Shenandoah’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Traditional Four-Year Track is designed for students entering the program as a first-year student.
Shenandoah’s Nursing program is special because it has direct admittance. Many schools do not admit students into their nursing programs until the junior year, but at Shenandoah you know you are in the nursing program on day one upon admittance to the university. That also means that you can start taking nursing classes earlier than programs elsewhere. Additionally, nursing students are assigned a nursing faculty advisor upon entry to the university. Technology in the nursing program is integrated throughout the curriculum, and all nursing students participate in Shenandoah’s all Apple® technology program.
Our program allows you to gain the experience necessary for the provision, management and coordination of general nursing care for individuals, families, groups and communities so you may launch a career that leads to personal and professional fulfillment.
We prepare our students for success at all levels that’s why our first-time NCLEX pass rate is consistently above the national average. Our NCLEX first-time pass rate for the academic year ’21-’22 was 97.47% overall — among the highest in the state of Virginia.
Learn More About This Program
As a first-year student, you’ll find yourself launching head-first into a rigorous curriculum. With the support of an experienced nursing faculty adviser, you’ll receive academic and professional guidance throughout your four years in the program. Our state-of-the-art, specialized nursing labs create an environment that prepares you exceptionally well for what you will experience in your clinical rotations. You will also have direct access to a full range of student-life activities on and off campus. After you’ve completed your studies, you’ll sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), prepared with the skills and knowledge needed to apply for entry-level professional nurse positions.
Nursing has challenged me to change the way I think about daily tasks and I have become passionate about helping people in any way I can. The last four years have helped me grow into the person I am today and I am certain that I can be the best nurse I can be because of the support given and knowledge I’ve learned here.
Our cohort transformed into a little family and we rely on each-other to support one another through all of the difficulties in nursing school. I couldn’t have got through it without them or our amazing professors. I’ve loved every second of being here and it is bittersweet getting ready to graduate, but I am excited for what this has prepared me for in the real world.
Mackenzie Dierberg ’23 | Bachelor of Science in Nursing
At Shenandoah, our role is to help you prepare for success in this challenging and satisfying career. Shenandoah University enjoys a strong reputation locally, regionally and nationally. Our nursing graduates are recognized within the health care community as knowledgeable, capable and able to excel in the workplace. In addition, many return after graduation to pursue master’s degrees, post-master’s certificates and doctoral degrees.
Nursing at Shenandoah is like a second family. Within our cohort we have all grown together, celebrated highs together, and supported each other through our lows. We have all grown to find some of our best friends in this program. Staff is so supportive of us; they are always there when we need them, and they truly want us to succeed in everything we do.
Bryanna Morrell ’24 | Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Come study in our state-of-the-art, 71,000 square-foot Health & Life Sciences Building (HLSB). The HLSB offers premier academic classrooms and specialized nursing labs. Students practice and hone their skills in our specialized labs prior to starting clinical rotations, which enables them to learn the most from their clinical preceptors. It’s also where students, faculty, staff and community members come to meet and learn together in study rooms or faculty offices, as well as in the rotunda, which is used for special events and to showcase student and faculty research.
Hands-on Learning
Simulation Experiences
Shenandoah uses high- and low-fidelity simulation equipment in laboratories that enhance student learning. Simulation technology, in the form of human models/manikins, allows faculty members to design specific events or scenarios that simulate actual clinical situations and events. This technology provides an interactive, educational approach to teaching theory, assessment, technology skills, pharmacology and decision-making in a safe environment that allows you to apply and integrate knowledge, skills and critical thinking.
