If you’re an aspiring nursing student, completing your prerequisites is typically the first step in the journey. Whether you’re pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or an accelerated nursing program, prerequisite coursework helps build the academic foundation you’ll need to succeed.
The good news is that many online nursing prerequisite courses can be completed from home, allowing you to work toward your goals on a schedule that fits your life. Find out what you need to know about nursing prerequisites, why they’re required, and how online learning can help you prepare for nursing school.
What Are Nursing Prerequisites? Understanding Nursing School Requirements
Nursing prerequisites are courses that students must complete before they can be admitted into a nursing program. These classes provide foundational knowledge in science, mathematics, communication, and human behavior that nursing students rely on throughout their education and careers.
Though the specific requirements vary by school, most nursing programs require a combination of science and general education courses for a well-rounded education:
- ADN programs often require a smaller set of prerequisite courses focused on foundational sciences and general education.
- BSN programs typically include additional prerequisites and broader general education requirements.
- Accelerated nursing programs may require a completed bachelor’s degree along with specific science prerequisites.
Because admission requirements vary, it’s important to review your intended nursing program’s requirements carefully before enrolling in any courses.
Why Prerequisites Matter
Prerequisite courses serve several important purposes:
- Prepare students for rigorous nursing coursework
- Build essential scientific and healthcare knowledge
- Develop critical thinking and communication skills
- Demonstrate academic readiness to nursing school admissions committees
Strong performance in prerequisite courses can also strengthen your nursing school application and help you feel more confident when beginning advanced nursing studies.
Common Nursing Prerequisites Courses Required by Nursing Programs
While requirements vary by institution, the following courses are among the most commonly required nursing prerequisites.
Anatomy and Physiology
Recommended course: Anatomy and Physiology I
Anatomy and Physiology introduces students to the structure and function of the human body. You’ll learn how body systems work together to maintain health and how disruptions can lead to disease. This course is one of the most frequently required nursing prerequisites because understanding body systems is essential for patient assessment, treatment, and care planning.
Microbiology
Recommended course: Microbiology
Microbiology explores bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Students learn how infectious diseases spread and how healthcare professionals help prevent and control infections. This knowledge is crucial in nursing practice, particularly in areas such as infection prevention, patient safety, and disease management.
Chemistry
Recommended course: Introduction to Chemistry
Chemistry provides foundational knowledge about matter, chemical reactions, and biological processes. Nursing students use chemistry concepts to understand medications, body functions, and treatment interventions. Many BSN programs require chemistry as part of their admission requirements.
Human Growth and Development
Recommended course: Lifespan Development
Human Growth and Development examines physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development from infancy through older adulthood. Nurses care for patients across all stages of life, so understanding developmental changes helps support effective communication, assessment, and care planning.
Psychology
Recommended course: Introduction to Psychology
Psychology introduces students to human behavior, mental processes, and psychological principles. Nurses frequently interact with patients experiencing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. A foundational understanding of psychology supports compassionate patient care and stronger communication skills.
English Composition
Recommended course: English Composition I
Communication is a vital part of nursing practice. English Composition helps students develop writing, reading, and critical thinking skills needed for academic success and professional documentation. Nurses regularly communicate with patients, families, and healthcare teams, so having strong communication skills is essential to the role.
College Algebra or Statistics
Recommended courses: College Algebra or Introduction to Statistics
Mathematics supports evidence-based nursing practice and clinical decision-making. Students may be required to complete College Algebra, Statistics, or both, depending on program requirements. Statistics is particularly valuable because nurses often work with research findings, healthcare data, and quality improvement initiatives.
Why Nursing Programs Require These Courses
Building Scientific Knowledge
Nursing requires a strong understanding of the human body, disease processes, medications, and treatments. Science-focused prerequisites provide the knowledge needed to understand more advanced nursing concepts. Students who complete anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry courses often enter nursing programs with a stronger academic foundation.
Strengthening Critical Thinking Skills
Nurses must evaluate information, solve problems, and make informed decisions in fast-paced healthcare environments. Courses in mathematics, sciences, psychology, and composition help students develop the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice.
