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BSN Degree in Miami
Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, located in the heart of Miami, offers a hands-on learning experience designed for modern students.
New Student Achievement Grant (Up to $6,500 per academic year!)
Created to support new students with exceptional entrance exam scores (83 on the HESI or 66 on the TEASV), this grant is available to BSN or LPN to BSN students starting Oct. 2024 or Jan. 2025 at WCU-Miami. 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
No Associate Degree Required
Go straight into bachelor-level classes
Options for Working Students
Choose from our Accelerated, Working Professional, and Evening and Weekend paces
#1 Best Colleges for Nursing in Florida
West Coast University Miami has been voted Best School/University in the Best of Miami 2024 Readers’ Poll hosted by the Miami New Times!
WCU-Miami is proud to be the winner of the Bronze Award from the Miami Herald for Best College/University!
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Highlights
No waitlist, so you can start your degree now and begin making a difference sooner
Immersive simulation labs where you can master hands-on skills confidently
Career-ready preparation including NCLEX prep and support
Diverse clinical partners in the Miami area where you can gain real-life experience
Why Pursue a BSN Degree at WCU-Miami?
Florida is one of the top employers for nurses in the United States, ranking fourth for the highest employment of nurses by state.1 For many of our students, nursing is more than just a career choice. It’s a calling. At WCU-Miami, we want to give you the tools to make a difference in your community, providing care and comfort to those who need it most.
If you’re looking for a nursing program in Miami that emphasizes hands-on learning, then we invite you to explore our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Our nursing students practice in simulation labs that mimic the real world. They provide a safe and controlled environment where students can practice their nursing skills — including blood draws, patient monitoring, and patient crashes — without fear of making mistakes. Once students have mastered their skills and developed confidence, they get real-world experience at a local healthcare facility through their clinical hours.
WCU-Miami provides you with the support you need, including no-cost tutoring, group study spaces, and access to a variety of learning apps. With multiple starts throughout the year and three program paces to choose from, WCU-Miami is helping put your degree within reach.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at West Coast University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 655 K Street, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, (202) 877-6791 (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
BSN at WCU-Miami
Overview: Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
Program Details
At WCU-Miami, we offer three program paces for our BSN students. Our admissions advisors are available to help you figure out which pace is right for you.
Here are our available paces for the BSN program:
Accelerated Pace
On-Campus
120 Credits
39 Months
8 Semesters
Evening & Weekend Pace
On-Campus
120 Credits
44 Months
9 Semesters
Working Professional Pace
On-Campus
120 Credits
54 Months
11 Trimesters
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 the Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Miami Program Cost?
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 Miami 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 in Miami at West Coast University.
We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Tuition and Fees
Accelerated*
| Degree Type |
Bachelor of Science (Starting Fall I 2024) |
Bachelor of Science (Starting Fall 2 2024) |
Bachelor of Science Program (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
Bachelor of Science Program (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
| Total Program Credits | 120 | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Program Length (Full-Time) | 8 semesters | 8 semesters | 8 semesters | 8 semesters |
| General Education Courses (per credit x 46 credits) | $599 | $599 | ||
| Core Courses (per credit x. 74 credits) (nursing & non-nursing1) | $799 | $799 | ||
| Tuition Cost Full-Time Status (12 to 18 credits) | $8,985 | $8,985 | ||
| 3/4 Time Status (9 to 11 credits) | $7,446 | $7,446 | ||
| 1/2 Time Status (6 to 8 credits) | $5,846 | $5,846 | ||
| Less than 1/2 Time Status (per credit if under 6 credits) | $988 | $988 | ||
| Total Tuition Costs | $86,680 | $71,880 | $86,680 | $71,880 |
| Registration Fee (refundable) | $75 | $75 | $75 | $75 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs2 | $5,212 | $5,212 | $4,164 | $4,164 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost2 | $521 | $521 | $416 | $416 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fee2 | $250 | $250 | $250 | $250 |
| Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees2 | $2,345 | $2,345 | $4,200 | $4,200 |
| Technology Fee3($100 per semester) | $800 | $800 | $800 | $800 |
|
General Education Resource Fee4 |
$500 | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| Core Nursing Fee5 | $15,000 | $15,000 | ||
| Estimated Total Program Costs | $96,383 | $96,583 | $97,085 | $97,285 |
Indirect Costs
| 10 Month Academic Year6 | ||||
| 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, Working Professional 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 a term.
