Nursing Prerequisites: What You Need to Become a Nurse in 2025

Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions, offering job stability and opportunities for growth. Before applying to a nursing program, students must meet specific nursing school requirements, including completing required prerequisite courses. These courses provide foundational knowledge in science, human anatomy, human physiology, and human development, all of which are essential for success in nursing school.

This guide outlines the course requirements for nursing school, how to complete them, and additional admission factors such as GPA, entrance exams, and application deadlines.

Why Nursing School Prerequisites Matter

Prerequisite courses introduce students to key science courses, including biology, chemistry, human anatomy, and developmental psychology. These subjects provide the knowledge necessary to understand how the human body systems function, how diseases spread, and how to assess human growth and development.

Most nursing schools require applicants to complete their prerequisite courses before admission. Some programs allow students to take these courses while enrolled, but many prefer applicants who have already completed them. These courses ensure that students are prepared for the rigorous demands of nursing education and clinical practice.

Common Nursing School Prerequisites

Most nursing schools require applicants to complete a set of science and general education courses before admission. These prerequisite courses build the foundation for advanced coursework in human anatomy, human physiology, microbiology, nutrition science, and human development. While specific course requirements vary by nursing program, most accredited schools have similar expectations.

Anatomy and Physiology I and II

Anatomy and Physiology are essential courses that introduce students to the human body's systems and functions. These classes cover topics such as the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous systems and the impact of diseases on these systems.

Students typically complete Anatomy and Physiology I before advancing to Physiology II, where they learn more about complex biological processes. Both courses require a lab component, where students conduct dissections, analyze human tissues, and complete detailed lab reports.

• Required Semesters: 1–2 semesters
• Example Courses:
  • Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab 1
  • Advanced Topics in Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab 2

Biology and Microbiology

Biology provides the foundation for understanding living organisms, including cell structures, genetics, taxonomy, and human growth. These concepts are critical for nurses who need to evaluate patient conditions and apply scientific principles in clinical settings.

Microbiology focuses on infection control, immunology, and the classification of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Nurses must understand how infections spread and how to prevent them in healthcare environments. The lab component includes hands-on work with biological samples and microbiological analysis.

• Required Semesters: 2 semesters for Biology, 1 semester for Microbiology
• Example Courses:
  • General Biology
  • Biology Lab
  • Foundations of Biology
  • Introduction to Microbiology
  • Microbiology Lab

Chemistry and Organic Chemistry

Chemistry is essential for understanding how chemical reactions occur in the human body at the cellular level. Nurses apply chemistry principles when administering medications, evaluating nutrition science, and understanding metabolic processes.

Organic Chemistry expands on these concepts by introducing biological compounds, enzyme reactions, and molecular structures that affect human health. The lab requirement includes experiments in chemical analysis and biological reactions.

• Required Semesters: 1 semester of General Chemistry, 1 semester of Organic Chemistry
• Example Courses:
  • Introduction to Chemistry
  • Chemistry for Nurses
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Chemistry Lab

English Composition and Communication

Nurses must have strong communication skills to document patient information, write reports, and interact with healthcare teams. English Composition courses focus on writing, grammar, and research analysis, while specialized writing courses for healthcare professionals prepare students for medical documentation.

• Required Semesters: 2 semesters
• Example Courses:
  • English Composition I
  • English Composition II
  • Professional Writing for Nurses
  • Communication and Writing for Healthcare Professionals

Lifespan Growth and Development

Understanding human development is critical for nurses who work with patients of all ages. Developmental psychology covers the lifespan from birth to death, examining cognitive, emotional, and social changes that occur throughout life. Nurses apply these concepts to patient care, counseling, and healthcare interventions.

• Required Semesters: 1 semester
• Example Courses:
  • Lifespan Developmental Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development

Human Nutrition

Nutrition science helps nurses understand how food sources and dietary habits influence patient health. This course covers nutritional needs across different life stages, the role of vitamins and minerals, and the impact of nutrition on chronic disease prevention. Students analyze dietary patterns, food safety, and public health nutrition concerns.

• Required Semesters: 1 semester
• Example Courses:
  • Fundamentals of Nutrition
  • Nutrition Science for Nurses

Introduction to Psychology

Psychology is a required course for nursing students because it helps them understand cognitive skills, behavior, memory, intelligence, and mental health disorders. Nurses use psychological principles to assess patient behavior, provide emotional support, and interact effectively in healthcare settings.

• Required Semesters: 1 semester
• Example Courses:
  • General Psychology
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Psychology for Nurses

Statistics for Nursing

Nurses rely on data analysis to evaluate treatment outcomes, monitor patient symptoms, and implement evidence-based practice. A statistics course teaches students how to analyze medical research, interpret data, and use probability models in clinical decision-making.

• Required Semesters: 1 semester
• Example Courses:
  • Introduction to Statistics
  • Introductory Statistics for Nurses

How to Complete Nursing School Prerequisites

Where to Take Prerequisite Courses

Students can complete prerequisite courses at:

• Community colleges: Lower cost, easier admissions process.
• Universities: May offer better transfer options to a nursing school.
• Online programs: Flexible but may not include required lab components.

Recommended Timeline

Most nursing programs require prerequisite courses to be completed within five years of applying. Many students take these courses over two semesters, but accelerated options are available.

Spring vs. Fall Enrollment

• Spring semester: Fewer applicants, more availability in courses.
• Fall semester: More competition but aligns with many nursing school start dates.

