The University of Akron

Nursing Programs Offered

RN to BSN Program Details

The University of Akron College of Nursing offers two career pathways to meet the needs of registered nurses who are interested in obtaining either the baccalaureate or masters degree in nursing. The sequences are designed for RNs who completed either a diploma or associate degree nursing program as well as RNs with bachelor degrees in an area other than nursing. Both pathways provide learning activities that build on prior knowledge and experience.

The BSN for RN sequence is designed for nurses who wish to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing. The program itself, after completion of the prerequisites, is three full-time semesters. A part-time option is available.

Highlights of the BSN for RN program:

-Completion of the baccalaureate degree in one year
-Adult learner focused, building on prior learning and clinical experience
-Courses meet one day per week (excluding clinical)
-Summer start date
-An option to portfolio student experience in place of one clinical
-No challenge exams required

BSN Program Details

University of Akron students apply through their Academic Adviser during a specified period of spring semester to be considered for fall admission into the nursing major. Students must meet the minimum criteria listed below and are separated into categories for admission consideration.

-2.75 Prerequisite GPA (All prerequisites must be completed by the end of spring semester
-2.75 Prerequisite Science GPA (Intro to Gen., Organic, & Biochem I and II lecture/lab and Anatomy & Physiology I and II lecture/lab)-ranking in each admission category will be by science GPA.
-No grade less than a "C" in any prerequisite course (grades of "C-" must be repeated; see repeat policy below)

RN to MSN Program Details

The MSN for RN option is designed for the experienced nurse who wishes to go on to graduate study to prepare for advance nursing practice roles such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse administrator. In this program, students take courses that meet the requirements of the baccalaureate degree as well as graduate nursing courses. Upon completion of the baccalaureate course requirements, the baccalaureate degree is awarded.

Students then continue in their chosen specialty area at the master's level. The entire MSN for RN option program, after completion of the prerequisite courses, is seven to eight full- time semesters. A part-time program of study is available.

Accelerated BSN Program Details

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) is designed for the individual who already has completed a baccalaureate program in another area of study from a regionally accredited college or university and wishes to obtain a degree in nursing.

The Accelerated BSN is a four semester program beginning in the summer semester. Admission occurs at summer semester only. Students will progress through the curriculum taking the courses as they appear in the program plan. Students will complete the program in August of the next year with a baccalaureate degree in nursing.

Applicants must meet specific admission requirements and all prerequisite science courses must be completed within five years of application to the program.