What to do w/ all these pre-reqs?!

echo56 · Jan 7, 2011

I think it all depends on the specific school. In our area we have 2 separate ADN programs. One is a CC with pre req of A & PI and II, and micro. At the University they require eng101, chem, math, bio, A&PI and II, just to start the program. And that's before you have to deal with the waiting list/qualifications/grades to even apply.

I opted to go LPN at a tech school. The waiting list was non existent, the nclex pass ratio was very high, and around here the bridge programs are available and a small wait list. Basically I can finish my RN in about 12 months including the pre req's at the CC.

Basically I'm using the LPN as a stepping stone...not sure what all is available in your region, but 4 years for an ADN sounds ridiculous.

Jules A, MSN · Jan 7, 2011

I also went to LPN school first which cut down on my pre-reqs and took an extra one each semester while in LPN school so I would be ready to head for my RN when I was done. Exactly what pre-reqs are you required to take? If you go full time for an ADN the pre-reqs shouldn't take more than 1 year especially if you are willing to take summer classes. Good luck.

Wanna_BA_Nurse · Jan 7, 2011

Echo56 - THANK YOU! It is ridiculous! Oh my word.

Jules A - The classes I have to take as pre-reqs (should I choose to stay at my current school) are:

LPN Program:

4 Anatomy with Lab….. BIOL (2320, 2325)

4 Physiology with Lab….. BIOL (2420, 2425)

4 Microbiology with Lab….BIOL (2060, 2065)

3 English….ENGL (1010)

3 Nutrition…..HFST1020

3 Psychology….. PSY1010

6 AHNA 1000 Nursing Assistant

RN Program:

5 Chemistry with Lab

4 Math 1030, 1040, or 1050

3 Introductory Pathophysiology

3 Humanities

3 American Institutions

Oh... I guess without the general education credits, it isn't quite 2 years...but with the general eds, It will take 4 years to get my RN still! Should I just not do this program and try looking for something else?

Thanks for the help so far by the way!:redbeathe

Coulter630 · Jan 8, 2011

I started doing my pre reqs in Fall 07. Currently, I am in my third semester for the ADN program.....one more after third. So, for me....it will be exactly four yrs when I graduate.

If you want to be a nurse, stick with it! Once your in nursing school, it will go by quick! Don't give up your dream of being a nurse if that's what you really want to do. Good Luck!

caliotter3 · Jan 8, 2011

This is typical for nursing programs. You can use the majority of the courses to get a degree in something else, such as general studies, if you want.

Wanna_BA_Nurse · Jan 8, 2011

Okay then...as long as this is normal I guess I'm gonna have to do them :crying2: It will be worth it though.

Thank you everyone for your input! Really! I appreciate it.

Jules A, MSN · Jan 10, 2011

Echo56 - THANK YOU! It is ridiculous! Oh my word.
Jules A - The classes I have to take as pre-reqs (should I choose to stay at my current school) are:
LPN Program:
4 Anatomy with Lab….. BIOL (2320, 2325)
4 Physiology with Lab….. BIOL (2420, 2425)
4 Microbiology with Lab….BIOL (2060, 2065)
3 English….ENGL (1010)
3 Nutrition…..HFST1020
3 Psychology….. PSY1010
6 AHNA 1000 Nursing Assistant
RN Program:
5 Chemistry with Lab
4 Math 1030, 1040, or 1050
3 Introductory Pathophysiology
3 Humanities
3 American Institutions
Oh... I guess without the general education credits, it isn't quite 2 years...but with the general eds, It will take 4 years to get my RN still! Should I just not do this program and try looking for something else?
Thanks for the help so far by the way!:redbeathe

For my pre-reqs I paired hard courses, for me, with ones that I figured would be easier. For example I did A&P 1 with English and Intro to Psych. Micro by itself over a summer session etc. Good luck and remember if you get your LPN first you can work and make $$ while finishing up with your RN. All in all it took me about 9 months longer that way but the money I made as a LPN and the ability to transition at my job from LPN to RN were worth it.

passion4people · Jan 10, 2011

Okay then...as long as this is normal I guess I'm gonna have to do them It will be worth it though.
Thank you everyone for your input! Really! I appreciate it.

It is worth it. Remember that each time you seek a higher degree, you will be given credit for the courses you have already taken. The deciding factor of how many classes/courses you are required to take is determined by what you have when you start. If you just finished high school you may receive credit for some classes. Even if you have a different degree you may be able to receive credit for some courses. That is why it is important to make sure your school is accredited. Another option is you can clep some of your courses this only pertains to the pre-reqs. Good luck..........

elkpark · Jan 10, 2011

Referring to ADN degrees as "two year degrees" is largely a misnomer. Most (not all) ADN programs consist of two years, full-time, of nursing courses, but that doesn't include the prereqs. Most people end up taking 3-4 years to complete an ADN degree.

nursinghopeful1111 · Jan 11, 2011

sounds pretty normal to me.

the ADN program I was looking at was 2 years to get your pre reqs and then 2 years for nursing courses.

I've decided to pursue my BSN instead which is the same amount of time..2yrs for gen ed and 2yrs for nursing courses.

Wanna_BA_Nurse · Jan 11, 2011

Thanks everyone! I'll be okay with the four years, but I'll keep searching for something that may knock off a semester or two. Still, thanks for the input everyone! Really.