The St. Olaf College Nursing Program is required by Minnesota law to conduct a criminal background study on all nursing students who enter the program and will be participating in clinical experiences. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) completes the background studies.
A background study involves a review of specific records and will determine whether or not a student is eligible to provide direct contact services (care of patients). A photograph and fingerprinting are required.
A study will be submitted upon a student’s entrance to the nursing program in the spring semester of the sophomore year.
Direct contact services (clinical experiences) are a requirement of the nursing major. If DHS disqualifies a student from providing direct contact services, they will be unable to complete the requirements of the nursing program and will be dismissed from the nursing major.