Nursing is an in-demand and purpose-driven career. Students who choose to serve others find that nursing school offers a clear path to a meaningful career in healthcare. But how does nursing school work, and what should you expect? Faulkner University’s School of Nursing in Montgomery, AL, offers a comprehensive, faith-centered program that prepares students for work in this high-demand field. Here, we explain the structure of our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and how nursing school works.
Understanding the Structure of Nursing School
Nursing school is designed to help students gradually build the knowledge and skills they need to work in a healthcare setting. Our program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning so students can connect classroom lessons to the practice of patient care. By exploring how these elements piece together, future nurses can better prepare for the academic and clinical expectations.
Classroom Learning: Building a Knowledge Base
The classroom component of nursing school provides students with the scientific and theoretical foundation needed for clinical practice. Our coursework covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and psychology, which help students understand how the human body works and how illnesses develop. Students also learn communication, ethics, and medical theory to prepare for effective interactions between patients and care teams.
Hands-On Experience: Clinical Rotations
Clinical rotations allow students to apply what they have learned in supervised settings under the supervision of licensed professionals. During these experiences, students work with patients in areas such as pediatrics, medical-surgical care, obstetrics, mental health, and community health. Our rotations help students strengthen their clinical judgment, practice essential nursing skills, and explore different areas of the profession.
How Do Upper and Lower Division Phases Work?
At Faulkner University, our Nursing Program features 126 total program hours over 8 semesters. The program consists of Lower Division and Upper Division phases. The Lower Division requires a minimum grade point average of 2.75 and completion of pre-nursing and core courses before advancing. Lower Division courses include writing, mathematics, and psychology courses. The Upper Division builds on this foundation and prepares students for licensure exams, with courses focused on:
- Medical terminology
- Pharmacology
- Leadership and management
- Healthcare disparities
- Evidence-based inquiry and clinical methods
- Adult, mental health, and pediatric nursing
Throughout the Upper Division, students apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations, further developing skills in communication, problem-solving, and patient care. Upon completing the Upper Division, students will have gained significant clinical experience and academic preparation required for licensing exams, such as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
What Are the Advantages of Faulkner University’s Nursing School?
At Faulkner University, our Nursing program offers students a supportive, small‑class learning environment that helps promote individualized attention. Other benefits of our program include:
Faith-Centered Mission
Our nursing program reflects our mission as a Christian liberal arts institution and helps learners grow academically, spiritually, and professionally. Rooted in Christ‑centered values, the program emphasizes empathy, service, and integrity, qualities that shape students into compassionate, capable nursing professionals.
Student Resources
Faulkner University aims to help our students succeed by providing various helpful student resources. They include:
- Academic Center for Excellence, which offers academic support
- Career Services, which helps prepare students for the job market with resume building, testing resources, and more
- The Counseling Center, which offers confidential counseling services for personal, emotional, social, and mental health matters
Experienced Faculty
Our Nursing courses are taught by highly experienced faculty and staff members who have real-world experience in healthcare. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students have the best chance at success.
How Does Nursing School Work? Find Out with Faulkner University’s Nursing Program
If you’re exploring nursing school options and next steps, Faulkner University is here to support you. Our team can answer your questions and help you see how our nursing program aligns with your long-term goals. We’re driven by Christ-centered values and support communities through compassionate care. We also offer financial aid for eligible students. Request more information or apply now to learn more about how nursing school works and how our program is structured.