Nursing: Admissions
Your Nursing Journey Starts Here
Whether you're taking your first step toward becoming a nurse, advancing your career or continuing your education, The University of Akron School of Nursing offers a path built around your goals. Through nationally respected programs, hands-on clinical experiences and faculty who are invested in your success, you'll graduate prepared to lead with confidence, compassion and the skills to make a difference from day one.
Find the Right Nursing Path for You
Wherever you're headed in nursing, your next step starts here. Explore our undergraduate and graduate programs to find the path that fits your goals—from earning your first nursing license to advancing into leadership, advanced practice, education or nurse anesthesia.
Explore Nursing ProgramsUndergraduate Admissions
Multiple Ways to Begin Your Nursing Career
No two students follow the same path. That's why we offer multiple entry points into our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Typically, students aren’t admitted into nursing programs until after their first year of general education studies, or later.
Qualified high school seniors can earn Direct Admission to Akron's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, securing their place in the nursing major from day one. Instead of applying to the nursing major after completing prerequisite coursework, you'll begin your college experience with a clear path toward your nursing degree.
Ideal for: High-achieving students who are committed to a career in nursing and meet the required GPA and test score criteria.
Minimum criteria: 3.00 GPA, and a 22 ACT or a 1030 SAT
Students who begin at the University of Akron without Direct Admission can begin as a pre-nursing student, completing the prerequisite courses that prepare you for upper-division nursing coursework. Along the way, you'll receive the same support, guidance and opportunities to connect with the School of Nursing through academic advising, faculty mentors, learning communities and student success resources.
Ideal for: Students who don't meet the Direct Admission criteria or choose not to submit standardized test scores.
Your previous coursework has value.
Whether you're transferring from a community college, another university or returning to school to continue your nursing education, we'll help you make the most of the work you've already completed. Our team works one-on-one with transfer students to evaluate previous coursework, maximize eligible transfer credits and create a personalized path toward graduation.
Licensed registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) with a valid, unencumbered nursing license are admitted directly to the School of Nursing and can continue their education through programs designed to help them reach the next stage of their careers.
To ensure students are prepared for success in our nursing program and to meet accreditation and progression standards, transfer applicants to the School of Nursing must meet the following requirements:
Applicants are not eligible for admission to the Traditional BSN program if they:
- Have earned a cumulative GPA below 2.75.
- Have earned a science prerequisite GPA below 2.75.
- Were unable to successfully complete a required prerequisite course within two attempts.
- Have previously failed a nursing clinical course in another BSN nursing program.
- Have been dismissed or academically separated from another BSN nursing program.
- Students who do not meet these requirements are encouraged to speak with an admissions representative to explore other academic pathways that may align with their educational and career goals.
Ideal for: Students transferring from another college or university, as well as licensed RNs and LPNs ready to earn their bachelor's degree.
Join a welcoming community that prepares nurses to make an impact around the world.
International students receive personalized support throughout the admissions process, from application requirements and credential evaluation to immigration documentation and campus resources. Once you arrive, you'll become part of a close-knit nursing community dedicated to your academic and personal success.
Our Traditional BSN and RN to BSN program both provide in-person learning experiences that meet the majority of immigration regulations requiring students to attend face to face courses.
For international students interested in graduate education:
Foreign nurses must have their previous training evaluated through CGFNS International (formerly the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) in order to identify their U.S. licensure status. They must hold a valid Ohio nursing license prior to beginning a graduate nursing program.
Ready to advance your career?
Whether you're pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing to become a Nurse Practitioner, or earning your Doctor of Nursing Practice or DNP-Nurse Anesthesia, our graduate programs combine expert faculty, flexible learning options, and exceptional clinical partnerships to help you achieve your goals.
Several admission categories are used for students applying for graduate level programs at UA. The admission category may affect the length of time needed to complete the degree.
Connect With Us
Visit Campus
There's no better way to experience the School of Nursing than seeing it for yourself. Tour our simulation labs, meet current students and faculty, and discover why so many future nurses choose Akron.
Attend a Virtual Information Session
Meet faculty, learn about admissions, explore program options, and have your questions answered during one of our upcoming virtual information sessions.
Questions? We're Here to Help.
Choosing a nursing program is a big decision, and you don't have to make it alone. Reach out to Annie Hanson Hilaire, director of recruitment and strategic engagement, for personalized guidance on admissions, program options, transfer credit, or your next steps.
- Director, Strategic Engagement and Recruitment
- 330-972-7874
- Send an email
- MGH 101K