Introducing the Bsc. Nursing Program at USIU-Africa

Introducing the Bsc. Nursing Program at USIU-Africa

The United States International University-Africa is now offering the B.Sc. Nursing program designed for healthcare professionals who will provide comprehensive nursing care across all levels of the health system. The program is a unique offering due to several factors:

• Accredited in Kenya and USA: Meets internationally recognized academic and professional standards
• Clinical/hospital partnerships: Hands-on training in top-tier hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Global opportunities: Partnerships with U.S.-based universities offering nursing program
• State-of-the-art skills lab: Immersive learning using cutting-edge augmented and virtual reality technology

The Chair of the Nursing Program, Dr. Samuel Mungai spoke about the program in detail and how students can benefit from this program.

1. Who can aspire to join USIU-Africa’s BSc Nursing program? Is the program only for high school leavers, or also for others who have already undertaken certain courses?

The BSc. Nursing program is tailor-made for direct entry applicants, meaning the target market is primarily high school leavers who meet the set entry criteria requirements. Other interested potential applicants who have already undertaken certain courses who meet the program entry criteria can certainly apply but the exemption is limited to general education courses offered in USIU-Africa.

Students from other universities taking the nursing program are also welcome to apply but the course transfer is limited to not more than 49% of the program courses.

1. What are the admissions requirements (academic and other requirements) for this program?

The admission requirements for the BSc. Nursing program are as follows:

1. C+ overall for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) holders and C+ in each of the requisite subjects:
   • English/Kiswahili
   • Mathematics/Physics
   • Biology
   • Chemistry
2. A-Level: Principal passes in Biology and Chemistry and a subsidiary pass either in physics or Mathematics.
3. Holders of degree in Biological Sciences or equivalent from a recognized University.

Any foreign applicant must have their high school transcripts verified and equated by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).

Other admission requirements

USIU-Africa recognizes two equivalent ways of meeting the admission requirement: General Educational Development (GED) certificate (applicant must have a minimum score of 45 on each of the five sections and an overall score of 250 or higher) or State High School Proficiency Examination (applicant must pass this examination).  First time freshmen U.S. citizens/permanent residents must submit their SAT or ACT results. The results are evaluated in conjunction with the high school grade point average.  International applicants are considered for admission on the same basis as local applicants but must also demonstrate English proficiency.  All students for whom English is not a first language are required to show English proficiency before beginning an academic program.

1. How would you describe the BSc Nursing curriculum?

The students in the nursing program will be equipped with a solid foundation in clinical practice, health promotion, disease prevention, and patient-centered care. They will acquire the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality care in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, community centers, and beyond. This curriculum is designed to foster not only technical competence but also an understanding of the ethical, cultural, and social factors that impact healthcare delivery. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, students will be prepared to use the latest research and technological advancements to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of healthcare.

1. What specific units are included that make the graduates not only competent, but also highly competitive?

The integration of practical experience, through clinical placements and the global nursing tour, will allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings preparing them to confidently face the challenges and rewards of the profession. By including a leadership and management courses, this BSc Nursing program prepares the undergraduate students not just for the day-to-day duties of the profession but also for the leadership roles they may take on in the future. In so doing, the degree offers a gateway to various career paths, from direct patient care to positions in healthcare administration, research, and education.

1. Is the program available on different modes of study, or is it strictly campus-based?

The nursing program delivery modes will feature a versatile blended approach of face-to-face and online/blended/ODeL modes.

1. What kind of campus life should the nursing students look forward at USIU-Africa?

USIU-Africa has state-of-art ultramodern learning facilities that provide a holistic experience to higher education. The lecture halls, library and other interactive learning spaces foster an environment that nurtures collaboration and exemplifies innovation. The nursing students will enjoy a campus life that structured to ensure their success in education, mentorship and support as they stand on the shoulders of academic giants.

1. Why is USIU-Africa introducing this program, and why now?

USIU-Africa is cognizant of the existing gaps in nursing services in Kenya and the world. As we aim to bolster healthcare delivery in Kenya, the training of nurses in a comprehensive program aimed at preparing nurses for global practice is imperative. The country and the world over are in dire need of nursing graduates that will be able to deliver high quality nursing care; provide leadership at institutional and national levels; as well as influence policies in public and private sectors.

1. USIU-Africa is an international university. How will that impact the BSc Nursing students, especially in training and job prospects?

This nursing program offers training in cross-cultural communication, cultural competency, and understanding the social determinants of health. Additionally, the BSc. Nursing program provides opportunities for international experience, such as study abroad programs or international clinical rotations, which provide students with hands-on experience working in different cultural and healthcare settings. This will undoubtedly enhance the market appeal of any USIU-Africa nursing graduate.

1. What will the BSc Nursing students be capable of doing once they graduate – or, what are the desired learning outcomes?

The program envisions to cultivate life-long learners and innovative healthcare professionals who will provide comprehensive nursing care across all levels of the health system. Graduates will be equipped to deliver ethical, culturally competent, and evidence-based nursing services; engage in critical inquiry and research; assume leadership roles in nursing education and administration; and actively contribute to global health initiatives. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, social responsibility, and a commitment to continuous professional growth, preparing graduates to adapt to evolving healthcare challenges and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the nursing profession worldwide.

1. What kind of jobs can they look forward to, whether locally or internationally?

The program offers a variety of career paths for nurses locally and globally. These include clinical nursing care to specialized roles. Nurses can advance to leadership, research, teaching, or specialize in areas like oncology, psychiatric care, or public health. The career pathway in nursing diverse with each choice proven to provide fulfilling, and enriching careers.

1. How will USIU-Africa tap its School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’ experience to make the BSc Nursing an outstanding offering for students who could have chosen another university?

The existing School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences provides an excellent anchorage for BSc. Nursing program. The School has a tested, proven and articulated record of churning out graduates from Pharmacy and Epidemiology & Biostatistics programs that have gone to be leaders of industry in a variety of organizations. The faculty offer unparalleled student guidance and mentorship making USIU-Africa an institution to covet in nursing training.

1. What support system does USIU-Africa have in place for BSc Nursing graduates who may need to be assisted to settle in the world of work?

International experience through the global tour and collaborative training with globally recognized academic and industry institutions will ensure graduates the access to versatile job opportunities.

1. Tell us about USIU-Africa’s accreditations, and how that solidifies its BSc Nursing graduates’ credentials.

The nursing program is accredited in Kenya by the Commission for University Education, and the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK), and in the United States of America by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This enhances the program’s credibility and marketability of graduates in Kenya and the globe.

1. Any other information you would like to share about USIU-Africa or this program?

USIU-Africa offers an eminent academic steppingstone to great heights in academic and professional success. An academic journey in this nursing program will undoubtedly nurture nurses capable of making a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

For more information, visit: www.usiu.ac.ke