1 Non-nursing core includes PATH 370 and PHIL 434.
2 The Estimated Book, Uniform, and Supply costs reflect the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
4 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.
5 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 $3,000 per Core Nursing Semester
6 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. Students enrolled less than 1/2-Time are billed by the credit hour.1
Tuition and Fees
Working Professionals*
| Degree Type |
Bachelor of Science (Starting Fall I 2024) |
Bachelor of Science
(Starting Fall 2 2024) |
Bachelor of Science Program Start Date Prior to Fall 2 2024 (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
Bachelor of Science Program Start Date on and after Fall 2 2024 (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
| Total Program Credits | 120 | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Program Length (Full-Time) |
11 semesters | 11 semesters | 11 semesters | 11 semesters |
| General Education Courses (per credit x 46 credits) | $599 | $599 | ||
| Core Courses (per credit x. 74 credits) (nursing & non-nursing1) | $799 | $799 | ||
| Tuition Cost Full-Time Status (12 to 18 credits) | $7,472 | $7,472 | ||
| 3/4 Time Status (9 to 11 credits) | $6,202 | $6,202 | ||
| 1/2 Time Status (6 to 8 credits) | $4,857 | $4,857 | ||
| Less than 1/2 Time Status (per credit if under 6 credits) | $988 | $988 | ||
| Total Tuition Costs | $86,680 | $71,882 | $86,680 | $71,882 |
| Registration Fee (refundable) | $75 | $75 | $75 | $75 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs2 | $5,212 | $5,212 | $4,164 | $4,164 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost2 | $521 | $521 | $416 | $416 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fee2 | $250 | $250 | $250 | $250 |
| Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees2 | $2,345 | $2,345 | $4,200 | $4,200 |
| Technology Fee3 ($100 per semester) | $1,100 | $1,100 | $1,100 | $1,100 |
|
General Education Resource Fee4 |
$500 | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| Core Nursing Fee5 | $15,000 | $15,000 | ||
| Estimated Total Program Costs | 96,683 | $96,885 | $97,385 | $97,587 |
Indirect Costs
| 10 Month Academic Year6 | ||||
| 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, Working Professional 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 a term.
1 Non-nursing core includes PATH 370 and PHIL 434
2 The Estimated Book, Uniform, and Supply fees reflect the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
4 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.
5 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. 6 Core Nursing Semesters multiplied by $2,500 per Core Nursing Semester.
6 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.1Students enrolled less than 1/2-Time are billed by the credit hour.
Tuition and Fees
Evening and Weekend*
| Degree Type |
Bachelor of Science (Starting Fall I 2024) |
Bachelor of Science (Starting Fall 2 2024 |
Bachelor of Science Program Start Date Prior to Fall 2 2024 (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
Bachelor of Science Program Start Date on and after Fall 2 2024 (Effective Spring 2 2025) |
| Total Program Credits | 120 | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Program Length (Full-Time) |
9 semesters | 9 semesters | 9 semesters | 9 semesters |
| General Education Courses (per credit x 46 credits) | $599 | $599 | ||
| Core Courses (per credit x. 74 credits) (nursing & non-nursing1) | $799 | $799 | ||
| Tuition Cost Full-Time Status (12 to 18 credits) | $8,300 | $8,300 | ||
| 3/4 Time Status (9 to 11 credits) | $6,889 | $6,889 | ||
| 1/2 Time Status (6 to 8 credits) | $5,395 | $5,395 | ||
| Less than 1/2 Time Status (per credit if under 6 credits) | $988 | $988 | ||
| Total Tuition Costs | $86,680 | $71,878 | $86,680 | $71,878 |
| Registration Fee (refundable) | $75 | $75 | $75 | $75 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs2 | $5,212 | $5,212 | $4,164 | $4,164 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost2 | $521 | $521 | $416 | $416 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fee2 | $250 | $250 | $250 |
$250 |
| Estimate for Supplies & Licensure Preparation Fees2 | $2,345 | $2,345 | $4,200 | $4,200 |
| Technology Fee3 ($100 per semester) | $900 | $900 | $900 | $900 |
|
General Education Resource Fee4 |
$500 | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| Core Nursing Fee5 | $15,000 | $15,000 | ||
|
Estimated Total Program Costs |
$96,483 | $96,681 | $97,185 | $97,383 |
Indirect Costs
| 10 Month Academic Year6 | ||||
| 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 |
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 a term.
