CERRITOS COLLEGE NURSING DEPARTMENT

PROGRAM INFORMATION
PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION AND ADMISSION

Thank you for your interest in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program at Cerritos College. Completion
of the Associate Degree in Nursing Program makes you eligible to take the California state licensure
examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN).

The following information will introduce you to the eligibility and application process, as well as the program
coursework, program length and progression, and anticipated expenses.

Nursing Program 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, Inc. Interested parties may contact these
agencies with questions or comments regarding the nursing program or accreditation.

California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)

P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100 www.rn.ca.gov
Phone Numbers: (916) 322-3350
Hearing impaired individuals can call our TDD number: (800) 326-2297

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850
Atlanta GA, 30326 www.acenursing.org
Phone: (404) 975-5000

General Information:
There are a number of general admission requirements that must be completed by students applying to the
nursing program. In addition, certain “Options” of entry into the program include variations in these
requirements. There are six entries into the nursing program: Option A, B, C, D, E, and F.

"Option A": You are entering a nursing program for the first time.
"Option B": You are a Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) seeking advanced placement in the program.
"Option C": You are a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) planning to "bridge" into the program to complete
an Associate Degree in Nursing, which results in eligibility for an unrestricted registered nurse
(RN) license.
"Option D": You are a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) planning on completing only 30 semester units
beyond LVN completion, which results in eligibility for a “non-degree” registered nurse license
valid only in California. This option may not allow you to transfer to a BSN program.
"Option E": You have completed nursing program courses in another associate degree, baccalaureate degree,
or military program and are seeking advanced placement into the Cerritos nursing program. You
are a "transfer student". Cerritos College Nursing Program does not accept transfer students into
the first or into the fourth semesters.
"Option F": You completed your nursing education in another country and have been referred to us by the
Board of Registered Nursing to complete one or more content areas before qualifying for RN
licensure.
These options and their requirements are discussed in length in this packet.

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Length of Program:
The core nursing program consists of sequenced courses over a four-semester period (2 years). Prior to
applying to the program and admitting into these sequenced courses, prerequisite courses need to be completed.
In addition, general education courses are required for completion of the Associate in Arts Degree in Nursing
(Associate Degree in Nursing—ADN). Some students may need to take additional courses to meet English,
Reading and Mathematics requirements. It is highly recommended that students make an appointment with a
nursing designated counselor in the Counseling Department to discuss this educational pathway. The
Counseling Department can be contacted at 562-860-2451, extension 2231. Counseling also hosts information
sessions as well as application workshops that can be of great assistance to a prospective applicant. Workshops
are advertised on the counseling webpage at www.cerritos.edu/counseling.

Applicant Eligibility Occurs When the Following Have Been Met:

✓ High school graduation or the equivalent or higher. Must be 18 years of age.
✓ Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent,
English 100 or equivalent, Read 54 or equivalent.
✓ Completion of all prerequisites: A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, and MICR 200 with a grade point
average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher.
✓ A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher for all college work taken.
✓ Only ONE of the prerequisite courses (A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, MICR 200) can be repeated for a
grade of “C” or higher. Two or more repeated prerequisites due to initial grades of “D” or “F” will
disqualify the applicant.
✓ Pass the ATI TEAS Exam at 62% or higher OR pass the HESI diagnostic assessment test with a score of
70% or higher.
✓ Ability to provide a valid U.S. Social Security number or Tax ID number prior to admission into the
program.

