The Nursing Program prepares students to provide direct patient care in a variety of healthcare settings. Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to apply to the NH Board of Nursing (NHBON) for the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Nursing courses include classroom, simulation lab and clinical experiences.
Program Goal
The mission of the nursing program is to provide high-quality education and clinical evidence-based practice which enables students to achieve career and life goals through the application of knowledge, judgment and skills necessary to practice as a registered nurse.
Nursing Degree Curriculum
Degree Program - First Year | ||||
| First Year | Fall Semester | TH | LAB | CR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NURS111M | Nursing I | 6 | 12 | 10 |
| BIOL110M | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| PSYC110M | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| FYE100M | MCC Essentials | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Total | X | X | X | |
| First Year | Spring Semester | TH | LAB | CR |
| NURS112M | Nursing II | 4 | 15 | 9 |
| BIOL120M | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| PSYC210M | Human Growth and Development | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Total | X | X | X | |
| ||||
| Second Year | Fall Semester | TH | LAB | CR |
| NURS211M | Nursing III | 4 | 15 | 9 |
| BIOL210M | Microbiology: Principles and Practices | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| ENGL110XM or ENGL110M | College Composition I with Corequisite or College Composition I | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| Total | X | X | X | |
| Second Year | Spring Semester | TH | LAB | CR |
| NURS212M | Nursing IV | 3 | 18 | 9 |
| Mathematics Elective - Choose one: (MATH145M, MATH145XM, MATH202M*) | 4 | 0 | 4 | |
| Foreign Language/Humanities/Fine Arts Elective | 3 | 0 | 3 | |
| English Elective | 3 | 0 | 3 | |
| Total | X | X | X | |
Total Credits - X | ||||
* Students who wish to continue their education toward the Bachelor or Master of Science in Nursing degrees are encouraged to complete MATH202M as the mathematics requirement.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates are able to:
- Identify, integrate and evaluate current evidence, with consideration of patient preferences, and apply clinical reasoning to practice nursing safely and competently
- Provide respectful, culturally appropriate patient-centered care to diverse populations by partnering with patient and family members to empower participation in shared decision-making
- Demonstrate open communication, shared responsibility and mutual respect as a member of the nursing and interprofessional team, to promote quality patient care
- Implement interventions based on legal and ethical obligations to mitigate the risk of harm related to individuals, organizations, and the community
- Utilize clinical reasoning and critical thinking within the discipline’s legal and ethical framework to create a culture of safety that prevents the risk of harm
- Demonstrate proficiency in technology and application of nursing informatics to enhance, deliver, communicate, integrate, and coordinate patient care
Admission Requirements
In an effort to provide you with the most current and comprehensive information about our programs, prospective nursing students must attend a Nursing Information Session as part of application requirements. Applicants who attend receive specific nursing application materials and step by step submission instructions for priority processing. Applicants who have attended an info session within the last two years are responsible for meeting current admission requirements. Dates and times for information sessions can be found on the Information Sessions page.
Completed nursing program applications must be submitted by February 1st to be considered for priority acceptance. Applications that are received between February 1st and March 15th will be reviewed for consideration if spots remain available in the incoming class.
Submission of a completed application is the responsibility of the nursing candidate. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Candidates must complete the college admission requirements and provide documentation of the following criteria for admission consideration:
- Attend a mandatory Nursing Information Session.
- Complete application for the program.
- Proof of satisfactory completion of high school algebra, biology and chemistry with grades no lower than a C. If transcript indicates a numerical grade point average with no grade equivalent, a minimum of 73.33 is required.
- A personal statement.
- Complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) of Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) with an Adjusted Individual Score of the following: Reading: 70%, MATH: 68.8%, Science: 55.3%, English: 60%. Applicants are permitted to take this test three times in a calendar year; no sooner than four weeks between attempts. Test scores are valid for a period of two years.
The TEAS Test evaluates the academic ability of prospective RN students. See www.atitesting.com for information about preparing for the test.
Selection Criteria
Admission to the nursing program is competitive. Selection is determined by a cumulative point system that is based on applicable college courses and grades, and the ATI TEAS scores. Special consideration points are given to applicants who have completed Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II prior to the February 1st deadline with a grade of “C” or better within the past eight years from the time of acceptance, and for those applicants who have taken their co-requisite and pre-requisite courses at Manchester Community College.
