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BSN Degree in Texas
With no waitlist, WCU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in the Dallas Metro area lets you start studying now so you can begin making a difference sooner.
New Student Achievement Grant
(Up to $9,500 per academic year!)
Created to support new students with exceptional first attempt entrance exam scores (83 on the HESI or 66 on the TEASV), this grant is available to BSN or LVN to BSN students starting June 2025 at WCU-Texas. Learn more.
For additional information and eligibility requirements on the New Student Achievement Grant, please visit the Undergraduate On-Ground Scholarships and Grants page on our catalog.
39 Months
Earn your BSN in as few as 39 months at the Accelerated program pace
136,000 Square Feet
New, innovative campus with the latest industry technology
Innovative Curriculum
Learn through immersive simulation exercises and hands-on clinical experiences
#1 Best Colleges for Nursing in Texas
#1 Best Value Colleges in Dallas-Fort Worth Area
Voted as a Best Nursing School by The College Application
WCU is a gold award recipient in the Education category in the Dallas Morning News!
Best College or University in the Best of Dallas 2023 Readers’ Poll hosted by the Dallas Observer
Texas BSN Programs: Why Ours Is Designed for Your Success
No Waitlist
No waitlist, so you can start your degree now and begin making a difference sooner
Simulation Labs
Immersive simulation labs where you can master hands-on skills confidently
NCLEX Preparation
Career-ready preparation including NCLEX prep and support
Clinical Partners
Diverse clinical partners in the Dallas metro where you can gain real-life experience
Why Pursue a BSN Degree at WCU-Texas?
Texas is a hub for healthcare innovation and offers numerous opportunities for nursing professionals. With major hospitals, research institutions, and healthcare facilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, WCU-Texas students will have access to a range of clinical experiences while in school and career opportunities upon graduation.
By pursuing a BSN at WCU-Texas, you can practice and master your skills in technologically advanced simulation labs and prepare to make a difference in your community. The diverse and supportive community at WCU-Texas helps ensure that you receive a forward-thinking education that prepares you for the dynamic and evolving field of nursing.
Start Your Journey
- Hands-on preparation and skills development
- Individual support through graduation and beyond
- Bootcamps and no-cost tutoring for NCLEX
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Overview: Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in the Dallas Metro Area
Program Details
WCU-Texas offers a BSN program that you can complete in 39 months at an accelerated pace. With no waitlists and real-world simulation labs, the Dallas-area program provides students with a more streamlined path to earning their BSN degree.
Accelerated Pace
On-Campus
120 Credits
39 Months
8 Semesters
Curriculum
This curriculum applies to students matriculating or reentering after December 1, 2022.
General Education Requirements
All science courses must have been taken within the last five calendar years, unless the student possesses a degree or advanced degree in the specific field of study for which the student is seeking transfer credit. Additional information regarding transfer credit is located in the university’s catalog under Transfer Credit policy or below.
| Category and Requirements | WCU Course Requirements | Transferable / Options |
|---|---|---|
| Foundational Course | FYS 001 (0): First Year Seminar (only offered at Los Angeles and Ontario prior to Spring II 2024)
FHE 100 (3): Foundations of Higher Education (offered at all Campuses; Los Angeles and Ontario Campuses starting Spring II 2024) |
Non-transferable |
| A. Written Communication (6 Semester Credits) | * ENGL 140 (3): Written Communication I * ENGL 240 (3): Written Communication II |
Equivalent to ENGL 140 Equivalent to ENGL 240 |
| B. Oral and Interpersonal Communications (3 Semester Credits) |
*SPCH 142(3): Oral Communication | Equivalent to SPCH 142 |
| C. Critical Thinking and Ethical Reasoning (3 Semester Credits) |
*PHIL 341(3): Critical Reasoning | Equivalent to PHIL 341 |
| D. Quantitative Literacy (6 Semester Credits) |
MATH 108(3): College Mathematics I MATH 211(3): Statistics |
Equivalent to MATH 108
Equivalent to MATH 211 |
| E. Social and Behavioral Sciences Awareness (6 Semester Credits) |
*PSYC 160(3): Psychology *PSYC 290(3): Life Span Psychology |
Equivalent to PSYC 160 Equivalent to PSYC 290 |
| F. Historical, Cultural, and Aesthetic Recognition (3 Semester Credits) |
* HUM 370 (3): Cultural Pluralism | Equivalent to HUM 370 |
| G. Scientific Reasoning (16 Semester Credits) |
||
| General Education Capstone (3 Semester Credits) |
CAPS 401(3): General Education Capstone (only offered at Los Angeles, Ontario Campuses prior to Spring II 2024) |
Non-transferable |
| A minimum of 46 credits is required for graduation. | ||
*As of April 2019, this course will be delivered online, asynchronously, through the institution’s Learning Management System except where otherwise authorized by the Program Dean/Director.
