Nursing + Nursing (4+1)

Simmons University’s accelerated five-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program produces nursing leaders capable of making a difference in the rapidly evolving field of health care.

Why pursue an accelerated nursing degree?

The BSN and MSN 4+1 degree is an ideal fit for students who seek an advanced practice nursing degree or know they want to further specialize in a particular area of nursing. The five-year degree structure allows students accepted into the undergraduate nursing program to receive both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a timely manner, jump starting their career in advanced nursing.

Instructed by expert faculty members, Simmons students learn cutting-edge nursing practices and procedures that focus on delivering patient-centered, safe, and efficient care to individuals, families, and the greater community.

This combined bachelor’s and master’s in nursing program develops nursing leaders who improve healthcare outcomes in clinical practice and research. Simmons graduates are ethical, well-rounded nurses who use their intelligence and compassion to improve patient care in the complex medical field.

BSN and MSN Degree Structure

Students first complete an accelerated BS in Nursing curriculum that prepares them for the registered nurse licensure (NCLEX) exam. Upon passing the NCLEX exam, they move into the MSN portion of the program, which consists of three components: foundational courses, primary care, and research.

Nurses are in high demand in every branch of medicine; as a result, the BSN and MSN curriculum prepares students to deliver primary health care to diverse populations across the lifespan. Course topics include medical surgical nursing, pharmacology, health promotion, health care policy, health assessment, anatomy and physiology, clinical decision making, and informatics.

The curriculum also includes clinical rotations where students gain hands-on experience under the supervision of professional nurses and instructors. This practice of theory deepens knowledge of nursing concepts and helps students build confidence in their ability as compassionate, skilled nurses.

Access to Boston’s Innovative Medical Network

BSN and MSN degree students benefit from Simmons University’s close relationships with world-renowned teaching hospitals and research facilities across Boston, many of which surround the Simmons campus. These facilities include Brigham and Women's Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Through this access to some of the most innovative medical centers, our students are able to expand their knowledge and skill set by completing clinical rotations and practicums, attending lectures and professional networking events and taking advantage of research opportunities.

BSN to MSN Program Outcomes

Simmons nursing students have a reputation for being the best and brightest in their field. Upon graduation from this 5 year nursing program, students step confidently into prominent, highly rewarding positions across a range of healthcare settings, including:

Registered Nurse
Family Nurse Practitioner
Clinical Researcher
Public Health Nurse
Nursing Leaders

Graduates of this program are prepared to take the family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification exam; some students also continue their education further in Doctor of Nursing (DNP) programs to increase their executive-level management and leadership skills.

Nursing Program Accreditation

CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) Seal

Simmons University’s baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program are all accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education located at 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001 and 202-887-6791.

Application Requirements

Current Simmons nursing students are eligible to apply for the 4+1 accelerated BSN and MSN program during their sophomore year. Applicants to the BSN program must submit the following items to be considered for admission:

Completed Application
High School Transcript
SAT or ACT Test Scores (optional)
College Essay
Two Letters of Recommendation (one teacher, one counselor)

Learn more about the undergraduate admission process, including application deadlines and what we look for in an applicant. If you have any questions as you apply, please do not hesitate to contact our Undergraduate Admissions Office at 617-521-2051 or [email protected].

Receive Your BSN and MSN in Five Years With Simmons’ 4+1 Nursing Program

Simmons University’s accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing five-year degree program allows you to build advanced nursing knowledge so you can make a positive impact on patient care in your community.

Excited to get started? Request more information or apply to Simmons today!

See program requirements for the Nursing + Nursing (4+1) program.

Clinical and research are key components of our nursing programs. You'll have opportunities to explore your interests, build your skills and develop mentoring relationships with leaders in the field.

Our students put their knowledge into practice in many ways, including:

Six group clinical rotations, a final-semester preceptorship for approximately 600 clinical hours to prepare you for the NCLEX exam.
For Advanced Practice Clinical Preparation, you'll complete 670 clinical hours over four semesters at a variety of settings – hospitals, clinics, community-based health centers, nursing homes – and with diverse populations across the lifespan, including pediatrics, women’s health, adult and geriatric care.
Collaborate with faculty or community agencies to develop and implement scholarly research projects.

So you know that Simmons is a great place to be, you've learned about our programs, maybe even come for a visit...now you're ready to apply! Let's get started.

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