Clinical Experiences
Shenandoah University enjoys collaborative relationships with many regional hospitals and, in addition to our full-time faculty, our clinical preceptors are some of the finest practitioners in the region. Clinical locations can vary and typically include:
Winchester Clinical Locations:
- Valley Health System Hospitals including Winchester Medical Center, Warren Memorial Hospital, Shenandoah Hospital
- WVU East Berkeley Medical Center
- Martinsburg Veterans Affairs Medical Center
- INOVA Health Systems
- Varied community settings including Blue Ridge Hospice, Public Health Departments, Sinclair Free Medical Clinic
Scholar PlazaClinical Locations:
- INOVA Health System Hospitals including Loudoun, Fair Oaks, Fairfax, and Alexandria
- Reston Hospital Center
- Virginia Hospital Center
- Children’s National Medical Center
- Fauquier Hospital
- Novant Hospitals
Interprofessional Experience
The Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing fosters interdisciplinary learning and practice through collaboration with our other health care programs, including pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical and occupational therapy, athletic training, public health and music therapy.
I loved all of my clinicals. I did most of my clinicals at various units at Winchester Medical Center and Berkeley Medical Center, which allowed me to find what patient population I liked. The clinical instructors provide knowledge and allow students to critically think about ‘why this patient might be getting this test,’ ‘what does this medication do that will help this patient in the future,’ and ‘what could we teach this patient to ensure they don’t get readmitted into the hospital again.’ I did a nurse externship at Level 1 Trauma Center York Hospital in York, Pennsylvania (my home area)! I worked in a cardiac step-down unit and in the post-anesthesia care unit. This externship made me realize the different types of nursing that are out there in the world! The favorite thing I did was observe electroconvulsive therapy, which is a psychiatric electroshock therapy that provides temporary relief and makes the brain “rewire” itself for any patients that have certain mental disorders.”
Nicole Kunkel ’20 | Nursing Major with a Public Health minor
My preceptorship prepared me to become a practicing nurse. The one on one time during my preceptorship, was very helpful for performing skills, such as IV insertion and electrocardiograms. I plan to become a nurse in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Winchester Medical Center.”
Kyra Lane ’21 | Nursing
What is the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
After you’ve completed your studies, you’ll sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), prepared with the skills and knowledge to apply for entry-level professional nurse positions.
Shenandoah’s first-time NCLEX pass rate is consistently above the national average pass rate. Our NCLEX first-time pass-rate are consistently among the highest in the state of Virginia!
Our nursing student’s last semester includes a NCLEX preparation course.
Graduates from our BSN programs are eligible to apply for licensure/registration across the country. Once the NCLEX is successfully completed, graduates are designated as registered nurses.
View Our Recent NCLEX Pass Rates
Career and Salary Possibilities
Nursing is the fastest-growing occupation in the U.S. and the demand is expected to rise. Graduates enjoy high starting salaries and flexible schedules in terms of hours and locations. As a nurse, you’ll have numerous opportunities for specialization and career advancement.
The BSN degree is the entry-level degree for many health care organizations. It prepares you to perform clinical practice in today’s high tech health care environment, using clinical reasoning and critical thinking along with a caring demeanor.
The Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing prepares you to deliver, manage and lead nursing care in a variety of health care settings and participate in personal and professional development. You will be ready to do this in many settings across the nation, such as hospitals (acute care), clinics, medical practices, health departments, hospice and the military. You can work in international care, home care, trauma care or school nursing (you may teach in vocational LPN programs) and pursue graduate studies in advanced practice nursing, nursing education and research.
Salary information for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing can be found at BSN Payscale.com
I am a Registered Nurse at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. I work on a Cardiology Progressive Care Unit, specializing in inpatient medical intervention of heart diseases. It is very special to me that I get to work with these patients to help resolve or reduce their medical needs. I was also given the opportunity to work with COVID-19 patients and take part in cutting edge research that helps treat COVID-19 patients worldwide.
Benjamin Crowder ’20 | Nursing Major
Nicole Kunkel ’20 | Nursing Major with a Public Health minor
In my senior year, Shenandoah’s School of Nursing helped me land my dream job with everything from resume development to interview skills, and helped me prepare for the NCLEX with a comprehensive review program. At graduation, I felt very confident, already having a job lined up, and I felt prepared to pass my boards!”
