Information sessions are open to the public and do not require a reservation. Please come on one of the above scheduled dates. Admissions Representatives will be available to answer questions

All sessions are held at:
Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing
8550 Magellan Pkwy, Suite 1100
Richmond, VA 23227

Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing enrolls entry level students twice a year. The application deadlines are January 15 for Fall and June 15 for Spring. Applications may be accepted after these dates at the School's discretion if the class is not full.

Qualified applicants are considered for admission regardless of age, gender, race, color, religion, national origin, marital or veteran status or physical or mental condition(s), so long as the condition(s) does not limit the applicant's ability to perform the essential functions of a nursing student with or without reasonable accommodation.

The School of Nursing reserves the right to modify, delete or amend statements on our website at any time and to make changes in the curriculum, calendar, financial aid and policies as deemed necessary.

Basic Admission Requirements
Admission to the School of Nursing is competitive. An applicant who meets all requirements is not guaranteed admission to the program. Below are the basic educational admission requirements for all applicants.

• Graduation from an accredited high school, preferably in the upper one-third of class.
• GED certification in lieu of a high school diploma.
• Completion of 11 academic units in grades 9-12 as follows:
  

  English	4 Units
  Biology	1 Unit
  College Prep Chemistry	1 Unit
  Algebra I	1 Unit
  Social Sciences	2 Units
  Electives*	2 Units

  * Recommended electives include: computer science, psychology, physics, sociology, advanced biology or foreign language.
• Achievement of a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or above from high school courses and a minimum grade of C in Algebra I, Biology and College Prep Chemistry. Courses taken after high school may satisfy these requirements based on the decision of the Admissions Committee.
• Achievement of a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or above for all college courses taken. Transfer credit is given for a grade of C or above in comparable college non-nursing courses. There is no time limitation on non-nursing courses.
• Official transcripts are required from high school, Graduate Education Development (GED) program, professional schools, and all colleges attended.
• Results of Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT) scores are required. (Applicants 22 years of age and older or who have taken a minimum of 18 college credits on or before the January 15 / June 15 deadline are exempt).
• Placement test results from JSRCC, if applicable.
• The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is required after a complete application is received and it is determined that the applicant meets basic admissions requirements. Applicants with bachelors or masters degrees from accredited institutions of higher education are exempt from this requirement.
• Notice to the school of any convictions or present indictment for any felony or misdemeanor offense other than traffic violations which have not been expunged.
• Three letters of reference are required. These should be from professional contacts only. References from friends and relatives are not acceptable. References should be obtained from each of the following: A teacher, an employer, and volunteer experience, preferably in a health care setting.
• If you have previously or are currently enrolled in a school of nursing, a letter from the Director of the program verifying academic standing and clinical competence is required.
• Signed and dated application for admission with $50.00 application fee and personal essay.
• Attendance at a personal interview demonstrating satisfactory oral and written communication skills. This interview is conducted only when the above basic admissions requirements have been satisfied.

Application Process

1. Complete all pre-requisite courses prior to application
2. Download the application
3. Complete written essay and gather recommendations and information listed above.
4. Mail completed application (with $50 fee) before January 15 or June 15

Admission Process for Qualified Candidates

1. Take Test of Essential Academic Skills/TEAS (applicants with bachelor’s or master’s degrees exempt)
2. Attend personal interview
3. Await letter of acceptance or denial

Requests for application materials, school tours and for information not addressed on this website contact:

Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing
Director of Admissions
8550 Magellan Parkway, Suite 1100
Richmond, Virginia 23227
Phone: 804/627-5300
Map and Directions

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The philosophy of the faculty of the Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing is based on our beliefs about the nature of an individual, the environment, health, nursing, the community, nursing education, learning, the School, faculty, students, and our community responsibility.

We believe that individuals are unique, complex beings with physical, emotional, cognitive, sociocultural, and spiritual dimensions. Dignity and worth are inherent within individuals. Individuals strive to meet human needs and have the right to be treated with care and respect.

Health is a dynamic state of optimal physical, emotional, cognitive, sociocultural, developmental and spiritual well-being of an individual, group or community. Health is conceptualized on a continuum from wellness to illness, with wellness being a self-perceived integrated process toward fulfillment of one’s potential. We believe that health requires ensuring that the basic right of all individuals, especially the poor and the dying, to have equitable access to the health care system.

We believe that nursing is both an art and a science, with a focus that is spiritual, holistic, caring, inquiring, and unifying. Nursing applies critical thinking to a body of knowledge through the nursing process in the holistic support of health for consumer and the community reaching beyond the walls of tradition to improve our community.

We define community as a group of individuals who share a commonality within the environment. Community is multicultural and diverse. The community provides opportunities for individual and family growth, livelihood, socialization, education, safety, security, and spiritual fulfillment.

