Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
For more information: www.nursing.psu.edu
Visit us on facebook: www.facebook.com/pennstatenursing
Please call: 814-863-2229
General Bachelor of Science Handbook: https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-handbooks/
Student Success Center
Email: [email protected]
Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/psunursingadvising
Resources
Admissions (admissions.psu.edu).................................................................. 814-865-5471
Bursar (bursar.psu.edu) ................................................................................. 814-865-6528
Disability Services (http://equity.psu.edu/student-disability-resources) ..... 814-863-1807
Housing and Food Services (on-campus) (hfs.psu.edu) ............................... 814-865-7543
Penn State Learning (pennstatelearning.psu.edu).......................................... 814-865-1841
Student Aid (studentaid.psu.edu/) .................................................................. 814-865-6301
Frequently Asked Questions for the General
Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing
What is the General Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing?
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) General Option is a 4-year program that combines foundational
science and liberal arts courses with nursing courses that include hands-on experience in clinical settings.
Graduates are prepared to sit for the national exam (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as registered nurses.
Where is the Nursing Program offered?
The 4-year B.S.N. is offered at University Park (includes Hershey Medical Center campus), Altoona, Behrend
(Erie), Fayette, Mont Alto, Schuylkill, and Scranton.
Can I change campuses?
Students may not change campus locations for the nursing degree. Students must complete the program at
the campus where they begin. However, students admitted to University Park will spend one year at the
Hershey Medical Center campus as part of the University Park program.
Is the Nursing Program accredited?
Yes, the B.S.N. program is accredited by the CCNE:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
One Dupont Circle, NW
Suite 530
Washington, DC 20036
202-887-6791
How competitive is the Nursing Program?
Admission is competitive. In a typical year, The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing receives upwards to
4,000 applications, with the intent to yield 160 students at University Park and an additional 250 students
across the other campuses where the B.S.N. program is offered.
When does the Nursing Program begin?
The program begins every year in the fall. There is no spring admission.
However, students may elect to begin University coursework in the summer. First-year nursing students at
University Park have the option to participate in the following unique summer opportunity:
• LEAP (Learning Edge Academic Program) is an optional summer program reserved for first-year
students to assist with the transition to college. LEAP is an opportunity for new students to start their
Penn State career in a small-college atmosphere within the larger University. Students enroll in a LEAP
section of two courses with a small group, or “pride”, who live together in the same dormitory area
and have an upper-class student mentor to guide them through their first semester. LEAP will
complete the first-year seminar requirement. More information can be found at
http://summersession.psu.edu/leap/. The Nese College of Nursing does not recommend a specific
LEAP section, but Nursing students may find the sections offering ENGL 15, CAS 100, HDFS 129 or STAT
200 particularly helpful in completing their degree requirements.
Will applying for the summer semester at University Park improve my
chance of being admitted to the Nursing Program?
Students applying to the Nursing Program may be considered for admission to the summer session at the
University Park campus; however, application to the summer session does not provide an advantage towards
being accepted into the Nursing Program at University Park.
What are the admission requirements?
The following high school courses (or a college equivalent) are required:
• four years of English
• three years of science
• three years of math (algebra, geometry, or trigonometry)
• three years of social studies/art/humanities combined
• two years of a single world language other than English. Students lacking two years of the same world
language who graduated from high school after 2001 will be required to take one course in a world
language within the first two years.
•
Are students admitted directly into the Nursing Program?
Yes, first-year applicants are admitted directly into the Nursing Program. Transfer students are eligible to
apply to the four-year B.S.N. program at one of the six Commonwealth Campuses through a competitive
entrance-to-major process. Transfer students should contact their campus of interest to discuss admission
requirements.
CAMPUS
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS OR
ADULTS WITH LESS THAN 18
COLLEGE CREDITS
PENN STATE STUDENTS OR
ADULTS WITH 18 OR MORE
COLLEGE CREDITS
Altoona, Behrend
(Erie), Fayette, Mont
Alto, Schuylkill,
Scranton
First-year direct admission into
the major
Must have earned C or higher
in Anatomy and Physiology (or
A&P I and II) and at least 9
other non-remedial credits
University Park
First-year direct admission into
the major
Not eligible for admission
Entrance to major information
What are the average SAT or ACT scores and the average high school
GPA for students offered admission into Penn State?
The ranges in the chart below represent the middle 50 percent of students offered admission to Penn State for
Fall 2021 – they are not cutoffs or averages. Nursing students typically place in the upper end of these ranges.
Additional information is available at http://admissions.psu.edu/apply/statistics/.
Through Summer/Fall 2023 First-Year applicants to Penn State will be able to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT
scores as part of their applications. More information can be found at https://admissions.psu.edu/apply/statistics/
.
What is the deadline for application?
The deadline for application for the Nursing Program is December 1 and admission is competitive. Late
applications are typically considered on a space-available basis only. We recommend that students strive to
meet the Admissions Early Decision deadline of November 1.
Who makes admissions decisions?
