Nursing, AAS
Attendance at an Information Session is mandatory for all Health Science programs prior to applying.
Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Articulation
Program Overview
A registered nurse (RN) deals with people ‐ sick, injured, and well. They are present at the most critical times in a person's life ‐ at birth and death, and at times of joy and sorrow. They work in a variety of settings including hospitals, long‐term care centers, home health agencies, hospices, group medical practices, and community‐related programs. In addition to providing direct patient care, the RN often coordinates the healthcare team.
This career is suited to persons who are caring and sensitive to others' thoughts and feelings. Honesty, compassion, intelligence, and motivation are important qualities for the RN, as well as leadership, organization, and attention to detail. Students take courses in anatomy/physiology, psychology, social sciences, as well as gerontological, medical‐surgical, psychiatric, pediatric, and obstetrical nursing. Upon completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to take the licensing exam for registered nurses (NCLEX). NC State graduates have an outstanding success rate of passing the licensing examination.
The Associate Degree Nursing program is a five‐semester program that is approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing. Specific information about the program accreditation may be obtained from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, Georgia 30326.
LPN to Associate Degree RN: LPNs may articulate into the RN program to complete their Associate Degree in Nursing. Students who have successfully completed BIOL 1101, BIOL 2751, BIOL 2752, PSYC 1010, PSYC 2010, and STAT 1010, or who have received transfer credit, qualify to take RNUR 1125 - Transition Concepts in Nursing . (CHEM 1030 and PSYC 1010 may be taken concurrently). Following successful completion of RNUR 1125, students may enroll in second‐level RNUR courses: RNUR 2030, RNUR 2050, and RNUR 2070.
Enrollment in the Associate Degree Nursing program is limited. There is a special admission procedure. PNUR to RNUR articulation programs are also available. Please contact the Admissions Office for details. The Board of Nursing may, at its discretion, refuse to accept the application for licensure of any person who has been convicted or has charges pending against them for a felony or who has been convicted of a misdemeanor resulting from or related to the use of drugs or alcohol.
The Associate Degree Nursing department publishes a student handbook which delineates specific department/program policies which are not explained in the general catalog. The specific policies as described in the department's student handbook take precedence over any general policy outlined in the College catalog. A copy of the handbook is available for review in the Admissions Office. A minimum grade of 77% is required in all non‐RNUR courses (BIOL 1101, BIOL 2751, BIOL 2752, BIOL 1550, ENGL 1010, CHEM 1030, PSYC 1010, and PSYC 2010) and all RNUR classes in order to meet prerequisite and graduation requirements.
The Associate Degree Nursing program contains a sequence of clinical classes that begin in the Fall Semester each year. Entrance into this clinical sequence is limited to students who have successfully completed the entrance requirements. Copies of the entrance requirements are available from the Admissions Office. An acceptable health physical and verification of immunizations/immunities are required. Students may begin non‐RNUR courses any semester. An acceptable Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) report/FBI background check and drug screening is required in order to enter the clinical sequence. The department also requires that students attend an NCLEX review course as a required component of the last nursing course and successfully complete a comprehensive exit examination.
The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded for the completion of this program.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrates critical thinking in the role of provider of care, manager of care and member of the discipline of nursing.
- Integrates the nursing process to meet basic human needs of individuals and of groups with common health issues in a variety of settings.
- Safely performs technical procedures using judgment based on knowledge of biopsychosocial principles.
- Establishes therapeutic relationships with clients and families as an integral part of nursing care.
- Facilitates cooperative, interpersonal relationships with co‐workers as a member of the health care team.
- Assumes responsibility for self‐direction in the ongoing process of learning.
- Incorporates knowledge of ethical and legal responsibilities and individual limitations in nursing practice.
The nursing profession deals with people: sick, injured, and well. Both registered nurses and practical nurses are an integral part of the health care team working in conjunction with various professionals to improve health care.
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Where You Could Go
One hundred percent of NC State grads seeking employment in nursing are employed. In fact many Nursing graduates are employed before they graduate. Many are encouraged by their employers to continue their education.
