64 Credits AS3323/AS2316, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
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The 色中色 Professional Nursing Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (ASN) is approved by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Degree will prepare a student for the future registered nurse role. The RN role is important to leading a team and overseeing safe, high-quality care for diverse clients and families across the lifespan. Employment is with clinics, long-term care and assisted living, home care, treatment facilities, and hospitals.
The ASN degree can be earned in four semesters after the Pre-Nursing requirements are completed. Once accepted into the Professional Nursing program, you will be able to enroll in nursing (NURS) classes. Successful completion of the Professional Nursing program provides eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam enabling you to obtain the RN credential for entry level practice.
If already an LPN and interested in becoming a registered nurse, the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is an option for you. This is accomplished by applying to the LPN to RN Transition Plan which is part of the ASN program. The LPN to RN Transition Plan grants advanced standing of four (4) credits to the future LPN to RN student. In your first semester of the nursing program, completion of one course, NURS 2200 LPN to RN Transition Role is required. The course is four (4) credits and a combination of theory, lab, and clinical to 鈥渢ransition鈥� LPN students to the RN role. Subsequent semesters are with the traditional, non-degree ASN students.
*National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a nationwide examination for licensure in the U.S. and Canada
It is recommended students take as many of the required Arts and Science courses as possible before beginning the Nursing program which is a full-time study.
Individuals earning an ASN Degree may transfer credits to a four-year institution to work towards a Bachelors of Nursing Degree. Learners will be required to take additional liberal arts and science courses, and should visit with whichever institution they wish to transfer to for further information.
Admitted Nursing candidates are required to participate in a background study.
Campuses: Faribault and North Mankato
Program Start Semesters: Fall and Spring
Base estimate for 64 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $13,139
Tools and Equipment: $ n/a
Total Estimated Cost: $13,139 *
and you'll see that tuition at 色中色 is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Advanced Standing for LPN Education (7 Credits)
The LPN to RN transition plan grants 7 credits of advanced standing
Required Technical Courses (13 Courses)
Complete the following courses:
NURS2205 LPN to RN Role Transition (3 credits)
This course builds on the foundation of knowledge and skills acquired during previous nursing education. It is designed to help the LPN prepare for the transition to the RN role. Topics to be covered include scope of practice and role differentiation, the responsibilities of the professional nurse in the nursing process, nursing judgement, assessment, client education, nutrition, evidence-based practice, legal and ethical issues, communication skills, critical thinking, and delegation. Select psychomotor skills will be reviewed emphasizing the application of the nursing process and use of evidenced-based practices promoting client safety. This course addresses the integration and application of professional values and beliefs necessary for effective role transition (Prerequisite: Acceptance into LPN to RN Program).
NURS2300 Professional Nursing Concepts I (3 credits)
This course builds on previously learned pathophysiological processes and introduces advanced nursing interventions related to medication administration, care of clients experiencing alterations in fluid and electrolyte balance, acid base balance, oxygenation and perfusion, diabetes, the renal system, the gastrointestinal system, and the musculoskeletal system. These concepts will be applied to develop critical thinking and evidence-based practice using the nursing process. The nursing process, clinical reasoning, and use of research-based nursing actions are integrated throughout the course as foundation for assisting the adult medical surgical population experiencing disruptions in the health-illness continuum. Pharmacological concepts, drug classifications, and client centered considerations when administering medications will be integrated throughout the course (Prerequisite: Acceptance into LPN to RN Program).
NURS2400 Professional Nursing Concepts 2 (4 credits)
This course builds on concepts previously learned in Professional Nursing Concepts 1 and reinforces pathophysiological processes of the cardiovascular system, the eyes and ears, the neurologic system, pre- and postoperative care, and mental health. These concepts will be applied to develop critical thinking and evidence-based practice using the nursing process. The nursing process, clinical reasoning, and use of research-based nursing actions are integrated throughout the course as foundation for assisting the adult medical surgical population experiencing disruptions in the health-illness continuum. Pharmacological concepts, drug classifications, and client centered considerations when administering medications will be integrated throughout the course (Prerequisites: Successfully complete NURS 2205 and NURS 2300) (Corequisite: BIOL 270 successfully completed before final ASN semester).
