Frequently Asked Questions

Regular & Accelerated Prelicensure B.S.N.

• What are the admission requirements for the program(s)?

  A full list of admission requirements for both tracks may be located under the Nursing Admissions page. Click on the name of the track to view the details. Note that while both tracks require at least 315.00 out of 400.00 points on the TEAS version V or newer and 3.20 in the same eight (8) prerequisite courses, there are different cumulative undergraduate GPA requirements for the tracks.

• Are General Education &/or Gordon Rule required for admission to the program(s)?

  General Education and Gordon Rule must be completed by the time one matriculates in the Regular Prelicensure (RPL) B.S.N. track. Applicants for the Accelerated Prelicensure B.S.N. track are exempt from these requirements based on the completion of a previous baccalaureate degree.

   

  In order to meet the General Education and Gordon Rule requirements for the RPL track, candidates may: 1) Possess a baccalaureate from an institution accredited by an acceptable institutional accreditor prior to program matriculation; 2) Possess an Associate of Arts (A.A.) from a Florida public institution prior to program matriculation; or, 3) Meet the requirements as listed in the undergraduate catalog course-by-course.

   

  Prospective RPL candidates who are currently enrolled at any other public institution in Florida should consult with an academic advisor at their home institutions to ensure that all proper paperwork is submitted to request an A.A. prior to transferring.

   

  Prospective RPL candidates who are currently enrolled at private or out-of-state institutions should consult with an academic advisor in the Brooks College of Health Advising Office after application. They may be reached at (904) 620-2812 or at cohadvis@unf.edu.

• Do General Education and Gordon Rule requirements need to be completed to make application to the program(s)?

  No; candidates may complete General Education &/or Gordon Rule requirements while making application. However, for those seeking admission to a summer cohort, requirements must be completed by the end of the spring semester. Similarly, for those seeking admission to a fall cohort, requirements must be completed by the end of the summer semester. Candidates who are extended an offer of admission must provide proof of completion of all requirements prior to starting courses in the program. Failure to complete all necessary requirements may result in the revocation of admission.

• I've met the General Education &/or Gordon Rule requirements as a student at another FL public university or college. Does this mean that I meet UNF's requirements?

  No; General Education and Gordon Rule requirements may vary across the public universities, state colleges, and community colleges within Florida. Meeting the requirements at another Florida institution does not guarantee that the requirements for UNF have been satisfied. You should request an Associate of Arts (A.A.) from your home institution in order to ensure that you will meet the UNF requirements if you transfer.

• May I make application to the program while I am still completing my Nursing prerequisites?

  Yes; however, the program does have a minimum number of prerequisites that must be done by the application deadline for the admission term sought (see next paragraph) and all prerequisites must be completed by the start of the program with a "C" or better in each.

   

  Minimum prerequisite course count policy: Applicants are required to have at least five (5) of the eight (8) nursing prerequisites completed at the time of the application deadline for the admission term sought, and of these courses, at least three (3) of the four (4) science prerequisites must be done (i.e., Microbiology, A&P I, A&P II, or Additional Science in any combination).

• I was previously in the Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) track, but I decided to leave it prior to completion. May I now apply for the Regular Prelicensure track?
  Unfortunately, those who begin the Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) track and decide to not complete it or are otherwise exited from the track prior to completion may not apply under the Regular Prelicensure B.S.N. track at a later time.  This is due to the very limited number of seats in each track; a seat left open in the FAN track cannot typically otherwise be filled once students have matriculated.
• Is there a limit regarding how old prerequisite courses may be?
  No; as long as the courses were taken at the undergraduate level through an institution accredited by an acceptable institutional accreditor, accelerated credit mechanisms like AP, CLEP, IB, etc., or via evaluated foreign equivalent enrollment then they will be considered.  The age of the course does not matter.
• May I retake prerequisites? If I retake prerequisites, which attempt is considered?

  Yes; candidates are welcome to retake prerequisites to boost the competitiveness of their academic profiles. Those applicants with multiple low grades (i.e., many "C" or "B-" grades) are strongly encouraged to retake prerequisites. Individuals seeking to retake prerequisites should consult directly with the institution at which they wish to retake such courses as some will have policies against retaking "passed" coursework. If a letter is required from the School of Nursing to confirm the need for retaking courses, please contact Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu with all pertinent details and contact information for the other institution.

   

  Due to application deadlines, courses repeated through the fall term will be considered for summer admission, while courses repeated through the spring term will be considered for fall admission. We cannot consider a repeated course until the new grade is on file with UNF.

   

  Candidates who submit grades for repeated courses after they have been notified that their nursing audits (reviews) were completed should immediately contact Dr. Dibble at the above email address to report that the repeat is completed and to ensure that the new course grade is applied to the Degree Evaluation (DE). Failure to do so may impact competitive ranking for interview consideration as once a course is marked as "met" on the DE, the program will not be looking for better attempts unless directed by the applicant.

   

  The School of Nursing, when calculating prerequisite GPAs, will use the best attempt of all credits that transfer to UNF. Usually, the second (2nd) attempt holds the transfer credit, but this should be confirmed directly with the UNF One-Stop Student Services at (904) 620-5555 on a case-by-case basis, if necessary.

• Will I be permitted to take the prerequisites at another institution?

  Yes; as long as the institution is accredited by an acceptable institutional accreditor, candidates are welcome to take the courses at the institution of their choice.

• Are spring grades considered for summer &/or fall admission in the same year (i.e., Spring 2022 grades for Summer or Fall 2022)? If not, why and what is the last set of grades that will affect my GPA for admission?

  With respect to minimum eligibility and competitiveness, spring grades are not considered for summer admission. For example, for Summer 2022 admission consideration, Spring 2022 grades will not be available at the Jan. 15th application deadline to impact the candidate's program eligibility or competitiveness. Grades earned through Fall 2021 and filed properly with the university will be used to determine this.  Similarly, grades earned in the summer term will not count toward fall admission with regard to competitiveness, but grades earned through the spring term will be considered toward fall competitiveness.

• What if I am expecting a degree and it is not yet reflected on my transcripts?

