This pre-professional degree at USAO gives future nurses the academic background needed for success, no matter which field of medicine they choose to practice.
Pre-nursing students who wish to receive a Bachelor of Science degree as well as becoming registered nurses can apply to a college of nursing for clinical training after completing approximately 61 hours of designated academic courses at USAO.
After successfully finishing all necessary coursework and clinical training, students will be eligible to sit for the state board examination for licensure as a registered nurse and also have a degree from the university where they completed their upper-division courses.
Why Choose Pre-Nursing at USAO?
- Learn from diverse and dynamic instructors who inspire you to succeed.
- Hands-on experience in a variety of laboratory settings.
- Build a foundation in critical thinking, communication, collaboration, compassion and navigate diversity that helps nurses excel.
- Develop exceptional skills in research and analysis.
- Small classes: expect an atmosphere where your professors know your name.
Start at USAO, Finish at OU
Students interested in a career in nursing can get the best of both worlds—a liberal arts education and the technical training required for a career in healthcare—through the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma’s partnership with the University of Oklahoma Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing.
Students enrolled in the pre-nursing program at USAO can apply to the OUHSC College of Nursing in their sophomore year to complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students accepted to the program will complete their didactic courses and clinical training at one of OU’s sites throughout the state. USAO has two guaranteed spots at each of the Duncan and Lawton sites available to qualified students.
The completion of the pre-requisite courses within two years at USAO is dependent upon a student’s mathematical aptitude and ability to successfully complete the General Chemistry I course in their first year. It is recommended that students consider taking summer courses the first year to reduce the number of hours during fall and spring semesters in order to perform well in all courses and increase the likelihood of admittance into the OU Nursing Program following their two years at USAO.
If a student completes their bachelor’s degree at USAO, they can apply for the Accelerated BSN program at the OUHSC College of Nursing. *The Accelerated Nursing Program does NOT have guaranteed spots for USAO alumni.