LPN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Bridge Program, B.S.

The baccalaureate degree in nursing at Fitchburg State is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) http://www.ccneaccreditation.org.

Program Description

The LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program is designed to transition the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to the role of a baccalaureate prepared Registered Nurse.  Graduates of this program are prepared to meet societal healthcare needs in a variety of settings.  Legal, ethical and professional standards guide the student in the art and science of nursing. Respect for diversity, social responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in holistic nursing care are emphasized.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, the graduate will:

• Synthesize knowledge from the liberal arts, sciences, and nursing as a foundation for safe, client-centered care.
• Incorporate basic organizational and systems leadership to provide quality care and patient safety.
• Integrate evidence-based practice including current research and critical thinking in the management of client care.
• Analyze information using information technology to improve patient outcomes.
• Examine the impact of health care policy, finance, and regulatory environments on nursing practice.
• Integrate principles of communication in professional practice.
• Synthesize knowledge of health promotion and disease/injury prevention in designing population focused care.
• Integrate professional standards of moral, ethical and legal conduct into nursing practice.

Admissions Requirements

•    Current Massachusetts LPN license in good standing.
•    Graduate of an accredited LPN Program with Cumulative Grade Point Average of ≥ 77/GPA ≥ 2.5.
•    Successful completion of three specified National League for Nursing-Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exams (NACE)I  PN-RN at determined decision scores.  NLN Testing will be scheduled by the Department of Nursing.  Exam outlines and study guides will be available.  
•    Professional resume.
•    Two letters of recommendation; one from a current employer and one from LPN program faculty.
•    Required essay to include professional nursing skills, personal interests and career goals in nursing.
•    Math Readiness Requirement:  Successful completion of the Accuplacer Mathematics Placement Examination.  The Accuplacer Mathematics Placement Examination or the required pre-university level mathematics readiness courses must be successfully completed before students register for MATH1700.  The successful completion of the statistics course is necessary before students register for NURS 3710 - Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing  .
•    Applicants must also complete all Fitchburg State University Admission Criteria – view the Transfer Application Checklist (PDF) for details.