If you believe that you have met the eligibility requirements and qualifications for
admission and are preparing for the application cycle:
✓ If not previously enrolled at Cerritos College, the applicant must complete a college application at
http://www.cerritos.edu/go/apply/cccapply.htm
✓ Attend an Application Workshop with Counseling. Dates can be found on counseling website. Applicant to
bring all transcripts (can be unofficial if attending a workshop prior to January, 2019; after January 1, 2019,
all transcripts must be official) to the workshop. www.cerritos.edu/counseling
*Note: The Counselors will NOT screen through the student’s Multiselective Criteria, total points, or screen
supplemental documents. The Counselors will be screening unofficial transcripts for the purpose of
prerequisite clearances and GPA qualifications.
✓ Applicant to download the appropriate nursing application and application checklist off the nursing website.
Complete the application and checklist and sign the application. Have the Counselor sign the application at
the workshop.
✓ Gather verification of high school graduation or GED completion.
✓ Gather Official College Transcripts showing grades for all prerequisite courses. Official College Transcripts
must accompany the application packet and must be unopened. Unofficial Cerritos College transcripts will
be accepted. Student shall not open official transcripts unless asked to do so in the application workshop.
✓ Option A applicants: Gather all necessary supportive documents for the MultiSelective Criterion for
admission. This criterion is ONLY for Option A applicants.
✓ Option C and D Applicants: Obtain a copy of your LVN license, work verification letter (form available on
the nursing website), and also your LVN transcripts.
✓ Search for a testing location on the ATI website to complete the TEAS Exam. Pass the ATI TEAS Exam
with a 62% or higher OR Pass the HESI diagnostic assessment test with a score of 70% or higher.
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The TEAS Exam:
The TEAS Examination is a test of basic Math, English, Reading, and Science. The TEAS Examination is
required for entry into the nursing program. Students need to achieve a score of >62%. This score has been
mandated by the state according to research that has demonstrated a strong relationship between the TEAS
scores and success in nursing programs. This examination shows a student’s readiness to meet the academic
rigor of the program. Currently, the TEAS Exam is being accepted. We are no longer accepting TEAS 5 (V)
version.

The Cerritos College nursing program does conduct one TEAS testing period a year; however, spots for testing
are limited and are only for those who have not yet taken the exam. The TEAS date(s) will be advertised on the
Nursing website, along with the deadlines for RSVPs. A student can RSVP for the TEAS Exam with the
Nursing Department IF they have completed prerequisites and are prepared to apply in the next application
cycle. If a student tests with Cerritos College and is not successful on that attempt, the student will be offered a
one-year remediation program designed by the program director. Upon successful completion of the
remediation, the student can then be retested, at which time, if the student passes with a 62% or higher, the
student would be eligible for application / admission.

Note: TEAS scores are also calculated for points for Option A applicants. Therefore, it is encouraged that
Option A applicants attempt to do their best on the examination.

Upon Admission to the Nursing Program, Students Must:

✓ Be in adequate health to perform the duties of a nurse. Students who are admitted are required to have a
physical examination prior to admission into the nursing program. In addition, students need to be aware of
the Technical Standards / Essential Functions required in the profession. Students must be able to meet
these demands. These standards and functions are published on the nursing program website and the
department HIGHLY encourages prospective applicants to view these prior to choosing this career path.
✓ Notification of admission to the program will be done in writing. Admitted students and alternates will be
required to attend a mandatory orientation meeting, usually held in June. During the orientation, important
information is discussed regarding the registration process, course demands in the program, time
management, college support systems, financial aid, veterans support, health requirements, background
checks, drug screens, immunization records, textbooks, uniforms, and other required items.
✓ Submit all current and updated health records that show immunizations to MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, a
current Tdap, Flu Vaccination, 2-step TB test or Chest Xray, and current CPR card.
✓ Complete a personal background check and drug test. Although marijuana is now legal in California,
applicants must drug screen negative to enter the program. This is required by all clinical sites.

Anticipated Expenses (Fees subject to change): (~ $6000 for the program)

• Each unit costs $46 for California residents; $263 for non-residents of California or international students.
• Student Activity Fee is $10 per semester and Student Health Services Fee is $19 per semester.
• During the four core semesters, Lab material fees total ~ $200; textbooks cost ~ $2,300; additional supplies
and uniforms cost ~ $350.
• Students are responsible for their own living arrangements, uniform laundry, and transportation to clinical
sites.
• Upon completion of the program, application for licensure fees range from $350 - $450.

