ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

The Cerritos College Nursing Program, approved by the Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc., offers an opportunity to prepare for a nursing career through mastery of a specific body of knowledge and skills. Technical Standards/ Essential Functions are available for your review on the program’s website. They have been designed to give you more information about the profession and important skills/functions necessary in the role of the nurse. This information will be helpful to assist you in deciding on your career path.
 
The Nursing Program is an application-based program.  Application cycles occur each year, in early Spring semester.  Updates on the application and application cycle are provided on the Nursing Program website.   To qualify for the program, students must successfully complete prerequisite courses, pass an admission examination (ATI-TEAS), and meet benchmark grade point averages.  
Students admitted into the nursing program complete four consecutive semesters of lecture and clinical training. Program progression relies on the student acquiring at least 75% in all lecture courses and completing the clinical component with “Satisfactory”.  Graduates are prepared to apply for and take the California state licensure exam NCLEX-RN to practice as an entry level Registered Nurse.  In this role, the graduate will provide care to patients with acute and chronic health care needs, and to individuals and families, groups and communities.
  
ACCREDITATION

The Cerritos College Nursing Program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Interested parties may contact the following agencies with questions or comments regarding the nursing program accreditation:
California Board of Registered Nursing
P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Phone: (916) 322-3350; Hearing impaired individuals call the TDD number: (800) 326-2297; www.rn.ca.gov.
 
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850
Atlanta, GA 30326
Phone: (404) 975-5000; www.acenursing.org
 
EFFECTIVE  FALL 2024 – SPRING 2025 ACADEMIC YEAR:

The Nursing Program is implementing a Major Curriculum Revision, upon approval from the California Chancellors Office and the California Registered Board of Nursing.
 
The Major Curriculum Revision will begin with the Fall 2023 admission cohort (Option A).  All pre-registered cohorts will continue and complete in the current curriculum.  The Fall 2023 cohort, under the new curriculum, will be taught through a Concept Based Curriculum/Clinical Judgement Model and will complete 36 nursing units (18 lecture/18 clinical). 
 
Option A (Generic) applicants who meet CSUGE (or IGETC) requirements, can apply for the Concurrent Enrollment Pathway.   The CEP allows the student to be concurrently enrolled in the Cerritos College Associate Degree program as well as a BSN partner program for the complete program.  The student will complete 9 units at Cerritos College and 3 units at the BSN program, each semester. 
The new curriculum will be framed around the following Mission, Philosophy, Concept of Education, and Framework:

MISSION STATEMENT

The Cerritos College Nursing Program Mission is to prepare nurses to meet the needs of diverse populations in an ever-changing health care environment.
 
VISION STATEMENT

The Cerritos College Nursing Program is committed to advancing the art and science of nursing in a technology rich learning environment. The program empowers graduates to value scholarship, lifelong learning, and leadership in dynamic healthcare settings.

PHILOSOPHY

Nursing is defined as a science, discipline and health care practice that focuses on concepts within the three domains of the patient, nurse, and healthcare environment across the lifespan. The goals of nursing practice focus on wellness, health promotion, illness prevention, rehabilitation, and supporting the resources of the person who is ill or threatened with illness in adapting to changes within the environment. The purpose of the Nursing Program is to provide the community with Registered Nurses who have the ability to adapt to changes on all levels in a variety of health care settings, who are responsive to trends in healthcare today and in the future.
 
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

To accomplish the vision and philosophy of the program, the program is embarking on a Major Curriculum Revision, centered on Concept Based Learning.  A concept-based curriculum embraces core curriculum concepts that are centered on biophysical and psychosocial foundations, professional nursing concepts, healthcare system concepts, Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies (NOFNCC), Quality Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN), and National Patient Safety goals (NPSG).
 
Concept Based Curriculum (CBC) has been selected as the primary conceptual framework.  The CBC Model guides nursing students to attain insightful understanding of major concepts in nursing.  The curriculum emphasizes deep understanding about the discipline’s most central concepts which lead to the student’s ability to develop habits of thought and pattern recognition.   The curriculum is conceptually based and is established based on principles of adult and collaborative learning.  This conceptual framework is learner-centered where the student develops a deeper understanding of prevalent health care conditions and situations across the lifespan.  The curriculum model provides a learning environment that facilitates higher order thinking skills and clinical reasoning.  Faculty design learning activities that promote student engagement, self-assessment, and self-directed learning.  Developing clinical judgement results from understanding professional, health care, and patient attribute concepts.
 
