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Out of all the pre-requisite classes for nursing, which class would you consider the hardest?
I'm considering pursuing nursing and is familiar with the pre-requisite classes for nursing.
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14 answers
Updated
Ana’s Answer
Hi Russel, I would say the most difficult one was Microbiology. I know a lot of people say A&P but honestly if you have time to memorize you'll do fine in it. Microbiology is a whole other beast. Just put in the time and you'll do great!
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TRAVIS’s Answer
Congrats on your Job Corps Scholarship. Each of the medical trainings have prerequisites to be eligible to start. Your career prep training will include some of those. If it is a GED, or other academic testing they will help you. Some of the trainings also have age requirements. What is most important is that once you complete your basic training is that you consider advanced training. The more training you get while at the Job Corps, the better paying the jobs will be once you graduate. You may need to transfer to another campus to complete LVN/LPN or college level training. Be sure to maintain excellent attendance and conduct so you will be eligible for the advanced trainings. You have 3 total years to get as many career skills as possible before you graduate. Be patient, work hard and stay away from negative influences and you will do well.
Updated
Cindy’s Answer
Microbiology was my hardest pre-req. Anatomy and Physiology I & II, chemistry, pathophysiology, statistics, and Biology were hard too. But the lab for microbiology was hard especially as I had to draw my bacteria, then identify it using several tests,
Updated
Tatjana’s Answer
Hi Russel,
It all depends on your preferences but as opposed to "hardest", let's talk "life-saving and necessary".
What a nurse/any medical practitioner needs to know better than the back of their own hands, based on my opinion, is Anatomy and Physiology I and II. This is one of the subjects you need to know as if your life depended on it, and your patients' lives really might! And you need to know it at all times, not just for the exam.
Another most relevant, again in my opinion, is pharmacology. I've witnessed how many super-qualified doctors prescribe wrong medications (yes, they are supposed to be used for a certain condition but not all patients can handle it so you need to know their replacements. (My father got a heart attack because he was prescribed state-of-the-art heart meds that made his BP reach 250/180 and then I would give him my Prilenap HL, 2 tablets, and in a couple of hours he was so much better. Unfortunately, his doctor insisted on "his" therapy and, well, did not end well).
All subjects matter but when it comes to saving lives, these two are, in my opinion, the ones you need to know inside and out.
Best of luck!
It all depends on your preferences but as opposed to "hardest", let's talk "life-saving and necessary".
What a nurse/any medical practitioner needs to know better than the back of their own hands, based on my opinion, is Anatomy and Physiology I and II. This is one of the subjects you need to know as if your life depended on it, and your patients' lives really might! And you need to know it at all times, not just for the exam.
Another most relevant, again in my opinion, is pharmacology. I've witnessed how many super-qualified doctors prescribe wrong medications (yes, they are supposed to be used for a certain condition but not all patients can handle it so you need to know their replacements. (My father got a heart attack because he was prescribed state-of-the-art heart meds that made his BP reach 250/180 and then I would give him my Prilenap HL, 2 tablets, and in a couple of hours he was so much better. Unfortunately, his doctor insisted on "his" therapy and, well, did not end well).
All subjects matter but when it comes to saving lives, these two are, in my opinion, the ones you need to know inside and out.
Best of luck!
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Russel,
What you would consider the hardest class depends on your talents and interests. Personally, I don't like organic chemistry, but you might find it easy.
Good luck on your path to become an awesome nurse!
KP
What you would consider the hardest class depends on your talents and interests. Personally, I don't like organic chemistry, but you might find it easy.
Good luck on your path to become an awesome nurse!
KP
Updated
Kingsley’s Answer
While opinions may vary, many nursing students consider Pharmacology to be one of the most challenging pre-requisite classes. Here's why:
# Complexity of Medications
Pharmacology involves studying the complex interactions between medications, diseases, and the human body. With thousands of medications available, understanding their mechanisms of action, side effects, and potential interactions can be overwhelming.
# Volume of Material
Pharmacology courses often cover a vast amount of material, including:
1. Medication classification and categories
2. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
3. Medication side effects and adverse reactions
4. Dosage calculations and medication administration
5. Pharmacological interventions for various diseases and conditions
# Application-Based Learning
Pharmacology requires students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, making it a challenging but essential skill for nursing practice.
