Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science is the preferred educational degree for nursing, providing nurses with a wide range of opportunities in the field. Niagara's nursing programs focus on preparing nurses who internalize and integrate the professional nursing paradigm of critical analysis and problem solving, healthcare leadership and management, communication and research utilization, community-based care and the values of respect for human dignity and ethical decision-making related to the scope of professional nursing practice. Our goal is to educate nurses who, upon completion of the program, have been prepared to lead, manage and deliver outstanding professional comprehensive nursing care in any healthcare setting. The programs use active learning strategies and strive to be flexible and accessible for the adult learners. Niagara's traditional four-year nursing degree program, preparing a young man/woman for a career in professional nursing, will be spread across the eight-semester plan of study. Nursing is practice-oriented major, so clinical courses at healthcare agencies will be an integral part of the program. Niagara's program is approved by New York State Education Department, which is necessary for you to take the NYS RN licensing examination (NCLEX) upon graduation. Gain experience through externship or internship programs. Work or volunteer in healthcare and medical settings during summers and breaks. Take electives in areas such as wellness, holistic health, medical ethics, and death and dying. Develop good organizational skills and the ability to handle stress. Develop patience, ability to work with both patients and families for long periods, and good listening skills. Be prepared to work nights, weekends, and holidays in a hospital setting. Obtain a master's degree for positions such as nurse practitioner, clinical specialist, or nurse administrator. Cultivate managerial skills for head nurse or other supervisory positions. Develop knowledge and skills in management, decision-making, mediation, teaching, counseling, speaking, and writing. Gain experience in the ability to handle emergencies, work independently, and be flexible. Develop expertise in first aid procedures. Expand knowledge of health issues related to age, cultures, religions, ethics, and government policies. Obtain a master's degree for nurse practitioner positions. Gained the required years of experience. Learn to work autonomously and make decisions independently. Be prepared to move frequently to various locations either locally or abroad. Become flexible and adaptable. Define an area of interest since government work offers a variety of practices. Plan on graduate study in teaching, research, or administration for advancement. Become familiar with other cultures, languages, health systems and beliefs. Be prepared for combat nursing in armed services.