Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
Fort Hays State University's undergraduate nursing program, the on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic nursing field. This pre-licensure program prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs) who play a vital role in healthcare and positively impact their communities.
This nursing curriculum features a blend of nursing undergraduate courses and general education classes, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong communication skills – essential for success in a nursing career. BSN students delve into various nursing undergraduate classes covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing practice across different healthcare settings.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing the on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens the door to a rewarding and dynamic career in healthcare. Registered nurses have access to a diverse range of rewarding career paths, including specialties such as emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and intensive care, among others. FHSU’s nursing program is state-approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). With a 95% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, FHSU consistently prepares students for success. The program offers personalized support at every stage, with dedicated faculty and mentors committed to student success. From the admissions process through graduation, students receive one-on-one guidance to help them feel confident and supported throughout their educational journey.
Fort Hays State University’s state-of-the-art simulation center further enhances learning by providing hands-on experience with the latest medical equipment. The center features a fully equipped hospital environment, including exam rooms, computerized manikins, and patient care units—all designed to help students develop the practical skills required to excel in any healthcare career path.
Who is this program for?
The on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed to help various individuals achieve their dream of becoming registered nurses. Whether a student is entering directly from high school, holds an associate degree in health or a related field, or is transferring with prior college experience, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Fort Hays State University offers a clear path to completing a nursing degree and launching a rewarding career in healthcare. Below are several reasons why the BSN program may be an ideal fit:
- Aspiring students with an associate’s degree
- Individuals seeking a career change
- Pre-Nursing students
- Healthcare workers seeking registered nurse preparation for licensure
Learning Outcomes
The on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional values needed to become well-rounded, competent, and compassionate nurses. This undergraduate nursing program prepares graduates to excel in a variety of healthcare settings and serves as a strong foundation for advanced nursing education. Our BSN program emphasizes the following learning outcomes:
Integrate Knowledge from the Sciences and Humanities with Nursing to Provide Safe, Competent, Evidence-Based Nursing Care to Clients, Families, and Populations
Demonstrate Leader and Followership Behaviors in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety to Improve Outcomes in Organizations and Health Care Systems
Utilize Informatics to Plan, Deliver, and Improve Care Processes and Client Outcomes
Analyze Legislative, Regulatory, and Organizational Processes Relevant to Providing Health Care to Clients, Families, and Populations
Apply Evidence-Based Concepts to Improve Organizational Care Processes and Client and Population Outcomes
Provide Comprehensive, Interdisciplinary, Ethical, and High-Quality Nursing Care in Global Societies
Demonstrate Nursing Professionalism by Using Principles of Ethics, Legal Responsibility, and Accountability to Direct Professional Nursing Care to Clients, Families, and Populations
Apply the Nursing Process to Provide Safe, High-Quality Nursing Care for Individuals, Families, and Populations
Real-World Applications
Fort Hays State University's on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students to enter the workforce confidently as registered nurses (RNs). The undergraduate nursing curriculum follows a carefully structured course sequence focused on real-world application. Through hands-on learning and clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings, students develop critical thinking skills and gain the practical experience essential for delivering high-quality patient care.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Our on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program goes beyond teaching foundational nursing principles; it prepares students to apply them in real-world clinical settings. This is achieved through the integration of the latest advancements in healthcare technology within the curriculum, supported by the university’s state-of-the-art simulation lab.
This advanced facility features equipment commonly used in hospital environments, allowing students to practice clinical procedures in a safe, controlled setting that closely mirrors real-life scenarios. From high-fidelity mannequins that simulate a variety of patient conditions to cutting-edge hospital-grade technology, the simulation lab offers an exceptional, hands-on learning experience designed to build clinical confidence and competence.
Hands-on Activities
Throughout the program, students gain valuable experience by working alongside seasoned nursing professionals in a variety of healthcare settings. Clinical activities are integrated across four semesters, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. These rotations offer exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare specialties, providing a well-rounded understanding of the nursing profession.
In the fourth semester, students take their learning further through a structured internship that deepens clinical skills and offers practical insight into their chosen area of nursing practice. An optional summer internship provides additional opportunities to reinforce competencies and explore specific career paths within the field.
What You’ll Learn:
- Comprehensive anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology knowledge
- Skills for nursing practice across healthcare settings
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Strong communication skills in healthcare environments
- Generalized nursing care in obstetrics/pediatrics, critical care, community, med/surg, and psychiatric nursing
How You’ll Learn:
- Through a blend of coursework and general education
- Hands-on clinical rotations in diverse settings
- State-of-the-art simulation lab experiences
- Real-world application of nursing principles
- Internships for in-depth clinical practice
The curriculum in the on-campus pre-licensure pathway of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the nursing profession and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Below are examples of courses offered in this pathway:
NURS 282: Foundations of Nursing Care
This course discusses common health problems, safety, and decision-making based on the nursing process and clinical judgment for the care of the adult client.
NURS 306: Pathophysiology
This course presents a foundation to the pathophysiology of the human body within diverse populations in the continuum of wellness, acute, and chronic illness.
NURS 340: Pharmacology I
This course covers medications, classifications, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics based on pathophysiology concepts to ensure safe medication administration in acute and chronic nursing practice while also examining the legal, ethical, and professional aspects of medication therapy.
Discover the full on-campus pre-licensure pathway within the BSN course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
FHSU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs (both on-campus and hybrid pre-licensure) meet the curriculum requirements for the state of Kansas. Students intending to seek nursing licensure in a state other than Kansas are advised to contact the board of nursing in their desired state for specific licensure requirements and guidelines. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has provided a link for general guidance.
