These Pre-reqs... are making me nuts!

[averna]

These pre-reqs for these nursing programs are driving me nuts. For most programs, I need the basics: Anatomy, Physiology, Stats, Chem, and Microbiology. Some of the programs also need Nutrition, or Intro to Psych. The Stats and the psych are fine (I got a BA in psych in '07), but I have NONE of the other pre-reqs.

Ok, so I figure I'll look at some local schools and register.

So my first bet is a nice university here, at which I WORK, so I would get tuition reimbursed (woot!) So I'm like, sweet, I'll sign up for a (free!) evening class. Anatomy, here I come!

OH WAIT. Anatomy has a prereq? Bio 106. Huh. Um. Ok, I guess I'll just... register for that then.

OH WAIT. Bio 106 has a pre-req? Bio 105. Huh. Um. Ok, I guess - ok wait, no, these pre-reqs are going to take me YEARS before I can even APPLY to nursing school. My pre-reqs for nursing school have pre-reqs, which have pre-reqs. GAH!

I'm pulling my hair out here! Has anyone else had this problem, starting from scratch? I talked to some of the nursing programs I'm interested in, and they DO offer some summer courses to help people with pre-reqs - but the thing is, most of these classes are quick, compressed online courses designed specifically for THAT program - as in, if I took them, and didn't get into that program, I couldn't use them for credit at another nursing program. Which would pretty much put me back to square one.

I'm also trying to broaden my search to other community colleges, etc, where I would, in fact, have to pay tuition, but it wouldn't be *as* much as a private institution.

I don't know guys. All of this seems so overwhelming. I mean, I do think I can do it, and I DO want to go to nursing school. It's just a lot of stuff that needs to be organized, and get done, and figured out.

I guess it's be good practice for the real deal, huh?

I think I just need someone to tell me to calm down, take one step at a time, etc....

[tinybabynurse]

Oh that's so great for you! I took A&P I in Spring semester this past year...Bio 101 was a prereq for it and I had taken it when I got my original BS...but it had been 15 years since I had it. My A&P textbook came with a "Prep for A&P" book (I don't know if that was the exact title, but something like it). I read it cover to cover...it was pretty easy reading anyway...and it was very helpful to have that review before starting the class. Others in my class hadn't taken Bio 101 and they dropped A&P after a couple of weeks.

Sounds like you're really motivated though, so I'm sure you'll be fine. I would just suggest finding a Bio refresher book or a prep for A&P book, then you'll just be that much more confident going into it.

Good luck on your journey! I also decided to do ABSN and I start in January. My school too was very competive..almost 400 applicants for 80 spots. So you can do it!

[polka-dot, RN]

I have that particular book...it's called "Get Ready for A&P" I'd be happy to send it to you, but you can also order on Amazon for less than $7 (used). If you want my copy, PM me with your address and I'll toss it in the mail next week after my finals.

[tinybabynurse]

Yep, PolkaDot that is the one!

[melmarie23, MSN, RN]

That is awesome news averna!!!!

Good luck with your class and keep us updated how it all goes!