Nursing Program Prerequisites Online

If you want to become a nurse but are not sure what nursing program prerequisites online you need to complete before applying, the simple answer is this: most nursing programs require foundational science courses, general education subjects, background checks, and basic skills like CPR, and many of these prerequisites can now be completed 100% online. This article explains everything in a practical, step-by-step way so you can start your nursing journey with confidence.

Choosing the right prerequisites is one of the most important steps in becoming a nurse. The better your foundation, the easier your nursing school experience will be. Today, online learning has made it possible to complete many of these requirements from home, giving you more flexibility, especially if you work or take care of family.

This guide breaks everything down in simple language, explains why each prerequisite matters, and gives you a clear roadmap to follow.

What Are Online Nursing Program Prerequisites

Nursing program prerequisites online are the required courses and documents you must complete before applying to a nursing program, such as an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), or accelerated BSN program. These prerequisites help you build the basic science knowledge, communication skills, and academic readiness needed to handle nursing school’s demanding curriculum.

In most colleges and universities, nursing is considered one of the most intensive programs. Students must understand human anatomy, biology, chemistry, and clinical concepts. To prepare you, schools require certain courses before they admit you. Years ago, these classes had to be taken in person. Today, many accredited colleges allow students to take these prerequisites fully online, which makes the process much easier and more flexible.

Here are the most common online prerequisites for nursing programs:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II

• Microbiology

• General Chemistry or Introductory Chemistry

• Statistics

• Developmental Psychology or Lifespan Psychology

• English Composition

• Nutrition

• Medical Terminology

• Sociology or Humanities electives

These courses build the foundation for subjects you will learn in nursing school, such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical nursing skills.

Most online prerequisites include lectures, quizzes, discussion boards, and sometimes virtual labs. Some schools allow students to complete lab components at home using approved lab kits, while others may require a short in-person lab session.

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Understanding these prerequisites helps you plan, budget, and choose the right courses that meet your target school’s requirements. Since not all nursing schools accept the same prerequisites, knowing what is required makes your application stronger and prevents delays.

Completing prerequisites online is especially helpful if you want to change careers, have a full-time job, or need flexible learning options. It gives you a faster pathway into nursing without putting your life on hold.

Why Schools Require Nursing Program Prerequisites

Nursing schools do not ask students to complete prerequisites to make the process difficult. These requirements exist for important reasons that protect you, your future patients, and the integrity of the nursing profession.

The first reason is safety. Nursing involves caring for people with complex medical conditions. Before students are allowed to work with real patients during clinicals, they need a strong understanding of how the human body works. Courses like Anatomy and Physiology, and Microbiology build the foundation for this knowledge. Without these classes, it becomes hard to understand diseases, medications, and treatment plans.

The second reason is academic preparedness. Nursing programs move fast. Topics like pharmacology, pathophysiology, and nursing assessments require strong reading comprehension, math skills, and analytical thinking. Prerequisite courses make sure students have those skills before they begin.

Third, prerequisites help level the playing field. Students applying to nursing programs come from different backgrounds—some are high school graduates, some are working adults, and some already have degrees in other fields. Prerequisites ensure everyone starts with the same basic knowledge.

Fourth, prerequisites help schools predict who will succeed. Students who do well in foundational science courses often perform better in nursing school. This helps schools maintain high pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam—the national licensing exam for nurses.

Finally, prerequisites give students a chance to test their interest. Nursing is demanding both emotionally and mentally. By taking a few classes first, students can confirm whether nursing is truly the right path before committing to a full program.

Completing nursing program prerequisites online makes all of these benefits accessible to anyone, no matter their schedule. It turns the dream of becoming a nurse into a reachable goal.

List of Common Nursing Program Prerequisites You Can Take Online

Understanding the exact prerequisites makes planning easier. Below is a detailed look at the courses most schools require and how taking them online works.

Anatomy and Physiology I & II

These are the most essential nursing prerequisites. They teach you about body systems, organ functions, and how the body reacts to illness. Online versions use video lectures, animations, and virtual labs. Some programs include at-home lab kits with models and experiments.

Microbiology

This course focuses on bacteria, viruses, and infections — critical knowledge for safe patient care. Many online microbiology classes offer virtual labs using simulations. Some require brief in-person labs.

Chemistry

Nursing programs often require introductory or general chemistry. You learn chemical reactions, molecules, and basics that help in subjects like pharmacology. Online chemistry may include virtual lab tools such as Labster or eScience.

Nutrition

Nutrition affects healing, chronic diseases, and overall health. Online nutrition courses are usually reading-heavy and include case studies.

English Composition

This prerequisite helps you learn how to write clearly, which is important for charting, patient reports, and research assignments.

Human Growth and Development

This course explains how humans develop from birth to old age. It helps nurses understand emotional, physical, and social changes in patients.