  It is highly common for program applicants to be pending Associate of Arts (A.A.) or baccalaureates when application to the program(s) is made. If the degree will not be reflected on transcripts submitted to UNF by the application deadline then the applicant must email Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu to report the expected degree (this will be outlined in the audit completion and reminder notices sent by the program). The email should include the applicant's name (as it appears in myWings), UNF ID (N#), degree awarding institution, expected completion date, and expected degree (i.e., A.A., B.S., M.P.H., etc.). This is due by the application deadline.

• How do I document my enrollment in missing coursework?

  Missing coursework may be documented through a copy of the student transcript (most institutions) or via student schedules and written enrollment plans. Transfer students as well as UNF students who receive permission for transient or concurrent enrollment elsewhere should supply transcripts showing the in progress (IP) courses when possible; these should go to the main university like any other transcript.  When transcripts are not available for such (for example, FSU and USF do not list IP courses on their transcripts at all), a .pdf copy of the student's schedule for the term will be accepted by Dr. Dibble in the School of Nursing at nursingadmissions@unf.edu.

   

  Note that for Summer applicants, grades from courses through the Fall semester are due to UNF by the Jan. 15th application deadline, and spring enrollment proof/plans are due to the School of Nursing by then. For Fall applicants, grades from courses through the Spring semester are due to UNF by the June 1st application deadline, and summer enrollment proof/plans are due to the School of Nursing by then.

   

  As with the degree plans, candidates should include their full name (as it appears in myWings), UNF ID (N#), and clearly note the term (Summer or Fall) and year to which they are applying (this is because submissions for Summer and Fall tend to overlap).

• May I apply for both the Regular and Accelerated Prelicensure tracks at the same time?

  For post-baccalaureate applicants with a 3.20 or higher cumulative undergraduate GPA, only one application for the term at the university level is necessary.  That application should be submitted under the Accelerated Prelicensure (APL) B.S.N. track, and such applicants will be considered internally by the program for both tracks under that entry term.  If a post-baccalaureate applicant does not meet the 3.20 cumulative GPA requirement for the APL track, the enrollment team will adjust the application to Regular Prelicensure (RPL) B.S.N. on the applicant's behalf rather than outright deny the application if the cumulative GPA is still above 3.00.  Only those whose GPAs are below 3.00 will be denied by the enrollment team with notice sent out by the university rather than by the program.  Only undergraduate GPAs are considered for B.S.N. program entry.  Also, if a candidate is eligible for the APL track, but does not desire it, the candidate may submit an application under the RPL track.

• How do I apply for the program?

  Transfer and post-bacc degree-seeking candidates will select the UNF Undergraduate Admissions Application. From there, post-baccalaureate degree-seeking candidates will select the Post-Baccalaureate type, and transfers without a baccalaureate degree will select Transfer. Once candidates reach the Enrollment Plans page to select their major, freshman and transfers will see the Nursing: Regular Prelicensure as their only option; however, post-baccalaureate degree-seeking candidates will see will see Nursing: Regular Prelicensure and Nursing: Accel Prelicensure.  Post-baccalaureate candidates MUST select either Regular or Accelerated BSN; they cannot be considered for both as noted in the previous FAQ.

   

  Those who are current UNF students will not use the university application form; instead, current students must supply a Change of Major request via Brooks College of Health (BCH) Advising during Nursing's window for accepting such submissions, which is generally after the registration-by-appointment week for the spring and summer terms.  For example, those seeking to submit a Change of Major (COM) from Pre-Nursing or another major at UNF for the Summer 2022 term may do so from November 22, 2021 through January 15, 2022 (this is a Saturday; requests submitted via email to your advisor by 11:59 p.m. that date will be honored when staff return to campus on January 18, 2022).  Similarly, those seeking to submit a COM for Fall 2022 may do so from April 25, 2022 through June 1, 2022.  Note that if you are a UNF student who is enrolled in any coursework outside of the university when you go to submit your COM, a transcript showing the IP external coursework must be on file with the university (refer above on the FAQ list for how to document non-UNF IP courses properly) so that your COM eligibility may be properly assessed  by the advising team.  You are also strongly encouraged to have already obtained a passing TEAS score (315.00 minimum) when you request a COM to Nursing.

   

  Those who are seeking to become RNs should not select RN-BSN Bridge, BSN (online, 8 week) as this is a bridge track for those who are already RNs seeking to complete their BSN studies.  If you reach a step in the application where this is the only option that you see then you have made a mistake someplace.  It is recommended that the applicant contact the Office of Admissions for assistance at admissions@unf.edu or phone One-Stop Student Services at (904) 620-5555.  

• I have a baccalaureate degree, but I do not meet the GPA requirement for the Accelerated track. May I be considered?

  If an applicant has (or will have prior to the program's start) a baccalaureate degree, but does not meet the 3.20 cumulative undergraduate GPA required for admission to the Accelerated track, the applicant may be considered for the Regular track if his/her cumulative undergraduate GPA is no less than 3.00. If the candidate has not yet applied, s/he may apply under the Regular Prelicensure BSN track; however, if the candidate already applied and is found to not meet the Accelerated GPA requirement, the enrollment team will contact the applicant regarding how to resubmit under the Regular track since automatic updates and changes are not available in the new application system.

• Are graduate-level courses considered for admission or in my GPA calculations?

  No; graduate-level courses may not be used to influence GPA or to satisfy program prerequisites. This is because graduate courses do not transfer to the university for undergraduate-level programs. There are no exceptions to this policy.

• I'm not sure if I'm eligible to apply yet and would like to discuss my potential application with someone. What should I do or who should I contact?

  General inquiries regarding the application process and admission requirements should be directed to Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu. Note that transcripts cannot be reviewed or commented on prior to application and transfer evaluation with the Enrollment Services team at the university level.  To have transcripts officially reviewed, please begin the application process.

   

  Further, those with programmatic questions such as how the programs operate/function, and not those related to applying/getting in, should be directed to the identified Program Directors on our contact page.

• What transcripts do I need to supply?

  Transcripts from each individual institution at which any college credit was attempted must be supplied by the deadline to the One-Stop at UNF. This includes actual transcripts for AICE, IB, AP, DANTES, and CLEP courses as well as course-by-course evaluations for any coursework taken abroad. Note that if you enrolled transiently/concurrently or attended multiple colleges or universities, a transcript from each is required. UNF will not lift, consider, or otherwise review courses that are not from the actual institutions regardless of their presence on transcripts.

