WGU Prelicensure Nursing Prerequisites 2025

The Western Governors University (WGU) Prelicensure BSN degree program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the nursing field. It focuses on contemporary nursing practices, emphasizing competency-based learning and strong partnerships with healthcare employers. This innovative program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and thrive in diverse healthcare settings.

Pre-Licensure BSN Degree Program

This program prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin their nursing careers. Aspiring nurses can pursue a flexible and affordable CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree online through Western Governors University (WGU).

Key Features:

• Competency-Based Learning: Progress is measured by demonstrating mastery of skills and knowledge, not just by completing credits. This allows students to maximize their learning by progressing at their speed and utilizing prior experience.
• Focus on Essentials: The curriculum aligns with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice, ¹ ensuring graduates meet the highest standards.
• Hybrid Learning: Combining online learning with in-person high-fidelity simulations and hands-on clinical experiences provides a well-rounded education.
• Strong Partnerships: Collaborates with healthcare employers to provide valuable clinical placements and prepare graduates for real-world practice.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers core areas like medical-surgical nursing, psychiatric/mental health nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, community health, and essential subjects like evidence-based practice, research, leadership, and nursing informatics.
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and recognized as an NLN Center of Excellence in Nursing Education.

How the Competency-Based Approach Works

Unlike traditional programs, WGU doesn’t rely solely on credit hours. Students demonstrate their mastery of core competencies through assessments. This personalized approach allows students to:

• Accelerate their progress: They can move through those areas more quickly if they already possess certain skills.
• Focus on areas of need: Spend more time on subjects requiring additional learning.
• Benefit from flexibility: Learn at their own pace and on their schedule.

Program Structure

• Degree Plan: A personalized roadmap outlining the courses and assessments required to earn the degree.
• Mentorship: Dedicated program mentors provide guidance, support, and regular check-ins throughout the program.
• Course Instructors: Subject matter experts provide instruction, answer questions, and guide students through course materials.
• Learning Resources: A wide range of resources, including textbooks, videos, simulations, and online discussions, are available to support student learning.
• Performance Assessments: Include projects, papers, presentations, and other assessments that demonstrate mastery of competencies.

Accreditation and Recognition

• NWCCU Accreditation: Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
• CCNE Accreditation: The nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
• NLN Center of Excellence: Recognized as an NLN Center of Excellence in Nursing Education.

Key Takeaways:

• The WGU prelicensure BSN program is a rigorous and innovative pathway to a successful nursing career.
• The competency-based approach offers flexibility and allows students to learn independently.
• Strong mentorship and a comprehensive curriculum prepare graduates for success on the NCLEX-RN and in diverse healthcare settings.

WGU Online Nursing Bachelor’s Degree

One Online Program to Become an RN and Earn a BSN

If you reside in one of the following states: Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin, and aspire to become a Registered Nurse, this nursing program may be a suitable option for you. Furthermore, Cybersecurity careers await! WGU’s online B.S. & M.S. in Cybersecurity programs.

In eligible states, this program offers the following:

• Flexible Online Learning:
  • 24/7 access to online coursework allows for personalized learning schedules.
  • Accelerate your progress by demonstrating mastery through competency-based assessments.
• In-Person Clinical Rotations:
  • Gain valuable hands-on experience through seven in-person rotations at local healthcare facilities.
  • WGU has established partnerships with healthcare providers, ensuring access to quality practice sites and experienced clinical coaches/preceptors.
• In-Person Learning Lab Experiences:
  • Enhance your skills through two in-person experiences at WGU Clinical Learning and Simulation Centers (Labs) located in Utah, Texas, and Missouri.
  • WGU has also partnered with labs in Indiana and Florida.
  • Please refer to the map below to determine your designated Lab location.

Western Governors University’s pre-licensure nursing program is now available!

Program Structure:

• Online Coursework: Complete your coursework entirely online at your own pace.
• Learning Labs: Attend two in-person Learning Lab experiences at a location closest to you (see map for details). WGU will try to assign you to a nearby location, but you may be assigned an alternate if necessary.
• Clinical Rotations: Complete seven in-person clinical rotations at partner sites within 60 miles of Fayetteville or Little Rock.

Program Start Dates:

Program start dates vary.

