COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at San José State University’s Valley Foundation School of Nursing is a structured, impaction-based program designed to prepare students for professional registered nursing careers through a combination of rigorous science coursework, clinical training, and leadership development. The degree requires 120 total units, including general education, major preparation, major coursework, and university electives, with many general education units integrated into required science and health-related courses. Students begin with foundational prerequisites in writing, communication, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, statistics, psychology, and human development, which build the scientific and behavioral knowledge needed for clinical practice. These courses emphasize anatomy, human systems, and evidence-based understanding of health and disease. The major sequence consists of five structured semesters of nursing study that integrate classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice in healthcare settings. Early coursework introduces leadership, pharmacology, health assessment, geriatric nursing, and foundational clinical skills, while later semesters expand into adult health, mental health, pediatric nursing, maternal-newborn care, and community health. Students also complete simulation-based learning and multiple clinical practicums that provide real-world patient care experience under supervision. Advanced coursework focuses on leadership in nursing practice, population health, and transition-to-practice experiences through a senior preceptorship. Communication and writing skills are reinforced through a required evidence-based practice writing workshop. Across the program, students must maintain a minimum grade of C or higher in all major courses and complete required background checks and health clearances for clinical placement. The curriculum emphasizes patient safety, ethical practice, cultural competence, and evidence-based decision-making. Overall, the program is designed to develop competent, practice-ready nurses capable of working in diverse healthcare environments, while also preparing them for leadership roles and lifelong professional growth in the nursing field.