Penn State admissions decisions are made through our centralized Undergraduate Admissions Office for all
Penn State campuses and programs. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing does not evaluate applications.
If you have questions about your application or the decision-making process, please contact the
Undergraduate Admissions Office by email at [email protected], by phone at 814-865-5471, or through
your MyPennState account.
Is special housing available for first-year nursing students at University
Park?
First-year students are required to live on campus and may be assigned to any residence hall. However, there
are Special Living Options (SLO) that are available to students who would like to live and learn with classmates
who share their interests. For example, Health and Human Development (HHD) House is designed for
students who are interested in pursuing a health-related major, as well as students who are committed to
healthy living. Students do not need to be in the College of HHD to be eligible to live in this SLO. Students live
with other members of their SLO in close-knit communities ("houses") located in the residence halls, where
they have the opportunity to participate in field trips, group dinners, and other social and educational
activities. SLO options are limited. Contact Penn State Housing Services http://www.housing.psu.edu/ for
more information if you are interested.
How much is tuition?
Tuition and fees are available at http://tuition.psu.edu/. A tuition calculator is available here:
http://tuition.psu.edu/costestimate.aspx .
Consistent with other academic institutions, Penn State charges lower-division and upper-division tuition
based on credits earned. Students with 59.1 earned credits will be charged upper-division tuition, which is
based on the primary campus designation and the program of study. Information on these rates for the
current academic year can be found at http://tuition.psu.edu/tuitiondynamic/tuitionandfees.aspx by selecting
applicable state residency and campus. Tuition and fee rates are subject to change.
Are there any additional costs or requirements?
1. Nursing students must purchase a personal laptop computer to participate in classroom-based
assignments and Nursing examinations throughout the course of the program.
2. In addition to standard tuition and fees, Nursing students may expect to spend approximately $4,500 or
more throughout the program for textbooks, uniforms, curriculum support materials (such as ATI
software and simulation lab supplies), and clinical compliances, which include child abuse and criminal
clearances, fingerprinting, liability insurance, a completed physical, and other costs.
3. Clinical sites require anyone working on their premises to be appropriately vetted. In the Nese College
of Nursing, we refer to these requirements as “compliances”. Each May following the nursing
students’ first year of enrollment, students must complete the following requirements:
• Pass an annual physical examination, which includes one-time antibody titers, vaccination history,
and immunizations. Please be aware that insurance may or may not provide coverage for these
medical requirements
• Students must be fully vaccinated to participate in clinicals. Required vaccinations include COVID
and all boosters.*
• Complete Pennsylvania and federal criminal background checks (fingerprinting is required and
students must be free of felony convictions in the past ten years)**
• Complete Pennsylvania child abuse background checks
• Provide proof of medical coverage (student insurance policies are available)
• Purchase professional liability (malpractice) insurance
• Complete the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR course
• Complete a 10-point drug test
All program requirements must be met and submitted on time each year in order to progress in the program.
*Required vaccines include all childhood vaccinations AND COVID vaccinations with current boosters. While
Penn State has a process for religious, medical, or other exemptions, our clinical sites do not. Since clinical
participation requires all vaccines and the Nursing Program requires clinical in order to be eligible for licensure,
only fully vaccinated students will be successful in completing the Nursing curriculum.**Questions regarding
how criminal history affects nursing licensure should be directed to the student’s state board of nursing.
What financial aid is available?
If you are enrolled as a degree-seeking student, you may be eligible for various federal and state grants or
loans. Contact the Office of Student Aid at http://studentaid.psu.edu/ for more information.
Completion of the FAFSA form automatically enters students into consideration for scholarships offered by the
Nese College of Nursing. Information is available at http://www.nursing.psu.edu/undergraduate/financial-aid.
It is the student’s responsibility to look into various hospitals, professional associations, military groups,
community or other organizations which may also offer scholarships or low-interest loans.
How will transfer credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits fit into
the nursing curriculum?
Transfer credits and AP credits may sometimes be applied to general education or elective credits. Admissions
determines whether credits from other institutions will be accepted. The Nese College of Nursing determines
how these credits are applied towards your degree. Keep in mind that these credits will not impact your GPA
at Penn State. These credits have the potential benefit of decreasing course load, which could provide
students with the opportunity to explore a minor or other interests if desired. However, please note that a
tuition increase takes place when a student reaches 59.1 credits. Students bringing in credits may reach this
tuition “bump” earlier. Please communicate with the Academic Advising Office if you plan to bring in college-
level credits. Additional information on how Penn State awards credits for AP exams can be found at
http://admissions.psu.edu/academics/credit/ap/.
What and where are clinical courses?
