BSN Requirements
The professional program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree offers two tracks of study.
1. The four-year track for students who wish to begin a career in professional nursing.
2. The RN-BSN track for graduates of associate degree and diploma programs in nursing.
The program of study is designed to provide students the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills needed for effective professional nursing practice in a wide variety of settings, and to provide a broad educational foundation that serves as a basis for graduate study in nursing.
Admission Requirements:
Applications for admission to the baccalaureate nursing program should be submitted by December 1 for fall, and by May 1 for spring. Students desiring to enter the four-year track should apply for admission toward the end of the third semester of their prerequisites. The RN-BSN track begins every fall and applications are due by February 1.
The admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are set by the nursing faculty. The program's Admission Committee reviews all applications and selects the most qualified students. Applicants must be admitted as regular students to the University of South Carolina Upstate.
- Admissions are competitive and based upon the applicant's cumulative academic record (GPA) and space available. The best qualified students are admitted.
- Applicants must be admitted to the University of South Carolina Upstate.
- Applicants must have a mininum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Only 1 nursing course or required science course may be repeated to earn a grade of C or better.
- Applicants must have completed all prerequisite requirements prior to acceptance. A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite courses.
- Applicants are NOT required to complete a CNA program.
- Students with a GPA of less than 2.5 may be admitted on probation if space is available.
Credit by Examination:
Some general education and supporting courses may be exempted by having successfully passed Advanced Placement (AP) tests in high school, College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, DANTES, or challenge examinations prepared at USC Upstate (see the Credit by Examination section of the USC Upstate catalog).
Licensed practical nurses may obtain credit for nutrition (SNUR 301) and pharmacology (SNUR 302) by successfully completing the required theory and clinical performance validation examinations.
National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurse
Upon successful completion of the four-year track, graduates will be eligible to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as a registered nurse.