Preparing for Nursing Coursework and Clinical Training
Nursing programs move quickly and cover complex material. Prerequisites help students build the academic skills and subject knowledge needed to keep pace with demanding coursework and clinical experiences. Completing prerequisite courses before admission can help ease the transition into nursing school and improve overall preparedness.
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Benefits of Taking Online Nursing Prerequisite Courses
Flexible Scheduling
One of the biggest advantages of online nursing prerequisite courses is flexibility. Many online courses allow students to:
- Study around work schedules
- Balance family responsibilities
- Learn at their own pace
- Complete coursework during evenings or weekends
This flexibility makes it easier for working adults and career changers to prepare for nursing school.
Potential Cost Savings
Online courses may offer significant savings compared to traditional classroom options. Students may benefit from:
- Lower tuition costs
- Reduced commuting expenses
- Fewer campus-related fees
- Digital learning materials
Affordable course options can make completing prerequisites more accessible for many learners. In fact, students can save over 90% on their gen eds with Sophia.*
*Assumes successful course transfer. Based on data published in 2025 College Board Trends and Pricing Report. Calculated using base
Faster Completion Options
Many online learning platforms offer self-paced formats that allow motivated students to move through material more quickly. Depending on your schedule and goals, you may be able to complete multiple prerequisites efficiently and accelerate your path toward nursing school admission.
Sophia's self-paced format, for example, allows learners to complete their gen ed courses in one third of the time compared with traditional semester courses.*
*Assumes a 15-week semester. Average length for learner course completion is 24 days.
Greater Accessibility
Online learning expands access to education regardless of geographic location. This is especially valuable for:
- Rural students
- Working professionals
- Parents and caregivers
- Students without easy access to local colleges
With online options, students can complete required coursework from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.
How to Choose Online Nursing Prerequisite Courses Wisely
Verify Acceptance with Your Nursing Program
Before enrolling in any course, confirm that your intended nursing program will accept the credits. Admission requirements vary significantly between schools. Not all programs accept every type of online coursework. Always review program requirements and contact admissions offices if you have questions.
Check Accreditation and Transferability
Accreditation and transferability are important considerations when selecting courses, or you risk wasting time and money on courses that don’t count. Look for providers and institutions with established transfer partnerships and a strong record of credit acceptances to prevent delays or wasted courses.
It’s important to note that accreditation applies to institutions that offer degree programs. Online learning platforms for gen ed courses, such as Sophia, are not eligible for accreditation because they don’t offer full degrees.
However, Sophia does have other signals of quality and legitimacy, such as ACE-recommended courses and a vast network of partner schools that may accept Sophia courses.
Confirm Lab Requirements
Some science prerequisites include laboratory requirements. Before enrolling, determine whether your nursing program accepts:
- Virtual labs
- Simulation-based labs
- In-person laboratory experiences
Lab requirements can vary considerably between institutions.
Match Courses to Your Degree Path
Different nursing pathways may require different prerequisites. For example:
- ADN programs may require fewer general education courses.
- BSN programs often have broader prerequisite requirements.
- Accelerated nursing programs may have unique admission standards.
Review your target program carefully and select courses that align with your specific educational goals.
Preparing for Nursing School Success Beyond Prerequisites
Completing prerequisites is an important milestone, but there are additional ways to prepare for nursing school success.
Maintain Strong Academic Performance
Many nursing programs have competitive admissions processes. Earning strong grades in prerequisite courses can improve your application and demonstrate academic readiness.
Gain Healthcare Experience When Possible
Volunteer work, healthcare employment, or patient care experience can provide valuable exposure to healthcare environments and strengthen your understanding of the profession and day-to-day work experience.
Prepare for Entrance Exams If Required
Some nursing programs require entrance exams, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI). Reviewing exam requirements early gives you more time to prepare.
Organize Application Materials Early
Application deadlines can arrive quickly. Begin gathering transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and other required materials well in advance.
Knock Out Nursing Prerequisites Online
Completing prerequisite courses is one of the first and most important steps toward nursing school admission. Courses like Microbiology, Chemistry, and Statistics build the foundation needed for success in nursing education and patient care. If you want to get an early start, online self-paced nursing prereqs at Sophia can help! Explore our nursing pathway courses and start your free trial.
