Become a Nurse in the Growing Field of Healthcare
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Rocky Mount, NC designed to prepare students for a successful career in healthcare.
The NCWU traditional BSN program stands out with its unique features designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice. The program emphasizes leading and improving health outcomes through evidence-based research, patient-centered care, and innovative approaches. Students gain competence in essential nursing skills, communication, assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional attributes. Our BS in Nursing program offers a holistic structure that serves as a strong foundation for further degree advancement and leadership roles in nursing. Students will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including a simulation and skills lab with high-fidelity manikins and tech-equipped classrooms. Supported by expert faculty and local community hospitals who mentor students, our program ensures a comprehensive and enriching educational experience in eastern NC.
A Robust Nursing Curriculum in eastern NC
Important Dates
Applications Open: February 1 through May 1.
Admission Decisions: Announced by June 1, so you can start in August.
Local Community Support
Our community is deeply invested in your success, providing a supportive environment.
Hands-On Learning in State-of-the-Art Facilities
Simulation and Skills Lab: Equipped with high-fidelity and medium-fidelity simulation manikins, task trainers, and a mock hospital room.
Classrooms: Two large, tech-equipped classrooms just for nursing students.
Study Spaces: Group study rooms and extra time in the skills lab are available for booking.
Innovative Technology: We use virtual reality and AI for clinical simulations, making learning engaging and realistic.
Expert Faculty
Learn from experienced professionals who are leaders in the field of nursing and applied healthcare. Our faculty are committed to mentoring you throughout your academic journey.
Why Earn Your BS in Nursing at NCWU?
Our Nursing Program is designed to guide you through a rewarding journey over four years. Here’s a overview of what to expect:
Freshman and Sophomore Years
First Two Years: You’ll focus on prerequisites and general education courses. This foundation is essential for your nursing education.
End of Sophomore Year: Time to apply for admission to the nursing program!
If Admitted: You’ll dive into the nursing program in your junior year. See below for requirements.
Junior and Senior Years
These years are packed with nursing courses and clinical experiences, preparing you for a professional career.
Transfer Students
Good News: Transfer students are welcome! You don’t need to have taken your prerequisite courses at NCWU.
Join us at NCWU and embark on a journey that blends creativity, technology, and a passion for nursing. We can't wait to see you thrive!
NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program.
Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.
Program Features & Highlights:
Personal
Our faculty has real-world professional experience to ensure you are challenged and supported through mentoring and the connections we provide.
Practical
Develop lifelong skills through your educational opportunities that are broadly useful, fully transferable and applicable to any challenge or career.
Purpose-driven
Use your degree as a stepping stone to pursue accredited certifications offered at leading organizations or post-graduate study programs.
BS in Nursing Program Overview
Application deadline for each fall semester: May 1 of each year
Applicants will be notified of admissions decisions by June 1
How to Apply to the NCWU Nursing Program
Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.
STEP 1: Apply as a Traditional Undergraduate Student
Complete a NCWU application as a traditional 4-year undergraduate student. If you are considered a Traditional Undergraduate student, you will complete the Undergraduate-Traditional Programs Application. If you have a current RN license, complete the APS Application. NOTE: Once accepted into the University, you will then be assigned to a nursing advisor.
STEP 2: Apply as to the Nursing (BSN) Program
Once you have met the prerequisite requirements below, you can then complete formal application to the nursing program. NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program. If you have not met all of the prerequisites, you will need to complete those courses before applying to the nursing program.
Requirements for Nursing Program Admission
In order to be considered for admission to the prelicensure BSN program at North Carolina Wesleyan University, students must meet the following criteria:
Required:
- Combined overall GPA of 2.8 or higher on all college coursework from all institutions attended
- Completion of the following prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better:
Introduction to Psychology, Writing I, Writing II, College Algebra, Life Science with Lab, Elementary Statistics, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Chemistry with Lab, Lifespan Development, Microbiology with Lab - Math and science courses must have been taken within the past 5 years.
- Equivalent prerequisite courses from other institutions will be considered as an alternative to the above if a grade of C or better was achieved in those courses.
- The student should submit a 500-word essay discussing their career goals and why they are choosing to enter the nursing profession.
- A letter of recommendation from a current or former college professor or instructor.
- Minimum score of 75% on HESI A2 Entrance Exam (must be within 3 years of application date)
- Signed NCWU Essential Requirements for Nursing Education Document
Preferred:
- CNA I listing with the NC Nurse Aide Registry
- BLS certification for Healthcare Providers
- Completion of all NCWU general education Wesleyan Core course requirements
Once a student is accepted into the prelicensure BSN program at NCWU, they must then meet the following requirements before beginning their nursing coursework and clinical rotations:
- Negative drug screening annually
- Negative background check
- BLS certification for Healthcare Providers
- Current immunizations, including the following:
- Hepatitis B
- MMR
- Polio
- Varicella
- Meningococcal conjugate
- Tdap or DTaP
- Seasonal influenza vaccination
- Negative tuberculosis testing- Students may show negative results via PPD skin test, Quantiferon gold lab testing, and/or a negative chest Xray. Results must be within 90 days prior to starting nursing coursework
- Completed NCWU Nursing Health Assessment Form (must submit annually)
- Evidence of Health Insurance Coverage (must submit annually)
Disclaimer: Additional requirements may be required by our partnering clinical agencies prior to a student participating in clinical experiences with their organization. These requirements will be communicated to students verbally and in writing in a timely manner should they arise.