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 OPTION A (Associate Degree in Nursing – ADN)
The Nursing Program offers eligible candidates who are selected for admission to the beginning of the program the opportunity to prepare for
professional nursing through the pursuit of specific knowledge and skills. Graduates from the program, in addition to receiving an Associate of
Arts Degree, are eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Prerequisites: • A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, and MICR 200 with GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Only ONE of the prerequisite courses (A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, MICR 200) can be repeated for a grade of
“C” or higher. Two or more repeated prerequisites due to grades of “D” or “F” will disqualify the applicant.
• If an applicant repeats a prerequisite for recency and passed the prerequisite with a “C” or higher the first time
taken, that is not considered a “repeat prerequisite”.
• A 6-year recency on all prerequisites is highly recommended.
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English 100
or equivalent, READ 54 or equivalent.
Additional • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher for all completed college courses
Required • TEAS Exam > 62% OR HESI Exam > 70%
Clearances:
Application: • Applications taken once a year. Cycle begins the first day of Spring semester through March 15 (at the end of the
business day)
• ALL Option A applicants will be screened using the Multiselective Criterion (see pages 12-14 in packet). 50% of
the admission seats for the following academic year will be filled from the top point earners. The other 50% of
admission seats will then be filled by a random selection process (lottery).
• Applicants must be fully eligible, and applications must be fully completed, when submitted; no additional information
may be added to the application after it has been submitted.
• No waitlist is maintained. If an applicant is not admitted in that academic year, the applicant must reapply the following
cycle.

REQUIRED COURSES UNITS

Semester 1
NRSG 57LA Beginning Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 210 **Fundamentals of Nursing 5.0
NRSG 211 **Introduction to Theoretical Framework 1.0
NRSG 212 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 1 5.0
NRSG 213A *Major Drugs and Nursing Management 0.5

Semester 2
NRSG 57LB Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 213B **Major Drugs and Nursing Management 2 1.0
NRSG 220 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 3 5.5
NRSG 222 **Maternal/Child Nursing 5.5

Semester 3
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

Semester 4
NRSG 57LD Advanced Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 240 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 5 5.0
NRSG 242 *Professional Role Transition 3.0
45.5 Nursing Units Total
For the AA Degree, General Education Requirements:
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English 100 or equivalent, READ
54 or equivalent.
• Speech: SPCH 100, SPCH 120, SPCH 130, SPCH 132, or SPCH 150
• (3) Units of U.S. History or Political Science: HIST 101, HIST 102, HIST 103, POL 101, or POL 201
• Psychology: PSYC 251
• Sociology: SOC 101, ANTH 100, ANTH 101, SOC 201, SOC 210, SOC 215 or PHIL 104
• (3) units of Humanities or Fine Arts: Student’s choice
• A student desiring to matriculate to the CSU or UC system are required to complete additional GEs. Consult with a counselor.

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 OPTION B (LPT – ADN MOBILITY)
Licensed Psychiatric Technician to ADN

The Nursing Program offers to qualified Licensed Psychiatric Technician applicants an opportunity to prepare for professional nursing through the
pursuit of specific knowledge and skills. Eligible candidates receive advanced placement and upon completing the program are granted an Associate
of Arts Degree and are eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination for licensure as a registered nurse.

Prerequisites: • A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, and MICR 200 with GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Only ONE of the prerequisite courses (A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, MICR 200) can be repeated for a grade of
“C” or higher. Two or more repeated prerequisites due to grades of “D” or “F” will disqualify the applicant.
• If an applicant repeated a prerequisite for recency and passed the prerequisite with a “C” or higher the first time
taken, that is not considered a “repeat prerequisite”.
• A 6-year recency on all prerequisites is highly recommended.
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English
100 or equivalent, READ 54 or equivalent.
Additional OptionB • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher for all completed college courses
Required • TEAS Exam > 62% OR HESI Exam > 70%
Clearances: • HO 152, NRSG 25, NRSG 211, NRSG 213A, NRSG 251, and PSYC 251 or equivalent with grades of Pass or “C” or
higher – all courses provided at Cerritos College
• Valid California LPT license – must be provided to department
Application: • Accepted after last required course is completed and grade posted on transcript
• Application must be fully completed when submitted; no additional information may be added
• Option B applicants are not admitted using the MultiSelective Criterion

REQUIRED COURSES UNITS

Semester 1
NRSG 57LA Beginning Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 212 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 1 5.0

Semester 2
NRSG 57LB Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 213B **Major Drugs and Nursing Management 2 1.0
NRSG 220 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 3 5.5
NRSG 222 **Maternal/Child Nursing 5.5

Semester 3
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

Semester 4
NRSG 57LD Advanced Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 240 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 5 5.0
NRSG 242 *Professional Role Transition 3.0
39 nursing units completed
For the AA Degree, General Education Requirements:
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English 100 or equivalent, READ
54 or equivalent.
• Speech: SPCH 100, SPCH 120, SPCH 130, SPCH 132, or SPCH 150
• (3) Units of U.S. History or Political Science: HIST 101, HIST 102, HIST 103, POL 101, or POL 201
• Psychology: PSYC 251
• Sociology: SOC 101, ANTH 100, ANTH 101, SOC 201, SOC 210, SOC 215 or PHIL 104
• (3) units of Humanities or Fine Arts: Student’s Choice
• Student desiring to matriculate to the CSU or UC system are required to complete several additional GEs. Consult with a counselor.

