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Hello all! I am excited to announce that I'm going to be starting my pre reqs for nursing! Which classes should I begin with? I am worried about math though because it was never my strong subject, and I'm almost 40 so it's been a long time since I've been in school. I figured since my daughter is now in middle school, now is a good time to chase my dream. I have wanted to do nursing for as long as I can remember. I was a volunteer candy striper at 14-16, then at 19 I graduated from medical assisting school, and I've been working as a certified medical assistant ever since so I have tons of experience in the field. I regret not going back for my RN.....so here I go! :-)
Hi. It's good to hear you finally want to accomplish your goal :) I am starting my pre reqs this spring semester at a community college and just starting out with 3 classes as to not overwhelm myself: psych, English, and nursing dosages and calculations. I want to get most if my pre reqs out of the way before I apply. I plan to start my science courses next semester.
You should try scheduling an appt with a counselor and they will tell you what you need to take. When I'm done I plan on applying to 2 local community colleges as they both have great nursing programs. I
I recommend checking and double checking between the counselor/advisor and the nursing program. My school apparently doesn't communicate which have to be done before nursing classes and which can be completed during nursing classes. Also confirm which will transfer before registering if you are considering changing from community college to a major university or stand alone nursing school.
All the best of luck.
ambitiousBSN
460 Posts
Hi! I initially had some issues with remedial Math at community college, and the awful part about it was that it locked me from beginning any Bio courses because it was a pre-requisite for Bio and upper level Bio. It all depends what pre-requisites are needed for a specific course. Bio is extremely difficult to get into depending what you begin with from an entrance exam.
Most classes that you'll need for a nursing program include English, Math, Psychology, Human Development, Statistics (this depends on your program), Chemistry (this also depends on your program), Sociology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, etc. If you decide to pursue a BSN, you'll need additional classes. It's best to check with the college(s) you are interested in, though. Also, if you come across a great counselor/advisor, make sure to write down their name so you can contact them again!
I know how you feel about being a CMA! You gain tons of experience in the field, and while some aspects of Medical Assisting can help in nursing, I still approached nursing school last semester as if I had no idea what to expect because nursing is different than Medical Assisting. I wish you the best of luck in your transition! :-)