Pre-Nursing Studies

The pre-nursing degree is a two-year program that prepares students for enrollment in a four-year nursing program. Although a pre-nursing degree does not make you eligible to take the NCLEX examination for registered nursing, after completing the necessary courses you will be prepared to enter a traditional four-year nursing program. A pre-nursing major allows students to experience the nursing field before fully committing to a four-year degree. Typical courses a pre-nursing student will study include microbiology, statistics, developmental psychology, and anatomy and physiology. Pre-nursing students should make an effort to either work in a health care environment or volunteer at a health care organization during their studies. Some colleges prefer candidates with health care experience and will give preference to those who have it during the admissions process. Once you complete the pre-nursing program, you'll have the option to apply to a four-year nursing program where you'll study more nursing theory and complete clinical practice. Once you finish your four-year degree, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination to become a registered nurse.