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: 114/63
Graduating: 81/45
Graduating: 72/44
$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 2751 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I
This course is an in-depth study of the principles of human anatomy and physiology. It includes the study of structure and function of the body as a whole and study of cell biology, histology, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, endocrine, and nervous systems plus the special senses. 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)
PSYC 1010 - Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to Psychology is an introductory level course and is a study of the basic human behavior. Topics include the history of psychology, scientific methods, biological processes, cognitive processes, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning, intelligence, human development, personality theory, psychopathology and treatment, stress and health, and social psychology. Please note outcomes are written to OBR standards using OBR language. Ohio Articulation Number OSS015. This course meets the requirements for OTM in Social and Behavioral Science TMSBS
RNUR 1010 - Basic Concepts in Nursing
An introduction to fundamental nursing skills, interpersonal communication and relationships, safety in practice, ethical/legal issues of nursing practice including nursing roles and boundaries, awareness of developmental levels, medication administration guidelines/techniques/calculations, IV assessment and calculations, OR protocols and procedures pre-, intra- and post-operative care, pain assessment & management, teaching and learning, and cognitive development with a focus on critical thinking. Emphasis is placed on interviewing and physical assessment skills; safe, hygienic client care; skills performance; emotional, spiritual, and cultural concerns; infection control, surgical wound healing, medical and surgical asepsis and excretory stressors. Stress adaptation/wellness, documentation, computer research, and community nursing resources are all integral aspects of the course. Utilization of all aspects of the nursing process is emphasized in classroom, clinical and laboratory experiences. Extended care facilities and acute care units in the hospital setting are utilized for clinical rotation to integrate gerontological and beginning medical-surgical nursing theory with practice. Semesters available: Day - F
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
Spring 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)
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)
PSYC 2010 - Human Growth and Development
This course presents an overview of the total lifespan of human growth and development from conception through death. Major theories of human development will be studied through examination of the dynamics of human growth in relation to 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 1050 - Intermediate Concepts in Nursing I
This course focuses on the response of clients to respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, orthopedic, endocrine (diabetes, thyroid, and parathyroid), fluid balance, and vascular stressors. Extensive emphasis is placed on meeting basic human needs, restoration of wellness, health maintenance, and promotion. Critical thinking, therapeutic communication, client teaching, developmental level tasks, cultural influences, and ethical/legal issues of nursing practice are also integrated throughout the course. Acute care units in the hospital setting are utilized for clinical rotation to integrate intermediate medical-surgical theory with practice. Semesters available: Day - Sp
Summer Semester
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 1070 - Intermediate Concepts in Nursing II
This intermediate course utilizes and builds on basic skills and knowledge of RNUR 1010 and RNUR 1050. The focus of study is on the utilization of the nursing process emphasized in classroom and clinical experiences as it relates to meeting basic human needs. Acute care units in the hospital setting are utilized for clinical rotation to integrate intermediate medical-surgical theory with practice. Semesters available: Day - Su
STAT 1010 - Probability and Statistics
This course provides the student with an overview of probability and statistics. Probability terminology, concepts and rules are emphasized in solving probability problems. Descriptive statistics, including measures of central tendency and dispersion, charts, tables and diagrams are used to summarize data. The student is introduced to the binomial, Poisson, hyper-geometric, normal and t-distributions. Confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and linear regression are used to make conclusions concerning population parameters from sample data. This course meets the requirements for OTM Introductory Statistics TMM010.