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 OPTION C (LVN – ADN MOBILITY)
Licensed Vocational Nurse to ADN

The Nursing Program offers to qualified Licensed Vocational Nurse applicants advanced placement into the second year of the program. LVNs
are given an opportunity to prepare for professional nursing through the pursuit of specific knowledge and skills. Graduates from the program, in
addition to receiving an Associate in Arts Degree, are eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Prerequisites: • A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, and MICR 200 with GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Only ONE of the prerequisite courses (A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, MICR 200) can be repeated for a grade of
“C” or higher. Two or more repeated prerequisites due to grades of “D” or “F” will disqualify the applicant.
• If an applicant repeats a prerequisite for recency and passed the prerequisite with a “C” or higher the first time
taken, that is not considered as a “repeat prerequisite”.
• A 6-year recency on all prerequisites is highly recommended.
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English
100 or equivalent, READ 54 or equivalent.
Additional • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher for all completed college courses
Option C • TEAS Exam > 62% OR HESI Exam > 70%
Required • NRSG 26, NRSG 215, NRSG 251, and PSYC 251 or equivalent with grades of Pass or “C” or higher – all provided
Clearances: at Cerritos College
• Completion of a medication calculation examination (in N26) with score of 80% or higher
• Valid California LVN license – must provide a copy with application
• Minimum of one (1) year of direct patient care experience in a skilled nursing or hospital based facility –
Work Verification form must be provided with the application
Application: • Application accepted after last required class is completed and grade posted on transcript
• Application must be completed when submitted; no additional information may be added
• Option C applicants are not admitted using the MultiSelective Criterion

REQUIRED COURSES UNITS

Semester 1
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

Semester 2
NRSG 57LD Advanced Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 240 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 5 5.0
NRSG 242 *Professional Role Transition 3.0
20 nursing units completed

For the AA Degree, General Education Requirements:

• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English 100 or equivalent, READ
54 or equivalent.
• Speech: SPCH 100, SPCH 120, SPCH 130, SPCH 132, or SPCH 150
• (3) Units of U.S. History or Political Science: HIST 101, HIST 102, HIST 103, POL 101, or POL 201
• Psychology: PSYC 251
• Sociology: SOC 101, ANTH 100, ANTH 101, SOC 201, SOC 210, SOC 215 or PHIL 104
• (3) Units of Humanities or Fine Arts: Student’s Choice
• Student desiring to matriculate to the CSU or UC system are required to complete several additional GEs. Consult with a counselor.

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 OPTION D (LVN 30-UNIT OPTION / NON-DEGREE)
Licensed Vocational Nurse

The Nursing Program offers to qualified Licensed Vocational Nurse applicants advanced placement into the second year of the program. LVNs
are given the opportunity to prepare for registered nurse licensure by completing thirty (30) units of college course work. The LVN who only
completes the thirty units designated by Cerritos College is eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination for licensure as a “non-degree” Registered
Nurse. This license is only valid in California. This option may also limit the student from going further in their education to obtain a bachelors
or master’s degree.

Prerequisites: A&P 151 and MICR 200 and NRSG 215 or equivalent with grades of Pass or “C” or higher

• Valid California LVN license – copy must be provided with application

• Minimum of one (1) year of direct patient care experience in a skilled nursing or hospital based facility –
Option D
Work Verification form must be provided with application (found on website)
Requirements:
• * Passing the TEAS Exam is NOT REQUIRED for this option.

Optional Courses: • NRSG 26, NRSG 251 (strongly recommended) and PSYC 251

Application: • Accepted after last required course is completed and grade posted on transcript
• Application must be completed when submitted; no additional information may be added

REQUIRED COURSES UNITS

Semester 1
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

Semester 2
NRSG 57LD Advanced Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 240 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 5 5.0
NRSG 242 *Professional Role Transition 3.0

General Education Requirements: NONE. No AA degree earned.

