Online nursing prerequisites have become the preferred pathway for working adults, career changers, and busy students preparing for nursing school. With nursing demand at an all-time high and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 6% growth through 2032, completing nursing prerequisites efficiently and flexibly has never been more important.
Whether you’re planning to enter a traditional BSN program, an accelerated second-degree BSN (ABSN), or advancing from an ADN to BSN, online prerequisite courses offer the flexibility, quality, and convenience needed to prepare for nursing school while maintaining your current commitments.
This comprehensive guide covers everything about online nursing prerequisites, including specific requirements by program type, the best online options, success strategies, and how to ensure your courses meet nursing school admission standards.
Understanding Nursing Prerequisites by Program Type
Traditional BSN Program Prerequisites
Science Requirements (18-24 credit hours):
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II: 8 credit hours with lab components
- Microbiology: 4 credit hours with lab
- Chemistry: 4-8 credit hours (general chemistry or chemistry for health sciences)
- Additional sciences: Some programs require pathophysiology, nutrition, or physics
Mathematics and Statistics:
- College algebra or higher: 3-4 credit hours
- Statistics: 3-4 credit hours (often required for evidence-based practice)
Social Sciences and Liberal Arts:
- Psychology: 6-9 credit hours (general, developmental, abnormal)
- Sociology: 3 credit hours
- English composition: 6 credit hours
- Speech/Communications: 3 credit hours
- Humanities electives: 6-9 credit hours
Total Prerequisites: 45-60 credit hours typically required
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Prerequisites
ABSN programs are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field:
Core Science Requirements:
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II: Must be recent (within 5-7 years)
- Microbiology: Often required within 5 years of program start
- Chemistry: General chemistry or chemistry for health sciences
- Statistics: Research methods and statistical analysis
Additional Requirements:
- Human development/Lifespan psychology
- Nutrition: Human or clinical nutrition
- Pathophysiology: Some programs require completion before entry
- Medical terminology: May be required or recommended
Grade Requirements: Most ABSN programs require B or better in all prerequisites
ADN to BSN Prerequisites
For nurses advancing from associate to bachelor’s degrees:
Upper-Level Sciences:
- Pathophysiology: Advanced understanding of disease processes
- Health assessment: Physical examination and diagnostic skills
- Pharmacology: Drug mechanisms and nursing implications
Leadership and Research:
- Nursing research: Research methods and evidence-based practice
- Leadership and management: Healthcare systems and organizational behavior
- Community health: Population health and public health nursing
Liberal Arts Completion:
- Statistics: If not completed in ADN program
- Additional general education: To meet bachelor’s degree requirements
RN to MSN Prerequisites
For nurses pursuing direct-entry master’s programs:
Research and Statistics:
- Advanced statistics: Inferential statistics and research design
- Nursing research: Advanced research methods and critique
- Evidence-based practice: Implementation and evaluation
Advanced Sciences:
- Advanced pathophysiology
- Advanced pharmacology
- Advanced health assessment
Top Online Nursing Prerequisite Programs
Self-Paced Options Perfect for Working Adults
PrereqCourses.com
- Cost: $695 per 4-credit course
- Format: Self-paced, start any month
- Specialization: Designed specifically for nursing school preparation
- Features: Nursing-focused examples, virtual labs
- Support: Career counseling
- Website: prereqcourses.com
Why PrereqCourses.com Excels for Nursing Prerequisites:
- Nursing Focus: Every course includes nursing and healthcare applications
- TEAS Preparation: Integrated TEAS exam content and practice questions
- Flexible Scheduling: Perfect for working nurses and career changers
- Virtual Labs: Advanced A&P and microbiology simulations
- Nursing Advisors: Faculty with nursing education and clinical backgrounds
- Admission Support: Guidance on nursing school applications and requirements
Portage Learning
- Cost: $1,785 per course
- Format: Self-paced, 4-16 weeks completion
- Features: One-on-one tutoring, unlimited course access
- Specialization: Strong reputation among nursing students
- Support: Personal tutoring with nursing-background faculty
- Website: portagelearning.com
University Online Programs
Arizona State University Online
- Cost: $540-783 per credit hour
- Features: Research university quality, nursing program pathways
- Reputation: Highly respected by nursing schools nationwide
- Support: Comprehensive pre-nursing advising services
- Website: asuonline.asu.edu
Penn State World Campus
- Cost: $674-908 per credit hour
- Features: Excellent reputation, strong science programs
- Nursing Pathways: Direct connections to Penn State nursing programs
- Technology: Advanced virtual lab experiences
- Website: worldcampus.psu.edu
Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Cost: $627 per credit hour
