There is a wealth of research that confirms the impact of nurses on public health. According to Gallup Poll surveys published in the last decade, nursing is the most trusted profession based on honesty and ethical standards. The positive perception of the public towards the profession is just one of many reasons for the increase in nursing school admissions. Yet, hundreds of qualified candidates are turned away each year due to limited enrollment in the programs. The Associate Degree in Nursing program draws numerous applications as it is the fastest and most affordable path to prepare for practice as a Registered Nurse. Students who complete the requirements for the degree are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam just as graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Graduates of both programs may use the title of Registered Nurse after passing the licensure exam.
Nursing is an exciting and challenging profession. It’s a great time to be a nurse if you enjoy caring for others and want to enlist in a profession where there’s diversity and opportunities for growth. Nurses have a central role in the health care system as they lower the overall cost of patient care and improve outcomes. A state-wide shortage of nurses may be challenging for administrators but is promising for new nurse graduates who will benefit from sign on bonuses, competitive salaries, and tuition reimbursement. North Carolina employers are especially in need of nurses to attend to the needs of patients in rural areas who lack access to quality medical care.
Nurses who complete the ADN program can improve their career prospects by transitioning to the BSN through bridge programs. More hospitals prefer the BSN degree as the minimum educational preparation for their nurses due to complexities in health care delivery. The Master of Science is also an option for registered nurses who want to practice at the advanced level. There is a growing need for primary care practitioners in rural areas where there is a shortage of primary care physicians.
Wake Technical Community College
Wake Technical Community College facilitates an Associate Degree Nursing program that supports the development of knowledge, skills, and competencies needs to integrate safe and quality in the practice of nursing. Students will learn how to meet patients’ needs in a way that will impact their health, quality of life, and outcomes. The coursework material will include as its foundation the domains of healthcare, holistic care, and nursing practice. Emphasis will be placed on the nurse as a part of the interdisciplinary team. Students who complete the program will be eligible to apply to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses for licensure in the state. An advanced placement option is available for Licensed Practical Nurses to complete the requirements for an Associate Nursing Degree after completing 53 credits.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 72
Duration: 5 terms
Course titles:
General education courses – Introduction to Health Concepts, Anatomy and Physiology I, General Psychology, Writing and Inquiry
Core courses – Health-Illness Concepts, Holistic Health Concepts, Anatomy and Physiology II, Developmental Psychology, Health Care Concepts, General Microbiology, Family Health Concepts, Health System Concepts, Introduction to Sociology, Writing/Research in the Disc, Complex Health Concepts, Humanities/Fine Arts Elective
Competencies – Provide patient-centered care, utilize information technology in clinical decision-making, integrate evidence-based practice in nursing, collaborate effectively with the interdisciplinary team, and demonstrate professionalism in practice
Admission criteria:
- Complete the NC Residency Determination Interview
- Complete the Application for Admission to Wake Tech Community College
- Attend a mandatory Nursing Information Session
- Complete the FAFSA and supporting documents
- Submit official transcripts of all previous education including high school or GED scores and any college transcripts
- Take the placement test – exemption may be granted to applicants who meet specific requirements
- Submit a separate application for admission to the Associate Degree Nursing program – the deadline is January 31 for the fall semester and July 31 for the spring semester
- Complete documentation of completing high school or college level chemistry with a grade C or better
- Take and pass the ATI TEAS or TEAS V with a minimum score of 59 or higher on the Composite score
- Complete the Nurse Aide I course, have current certification and be listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry
- Have clear communication skills – must meet the English Language requirements
- Have a GPA of 2.0 or higher on prerequisite coursework
- Attend a mandatory departmental orientation after admission to the nursing program
Program Cost
The cost of tuition is $76 per credit for in-state students. The total cost of tuition is $5,184 ($76 x 72 credits). Additional costs include textbooks, student activity fee, professional liability insurance, ATI test, CPR certification, criminal background check, drug testing, NCLEX application, NC licensure, physical exam, immunization, uniforms, shoes, stethoscope, scissors, and watch.
