THE WATTS TRADITION CONTINUES

Watts College of Nursing is positioned for the future; opening its door to offer a BSN Nursing Program built on a tradition of nursing excellence.

Since its inception in 1895, Watts has focused exclusively on nursing education for entry into professional nursing practice. Throughout its history, Watts has shown exceptional ability to meet the changing needs of students, healthcare consumers, and the nursing profession. Now more than ever before, Watts is embracing change with a future filled with great promise and expectations for continued excellence in nursing education.

Why a BSN Nursing Program?

Many healthcare employers are seeking a nursing workforce prepared at the BSN level which is driven by the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and embraced by healthcare organizations that are designated as Magnet facilities. In keeping with this movement, Watts has created an unparalleled BSN Nursing Program. This program combines the tradition of early and progressively complex “hands-on” clinical experience with the extended focus and advantages of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN). Within two years of entering Watts, students complete the requirements for a BSN.

Curriculum Highlights

The unique design of the BSN Nursing Program preserves the merits of a Watts education while providing students with BSN course work that further enhances their professional development in preparation for a broader scope of practice. The BSN nursing program:

  • Transfer in 60 credit hours of general education requirements
  • Four (15-week) semesters
  • No summer semesters

Simulated learning experiences, in the College’s skills centers, offer various opportunities for students to develop technical, assessment, communication, management, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. These experiences are augmented by actual clinical rotations, which are wide-ranging and draw upon the strengths of the Magnet Hospitals in the Duke University Health System; Duke Regional Hospital, Duke University Hospital, and Duke Raleigh Hospital as well as other area hospitals and community-based settings. Together, these learning experiences provide students with a broad base for professional practice and the knowledge, tools, and best practices to influence care.  

CLINICAL FACILITIES

Clinical rotations are wide-ranging and culturally diverse, covering all ages and life spans. Our program draws upon the clinical strengths of the fully Magnet designated Duke University Health System as well as other area community-based settings.  Together, these clinical opportunities provide students with a broad base for professional practice

Financial Aid

Watts College of Nursing is dedicated to helping students manage the costs of a nursing education. Upon acceptance, the Financial Aid Counselor guides students in the development of a financial aid package centered on individual needs.

Quick Facts

  • Transfer in 60 credit hours of general education courses required from an accredited institution of higher learning (i.e., junior college, technical/community college or four-year college or university)
  • Two classes are admitted each year - January and August
  • Four-step admission process
  • Concept-based curriculum
  • Small class size
  • Faculty dedicated to the success of students
  • Latest technology is woven throughout the program
  • BSN degree from Watts College of Nursing
  • Watts College of Nursing is affiliated with Duke University Health System

Four Steps to the Admission Process

  • Step 1: Transcript Evaluation
  • Step 2: Apply
  • Step 3: Application Review
  • Step 4: Admission

Admission Requirements

  • United States Citizen or United States Lawful Permanent Resident
  • Application and Enrollment Fee
  • Technical Standards Agreement Form
  • Completion of General Education Requirements
  • Preadmission Test
  • Two References (1 academic/1 work-related or 2 academic)
  • Official Transcripts
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Medical Form
  • Alcohol and Drug Testing
  • American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) training
  • Health Insurance
  • Official high school transcript, diploma, or GED certificate

Watts College of Nursing does not discriminate in the educational program or activities of the college on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex, genetic information, or age.