Nursing (A.A.S. Degree)

Program Standards & Expectations
 

The nursing program is responsible for providing our community with quality nurses who care for their clients safely. In order to become a quality, safe practicing nurse, students will be required to attend all classes and all clinicals. Students are expected to provide their own transportation to clinical sites.

All nursing courses require a "C", which is 80% to pass.  Students who do not earn a "C" (80%) or better in any given nursing course will remediate by course repetition.  Course repetition is only allowed once.

All supporting courses/electives required for the degree must also be completed with a "C" or higher in order to receive the A.A.S. degree in nursing. 

Program Completion
 

Upon successful completion of the nursing program, students will sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to earn the credentials of RN (Registered Nurse).  This process has additional fees. Approximately $450

• Fingerprinting Fee
• Application Fee for NCLEX-RN testing
• NCLEX-RN Exam Fee
• RN Licensure Fee
   

RN-BSN Transfer Options
 

Graduates from the RVC nursing program have transfer options to any of the five RN-BSN partners.  While most RN-BSN programs have similar requirements, there are some variances. For those students with a previous Bachelor's degree, RN-BSN requirements are different. Also, there are additional options for RN-MSN completions for those who have a previous Bachelor's degree. Therefore, to ensure all students transition with ease and in a timely manner, meeting with an academic advisor to map out an educational pathway is required.

The nursing program provides clinical education at various clinical agencies. The nursing program must adhere to these facilities' requirements. All admitted students will be required to provide the following at the expense of the student.  Blood work can be done at your doctor's office, Health Department or AnyTime Lab (815) 397-8370.

• Physical exam

• Tdap (within 10 years)

• TB 2-Step and Annual TB test (for Annual QuantiFeron TV Gold blood test)

• MMR Titers

• Varicella Titers

• Hepatitis B 3 shot series & Titer

• CPR

• Health Insurance

• 10-Panel Drug Testing

• GSA/IOG Background Check

Course Schedule
 

Required General Education Courses: 27 credits
Associate Degree Nursing Core Courses: 43 credits
Total Nursing Program: 64 credits

In order to be considered for admission, the following must first be completed:

• CNA: Applicants must have an active Nursing Assistant Certification that is IDPH approved with no disqualifying convictions
   
• Maintain a "C" or higher in all prerequisite and elective courses
   
• 2.50 GPA: BIO 100 or BIO 103; BIO 185 or BIO 281/282; BIO 274; CHM 110 or CHM 120; ENG 101 and PSY 170
   
• Enrolled in or completed NRS 104 ("C" or better)
   
• ATI TEAS Testing
   
• • Learn more about ATI TEAS testing and how to register through our Testing Center
  • OVERALL score must be at "Proficient Level" or higher
     
  • Individual categories (English, Reading, Math, Science) must be at "Basic Level" or higher
     
  • Preparing for the ATI TEAS test is essential: ATI TEAS Study Guide available at Barnes & Noble, also visit www.atitesting.com for other study resources
     
  • 3.5 hours will be allowed to complete this
     

• Completed RN Program Application
   
• Application Deadlines: must be submitted to Nursing Office by:
   
• • Fall Enrollment: February 15
  • Spring Enrollment: August 15