Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of New Mexico is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in professional nursing. This comprehensive program combines rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills, and compassionate care necessary to excel in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum covers fundamental topics such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing theories, health assessment, and evidence-based practice, ensuring a solid scientific foundation. Additionally, students engage in specialized courses addressing community health, pediatric nursing, adult health, mental health, leadership, and nursing informatics, fostering a well-rounded skill set adaptable to various roles within the healthcare system.

Throughout the program, students participate in clinical rotations at partner hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations across New Mexico, gaining valuable real-world experience under the supervision of experienced nursing professionals. This fieldwork not only enhances clinical competence but also develops critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural sensitivity—traits essential for providing equitable, patient-centered care. The program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, ethical decision-making, and advocacy, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations and contribute positively to public health.

The University of New Mexico's Nursing program also prepares students to meet the requirements for licensing as Registered Nurses (RNs), guiding them through the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). With a dedicated faculty of experts and state-of-the-art simulation labs, students receive personalized mentorship and innovative learning opportunities. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue advanced education, leadership roles, and specialization in various nursing fields. Committed to addressing the unique healthcare needs of New Mexico and beyond, the program fosters a commitment to lifelong learning, professional development, and community service. Whether students aspire to work in hospitals, clinics, schools, or public health agencies, the University of New Mexico's Nursing program provides a strong foundation for a meaningful career helping others.

Core courses for all M.S.N. students:

Required clinical core courses for all students in advanced practice concentrations:
(AG-ACNP, Education, FNP, NM, PNP, PMHNP)

Students must also complete the requirements for their chosen concentration, as well as a professional paper, applied examination, or thesis. If students choose to write a thesis, they enroll in six credit hours of NURS 599 Thesis, instead of one credit hour of NURS 596 Professional Paper or one credit hour of NURS 597 Applied Examination. The paper or examination is completed in the last term of study.

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.S.N.) from an accredited (N.L.N.A.C. or C.C.N.E.) nursing program, with an upper-division major in nursing. (Graduates from non-accredited programs and R.N.s with a baccalaureate degree in non-nursing fields are considered on an individual basis.) R.N.s with non-nursing baccalaureate have one opportunity to pass a Community Health test prior to the application deadline. Results of the exam must be received within 5 days of the application deadline.
2. Have a minimum grade point average for baccalaureate work of B (3.0) or better.
3. Submit the application, required academic records, and documents by deadline dates. See the College of Nursing Web site for further details.
4. Submit evidence of RN licensure (which must be kept current throughout enrollment in the program). If NCLEX results are pending at the time of application, the applicant should indicate this in the personal statement, with a copy of the RN license submitted within the first term enrolled and prior to any clinical experience. Note: Active RN license is required for the state in which any lab or clinical work (inpatient or community) is performed. An active New Mexico RN license is required for students holding teaching or research assistantships.
5. An interview may be required for admission.

The University of New Mexico offers various financing options to support students pursuing a Nursing degree. Undergraduate nursing students can explore multiple avenues such as federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and Direct Student Loans, which are designed to make higher education more accessible and affordable. The university participates in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), allowing students to determine their eligibility for federal grants and loans. Additionally, there are state-specific scholarships and grants available through the New Mexico Higher Education Department, which aim to assist residents with the costs associated with nursing education. The university also provides institutional scholarships based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need. These scholarships may vary yearly and require applicants to meet specific criteria, including maintaining certain GPA thresholds.

For students enrolled in advanced nursing programs such as master’s or doctoral degrees, financing options include federal Stafford and Perkins loans, as well as scholarships targeted specifically for graduate nursing students. The university's Nursing school might offer assistantships or fellowships, which provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. Many students also seek external funding sources such as private foundations and professional organizations pertinent to nursing, like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Part-time employment opportunities on campus or internships can supplement financing plans. The university's Financial Aid Office offers detailed counseling and application assistance to help students navigate the complexities of financing their education effectively. Overall, the combination of federal, state, institutional, and external resources creates a comprehensive support network aimed at reducing financial barriers for nursing students at the University of New Mexico.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of New Mexico is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in the healthcare industry, emphasizing both the scientific underpinnings and the compassionate care essential to nursing practice. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology with extensive clinical experiences that enable students to develop critical thinking, leadership, and clinical skills. The program aims to create competent, caring, and culturally aware nursing professionals who can adapt to the rapidly changing healthcare environment. Students in the program benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing real-world practicum opportunities. The program also emphasizes community health, public health, and evidence-based practice to prepare nurses who are capable of addressing diverse patient populations and health disparities. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), which is required for licensure as a registered nurse. The BSN program at UNM is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging students from various backgrounds to pursue careers in nursing. Additionally, the program offers options for advanced placement, enabling qualified students to accelerate their pathway to becoming registered nurses. The faculty comprises experienced nurse educators and clinicians dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment. Overall, the UNM Nursing program strives to develop knowledgeable, ethical, and compassionate nursing professionals equipped to improve healthcare outcomes across New Mexico and beyond.