Nursing education is a progressive program, which prepares caring, reflective practitioners who can function in a variety of settings within the community. We believe that nursing education is a process whereby knowledge, competencies, and attitudes needed for professional nursing practice are coached and empowered (Billings & Halstead, 2005). A facilitative relationship exists between students and faculty, which results in the development of professional ideals and clinical proficiency.

Learning is a continuous, life-long process that is enhanced when the learner is an active participant. We believe that optimal learning occurs through discovery.

School is comprised of a climate and culture of freedom to inquire, paired with facilities and resources for learning.

Faculty enhance the personal and professional development of students by acting as facilitators and role models. We believe that faculty respect students’ individual learning needs, model the value of caring, and validate students as individuals with intelligence, worth, and dignity.

Students are responsible for their learning and are self-directed and goal-oriented. We believe that students are able to self-evaluate and act on that evaluation.

Our community responsibility encompasses the Bon Secours mission of “good help to those in need,” which requires our involvement as change agents. We believe that our community responsibility is demonstrated in mission outreach activities, which foster faculty and student growth in the values of integrity, justice, stewardship, innovation, respect, quality, and compassion.

Reference:
Billings, D., Halstead, J. (2005). Teaching and nursing: A guide for faculty, (2nd ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier, Inc. May 31, 2006

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The curriculum is designed to fulfill the philosophy and goals of the School of Nursing. In 30 months of progressive, sequential work, students are taught to use the nursing process by correlating theory with clinical experience.

Concurrent with nursing courses at our school, most students take the required foundational college courses in the biological sciences, social sciences and humanities at J. Sargent Reynolds Community College (JSRCC). Prior to admission, comparable courses may also be taken at any other accredited college. The School of Nursing determines the acceptability of course credit for transfer.
At the completion of the curriculum, the student has attained 66 credits in nursing courses and 44 credits in college courses, for a total of 110 credits. The acceptability and transferability of the School of Nursing and JSRCC, credits depend upon the receiving institution's admission and placement policies.

Course Descriptions
All courses must be attempted according to the time frame designated in the curriculum plan. Courses may be taken earlier than designated, but may not be taken later unless the student is repeating the course. All prerequisites must be met before the student progresses each semester. Courses at the School of Nursing are taught within a 16-week semester unless otherwise noted. Courses at JSRCC are also taught within a 16-week semester.

First Level
Biology 101 and 102 General Biology I and II - 4 credits each - 3 lecture hours per week - 3 recitation and lab hours (total 6 hours per week). Explores fundamental characteristics of living matter from the molecular level to the ecological community with emphasis on general biological principles. Introduces the diversity of living organisms, their structure, function, and evolution. Prerequisite: satisfactory score on Reading Placement Test.

Biology 205 General Microbiology - 4 credits - 3 lecture hours - 3 recitation and lab hours (total 6 hours per week). Examines morphology, genetics, physiology, ecology, and control of microorganisms. Emphasizes application of microbiological techniques to selected fields. Prerequisites: one year of college biology and one year of college chemistry or divisional approval.

Chemistry 111 General Chemistry - 4 credits - 3 lecture hours per week - 3 recitation and lab hours (total 6 hours per week). May be taken in place of Biology II. Explores the fundamental laws, theories, and mathematical concepts of chemistry. Designed primarily for science and engineering majors. Requires a strong background in mathematics. Prerequisite: CHM 03 or acceptable score on chemistry placement test.

English 111 College Composition I - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Develops writing based on experience, observation, research, and reading of selected literature. Guides students in learning writing as a process: understanding audience and purpose, exploring ideas and information, composing, revising, and editing. Prerequisite: Department Placement Recommendation.

Natural Science 161 and 162 Health Science I-II - 4 credits - 3 lecture hours per week, 3 recitation and lab hours (total 6 hours per week). Presents an integrated approach to human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and pathology. Includes chemistry and physics as related to health sciences. Prerequisites: CHM 01 and BIO 01 or equivalents.

Psychology 201 Introduction to Psychology I -3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Examines human and animal behavior, relating experimental studies to practical problems. Includes topics such as sensation/perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, and intelligence.

Nursing 100 Foundational Concepts for Professional Nursing - 5 credits - 3 class hours, 6 clinical hours per week. Provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts and theories necessary for professional nursing practice. An overview of the history of nursing leading to the role of the nurse today is presented. Students study and discuss legal and ethical issues, communication, teaching and learning aspects, culturally diverse populations, and the use of nursing process as a model for critical thinking and practice. Students study common human problems: pain, sleeplessness, stress, disability, and loss. Students have opportunities to practice nursing skills and to relate theoretical principles to clinical situations in both simulated and clinical agency experiences.

Nursing 101 Health Assessment and Clinical Therapeutics - 5 credits - 3 class hours, 6 clinical hours per week. Emphasizes the theory related to data collection, health assessment, and nursing skills. Students practice these skills in the laboratory setting and apply them in the clinical arena.