Website: https://www.waketech.edu/programs-courses/credit/nursing
Address: 9101 Fayetteville Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
Phone: 919-866-5000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%
Durham Tech
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Durham Tech prepares adults to practice nursing in the complex and fast-pace health care environment. Theory and practical coursework builds on the domains of healthcare, the holistic individual, and nursing practice so students will function as competent members of the interdisciplinary team. Clinical experiences in various health care facilities will include 12-hour shifts during the week as well as weekend shifts. Program graduates will be eligible to apply to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. Licensed Practical Nurses may apply for advanced placement in the program. The program admits new students in the fall semester. The class size is limited to 16 students.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 70
Duration: 18 to 19 months
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – College Transfer Success, Anatomy and Physiology I, Writing and Inquiry, General Psychology, Introduction to Health Concepts, Anatomy and Physiology II, Development Psychology, Health Illness Concepts, Holistic Health Concepts, Pathophysiology, Health System Concepts, Writing/Research in the Disciplines, Family Health Concepts, Health Care Concepts, Complex Health Concepts, Humanities/Fine Arts Elective
Competencies – Provide patient-centered care, utilize information technology in clinical decision-making, integrate evidence-based practice in nursing, collaborate effectively with the interdisciplinary team, and demonstrate professionalism in practice
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application to Durham Tech
- Submit official transcript of previous education (high school or college)
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Attend a mandatory Student Orientation
- Attend a Nursing Information Session
- Demonstrate college-level readiness – satisfactory scores on the ACT, SAT, GED, COMPASS, ASSET, or ACCUPLACER, proof of an unweighted US high school GPA of 2.8 or higher, proof of completing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, pass the RISE English placement test 2 and RISE Math placement test 2
- Complete the general prerequisites with a grade C or better – College Success, Writing and Inquiry, General Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Pathophysiology
- Provide proof of completing the Nurse Aide I course and listing on the NC Nurse Aide Registry
- Obtain an Adjusted Individual Score of 60% on the ATI TEAS Test
- Meet the English Language requirement
Program Cost
The total cost of tuition is $5,320. Additional costs include textbooks, fees, background check, physical exam and immunization, uniforms, shoes, nursing supplies, professional liability insurance, and CPR certification.
Website: https://www.durhamtech.edu/academic-programs/associate-degree-nursing
Address: 1637 East Lawson Street, Durham, NC 27703
Phone: 919-536-7200
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79%
Watts School of Nursing
The Associate Degree Nursing program is offered by Watts School of Nursing through a partnership with the University of Mount Olives. The student will complete the prerequisite courses at Watts and receive a Diploma in Nursing. The curriculum will include lectures, hands-on practice in simulation labs, and clinical experiences that begin in the first semester. Supervised patient care activities will give students the opportunity to refine nursing skills as they work with interdisciplinary teams in acute care, clinics, long-term care facilities, and schools. The fourth semester study will include over 100 hours of clinical rotations as students transition to nursing practice. Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the NLCEX for licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 48
Class hours: 495
Clinical hours: 675
Total contact hours: 1,170
Duration: 18 to 19 months
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Human Growth and Development, English Math, History, Literature, Religion, Introduction to Basic Health Care Needs Across the Lifespan, Holistic Care of the Client and Family, Management of Acute and Chronic Health Issues Across the Lifespan, Management of Acute, Complex, and Life-threatening Health Issues Across the Lifespan
Admission criteria:
- Be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident
- Must have completed high school or high school equivalency
- Provide documentation of current health insurance
- Take and pass a pre-admission test – HESI Admission Assessment (A2) Exam with a mean score for English of 75 and a Math score of 70 or above
- Pass a criminal background check
- Submit to alcohol and drug testing
- Submit a Watts School of Nursing Application
- Submit a completed essay
- Provide the names of three references on the Reference Form
- Submit a University of Mount Olive Application
- Complete the Technical Standards Agreement Form
- Submit official transcripts for high school and college
Program Cost
The total cost of tuition at Watts Nursing School and the University of Mount Olive is $41,495 to $48,555. The cost includes tuition for 48 credit hours, admission fee, fees, books, supplies, uniforms, and graduation fee.
