What is active learning?
Active learning is exhibited when students come to class prepared to solve case studies and answer questions at an analysis level, which is higher than knowledge level. Critical thinking is expected in all semesters. Classroom experiences and lab experiences demand a high level of preparation before class.
The curriculum builds on all prerequisite courses and material such as anatomy and physiology and pharmacology will not be re-taught in subsequent semesters. Students are responsible for the material presented in all previous semesters. Students must prioritize their learning to optimize the experience and make their investment worthwhile.
What minimum prerequisites will apply to the nursing program when the application process re-opens?
ENG 121 English Composition
PSY 235 Human Growth and Development
BIO 201 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
BIO 202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
BIO 204 Microbiology
These courses must equal a 3.0 grade point average and ALL “BIO” courses must be completed within seven years, both at the time of application and when the student is accepted into the program. Only graded coursework from a regionally accredited institution will be accepted for the prerequisites (no CLEP or Dantes exams, as there is just a minimum passing score required).
Candidates who apply under the new process will also be required to have a current Colorado State Certification for CNA. At www.arapahoe.edu, click on Departments and Programs and scroll to Nurse Aide for information You may have additional credentials (EMT, paramedic, medical assistant etc.) but must ALSO have the CNA – no exceptions.
Applicant must attain the basic skills assessment score(s) for college requirements. For the nursing program, applicants must also have the PREREQUISITE: MAT 090 or an ACCUPLACER score on the EA of 63-84 within two years of application to the nursing program. In some cases, applicant may obtain a waiver. Applicant may obtain a waiver if MAT 090 or higher has been completed within two years of application to the program or if student has completed MAT 103 within two years of application to the nursing program.
If I complete the prerequisites, how else can I prepare while I am waiting to apply:
Four courses may be completed prior to application and/or admission. These courses are not required to apply to the program, but may be completed prior to beginning the nursing program. They are required for the ADN degree.
What documentation will I need for required immunizations?
How much does the program cost?
The program costs approximately $13,000 to $15,000 including tuition, books, fees and lab fees, liability insurance, testing fees, uniforms, immunizations, certifications, criminal background check, and random drug screens. Personal health insurance may also be required. This information is subject to change. Go to www.arapahoe.edu for up-to-date tuition and fee information.
What is a typical schedule like?
The nursing program is full-time, days. You are typically on-campus three to four days per week from 8:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. You attend four full-time semesters and are told each semester the classes for which to register. There are no lecture classes during the summer semester. A schedule may include lecture classes two days per week, up to three clinical shifts per week and additional lab assignments.
Clinical shifts may be eight, 10 or 12 hours and may be days or evenings, any day of the week. Some clinical shifts may occur in the summer semester. The schedule for clinical shifts is subject to last-minute changes. Shifts are scheduled at area health care facilities.
Is it possible to work while I am in this program?
The nursing faculty recommends you do not work while you are in the nursing program. If you must work, try not to work more than 20 hours per week. Flexibility in scheduling work commitments is necessary to accommodate course requirements.
Are there scholarships available for nursing students?
To apply for the N-OADN scholarship for students pursuing a professional nursing education, visit AfterCollege. You may contact Dr. Jean Schroeder at jean.schroeder@arapahoe.edu for other scholarship information. You may also contact the ACC Financial Aid office.