| General Education within the Area of Study | ||
| PATH 370 | Pathophysiology | 3 |
| PHIL 434 | Medical Ethics and Issues | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 6 | |
Note: If scheduled, the following courses are to be taken at WCU: FYS 001, FHE 100, CAPS 401, and PATH 370 and PHYS 261 (OC Campus starting Summer I 2023 and all CA Campuses starting Spring II 2024)..
| Core Nursing Courses | ||
| NURS 100 | Fundamentals of Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 101L | Fundamentals of Nursing Skills Lab | 2 |
| NURS 110 | Introduction to Professional Nursing | 2 |
| NURS 120 | Introduction to Medical Surgical Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 121L-A | Introduction to Medical Surgical Nursing Practicum | 2 |
| NURS 121L-B | Introduction to Medical Surgical Nursing Practicum – On-Campus | 1 |
| NURS 180 | Pharmacology | 3 |
| NURS 190 | Physical Assessment | 2 |
| NURS 201 | Medical Surgical Nursing-Promoting Wellness | 3 |
| NURS 211L | Medical Surgical Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 222 | Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing: Promoting Wellness in the Mentally Ill | 3 |
| NURS 223L | Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing: Promoting Wellness Practicum | 2 |
| NURS 225 | Nutrition in Health and Disease | 3 |
| NURS 306 | Expanding Family and Community (OB) | 2 |
| NURS 307 | Developing Family and Community (PEDS) | 2 |
| NURS 316L-A | Expanding and Developing Family and Community Practicum (OB) | 1.5 |
| NURS 317L-A | Developing Family and Community Practicum (PEDS) | 1.5 |
| NURS 340 | Public Health Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 342L | Public Health Nursing Practicum | 2 |
| NURS 350 | Research in Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 420 | Principles of Leadership and Management | 3 |
| NURS 431 | Disaster Management | 2 |
| NURS 440 | Issues and Trends in Nursing | 3 |
| NURS 480 | Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing: Promoting Wellness Practicum | 3 |
| NURS 481L | Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing: Promoting Wellness Practicum | 3 |
| NURS 493* | Integration of Nursing Concepts | 3 |
| NURS 497 | Nursing Capstone | 1 |
| NURS 498L | Integration of Nursing Practices | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 68.0 | |
NURS 100, NURS 101L: pre-licensure students only *NURS 493R – Taken if student is unsuccessful in NURS 493.
| Program Credit Distribution | ||
| General Education Semester Credits | 46.0 | |
| General Education within the Area of Study | 6.0 | |
| Core Nursing Courses | 68.0 | |
| Total Program Semester Credits | 120.0 | |
Tuition & Financial Aid
How Much Does Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Cost in the Dallas-Area?
We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of Bachelor of Science in Nursing tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program costs at West Coast University.
We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. For more information about your financial support options, visit our Financial Aid page.
Accelerated: Starting Fall I 2024 | Starting Fall II 2024
| Degree Type | Bachelor of Science
(Starting Fall I 2024) |
Bachelor of Science
(Starting Fall II 2024) |
| Total Program Credits | 120 | 120 |
| Program Length | 8 semesters | 8 semesters |
| Full-Time Status (12 to 18 credits) | $12,930 | $10,100 |
| 3/4-Time Status (9 to 11 credits) | $10,750 | $8,397 |
| 1/2-Time Status (6 to 8 credits) | $8,405 | $6,565 |
| Less than 1/2-Time Status (under 6 credits) (per credit) | $1,425 | $1,111 |
| Total Tuition Cost (Full-Time) | $103,440 | $80,800 |
| Registration Fee (refundable) | $75 | $75 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs1 | $5,333 | $5,333 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost1 | $533 | $533 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fee1 | $250 | $250 |
| Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees1 | $2,345 | $2,345 |
| Technology Fee2 ($100 per semester) | $800 | $800 |
| General Education Resource Fee3 | $500 | $500 |
| Core Nursing Fee4 | $22,640 | |
| Estimated Total Program Costs | $113,276 | $113,276 |
Indirect Costs
| 10 Month Academic Year5 | ||||
| Prior to Fall I 2024 | Starting Fall I 2024 | |||
| with parents | off campus | with parents | off campus | |
| Federal Student Loan Fees | $100 | $100 | $100 | $100 |
| Course Materials (Personal Electronic Device-1st year only) | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Living Expenses (Food & Housing) | $2,980 | $9,920 | $3,120 | $10,410 |
| Transportation | $2,060 | $2,060 | $2,160 | $2,160 |
| Miscellaneous Personal Expenses | $6,740 | $6,740 | $7,070 | $7,070 |
| Total | $12,880 | $19.820 | $13,450 | $20,740 |
*Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Evening and Weekend, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course per term.