If your state doesn’t offer our Prelicensure nursing program, consider our Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Services. This degree provides a valuable alternative by enabling you to directly impact patient care through roles focused on insurance, billing, and other vital aspects of healthcare administration. These roles can be both rewarding and crucial for ensuring patients receive the support they need. Read also, WGU Program Mentor Jobs 2025.

HOW IT WORKS

Pre-Nursing & Nursing

Our Prelicensure BSN program at WGU consists of two distinct phases:

• Pre-Nursing: Students begin with foundational coursework, including general education and introductory medical courses. This prepares them for the clinical aspects of the program.
• Nursing: Upon successful completion of the pre-nursing phase and meeting program progression requirements, students advance to the nursing phase. This phase focuses on advanced nursing concepts, complemented by hands-on experience through Learning Labs and Clinical Rotations. Successful completion of both phases prepares graduates to sit for the RN licensure exam and pursue a fulfilling career in nursing.

Nursing Prelicensure Courses

Our prelicensure BSN program at WGU emphasizes rigorous preparation. You’ll engage in:

• Intensive Study: Expect to dedicate at least 30 hours per week to coursework, including virtual and high-fidelity simulations.
• Clinical Rotations: Gain invaluable hands-on experience through supervised clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings.
• Personalized Support: Work closely with your WGU Program Mentor and expert instructors to excel in your studies.

Program Structure

• Standard Pace: The program is designed for completion in 8 terms (4 years).
• Accelerated Options: Students may accelerate their studies by transferring eligible credits with a minimum grade of “C” or better.

Curriculum Excellence

Our BSN curriculum is developed by a distinguished Nursing Program Council of experts, ensuring you:

• Gain In-Depth Knowledge: Master the essential knowledge and skills required for success in the nursing profession.
• Develop Key Competencies: Become an outstanding nurse prepared to contribute effectively to a strong healthcare team and improve patient outcomes.

Unbelievably Low Tuition

• Pay-Per-Term Model: WGU’s innovative pay-per-term structure empowers students to control their educational costs.
• Affordable Tuition:
  • Pre-Nursing (Terms 1-4): $8,755 per 6-month term + $200 e-books/resources fee
  • Nursing (Terms 5-8): $8,755 per 6-month term + $200 e-books/resources fee

Additional Costs

• Uniforms: Approx. $150 (optional purchase through WGU)
• Lab Kit: Approx. $250
• Background Checks & Drug Screens: $94 + state-specific fees (MI: $10, NV: $12)
• Compliance Fees: Vary based on individual needs (e.g., background checks, immunizations, drug screens, HIPAA/OSHA training) – $25-$150+
• Other Potential Costs: Fingerprints, physician visits, immunizations, physical exams, etc.

Financial Assistance:

Explore available financial aid options to make your nursing education a reality.

Are you Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?

WGU Prelicensure Nursing Acceptance Rate

WGU boasts a 100% acceptance rate for students who successfully fulfill all application and academic prerequisites. To be considered for admission, applicants must:

• Submit a Completed Application
• Pay a $65 Application Fee
• Maintain a Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Pass the ATI TEAS Exam: Achieve a minimum total score of 60% and a reading subtest score of at least 60%.
• Submit a Professional Resume
• Provide a Letter of Intent
• Secure One Professional Letter of Recommendation
• Submit Official Transcripts: Include records from all previously attended institutions, demonstrating completion of required prerequisites.

By meeting these requirements, prospective students significantly increase their chances of being accepted into WGU’s esteemed nursing program.

RN to BSN vs Prelicensure

An RN to BSN program is designed for Registered Nurses (RNs) who hold an active license. This program allows them to further their education and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree by building upon their existing nursing knowledge and experience.

Conversely, a Prelicensure program is specifically for individuals who do not possess an RN license. This program provides comprehensive coursework and clinical training, enabling students to meet the necessary requirements to become licensed Registered Nurses and earn their BSN degree simultaneously.

WGU Prelicensure Nursing Reviews Reddit

Contact:

Need Help about obtaining your nursing license:

• Enrollment Counselors:
  • Phone: 1-866-CALL-WGU (1-866-225-5948) or 1-855-948-8496
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  • Online: Access the Student Handbook
• IT Service Desk:
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