Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program?

A: The purpose of the baccalaureate program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is to provide a curriculum that will broaden the theoretical knowledge base of the learner in preparation for an entry- level professional nursing practice and possibility of graduate nursing study. If you currently have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and are looking to transition into nursing, please consider the EL MSN program.

BSN Application Information

Q: When are the application periods to the School of Nursing?

A: We accept students to the BSN program for the Fall & Spring semesters. Application periods are as follows:

For the fall 2013 BSN program (September 2013)

The application period closed March 4, 2013.

For the spring 2014 (January 2014)

Applications will be available on the nursing home page beginning June 17, 2013 and are due no later than 4pm on August 19, 2013.

For the fall 2014 (September 2014)

Applications will be available on the nursing home page beginning January 6, 2014 and are do no later than 4pm on February 24, 2014.

Q: Is there an application fee for the School of Nursing application?

A: Yes, the application fee is $50 however if you paid the application fee for the fall 13 program and are now reapplying for the spring 14 program your application fee is waived.

Q: How many students do you accept per year?

A: We accept 60 students in the fall and 60 students in the spring for a total of 120 per year.

Q: Do I have to be accepted to the University before I apply for the nursing program?

A: Yes, applicants must first apply and be accepted to CBU as an undergraduate pre-nursing student. Upon acceptance, students will complete any outstanding prerequisites and other degree requirements.

Q: Am I eligible to apply for the spring 2014 BSN program?

A: You may apply if you meet the following requirements:

received acceptance to the university as a pre-nursing student;
completed prerequisites or will complete them by August 31, 2013;
have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 at the end of the Spring 2013 semester

Q: If I finish prerequistes in the fall 13 semester may I still apply for the spring 14 program?

A: No, in order to be eligible for the spring 14 program all coursework must be completed by August 31, 2013.

Q: Am I eligible to apply for the fall 2014 BSN program?

A: You may apply if you meet the following requirements:

received acceptance to the university as a pre-nursing student;
completed prerequisites or will complete them by April 30, 2014;
a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 at the end of the Fall 2013 semester;

Q: I have some questions about the application. What should I do?

A: Every application period we offer the BSN Applicant Workshop to assist students with the completion of the application packet, to review the timeline and discuss interview format. The next scheduled workshop is Wednesday, June 19th at 5pm. The location will be announced at a later time.

Entrance Exam

Q: Which entrance exam is required?

A: Currently we require that all students applying to the CBU School of Nursing take an entrance exam. We are currently using Version 5 of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)administered by AtiTesting.com. The TEAS test measures your ability in four categories: Reading, English, Math, and Science.

Q: What is the minimum TEAS score I need to be eligible to apply to the School of Nursing?

A: As of January 1, 2013, we no longer require a minimum score in order to apply to the BSN program however your score is ranked among the other applicants so it is still important to prepare for the exam. The average score of the students accepted to the BSN program for the last academic year was 77.6.

Even if you were disqualified due the number of attempts and/or score prior to Jan. 1, 2013 you may still take the TEAS test during an open application period and apply if you meet the above prerequisite deadline and GPA requirement.

Q: When is the TEAS test offered?

A: The TEAS test is only offered during the School of Nursing application periods for students accepted to CBU as a pre-nursing student.

We have completed testing for the Fall 2013 application period.

For the spring 2014 application period the TEAS will be offered at the Lambeth Skills Building room 121:

July 13th 10:30am
July 20th 10:30am
July 30th 1:30pm
August 9th 1:30pm
August 17th 10:30am

Q: Who is eligible to take the TEAS test?

A: Students who have been accepted to the university as a pre-nursing student, have a current GPA of 2.7 or higher, have or will complete all prerequisites by the stated deadline with a grade of “C” or better may take the TEAS test at CBU. We do not offer the TEAS test to non-CBU students.

For the spring 2014 program all prerequisites must be completed by Aug. 31, 2013.

For the fall 2014 program all prerequisites must be completed by April 30, 2014.

Q: Where do I sign-up for the TEAS test?

A: Sign-ups for the TEAS test are in person only at the Lambeth House (School of Nursing Administrative Office at the corner of Adams & Magnolia). Sign ups for the fall 2013 application period have ended.

Sign-ups for the spring 14 test dates:

Monday through Friday June 24th through June 28th 10am-12 noon & 2pm-4pm
Monday through Wednesday July 1st-3rd 10am-12noon & 2pm-4pm
Friday, July 5th 10am-12noon & 2pm-4pm

Space is limited for each testing date so it is recommended that you sign up early to secure your desired date. Once a test date is filled no other registration will be accepted for that date.

