Prospective nursing student HELP!

[j9199]

Hi everyone!

I am currently a junior in college studying sociology but have decided I want to go into nursing after I graduate. After I graduate, I am interested in applying to schools for an accelerated BSN. My question is, do I need to have any nursing prerequisites done before I can apply? Or, are the all those pre-req classes (bio, chem, anatomy, etc.) to be taken while I am working on my accelerated BSN. If not, do you recommend taking the pre-req classes at a local community college then applying to schools?

Thanks!

[spore2008]

Almost all accelerated BSN programs have a cluster of prerequisite courses they require students complete PRIOR to beginning the program, though not necessarily PRIOR to submitting an application. Some programs require all courses be complete before application submission. Often, the more prerequisite courses completed, and the higher the grade earned in each course, will make you a more competitive applicant. I have never heard of an accelerated program allow you to take prerequisite courses DURING the program. Also, different programs may have different prerequisite course requirements so you will have to examine each program independently.

I would definitely take the courses at a community college as the cost is much cheaper. If you can fit some courses in while you are finishing up your undergraduate degree, you will save yourself some time and money.