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 at www.pierce.ctc.edu/nursing. No waiting list is established. The admission committee selects students in early spring and successful candidates are then notified. Evaluation is based on each prerequisite science course and ENGL& 101 being completed with a 3.0 or higher, other college prerequisite courses completed with a 2.0 or higher, designated tests, a personal statement, two recommendations, essays which are scored according to a faculty established rubric.

Prospective students who have proof of unencumbered Washington State LPN license or Certificate of Completion from a Washington State approved practical nurse training program may apply on a space available basis to enter the program in the fourth quarter of the program. This LPN to RN option is limited in space and the student must take assessment tests and a specific LPN to RN option course at Pierce College. 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.

Nursing students will have additional college expenses, including uniforms, supplies and pre-licensure testing. Application packets and additional information are available online at www.pierce.ctc.edu/nursing or by contacting the nursing program office at (253) 864-3272.

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. Martins 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.