1 The Estimated Book, Uniform and Supply fees reflect the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change.
2 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and require electronic course materials/software.
3 The General Education Resource Fee includes costs associated with ATI Smart Prep materials. The General Education Resource Fee will be waived for Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent’s veteran’s education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees.
4 The Core Nursing Fee will be billed each semester in which Core Nursing courses are scheduled and covers costs associated with background checks and drug screenings; the operation of equipment for Simulation, Technology, including but not limited to the establishment, scheduling, coordination, site visits, on-going management, and other expenses related to clinical activities. 5 Core Nursing Semesters multiplied by $4,528 per Core Nursing Semester.
5 The purpose of the Cost of Attendance (COA) is to provide students and families with an estimated cost to attend West Coast University. The COA includes both direct and indirect cost estimates. Direct costs are paid directly to West Coast University and are shown separately for each program. Indirect costs are not paid to West Coast University and are estimates students may use to budget expenses they may incur while attending school. While actual indirect costs may vary, West Coast University estimates these amounts based on the number of months in an academic year and whether students will live with parents or off campus.
Note 1: Students who wish to take Challenge Exams will be subject to a fee of $100 for each Challenge exam. Please see the campus Bursar Office for a full price listing.
Note 2: Course Audits – If a course(s) is being audited, credits for these courses will be included for the student’s schedule status for billing, based on the schedule statuses and amounts shown above. Pre-licensure Nursing students should refer to the program’s Dismissal Policy for information surrounding course auditing.
Note 3: The Total Tuition Cost can be converted to Cost per Credit Hour by using the following calculation:
Total Tuition Cost ($103,440 prior to Fall 2 2024 or $80,800 starting Fall 2 2024) divided by the Total Program Credits (120) = Cost per Credit Hour ($862 prior to Fall 2 2024 or $674 starting Fall 2 2024).
Accelerated (Effective Spring II 2025): Start Date Prior to Fall II 2024 | Start Date On or After Fall II 2024
| Degree Type | Bachelor of Science (Program Start Date Prior to Fall II 2024) |
Bachelor of Science (Program Start Date On or After Fall II 2024) |
| Total Program Credits | 120 | 120 |
| Program Length | 8 semesters | 8 semesters |
| Full-Time Status (12 to 18 credits) | $12,930 | $10,100 |
| 3/4-Time Status (9 to 11 credits) | $10,750 | $8,397 |
| 1/2-Time Status (6 to 8 credits) | $8,405 | $6,565 |
| Less than 1/2-Time Status (under 6 credits) (per credit) | $1,425 | $1,111 |
| Total Tuition Cost (Full-Time) | $103,440 | $80,800 |
| Registration Fee (refundable) | $75 | $75 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs1 | $4,285 | $4,285 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost1 | $429 | $429 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fee1 | $250 | $250 |
| Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees1 | $4,200 | $4,200 |
| Technology Fee2 ($100 per semester) | $800 | $800 |
| General Education Resource Fee3 | $500 | $500 |
| Core Nursing Fee4 | $22,640 | |
| Estimated Total Program Costs | $113,979 | $113,979 |
Indirect Costs
| 10 Month Academic Year5 | ||||
| Prior to Fall I 2024 | Starting Fall I 2024 | |||
| with parents | off campus | with parents | off campus | |
| Federal Student Loan Fees | $100 | $100 | $100 | $100 |
| Course Materials (Personal Electronic Device-1st year only) | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Living Expenses (Food & Housing) | $2,980 | $9,920 | $3,120 | $10,410 |
| Transportation | $2,060 | $2,060 | $2,160 | $2,160 |
| Miscellaneous Personal Expenses | $6,740 | $6,740 | $7,070 | $7,070 |
| Total | $12,880 | $19.820 | $13,450 | $20,740 |
*Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Evening and Weekend, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course per term.
