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Online Pre-Nursing
Associate Degree Program

Step towards a career in nursing with Herzing. Our pre-nursing associate degree program is designed to help you qualify for pre-licensure nursing school.

Program Length

16 Mo.

Credits

60

Format

Online

Cost Per Credit

$625
calendar

NEXT START September 3rd

Waived Enrollment Fee

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Take your first step towards a career in nursing with Herzing

AccreditationAccredited by the Higher Learning Commission
FormatAll courses can be completed onlinei
EligibilityAvailable for enrollment in select states1
QualifyImprove your GPA to qualify for nursing school—upon successful completion of this program, students may secure a spot in the next available BSN cohort
QuickPathsTransfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

i. Program delivery varies by location. Please check with your campus for specific information.

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Classes start: September 3rd

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Satisfaction rate

Over 90%

Satisfaction rate

Our overall student satisfaction rate, according to the 2024 Herzing Graduate Survey.

Overview: Online Pre-Nursing Program

The Associate of Science in General Studies - Pre-Nursing is a 60-credit undergraduate program which prepares you to qualify for nursing school in the future. Students who fall short of the minimum GPA requirement to enroll in the BSN nursing program can begin their nursing education, earn an associate degree and improve their GPA enough to qualify for entry into a pre-licensure BSN program with Herzing University.

The degree program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in general education subjects, nursing pathophysiology and pharmacology, psychology, nutrition, social issues and technology, and much more.

Herzing nursing students

  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Curriculum

Classes & curriculum details

This online program allows students to build foundational knowledge to prepare for a pre-licensure bachelor’s degree in nursing program. General studies courses promote critical thinking and problem solving through several course offerings, including microbiology, psychology, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, and more.

All classes are delivered online with a balanced mix of labs and lectures to best prepare you to advance your education into a bachelor's degree program.

ProgramMonths iCredits
Associate of Science in General Studies - Pre-Nursing 1660

i. Average number of months for students to complete program.

Required Courses

All courses, 58.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course introduces the principles and practices of effective written communication. Topics include writing for various audiences and purposes, using the writing process to develop and maintain unity and coherence, and incorporating research into written work. Critical thinking in the writing and reading processes will also be covered and may include addressing assumptions underlying an argument, using sound logic in support of claims, including evidence relevant to the purpose and position of the document, refuting counterarguments, analyzing information, and synthesizing information from multiple sources.

This course introduces students to the process of conducting research, integrating research into written work, and understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon.  The research process involves assessing the rhetorical situation, engaging in preliminary research, developing research questions, taking stock of current knowledge, identifying gaps in current knowledge, using appropriate search tools and strategies, critically reading and evaluating information, and refining search strategies as necessary.  Integrating sources into written work involves understanding why, when, and how to use and document sources.  Microsoft Word will be used to format documents according to APA standards. Understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon involves identifying barriers to entering scholarly conversations and examining the way various cultures view information as a commodity, means of education, means to influence, and a means of negotiating and understanding the world. 

The course is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to develop speaking and presentation skills in a variety of situations. Topics include the elements and structure of various speech types, techniques for strong delivery, the importance of audience awareness, incorporation of research-based evidence as support for a thesis, and effective use of presentation aids.  Students will practice listening skills by reviewing speeches. 

This course requires students to analyze discourse communities, execute a well-designed academic research project, apply reading strategies to academic texts, and use texts as models for writing.  Analyzing discourse communities involves identifying how communication conventions change in different contexts.  Designing and executing an academic research project involves formulating research questions, conducting primary and/or secondary research, synthesizing ideas from multiple sources, discussing findings, and presenting the results in APA format.  Applying reading strategies to academic texts involves using a process for reading, identifying text features, evaluating sources, and organizing reading notes.  Using texts as models for writing involves analyzing and imitating the scope, structure, methods, use of evidence, and tone common to academic writing.

