Advice please: PreReqs @ Community college?

Definitely check with your prospective programs. It doesn't seem that it makes a difference where pre-reqs.are completed, but some schools (such as Arizona State University), will give extra points during admissions time to those students who completed classes at ASU.

If the ABSN program that you are interested in does not give a preference, I would go the cheaper route.

Also, will the university even allow you to take these pre-req. classes there, after you graduate (if you are not pursuing a degree)?

Programs should have a chart or grid of what courses at other colleges that have been determined to be equivalent to their own prerequisite courses. Find out what coursework you need, and then ask the program what they'll accept from the college you're planning on attending. This way you'll know exactly what courses will transfer and what you can not take anywhere else.

If you think you can handle the workload, definitely consider doing some of the prereq's before you graduate. Just be careful about what you take in combination with other courses as heavy science loads can just drive someone nuts. Some science courses, while advertised as say a 3 unit or a 5 unit course, should actually be a 5 or 6 unit course... don't put two courses that are like that together along with other courses to make a full load... you'll really be taking a load that is effectively well above that if you do. Pair one of those with one that's really known for being easier to handle. You should know that by now...

So... take some now if you can, then take the others later as that should lower the overall stress level. Good luck, I hope you're able to pull a good plan together and execute it as planned.

I agree... some colleges will give you more points toward your degree if you take them at that college... some credits may not transfer... for example here in pa we have a LPN school... if you want to transfer to a college they credits will not transfer... check on the pricing too... community colleges might be cheaper...

I really don't think it matters too much if you take the courses at a local community college. That's what I did and was admitted into two very good ABSN programs, and wait-listed at a very highly ranked, Ivy League program. I think what matters is most is doing well in the courses and showing them why you want to be a nurse (via essays, recommendations, and exposure to the field especially).

That being said, if you can afford to be a student full-time for another year, then by all means, perhaps you should do it. You could also graduate, work full or part time, and take the pre-reqs part time on the side (what I did). Good luck!

I think what matters is most is doing well in the courses and showing them why you want to be a nurse (via essays, recommendations, and exposure to the field especially).

I agree, as long as you're sure the community college credits are acceptable for transfer, the most important thing is to succeed in those courses. I decided to enroll at the local tech college to take my science prereqs about 10 years after graduating with my BA. I concentrated on maintaining a perfect GPA in those courses, and also completed a CNA course, got involved with an inpatient volunteer opportunity at the local hospice facility, and work part time as a home heath aide. I just got accepted to an excellent BSN program (at my alma mater!), I think my application was definitely strengthened by my activities outside the classroom and a well written personal essay.

Whatever path you end up choosing, good luck!