• Does the School of Nursing issue early admission letters for ROTC, NCP, STA-21, NECP, MECP, or AECP/AMEDD candidates?

  Yes; the School of Nursing may extend up to two (2) early admission letters for such candidates per admission period with no more than one (1) of those letters being for the Accelerated track. For details regarding the admission requirements and steps for such a decision, which differ from those of the general applicant pool, please contact Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu.

   

  *Both letters for Summer 2022 have been claimed, but both letters for Fall 2022 are still available as of December 9, 2021.  We will begin considering candidates for the 2023 cohorts on June 1, 2022.  Please contact Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu more information.

• How are candidates selected for admission in the competitive process? What has been historically competitive?

  Selection to interview is based equally on the candidates' TEAS scores and prerequisite GPAs as long as the candidates meet minimum requirements and have submitted all requested items for review. For each application period, the School of Nursing will invite ~170 candidates to interview for admission. The behavioral interviews are conducted in groups of 4-6 candidates with a 3-person panel consisting of School of Nursing faculty members and nursing alumni, graduate students, and leaders from the greater Jacksonville area. Questions are non-medical, non-academic in nature. Professional attire is expected; recommendations, essays, and resumes are neither required nor desired. Final admission is based 50% on the interview process, 35% on the TEAS, and 14% on the prerequisite GPA.

   

  Since the decision process for the Summer 2010 cohorts, those offered interviews and program admission have averaged 3.67-3.82 for their prerequisite GPAs and 335-345 points on the TEAS.  This held true through the Summer 2021 cohort that started classes on May 10, 2021.  The Fall 2021 pool has not yet been selected as of June 2, 2021.

• How may I prepare for the admission interview?

  Those who are currently enrolled at UNF may seek interview preparation assistance from Brooks Professional Development Services; the link for nursing interview preparation is under their left-hand menu.

   

  Those who are not currently enrolled at UNF, but who are enrolled at another institution, should seek out that institution's professional development/career services unit for similar assistance.

   

  All Regular and Accelerated Prelicensure BSN applicants who are selected to interview will be emailed a tips flyer prepared by the UNF Student Nurses' Association (SNA) and approved by its faculty/staff advisors.  This flyer was developed by students who have been through the interview process for the program.

• Generally, what do the schedules for the Regular and Accelerated Prelicensure tracks look like?

  For the Accelerated Prelicensure BSN track, students typically have three (3) days of class throughout the first semester along with and one (1) 8-hour clinical for Fundamental Nursing Concepts in the last six (6) weeks. In their second semester, these students usually have three (3) days of class, 12-hour clinicals one (1) day per week for Med/Surg, and 10-hour clinicals one (1) day per week for eight (8) weeks (four [4] shifts for Chronic/Rehab and four [4] shifts for Psychiatric Mental Health). During the third semester, Accelerated students have three (3) days of class and two (2) 12-hour clinical days each week for Complex Nursing Concepts, Women's Health, and Pediatrics (Women's Health and Pediatrics are half-term courses that switch at midterm). In the final semester, these students have two (2) days of class and two (2) 12-hour clinical days per week for four (4) weeks; students then complete 72 clinical hours with a preceptor. For more information about how the Accelerated Prelicensure BSN track operates (not admission questions), please contact the program director, Dr. Deirdre Shoemake.

   

  For the Regular Prelicensure BSN track, students typically have three (3) days of class throughout the first semester along with one (1) 8-hour clinical for Fundamental Nursing Concepts in the last six (6) weeks. In their second semester, these students usually have two (2) days of class and 10-hour clinicals on day per week for eight (8) weeks (four [4] shifts for Chronic/Rehab and four [4] shifts for Psychiatric mental Health. Similarly, in the third semester, these students will typically have two (2) days of class; however, they will also have one (1) 12-hour clinical per week for Med/Surg and then four (4) 12-hour days for Women's Health. These students then complete one (1) 12-hour clinical per week for Complex Nursing Concepts and then four (4) 12-hour days for Pediatrics. In the final semester, these students have one (1) day of class and two (2) 12-hour clinical days per week for the four (4) weeks; students then complete 72 clinical hours with a preceptor. For more information about how the Regular Prelicensure BSN track operates (not admission questions), please contact the program director, Dr. Judy Comeaux.

   

  Note that clinicals may be held from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the 12-hour shifts. Some clinicals may be held on weekends. Clinical days listed in the above text do not reflect homebase community hours, which are part of one's grade and are separate from hospital clinical hours.

• What are the costs related to the Regular and Accelerated Prelicensure BSN programs?

  The largest expense in the Regular (RPL) and Accelerated (APL) Prelicensure BSN programs is related to tuition and fees.  These are set annually by the university and published for review at www.unf.edu/tuition/.  To roughly estimate your tuition and fees costs, multiple the current rate (in-state versus out-of-state residency status) by 52 credits for the APL program or by 60 credits for the RPL program.  Lab courses will also incur a $15 lab/materials fee.

   

  Books for the two programs also comprise a large cost.  Mini book bundles (print, e-book, or both) are available each term of the program from our primary publisher through the UNF Bookstore.  The total book cost for those admitted to Fall 2020 is approximately $1,320 for the APL program and $1,425 for the RPL program.  Several of the books may be used throughout the program.  The program does strive to keep book costs at a minimum where possible.

   

  In addition to tuition and book costs, the program requires special uniforms, equipment, and study resources.  Students will utilize HESI assessment materials throughout the program; this package is approximately $600.  The program now also utilizes the Shadow Health learning platform, which will see a fee associated with several courses throughout the program at roughly $55 per course.  This platform is used with Health Assessment, Pharmacology, and the clinical courses.  Additionally, supplies for labs and clinicals are usually ordered through our preferred vendor and will range from $275-$330 depending on stethoscope choice.  Further, scrub uniforms for hospital experiences run about $60 per set; two (2) sets are strongly encouraged.  A community experience uniform is also required that includes khaki pants (prices vary) and a UNF Nursing polo shirt ($30-$35).  Appropriate footwear for each uniform will vary by store and brand.  Students are required to obtain a UNF Nursing ID badge for $8.  For those who also need a new UNF student ID, which also serves as an access card for the library, gym, and sporting events, the total cost is $15.  Also, a virtual UNF parking decal will be required; annual decal rates range from $95-$280 depending on parking preferences.

