Nursing (BSN)
Equip yourself with the clinical experience and credentials you need to elevate your nursing career.
York College of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree program provides you the opportunity to have a direct impact on people's lives by providing care and support in times of need. Make a difference as a first-time nurse or increase your existing opportunities with a comprehensive bachelor’s program led by faculty with a vested interest in your success.
Immerse yourself in a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in a dynamic community of current and future nurses, nurse educators, and healthcare professionals. We also offer an accelerated BSN track for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree
Whether you're interested in a specific nursing specialty or you’re excited to learn what it’s like to care for patients in fast-paced environments, our B.S.N. program empowers you to thrive and advance in your effectiveness and leadership as a nurse.
About the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Nursing (BSN) Major Requirements
Nursing majors at York College complete a comprehensive curriculum that includes science, nursing, and general education courses. The program's requirements also include clinical rotations and practicums, which are essential for gaining hands-on experience and meeting the criteria to sit for the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses). Core courses cover key areas such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing.
For students with previous college credit, there may be opportunities to reduce course and clinical requirements. Our admissions and academic advisors can ensure you achieve your B.S.N. efficiently.
Pre-Nursing Admission
If you do not meet all the criteria for admission into the Nursing major, you may still be able to enroll as a Pre-Nursing student. The Pre-Nursing track prepares students new to the field in a four-year baccalaureate program, where they enter the Nursing major after completing initial courses in early semesters.
Transfer Admission
A limited number of transfer students are accepted into the B.S.N. program each semester. Applications are reviewed upon receipt on a case-by-case basis.
More details regarding transferring to the B.S.N. from other institutions include:
- Up to 75 transfer credits accepted from associate degree programs
- Unlimited credits accepted from baccalaureate programs
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from previous coursework required
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA in all science courses required
R.N. to B.S.N.
Applicants with a valid nursing license are granted 56 credits for the program. This admission pathway lets you complete the program in as little as 12 months.
Nursing Student Handbook
For academic policies, department procedures, clinical requirements, and uniform information, see our Nursing Student Handbook. The handbook applies to all baccalaureate nursing students at York College of Pennsylvania. It serves as a guide to established policies and practices of The Stabler Department of Nursing and is used in conjunction with the College Catalog and the College Student Handbook.
Prepare for Various Nursing Specialties
Graduates of the bachelor’s degree program in Nursing are well-prepared to begin or elevate nursing careers, start a business in healthcare, or educate future nursing professionals. Through clinical rotations and expert instruction from practitioner-scholar faculty, our program equips students with the skills needed for careers in nursing specialties such as:
- Critical care
- Community health
- Geriatric care
- Intensive care
- Labor and delivery
- Maternal-child
- Mental health
- Neurology
- Nursing education
- Nursing consulting
- Orthopedics
- Pediatric
- Surgical
Students in the B.S.N. program can benefit from York College’s range of minor programs, such as Psychology, Aging Studies, Neuroscience, and Human Services. From day one, career support is available to assist with clinical experiences and job search help as you pivot your nursing specialty or advance to the next level in nursing leadership.
License and Career Outcomes for York College Nursing Majors
York College B.S.N. graduates find employment in hospitals, clinics, family practices, hospices, disaster relief, mission nursing, and community health settings.
Core clinical skills and competencies gained in the B.S.N. program include:
- Eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN (Note: If you are considering initial licensure in a state other than Pennsylvania, it is highly recommended that you contact the appropriate licensing agency in your state for information on requirements before beginning the nursing program.)
- Use of knowledge from the arts, sciences, humanities, and nursing practice to assist individuals and groups from diverse populations through stages of life
- Provision of safe holistic nursing interventions in a therapeutic manner that acknowledges and accommodates diversity
- How to teach and instill habits and activities that support a healthy lifestyle
- Leadership skills and application of ethical principles to foster and advocate for high-quality nursing services
- Critical thinking skills for implementing nursing practices in a caring and professional manner
- Analysis and synthesis of research and evidence-based findings to advance clinical excellence in nursing practice
- Concise and clear communication verbally and in writing
- Appropriate and effective use of technology and nursing informatics
Pursue Graduate Study
York College’s robust research opportunities ensure graduates of the B.S.N. program are equipped to advance their education further with master’s degrees in nursing or related endeavors. The College’s M.S. in Nursing program allows for specialization and training in areas such as family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care, and psychiatric mental health.
Nursing Clinicals
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program complete five full semesters of clinical coursework. We collaborate with leading medical facilities to assign students to clinical rotations that provide exposure to various aspects of patient care in different specialties.
Clinical courses begin either in the spring of sophomore year or the fall of junior year depending on the program track:
Spring Clinical Progressions
| Fall Clinical Progression
|
Curriculum Sequences Fall and Spring
Before beginning clinical experiences, students must fulfill other clinical agency requirements, such as background checks, physical examinations, and immunizations. Some of these requirements may have associated costs.