1 The Estimated Book, Uniform and Supply fees reflect the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change.
2 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and require electronic course materials/software.
3 The General Education Resource Fee includes costs associated with ATI Smart Prep materials. The General Education Resource Fee will be waived for Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent’s veteran’s education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees.
4 The Core Nursing Fee will be billed each semester in which Core Nursing courses are scheduled and covers costs associated with background checks and drug screenings; the operation of equipment for Simulation, Technology, including but not limited to the establishment, scheduling, coordination, site visits, on-going management, and other expenses related to clinical activities. 5 Core Nursing Semesters multiplied by $4,528 per Core Nursing Semester.
5 The purpose of the Cost of Attendance (COA) is to provide students and families with an estimated cost to attend West Coast University. The COA includes both direct and indirect cost estimates. Direct costs are paid directly to West Coast University and are shown separately for each program. Indirect costs are not paid to West Coast University and are estimates students may use to budget expenses they may incur while attending school. While actual indirect costs may vary, West Coast University estimates these amounts based on the number of months in an academic year and whether students will live with parents or off campus.
Note 1: Students who wish to take Challenge Exams will be subject to a fee of $100 for each Challenge exam. Please see the campus Bursar Office for a full price listing.
Note 2: Course Audits – If a course(s) is being audited, credits for these courses will be included for the student’s schedule status for billing, based on the schedule statuses and amounts shown above. Pre-licensure Nursing students should refer to the program’s Dismissal Policy for information surrounding course auditing.
Note 3: The Total Tuition Cost can be converted to Cost per Credit Hour by using the following calculation:
Total Tuition Cost ($103,440 prior to Fall 2 2024 or $80,800 starting Fall 2 2024) divided by the Total Program Credits (120) = Cost per Credit Hour ($862 prior to Fall 2 2024 or $674 starting Fall 2 2024).
Admission Requirements (FL & TX)
BSN and LVN/LPN-BSN Admissions Requirements-Florida and Texas
For Admissibility into the BSN & LVN/LPN to BSN Program, Applicants Must Meet the Following Requirements:
- Submit a completed WCU application for admissions
- Submit WCU approved documentation of high school graduation or equivalent
- Foreign high school diplomas/credentials or their equivalent must have an official evaluation performed by an approved organization)
- Participate in an admissions interview arranged by a University admissions advisor
- Achieve a HESI composite score of 76 or higher
- HESI exam scores must be within three (3) years of enrollment date.
- HESI exam scores below 76 are denied admission
- Examination Retake Details
- BSN applicants will have a maximum of two attempts, a week apart, to successfully pass the admissions exam.
- If an applicant does not pass the admissions exam after two attempts, he or she must wait a period of 1 months to retest and must provide proof of remediation.
- Additional acceptable external scores are eligible for full admission:
- TEAS score of 43 or higher (for students starting prior to Fall I 2025), or a score of 52 or higher within three years of enrollment (for students starting Fall I 2025).
- TEAS exam scores must be within three (3) years of enrollment date
- SAT score of 835 or higher or ACT score of 16 or higher
- SAT or ACT must be within three (3) years of enrollment date
- WCU only collects Verbal and Quantitative scores for SAT and ACT
- TEAS score of 43 or higher (for students starting prior to Fall I 2025), or a score of 52 or higher within three years of enrollment (for students starting Fall I 2025).
- Complete an enrollment agreement (must be signed by a parent or guardian if the applicant is under 18 years of age)
- Meet program-specific entrance requirements.
- Applicants to the LVN-BSN program must provide proof of current unobstructed licensure as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).
