The Bachelor of Science (nursing) degree offered by the New York External Degree Program of the University of the State of New York is described. The degree program is designed to enable individuals to earn a college degree by using college courses, proficiency examinations, and/or special assessment. It provides a program of assessment rather than instruction, and classroom attendance is not required. The candidate's previous collegiate or independent study is evaluated and examinations are offered in content areas essential for the degree. Candidates may satisfy requirements at a pace that meets their individual situations, and there are not prerequisites for enrollment. The degree program requires 120 semester credits and is equivalent to a campus-based, 4-year nursing program; 72 semester hour credits are required in general education and 48 semester hour credits in nursing. The following topics are addressed: accreditation and licensure, advisement, cancellation of examinations, written and performance examinations, financial aid, and waiver of examinations. Nursing requirements include: clinical performance in nursing examination, health assessment and teaching performance examination, health restoration examinations, health support examinations, professional performance examination, and professional strategies examination. Information is provided on the number of credits for specific courses and on the staff by name and educational background. (SW)