This course will explore the construction, evolution, and application of categories and stereotypes related to the concept of the "other."  Students will study discrimination, or "othering," and how it operates in our contemporary culture among members of marginalized groups, including the categories of ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, and inclusivity.  In addition, students will explore cultural diversity in a global context. In order to understand what it means to be human, students will analyze relevant historical and contemporary cultural texts through the lens of the Humanities to examine the importance of embracing cultural difference.  Cultural texts may include: works of literature, drama, and poetry; music; theatre; film; advertisement; visual art; architecture; and more.

This course allows students to explore the ways in which history, visual art, religion, literature, ideas, and music have shaped and continue to shape human experience.  Students will engage with a variety of humanities texts and engage in reflective writing which analyzes their own experience within a sociocultural context.  Students may also study the development of ideas related to philosophy and critical thinking about the individual and society.

This course builds on Introduction to Humanities and continues exploring how visual art, philosophy, music, religion, literature, and modern popular culture influence the formation of the individual and the cultural beliefs and social values evident in the world around us.  Students will use analysis skills to examine artifacts of popular culture from multiple perspectives, including examples from among these possible areas of analysis: social media and cyber-culture, popular music, contemporary literature, film, television, magazines, videos, advertising, and graphic novels.

This course covers topics of algebra including linear functions, equations, inequalities, systems of equations in two variables, polynomial functions, quadratic equations, and rational and radical equations.

This course presents the study of basic statistical theory and concepts. Topics include statistical probabilities, measures of central tendency, measures of variation, hypothesis testing, regression, and correlation.

This course focuses on the basic understanding of pathophysiology related to human illness with an emphasis placed on cellular alterations in organ systems as they relate to selected disease states. Opportunities will be presented that provide for the use of critical thinking processes to analyze diverse patient presentations of selected illness for symptomatology, pathophysiology, and health care implications.

This course introduces the student to the role of pharmacotherapeutic agents in the treatment of illness and in the promotion of wellness in patients throughout the lifespan. These concepts provide the basis for the study of drug actions, indications, side effects, nursing implications, and patient education.

This course will introduce a psychological analysis of human behavior. Students will learn to apply a variety of theoretical perspectives in interpreting human behavior. Topics may include: psychological research methods; stages of human development; learning theories; personality; and abnormal psychology.

Students will learn to apply a variety of theoretical perspectives to examine the physical, cognitive, and psychological aspects of development from conception through death. Topics may include but are not limited to: effects of drugs on prenatal care, parenting styles, language acquisition, personality and social/emotional development, gender development, and aging and elder care.

This course provides students with basic knowledge of human nutrition and related disorders. The course will focus on structure, role, function, and digestion of nutrients.

This course will examine the influence of technological development on American society. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing political, ethical, religious, social, and intellectual implications of technology. Topics may include technologies related to: energy; environmental degradation; human population growth, warfare and law enforcement; personal privacy; artificial intelligence; medicine and bio-genetic engineering.

The following courses must be completed with a grade of "B" (80%) or better. Only two attempts are permitted for each course and a student who fails to successfully complete in the maximum attempts will be ineligible for enrollment in the nursing programs.

The first anatomy and physiology course in a two-term sequence will provide nursing students with information and practical experience regarding anatomical and physiological concepts related to the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems, as well as, special senses.  Biochemistry, cellular biology, and histology are integrated into each body system. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis.

The second anatomy and physiology course in a two-term sequence will provide nursing students with information and practical experience regarding anatomical and physiological concepts as related to the circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and the male and female reproductive systems.  Biochemistry, cell biology, and histology are integrated into each body system. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis.

In addition, BSN students enrolled in the Atlanta Campus are also required to complete the following courses with a "B" (80%) or better:

This course provides an introduction to the study of microorganisms.  It covers normal microbiota and pathogenic microbes.  Select topics include function, metabolism, genetics, growth, and relationships to humans and the environment. Topics related to human infectious diseases include transmission, host defense mechanisms, growth processes, and the spread of infectious agents. This course also includes a practical component. 

