Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelors of Science in Nursing Program (LPN to BSN)
LPN to BSN students complete a curriculum that includes a combination of nursing, general education and supporting courses. Laboratory and clinical practice, which is a part of the curriculum, begins in the first semester and extends throughout the program. A variety of healthcare agencies in the community are used for clinical experience. The LPN to BSN program is designed as a day program and is to be completed through full-time study over 2 years. All LPN to BSN graduates are required to complete a minimum of 128 hours, at least 30 of which must be completed at College of Saint Mary. Graduates of the LPN to BSN program are eligible to take the National Council of State Board of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) examination for registered nurses. The BSN program is approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
Read the Nursing Student Manual
Required Courses in Your Major
LPN to BSN students will receive a validation credit of 14 semester credit hours following successful completion of NUR 188 and an LPN active, unencumbered license. These credits will be in lieu of NUR 100/101/102/103.
Program of Study
NUR 200: Psychiatric - Mental Health Nursing – Theory/ Clinical
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of psychiatric-mental health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, and groups in a variety of psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 201/202, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 201: Population Based Community Health Nursing
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of public health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of outpatient and public health settings. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 200/202, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 202: Psych/Public Health Pharmacology
1 credit hour
Students are introduced to principles and practice of psychotropic medication treatment of major mental disorders. Emphasis is on drug classifications, pharmacological action, dosage, side effects, nursing implications and the reason medications are prescribed for individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Emphasis is also placed on the role of herbal, homeopathic, and over-the-counter medications in the community. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 200/201, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 203 : Maternal Newborn Nursing
4 credit hours
Nursing Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of maternal/newborn health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care and will focus on health maintenance, health promotion, and the study of diseases and disorders affecting women, neonates, families, groups, communities, and populations along the health-illness continuum in a variety of maternal/newborn inpatient and outpatient settings. Prerequisite Courses: PSY 101: General Psychology Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses Co-Requisite Courses: NUR 204: Pediatric Nursing NUR 205: Maternal/Pediatric Pharmacology
NUR 204: Pediatric Nursing
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of pediatric nursing. This course will focus on health promotion, health maintenance, and the study of diseases and disorders affecting infants, children, adolescents, and families along the health-illness continuum. Concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of pediatric inpatient and community-based settings. Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 203/205, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 205: Maternal/Child Pharmacology
1 credit hour
Students will explore principles and practice of medication therapy, drug classification and patient-related variables for the maternal/child patient. Emphasis is on drug classifications, pharmacological action, dosage, side effects, nursing implications, and indications of medication prescribed for maternal/child patients. Nursing assessment and evaluation of patient responses to medications in relation to health, age, lifestyle, gender, ethnicity, and other cultural factors is explored. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 203/204, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 206: Cultural and Spiritual Care in Nursing (GCD)
3 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts regarding culture and strategies for providing culturally competent nursing care in a multi-cultural society. The student will develop awareness of cultural and spiritual beliefs that impact behavior and life choices of individuals seeking health care. Cultural concepts and principles are discussed as related to provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable patients, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of inpatient, outpatient, and public health settings. This course provides a balance between acquiring some background knowledge of select cultural groups encountered in clinical practice, and developing attitudes and skills that are not specific to any particular culture but are universally relevant. Prerequisite: All Nursing 100 level courses
NUR 207: Introduction to Nursing Research/ EBP
3 credit hours
The focus of this nursing course is to provide an overview of nursing theories, prepare the student to critically evaluate nursing research, and discuss the importance of evidence-based practice at the baccalaureate level. This course will examine the basic components of qualitative and quantitative research as well as the ethical considerations in nursing research. The course emphasizes correlations between patient-centered care, safety, professional role, evidence-based practice, and patient outcomes. Prerequisite: All Nursing 100 level courses, Prerequisites/Co-requisites: MTH 242
NUR 300: Acute Medical/Surgical Nursing
8 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of acute medical/surgical nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in medical/surgical settings. Emphasis is on skill development in systematic assessment utilizing the nursing process, developing competency in selected nursing therapies, and developing a role as professional nurse. Prerequisite: All Nursing 200 level courses and BIO 366, Co-requisite: NUR 301
NUR 301: Acute Medical/Surgical Pharmacology
2 credit hours
