You probably know nurses are the backbone of the U.S. healthcare system and are indispensable to patient safety, curative treatment, disease prevention, and health promotion. But did you know nurses are consistently ranked by the public as the most honest and ethical profession in the United States? Great nurses combine the ability to think scientifically with a compassionate heart.

There are several different degree paths to becoming a nurse. When choosing which path is best for you, be sure to consider the types of skills you want to learn, the position you would like to hold, where you want to work, and your salary needs. It takes the typical student two years to complete the pre-requisite courses necessary for admission to professional school. Professional school typically takes two more years resulting in a bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree issued by the professional school. It should be noted that some students prefer to complete their bachelor’s degree before attending nursing school. Many nursing programs offered an “accelerated” program for such students.

Sample plan of study

Year 1

Year 2

*Recommended for students who did not take chemistry in high school
**Students with ACT scores less than 21 in math should take MATH 142 prior to taking CHEM 140/140L

IN ADDITION to these courses, students wishing to attend the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Nursing must obtain a Basic Nursing Assistant certificate as part of the requirements for admission to their program.

PLEASE NOTE: This is for informational purposes only. For class schedules & for courses required for admission into specific nursing programs, please see an advisor and your prospective professional school website

2022-2023 Catalog