Clinical courses typically involve a lecture and a hands-on component in a clinical setting. Clinical sites may be
anywhere within a 50-mile radius of campus. Clinical experiences and schedules vary each semester, but they
are typically offered in six- to eight-hour blocks between 6:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. Nursing students participate
in nearly 900 hours of diverse and educationally rewarding clinical experiences. University Park students spend
one or more years (third and/or fourth year) at the Hershey Medical Center Campus. Housing is reserved for
nursing students at Hershey. Our state-of-the-art simulation labs provide confidence-building practice to
students beginning your third semester. Our labs include:
• Health Assessment/Skills Lab
• Home Health
• Critical Care
• Pediatrics
• Maternity/Newborn
• Advanced Practice Primary Care Labs.
Examples of B.S.N. Clinical Sites
Clinical locations may include:
• Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital
• Mount Nittany Medical Center
• Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
• Philhaven Behavioral Healthcare
• The Meadows Psychiatric Center
• University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Altoona
• Doctors’ offices
• Schools or prisons
• Assisted living facilities
Will I need to have my own car?
Nursing students are required to have their own transportation starting in the spring semester of second year.
Carpooling may be an option during the second year, but students should not rely on this option. Students are
responsible for getting themselves to their clinical sites throughout the Nursing Program.
Will I go to Hershey Medical Center?
Hershey Medical Center (HMC) is a Level I Trauma Center for both adult and pediatric populations. Nursing
students at University Park are required to spend one academic year in Hershey, PA studying at HMC. In
second year, students are assigned via modified lottery to third or fourth year at HMC. Possible exceptions to
this requirement may be Schreyer Scholars, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), and student athletes who
fall under the NCAA requirements in order to maintain eligibility (this does not include cheerleading, the
Lionettes Dance Team, club sports, or the Blue Band). Students may request to spend both their third and
their fourth year in Hershey. Commonwealth Campus students participate in clinical experiences within a 50-
mile radius of their campus.
Are meal plans and housing offered while I’m at Hershey?
Students are responsible for providing their own meals during their time at Hershey. There is not a meal plan
option. Grocery stores are within a five- to ten-minute drive. Penn State provides apartment-style housing
that is a short walk to the Hershey Medical Center. There are four nursing students in each apartment. Each
student has his or her own bedroom and shares a common bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Students also
have the option to live off-campus if desired. There is no additional fee for parking for students at Hershey.
Am I able to complete the Pre-medicine program with the nursing
degree?
With careful planning and collaboration with the program of interest, it may be possible to complete the Pre-
medicine curriculum concurrent to the Nursing Program. The traditional medical model approaches patient
health. Because the Nursing Program is highly structured, students should discuss any plans for the Pre-
medicine curriculum with their Academic Adviser as soon as possible.
Am I able to complete a minor/certificate with the nursing degree?
With careful planning and collaboration with the program of interest, it may be possible to complete a minor
or certificate concurrent to the Nursing Program. Because the Nursing Program is highly structured, students
should discuss any plans for a minor or certificate with their Academic Adviser as soon as possible.
We are often asked for “typical” minors and certificates completed by Nursing students. Typical minors
include Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS), Child Maltreatment and Advocacy (CMAS),
Psychology (PSYCH), and Deafness and Hearing Studies (DHS). The Nese College of Nursing offers two Nursing
Certificates, Nursing Forensics and Nursing Informatics, through the World Campus. However, students may
complete any minor or certificate available at University Park, provided they meet minor requirements.
Can I specialize?
Upon graduation, Penn State entry-level nurses are prepared to practice as generalists and can work in any
number of settings. True specialization requires graduate education.
Are there any social/professional groups for Nursing students?
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Student Ambassadors (CONAm)
This student group represents the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and provides a student perspective
at information and recruitment events. Ambassadors embody Nursing students of varied interests, activities
and backgrounds and volunteer to share their love of Penn State and all things nursing.
Men in Nursing
Men in Nursing facilitates opportunities for networking and mentoring and assists interested males with
information about the nursing major. Additionally, Men in Nursing actively promotes men's health, influencing
factors that affect men as nurses, and joins with all nursing students and nurses in providing services and
support for the underprivileged. For more information or to join, go to
https://orgcentral.psu.edu/organization/men-in-nursing.
The Multicultural Student Nursing Association (MSNA)
MSNA was recently formed to provide an inclusive environment to multicultural students and allies in the
Nursing major. MSNA coordinates social events and educational opportunities that create a safe space for
students to strengthen community and develop professional skills for career success.
https://news.psu.edu/story/605856/2020/01/29/new-student-group-launches-multi-cultural-student-nursing-
association
Sigma Theta Tau
Students with outstanding records of scholarship and leadership are invited to join Sigma Theta Tau, the
international honor society for nursing. Penn State is home to the Beta Sigma chapter, one of more than 150
chapters of Sigma Theta Tau located at colleges and universities throughout the world.
SNAPS
Each campus has a chapter of the Student Nurses Association of Penn State (SNAPS), the state-approved
organization of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). SNAPS activities include professional
development, community service and outreach, as well as social activities. Penn State’s chapter of SNAPS also
actively participates in THON, which is the largest student-run philanthropic event in the world to raise money
to fight pediatric cancer. See http://www.nsna.org/ or http://www.snap.psu.edu/ for more information.
Can I study abroad?
