complete general education requirements and required supporting courses with a GPA of 3.0 or better before enrolling in upper-division nursing courses.

Students adhere to the same University and program requirements as traditional nursing students. Those who do not successfully complete all requirements outlined under the traditional program are required to complete additional coursework in any area of deficiency as determined by the program director.

Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisite courses can be completed through traditional study or such other means as transfer credit; independent study courses; proficiency examinations; and prior learning credit for certificates, licenses or diploma, noncollegiate or corporate instruction, experiential learning, and contract learning.

Upper-Division Nursing Courses
The upper-division nursing curriculum is highly integrated and accelerated. Students complete 13 to 17 hours a semester with two evenings a week in the classroom and complete 8 to 17 hours of clinical studies on the weekend with occasional 2-hour evening clinical sessions during the week. Some clinical sessions may require advance planning to be completed the night before on your own time. Semesters vary in length, with a one-week break between each semester. After 20 to 22 months of study credit is awarded for the following courses:

A physical examination, health and liability insurance, CPR-BLS health care provider certification, and first aid certification are prerequisites for all clinical courses. Program delivery and progression are subject to change pending direction by the National League for Nursing and the West Virginia State Board of Examiners for Professional Nurses.