Nursing 102 Clinical Applications of Nursing Concepts - 4 credits - 2 lecture hours, 6 clinical hours per week. Expands on the student’s knowledge of basic nursing principles with emphasis on nursing process. Perioperative experiences including patient teaching, pre-operative through post-operative nursing care, and wound care are covered. Gastrointestinal, immobility and nutritional issues are emphasized. Students will have opportunities to promote, maintain, and help restore health to clients who have both acute and chronic illnesses. The clinical component includes direct patient care, simulation in the clinical lab, and participant/observational experiences.

Nursing 105 Transcultural Nursing - 2 credit elective, 16 week course. Taught during the first eight weeks culminating in a mission trip to Haiti and followed by class and presentation to the body of the School of Nursing after the mission trip.

Second Level
The following prerequisites must be completed before progression to the Second Level: Natural Science 161 and 162, General Biology 101 and 102 (or Chemistry 111), English 111, Psychology 201, and Nursing 100, 101, and 102.

Dietetics 121 Nutrition I - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Studies food composition, dietary guidelines, and nutrients essential to healthy human life. Analyzes nutrient function and metabolism.

English 112 College Composition II - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Second semester of English requirement. Focuses on writing by integrating experiences in thinking, reading, listening, and experiencing.

Math Elective - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. College level math course. Statistics is recommended but not required.

Psychology 230 Developmental Psychology - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Studies the development of the individual from conception to death. Follows a life-span perspective on the developmental tasks of the person’s physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth.

Sociology 200 Principles of Sociology I - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Introduces basic concepts and methods of sociology. Presents significant research and theory in areas such as socialization, group dynamics, gender roles, minority group relations, stratification, and culture.

Nursing 201 Nursing Care of Adults - 5 credits - 6 lecture hours, 12 clinical hours per week. Focuses on the adult with alterations in homeostasis secondary to changes in the immune response, cell growth, metabolism, tissue perfusion, cardiac output, nutrition, mobility, cognition, sensation, and oxygenation. Experiences are directed toward application of theoretical concepts of nursing practice in the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health and compassionate care of the dying in the medical/surgical setting.

Nursing 202 Nursing Care of Childbearing Families - 5 credits - 6 lecture hours, 12 clinical hours per week. Introduces the concept of family-centered nursing care to promote positive outcomes for culturally-diverse childbearing families. Emphasis is placed on the educational and health care needs of the family as it experiences the birth process.

Nursing 203 Nursing Care of Diverse Populations - 5 credits - 6 lecture hours, 12 clinical hours per week. Examines the health care needs of special populations. Men and women’s healthcare needs, geriatrics, rehabilitation, and cultural aspects of care will be explored.

Nursing 204 Nursing Care of Clients with Behavioral Issues - 5 credits - 6 lecture hours, 12 clinical hours per week. Introduces the student to holistic nursing care of the mentally ill client.
This course incorporates the biopsychosocial and behavioral sciences and nursing and communication theories to enable the student to care for individuals, families, and groups experiencing alterations in mental health. Learning experiences help the student to understand human behavior on a wellness-illness continuum. The nursing process guides nursing care, with emphasis on the interdisciplinary approach. The student will increase self-awareness and establish therapeutic relationships with clients in the clinical setting.

Nursing 205 EKG Interpretation (elective) - 2 credits. Introduces students to basic electrocardiography, dysrhythmia interpretation and nursing interventions for the client experiencing cardiac rhythm disorders. This course is encouraged for students expressing interest in the telemetry and critical care areas.

Nursing 210 Pathopharmacology I - 3 credits. A systems approach is used to examine pathophysiologic concepts as a basis for nursing practice. This course focuses on the cellular aspects of disease, alterations in organ and system functioning and dynamics of body defenses. The effects of the disease states are explored through the response patterns of human functioning. Therapeutic and pharmacologic regimens for selected pathophysiologic disorders are examined.

Nursing 211 Pathopharmacology II - 2 credits. A systems approach is used to examine pathophysiologic concepts as a basis for nursing practice. This course focuses on the cellular/tissue aspects of disease alterations in organ and system functioning as well as the dynamics of body defenses. The effects of disease states are explored through the response patterns of human functioning. Pharmacology is discussed using a proto-type medication method to emphasize therapeutic management of clients with particular altered health states.

Third Level
The following prerequisites must be completed before progression to the Third Level: English 112, Dietetics 121, Psychology 230, Sociology 200, Biology 205, Nursing 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 210, and 211.

Philosophy 220 Ethics - 3 credits - 3 lecture hours per week. Provides a systematic study of representative ethical systems.

Nursing 300 Nursing Care of Children and Families - 6 credits - 6 lecture hours, 18 clinical hours per week. Introduces students to the developmental, psychosocial, health promotion, and medical needs of children. Emphasis is placed on the care of children within the context of family. Opportunities are provided in a variety of institutional and community-based settings.

