Undergrad Application and Transfer Guide

Undergrad Application and Transfer Guide

Nurses work on the front lines of the healthcare industry. They deal with patients one on one and in small groups to administer treatment. Nurses can also make a real difference in their communities advocating for disease awareness and control. Applying for college is a complex process. The more you know about your potential program, the better! Those looking for an online degree in nursing should explore the program’s length, the specialties offered, and where they wish to work. These are some of the most important issues to consider when choosing a program that best meets your goals.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) vs. Registered Nurses (RN)

Sometimes, the first program you select does not turn out to be the right fit. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center states nearly 10% of all enrolled students change programs. Reasons to change are many: personal or family commitments, financial restrictions, and relocations. It is also common to start a specialty (for example, psychiatric nursing) only to realize that your passion lies in another field (like pediatrics or oncology). Don’t be afraid to change your mind. Pursue the area that most interests you!

How to Choose an Online Nursing Program

As you return to school, reflect on your personal goals and lifestyle. Consider how the length and program’s intensity may impact whether you can work full time. One of the key advantages of an online program is flexibility. Flexibility allows you to access a course and manage a busy work and family schedule. If you desire flexibility but would also prefer a classroom setting, consider a hybrid program. Hybrids offer a mix of online and on-campus courses and lab work. These programs offer students a sense of community and space for work and home life.

Another area to consider is the type of nurse you want to become. Nurses work in every aspect of healthcare. These might include emergency departments, hospitals, family planning centers, drug rehabilitation facilities, and physical therapy programs. Nurses work with clients, research groups, and act as liaisons among patients, other healthcare workers, and agencies. Consider where your skills are best suited, and where can you make the most difference in healthcare.

Once you have chosen programs that meet your lifestyle and interest, confirm their accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education as an accreditation body. The commission evaluates and accredits nursing degree programs nationwide.

Type of Nursing Degrees

You can find programs that train nurses in many settings: hospitals, healthcare systems, community colleges, and universities. A diploma nursing program provides real-world experience. A diploma, like associate degrees in nursing, takes approximately 2-3 years to complete. With a diploma, you can work as an RN. The difference between an associate of science in nursing (ASN) and an associate degree in nursing (ADN) comes down to courses. The ASN focuses on the sciences, while the ADN encourages a liberal arts or humanities education.

RNs with a diploma compile patient histories, assist with diagnostic tests, and teach patients to manage care after treatment. With an associate degree, you can also enter more specialties such as rehabilitation or pediatrics.

Increasingly, healthcare agencies and institutions encourage RNs to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s in nursing. If you have a diploma or an associate, you can enroll in accelerated bachelor’s programs and complete this degree in as little as one or two years. Earning a bachelor’s degree puts management and advanced nursing job opportunities within your reach.

Undergrad Application & Transfer Guide

Nurses work on the front lines of the healthcare industry. They deal with patients one on one and in small groups to administer treatment. Nurses can also make a real difference in their communities advocating for disease awareness and control.

Applying for college is a complex process. The more you know about your potential program, the better! Those looking for an online degree in nursing should explore the program’s length, the specialties offered, and where they wish to work. These are some of the most important issues to consider when choosing a program that best meets your goals.

What Do You Need for Nursing School?

Sometimes, the first program you select does not turn out to be the right fit. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center states nearly 10% of all enrolled students change programs. Reasons to change are many: personal or family commitments, financial restrictions, and relocations. It is also common to start a specialty (for example, psychiatric nursing) only to realize that your passion lies in another field (like pediatrics or oncology). Don’t be afraid to change your mind. Pursue the area that most interests you!

How to Choose an Online Nursing Program

As you return to school, reflect on your personal goals and lifestyle. Consider how the length and program’s intensity may impact whether you can work full time. One of the key advantages of an online program is flexibility. Flexibility allows you to access a course and manage a busy work and family schedule. If you desire flexibility but would also prefer a classroom setting, consider a hybrid program. Hybrids offer a mix of online and on-campus courses and lab work. These programs offer students a sense of community and space for work and home life.

Another area to consider is the type of nurse you want to become. Nurses work in every aspect of healthcare. These might include emergency departments, hospitals, family planning centers, drug rehabilitation facilities, and physical therapy programs. Nurses work with clients, research groups, and act as liaisons among patients, other healthcare workers, and agencies. Consider where your skills are best suited, and where can you make the most difference in healthcare.

Once you have chosen programs that meet your lifestyle and interest, confirm their accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education as an accreditation body. The commission evaluates and accredits nursing degree programs nationwide.

Typical Nursing School Entry Requirements

There are various options available for nursing school programs, both online and on-campus across the country. A nursing diploma usually requires a high school diploma or GED. It’s recommended to take courses in biology, chemistry, algebra, and English. Diploma programs often involve training in healthcare facilities like hospitals and might not be available online.

