Lewis University

What you'll study

This Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme combines foundational biological and behavioural sciences with core nursing theory, clinical skills and opportunities to focus on administration, research or advanced clinical practice. The curriculum moves from classroom and simulation-based learning to supervised clinical placements in local hospitals and community settings across the Chicagoland region.

• Foundations and sciences: human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology and lifespan development.
• Core nursing practice: health assessment, fundamentals of nursing, medical–surgical nursing, maternal–child health, paediatrics, psychiatric/mental health nursing, community and public health nursing.
• Clinical skills and simulation: high-fidelity simulation labs, patient safety, clinical decision-making and skills practicum prior to inpatient and community placements.
• Administration and leadership: health systems, nursing leadership, quality improvement, finance and workforce management for students choosing the administration emphasis.
• Nursing research and evidence-based practice: research methods, statistics for nursing, evidence appraisal and application of research to clinical care for those focusing on research.
• Advanced clinical focus: speciality practicum experiences and courses that deepen assessment, differential diagnosis and complex care management for clinical nursing concentrators.
• Professional preparation: ethics, legal aspects of nursing, informatics, interprofessional practice and preparation for licensure (NCLEX-RN).

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high-school diploma or equivalent with recommended coursework in biology and chemistry; college-level prerequisites or transfer credits are considered. Admissions assess academic readiness through high-school or collegiate GPA, completed prerequisite science courses, and a personal statement or interview.

Successful candidates must also meet professional clearance requirements before clinical placements, which commonly include immunisations, health screening, background checks, drug screening and basic life support (CPR) certification. Transfer applicants and students entering with prior college credit should consult the programme for specific course equivalencies and minimum GPA expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter practice as registered nurses in hospitals, community health agencies, long-term care, outpatient clinics and specialised care units. Depending on the chosen emphasis, graduates progress into roles such as:

• Staff registered nurse in acute care, critical care, med–surg, emergency or maternal–child settings
• Clinical nurse specialist or advanced clinical roles after further post‑graduate study
• Nurse manager, unit coordinator or other administrative and leadership positions
• Nurse researcher, clinical educator or quality improvement specialist in healthcare organisations
• Community and public health nurse, case manager or care coordinator

Many alumni continue with graduate study (MSN, DNP or professional master’s) to specialise in advanced practice, administration, education or research.

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis University offers a values-centred nursing education with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience and small cohort learning. Students benefit from clinical partnerships across the Chicago metropolitan area, dedicated simulation facilities and faculty who combine academic qualifications with active clinical practice.

The programme integrates leadership, ethics and interprofessional collaboration into its curriculum, helping graduates move smoothly into practice or further study. Support services such as academic advising, clinical placement coordination and career guidance are available to help students achieve licensure and professional goals.