NCWU has a high-quality simulation and skills lab, including high-fidelity and medium-fidelity simulation manikins, as well as multiple task trainers and a mock hospital room for students to practice skills and clinical scenarios.
There are two large classrooms equipped with advanced technology that will be designated to nursing students.
Availability of group study rooms in the nursing building, as well as ability to book extra time in the skills lab as desired.
NCWU plans to utilize virtual reality and AI technology for clinical simulation experiences.
Our Nursing program ensures you will:
- Apply theories and concepts from the liberal arts, humanities and sciences as the foundation for professional nursing practice.
- Demonstrate knowledge and utilization of quality improvement and safety management concepts to provide competent professional nursing care.
- Translate credible nursing research into evidence-based nursing practice.
- Manage information technology in the delivery of providing enhanced innovative quality patient care in various healthcare settings.
- Integrate knowledge of healthcare policy, financial concepts and regulatory requirements that influence the delivery of healthcare.
- Facilitate effective communication and collaboration to improve health outcomes and minimize risks to improve practice.
- Apply and analyze principles of prevention and health promotion at both the individual and population level, across the lifespan.
- Demonstrate professional values, ethics, morals and legal conduct, as well as accountability for personal and professional behavior.
- Demonstrate a spirit of inquiry and scholarship that supports professional growth and lifelong learning in a profession with diverse evolving societal needs.
NCWU Nursing Program Goals
- Prepare students for professional nursing practice that is focused on leading and improving the health and well-being of those served (individual, family, community, or population) through the use of: 1) evidence-based research, 2) patient centered care approaches, and 3) innovation.
- Prepare students for professional nursing practice through obtainment of competence in nursing skills, communication, assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional attributes.
- The prelicensure BSN program will provide a holistic structure for professional nursing practice that will serve as the foundation towards further degree advancement and leadership.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing 4-year Degree Plan
The North Carolina Wesleyan University BSN in Nursing is a four year program. Freshman and sophomore years are spent taking prerequisites and general education courses.
Students will apply for admission to the nursing program at the end of the sophomore year. If admitted, students begin the program in their junior year and will spend their junior and senior years in the nursing program.
The curriculum example features:
FALL SEMESTER- Freshman Year
*PSY 111 – Introduction to Psychology (3)
*ENG 111 – Writing I (3)
*MAT 113 – College Algebra (3)
*BIO 101 – Life Science (3)
*BIO 102 – Life Science Lab (1)
COL 103 – First Year Experience (1)
COL 150 – First Year Inquiry (3)
SPRING SEMESTER- Freshman Year
*ENG 112 – Writing II (Eng 111 PR) (3)
Global Perspective Core (3)
REL 101 – Introduction to Religion (3)
ART/MUS 101 – Art Appreciation (3)
*MAT 213 – Elementary Statistics (3)
EXS 100 – Fitness & Wellness (2)
FALL SEMESTER- Sophomore Year
*BIO 231 – Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
Global Perspective Core (3)
Civic Engagement Core (3)
*CHM 111 – Gen Chemistry I OR CHM 211 – Gen/Org/Biochemistry for Nurses (3)
*CHM 112 – Gen Chemistry I Lab OR CHM 212 – GOB Chemistry Lab (1)
SPRING SEMESTER- Sophomore Year
*SSC 225 – Lifespan Development (3)
ENG 115 – Intro to Literature (3)
*BIO 232 – Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
*BIO 241 – Microbiology with Lab (4)
Civic Engagement Core (3)
FALL SEMESTER- Junior Year
NUR 307 – Health Assessment (3)
NUR 303 – Foundations of Professional Nursing Practice with Clinical Theory (3)
NUR 308 – Pharmacology I (3)
NUR 312 – Nursing Care of Adults with Clinical (6)
SPRING SEMESTER- Junior Year
NUR 309 – Pharmacology II (3)
NUR 315 – Mental Health Nursing with Clinical (4)
NUR 320 – Care of Geriatric Patients with Clinical (4)
NUR 306 – Nutrition and Health (3)
FALL SEMESTER- Senior Year
NUR 328 – Nursing Care of Women and Children with Clinical (6)
NUR 351 – Nursing Leadership, Management, Quality, and Safety (3)
NUR 401 – Professional Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice (4)
SPRING SEMESTER- Senior Year
NUR 405 – NCLEX Review Course (3)
NUR 415 – Public Health Nursing with Clinical (4)
NUR 450 – Clinical Capstone Course (6)
Measurable Career Growth and Options for Nursing Occupation
Graduates of NCWU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing are prepared for diverse roles in the healthcare industry. Applying to NCWU’s 4-year nursing program offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive career choice for many. Here are some key advantages:
Job Security and Demand
- High Demand: Nurses are always in demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth rate for registered nurses from 2022 to 2032
- Job Security: The ongoing nursing shortage ensures that qualified nurses have a stable and secure career
Competitive Salary and Benefits
- Good Salary: The average annual salary for registered nurses is around $94,480, which is higher than the median for all occupations
- Comprehensive Benefits: Many nursing positions offer excellent benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and tuition reimbursement
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
- Flexible Schedules: Nurses often have the option to work various shifts (8, 10, or 12 hours), allowing for a better work-life balance
- Diverse Work Environments: Opportunities to work in different settings, such as hospitals, schools, home care, and travel nursing
Personal and Professional Growth
- Career Advancement: Numerous pathways for advancement, including specializations, leadership roles, and advanced practice positions
- Continuous Learning: Nursing programs emphasize lifelong learning and professional development
Making a Difference
- Impactful Work: Nurses play a crucial role in patient care, offering support and making a significant difference in people’s lives
- Community Contribution: The profession allows individuals to contribute positively to their communities and improve public health
These benefits make nursing a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. This program is designed to provide a robust education and hands-on experience, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses in eastern North Carolina. If you have any specific questions about the program, feel free to complete our quick inquiry form!