Statistics

Required for BSN programs, this course helps students interpret research, understand medical studies, and make evidence-based decisions.

Sociology or Humanities Electives

These subjects teach communication skills, cultural awareness, and ethics — vital parts of patient care.

CPR Certification, Background Checks, and Immunizations

While not academic courses, these are often required before clinical training. Some CPR courses can also be completed online with a short in-person skills test.

When choosing nursing program prerequisites online, check that the courses come from an accredited institution. This ensures your target nursing school will accept them.

Read Also: How to Become a School Nurse: Qualifications, Certification, and Career Requirements

Benefits of Completing Nursing Program Prerequisites Online

Completing your prerequisites online gives you flexibility, convenience, and control. Many students choose this route because it minimizes disruption to their normal lives.

The biggest advantage is flexibility. Online courses allow you to study at your own pace. If you work full-time, have children, or care for family members, online learning makes it easier to balance your responsibilities.

The second benefit is affordability. Online prerequisites are often cheaper than traditional college classes. You save money on transportation, textbooks, parking, and campus fees.

Third, completing prerequisites online can speed up your path into nursing school. Many colleges allow students to start prerequisites at any time of the year instead of waiting for fixed semester dates. This helps you move faster and avoid delays.

Another advantage is comfort and reduced pressure. Some people feel intimidated in traditional science labs. Online learning allows you to learn in a more relaxed environment, with the ability to replay lectures until you understand the material.

Online prerequisites are also great for career changers. If you already have a degree in another field, you can complete only the courses you need without enrolling in a full program.

Lastly, online learning helps students build essential digital skills. Nurses today use electronic health records, telehealth tools, and digital charting systems. Learning online prepares you for the technology used in modern healthcare.

Overall, completing nursing program prerequisites online makes nursing more accessible and achievable for anyone ready to begin.

How to Choose the Right Online Prerequisite Courses

Not all online courses will be accepted by every nursing program, so making the right choice is very important.

First, check if the course is from a regionally accredited school. Nursing programs typically accept credits only from accredited colleges or universities. Avoid cheap, unaccredited online courses because most nursing schools will reject them.

Second, identify the prerequisites required by your target school. Nursing schools list their requirements on their websites. Some programs require labs, while others do not. Some accept 100% online labs, while others require hands-on components. Knowing this early saves time and money.

Third, choose self-paced programs if you want maximum flexibility. Self-paced courses allow you to finish faster if you learn quickly or take longer if your schedule is tight.

Fourth, consider cost. Online prerequisites can range from $300 to $1,000 per course, depending on the school. Make sure to compare prices and read course reviews.

Fifth, check course transferability. Before enrolling, email the nursing school admissions team and ask: “Will you accept this course from this institution?” Get confirmation in writing.

Sixth, understand the technology requirements. Some online labs require specific software or home lab kits. Make sure your internet connection and device can handle the course requirements.

Finally, choose courses that offer strong student support. Look for programs with tutoring, email support, clear instructions, and helpful instructors.

Choosing the right nursing program prerequisites online is the first major step toward becoming a nurse. Taking your time to plan helps you avoid mistakes and speeds up your nursing school acceptance.

Read Also: Can a CNA Be a School Nurse?

Schools That Offer Online Nursing Program Prerequisites

Many accredited colleges and universities now offer high-quality online courses that fulfill nursing prerequisites. Here are reputable schools accepted by most nursing programs in the U.S.:

University of Phoenix

Offers a wide range of transferable online science courses, including A&P, microbiology, and chemistry. Flexible and ideal for busy adults.

StraighterLine (ACE-Approved)

Provides affordable online prerequisite courses. Many nursing programs accept ACE credits, but always confirm with your target school first.

Arizona State University (ASU Online)

Highly respected university offering science prerequisites with optional virtual labs.

Lock Haven University

Offers online Anatomy & Physiology with home lab kits that meet strict nursing school requirements.

Purdue University Global

Provides online science courses designed for nursing students.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Offers general education prerequisites such as English, psychology, and statistics fully online.

University of North Carolina Online (UNC)

Highly credible option for science prerequisites with a strong academic reputation.

Local Community Colleges with Online Options

Most community colleges now offer Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, and Psychology online at affordable rates.

Choosing from one of these schools helps ensure your prerequisites will be accepted by most nursing programs.

Conclusion: Start Your Nursing Journey by Completing Nursing Program Prerequisites Online

If you want a faster and more flexible path into nursing, completing nursing program prerequisites online is one of the best decisions you can make. It gives you the science background, communication skills, and confidence you need to succeed in nursing school. It also saves time, money, and stress—making the entire process more accessible, even if you have a busy life.

The key is to choose accredited courses, understand your target school’s requirements, and plan your timeline wisely. With online prerequisites, you can start your nursing journey from anywhere and move one step closer to a rewarding, stable, and meaningful career in healthcare.