What is one of the classes you think would be the hardest to take for bachaleorate in science in nursing? As well as is it better to start in community college for two years then going to a higher level school or to just stay in a community college for four years??

Jennifer you ask some great questions. Community college is a great choice if you need to increase your knowledge or ease into a higher education program at your own pace and at a lesser cost before entering a 4 year college or if you see a nursing program at your local community college that only requires two years. You can get an associate degree. You can always continue your education whether you attend a community college or 4 year college.

Great question! I entered college as a Molecular Biology major, and exited with a different major, so I definitely have a few things to say on this subject.

1) The quality or difficulty level of the classes shouldn't vary between community college and a four-year university, however the academic environment may be much different. For example, classes at a large four-year university may have upwards of 300-500 students, which is something that you should consider. If you prefer to have a smaller student to teacher ratio, or would like more hands on coaching, it may be beneficial for you to attend community college first. In my case, to reduce some overall costs of my four-year program, I supplemented my academic load by taking classes during the summertime at a nearby community college which were much less expensive.

2) Depending on your high school GPA, you may be able to increase your chances to attend a top ranked BSN program if you achieve excellent grades in your lower division required classes (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc) at a community college, and then applying to transfer. However, if you have or are planning to take AP exams in these subjects, you may already have credit towards them when you enter college. The most important thing is not where you took the classes, but how well you did and if you will ultimately gain a degree from an accredited BSN program (keyword: accredited).

3) The most difficult classes for me were Organic Chemistry and Advanced Physics. In the case of Physics, there are multiple tracks you can take depending on what your major will be. I chose to take the track of Physics intended for students majoring in Physics, which was completely unnecessary. Make sure you enroll in courses designed for your major.

Hello, Jennifer M. -

You have chosen such a wonderful and caring field to study ! I can't specifically say which course will be the most demanding for you, but you probably know which subjects you find interesting and those that you find challenging. Read course catalogs and pick out the courses that you think may be difficult for you. It's easier to do it that way since you'll have the course name in front of you. Beyond actual study subjects, nurses must love and be quick with understanding the physical functions of the human body and basic psychology. They need to keep physically and mentally fit, have a strong stomach (had to throw that in there) and genuinely and innately care about people. A nurse must be skilled at working collaboratively with many people of different disciplines. I think that any course which may pose a challenge to you will not be as bad as you think because you can always get assistance from study groups, staff at the school and general supports.

You could go to a community college for a two year Associate degree in nursing and than go on to an R.N. program at a different school. Your job choice will be better if you become an R.N. That may be a good way for you, considering finances and where you want to live while going to school. The health field is great right now and you have picked a very marketable career.

Best wishes to you and let us know how things work out for you .