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through the on-campus pre-licensure pathway at Fort Hays State University prepares students for a dynamic and rewarding career in healthcare. Upon successful completion of the program and the NCLEX-RN licensure exam—commonly known as the nursing licensing exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)—graduates are qualified to practice as Registered Nurses (RNs) in a variety of healthcare settings. Below are several exciting career paths available to those holding a BSN degree:
Hospital Nurse
Hospital nurses provide direct patient care across a range of hospital departments, including emergency rooms, intensive care units, and surgical wards. They collaborate closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible patient outcomes.
School Nurse
School nurses play a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of students. They manage health concerns, administer medications, provide health education, and collaborate with school staff and families to foster a safe and healthy learning environment.
Community Health Nurse
Community health nurses promote health and wellness within diverse populations. Their responsibilities include conducting health screenings, delivering health education, advocating for underserved groups, and addressing the unique health needs of the community.
Clinic Nurse
Clinic nurses work in outpatient settings such as family practice, pediatrics, and urgent care clinics. They provide comprehensive patient care, including health assessments, treatment administration, and patient education.
The Department of Nursing admits students to the on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program twice a year; admission is competitive. Prospective students must submit all required application materials to the Department of Nursing office by September 1 for spring semester admission or by February 1 for fall semester admission. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Nursing Advisor to obtain detailed application information.
Transfer students must ensure that official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities are sent directly to the Department of Nursing prior to application review. Enrollment in the on-campus pre-licensure BSN program is contingent upon the completion of all prerequisite courses.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required both at the time of application and at the start of the Junior 1 semester, after all transcripts have been received. The Department of Nursing reviews all applications for the on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the BSN program by the established deadlines, evaluating cumulative GPA and, when necessary, the GPA for prerequisite math and science courses. Applicants are responsible for submitting complete applications by the specified deadlines—February 1 for fall admission and September 1 for spring admission.
- Application form submitted by the appropriate due date.
- Cumulative GPA 3.00 on a 4.00 scale. The GPA at the time of application will be used for ranking. GPA checks will occur on January 1 (spring start) and August 1 (fall start). All transcripts must be received.
- Grade of C or above in prerequisite courses (may be currently registered in prerequisite courses at the time of application).
Once Admitted to a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (on-campus or hybrid)
- The Department of Nursing will send an official letter of acceptance to applicants selected for admission. Applicants must return the letter to confirm acceptance into the program.
- Clinical clearance requirements successfully completed in CastleBranch include criminal background check, drug test, BLS for healthcare providers from the American Heart Association, physical exam, immunizations, yearly TB skin test, and Certified Nurse's Aide certificate. (Higher level certification may be accepted).
Progression Policies within the pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (on-campus or hybrid)
- Throughout the nursing program, students must maintain current nursing liability insurance, personal commercial health insurance, basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification from the American Heart Association, and an annual TB skin test.
- Throughout the nursing program, students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.75 with a "C" or better in each nursing course. Failure to do so may lead to academic probation or dismissal from the nursing program.
- Students found to be under the influence of habit-forming drugs and/or alcohol during the program of study may be subject to immediate dismissal from the Department of Nursing.
- LPNs complete the courses with junior and senior-level content and practice, along with traditional students, using the same clinical laboratories and clinical supervision.
Before completing this form, students confirm they have met with their Nursing Advisor.
- On-Campus Pre-Licensure BSN Application Form
- On-Campus Pre-Licensure BSN Application Checklist (attachment)
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of options to enhance the nursing journey, both within and outside the Department of Nursing:
The on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program includes various undergraduate nursing classes covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing practice in different healthcare settings. Additionally, it integrates general education classes to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
To become a registered nurse in Kansas, complete the Fort Hays State University on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the BSN program, which prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam. Completing the program and passing the exam will allow you to earn your RN license.
Prospective students must meet admission requirements, including a minimum GPA of 3.0, and successful completion of specific prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better.
Fort Hays State University offers related programs such as the RN to BSN program, Bachelor of Science in Social Work, B.A./B.S. in Psychology, and Department of Allied Health programs.
Admission to the BSN program requires meeting specific academic standards and prerequisites, indicating a competitive selection process focused on ensuring student success.
Information about the Department of Nursing
FHSU’s Department of Nursing provides programs and courses incorporating the latest technology in a feedback-driven, student-focused environment, where you will interact with highly qualified faculty eager to share their rich clinical and nursing experiences. This supportive environment ensures you are well-prepared for an in-demand degree that leads to a rewarding career.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students (FHANS): The FHANS is a professional organization that gives pre-nursing and nursing students the chance to get to know their classmates, put leadership theory into practice, learn more about nursing careers, and attend national conferences. Members also do service projects like making Christmas gifts for nursing home residents.
- Nursing Christian Fellowship (NCF): The NCF is a professional organization and a ministry of and for nurses and nursing students. Fort Hays NCF’s goal is to provide Christian-based support for nursing and pre-nursing students. The group meets every other week to learn, share, support, and pray with one another. Members have recently participated in a local service activity by collecting items to donate to Fresenius Dialysis Center.
- Sigma Theta Tau: Sigma Theta Tau is the international honor society of nursing. Students are invited to join the organization based on high academic achievement in their nursing program. Sigma Theta Tau supports knowledge generation in professional nursing practice and also engages in numerous service projects. Nu Zeta, the local chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, regularly participates in fundraising for research in Alzheimer’s and other diseases. They also provide support for continuing education workshops and social events.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at FHSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education https://www.ccneaccreditation.org/.
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
- Hybrid