Nursing 301 Nursing in the Community – 6 lecture hours, 18 clinical hours per week. Provides foundational concepts and theories of community health, with the focus on the community as the client. The application of the nursing process to the community is explored. Independent nursing interventions of assessment, education, and collaboration are experienced along the wellness-illness continuum during the clinical experience. The student applies nursing skills to individuals in the community setting.

Nursing 302 Transition to Professional Practice – 6 credits – 6 lecture hours, 18 clinical hours per week. Focuses on the role of the nurse as manager of patient care. The knowledge and skills necessary to make decisions, set priorities, delegate, and evaluate care delivery are emphasized. Clinical experiences provide opportunities to implement these skills.

Nursing 303 Nursing Care of Clients with Physiologic Crisis – 6 credits – 6 lecture hours, 18 clinical hours per week. Introduces students to the essential elements of critical care nursing. Clinical judgment and collaboration are emphasized while meeting the needs of the patient with acute, multi-system alterations. Clinical experiences are provided in the acute care setting.

Nursing 304 Trends and Issues in Nursing – 3 credits – 3 lecture hours per week. Provides an overview of current trends in healthcare that impact the nurse in providing care. The framework for the course is multidimensional, global, and demonstrates the interdependency of the nurse in the delivery of care. Students participate with the instructor to discover the components of the issues and how they become trends. The components include history, government involvement, legal, ethical, technology, financial, nursing and care delivery.

Sample Curriculum Plan

Level I		Credits
*NAS 161	Health Science I w/Lab	4
*BIO 101	Gen Biology I w/Lab	4
*ENG 111	College Comp. I	3
NUR 100	Foundational Concepts w/Lab	5
	Total Credits	16
*NAS 162	Health Science II w/Lab	4
*BIO 102	Gen Biology II w/Lab or	4
*CHM111	Gen. Chemistry w/Lab	4
*PSY 201	Intro to Psychology	3
NUR 101	Health Assessment w/Lab	5
	Total Credits	16
*BIO 205	Gen. Microbiology w/Lab	4
NUR 102	Clinical Applications w/Lab	4
	Total Credits	8
Level II		Credits
*PSY 230	Developmental Psych	3
NUR 210	Pathopharmacology I	3
NUR	(2 Level II Rotations) 5 credits each	10
	Total Credits	16
*DIT 121	Nutrition	3
*SOC 200	Intro to Sociology	3
NUR	(2 Level II Rotations) 5 credits each	10
	Total Credits	16
Level II Rotations (all w/lab):
NUR 201	Nursing Care of Adults
NUR 202	Nursing Care of Childbearing Families
NUR 203	Nursing Care of Diverse Populations
NUR 204	Nursing Care of Clients with Behavioral Issues
*MTH	Elective	3
*ENG	112 College Comp. II	3
NUR 211	Pathopharmacology II	2
	Total Credits	8
Level III
*PHI 220	Ethics	3
NUR	(2 Level III Rotations) 6 credits each	12
	Total Credits	15
NUR 304	Trends and Issues in Nursing	3
NUR	(2 Level III Rotations) 6 credits each	12
	Total Credits	15
Level III Rotations (all w/lab):
NUR 300	Nursing Care of Children and Families
NUR 301	Nursing in the Community
NUR 302	Transition to Professional Practice
NUR 303	Nursing Care of Clients with Physiologic Crisis
	Number of Credits Required:
	School of Nursing	66
	J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College	44
	Total	110
*Indicates courses that are taken through J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College or that were transferred in from an accredited institution prior to beginning the program according to the transfer guideline of the School of Nursing.

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At the conclusion of the program, the Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing graduate will be able to:

1. Integrate a systematic process of inquiry and reflection to analyze information for effective decision making.
2. Practice outcome and evidence-based nursing interventions that reflect caring behaviors and responsiveness to cultural differences.
3. Exchange accurate and congruent information, ideas and feelings so that individuals and groups can understand, perform activities, and/or change behaviors.
4. Manage the delivery of healthcare to individuals, families, and groups.

Critical Thinking:

• At the conclusion of the third level, the student will: interpret data, provide evidence, and make clinical judgments which integrate theory, skills, and experience.
• At the conclusion of the second level, the student will: compile data and show evidence of inquiry, reflection, and problem-solving in clinical decision making.
• At the conclusion of the first level, the student will: collect and interpret data and utilize standards and guidelines while participating in clinical decision making.

Therapeutic Nursing Interventions:

• At the conclusion of the third level, the student will: modify outcome and evidence-based nursing practice to meet established goals.
• At the conclusion of the second level, the student will: construct an individualized, holistic plan of care to include clinically competent, theoretically-based nursing interventions while collaborating with the multidisciplinary team.
• At the conclusion of the first level, the student will: use the nursing process to meet the healthcare needs of selected clients.

Communication:

• At the conclusion of the third level, the student will: communicate effectively with individuals, groups, and communities.
• At the conclusion of the second level, the student will: utilize collaborative and therapeutic communication skills with clients, families, groups, and members of the healthcare team.
• At the conclusion of the first level, the student will: engage in various forms of communication to process accurate information.

