Nursing
The Department of Nursing is committed to providing exceptional undergraduate and graduate nursing programs taught by professor-mentors in a dynamic learning community. Since launching our first nursing program in 2006, we have been a center of excellence in Christian nursing education that integrates our University values of truth, virtue and service. Vanguard Nursing Program alumni leave committed to compassionate, holistic patient care – mind, body and spirit.
I would pick VU over & over again. I gained so much more than a BSN from Vanguard - I gained mentors, support, & a new perspective on nursing & what it means to care for someone. Not only did the instructors, counselors, & support staff give me the practical tools to be successful, but more importantly they taught me why it matters. I use those nearly every day in my role as an ICU nurse and am a much better nurse because of them.
Alyssa Bastreri
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Pre-Licensure
The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Pre-Licensure program is for freshman and transfer students who need to complete prerequisite courses or may be ready to apply to the Nursing major but are not licensed nurses. Following completion of the bachelor's program, these students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed nurses.
RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
This program is for licensed nurses or students currently enrolled in an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) dual enrollment program at another institution who seek to complete a bachelor’s degree. Beginning fall 2019, this program will be offered in two formats: on campus or online.
RN to MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Nurse Educator
This program is for licensed nurses who seek to complete both bachelor's and master's degrees concurrently. Graduates may teach in academic nursing programs, assume positions in allied health programs as nurse educators in staff development or serve in roles related to population health education.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
This program is for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree who seek to complete a master’s degree. The MSN program offers a dual track for the baccalaureate prepared nurse, emphasizing the application of theoretical knowledge in the development of Nursing Education and Leadership competencies. We combine the benefits of a cohort model and faculty mentoring in combination with a hybrid curriculum and the convenience of online learning.
Program Highlights
Faculty Mentorship
Faculty believe each nurse has a lot to offer and will personally invest in them and help them achieve their career goals.
Small Class Sizes
Class sizes are intentionally small to encourage discussion and individual learning.
On-Campus & Online Options
Schedule flexibility and multiple options coordinate well with your work schedule
State-of-the-art Equipment
Two (2) state-of-the-art Nursing Simulation Labs opened in fall 2015.
Local Partnerships
Students take part in clinical education at leading partner health care facilities including St. Jude Medical Center, Orange County Global Medical Center, St. Joseph Hospital, Children's Hospital of Orange County and Orange Coast Medical Center, as well as participating in a variety of community-based experiences.
Financial Aid
Many students receive financial aid. Visit vanguard.edu/financialaid for more information.
Integration of Faith and Learning
The Department of Nursing facilitates an academic environment that promotes the integration of faith and learning in personal and professional life. The department’s rigorous curriculum across programs are designed to present course content from a Christian worldview. Personal faith and spiritual care in nursing are paramount in optimally caring for individuals and their families.
This faith perspective is role modeled by faculty in the classroom, simulation lab and clinical areas. Faculty endeavor to create sacred spaces that promote open, honest and scholarly discussion fostering integrity, moral courage, discovery and authenticity. The Nursing Department expects that all members of the department, faculty, staff and students demonstrate caring behaviors that promote a learning environment that acknowledges the inherent dignity of all persons.
MEET OUR FACULTY & STAFF
Belinda Stewart-Burger MSN, RN, CCRN, CNRN, SCRN, CRRN
Adjunct Instructor for the RN to BSN and Pre-Licensure Programs
ACCREDITATION
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master’s degree program in nursing at Vanguard University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.