Are you passionate about healthcare and dream of becoming a nurse? Look no further than Covenant School of Nursing, where your aspirations can become a reality. In 2023, this esteemed institution is set to revolutionize the nursing education landscape with its cutting-edge curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities.
Whether you're a recent high school graduate or an experienced healthcare professional looking to enhance your skills, this comprehensive guide will provide you with insights into the Covenant School of Nursing and its continued commitment to producing skilled, compassionate, and globally-minded nurses.
Prepare yourself for an immersive learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, equipping you with the skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of nursing.
Covenant School of Nursing and its history
Covenant School of Nursing, formerly Methodist Hospital School of Nursing, is a private nursing school located in Lubbock, Texas. It was founded in 1918 and is the oldest nursing school in the South Plains.
Covenant School of Nursing is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and offers a three-year diploma program in nursing.
The school's history is rooted in the Methodist Church's commitment to providing healthcare to the people of Lubbock and the surrounding region.
Over the years, Covenant School of Nursing has graduated more than 5,200 nurses. These nurses have gone on to serve in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and nursing homes. Covenant School of Nursing graduates are known for their clinical skills, compassion, and commitment to serving their patients.
Covenant School of Nursing offers various nursing programs, including an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which is designed to prepare students for a career in nursing.
Researching nursing schools
When researching nursing schools, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision about your education and future career. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
1- Accreditation
Make sure the nursing school you are considering is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards of quality and that its graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
2- Program type
There are two main types of nursing programs: associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs and bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs. ADN programs typically take two years to complete, while BSN programs take four years to complete. BSN programs are becoming increasingly preferred by employers, so you may want to consider a BSN program, even if it takes longer to complete.
3- NCLEX-RN pass rate
The NCLEX-RN pass rate is a good indicator of the quality of a nursing program. You can find the NCLEX-RN pass rate for each nursing school on the website of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
4- Clinical rotations
Clinical rotations are an important part of any nursing program. Clinical rotations give you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Find out where the nursing school you are considering sends its students for clinical rotations and make sure that these facilities are aligned with your interests.
5- Cost
Nursing school can be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost of tuition and fees when choosing a nursing school. You should also find out what financial aid options are available.
6- Location
Consider how important the location of the nursing school is to you. If you are planning to work while attending school, you may want to choose a school that is close to your home or job. If you are willing to relocate, you have more options to choose from.
7- Size and setting
Nursing schools can range in size from small private schools to large public universities. Consider the size and setting of the school when making your decision. Some students prefer a smaller school where they can get more individualized attention, while others prefer a larger school with more resources.
8- Faculty
The faculty of a nursing school is important because they will be responsible for teaching you the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful nurse. Find out about the faculty at the schools you are considering and see if their qualifications and experience align with your interests.
9- Student support services
Nursing school can be challenging, so it is important to choose a school that offers student support services, such as tutoring, academic counseling, and mental health counseling.
10- Specializations
If you have a specific area of interest in nursing (e.g., pediatric nursing or oncology nursing), check if the school offers relevant specializations.
Covenant School of Nursing admissions requirements
Here are the admissions requirements for Covenant School of Nursing:
Upon graduating from high school or earning a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, it is essential to fulfill a set of eight specific prerequisite college courses from a college or university with regional accreditation.
National accreditation is acceptable only with prior approval. These prerequisite courses must be completed with a minimum grade of "C." To be eligible to apply, a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 in these required prerequisites is required.
The most recent grade achieved in these prerequisites will be utilized to determine the prerequisite GPA.
For English I and English II, College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) credit is acknowledged and must be documented on the official transcript.
Additionally, Dual Credit, Advanced Placement (AP), or CLEP credits are recognized for relevant courses if the grades meet the school's stipulated requirements. It is crucial to ensure that any Dual Credit, AP, or CLEP credits are clearly indicated on the official transcript.
Covenant School of Nursing financial considerations
Covenant School of Nursing and Allied Health's Financial Aid Office is your primary resource for students seeking support with different financial aid programs.
At Covenant School of Nursing and Allied Health, they are dedicated to assisting you in creating a personalized financial aid package that suits your needs. Financial aid can come in various forms, including:
Federal Pell Grants
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
Federal Direct Loan programs
Scholarships
Part-time work opportunities
Covenant Health's HealthTraxx
South Plains Workforce Solutions
Lubbock Catholic Family Services
Veteran's benefits
To learn more about diffrent forms of Covenant School of Nursing financial aids, you can visit their finacial aid page .
Covenant School of Nursing rankings and reviews
Covenant School of Nursing is ranked #14 in the Best Nursing Schools in Texas by Niche.com . The school has a 4.28 out of 5 star rating on Niche.com, based on reviews from students and alumni.
1- Before I was at Covenant Nursing School, I went to Texas Tech University. Tech is a large school with thousands of students. I felt more like an outsider than a student and I wanted to find more of a close-knit community. When I got accepted into Covenant Nursing School, I was ecstatic. The campus was a lot smaller and I found out the classes were about 40 students big. So, not only do I get to study the profession of my dream, I get to go through this program with friends that want to help and further each other along.
2- I will be starting in August of 2023, so I don't have any feedback on the school yet. I am applying for scholarships, and this review is one of them.
3- Instructors are very caring and there are a lot of resources to go to when you get stressed. The only issue is that pharmacology is difficult to learn here.
Degrees and tracks offered by Covenant School of Nursing
Covenant School of Nursing offers a three-year diploma program in nursing. The program prepares students for careers as registered nurses (RNs). Graduates of the program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for licensure as an RN.
Covenant School of Nursing also offers an LVN-RN track for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This track allows LVNs and LPNs to complete their registered nursing education in a shorter period of time.