Qualified students who are not accepted in the selection process may be assigned to a prioritized waiting list based on the above criteria. They may be subsequently admitted if an opening becomes available prior to the beginning of the fall semester. The waiting list will be discarded six weeks prior to classes beginning. Students still desiring admission must reapply for the following year.
Upon Acceptance
It is understood that acceptance is conditional upon submission of satisfactory evidence in the form of the following documents no later than four weeks prior to the beginning of the semester:
- Submit a report of a current (within 1 year prior to beginning first Nursing course) physical examination, including required health screening and all immunizations/titers (as indicated on the physical examination form).
- Possess and maintain personal health insurance. When enrolled in the nursing program, students must notify the Director of any changes with healthcare coverage.
- Possess and maintain professional liability insurance. This professional liability insurance coverage is an annual fee through MCC.
- Acquire and maintain certification in BLS for Healthcare Providers.
- Complete a criminal background check (through college’s approved vendor) with satisfactory results (cost to be incurred by student). MCC’s background check is due within 21 days after attending the mandatory nursing program orientation. Students will repeat the NH State Police criminal background check prior to their senior year.
- Complete drug testing through college’s approved vendor. Students may also be required to provide an additional criminal background check and drug testing throughout the course of the program based on clinical facility requirements.
Pathway for NH Future Nurses Program
This partnership between MCC and Franklin Pierce University (FPU) allows students to earn a Bachelor Degree in Nursing from FPU in one year after completion of their Associate Degree in Nursing from MCC. Students accepted into the Pathway option will take courses that meet the requirements of both colleges during their first three years at MCC, receive their A.S.N. and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. During their fourth year they will complete their Bachelor Degree in Nursing at FPU. To learn more, students must attend a Pathway Information Session that is scheduled through MCC’s Office of Admissions.
LPN to RN Option: Placement Into Hybrid NURS112M
Prospective students must attend an LPN to RN Nursing Information Session. Applicants who have attended an info session within the last two years, are responsible for meeting current admission requirements. A & P II, Human Growth and Development and Microbiology must be completed by May 15th. Applicants must be a currently licensed LPN and successfully complete the NLN Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) I: Foundations of Nursing with a required overall percent correct score of 75% or better. Test scores are valid for a period of 12 months prior to application deadline. Applications and required documents must be completed by January 15th to be considered for acceptance in the Hybrid course. An interview will then be arranged with the Director of Nursing and nursing faculty.
Transfer Into NURS112M
Transfer into NURS112M is an option only if there is space available in the program. Returning MCC nursing students and LPN-RN candidates have priority. Space availability is usually determined early December. To be considered for transfer from another nursing program, students must:
- Have permission of the Director of Nursing.
- Have successfully completed (as defined by the home institution for progression in the nursing program) a Nursing Fundamentals course within the past 2 years.
- Successfully complete the ATI Fundamentals exam with a Level 2 or better.
Transfer students accepted into NURS112M must attend Nursing Process Seminar prior to the start of NURS112M and must have completed all prerequisite coursework by examination or transfer credit.
Transfer Credit Policy
In addition to specific nursing course transfer policies noted above and other MCC transfer credit policies, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II and Microbiology must be taken no more than 8 years prior to the semester of entry into the Nursing program.
Readmission Policy
Students matriculated in the Nursing program who withdraw or do not achieve the required minimum grade in the Nursing or science courses and are not able to continue in the Nursing program may be eligible for readmission consideration. A student may be readmitted to the Nursing program one time only. Readmissions are contingent upon space availability. The student applying for readmission will be required to meet the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of readmission. In order to be reconsidered for admission, the student must:
Meet with the Director of the Department of Nursing:
- Readmission for NURS111M – Request opportunity to reapply
- Readmission for NURS112M, 211M and 212M:
- Outline the reason(s) you were unable to continue in the program and your plan for successful completion of the program.
- Submit a written dated letter requesting readmission to the Director of the Department of Nursing and identify which Nursing course you are requesting readmission for.
Students who have failed a Nursing course because of unsafe practice involving actions or non-actions may or may not be eligible for readmission to the Nursing program.