An associate degree in nursing is a better choice if you want a flexible program that takes two to three years. To enroll in an associate program, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (some schools accept a 2.5 GPA). Many programs require students to pass the Test for Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam before admission. This exam, managed by the Assessment Technologies Institute, assesses math, English, reading skills, as well as basic understanding of biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. A competitive score on the TEAS is typically around 60. If you’re applying for an RN-to-BSN program, you need an RN license and transcripts from previous education.

Applying to Nursing School

Application Materials

Whether you’re applying for the first time or planning to transfer, there are common application materials you’ll need to submit. Here’s a list of these requirements:

– College Application: This includes personal information and academic history, often accompanied by a personal statement explaining why you want to join the program.
– High School Transcript: An official record of completed courses and grades, directly provided by your high school. If you have a GED, you can request a transcript from the GED Credentialing Service.
– Letters of Recommendation: These provide personal context and a human perspective on your achievements. Most schools require recommendation letters from high school teachers, counselors, and sometimes coaches or activity organizers.
– SAT or ACT Scores: These standardized tests assess skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Most schools accept either exam. Choose the one that aligns better with your strengths.
– College Transcript: If you’re transferring schools, you’ll need to provide transcripts from both your college and high school. College transcripts detail your current coursework and grades from your previous institution. This is essential for transferring credits between schools.
– Application Fees (or Fee Waiver): Many programs require application fees, but some schools offer fee waivers for students facing financial difficulties. Check the FAQs and application instructions of the schools you’re interested in for more information.

When Should I Begin the Application Process?

The application process can take a while; schools usually take months to review and notify students. Whether you’re a new student or transferring, it’s wise to start a year in advance to complete your application on time. If you’re planning to start school in September, begin your application around September of the previous year. This early start ensures a smooth beginning for a two- or four-year program. Also, applying early gives you time to seek financial aid, so be sure to apply for all the funding you qualify for!

How to Transfer Colleges

For those already in a nursing program, the idea of changing schools can be daunting. Transfer applications involve more work than applications from new students. Transfer students need to demonstrate their previous coursework for credit transfers.

The following checklist outlines how to start the process of transferring nursing schools:

– Research Your Prospective Transfer Schools
– Check Accreditation Status and Articulation Agreements
– Contact School Advisors
– Confirm That Your Credits Will Be Transferred Over
– Research Financial Aid Options
– Begin Application Process

What Are Nursing School Transfer Requirements?

Transfer requirements differ among schools and can be quite competitive. Schools value strong academic and volunteer records. Most two- and four-year institutions also want proof of your previous school’s program accreditation. Check your school’s accreditation status on the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing website (ACEN).

Types of Transfer Students

Students might consider transferring schools for various reasons, such as changes in personal circumstances, new job opportunities, or evolving career goals. Below are some common scenarios of transferring that you should think about if you’re considering changing schools.

Community College to Four-Year College Transfer

Many students start their higher education journey at a community college. After spending two years there, you could move to a four-year college to finish your bachelor’s degree in just two more years.

Four-Year College to Four-Year College Transfer

Not all bachelor’s degree programs are the same. If your current program doesn’t offer the specialization you want, or if you need to move for personal or professional reasons, transferring to another four-year college might be the right choice.

Military Transfer

If you’ve completed some degree coursework while in the military, you might qualify to directly transfer into a two- or four-year college. This way, you can use your credits to speed up your degree completion. Check out the military transfer guide by the American Council on Education for more details.

International Transfer

If you’re moving to another country, you can still continue your education. Transferring to an online program allows you to live abroad while keeping up with your classes.

Transferrable Credits

When changing schools, it’s important to find out which of your college credits will transfer. Not all schools accept all your completed coursework. For example, some schools might not recognize courses taken on different academic schedules, like semester versus quarter systems. Others might reject credits if the course titles differ. Acceptance of credits depends on the transfer institution. Generally, public schools within the same state system accept the most credits. The more different the schools, the more questions might arise. Here are some common situations to consider as you search for a new program.

Course Equivalency

Colleges and universities work hard to accept coursework from your previous school that’s similar to their own courses. For instance, if you completed an introductory psychology class at your old school, it might count for a similar psychology course at your new school. However, not all coursework automatically transfers. For instance, a general education writing composition course might only count as a general elective.

Course Level

The courses you can transfer often depend on their level. Some 100-200 level courses and general education requirements might be accepted. Yet, higher-level courses and specialized subjects might not transfer as easily. Certain courses like junior and senior seminars and lab work might not count toward your new school’s degree.

Quarter vs. Semester Transfers

Different schools have different academic term systems, even in online programs. The time commitment for a course can vary between schools that follow the quarter system and those on the semester system. Schools using the semester calendar generally accept two quarter classes for one semester requirement. For instance, two chemistry courses taken on the quarter system might count as one semester class. For more details, refer to this summary.

What if My Credits Don’t Transfer Over?

Unfortunately, not all the coursework you’ve completed will transfer to your new school. The U.S. Government Accountability Office found that transfer students lost about 43% of their previous coursework credits between 2004-2009. Most transfer students moving between public institutions lost around 37%. In contrast, those transferring from private for-profit schools to public institutions lost about 94% of their previous credits. This can waste time and money. To prevent this, research and make sure the new school recognizes your previous work.