   

  Additionally, background checks, fingerprints, drug screens, health histories, immunization records, and CPR certification are required for program enrollment and are documented through centralized systems. The background check, fingerprinting, and drug screens take place through Castle Branch for an initial fee of $140; additional updates to the background check and drug screens are due part way through the program for an additional $75 fee.  Health histories and immunization records are required for entry to clinical and community sites; myClinical Exchange is used for this record maintenance with an $80 fee for two years.  The costs associated with obtaining an updated physical and immunizations/titer proof will vary by provider and insurance coverage.  CPR certification course prices will vary by organization/agency, but tend to range from $40-$55 for a two-year certification.

   

  Finally, success by the programs' graduates on NCLEX-RN is of the utmost importance.  To enhance the HESI resources and learning experiences in the program, students entering their final semester of BSN study are strongly encouraged to purchase study resources for the NCLEX.  Several resources are available and range in cost from $250-$500.

   

  Costs associated with the program are subject to change without notice.  A full list of updated costs is provided in the welcome letter upon program admission. This is normally sent via e-mail shortly after the School of Nursing's RSVP window.  Questions regarding financial aid and scholarships should be directed to fa@unf.edu.

Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) Prelicensure B.S.N. Track

• How is the FAN class schedule different from that of the RPL track? For example, how does it work to take nursing courses with program prerequisites?

  The Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) concentration is one (1) of two (2) concentrations of the Regular Prelicensure (RPL) B.S.N. track.  The FAN track allows First Time in College (FTIC) students to enroll in the actual nursing program in their very first fall semester and take one (1) non-clinical nursing course alongside general university requirements and program prerequisites each semester for the first four (4) semesters.  Then, in the spring term of their sophomore year, FAN students will take their first nursing lab and clinical content alongside those other requirements before a summer break.  When the FAN students return from the summer break, they will progress through the remainder of their nursing courses while filling any gaps in full-time enrollment with remaining university requirements &/or elective content.  Those who do not need to enroll full-time those semesters for insurance &/or financial aid purposes will be able to carry a slightly lighter credit load if electives are not desired and graduation hours will be satisfied.

   

  The FAN concentration differs from the upper-level concentration of the RPL program with regard to course schedule in that the RPL students take all university requirements and program prerequisites prior to program matriculation and then take only nursing classes during their final two (2) undergraduate years.

   

  Assuming successful, on-time progression in each college semester of either track, total enrollment is expected to be four (4) years.  For FAN students, the enrollment is from day one to degree completion; for RPL students, the first two years are generally for the Associate of Arts and the final two years are for nursing program courses.

• Can I graduate from the university in less than four (4) years if I am admitted into the FAN program and come in with college hours from high school?

  The FAN concentration of the RPL B.S.N. track is a cohort-based delivery with courses that must be taken in a set order.  Graduation from the program cannot be expedited; rather, students who enter the program with hours earned in high school through dual enrollment or accelerated mechanisms such as AICE, AP, &/or IB will be permitted to take fewer courses in certain semesters or fill those spots on the schedule with elective hours.  In those cases, earning a minor is strongly encouraged.

   

  Assuming successful, on-time progression per semester, the program should be completed in no more than four (4) years.

• If I earned college credits in high school, will I need to retake the courses at UNF? May I do a minor if I have fulfilled requirements on my degree evaluation already with transfer credits?

  The FAN concentration will accept students with less than 30 college credits earned in high school through dual enrollment and other accelerated mechanisms such as AICE, AP, &/or IB scores.  Those courses with passing grades/scores will be honored toward the B.S.N. program of study and do not need to be retaken.

   

  Minors are encouraged in these circumstances to fill in the degree plan, especially if full-time enrollment is necessary for insurance &/or financial aid purposes.  Minors offered by the university may be found at in the undergraduate catalog.  Current FAN students have selected minors such as Psychology, Public Health, Global Health, Leadership, and American Sign Language.

• I matriculated in the Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) track, but I did not complete it. May I apply to be considered under the Regular Prelicensure track instead?
  Unfortunately, those who begin the Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) track and decide to not complete it or are otherwise exited from the track prior to completion may not apply under the Regular Prelicensure B.S.N. track at a later time.  This is due to the very limited number of seats in each track; a seat left open in the FAN track cannot typically otherwise be filled once students have matriculated.
• I earned more than 30 credits or an Associate of Arts (A.A.) while in high school. Am I eligible for FAN?

  Students entering UNF from high school with more than 30 credit hours are discouraged from the FAN program due to their advanced college standing.  Instead, they are encouraged to enroll as pre-nursing for one (1) year (roughly 30 semester hours; less if more hours are transferred into UNF) and then try for upper-level RPL admission.  In those cases, the advanced hours standing will allow the students to graduate in less than four (4) years at UNF.

   

  Students entering UNF from high school with an Associate of Arts (A.A.) earned at another FL public institution are not eligible for FAN as they are already college juniors by credit hour.  Instead, those individuals should contact Dr. Beth Dibble, Assistant Director for Admissions: Nursing Programs, at nursingadmissions@unf.edu to ensure that they are considered for fall admission under the upper-level RPL track if they will meet that concentration's admission requirements/policies on time.  If additional prerequisites are needed, those candidates are encourage to change to another major and then change back once ready.  Such candidates also stand to graduate from UNF in less than the traditional four (4) years.

• Will I be permitted to take prerequisites at another institution?
  University requirements and program prerequisites may be fulfilled prior to program enrollment with transfer hours earned through high school dual enrollment and accelerated mechanisms such as AICE, AP, &/or IB.  Once matriculated in the program, however, only Microbiology may be taken outside of UNF and only with program/advisor approval.
• Is summer enrollment required?
  Summer enrollment between the freshman and sophomore years of the FAN track is required.  Courses during the summer semester are typically offered in the Summer C session (12 weeks; May through August).  FAN students may use the following summers in the program to satisfy any remaining courses for the university's General Education, Gordon rule, &/or Civic Literacy requirements.
• Will I be a pre-nursing major or a nursing major if I am admitted to the FAN program?
  Those admitted to the FAN concentration of the RPL B.S.N. track are considered actual nursing majors, not pre-nursing majors, upon matriculation at UNF.  Those who are not selected for FAN are still welcome to maintain their FTIC admission to UNF and enroll as a pre-nursing major to complete university requirements and program prerequisites during their freshman and sophomore years and compete for admission to the upper-level RPL concentration to begin junior year.  Pre-nursing students are not actually matriculated in the program until nursing courses start upon program admission.
• What does the School of Nursing consider when looking at FAN candidates? Is a resume or volunteer experience required?