Nursing students who wish to study abroad have the following options:
• Penn State Nese College of Nursing faculty offer short-term international experiences called
“Embedded Programs”. Experiences vary each year. Students are sent information on available
opportunities for the upcoming academic year.
• Global Penn State offers experiences during the summer or other breaks. Information can be found at
http://global.psu.edu/going-abroad.
• Other opportunities are available through student organizations, such as the PSU Global Brigades.
Information on this organization can be found at http://www.psugmb.org/.
• One minor that Nursing students interested in studying abroad may want to consider is the Global
Health Minor. This minor allows students to explore health issues and challenges affecting populations
across the globe and incorporates a 6-week international “Global Health Fieldwork Experience” course.
More information can be found at http://bbh.hhd.psu.edu/globalhealth.
Due to the sequenced nature of the nursing curriculum, nursing students can complete traditional study abroad
only during the summer or other breaks. Students who complete traditional study abroad programs during fall
or spring semesters will find themselves a year behind in the curriculum.
How will Penn State prepare me for the NCLEX-RN exam?
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is the national licensing
examination for all registered nurses. Passing this exam after graduation is the final step in becoming a nurse.
Penn State prepares nursing students early for their licensing examination by introducing Assessment
Technologies Institute (ATI) Nursing Education beginning second year. The ATI software incorporates practice
exams and focused NCLEX-RN preparation. Additional information about ATI Nursing Education can be found
at https://www.atitesting.com/Home.aspx.
Currently, the first time pass rate for Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing students is 93% based
on statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of State. According to the National Council of State Boards of
Nursing, the national average first time pass rate in 2021 was 86%
(https://www.ncsbn.org/Table_of_Pass_Rates_2021_Q4.pdf). While these numbers change slightly from year
to year, Penn State Nursing students’ pass rate is consistently above the state and national averages.
What other supports does Nursing offer to students?
Just as you’re invested in your education, we are invested in your academic, personal, and professional
success. In addition to the technology, clubs & organizations, student services and resources that Penn State
offers to all students, Nese College of Nursing students have access to:
Academic Advising- You will be assigned an academic adviser at New Student Orientation (NSO), and will
remain with that adviser through graduation. Advisers are similar to your high school counselors, but different
in that you are expected to take responsibility for regularly checking in with your adviser. At minimum, plan to
schedule an appointment with your adviser once per semester for an academic and scheduling check-up, but
your adviser can also explain and facilitate Penn State policy and processes, help you connect to resources,
advocate for and support you. Advisers offer weekly Office Hours, regular Walk-In/Zoom-In ours at key times
of the year, and group advising. Our advisers’ backgrounds are in counseling and education.
Faculty Advising- In your third year, you will also be assigned to a nursing faculty adviser. Your faculty adviser
may be based at Hershey or at University Park, and is available to discuss career planning and professional
development. In your professional development coursework, you will create your resume for your job search,
and participate in a brief mock interview.
Academic Success Coach- Students may contact the Success Coach on their own, and may also be referred by
faculty or advisers. The Success Coach can help with time management, study skills, and course content, in
addition to referring you to other resources.
Career Fair- A Nursing Career Fair is sponsored each fall for Nursing students to connect with recruiters and
companies from Pennsylvania and some surrounding states. Additionally, Penn State’s Bank of America Career
Services Office hosts career fairs each semester. All of these events offer both internship/externship and job
opportunities.
Alumni Mentoring Program- Rising third-year students (juniors) may apply for the Alumni Mentoring Program
to be matched with a Nese College of Nursing Alumnus through the students’ graduation. Mentoring pairs are
required to attend a kick-off event, meet at least once a month with at least one meeting per year being in-
person.
CONversations with Dr. Brown- These monthly, open-forum Zoom-In sessions with our Associate Dean for
Undergraduate Programs and the UP and Hershey Nursing Programs Coordinators Dr. Nelson and Dr. Barton
will provide updates on the Nursing program, respond to questions, and elicit your thoughts on programmatic
topics, students' needs and concerns, and any other topics that arise. CONversations are a great way to
connect with Nese leadership and have your voice heard.
What does a typical day look like for a Nursing student?
The chart below shows examples of a typical “day in the life” of two of our students. Ellen is a first-year
student involved in Nese CON Ambassadors and SNAPS. Freda is a second year ROTC student who also finds
time for Nese CON Ambassadors, SNAPS, Christian Organizations, and THON.