Transfer advisors can help you with credit transfers. Schools also provide online tools to check if your previous coursework matches their programs. Remember, some classes transfer directly, while others count as general electives. Typically, schools expect course grades of 3.0 or higher. Some might accept a “C” grade, depending on whether the course is a major requirement or a general elective.

Transfer students can try appealing transfer credit decisions in different ways. Appeals often involve completing a form or submitting a formal written appeal. However, there’s no guarantee of success. Schools usually require transfer students to complete upper-level major requirements at their institution. Courses that can’t be transferred must be retaken.

In-State vs. Out-of-State Transfers

Transferring between schools can come with a cost. Moving from a school within your state to an out-of-state school tends to be more expensive. Tuition for out-of-state students is generally higher, whether you’re studying on campus or online. Transferring within your state is more affordable. Many four-year state institutions have partnerships with community colleges, allowing for smoother credit transfers and saving both time and money.

Understanding Nursing School Prerequisites

The table below compares average tuition costs for different types of institutions. Before making a decision, compare tuition for online and on-campus learning. Factor in the cost of retaking non-transferable coursework. Ultimately, choose what suits your budget and needs best.

School Type	2021-2022 School Year	2022-2023 School Year
Public 4-Year In-State College	$10,750	$10,940
Public 4-Year Out-of-State College	$27,620	$28,240
Private 4-Year Nonprofit College	$38,070	$39,400

Advantages of Moving From a Community College to a Four-Year University

As the cost of attending four-year universities increases across the country, many students are opting for community colleges to get an affordable education. On average, it takes about two to three years to earn an associate degree, and community college tuition is much lower than that of four-year schools. Once you’ve finished your two-year associate degree, you can smoothly transition to a four-year university and earn a bachelor’s degree in just two more years.

If you transfer from a community college to a related four-year program, most of your credits will also transfer. This means you can finish your degree quickly.

The chart below shows the difference in costs between two-year and four-year institutions in the last couple of academic years. These numbers can help you as you consider different college options.

Considering Other Aspects When Transferring

Starting your education at a community college can offer financial advantages. Yet, transferring schools comes with both positives and negatives. While two-year programs can offer more academic and financial support, transfer students often face more stress. Transferring requires applying to college twice – once for community college and then again for the transfer institution. Additionally, there’s the challenge of missing out on the freshman and sophomore experiences when you start at the junior level. Despite these challenges, four-year institutions are making efforts to support new transfer students as transferring becomes more common.

Importance of Accreditation

When you’re looking at online schools, it’s crucial to check if the institution is accredited. Accreditation is like an official approval for your education. It shows the quality of your education to future schools and employers. If your school isn’t accredited, the courses you took might not be accepted when you transfer. Moreover, you might not be eligible to take the RN exam. Accreditation status is also important for government and private financial aid.

In the United States, two organizations accredit nursing schools: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. There are also specific accrediting bodies for anesthesia programs and midwife and doula programs. You can find out if your school is accredited by checking these organizations’ websites or the national database of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Scholarships for Transfer Students

There are many scholarships available in the field of nursing. Scholarships are offered for new students entering diploma and associate programs, as well as for RNs who want to further their education and for transfer students. Here are a few examples of these scholarships:

– A Nurse I Am Scholarship:

This scholarship is offered by the Cherokee Uniforms corporation and is open to nursing students at all degree levels. It requires a 300-word essay as part of the application.

– A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship:

This scholarship supports Native Americans pursuing a degree in the sciences, including nursing. It requires letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.

– Nurse Corps Scholarship Program:

Administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration, this need-based scholarship supports disadvantaged students in accredited nursing programs. It includes tuition support and a monthly stipend.

– Annie Lou Overton Scholarship:

Available to residents of Georgia pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing, this scholarship prioritizes post-graduation work experience.

– Barbara Rhomberg Nursing Scholarship:

Sponsored by B4 Brands, this scholarship is for nontraditional students returning to school for a nursing associate or bachelor’s degree. It requires an essay, letters of recommendation, and enrollment verification.

– Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship:

Provided by the Daughters of the Revolution (DAR), this scholarship is for students in financial need. It involves submitting materials to the DAR and proof of enrollment.

– Board Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) Undergraduate Scholarship:

The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) provides scholarships for nurses pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and holding BCEN credentials.

– The Promise of Nursing Scholarship Program:

Promoted by Johnson & Johnson, this scholarship supports students enrolled in accredited nursing programs at various levels. Selection is based on academic achievement, financial need, and involvement in the field.

– Greta James Memorial Scholarship:

Supported by Scrub Shopper, this scholarship is for students in accredited medical programs. It requires transcripts and essays addressing financial need and leadership intentions.

– United Health Foundation NAHN Scholarship:

Provided by the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, this scholarship supports nursing education for its members. Selection is based on need, academic standing, and focus area. These scholarships can help you as you explore options for continuing your nursing education. Be sure to also explore scholarship opportunities from the college or university you’re considering.