1 Non-nursing core includes PATH 370 and PHIL 434.
2 The Estimated Book, Uniform, and Supply fees reflect the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
4 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.
5 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. 6 Core Nursing Semesters multiplied by $2,500 per Core Nursing Semester
6 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. Students enrolled less than 1/2-Time are billed by the credit hour.1
Admission Requirements (TX & FL)
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
- 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
- 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.
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 Florida
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida is the third highest employer of registered nurses (RNs). The Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro, specifically, is among the top 10 U.S. metropolitan areas with the highest RN employment level.
Pursuing your BSN degree in Florida can empower you to make a meaningful impact on the health of individuals and communities.
Read More About Becoming a Nurse in Florida
Simulation Centers
Technologically Advanced Sim Labs
At the WCU-Miami campus, we provide our Florida nursing students with technologically advanced simulation labs where they can practice their skills. Get hands-on practice using manikins that mimic real human patients. They have blood pressures that can rise and drop. Their pupils dilate. They show signs of pain, and they can even give birth!
Using these manikins and our hospital setups, you’ll be able to work through different scenarios while getting immediate feedback from your instructors. The WCU-Miami simulation labs let you work through scenarios in:
- Medical and surgical units
- Pediatrics
- Maternity/OB
- Mental health
Wondering what it’s like to reinforce your nursing knowledge in WCU-Miami’s simulation lab? Hear from WCU SIM lab instructor Dr. Miriam S. about what to expect during your hands-on training and why these high-fidelity simulations offer the perfect learning opportunity.
Experience WCU for Yourself!
Attend an info session to learn what all the buzz is about.
What’s to Love About Miami?
We’ve asked our students, alumni, and advisors about their favorite activities and places in Miami. Check out their answers and start picturing what your life could look like when you study here!
- Miami has the best Cuban coffee!
- Brickell City Centre
- CityPlace Doral
- Seeing outdoor murals at Wynwood
- The beach!
- Walking around Coconut Grove
- Miracle Mile at Coral Gables
Clinical Placements
Clinical Placements Team Supporting BSN-Miami Students
At WCU-Miami, we understand the importance of clinical experiences for your education. We are dedicated to building long-term clinical relationships with local facilities to help offer you a diverse range of options and meaningful clinical placements.
Our dedicated Clinical Placements team will work with you to find the facilities that best fit with your goals and interests. We can help you select the right clinical site and preceptor, streamline approvals, and assist with tracking.
NCLEX Support
Helping BSN Students Prepare for the NCLEX
One of the most important milestones in your nursing journey is passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to officially become a registered nurse. Having your RN license means you can work as a nurse and use the skills and knowledge developed in the BSN program.
At WCU-Miami, we want to give you the resources you’ll need to approach the exam with confidence. Meet with an NCLEX advisor, participate in bootcamps, and get no-cost tutoring in areas where you might need some review. You will also have access to practice exams and a library of educational books and videos to help you prepare.
“West Coast University provides you everything you need to make sure that you pass the NCLEX on the first try.”
– Ariadna R., BSN ’20
“They overprepare you for NCLEX, for real-life working, for everything.”
– Lizzy B., BSN ’20
Career Services
Career Planning & Job Search Assistance
Graduates of the BSN program can work for any company or facility that needs nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RN 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
Our WCU-Miami Career Services team is available to help you from your first day of class to beyond graduation. Whether you need career planning advice, help locating open jobs, interview coaching, or assistance with resume writing, Career Services is you one-stop hub for anything having to do with professional development.3
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.