The Cerritos College CBC Model and Conceptual Framework will be organized around the following elements:

1. Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes necessary of the professional nurse
2. Learner Centered teaching delivery
3. Clinical Reasoning through the use of the Clinical Judgment Model and Nursing Process
4. Domains of focus are the Patient, Nurse, Healthcare System
5. Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies
6. NCLEX-RN Test Blueprint (2023 NEXTGENERATION NCLEX)
7. Lifespan approach to learning

 
COMPETENCIES EXPECTED OF THE ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSE

The Nursing Program acknowledges key global nursing competencies reflected by Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies.  This embrace: Patient-Centered Care, Professionalism, Leadership, System Based Care, Communication, Teamwork/Collaboration, Safety, Quality Improvement, Informatics/Technology, and Evidence-Based Practice (NOFNCC, 2016).  Competencies also encompass culturally sensitive care, diversity in healthcare, nursing process, clinical decision-making, patient education, continuity of care (including community aspects), compassion, and advocacy.   The nurse uses an interdisciplinary, collaborative approach in working with the patient and with other health care providers. The graduate of an Associate Degree program plays a significant role in management of patient care. Managing care is characterized by planning, implementing, organizing, coordinating, delegating, and facilitating the continuity of patient care. The graduate of an Associate Degree Nursing Program adheres to standards of professional practice, is accountable for her/ his own actions and behaviors, and practices within ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks of nursing. Professional behaviors include concern for others that is demonstrated by caring, valuing the profession of nursing, and participating in ongoing professional development.
 
The Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) is an entry-level practitioner and is competent to practice as a direct caregiver in a variety of health care settings which include diverse patient populations. ADN graduates are employed in a healthcare delivery system that continues to grow and change. Therefore, ADN graduates may pursue Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral degrees in preparation for advanced levels of practice.
 
CONCEPT OF EDUCATION

Nursing faculty believe that nursing education is driven by the application of critical thinking and the development/improvement of teaching/learning strategies using innovative approaches and evidence-based research. Nursing faculty also believe that the purpose of education is to enlighten and enhance the quality of life for the student, the community, and the patients for whom students and graduates provide care. Education based on mastery learning is viewed by nursing faculty as a collaborative process involving college administrators and staff, nursing faculty, and nursing students. Each student enters the nursing program with unique characteristics, capabilities, learning styles, and motivation for learning. To address these individual differences, learning experiences are structured from simple to complex.

The program embraces the diversity of cultural, linguistic, and philosophical differences represented in the student body. Course experiences are designed to encourage discussion, sharing, and application of cultural practices that are unique to the individuals and groups represented in the campus and the community.

The goal of the program is to promote students’ creative and critical thinking and personal growth based on successful learning experiences. Achievement of this goal is fostered by encouraging self-direction and by providing a variety of individual and group learning experiences. Students are expected to participate actively in the learning process.
 
END OF PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES  (EPSLOs):

EPSLOs are the driving force of the Nursing Program Curriculum.  They are designed around the Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies and the NCLEX-RN Test Blueprint. EPSLOs guide the unit-based learning objectives in each course, that ultimately meet the Course Student Learning Outcomes.   The CSLOs are leveled from simple to complex, across the four semesters.  At the end of the program, the graduate shall meet the EPSLOs:
 
EPSLOs #1:  Engage in nursing practice that is patient-centered and culturally appropriate for individuals, families, and communities.  
EPSLOs #2: Integrate principles of quality improvement and safety into nursing practice within healthcare organizations and systems.
EPSLOs #3: Utilize evidence-based practice in providing nursing care to patients across the lifespan.
EPSLOs #4: Demonstrate leadership and professional behaviors that influence individuals and groups in the delivery of nursing care.
EPSLOs #5: Communicate effectively and collaboratively with the interprofessional team, patient, family, and community in the delivery of nursing care. 
EPSLOs #6: Utilize technologies for the management of information in the delivery of patient care.
 
NURSING APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY / ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

The Cerritos College Nursing Program offers six admission pathways depending on the applicant’s preparation, training status, and end goals.  The various options are discussed in length in the Nursing Program Information Packet on the Nursing Website @ www.cerritos.edu/registered-nurse. 
 
The nursing program offers six admission pathways:

1. Option A:  Generic – Applicants enter the nursing program in the first semester. Students complete (4) consecutive, sequenced semesters, consisting of 36 nursing units.  These, along with the general education units, complete the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. 
2. *Option B:  LPT-ASN Mobility Program - Applicants may receive credit for prior coursework completed in a Licensed Psychiatric Technician program and enter the program as an Advanced Placement Student, in the later half of the first semester.   The student completes the nursing coursework, the general education courses, and completes the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.