Accreditation
The Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON). Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to apply to the NHBON for the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). MCC’s NCLEX pass rates can be viewed at www.oplc.nh.gov. The NHBON’s licensing regulations may restrict candidates who have been involved in civil or criminal legal proceedings. Questions about licensing restrictions should be addressed to:
The NH Board of Nursing,
121 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301
603-271-2323
Questions about the status of accreditation for the Nursing program should be addressed to:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
Phone: (404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the associate nursing program is continuing accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at http://www.acenursing.com/accreditedprograms/programsearch.htm
Additional Licensure Opportunities
Prior to meeting all program course requirements, matriculated nursing students may be eligible to apply to the NHBON for additional licensure after successful completion (defined as achieving a minimum course grade of “C”) of the following nursing courses:
- Nursing I - Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA)
- Nursing III - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
RN to BSN Articulation Agreements
The MCC nursing program holds formal articulation agreements with 13 colleges and universities:
- Aspen University
- Chamberlain University
- Colby Sawyer College
- Emmanuel College
- Endicott College
- Franklin Pierce University
- Granite State College
- New England College
- Purdue University
- Rivier University
- Salve Regina University
- Southern NH University
- Walden University.
Technical Standards
MCC must ensure that patient safety is not compromised by students during learning experiences. Therefore, the student is expected to demonstrate emotional stability and exercise sound judgment, accept direction and guidance from a supervisor or faculty member and establish rapport and appropriate interpersonal relationships with peers, staff and patients and their families.
The following technical standards have been established to provide guidance to students as to skills and abilities required to function successfully in the program and ultimately in the profession of nursing. Applicants who think they may not be able to meet one or more of the technical standards must contact the Director of Nursing to discuss individual cases.
- Sufficient hearing to assess patient needs and to understand instructions, emergency signals and telephone conversations.
- Sufficient visual acuity to observe patients, manipulate equipment and interpret data; visual acuity sufficient to ensure a safe environment, identify color changes, read fine print/writing and calibrations.
- Sufficient speech and language ability to express, comprehend and exchange information and ideas verbally and non-verbally and to interact clearly and logically with patients, family members, physicians, peers and other medical personnel.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions, respond appropriately in emergencies or unexpected situations and to cope with variations in workload and stress levels.
- Sufficient strength and motor coordination to perform the following physical activities: manual dexterity to operate and handle equipment, moving and transfer of patients; and performing CPR.
- Travel Policy: Transportation to and from the clinical site is the responsibility of the student.
FAQs
Why is getting into the nursing program so hard? ›
Because nursing is an in-demand profession, nursing school admissions can be competitive. Having a higher than average GPA is one way to put together a strong application. While GPA requirements vary from school to school, on average, many BSN programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0.
What is the failure rate for nursing degrees? ›According to the National League for Nursing, the national dropout rate for nursing programs in the United States is 20%, and this high attrition rate is considered problematic. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission set the desirable retention rate at 80%.
Is nursing school as hard as everyone says? ›Nursing requires more dedication than many other careers. However, it's one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. Nursing school is notoriously difficult—and it's not for everyone. Graduate school is challenging as well.
What is the hardest semester of a nursing program? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
To start nursing school, you don't need any prior nursing experience or healthcare education. All you need is a high school diploma or GED. Once you are accepted, your journey to RN begins! You can become an RN in 2 to 4 years by studying for an associate's degree (ASN) or bachelor's degree (BSN).
Why are nursing schools rejecting thousands of applicants? ›According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 80,521 qualified applications were not accepted at nursing schools due to a shortage of clinical sites, resource constraints, and faculty in 2020.
How likely am I to pass nursing school? ›| School | 2017/2018 | 2020/2021 |
|---|---|---|
| # Taken | % Pass | |
| American Career College | 67 | 91.67% |
| American River College | 67 | 92.54% |
| American University of Health Sciences - BSN | 56 | 85.14% |
Falling Pass Rates
Pass rates continued to decline in 2022, with an average pass rate of 80.9% opens in a new tab or windowfor all first-time U.S.-educated candidates, and a rate of 66.6% for all candidates, based on a dataset that excludes the fourth quarter of the year.
While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.
Is nursing school a lot of memorization? ›Is nursing school mostly memorization? Memorization is a major component of nursing school, but there's much more to a nursing education than remembering facts. While you'll definitely need to recall a wide range of information at the drop of a hat, memorization will only take you so far.
Is it common to fail nursing class? ›
Many nursing schools require a minimum grade of roughly 80% to actually pass, as well. By the time you realize you aren't doing well enough to be successful in the course, the choices can be pretty limited. Failure happens all the time. It happens every day...
Is nursing school a lot of math? ›Nursing in the "real world" generally requires very basic math skills, but almost all programs require at least one college-level math class — usually algebra. Some nursing schools may require a basic statistics course as well, so if you know what schools you're applying to, be sure to check for this requirement.