NURS2405 Professional Nursing Practicum I (3 credits)
In this course the student will apply theory related to alteration in body systems through observation, assessment, and interaction with diverse clients in the clinical setting. Utilization of the nursing process, therapeutic communication, client education, evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and professional nursing behavior will be demonstrated. Students will demonstrate effective communication with other members of the interdisciplinary health care team. Students will use therapeutic and interpersonal communication skills when providing client centered care. (Prerequisites: Successfully complete NURS 2205 and NURS 2300) (Corequisite: BIOL 270 successfully completed before final ASN semester).
NURS2415 Advanced Skills and Simulation (2 credits)
This course develops the role and competencies of the professional nurse as they relate to management of advanced nursing skills used in the healthcare setting. These selected advanced nursing skills are taught and evaluated in a realistic, simulated learning environment with an application of the nursing process and use of evidence-based practice that promote client safety and quality in the performance of psychomotor skills (Prerequisites: Successfully complete NURS 2205 and NURS 2300) (Corequisite: BIOL 270 successfully completed before final ASN semester).
NURS2500 Professional Nursing Concepts III (4 credits)
This course builds on concepts previously learned in Professional Nursing Concepts I and II and reinforces pathophysiological processes of the hematology and immune systems, endocrine disorders, the reproductive systems, and maternal child. These concepts will be applied to develop critical thinking and evidence-based practice using the nursing process. The nursing process, clinical reasoning, and use of research-based nursing actions are integrated throughout the course as foundation for assisting the adult medical surgical and maternal child population experiencing disruptions in the health-illness continuum. Pharmacological concepts, drug classifications, and client centered considerations when administering medications will be integrated throughout the course (Prerequisites: Successfully complete NURS 2400, NURS 2405, and NURS 2415) (Corequisite: PHIL 150 successfully completed by the end of final ASN semester).
NURS2505 Professional Nursing Practicum II (4 credits)
In this course the student will apply theory related to alteration in body systems through observation, assessment, and interaction with diverse clients throughout the lifespan in the clinical setting and in a realistic, simulated learning environment. Utilization of the nursing process, therapeutic communication, client education, evidence-based practice, critical thinking, informatics, and professional nursing behavior will be demonstrated. Students will demonstrate effective communication with other members of the interdisciplinary health care team. Students will demonstrate teamwork and collaboration when providing client centered care (Prerequisites: Successfully complete NURS 2400, NURS 2405, and NURS 2415) (Corequisite: PHIL 150 successfully completed by end of final ASN semester).
NURS2520 Semester 4 Leadership (1 credits)
This course introduces concepts related to leadership skills and management for nurses within the multidisciplinary health care team. Healthcare policy and regulatory processes impact on nursing practice are analyzed. Ethical principles and diversity are reviewed. Quality improvement concepts in health care are examined. Community service and education projects are implemented. (Prerequisites: Successfully complete all Semester 3 Courses in order to advance to Semester 4 Courses)
NURS2570 ASN NCLEX Preparation (1 credits)
This course facilitates students to reinforce concepts learned in the program to prepare for transition into professional nursing practice through planned seminars. Students will complete the ATI Capstone review followed with the assigned Virtual ATI. Additionally, students are to achieve the ASN Program benchmark for the Comprehensive Predictor and attend the ATI Live Review. Based on analysis of individual results, students will create a personal study plan in preparation for success on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN exam) (Prerequisites: Successfully complete all prior semester courses for ASN program or LPN to RN Program. Be in final semester ASN Program or LPN to RN semester Program).