Year Two
Fall Semester
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 2030 - Advanced Concepts in Nursing I
This course is designed to assist the student to integrate and build on concepts and skills learned in previous nursing courses. Emphasis of study is upon utilization of the nursing process to maintain and/or restore optimal level health for individuals who present immediate and complex nursing needs. Critical thinking will be utilized in the exploration of theoretical content and clinical experiences. The focus of study is on the stress-adaptation process as it relates to the basic human needs of nutrition and elimination, safety and security, oxygenation, activity and rest, and mental health and behavioral adjustments. Health promotion in growth and development is a strong component of the course. Skills of self-evaluation, organization, discharge planning and referral will be developed. Knowledge regarding therapeutic communication, diet therapy, pharmacology, developmental levels/tasks, community health and resources, culture, and ethical/legal boundaries are integrated into the course. Clinical experiences are planned to work with children, adolescents, young adults and child-bearing clients. Clinical experiences are planned in community agencies with preceptors. Some evening clinical experiences may be scheduled during the quarter. Group leaders are expected to make clinical assignments the day prior to clinical experience. Semesters available: Day - F, Sp
RNUR 2050 - Advanced Concepts in Nursing II
This course is designed to assist the student in integrating and expanding concepts and skills learned in previous nursing courses. Critical thinking will be utilized in implementing the nursing process to maintain and/or restore optimal level health and behavioral adjustment for individuals with complex nursing needs. Theoretical content and clinical experiences will focus on the stress-adaptation process as it relates to the basic human needs of mental health and behavioral adjustment, oxygenation, nutrition and elimination, and safety and security. Skills of self-evaluation and work organization will be developed. Knowledge regarding basic and therapeutic communication concepts, diet therapy, pharmacology, developmental levels/tasks, community health and resources, culture, and ethical/legal boundaries are integrated in the course. Clinical experiences are planned which allow the student to meet the course objectives in different settings (acute care hospitals, psychiatric hospitals and community agencies) and may include different shift times. Semesters available: Day - F, Sp
Spring Semester
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 2030 - Advanced Concepts in Nursing I
This course is designed to assist the student to integrate and build on concepts and skills learned in previous nursing courses. Emphasis of study is upon utilization of the nursing process to maintain and/or restore optimal level health for individuals who present immediate and complex nursing needs. Critical thinking will be utilized in the exploration of theoretical content and clinical experiences. The focus of study is on the stress-adaptation process as it relates to the basic human needs of nutrition and elimination, safety and security, oxygenation, activity and rest, and mental health and behavioral adjustments. Health promotion in growth and development is a strong component of the course. Skills of self-evaluation, organization, discharge planning and referral will be developed. Knowledge regarding therapeutic communication, diet therapy, pharmacology, developmental levels/tasks, community health and resources, culture, and ethical/legal boundaries are integrated into the course. Clinical experiences are planned to work with children, adolescents, young adults and child-bearing clients. Clinical experiences are planned in community agencies with preceptors. Some evening clinical experiences may be scheduled during the quarter. Group leaders are expected to make clinical assignments the day prior to clinical experience. Semesters available: Day - F, Sp
RNUR 2050 - Advanced Concepts in Nursing II
This course is designed to assist the student in integrating and expanding concepts and skills learned in previous nursing courses. Critical thinking will be utilized in implementing the nursing process to maintain and/or restore optimal level health and behavioral adjustment for individuals with complex nursing needs. Theoretical content and clinical experiences will focus on the stress-adaptation process as it relates to the basic human needs of mental health and behavioral adjustment, oxygenation, nutrition and elimination, and safety and security. Skills of self-evaluation and work organization will be developed. Knowledge regarding basic and therapeutic communication concepts, diet therapy, pharmacology, developmental levels/tasks, community health and resources, culture, and ethical/legal boundaries are integrated in the course. Clinical experiences are planned which allow the student to meet the course objectives in different settings (acute care hospitals, psychiatric hospitals and community agencies) and may include different shift times. Semesters available: Day - F, Sp
RNUR 2070 - Nursing Trends and Transitions
A study of the complex processes that occur and influence the student's transition into nursing practice. Reality shock, the changing healthcare delivery system, as well as legal and ethical responsibilities and issues are included. The role of health care organizations as they relate to the practice of nursing is covered. The nurse's role in the political arena is explored. Delegation as an integral part of nursing care delivery is examined. Requirements for initial and continued licensure and employee expectations are included. Semesters available: Day - Sp