Undergraduate Admission Policy
General Statement
The faculty of the University of New Mexico, College of Nursing, is committed to excellence and diversity in its student body. Our admission policy for the baccalaureate, master, and doctoral degree programs is congruent with the mission statement of the College of Nursing and the Health Sciences Center. We believe that diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives among the student body help to insure a dynamic, productive, and positive learning experience. In seeking to achieve diversity, the admissions committees for each degree program may consider a wide range of factors in evaluating applicants for admission. Competency in the English language is required.
Since this college is a publicly funded institution, New Mexico residents are given preference. Geographical distribution from within the state also may be a factor in selecting the entering class as part of our search for diversity.
It has been our experience that a large percentage of the applicant pool is qualified to be admitted, and if admitted would succeed in the course of studies. Given limited clinical space and faculty and classroom space resources, however, admissions may be capped at a specified number each year to match resources. Many qualified applicants are regrettably denied admission.
Each admissions committee (i.e., baccalaureate, master, doctoral) operates within guidelines specific to that degree and/or concentration, as follows:
Baccalaureate Degree Program
Applicants are evaluated for their potential for academic success in the College of Nursing and their potential to contribute to an enriching educational environment while in school. Grade point average (cumulative GPA and science GPA) is an important factor in evaluating that potential. A cumulative and science GPA minimum of 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale is required for consideration for admission. GPA is considered along with all other factors in deciding which students from among a very talented and qualified pool should be admitted to the College of Nursing.
Admission decisions at the College of Nursing are made by the Undergraduate Committee with input from the Admissions Subcommittee. We believe that their collective judgment provides for fairer and more balanced decisions concerning the selection of a diverse entering class. Each application that meets minimum requirements is reviewed by the Admissions Subcommittee.
Applicants are advised that important documents in this evaluation include the academic transcript and the personal information provided on the application form.
The College of Nursing Admission Policy shall be subject to periodic review by the faculty and as requested by the Dean.