University of Findlay

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum combines foundational sciences, nursing theory and extensive clinical practice. Core topics include human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, adult medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing and community/public health. The programme emphasises evidence-based practice, nursing informatics and ethical/legal issues in healthcare.

Clinical learning occurs across ambulatory, acute care, long-term care and community settings and is supported by simulation labs that mirror real-world care environments. In addition to the core pathway to Registered Nursing, students can follow concentration options in:

• Nursing Administration – coursework in leadership and management, healthcare finance, quality improvement, human resources and organisational behaviour; practicum experiences focus on unit- and department-level management.
• Nursing Research – classes on research methods, statistics, evidence-based practice and clinical trial processes; students complete a research project or capstone under faculty supervision.
• Clinical Nursing – advanced clinical assessment and specialty-focused practicum hours that strengthen skills for complex care, acute-care settings and preparation for graduate clinical study.

The programme culminates in integrative clinical practicum experiences and a capstone that synthesises clinical, research and leadership competencies. Graduates are prepared to sit for the national licensure examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with a competitive GPA. Required pre-requisite coursework normally includes biology (with lab), chemistry (with lab) and high school mathematics; applicants without all prerequisites may be admitted to complete them prior to clinical coursework. Additional application components often include:

• Official transcripts from secondary school (and any college-level work)
• Standardised admissions testing or an admissions assessment as specified by the School of Nursing
• Evidence of CPR certification and up-to-date immunisations
• Background check and drug screening prior to clinical placements
• Personal statement and references; some applicants are invited to interview

Registered nurses with an associate degree seeking a BSN should consult the university for transfer pathways and credit articulation. Meeting state licensure requirements is the responsibility of the graduate; the programme is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN and for compliance with Ohio nursing regulatory standards.

Career prospects

Graduates enter the workforce as licensed registered nurses in hospitals, community health organisations, long-term care facilities and ambulatory clinics. Specific roles include staff nurse on medical-surgical, critical care and emergency units, maternal-child nurse, psychiatric nurse, and public health nurse.

Concentration-specific outcomes include:

• Nursing Administration – positions such as charge nurse, unit manager, care coordinator or quality improvement specialist; strong preparation for graduate study in nursing leadership and healthcare administration.
• Nursing Research – roles supporting clinical research teams, data collection and project coordination; a foundation for masters/doctoral research and roles in evidence synthesis or clinical trials.
• Clinical Nursing – enhanced readiness for specialist bedside roles and a clearer pathway to advanced practice nursing (nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist) through graduate study.

Many graduates continue to graduate-level nursing programmes or take positions that support career progression into leadership, education and advanced clinical practice.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a nursing programme with small cohort sizes and personalised faculty mentorship, enabling close guidance through clinical skill development and academic planning. The School of Nursing has purpose-built simulation facilities and strong clinical partnerships with regional hospitals and community providers, ensuring diverse practicum opportunities.

Faculty are practised clinicians and active educators who integrate current practice standards and research into coursework. The university supports student success with academic advising, clinical placement coordination and career services that help graduates transition into employment or further study. For students seeking a hands-on, supported route into nursing with options to specialise in administration, research or advanced clinical practice, Findlay provides a focused environment and clear professional pathways.