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 OPTION E (TRANSFER AND CHALLENGE)
The Nursing Program offers applicants who have completed nursing program courses in another associate degree, baccalaureate degree, or military
program the opportunity to prepare for professional nursing through the pursuit of specific knowledge and skills. Eligible candidates will receive
advanced placement into the Cerritos nursing program based on prior learning and course work. Transfer students are not admitted into the first
course (N210) of the program nor into the fourth semester (N240). If you are seeking admission into the beginning course of the program, you will
need to apply as an “Option A”. Each student is evaluated on an individual basis on what placement in the nursing program would be suitable.

The Director or designee of the program will evaluate your application to determine eligibility and level of admission to the program. Prior to
interviewing with the Director of Nursing, please complete the following steps:
1. Schedule an appointment with a nursing counselor for a preliminary transcript evaluation.
2. Write a brief letter explaining what program level you have successfully completed and the reason for not being
eligible for readmission to your prior school.
3. Provide a letter from your school of nursing that states that you are not eligible for readmission and if your failure was
in lecture or clinical. If you were dropped from clinical the letter must state that you were not dropped for unsafe
clinical practice.
4. Provide a copy of current TEAS or HESI assessment test results.
5. Obtain copies of course descriptions, course outlines, content and syllabus for all nursing courses for which you are
seeking credit.
6. Obtain official transcripts showing grades for all prerequisites (EX: Anatomy, Physiology, English, Micro) and
nursing classes taken at other institutions/colleges for which you seek credit.
7. Submit all of the above documents to the Health Occupations Office.

Prerequisites: A&P 150, A&P 151, ENGL 100, and MICR 200 with GPA of 2.5 or higher

Additional • HO 152
Option E • NRSG 25 / 26 or equivalent with grade of Pass or “C” or higher (will be determined by Director)
Requirements: • NRSG 200 (or equivalent), NRSG 215, NRSG 251, and PSYCH 251 (or equivalents) with grades of “Pass” or “C”
or higher
• Completion of the medication examination in N25/26 with a score of 80% or higher for entry into N220 or above.
• Student will be notified of any other requirements relative to their entry point in the curriculum.
Application: • Accepted after last required course is completed and grade posted on transcript
• Application must be completed when submitted; no additional information may be added

REQUIRED COURSES UNITS

Semester 1
NRSG 57LA Beginning Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 210 **Fundamentals of Nursing 5.0
NRSG 211 **Introduction to Theoretical Framework 1.0
NRSG 212 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 1 5.0
NRSG 213A *Major Drugs and Nursing Management 0.5

Semester 2
NRSG 57LB Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 213B **Major Drugs and Nursing Management 2 1.0
NRSG 220 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 3 5.5
NRSG 222 **Maternal/Child Nursing 5.5

Semester 3
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

Semester 4
NRSG 57LD Advanced Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 240 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 5 5.0
NRSG 242 *Professional Role Transition 3.0
Total number of completed nursing
units will vary according to the
student’s point of entry

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 For the AA Degree, General Education Requirements:
• Completion of all Proficiency Requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree, i.e. Math 80 or equivalent, English 100 or equivalent, READ
54 or equivalent.
• Speech: SPCH 100, SPCH 120, SPCH 130, SPCH 132, or SPCH 150
• (3) Units of U.S. History or Political Science: HIST 101, HIST 102, HIST 103, POL 101, or POL 201
• Psychology: PSYC 251
• Sociology: SOC 101, ANTH 100, ANTH 101, SOC 201, SOC 210, SOC 215 or PHIL 104
• (3) units of Humanities or Fine Arts: Student’s Choice
• Student desiring to matriculate to the CSU or UC system are required to complete several additional GEs. Consult with a counselor.

OPTION F (Board of Registered Nursing Referral)

The Nursing Program offers applicants who completed their nursing education in another country and have been referred by the Board of Registered
Nursing (BRN) the opportunity to complete the required content areas to be eligible to qualify for RN licensure. The program can only provide
courses in Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Psychiatric nursing. The program does not have Medical-Surgical availability.