Students continue to develop an understanding of pharmacological principles as related to nursing practice with application of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Emphasis is placed on medications commonly encountered in the acute medical/surgical population. Prerequisite: All Nursing 200 level courses and BIO 366, Co-requisites: NUR 300
NUR 303: Multisystem Medical/Surgical Nursing–Theory/Clinical
8 credit hours
This course focuses on the role of the professional nurse in caring for individuals with multi-system alterations. Students will integrate and expand on previously learned skills and theories. Students will have opportunities to apply principles of prioritization, delegation, and coordination of care as part of the interdisciplinary care team. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301, Co-requisite: NUR 304
NUR 304: Multisystem Medical/Surgical Pharmacology
2 credit hours
Student will build upon previously learned pharmacological concepts and principles with synthesis of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Emphasis is placed on medications commonly used for adults with multi-system alterations. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301, Co-requisite: NUR 303
NUR 305: Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
2 credit hours
This course focuses on knowledge and skills that professional nurses need to effectively respond to challenges in the rapidly changing healthcare system. Students examine issues regarding access to care, affordability, equity, and social justice along with select social, political, legal, and organizational communication factors which influence professional nursing practice and the healthcare system. Topics include organizational communication, legal issues, healthcare policy, regulatory influences, professional advocacy, use of technology in the professional environment, and transition into practice. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301
NUR 306: Nursing Management and Leadership
2 credit hours
This baccalaureate nursing course provides students with the opportunity to apply leadership/management and quality improvement principles to professional nursing. The course is designed to enhance leadership self-awareness as students examine how leadership/management and quality improvement affects patient-centered care, safety, professional role, and communication. Synthesis of content will be demonstrated through a capstone project. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301
NUR 307: Professional Nursing Preceptorship
6 clinical credit hours
In this course, students will provide and manage care for patients in selected clinical settings under the supervision of a baccalaureate-prepared Registered Nurse preceptor. This preceptorship experience is structured to foster synthesis of theoretical concepts, refinement of clinical skills, organization of patient care activities, development of sound clinical decision-making skills, and demonstration of the ability to work effectively as a team member. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to deliver safe, patient-centered care, as members of an interdisciplinary team, emphasizing evidence-based practice, quality improvement approaches and informatics, consistent with the Institute of Medicine (IOM) core competencies and Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) guidelines. This course also incorporates a virtual and live review to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 306
Requirements for Graduation from College of Saint Mary
The BSN program requires the completion of 128 credit hours. Of that, 69 credit hours are major program courses, 41 credit hours are general education, 15 credit hours are supporting courses, and three credit hours are electives.
Program Licensure Requirements
After graduating from the BSN program at College of Saint Mary, graduates must apply for licensure and successfully complete the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The requirements for licensure may vary by state. The link below will provide the state requirements for a RN license.
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at College of Saint Mary located in Omaha, Nebraska is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the BSN program is continued accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at http://www.acenursing.us/accreditedprograms/programSearch.htm.
Admissions Requirements
Admission Criteria
LPN to BSN Program Option
Applicants will be reviewed for admission into the LPN to BSN program once the prerequisite requirements have been completed. Prerequisite requirements include:
- 31 program-required credits which must include:
- CHM 100/CHM 100L: Fundamentals of Chemistry with lab
- BIO 200/BIO 201: A&P I with lab
- BIO 202/BIO 203: A&P II with lab
- BIO 230/BIO 231: Microbiology with lab
- An English Composition course
- Intermediate Algebra or Statistics
- 9 additional program-required general education credits
Once the prerequisites have been completed, admission requirements to the LPN to BSN program option include:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 including all program-required science and math credits (including transfer credits if applicable).
- No more than one unsuccessful completion (C-, D, F, or withdrawal) of a program-required science or math course since the completion of the PN program.
- Program-required science courses must have been completed within the 5 years prior to matriculation semester.
- An active, unencumbered LPN/LVN license. Students may be accepted on a conditional status if the NCLEX-PN is scheduled and passed prior to BSN Level 2 courses starting.
LPN to BSN applicants who do not meet admission standards due to prerequisite requirements, will be admitted into Pre-Nursing. Students may remain in the Pre-Nursing pathway for one academic year. After one year, students must meet admission requirements to progress into the LPN to BSN program.
Catalog Application materials for the nursing program are processed by Enrollment Services or Nursing CAS and then submitted to the nursing Program Director for review. Applications are reviewed by the nursing Program Director upon receipt of all of the following:
- application form
- official copy of high school transcript or GED with appropriate signatures
- official school transcripts from all colleges attended
- demonstration of an active, unencumbered LPN license
- a personal interview may be requested by the Program Director.
If the applicant meets the criteria for nursing, the applicant will be notified of acceptance in writing.
