Approaching expired pre-reqs and not sure what to do

[stacym06]

Hello everyone! Been lurking for a few weeks now and have run into a concern of my own that hopefully someone can give me some advice on!

I am in the process of beginning to take my science prereqs (AP I, II, micro, statistics, and chemistry). I already am set to graduate with a different degree, but am returning to my college in the fall to begin pre-nursing classes. After taking the prereqs, I would be applying for a nursing program (BSN) starting in either Spring 2020 or Fall 2020.

But here's my first concern:

I already took Principles of Chemistry (for STEM majors) I during Spring 2013 and got a B and Chemistry II during Fall 2013 with a D. This was way back when I thought I wanted to be a Biology major. However, for the nursing program, my school has a requirement where science prereqs cannot be more than 6 years old. Another program I've been looking at require the science courses to be less than 5 years old. Another doesn't seem to have an expiration for Chem. My school also averages grades that have been repeated. So, option 1 is to to retake Principles of Chem 2, get an A and my school will average the A and the D. However, this option won't work if I don't get into my school since my second choice is the school that has a 5 year expiration date.

My other option could be to take a sequence of Survey of Chemistry (for allied health majors) instead and let the old Chems to expire. However, even though it will expire, would it look bad to not even attempt to retake Principles of Chem and take Survey of Chem instead? I'm not sure how picky schools are with failed grades and attempts at retaking them.

My second concern:

Since my school (my first choice) wouldn't consider the old Chems as expired until 2020, the highest science GPA I could get would be a 3.3 with that D averaged in. I could also delay applying to my school for 1 semester. (I wouldn't delay re-taking chemistry, just delay the application). With it being expired, I at least have a chance at a 4.0 science GPA. My overall GPA would only be 3.0-3.3 max, so I'm really putting all my efforts in my science prereqs and other requriments, but with that D, I feel like I just don't have a chance.

I know this is probably a really unique situation, but if anyone could provide me with some insight over what to do in this situation, I would be forever grateful!

.

[dianah, ASN]

Gosh, I wonder if talking with the admissions counselor(s) might help?

I hope some of our members who have some applicable experience or knowledge will chime in for you.

[stacym06]

Yes, I spoke with the nurse coordinator of my school's program already. But that was before I started thinking more and more about my options and "what if I don't get accepted." But I thought I'd ask on here for extra help! I may just have to go bug her again for more answers.