In addition to its diploma program, Covenant School of Nursing also offers an online RN-to-BSN program. This program is designed for RNs who want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. The RN-to-BSN program can be completed in as little as 18 months.
Degrees and tracks offered by Covenant School of Nursing:
Diploma in Nursing
LVN-RN Track
Online RN-to-BSN Program
Tracks:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nursing (AGACNP)
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Nurse Leadership and Administration (NLA)
Nursing Education (NE)
Covenant School of Nursing campus life and student experience
Covenant School of Nursing has a small, close-knit campus community. Students are supportive of each other and work together to succeed. The school's faculty are dedicated to helping students learn and grow, and they are always available to offer assistance.
Campus life:
Covenant School of Nursing offers a variety of student activities and organizations, including:
Student Nurses Association (SNA): The SNA is a student-run organization that represents the interests of nursing students. The SNA provides students with opportunities to get involved in the community, network with other nursing students, and learn about new developments in the nursing profession.
Campus ministry: Covenant School of Nursing is a Christian school, and many students are active in campus ministry. The school offers a variety of religious services and events, and students are encouraged to participate in their faith community.
Intramural sports: Covenant School of Nursing offers a variety of intramural sports, such as basketball, volleyball, and softball. Intramural sports are a great way for students to stay active and have fun.
Social events: Covenant School of Nursing hosts a variety of social events throughout the year, such as potlucks, game nights, and dances. These events are a great way for students to get to know each other and socialize outside of class.
Student experience:
Students at Covenant School of Nursing report that they have a positive overall experience. They appreciate the small class sizes, the supportive faculty and staff, and the sense of community on campus.
Preparing for licensing exams
Preparing for licensing exams can be a challenging but essential step in your educational or professional journey. Here are some tips to help you prepare effectively:
Understand the exam format
Start by familiarizing yourself with the format of the exam. Is it multiple-choice, essay-based, or a combination of different question types? Knowing the format will help you tailor your study approach.
Create a study schedule
Develop a structured study schedule that allocates specific time slots for each topic or subject you need to cover. Consistency in your study routine is key.
Gather study materials
Ensure you have all the necessary study materials, including textbooks, practice exams, notes, and any other relevant resources. Check if there are official study guides or recommended texts.
Set realistic goals
Break down your study goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Set achievable milestones to track your progress and stay motivated.
Use multiple resources
Don't rely solely on one source for your study materials. Seek out various resources such as textbooks, online courses, flashcards, and practice exams to gain a well-rounded understanding of the material.
Active learning
Engage actively with the material. Take notes, create flashcards, and explain concepts to yourself or a study partner. Active learning helps reinforce your understanding.
Practice with practice questions
If sample questions or practice exams are available, make use of them. These can help you get a sense of the types of questions you might encounter and improve your test-taking skills.
To aid in this, there are valuable NCLEX study tools such as Smart’n, which provides you with NCLEX practice questions and nursing case studies.
This AI-powered platform offers a rich repertoire of questions and personalized quizzes tailored to each student's specific needs.
Moreover, Smart'n delivers continuous assessments and a comprehensive overview of an individual's performance, enabling students to track their progress and pinpoint their areas of strength and weakness.
Seek support
Don't hesitate to seek support from professors, tutors, or fellow students if you have questions or need clarification on certain topics.
Manage your time wisely
Time management is crucial during the exam. Practice time-bound exercises to get used to answering questions within the allocated time.
Review and revise
In the days leading up to the exam, review your notes and key concepts. Avoid cramming the night before, as this can lead to stress and fatigue.
Remember that everyone's learning style is different, so adapt these tips to your individual preferences and needs. Consistent, focused, and organized preparation will increase your chances of success on licensing exams.
Tips for success in nursing school
First and foremost, organization is paramount. Managing coursework, clinical rotations, and exams requires a well-structured plan. Use planners or digital tools to keep everything in order and create a study schedule that balances your workload without overwhelming you.
Active learning is another key element. Instead of passively reading textbooks, take notes, create flashcards, and engage in class discussions to reinforce your understanding. Collaborating with peers in study groups can provide different insights and motivate your progress.
Balancing your personal well-being is equally important. Nursing school can be stressful, so prioritize self-care. Get sufficient sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and make time for relaxation and exercise. This self-care not only bolsters your physical and mental health but also enhances your academic performance.
Effective time management is vital; create a routine that allows you to meet academic requirements while maintaining a personal life.
Seek help when needed – professors, tutors, and academic advisors are there to support you in your academic journey. Finally, stay informed about healthcare developments by reading nursing journals and participating in seminars.
Nursing is a dynamic field, and staying updated with the latest trends and research is essential for your future success in the profession.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Covenant School of Nursing is a promising institution for those aspiring to pursue a career in the healthcare field. With its strong commitment to providing quality nursing education, a supportive learning environment, and a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, it offers a comprehensive foundation for future nurses. The institution's dedicated faculty and staff, along with its state-of-the-art facilities, contribute to a holistic learning experience.
FAQs
1- Is Covenant School of Nursing accredited?
Yes, Covenant School of Nursing is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). ACEN is a nationally recognized accrediting agency for nursing education programs. Accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures that nursing programs meet high standards of quality.
2- What do you need to get into Covenant Nursing School?
To get into Covenant Nursing School, you must meet the following requirements:
High school diploma or GED certificate
Prerequisite courses:
English Composition I and II
Fundamentals of College Algebra
Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II
Microbiology
Nutrition
Chemistry I and II
GPA of 2.5 or higher in prerequisite courses
Submit an application
Complete an entrance exam
Pass a background check and drug test
