Frequently Asked Questions
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General
HYBRID OPTION: How often do I have to come to campus in the Hybrid program?
Over the course of a typical seven week class, you will meet on-campus three times, or about every third week. Typically, you will meet the first week, the third week, and the seventh week. Classes are typically from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and are always on Wednesdays.
ONLINE OPTION: How often do I have to come to campus in the Online program?
We ask that you attend a one-day Orientation on campus. Of course, you are always welcome to visit the campus to use the Library, speak with faculty or meet with your adviser.
How many classes will I take at one time?
Each cohort participates in one class at a time in a sequential order. You will not take more than one class at a time unless you choose to enroll simultaneously in a general education courses.
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New hybrid cohorts begin with an orientation session each May (application deadline: February 1). Online cohorts begin in August (application deadline: June 1). If you need general education classes in addition to the Nursing curriculum, you might wish to begin taking those as soon as possible. Please call (423) 425-5624 and your advisor will be happy to help you work out the most efficent schedule to get your BSN.
How long will it take to get my BSN?
The Gateway courses are normally completed in 14 months. Completion of the BSN may take longer if general eduction (non-Nursing) classes are needed for the Bachelor's degree.
Is it possible to keep working full-time while I complete the program?
Our program is designed especially for working nurses, and the majority of our students work full-time.
How much will the program cost?
The largest cost is tuition and fees. There will be additional expenses for books and miscelleneous fees each semester. Check with your employer to see if you may be reimbursed for tuition and other expenses.
What other ameneities and benefits will I receive as a UTC student?
For those residing or working near Chattanooga there are a number of nice benefits that all UTC students receive, including admission to the Aquatics and Recreation Center, use of kayaks, paddleboards, mountain bikes and outdoor equipment from UTC Outdoors, lending privileges at the Lupton Library, and free CARTA bus transportion. You must have a UTCID card made to receive these benefits.
Admissions/Academic
When are applications accepted for admission?
You may apply at any time for the next available cohort. The application deadline for the hybrid option is February 1 (classes begin the following May). The deadline for the online option is June 1 (classes begin in August).
How competitive is the application selection process?
We try to admit all qualified students who have a good chance of success in our program. See Admission Requirements.
Are clinicals part of the program?
Our program includes one course with community health clinical experiences designed to broaden horizons and provide new perspectives. Our students consistently report that the clinical hours are both rewarding and meaningful.
Do I have to take all of my general education classes at UTC?
Our advisors will work with you to be sure that you are able to transfer the most possible credit towards fulfilling the university's general education requirements. The university requires 60 hours at a four year university/college and the last 24 hours at UTC. You may take classes outside UTC only if you do not violate these policies: the 60 hour rule, at least 39 hours at 3000‐4000 level, and at least 25% of credit hours taken under direction of UTC faculty. Again, your advisors stand ready to assist you in meeting these requirements.
Technology
What computer skills do I need to do well in this program?
If you are comfortable writing and editing documents on the computer, using e-mail, and browsing the Internet, you already have most of the skills you'll need. Should you have any concerns about your computer knowledge, our technology coordinator will be happy to talk with you personally.
What kind of computer will I need?
Any computer that is less than three years old should be fine. A high-speed Internet connection (a minimum of 1 Mbs) is needed. A good place to check your connection speed is www.speedtest.net.
In general, if you are able to play this video, chances are your computer and Internet connection are sufficient for the program. If you have any doubts, contact our technology coordinator.
My computer is a Mac. Will it work?
Apple makes fine computers and they work well in our online classes when used with MS Office software (see below). The best computer is one that you are comfortable using, whether it is a PC or a Mac.
What software will I need to buy?
Although it is possible for a skilled person to use other software, our faculty require that papers and presentations be submitted in Microsoft Office format and therefore strongly recommend purchase of this software. Collaboration with other faculty and students becomes problematic if other software is used.
Office 2010 Professional is available to University of Tennessee students for $75.00 + shipping through the UT Knoxville bookstore; more often, students purchase the Office 2010 Home and Student Edition (currently around $150 but allows installation on up to three computers).
Dr. Susan Davidson |
Debbie Delashmitt |
April Anderson |