Management:

• At the conclusion of the third level, the student will: utilize management principles to coordinate care of clients and groups across the continuum of care.
• At the conclusion of the second level, the student will demonstrate collaboration skills in the management of client care.
• At the conclusion of the first level, the student will: participate in the management of self and care of the client.

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Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing believes the primary responsibility for the cost of a student's education rests with the student and/or family. The School has a financial aid program designed to assist the qualified student in meeting educational expenses. Financial need is defined as the difference between the cost of the educational program and the amount of money the student and/or family can reasonably pay, as determined by the Department of Education calculations.

A student's financial aid award will not be large enough to cover living expenses and school expenses. Therefore, students will need additional resources to support themselves and their education while enrolled in the School of Nursing. Advance planning by the student is essential if financial needs are to be adequately met.

Pre-requisites to apply for financial aid
To apply for financial aid offered through Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing, the applicant must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application must be completed over the internet at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

The applicant will be asked for the school code of the institution you are planning on attending. Our school code is 010043. This application procedure can take up to six weeks to complete, so it is in the best interest of the applicant to begin this process as early as possible.

Loans and scholarships are available to qualifying students after full acceptance into the School of Nursing. Amounts awarded depend on verified need, academic standing, credit ratings, and the number of credit hours to be taken. Click here if you want details about the kinds of financial aid packages we offer.

• Pell Grant - The School of Nursing participates in the Federal Pell Grant program through the United States Department of Education. Eligibility requirements are set by the U.S. Department of Education. Financial need is determined by a need analysis. Grants administered through the School of Nursing are awarded in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. This federal student aid is available to qualifying students.
  
• Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program: This includes Stafford and PLUS Loans. Eligibility requirements are set by the U.S. Department of Education and require submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Loans are awarded in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. This federal student aid is available to qualifying students.
  
• Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarships are administered by the School of Nursing for the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation based upon need, scholastic standing and attendance. These awards do not have to be repaid provided the student successfully completes the program. The amount awarded ranges from $100.00 to $400.00 per semester and varies with the number of credit hours to be taken and the funds available. Application is made at the beginning of each school year. The funds are issued each semester.
  
• The Modlin Scholarship is a partial scholarship awarded annually when there is a rising junior student who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership and community service prior to and throughout the program. Eligibility is based upon merit. The scholarship is renewable annually if the recipient meets the criteria. The funds are issued each semester. This scholarship does not have to be repaid.
  
• Mary Marshall Nursing Scholarships are awarded by the State Board of Health to Virginia residents enrolled in a School of Nursing who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. This scholarship requires that after graduation and licensure, the registered nurse must work somewhere in Virginia one month for each $100.00 received.
  
• Veterans Educational Benefits - The School of Nursing is approved to certify students who are eligible to receive Veterans Educational Benefits.
  
• Alternate Credit-based Loans are available to BSMSON students for all enrollment statuses to cover the cost of education.
  
• Other Scholarships: Periodically other State and local scholarships are awarded to qualifying students. Students are notified when these Scholarships become available.
  
• Bon Secours Student Loan (BSSL) Payback Benefit Program: The Bon Secours Student Loan Payback Benefit Program has been created to be an incentive to the graduates of Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing to seek employment within the Bon Secours Richmond Health System.  Up to a total of $15,600 (taxable income) may be awarded for use in repaying student loan debt over a period not to exceed three years for full-time employees or six years for part-time employees. Bon Secours Payback Benefits are taxable and only “after tax” amounts are available to apply to outstanding loan balances. The maximum benefit that will be paid by Bon Secours toward payment of student loan debt will not exceed $15,600.  The maximum benefit will NOT increase if additional loan payback programs exist within the Bon Secours System.
  
  For eligibility requirements and further details about the BSSL Payback Benefit Program contact the Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing Accounting Manager at 804-627-5385.

The Student is considered a responsible adult and is expected to have ethical and professional conduct at all times. Guidelines governing expected behavior are outlined in the Student Handbook. As a member of the school community, it is the responsibility of the student to know and comply with all school guidelines and policies.

Honor System
The Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing believes that integrity is essential to the practice of nursing and the pursuit of education. The Honor System is a code of internal ethics designed to assure the preservation of personal and group integrity, and to provide an opportunity for self-government and self-discipline. Nothing contained in the Honor System Constitution shall be deemed to create any basis for a cause of action in any form outside the internal procedures established by the Honor System Constitution. Each student must assume responsibility for acting honorably in all situations and upholding the policies, rules, and regulations of the Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing. Lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and failure to report an honor offense are considered violations of the Honor System, for which a student may be the subject of corrective measures, up to expulsion.

Attendance
Prompt and regular attendance at all classes, clinical, and laboratory sessions is considered an integral part of the student's professional obligation as outlined in the Student Handbook. Work obligations and other personal matters should not interfere with scheduled classes and clinical assignments.

Housing
The School of Nursing does not provide residential facilities. Students are responsible for their own housing.