NC State has over 40 agreements with four-year colleges and universities, to provide a smooth transition for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Through university partnerships, some four-year courses are also offered on the NC State campus or online.
Job Demand
There is a shortage of nurses locally and nationally, due to an aging workforce and an increased demand for medical services. Work settings could include: Hospitals, Extended Care Facilities, Doctors’ Offices, Private or Home Nursing, School Nursing, Hospice, Patient Education, Community Agencies.
Licensure
NC State graduates of both Associate Degree Nursing and Practical Nursing programs are eligible to sit for the national licensure exam, known as the NCLEX, once they graduate from their program.
For RN licensure information for states other than Ohio, please refer to the following link:
Out of State Licensure Information
North Central State College offers courses, that with successful completion of the program, may potentially lead to professional licensure, registration or certifications. Licensure, registration or certification may be global, national or state-specific. Click here to see a state specific listing (PDF).
If you currently live in a state other than Ohio or intend to move to a state other than Ohio and use the education completed at North Central State College to sit for such an exam, be aware there may be additional requirements. Please contact the appropriate administering body for specific questions. You will also need to keep our registrar informed of any address changes post-graduation.
Program Outcomes
Graduating: 81/45
Graduating: 72/44
Graduating: 70/40
$60,000 - $62,000*
These estimated earnings are for employees who have completed their associate degree in Nursing. Career advancement is available if you transfer your credits toward a bachelor’s degree. As experience and education increase, you can expect to earn significantly more during your career.
For more information on regional jobs and pay, go to NC State’s Career Coach, opens in a new window page.
*Earnings figure is based on EMSI employment information for north central Ohio.
$24,006 - $12,690 = $11,316 in net cost*
The calculation above includes the following:
- The estimated current cost of tuition, fees and books to complete this two-year associate degree at NC State is $24,006.
- Minus the average amount of financial aid ($6,690 x 2 years) students received. NOTE: Your financial aid could be higher or lower than this average.
- Leaving just $11,316 to be funded by other sources — which may include additional scholarships, grants and loans. Many students opt for payment plans to avoid debt. Employed students should inquire with their employers about the possibility of reimbursement for educational expenses.
Three out of four NC State graduates have $0 college debt. We will work with you to explore every source of financial aid available.
*These figures were calculated using data available when this information was published.
$47,336*
Estimated cost of two years of instruction and attendance at a four-year public institution in Ohio.
$86,064*
Estimated cost of two years of instruction and attendance at a four-year private institution in Ohio.
*This estimate is an average of the cost including room and board for residential students.
Year One
Fall Semester
BIOL 1101 - Nutrition
BIOL 1101 is an introductory course to the principles of nutrition and its relationship to health. Included are practical applications in daily life as well as nutritional assessments of individuals. Emphasis is on essential nutrients, their supply and function, as related to an individual's well-being. Health promotion and chronic disease are explored in relation to today's society. (TAG# OHL016)
RNUR 1012 - Nursing Fundamentals I
In this course, students are introduced to the concepts of basic human needs. Critical thinking, ethical-legal, nursing history, and the program's philosophy of nursing are emphasized. The role of the nurse as a member of the healthcare team is emphasized throughout the course. Acquisition of basic nursing skills will prepare students to deliver safe and appropriate care in accordance with the standards of professional nursing practice. Skills performed in the nursing laboratory facilitate the transfer of knowledge from the classroom to the delivery of client care. Students will demonstrate emerging competency in the performance of basic nursing procedures in the lab setting.
