Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum combines foundational sciences, nursing theory and extensive clinical practice. Early courses typically cover human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and lifespan development to build a strong biomedical foundation. Core nursing modules focus on assessment skills, fundamentals of nursing practice, medical–surgical nursing, maternal–child nursing, paediatrics, mental health/psychiatric nursing and community and public health nursing.

Across the programme you will study evidence-based practice and research methods that support the nursing research strand, leadership and management content that underpins nursing administration, and advanced clinical skills and critical thinking for clinical nursing practice. Common modules and learning experiences include:

• Foundations of Nursing Practice and Health Assessment
• Pharmacology and Pathophysiology for Nurses
• Medical–Surgical Nursing and Acute Care
• Maternity, Newborn and Women’s Health Nursing
• Paediatric Nursing
• Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing
• Community and Public Health Nursing
• Evidence-Based Practice, Research Methods and Statistics
• Leadership, Health Policy and Nursing Administration
• Capstone practicum and senior clinical experience

Clinical learning is delivered through supervised placements across Loyola’s clinical affiliates in the Chicago region, simulation laboratory sessions that replicate complex patient scenarios, and interprofessional education activities with students from other health professions. Students typically complete a sequence of progressively more advanced practicum experiences, culminating in a senior capstone or internship that integrates clinical, research and leadership learning.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and normally requires a high school diploma or recognised equivalent, satisfactory completion of specified science prerequisites and a strong academic record. Typical expectations include coursework in biology and chemistry and, where available, anatomy & physiology. Successful applicants usually present:

• A competitive high school GPA and academic transcript with relevant science courses
• Standardised test scores if the programme requires or if provided by the applicant (policies may vary)
• A personal statement or supplemental essay demonstrating commitment to nursing and alignment with Jesuit values such as service and social justice
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, employers or healthcare professionals
• Documentation of immunisations, current CPR/BLS certification and the ability to pass background checks and clinical health screenings prior to placements

Applicants with prior college coursework or current registered nurses seeking an RN-to-BSN route should consult programme-specific admissions criteria, as requirements and pathways differ. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide approved credential evaluations where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the national licensure examination to become Registered Nurses and enter clinical practice in hospitals, community health organisations, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics and public health agencies. Specialised coursework in administration and leadership supports career paths in nurse management, charge nursing and operations roles. Training in research methods and evidence-based practice prepares graduates to work as research assistants, clinical nurse specialists or to pursue graduate study (MSN, DNP or PhD) that leads to advanced practice, nursing education or leadership and research careers.

Typical roles for graduates include staff Registered Nurse in acute care settings, community/public health nurse, case manager, nurse educator (with further study), clinical nurse leader, and positions in quality improvement, patient safety and healthcare administration. Loyola’s clinical partnerships and alumni network also support transitions into graduate programmes and specialty certification.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s nursing programme is delivered through a school with a strong emphasis on whole-person care, social justice and service learning. Students benefit from clinical placements across a diverse urban healthcare network in Chicago, hands-on learning in advanced simulation labs and opportunities for interprofessional education with peers in medicine, allied health and social work.

The curriculum emphasises culturally competent care, community engagement and ethical practice, reflecting the university’s Jesuit mission. Faculty are practising clinicians and researchers who supervise clinical rotations and mentor student research projects. For students seeking leadership or research pathways, the programme offers focused coursework and experiential learning that supports progression to graduate study and specialised roles in nursing administration, clinical practice and nursing research.