Academic Description
Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelors of Science in Nursing Program (LPN to BSN)
LPN to BSN students complete a curriculum that includes a combination of nursing, general education and supporting courses. Laboratory and clinical practice, which is a part of the curriculum, begins in the first semester and extends throughout the program. A variety of healthcare agencies in the community are used for clinical experience. The LPN to BSN program is designed as a day program and is to be completed through full-time study over 2 years. All LPN to BSN graduates are required to complete a minimum of 128 hours, at least 30 of which must be completed at College of Saint Mary. Graduates of the LPN to BSN program are eligible to take the National Council of State Board of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) examination for registered nurses. The BSN program is approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
Read the Nursing Student Manual
Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at College of Saint Mary located in Omaha, Nebraska is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the BSN program is continued accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at http://www.acenursing.us/accreditedprograms/programSearch.htm.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions Requirements
Admission Criteria
LPN to BSN Program Option
Applicants will be reviewed for admission into the LPN to BSN program once the prerequisite requirements have been completed. Prerequisite requirements include:
- 31 program-required credits which must include:
- CHM 100/CHM 100L: Fundamentals of Chemistry with lab
- BIO 200/BIO 201: A&P I with lab
- BIO 202/BIO 203: A&P II with lab
- BIO 230/BIO 231: Microbiology with lab
- An English Composition course
- Intermediate Algebra or Statistics
- 9 additional program-required general education credits
Once the prerequisites have been completed, admission requirements to the LPN to BSN program option include:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 including all program-required science and math credits (including transfer credits if applicable).
- No more than one unsuccessful completion (C-, D, F, or withdrawal) of a program-required science or math course since the completion of the PN program.
- Program-required science courses must have been completed within the 5 years prior to matriculation semester.
- An active, unencumbered LPN/LVN license. Students may be accepted on a conditional status if the NCLEX-PN is scheduled and passed prior to BSN Level 2 courses starting.
LPN to BSN applicants who do not meet admission standards due to prerequisite requirements, will be admitted into Pre-Nursing. Students may remain in the Pre-Nursing pathway for one academic year. After one year, students must meet admission requirements to progress into the LPN to BSN program.
Catalog Application materials for the nursing program are processed by Enrollment Services or Nursing CAS and then submitted to the nursing Program Director for review. Applications are reviewed by the nursing Program Director upon receipt of all of the following:
- application form
- official copy of high school transcript or GED with appropriate signatures
- official school transcripts from all colleges attended
- demonstration of an active, unencumbered LPN license
- a personal interview may be requested by the Program Director.
If the applicant meets the criteria for nursing, the applicant will be notified of acceptance in writing.
Curriculum
Required Courses in Your Major
LPN to BSN students will receive a validation credit of 14 semester credit hours following successful completion of NUR 188 and an LPN active, unencumbered license. These credits will be in lieu of NUR 100/101/102/103.
Program of Study
NUR 200: Psychiatric - Mental Health Nursing – Theory/ Clinical
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of psychiatric-mental health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, and groups in a variety of psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 201/202, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 201: Population Based Community Health Nursing
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of public health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of outpatient and public health settings. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 200/202, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 202: Psych/Public Health Pharmacology
1 credit hour
Students are introduced to principles and practice of psychotropic medication treatment of major mental disorders. Emphasis is on drug classifications, pharmacological action, dosage, side effects, nursing implications and the reason medications are prescribed for individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Emphasis is also placed on the role of herbal, homeopathic, and over-the-counter medications in the community. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 200/201, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 203 : Maternal Newborn Nursing
4 credit hours
Nursing Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of maternal/newborn health nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care and will focus on health maintenance, health promotion, and the study of diseases and disorders affecting women, neonates, families, groups, communities, and populations along the health-illness continuum in a variety of maternal/newborn inpatient and outpatient settings. Prerequisite Courses: PSY 101: General Psychology Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses Co-Requisite Courses: NUR 204: Pediatric Nursing NUR 205: Maternal/Pediatric Pharmacology
NUR 204: Pediatric Nursing
4 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of pediatric nursing. This course will focus on health promotion, health maintenance, and the study of diseases and disorders affecting infants, children, adolescents, and families along the health-illness continuum. Concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of pediatric inpatient and community-based settings. Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 203/205, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 205: Maternal/Child Pharmacology
1 credit hour
Students will explore principles and practice of medication therapy, drug classification and patient-related variables for the maternal/child patient. Emphasis is on drug classifications, pharmacological action, dosage, side effects, nursing implications, and indications of medication prescribed for maternal/child patients. Nursing assessment and evaluation of patient responses to medications in relation to health, age, lifestyle, gender, ethnicity, and other cultural factors is explored. Prerequisites: All Nursing 100 level courses, PSY 101, Co-requisite: NUR 203/204, Prerequisites/Co-requisite: BIO 230/231
