A required science prerequisite for the overwhelming majority of nursing programs — and the foundation of infection control at the bedside. Self-paced, regionally accredited, with a virtual lab.
Few subjects connect as directly to daily nursing practice as microbiology. Understanding pathogen transmission, immune response, and antimicrobial therapy is foundational to safe care, which is why programs treat it as a core science prerequisite alongside A&P.
4 Credit Hours · Self-Paced
Official UIU transcript · Courses begin 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.
Delivered through Upper Iowa University (HLC). Credit is designed to transfer into nursing programs.
Study around a job, family, or a current healthcare role, then apply to the next available cohort.
How microbiology is typically treated across nursing pathways. Always verify with each school.
| Program type | Typically required | Online accepted | Recency |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSN (4-year) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Usually | 5–7 yrs |
| ABSN (accelerated) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Usually | 3–5 yrs |
| ADN (associate) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Usually | 5–7 yrs |
| Direct-entry MSN | ✓ Yes | ✓ Usually | Verify |
Requirements vary by program and change annually. Last reviewed May 2026 — always verify with each school.
Self-paced, accredited, and built for future nurses. Courses begin the first of each month.
