University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in biological and behavioural sciences alongside nursing-specific theory and clinical skills. Core study areas include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and the principles of evidence-based nursing practice. You will study adult health, maternal and child health, mental health and community/public health nursing, and gain instruction in nursing informatics and healthcare policy.

Clinical competence is developed through progressive supervised clinical placements across acute, community and specialised settings, supported by high-fidelity simulation and skills laboratories. Research and leadership are integrated through modules in nursing research methods, statistics for health professionals, quality improvement, and nursing administration, culminating in a capstone or practicum project that demonstrates clinical judgement, leadership and the application of research to practice.

• Fundamental sciences: human anatomy, physiology and microbiology
• Nursing foundations: health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology
• Adult, maternal-child, mental health and community nursing
• Evidence-based practice and nursing research methods
• Nursing administration, leadership and healthcare systems
• Clinical practicum placements and simulation-based learning

Entry requirements

Applicants for the pre-licensure BSN typically need a secondary school qualification with strong performance in science subjects, particularly biology and chemistry, and competitive overall academic achievement. Admissions consider applicants' academic record, relevant healthcare experience, personal statement and references. Many applicants will be expected to have completed prerequisite coursework in topics such as human biology, chemistry and statistics prior to entering professional nursing courses.

There are additional pathways for applicants who are already licensed RNs: an RN-to-BSN pathway for diploma- or associate-degree nurses that recognises prior learning and professional experience and may require an active, unencumbered RN licence. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements and provide documentation of equivalent academic qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to sit for the national licensing examination to become registered nurses and typically begin careers in hospitals, community health services, primary care, mental health services and specialised clinics. With experience and further study, alumni move into roles such as clinical nurse specialist, charge nurse, nurse manager or director, research coordinator, quality improvement lead, and public health nurse.

The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study (for example MSc, MSN or doctoral programmes) for those aiming for advanced clinical practice, nurse practitioner roles, academic careers or research positions in health services and clinical trials.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Nursing is part of a major academic health system, providing strong clinical placement opportunities with UNC Hospitals and a wide network of community partners. Students benefit from experienced faculty who are active in clinical practice and research, access to advanced simulation facilities and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines.

The School emphasises evidence-based practice and research, offering undergraduate students opportunities to engage in faculty-led research projects and quality improvement initiatives. Support services, clinical mentorship and career development resources help graduates transition into practice or progress to postgraduate study.