bachelor's degree in nursing BSN students work with faculty member in simulation lab. Learn more about earning your BSN degree.

What Is It Like to Be a Nursing BSN Major in College?

  1. Academics
  2. Undergraduate Degree Programs
  3. Nursing BSN Degree (Nursing Major)
  4. What Is It Like to Be a Nursing BSN Major in College?

If you're considering a major in nursing, you may have a lot of questions. Is being a nursing major stressful? What will I learn and how will I learn it? Will I be supported and successful?

Nursing majors are compassionate, math- and science-minded problem-solvers with a passion for helping others. While nursing can be a physically and mentally demanding career, it is without a doubt a rewarding one. Every day you have a chance to make a direct, positive impact upon the lives of others.

And—as a nursing student, you will most certainly be inspired and have fun in the process. 

Nursing BSN Majors Experience Hands-On Learning

Widener School of Nursing BSN student attends nursing clinicals

What Are Nursing Clinicals?

Clinicals provide real-life, hands-on patient care experiences for bachelor's of nursing students.  Clinicals can take place in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and many other medical settings and are under supervision by licensed nursing professionals. 

You'll complete tasks such as documenting patient medical histories and nursing care plans; taking vitals and performing assessments; and administering medications—all with guidance and support from your supervisor.

You'll also have recurring team meetings with your supervisor and other nursing students at the start and end of each shift.

Widener University School of Nursing bachelor's of nursing student works in healthcare simulation lab

What Is It Like to Learn in a Nursing Simulation Lab?

As a nursing major, you'll begin your hands-on learning through a simulation lab. You'll practice real-life situations to familiarize yourself with various patient care scenarios, equipment, and medications.

Unique simulation experiences include assisting a patient who coded or is giving birth, home and end of life care, and interprofessional collaboration.

What is a Nursing BSN Curriculum Like?

BSN nursing students experience a blend of traditional classroom experiences, labs, research opportunities, and more. Combining this coursework with your clinical experience will help you put the principles of nursing into practice. 

You'll master science and sociology in addition to important skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. 

Common Courses for Undergraduate Nursing Students

  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Biology & Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • Sociology
  • Nutrition
  • Statistics
  • Nursing Ethics
  • Nursing Leadership
  • Nursing Research, Design & Evidence-Based Practice
  • Health Assessments
  • Community/Public Health
  • Medical/Surgical Nursing
  • Gerontological Nursing
  • Family-Focused Care of Children
  • Pharmacology & Medication Administration
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health

Ways to Enhance Your Nursing Education

Nursing majors can elevate their education with transformative experiences above and beyond their nursing classroom and clinical rotations. Widener University offers a unique nursing curriculum that affords students the opportunity to broaden their horizons while doing what they love.

Nursing professor in class speaking with student holding a military backpack

Expand Your Network of Support

In addition to nursing faculty mentors, you can tap into expansive student and alumni networks by joining clubs on campus, living in a nursing-focused Living Learning Community, and attending alumni events.

Widener School of Nursing BSN Nursing degree student studies abroad—Widener is considered one of the best schools for nursing in Pennsylvania.

Study Abroad

Expand your horizons by studying abroad! Even though nursing students are busy, you can find universities that promote flexible nursing curriculums that support unique study abroad experiences. By experiencing other cultures, you'll be better prepared to care for individuals.

Army ROTC Commencement Training

Become an Army ROTC Cadet

Students in Widener's School of Nursing have unique opportunities to further their skills and potential careers through military experiences. In addition to participating in the ROTC program, nursing students that are contracted cadets have the option to participate in a unique training program as well as have additional opportunities post-graduation.

Preparing for the NCLEX Exam and "Sitting for Your Boards"

In order to become a nurse, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The NCLEX is a standardized exam that will qualify you for entry-level nursing practice. From day one, your classroom and lab work will be preparing you for this exam.

Your nursing mentors will support you every step of the way.

Earn Your BSN Degree at Widener University

BSN degree students in lab at Widener University School of Nursing

Why Pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at Widener?

As a nursing major, you'll be supported by faculty mentors, be encouraged by a passionate student community, welcomed into a successful alumni network, and so much more. Whatever your educational goals and experiences, we have a pathway to support you on your journey to becoming a nurse.

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