You may take the TEAS at another location but must send the official transcript directly from atitesting.com

Sign-ups for the fall 14 test dates will begin January 13, 2014 and test dates will begin late January through late February. Exact TEAS dates will be posted Jan. 6, 2014.

Q: Is there a cost for the TEAS test?

A: The TEAS test costs $45 (EXACT CASH ONLY). You must pay at the time you sign up. No checks or Credit Cards accepted.

Q: How can I prepare for the TEAS test?

A: Enrolled CBU students may attend a TEAS test preparation study group through the Academic Resource Center (ARC).

Q: Is there a study guide available for the TEAS test?

A: Yes, you can purchase a study guide online at http://www.atitesting.com. We are currently using version 5.

Q: How many times can I take the TEAS test?

A: We only allow one attempt per application period and will only accept the first score of the application period.

PREREQUISITE COURSE WORK

Q: Which prerequisite courses are required?

A: Prerequisites must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” or higher.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/Lab
Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/Lab
Human Microbiology w/Lab
Fundamentals of Chemistry
Organic and Biochemistry w/Lab
Oral Communication
Composition
Intermediate Composition
Intermediate Algebra OR Statistics
Lifespan Development
Please note: online science labs are not acceptable other than CBU's BIO153

Q: Do you accept prerequisite course work from community colleges?

A: Yes, however the college must be accredited. For a list of equivalent courses from other local community colleges, please see the articulation agreements for equivalent course work.

Q: Can I take my prerequisites online?

A: Yes; however, online science laboratories are not acceptable, with the exception of BIO 153 class offered at CBU.

Q: What is the minimum grade I can receive in prerequisite courses?

A: You must receive a grade of "C" or better; a lower grade will require you to repeat the course.

Q: Does it matter how long ago I took the prerequisite courses?

A: Currently there is no time limit.

Transfer Students

Q: Do you accept transfer students?

A: It will vary semester to semester based on the pre-nursing population at CBU. We did accept a few transfer students each semester in the 10/11 and 11/12 academic years, however we only accepted CBU students for the fall 2013 BSN program. We recommend you apply to CBU as a pre-nursing student and complete at least one full time semester (minimum 12 units) before applying to the nursing program as we do give priority to CBU students who have completed a minimum of 12 units prior to applying to the BSN program.

Q: If I transfer to CBU, when will I be considered a CBU student?

A: Students who complete at least one full-time semester (minimum 12 units) are no longer considered transfer students.

Q: If I am a transfer student, with all prerequisites completed can I apply directly to the School of Nursing?

A: Even if your prerequisite courses are completed, you must still apply to the university first as an undergraduate pre-nursing student and be accepted to the university before applying to the School of Nursing.

Q: How do I know which classes will transfer from another college or university?

A: For a list of equivalent courses from other community colleges, please see the articulation agreements.

Q: What if I am a transfer student and I have completed all of my prerequisites?

A: There may still be general education and degree requirements you may take at CBU. You may also consider one the many Health Science minors offered through the College of Allied Health to enhance your education.

Q: Will you evaluate my prerequisite courses taken at another college/university?

A: Once you have been accepted and confirm your attendance as a CBU pre-nursing student, you will receive an official transcript review from the Registrar’s Office prior to your initial registration. Due to this high volume of inquiries we cannot evaluate transcripts prior to acceptance to CBU. Please refer to the articulation agreements. If your school is not listed then we do not have an articulation agreement with this institution.

Q: What if I already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing major?

A: You may consider our EL MSN program which is a graduate program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are looking to transition into nurse leaders.

Q: What is the difference between the BSN program and EL MSN?

A: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is an undergraduate program that allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree as they prepare to become registered nurses (RNs). Typically these students are first time freshman and/or transfer students.

Q: Is the SAT/ACT required?

A: Yes, all applicants, regardless of the amount of units completed, must submit official scores to the School of Nursing if they have not been already sent to the Registrar’s Office.

Q: What if I did not take the SAT or ACT?

A: If you have not taken one of these exams, contact the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) at www.collegeboard.com for exam dates and locations. The ACT exam is offered by the Admissions Office at CBU.

Q: I took the SAT, but do not have a copy of the score report. How can I order it?

