Second Degree Option BSN

SDO for Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree

A nurse examines a patient ear with an otoscope

The Second Degree Option (SDO) BSN program offers an accelerated curriculum to those who have already earned a bachelor's degree in another major. Consisting of three and a half semesters of courses with a shortened summer break, you can earn a BSN in 16 months. The sequence of courses is designed for accelerated students in a fast-paced program.

Want to finish with a master's degree instead? See our Master's Entry Advanced Generalist Nursing (MEAGN) program.

Benefits of the SDO

  • Earn your BSN degree in 16 months.
  • You'll build supportive relationships with other SDO students by moving through your courses together in a cohort model.
  • Most courses are the same as the Traditional BSN, with some modifications to allow for accelerated pace.
  • Seven-week terms set a fast program pace.

Part Time, Full Time and Second Degree Option (SDO) for Bachelor of Science in Nursing Information Sessions

These sessions are held virtually each month at 5 p.m. (except August and December).

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Outcomes

Find out what it means to get your BSN from Detroit Mercy on the BSN Outcomes page.

Sample Plan

For a sense of this track's curriculum, see the SDO BSN sample program plan (PDF).

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    Admission Criteria

    We are now accepting applications for Fall 2025 (August). The deadline is June 1, 2025, however, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit the application in advance of the deadline while completing prerequisites to allow time for feedback. This will allow for time for us to monitor your application as you complete outstanding prerequisites.

    The Nursing Admissions Committee will review applications (Spring 2025) for students who have 4 or less outstanding prerequisites as long as a plan of how they will be completed before the start of the program is submitted. All prerequisites must be completed and grades/transcripts must be received prior to the first day of classes. The MSON admission committee reserves the right to modify.

    Criteria

    • A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is preferred
    • All sciences and math must be completed within the last seven years, and with a minimum of a “C”
    • Applicants are permitted three repeat prerequisite courses; however, an individual prerequisite class can not be taken more than twice. 
    • Completion of prerequisite courses:
      • Academic writing
      • Intermediate Algebra
      • Introduction to Psychology
      • Developmental Psychology
      • Introduction to Sociology
      • Health Care Ethics
      • General Organic and Biological Chemistry
      • Anatomy & Physiology
      • Microbiology & Lab
      • Nutrition
    • Refer to the Nursing Transfer Equivalency Table to view course equivalencies.

    Supplemental Application Materials

    • Official transcripts (all colleges attended after high school)
    • Résumé
    • Letter of intent: Minimum of one page including a summary of the candidate's interest in nursing, and choice to attend the University of Detroit Mercy, McAuley School of Nursing. Additionally, it should include any skills, attributes, or professional aspirations that the candidate wishes to be considered for admission.
    • Letter of recommendation: One letter of recommendation should be provided from a source that can attest to the professional attributes of the candidate; examples include but are not limited to, letters from previous employers, previous or current instructors, organizations where the candidate was involved in providing professional services or volunteer work. You will be prompted to provide the name/email address of the person providing your letter of recommendation when completing the online application.

    Monthly Information Sessions

    The McAuley School of Nursing offers monthly information sessions to provide an overview of the Nursing track options and admission requirements. Sessions are interactive and provide time for questions. When you register for a session, you will be provided with a zoom link and detailed information.

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    Costs & Financial Aid

    All applicants are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the application process, ensuring University of Detroit Mercy's school code is indicated (002323). This will help to ensure timely processing of a financial aid award.

    Questions regarding financial aid may be directed to the Office of Financial Aid by calling (313) 993-3350 or finaid@udmercy.edu. 

Undergraduate Nursing Reciprocity Statement

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