NURSING

The baccalaureate nursing program is a four year course of study leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree. Graduates are eligible to apply for the national licensing examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN). The Master of Science in nursing (M.S.) and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) are graduate degrees offered in nursing.

The Program

The mission of the Department of Nursing is to provide baccalaureate and graduate nursing education to advance the knowledge of the discipline and demonstrate leadership in meeting the healthcare needs of a diverse society. The nursing curriculum prepares professional nurses by providing a sound educational base for practice, graduate study, professional development, and professional and civic responsibility. The nursing program serves as a resource for society through consultation, collaboration, advocacy and scholarship.

Career Opportunities

Rapid changes in health care and technology require the nursing profession to continually expand its role. Employment forecasts predict an increasing demand for professional nurses. Career opportunities include positions in hospitals, schools, community agencies, the military, insurance companies, nursing homes, clinics, businesses and research settings. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings that demand critical thinking, autonomy, collaboration and accountability.

Extra-Curricular Activities

There are numerous active student organizations on the North Dakota State University campus, including the Student Nursing Association. Nursing students are strongly encouraged to participate in campus activities, because they provide opportunities for leadership, service and enjoyment.

Scholarships

Information on scholarships for students admitted to the major is available from the Office of Student Financial Services and the Department of Nursing. Information on first year or transfer student scholarships is available from the Office of Admission.

Faculty and Facilities

Departmental and faculty offices are located in Sudro Hall at NDSU. A nursing laboratory is maintained to enhance student learning. The Fargo-Moorhead community provides a rich source of health care facilities, which are utilized by the nursing program. The faculty members are experts in their specialized areas and assist students to learn in both the classroom and clinical settings.

Advising

The Department of Nursing is part of the College of Pharmacy, Nursing and Allied Sciences. Each nursing student admitted to the college is assigned a nursing faculty advisor who is available for academic guidance and assistance. Students are strongly encouraged to seek the assistance of their advisor early in their plan of study and maintain contact on a regular basis thereafter.

Selective Admission

The pre-nursing program is open to all students who wish to pursue a nursing major. To enter the pre-nursing program, students must be admitted to the University. To apply to the professional program, an application must be submitted by May 20 to the Department of Nursing, Sudro Hall 136. Enrollment to the nursing major is limited. Eligibility for admission requires 1) a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on all college level work, 2) completion of the prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or higher, 3) eligibility for sophomore standing, and 4) submission of completed application.

Admission is competitive and is determined by 1) GPA of 3.0* in selected prerequisite courses (see sample curriculum), 2) number of credits (up to 27) taken in the North Dakota University System (NDUS), 3) references and recommendations, and 4) an essay. The following documents must be on file in the Department of Nursing by May 20:

1. Evidence of admission to NDSU,
2. Evidence of pre-nursing status,
3. Completed application to the nursing major,
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended (excluding NDSU),
5. Two references,
6. Essay.

Application forms may be obtained in the NDSU Department of Nursing, Sudro 136, or online at www.ndsu.edu/nursing.

Students currently enrolled at NDSU in the pre-nursing program are encouraged to consult their nursing faculty advisor prior to the application deadline.

*Because of limitations on class size, the typical student admitted to the nursing program has a selective GPA higher than 3.0.

Sample Curriculum

*Must be accepted into nursing program to enroll in nursing courses.

Selected Prerequisite Courses

The following courses must be completed prior to applying to the professional nursing major. The selected GPA is calculated on these courses.

•          Comm. 110 - Fundamentals of Public Speaking
•          Engl. 120 - College Composition II
•          Psyc. 111 - Introduction to Psychology
•          Soc. 110 - Introduction to Sociology or
              Anth. 111 - Introduction to Anthropology

Completion of 11 credits (of the 19 credits required) in the science category:

•          Biol. 220, 220L - Human Anatomy and Physiology I and Lab
•          Biol. 221, 221L - Human Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab
•          Chem. 117, 117L - Chemistry Concepts and Applications and Lab
•          Chem. 260 - Elements of Biochemistry
•          Micr. 202, 202L - Introductory Microbiology and Lab

Students should consult their faculty adviser for electives that may enhance their program of study to meet graduation requirements.

Computer proficiency is expected before beginning the nursing major.

Disclaimer: The recommended curriculum is subject to change based on nursing program development. Students must consult with their nursing advisor to facilitate progression in the program.

This sample curriculum is not intended to serve as a curriculum guide for current students, but rather an example of course offerings for prospective students. For the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of entrance into a program, consult with an academic advisor or with the Office of Registration and Records.

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Nursing
North Dakota State University
Sudro Hall 136
Dept. #2670
PO Box 6050
Fargo, ND 58105-6050

Tel: (701) 231-5692
Fax: (701) 231-6257
Web: www.ndsu.edu/nursing/

Office of Admission

North Dakota State University
Ceres 114
Dept 5230, PO Box 6050
Fargo, ND 58108-6050

Tel: (701) 231-8643
Fax: (701) 231-8802
Email: NDSU.Admission@ndsu.edu
Web: www.ndsu.edu/admission/

(09/12)