UMSON BSN@Shady Grove Spring 2011

guest10 · May 26, 2011

Hi Grey Lady!
I have a few questions that you may be able to answer, I'm still in the process of collecting my transcripts and plan to go to an open house.
1. Chemistry - I've taken a grad level Molecular biology class (no lab) and a regular undergrad intro to bio class (with lab). Both of the classes had half decent reviews of chemistry basics and I also did some self study to refresh my memory. I took a year long sequence (3 quarters) of Chemistry about 15 years ago. Will it be required to take it over? I'm unsure of my grades in it which is why I'm waiting for my transcripts before I officially ask the admissions office about it.
2. I'm trying to boogie to apply for Fall 2012. I will be taking my last pre-req (if chemistry does not need to be repeated), Anatomy or Physiology in the Summer of 2012. If I need to retake chem, I can also take that in summer 2012 or squeeze it in during spring 2012. So my questions would be, would that be counted against me if I don't have all my pre-reqs done by the time my application is submitted? If not, I'm guessing I'd be ok for a Spring 2012 application?
3. Lastly, I'm feeling ok about academic references but I've worked for almost the same company for nearly 15 years and although I don't work in the health field, I think my work record would be a stronger reference than someone I took a class with for 3 months, especially since I'm only taking pre-reqs as opposed to being a long term student in a school. Do you have any insight on whether or not you can have a non-academic recommendation letter if you also have the 2 academic ones and would that help in any way?
Thanks a bunch if you can give me some insight.

As to number one, I am afraid only someone in admissions can answer that. They will let you know when you submit your unofficial transcripts using the Unofficial Transcript Evaluation form on the School of Nursing website.

You may certainly apply before you have finished all your prerequisite classes as long as you have completed at least two out of the four science classes and you will finish them all before nursing classes begin. There is a Courses in Progress form to fill out to show why you do not yet have a transcript for them. If your academic record is solid, a missing prerequisite will not hurt you, especially if it is not one of the sciences.

A professional reference in addition to the two academic references is just fine. What we are looking for, however, is evidence that you are capable of succeeding in a rigorous academic program. If you look at the form for the academic reference you can see what we are after.

What you should do before you submit your application is attend an information session at either campus. These are presented by a counselor from the office of admissions and is largely about the application and admissions process.

Best of luck!

leenak · May 26, 2011

Thanks for taking the time to answer Grey Lady! It helps.