Information for Prospective Students
How to Select the RIGHT Nursing Program:
Start by Reading Critical Information for Students and Parents
ADVICE FROM OUR GRADUATES STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Darcelle Fielder, Spring 2019 BSN Graduate Bethany Moore, Fall 2019
Kyle Marr, Spring 2019 BSN Graduate
Bailey Gray, Spring 2019 BSN Graduate
Can YOU be a Nurse?
Generally, to be a nurse in the U.S., there are a few requirements that you should know about.
1. You must be proficient in the English Language. At WKU School of Nursing, we check this using the TOFEL exam. See our requirements here.
2. You must graduate from a qualifying nursing program. Our BSN and ASN programs both meet this requirement.
3. You must pass the NCLEX-RN exam after graduation to obtain license to practice as a registered nurse (RN).
4. You must pass a criminal background check and have no prior felony convictions, and no misdemeanors related to the practice of nursing. This last is determined on a case by case basis, if you have questions about this, please contact us and we will review your information.
5. You must have a valid Social Security number.
6. You must have the minimum physical, mental and emotional capabilities to perform nursing tasks in a variety of clinical settings. See more information.
7. You must apply for a license in at least one state. This license can then be transferred to any other state in the US, by applying to the relevant state board of nursing. In addition to graduating from a qualified nursing program and passing the NCLEX licensure exam, each state may have additional requirements for licensure. Common requirements are fingerprints, criminal background checks, drug screen etc. Some states require additional continuing education hours on specific topics and may require the applicant to pass an online quiz on those topics to demonstrate competency. These additional requirements will be outlined on the board of nursing's website for each state, and may change on a yearly basis. Please see the relevant state's board of nursing website for additional details.
WKU School of Nursing General Information
FAQ about WKU's School of Nursing
Nursing Program Options - Chart Resource (Transfer Course Equivalencies)
Student Policies, Handbooks, & Forms
How to get Started
First Step - Apply for Admission at WKU - This allows us to assign you to a WKU advisor.
Second Step - Work with your advisor to select the right nursing program for YOU.
For more information about all of our Programs, including entry requirements and example courses, Click on the Program Link in the Black header at the top of this page.
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.