Transportation
Students are responsible for their transportation to and from all educational experiences. The School assumes no responsibility for student vehicles. Vehicles must be parked in designated areas, both at the School and clinical sites.

Uniforms & Accessories
Upon enrollment, the student must buy at least two regulation uniforms, laboratory coat, white shoes, scissors and stethoscope. Uniforms are to be ordered directly from the uniform company designated by the School.

Professional Liability Insurance
The student is required to carry professional liability insurance in order to go into the clinical area. The student pays an annual premium for the amount of coverage which can be purchased through the Student Nurses Association.

Student Records
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) insures confidentiality of student records and grades. Grades are sent to parents or guardians only upon written consent from the student. Also upon written consent, a student or graduate may have a transcript copy sent to another institution.

School Calendar
The school year runs from early September until late August on a 16 week (3) semester system. Classes run Monday through Saturday and are offered in the day and evening. Evening students are required to attend clinicals every other Saturday. Students who need to attend JSRCC to complete their general education courses should check JSRCC’s website for their school calendar and course offerings.

Grading System
The Clinical Laboratory component is graded as follows: satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Courses taken at JSRCC are graded according to the college's grading system (see J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Handbook).

Class (theory) grades are earned according to a letter system. Each letter is assigned a grade-point value as follows:

Letter Grade	Numerical Equivalent	Grade point value per credit hour
A	94-100	4.0
B+	90-93	3.5
B	87-89	3.0
C+	83-86	2.5
C	80-82	2.0
D	75-79	1.0
F	0-74	0
I	Incomplete	No Credit
WP	Withdrew Passing	No Credit
WF	Withdrew Failing	0
W	Withdrew per policy for new course	0

Progression
The following criteria are used to determine satisfactory progress throughout the curriculum:

• A student must meet the requirements to complete the program within 45 months of enrollment.
• A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above in all nursing and non-nursing course is required for progression to the next level of the curriculum and to graduate. A student with a cumulative GPA < 2.0 in all nursing and non-nursing courses may continue course work within their current level of curriculum or in courses without prerequisites but will be placed on academic probation for a period not to exceed one semester. If a cumulative GPA of ≥ 2.0 is not achieved by the end of the probation period, the student must withdraw from the program. A probation period is defined as one semester (fall, spring, or summer).
• All financial obligations are met prior to the end of each semester.
• Students earning grades of D, F, or WF in a single nursing course may repeat the course one time. Failure of more than one nursing course results in dismissal from the program.
• The time frame requirement does not create a contract for continued enrollment at the School, nor does it constitute an offer to contract for continued enrollment for any length of time.

Graduation
A student who is eligible to receive a School pin and diploma must:

• Complete all graduation requirements within 45 months of initial enrollment.
• Successfully complete the curriculum by earning a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher.
• Submit to the Office of Registration and Enrollment a complete and current transcript of non-nursing courses taken.
• Complete graduation checklist, located on Blackboard.

A student who completes the curriculum during the school year may participate in the next graduation ceremony for that academic year. Upon graduation, the graduate is eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensing Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) for licensure in the state where the graduate expects to practice. Satisfactory completion of the examination for licensure and registration in Virginia entitles the registered nurse to practice in Virginia and in other states by endorsement.
An applicant may be denied the right to take the licensing examination in Virginia due to a conviction of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or for other reasons cited in Section 54.1-3007 of the code of Virginia.

Withdrawal
A student who leaves the school for any reason is required to submit written notice and attend an exit interview. The student is classified as withdrawn passing or withdrawn failing, depending upon academic standing at the time of withdrawal. A student who fails to meet these requirements is considered to be unofficially withdrawn and is ineligible for readmission to the School of Nursing. If the student also chooses to withdraw from J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, the student must make such arrangements directly with JSRCC. (See J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Handbook.)

Dismissal
The school reserves the right to retain only those students who demonstrate the requirements of scholarship, health, and personal suitability for enrollment in the School of Nursing. A student may, at any time, be dismissed for reasons including, but not limited to, academic failure, physical or emotional problems which prevent the student from carrying out the essential functions of a student nurse, endangering the safety and welfare of others, conduct that discredits or injures the School, documented substance abuse, violation of local, state or federal laws, destruction, removal, or damage of School property, or unprofessional or disruptive conduct.

Orientation
Students are required to attend registration and orientation sessions prior to the start of class.

Course Repeat Policy
Students earning grades of D, F or WF in a single nursing course may repeat the course one time. Failure of more that one nursing course results in dismissal from the program.

Readmission
A student who has permanently and officially separated from the School, and who is eligible for readmission may be readmitted to the School. If the student was dismissed from the school, or withdrew as a result of academic or other difficulties, evidence must be shown that the student has progressed toward resolving the problem that resulted in separation, such as additional college courses, medical treatment, counseling and/or fulfillment of any conditions set at time of separation. The applicant must meet any requirements established during his absence. The Admissions Committee will determine the admission and placement status. An applicant for readmission who meets all requirements is not guaranteed readmission to the program.

