Doane University

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum at Doane blends foundational sciences and liberal‑arts coursework with progressive clinical nursing content. Early courses typically cover human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, lifespan development and foundations of nursing practice. Core nursing modules include health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, adult and gerontological nursing, maternal and child health, mental health nursing and community/public health.

As you advance, the programme emphasises clinical decision making, evidence‑based practice and leadership. Specific strands or course options focus on nursing administration (leadership, management, healthcare policy and organisational behaviour), nursing research (research methods, statistics, quality improvement and translating evidence into practice) and clinical nursing (advanced clinical assessment, complex care management and specialty practicum experiences). The programme includes supervised clinical practicum placements in a variety of care settings and use of simulation laboratories to develop assessment and procedural skills. A culminating capstone or practicum synthesises clinical competence, research literacy and professional leadership.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical prerequisites include courses in biology (with laboratory), chemistry and often anatomy and physiology. Admissions review will consider overall academic record, prerequisite course grades and a demonstrated interest in nursing.

Additional requirements commonly include a minimum cumulative GPA threshold, submission of transcripts, a personal statement or essay, and references. Accepted students must complete health and immunisation requirements, a current CPR certification, and successfully pass background and drug screening prior to clinical placements. Transfer applicants and registered nurses seeking an RN‑to‑BSN pathway are considered with evaluation of prior college credit and licensure documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX‑RN and enter practice as registered nurses across acute care, community health, long‑term care and speciality settings. Those who pursue the administration strand often move into roles such as charge nurse, nurse manager, or administrative coordinator. Graduates with a focus on nursing research may work in quality improvement, clinical research coordination or healthcare analytics, and can continue to graduate study leading to clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner or doctoral roles. The BSN also provides a strong foundation for careers in public health, case management, education and health policy.

Why study at Doane University

Doane combines a small‑college learning environment with a professional nursing curriculum that emphasises personalised mentorship and active learning. Students benefit from close faculty supervision, access to simulation and skills labs, and clinical partnerships with regional hospitals and community health providers that offer diverse practicum experiences. The liberal‑arts context of the programme develops communication, critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills valued in nursing leadership and research. For students seeking an education that integrates hands‑on clinical preparation with opportunities to specialise in administration, research or advanced clinical practice, Doane provides a supportive pathway to professional nursing and further graduate study.