Second-Degree Accelerated Baccalaureate Program in Nursing - Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Is the accelerated program right for me?

Before you decide to apply for the program, take into consideration your financial situation, career goals, family responsibilities, and your ability to become a full-time college student again. Keep in mind that the program is very intense. Consider if you reasonably can devote 40 or more hours a week to course and clinical work for a 15-month period. If so, faculty, academic advisors, and other support services are available to help you through the process.

Do I need to meet with someone in the nursing school? Is an interview required?

Yes, to both questions. Academic advisors are available to talk with you about your coursework. The Admissions Committee will interview chosen candidates. Applicants will be contacted to schedule interviews.

How do I apply?

Make a formal application to the School of Nursing, using the Application for Admission to the School of Nursing, Second-degree Accelerated Program form and the Supplemental Application form located on the School of Nursing's website at http://www.nursing.purdue.edu/academics/seconddegree/admissions.php.

When should I apply?

The application deadline is December 31. Review of admissions credentials will begin in January.

When will I be notified about admission?

All decision letters will be mailed by February 15.

What courses should I now be taking?

There are several prerequisite courses for the Second-degree program. See General Education Requirements.

Do I have to have all the prerequisite courses completed before I apply?

You do not have to have all of these courses completed before you apply. All must be completed before you begin classes. If you will be taking any of these classes in the spring semester, please be sure that we will have your official transcript before classes begin in May.

Can I assume that my courses meet the required criteria?

No. Please contact an academic advisor in the School of Nursing to help you determine if your courses meet our criteria and to find out what courses you still need. Also, contact the Office of Admissions/Application Assessment at (765) 494-6482. You will have to fill out Form 5. That office will inform you of courses that are acceptable at Purdue University.

How will I know if I have taken an accepted lifespan development course?

The course must survey major developmental theories, developmental changes across the entire lifespan, and the hereditary and environmental influences on individuals. Some acceptable courses may be offered through psychology departments. An academic advisor in the School of Nursing will examine your transcript to determine if the course is acceptable or not.

Do I have to take pharmacology and/or nutrition before I start the program?

Yes. If you are a current Purdue student, contact your advisor to register for PHPR 202 (Introduction to Pharmacology) or F&N 303 (Essentials of Nutrition). If you are not a current Purdue student, contact the Office of Admissions to register as a non-degree seeking student.

Do I have to take statistics?

Yes. This can be a course offered in departments of sociology, psychology, or mathematics. It must be taken at an accredited college or university. Counselors and faculty in the School of Nursing can assist you in deciding which course to take.