Top University for a Degree in Nursing - Birmingham, AL

Looking for a nursing program close to Birmingham, AL? University of Alabama's School of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice.

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University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama (UAB) was established in 1821, but it wasn't until 1936 that the campus in Birmingham was established as an extension center. In 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked UAB No. 79 in its top public schools listing and No. 151 in the national universities listing. During the Fall 2010 term, there were 17,543 students enrolled at UAB, with 11,028 at the undergraduate level. As of 2011, the university offers degrees from 11 schools and colleges, including the School of Nursing.

The School of Nursing was established in 1950 on the Tuscaloosa campus of the University of Alabama, though the school moved to its current home in Birmingham in 1967. Accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the School of Nursing offers degrees at every degree level. In 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked the UAB School of Nursing No. 21 in its 'Best Health Schools' list, as well as tenth in the nurse practitioner adult category and No. 12 in nurse practitioner family specialties.

Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

This degree program requires completion of 121 credit hours, including one summer session. During the first two years, students concentrate on general-education courses; they begin their nursing-specific studies during the junior year, which is when summer-term attendance is suggested. Required courses discuss community and public-health nursing, informatics and the pathophysiology of professional nursing. Areas of advanced study include nursing for newborns, women's health and psychiatric nursing. Students must also complete clinical experiences in several concentrations.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

This 121-credit-hour degree program is designed for those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing as well as licensure as a registered nurse (RN). It includes online courses and 90 hours in clinical settings to gain practical experience. For those who live outside the Birmingham area, assistance is available to set up clinical experience local to the student. Required courses include community health nursing, health assessment across the lifespan and pathophysiology.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Specializations are available in the fields of nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nursing educator, nursing informatics and health systems administration. Coursework depends largely upon specialization, but may include role development for advanced nursing practice, advanced pathophysiology and research for advanced practice. This program may be completed in as few as four terms. Students must have a current registered nursing license in the state where they intend to work before setting up their clinical experience with a nurse practitioner, registered nurse or doctor.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

This terminal degree prepares students for positions of leadership in healthcare or for specialty practice beyond master-level programs. Those holding a BSN or MSN may enter this program. This program takes three semesters to complete through full-time enrollment; part-time students can complete this program in five semesters. The total curriculum is 34 credit hours covering the foundations for advanced practice nursing, health policy and leadership. Other requirements include a scholarly seminar and project, the latter of which may require 1-2 semesters to complete.

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