Preparing for Nursing School - Maricopa Community College

[kjmc76]

I am finally taking the plunge and after getting a B.S. 13 years ago, finally I am switching career paths and fulfilling my RN dream. I have decided to apply to Maricopa Community College, here's why, I have a young daughter at home and the Chandler/Gilbert campus is close to home and even though I have a B.S., and would love to pursue a BSN, I screwed up some of the early science courses, Chemistry and Biology...I'm hoping they will use my H.S. grades (both C's) for acceptance.

Here's my question...the application process appears to be based on grades of prereqs and NET. Is that it? No interview? Should I be retaking my Chem and Bio courses to be more competitive? I am currently retaking Psych 101 because of a grade less than C.

I will be meeting with an advisor once it has calmed down...apparently the first few weeks of school is crazy. I am also new to Arizona, so the more advice and knowledge, the better.

I'm very motivated, now and have a lot more at stake. I really want this, however, I need to prepare as much as possible before applying. Any suggestions?

Thanks for your time!

Kerri

[Patientlywaiting08]

Hi Kerri

Admission to the MCCD nursing program is based on the NET test with a minimum score of 50% in math and 60% in reading as well as completion of all your pre-reqs with a "C" or better. Other than that the program is non-competitive. You will receive a time stamp and will be placed when your name makes it to the top of the list. Your pre-reqs include BIO201, PSY 101, CEM 130 and Algebra I believe. BIO 202 and BIO 205 are considered co-reqs. You will also need ENG101 and ENG102 as well as one Humanities class. Once you are on the waiting list and have completed BIO 202 and BIO 205 you can also apply to the Banner Nurse Fellows program. That program is competitive and you will be scored according to your GPA, NET test score, interview and essay answers on your application.

Good Luck and don't let the wait discourage you. If you really want it, you will get there one day.

[kjmc76]

Thanks for the response...that helps a lot. I'm still concerned about those early grades (Chem and Bio) when I pursue my BSN. I'm not a 'C' student, however, so far my grades reflect it...although they are all over 15 years old. I am determined to prove myself. For me that means starting with the RN and working up from there.

Thanks for the encouragement...the wait doesn't bother me!

[HJS27]

Don't waste your neurons worrying about the BSN just yet. The MCCD waiting list is looong, and you are going to need those neurons later. Check out the MCCD Nursing Program website HERE. Read everything, and plan accordingly. :wink2:

Get your transcripts evaluated by an advisor NOW. :typing It is unlikely you will be able to use your high school courses due to age. However, you don't want to re-take any classes if you don't need to. Do the pre-reqs as quickly as you can. Don't sweat the NET, with your academic background you should be able walk in, take, and pass with flying colors with no prep...remember, you just have to pass...admission is not competitive...you just have to meet the minimum requirements, and wait, wait, wait. Don't worry about co-reqs until after you submit your application. You will have plenty of time to complete them at your leisure while waiting for placement. :chuckle

DO take pathophysiology after you submit your application and complete your co-reqs...the better grasp you have of pathophys, the easier nursing school will be for you. Seriously, take it twice if you can...trust me, should you heed this advice, someday you will look back and want to send me flowers for this nugget.

All the best.

[kjmc76]

Thanks HJS27...is that an elective (HCR240) , requirement or based on your experience...it didn't look like it was required, from the website?

Either way, thanks for the advice...the more the better.

I appreciate the input!

[HJS27]

Elective. Take it AFTER you complete your pre & co-reqs.