NUR 206: Cultural and Spiritual Care in Nursing (GCD)
3 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts regarding culture and strategies for providing culturally competent nursing care in a multi-cultural society. The student will develop awareness of cultural and spiritual beliefs that impact behavior and life choices of individuals seeking health care. Cultural concepts and principles are discussed as related to provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable patients, families, groups, communities, and populations in a variety of inpatient, outpatient, and public health settings. This course provides a balance between acquiring some background knowledge of select cultural groups encountered in clinical practice, and developing attitudes and skills that are not specific to any particular culture but are universally relevant. Prerequisite: All Nursing 100 level courses
NUR 207: Introduction to Nursing Research/ EBP
3 credit hours
The focus of this nursing course is to provide an overview of nursing theories, prepare the student to critically evaluate nursing research, and discuss the importance of evidence-based practice at the baccalaureate level. This course will examine the basic components of qualitative and quantitative research as well as the ethical considerations in nursing research. The course emphasizes correlations between patient-centered care, safety, professional role, evidence-based practice, and patient outcomes. Prerequisite: All Nursing 100 level courses, Prerequisites/Co-requisites: MTH 242
NUR 300: Acute Medical/Surgical Nursing
8 credit hours
Students are introduced to theoretical concepts and principles of acute medical/surgical nursing. The concepts and principles are integrated in the provision of holistic nursing care for vulnerable individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations in medical/surgical settings. Emphasis is on skill development in systematic assessment utilizing the nursing process, developing competency in selected nursing therapies, and developing a role as professional nurse. Prerequisite: All Nursing 200 level courses and BIO 366, Co-requisite: NUR 301
NUR 301: Acute Medical/Surgical Pharmacology
2 credit hours
Students continue to develop an understanding of pharmacological principles as related to nursing practice with application of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Emphasis is placed on medications commonly encountered in the acute medical/surgical population. Prerequisite: All Nursing 200 level courses and BIO 366, Co-requisites: NUR 300
NUR 303: Multisystem Medical/Surgical Nursing–Theory/Clinical
8 credit hours
This course focuses on the role of the professional nurse in caring for individuals with multi-system alterations. Students will integrate and expand on previously learned skills and theories. Students will have opportunities to apply principles of prioritization, delegation, and coordination of care as part of the interdisciplinary care team. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301, Co-requisite: NUR 304
NUR 304: Multisystem Medical/Surgical Pharmacology
2 credit hours
Student will build upon previously learned pharmacological concepts and principles with synthesis of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Emphasis is placed on medications commonly used for adults with multi-system alterations. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301, Co-requisite: NUR 303
NUR 305: Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
2 credit hours
This course focuses on knowledge and skills that professional nurses need to effectively respond to challenges in the rapidly changing healthcare system. Students examine issues regarding access to care, affordability, equity, and social justice along with select social, political, legal, and organizational communication factors which influence professional nursing practice and the healthcare system. Topics include organizational communication, legal issues, healthcare policy, regulatory influences, professional advocacy, use of technology in the professional environment, and transition into practice. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301
NUR 306: Nursing Management and Leadership
2 credit hours
This baccalaureate nursing course provides students with the opportunity to apply leadership/management and quality improvement principles to professional nursing. The course is designed to enhance leadership self-awareness as students examine how leadership/management and quality improvement affects patient-centered care, safety, professional role, and communication. Synthesis of content will be demonstrated through a capstone project. Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 301
NUR 307: Professional Nursing Preceptorship
6 clinical credit hours
In this course, students will provide and manage care for patients in selected clinical settings under the supervision of a baccalaureate-prepared Registered Nurse preceptor. This preceptorship experience is structured to foster synthesis of theoretical concepts, refinement of clinical skills, organization of patient care activities, development of sound clinical decision-making skills, and demonstration of the ability to work effectively as a team member. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to deliver safe, patient-centered care, as members of an interdisciplinary team, emphasizing evidence-based practice, quality improvement approaches and informatics, consistent with the Institute of Medicine (IOM) core competencies and Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) guidelines. This course also incorporates a virtual and live review to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Prerequisite: All Nursing courses through NUR 306
Degree Requirements
Requirements for Graduation from College of Saint Mary
The BSN program requires the completion of 128 credit hours. Of that, 69 credit hours are major program courses, 41 credit hours are general education, 15 credit hours are supporting courses, and three credit hours are electives.
Program Licensure Requirements
After graduating from the BSN program at College of Saint Mary, graduates must apply for licensure and successfully complete the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The requirements for licensure may vary by state. The link below will provide the state requirements for a RN license.
