Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Hours: 120 Hybrid
About
The Department of Nursing is excited to introduce a new hybrid pre-licensure pathway for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This flexible and effective pathway combines online theory courses with in-person lab and clinical experiences, allowing students to complete most of their coursework asynchronously at their convenience. Virtual interaction opportunities are available through both individual and group settings.
The practicum (clinical/lab) portion of the program will primarily be completed in students' local healthcare settings, minimizing the need for frequent trips to FHSU. Faculty-led clinicals will be conducted through simulation or weekend sessions at central locations. This structure ensures students gain hands-on experience while reducing the burden of attending an on-campus nursing program full-time.
The pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program offers a balance of virtual and face-to-face learning, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN examination. The program requires approximately 12 hours per week of clinical and lab activities, with students attending campus 3-4 days per month for skills validation. Clinical sites are located within Kansas, though students may reside outside the state. With FHSU’s expertise in online education and nursing excellence, this pathway offers a convenient and comprehensive option for students seeking a quality nursing education.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing the pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program at Fort Hays State University offers a flexible and rewarding path to a career in healthcare. Registered nurses are prepared to explore a variety of nursing specialties, including emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and intensive care. FHSU’s BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org) and approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing, ensuring a high-quality education that is recognized nationwide.
FHSU consistently prepares students for success, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in nursing. Our pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program combines online theoretical coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, enabling students to gain real-world practice while reducing the need for frequent campus visits.
Dedicated faculty and mentors provide personalized, one-on-one support throughout the educational journey, assisting students from admission through program completion. Additionally, the program provides access to cutting-edge simulation labs, where students develop critical clinical skills using the latest medical equipment. With FHSU’s state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, graduates are well-prepared to pursue diverse nursing career paths and make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
Who is this program for?
The pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program is designed to help various individuals achieve their dream of becoming registered nurses. Whether students are entering directly from high school, hold an associate degree in health or a related field, or are transfer students with prior college experience, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program at FHSU offers a supportive pathway to complete a nursing degree and prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare. Below are several reasons why the BSN (Hybrid) program may be an ideal fit:
- Students seeking flexibility while pursuing a nursing degree
- Those who prefer a combination of online theory courses with in-person clinical experiences
- Individuals located in or near Kansas who can attend required on-campus skills validations and clinical rotations at sites within Kansas
- Aspiring nurses looking for a high-quality education
Learning Outcomes
The pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become well-rounded, competent, and compassionate nurses. The program prepares graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings and lays a strong foundation for advanced nursing education. The pre-licensure pathway in the BSN (Hybrid) 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 pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program is designed to provide students with practical, real-world applications of nursing. The curriculum incorporates hands-on clinical experiences in hospitals and various healthcare agencies, allowing students to apply their knowledge in authentic healthcare settings. These clinical opportunities, combined with classroom instruction, foster the development of critical thinking skills and provide the practical experience necessary to deliver high-quality patient care confidently. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to transition smoothly into the role of a registered nurse (RN).
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program stays ahead of the curve by ensuring students gain clinical experience in healthcare agencies that actively employ registered nurses. By partnering with these real-world healthcare environments, the program provides students with exposure to the latest nursing practices and patient care protocols used in today’s hospitals and healthcare settings.
These clinical experiences give students the opportunity to work directly with seasoned professionals, enabling them to apply classroom learning in real-world scenarios. This integration of hands-on clinical training ensures that students graduate well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the nursing profession and deliver quality care across various healthcare settings.
Hands-on Activities
Throughout the pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program, students gain valuable hands-on experience each semester through integrated clinical activities. These practicum experiences enable students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare environments while working alongside experienced nurses and caring for diverse patient populations.
During the final semester, students complete an intensive internship designed to further develop clinical skills and provide insight into their chosen nursing specialty. This experience ensures graduates are well-prepared to transition into professional nursing practice with the confidence and competence needed to succeed in any healthcare setting.
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:
- Flexible online coursework with asynchronous learning
- Hands-on clinical rotations in local healthcare settings
- Virtual interaction opportunities for group and individual learning
- Simulation lab experiences with the latest healthcare technology
- Internships for in-depth clinical practice
The curriculum in the pre-licensure pathway of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in nursing and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Below are several courses included 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 330: Chronic Nursing Care
This course covers nursing care for diverse populations with chronic illnesses, focusing on risk factors, signs and symptoms, assessments, and evidence-based interventions for managing chronic conditions.
NURS 429: Community Nursing Care
This course explores the knowledge and management of populations, focusing on community and mental health concepts, issues, roles, policies, and trends. Students will gain an understanding of diverse cultures and develop the skills needed to effectively engage with individuals from all backgrounds.
Discover the full pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
FHSU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs (both pathways of pre-licensure on-campus and hybrid) 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 pre-licensure pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) degree from Fort Hays State University prepares graduates for a diverse and rewarding career in healthcare. Upon completing the program and passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, commonly known as the nursing licensing exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), graduates become qualified to practice as Registered Nurses (RNs) across 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 pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program once a year, with a start date in the fall semester; admission is competitive. Applications are accepted starting November 1st, with a priority deadline of January 1st, and a final deadline of June 15th. Applications will be reviewed until the cohort is filled, and those applying after the cohort is full will be moved to the next application cycle. 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. 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 receiving all transcripts.
The Department of Nursing reviews all applications for the pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program by the established deadlines, evaluating cumulative GPA and, when necessary, scoring the applicant's resume and personal video. Applicants are responsible for submitting a complete application by the due date (priority deadline is January 1st, final deadline is June 15th).
- Application form submitted by the appropriate due date. (Application cycle opens November 1st, priority deadline is January 1st, final deadline of June 15th).
- 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 August 1st. 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).
- Current resume includes healthcare experience and completion of the Certified Nurse’s Aide course (CNA) or higher-level certification. Healthcare experience can include work as a CNA, phlebotomist, unit coordinator, pharmacy technician, EMT, etc. Students are encouraged to consult their advisor to determine which work experiences qualify as healthcare experience.
- Submit a short video (5 minutes or less) featuring both video and audio. In the video, they should explain why the pre-licensure pathway in the BSN (Hybrid) program is a great fit for them. Applicants should highlight the qualities that make them ideal candidates for this learning format and outline their strategies for success in the hybrid environment.
- International students: This Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) pathway does not meet the requirements for required on campus courses.
- Applications may be scored using resume and video. Interviews may be required.
- International students with an F1 or F2 visa do not qualify for this program.
Once Admitted to a pre-licensure pathway in the 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 pathway in the 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.
Hybrid Pre-Licensure BSN Program Application Form
Hybrid Pre-Licensure BSN Program 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 $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate ($265.05/credit hour) for online 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 pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) 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 pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) 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 "C" or better grade.
Fort Hays State University offers related programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Social Work, B.A./B.S. in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Department of Allied Health programs.
Admission to the pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid) 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/.