Course Curriculum

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program requires students to complete a combination of pre-clinical courses, clinical nursing coursework, and additional graduation requirements. The program begins with 29 units of required pre-clinical courses that provide students with a strong academic foundation in science, communication, and analytical skills necessary for professional nursing practice. These courses typically include a two-semester Anatomy and Physiology sequence with laboratory, a Microbiology course with lab, and an introductory Chemistry course. In addition to science courses, students must also complete general education courses such as college composition, oral communication, statistics, and critical thinking. Together, these courses help students develop essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the clinical nursing program.After completing the prerequisites and gaining admission to the clinical portion of the program, students begin the 61-unit clinical nursing curriculum. Before or during the early stages of the clinical program, students must also complete courses in introductory psychology, human development across the lifespan, and human nutrition. These subjects help nursing students better understand patient behavior, growth and development, and the role of nutrition in maintaining health.The clinical nursing coursework is completed over four semesters and focuses on developing both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills. During the first semester, students study topics such as professional nursing practice, adult nursing care, and communication, assessment, and clinical nursing skills. The second semester emphasizes research application, nursing care for families experiencing complex illnesses, and mental health nursing. In the third semester, students focus on maternal and child health through courses related to nursing care for childbearing and childrearing families, along with laboratory training to support clinical practice. The final semester of the program concentrates on leadership and advanced professional responsibilities, including leadership and management in nursing practice, community health nursing, and clinical leadership and professional role development.In addition to the major coursework, students must complete a three-unit course that focuses on societal and cultural patterns, which helps future nurses understand the cultural diversity and social factors that influence health and healthcare. Overall, the program requires approximately 93 units and prepares graduates for professional nursing practice and eligibility to pursue state licensure.