# Other Challenging Classes
While Pharmacology is often considered particularly demanding, other pre-requisite classes can also be challenging, such as:
1. Anatomy and Physiology
2. Microbiology
3. Biochemistry
4. Pathophysiology
Keep in mind that every student's experience is unique, and what one student finds most challenging, another might not.
# Complexity of Medications
Pharmacology involves studying the complex interactions between medications, diseases, and the human body. With thousands of medications available, understanding their mechanisms of action, side effects, and potential interactions can be overwhelming.
# Volume of Material
Pharmacology courses often cover a vast amount of material, including:
1. Medication classification and categories
2. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
3. Medication side effects and adverse reactions
4. Dosage calculations and medication administration
5. Pharmacological interventions for various diseases and conditions
# Application-Based Learning
Pharmacology requires students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, making it a challenging but essential skill for nursing practice.
# Other Challenging Classes
While Pharmacology is often considered particularly demanding, other pre-requisite classes can also be challenging, such as:
1. Anatomy and Physiology
2. Microbiology
3. Biochemistry
4. Pathophysiology
Keep in mind that every student's experience is unique, and what one student finds most challenging, another might not.
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Martin’s Answer
Anatomy and physiology is usually the hardest because there is a great deal of memorization and you are being exposed to these before ever using them. I find it all makes more sense as I apply it vs just memory. Also, there are new terms, etc., that can be hard at first. The second hardest is pharmacology, depending on the instructor. Lots of medications, dosages, calculations. But, get through these and the rest are much easier.
Updated
Caleb’s Answer
Hi Russel,
Thank you for your question! I work as a teaching assistant for Anatomy and Physiology and I have heard many pre-nursing students say that it is the hardest class they have to take. The amount of content you have to learn and the fact that many are taking it in their first semester of college leads to many students struggling to adjust to the pace and depth of the content.
In order to succeed in these classes, I find that you have to figure out how you learn best. For myself and many other students, I find that redrawing the structures, breaking up the material into small chunks, and practicing active recall by writing down everything you can remember after lecture really helps.
Hope this helps and I wish you best in your nursing journey!
Thank you for your question! I work as a teaching assistant for Anatomy and Physiology and I have heard many pre-nursing students say that it is the hardest class they have to take. The amount of content you have to learn and the fact that many are taking it in their first semester of college leads to many students struggling to adjust to the pace and depth of the content.
In order to succeed in these classes, I find that you have to figure out how you learn best. For myself and many other students, I find that redrawing the structures, breaking up the material into small chunks, and practicing active recall by writing down everything you can remember after lecture really helps.
Hope this helps and I wish you best in your nursing journey!
Updated
Jane’s Answer
I am a nurse practitioner. The most difficult course for me during nursing prerequisite is anatomy and physiology(A&P). I found it difficult because I didn't have the time to study. Once you make time to study you should be okay. This course is required and mostly comes in parts (I & II). It will make your nursing journey a lot easier if you understand this course. A&P is the bases for some of your courses during your nursing program as well
Updated
Molly’s Answer
I found organic chemistry challenging based on the professor style and the level of difficulty. I did get some help with a tutor when I realized I needed it.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Russel! 😄
So you’re diving into the world of **nursing**—awesome! And you're curious about which pre-requisite class is the hardest? Well, brace yourself, because nursing comes with some *seriously* tough classes. But hey, if you can tackle these, you’ll be more than ready for the real deal. 💪
### The Toughest Pre-Requisite Classes for Nursing (with some humor, of course):
1. **Organic Chemistry (OChem)**:
Oh boy, this one gets a lot of attention. If you think regular chemistry is tough, just wait until you meet **OChem**—it’s like the evil twin of basic chemistry, but with way more structure and naming rules. 🤯 People often say, "If you survive OChem, you can survive anything." It’s that challenging, but if you get through it, you’ll feel like a superhero.