Ellen
8:30am wakeup, 8:30am-10:00am
Get ready, breakfast, relax, last minute studying
10:00am-11:30am/12:30pm
First class or two of the day
11:30am-1:00pm
Gym for a lift or cycling class
1:00pm-1:30pm
Lunch (sometimes studying) with friends at the HUB
1:30pm-2:30pm
Study/homework
2:30pm/4:00pm-3:30pm/6:00pm
Last class/lab
6:00pm
Dinner
7:00pm
Club meetings (if there are)
7:00pm-11:30pm/12:00am
Studying, homework, reviewing notes
12:30am-1:00am
Bedtime
Freda
4:30am wakeup, 5:30am-7:00am
6:30am wakeup
ROTC physical training
If no ROTC, personal workout, get ready/eat
9:00am-11:00am
Class
11:00am-1:25pm
Study, eat, meetings
1:30pm-3:30pm
Class
3:30pm-6:00pm
Study, meetings
6:00pm-8:00pm
Clubs/Organizations
9:30pm-12:00am
Bedtime depends on ROTC physical training in the morning
Our students participate in Greek life, ROTC, Athletics, Schreyer Honors College, and numerous clubs, groups
and activities. Many hold part-time jobs or volunteer while in school. Setting realistic involvement goals and
managing time wisely are key.
Class sizes at Penn State can vary from as few as 25 for English, Speech and Language classes and Science
labs to as many as 800 for large lectures such as Anatomy & Physiology. Nursing class sizes range from 8-10
in clinicals to 75-80 in lectures, with one third-year course, Professional Role Development I (NURS 250), for
the entire second-year Nursing cohort (150-160).
What graduate programs are available at Penn State?
Ph.D. and D.N.P. Programs:
• Penn State offers a B.S.N. to Ph.D. degree program for highly qualified students to pursue doctoral
study directly from their B.S.N. program. This program incorporates a Master of Science in Nursing
(M.S.N.) degree, which prepares nurse scientists and clinical scholars to continue on for the Ph. D. in
Nursing. There is also an M.S.N. to Ph.D. degree program for students with an M.S. degree. Nursing
Ph.D. students may pursue additional trainings in bioethics through the dual-title Ph.D. program in
Nursing and Bioethics.
• Penn State offers a D.N.P. degree program online through Penn State World Campus with two entry
options: directly from the B. S.N., or post-M.S.N. The D.N.P is a professional, practice-focused doctoral
degree.
M.S.N. Programs:
• Penn State offers an M.S.N. degree program at selected Penn State campus locations with three
Advanced Practice options: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse
Practitioner, and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
• Penn State offers an M.S.N. degree program online through Penn State World Campus with two
Advanced Role options: Nurse Administrator and Nurse Educator.
A B.S.N. is required for admission to a graduate program of study in Nursing at Penn State. Graduate-level
nursing certificates are also available. Additional information on the graduate programs can be found at
http://nursing.psu.edu/graduate.
Helpful Websites:
Admission and University Statistics: http://admissions.psu.edu/apply/statistics/
ATI Nursing Education: https://www.atitesting.com/Home.aspx
Nese College of Nursing: http://www.nursing.psu.edu/
Nese College of Nursing Financial Aid Opportunities: http://nursing.psu.edu/undergraduate/financial-aid
Credit from Advanced Placement (AP) Exams: http://admissions.psu.edu/academics/credit/ap/
Graduate Programs: http://nursing.psu.edu/graduate
Housing: University Park: http://www.housing.psu.edu/
LEAP: http://summersession.psu.edu/leap/
New Student Orientation: https://orientation.psu.edu/up
Office of Student Aid: http://studentaid.psu.edu/
Penn State Office of the Bursar: http://www.bursar.psu.edu/
Penn State Undergraduate Admissions: http://admissions.psu.edu/
Residence Life: http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/reslife/
SNAPS: http://www.nsna.org and http://www.snap.psu.edu/
Study Abroad: http://global.psu.edu/going-abroad, and http://www.psugmb.org/
Tuition: http://tuition.psu.edu/
Tuition Calculator: http://tuition.psu.edu/costestimate.aspx
For more information:
Please email nursing@psu.edu or call 814-863-2229.
SUGGESTED ACADEMIC PLAN for B.S.N. Degree in Nursing (NURS/GNURS)
for students at University Park, Altoona, Erie/Behrend, Fayette, Mont Alto, Schuylkill, and Scranton
Effective Fall 2021/ NEW Curriculum & Integrative Studies. See IMPORTANT NOTES on back.
