Created by Pierce faculty, this map outlines the initial coursework for this career field. It provides you a clear path to complete your degree by listing a specific set of courses relevant to your program and career. The map is designed with the appropriate number of credits and meets degree requirements. Courses are organized in a recommended sequence; please schedule accordingly. If a course is unavailable, select the next appropriate course within the sequence. For each course, a purpose statement explains how the content relates to your career field. On this map, there may be instances when you will be required to select a course from several options. Use these purpose statements and notes to choose the course that best aligns with your interests and needs. You will also find action items to complete to assure you progress and graduate on time.
While this map is a great guide to courses required to complete the Associate in Nursing (ADN), you are responsible for fulfilling all degree requirements.
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REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
Applicants must meet general entrance requirements for Pierce College as well as the specific pre-nursing course requirements. Prerequisite courses typically take one to two years depending on the number of credits taken per quarter. Some nursing prerequisite courses may have prerequisites. Check with the college early to plan a specific course of study.
The application deadline for admission to the nursing program is set annually. Check the nursing program website for up-to-date information. No waiting list is established. For the traditional ADN program, the admission committee selects students in early spring for a fall start. For the LPN-RN option, the admission committee selects students in late fall for a spring start. Evaluation of a student’s application is based on the following: 1) each prerequisite science course, ENGL& 101 and PSYC& 200 being completed with a 3.0 or higher; 2) other college courses completed for additional points in the application process with a 2.0 or higher; 3) designated tests; 4) one recommendation; 5) essays that are scored according to a faculty established rubric and 6) resume (see nursing program website for more specific details).
Prospective students who have proof of unencumbered Washington State LPN license may apply. A full cohort of LPN-RN students will be accepted each spring quarter. The application process for the LPN-RN option is the same as the process for the traditional ADN student. Please see the nursing advisor for more information.
There are additional courses recommended for students planning to continue their education to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It is recommended that the applicant make an appointment with an advisor to make sure the planned course of study meets the program’s admission requirements. The pre-nursing advisor’s number is (253) 840-8355.
TRANSFERABILITY
Graduates of the Pierce College Nursing Program who successfully pass the NCLEX examination for RN licensure may apply to the University of Washington Tacoma or St. Martin’s University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. An articulation agreement is in place and students who plan to transfer should work closely with their Pierce College advisor to make sure that all requirements are met.
The pre-nursing course requirements apply to other allied health fields or to an associate degree for transfer to a four-year institution should a student change fields or not be accepted into the nursing program.
Program Admission Eligibility Requirements
A requirement for program admission is passing a criminal background check. Please review the nursing disqualifying factors page for more information.
Licensure Eligibility Requirements
To work as a registered nurse in the state of Washington you must be licensed through the Washington State Department of Health. The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-840-030 outlines the requirements for initial licensing for registered nurses. As noted WAC 246-840-030 in addition to successfully completing your education program with Pierce you will also need to successfully complete the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses. Pierce College has not determined if our nursing education program meets requirements for licensure outside of the state of Washington. Visit our NC-SARA Licensure Disclosure page for more information.
This program is for students who wish to enroll in a traditional, full-time nursing program. Applicants do not have any type of nursing license, but may have licenses or certifications in other health fields such as nursing assistant, medic, massage therapist, etc.
Action Item: Students should also meet with advising to discuss options outside of nursing, such as the Healthcare AAS-T degree, dental hygiene, healthcare emergency management, and paramedic/EMS/EMT programs.
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