Anne O’Hare ’18 | RN-to-BSN
Inova Fairfax Surgical Telemetry Unit
Every aspect of the nursing program has helped me be prepared for my first nursing job. From basic nursing skills, to job interviews, and how to prevent burn-out, SU’s program takes you step by step through everything you need to know! I have accepted a nursing position on the Pulmonary-Renal Unit at Valley Health’s Winchester Medical Center.
Courtney Short ’16 | Nursing
Career & Professional Development provides a comprehensive range of services and resources to assist Shenandoah students in their career search. Services offered include resume and cover letter building, mock interviews, and professional dining etiquette workshops.
Career Services made me marketable and shine through my resume and cover letters that landed me interviews at places I’d never thought I’d ever have a chance at.”
Jeff Chuang ’16 | Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Classes
Our Nursing program has small classes, and faculty with expertise in a variety of specialties. Our curriculum includes core nursing courses, nursing ethics and genomics, nursing research and evidence based practice and Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Relief courses. Nursing students are also prepared in our campus learning facilities to develop knowledge, skills, clinical judgment and confidence.
BSN Program Outcomes:
- Synthesize knowledge from the liberal arts, sciences, and nursing science as a basis for professional nursing practice
- Apply evolving information technology to monitor health care outcomes
- Integrate concepts of illness prevention/wellness, quality, safety, ethics and leadership into professional nursing practice
- Demonstrate effective communication and collaboration with patients, families and inter-professional teams
- Deliver safe, quality nursing care to diverse populations
- Advocate for institutional, professional, and governmental policies to influence positive health care outcomes of diverse populations
- Incorporate evidence-based research into professional nursing practice to provide quality care to families and communities
My Shenandoah nursing education prepared me to be a caring healer in my career, and prepared me by exposing me to people from many different environments, so I know that it’s about treating the patient and not the disease. Each individual is unique and needs personalized care, so that they can get the proper care they need. Shenandoah university is truly an environment of growth and care. It is where students can go to find themselves and better themselves for their future professions. The education is top notch and is not just about memorizing information. It is about readying one to contribute all they can to society, inside and outside their career field.
Benjamin Crowder ’20, Nursing
They say nursing is a work of heart and I whole-heartedly believe this statement. I find no better way in spending my time than being at the service of others. I have enjoyed every class that I have taken. My favorite one has been N308 Nursing Childbearing Families that was taught by Professor Levinson. It was extremely interesting to learn about the different stages of pregnancy and the complications that may arise in them.
Asma Habibai ’21 | Nursing
I am a nursing major with the goal of becoming a shock trauma nurse because I run on adrenaline and I am able to easily understand emergency concepts. I love caring for patients in high stress situations and letting them know they are in good hands. I like how there is emergency medicine incorporated into all of my core nursing classes as well as multiple clinical days in the emergency department at Winchester Medical Center to get hands on experience.
Alice Davenport ’19 | Nursing
Learning support services are available to all students in every course at Shenandoah. Free peer tutoring with a student who has previously succeeded in the course is available for any course across the university. The Writing Center is available for every stage of the writing process from thesis development to proofreading and bibliography assistance. The Math Enrichment Center is available for math and science assistance. Professors and Academic Advisors across the university also have office hours and open door policies to ensure Shenandoah students succeed academically.
Learning Support Services at Shenandoah
I think tutoring is a very beneficial resource because it helped me understand the material more, so I could do well on my exams!”
Maria Shellenberger ’18 | Nursing
The best thing you can do for yourself is to take advantage of the FREE tutoring services here at Shenandoah. The tutors here were able to make even the most complicated and challenging material, fun and easy to understand.
Aaron Seagle ’17 | Nursing
Join the Honors Program
The Honors Program is a multidisciplinary Honors Program for students who are curious, creative, self-motivated, and eager to engage in their education and community.
