’)
If you’ve been thinking about pursuing an online nursing program, you’ll need to make a realistic assessment of your skills and the required courses for a nursing degree. Although program requirements vary from college to college, here is a sample of the typical coursework you would have to enroll in to obtain an Associate’s Degree in Nursing.
General Education Courses for an Associate’s Degree in Nursing
Like it or not, you cannot earn your associate’s degree without taking some basic courses. Many programs have waiting lists, so taking a few courses online is a good way to get your foot in the door.
For starters, most colleges require that you take English Composition I and II. Good writing skills are essential in the medical field because errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation can result in life-altering mistakes. Good reading and proofreading skills are also essential for success. Many colleges require that you take a basic computer keyboarding course, as well.
You’ll also be required to take specific science courses before you qualify for a nursing program, usually Anatomy and Physiology I and II. These courses teach intensive coverage of the body and body systems as a whole.
Math is also a prerequisite to enter most nursing programs. At least one course in algebra or probability and statistics is a typical requirement.
Finally, you will also be required to take at least one psychology course. Many colleges also require an additional humanities or fine arts elective.
Nursing Courses for an Associate’s Degree in Nursing
Some colleges may require you to take the general education requirements prior to admission to the nursing program while other colleges may allow you to take them in conjunction with your nursing courses. Check with your college for specific requirements.
Keep in mind that requirements vary from state to state, but here is an example of a typical Associate’s Degree in Nursing curriculum:
Beginning Nursing Skills – This course general covers basic patient care as well as the requirements to work as part of a medical team.
Pharmacology Basics – This course covers basic pharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacotherapeutics, as well as simple drug calculations.
Chronic Health Problems – This course covers basic treatments related to adult health issues.
Health Promotion for Families – This course covers nursing care for childbearing families. Usually there are two courses in this sequence: one that focuses on normal, developmental issues and one that focuses on acute health issues.
Nursing Care Management – This course focuses on nursing care to individuals with specific health problems. This course is often delivered as a two-part sequence.
Nursing Seminar – This course covers selected nursing concepts as deemed appropriate by the instructor.
Nursing Management and Leadership – This course not only covers the basics of caring for individuals but also reviews the concepts necessary for becoming an integral part of a nursing team.
Nursing Concepts and Clinical Practice – This course combines acquired knowledge with the application of nursing skills in select settings. Students may be required to take two semesters of clinical practice.
Applying for the License in Practical Nursing
Upon graduation, you’ll also be required to apply for a License in Practical Nursing. To obtain your license, you will be required to pass the state’s board exam for nurses.
Nursing is a career with a lot of career growth and potential. Although nursing is a popular career choice, many individuals do not understand the rigors of this program. Before enrolling in any nursing program, schedule an appointment with an advisor at the college so you will acquire a good understanding of the requirements you will have to fulfill to graduate with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing.