  There is currently no method by which to apply to the FAN concentration; rather, candidates for the FAN concentration are selected from the university's fall FTIC pre-nursing admission list for the following year in early December of the year prior to starting.  For example, FAN 2022 candidates will be selected in December 2021 for Fall 2022 consideration.  That is, FAN candidates are culled from the university's admission list for pre-nursing.  There is no separate method or form by which to indicate you are interested in the FAN concentration.

   

  FAN interview consideration and selection is then based on the minimum high school science GPA and SAT &/or ACT scores provided under our Admissions and program pages.  Those invited to interview will be notified of their selection via e-mail message and provided an internal deadline by which to complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS).  Those not selected for FAN will not receive any separate notice.

   

  After the interview date, final admission offers for FAN are based on a competitive group interview, TEAS scores, overall high school GPA, and high school science GPA.  Volunteer experience is not required, and resumes are neither required nor desired in the selection process.  Final offers are made via e-mail message the Monday following the interview with an included RSVP deadline (usually the same week).

• How do I prepare for the interview process?
  One manner by which to prepare for the interview process is to personally reflect upon why you selected the Nursing major and a career in the field.  Also consider what you know about the nursing arena, opportunities in the field, and issues facing nurses today and in the near future.  Practice a discussion regarding these factors and personal traits/goals that you feel make you a strong candidate for nursing education.  Also, seek mock interview assistance with your high school counselor, if available.
• What happens if I am waitlisted or denied for the FAN program?

  Those who interview for FAN admission and are waitlisted or denied will still be afforded university admission as pre-nursing students.  An internal waiting list will be maintained in the event that anyone who was offered a program seat declines it for any reason prior to the start of the fall semester.  In those cases, a candidate from the waiting list will be offered the open seat.  That candidate may choose to enter FAN, decline and keep pre-nursing admission, or decline all admission to the university.  The waiting list is good through the start of the fall semester; once the term begins, anyone not admitted from the waiting list will remain pre-nursing.

   

  Those who are waitlisted and not called up as well as those who were denied after interview are welcome to later try for the upper-level RPL concentration during sophomore year for junior year program admission.

• Do I still have to attend New Student Orientation (NSO) for the university if I am admitted to the FAN program? Does the program have separate orientation?

  As a new student entering from high school, NSO is required even with FAN admission.  At the FAN interviews, recommended NSO dates will be shared as those are the dates when program faculty and advisors are specifically available for questions and assistance outside of e-mail communication.

   

  The program will onboard new FAN students to the School of Nursing through the use of standing courses in Canvas.  Invitations to join the courses will be issued to UNF email accounts upon program admission.

• Who do I contact with questions about FAN?

  Questions regarding your university-level FTIC admission status should be directed to admissions@unf.edu or One-Stop Student Services at (904) 620-5555.

   

  Questions regarding your degree plan for the FAN concentration should be directed to Brooks College of Health Advising at cohadvis@unf.edu or (904) 620-2812.  

   

  Questions regarding other aspects of enrollment in the FAN program, its policies, and its expectations may be directed to FAN Program Director, Dr. Judy Comeaux, at jcomeaux@unf.edu.

   

  Questions regarding the general FAN selection process, including TEAS, interview information, and decision timelines, may be directed to Dr. Beth Dibble, Assistant Director for Admissions: Nursing Programs, at nursingadmissions@unf.edu.

Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)

• Who is required to take the TEAS?

  The TEAS is required of all applicants to the Regular and Accelerated Prelicensure BSN tracks at UNF by the application deadline.  For FAN candidates who are offered an admission interview, the TEAS is also required; your invitation to interview will include the due date for your TEAS scores.  

  
  

  T here are absolutely no exceptions to or substitutions for the TEAS.

• When and where is the exam offered?

  Those needing to take the TEAS should refer to the TEAS-devoted webpage for the School of Nursing.  The School of Nursing is not involved with scheduling or arranging TEAS testing appointments.

   

  Candidates may take the exam at any open testing center of their choice. Candidates are strongly encouraged to utilize ATI's remote proctoring option that was recently developed.  Contact ATI directly for more details regarding this option.  PSI also offers the TEAS exam as a proctoring site; please visit the TEAS page linked above for their contact information.

• I maxed out my testing attempts at one site. What should I do?

  If you have utilized your testing attempts with one testing site (number of attempts and testing frequency are managed by the actual testing office), simply find another site at which to test. The School of Nursing is not concerned with how many times or how frequently a candidate tests. Those policies are in place per individual testing office to help ensure everyone who needs the exam is able to take it.

• What version of the TEAS is required?

  Currently, the School of Nursing accepts TEAS version V and newer. For now, those two versions are comparably scaled and scored. This practice will remain in place as long as the TEAS scoring process remains comparable with any subsequent test versions.  We will update our candidates as information regarding any changes are issued by ATI.

   

  For now, the School of Nursing will honor TEAS scores from no more than five (5) year prior to the admission term.  Candidates are required to provide all TEAS attempts for the previous five years (counted back from the term to which one has applied).

• When should I take the exam, and how should I interpret my results?

  Candidates for the Summer cohorts should take the TEAS for the first time prior to Thanksgiving in order to permit time for retesting, if necessary. Candidates for the Fall cohorts should take the TEAS for the first time prior to Spring Break in order to permit time for retesting, if necessary.

   

  To find your score for TEAS version V:

  1. Review your Individual Performance Profile (IPP) and locate the column of data called "Adjusted Individual Score";
  2. Remove the % sign and keep the decimal places; and,
  3. Sum your four (4) bold section scores (do not round up or down). This is your score for our program's admission process. We do not use the composite score in the top right-hand corner of the report as it does not calculate from the four sections equally; instead, it places greater emphasis on certain sections and is not used by our program.

  To find your score for newer TEAS versions:

  1. Review your Individual Performance Profile and locate the central left section of the page where the four section scores are reported;
  2. Remove the % sign and keep the decimal places; and,
  3. Sum your four (4) section scores (do not round up or down). This is your score for our program's admission process. We do not use the composite score (i.e., "Total Score") reported just above the section scores as it does not calculate from the four sections equally; instead, it places greater emphasis on certain sections and is not used by our program.

