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Biology Prerequisite

Online General Biology for Nursing

A common foundational prerequisite — and frequently the prerequisite for A&P itself. Self-paced, regionally accredited, with a virtual lab.

Will this count for nursing school? This course is offered through Upper Iowa University (HLC regionally accredited). Most nursing programs accept regionally accredited online coursework with a virtual lab, while a minority still require an in-person wet lab. National/ACE providers like StraighterLine and Sophia are accepted less consistently than regionally accredited credit. Always verify with your specific target programs before enrolling.

Course Overview

What You'll Learn

  • Cell theory, structure, and function
  • Metabolism, respiration, and photosynthesis
  • DNA, genetics, and protein synthesis
  • Evolution and biological diversity
  • Virtual lab: microscopy, the scientific method, and data analysis

How Nursing Programs Use This Course

Some nursing programs require general biology directly; many more require it as the prerequisite you must complete before enrolling in A&P. Either way, a solid biology foundation makes the harder science courses ahead far more manageable.

Biology Prerequisite

General Biology

4 Credit Hours · Self-Paced

Official UIU transcript · Courses begin the 1st of each month

Starting at $695
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Why Take This Prerequisite Online

Start the 1st of Each Month

New course sessions begin on the first of every month. Enroll now to reserve your seat in the next monthly start.

Regionally Accredited

Delivered through Upper Iowa University (HLC). Credit is designed to transfer into nursing programs.

Built for Working Adults

Study around a job, family, or a current healthcare role, then apply to the next available cohort.

How Nursing Programs Treat This Prerequisite

How general biology is typically treated across nursing pathways. Always verify with each school.

Program typeTypically requiredOnline acceptedRecency
BSN (4-year)✓ Yes✓ Usually5–7 yrs
ABSN (accelerated)✓ Yes✓ Usually3–5 yrs
ADN (associate)✓ Yes✓ Usually5–7 yrs
Direct-entry MSN✓ Yes✓ UsuallyVerify

Requirements vary by program and change annually. Last reviewed May 2026 — always verify with each school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many programs require general biology either directly or as the prerequisite for Anatomy & Physiology. Requirements vary, so check each program.
Yes, our general biology course includes a laboratory component accepted by most nursing programs.
Often yes. Many programs and A&P courses list general biology as a prerequisite. Confirm the required sequence for your schools.

Ready to Enroll?

Self-paced, accredited, and built for future nurses. Courses begin the first of each month.

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