Study Options:
	Major in Nursing Second Degree Program This program is for the student who has graduated from an accredited baccalaureate program in an area other than nursing. RN-BS Program This program is for the student who has graduated from an accredited nursing program, is a registered nurse, and has a diploma in nursing or an associate degree in nursing. RN-MS Program This program is for the student who has graduated from an accredited nursing program, is a registered nurse, and has a diploma in nursing or an associate degree in nursing. Download the 2006 Nursing Programs Student Handbook

Registered Nurses Program

RN-BS Program
This program is for the student who has graduated from an accredited nursing program, is a registered nurse, and has a diploma in nursing or an associate degree in nursing.

The College offers registered nurses the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science degree on a part- or full-time basis. Selected registered nursing students may elect to matriculate to the Master of Science in Nursing Program (see the Graduate Nursing Bulletin for complete information).

This program's requirements are the same as those for the regular undergraduate nursing program with the exception of the foreign language requirement, from which RNs are exempt. The methods by which course objectives are to be met by RN students are geared toward adult learners. RN students must complete 128 semester hours of credit, and fulfill Simmons' liberal arts and sciences and competency requirements. While at least 48 semester hours of credit must be earned at Simmons, transfer credit, prior-learning credit, and advanced placement in nursing credit is also granted when certain specifications are met.

The accepted student may apply up to 80 transfer/challenge, or credit for prior learning credits towards the Simmons Degree and may challenge 18 credits in Nursing via examination. A total of 128 credits are required for the Bachelor of Science Degree, with a minimum of 48 credits completed at Simmons College.

Policies/Procedures for Admission
Initial contact should made with The Dorethea Lynde Dix Scholars Program (617-521-2051). Program information will be forwarded as requested.

A Dix Scholars Program Counselor will review the student's previous nursing education and the RN-BS prerequisites.

All prospective RN-BS students should apply directly to the Dix Scholars Program Department which will review the application and inform the student of the decision.

Students must complete the prerequisite courses before starting the nursing courses. In addition, all applicants must have a license to practice as a RN in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or be eligible to take the licensing examination. Graduates of an associate degree program can transfer nursing and science courses directly into Simmons College. Graduates of a diploma program will be awarded credit for their nursing courses and science courses upon the completion of a portfolio documenting their career development.