A: To order a copy of you report, contact the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) at www.collegeboard.com.

Q: Do I have to have hospital/health care experience before I can apply to the program?

A: Some exposure to hospital/health care settings is highly recommended. Interacting with patients and health care professionals is essential to creating a foundation that promotes the critical thinking and clinical decision making necessary for the development and practice of fundamental nursing skills however we do not have a minimum requirement of practical experience.

A: Some exposure to hospital/health care settings is highly recommended. Interacting with patients and health care professionals is essential to creating a foundation that promotes the critical thinking and clinical decision making necessary for the development and practice of fundamental nursing skills however we do not have a minimum requirement of practical experience.

After Applying to the BSN Program

Q: How will I know if you received all of BSN admission documents?

A: Due to the high volume of applicants, please do not call or email the School of Nursing regarding the status of your application packet. You will be contacted if your file is incomplete and have an opportunity to submit any missing items.

Q: How do you determine who is selected for the program?

A: The Nursing Admissions Committee reviews all applicants and students are selected based on various criteria including GPA, science GPA, essay, recommendations, TEAS test, interview and hospital/health care experience. CBU students are considered prior to transfer students.

Q: Do you interview everyone who applies to the program?

A: Not all qualified applicants will be scheduled for an interview. We will interview approximately 75 applicants and select 60 students.

Q: When are interviews scheduled if I am selected?

A: Approximately three to four weeks after the application deadline you will be contacted via email to schedule an interview if you are being considered for the program. If you are not being invited for an interview then you will receive a letter.

Q: When will I find out if I am accepted to the program?

A: Upon completion of a successful interview, final applicants will be selected and a letter within two weeks of spring grades posting for a fall applicant and by mid-October for a spring applicant.

Q: Is there a waiting list?
A: We do not maintain a waiting list.

Q: Can I reapply if I am not accepted the first time I apply?

A: Yes, you can reapply during the next open application period. You must resubmit a new application and application fee; however we will use all previous documents submitted for your current file. Your packet will be considered with all other new applicants.

Q: How can I position myself as a strong applicant?

A: Given the competitive applicant pool, we recommend the following:

submit a thorough and complete application packet prior to the deadline
strong TEAS test score
have some volunteer or work experience in a hospital/health care facility
be clear about why you want to be a nurse in your essay and during the interview
strong science GPA

Program Information

Q: How long is the entire program?

A: 4 years; 41/2 years or 5 years depending on completion of prerequisite courses and other degree requirements.

Q: Am I required to attend an Information Session?

A: We highly recommend you RSVP to attend an information session as we discuss pertinent details of the program and clarify admission guidelines, prerequisite courses, financial aid, etc.

Q: Is this program accredited?

A: The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) has approved the program. CBU is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Our Baccalaureate program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Q: Are you on a semester or quarter system?

A: CBU has three semesters: fall, spring, and summer.

Q: How much does the program cost?

A: Please refer to the Tuition and Fees page. In addition to the tuition costs, there is a nursing program fee of $1300 per semester. Additional expenses will be required to maintain clinical clearance. This amount does not include room, board or textbooks.

Q: Does admission as a pre-nursing student guarantee acceptance to the BSN program?

A: No, pre-nursing students must apply to the School of Nursing and meet the other admissions criteria for consideration.

Q: When do classes start for the BSN program?

A: Classes start in the spring semester (January) and the fall semester (September) of each year.

Q: Once I complete the prerequisites and other degree requirements, how long is the nursing program?

A: The nursing program is 6 semesters for a total of 3 years. Nursing classes are in session September through April; classes are not offered during the summer semester.

Q: When do you schedule classes and clinical hours?

A: The BSN classes are offered weekdays with possible weekend, evening, and early morning clinical hours. Students are expected to be available as schedules vary each semester.

Q: Do you have an accelerated BSN program?

A: We do not have an accelerated Baccalaureate program at this time.

Q: Do you offer the program part-time or online?

A: Currently the program is only offered full-time; we do not offer an online option.

Q: If I meet all of the requirements will I be accepted to the program?

A: We have more qualified students than spaces available in the BSN program. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program.

Q: What is the School of Nursing's reputation in the community?
A: The School of Nursing has an excellent reputation in the community as does the university. We anticipate our graduates will be actively recruited by local and state health care providers. CBU is the first four-year regionally and nationally accredited university in the County of Riverside to be approved for such a program.

Q: What is the program's NCLEX pass rate?