RNUR 1030 - Pharmacology
Pharmacology PNUR 1030/RNUR 1030 provides an introduction to the study of drugs. Content also includes classifications of drugs, dosage calculations, legal aspects of drug administration, and preparation and administration of drugs. Uses, actions and side effects of selected drugs will be studied as well as associated nursing care and implications. Semesters available: Day - F
ENGL 1010 - English Composition I
This is a basic course in expository writing and critical reading. Students read a variety of nonfiction works and write summaries, analysis, essays, and a researched argument in response to their reading. Students learn to read actively and accurately and to organize, develop, and revise coherent papers appropriate for a college-educated audience. (OTM for First Writing Course TME001)
RNUR 1014 - Nursing Fundamentals II
In this course, students are introduced to the concepts of basic human needs. Critical thinking, ethical-legal, nursing history, and the program's philosophy of nursing are emphasized. The role of the nurse as a member of the healthcare team is emphasized throughout the course. Acquisition of basic nursing skills will prepare students to deliver safe and appropriate care in accordance with the standards of professional nursing practice. Skills performed in the nursing laboratory facilitate the transfer of knowledge from the classroom to the delivery of client care. Students will demonstrate emerging competency in the performance of basic nursing procedures in the lab setting.
Spring Semester
PSYC 2010 - Human Growth & Development
This course presents an overview of the total lifespan of human growth and development from conception through death. Application of the scientific method to study physical/neurological, socio/emotional, and cognitive development across the lifespan. Please note outcomes are written to ODHE standards using ODHE language. Ohio Articulation Number 0SS048. This course also meets the requirements for Ohio Transfer 36 - Social and Behavioral Sciences TMSBS.
RNUR 1052 - Health Alterations I
This course will continue the application of nursing care concepts, critical thinking, clinical judgment, and decision-making in care of the adult client. Students will build upon foundational knowledge established in previous coursework. Emphasis is placed on the exploration of chronic health conditions and understanding of the nursing process. Students will apply the roles and responsibilities of the developing nurse, collaborating with the healthcare team to plan evidence-based care using the nursing process. Focus is placed on basic human needs, restoration of wellness, therapeutic communication, health maintenance, and promotion. Clinical rotations integrate emerging medical-surgical knowledge into the promotion of safe, client-centered care.
BIOL 2752 - Anatomy and Physiology II
This course is a continuation of BIOL 2751. It includes the study of structure and function of blood and the cardiovascular, lymphatic/immunity, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory exercises are designed to supplement lecture topics and include microscopy, the study of models, cat and specimen dissection, cadaver study, and physiological experiments. (OTM approved course in Natural Sciences TMNS)
RNUR 1054 - Health Alterations II
This course will expand upon knowledge obtained in previous coursework. Continued focus will be placed on nursing care concepts, critical thinking, clinical judgment, and decision-making in care of the adult client. The exploration of chronic health conditions and understanding of the nursing process are emphasized. Students will apply the roles and responsibilities of the developing nurse, collaborating with the healthcare team to plan evidence-based care using the nursing process. Concentration is placed on basic human needs, restoration of wellness, therapeutic communication, health maintenance, and promotion. Clinical rotations integrate emerging medical-surgical knowledge into the promotion of safe, client-centered care.
RNUR 1060 - Clinical Reasoning
This course focuses on the development and incorporation of clinical reasoning within the role of the registered nurse. Foundational principles of nursing assessment, nursing process and decision-making to develop critical thinking skills are emphasized. Students will learn to determine evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, cultural competence, and clinical reasoning into safe and effective nursing care. Focus will be placed on developing prioritization of care and recognition of potential complications. Throughout the course students will collaborate with peers and faculty to effectively evaluate and manage client care using case studies, concept mapping, clinical scenarios, and reflective practices.
Year Two
Fall Semester
RNUR 2032 - Obstetric & Reproductive C
This course focuses on the basic needs of maternal and neonatal clients. Nursing care concepts of therapeutic communication, clinical judgment, and clinical decision-making are emphasized throughout the course. Students will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the obstetric nurse in providing quality, safe, client-centered care for diverse populations through teamwork and collaboration. Foundations of the nursing process are demonstrated in the management of maternal and neonatal clients in the acute care setting.
RNUR 2060 - Clinical Judgement I
This course focuses on the development and incorporation of clinical judgement within the role of the registered nurse. Foundational principles of nursing assessment, analysis, inference, and decision-making to develop enhanced critical thinking skills are emphasized. Students will learn to integrate evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, cultural competence, and clinical reasoning into safe and effective nursing care. Focus will be placed on developing proficiency in pattern recognition, prioritization of care, and anticipation of potential complications. Throughout the course students will collaborate with peers and faculty to effectively evaluate and prioritize client care using case studies, concept mapping, clinical scenarios, and reflective practices.
