Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) is a rewarding career path, and American Career College (ACC) offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to help you achieve this goal. If you’re considering applying, understanding the program prerequisites is a crucial first step. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the prerequisites for the American Career College RN program, ensuring you have all the information you need to start your journey in nursing.
What are the Entry Requirements for the ACC ADN Program?
Unlike some nursing programs, the American Career College ADN program is designed to be accessible, meaning there are no specific pre-requisite courses you need to complete before applying. This allows you to directly enter the nursing program and begin your core nursing studies right away. All the necessary general education and core nursing classes are integrated into the 20-month program itself.
This streamlined approach means you can focus on preparing your application and meeting the admission requirements, rather than spending time and money on prerequisite coursework.
Key Admission Requirements for the ADN Program at American Career College
While there are no course prerequisites, American Career College does have specific admission requirements to ensure that successful candidates are prepared for the rigors of the nursing program. These requirements are designed to assess your academic readiness and suitability for a demanding healthcare career. Here’s a breakdown of the key admission requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalency
The foundational requirement for admission is a high school diploma or successful completion of a High School Equivalency program like the GED. This ensures that all applicants possess a basic level of education necessary for college-level coursework. You will need to provide official documentation as proof of your high school graduation or equivalency.
Passing Score on the HESI Admission Assessment Exam
A critical component of the admission process is the HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.) Admission Assessment Exam. This exam evaluates your aptitude in essential academic areas considered important for success in nursing studies. The HESI exam for the ACC ADN program includes three sections:
- Math: Assesses your fundamental mathematical skills, crucial for medication dosage calculations and other aspects of nursing practice.
- Reading Comprehension: Evaluates your ability to understand and interpret written materials, essential for comprehending medical texts, patient charts, and research articles.
- Science: Tests your basic knowledge of science concepts, providing a foundation for understanding the biological and physiological principles taught in the nursing program.
Alt text: Dedicated nurse providing compassionate care to elderly patient in wheelchair, illustrating the caring nature of the nursing profession.
Minimum Passing Score: To be eligible for admission, you must achieve a score of 75% or higher on the HESI exam.
Retake Policy: American Career College understands that test-taking can be stressful. If you do not achieve the passing score on your first attempt, you are allowed a second attempt. However, if you are unsuccessful on your second try, you must wait three months from the date of your last attempt before taking the HESI exam a third time. In this case, you would be applying for admission to the next available program cohort. It’s highly recommended to prepare thoroughly for the HESI exam to maximize your chances of passing on your first or second attempt. ACC often provides resources and study tips to help applicants prepare for the HESI exam.
Admissions Interview
After submitting your application and meeting the initial requirements, you will participate in an admissions interview. This interview is an opportunity for the admissions team to get to know you better, understand your motivations for pursuing nursing, and assess your communication skills and professionalism. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions you may have about the program and American Career College.
Health and Background Requirements
Upon acceptance into the ADN program, there are further steps to ensure student and patient safety within the clinical environment. These include:
- Health Screening Examinations and Immunizations: You will be required to undergo health screening examinations, and provide proof of required immunizations. These are standard requirements in healthcare programs to protect both students and patients from infectious diseases.
- Drug Testing: Drug testing is a standard practice in healthcare settings to ensure a safe and drug-free environment for patient care. You will need to undergo drug testing prior to clinical assignments.
- Background Check: A background check is conducted after enrollment. While a prior background may not automatically prevent you from starting the program, certain offenses could impact your ability to be placed at clinical sites or obtain your RN license after graduation. It is important to be transparent about your background during the admissions process.
Understanding the Time Commitment: Full-Time Program
The American Career College ADN program is a full-time program, requiring a significant time commitment. It is not currently offered in a part-time format. The program is structured into eight 10-week quarters, completed over 20 months. Be prepared to dedicate yourself fully to your studies during this period to succeed in the program.
Transfer Credits
If you have completed college coursework at other institutions, American Career College has a transfer policy to evaluate transcripts and determine if credits can be transferred towards the ADN program. The specifics of transfer credit evaluation are discussed in detail during information sessions. If you have prior college credits, attending an info session is highly recommended to understand how they might apply to the ADN program.
Program Start Dates and Application
The ADN program at American Career College has specific start dates throughout the year. It’s essential to check the [ADN program start date calendar]([insert link to ACC ADN program start date calendar if available, otherwise remove]) on the ACC website for the most up-to-date information on upcoming start dates. Classes have limited seats, and programs can fill up quickly, so it is advisable to apply early.
To learn more and begin your application process, you can schedule an info session with an admissions advisor. This session will provide you with personalized guidance and answer any remaining questions you have about the American Career College Rn Program Prerequisites and the application process.
Alt text: American Career College Anaheim campus exterior, showcasing the modern facilities and accessible location for nursing students.
By understanding these prerequisites and admission requirements for the American Career College RN program, you can effectively prepare your application and take the first step towards a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse. American Career College provides a structured and supportive environment to help you achieve your nursing aspirations.
