The Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Nursing is the preferred entry level for today's professional nurse. The purpose of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Program is to offer a dimension of learning for the student in a Christian-oriented environment. The BSN graduate functions as a generalist practitioner in a variety of health care environments. Alvernia's BSN graduate is prepared to deliver health care to persons of all ages, families and community groups with sensitivity to cultural and environmental factors.

Admission:

Admission to the Alvernia College Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Program is determined on an individual basis at each entry level. The total number of students admitted to the program is based upon available facilities and faculty. Students are admitted throughout the calendar year until all spaces in the class are filled.

Admission Requirements for Freshman Level:

This level is for all first time college students and for college students who have less than 30 credits of college level work.

• First time college students must meet the general admission requirements of Alvernia College.

• First time college students with less than 12 credits of college level work must have a composite score of 1000 or greater on the SAT and a high school grade point average of 2.5 or higher, with consideration given to college preparatory course of study.

• College students must have a grade point average of at least 2.5 with consideration given to individual courses. Grades and credits from developmental courses are not considered.

• Two (2) letters of reference

As required by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, applicants shall have completed work equal to a standard high school course with a minimum of 16 units, including 4 units of English, 3 units of Social Studies, 2 units of Mathematics (1 of which is Algebra) and 2 units of Science with a related laboratory or the equivalent.

Advance Standing for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):

Advance standing is available for the Licensed Practical Nurse. Details of the Advance Standing Policy are available from the Nursing Department.

Admission Requirements for Sophomore Level:

This level is for college students who have completed at least 30 credits of college level work including the prescribed science courses for the freshman year. To be eligible for admission to the nursing program the applicant must:

• Meet the general admission requirements of Alvernia College.

• A minimum grade point average of 2.5 or higher

• Provide official transcripts or document current enrollment in the prescribed science courses for the freshman year.

• Two (2) letters of reference

Transfer Students:

Nursing credit will be given to those students transferring from a four-year baccalaureate accredited program, associate degree in nursing program, or hospital diploma program. Transfer courses will be judged in relation to Alvernia College curriculum for acceptability. Evaluation of transfer courses is completed in the Registrar's Office and will follow college policy. Excelsior College examinations will not be accepted for nursing clinical courses.

Summary of Academic Requirements:

Liberal Arts Core: The following are required as part of or in addition to the Liberal Arts Core:

*May be waived by achieving a passing score on college-wide placement exam in mathematics. Guidelines for transfer students are available from the Admissions Office.

Required Nursing Courses:

Credentials:

The Alvernia College Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The successful graduate is eligible to apply for R.N. Licensure by taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

The Alvernia College Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation is an indication of public approbation, attesting to the quality of the educational program and the continued commitment of the sponsoring institution to support the program. For further information about the accreditation of the BSN Program, please contact the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education at the following address:

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530
Washington, DC 20036-1120

Graduates of the BSN Program are expected to perform according to the American Nurses Association (ANA) Standards of Practice, The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice, The ANA Code of Ethics, and the Pennsylvania Nurse Practice Act.

Updated: August 11, 2006

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