BIOL 1550 - Microbiology for Health Professionals
This course is designed for allied health and nursing majors. It explores the major groups of microorganisms and the role they play in the environment and in disease. The host-parasite relationship, human immunity to disease, epidemiology, and the control of microorganisms are also addressed. Laboratory exercises provide the student with the basic techniques of microbial identification, microscopy, sterile technique, and basic infection control. (OTM approved course for Natural SciencesTMNS) Day - F, Sp Evening - F
RNUR 2034 - Pediatric Care
This course addresses the needs of the pediatric population. Focus is placed on health promotion, health assessment, holistic wellness, maintenance of health, and recognition of illness for children from infancy to adolescence. Students will incorporate essential concepts of critical thinking, therapeutic communication, collaboration, prioritization, and clinical judgment into the nursing care of children. Students will analyze family dynamics and community resources impacting the pediatric population. Evidence-based practice standards and atraumatic care are integrated as alterations in physiological, developmental, and genetic factors are explored in this population.
RNUR 2062 - Clinical Judgement II
This course builds upon previous content in the development and incorporation of clinical judgement within the role of the registered nurse. Foundational principles of nursing assessment, analysis, inference, and decision-making to develop enhanced critical thinking skills are emphasized. Students will learn to integrate evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, cultural competence, and clinical reasoning into safe and effective nursing care. Focus will be placed on developing proficiency in pattern recognition, prioritization of care, and anticipation of potential complications. Throughout the course students will collaborate with peers and faculty to effectively evaluate and prioritize client care using case studies, concept mapping, clinical scenarios, and reflective practices.
Spring Semester
RNUR 2052 - Complex Health Alterations I
This course is a continuation of prior medical surgical nursing courses and is a companion to Complex Health Alterations II. Evidence-based practice serves as the foundation for safe, client-centered care of clients experiencing various complex physiological disorders. Psychological and psychosocial effects associated with various disorders are also analyzed. Critical thinking, prioritization, and delegation are emphasized as students evaluate roles and responsibilities of the developing nurse and collaborate within the healthcare team. Clinical judgement and professional communication are incorporated as the student synthesizes a plan of care for clients experiencing both actual and potential health alterations.
CHEM 1030 - Chemistry
The course is to give the Allied Health and Nursing student an appreciation and understanding of general inorganic chemistry. Includes atomic and molecular structure, molecular forces, properties and states of matter, naming of chemical compounds, types and behaviors of solutions, types of reactions, acid base chemistry, carefully chosen organic topics with their applications to specific health problems. Laboratory exercises will enhance and reinforce lecture topics. (OTM approved course in Natural Sciences TMNS)
RNUR 2054 - Complex Health Alterations II
This course is a continuation of prior medical surgical nursing courses and is a companion to Complex Health Alterations I. Evidence-based practice serves as the foundation for safe, client-centered care of clients experiencing various complex physiological disorders. Psychological and psychosocial effects associated with various disorders are also analyzed. Critical thinking, prioritization, and delegation are emphasized as students evaluate roles and responsibilities of the developing nurse and collaborate within the healthcare team. Clinical judgement and professional communication are incorporated as the student synthesizes a plan of care for clients experiencing both actual and potential health alterations.
RNUR 2072 - Transitions & Trends
This course synthesizes the application of the nursing process. Emphasis is placed on the application of knowledge, skills and attitudes needed for the entry level registered nurse within the scope of nursing practice. This course will facilitate the learner’s transition into an entry-level position as a graduate nurse. Attributes of the graduate nurse are explored, including professional communication, legal and ethical responsibilities, accountability, organizational skills, time management, leadership, and collaboration with members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team. Focus is placed on professional issues and trends in nursing that will prepare students to manage client care in the rapidly changing health care environment as well as preparation for the licensure exam.