RN to BSN Program

 Frequently Asked Questions

Before you Apply

• What does early notification review mean?

  Our application dates are September 15^th - March 15^th for early notification review. Early notification review means if the applicant applies within the September 15^th - March 15^th timeframe, they are guaranteed a review and decision by April 15^th. After the early notification review deadline date, applications will continue to be reviewed on a space available basis. Please call our office if you have questions!

• Do all the prerequisite courses need to be completed in order to apply for the Nursing Program?

  No. At least 40 of the 60 prerequisite hours must be completed prior to applying for admission with a minimum of four (4) required life and physical sciences. All prerequisites must be completed at the time of enrollment.

• Can I take prerequisite courses at UTMB School of Nursing?

  No. UTMB School of Nursing is an upper division nursing school. You will need to attend a community college or another university to complete the prerequisite courses.

• Does UTMB accept CLEP scores?

  Yes. We accept CLEP scores, which must be posted on your official college transcript.

• Do I have to be a registered nurse before I apply?

  No. You do not have to be a registered nurse before you apply, however, you must pass your NCLEX and be a registered nurse with an unencumbered license before you start the program.

• What information will the School of Nursing consider when reviewing files for admission?

  The school considers your cumulative GPA for the RN-BSN program. The school also considers the number of withdrawals and failures on your transcripts. We will look at your personal accomplishments, scholastic honors, leadership roles, hardships, cultural experiences, community service, and any extracurricular activities in which you have been involved. Applicants must also complete a Personal Statement which is extremely important and carefully reviewed by the admissions committee. Your personal statement should include any experience in a health care setting, any academic difficulties you have faced, and how you addressed these challenges, and summarize your strengths and areas needing improvement.

• Am I required to take any standardized tests before entering the RN-BSN Program?

  No. You are only required to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and an unencumbered license as a registered nurse.

Program Information

• How many semesters is the RN-BSN program?

  The RN-BSN program is 2 semesters (fall and spring).

• What will my schedule be like once I start the nursing program?

  The curriculum sequence for the nursing programs vary. Detailed schedules with classroom times will be available during orientation.

• Does UTMB School of Nursing offer an accredited program?

  Yes. The undergraduate and graduate programs are approved by the Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The University of Texas Medical Branch is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, an institutional accrediting body.

• Are scholarships available at UTMB School of Nursing?

  Yes. UTMB School of Nursing offers scholarships  to students in the nursing program. These are competitive scholarships and are based on how well the student performs in the nursing program. Assistance is also available through Financial Aid , which includes scholarships, loans, and grants outside of UTMB.

• Does UTMB offer a RN-MSN program?

  Currently UTMB School of Nursing offers a RN-BSN-MSN Dual application option. For additional information regarding our dual option program, please click here.

• How many admission start dates are available per year?

  UTMB RN-BSN program have one admission per year, each Fall.