Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Batten University Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program builds on more than 130 years of nursing education, combining Sentara’s legacy as Norfolk’s first nursing program with Batten University’s liberal arts foundation. Together, they create a learning environment that prepares nurses with both the clinical expertise and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in today’s complex healthcare settings.

About the Program

Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines flexible learning formats with intensive hands-on training. You’ll engage with course material through a blend of traditional classroom instruction, state-of-the-art skills laboratories, clinical rotations, and online learning modules designed to fit your schedule.

In our advanced simulation labs, you’ll practice clinical skills in a controlled environment that replicates virtually any medical scenario you might encounter in practice. With more than 900 clinical hours — exceeding both licensure requirements and most competing programs — you’ll graduate with exceptional preparation for the demands and rewards of professional nursing.

Program Highlights

• Program launches August 2026 — applications now being accepted
• 900+ hours of clinical experience through skills labs, simulation, and direct patient care
• Complete your BSN in 2.5 years following prerequisite coursework
• Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and are eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination
• Small clinical groups ensuring personalized mentorship and instruction
• Clinical rotations in Sentara’s nationally recognized hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Built on 130+ years of nursing education excellence

Learn Where Healthcare Happens

Batten University’s acquisition of the Sentara College of Health Sciences creates exceptional opportunities for future nurses. Through this expanded relationship with Sentara Health, students gain access to clinical experiences across Sentara’s nationally recognized network of hospitals and healthcare facilities—learning alongside experienced healthcare professionals in real-world settings.

These rotations help you build confidence, strengthen your clinical skills, and graduate with the hands-on experience employers value. Together, Batten University and Sentara are preparing the next generation of nurses through innovative education, immersive clinical training, and meaningful partnerships that benefit both students and the communities they will serve.

Career Opportunities for Nurses

Registered nurses work across diverse healthcare environments including hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, physician practices, public health agencies, and specialized medical centers. With a nationwide nursing shortage creating unprecedented demand, you’ll enter a profession offering exceptional job security and meaningful career advancement opportunities.

As a registered nurse, your responsibilities will include assessing patient needs, developing individualized care plans, administering treatments and medications, educating patients and families, and coordinating care among multidisciplinary healthcare teams. You’ll serve clients across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, applying critical thinking and clinical expertise to improve health outcomes.