Refund Policy

• If a student drops a course(s) before the end of the semester's add/drop period, course related charges will be removed from the student's account.
• If a student is on an approved Medical Leave, the semester program fees (learning resource, health, and activity fees) will be removed from the student's account and replaced by a continuing program fee for each semester of the approved absence.

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How to apply for aid and how eligibility is determined; rights and responsibilities of students receiving aid; disbursements & Refunds; the responsibilities of loan borrowing; criteria for measuring Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and how a student who has not maintained SAP may reestablish eligibility for aid.

A FAFSA must be completed (on-line) for all scholarships, grants, and/or loans (ALL financial aid awards). Students must list Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing (School Code: 010043) on their FAFSA.

FAFSA on the Web - www.fafsa.ed.gov

In addition to the FAFSA a Financial Aid Request Form must be submitted to the Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing Financial Aid Office.

- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal Stafford Loan Program (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
- Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
- Private Grants and Scholarships
- Private and Alternative Loans

Student's Rights & Responsibilities

Anticipated Disbursement Timeline per Semester

Award	Anticipated Disbursement
Federal Pell Grant	Beginning of the 3rd week of classes
Scholarships	Beginning of the 3rd week of classes
All Loan Programs	Beginning of the 3rd week of classes
First Round of Refunds	During the 4th/5th week of classes
Third Party Payments	On-going throughout semester
REFUNDS	On-going throughout semester within 14 days of credit balance

Excess of federal funding (Semester Bill - Federal Funding = Excess) will be refunded to the student within the timeframe established by the federal government.

The Office of Financial Aid will continue to process late awards throughout the semester and will transfer these awards to the Bursar as soon as the funds become available. Refunds for excess funding will occur within a reasonable timeframe or in case of excess federal funding within the timeframe established by the federal government.

Federal Stafford Loan Program
Alternative "Private" Loans

To be eligible to receive financial aid at BSMSON, students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
SAP Policy

Names of associations, agencies, and/or governmental bodies that accredit, approve, or license the school and its programs, and the procedures by which a student may receive a copy for review of the school’s accreditation, licensure, or approval.

- National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
http://www.nlnac.org/Forms/directory_search.htm

- Virginia Board of Nursing
http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/nursing_edprogs.htm

Special facilities and services available to disabled students.
Students with disabilities.

Costs of attending the school (tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, and applicable transportation costs, such as commuting) and any additional costs of the program in which the student is enrolled or has expressed an interest.
BSMSON Cost of Attendance

A statement of the requirements for the return of Title IV funds when a student withdraws from school, information about any refund policy with which the school must comply, and the requirements for officially withdrawing from the school.
Return of Title IV Policy

Nursing Program Curriculum.
BSMSON Nursing Program Curriculum

Clinical Sites.
06-07 Clinical Sites

Campus security report.

List of the faculty and other instructional personnel. (See Faculty & Staff section.)

Contacts for information on student financial assistance and general institutional issues.

BSMSON Receptionist 804-627-5300
Monday-Friday 7:30 A.M.-8:30 P.M.
Sunday 1:00 P.M.-6:00 P.M.

BSMSON Office of Financial Aid 804-627-5301
Monday-Friday 7:30 A.M.-4:30 P.M.

- Graduation and Retention rates.
http://www.nces.ed.gov/ipeds/cool

- NCLEX-RN Test Results:
http://www.virginia-nursing-schools.com/NCLEX.htm

• Information on preventing drug and alcohol abuse;
• Drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation programs available to students and employees;
• Health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol;
• Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs and alcohol by students and employees on the school’s property, or as part of the school’s activities;
• Sanctions under local, state, and federal law for unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; and
• Statement that the school will impose sanctions on students and employees for violations of the standards of conduct (consistent with local, state, and federal law) and a description of these sanctions, up to and including expulsion, termination of employment, and referral for prosecution.

BSMSON Drug & Alcohol Policy

• Criminal homicide, including (0) murder and non-negligent manslaughter, and (0) negligent manslaughter; sex offenses, including (0) forcible sex offenses, and (0) non-forcible sex offenses; robbery; aggravated assault; burglary, motor vehicle theft; and arson;
• Hate crimes by category ( race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity or disability);
• Arrests for violations of drug and liquor law violations, and illegal weapons possession; and
• Persons not arrested but referred for campus disciplinary action for liquor, drug, and weapons law violations.

Crime Report submitted to the U.S. Department of Education

Campus Crime Report

• Current campus policies regarding procedures for reporting crimes and other emergencies occurring on campus and the policies for the school’s response to these reports;
• Policies concerning the security of, and access to, all campus facilities, including residences, and security considerations used in the maintenance of campus facilities;
• Policies concerning campus law enforcement;
• Institutional crime prevention programs;
• Policies concerning the monitoring and recording (through local police agencies) of student criminal activity at off-campus locations of student organizations recognized by the school, including student organizations with off-campus housing facilities;
• Policies concerning the possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs;
• Drug and alcohol-abuse education programs available to students and employees; and
• Sexual assault prevention programs available and the procedures to be followed when a sex offense occurs.

