Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing General Information
Overview
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing, situated in Richmond, Virginia, is a faith-based private institution dedicated to preparing compassionate and competent nursing professionals. The college’s mission emphasizes both academic excellence and service-driven care, combining rigorous clinical training with ethical perspectives rooted in its Catholic health-care heritage. Students at the college engage early in nursing practice, with lectures and simulation beginning alongside general education courses in their first year. The college is designed to support learners who aim to make a meaningful impact in patient care and community health, offering both a traditional BSN pathway and an RN-to-BSN fully online option for practicing nurses.
With modern simulation labs, clinical affiliations across regional health systems, and peer tutoring programs, the college supports a high level of student success—retention rates around 92% and NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates exceeding 96% demonstrate this commitment. The college emphasizes personalized student support, professional readiness, and preparation for leadership roles in nursing practice. Graduates leave with not only the technical competencies required for nursing licensure but also the critical thinking, interpersonal skills, and ethical foundation needed to practice in diverse health-care environments.
Contact Informations
Address: 8550 Magellan Parkway, Suite 1100, Richmond, Virginia 23227
Phone: (804) 627-5300
Email: admissions@bshsi.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1961 |
| Institutional Type | Private College of Nursing |
| Motto | “Good Help to Those in Need” |
| Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 10:1 |
| Campus Setting | Suburban health-care affiliate environment |
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Rankings
| Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| National Nursing Schools | Within top-tier specialized nursing colleges in the region |
| Virginia Region | Recognized among premier BSN programs |
| Global/International | Not ranked globally due to specialized focus |
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Department of Pre-Licensure Nursing Education
- Department of RN-to-BSN and Advanced Nursing Studies
- Department of Clinical Simulation and Innovation
- Department of Student Success and Support Services
- Department of Global & Community Health Engagement
Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Pre-Licensure
- RN to BSN – Fully Online Completion Program
- Academic Concentrations in Community Health, Leadership, and Research
- Certificate or preparatory modules in Simulation and Clinical Care
- Professional Development Workshops and Continuing Education in Nursing
Online Learning
The RN to BSN program is offered entirely online, structured for working registered nurses who wish to advance their credentials while maintaining employment. Online coursework blends interactive modules, virtual simulation, and asynchronous/synchronous class sessions. The pre-licensure BSN program also integrates online components for theory, though considerable in-person simulation and clinical practice remain central to the curriculum.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Range / Data |
|---|---|
| SAT/ACT | Not required for admission |
| GRE | Not applicable for most undergraduate nursing programs |
| NCLEX-RN | Pass rate approximately 96% for the 2023 cohort |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The college reports a student retention rate of 92% for the 2022-2023 academic year, which reflects strong support systems and student engagement. Graduation rates for the BSN program historically exceed 80% within the expected timeframe, bolstered by structured progression, peer mentoring, and early immersion in nursing practice.
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to the pre-licensure BSN program invites applicants with a competitive academic record—typically a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and prerequisite coursework in sciences and mathematics—but standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT are not required. For the RN to BSN program, applicants must hold an active RN license and meet program-specific criteria.
Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 72% |
Application Requirements
To apply, candidates must submit a completed application form, official transcripts verifying prerequisite completion (such as anatomy/physiology, microbiology, chemistry), and documentation of required health clearances and immunizations. Applicants may also attend an information session or interview to assess readiness for nursing studies. Licensed RNs applying to the online BSN program must provide proof of licensure and current professional practice.
Application Process
- Submit the application form with supporting transcripts
- Demonstrate completion of required science and general education prerequisites
- Attend an admissions interview or information session
- Provide health and immunization documentation
- Submit proof of RN licensure for RN to BSN applicants
- Receive admissions decision and register for orientation
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fall Term Applications | Typically due by March 1 |
| Spring Term Applications | Typically due by October 1 |
| Rolling Admissions for Online Program | Ongoing, applications accepted year-round |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Applicants may be asked to submit a brief personal statement describing their motivation to pursue nursing, how their background aligns with the college’s mission, and how they envision serving patients and communities in their future role.
Scholarships
The college offers both merit-based awards and need-based scholarships, including institutional scholarships for high-performing students, grants for those entering underserved specialties, and financial support for licensed RNs advancing to BSN degrees.
Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-Licensure BSN | Approx. US$13,800 per year |
| RN to BSN Online Program | Approx. US$450 per credit hour |
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The college serves a predominantly female student body, with approximately 90% identifying as female and 10% male. Students range in age from early twenties to mid-fifties, reflecting both traditional entrants and career-changing adults. Ethnic and racial composition includes approximately 63% White, 25% Black/African American, 6% Asian, 1% American Indian/Alaska Native, and about 4% identifying as two or more races.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Many students qualify for financial aid or scholarships, reflecting the college’s focus on accessibility and workforce readiness. Students with disabilities receive accommodations through the college’s student success services, which include adaptive simulation labs, tutorial support, and individualized academic planning to promote equity and inclusion.
Student Body
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Undergraduate Students | Approximately 500 |
| Full-Time Students | Majority of enrollees |
| Part-Time/Online Students | RN to BSN program accommodates working RNs |
University Diversity
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing places strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The curriculum incorporates culturally competent care, social determinants of health, and service to underserved populations. Students from varied backgrounds collaborate in simulation labs, clinical rotations, and community partnerships, preparing them to serve diverse patient populations. The college supports adult learners, second-career entrants, and first-generation college students, fostering a welcoming environment where multiple perspectives enrich peer learning and practice. Alumni enter healthcare systems committed to compassionate care and culturally responsive practice, a foundation strengthened by the college’s inclusive mission.
Average Earnings
Graduates of the BSN program typically begin their professional nursing careers with starting salaries ranging from approximately US$55,000 to US$65,000 annually, depending on geographical region and healthcare system. As graduates gain experience, specialize in areas such as critical care or leadership, and pursue advanced practice credentials, incomes can rise to US$80,000-US$90,000 or more. The college’s job placement rate around 87% further supports strong employment outcomes and long-term earning potential.
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Faculty at the college are experienced registered nurses, nurse educators, and healthcare practitioners who bring clinical expertise to teaching. Support staff deliver academic advising, career services, simulation coordination, and student success initiatives, enabling a student-centered learning environment.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
The faculty hold advanced degrees (MSN, DNP), certifications in simulation education, and maintain current clinical practice. Many engage in research or professional development focused on nursing education and patient outcomes. Their combined experience ensures that graduates receive up-to-date instruction aligned with evolving healthcare standards and evidence-based practice.
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The college operates within a health-care campus environment aligned with a major regional medical center, offering students direct access to simulation labs and clinical partners. Housing is not campus-provided; students generally live in the local Richmond area or commute. Student life emphasizes professional engagement through nursing clubs, service-learning opportunities, clinical partnerships, and peer support networks.
Transportation
Located in suburban Richmond, the campus is accessible by car, local transit, and commuter routes. On-site parking is available and scheduling accommodates commuting students and working professionals. Facilities are designed for convenient movement between classrooms, labs, simulation suites, and student support services.