2. **Anatomy and Physiology (A&P)**:
If you love *how the body works*—cool, you're in the right place. But *this class*... it’s like studying for the ultimate human body exam. Imagine memorizing bones, muscles, organs, and all their functions *while* dealing with complex terminology. It's like a Netflix series, but with *way* more memorization. 😂
3. **Microbiology**:
You’ll get to learn all about the tiniest critters out there (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.). It's like you’re becoming a **tiny creature detective**. But the tricky part? Understanding all the concepts and lab work—because *bugs* are serious business. 🦠
4. **Math/Statistics**:
Nursing involves lots of math, like figuring out dosages and medication calculations. It sounds simple, but trust me, when you’re calculating milliliters at 3 AM with a patient waiting for their meds, it gets real. 💉📊
### Final Thoughts:
The hardest class depends on *you*—what you find tricky might not be the same for someone else. If you’re not a fan of memorizing tons of facts, **A&P** might be your challenge. If you’re more of a math whiz, then **OChem** might be your nemesis.
But don't worry! You've got this. Nursing is all about perseverance, patience, and (let’s be honest) coffee. ☕💉
Best of luck, and don’t let any class intimidate you—just take it one day at a time!
So you’re diving into the world of **nursing**—awesome! And you're curious about which pre-requisite class is the hardest? Well, brace yourself, because nursing comes with some *seriously* tough classes. But hey, if you can tackle these, you’ll be more than ready for the real deal. 💪
### The Toughest Pre-Requisite Classes for Nursing (with some humor, of course):
1. **Organic Chemistry (OChem)**:
Oh boy, this one gets a lot of attention. If you think regular chemistry is tough, just wait until you meet **OChem**—it’s like the evil twin of basic chemistry, but with way more structure and naming rules. 🤯 People often say, "If you survive OChem, you can survive anything." It’s that challenging, but if you get through it, you’ll feel like a superhero.
2. **Anatomy and Physiology (A&P)**:
If you love *how the body works*—cool, you're in the right place. But *this class*... it’s like studying for the ultimate human body exam. Imagine memorizing bones, muscles, organs, and all their functions *while* dealing with complex terminology. It's like a Netflix series, but with *way* more memorization. 😂
3. **Microbiology**:
You’ll get to learn all about the tiniest critters out there (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.). It's like you’re becoming a **tiny creature detective**. But the tricky part? Understanding all the concepts and lab work—because *bugs* are serious business. 🦠
4. **Math/Statistics**:
Nursing involves lots of math, like figuring out dosages and medication calculations. It sounds simple, but trust me, when you’re calculating milliliters at 3 AM with a patient waiting for their meds, it gets real. 💉📊
### Final Thoughts:
The hardest class depends on *you*—what you find tricky might not be the same for someone else. If you’re not a fan of memorizing tons of facts, **A&P** might be your challenge. If you’re more of a math whiz, then **OChem** might be your nemesis.
But don't worry! You've got this. Nursing is all about perseverance, patience, and (let’s be honest) coffee. ☕💉
Best of luck, and don’t let any class intimidate you—just take it one day at a time!
Updated
Dr. Abigail’s Answer
Hi Russel -
I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and went to medical school - I believe that during undergrad my hardest class was calculus and organic chemistry.
I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and went to medical school - I believe that during undergrad my hardest class was calculus and organic chemistry.
Updated
Natasha’s Answer
Hello Rusel,
I would love to help answer this question, but I need clarification on what you mean when you say pre-requisite classes. Different colleges have different classes they require you to take before they even let you apply for their nursing program, mine even had a required math class that was considered a science credit! So without knowing what specific classes you're referring to, I can't accurately say which was the most difficult for me and why. I also got all but two of my pre-reqs done while still in high school which was 17 years ago, so I'm fuzzy on what was a pre-req for nursing school and what was just a class I took.
I would love to help answer this question, but I need clarification on what you mean when you say pre-requisite classes. Different colleges have different classes they require you to take before they even let you apply for their nursing program, mine even had a required math class that was considered a science credit! So without knowing what specific classes you're referring to, I can't accurately say which was the most difficult for me and why. I also got all but two of my pre-reqs done while still in high school which was 17 years ago, so I'm fuzzy on what was a pre-req for nursing school and what was just a class I took.