  Note that you are welcome to take the TEAS as many times as you desire; while all score reports are due to the School of Nursing via email by the application deadline (and are due each time you wish to be considered), we do not and will not combine sections from different attempts. This is considered super-scoring and is not a practice honored by the School of Nursing. You must have at least a 315.00 on the TEAS in one overall attempt to be considered for an interview.

• How do I submit my TEAS scores to the UNF School of Nursing?

  It is strongly preferred that all candidates should personally submit their scores via email to Dr. Dibble at nursingadmissions@unf.edu. This helps cut down on e-mail messages regarding scores; however, candidates are welcome to order their score reports to be sent to the program by ATI (fees apply per score set); those candidates are responsible for contacting Dr. Dibble to verify that the reports were received.  The proper score report is called the Individual Performance Profile; do NOT provide the TEAS Transcript as it does not contain data regarding your individual section scores.

   

  Candidates who choose to have ATI automatically send their scores to UNF should not also personally send their scores; rather, they should check with Dr. Dibble to ensure that their scores arrived on time and be prepared to send the proper score report in case the scores did not reach UNF.  The scores are only delivered to the above email so other offices do not need to be consulted.

   

  Regardless of where a candidate tests, it is his/her responsibility to ensure that the School of Nursing has received all score reports for the previous five (5) years prior to the deadline. Do not assume that your scores arrived; if you personally send them via email as directed, you will receive a reply via email once they are downloaded by the program.

RN-BSN Bridge

• What are the admission requirements for the program?

  A full list of admission requirements for both tracks may be located through the Nursing Admissions area. From there, click on the name of the track to view the details. Note that there are online and on-campus options for enrollment when you submit the university application form.  RN licensure (or NCLEX-RN appointment proof) must be submitted as an application checklist item. This may be done through the application portal as a self-upload to the application checklist; for assistance with the application checklist document upload process, please contact UNF Online at unfonline@unf.edu or (904) 620-3577.

   

  Acceptable documents for RN licensure or NCLEX-RN appointment proof include a copy of the RN licensure wallet card, a screenshot of the state licensure verification system, or an email from Pearson showing the date, time, and location of the NCLEX-RN testing appointment.  Note that for those who submit testing appointment proof, admission cannot be granted without proof of passing the exam (generally available approximately two days after testing).

• Is foreign language required for admission to the program? How can I meet this requirement?

  While completion of a foreign language is not required for admission to the RN-BSN Bridge, it must be completed prior to a certain point to continue with program enrollment. Prior to admission, the Coordinator for Online Nursing will work with applicants on developing an approved plan for completion of this requirement. For the on-campus cohorts, the language requirement must be fulfilled by the end of the second (2nd) semester; for the online cohorts, it must be completed before the final full term in the program. Those who wish to complete the foreign language requirement alongside program enrollment may do so at UNF or with another regionally accredited institution.

   

  For those who are missing foreign language and plan to complete the language requirement while enrolled in the RN-BSN program, all of the UNF General Education & Gordon Rule, Florida Civic Literacy, and BSN prerequisite course requirements must be completed prior to admission--the maximum deficiency allowance of six (6) semester hours will not apply.

   

  Those entering the RN-BSN track without a previous baccalaureate degree may satisfy the language requirement in one (1) of three (3) ways:

  1. With two (2) consecutive years of a single foreign language (or American Sign Language) in high school with passing grades in all grading periods (submit HS transcripts to One Stop in this case);
  2. With eight (8) passing credit hours of a single college-level foreign or American sign language; or,
  3. Receive certification as a bi- or multilingual student (done after admission) via UNF's language department.
• Are General Education and Gordon Rule required for program admission?

  The program does not necessarily require General Education and Gordon Rule to be met to enroll in the program; however, those requirements must be met by a certain point in program enrollment as determined by the RN-BSN Program Director and tracked by the Coordinator for Online Nursing.  Prior to admission, the Coordinator for Online Nursing will work with applicants on developing an approved plan for completion of this requirement. Note that those who wish to complete an Associate of Arts (A.A.) at UNF or with another Florida public institution may do so alongside RN-BSN program courses for both the on-campus and online formats. A maximum deficiency of six (6) total semester hours is allowed for admission with the exception of those who are missing foreign language.

   

  Final transcripts for courses taken at all institutions outside of UNF must be submitted to the One-Stop. Admission under this policy is handled on a case-by-case scenario. Note that candidates must still have enough credit hours (60 semester hours) to matriculate in the program. Additional details regarding this policy and practice may be obtained from Online Nursing.

   

  Candidate who received an Associate of Arts (A.A.) from a Florida public institution or a baccalaureate from an institution accredited by an acceptable institutional accreditor will be exempt from General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.

• How will I know if I am missing required coursework?

  After you have applied with all required materials for the application checklist in myWings, your transcripts will be evaluated first by the university's enrollment team. Those applicants who meet the minimum GPA and credit hour requirements for the RN-BSN Bridge will then be referred to the School of Nursing for program review. At that time, the Assistant Director for Nursing Admissions will evaluate the applicant's coursework for missing requirements such as program prerequisites, General Education, Gordon Rule, Civic Literacy, and foreign language. Those applicants who fully meet requirements will be admitted and will receive a welcome notice from the Coordinator for Online Nursing Programs. Those applicants who are missing coursework will be referred to the coordinator for follow-up regarding those requirements, and the coordinator will contact the applicant to discuss a potential plan for completion. A maximum deficiency of six (6) total semester hours is allowed for admission with the exception of those who are missing foreign language. Questions about this may be directed to Online Nursing.

• How do I know if my nursing program was nationally accredited?

  If you are not sure if your nursing program was nationally accredited, you should check directly with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN; formerly NLNAC) before applying. They have a search function for program status.

   

  While more rare, you may also check with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

• I'm not sure if I should apply yet and would like additional information. Who should I contact?

  General questions regarding the application and enrollment process may be directed to UNF Online at (904) 620-3577 or unfonline@unf.edu.  Information may also be obtained from https://onlinedegree.unf.edu.

• What transcripts do I need to supply? How is my GPA calculated for admission?