Meet the Dean
Katie Kay, DNP, RN, PCCN-K
Dean, College of Nursing
Dr. Katie Kay is the Dean for West Coast University’s College of Nursing where she provides direct oversight to the academic quality and delivery of prelicensure-through-doctoral nursing education. She is a nurse educator and leader with a collaborative, service-oriented mindset. Dr. Kay remains passionate about accessibility for both education and healthcare to improve the way we are delivering care to the communities we serve.
Prior to her appointment at West Coast University, Dr. Kay served as the Vice President of Healthcare Academics at Emeritus where she was the in-house expert for nursing and healthcare education. In her time at Emeritus, she partnered with several leading academic institutions to create high-quality, accessible, and affordable upskilling and reskilling programs to address key gaps in healthcare delivery and healthcare leadership.
Dr. Kay has also previously held the title of Senior Director of National Academic Operations at Chamberlain University, where she was responsible for providing leadership to university-wide academic, quality, and experiential learning initiatives. In her tenure at Chamberlain University, she also worked as adjunct faculty and held the role of Associate Dean of Faculty in the Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner track.
Her passion for accessibility also stems from her work as an administrator at a large metropolitan hospital where she had oversight of the day-to-day operations of 22 inpatient units. Primary areas of leadership included patient safety, acuity management, throughput, accreditation, advocacy for professional nursing practice, and re-attainment of Magnet distinction.
The most recent publications for Dr. Kay includes The 3 P’s: Pharmacology Physical Assessment, and Pathophysiology (Crowley, Wallace, Letz, and Kay) and a poster presentation titled “Innovative Approaches to Clinical and Practicum Placements.”
Dr. Kay is a member of the American Association for Critical Nurses, the National League of Nursing, and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, and she serves as the Executive Director for the Association of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.
FAQs
How long does it take to complete the BSN program at WCU-Miami?
The BSN program in Miami offers three program paces:
- Accelerated – 39 months
- Evenings and Weekends – 44 months
- Working Professional – 54 months
The Accelerated pace is ideal for students who want to study full-time and streamline their education. It can be completed in just over three years. The Evenings and Weekends program lets you schedule all your classes during evenings and weekends. This is ideal for working students or anyone with daytime commitments. The Working Professional pace lets you take fewer classes per term.
Can I earn my BSN while working?
Yes! If you are a working student, you might be interested in our Working Professional pace that allows you to take fewer classes per term, earning your degree in 54 months. Alternatively, you can explore our Evenings and Weekends pace. It lets you take all your classes during evenings and weekends, ideal for anyone who has daytime commitments.
Can I get a BSN if I already have a bachelor's degree?
Yes. Having a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline does not prevent you from being able to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program is designed for any student who is interested in becoming a registered nurse (RN).
What kind of master’s degree can I get with a BSN?
At WCU, there are various options available for master’s programs that you can pursue following your BSN program. Many of our BSN graduates move on to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing degree, which allows them to specialize within a specific area of nursing. We also offer an RN to MSN program for licensed RNs who want to skip a bachelor’s program and go straight to their master’s degree.
Other BSN graduates may pursue a Master of Health Administration, Master of Business Administration, or Master of Public Health at WCU.
What is the difference between an RN and a BSN?
An RN is the designation for a state-issued license for registered nurses while a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is an academic degree. A prospective nurse does not need to have a BSN in order to become licensed as an RN, however, many pursue this degree to help them prepare for the licensure exam and maximize their career opportunities – especially since 77.4% of employers have indicated a strong preference for BSN-prepared nurses.4
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify. As part of your admissions process, you will have a one-on-one meeting with one of our financial aid advisors. They can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
For more information on the institutional grants available for the WCU-Miami campus, please visit the Undergraduate On-Ground Scholarships and Grants page on our online catalog.
And for more information on other forms of aid available, visit our Financial Aid page.
Our Location
West Coast University
9250 NW 36th Street
Doral, FL 33178
(786) 501-7070
Have Questions?
Pursuing your degree is a big choice. Fill out our form and one of our admissions advisors will contact you to answer any questions you may have!
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, “Work Environment,” Updated Sept. 8, 2022
3 WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
4 American Association of Colleges of Nursing, “Employment of New Nurse Graduates and Employer Preferences for Baccalaureate-Prepared Nurses,” October 2021
*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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