A: A high percentage of our students pass the NCLEX exam on the first attempt. The most current BSN program pass rates can be found on the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) website www.rn.ca.gov.

Q: Will I be required to complete clinical rotation hours as part of the program?

A: Yes, all BSN students are required to participate in clinical practicum hours as mandated by the California Board of Registered Nurses (BRN). The CBU School of Nursing meets or exceeds all clinical hour requirements.

Q: Can I work while I am in the BSN program?

A: Applicants are advised that the program requires a very intensive, full-time commitment. It is recommended that you dedicate an adequate amount of time to studying before deciding to work while preparing for licensure.

Q: When will I become a nurse?

A: Upon successful completion of the program, you will prepare for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) to become licensed as a registered nurse prepared to practice nursing at the bedside in a hospital setting.

Q: How will this degree prepare me to better serve patients?

A: Studies show BSN and master’s prepared nurses are more likely to demonstrate professional behaviors important to patient safety including:

better clinical judgment
critical thinking skills and problem solving
performance of complex functions
effective communication
early detection of complications and problems in care

Q: Which clinical affiliations do you work with? (partial list)

A: To ensure students receive a variety of clinical experiences, rotations will take place at various hospitals and health care facilities as assigned.

Currently we have clinical partnerships with Corona Regional Medical Center (CRMC); Kaiser Permanente - Fontana, Riverside, Lakeview, Moreno Valley; Loma Linda Veterans Administration (LLVA); Parkview Community Hospital; Patton State Hospital; Riverside Community Hospital (RCH); Riverside County Mental Health In-patient Services; Riverside County Public Health Department; Riverside County Regional Medical Center (RCRMC); San Bernardino County Public Health Department; Arrowhead Regional Medical Center; Ballard Rehab Hospital; Desert Valley Hospital; Eisenhower Medical Center; Menifee Valley Medical Center; Redlands Community Hospital; Saint Mary’s Medical Center; San Antonio Hospital; Riverside Medical Clinic; and San Bernardino Community Hospital.

Q: Do you offer an LVN to RN program?

A: Yes, a limited number of units may be substituted for BSN courses however all prerequisites must be met.

Q: I’m a LVN, can I apply to the BSN program?

A: Yes, you can apply to the university as a pre-nursing student in preparation for the BSN program.

Q: How will I know if my LVN courses transfer to CBU?

A: Once you are accepted and enrolled as a CBU nursing student, you will receive an official transcript review by the Program Director. All course syllabi will need to be provided with your BSN application packet.

Financial Information

Q: What is financial aid?

A: Financial aid is any funding a student receives through grants, scholarships, work-study and loans to assist you in paying for college costs.

Q: How do I apply for financial aid?

A: You must submit a FAFSA (Free Application for federal Student Aid) to the Department of Education for the appropriate academic year. www.fafsa.ed.gov

Q: What if I need assistance completing the FAFSA?

A: For tips on completing the FAFSA, please visit www.calbaptist.edu/financialaid

Q: What is your school code for FAFSA?

A: Our school code is 001125

Q: Do you offer scholarships, grants and loans?

A: Undergraduate students at CBU will find the widest range of financial aid available to them, including scholarships, awards and loans.

Q: How do you determine who is eligible for scholarships?

A: Scholarships are based upon merit, achievement, anticipated achievement and other factors. Review the criteria for each scholarship for specific details.

Q: Do you have a list of scholarships for nursing students?

A: Please visit the School of Nursing home page for a partial list of nursing scholarships. We recommend you do some research for additional options.

International Students

Q: My bachelor's degree is from a foreign university. Do I have to get it evaluated?

A: Yes. Prior to submitting an application to the School of Nursing, applicants must have all foreign transcripts evaluated by a Credential Evaluation Service to confirm their academic equivalency to educational standards of accredited colleges and universities in the United States. Please submit a copy of the evaluation report with your nursing application.

Q: Which credential evaluation service do you recommend?

A: International Education Research Foundation, Inc (IERF)
P.O. Box 3665, Culver City, CA 90231-3655
Office: 310- 258-9451; Fax: 310-342-7086

Q: I am a registered nurse with a degree from another country. Can I take a class at CBU to fulfill the requirements for RN licensure in California?

A: Currently CBU only allows nursing students who are accepted into the program to take classes. We do not offer any stand alone courses to individuals who are not in the program.

Q: Where can I find more information about applying to CBU as an international student?

A: Please visit our International website.