  Transcripts from each individual institution at which any college credit was attempted must be supplied by the deadline to One-Stop Student Services at UNF. Note that this includes actual transcripts for AICE, IB, AP, DANTES, and CLEP courses as well as course-by-course evaluations for any coursework taken abroad. Note that if you enrolled transiently/concurrently or attended multiple colleges or universities, a transcript from each is required. UNF will not lift, consider, or otherwise review courses that are not from the actual institutions regardless of their presence on transcripts.

   

  Consideration for the RN-BSN Bridge requires no less than a 2.80 overall undergraduate GPA based on the courses that transfer for credit. When transcripts are submitted as part of the application process, they are evaluated for transfer by Enrollment Services. Hours from ASN program enrollment do not generally transfer to the university. This usually applies to ASN degrees completed at community or state colleges; in some cases, ASN courses completed at universities will transfer for credit.

   

  Courses taken at institutions accredited by acceptable institutional accreditors in preparation for nursing enrollment such as prerequisites and General Education courses typically comprise the overall GPA. Candidates are encouraged to review where their overall GPAs stand with their ASN hours excluded in the event that those hours do not transfer.

   

  Graduate courses will not be considered toward the GPA or course requirements for the program.

• Is work experience required for enrollment in the RN-BSN Bridge?

  Work experience is no longer required to enroll in the program.

Graduate Nursing Programs

• What programs do you offer at the graduate level?

  As detailed under our graduate programs area, the UNF School of Nursing currently offers DNP studies for Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Anesthesiology (CRNA), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and the generic post-MSN DNP track. Currently, the generic post-MSN DNP and PMHNP tracks are offered online, and the generic post-MSN DNP track offers courses in the traditional-semester length (this option is ending in Fall 2021 with a final cohort) and in the accelerated, 8-week length formats (must choose format upon application; this format will continue past Fall 2021).  The School of Nursing also recently added the PMHNP Certificate track for those who wish to obtain certification as a PMHNP yet do not desire a clinical doctorate.  The first cohort began in Fall 2021.  Additionally, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program was reactivated with two new tracks in Fall 2021.  Those tracks include Nursing Education as well as Nursing Leadership & Administration, and both will be fully online programs as a full-time only program.

   

  With the exception of the Anesthesia Nursing program, which makes competitive selections post-deadline, admission is offered on a rolling basis to the advertised start terms annually.  That is, the School of Nursing renders decisions on files as they are completed for consideration rather than queuing decisions until after the deadlines have passed.

• Am I able to pursue two different graduate Nursing tracks at the same time?

  Unfortunately, students may not have dual concentrations in the same major.  For example, the major is Nursing for the new MSN program, and the concentrations are Education or Leadership & Administration.  Candidates must decide what track to which they wish to be enrolled before applying.  The same applies at the doctorate level.  Also, students may not dually enroll in the generic post-MSN DNP track and the post-MSN PMHNP Certificate track; instead, candidates should complete one program before applying to and enrolling in the next one.

   

  If students enroll in one graduate track and later wish to change mid-program, this may be done with program director and advisor approval one (1) time and must align with the application period associated with the track into which the students wish to change.  The School of Nursing does not typically allow the submission of graduate-level major changes.

• If I am not able to complete two MSN or two DNP tracks at the same time, may I complete one, graduate from it, and then return to complete another track of the same degree?
  No; if you complete a MSN, you may not return to UNF to complete another MSN.  Similarly, if you complete a DNP, you may not return to UNF to complete another DNP.  However, if you complete a MSN, you may apply to the DNP or certificate tracks that are offered by the School of Nursing if you otherwise meet the admission requirements for the track sought. Similarly, if you complete the DNP, you may apply to the certificate track offered by the School of Nursing if you otherwise meet the admission requirements for it.
• Are entrance exam scores required to apply?

  The GRE is required for all DNP-CRNA applicants.  Effective for Fall 2021, the entrance exam requirements for the DNP-FNP track have been discontinued.  Additionally, entrance exam scores are not required for the PMHNP DNP, PMHNP Certificate, generic post-MSN DNP, and MSN tracks.

   

  For those from whom scores are required, all score reports are due to the Graduate School by the deadline. The testing companies will generally only archive scores for a five-year period. There are no extensions to the application deadlines. Candidates may take the entrance exam as many times as is desired, but the School of Nursing will not combine test sections from different attempts (known as super-scoring).

• What are the prerequisite course requirements for the MSN, FNP, or CRNA tracks?

  There are no specific prerequisite courses required for entry to the BSN-MSN and BSN-DNP tracks; rather, those with baccalaureate nursing degrees from nationally accredited programs at regionally accredited institutions should find that they have the necessary foundations in nursing to continue into graduate studies.

• May I transfer in graduate-level work from another institution or have course requirements waived?

  Generally, those admitted to the School of Nursing's MSN and DNP tracks may be approved to waive up to 12 credits based on previous successful completion at the graduate level through a nationally accredited program at a regionally accredited institution.  Credits cannot be waived in the PMHNP Certificate track.  Upon admission to a graduate Nursing track, candidates will be added to program "homepages" in Canvas.  The waiver request form is available in Canvas to all admitted candidates and should be submitted prior to enrolling; if this is not possible, the form may be submitted within the first term of the program.  Directions are included on the form.

   

  The Graduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation (GAPG) Committee developed a list of courses that may not be waived; these courses must be taken through the UNF School of Nursing toward the prescribed degree plan:  NGR6740 Role Development; NGR7843 Statistics; NGR7850 Evidence-Based Practice I; NGR7851 Evidence-Based Practice II; NGR7767 Practice Management; NGR7946 Residency; NGR7974 Project; any clinical courses identified with a "C" at the end of the course number.

   

  Admits for the generic post-MSN DNP who hold active national certification as a CRNA or admits who have at least five (5) years of experience in an advanced nursing role may receive three (3) credits of Residency waived for the experience.  No additional credits of Residency may be waived by any students.  However, if these students wish to waive other courses instead, they are welcome to do so and will then take all nine (9) credits of Residency.  The automatic Residency waiver is first identified upon admission, but it may be re-evaluated mid-program if a student gains the necessary experience prior to the final Residency enrollment.  Additionally, those who hold active national certification as a CRNA will also have Advanced Pharmacology waived for three (3) credits, which leaves six (6) other credits that may be waived excluding additional Residency credits and the above list of courses that must be taken in the program.

