Program Overview

Pre-Nursing (Associate of Arts) to Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Pre-Nursing (Associate of Arts) to Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathway is designed for students who wish to transfer to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at a four-year college or university. This pathway is intended for students who want to take their science and general education classes at North to prepare to transfer to a four-year college or university to begin their nursing classes and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

Program Description

Students in this pathway develop skills in applying and communicating fundamental concepts/principles of science to one's daily life, demonstrating the process of scientific inquiry, solving problems analytically, and thinking critically. In addition, students will learn verbal communication, and group communication and collaborations, and awareness of human behavior and thinking that will serve them in both personal and professional capacities. Competencies in these areas consistently rank at the top of employer wish lists. The role of the nurse is more important than ever, as communities are currently in an era of provider shortages. In fact, nursing makes up the largest healthcare profession in the United States. They work in a variety of settings, which include clinics, hospitals, long term care facilities, and community settings.

Estimated Length of Completion

• Degree: Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement (LASDTAA)
• Quarters: 6 (full-time)
• Units: 90

Sample Schedule and Quarterly To-Do List

A sample schedule and quarterly to-do list are provided to help students explore courses and complete tasks on time. The guide assumes a fall quarter start, but students can begin in any quarter and start at any placement level.

Quarter 1

• To-Do List:
  • Schedule an advising appointment with your assigned advisor or retention specialist.
  • Explore careers and majors through workshops, counseling, and career services.
  • Visit the Library to get help with research; check out resources; access computers and study space; and create media projects.
  • Visit the Student Learning Center to learn about tutoring services offered in-person and online.
  • Consider clinical and volunteer experiences if needed for applications.
  • Check out campus life: Student Clubs and Affinity Groups, AANAPISI, TRIO, Community & Welcome Center, Wellness Center, etc.
• Courses:
  • MATH116 or MATH&141 or MATH&107 (5 units)
  • Integrated Studies: ENGL&101 (5 units)
  • Integrated Studies: HUM105 (5 units)
  • HDC 101 (2 units)

Quarter 2

• To-Do List:
  • Create an education plan with your assigned advisor or retention specialist.
  • Apply for the Seattle Colleges Foundation Scholarship and other scholarships.
  • Apply for financial aid for the upcoming academic year.
  • Research and develop a list of four-year colleges and universities.
  • Attend transfer workshops and a transfer fair.
• Courses:
  • MATH&146 (5 units)
  • CHEM&121 (5 units)
  • ENGL&102 (5 units)

Quarter 3

• To-Do List:
  • Update your education plan with your assigned advisor or retention specialist.
  • Connect with potential universities' admission offices at transfer fairs and info sessions and determine application procedures and deadlines.
  • Consider Student Leadership positions and other on-campus jobs.
  • Attend healthcare career and transfer fair.
  • Investigate clinical and shadowing opportunities including NAC courses.
  • Research and develop a list of your target schools and application deadlines.
  • Apply for Summer financial aid, if needed.
• Courses:
  • BIOL&160 (5 units)
  • CHEM&131 (5 units)
  • Physical Education, Science Field Trip, or Another Elective (3 units)

Quarter 4

• To-Do List:
  • Update your education plan and confirm your program of study with your assigned advisor or retention specialist.
  • Attend transfer workshops and connect with universities if you haven't already.
  • Write your personal statement for university applications.
  • Contact Nursing department at potential universities.
  • Consider possible internships.
• Courses:
  • BIOL&241 (5 units)
  • VLPA or World Language I (5 units)
  • NUTR&101 (5 units)

Quarter 5

• To-Do List:
  • Apply to graduate for the Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement (LASDTAA) degree.
  • Apply for financial aid for the upcoming academic year.
  • Apply to universities or colleges and scholarships.
• Courses:
  • BIOL&242 (5 units)
  • PSYC&100 (5 units)
  • Individuals/Cultures/Societies and Global Studies (5 units)

Quarter 6

• To-Do List:
  • Order cap and gown for commencement and join alumni association.
  • Attend graduation celebrations and commencement ceremony.
  • Check in with university for transfer plan.
• Courses:
  • BIOL&260 (5 units)
  • CMST&220 (5 units)
  • PSYC&200 (5 units)

Tuition and Funding

It's essential to apply for Financial Aid for the next year by completing either the FAFSA or the WASFA. To apply for financial aid, including grants and scholarships, visit North's Financial Aid Department for details. Part-time and full-time students can qualify for financial aid funds.

Career Opportunities

A Bachelor's degree, additional training, and licensure (NCLEX completion) or higher will be required for most careers listed below. Examples include:

• Public Health Nurse
• Care Coordinator or Navigator
• RN Case Manager
• Pediatrics Nursing
• Health Educator
• Quality Coordinator
• Nursing Manager
• Surgical Nurse
• ICU Nurse
• Hospice Nurse
• Legal Consultancy Nurse
• Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Anesthetist
• Clinical Nurse Specialist

Future Education Opportunities

Once you complete this associate's degree, additional education opportunities include:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or related degree at a four-year college or university.
• A Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in a healthcare field at one of the Seattle Colleges.

North Seattle College has direct transfer agreements with four-year institutions throughout Washington state, including the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Seattle University. Pre-nursing graduates from North have also transferred to out-of-state institutions. Direct transfer agreements do not guarantee admission and/or admission to particular programs.

Program and admission requirements vary from college-to-college. Contact an advisor to create an educational plan tailored to transfer to the institution of your choice.

Additional Information

Please see the pre-nursing guide for more information about this pathway.