Semester 1
Credits
Semester 2
Credits
BIOL 161 & 162 (GN) Anatomy & Physiology I (Lecture &
Lab)
4
BIOL 163 & 164 (GN) Anatomy & Physiology II (Lecture &
Lab)
4
ENGL 15 (GWS) or ENGL 30 (GWS) Rhetoric &
Composition/Honors Rhetoric & Composition
3
HD FS 129 (GS) Introduction to Human Development and
Family Studies
3
PSYCH 100 (GS) Introductory Psychology
3
NUTR 251 (GHW) Introductory Principles of Nutrition
3
NURS 100 First-Year Seminar (if required by campus)
1
CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C (GWS) Effective Speech
3
Integrative Studies: Inter-domain course, WITH Humanities (GH)
OR Arts (GA) *
3
Quantification (GQ) (selected MATH based upon ALEKS
score)
3
Humanities (GH) (NOT Integrative Studies)
3
Total Credits:
17
Total Credits:
16
Semester 3
Credits
Semester 4
Credits
CHEM 130 (GN) or CHEM 110 (GN) & CHEM 111 (GN)
Introduction to General, Organic, and Biochemistry
/Chemical Principles with lab
3-4
SOC 1 (GS) or SOC 5 (GS) Intro to Sociology/Social Problems
3
MICRB 106 (GN) Elementary Microbiology
3
STAT 200 (GQ) or STAT 250 (GQ) Elementary Statistics/
Introduction to Biostatistics
3-4
MICRB 107 (GN) Elementary Microbiology Laboratory
1
NURS 225 Pathophysiology (PATHO)
3
NURS 250 (US) Professional Role Development I: Intro to
Professional Issues in Nursing Practice and Nursing Informatics
2
NURS 230 Introduction to the Fundamentals of Nursing
4
NURS 251 Health Assessment
3
Integrative Studies: Inter-domain course (any combination) *
3
Elective
2-3
Total Credits:
14-16
Total Credits:
16-17
Semester 5
Credits
Semester 6
Credits
NURS 301 Nursing Care of the Adult Client Requiring
Medical-Surgical Intervention (MED-SURG)
4
NURS 200W Principles of Nursing Research and Evidence-
Based Practice
3
NURS 305 Introduction to Pharmacological Concepts
(PHARM)
3
NURS 302 Clinical Judgement in Nursing (MED-SURG
Immersion)
1
NURS 310 Therapeutic Nursing Care of the Older Adult
Client in a Variety of Settings (GERO)
3
NURS 306 Nursing Care of Children and Adolescents (PEDS)
3
NURS 350 Professional Role Development II: Ethics, Legal
and Genetic Issues
2
NURS 320 Nursing Care of the Childbearing Family and
Gynecological Client (OB)
3
Arts (GA) (NOT Integrative Studies)
3
ENGL 202A, ENGL 202B, ENGL 202C, or ENGL 202D
(GWS) Effective Writing
3
Elective
3
Total Credits:
15
Total Credits:
16
Semester 7
Credits
Semester 8
Credits
NURS 405A Nursing Care of the Adult Client with Complex
Health Problems: Part A (MED-SURG)
4
NURS 405B Nursing Care of the Adult Client with Complex
Health Problems: Part B (MED-SURG)
4
NURS 450A Professional Role Development III: Leadership
and Management
2
NURS 450B Professional Role Development III: Clinical
Capstone
3
NURS 415 (US; IL) Community and Family Health Nursing
4
NURS 420 Mental Health Nursing (PSYCH)
4
Elective
3
NURS 480 Preparation for Nursing Licensure Exam (NCLEX
Prep)
2
Total Credits:
13
Total Credits:
13
See IMPORTANT NOTES on back See IMPORTANT NOTES on back See IMPORTANT NOTES on back
Accepted Student Program 2022
Penn State Hershey Medical Center encompasses several specialized institutes and departments:
Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital
The region’s only children’s hospital fully equipped to treat the most severely ill and injured children with both
a
Lev
el IV neonatal intensive care unit and a Level I pediatric trauma hospital. Named a national leader in eight
pediatric specialties by U.S. News and World Report’s 2015-2016 Best Children’s Hospital rankings.
Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute
The region’s only comprehensive cancer center, with access to internationally recognized cancer specialists
and
s
cientists delivering a multidisciplinary approach and advanced medical technology. Earned the Outstandi
ng
A
chievement Award from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.
Penn State Hershey Heart and Vascular Institute
Central Pennsylvania’s only heart transplant center and the regional center for extra corporeal membra
ne
ox
ygenation (ECMO).
Penn State Hershey Neuroscience Institute
Joint Commissioned-c
ertified Comprehensive Stroke Center. Home to the only three board-certified pediatric
neurosurgeons between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.
Penn State Hershey Bone and Joint Institute
Leader in the care of patients with common or complex disorders, with specialists in orthopedics, sports medicine,
s
pinal disorders, hand surgery, metabolic bone disease and osteoporosis, rheumatology, radiology, chronic pai
n
mana
gement and therapy services.
Penn State College of Medicine
The College of Medicine and the School of Nursing collaborate on a growing interdisciplinary curriculum that
al
lows medical, physician assistant and nursing students to learn some clinical skills together, facilitating bette
r
c
ommunication between the professions.
Research at Penn State Hershey
Through numerous projects, PSU Hershey boasts more than $98.3 million in funded medical research annually.
Jan 2020
Education Abroad Opportunities Compatible with Nursing
B.S.N. students in the General Nursing option have the opportunity to study abroad through programs
offered by the Nese College of Nursing and related disciplines. Due to the sequential nature of the
Nursing curriculum, students who wish to stay “on time” with their program may study abroad only
during the summer or semester breaks, or with an embedded program of shorter duration. There are
numerous ways to complete a study abroad experience.
• An embedded program is a course taken at a Penn State campus that includes an
international, credit-bearing travel component. The embedded programs described below are
examples of programs currently or previously offered through Penn State. Program availability
varies from year to year. Students may earn credit for participation in some of the programs.