Option B:  "on hold" this year - not accepting any Option B students

3. *Option C:  LVN-ASN Mobility Program - Licensed Vocational Nurses can bridge into the RN program.  LVNs receive credit for LVN coursework, work experience, prerequisites, and bridge transition coursework.  Applicants complete required prerequisites, take the admission examination (TEAS), and meet benchmark grade point averages for eligibility.   Admitted students admitted into the program at the second year and complete 18 nursing units.  These nursing units, along with the general education units, complete the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.
4. *Option D:  LVN 30-unit Challenge – Licensed Vocational Nurses can bridge into the RN program.  LVNs receive credit for LVN coursework, and work experience.  Applicants do not meet benchmark grade point averages nor complete the admission examination (TEAS).   Admitted students enter into the program at the second year and complete 18 nursing units.  This option does not complete the general education coursework and DO NOT RECEIVE AN ASSOCIATES DEGREE. This graduate can complete the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed to practice in the state of California only.
5. *Option E:  Transfer and Challenge - Students seeking transfer from another nursing program can seek transfer eligibility and receive credit for coursework completed.   Transfer students are required to take bridge coursework, meet a benchmark grade point average, and complete the ATI-TEAS Exam.  The point of entry is dependent upon each student’s situation.  Transfer students are destined to complete the program with an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.

Option E:  "on hold" this year - not accepting any Option E students

6. *Option F:  Board of Registered Nursing Referral - Licensed nurses who are seeking licensure in California may need to fulfill individual course requirements per the BRN.  This applicant does not complete a degree, but rather, completes the one or two deficient courses required by the BRN.  This is only for ADN230 or ADN225.

Option F:  The program does not offer Medical Surgical or Pediatric course remediation. 

*The number of Option B, C, D, E, and F admitted to the program is based on space availability.   Students are notified on an individual basis.

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

Options A, B, C, and E are admission pathways that earn an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. In addition to the nursing coursework, the student will complete General Education courses outlined in General Education PLAN A. Students enrolled in the Concurrent Enrollment Pathway or desiring to matriculate to the CSU or UC.
 
 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS:

1. High school graduation or the equivalent. Applicant needs to be 18 years of age.
2. Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate of Arts Degree, ie: English 100, Math 80 or equivalent (highly recommend MATH 112 or MATH 112S), and Reading 54 or equivalent with grades of “Pass” or “C” or higher or satisfactory completion of the college placement test process. (except Options D and F)
3. Completion of Prerequisite courses with grades of “C” or higher: A&P 150, A&P 151, MICR 200, and ENGL 100 or ENGL 100S (for most Options) with an overall grade point average of 2.5.
4. Only ONE of the above prerequisite courses (A&P 150, A&P 151, MICR 200, English 100) may be repeated if a grade of “D” or “F” is earned in order to achieve a better grade. Two or more repeated prerequisites due to initial grades of “D” or “F” will disqualify the applicant (for most options).
5. It is HIGHLY recommended that A&P 150, A&P 151, and MICR 200 be completed within six (6) years of admission. Repeating courses for recency purposes will be accepted, as long as the first time the student took the course, they received a “C” or higher.
6. A cumulative grade point average of 2.5 for all college work taken. (for most options)
7. Completion of the Testing of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS VII) Exam with a 62% or higher score or the HESI diagnostic assessment test with a 70% or higher. These assessment examinations are a test of basic Math, English, Reading, and Science. The nursing program conducts TEAS testing each year, however spaces are limited. Therefore, the program will accept scores from other testing sites. Regulations regarding the TEAS EXAM can be found on the nursing website @ www.cerritos.edu/registered-nurse (except Options D and F)
8. Ability to provide a valid US Social Security number or Tax ID number prior to admission into the program due to clinical site requirements.

REQUIRED PREREQUISITES:

Option A: A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100/100S, and MICR 200 or equivalent.  *Must be passed with “C” or higher.  Must include labs.  Prerequisite grade point average must be > 2.5.
 
Option B: Same as Option A.  Additional courses required for admission: HO 152, NRSG 25, NRSG 211, NRSG 213A, NRSG 251, and PSYC 251 or equivalent with grades of Pass or “C” or higher. Valid California LPT license.
 
Option C: Same as Option A.  Additional courses required for admission: NRSG 26, NRSG 215, NRSG 251, and PSYC 251 or equivalent with grades of Pass or “C” or higher. Completion of a medication calculation examination with a score of 80% or higher. Valid California LVN license and at least one (1) year of direct patient care experience in a skilled nursing or hospital-based facility.
 
Option D: A&P 151, MICR 200, NRSG 215.   Additional requirements: Valid California LVN license and at least one (1) year of direct patient care experience in a skilled nursing or hospital-based facility.
Optional courses: NRSG 26, NRSG 251 (strongly recommended), PSYC 251. Completion of the college placement test process for advisement purposes.
 
