Program Overview

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Introduction to Nursing Undergraduate Programs

The Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing at Shenandoah University offers undergraduate programs designed to prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge for entry-level nursing positions in a variety of settings. These programs are available at both the Winchester and Loudoun locations.

Traditional Four-Year Track

The Traditional Four-Year track in Nursing is designed for students beginning the BSN program as first-years. Nursing courses begin in the sophomore year, and students are encouraged to work in healthcare during summers. This track is offered in Winchester with fall entry only.

Program Details

• The program has a low faculty-student ratio with small classes and clinical groups.
• Faculty members have expertise in various specialties and provide personal attention to students.
• The curriculum includes core nursing courses, nursing ethics, genomics, nursing research, and evidence-based practice.
• Students participate in hands-on learning experiences, including simulation labs and clinical rotations.

Transfer Nursing Track

The Transfer track in Nursing is designed for students transferring to Shenandoah University with some college credits already earned. This track begins in the fall semester and can be completed in five academic semesters. Students must have completed all prerequisite courses and general education requirements prior to being accepted into the BSN program.

Program Details

• The program is offered at the Winchester campus.
• Students gain hands-on experience through lab and clinical rotations.
• The curriculum includes core nursing courses, nursing ethics, and genomics.
• Students learn from experienced and practicing faculty members.

BSN-Accelerated Second Degree

The Accelerated Second Degree BSN (ABSN) is an innovative program that allows students with non-nursing degrees to earn a nursing degree in 15 months. This program provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge for entry-level nursing positions in diverse healthcare settings.

Program Details

• The program is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing discipline.
• The ABSN track is challenging but offers numerous rewards, including high pass rates on the NCLEX exam.
• Students participate in hands-on learning experiences, including simulation labs and clinical rotations.
• The curriculum includes core nursing courses, nursing ethics, genomics, and evidence-based practice.

Career and Salary Possibilities

Nursing is the fastest-growing occupation in the U.S., with a high demand expected to rise. Graduates enjoy high starting salaries and flexible schedules in terms of hours and locations. As a nurse, one will have numerous opportunities for specialization and career advancement.

Career Options

• Hospitals (acute care)
• Clinics
• Medical practices
• Health departments
• Hospice
• Military
• International care
• Home care
• Trauma care
• School nursing

Learning Support Services

Learning support services are available to all students in every course at Shenandoah. These services include free peer tutoring, the Writing Center, and the Math Enrichment Center. Professors and academic advisors also have office hours and open-door policies to ensure students succeed academically.

Meet the Faculty

The Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing has a low faculty-student ratio, allowing for personal attention from faculty members. The faculty consists of experienced and practicing professionals who provide a supportive environment for students to grow and excel.

Related Programs

Students interested in the nursing program may also consider other majors, graduate degrees, minors, and certificates, such as Spanish, biology, and public health. Continuing education is also available through graduate programs, including family nurse practitioner, nurse-midwifery, and psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner.

Application Information

Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically. Students can submit their application, review required admissions materials, and find admissions standards on the university's website.

Graduate Program Assured Admission

The Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing offers assured graduate program admission to its BSN or MSN alumni who are interested in earning an MSN, post-master's specialty certificate, and/or a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Alumni must meet minimum admission requirements and submit an application by the application deadline.