Required Arts and Sciences (9 Courses)
To complete an A.S. Degree, student must complete 32 MNTC credits from 6 of the 10 MNTC Goal Areas. Complete the following required courses:
BIOL220 Human Anatomy (4 credits)
This course takes an in-depth look at the anatomy of the human body systems. The course emphasizes structure and anatomical function at the cellular, tissue, organ and systemic level. Dysfunctions are included but the body in homeostasis is emphasized. This course includes a weekly three hour lab. Some labs include dissection. (Prerequisite: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
BIOL230 Human Physiology (4 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the functioning of most body systems, including muscle, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and endocrine systems at both the cellular and systemic level. An emphasis is placed on normal physiology, but dysfunction will also be discussed. This course contains a weekly 3 hour laboratory component. (Prerequisites: BIOL 220 with a grade of C or better and CHEM 108, CHEM 110 or CHEM 120 with a grade of C or better) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
BIOL240 Pathophysiology (3 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the chemical, biological and psychological process involved with alterations of health, using systemic and non-systemic approaches. Through case studies, students will test theories taught in class by reading background information about patients, forming possible diagnosis, deciding what tests to run, analyzing data and forming conclusions about the patients conditions. They will then justify possible treatments. (Prerequisite: Completion of BIOL 230 with a grade of C or better.) (MNTC 3: Natural Sciences)
BIOL270 Microbiology (4 credits)
This course is an introduction to the general principles and methods used in the study of microorganisms. It includes a survey of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms emphasizing bacteria and viruses. Topics include microbial cell structure and function, metabolism, microbial genetics, and the role of microorganisms in disease, immunity and other selected applied areas. Laboratory techniques include isolating, culturing and identifying microorganisms. This course contains a three hour per week laboratory component. (Prerequisites: A grade of C or higher in BIOL115 OR BIOL225 OR BIOL220 AND CHEM108 OR CHEM110 OR CHEM 120) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
CHEM108 Introduction to Chemistry (4 credits)
A one-semester introduction to the field of chemistry, this course is designed to allow the student to understand how chemistry relates to everyday life and to learn some of the language and concepts of chemistry related to applied health. This course uses a math-based approach. (Prerequisite: [Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [have a Next-Generation Accuplacer AAF score of 250 or higher or (Classic Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 56 or higher and Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra score of 76 or higher) or completion of either MATH 0085 or MATH 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher or ACT Math score of 19 or higher or MCA Math score of 1158 or higher.] (MNTC 3: Natural Sciences)
OR
CHEM110 Chemistry for the Health Sciences (4 credits)
Key concepts of general, organic, and biological chemistry are introduced in an integrated approach with applications from the medical fields. The course is designed to prepare students for Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology or to be utilized as a general Liberal Arts and Sciences course. Limited mathematical approach; this course does not meet the requirements of a prerequisite for CHEM 120. Lecture and a 2-hour lab are included. (Prerequisite: [Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or READ 0095 or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [ENGL 0090 or EAP 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [have a Next-Generation Accuplacer AAF score of 250 or higher or (Classic Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 56 or higher and Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra score of 76 or higher) or completion of either MATH 0085 or MATH 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher or ACT Math score of 19 or higher or MCA Math score of 1158 or higher.] (MNTC 2, 3: Critical Thinking, Natural Sciences)
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
ENGL100 Composition (4 credits)
Composition is concerned with developing, through theory and practice, the ability to communicate in written form for personal and professional reasons. Students will develop writing skills, analytic skills, and critical thinking skills. Students will complete readings, papers, grammar exercises, and in-class activities. Students will complete research and write a research paper. Students will learn methods of writing informatively and persuasively. (Prerequisites: Must have one of the following: (MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher) OR (READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) OR (completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) AND (completion of either ENGL 0090 or EAP 0095 with a grade of C [2.0] or higher) (MNTC 1: Communication)
PHIL150 Medical Ethics (3 credits)
This course examines the moral problems confronting medical providers and surveys the broader field of bioethics. After providing a general introduction to ethical concepts and theories, it focuses on specific issues relating to the American health care system, including access to care, inequality, obesity, reproductive rights, end-of-life care, disability, organ transplantation, and alternative medicine. Emphasis is placed on practical application of moral principles and critical analysis of case studies. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 6-Humanities/Fine Arts and 9 - Ethical/Civic Responsibility)
PSYC110 Lifespan Psychology (3 credits)
This is an introductory course examining human development across the lifespan, with emphasis on normal physical, cognitive, and social development. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 5 - History/Social & Behavioral Sciences, MNTC 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC 7b - Race/Power/Justice)
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
