Educational Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
The foundational requirement for pursuing a nursing degree is obtaining a high school diploma or GED certificate. High school students interested in nursing should focus on:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- English
Prerequisite College Courses
Before enrolling in a nursing program, completion of specific college-level courses is typically required:
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding human body structure and function
- Microbiology: Study of microorganisms and disease prevention
- Nutrition: Basic dietary knowledge for patient care
- Psychology: Understanding human behavior and mental processes
Most programs require a minimum grade of "C" or higher in these courses.
Entrance Exams and Testing
Most nursing programs require applicants to take standardized entrance exams:
These exams evaluate:
- Reading comprehension
- Mathematics
- Science knowledge
- English language skills
Health and Documentation Requirements
Immunizations and Health Screenings
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Hepatitis B series
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- Annual flu shot
- COVID-19 vaccination
- TB (tuberculosis) test
- Physical examination
- Drug screening
- Vision test
Legal Requirements
- Criminal background check
- Child abuse clearance
- FBI fingerprinting
- Sex offender registry check
Essential Skills and Qualities
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and move patients (typically 25-50 pounds)
- Standing for extended periods
- Manual dexterity
- Visual acuity
- Hearing ability within normal ranges
"Nursing is not just about medical knowledge; it's about compassion, critical thinking, and dedication to patient care." - American Nurses Association
Personal Attributes
- Compassion and empathy
- Strong communication skills
- Emotional stability
- Problem-solving abilities
- Time management skills
- Cultural sensitivity
- Attention to detail
Certification and Technology Requirements
Required Certifications
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- CPR certification from the American Heart Association
Technology Requirements
Standard Equipment Needs:
- Laptop or computer with webcam
- High-speed internet access
- Printer access
- Mobile device for clinical apps
Program Options and Financial Considerations
Types of Programs
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Two-year program
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Four-year comprehensive degree
- Accelerated BSN Programs: For those with existing bachelor's degrees
Financial Preparation
- Tuition and fees
- Textbooks and supplies
- Clinical uniforms
- Medical equipment
- Insurance coverage
Financial Aid Options
- Federal student loans
- Nursing scholarships
- Grant programs
- Work-study opportunities
Additional Recommendations
Professional Experience
- Healthcare volunteer work
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) experience
- Medical office exposure
- Shadow nursing professionals
For more information on nursing education and careers, visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Bureau of Labor Statistics, or National League for Nursing websites.