University of Southern Maine

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The BS program in nursing is designed to prepare a beginning professional nurse for practice in a variety of settings. It provides a foundation for advanced study in nursing. The nursing curriculum is based on prerequisite courses in the liberal arts, physical sciences, social sciences and on electives. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education(CCNE). It offers traditional and innovative clinical experiences to prepare graduates for the changing health care environment. The College of Nursing and Health Professions (CONHP) offers this program on the Portland and Lewiston-Auburn campuses.

Prerequisites in the Undergraduate Curriculum
Learn about the prerequisites

Undergraduate Nursing Course of Study
Learn more about the course of study.

Clinical Requirements

Nursing majors must purchase uniforms and lab coats, must be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)  and meet CONHP health requirements prior to entry into sophomore level laboratory clinical courses.  The certificate card from the American Heart Association must state course for Health Care Provider.  The American Red Cross certificate card must state BLS for Professional Rescuer.

Since clinical experiences occur in a variety of settings in the Southern Maine area, students must provide their own transportation. Professional liability insurance is highly recommended for students in the nursing major. Health insurance is required while registered in clinical courses starting with NUR 213 (Fundamentals of Nursing lab).

For more information regarding the specifics of the Nursing Program's Health Requirements, health insurance and CPR certification, read the health requirements information.

Degree Requirements

The baccalaureate degree in nursing is conferred on students who successfully complete: 51-55 credit hours in the liberal arts, physical sciences, social sciences, and core curriculum; 65 credit hours in nursing; and 9 credit hours in electives. A total of 125-130 credits are required for graduation.

Admission

First-Year Students

In addition to requirements established for admission to the University, the College of Nursing and Health Professions requires high school chemistry and biology with labs. Admission to the baccalaureate program is highly selective; the process includes consideration of SAT scores, high school rank, academic record, and references. Transfer admission into the nursing program is available on a limited basis according to the number of open seats. Admission is selective according to GPA and previous academic record.

Application Options

Listed below are links where you can apply online, print an application, or request a printed copy of the application.

• Apply Online
• Print Application (PDF) Format
• Request a printed copy of application

Transfer Students

Transfer admission into the nursing program is available on a limited basis according to the number of open seats. Admission is selective according to GPA and previous academic record. Transfer students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have completed English and Math proficiencies in order to be considered.

Information sessions about transferring to USM Nursing are held on a regular basis. Please e-mail Sarah Haglund or call (207) 780-4131 to reserve a space in an upcoming session.

Application Options

Listed below are links where you can apply online, print an application, or request a printed copy of the application.

• Apply Online
• Print Application (PDF) Format
• Request a printed copy of application

Transfer students must also include the Supplemental Application for Nursing and essay. No other essay needs to be completed on the USM application.

Application forms may be obtained from:

Admissions Office
37 College Ave.
Gorham, ME 04038
(207) 780-5670

Advising & Academic Information 
110 Payson Smith
Portland Campus
(207) 780-4040

Student Services
Lewiston-Auburn College
51 Westminster Street
Lewiston, ME 04240 (207) 753-6552

For questions or comments, please contact us.

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