Website: https://wattsschoolofnursing.org/
Address: 2828 Croasdaile Dr, Durham, NC 27705
Phone: 919-470-7348
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
Central Carolina Community College
Central Carolina Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing program incorporates skills practice and real world experiences with theoretical instruction to prepare students for nursing practice in the complex health care environment. The coursework has its foundation in holistic care, health care domains, and nursing practice to equip students with the competencies to provide individualized care, focus on safety and quality, and achieve their full potential through the continuation of their learning to the bachelor’s degree and beyond. Students who complete the required 73 credit hours will receive the Associate Degree and be eligible to sit for the NCLEX for licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 73
Duration: 5 semesters
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – Success and Study Skills, Anatomy and Physiology I, Expository Writing, Introduction to Health Concepts, General Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology II, Health Illness Concepts, Family Health Concepts, Developmental Psychology, Health Care Concepts, English Elective, Holistic Health Concepts, Health System Concepts, Introduction to Sociology, Humanities/Fine Arts Elective, Complex Health Concepts
Admission criteria:
- Complete the required documentation for the North Carolina Residency Determination Service – must be completed before submitting the college application
- Take the MAP Embark Assessment – an Admissions Specialist will review the results
- Submit an application to CCCC
- Request official transcripts from high school and college to be sent directly to CCCC
- Must have a weighted high school GPA or 2.8, have acceptable ACT or SAT scores, have appropriate CCCC transfer credit, or take a transition course in English and Math to be prepared to take the gateway English and Math for the nursing program
- Apply for Financial Aid and scholarships
- Attend an online information session
- Schedule an appointment with an Admissions Specialist
- Provide documentation of completing a Nurse Aide I program, current certification, and be listed in active status on the NA registry
- Take and pass the ATI TEAS exam
- Have CPR certification
- Take the general education courses and pass with a grade C or higher
- Applicants who provide verification of employment in health and completion of the Medical Math course will receive extra points during the selection process
Program Cost
The total cost of attendance is $9,344. The cost includes tuition for five semesters, books, malpractice insurance, technology fee, student fee, and NCLEX Board Exam.
Website: http://www.cccc.edu/curriculum/majors/nursing/assoc/
Address: 1105 Kelly Dr., Sanford, NC 27330-9840
Phone: (919) 775-5401
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 71%
Johnston Community College
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Johnston Community College emphasizes the nurse as a member of the interdisciplinary team. The curriculum will include theory, hands-on practice in a simulated lab, and supervised clinical rotations in various health care facilities. The program is targeted to individuals with some experience in healthcare – education as a Certified Nurse Aide I is required for admission. Licensed Practical Nurses may apply for advanced placement in the program if they possess a current unrestricted license to practice. Graduates will be eligible to apply to the State Board of Nursing to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. New students are admitted in the Fall semester.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 71
Duration: 5 semesters
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – Introduction to Health Concepts, Pharmacology, Anatomy and Physiology I, General Psychology, Writing and Inquiry, Health-Illness Concepts, Anatomy and Physiology II, Development Psychology, Family Health Concepts, Health Care Concepts, Health Systems Concepts, Writing and Research in the Disciplines, Complex Health Concepts, General Microbiology, Introduction to Ethics
Admission criteria:
- Meet the requirements for admission to Johnston Community College
- Complete the Residency and College application online
- Submit official high school transcript or high school equivalency and official transcript of any colleges attended
- Attend an interview with a counselor in the Office of Enrollment
- Take and pass the College placement test – unless waiver is granted
- Provide documentation of completing Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra at the high school or college level with a grade C or better
- Place into ENG 111
- Have a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA at the high school or college level
- Attend a mandatory health science information session
- Complete a state-approved Nurse Aide I course and have active listing on the NC Nurse Aide Registry – must provide a copy of certificate of completion or transcript
- Take and pass the TEAS – scores may be used to rank and select the best candidates for enrollment
- Attend a mandatory 2-day program orientation upon acceptance to the program
- Provide documentation of acceptable physical and emotional health
- Provide documentation of immunization – MMR, varicella, Tdap, Hepatitis B, and influenza
- Provide evidence of current CPR certification from the American Health Association at the Healthcare Provider level – must maintain certification throughout the program
- Submit to a criminal background check and consent to random drug screen
- Have medical insurance coverage
- Provide two current passport style photos
Program Cost
The approximate cost of the program is $7777.50. The cost includes tuition, fees, Healthcare Provider registration, nursing books, uniforms, professional liability insurance, physical exam, criminal background and drug screen, admission test, and licensure exam fee.