- Features: 8-week accelerated terms, year-round start dates
- Nursing Focus: Pre-nursing track with dedicated advising
- Support: 24/7 student support and career services
- Website: snhu.edu
Community College Affordable Options
Rio Salado College (Arizona)
- Cost: $88-331 per credit hour
- Advantages: Extremely affordable, excellent transfer agreements
- Nursing Reputation: Strong track record with nursing students
- Flexibility: Multiple start dates and pacing options
- Website: riosalado.edu
Coastline Community College (California)
- Cost: $46-336 per credit hour
- Features: California community college benefits
- Transfer: Seamless transfer to CSU and UC nursing programs
- Quality: High-quality online science courses
- Website: coastline.edu
Northern Virginia Community College
- Cost: $178-356 per credit hour
- Reputation: Excellent nursing prerequisite programs
- Transfer: Strong agreements with Virginia nursing schools
- Support: Dedicated pre-nursing advising
- Website: nvcc.edu
Course-by-Course Breakdown for Nursing Success
Anatomy & Physiology I & II (Critical Foundation)
A&P I Content:
- Introduction to anatomy and physiology
- Chemical basis of life and cellular structure
- Tissue types and integumentary system
- Skeletal system and bone physiology
- Muscular system and muscle physiology
- Nervous system fundamentals
A&P II Content:
- Endocrine system and hormone regulation
- Cardiovascular system and circulation
- Lymphatic and immune systems
- Respiratory system and gas exchange
- Digestive system and metabolism
- Urinary system and fluid balance
- Reproductive systems
Nursing Applications:
- Physical assessment: Understanding normal anatomy for patient examination
- Pathophysiology foundation: How diseases affect normal body function
- Medication administration: Understanding drug effects on body systems
- Patient education: Explaining conditions and treatments to patients
- Clinical decision-making: Recognizing abnormal findings and their significance
Virtual Lab Components:
- Virtual dissection: Detailed exploration of human anatomy
- Physiological simulations: Heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory function
- System integration: How body systems work together
- Pathology demonstrations: Comparing normal and abnormal function
- Clinical correlations: Connecting anatomy to nursing practice
Microbiology (Infection Control Foundation)
Course Content:
- Bacterial structure and function
- Viral characteristics and replication
- Fungal and parasitic organisms
- Immune system responses to pathogens
- Antimicrobial agents and resistance
- Epidemiology and infection control
Nursing Applications:
- Infection prevention: Understanding transmission routes and prevention
- Antibiotic therapy: Mechanisms of action and resistance patterns
- Isolation precautions: When and how to implement protective measures
- Wound care: Understanding bacterial colonization and healing
- Immunocompromised patients: Special considerations for vulnerable populations
Virtual Lab Experiences:
- Bacterial identification: Staining techniques and morphology
- Culture methods: Growth requirements and selective media
- Antibiotic sensitivity: Testing and interpretation
- Infection simulation: Outbreak investigation and control measures
- Quality control: Laboratory safety and contamination prevention
Chemistry for Health Sciences
Essential Topics:
- Basic chemistry principles: Atoms, molecules, chemical bonding
- Solutions and pH: Buffer systems in the human body
- Organic chemistry basics: Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids
- Biochemistry applications: Enzyme function and metabolism
- Pharmacology foundations: Drug chemistry and interactions
Nursing Connections:
- IV fluid calculations: Understanding concentration and osmolarity
- Acid-base balance: Interpreting blood gas results and interventions
- Medication chemistry: How drug structure affects function
- Nutrition: Understanding macronutrients and metabolic processes
- Laboratory values: Interpreting chemical tests and their significance
Psychology Requirements
General Psychology:
- Learning and memory: Patient education and behavior change
- Personality and individual differences: Understanding patient responses
- Stress and coping: Supporting patients through illness and treatment
- Social psychology: Group dynamics and therapeutic relationships
Developmental Psychology:
- Lifespan development: Age-appropriate care across populations
- Pediatric considerations: Child development and family-centered care
- Geriatric considerations: Aging processes and special needs
- Family dynamics: Understanding family roles in healthcare
Abnormal Psychology (if required):
- Mental health disorders: Recognition and nursing interventions
- Therapeutic communication: Supporting patients with mental health needs
- Crisis intervention: De-escalation and safety considerations
- Stigma and advocacy: Promoting mental health awareness
Statistics (Evidence-Based Practice Foundation)
Key Concepts:
- Descriptive statistics: Understanding research data presentation
- Inferential statistics: Interpreting research study results
- Hypothesis testing: Evaluating evidence for practice changes
- Correlation and regression: Understanding relationships between variables
