Program Requirements
Entry into the AAS Nursing program is competitive, and space is limited, so not all applicants can be admitted. In addition to the academic requirements, there are several non-academic components. Applicants must be physically and mentally able to cope with the rigors of the curriculum and the demanding nature of the health professions. Students must be able to grasp scientific concepts, set up and solve basic math and algebra problems, and communicate well orally and in writing. Physically, students must be able to remain on their feet for extended periods, lift up to 35 pounds, distinguish heart and lung sounds, read fine print, and identify skin tones such as pale, ashen, gray, or bluish. Finally, a criminal background check and urine drug screen are required before admission. Interested students should speak with an academic advisor as early as possible.
Clinical sites are located throughout Klamath and Lake Counties. Students will be assigned to clinical experiences in most, if not all, of the sites and must expect to travel. At times, carpooling to clinical sites will not be possible, and students will need reliable transportation. Required clinical experiences are assigned for days, evenings, holidays, and/or night shifts. Completing NSG 213L, the capstone experience, may also involve weekend shifts. Nursing classes, labs, and clinicals typically involve 15-20 hours of attendance and up to 30 hours of preparation, assignments, and study per week. Students are not allowed to work the shift immediately preceding scheduled clinical experiences.
PROGRAM ENTRY ELIGIBILITY
Traditional Entry
To qualify as an applicant for traditional entry into the RN program, the student must:
- Complete all prerequisites with a letter grade of “C” or better and a cumulative prerequisite GPA of 3.0 or higher by the end of the term prior to starting the program.
- Submit an official copy of transcripts showing completion of the required prerequisite and support courses (or their equivalents).
- Show evidence of a negative TB status (within six months prior to entry).
- Show proof of current immunity against rubella, measles, mumps, diphtheria, tetanus, varicella, and hepatitis B.
- Show a current CPR Healthcare Provider card (issued by the American Heart Association).
- Pass a background check.
- Pass a drug screen.
- Show evidence of work experience in a healthcare setting, including direct patient contact within the last three years. This information will count toward points for admission.
Advanced Placement Entry (LPN-RN):
To qualify as an applicant for Advanced Placement into the RN program, the student must:
- Complete all prerequisites with a latter grade of “C” or better and a cumulative prerequisite GPA of 3.0 or higher by the end of the term prior to starting the program.
- Possess a current State of Oregon LPN license that is active and unencumbered.
- Submit an official copy of transcripts showing completion of the required prerequisite and support courses (or their equivalent).
- Show evidence of a negative TB status (within six months prior to entry).
- Show proof of current immunity against rubella, measles, mumps, diphtheria, tetanus, varicella, and hepatitis B.
- Current CPR Healthcare Provider card (from American Heart Association).
- Pass a background check.
- Pass a drug screen.
- Submit evidence of 400 hours of direct patient care experience in an acute or sub-acute (skilled) setting, or 600 hours of direct patient care in other nursing settings such as clinics, home health, or assisted living as an LPN within the last two years.
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