BSN & LVN-BSN Post Secondary Transcripts for Transfer Credit Evaluation
BSN and LVN/LPN-BSN applicants requesting transfer credit evaluation must provide official transcripts by the Add/Drop deadline on the second Tuesday of the term. All general education, prerequisite, and core nursing coursework must have been taken at an appropriately accredited institution. For nursing credits to be considered for transfer credit, there can be only one year between the end of the last nursing course taken at a previous institution and the beginning of the first course at West Coast University. Exceptions may be considered. Science courses must be taken within the last five years to be accepted for transfer credit. Course syllabi for courses previously taken at another nursing program should be submitted for review to the campus dean for nursing. The maximum allowable transfer credits applied to the BSN program shall not exceed 52 credits of general education, and for the ADN (Florida only) program shall not exceed 27 credits of general education. See the Challenge Credit policy for additional information on receiving nursing credit for previously completed nursing courses. Authority for all final transfer credit decisions is given to the Program Dean/Chair.
Transfer credit will not be awarded based on unofficial transcripts, however, students may be scheduled for their first semester of courses based on unofficial transfer credit review . Financial packaging for the first semester will be estimated without transfer credit unless/until official transcripts are received and evaluated. If transfer credit is evaluated after the add/drop date of the first semester, it will be reflected in financial aid offers for the subsequent semester.
Concurrent Enrollment: Individuals who are concurrently enrolled at another institution at the time of their matriculation to West Coast University, may be allowed to request transfer credit for courses that are in-progress. In this situation, official transcripts must be received by the end of the first term of matriculation in order to receive transfer credit.
BSN & LVN-BSN Post Secondary Transcripts for Veterans
All applicants who are veterans or seeking transfer credit must submit all official applicable postsecondary transcripts by the Add/Drop deadline on the second Tuesday of the term regardless of applicable transfer credits for timely certification of the veterans request for benefits and receipt of funds. Please see the Veterans Educational Benefits policy in the Financial Policies and Information Section of the Catalog.
LVN/LPN-BSN Licensure Requirements
LVN/LPN to BSN applicants who possess a current unobstructed LVN/LPN license may be admitted into the West Coast University LVN/LPN to BSN program without requiring transcripts if they meet all other specific program admission requirements, which would include military training. LVN/LPN’s who were able to obtain their LVN/LPN license using their military training as the academic qualifier and those who have graduated from a school that has since closed and transcripts are no longer available.
For additional information, such as transfer credit evaluation requirements, visit our catalog.
WCU-Texas Nursing Administration & Faculty
Richild Berrick, PhD, MSN/Ed, RN
Campus Dean of Nursing
B.S., Nursing – University of Phoenix
M.S., Nursing /Ed– University Of Phoenix
PhD, Nursing Education– Nova Southeastern University
Brenna Nix, MHA
Campus Associate Director of Nursing, Administration
M.S., Healthcare Administration – Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center
B.S., Healthcare Management – Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center
Yolanda Jones, FNP-C, MSN, RN
Campus Associate Dean of Nursing, Academics
M.S.N., Family Nurse Practitioner – Walden University
B.S., Nursing – Delta State University
A.S., Nursing – Trinity Valley Community College
Jimmy Gonzales, MBA
Campus Associate Dean of Nursing, Clinical Education
M.B.A. – New England College of Business and Finance
B.S., Microbiology – Texas Tech University
Allison Bass, MSN, RN
Manager, Skills Lab Education
B.S., Nursing – University of Kentucky
M.S., Nursing – Indiana Wesleyan University
Amber Casselberry, MSN, RN, CMSRN
Instructor I
M.S., Nursing Education – University of Texas, Tyler
B.S., Nursing – Texas A&M University, Commerce
Danielyan, Maria MSN, RN, CCRN
Manager, Clinical Faculty
B.S., Nursing – University of Phoenix
M.S., Nursing – University of Phoenix
Furlough, Shenee, MSN-Ed, RN, CMSRN
Manager, Simulation Education
M.S.N., Nursing Education – University of Texas, Arlington
B.S., Nursing – University of Texas, Arlington
Janet Godbold, MSN, RN
Instructor II
M.S., Nursing Education – Western Governors University
B.S., Nursing – Texas Christian University
B.A.A., Accounting – Harding University
Peter Hoang, MSN, RN, PCCN-K
Instructor II
M.S., Nursing Education – University of Texas at Arlington