In the rare event that programs are oversubscribed, students are selected by lottery. Costs
range from $1,500-$8,000 or more depending upon destination, credits allotted, and duration
of the program.
• Students can consider joining the Penn State chapter of Global Brigades, the world’s largest
student-led global health and sustainable development organization. Global Brigades offers
Medical, Public Health, and other chapters that are relevant for Nursing students. Trips are
offered all over the world and can focus on water, the environment, nutrition, education, or
health care. For more details, visit https://fundraise.globalbrigades.org/chapters/university/
pennsylvania-state-university
• Other summer international experiences can be arranged through Penn State Global. More
information can be found at https://global.psu.edu/students
NOTE: Students who pursue abroad experiences during the full fall or spring semesters will find
themselves a year behind in the curriculum.
Chile Students will spend two weeks in Santiago observing and touring
community health sites, such as a rural health care clinic, a local public and
private hospital, and an older care home. These experiences include a mix of
middle class and less affluent citizens. Students will come away with a
realistic portrayal of a typical Chilean healthcare experience and will
participate in both classroom and observed clinical experiences. They will be
hosted by the Escuela de Enfermería (School of Nursing) at the Universidad
de Santiago de Chile.
Honduras In collaboration with the MAMA Project, Inc., Penn
State Nursing students, primarily third and fourth years, serve native
Hondurans by working in a nutritional rehabilitation center. During this
seven-day program, students will assist with medical, dental, and
construction brigades and encourage micronutrient, deworming, and
vitamin A promotion. Students earn credit for a three-credit course.
For more information, visit http://schuylkill.psu.edu/honduras
Education Abroad Opportunities Compatible with Nursing
Jan 2020
Costa Rica This one-week program explores the health care
system in Costa Rica. Students meet with policy makers, administrators,
physicians, and other providers of care to learn how Costa Rica is able to
achieve impressive health outcomes. Students analyze information
obtained on the trip and develop a presentation upon return to the
United States. Students earn credit for a three-credit course. For more
information, visit http://hhd.psu.edu/hpa/Costa-Rica
Cuba This experience to Havana, Cuba is organized through CIEE, an
outside travel organizer, and led by Penn State Nursing faculty. A
minimum of ten Nursing students participate in this eight-day program
exploring community and family health nursing in Cuba through
observational clinical experiences, cultural activities, and lectures.
Hong Kong A limited number of seniors are selected to
participate in this ten-day spring semester program. This experience
enhances students’ abilities to experience a different culture and learn
about the health care system, Eastern medicine, and the nursing education
system in Hong Kong. Students will participate in both classroom and
clinical observations.
Thailand Arrangements are being made for a trip to Thailand.
Check https://www.nursing.psu.edu/study-abroad/ regularly for more
information.
For additional information on Nese College of Nursing travel opportunities, contact
Darlene Clark ([email protected]), Global Studies coordinator for the Nese College of Nursing.
The facts.
Enrollment
2,241 total enrollment
1,991 students enrolled in a
baccalaureate program
1,291 students enrolled at a
Commonwealth Campus
686 students enrolled at
University Park
264 students enrolled in an online
degree program
Based on fall 2021 ofcial enrollment and includes pre-nursing students
Faculty Prole
20 Tenured and Tenure-track
3 Clinical track
9 Research
87 Teaching
2 Endowed professors
11 Fellows in the American
Academy of Nursing
Program established in the College of
Health and Physical Education
- 22 students admitted
1964
First two students received B.S.
degrees in Nursing
1968
School of Nursing becomes
the College of Nursing
2013
Nationally ranked online program:
Penn State World Campus
TOP
10
Accreditation: Commission on
Collegiate Nursing Education
B.S.N., M.S./M.S.N., D.N.P.
Full-time Ph.D. students are eligible
for funding
ALL
Research Prole
Over $17 million in research
expenditures since the college’s
inception
Over $8 million awarded for
gerontology research
Over $4 million awarded for the
development of a sexual assault
forensics training center (SAFE-T
Center)
Approx. $1.5 million awarded to
support clinical and translational
science
Programs offered
UNIVERSITY PARK AND HERSHEY
+ Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
+ BSN to PhD in Nursing
+ PhD in Nursing
+ Dual-title PhD in Nursing and Bioethics
+ Dual-title PhD in Nursing and Clinical and Translational Sciences
+ Post-graduate Nurse Practitioner certicate
OTHER PENN STATE CAMPUSES
+ RN to BSN (six campuses)
+ BSN (seven campuses)
+ Second Degree BSN (two campuses)
WORLD CAMPUS (ONLINE)
+ RN to BSN
+ Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
(Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator Options)
+ Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
(Leadership, Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Gerontological
Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse
Practitioner)
+ Undergraduate certicates in Nursing Forensics,
Nursing Informatics, and Nursing Management
+ Graduate certicates in Gerontology, Nurse Educator,
Nurse Administrator, and Primary Palliative Care
+ Various continuing education opportunities
Degrees awarded
BACCALAUREATE
536
MASTER’S
54
DOCTORAL
12
data based on degrees conferred in summer 2020, fall 2020, and spring 2021
Updated on January 27, 2022
Through a transformational gift, the
college is renamed the Ross and Carol
Nese College of Nursing
2021
Current Initiatives
Community Health Needs Assessment Alignment
The college is prioritizing the health of our community by strategically
focusing our teaching, research, and service on the medical needs identied
by the community through surveys conducted at local medical facilities.
