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As a former nursing student advisor, I’ve seen countless aspiring nurses navigate the complex world of online nursing education. Getting into nursing school isn’t just about passion – it’s about meeting specific prerequisites that’ll set you up for success.
I’ll help you understand the essential requirements for online nursing programs, from basic science courses to entrance exams. Having guided students through this process, I know firsthand that completing prerequisites online can offer flexibility while preparing you for a rewarding healthcare career. Whether you’re a high school graduate or considering a career change, knowing these requirements will put you ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaways
- Basic prerequisites include general education courses like English, Psychology, and core science courses such as Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry with labs
- Health documentation requirements involve current immunization records, TB tests, background checks, and drug screenings, all of which must be up-to-date before clinical rotations
- Technical requirements include a modern computer with specific specifications (8GB RAM minimum, updated OS) and reliable internet connection (minimum 10 Mbps download speed)
- Academic prerequisites typically require a minimum GPA of 2.75-3.0 and satisfactory scores on standardized tests like TEAS or HESI A2
- Clinical requirements include 400-1000 hours of hands-on experience, which can be completed at approved healthcare facilities near the student’s location
Online Nursing School Prerequisites
Based on my experience advising nursing students, online nursing programs maintain specific academic requirements that mirror traditional on-campus programs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the core prerequisites:
General Education Requirements
Online nursing programs require completion of fundamental courses that establish a strong academic foundation. These typically include:
- English Composition (6 credits)
- Psychology (3 credits)
- Sociology (3 credits)
- Public Speaking (3 credits)
- Ethics (3 credits)
- Cultural Diversity (3 credits)
Science Course Requirements
The science prerequisites form the cornerstone of nursing education, with lab components often mandatory:
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II (8 credits)
- Microbiology (4 credits)
- Chemistry (4 credits)
- Biology (4 credits)
- Nutrition (3 credits)
| Science Course | Credit Hours | Lab Required |
|---|---|---|
| A&P I & II | 8 | Yes |
| Microbiology | 4 | Yes |
| Chemistry | 4 | Yes |
| Biology | 4 | Yes |
| Nutrition | 3 | No |
- College Algebra (3 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
- Basic Mathematics Competency Test
- Minimum grade requirement of ‘C’ or higher in all math courses
Health and Medical Documentation
Online nursing programs require specific health records and clearances before students begin their clinical rotations. Based on my experience as a nursing advisor, these documentation requirements protect both healthcare workers and patients.
Immunization Records
Medical documentation for nursing school includes proof of immunizations against measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), varicella, hepatitis B, and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap). Students must submit:
- Current TB skin test results or chest X-ray dated within 3 months
- Annual influenza vaccination records
- COVID-19 vaccination documentation including booster shots
- Titer tests confirming immunity for specific diseases
- Updated immunization tracking through digital health platforms
Background Checks
Criminal background screening requirements include:
- State-specific criminal history check
- FBI fingerprint clearance dated within 6 months
- Child abuse clearance certification
- Drug screening results from approved testing facilities
- OIG (Office of Inspector General) exclusion list verification
- Sex offender registry screening
| Verification Service | Processing Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| CastleBranch | 3-5 days | $75-100 |
| PreCheck | 5-7 days | $80-125 |
| Complio | 2-4 days | $70-90 |
Technical Requirements for Online Learning
Online nursing education demands specific technical capabilities to ensure seamless participation in virtual classrooms content delivery.