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Hey Russel! It’s great that you’re considering nursing and already familiar with the pre-requisite classes. If you’re wondering which one is the hardest, it really depends on your strengths, but based on what most nursing students say, here’s a ranking from most difficult to easiest:
1. Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) I & II 🏆 (Most Challenging)
💀 Why It’s Hard:
You’ll memorize hundreds of body parts, muscles, bones, and organ systems.
Requires understanding how everything functions (not just memorization).
A&P II is harder than A&P I because it includes more physiology (how systems work together).
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use flashcards & diagrams for memorization.
✅ Apply what you learn to real-life situations (e.g., when you get a cut, think about how the skin heals).
✅ Form a study group – discussing concepts out loud helps with retention.
2. Microbiology 🦠
🦠 Why It’s Hard:
Lots of detailed concepts about bacteria, viruses, and immunity.
Some memorization, but also critical thinking about how diseases spread and are treated.
Lab work can be difficult, especially when identifying microorganisms.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Understand rather than memorize (think of it as a puzzle—how do microbes affect health?).
✅ Study lab techniques (e.g., Gram staining, bacterial cultures).
✅ Use mnemonics to remember bacterial & viral classifications.
3. Chemistry (General or Organic) 🧪
🧪 Why It’s Hard:
Involves math, formulas, and lab work.
If taking Organic Chemistry, it’s even harder due to complex structures & reactions.
Many nursing programs only require General Chemistry, but it’s still tough if you struggle with math.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Practice solving problems rather than just reading.
✅ Understand basic chemistry concepts (pH levels, acids/bases, bonding).
✅ Use YouTube videos for explanations—some concepts make more sense visually.
4. Physiology (If Separate from Anatomy) 🏋️♂️
💓 Why It’s Hard:
Unlike A&P, Physiology focuses more on function than memorization.
Requires critical thinking and application (e.g., “What happens when blood pressure drops?”).
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use concept maps to connect different systems together.
✅ Think of real-life examples (e.g., how exercise affects heart rate).
✅ Practice NCLEX-style questions early to get used to applying concepts.
5. Pathophysiology (If Required) 🏥
⚡ Why It’s Hard:
It’s like Physiology but focuses on diseases and abnormalities.
You’ll need to understand how diseases affect the body and connect symptoms with conditions.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Learn by case studies (e.g., if a patient has diabetes, what symptoms appear?).
✅ Focus on big-picture connections instead of isolated facts.
✅ Use NCLEX-style questions for practice.
6. Statistics 📊 (Surprisingly Difficult for Some)
📈 Why It’s Hard:
Some nursing programs require Statistics, and it’s challenging if you’re not great at math.
Involves data interpretation, probability, and research applications.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use step-by-step problem-solving—don’t rush through equations.
✅ Practice using real-world nursing examples (e.g., how statistics help in patient care studies).
✅ Use Khan Academy or YouTube for math explanations.
7. Psychology & Sociology 🧠 (Easier but Important)
👥 Why It’s Hard (for Some):
More theory-based than memorization-heavy courses.
Some people find Psychology easy, while others struggle with conceptual thinking.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Connect concepts to real-life situations (e.g., how stress affects the brain).
✅ Use study guides & summaries instead of reading entire textbooks.
✅ Focus on key theories and their applications (e.g., Maslow’s hierarchy of needs).
So, Which is the Hardest?
💀 Most nursing students say:
🏆 #1: Anatomy & Physiology
🥈 #2: Microbiology
🥉 #3: Chemistry (if required)
📌 Hardest Class Depends on YOU:
If you struggle with memorization → A&P is hardest.
If you hate math/science → Chemistry is hardest.
If you’re bad at critical thinking → Physiology is tough.
Final Thoughts
Since you’re in San Jose, California, here’s what you can do now to prepare:
✅ Take Biology & Chemistry in high school (will help A LOT).
✅ Look at community colleges for pre-reqs (cheaper than universities).
✅ Start using study apps like Quizlet & YouTube for Anatomy & Microbiology.
✅ Find out if your nursing program requires Chemistry or Statistics.
