Frequently Asked Questions
Second Degree BSN
Kirkhof College of Nursing

Who is eligible for the second degree program?

The second degree BSN program is for those with a baccalaureate degree in another field, but desire a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

How does the second degree program differ from the generic BSN program?

Second degree students are not required to take the labs associated with anatomy, physiology, and microbiology courses at GVSU. Second degree students who have successfully completed an undergraduate research course may enroll in NUR 690 with prior approval of their advisor and the course faculty. Second degree students have seven prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Human Genetics, Introductory Microbiology, Introduction to Organic & Biochemistry, Life Span Developmental Psychology, and Self-Health & Wellness.

Can I take the prerequisite courses at another school?

Courses can be taken at another school if they transfer to GVSU and are equivalent to the prerequisite requirements. However, it is recommended to take as many of the prerequisite courses as possible at GVSU.

How will I know if my credits transfer?

You will receive a "Degree Analysis" after you are accepted to GVSU. It will list the courses you have taken at other schools and how they transfer to GVSU.

Is there a time limit on completed courses?

Currently, there is no time limit. However, if a significant amount of time has passed since you completed a course, you should discuss the need to repeat it with your academic advisor. The Kirkhof College of Nursing allows one repeat for each prerequisite course.

How long is the program?

The clinical nursing courses take five consecutive semesters to complete.

Can the program be part-time?

The prerequisite courses can be completed with part-time study. The clinical nursing courses can be part-time if corequisite courses have been completed and the sequence of theoretical and clinical courses is followed.

Do I need my own computer?

A personal computer is not required, although you may find it useful. Computer labs are located throughout the GVSU campus including the Center for Health Sciences building.

How many hours of study time per week are expected for each class?

A minimum of three hours of study for each credit hour is standard. Clinical courses require three hours of clinical experience (hospital, clinic, skills labs, seminar) for one academic credit. Clinical hours are completed in 2 or 3 days per week, depending on the course. Clinical times are usually during the day or early evening.

What is the application sequence?

•  Apply to GVSU (may be done on-line)
•  After you are admitted to GVSU, you will receive a "Degree Analysis." This is a good time to meet with the Student Services Coordinator to review what prerequisite courses are remaining.
•  Declare pre-nursing (B.S.N. in Nursing) as your major
•  Enroll in prerequisite courses
•  Meet with faculty advisor to apply for clinical nursing courses

What are the requirements for the application?

You must have an overall GPA of 2.8 determined from all schools attended and a minimum grade of "C" in each of the prerequisite courses. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission into the Kirkhof College of Nursing.

Can I be accepted into the clinical nursing courses if I only have one prerequisite remaining?

No. All prerequisite courses must be completed no later than the semester you submit your application to the nursing program.

What happens if I am accepted, but I receive a "C-" in a prerequisite course?

Your acceptance is rescinded and you will need to reapply.

How are students chosen for the clinical courses?

Admission is based on a competitive GPA of the six decision courses (Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Human Genetics, Introductory Microbiology, Introduction to Organic & Biochemistry, Life Span Developmental Psychology), a personal statement, and a list of service and leadership activities. Only completed applications are reviewed.

What happens if I fail a nursing course?

A minimum grade of "C" (not a "C-") is required for each nursing theory class and a passing grade in each nursing clinical course (pass/fail). If a student earns less than a "C" or fails a clinical course, the course must be repeated in order to progress in the Kirkhof College of Nursing. The student is allowed to repeat the class if there is space available. If the student fails a second nursing course (or the same course twice), he/she is dismissed from the program and not allowed to return.

When are the deadlines?

Students who desire to begin the clinical courses in the fall or winter semester must apply by March 1. Students who desire to begin the clinical courses in the spring semester must apply by November 1. Late applications will not be considered.

How competitive is admission to the program?

It depends on the number of applications.

What information must be submitted prior to starting the clinical courses?

Physical examination, documentation of Rubella, Rubeola, Polio, DPT, TB immunity, Hepatitis B vaccine, proof of 2 MMR immunizations (if born after 1957) and current annual Adult/Child/Infant CPR (for the professional rescuer) certification. Each clinical course requires a current CPR certification, annual TB test, and current proof of health insurance.

Where will I have my clinical experiences?

Most clinical sites are located in the Grand Rapids area: Spectrum Health, Metropolitan Hospital, Saint Mary's Health Care, Kent County Health Department, Ottawa County Health Department, and numerous other community agencies.

Is the program accredited?

The Kirkhof College of Nursing is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

When will I have a faculty advisor?

You will be assigned a faculty advisor after you register for your first class at GVSU and declare pre-nursing (B.S.N. in Nursing) as your major.

Is financial aid available?

Contact the GVSU Financial Aid office at (616) 331-3234 for further information.

When will I become a registered nurse?

Upon successful completion of the BSN program, the State Board of Nursing reviews the records of graduates to determine eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The State Board of Nursing retains the right to deny a graduate permission to take the exam if he/she has been convicted of a crime. A registered nurse license is awarded following the passing of the NCLEX.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

You can contact Wanda Moerland, Student Services Coordinator, by phone: 616-331-6742 or 800-480-0406 or e-mail: moerlanw@gvsu.edu.