The BSN degree is offered exclusively as a baccalaureate completion program for graduates of associate degree or diploma nursing programs. Nursing majors are prepared as generalists in nursing practice. The curriculum enhances registered nurses' previous education and enables them to be flexible practitioners in a dynamic health care environment. Nursing majors develop skills in clinical problem-solving and critical thinking to plan and implement nursing care of individuals, families, and community groups. Students increase their ability to care for individual clients by broadening their knowledge of disease processes and therapeutic nursing interventions.
Students acquire skills in holistic health assessment of individuals and families.
Students integrate theory-based clinical knowledge with principles of health promotion to implement early detection and disease prevention strategies in a community setting. To be effective in these activities, students utilize nursing research, principles of leadership and management, and existing community resources. Personal and professional development is realized through improved written and oral communication, cultural sensitivity, and analysis of ethical issues. The nursing major provides a sound foundation for those going on to graduate school in one of the nursing specialty areas. Degree requirements The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing will be awarded following the completion of all Division of Nursing requirements and McKendree College requirements for graduation.