7 answers
Ali
Student
Minneapolis, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
433 views
what are the college requirements for nursing ?
Hi I'm in 11th grade and want to get a (BSN) to be a RN and soon later become a travel nurse, I want to know what colleges are looking for in students such as requirements to pursue this degree
7 answers
Charanpreet Walia
Public Health Nurse
47
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Charanpreet’s Answer
Hello Ali
As a registered nurse with experience in various nursing disciplines, including hospitals, clinics, and the public health sector, I will try to help you understand the process of applying to a nursing college.
Addressing your questions:
1. BSN to be an RN:
To become an RN with a BSN, a strong GPA is crucial. While the average requirement is now at least 3.0, aiming for close to 3.5 or higher can significantly improve your chances of admission. Another option is to start at a community college for the first two years to save money and then transfer to a four-year college to complete the last two years. Many community colleges also offer BSN programs, eliminating the need for a transfer.
In order to get into a nursing school, it is crucial to gain volunteer experience in a hospital setting. Moreover, volunteering to feed people experiencing homelessness or assist seniors in the nursing home is highly valued and demonstrates compassion. Volunteering does not have to be solely nursing-related, as students can showcase their versatility by incorporating their active lifestyle, such as playing tennis, baseball, soccer, etc. Volunteering at the library to help students with reading is also a great way to make a positive impact.
You will also need to pass a test called TEAS (Test of essential academic skills). Each state may have a different or an alternative version of this test.
Remember, nursing schools are looking for well-rounded candidates. Developing your communication skills is essential for success in the interview with the nursing department.
2. Now second part of your question, " being a travel nurse."
When you have obtained your RN qualification and garnered 1-3 years of nursing experience, you have the opportunity to join a reputable nursing agency. These agencies offer exciting assignments on a local or national level on a contractual basis.
Right now, focus on getting good grades and apply for the volunteer opportunities at the local hospital.
Good luck! :)
As a registered nurse with experience in various nursing disciplines, including hospitals, clinics, and the public health sector, I will try to help you understand the process of applying to a nursing college.
Addressing your questions:
1. BSN to be an RN:
To become an RN with a BSN, a strong GPA is crucial. While the average requirement is now at least 3.0, aiming for close to 3.5 or higher can significantly improve your chances of admission. Another option is to start at a community college for the first two years to save money and then transfer to a four-year college to complete the last two years. Many community colleges also offer BSN programs, eliminating the need for a transfer.
In order to get into a nursing school, it is crucial to gain volunteer experience in a hospital setting. Moreover, volunteering to feed people experiencing homelessness or assist seniors in the nursing home is highly valued and demonstrates compassion. Volunteering does not have to be solely nursing-related, as students can showcase their versatility by incorporating their active lifestyle, such as playing tennis, baseball, soccer, etc. Volunteering at the library to help students with reading is also a great way to make a positive impact.
You will also need to pass a test called TEAS (Test of essential academic skills). Each state may have a different or an alternative version of this test.
Remember, nursing schools are looking for well-rounded candidates. Developing your communication skills is essential for success in the interview with the nursing department.
2. Now second part of your question, " being a travel nurse."
When you have obtained your RN qualification and garnered 1-3 years of nursing experience, you have the opportunity to join a reputable nursing agency. These agencies offer exciting assignments on a local or national level on a contractual basis.
Right now, focus on getting good grades and apply for the volunteer opportunities at the local hospital.
Good luck! :)
Charanpreet Walia
Public Health Nurse
47
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Charanpreet’s Answer
Hello Ali
As a registered nurse with experience in various nursing disciplines, including hospitals, clinics, and the public health sector, I will try to help you understand the process of applying to a nursing college.
Addressing your questions:
1. RN to BSN:
To become an RN with a BSN, a strong GPA is crucial. While the average requirement is now at least 3.0, aiming for close to 3.5 or higher can significantly improve your chances of admission. Another option is to start at a community college for the first two years to save money and then transfer to a four-year college to complete the last two years. Many community colleges also offer BSN programs, eliminating the need for a transfer.