Website: http://www.johnstoncc.edu/programs/health-sciences/associate-degree-nursing/
Address: 245 College Road, PO Box 2350 Smithfield, NC 27577
Phone: (919) 934-3051
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
Wilson Community College
An adult who graduates from the Associate Degree Nursing program at Wilson Community College will have the skills and competencies to practice as an entry-level nurse in acute and long-term care facilities. They will also be able to demonstrate their educational competencies through passage of the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. Theory and practical work will prepare students for the practice of nurse to meet the health care needs of patients across the lifespan. A core competency is their ability to use evidence in the provision of care to individuals and families. Instructors will use lectures and activities in the classroom, lab activities in a modern lab, open lab sessions, and facilitated learning experiences in a healthcare environment. Licensed practice nurses who hold a current unrestricted license to practice may apply for advanced placement in the program. Day and evening schedules are available.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 75
Duration: 5 semesters
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – College Student Success, Anatomy and Physiology I, Intro to Health Concepts, General Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology II, Health-Illness Concepts, Holistic Health Concepts, Pharmacology, Development Psychology, Family Health Concepts, Introduction to Computers, Writing and Inquiry, Quantitative Lit., Health Care Concepts, Health System Concepts, Writing and Res. in the Disciplines, Critical Thinking, Complex Health Concepts
Admission criteria:
- Submit an admission application to Wilson Communication College
- Submit official high school transcript or equivalency
- Complete an Allied Health Intent Form
- Schedule an appointment to take the TEAS – the test costs $55. Candidates must achieve a minimum 63.3% on the overall adjusted score
- Be actively listed on the NC Nurse Aide I registry – must remain active throughout the program
- Submit a completed Physical Form – must be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant
- Provide documentation of immunizations – Tdap, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, flu vaccine, 2 step TB skin test
- Have current CPR certification for Health Care Providers from the American Heart Association
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen
- Have malpractice insurance
- Attend the program orientation
Program Cost
The approximate cost for the ADN program is $9160.96. Included costs are books and supplies, uniforms, ATI test fee, malpractice insurance, and school fees.
Website: https://www.wilsoncc.edu/academics/allied-health/associate-degree-nursing/
Address: 902 Herring Avenue E, P.O. Box 4305, Wilson, NC 27893
Phone: (252) 291-1195
Fax: (252) 243-7148
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
Samson Community College
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Samson Community College provides the theory and practical instruction that adults need to entry the rewarding career of nursing. The curriculum provides the foundational concepts in nursing that will enable graduates to take the NCLEX-RN with confidence and pursue additional studies such as a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing. Practical activities in a simulation lab and supervised clinical rotations will solidify the nursing principles covered in the classroom. Licensed Practical Nurses with an accredited diploma and active licensure in the state can apply to the in the program. Applicants under this track must validate their nursing knowledge and skills by providing relevant documents and obtaining a minimum score of 80 on the NACE – Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 67
Duration: 5 semesters
Course titles:
General Education and Core Courses – College Student Success, Anatomy and Physiology I, Intro to Health Concepts, General Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology II, Health-Illness Concepts, Holistic Health Concepts, Pharmacology, Development Psychology, Family Health Concepts, Introduction to Computers, Writing and Inquiry, Quantitative Lit., Health Care Concepts, Health System Concepts, Writing and Res. in the Disciplines, Critical Thinking, Complex Health Concepts
Admission criteria:
- Submit an admission application to Sampson Community College
- Complete all the prerequisite courses with a grade C or better – chemistry and biology with respective labs, Math
- Complete the Residency Determination request
- Complete a Nurse Aide I program that is approved by the state and be listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry
- Have current CPR certification – American Heart Association – Basic Life Support
- Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Complete the ATI TEAS
- Schedule and attend an appointment with a school counselor
- Submit a completed Physical Form – must be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant
- Provide documentation of immunizations – Tdap, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, flu vaccine, 2 step TB skin test
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen
- Have malpractice insurance
- Attend the program orientation
Program Cost
The cost of tuition is $76 per credit – not to exceed $1,216 per semester. The cost to complete 67 credits will be $5,092. Additional costs include ATI testing, textbooks, uniforms, CPR certification, fees, malpractice insurance, physical exam, immunization, TB test, drug screen, and criminal background check.
Website: https://www.sampsoncc.edu/associate-degree-pathways/healthcare-programs/associate-degree-nursing/
Address: 1801 Sunset Avenue, Clinton, North Carolina 28328
Phone: 910-592-8081
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%