Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The programme is a professionally oriented Bachelor of Science in Nursing (pre‑licensure) that integrates foundational biomedical science with nursing theory, clinical skills and applied practice. Core subjects typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment and lifespan development. Nursing‑specific modules cover adult medical‑surgical nursing, maternal and newborn care, paediatric nursing, mental health nursing, community and public health nursing, and nursing care of older adults.

Students also take modules in leadership and management, nursing research and evidence‑based practice, ethics and legal aspects of care, nursing informatics and quality improvement. Clinical competence is developed through a series of supervised practicum placements in hospitals, community clinics and long‑term care settings, supported by simulation laboratory sessions. The programme includes a senior capstone or practicum and options to focus on pathways such as Nursing Administration (management and systems), Nursing Research (research methods and evidence synthesis) or Clinical Nursing (advanced clinical assessment and specialty practice).

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent with passes in key sciences (biology strongly recommended and often chemistry or another lab science). Admissions normally expect a competitive academic record and may ask for an admissions essay or personal statement describing motivation for nursing. Some campuses or pathways may request letters of recommendation, a specified minimum GPA, and evidence of volunteer or healthcare work/shadowing.

Accepted applicants will be required to meet professional clearances before clinical placements, such as immunisation requirements, background checks, health screenings and basic life support (CPR) certification. Mature applicants and holders of allied health diplomas may be considered through transfer or advanced‑standing routes; transferable credits and previous healthcare experience are assessed on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the national licensure examination for registered nurses and enter practice across acute care, community health, mental health services, ambulatory care and long‑term care. Early career roles commonly include staff nurse positions in medical‑surgical units, emergency departments, maternity and neonatal units, paediatrics and community nursing teams.

Those who follow the Nursing Administration pathway move into charge nurse and first‑line management roles, clinical coordination and operational leadership. Graduates who specialise in Nursing Research support or conduct clinical audits, participate in research teams and contribute to evidence‑based practice projects. The Clinical Nursing pathway suits students aiming for advanced clinical practice, specialty nursing roles and preparation for postgraduate clinical qualifications (such as a Master’s or nurse practitioner programmes). Other career options include case management, occupational health nursing, public health, nursing education and health policy roles.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers nursing education emphasising small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and experiential learning. The university maintains partnerships with regional healthcare providers to ensure diverse clinical placements and exposure to contemporary practice settings. Students benefit from well‑equipped simulation labs that allow safe practice of clinical procedures and interprofessional learning exercises.

Faculty typically combine academic credentials with clinical experience, providing guidance on licensure preparation and career planning. The programme supports pathways into administration, research and advanced clinical roles and provides advising for students who wish to progress to graduate study. Support services such as academic tutoring, clinical placement coordination and career services help students make the transition into professional nursing practice.