Computer Requirements
A reliable computer system forms the foundation of online nursing education. Essential specifications include:
- Processor: Intel Core i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or higher (manufactured within the last 4 years)
- Memory: 8GB RAM minimum for smooth multitasking
- Storage: 256GB SSD or larger for course materials storage
- Operating System: Windows 10/11 or MacOS 11 (Big Sur) or newer
- Webcam: 720p HD resolution or better for virtual meetings
- Microphone: Built-in or external with noise-canceling features
- Browser: Chrome Firefox Safari (updated to latest version)
- Software: Microsoft Office Suite PDF reader video conferencing platforms (Zoom Teams WebEx)
Internet Connectivity Specifications
Stable internet connectivity ensures uninterrupted access to learning materials clinical simulations. Requirements include:
- Download Speed: 10 Mbps minimum (25 Mbps recommended)
- Upload Speed: 5 Mbps minimum (10 Mbps recommended)
- Connection Type: Broadband cable or fiber optic
- Network Hardware: Dual-band router supporting 2.4GHz 5GHz frequencies
- Backup Connection: Mobile hotspot or secondary internet source
- Ethernet Port: Direct connection capability for stable streaming
- VPN Access: Compatible with school’s security protocols
- Data Plan: Unlimited monthly bandwidth allocation
Note: These specifications reflect current industry standards and may vary by program. Contact your specific nursing program for exact requirements.
Academic Prerequisites
Academic prerequisites establish the foundational qualifications for admission into online nursing programs. These requirements demonstrate academic readiness and potential for success in nursing education.
GPA Requirements
Online nursing programs maintain specific GPA thresholds for admission consideration. Most accredited programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75-3.0 in prerequisite courses. Here’s a breakdown of common GPA requirements:
| Program Type | Minimum GPA | Competitive GPA |
|---|---|---|
| BSN Programs | 2.75 | 3.5+ |
| RN-to-BSN | 2.5 | 3.0+ |
| Accelerated BSN | 3.0 | 3.7+ |
The GPA calculation typically focuses on science prerequisites such as Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy & Physiology. I’ve observed that competitive programs often look at both cumulative and prerequisite GPAs separately.
Standardized Test Scores
Standardized testing demonstrates academic aptitude across multiple subjects. Here are the primary exams accepted by online nursing programs:
TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
- Minimum composite score: 65-75%
- Four tested areas: Reading, Math, Science, English
- Valid for 2 years from test date
HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment)
- Required composite score: 75-80%
- Eight core subjects including biology, chemistry, vocabulary
- Maximum 3 attempts per application cycle
| Test | Minimum Score | Competitive Score |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | 1000 | 1200+ |
| ACT | 19 | 24+ |
Programs typically accept scores from tests taken within 5 years of application. I recommend checking specific score requirements with individual programs as these thresholds vary by institution.
Clinical Requirements
Clinical requirements form a critical component of online nursing education programs. These hands-on experiences integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills in real healthcare settings.
Clinical Hours
Online nursing programs require 400-1000 clinical hours, completed at approved healthcare facilities near the student’s location. These hours include:
- Completing direct patient care rotations in medical-surgical units
- Participating in specialty rotations across pediatrics pediatrics emergency care obstetrics
- Documenting clinical experiences through electronic health records
- Demonstrating competency in essential nursing skills under supervision
- Recording patient assessments vital signs medication administration procedures
Many programs partner with local hospitals clinics long-term care facilities to arrange clinical placements. Clinical schedules typically accommodate working students with evening weekend rotation options.
Healthcare Experience
Prior healthcare experience requirements vary by program with these common specifications:
- 6-12 months documented work experience as a CNA LPN medical assistant
- 500-1000 hours of direct patient care verification
- Current healthcare certifications including BLS CPR first aid
- Letters of recommendation from healthcare supervisors
- Documentation of volunteer hours in medical settings
Some accelerated programs accept alternative healthcare roles like:
- Emergency medical technician
- Patient care technician
- Home health aide
- Medical scribe
- Pharmacy technician
The required hours documentation must include detailed descriptions of duties performed dates of service facility information supervisor verification.
Getting into an online nursing program requires careful planning and preparation. I’ve seen many students succeed by methodically working through these prerequisites and requirements. While the process might seem overwhelming at first the flexibility of completing prerequisites online makes it more manageable.
I encourage you to use this guide as your roadmap while double-checking specific requirements with your chosen nursing program. With dedication and proper preparation you’ll be well-positioned to begin your journey toward becoming a nurse. Remember that meeting these prerequisites isn’t just about checking boxes – it’s about building the foundation for your future nursing career.