Bachelor of Science Degree Program
In This Section:
The BS program began in 1965 and is a four-year program that includes a broad liberal arts and science foundation, and an extensive range of nursing courses. The BS program prepares nurses to provide nursing care in varied settings, which include hospitals, private practice, long-term care, clinics, and other health care and community agencies. Students gain experience in diverse settings, which include Hershey Medical Center, rural hospitals, community health agencies, and other health care settings (e.g., Rockview Prison). After earning a BS, students are eligible to take the national examination for licensure as a registered nurse (NCLEX).
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the baccalaureate nursing program have a vast array of employment opportunities open to them. Employment settings include trauma centers, community hospitals, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, hospice agencies, schools, industrial and organizational settings, and the military to name a few.
In addition, the BS degree is required to pursue an advanced degree in nursing, which prepares the nurse for roles such as nurse educator, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nurse administrator and nurse researcher. The nursing profession encompasses opportunities for a lifelong and rewarding career.