- Research design: Critiquing nursing research studies
Nursing Applications:
- Evidence-based practice: Evaluating research for clinical implementation
- Quality improvement: Using data to improve patient outcomes
- Research participation: Understanding study design and ethical considerations
- Clinical guidelines: Interpreting evidence-based recommendations
- Performance metrics: Understanding outcome measurements and benchmarks
Success Strategies for Online Nursing Prerequisites
Creating a Nursing-Focused Study Approach
Connect Every Concept to Nursing:
- Anatomy: Think about assessment techniques for each body system
- Physiology: Consider how diseases affect normal function
- Microbiology: Focus on infection prevention and antibiotic therapy
- Chemistry: Relate to medication administration and IV therapy
- Psychology: Apply to patient communication and therapeutic relationships
TEAS Exam Integration:
- Science content: 50% of TEAS exam comes from prerequisite knowledge
- Math applications: Dosage calculations and statistical concepts
- Reading comprehension: Practice with healthcare-related passages
- English proficiency: Medical terminology and professional communication
Clinical Thinking Development:
- Case study analysis: Work through patient scenarios using prerequisite knowledge
- Critical thinking: Ask “why” and “how” questions about every concept
- Problem-solving: Practice systematic approaches to complex situations
- Integration: Connect multiple body systems and their interactions
Time Management for Working Adults
Balancing Work, Family, and Study:
- Early morning study: 5:30-7:00 AM before family responsibilities
- Lunch break learning: 30-45 minutes of review during work breaks
- Evening intensive: 7:00-9:00 PM focused study sessions
- Weekend blocks: 3-4 hour intensive study periods
- Mobile learning: Use commute time for review and reinforcement
Course Sequencing Strategy:
- Anatomy & Physiology I: Foundation for all other courses
- Chemistry: Concurrent with A&P I or immediately after
- Anatomy & Physiology II: Build on A&P I knowledge
- Microbiology: After completing A&P sequence
- Psychology/Statistics: Can be taken concurrently with sciences
- Remaining courses: Based on nursing school deadlines
Study Scheduling:
- Science courses: 15-20 hours per week (intensive content)
- Psychology/Liberal arts: 10-12 hours per week
- Statistics: 12-15 hours per week (if math-anxious)
- Multiple courses: Reduce per-course time but maintain total study hours
Virtual Lab Mastery for Nursing Students
Anatomy & Physiology Labs:
- 3D anatomical models: Explore structures from multiple angles
- Virtual dissection: Layer-by-layer exploration of organ systems
- Physiological simulations: Heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory function
- Pathology comparisons: Normal vs. abnormal structure and function
- Clinical correlations: Connect anatomy to nursing assessments
Microbiology Lab Techniques:
- Bacterial identification: Gram staining and morphology recognition
- Culture methods: Proper technique and contamination prevention
- Antibiotic testing: Sensitivity patterns and resistance mechanisms
- Infection control: Personal protective equipment and safety protocols
- Quality assurance: Laboratory standards and error prevention
Chemistry Lab Applications:
- Solution preparation: Concentration calculations and dilutions
- pH testing: Buffer systems and acid-base balance
- Biochemical assays: Enzyme function and metabolic pathways
- Medication chemistry: Drug stability and compatibility
- Analytical techniques: Interpreting laboratory results
Preparing for Nursing School Admission
TEAS Exam Success
Science Section Preparation (50% of exam):
- Human anatomy and physiology: 32% of science questions
- Life and physical sciences: 40% of science questions
- Scientific reasoning: 28% of science questions
Study Strategy:
- Use prerequisite knowledge: Strong A&P and chemistry foundation essential
- Practice TEAS questions: Integrate TEAS prep with prerequisite study
- Focus on application: TEAS tests application, not just memorization
- Time management: Practice pacing for 60-minute science section
Recommended TEAS Scores:
- Competitive programs: 80-90th percentile or higher
- Average programs: 65-80th percentile
- Minimum acceptable: 50-65th percentile (program-dependent)
GPA Management
Grade Requirements by Program Type:
- Highly competitive BSN: 3.7+ overall, 3.8+ in sciences
- Competitive BSN: 3.5+ overall, 3.7+ in sciences
- ABSN programs: 3.5+ in prerequisites (often non-negotiable)
- Community college ADN: 3.0+ typically acceptable
GPA Improvement Strategies:
- Retake policy understanding: Know how schools calculate repeat courses
- Grade replacement: Some schools replace old grades, others average
- Recent coursework emphasis: Focus on improvement trend
- Prerequisite focus: Science GPA often weighted more heavily
Application Strengthening
Healthcare Experience:
- CNA certification: Direct patient care experience highly valued
- Medical assistant: Clinical exposure and healthcare team participation
- Hospital volunteering: Observation of nursing roles and responsibilities
- Healthcare support roles: Any patient interaction experience beneficial
Professional Development:
- Medical terminology: Demonstrate commitment to healthcare communication
- CPR certification: BLS for Healthcare Providers preferred
- Professional organizations: Student nurse associations and pre-nursing groups
- Continuing education: Healthcare workshops and seminars
Student Success Stories
Career Changer: Teacher to Nurse
Lisa, Elementary Teacher → BSN Student
- Background: 10 years teaching, wanted more direct impact on individual lives
- Challenge: Needed all nursing prerequisites while maintaining teaching career
- Solution: Online prerequisites during summer breaks and evenings
- Timeline: Completed prerequisites over 18 months using school breaks
- Outcome: 3.8 GPA in prerequisites, 85th percentile TEAS score
- Result: Accepted to three nursing programs with scholarships
Lisa’s Success Strategies:
- Summer intensives: Used teaching breaks for demanding science courses
- Evening routine: 2 hours nightly study after children’s bedtime
- Teaching skills transfer: Applied classroom management to study organization
- Support network: Connected with other career-changing nursing students
Working Parent: Medical Assistant to RN
Carlos, Medical Assistant → ABSN Student
- Background: 5 years as medical assistant, father of two young children
- Challenge: Needed prerequisites while working full-time and parenting
- Solution: Self-paced online courses allowing flexible scheduling
- Strategy: Early morning study (5-7 AM) and weekend intensives
- Outcome: Completed prerequisites in 14 months with 3.6 GPA
- Result: Accepted to accelerated BSN program near home
Carlos’s Time Management:
- Early bird approach: 5:30 AM daily study before family woke up
- Work integration: Connected medical assistant experience to prerequisites
- Family involvement: Taught children basic anatomy during study time
- Employer support: Negotiated flexible scheduling during exam periods
Military Spouse: Geography-Independent Success
Amanda, Military Spouse → Nursing Career
- Background: Spouse of active duty military, frequent relocations
- Challenge: Completing prerequisites across multiple duty stations
- Solution: Online courses providing geographic flexibility
- Benefits: Maintained progress through three military moves
- Outcome: Strong prerequisite foundation despite relocations
- Result: Seamless entry into nursing program at final duty station
Amanda’s Adaptation Strategies:
- Portable education: Downloaded materials for offline study during moves
- Consistent routine: Maintained study schedule despite changing environments
- Support networks: Connected with military spouse nursing groups online
- Resource utilization: Used base libraries and study spaces globally
Choosing the Right Program for Your Nursing Goals
Program Evaluation Criteria
Accreditation and Transfer:
- Regional accreditation: Essential for nursing school acceptance
- Articulation agreements: Guaranteed transfer to nursing programs
- Credit acceptance: Verified acceptance by target nursing schools
- Grade policies: Understanding of how grades transfer and calculate
Nursing-Specific Features:
- Healthcare focus: Courses designed with nursing applications in mind
- TEAS preparation: Integrated exam preparation and practice
- Nursing advisors: Faculty and staff with nursing education backgrounds
- Clinical connections: Relationships with healthcare facilities and programs
Support Services:
- Academic advising: Pre-nursing counselors and career guidance
- Tutoring services: Subject-specific help, especially for sciences
- Technology support: Platform assistance and software training
- Student community: Forums and groups for peer support
Decision Framework
Step 1: Nursing School Research
- Identify target nursing programs and their specific requirements
- Understand grade expectations and TEAS score requirements
- Research application deadlines and prerequisite completion timelines
- Connect with nursing school advisors for requirement clarification
Step 2: Personal Assessment
- Evaluate available study time and scheduling constraints
- Assess academic strengths and areas needing extra support
- Determine budget for prerequisite completion
- Consider support systems and family obligations
Step 3: Program Comparison
- Compare costs across different online providers
- Evaluate course quality and nursing-specific features
- Read reviews from nursing students who used each program
- Verify transfer credit acceptance with target nursing schools
Step 4: Success Planning
- Create realistic timeline for prerequisite completion
- Plan course sequencing based on difficulty and nursing school deadlines
- Identify support resources and tutoring options
- Develop study strategies and accountability systems
Financial Planning for Nursing Prerequisites
Cost Analysis and Budgeting
Total Prerequisite Costs:
- Self-paced programs: $6,000-$15,000 for complete sequence
- University online: $15,000-$30,000 for all requirements
- Community college: $3,000-$10,000 depending on residency
- Mixed approach: $6,000-$18,000 using optimal cost combinations
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- TEAS exam fees: $70-$100 for exam registration
- Textbooks and materials: $1,500-$3,000 if not included
- Technology requirements: $0-$800 for necessary equipment
- Application fees: $50-$150 per nursing program application