This course presents the basic concepts of chemistry. Topics to be presented include: matter, atoms, molecules, and atomic structure; chemical bond theory; molecular geometry and properties; writing chemical equations; the conservation of matter in chemical reactions; oxidation and reduction reactions; pH and acid-base chemistry; buffer, and solutions; and equilibrium. Students will also be provided with an overview of organic chemistry and biochemistry. This course includes a practical component. 

Required Courses in General Education

The University's general education requirement is met through the required courses in this program.

Personal and Professional Development Courses

2.00 semester credit hours are required.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success in the School of Nursing Programs. The course will enhance students' reading and basic written communication skills.  Students will write using standard American English grammar and apply this to medical terminology. Students will improve math skills in order to calculate medication dosages.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Distribution of Contact Hours by Course

Distribution of Clock Hours by Course Course or Category Lecture Lab Externship/Internship Clinical Total Clock Hours Credits English Composition I 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Information Literacy 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Speech 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 English Composition II 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Cultural Literacy 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Introduction to the Humanities 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Humanities and Contemporary Popular Culture 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 College Algebra 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Statistics 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Pathophysiology 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Pharmacology 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Professional Development I 15.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 1.00 Professional Development II 15.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 1.00 Psychology 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Developmental Psychology 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Nutrition 30.00 0.00 0.00 30.00 2.00 Anatomy & Physiology I 45.00 30.00 0.00 75.00 4.00 Microbiology 30.00 30.00 0.00 60.00 3.00 Chemistry 30.00 30.00 0.00 60.00 3.00 Anatomy & Physiology II 45.00 30.00 0.00 75.00 4.00 Social Issues and Technology 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Totals 840.00 120.00 0.00 960.00 60.00  

Requirements

Enrollment Requirements

The Associate of Science in General Studies – Pre-Nursing program is available to residents in several states. Admission requirements include at minimum:

Entry into the ASGSN program

Prior educationHigh school diploma or equivalent
Minimum GPA2.25
Minimum TEAS score50

Upon successful completion of this program, students may secure a spot in the next available BSN cohort.

Entry into the Direct Entry BSN program

Students who enroll through ASGSN are required to complete that program of study before becoming eligible to transfer to the Online BSN program and meet these requirements:

Minimum GPA2.5
Anatomy & Physiology I and II“B” grade or better
Microbiology, Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Pathophysiology“C” grade or better

Eligible states for enrollment: Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Classes Start: September 3rd

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

Request Info Apply Now 
Careers

Position yourself to join a rewarding career path

Completing the Herzing pre-nursing program positions you to qualify to enroll in a pre-licensure BSN program and earn the education you need to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered nurse represents an excellent option for those seeking a good long-term career and make a real difference.

RNs are crucial contributors in hospitals and other patient care facilities, responsible for helping develop and direct patient plans and serve as the key connection between patients and doctors. They can specialize in many different types of care, including:

Job outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of registered nurses is expected to rise 6% from 2023-2033, faster than the projection across all U.S. occupations.*

How can I become an RN?

You cannot become an RN with only an Associate of Science in General Studies – Pre-Nursing. You will need to complete the degree, go on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet your state's Board of Nursing requirements to officially become an RN.

Students interested in getting the fastest start in the nursing field can also consider a diploma in practical nursing program (minimum GPA requirement of 2.0) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

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The Student Experience at Herzing

I attended Herzing in the past and decided to return since I had a great experience.

Sara Duessler
Nursing Student | Madison Campus

Thanks to great teachers, programs, and hard work, I’ve been able to accomplish so much!

Marissa Sandnasamy
Nursing Student | Online Campus

If you’re thinking of studying at Herzing, I’d recommend it.

Catherine Dubose
Nursing Student | Atlanta Campus

Since graduation, I’ve re-enrolled in Herzing’s BSN program. Once I have my BSN, my goal is to move into a new position within the company I am currently employed.

Sara Duessler
Nursing Student | Madison Campus
Disclosures

Accreditation & Disclosures

1. Eligible states for enrollment: Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

* BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.

Classes Start: September 3rd

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

Request Info Apply Now