Navigating Nursing Electives at UCF: A Comprehensive Guide
The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers a variety of nursing programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in healthcare. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the elective options and program requirements within the UCF nursing curriculum, drawing upon key information for prospective and current students.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs at UCF
UCF's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to provide comprehensive care across diverse healthcare settings, including acute care, community health, and rehabilitation facilities. The program emphasizes clinical nursing practice, health promotion, and leadership development.
UCF BSN programs are limited access, meaning admission is competitive. There are multiple tracks available to cater to students with different academic backgrounds and career goals:
- Traditional BSN: This track provides a foundation for professional nursing practice. Admission occurs once a year on UCF’s Orlando, Cocoa, and Daytona Beach campuses.
- Accelerated Second Degree BSN: Designed for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, this full-time program can be completed in four consecutive semesters, including summers.
- Concurrent ASN to BSN: This path allows qualified students to take Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) courses at approved state colleges while simultaneously taking BSN courses at UCF.
- RN to BSN: Tailored for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma in nursing, this track offers a flexible, primarily online format with some face-to-face classes. Coursework is reviewed individually to prevent repetition.
Admission and Application
Admission to UCF is competitive, and nursing programs have additional requirements. Prospective first-year students are encouraged to apply between September and November of their senior year of high school for enrollment the following summer or fall semester. Early application may improve chances for scholarship consideration and housing availability.
To get started, it is important to explore the application process and requirements for the specific UCF BSN degree track you are interested in.
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Program Requirements
Regardless of the chosen track, all BSN students must fulfill university-wide graduation requirements, including general education, civic literacy, foreign language, and Gordon Rule requirements. A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) is required in each program prerequisite course, core requirement course, and restricted elective. Note that graduate programs may require a higher level of performance for admission. No transfer course will be accepted with a grade lower than a "C" (2.0).
Accelerated Second Degree BSN Program Details
The Accelerated Second Degree BSN program is specifically designed for individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing and are seeking a career change. This program is a full-time, "lock-step" program, meaning students progress through a structured sequence of courses.
Admission Requirements
Individuals interested in the Accelerated Second Degree BSN program must meet specific admission requirements, including:
- Holding a baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited institution of higher education that meets university transfer eligibility requirements.
- Consulting with an advisor in the College of Nursing Undergraduate Student Services Office for clarification of questions regarding prerequisite requirements.
Continuation and Graduation Requirements
To continue in and graduate from the Accelerated Second Degree BSN program, students must maintain:
- A minimum overall GPA of 2.5.
- A minimum 2.5 GPA in the nursing major.
Accreditation and Licensure
The Accelerated Second Degree BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. Successful completion of the program meets the educational eligibility criteria for the National Council for Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for obtaining a license to practice as a registered nurse in Florida. Note that out-of-state instructional limitations may apply to this degree program.
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RN to BSN Program Details
The RN to BSN program is designed for licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing and wish to advance their education and career opportunities. This program offers flexible online learning options, making it accessible for working nurses.
Program Features
- Online Availability: The RN to BSN program may be completed fully online, although not all elective options or program prerequisites may be offered online. Newly admitted students choosing to complete this program exclusively via UCF online classes may enroll with a reduction in campus-based fees.
- Flexibility: The program is designed to accommodate the schedules of working RNs, offering flexible and affordable options to balance school, work, and life.
- Individualized Review: Each applicant's coursework is reviewed individually to prevent repetition of previous coursework.
Requirements
Students in the RN to BSN program must:
- Be licensed RNs to participate.
- Complete all university-wide graduation requirements (general education, civic literacy, foreign language, Gordon Rule, etc.).
- Note that while additional certifications may be available in this field of study, this program does not directly lead to such licensure or certification upon graduation.
Health Sciences - Pre-Clinical Track
For students interested in a broader foundation in health sciences with a focus on preparing for graduate-level clinical programs, UCF offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences with a Pre-Clinical track. This track provides a solid educational background in basic and health-related sciences, laying the groundwork for admission to programs such as medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, physician assistant/associate, and other health-related professions.
Admission Requirements
- Students must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 for acceptance into the Pre-Clinical track.
- Students selecting the Pre-Clinical track are classified as "pending" until the program verifies that they meet the GPA requirements.
Coursework and GPA Requirements
- A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) in each program prerequisite course, in each core requirement course, and in each restricted elective is required. Students should note that graduate programs may require a higher level of performance for admission.
- Students must achieve a minimum 3.0 overall GPA for graduation.
Alternative Options
Students who do not meet the minimum overall 3.0 GPA graduation requirement have alternative options:
- Students with an overall GPA between 2.5-2.99 will be automatically moved to the Health Sciences - Health Promotion track during their graduation term and will earn the Health Sciences - Health Promotion track B.S. if they have met all other program requirements.
- Students with an overall GPA less than 2.5 will be automatically moved to the General Health Studies, B.S. degree during their graduation term if they have met all other program requirements.
General Information about UCF
UCF is a large and diverse university with a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities.
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Location
UCF's main campus is located in Orlando, the heart of Central Florida, offering students access to various cultural and recreational opportunities. UCF also has campuses in Cocoa and Daytona Beach for specific programs.
Academics
UCF has more than 245 degree programs in 12 colleges. The university is committed to providing students with challenging academics and caring faculty.
Student Life
UCF offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities. The university is home to students from 151 countries, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and global partnerships.
Transfer Students
UCF welcomes transfer students from other institutions. According to U.S. News & World Report, more students choose to transfer to UCF than to any other university in the country. DirectConnect to UCF guarantees admission for students who earn an A.A. or articulated A.S. degree from one of UCF's partner institutions. The Office of Transfer and Transition Services provides support to help make the transition smooth and seamless.
UCF Online
UCF Online offers high-quality distance learning options for both traditional and nontraditional students. Students can choose from fully online bachelor's degrees, graduate degrees, professional certificates, and 2+2 baccalaureate completion programs.
Graduate Studies
UCF offers more than 138 master's, specialist, doctoral, and certificate programs. The university is committed to providing graduate students with a rich blend of academics, research, culture, and fun.
Career Opportunities for Nursing Graduates
A significant number of UCF BSN graduates choose to stay in Florida after completing their degree - 92% of them. Florida has one of the highest employment levels of registered nurses who earn an annual mean wage of $69,510.
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