The Tressa Nese and Helen Diskevich
Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence (CGNE)
is a community of nurse educators, clinicians, and researchers whose
leadership is actively improving health care for older adults in America.
MINDSTRONG/MINDBODYSTRONG is a cognitive behavioral
skills building (CBSB) program that provides a theory-based approach to
improve mental health, healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors, and job
satisfaction in clinicians.
Nursing Research Network
The college has received funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes
Research Institute to develop networks for community-based nursing
research throughout Pennsylvania.
Person-Centered Care Collaboration is a program that was
established by the college and the Polisher Research Institute in North
Wales, Pennsylvania. The program will expand on the college’s current focus
on research in aging and person-centered care — a model of elder care that
seeks to improve quality of life by focusing on the patient’s own lifestyle
preferences.
THON Medication Administration
Under the supervision of nursing faculty, BSN students enrolled in NURS
306 (Nursing Care of Children and Adolescents) administer medications for
the dancers in the IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) as part of their
required clinical hours.
Age-Friendly Care, PA is a collaborative for age- and dementia–
friendly care that is a dedicated group of diverse professionals from different
backgrounds working together to improve the lives of older adults in
Pennsylvania, with special attention to older adults living in rural parts of our
state.
Two-Step Delirium Identication Tool
Supported by a grant from the National Institute on Aging, a four-year
interprofessional project, “Researching Efcient Approaches to Delirium
Identication,” aims to improve the care of older adults by developing and
testing a two-step bedside tool to detect delirium in hospitalized adults age
70 and older.
Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth
(SAFE-T) Center
This project uses telehealth technology to enhance access to sexual assault
forensic exams in underserved populations. Through live-examination
videoconferencing with high-resolution image display, the SAFE-T Center
improves the quality of services afforded to victims of assault in rural
hospitals across Pennsylvania.
www.nursing.psu.edu
Our Students
By The Numbers
93%93%
NCLEX PASS RATE
FIRST-TIME TEST TAKERS (2021)
3.56-3.913.56-3.91
HIGH SCHOOL GPA (UNWEIGHTED 4.0 SCALE)
MIDDLE 50% GPA UNIVERSITY PARK PENN STATE
SUMMER/FALL 2021
3.07-3.603.07-3.60
HIGH SCHOOL GPA (UNWEIGHTED 4.0 SCALE)
MIDDLE 50% GPA OTHER CAMPUSES PENN STATE
SUMMER/FALL 2021
1280-14501280-1450
MIDDLE 50% SAT STATISTICS UNIVERSITY PARK
EVIDENCE-BASED READING AND WRITING +
MATH (1600 SCALE) PENN STATE SUMMER/FALL
2021 ADMISSIONS
1090-1300
MIDDLE 50% SAT STATISTICS OTHER
CAMPUSES EVIDENCE-BASED READING AND
WRITING + MATH (1600 SCALE)
PENN STATE SUMMER/FALL 2021 ADMISSIONS
Penn State is an equal opportunity, afrmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualied applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected
veteran status. U.Ed. NUR 21-17
SNAPS
The Student Nurses' Association at Penn State (SNAPS)
HOW TO JOIN
LEADERSHIP
WHAT'S SNAPS?
SNAPS is an award-winning preprofessional
organization open to all nursing students at
Penn State that provides profess
ional
development and service opportunities. SNAPS
is also actively involved on the state and
national level, attending conventions and
presenting nursing legislation.
Attend bi-weekly meetings and
participate in SNAPS events.
Follow SNAPS on Instagram
(@snappennstate) and join our
group on Facebook (SNAP-Penn
State Chapter).
Check out our website snap.psu.edu.
Represent Penn State at state and
national conventions.
Serve in Leadership roles as an
officer at University Park or on the
state and national level.
Attend SNAPS events such as our
resume workshop, career fair, and
guest speaker series.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SOCIAL
THON
Red Cross Blood drives
Sending care packages and letters
to military troops
Sexual assault clothing drive
Spending time with residents at
Juniper Village Senior Living
Participating and raising funds for
the Walk to End Alzheimer's
Community health fairs
Serve the local Penn State community
through various events and programs.
Meet lif
elong friends in your nursing
cohort.
Seasonal activities such as pumpkin
picking and formal.
Join our mentor/mentee program to
connect with an upperclassman for
advice and tips.
THON is the largest student-run
philanthropy.
Throughout the year help raise
money for our THON families so
they never have to pay a single bill.
Our THON partner is Club
Kinesiology.