Prerequisites: NRSG 26 and NRSG 215 with grades of Pass or “C” or higher

Additional Clearances: • Completion of the medication calculation examination from NRSG 26 with an 80% or higher.
• No Counseling meeting required.
Application: • Applicants should submit to the Health Occupations Office the first page of the application as well as a valid letter
of referral from the CA Board of Registered Nursing.
• Enclosed transcripts to show above courses completed.
• Director of Nursing will review documents and determine eligibility.

REQUIRED
COURSES *BOLDED BELOW UNITS

Semester 2
NRSG 57LB Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 213B **Major Drugs and Nursing Management 2 1.0
NRSG 220 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 3 5.5
NRSG 222 **Maternal/Child Nursing 5.5

Semester 3
NRSG 57LC Advanced Intermediate Nursing Skills Lab 1.0
NRSG 230 **Psychosocial and Community Nursing 5.0
NRSG 232 **Medical-Surgical Nursing 4 5.0

*The number of advanced placement candidates (Option B, C, D, E, and F) admitted into the program is based on space
availability.

* Option D, E, and F applicants will be notified individually for additional requirements relative to their entry point in the
program.

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Credit Granting Policy:
Transfer Pass / Challenge Credit (Competency-Based):
A. Students who have successfully completed academic courses and/or have relevant knowledge and/or skills
acquired in other than an accredited institution will be given advanced standing in the nursing program upon
verification of such knowledge and/or skills.
B. A pass will be granted for related previous education completed in:
• Accredited Vocational or practical nursing courses
• Accredited Registered Nursing courses
• Accredited Psychiatric Technician courses
• Armed services nursing courses
C. Official transcripts and/or copies of certificates of completion must be submitted for credit to be granted.
Pass will be granted based upon the content and hours of transferring courses and must be equivalent to
courses in the Cerritos College Nursing Program.
D. Pass shall be determined by successful completion of a comprehensive written examination and/or practical
evaluation.
E. Objectives for both the written and/or practical examinations are made available to the student prior to
evaluation.
F. Student must meet the requirements which govern credit by examination as stated in the college catalog.
G. A minimum of twelve (12) units of the nursing curriculum must be in residency at Cerritos College in order
to receive the Associate Degree in Nursing.

Progression In The Program:

For successful completion of the nursing program, the student is required to achieve a minimum 75% in all
nursing and nursing – related courses. In courses that have a didactic as well as a clinical component, the
didactic component must be passed with a 75% or higher and the clinical component must be passed with a
(“S”) satisfactory or higher. Both didactic and clinical components must be passed concurrently. This is
consistent with the Board of Registered Nursing standard of competency for nursing practice. A student is only
allowed one failure (didactic or clinical) or personal withdrawal in the program, at which time the student is
eligible to return to complete the course successfully and progress onto the next course. Completion of the
program meets qualifications for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Mission of the Program:

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

Philosophy of the Program:

Nursing is defined as a science, discipline and health care practice that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis and
treatment of clients having health problems within the domain of nursing. The goals of nursing practice focus
on 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.
In addition to implementing the philosophy of the College, the purpose of the Nursing Department is to provide
the community with registered nurses who are capable of functioning in a variety of health care settings. To
accomplish this, the Roy Adaptation Model has been selected as the primary conceptual framework. Within this
framework, nurses recognize their clients as biopsychosocial beings in constant interaction with the
environment. In periods of health, individuals have both innate and learned behavioral mechanisms which
enable them to cope with their complex internal and external environments. In times of stress, the client’s

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coping mechanisms may be disrupted, and the individual is defined as ill. The client’s health status is defined
on a continuum from wellness to illness.

Nursing practice focuses on adaptation of the client in four major modes: physiological, self-concept, role
function, and interdependence. The program prepares students to understand individuals as total beings and to
recognize and respect a diversity of spiritual and cultural/ethnic values.

Concept of Education:
Nursing faculty believe that nursing education is driven by the application of critical thinking and judgment and
the development of teaching/learning strategies using innovative approaches and evidence-based
research. Nursing faculty also believe 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 the 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 learning style differences,
curriculum experiences are structured from simple to complex and are delivered in varied methodologies to
connect with all learning domains. The program embraces the diversity of cultural, linguistic and philosophical
differences represented in the student body. Course experiences are designed to encourage discussion, inquiry,
collaboration and application of cultural practices that are unique to the individuals and groups represented in
the campus and in the community. The goal of the program is to promote students’ critical thinking, clinical
judgment, 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 and to positively collaborate with faculty and student
peers.

