How to Take Science Nursing Prerequisites

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Hello everyone! My name is Dee. I'm currently at the end of my prerequisites at a community college in Nevada. After this semester of Microbiology and taking my TEAS test, I will be able to apply to the nursing program for Fall 2019.

I was inspired to write about this discussion topic because at the beginning of my year of taking my nursing pre-reqs, I was lost and didn't know how I should go about it. I wanted to challenge myself, but not put too much pressure on myself at the same time. I hope this post helps you guys out, and remember this as advice and suggestions.

So, in the first year of your college experience, you are mostly taking general ed. classes so you're eligible to take the important classes. Those are humanities, English, history, etc. When you finally get to your first biology class, or for me, Biology 189, you actually start your future career. I took Biology 189 in the summer, with 1 other general ed class. In the summer, it is accelerated so things move faster, however, it is possible if you have time to immerse yourself in studying. I took this class in the summer so I could get into Bio 223 or A&P 1, in the next semester. I eventually passed and took a&p 1 the subsequent semester.

Many advised me to take Bio 223 and Micro 251 in the same semester. People told me it wasn't going to be easy but it was do-able. I decided not to take their advice (haha) and just take a&p 1, along with other classes I needed, I think it was only 2. I'm glad I did it, because a&p was so material-heavy, and literally requires all of your time to know this stuff. The concepts are completely new to you and complex.

The next semester I took A&P 2, this class wasn't any easier. It took on a lot more complex subjects too. A&P 2 includes a lot of complicated concepts like the immune system, etc. I think I took A&P 2 with 2 other classes.

In my last semester, which is currently now, I just took Microbiology 251, by itself. Let me tell you how wonderful this is. Everything I've learned in A&P is such a great foundation for this class. Most of these concepts are built upon the things I've learned in A&P. This class is literally like a refresher. Still, its a lot to learn and a lot of information, but the concepts are technically very similar.

I suggest taking these classes separately because of how much time and understanding you have to dedicate to these classes. These biology classes are basically 2 classes in one because of their labs you have to take with them. However, everyone's pace is different. It depends on how much you can handle and you know what you can do. All these classes require a lot of independent study, your professors are wonderful assets, however, it all comes down to you.

One last thing I want to say is I also did the CNA program. This program also provided a wonderful foundation for my A&P classes. It is a tough program, but if you have the time or money, it's a really great introduction to your nursing career. I am a certified CNA, but I do not work as one, because of the low-pay and the heavy work you have to do. Thankfully, I did not have to work as one and have a job elsewhere.

Lastly, I got all B's in my science pre-reqs, and I'm hoping to get a B+ or A- in my Micro class. Everything else, like the math, statistic class, English, political science, etc., I got all A's in.

Anyways, hope your journeys are doing well, and never give up because the rewards are worth it all!

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Great general overview of the pre-req grind.

I would just add that all program requirements are not the same and one should really talk to a program advisor for each program that they plan to apply to.

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wow!!! great information, by the way, did you completed your pre-req within a year??

I love to read more about your experience and recommendations!

thanks !!

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