• Where are the clinical sites located for the FNP track?
  Clinical sites for the FNP track are located in the northeast region of Florida due to contractual requirements between the university and the off-campus sites.
• My BSN is from a program that is not nationally accredited by the CCNE or ACEN &/or doesn't meet the AACN's Essentials of Baccalaureate Education. May I still apply?

  For the BSN-MSN and BSN-DNP tracks, the UNF School of Nursing recognizes that there are baccalaureate nursing programs that may not be CCNE or ACEN (formerly NLNAC) accredited. In some instances, schools may hold such accreditation now but did not when the candidate was enrolled. Questions may be directed to the program directors listed on the Contact Us page.

   

  This question does not apply to the PMHNP or generic post-MSN DNP tracks as they require a MSN and national certification for application.

• For the Nurse Anesthesiology DNP track, what is considered a critical care setting?

  The Council on Accreditation (COA) defines critical care:

   

  Critical care experience must be obtained in a critical care area within the United States, its territories or a U.S. Military hospital outside of the United States. During this experience, the registered professional nurse has developed critical decision making and psychomotor skills, competency in patient assessment, and the ability to use and interpret advanced monitoring techniques. A critical care area is defined as one where, on a routine basis, the registered professional nurse manages one or more of the following: invasive hemodynamic monitors (such as a pulmonary artery catheter, CVP, arterial); cardiac assist devices; mechanical ventilation; and vasoactive infusions. Examples of critical care units may include but are not limited to: Surgical Intensive Care, Cardiothoracic Intensive Care, Coronary Intensive Care, Medical Intensive Care, Pediatric Intensive Care, and Neonatal Intensive Care. Those who have experiences in other areas may be considered provided they can demonstrate competence with managing unstable patients, invasive monitoring, ventilators, and critical care pharmacology.

• The Nurse Anesthesiology DNP track enjoys competitive admission. How are candidates selected? Are any waitlisted?

  Applications and supporting documentation submitted to the Graduate School for the BSN-DNP CRNA track will be reviewed by the NAP Admissions Committee. Based upon the information submitted, applicants will be either selected or not selected for interview. If selected for interview, applicants will be informed by letter or email and asked to choose one of the options for available interview dates. There will be a limited number of interviews conducted on each day, and the openings will be filled in the order of the received requests. Applicants not selected for interview will receive a letter to that effect, and their application process will be concluded for the year. A waiting list is generally kept after interviews in the event that an offer of admission is declined by a candidate.

   

  CRNA programs across the nation tend to be highly competitive, and applicant profiles across programs are similar. Applicants are highly motivated, typically have several years of critical care experience (currently averaging 6 years of experience), enjoy strong GPAs and GRE scores, and some have taken additional courses in advance sciences such as physiology, organic chemistry, or biochemistry. Traditionally, the majority of nurse anesthetists come from intensive care units, particularly surgical intensive care. Acute care nursing skills and experience gained in ICU nursing are not re-taught as part of the Nurse Anesthetist curriculum. Applicants whose critical care experience is other than ICU will be considered on an individual basis, but opportunity for admission may be limited when competing against a larger pool of applicants with traditional ICU backgrounds.

• May I attend part-time?

  Part-time enrollment is available in all of the School of Nursing's graduate tracks except for the Nurse Anesthetist track and the new PMHNP Certificate. Those tracks are full-time only.

   

  For BSN-DNP FNP and BSN-MSN applicants, the program will make contact after receiving the completed application to collect enrollment preferences.  For post-MSN DNP applicants (PMHNP & generic track, alike), the program will make contact after you are admitted to collect enrollment intentions.

• How often is admission offered for the graduate tracks?

  Admission periods vary by the graduate track. The MSN, FNP, PMHNP, and traditionally-formatted generic post-MSN DNP tracks and the PMHNP Certificate track each only admit for the Fall semester annually, while the CRNA track only admits for the Spring semester annually. The accelerated, 8-week semester format of the generic post-MSN DNP track offers admission to new students at the first half of each semester for summer, fall, and spring.

   

  Note that space in each track is limited per admission period.  First, the FNP track is able to admit up to 15 full-time and 15 part-time students each fall on a first come, first served basis before implementing a waiting list.  Similarly, the PMHNP DNP and Certificate tracks are able to admit up to 20 students (may be either full- or part-time) combined each fall; the same is true of the two new MSN tracks.  The PMHNP and MSN tracks also admits on a first come, first served basis.  Further, the number of seats available in the CRNA track may vary slightly each year so applicants for this track are encouraged to contact napadmissions@unf.edu to determine how many applicants will be admitted in an upcoming admission period.  Finally, limits have not been needed recently for the generic post-MSN DNP tracks.   

• I see that there are two different formats for the generic post-MSN DNP track. What option is best for me?

  Yes, the generic post-MSN DNP track is offered online in two (2) different formats. The first format consists of traditionally-formatted semesters that follow the standard UNF academic calendar. The second format consists of accelerated, 8-week semesters that loosely follow the UNF academic calendar. Under the 8-week semester format, new students may only begin in the first half of what would be a traditional semester (referred to as 1H).

   

  While the content is the same across the two tracks, some students may find the accelerated, 8-week semester format is very intense. Candidates are encouraged to present any programmatic questions and concerns to the program director prior to making application as changing between the two options is generally limited to one (1) time maximum.

   

  The traditional-semester format admitted its final cohort of students for Fall 2021, and the application closed on Feb. 1, 2021.  Only the accelerated-semester format will be available for admission starting in Spring 2022.

• I do not possess the necessary national certification in a specialty area. May I still apply for the PMHNP or generic post-MSN tracks?

  No; all admission requirements must be met and documented with appropriate forms by the application deadline. The specialty certification requirements cannot be waived.

• Is financial aid available for enrollment in the graduate nursing programs?

  Financial aid is generally available for those enrolled in the MSN and DNP tracks.  Financial aid eligibility and borrowing limits may apply.  Questions regarding aid should be directed to Financial Aid.

   

  Since the PMHNP Certificate is not a degree program, financial aid is not available for this track.  This should be taken into consideration when deciding between the PMHNP Certificate and DNP tracks.