Why choose nursing at WSU?

The WSU nursing program is fully accredited by the National League of Nursing Accreditating Commission (NLNAC). More than 95 percent of WSU nursing students are placed in a career within six months of graduation. WSU nursing students participate in a wide variety of clinical practice environments, including acute care settings, health screening clinics, acute and chronic psychiatric facilities, homecare and hospice. The program offers numerous scholarships to matriculated nursing students.

What degrees/certificates are available?

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for Registered Nurses

Associate of Science (AS/AAS)
     Registered Nurse
     Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse

Institutional Certificate
     Practical Nurse

What is career laddering?

Nursing at WSU offers student career progression from Practical Nursing (PN) to Associate Degree Nursing/RN (AS or AAS) to Bachelor's Degree Nursing (BSN) via a ladder curriculum. This curriculum enables you to progress through various preparation levels in accordance with your ability, aspirations, career goals and changing life circumstances.

What is the difference between PN, RN and BSN?

The PN (practical nurse) is a one-year certificate program. RN (registered nurse) is a two-year program and, when completed, you take board exams to become a registered nurse. The BSN is an opportunity for licensed RNs to continue their education.

What is the difference between an Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degree?

The major difference between the two degrees is approximately 15 to 18 hours of general education courses. An Associate of Science (AS) degree is a minimum of 84 credit hours, while an Associate of Applied Science degree is a minimum of 69 credit hours.

What are the employment opportunities?

Nurses have a wide variety of employment opportunities: acute care, community, home health, clinic, business and industry, education, long-term care, physician’s offices and more. Visit WSU Career Services for more specific information.

What are starting salaries of graduates?

Starting salaries vary depending on area of practice. Incentives for working extra hours can influence wages significantly. At this time, full-time salaries for new RN graduates are approximately $36,000 to $38,000 per year. Full-time salaries for new LPN (licensed practical nurse) graduates are approximately $23,000 to $25,000 per year. This may vary depending on region, workplace and skill level.

When I graduate, will I have to be licensed to perform my duties?

Yes. Nursing is a regulated profession that requires national licensure prior to practice. For more information, visit the Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensure (DOPL).

Do I have to take the state CNA exam if I do not plan to work as a CNA?

No. You only need to bring the course completion form from the facility where you have taken your CNA course. You must realize, however, that if you do not take the state exam, the course is only good for one year. Therefore, if you are not accepted to the program and have not taken the state exam you will have to repeat the course. We also accept CNA certificates from other states.

Where can I take the CNA course?

The following institutions offer CNA courses:

WSU – Call (801) 626-6600 for a course schedule.
Davis Applied Technology College – Call (801) 593-2330 for course schedule.
Ogden Weber Applied Technology College – Call (801) 627-8355 for course schedule.

Most Area Technology Colleges offer CNA courses. Please contact WSU Continuing Education for more information.