Pre-nursing programs help many students determine if they are interested in nursing and should pursue a nursing program. And while students do not have to have a pre-nursing major to earn acceptance into a nursing school, these programs can be vital to their future careers as a nurse.
Suppose you are interested in going into the medical field, interested in a wide range of job opportunities, and eager to change lives. In that case, you should strongly consider a career in nursing as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Let’s explore why pre-nursing is essential and beneficial for your future career as a nurse.
What is a Pre-Nursing Program?
A pre-nursing program is often students’ first step to becoming a nurse. The preparatory program allows students to complete the introductory foundation courses required for nursing school.
In these one to two-year programs, students take general education courses, typically in the sciences, like psychology and anatomy, to gain the scientific knowledge necessary for nursing.
By obtaining this educational foundation and fulfilling these requirements, graduates of pre-nursing programs can transfer to entry-level Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs at the sophomore or junior level.
What Courses Do Students Take in Pre-Nursing Programs?
Every college and university will have different pre-nursing courses and requirements. Still, most programs require students to take general education courses in humanities, mathematics, and the natural and social sciences.
The length and time it takes to complete a pre-nursing program will depend on the school. At University of Bridgeport, students complete their pre-nursing coursework in one year of thirty-three credit hours.
Pre-nursing students take the following courses in their first year:
- Fall semester (sixteen credits)
- Academic Writing
- Anatomy and Physiology I
- General Psychology
- Freshman Seminar/Liberal Arts Elective
- Introduction to College Algebra and Statistics
- Spring semester (seventeen credits)
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- Anatomy and Physiology II
- Humanities Core
- Principles of Sociology
- Introductory Chemistry
- Lifespan Development
What Are the Benefits of a Pre-Nursing Program?
The one to two years students spend in pre-nursing programs are vital to gain the scientific knowledge necessary for a successful career as a nurse. Additionally, pre-nursing programs offer students a clear pathway to becoming a nurse.
Students typically take one to two years of prerequisite courses, transfer to a nursing program, and complete their undergraduate nursing degree. Having a one to two-year plan laid out is hugely beneficial for students as they do not have to worry about what courses they must take.
Another benefit of enrolling in a pre-nursing program is that it shows you have an invested interest in the nursing profession. In addition, students are surrounded by like-minded individuals and unique opportunities like workshops which can be helpful when networking and gaining insight.
As a pre-nursing major, getting involved and finding fellow future nurses, study groups, and support is much easier because you are already immersing yourself in nursing.
Additional benefits of pre-nursing programs include:
- Students are prepared for the application process for nursing schools.
- Students develop academic skills and learning habits needed for nursing programs.
- Students take courses that prepare and advance their professional potential.
- Finally, students’ career aspirations in the nursing field are supported.
Remember that many pre-nursing programs expect students to transfer to their nursing program and tailor their schedules accordingly. Students should research prospective nursing programs to ensure the prerequisite courses they need will be accepted by the programs they are interested in.
Did you know that UB offers a pre-nursing program to help you prepare before applying to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
Learn more here!
The Pre-Nursing Program at University of Bridgeport
Though no official degree is associated with the pre-nursing program, our program at University of Bridgeport provides students with the pathway to a bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
Through our courses in humanities, mathematics, and the natural and social sciences, our students build collaboration, communication, and time management skills. Students then put these skills to practice in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, where they practice patient care at our Nursing Skills and Simulation Center.
Furthermore, expert faculty introduces the most up-to-date nursing equipment so students are prepared with the skills to work in any modern-day medical facility.
Students in the pre-nursing program work with professors in the spring semester to apply to our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. We help students complete their application for the best chances of acceptance into our competitive program and set students up for a successful career in an in-demand field.
Pre-nursing programs are an excellent way for students to decide if the nursing profession is right for them and helps them get acclimated to the expectations and requirements of nursing school.
Find out how our comprehensive support services can help you take this first step in your nursing career through our pre-nursing program. Or, go ahead and submit your application today.
Together, let’s start something great!