What is the easiest and fastest nursing degree? ›An LPN or LVN program usually takes around a year to complete, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). What makes an LPN or LVN preparation program the easiest type of nursing education you can pursue is its focus on training for basic nursing services only and its quick completion time.
What is the easiest class in nursing school? ›- Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
- Humanities.
- Intro to Speech (or Communication)
- English Composition.
- History.
- Using Information Technology.
GPA requirements depend on the type of nursing program you want to apply for, but most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA or higher. However, due to the competitive nature of nursing programs, most schools prefer a 3.7 to 4.0 GPA.
How old are most nursing students? ›The average age of ADN nursing students at community colleges is 26-40 years old. BSN programs have an average age of early-mid 20s. Students in RN-to-BSN programs are typically in their late 30s.
How many hours a day should you study for nursing school? ›How many hours a day should I study for nursing school? Everyone is different, but in general, it is recommended that nursing school students study anywhere from 2-4 hours a day. Committing class material to memory is essential to becoming a registered nurse, so the more time studying, the better!
What is the average age of a RN? ›Average Age Of Nurses
The average age of a registered nurse in the United States is 44, though this may change as the demand for nurses increases.
Students may fail nursing school for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's a personal reason, and other times, the individual is going through some kind of health issue.
Will nursing school ever get easier? ›Nursing school will have semesters that are easier than others. The good news is that the longer you are in nursing school, the easier it gets. The coursework may remain about the same, but it will get easier due to: The fact that you'll be used to it after a semester or two and you'll know what it takes to succeed.
What are some weaknesses in nursing school? ›
- Paying too much attention to detail.
- Wanting to do everything at once.
- Spending too long on paperwork.
- Having a lack of clinical experience (for new grads)
Does NCLEX-RN Get Harder with Every Retake After Failing? Some candidates mistakenly believe that the NCLEX is harder each time. Questions become more challenging with each correct answer you provide on the NCLEX. However, subsequent tests are not easier or more difficult than previous exams.
How to pass nursing school easily? ›- Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
- Focus on the material covered in class. ...
- Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
- Form a study group. ...
- Skim-read first. ...
- Use outside sources. ...
- Know your learning style. ...
- Use downtime as study time.
If they fail, they'll need to wait 45 days before retesting. After failing three times, though, they'll need to complete a board-approved remediation program before the next retake. test-takers have six attempts to pass in total.
What state has the lowest NCLEX pass rate? ›9, 2022. Last year, 63.88 percent of registered nursing students passed the NCLEX, down from 64.79 percent in 2021 and 68.92 percent in 2020. Florida has had the lowest NCLEX pass rates in the country since 2017, according to The Tampa Bay Times.
What is hardest field of nursing to get into? ›- Oncology. There's no surprise that this specialty is near the top of the list. ...
- Hospice. ...
- Medical-Surgical. ...
- Geriatric Care. ...
- Emergency Room. ...
- Psychiatry. ...
- Correctional Nursing.
Communication challenges: School nurses sometimes face challenges in communicating effectively with school administration, parents, doctors, pharmacies, health care bodies regarding student health because they have too many priorities and limited resources that enable them to meet these expectations.
Can I be a nurse with a 2.5 GPA? ›Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
What state is the easiest to become a nurse? ›- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.
Is there a lot of homework in nursing school? ›
If you are a nurse, you should know how much time nurses study. Besides classes, which are usually full-time, they spend about 17 hours on homework weekly in the U.S. Also, the majority of employed nursing students and interns work for 10–20 hours in hospitals.
Is there a lot of essays in nursing school? ›It will depend on what degree track of nursing you're on and the school you're going to. For example, an LPN will get far fewer essay assignments (if any) than a nursing student who's in a master's or doctorate program (they'll be getting a lot of papers to write).
What is the most important class in nursing school? ›Health Assessment and Promotion is one of the most important classes you take in nursing school.
How many students get rejected from nursing school? ›In Summary: The American Academy of Colleges of Nurses found 80,407 qualified nursing applicants were denied admission in 2019 because nursing schools didn't have adequate numbers of teaching staff.
How many times can you fail your nursing boards? ›Candidates who do not pass the NCLEX after three times must complete a board-approved remedial training before their fourth attempt.
How many nursing students fail? ›How many nursing students fail? According to the National League of Nursing, the dropout rate for nursing programs in the United States is around 20%.
