Who can apply for the Second Degree Program?

The Second Degree Program is limited to those who have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in another major from an accredited college or university.

What is the benefit of earning a BSN degree?

This article, titled, “The Impact of Nursing Education on Practice” from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing explains the evidence behind the need for nurses to be educationally prepared at the Baccalaureate level or higher.

https://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/impact-of-education

Is the program accredited?

The baccalaureate degrees in nursing, master’s degree in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Grand Valley State University’s Kirkhof College of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education https://www.aacn.nche.edu/ccne-accreditation

How long is the program?

The Second Degree program is four consecutive semesters in length from start to finish (including the Summer semester). The Second Degree program is a full-time program with 12-15 credits per semester.

Can the program be part-time?

The Second Degree Program is full-time, but the pre-requisite courses can be completed with part-time study.  

How many hours of study time per week are expected for each class?

A minimum of three hours of study for each credit hour is standard. Clinical courses require three hours of clinical experience (hospital, clinic, skills labs, seminar) for one academic credit. Clinical hours are completed in 2 or 3 days per week, depending on the course and will occur during the day, evening, or at night. Weekend hours may also occur.

What information must be submitted prior to starting the professional nursing courses?

Physical examination, successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screen through a Kirkhof College of Nursing specified provider, documentation of Rubella, Rubeola, Polio, DPT, TB immunity, Hepatitis B vaccine, flu shot, titers showing immunity to MMR, Hepatitis B, and Varicella, and current annual Adult/Child/Infant CPR (for healthcare provider) certification through the American Heart Association. Each clinical course requires a current CPR certification, and annual TB test.  Some clinical sites require students to have personal health insurance.                              

Are students able to work while in the program?

We recommend that students do not work while in the program.  Most students spend between 40 – 60 hours per week in class, clinical placement, and studying.

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition costs for GVSU can be found on the GVSU website: GVSU Financial Aid.  Books, uniforms, stethoscope, BP cuff, transportation, etc. are extra. 

Are there scholarships available for nursing students?

Yes, financial resources are available. Scholarships for students admitted to the professional nursing program are available through the Financial Aid Office website or by contacting the GVSU Financial Aid office at (616) 331-3234 for further information. 

Do I have an Academic Advisor?

Yes, you will be assigned a nursing Academic Advisor after you declare Nursing as your major. Academic Advisors assist with the development of educational plans, clarify and guide students through the nursing admissions process, and enhance student awareness of educational resources.   

When will I become a Registered Nurse?

Students need to apply to the State Board of Nursing for the licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).  Upon successful completion of the BSN program and graduation from GVSU, a certificate of completion is submitted to the State Board of Nursing and they will notify the student of their eligibility and where the exam is offered.  Passing the NCLEX-RN earns licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

You can contact the Kirkhof College of Nursing, Office of Student Services at (616) 331-7160.