B.S., Nursing – Texas Women’s University
A.D., Nursing – North Central Texas College
Donna Kundaje, MSN, BSN, RN
Instructor II
M.S., Nursing – St. Joseph College of Maine
B.S., Nursing – University of Connecticut
Ellen Lloyd, MSN, RN
Instructor I
M.S., Nursing – Chamberlain School of Nursing
B.S., Nursing – Chamberlain School of Nursing
A.S., Nursing – El Centro College, Dallas
Amber Molubhoy, MSN-Ed, RN, CPHON
Instructor I
M.S.N., Nursing Education – New York University
B.S., Nursing – Baylor University
Julie Ramus, DNP, FNP-BC
Instructor I
DNP, FNP – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
B.S., Nursing – Oakland University
B.A., Public Policy – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Avneet Ridings, MSN, RN, CCRN
Instructor I
M.S., Nursing – Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
B.S., Nursing – University of Texas Health Sciences Center
B.S., Biology – University of Texas at Dallas
Jessica Robinson, MSN, RNC-OB
Instructor I
M.S., Nursing Education – Grand Canyon University
B.S., Nursing – University of Texas, Arlington
Emily Roe, MSN, RN
Manager, Persistence and Outcomes
B.S., Nursing – California Baptist University
M.S., Nursing – Capella University
Shelby Santangelo, MSN, RN
Instructor I
M.S., Nursing Education – Western Governors University
B.S., Nursing– University of Hartford
A.S., Science – Middlesex Community College
Diploma, Nursing – Ona M. Wilcox College of Nursing
Academic Calendar
New academic terms begin, on average, every 10 weeks. To get an idea of when each term starts and ends, view our Academic Calendar.
Becoming a Registered Nurse in Texas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas is the second highest employer of registered nurses (RNs). The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro, specifically, has the fourth highest employment level of RNs among other U.S. metropolitan areas.
Simulation Centers
Technologically Advanced Sim Labs
If you’re looking for a nursing school in Texas that emphasizes hands-on learning, the WCU-Texas BSN program offers technologically advanced simulation labs equipped with industry-current technology. Practice your skills using manikins that mimic real-life patients. Their blood pressure rises and falls, their pupils dilate, and they show signs of pain. In the simulation labs, students learn what to do when a patient crashes, and they gain the confidence to tackle real-world challenges.
The simulation labs are equipped for a variety of scenarios, including in the following areas:
- Medical and surgical units
- Pediatrics
- Maternity/OB
- Mental health
Not only do sim lab instructors provide guidance on patient care, they also double as voice actors, helping students gain valuable hands-on experience through realistic scenarios. Take a behind-the-scenes look at how WCU brings sim lab training to life!
What’s to Love About the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex?
We’ve asked our students, alumni, and advisors about their favorite activities and places in Texas. Check out their answers and start picturing what your life could look like when you study here!
- There’s a ton of lakes!
- Texas Live where the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers play
- The State Fair in September
- Walking around downtown Dallas
- Diverse food options, from traditional American barbecue to Korean
- Trip to Buc-ee’s
- Road trips to Austin, Houston, and San Antonio
Clinical Placements
Clinical Placements Team Supporting BSN-Texas Students
At WCU-Texas, we know real-life experience is pivotal in helping you become a confident nursing professional. Our dedicated Clinical Placements team is available to help you find a local healthcare facility that fits your goals. They can facilitate clinical site and preceptor selection, help streamline approvals, and assist with compliance tracking.
NCLEX Support
Helping BSN Students Prepare for the NCLEX
After passing all your classes and completing your clinical hours, there’s still one more step to becoming a registered nurse: passing the licensure exam.
WCU-Texas brings you the support you need to prepare for the NCLEX-RN. You’ll have access to NCLEX advisors, bootcamps, study guides, and no-cost tutoring. Through these tools and resources, you’ll gain an understanding of topics covered and the types of questions asked in the exam.
“The day we graduated, I was like ‘I’m going to go take my NCLEX tomorrow.’ That’s how prepared I felt.”
– Alexis C., BSN ’20*
“Because I felt so confident after the program, I actually went back and rescheduled my exam to take it earlier and, thankfully, I passed on the first try.”
– Radha D., BSN ’20*
Career Services
A Team Providing Hands-On Support
WCU-Texas graduates have access to our Career Services team for every step of their job search.1 Get help with career planning, locating open jobs, writing resumes, completing applications, and preparing for interviews.