Expected Competencies of the Associate Degree Nurse Graduate:

The Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) graduate is prepared and expected to practice within the framework of the
Educational Competencies for Graduates of Associate Degree Nursing Programs as identified by the National
League of Nursing (NLN) Council of Associate Degree Nursing Competencies Task Force in 2000. As
identified by the Task Force, ADN graduates practice within the framework of eight core components and
competencies. The core competencies of nursing practice are:
1) Professional Behaviors,
2) Communication,
3) Assessment,
4) Clinical Decision Making,
5) Caring Interventions,
6) Teaching and Learning,
7) Collaboration, and
8) Managing Care

These core components emphasize competencies related to diversity in healthcare, clinical decision making,
assessment, patient education, continuity of care (including community aspects), collaboration and leadership.
The ADN graduate utilizes critical thinking and judgment and demonstrates clinical competence and
accountability as a generalist nurse who is committed to caring for others and valuing the profession of
nursing. 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 health care delivery system that continues to grow and change. It is the value and philosophy
of the Cerritos College Nursing Program that ADN graduates have an inquiry for lifelong learning and pursue a
bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in preparation for advanced levels of practice.

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 MULTISELECTIVE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION
OPTION A APPLICANTS ONLY

Admission Criteria Total Points Point Distribution Required Supporting Student’s

Possible Documentation Points
Grade Point Average 20 Points 4.0 + = 20 points Official, sealed transcripts to be
Overall College 3.5 – 3.99 = 15 points enclosed. Failure to provide these will
Coursework 3.0 – 3.49 = 10 points disqualify the applicant. Submit all
All eligible applicants required transcripts to reflect gpa and
2.75- 2.99 = 7 points
must carry an overall only transcripts that are relevant to
2.5 – 2.74 = 5 point
2.5gpa or higher to be required coursework for nursing
<2.5 = unqualified program and for degree.
eligible for admission

Grade Point Average 20 Points 4.0 + = 20 points Official, sealed transcripts to be

Nursing Prerequisites 3.5 – 3.99 = 15 points enclosed. Submit all required transcripts.
Microbiology, Anatomy, 3.0 - 3.49 = 10 points Failure to provide these will disqualify
Physiology, English the applicant.
2.75 – 2.99 = 7 points
2.5 – 2.74 = 5 points
<2.5 = unqualified

Previous Academic 10 Points MS/MA/Doctorate = 10 Transcript to show completion of degree

Degree points OR copy of the degree certificate. Must
Only one degree / highest BS/BA = 10 points be from a US regionally accredited
degree will be counted institution or WASC accredited college.
AS/AA = 5 points
Degree posting / completion must be
Healthcare Related clearly identified. Do not simply submit
Certificate = 2 points transcripts that are not clear.

Recency of Science 5 Points If all science prerequisites Official, sealed transcripts to be

Prerequisites: completed within: enclosed. Submit all required transcripts.
A&P 150, A&P 151 and MICR 3 years = 5 points Failure to provide these will disqualify
200 are recommended to be the applicant.
4 years = 3 points
completed within six (6)
years of admission. 5 – 6 years = 1 point
>6 years = 0 points

TEAS Score 30 Points Composite Score: ATI TEAS Student Report to be sent to
All students need to pass ➢ 90-100%= 30points the nursing department from ATI via the
TEAS test with a > 62% ➢ 85-89.9%=25points student’s account or results page
composite score to be submitted with application.
➢ 80-84.9%=20points
eligible for admission
➢ 75-79.9%= *HIGHLY recommended to have the
15points TEAS test completed prior to the
➢ 70-74.9% = 10 application cycle. The nursing program
points does conduct one TEAS testing session
➢ 66-69.9% = 8 per year; however, limited spaces are
points available.
➢ 62-65.9% = 5 point
HESI Score Composite Score: HESI Student Report to be sent to the
(If TEAS not taken) ➢ 95-100%= 30 nursing department from the student’s
All students need to pass points HESI account or results page submitted
with the application.
the HESI Exam with a ➢ 90-94.9% = 25
> 70% Composite Score to points
be eligible for admission *The nursing department does not
➢ 85-89.9%=20 conduct HESI testing.
points
➢ 80-84.9%=15
points