Option E: Same as Option A.  Additional courses required for admission: HO 152,  NRSG 25 if entering prior to the middle of the second semester or NRSG 26 if entering at or following the middle of the second semester, NRSG 200, NRSG 215, NRSG 251, and PSYC 251 or equivalent with grades of “C” or higher or "Pass". Courses taught at the level of Introduction to College Composition with a grade of "C" or higher or "Pass" or equivalent or appropriate placement based on the college’s multiple measures process with eligibility for ENG 100 or ENGL 100S, courses at the level of college reading or READ 101 or READ 102, and courses taught at the level of Intermediate Algebra with a grade of "C" or higher or "Pass" or equivalent or appropriate placement based on the college's multiple measures process. Completion of a medication calculation examination with a score of 80% or higher for entry at NRSG 220 or above. Students applying under this option will be notified individually for additional requirements relative to their entry points in the curriculum. When you meet with the program director. Refer to the information packet for required documentation needed prior to this meeting. Information packets are available in the Health Occupations Division office or online at www.cerritos.edu/ho. Transfer students are not admitted to the first course or fourth semester.

 Option F: NRSG 26 and NRSG 215. Applicants must meet with the Director of Nursing and submit a valid letter of referral from the California Board of Registered Nursing.

PROGRAM PROGRESSION:

In order to remain enrolled in, progress in, and complete the program, the student must maintain a “C” grade or higher in all nursing courses and those General Education courses specified by the California Board of Registered Nursing for completion of the nursing program. These courses include PHIL 104; PSYC 275/ETHN 275, PSYC 251; COMM 100, COMM 120, COMM 130, COMM 132, OR COMM 150. In combined nursing lecture/lab courses, the student must receive a minimum of “C” in the lecture and a satisfactory grade in lab in order to successfully complete the course.
 
LENGTH OF PROGRAM AND ANTICIPATED EXPENSES:

The core nursing program consists of sequenced courses over a four-semester period. Prerequisite courses are completed prior to these four semesters. In addition, General Education courses are required for completion of the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. Each unit costs $46 for California residents and $263 for non-residents of California or international students. A Student Activity Fee is $10 per semester and the Student Health Services Fee is $19 per semester. During the four core semesters, lab material fees total approximately $200; textbooks/resources cost approximately $3000; and uniforms and additional supplies and equipment cost approximately $500. Fees are subject to change. Students are responsible for their own living arrangements, uniform laundry and transportation to clinical agencies.  Upon completion of the program, application fees for licensure range ~$600.  The program will cost an estimated amount of $6000.00. 
 
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK

Clinical placements are a mandatory component of the curriculum and require clearance of a criminal background check and drug screen. While marijuana is now legal in California, applicants must drug screen negative to enter the program. This is required by all clinical sites. Students who do not clear agency requirements are not eligible for clinical placement and will, consequently, be ineligible to continue in the program. If there is any concern regarding clearance of a criminal background check or drug screen, please contact the Health Occupations Division for additional information.
 
REGISTERED NURSE LICENSE APPLICATION

At the completion of the fourth semester of the Nursing Program, the nursing student files an application for licensure (NCLEX-RN) with the Board of Registered Nursing. The application and examination registration fee is $300. In addition, the student may apply for an interim permit for $100. These fees are subject to change by the Board of Registered Nursing.

As stated in the Board of Registered Nursing’s application for licensure:

Applicants are required under law to report all misdemeanor and felony convictions. “Driving under the influence” convictions must be reported. Convictions must be reported even if they have been expunged, adjudicated, or dismissed or even if court ordered diversion program has been completed under the Penal Code or under Article 5 of the Vehicle Code. Also, all disciplinary action against an applicant’s registered nurse, practical nurse, vocational nurse, or other professional license must be reported. Failure to report prior convictions or disciplinary action is considered falsification of application and is grounds for denial of licensure or revocation of license. To make a determination [regarding eligibility for licensure] the Board considers the nature and severity of the offense, additional subsequent acts, regency of acts or crimes, compliance with court sanctions, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Program Requirements

Course List

Code Number	Course Title	Units
Semester One: 9 units
ADN 210	Foundational Concepts of Nursing	5.0
ADN 215	Healthcare Participant	3.0
ADN 200A	Pharmacology 1	1.0
Semester Two: 9 Units
ADN 220	Nursing Health and Illness Concepts 1	5.0
ADN 225	Maternal Newborn Health Concepts	3.0
ADN 200B	Pharmacology 2	1.0
Semester Three: 9 Units
ADN 230	Nursing Health and Illness Concepts 2	4.5
ADN 235	Mental Health Concepts	3.5
ADN 200C	Pharmacology 3	1.0
Semester Four: 9 Units
ADN 240	Nursing Health and Illness Concepts 3	4.5
ADN 245	Nursing Health and Illness Concepts 4	4.5
Total Units		36