Not only do Honors Program students partake in honors courses that emphasize collaboration, service, and communication, but they will also have the opportunity to develop aspects of the program based on their own interests and goals. By participating in the Honors Program you will acquire the tools, knowledge and experiences necessary to make meaningful contributions to your community – whether it be globally, locally, or specific to your life’s work. You will have access to unique courses, exciting experiences and a community of peers and faculty who never stop asking questions and striving for excellence.
Meet the Faculty
We have a low faculty-student ratio with small classes and clinical groups so you’ll receive personal attention from faculty. The result is a close-knit, collaborative community of nursing students, faculty and clinical preceptors.
There’s a special bond between Shenandoah University students and their professors. You’ll enjoy close relationships with faculty members who will mentor you in and out of the classroom. This remains a hallmark of our nursing education.
Shenandoah’s experienced and practicing faculty take every opportunity to provide you with the academic foundation you’ll need to meet the standards and rising expectations for practice in the nursing profession. They provide an environment where you can be inquisitive, grow and excel.
Meet Yvonne Braithwaite, Director of Four-Year and Transfer Student Program
Application Information
Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically.
Submit your application, review required admissions materials, and find our admissions standards.
Nicole Kunkel ’20 | Nursing Major with a Public Health minor
I chose SU for two main reasons: the small class sizes and direct admission into the nursing program. I was able to shadow a nursing student while in high school and being able to experience SU before committing really helped my decision. Being accepted directly into the nursing program was the deciding factor that made me want to commit to SU.
Alice Davenport ’19 | Nursing
What is the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS Exam)
Students in the traditional four year BSN program must complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) before entry into nursing courses in their sophomore year. A maximum of two attempts is permitted to achieve a minimum overall score of 65 percent (may be subject to change) to continue in the nursing program.
For more information about the TEAS Exam and how to register, please click this link TEAS Exam Information
Study Abroad
Study Abroad
Shenandoah University is a member of the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), a global network of 300 universities. This partnership allows students to study for a full semester or year at other member campuses abroad. By working closely with their academic advisors and the study abroad advisor, students can take classes taught in English abroad while receiving Shenandoah credit.
Shenandoah University also maintains direct partnerships with several universities around the world. These relationships allow students from SU to study abroad as exchange students and students from these universities to study at SU. All partner universities offer courses taught in English.
Make studying abroad the highlight of your college experience! Whether you go for a year, a semester, or just a few weeks, you will never forget learning in another culture! The Center for International Programs is here to help you plan your study abroad experience. Start your planning early to ensure the courses you complete abroad count toward your degree and you graduate on time.
Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program
The Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program offers Shenandoah students a short-term, faculty-led, study-abroad experience for academic credit. These short-term, credit-bearing, faculty-led programs are offered winter break, spring break, and during the summer. If a course is not within your major, it might be used as an elective.
Nicole Kunkel ’20 | Nursing Major with a Public Health minor
I have traveled to Brazil with SU on a GEL trip. This was one of the best experiences of my life. I went with nursing students and faculty and spiritual life faculty. We lived on a hospital and mission boat and traveled along the Amazon river providing physical and spiritual care to those who live in remote areas. I was able to see my professors use the concepts and skills they teach in the classroom. While providing care, I learned about the culture and how it differed from the city to the rural villages. The food was prepared by locals and most of the dishes were traditional Brazilian dishes. We also got the chance to go to a market before getting on the boat and to finish of the trip we swam in the Amazon River! This opportunity was eye opening and one I will never forget.
Alice Davenport ’19 | Nursing
It is very hard to pick a favorite part of my GEL trip to Uganda since we did so many new and amazing activities. If I had to pick just one, however, I would choose administering fluoride treatments to the 233 students at Nyaka Primary School in Uganda. Many of the students will never receive any other dental treatments and so it was a joy to do something that will hopefully protect the children’s teeth. I hope that are our actions will make a difference in the lives of these children. I know that taking the time to serve in this way made a difference in mine. It was such a beautiful country and I love how simple their lifestyle was. Even though I am glad to be home, part of my heart will always be in the small African country of Uganda.
Heather Lilley ’18 | Nursing