Funding Strategies
Employer Support:
- Tuition reimbursement: Healthcare employers often support nursing education
- Professional development funds: May cover prerequisite coursework
- Flexible scheduling: Negotiate accommodations for intensive study periods
- Career advancement: Connect prerequisites to current job improvement
Financial Aid Options:
- Federal aid: Pell Grants and loans for undergraduate-level courses
- State grants: Many states prioritize nursing education funding
- Scholarships: Healthcare-focused scholarships for career changers
- Payment plans: Spread costs over time while maintaining progress
Cost Optimization:
- Community college start: Complete general education requirements affordably
- Strategic sequencing: Take expensive courses where quality matters most
- Employer benefits: Maximize tuition reimbursement annual limits
- Tax benefits: Education expenses may qualify for tax credits
Frequently Asked Questions
Requirements and Timing
Q: How long do nursing prerequisites typically take to complete? A: Most students complete prerequisites in 12-24 months. Full-time study can finish in 12-15 months, while part-time study typically takes 18-24 months.
Q: Do all nursing programs require the same prerequisites? A: No, requirements vary by program and degree level. BSN programs typically require more liberal arts courses, while ABSN programs focus on core sciences. Always verify requirements with your target schools.
Q: How recent do prerequisites need to be? A: Most nursing programs require science courses (A&P, microbiology, chemistry) to be completed within 5-7 years. Some programs have stricter 3-5 year requirements.
Online Learning Quality
Q: Do nursing schools accept online prerequisites? A: Yes, most nursing schools accept online prerequisites from regionally accredited institutions. The key is ensuring the courses meet credit hour and content requirements.
Q: Are virtual labs sufficient for nursing school preparation? A: Quality virtual labs provide excellent preparation for nursing school. Many nursing programs use similar simulation technology, so online lab experience can be an advantage.
Q: How do I prepare for the TEAS exam while taking prerequisites? A: Integrate TEAS preparation with prerequisite study by focusing on TEAS-relevant content in each course. Many online programs include TEAS prep materials and practice questions.
Success and Support
Q: What if I struggle with science courses? A: Seek help early through tutoring services, study groups, and instructor support. Many online programs offer extensive academic support specifically for challenging science content.
Q: Can I work while completing nursing prerequisites? A: Yes, many students work while completing prerequisites. Online formats are specifically designed for working adults, offering flexibility to study around work schedules.
Q: How can I make my application competitive beyond just grades? A: Gain healthcare experience, maintain consistent volunteer work, demonstrate leadership, and show genuine commitment to nursing through your actions and experiences.
Start Your Nursing Journey Today
The nursing profession offers unparalleled opportunities for personal fulfillment, job security, and career advancement. With the growing demand for nurses and the respect society holds for nursing professionals, there’s never been a better time to begin your nursing education journey.
Why Choose Online Nursing Prerequisites:
Flexibility: Balance your current responsibilities while building the foundation for your nursing career
Quality: Access the same rigorous education as traditional programs with enhanced technology and support
Efficiency: Complete prerequisites faster with self-paced options and year-round enrollment
Cost-Effectiveness: Save money while receiving excellent preparation for nursing school success
Support: Receive guidance from nursing education experts who understand your career goals
Your Next Steps:
- Research nursing programs in your area and understand their specific requirements
- Assess your timeline and create a realistic plan for prerequisite completion
- Choose an online program that aligns with your schedule, budget, and learning style
- Connect with advisors who can guide you through the nursing school application process
- Begin your prerequisites with confidence and commitment to excellence
The healthcare system needs compassionate, competent nurses who can provide excellent patient care and adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. Your nursing education begins with these prerequisite courses – the foundation that will support your entire nursing career.
Ready to begin? Contact PrereqCourses.com today to learn how our nursing-focused online prerequisites can help you achieve your BSN or ABSN goals while maintaining your current lifestyle and commitments.
Your future patients are waiting for the excellent care you’ll provide. Start building that expertise today.
Online nursing prerequisites have transformed how future nurses prepare for their careers, offering the flexibility and quality needed to succeed in today’s competitive nursing school environment. With proper planning and commitment, you can build the strong foundation needed for nursing school success and a rewarding healthcare career.