Simulation and Lab Experience
On campus, Nursing students have numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience with various technologies and simulate real-world scenarios. In addition to completing B.S.N. clinical requirements in actual medical and healthcare settings, simulations and on-campus labs enhance learning and help students develop their personal and professional skills.
York College School of Nursing and Health Professions
The Dr. Donald E. and Lois J. Myers School of Nursing and Health Professions plays a crucial role in the region's health systems. It supports the need for qualified nursing and healthcare professionals through clinical partnerships where experienced nurses and nurse educators lead the way and offer one-on-one advising for Nursing students.
The School offers multiple degree programs in different areas of nursing, health, and medicine, cultivating an environment where different disciplines elevate each other.
Student Involvement and Leadership
Nursing students at York College of Pennsylvania are highly involved in community service and partnerships with the WellSpan health system. They also submit research to journals and present at conferences.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, the master's degree program in nursing, and the post-graduate APRN certificate program at York College of Pennsylvania are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
York College Scholarships and Grants
At York, we’re committed to making a high-quality nursing education affordable. We’ll help you and your family find the right mix of financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships, so you can focus on your future in healthcare. Visit our Scholarships and Grants page to explore the different funding options available to you.
Nursing Scholars Programs
Nursing students at York College have several opportunities for employment and tuition sponsorship available through our partnered health systems. Through the Nursing Scholars Programs offered by these health systems, eligible York nursing students may receive between $25,000 and $40,000 in sponsorship toward their educational loans.
After graduation and licensure, selected Scholars will transition into a full-time nursing role within their approved health system with an employment commitment of 2–3 years.
Learn more about our health system partners, their sponsorship offerings, and application requirements at the links below:
Nursing Courses
Your class schedule as a Nursing major in the B.S.N. program will include general education, core classes, and clinical experiences.
| Course Name | Course Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of General and Organic Chemistry | CHM 122/123 | 4 Credits |
| Pharmacology for Nurses | NUR 203 | 2 Credits |
| Human Anatomy and Physiology I | BIO 220/221 | 4 Credits |
| Research and Professional Nursing Practice | NUR 314 | 3 Credits |
B.S.N. Careers
Students graduate confident to enter various nursing specialties for the first time or elevate their careers to leadership roles.
Registered Nurse
Critical Care Nurse
Emergency Room Nurse
Geriatric Nurse
Pediatric Nurse
Travel Nurse
Build your dream career, one day at a time.
This is day one. From your first semester on campus through graduation day, York College offers expert advice, professional development opportunities, and personalized support to help you navigate the choices that influence your future.
Explore resources for a successful college experience:
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program takes four years to complete, including both coursework and clinical rotations. Students who have completed an associate degree may transfer credits and complete requirements more quickly.
R.N.s with an associate degree are encouraged to pursue a B.S.N. if they seek to enhance their skills, increase job opportunities, or prepare for advanced leadership and practice roles. A comprehensive bachelor’s degree that includes interdisciplinary perspectives and research projects can lead to higher salaries and be a foundation for further certifications and education.
Completion of the B.S.N. credential often results in elevated nursing salaries — Payscale cites the average salary with a B.S.N. is $95,000 compared to $77,000 for associate-level nursing education.
Meet the Faculty
View All Faculty
Related Programs
Accelerated Nursing
York College of Pennsylvania’s Thornton Accelerated Nursing (ABSN) program is an excellent opportunity for students with previous college education to earn baccalaureate-level nursing credentials in as little as 17 months. Students in the accelerated BSN program learn from faculty who are active professionals in the field, take advantage of our strong clinical partner organizations, and practice in state-of-the-art simulation laboratory facilities.
Exercise Science
York College of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science degree program gives you the practical tools and well-rounded education you need to make a difference in helping others improve their quality of life and enhance their physical capability. As an Exercise Science major, you’ll be exposed to the world of sports medicine and learn how to become a leader in the fitness industry.
Health Sciences
York College of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Sciences degree program trains students interested in professional medical careers like physical therapist or pharmacist, those interested in administrative healthcare positions, and students seeking careers in community settings and human services.
Medical Laboratory Science
From collecting data to analyzing laboratory results, students in York College’s Medical Laboratory Science program are gaining the skills they need to make an impact in the world of medicine. Whether you see yourself developing new medications for the pharmaceutical industry, conducting medical research in a hospital lab, or finding new ways to bring comfort to animals through veterinary studies – York College can give you the tools to get there.
Medical Imaging
York College of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Medical Imaging degree program helps students embark on rewarding healthcare careers. From learning how to operate an x-ray theater to using technical equipment, students in the Medical Imaging program become experts in the imaging sciences, develop a high standard of patient care, and learn alongside working professionals.
Premedical Sciences
York College of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Premedical Sciences degree program prepares students academically and holistically for competitive pre-professional programs in medicine. If you aspire to pursue a career in medicine, this premed major program offers a comprehensive education in the essential sciences and the foundation necessary for the rigors of medical school, dental school, PA school, pharmacy school, and more.