Cost and Financial Aid

• Tuition costs vary by school; community colleges offer the most affordable options.
• Federal and state financial aid is available for applicants.
• Scholarships may be offered by universities and nursing schools.

Additional Nursing School Prerequisites

GPA and Grade Expectations

Most nursing schools require a minimum GPA:

• ADN programs: 2.5–2.75
• BSN programs: 3.0+
• Competitive programs: 3.25 or higher

Entrance Exams

Some nursing programs require entrance exams to assess academic readiness. Common tests include:

• Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
• Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI A2)

Application Deadlines

Each university and nursing program has its own application deadlines. Applicants should check with the admissions office for submission dates.

Personal Statements and Essays

Many nursing programs require a personal statement. Topics include:

• Interest in nursing
• Relevant experiences
• Career goals in healthcare

Background Checks and Health Requirements

Most nursing schools require:

• Immunization records
• CPR certification
• Criminal background check
• Drug screening

What to Expect After Completing Nursing Prerequisites

1. Applying to a Nursing Program

• Minimum GPA: Some programs have strict GPA cutoffs for admission.
• Entrance Exams: Some schools require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 exam to assess academic readiness.
• Personal Statements: Many programs require an essay explaining your interest in nursing, career goals, and relevant experiences.
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants may need references from professors, employers, or healthcare professionals.
• Application Deadlines: Submission dates vary by school, so checking with the admissions office is essential.

2. Starting Nursing School

• Pharmacology – Understanding medications, dosages, and interactions.
• Health Assessment – Learning how to evaluate patient conditions and document findings.
• Pathophysiology – Studying diseases, their causes, and how they affect the human body.
• Medical-Surgical Nursing – Gaining skills in patient care across different healthcare settings.
• Mental Health Nursing – Applying developmental psychology and cognitive skills to psychiatric patient care.

3. Clinical Rotations

• Work directly with patients, doctors, and hospital staff.
• Develop technical skills, such as taking vitals, administering medications, and performing wound care.
• Gain experience in different nursing specialties, including pediatrics, emergency care, intensive care, obstetrics, and geriatrics.
• Apply classroom learning to real-world situations and improve critical thinking in patient care.

4. Hands-on Training with Medical Equipment

• IV insertion and management.
• Electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Catheterization and wound care procedures.
• Basic life support (BLS) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) techniques.

5. Preparing for the NCLEX-RN Exam

• Reviewing NCLEX-style practice questions to strengthen test-taking skills.
• Studying key nursing concepts, including patient safety, infection control, and ethical decision-making.
• Participating in NCLEX prep courses offered by universities, nursing schools, or independent programs.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a nurse starts with completing the right prerequisite courses and meeting nursing school requirements. Whether choosing a two-year ADN program or a four-year BSN program, students must complete science courses, general education requirements, and clinical training before taking the NCLEX-RN exam.

Nursing is a rewarding career with many opportunities for growth. Understanding the application process, GPA requirements, entrance exams, and coursework expectations will help students prepare for success. After completing a nursing program and earning a state license, graduates can start working in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialized medical fields.

Get Help from a Nursing Admissions Coach

Applying to nursing school can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Nursing admissions coaches are here to help you with everything from meeting course requirements to preparing for entrance exams like the TEAS or HESI A2.

Related Articles

Explore these helpful resources to guide you through the nursing school journey:

• Nursing Vs. Medical School: Pros, Cons, and Which One is Right for You
• RN School: What You Need to Know About Nursing Education and Careers
• Nursing Schools: Tips for Choosing the Right Nursing School for You
• BSN Programs: What You Need to Know About Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs
• Nursing School Cost – How Much is Nursing School in 2025?

FAQs

What are the typical prerequisite courses required for nursing school?

• Most nursing programs require courses in anatomy and physiology, biology, microbiology, chemistry, English composition, psychology, nutrition, and statistics. These courses provide foundational knowledge essential for nursing practice.

Can I complete my prerequisite courses online?

• Some institutions offer online options for certain prerequisite courses. However, courses with lab components, such as anatomy and physiology or microbiology, may require in-person attendance to fulfill laboratory requirements. It's important to check with your intended nursing program to determine if online courses are accepted.

How long are prerequisite courses valid?

• Many nursing programs require that science-related prerequisite courses be completed within a certain timeframe, often within the last 5 to 10 years, to ensure that applicants' knowledge is current. For example, some programs specify that all sciences must be completed within 10 years of starting the nursing program.

What Are the Entry Requirements for Nursing?

• To enter a nursing program, students must complete prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, psychology, nutrition, and statistics. Most programs require a minimum GPA (2.5–2.75 for ADN programs and 3.0+ for BSN programs). Some schools require an entrance exam like the TEAS or HESI A2. Applicants must submit transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Many programs also require a background check, CPR certification, immunizations, and drug screening before starting clinical training.

Is There a Two-Year Course in Nursing?

• Yes, students can complete a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which prepares them to become Registered Nurses (RNs) after passing the NCLEX-RN exam. ADN programs include coursework in nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and clinical rotations. Some nurses later complete an RN-to-BSN program to earn a bachelor's degree.

What Are the Requirements for Nursing?

• To become a nurse, students must complete a nursing program, participate in clinical training, and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to get licensed. Most programs require prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA, entrance exams, and application documents. After graduation, nurses must apply for state licensure before starting work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings.