Ferris State University

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum blends foundational sciences, core nursing theory and specialised pathways in Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. Early study covers anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment. Professional nursing courses introduce medical–surgical nursing, maternal–child health, paediatric nursing, psychiatric/mental health nursing, community and public health nursing, and gerontological care.

Across the programme you will also study leadership and management in healthcare, ethics and legal aspects of nursing, quality improvement, nursing informatics, population health, and evidence-based practice. The Nursing Research strand emphasises research methods, statistics for health sciences and applying research to practice, while the Nursing Administration pathway covers organisational behaviour, finance and human resources in healthcare settings. The Clinical Nursing pathway focuses on advanced clinical assessment, complex care management and specialty practicum experiences.

Teaching methods include lectures, case-based learning, high‑fidelity simulation in clinical skills labs, collaborative interprofessional learning and supervised clinical placements in hospitals, community agencies and long‑term care settings. The programme culminates in a capstone or practicum that integrates clinical decision‑making, leadership and research application.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the pre‑licensure BSN typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent and completion of prerequisite college coursework such as human anatomy and physiology, chemistry, developmental psychology, statistics and English composition. Admissions commonly consider college GPA, prerequisite course grades, a written personal statement or interview, and evidence of readiness for clinical study.

Candidates may be required to complete a standardised nursing admission test (such as the TEAS) and must meet health and safety requirements for clinical placement, including immunisations, CPR certification and a criminal background check. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma who wish to complete a BSN can apply through the RN‑to‑BSN pathway; this route generally requires an active RN licence, official college transcripts and a minimum GPA in prior nursing coursework. Specific admission criteria can vary, so prospective students should consult the School of Nursing for current details.

Career prospects

• Staff nurse roles in acute care, community health, mental health and specialty areas such as critical care, maternity and paediatrics.
• Leadership and management positions including charge nurse, nurse manager or unit coordinator — pathways supported by study in Nursing Administration.
• Roles in nursing research, quality improvement and evidence‑based practice teams for those who follow the Nursing Research pathway.
• Advanced clinical practice positions or clinical specialist roles after further postgraduate education and certification for graduates from the Clinical Nursing strand.
• Careers in public health, case management, occupational health, hospital education and healthcare policy.
• Further study options include graduate programmes leading to nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator or healthcare administration qualifications.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State’s School of Nursing is recognised for combining applied learning with strong clinical partnerships across Michigan. Students benefit from access to modern simulation suites and skills laboratories that replicate realistic clinical scenarios, allowing development of practical competence before and during placements.

The faculty bring clinical experience from a range of healthcare settings and emphasise mentorship, professional development and preparation for licensure and contemporary nursing roles. The programme maintains accreditation by the recognised nursing accreditor for baccalaureate programmes, and its curriculum is designed to meet current practice standards and employer expectations.

Clinical placement relationships with regional hospitals, community health providers and long‑term care agencies help students gain diverse hands‑on experience. Support services such as academic advising, clinical placement coordination and career services assist students in transitioning from study into the workforce or further professional education.