Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

Nursing

Accredited by CCNE, McNeese's bachelor's degree in nursing program boasts an average 98% first-time passage rate for students taking the NCLEX nurse licensing exam.

Program Highlights

BSN Degree Program Highlights

Approved by the Louisiana State Boarding of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), McNeese’s Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students to enter the profession as skilled, compassionate and efficient caregivers. Our curriculum gives BSN students a strong foundational knowledge in human anatomy and physiology, mental health, pharmacology, leadership, medical ethics and more. In addition, BSN students receive extensive experience in the field as part of their course of study by working directly with patients and healthcare professionals in a variety of clinical settings.

A challenging BSN program that delivers results

McNeese’s rigorous program fully prepares BSN students to succeed. To become a practicing nurse, all students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). With an average first-time passage rate of 98%, McNeese nursing students earn their licenses at a rate that far exceeds national and state averages.

At a Glance

Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

Program Length: 4 years (120 credit hours)

Availability: in person

Program Overview

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Program overview

Explore More for BSN Majors

McNeese offers students a multidisciplinary learning experience and the chance to work one-on-one with faculty. Other benefits include:

Comprehensive Curriculum:

Starting in their fourth semester, nursing majors take nursing courses that expose them to a variety of clinical settings, including mental health, adult health, obstetrics, pediatrics, and community health, which allows students to interact with a range of patients, get experience providing healthcare in many settings, and to determine which area they would like to focus their course of study in.

Hands-on Experience:

Nursing majors receive extensive hands-on experience through a six-week preceptorship at a local healthcare facility in their final semester. Working one-on-one with a professional nursing mentor, BSN students care for individuals in the real world using the skills and knowledge they’ve developed in prior semesters.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

The undergraduate nursing program, housed in Hardtner Hall at McNeese, has integrated simulation experiences throughout the curriculum. Students practice the skills they need to care for patients in one of three clinical laboratories. Case-based scenarios that reflect current practice are used so students can hone their clinical judgement skills within the safety of the simulation lab. High fidelity mannequins allow students to practice patient interactions with infants, children and adults; care for laboring mothers; and perform in-depth physical examinations. Virtual simulation tools are also available for students to use to practice a number of different nursing procedures.

Experienced Faculty:

The faculty in the Department of Undergraduate Nursing is composed of highly qualified nurses who bring their knowledge and career experience into the classroom. Multiple faculty members enhance their education through certification as Nurse Educators and Healthcare Simulation Educators. All faculty embrace professional development to ensure the best student experiences.

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Other Degree Program Options

RN-to-BSN

If you already have an associate's degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing and want to pursue a bachelor's degree, the RN-to-BSN program is for you. Offered 100% online, this degree prepares you to pursue leadership opportunities within nursing.

RN-to-BSN Program

LPN-to-BSN

If you're already a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and want to pursue your bachelor's degree, we have an LPN-BSN program for you! Receive credit for your LPN coursework once you've completed the general education coursework and achieved a successful score on the LPN Mobility Exam.

LPN-to-BSN Curriculum

Careers and Opportunities

What Can You Do with a Nursing Degree?

The demand for nurses is expected to grow 15 percent through 2026—much faster than the average for other occupations, due to an increased emphasis on preventative care, growing rates of chronic conditions and a population who will seek more healthcare as they age. Nursing graduates can also continue on to graduate school to specialize their skillsets and advance their careers:

Graduate Schools or Programs

Job Titles

Assistant Healthcare Facility Administrator
Behavioral Health Nurse
Cardiology Nurse
Client Care Manager
Health Administrative Coordinator
Health Promotion Specialist
Home Health Nurse
Intensive Care Nurse
Medical Practice Manager
Medical Scribe
Occupational Health Nurse
Oncology Nurse
Pediatric Nurse
Residency Coordinator
School Nurse

Scholarships Available

A wide variety of scholarships are available to nursing students based on faculty recommendations, high GPAs and other criteria. Contact the Scholarships Office to find out more.

Student Nurses Association

McNeese’s Student Nurses Association is a vibrant on-campus community for nursing majors. Every semester, the association brings in guest speakers from a variety of nursing fields to give BSN students a glimpse into employment opportunities they have after graduation. Student chapter officers also have the opportunity to attend the Louisiana Association of Student Nurses convention and connect with local leaders in the field.

Student Organizations

In addition to the Student Nurses Association, there are a number of other organizations nursing majors can join. In their senior year, students who qualify may also join the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society chapter at McNeese.