Safety Policy
Security Checklist at Windsor Park
Drug & Alcohol Policy
Sexual Assault

Rights of Students under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act to inspect and review education records, to amend education records, to consent to or withhold disclosure of personally identifiable information, and to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.

BSMSON FERPA policy

Bon Secours Richmond Health System (BSRHS) offers selected nursing students the opportunity to gain clinical competence and ease the transition from student to prefessional through a special summer program. During the Nurse Externship Program, students are assigned to preceptors who are experienced Registered Nurses chosen for their excellence in practice.

Externs participate in a number of clinical experiences and attend special seminars designed to enhance their practice. Externs are assigned to areas that match their personal interests and can select clinical rotations at Memorial Regional Medical Center, Richmond Community Hospital, St. Francis Medical Center or St. Mary's Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.

The Bon Secours Richmond Health System Nurse Externship Program is a full-time, ten-week, summer program

Session I: May 5 - June 27, 2008
Session II: June 30 - August 22, 2008
Session III: June 30 - August 15, 2008 (designed for those students who need to return to college in late August)

Externs will receive a stipend while in the program and are expected to work full-time with an assigned preceptor, following their preceptor's work schedule. Externs are also expected to attend all required educational experiences. The application deadline for all sessions is January 18, 2008. Notification of acceptance will be made by March 31, 2008.

- Medical and Surgical Units (with sub-specialties)
- Oncology
- Orthopedics
- Women's & Children's Services
- Emergency Department
- Peri-operative Services (OR, PACU, Pre-operative Holding)
- Critical Care and Step-Down Units
- Home Care
- Rehabilitative Care (via Sheltering Arms Rehabilitation Hospital)

Externs will hav a variety of experiences that will enhance their learning in nursing. These experiences may include the opportunity to care for an unfamiliar patient population or follow a patient through the continuum of care such as from a medcial/surgical unit to the operating room, and then to post anesthesia care. Externs will also have the opportunity to enhance clinical skill such as venipuncture, IV insertion, catheterization and wound care. Clinical experiences also emphasize time management and priority setting skills. Special classroom opportunities are also offered to externs.

To qualify for the Nursing Externship Program, students must:

• Attend an accredited RN school of nursing.
• Complete junior-level studies.
• Commit to the entire summer program.
• Submit completed Nurse Externship and Employment Applications. Click here for the Nurse Externship application.
• Submit two nursing instructor references. Click here for the instructor reference form.

2008 - Spring

2007 - Fall

Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing Faculty

Faculty Name	Highest Degree
Ball, Mary B.	MBA, RN
Bartlett, Jennifer L	BSN, RN
Bodin, Susan	Med, RN
Booker, Gloria	MSN, RN
Brodsky, Christine	MA Nursing Administration, RN
Butler, Carrie B.	MS Nursing, RN
Chamberlain, Juliet G.	Med, RN
Clayton, Constance L.	MS, Nursing Administration, RN
Crowder, Dorothy	MS Nursing, RN
Fitzgerald, Barbara	BSN, RN
Gardner, Trina G.	MS Nursing, RN
Greenawalt, Barbara	MS Nursing, RN
Hancock, Mary E.	MSN/ed, RN
Harbison, Sally	MS Nursing, RN
Hedian, Katherine A	MS Nursing, RN
Heitzler, Ella M.	MS, RN
Holowaychuk, Arlene S.	MSN/ed, RN
Johnson, Karen Y	PhD
Johnson, Thelma	Med, RN
Kilgore, Christine	MS Nursing, RN
Kinser, Patricia A	MS Nursing, RN
Matthews, Darlene E.	BS Nursing, RN
Mellot, Karen	MS Nursing, RN
Perkins, Chris-Tenna M.	MS Nursing, RN
Pridgen, Nancy	MS Nursing, RN
Pryor, Ann	MS Nursing, RN
Pugh, Holly	MSHA, BSN, RN
Purrington, Dale O.	MSN, RN
Ragan, Merideth S.	MSN, RN
Richardson, Sarah	MS Nursing, RN
Sablay, Maura C	MN, RN
Sauer, Sharon	MS Nursing, RN
Seegers, Debbie	PhD Nursing, MSN, RN
Simpson, Rachel	MSN, RNc
Snitzer, Beth H.	MS Nursing, RN
South, Valerie J	MS Nursing, RN
Thomas-Wright, Jenny	BSN, RN
Turner, Christine K.	MS Nursing Administration, RN
Twombly, Pamela	MSN, RN
Tyminski, Janett E.	BS Nursing, RN
Vasel, Laura	MS Child Health Nurse Practitioner, RN
Wilkins, Susan A.	MBA, RN