Nursing

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 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. 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 1^st, final deadline is June 15th).

• 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. 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)