For whom is this program best suited?
This program is designed for the associate degree nurse or diploma nurse who wants to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students with other academic backgrounds are not able to enter this program.
What are the admission requirements and how do I apply?
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion program is designed for students who have earned an associate degree in nursing or hold a diploma from a hospital School of Nursing. Students need a minimum of a 2.25 GPA to transfer to Viterbo. Since this major is part of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Behavior, students need to maintain a 2.5 GPA in all their coursework. You must have attended an accredited (NLNAC) associate or diploma degree program, although some exceptions may be granted for non-accredited technical schools. All nursing students must have an active U.S. registered nurse license or its international equivalent prior to second nursing course.To apply, submit the online application and request your official transcripts from all college coursework be sent to Viterbo University Admission Office, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI 54601. We also accept electronic transcripts from Parchment, National Clearinghouse, and Credentials Solutions. Select "Office of Admission - Traditional Programs" as your destination, if given more than one option when ordering electronic transcripts. Complete the online Education Loan Agreement and Disclosure Statement.
Will my previous college coursework transfer?
Viterbo has a very generous transfer policy. Students with a completed associate degree will transfer their entire associate degree (approximately 70+ credits), generally leaving 44 credits to earn at Viterbo. If you have attended schools in addition to your associate degree, you may need less than 44 credits. Students who have a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline need to earn a minimum of 30 credits at Viterbo. You must have earned a grade of C or better to transfer your credits.
Is this program accredited?
This degree is accredited as part of the university’s overall accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Schools Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, the BSN-Completion program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
How long will it take me to finish my program?
Every student is different, but most students who transfer into the BSN Completion program are able to finish their bachelor's degree in one to three years. Most students will attend part-time (six credits each semester) or three quarter time (nine-ten credits a semester); whatever works for your personal situation. If you want to attend school on a full-time basis, you must carefully think through the work load and discuss your options with your academic advisor.
How much study time is required when taking an accelerated class?
You should expect to spend 10–15 hours a week in preparation for a class.
Can I attend online or in a classroom?
You can attend classes fully online.
How do you create a classroom atmosphere in an online class?
Our faculty provide you every opportunity to convey your perspectives and insights through discussion boards and group projects. They encourage you to share your passion and enthusiasm for the subject, foster a sense of respect and belonging within the "classroom," promote active engagement, and create a welcoming environment. We also provide face-to-face office hours when and where you need them.
How many credits do I need to graduate?
BSN Completion students need to earn a minimum of 120 credits to graduate. Forty of those credits must be upper division coursework (300/400 level courses). Your last 30 hours must be completed at Viterbo.
Can I apply for financial aid?
Every student who is enrolled in a minimum of six credits each semester is eligible to apply for financial aid. More information is available from the financial aid office.
Will I have time to fit college into my busy life?
Being successful in college does take time, but our supportive faculty and staff understand that you are juggling work, kids, and other commitments. Your academic adviser will help you create a schedule that will work in your life and we can provide you with numerous helpful resources.
Will someone help me select classes and stay on track toward graduation?
Yes. You will be assigned an academic advisor who works with our adult learning students. Your advisor will help you evaluate your progress towards your degree and will help you select and register for classes each semester.
What can I expect from online courses?
A typical online course requires that you do some reading, participate in some online discussions with your instructor and classmates, and participate in other instructional activities and outside work as laid out by your instructor. It is common to log in daily. Some activities will take place early in the week, while others will be due by the end of the week. The online courses are asynchronous, which means that not all students are in the course site at the same time. So you are able to complete the coursework at times that are most convenient to you. Some students might respond to a discussion question at 10 p.m., while others might respond at 6 a.m., or over their lunch hour. There isn't a scheduled "class time" when all must be present, so that makes the online courses very flexible. However, you also need to have a great deal of self-discipline and must have access to a computer that is equipped with Internet access.