Program Overview
The University of Illinois Chicago's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed registered nurses. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Program Outline
BS in Nursing Program at the University of Illinois Chicago:
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at UIC prepares students for a career as a registered nurse. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed registered nurses.
Objectives:
- To prepare graduates for professional nursing practice in a variety of settings.
- To develop graduates' critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- To instill in graduates a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
Outline:
The BSN program is a four-year program consisting of 120 semester hours. The program is divided into two parts: Pre-Nursing Studies and Course Requirements in the College of Nursing.
Pre-Nursing Studies (57 credit hours):
- English: Academic Writing I and II
- Biology: General Microbiology
- Chemistry: Comprehensive General and Organic Chemistry
- Anatomy and Physiology: Lectures and Laboratories I and II
- Human Development Across the Life Span
- Nutrition
- Statistics: Introduction to Statistics or Introduction to Statistics for the Life Sciences
Course Requirements in the College of Nursing (63 credit hours):
- Required Courses:
- Health Assessment and Communications
- Foundations of Nursing Practice
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacology 1 and 2
- Adult Health Healing 1 and 2
- Readiness for Professional Nursing Practice
- Adult Health Nursing 1 and 2
- Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice
- Nursing Care of Women and Childbearing Families
- Leadership in Professional Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Health Nursing
- Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
- Population Health Nursing
- Sample Curriculum:
- Junior Year: Health Assessment and Communications, Foundations of Nursing Practice, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology 1, one elective from Nursing Care of Women and Childbearing Families, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, or Readiness for Professional Nursing Practice.
- Senior Year: Adult Health Nursing 1 and 2, one elective from Pediatric Health Nursing or Population Health Nursing, one elective from Nursing Care of Women and Childbearing Families or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice, Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, Leadership in Professional Nursing Practice.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, quizzes, assignments, presentations, and clinical evaluations. The program uses a competency-based approach to assessment, meaning that students are assessed on their ability to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for professional nursing practice.
Teaching:
The BSN program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, simulations, and clinical experiences. The faculty are experienced nurses and educators who are committed to providing students with a high-quality education.
Careers:
Graduates of the BSN program are prepared for a variety of nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, public health departments, schools, and other settings. Some graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees in nursing, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Other:
- The BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
- The program offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in research and study abroad programs.
