I plan on getting my associates degree in nursing then later perusing on, but my question is should I apply to the nursing program my senior year of high school? Or should I take prerequisites first?
I plan on going to a community college (bridgevalley) I cannot even find what prerequisites are required. Maybe one of you could do better than I could if you would mind looking. But I don't know if I should apply next year (my senior year) or after my prereqs. PLEASE HELP #nursing #help #nursing-education #community-college #rn
3 answers
Beth’s Answer
You should meet with an advisor at the college you plan to attend. In most cases, there is a waiting list for the nursing program. In some cases, applying early will be enough, in other cases, the wait is longer, therefore, taking prerequisites is very helpful.
Many community college programs are no longer considered two year programs but 2.5-3 year programs.
For my senior year of high school, I did a half day at the high school to meet my minimums and also took 2 courses per semester at the community college. I was then able to go directly into the nursing program after high school graduation.
Best of luck to you!
Beth
Sara’s Answer
Kali, it looks like you are doing all the right things to get yourself ready for nursing school
You can go to the ATI Testing website and look for TEAS V info. It gives you resources (at a price) to help you prepare for the exam including a practice exam. Since your school requires your score to accompany your application, it's sort of a two edged sword. If you take it too early you risk not being fully prepared and conversely, if you wait until you finish HS you risk being delayed in entering due to a closed class.
My best advice is to pay attention to the website information, get the prep materials and do the self assessment. Once you know where you stand you will be in the best position to assess your readiness.
Again, let me know if I can continue to help. Let me know your plans and of course, eventually the outcome.
Take good care,
Sara
PS. Remember your ATI login and password. If your school uses ATI for additional material and/or testing you will need it throughout the program.
Sara’s Answer
Hi Kali,
First, thank you for choosing nursing! I hope you come to love your career as much as I do.
Now, for your questions: Associate Degree programs allow students to enter directly from HS assuming they meet all admission requirements. I went on line and looked at the website for Bridge Valley and their Nsg Program. I also contacted the school and spoke with the Admin Assist for the Nsg Dept: Jerrika Law (304 205-6695).
There are not college level pre-reqs for entry at this level. As for the actual application, she said that you can apply in your Senior year or after you graduate. Hopefully you are taking some science courses - biology chemistry , etc. If you have an opportunity to take an anatomy and physiology and or microbiology course I would advise that you do.
Go on line to look at the website, talk with your HS guidance counselor about your plans and try to arrange to meet with a counselor from the college.
All of this said, the better prepared you are the stronger candidate you will be. Nursing programs can be very competitive as that are generally more applicatants then capacity.
The best of luck to you. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Sara