College History
Our Past
As nursing education shifted from hospitals toward university affiliation, LDS Hospital School of Nursing provided roots for establishing Brigham Young University College of Nursing. In September 1952, under the direction of President Ernest L. Wilkinson and Director Vivian Hansen, Brigham Young University College of Nursing opened its doors to nursing students.
The following decades saw the attainment of state and national accreditation, the implementation of graduate degree programs, and the beginning of a legacy of international service. At the turn of the century, technology became available for simulated learning. A Nursing Learning Center, directed by a national simulation expert, was established. High-fidelity adult, pediatric, and birthing simulators were acquired, introducing students to real-life scenarios.
Our Present
Today, BYU College of Nursing educates around 400 students annually who are among the highest academically qualified in the country. As a vital part of their preparation, students engage in clinical practice throughout the Mountain West. In addition, through the Public & Global Health Nursing course, they have opportunities to learn about healthcare systems and cultures in various international sites, including the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Finland, Ghana, India, Spain, Tonga, and Taiwan. Nursing students also learn locally by working with veterans and vulnerable populations.
The baccalaureate program draws students from across the U. S. and several foreign countries. Students enter the nursing program in their sophomore year, and nursing coursework is generally completed in three years.
The master’s program prepares graduates for advanced practice nursing as Family Nurse Practitioners and for leadership in nursing. The program is ranked among the top graduate programs in the nation and is currently at #68 in the 2023 edition of the U. S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools. The employment rate for graduates is 100%.
Our Future
Brigham Young University College of Nursing recognizes an overwhelming need for highly qualified nurses worldwide. To help fill this need, the College of Nursing is dedicated to providing the highest quality nursing education. Preparation at BYU includes integrating the arts, science, and technology with a devotion to human values and the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Accreditation
The Brigham Young University College of Nursing is approved by the Utah State Board of Nursing and offers a baccalaureate program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org). All students completing the Bachelor of Science program are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) necessary to become a registered nurse.
The baccalaureate nursing program prepares general practitioners with the knowledge, skills, leadership abilities, values, and competencies commensurate with professional nursing practice roles. Nursing education builds on the sciences, humanities, and religious studies to develop the solid theoretical and practical base necessary to understand and meet the health needs of people in various healthcare settings.
At the completion of the baccalaureate program, graduates may seek employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, community agencies, home health, and world health agencies. Graduates function as colleagues on various healthcare teams. The nursing program gives students a broad array of learning experiences in helping to prepare them for the complex "professional nurse" role.
The baccalaureate nursing curriculum is designed for the full-time student. Students typically carry 15-16 credits most semesters. The six semesters of nursing courses include up to 12 hours of clinical experience each week and coursework. Because of the rigors of this study plan, students should not expect to be employed more than 10-15 hours a week during their program.
Students working part-time or having family or other outside responsibilities are encouraged to complete as many required general education courses as possible before applying for the nursing program. Currently, nursing students spend about 30 hours weekly in course preparation.