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 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. As a registered nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various career tracks, such as 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 Science in Nursing (Hybrid) program blends online theory courses with hands-on clinical experiences, allowing you to gain real-world practice while minimizing the need for frequent campus visits.

FHSU’s dedicated faculty and mentors offer personalized, one-on-one support to help you stay on track throughout your studies. Whether you’re preparing for admission or navigating your coursework, our caring faculty ensures you feel confident in your educational journey. Additionally, the program provides access to cutting-edge simulation labs, where you’ll develop essential clinical skills using the latest equipment. With FHSU’s state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue any nursing career track 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 at Fort Hays State University is designed to help various individuals achieve their dream of becoming registered nurses. Whether you're coming straight from high school, already have an associate degree in health or a related field, or are a transfer student with previous college experience, our program can help you complete your degree in nursing and prepare you for a fulfilling healthcare career. Here are some reasons why our BSN (Hybrid) program might be a perfect fit for you:

Students seeking flexibility while pursuing a nursing degree
Those that prefer a combination of online theory courses with in-person clinical experiences
Individuals located in or near Kansas that 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 at Fort Hays State University equips you with the knowledge, skills, and values to become a well-rounded, competent, and compassionate nurse. Our program prepares you to excel in various healthcare settings and paves the way for advanced nursing education. Our 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 real-world applications of nursing. Our curriculum includes hands-on clinical activities in hospitals and other healthcare agencies, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real healthcare settings. These clinical experiences, paired with classroom learning, help you develop critical thinking skills and gain the practical experience needed to deliver quality patient care with confidence. Through this program, you'll be well-prepared to transition seamlessly 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, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience in every semester through integrated clinical activities. These practicum experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, working alongside experienced nurses and caring for diverse patient populations.

In your final semester, you'll complete an internship that offers an intensive opportunity to further develop your clinical skills and gain insights into your chosen nursing specialty. This experience ensures you're well-prepared to transition into professional nursing practice with the skills and confidence 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 obstetric/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

Courses

Our curriculum equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in nursing and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Below are a few of the courses in the pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science (Hybrid) program:

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. If you plan to seek licensure in a state other than Kansas, please contact that state’s board of nursing for details. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has provided a link for general guidance. https://www.ncsbn.org/nursing-regulation/education/board-of-nursing-licensure-requirements.page

Career Prospects

Earning your pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science (Hybrid) from Fort Hays State University prepares you for a diverse and rewarding career in healthcare. After completing the program and passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, often referred to as the "nursing licensing exam" by the National Council State Board of Nursing (NCSBN), you'll be qualified to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) across various settings. Here are just a few of the exciting career paths you can pursue with your BSN:

Hospital Nurse

Providing direct patient care in various hospital departments, including emergency rooms, intensive care, and surgical units. You'll work with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

School Nurse

Playing a vital role in the well-being of students. You'll manage health concerns, administer medications, educate students on health topics, and collaborate with school staff and families to promote a healthy learning environment.

Community Health Nurse

Promoting health and wellness within communities. This role involves conducting health screenings, providing health education, advocating for underserved populations, and addressing community health needs.

Clinic Nurse

Working in various outpatient clinics, such as family practice, pediatrics, or urgent care. You'll provide comprehensive patient care, including assessments, treatment administration, and patient education.

Admission Requirements

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 of the fall semester; admission is competitive. Applications are accepted starting November 1^st, with a priority deadline of January 1^st, 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. Contact the Nursing Advisor to receive application information. If you are transferring courses from other colleges or universities, ensure that each institution sends an official transcript to the Department of Nursing before we consider your application. 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. You are responsible for submitting your application by the due date (priority deadline is January 1^st, final deadline is June 15th). The admission process includes reviewing your cumulative GPA and, if needed, scoring the resume and personal video.

Application form submitted by the appropriate due date. (Application cycle opens November 1^st, priority deadline is January 1^st, final deadline of June 15^th).
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 1^st. 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. Please ask your advisor about work that would count as healthcare experience.
Short video (5 minutes or less) featuring both video and audio, where you explain why the pre-licensure pathway in the BSN (Hybrid) program is a great fit for you. Highlight what makes you an ideal candidate for this learning format and outline how you plan to succeed 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.

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. You must return the letter to confirm your 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.

Apply

Related Programs

We offer a variety of options to complement your nursing journey, both within and outside the Department of Nursing:

FAQ

What classes do you take in nursing school?

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.

How do you become a registered nurse in Kansas?

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.

How do I apply to the nursing course?

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.

What major is closest to nursing?

Fort Hays State University offers related programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Social Work, B.S. and/or B.A. in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Allied Health programs.

How hard is it to get into your program?

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.

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