Frequently Asked Questions
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Direct-entry)
What is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree?
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) is a four-year programme that aims to equip nursing students with the skills and competencies needed to function in areas such as patient-centered care, teamwork and interprofessional practice, evidence- based practice, quality improvement and use of informatics and technology to enhance the quality of care.
What are the prerequisites for applying to the BScN program?
1. Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)
A minimum aggregate score of C+ (plus). In addition, a candidate must meet the cluster grades as shown below:
Cluster A: Applicants should possess an aggregate grade of C+ in the following cluster of subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics; and English or Kiswahili.
OR
Cluster B: Applicants should possess an aggregate grade of C+ in the following cluster of subjects: Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Mathematics; and English or Kiswahili.
2. Advanced level certificate holders
Minimum entry requirements include Principal passes of C in Biology and Chemistry, along with at least a subsidiary pass in either Mathematics or Physics.
3. International Baccalaureate (IB)
Grade 4 and above in the cluster subjects of Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics or Physics.
How long does it take to complete a BScN program?
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) is a four-year programme.
What career opportunities are available for graduates with a BScN degree?
Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree have a wide range of career opportunities available to them in various healthcare settings. Some of these career paths include:
Registered Nurse: BScN graduates are eligible to become registered nurses, providing direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings. They assess patient health, administer medications, perform treatments, and coordinate care plans under the supervision of physicians and advanced practice nurses.
Speciality Nursing: BScN graduates can pursue specialised nursing roles in areas such as critical care, emergency nursing, paediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, obstetrics, oncology, gerontology, and public health. Specialised certifications may be required for certain roles, and additional training or experience may be necessary.
Nurse Manager or Nurse Administrator: BScN graduates with leadership skills and management abilities may pursue roles as nurse managers, nurse supervisors, or nurse administrators. These roles involve overseeing nursing staff, managing budgets, developing policies, and ensuring quality patient care within healthcare facilities.
Clinical Nurse Educator: BScN graduates with a passion for teaching and mentoring may choose to become clinical nurse educators. These professionals work in academic institutions, healthcare organizations, or clinical settings, educating nursing students, new graduates, and practicing nurses on clinical skills, evidence-based practices, and professional development.
Public Health Nurse: BScN graduates interested in population health and community-based care may pursue careers as public health nurses. These nurses work to promote health and prevent diseases within communities, conducting health assessments, implementing health education programs, and advocating for health policy changes.
Case Manager or Care Coordinator: BScN graduates may work as case managers or care coordinators, coordinating patient care services across healthcare settings and ensuring continuity of care. They collaborate with healthcare providers, insurance companies, social services, and community resources to meet patients' holistic needs.
Nurse Researcher: BScN graduates interested in advancing nursing science and evidence-based practice may pursue careers in nursing research. They design and conduct research studies to address clinical questions, evaluate nursing interventions, and improve patient outcomes.
Nurse Informaticist: BScN graduates with an interest in healthcare technology and data management may pursue roles as nurse informaticists. These professionals specialise in using information technology to improve patient care, enhance clinical workflows, and optimize healthcare delivery systems.
Nurse Entrepreneur: BScN graduates with innovative ideas and entrepreneurial skills may start their own nursing-related businesses, such as home health agencies, wellness clinics, consulting firms, or educational programs.
These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The nursing profession continues to evolve, offering numerous pathways for BScN-educated nurses to make meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Is the programme online or hybrid ?
Hybrid
What support services are available for BScN students, such as financial assistance or career counselling?
Student counsellors at AKU provide psychological support to students and medical trainees undergoing personal, social, or academic challenges, or common mental health concerns including (but not limited to) adjustment issues, stress, anxiety, depression and substance abuse.
AKU has a Financial Assistance Programme that aims to assist students who have limited financial need to support the cost of their education. Currently, BScN are eligible for partial scholarship. Upon admissions, students can apply for financial assistance. Allocation is done on need basis.
Can I pursue a master's or doctoral degree in nursing after completing a BScN program?
Interested candidates for the master’s degree program at AKU should possess qualifications listed below: -
- Relevant academic bachelor’s degree holders:
- Upper second-class honours or a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a scale of 4.00.
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