Nursing

Earn your BSN and make an impact where it’s needed most.

Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares you to become a licensed registered nurse (RN) with the skills to serve in hospitals, clinics, and communities, especially in rural and underserved areas. You’ll build a strong foundation in clinical practice, health science, and leadership, all while gaining hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. With a rural health emphasis, this program equips you to meet the unique needs of remote populations and make a difference close to home.

The curriculum is designed to blend science, compassion, and clinical skill. You’ll take courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and evidence-based practice, alongside general education and liberal arts courses that strengthen communication and critical thinking.

As you begin your journey, you will be admitted as a Pre-Nursing student, and dependent on GPA you will then be admitted to the full Nursing program. In your final year in the program,  you’ll complete clinical rotations in hospitals and rural healthcare sites across the region place through special partnership with Western Colorado University and rural hospital systems. These immersive experiences help you put your learning into action while building confidence in patient care.

Nursing Requirements

Emphasis

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

Scholarships

1

Top Skills

Safe, compassionate care

Clear, effective communication

Calm under pressure

Wellness and prevention focus

Rural health expertise

Team-based collaboration

2

Career Pathways

Registered Nurse (RN)

Rural Health Nurse

Emergency Room Nurse

School Nurse

Public Health Nurse

Nurse Case Manager

Graduate nursing programs (MSN, DNP, NP)

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Faculty & Staff

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Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Paul Wright Gym 209
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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