In order to get into a nursing school, it is crucial to gain volunteer experience in a hospital setting. Moreover, volunteering to feed people experiencing homelessness or assist seniors in the nursing home is highly valued and demonstrates compassion. Volunteering does not have to be solely nursing-related, as students can showcase their versatility by incorporating their active lifestyle, such as playing tennis, baseball, soccer, etc. Volunteering at the library to help students with reading is also a great way to make a positive impact.
You will also need to pass a test called TEAS (Test of essential academic skills). Each state may have a different or an alternative version of this test.
Remember, nursing schools are looking for well-rounded candidates. Developing your communication skills is essential for success in the interview with the nursing department.
Now second part of your question, " being a travel nurse."
When you have obtained your RN qualification and garnered 1-3 years of nursing experience, you have the opportunity to join a reputable nursing agency. These agencies offer exciting assignments on a local or national level on a contractual basis.
Right now, focus on getting good grades and apply for the volunteer opportunities at the local hospital.
Good luck! :)
As a registered nurse with experience in various nursing disciplines, including hospitals, clinics, and the public health sector, I will try to help you understand the process of applying to a nursing college.
Addressing your questions:
1. RN to BSN:
To become an RN with a BSN, a strong GPA is crucial. While the average requirement is now at least 3.0, aiming for close to 3.5 or higher can significantly improve your chances of admission. Another option is to start at a community college for the first two years to save money and then transfer to a four-year college to complete the last two years. Many community colleges also offer BSN programs, eliminating the need for a transfer.
In order to get into a nursing school, it is crucial to gain volunteer experience in a hospital setting. Moreover, volunteering to feed people experiencing homelessness or assist seniors in the nursing home is highly valued and demonstrates compassion. Volunteering does not have to be solely nursing-related, as students can showcase their versatility by incorporating their active lifestyle, such as playing tennis, baseball, soccer, etc. Volunteering at the library to help students with reading is also a great way to make a positive impact.
You will also need to pass a test called TEAS (Test of essential academic skills). Each state may have a different or an alternative version of this test.
Remember, nursing schools are looking for well-rounded candidates. Developing your communication skills is essential for success in the interview with the nursing department.
Now second part of your question, " being a travel nurse."
When you have obtained your RN qualification and garnered 1-3 years of nursing experience, you have the opportunity to join a reputable nursing agency. These agencies offer exciting assignments on a local or national level on a contractual basis.
Right now, focus on getting good grades and apply for the volunteer opportunities at the local hospital.
Good luck! :)
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
464
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Ali,
To pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and become an RN, colleges typically look for the following requirements:
1. **High School Diploma or Equivalent**: You’ll need to complete high school or obtain a GED.
2. **Strong Academic Performance**: Colleges often expect a solid GPA, especially in subjects like biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Aim for a GPA of 3.0 or higher, though it may vary by school.
3. **Prerequisite Courses**: Some colleges may require specific high school courses, such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Algebra and/or Statistics
- English
4. **Standardized Test Scores**: Many nursing programs require SAT or ACT scores, though the weight given to these may vary depending on the school.
5. **Volunteer/Work Experience**: Experience in healthcare, such as volunteering at hospitals, shadowing nurses, or working in caregiving roles, can strengthen your application.
6. **Letters of Recommendation**: You may need letters from teachers, guidance counselors, or professionals who can speak to your academic performance, leadership, and character.
7. **Personal Statement/Essay**: Some programs ask for an essay where you explain why you want to pursue nursing, your career goals, and how you align with their program.
8. **Entrance Exams**: Some nursing programs may require entrance exams, like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems Inc.) exam.
Starting early in your high school career with relevant coursework and extracurriculars will help build a strong application for nursing programs. Let me know if you need help looking at specific colleges!