Can I be a nurse if im bad at math? ›Yes, you can still be a nurse. That said, many nursing schools give their students a test on basic drug calculations to ensure that they can calculate doses in the event of a power outage or other catastrophy.
Can you use a calculator in nursing school? ›And yes, most NCLEX prep courses allow use of calculators. There are calculators all over the clinical setting as well.
Is nursing more math or science? ›Math is an essential skill for nurses to have because they use formulas to help them determine how much to put into intravenous therapy (IV) fluid drips, injections and oral medications. The more nurses practice their math skills, the more confident they may feel when using them on the job.
What is the shortest nursing program? ›ADN and Related Programs
The way to become an RN with the lowest level of education is to go through an associate's degree in nursing or ADN program. Most ADN programs are two years long and are held at community colleges. There are numerous options to choose from, including part-time and full-time programs.
Is the first year of nursing the hardest? ›
If you become a nurse, your first year on the job is often the hardest. Being in a new environment, suddenly having to use new skills, and the new responsibility of being a nurse hit you all at once. It can be overwhelming.
What is the shortest year to study for nursing? ›LPN/LVN certificate or diploma: one year. ADN program: two years. BSN degree: four years. MSN program: two to three years.
Is Nursing School hard for everyone? ›Nursing requires more dedication than many other careers. However, it's one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. Nursing school is notoriously difficult—and it's not for everyone. Graduate school is challenging as well.
What are the hardest pre nursing classes? ›Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Anatomy & Physiology each have a well-earned reputation for being difficult to pass. Some students may find Cardiology, Chemistry, or even Mental Health especially trying.
Has nursing school gotten harder? ›During the last few years, it's gotten more and more difficult to be accepted into nursing school. As you've already seen, there are many requirements, and none of them are easy. And the admissions processes aren't getting any easier even though we desperately need RNs.
What is the average GPA of a nursing student? ›Average GPA: 3.53
(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.
Grades Do Matter, but They Aren't Everything
The most important thing is that you are able to graduate through the program and pass NCLEX. However, I would encourage nursing students to work hard to keep their grades as high as possible, as there are also many benefits to maintaining a high GPA.
GPA requirements vary from school to school, and some early admission nursing programs require an even higher GPA of at least 3.8 or higher (weighted or unweighted). In general, you can expect that any highly competitive nursing program will have a high GPA requirement for applicants.
Why is the first year of nursing so hard? ›The first year of nursing school is hard because you're starting a new venture. Not only are you learning new information specific to your industry, but you'll also be putting that education into action. Learning facts is much different than practicing them, so stretching yourself in this new way can be demanding.
What is the easiest nursing major? ›For the easiest nursing degrees, your best options include shorter programs like licensed practical nurse and licensed vocational nurse programs, associate's degree programs, bridge programs for registered nurses seeking bachelor's degrees and hybrid nursing programs.
Which field of nursing has the highest burnout rate? ›
Critical care nurses suffer the highest rates of burnout.
This is mainly due to the nature of the job, as critical care nurses work specialize in the emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU). As such, their work environment is constantly fast-paced, meticulous, and demanding.
However, don't take it for granted that nursing school will be much easier than medical school, especially in an accelerated format. Both offer a unique set of challenges and demand the utmost in student commitment and work rate.
Is it normal to fail your first nursing exam? ›Failing one exam or subject, while not a good thing, does not mean a person can't become a great nurse. And especially in first semester, people don't have much idea about how hard a test, etc, can be.
Which year of nursing is the hardest? ›It is said that up to 90% of what you do on the job after graduation was not learned while in nursing school. I'm not convinced the learning curve is that high, but there is a lot of on-the-job training required. Nursing is a complex profession.
How many hours a day should you study in nursing school? ›How many hours a day should I study for nursing school? Everyone is different, but in general, it is recommended that nursing school students study anywhere from 2-4 hours a day. Committing class material to memory is essential to becoming a registered nurse, so the more time studying, the better!
How hard are nursing tests? ›NCLEX Pass Rates
The second-attempt pass rate for domestically-educated students taking the test was 45.56%. These results demonstrate that it is a pretty difficult test. The questions are designed to test your critical thinking, knowledge of the nursing process, and assessment skills.
The fastest way to become an RN is through an RN diploma program, which can be completed in as little as a year. While completing this program does not lead to a degree, it does make the individual eligible to take the NCLEX and earn their RN license.