Published Jan 18, 2015
SunkissedRN2b
197 Posts
Hello fellow and aspiring student nurses.
Here is some advice to get you started so that you finish the nursing program in 3 years. Please note this info is specifically geared for the evening program student. While the day program may be similar, I am not aware of the specifics and prefer not to address it.
1) You will need to take CHE121 (chemistry) before you begin the other science classes (unless your previous chemistry class is transferred in).
2) MAT104 can be taken without the basic algebra class and if you have any troubles, especially after passing the math entrance exam, go to the student services department and they will clear it up. Don't bother speaking with your advisor or the math department as they cannot help you.
3) You can take BIO426 (AP2) and BIO420 (micro) together as long as you have science department permission. Keep in mind that your GPA has to show that you are "smart" enough to take both at the same time. Maybe get a recommendation letter from your BIO425 professor. Request this before the semester ends so you will be able to register for both classes as they fill up quickly.
4) Summer classes are your friend and they are cheaper. Get the "basics" out of the way before beginning your nursing courses so you can just focus on them when the time comes. If it's offered online, take it if you are disciplined.
5) Apply during early advisement to take the HESI exam DURING your final semester of pre-reqs. The HESI is taken at the end of that semester so that you begin the nursing sequence the following semester.
6) Pre-Reqs are MAT104, BIO425, PSY100 and ENG101. For evening students, you also have to complete BIO426, BIO420 and PSY240/SOC 100. Try your best to get As in the first 4. Heck, try your best to get As all around. =]
7) Entrance into the nursing program is regulated by your pre-req GPA and HESI / critical thinking scores. I believe the passing score is 85 in all areas and >800 critical thinking portion (don't quote me because it changes yearly). I heard that if your scores and GPA are tied with another student, they will look at other classes (geared toward nursing) to break the tie and make a decision.
Here is the proposed evening schedule:
Year 1
Spring
Che121
Mat104
Eng101
Psy100
Summer
Bio425
Eng201
Psy240 or Soc100
Fall
Bio426
Bio420
Spe100
Year 2
Nur112
Nur212 (it might be 211-check the catalogue)
Year 3
Nur313
Nur411
Nur415
The last class you need is a general elective and you can throw that in at any time during the program.
Good luck prospective students!
*Disclaimer - this info in no way is telling you to disregard the advice of your advisor. Please use sound judgment and do your own due diligence when preparing for your future.