Nursing programs generally prefer well-rounded students who are particularly strong in math and the sciences. Common prerequisites include anatomy and physiology, which engage students to critically think about the human body, a skill vital in nursing school. A pre-nursing student may be required to take a microbiology class, which prepares him to learn the basics and applied aspects of treating and preventing infectious diseases. Students who lack sufficient understanding in their science and math prerequisites may not make the competitive grades needed for entry into nursing school. Fortunately, many nursing schools consider other prerequisites, such as psychology and the humanities. According to the WellStar School of Nursing, students with the largest number of As and Bs are the most probable candidates for admission. Therefore, a student’s difficulty with prerequisite courses, particularly the sciences, must be remedied with tutoring or extra effort.
Most nursing schools require an applicant to take a nursing school entrance exam, which measures the applicant’s proficiency in reading, science, English, and mathematics. The Test of Essential Academic Skills, or TEAS, is among the most popular nursing school entrance exams. According to the Assessment Technologies Institute, the goals evaluated on the TEAS exam are those that nurse educators view most critical to weighing the entry level abilities of nursing program applicants. Generally, these objectives are covered between the seventh and twelfth grades. Containing a total of 170 questions, the TEAS prohibits the use of calculators.
The Health Education Systems Incorporated, or HESI, A2 exam serves as another popular entrance exam; however, it's unique in its ability to assess learning style, decision-making skills and personality traits. Although nursing school entrance exams can't determine a nursing applicant’s desire to attend nursing school, they can, at the very least, exhibit the potential for that student’s success.
To obtain nursing licensure and launch a nursing career, a nursing student must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, or NCLEX-RN. Those who aspire to become a practical nurse must pass the NCLEX-PN. Both of these exams demonstrate the nursing student’s competence with psychosocial and physiological integrity and other aspects related to client needs. Unlike most exams, the NCLEX demands critical thinking skills, especially in regards to delegation and prioritization. Therefore, relying on pure memorization can prove detrimental when taking the NCLEX.
The path to become a nurse exists in various ways; therefore, educational guidelines vary according to the nursing program. Educational requirements for licensed practical nurses may not be as extensive as requirements for registered nurses. To become a registered nurse, the student must decide whether to obtain an associate degree in nursing or a bachelor of science degree in nursing. Typically, an associate program lasts two years, but some may extend slightly beyond three years. A bachelor of science degree requires a total of four years of education--the first two years involve nursing prerequisites and the last two years involve the nursing curriculum. However, a bachelor’s degree allows for career advancement, such as a master’s or doctorate degree. Becoming a nurse is a serious and complex process; therefore, it's wise to consult an academic adviser for guidance.