Potential Job Opportunities
Registered nurses can work in a variety of healthcare facilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs most commonly work in the following settings:
- Hospitals (state, local, and private)
- Ambulatory healthcare services
- Nursing and residential care facilities
- Government
- Educational services (state, local, and private)2
Additionally, RNs can also work in departments and facilities with a range of specializations, including addiction treatment, cardiovascular care, critical care, genetics, neonatal care, nephrology, and public health.2 Our Career Services department can help you find a role that fits your long-term career goals.
Learning Outcomes
Upon graduation from West Coast University, students will have met the following program learning outcomes:
- Support professional nursing practice decisions with concepts and theories from the biological, physical, and social sciences
- Plan preventive and population-focused interventions with attention to effectiveness, efficiency, cost, and equity
- Support therapeutic nursing interventions for patients and families in a variety of healthcare and community settings using evidence-based practice
- Apply nursing process and critical thinking when providing holistic, patient-centered nursing care to diverse populations
- Design healthcare education for individuals, families, and communities
- Comply with the professional standards of moral, ethical, and legal conduct in practice
- Develop an effective communication style to interact with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary health team
- Model leadership with providing safe, quality nursing care; coordinating the healthcare team; and when tasked with oversight and accountability for care delivery
- Use patient care technology and information systems when providing nursing care in a variety of settings
Featured Faculty
Richild Haywood, PhD, MSN/Ed, RN, CNE
Campus Dean of Nursing, WCU-Texas
Richild Berrick is the Campus Dean of Nursing at West Coast University-Texas. In her current role, she specializes in NCLEX preparation, curriculum development and management, teaching methodology, and assessment development and analysis.
Dr. Berrick is a certified nurse educator with 17 years of experience in nurse education, during which time she worked in both public and private schools. She was licensed as an RN in 1994, and her clinical experience includes nursing in labor and delivery, emergency room, critical care settings.
Dr. Berrick has a PhD in Nursing Education, a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education (MSN/Ed), and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. When she is not working, she enjoys traveling, attending music festivals, and doing anything outdoors.
Brenna Nix, MHA
Campus Associate Dean of Nursing, Administration
Brenna Nix is the Campus Associate Dean of Nursing and Administration for West Coast University’s Texas campus. Prior to assuming the associate dean role, Nix was a Program Assistant for Clinical Education for WCU-Texas. She has nearly a decade of administrative experience.
Some of Nix’s duties as an associate dean include assisting with training and onboarding of new faculty members, maintaining the nursing program budget, and overseeing federal work-study students and program assistants.
Nix has a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from Texas Tech University. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
In her free time, Nix loves traveling and spending time with her family. She also enjoys finding new coffee shops to visit.
FAQs
How long does it take to complete the BSN program at WCU-Texas?
The BSN program at WCU-Texas allows you to complete your degree in 39 months (a little over 3 years).
Can I get a BSN if I already have a bachelor's degree?
Yes. WCU’s BSN program is for any students who are seeking to become a registered nurse (RN), even those who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in a different area of study.
What kind of master’s degree can I get with a BSN?
West Coast University offers various master’s programs for BSN graduates who want to continue their educations. One popular option is our Master of Science in Nursing program, which allows you to specialize in a specific area of nursing. We offer advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specialties such as our Family Nurse Practitioner track, as well as non-APRN specialties such as our Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator tracks.
We also have an RN to MSN program available for those pursuing their graduate degree post-licensure. Non-nursing graduate degrees that some of our nursing students pursue include our Master of Health Administration, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Public Health programs.
What is the difference between an RN and a BSN?
An RN is a state-granted license that lets you work as a registered nurse. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an academic degree from an accredited institution. A BSN helps prepare you to pass your RN licensure exam, but it is not a requirement for licensure. Many nurses choose to pursue their BSN because it helps prepare them for new career opportunities. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 77.4% of employers are expressing a strong preference for BSN program graduates.5
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify. At WCU-Texas, we have a dedicated team of financial aid advisors to help guide you through the process and find the solution that is right for you. For more information about institutional scholarships available at WCU-Texas, such as the Greg Jarvis Simulation Scholarship and the Nursing Excellence Grant, please visit the Undergraduate On-Ground Scholarships and Grants page on our online catalog.
Our Location
West Coast University
2323 N. Central Expressway
Richardson, TX 75080
(214) 453-4533
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1 WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, “Work Environment,”
*The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
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