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 ➢ 75-79.9%= 10
points
➢ 70-74.9% = 5
points

Relevant Healthcare 5 Points Must be able to show > 500 Letter from a current / former employer
Experience hours worked in healthcare verifying employment. The letter must
Healthcare experience be on organization letterhead, include
includes paid work in a the applicant’s name, start date, end
healthcare environment, date, employment status, number of
including, but not limited to hours worked, job title.
CNA, MA, phlebotomy, RCP,
PT, Radiology Tech, Surgical
Tech, Unit Clerk, EMT, etc.
Relevant work will be
determined on case-by-case
basis.
Must have been in the past 3
years.

Healthcare Volunteer 5 Points 50 – 100 hours = 1 point Letter from current / former
Hours 100 – 200 hours = 2 points organization verifying volunteer services.
Must have been in the past 3 200 – 400 hours = 3 points The letter must be on organization
years. letterhead, include the applicant’s name,
400 – 500hours = 4 points
start date, end date, number of hours
Healthcare work experience >500 hours = 5 points volunteered, and examples of duties
(above) will not be double including patient interaction.
counted as volunteer
experience. However, a
student may have hours
eligible for work experience
and other hours /
experiences eligible for
volunteer points.

Life Experiences Maximum ▪ Low family income ▪ Pertains to: single parent, deployed
Applicants may have one 2 Points ▪ First Generation college spouse, family caregiver, death of
or more in this category, student family member within 6 months,
however maximum points medical problem, financial issue.
▪ Disadvantaged social or
awarded are 2 points Written statement from applicant.
educational ▪ Documented copy of eligibility of
circumstances Financial Aid, Cal Works, BOGFW-B,
▪ Refugee status Federal Pell Grant or EOPS.
▪ Need to work at least ▪ Copy of the card indicating refugee
PT status.
▪ Disability ▪ Copy of DD214
▪ Letter from Physician documenting
disability
▪ Documentation from employer on
company letterhead verifying dates
of employment OR recent paycheck
stub OR W-2
▪ Written bio statement from
applicant.

Veteran Status 2 Points Submit copy of Defense DD-214 showing above a dishonorable
Form DD-214 Honorable discharge or document showing AD
Discharge status

Second Language 1 Point Proficiency in the following American Sign Language, Arabic,
languages: Chinese, Farsi, French, Russian, Spanish,
Tagalog, and the various languages of

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 American Sign language; the Indian subcontinent and Southeast
Arabic; Farsi; Spanish; Asia.
Tagalog; Chinese; Russian; • Letter stating fluent in speaking,
Indian subcontinent reading, and writing language and
explaining how fluency was
obtained is required OR
• transcript showing 3 years of HS
completion of foreign language OR
• transcript showing 2 semesters of
college level foreign language (up
through intermediate)
• AP or SAT Subject test score in the
language

TOTAL STUDENT’S
POSSIBLE POINTS
POINTS

100

MultiSelective Criterion Selection Process for Option A Applicants:

The nursing department takes applications once a year, from January to March 15. That application cycle is to secure
the new nursing student admissions for the following fall and spring terms.

OPTION A Applicants are evaluated according to the number of points accrued in the areas designated in this
MultiSelective Criterion. Applicants are ranked accordingly. The nursing program will fill the first 50% of admission
seats with the top point scorers. In case of a tie, a lottery draw will be utilized for selection. The remaining applicants
will be placed into a Random Selection (Lottery) process and the next 50% of admission seats will be filled through the
lottery. The nursing program will then maintain a list of alternates who will be utilized to fill admission seats as needed
for applicants who do not end up enrolling.

*Please Note: The Nursing Department will first fill vacancies/seats with qualified students who withdrew from the first
semester and who are returning to complete.

All applicants who are selected are notified in writing. All applicants who have gained admission into the Fall or Spring
term, or who have been placed on the alternate list, must attend a required orientation, usually held in June/July. This
will be provided in writing.

There is no “waitlist” maintained for the nursing department. Applicants who do not gain enrollment must reapply the
following application cycle. Applicants will be given the opportunity to move their application packet forward to the
next application cycle. Prior to the next application cycle deadline, the applicant can bring to the nursing department
any additional supporting documents to increase their MultiSelective Criterion points as desired.

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