Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes the Hope College Nursing Program unique?

There are three areas that are especially unique within the Hope College Nursing Program.  These include a nursing internship, a research practicum experience, and a community-based course.  In the last semester, all nursing students have a clinical experience of at least 150 hours in an area of interest.  This internship will prepare students for the transition to becoming a Registered Nurse.  Students will participate in an on-going nursing research project that will assist in understanding how evidence-based nursing practice improves the quality of health care.  The community-based course provides the opportunity to work in partnership with parish nurses and families, focusing on spiritual care and promoting health.

2. Is the Hope College Nursing Program accredited?

Yes, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) granted the Hope College Nursing Program re-accreditation in April 2009.  The maximum of 10 years was awarded.

3. Does state board of nursing approve the Hope College Nursing Program?

Yes, the Michigan Board of Nursing has fully approved the Hope College Nursing Program.

4. What should I take while I am in High School?

High School students are strongly recommended to take chemistry, math, biology, a course in the social sciences, and follow the college curriculum recommendations provided by your high school counselor.

5. Is there pre-acceptance for exceptional High School students?

Yes, exceptional high school graduates interested in pursuing a degree in nursing are eligible for pre-acceptance to the nursing program at Hope College. In order to qualify for pre-acceptance a student must meet the following criteria:

• Acceptance to Hope College
• ACT score equal to or greater than 28 or SAT critical reading score plus math score equal to or greater than 1260

Please visit the Hope Nursing application site for more information about pre-acceptance for exceptional high school students.

6. Will AP credits count for nursing?

Generally, credit is granted to students who received scores of 4 or 5 in advanced placement courses.  Biology, chemistry, statistics, and English advanced placement credits may fit well in the nursing curriculum.

7. What are the required pre-nursing courses?

At least two of the following required natural science courses and one of the following required social science course must be completed before beginning nursing courses.

• Cell Biology/Genetics
• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Developmental Psychology

8. When do Hope students start the nursing major?

In the sophomore year.

9. How many students are accepted in the nursing major each year?

The Hope College Nursing Program is approved to accept 45 new nursing students each year.

10. What are the criteria for admission to the nursing major?

• Admission to the nursing major is a selective process.
• A minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required.
• A minimum grade of C (2.0) is required in each pre-requisite course.
• Score achieved on the goal statement essay.
• Score achieved on two professional recommendations.
• ACT and SAT scores may be reviewed and a standardized pre-nursing exam is required.
• Acceptance into the nursing program and continuation in the nursing program are contingent on passing a criminal background (fingerprint) check and passing a drug screening test of the Nursing Department’s choice that are in compliance with the College’s drug-free policies.

11. Are study abroad programs available to me as a nursing student?

• May, June, and July study abroad programs do not interfere with the nursing major courses.
• Semester study abroad experiences are encouraged to be done during the sophomore year.

12. What will the Hope College Nursing Program prepare me to do?

Students will be prepared to pass the NCLEX (state board nursing examination), obtain employment in an entry level nursing position in a variety of agencies, and pursue graduate education for more advanced practice and specialized nursing study.

13. Why should I get a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Hope College instead of going to a community college?

• The rapidly changing healthcare system has created a demand for nurses who can function with more independence in clinical decision-making and case management skills. 
• Unlike graduates of community colleges, the nurse with a BSN is prepared to practice in a wider variety of healthcare settings. 
• In an increasing number of healthcare settings, the BSN is preferred. 
• A BSN will provide expanded job opportunities and greater career mobility. 
• The liberal arts education and a research based baccalaureate education best prepare the nurse for the 21^st century.  The Hope nursing education provides a solid foundation for the development of critical thinking, integration of knowledge and practice and preparation for graduate study.

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