American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS)
Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare professionals trains participants to promptly recognize several life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality CPR. Find below a Summer 2025 list of dates/times offered on NCWU Rocky Mount campus for the AHA BLS Healthcare Providers course:
Summer 2025 Dates
- May 9 at 8 a.m.
- May 30 at 1 p.m.
- June 13 at 8 a.m.
- June 27 at 1 p.m.
- July 11 at 8 a.m.
- July 25 at 1 p.m.
Interested learners/faculty/staff (eligible for Healthcare Providers) can reach out via email to cprsavesprofessionals@gmail.com for roster sign-up and payment.
NCLEX Exam
Graduating from NCWU Nursing program allows you to sit for the NCLEX exam which is the exam that ALL nurses take to become a licensed Registered Nurse. Once you pass the NCLEX, you will then become a registered nurse.
HESI A2 Exam
The HESI A2 is an entrance exam that students will take prior to applying to the Nursing program. The exam is offered at various times throughout the semester on campus at NCWU. You can contact nursing@ncwu.edu with questions regarding this exam. See below for scheduling information.
How do I get started?
First, students should complete an admissions application for NCWU. Once accepted into the University, you will be assigned to a nursing advisor. If you have met the prerequisite requirements, you can then complete an application to the nursing program. If you have not met all of the prerequisites, you will need to complete those courses before applying to the nursing program.
How long is the nursing program?
The nursing program is designed as a four year curriculum plan. The first two years will consist of general education and foundational courses, with focus on the sciences. After completing these requirements, students will apply to the nursing program. Once admitted, students will complete two years of nursing coursework and clinical rotations. The junior and senior years would be spent in the nursing courses.
Is financial aid available?
There are various options available for financial aid. Have questions about tuition or financial aid? The Office of Financial Aid is here to help. Call us Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. – noon and 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at 252.985.5290 or visit our office in Pearsall Classroom Building, Room 186.
You can also make in-person appointments by emailing FinancialAid@ncwu.edu.
Do I have to be a CNA to apply to the nursing program?
Being a CNA is recommended, but not required to apply to the nursing program.
Is there an entrance exam required for the nursing program?
All students applying to the nursing program will be required to take the HESI A2 exam.
Where do I take the HESI A2 exam?
The HESI A2 exam is offered at various times throughout the semester on campus at NCWU. You can contact nursing@ncwu.edu with questions regarding this exam. See the HESI A2 section on the website for scheduling information.
What is the difference between the traditional 4-year Nursing program and the RN-to-BSN program?
Pathways to Becoming a Nurse: Traditional vs. RN-to-BSN
Traditional Nursing Degree (ADN to BSN):
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN): Start at a community college to earn an Associate of Science in Nursing. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX exam, which is required to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). Passing the NCLEX allows you to use the RN title.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Attend a 4-year college to earn a BSN. This program includes more in-depth theory, leadership, and quality improvement courses, along with practical nursing skills. BSN graduates are also eligible to take the NCLEX exam to become licensed RNs.
RN-to-BSN Program:
For Current RNs with an ADN: This program is designed for nurses who already have an RN license and an Associate’s Degree in Nursing. It focuses on leadership, research, and quality improvement courses, providing opportunities beyond bedside nursing. Earning a BSN through this pathway can open doors to managerial roles and positions in various healthcare settings beyond hospitals and doctor’s offices.
Faculty & Staff
Email any of our advisors with any questions you have about completing this program.
Christa Jones-Hooker, Ph.D., RN, NE-BC, CNE
Consuela Blaizes, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN
Crystal Ostheim, D.N.P., BS, FNP-BC, NP-C, CNE
Director of Nursing Programs and Initiatives/Assistant Professor of Nursing
Crystal Ostheim, D.N.P., BS, FNP-BC, NP-C, CNE
Lesley McGraw DNP, MSN, RN, CNE
Associate Director of Nursing Programs/Coordinator of the BSN program/Assistant Professor of Nursing
