Arkansas Tech University

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum combines general education and nursing-specific coursework to build clinical competence, critical thinking and evidence-based practice skills. Early semesters include prerequisite and foundational science modules such as human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology fundamentals and pathophysiology. Core nursing modules cover adult health, maternal-child nursing, paediatric nursing, mental health/psychiatric nursing, community and public health nursing, and gerontological nursing.

Students also study nursing research and statistics, quality and safety in healthcare, nursing leadership and management, healthcare policy and ethics. A strong emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning and applied skills through simulation laboratory experiences and progressive clinical placements in hospitals, community settings and specialised care units. The programme typically culminates in a practicum or capstone experience that integrates clinical, research and administration perspectives.

Entry requirements

• Completed high school diploma or recognised equivalent; applicants are expected to meet the university's general admission standards.
• Completion of required prerequisite college courses such as introductory biology, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, general chemistry (or equivalent), and college-level statistics with satisfactory grades.
• A minimum GPA requirement for the nursing sequence and, where applicable, competitive selection based on prerequisite grades and overall academic performance.
• Successful completion of any programme-specific assessments (for example, a standardized entry exam) if required by the nursing department.
• Clearance requirements prior to clinical placements, which commonly include up-to-date immunisations, health screening, background check, drug screening and current Basic Life Support (CPR) certification.
• For transfer applicants or students progressing from an associate degree, demonstration of prerequisite completion and clinical readiness as specified by the department.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to sit for the national licensure exam to become Registered Nurses and commonly begin careers as staff nurses in medical-surgical units, emergency departments, critical care, maternal-child services and community health. With clinical experience, alumni move into specialised bedside roles, charge nurse positions, case management and clinical education.

The BSN also prepares nurses for roles in administration, quality improvement, patient safety, clinical research coordination and public health. Many graduates choose to continue into postgraduate study—such as master’s programmes in advanced practice nursing, nurse education, nursing administration or clinical research—to gain advanced practice, leadership or academic roles.

Why study at Arkansas Tech University

• Small class sizes and faculty who combine academic expertise with clinical experience, enabling personalised mentorship and close supervision during clinical learning.
• Access to clinical placements across a network of regional healthcare providers, giving students exposure to diverse patient populations and care settings.
• Simulation and skills laboratories that allow students to practise clinical procedures, team communication and critical decision-making in a controlled environment before entering patient care settings.
• Curriculum designed to integrate evidence-based practice and research literacy, supporting graduates who want to pursue clinical research or leadership pathways.
• Support services for nursing students, including academic advising, tutoring and career guidance to help transition into practice or postgraduate education.