Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

Fort Hays State University’s undergraduate nursing program, specifically the on-campus pre-licensure pathway within the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, prepares students with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in the evolving nursing profession. This program is designed to equip students to become registered nurses (RNs), who play a crucial role in healthcare delivery and contribute positively to their communities.

The nursing curriculum combines specialized nursing courses with general education classes, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills—key competencies for a successful nursing career. BSN students engage in comprehensive coursework that includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing practice experiences across a variety of 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 wide variety of specialties, including 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. With a 95% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, the program consistently prepares students for professional success.

The program emphasizes personalized support at every stage, with dedicated faculty and mentors committed to student success. From admission through graduation, students receive individualized guidance designed to build confidence and ensure a supportive educational experience.

FHSU’s state-of-the-art simulation center further enriches learning by offering hands-on experience with the latest medical technology. The center replicates a fully equipped hospital environment, featuring exam rooms, computerized manikins, and patient care units, all aimed at helping students develop the practical skills necessary to excel in any healthcare setting.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed to support a diverse range of individuals in achieving their goal of becoming registered nurses. Whether students are entering directly from high school, hold an associate degree in health or a related field, or are transferring with prior college experience, the BSN program provides a clear and accessible route to earning a nursing degree and beginning a fulfilling career in healthcare. Some key reasons why this BSN program is an excellent choice:

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 necessary to become well-rounded, competent, and compassionate nurses. This undergraduate nursing program prepares graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings and provides a solid foundation for advanced nursing education. The 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

This program prepares students to confidently enter the workforce as registered nurses (RNs). The undergraduate nursing curriculum is carefully structured to emphasize real-world application. Through hands-on learning and clinical rotations across diverse healthcare settings, students develop critical thinking skills and acquire the practical experience essential for delivering high-quality patient care.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University goes beyond teaching foundational nursing principles by preparing students to apply them in real-world clinical settings. This preparation is enhanced through the integration of the latest advancements in healthcare technology within the curriculum, supported by FHSU’s state-of-the-art simulation lab.

The advanced simulation facility is equipped with technology commonly found in hospital environments, enabling students to practice clinical procedures in a safe, controlled setting that closely replicates real-life scenarios. Featuring high-fidelity mannequins that simulate a wide range of patient conditions and cutting-edge hospital-grade equipment, the simulation lab provides an exceptional hands-on learning experience designed to build both 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, enabling students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. These rotations expose students to diverse patient populations and healthcare specialties, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the nursing profession.

In the fourth semester, students deepen their clinical skills through a structured internship that provides practical insight into their chosen area of nursing practice. Additionally, an optional summer internship offers further 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

Courses

The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical preparation necessary 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 for 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 the on-campus and hybrid pre-licensure pathways—meet the curriculum requirements for nursing licensure in the state of Kansas. Students planning to pursue licensure in a state other than Kansas are advised to contact the board of nursing in their intended state to review specific licensure requirements and guidelines. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has provided a link for general guidance.

Career Prospects

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through the on-campus pre-licensure pathway at FHSU prepares students for a dynamic and rewarding career in healthcare. Upon successful completion of the program and the NCLEX-RN licensure exam—administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)—graduates are eligible to practice as Registered Nurses (RNs) in a wide range of healthcare settings. The following are exciting career paths available to those with a BSN degree:

Hospital Nurse

Hospital nurses deliver direct patient care in various hospital departments, such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and surgical wards. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to promote the best possible patient outcomes.

School Nurse

School nurses play a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of students. They manage health issues, administer medications, provide health education, and collaborate with school staff and families to create a safe and supportive 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 provide comprehensive care in outpatient settings such as family practice, pediatrics, and urgent care clinics. Their duties include conducting health assessments, administering treatments, and educating patients.

Admission Requirements

The Department of Nursing at Fort Hays State University admits students to the on-campus pre-licensure pathway in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program twice each year. Admission is competitive, and all required application materials must be submitted to the Department of Nursing by September 1 for spring semester admission or February 1 for fall semester admission. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Nursing Advisor for detailed application guidance.

Transfer students must ensure that official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities are sent directly to the Department of Nursing prior to the application review process. Enrollment in the on-campus pre-licensure BSN program is contingent upon the successful completion of all prerequisite courses.

A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required both at the time of application and at the beginning of the Junior 1 semester, once all transcripts have been received. The Department of Nursing evaluates each application based on the cumulative GPA and, if necessary, the GPA in prerequisite math and science courses. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all application materials are submitted by the appropriate deadlines—February 1 for fall admission and September 1 for spring admission.

Completed application form submitted by the specified deadline.
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale. The GPA at the time of application will be used for ranking purposes. GPA checks will occur on January 1 for spring admission and August 1 for fall admission. All official transcripts must be received by these dates.
Grade of C or higher in all prerequisite courses. (Applicants may be currently registered in prerequisite courses at the time of application; however, successful completion is required prior to program enrollment.)

Once Admitted to a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (on-campus or hybrid)

An official letter of acceptance will be sent by the Department of Nursing to applicants selected for admission. To confirm their spot in the program, applicants must return the acceptance letter by the specified deadline.
All clinical clearance requirements must be completed in CastleBranch. These include: a criminal background check, drug test, current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for healthcare providers from the American Heart Association, a physical exam, required immunizations, an annual TB skin test, and a Certified Nurse's Aide (CNA) certificate. (Higher-level certification may be accepted in place of the CNA credential.)

Progression Policies within the pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (on-campus or hybrid)

Throughout the nursing program, students are required to maintain the following: current nursing liability insurance, personal commercial health insurance, valid cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification from the American Heart Association, and an annual TB skin test.
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and earn a grade of "C" or higher in all nursing courses. Failure to meet these academic standards may result in academic probation or dismissal from the nursing program.
Students who are found to be under the influence of habit-forming drugs or alcohol during the program may be subject to immediate dismissal from the Department of Nursing.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) complete junior- and senior-level coursework and clinical practice alongside traditional BSN students, utilizing the same clinical laboratories and receiving the same level of clinical supervision.

Before completing this form, students must confirm they have met with their Nursing Advisor.

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.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of opportunities to enrich the nursing education experience, both within and outside the Department of Nursing:

FAQ

What classes do you take in nursing school?

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.

How do you become a registered nurse in Kansas?

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.

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 grade of "C" or better.

What major is closest to nursing?

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.

How hard is it to get into your program?

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.

Student Organizations

Accreditation

Nursing

Bachelor's

On-Campus
Hybrid

Nursing