Best Regards
To pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and become an RN, colleges typically look for the following requirements:
1. **High School Diploma or Equivalent**: You’ll need to complete high school or obtain a GED.
2. **Strong Academic Performance**: Colleges often expect a solid GPA, especially in subjects like biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Aim for a GPA of 3.0 or higher, though it may vary by school.
3. **Prerequisite Courses**: Some colleges may require specific high school courses, such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Algebra and/or Statistics
- English
4. **Standardized Test Scores**: Many nursing programs require SAT or ACT scores, though the weight given to these may vary depending on the school.
5. **Volunteer/Work Experience**: Experience in healthcare, such as volunteering at hospitals, shadowing nurses, or working in caregiving roles, can strengthen your application.
6. **Letters of Recommendation**: You may need letters from teachers, guidance counselors, or professionals who can speak to your academic performance, leadership, and character.
7. **Personal Statement/Essay**: Some programs ask for an essay where you explain why you want to pursue nursing, your career goals, and how you align with their program.
8. **Entrance Exams**: Some nursing programs may require entrance exams, like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems Inc.) exam.
Starting early in your high school career with relevant coursework and extracurriculars will help build a strong application for nursing programs. Let me know if you need help looking at specific colleges!
Best Regards
Hana Kim
Student Nurse
11
Answers
Southborough, Massachusetts
Updated
Hana’s Answer
Hi Ali,
I would recommend studying Biology, Anatomy, and Statistics in high school to prepare for nursing school. Learning these courses can help you understand Anatomy & Physiology (if you are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and Statistics in nursing school.
Also, I recommend looking for any classes which could transfer as credits into the nursing program. Although these are not required for nursing per se, it can help with completing college requirements and save time. For instance, I transferred my English class credit to college and didn't have to take it again during college.
If you would like to get a head start in nursing, I would also consider CNA classes since a lot of what CNAs do is fundamental to nursing.
Best of luck with your nursing career!
I would recommend studying Biology, Anatomy, and Statistics in high school to prepare for nursing school. Learning these courses can help you understand Anatomy & Physiology (if you are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and Statistics in nursing school.
Also, I recommend looking for any classes which could transfer as credits into the nursing program. Although these are not required for nursing per se, it can help with completing college requirements and save time. For instance, I transferred my English class credit to college and didn't have to take it again during college.
If you would like to get a head start in nursing, I would also consider CNA classes since a lot of what CNAs do is fundamental to nursing.
Best of luck with your nursing career!
David Tari
Head Athletic Trainer/Sports Medicine Teacher
5
Answers
Hollister, California
Updated
David’s Answer
AAnatonyntAnatomy, Physiology, chemistry.
Kentrelle Johnson
Registered nurse
1
Answer
Miami, Florida
Updated
Kentrelle’s Answer
The journey towards a nursing degree is filled with fascinating science courses. As a high school student, you have a wonderful opportunity to get a head start by taking anatomy and physiology if it's offered at your school. Most nursing programs usually require two anatomy classes, so this can give you a great advantage. Don't forget about biology, it's a stepping stone to understanding Microbiology, another crucial part of nursing curriculums. Algebra is also part of the journey, so dusting off those math skills can be beneficial.
Before you dive into your college courses, revisiting these subjects can be a smart move. Remember, knowledge is power! To get a clear picture of what lies ahead, check the nursing curriculum or requirements of the colleges you're eyeing. This will give you a sneak peek into the courses you'll be taking once college begins.
Embrace the journey and remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Best of luck!
Before you dive into your college courses, revisiting these subjects can be a smart move. Remember, knowledge is power! To get a clear picture of what lies ahead, check the nursing curriculum or requirements of the colleges you're eyeing. This will give you a sneak peek into the courses you'll be taking once college begins.
Embrace the journey and remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Best of luck!
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
342
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Ali:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2024 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2024 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
Delete Comment
Flag Comment