Want help finding nursing schools or pre-req programs near San Jose? Let me know! 🚀👩⚕️💙
1. Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) I & II 🏆 (Most Challenging)
💀 Why It’s Hard:
You’ll memorize hundreds of body parts, muscles, bones, and organ systems.
Requires understanding how everything functions (not just memorization).
A&P II is harder than A&P I because it includes more physiology (how systems work together).
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use flashcards & diagrams for memorization.
✅ Apply what you learn to real-life situations (e.g., when you get a cut, think about how the skin heals).
✅ Form a study group – discussing concepts out loud helps with retention.
2. Microbiology 🦠
🦠 Why It’s Hard:
Lots of detailed concepts about bacteria, viruses, and immunity.
Some memorization, but also critical thinking about how diseases spread and are treated.
Lab work can be difficult, especially when identifying microorganisms.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Understand rather than memorize (think of it as a puzzle—how do microbes affect health?).
✅ Study lab techniques (e.g., Gram staining, bacterial cultures).
✅ Use mnemonics to remember bacterial & viral classifications.
3. Chemistry (General or Organic) 🧪
🧪 Why It’s Hard:
Involves math, formulas, and lab work.
If taking Organic Chemistry, it’s even harder due to complex structures & reactions.
Many nursing programs only require General Chemistry, but it’s still tough if you struggle with math.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Practice solving problems rather than just reading.
✅ Understand basic chemistry concepts (pH levels, acids/bases, bonding).
✅ Use YouTube videos for explanations—some concepts make more sense visually.
4. Physiology (If Separate from Anatomy) 🏋️♂️
💓 Why It’s Hard:
Unlike A&P, Physiology focuses more on function than memorization.
Requires critical thinking and application (e.g., “What happens when blood pressure drops?”).
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use concept maps to connect different systems together.
✅ Think of real-life examples (e.g., how exercise affects heart rate).
✅ Practice NCLEX-style questions early to get used to applying concepts.
5. Pathophysiology (If Required) 🏥
⚡ Why It’s Hard:
It’s like Physiology but focuses on diseases and abnormalities.
You’ll need to understand how diseases affect the body and connect symptoms with conditions.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Learn by case studies (e.g., if a patient has diabetes, what symptoms appear?).
✅ Focus on big-picture connections instead of isolated facts.
✅ Use NCLEX-style questions for practice.
6. Statistics 📊 (Surprisingly Difficult for Some)
📈 Why It’s Hard:
Some nursing programs require Statistics, and it’s challenging if you’re not great at math.
Involves data interpretation, probability, and research applications.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Use step-by-step problem-solving—don’t rush through equations.
✅ Practice using real-world nursing examples (e.g., how statistics help in patient care studies).
✅ Use Khan Academy or YouTube for math explanations.
7. Psychology & Sociology 🧠 (Easier but Important)
👥 Why It’s Hard (for Some):
More theory-based than memorization-heavy courses.
Some people find Psychology easy, while others struggle with conceptual thinking.
💡 Tips to Succeed:
✅ Connect concepts to real-life situations (e.g., how stress affects the brain).
✅ Use study guides & summaries instead of reading entire textbooks.
✅ Focus on key theories and their applications (e.g., Maslow’s hierarchy of needs).
So, Which is the Hardest?
💀 Most nursing students say:
🏆 #1: Anatomy & Physiology
🥈 #2: Microbiology
🥉 #3: Chemistry (if required)
📌 Hardest Class Depends on YOU:
If you struggle with memorization → A&P is hardest.
If you hate math/science → Chemistry is hardest.
If you’re bad at critical thinking → Physiology is tough.
Final Thoughts
Since you’re in San Jose, California, here’s what you can do now to prepare:
✅ Take Biology & Chemistry in high school (will help A LOT).
✅ Look at community colleges for pre-reqs (cheaper than universities).
✅ Start using study apps like Quizlet & YouTube for Anatomy & Microbiology.
✅ Find out if your nursing program requires Chemistry or Statistics.
Want help finding nursing schools or pre-req programs near San Jose? Let me know! 🚀👩⚕️💙