Associate Degree Nursing - AAS

Nurses are made at SCC.

The Associate Degree Nursing program prepares the student for employment in the high-demand field of nursing as registered nurse (RN) and positions them for leadership, management, and/or further nursing degree options.

SCC offers programs that meet in mornings, afternoons, evenings, and on our campuses in West Burlington and Keokuk.

Program location

Available in West Burlington Available in Keokuk Not available online

Skills You'll Learn

  • Physical assessment
  • Safety and infection control
  • Data analysis
  • IV management
  • Patient teaching
  • Team communication

Key classes you'll take

  • ADN-145 Role Transitions
  • ADN-221 Pharmacology II
  • ADN-641 Nursing III
  • ADN-642 Nursing IV
  • ADN-311 RN Issues and Trends

Last-Dollar Scholarship

Last-Dollar Scholarship

If you're an Iowan, you may be eligible to earn this degree tuition-free.

Last-Dollar Scholarship

Where this program can take you

Graduates who successfully earn their nursing license can find employment in a number of settings and specializations:

  • Clinics
  • Hospital units
  • Medical offices
  • Emergency
  • Critical care

 

Nurse caring for a sim baby

Get paid to go to nursing school!

Students in SCC's nursing programs earn a learning stipend every semester they are in the program.

Iowa resident students earn a total of $6,500 and non-residents earn a total of $9,000 upon completion of their associate degree.

Not only that, students who successfully complete their degree will be granted a guaranteed interview at Great River Health for nursing positions at one of its facilities in the region.

These benefits are offered through SCC's partnership with Great River Health.

Keep going!

SCC maintains special partnerships with colleges and universities so that you can earn your bachelor's degree in nursing including:

  • Grand Canyon University
  • Mount Mercy University
  • University of Iowa

VIEW TRANSFER PROGRAMS

Did you know

  • Students in SCC's nursing programs earn a learning grant every semester they are in the program. Iowa resident students earn a total of $6,500 and non-residents earn a total of $9,000 as they work to complete their associate degree of nursing. This grant is offered through SCC's partnership with Great River Health.
  • Through a special fund, students who complete SCC's nursing program do not have to pay for licensure exams after they graduate. That is a savings of over $200.

 

Contact Us

West Burlington Campus Admissions
Call: (319) 208-5155
Text: (319) 250-7144
Email: admissionswb@scciowa.edu

Keokuk Campus Admissions
Call: (319) 313-1923
Text: (319) 220-3266
Email: admissionskeo@scciowa.edu

Schedule an Appointment

Admission Criteria for Nursing Programs (#317) applies to this program. Below is a summary of the guidelines for convenience and is subject to change. Application deadlines apply to this program. Please contact Enrollment Services for more details.

Admission Requirements

  • Current Iowa Certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse**.
  • Complete and attain minimums in standardized scores within 24 months of review for acceptance into the program:
    • ACT
      • Reading: 19
      • Math: 19
      • English: 17
      • OR Composite of 20
    • SAT
      • Reading/Writing: 330
      • Math: 510
      • OR Composite of 1040
    • Next-Gen ACCUPLACER:
      • Reading: 248
      • Writing: 260
    • ALEKS:
      • Math: 14
    • Complete the following classes with a grade of C or better:
      • BIO-168 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
      • BIO-173 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
      • BIO-186 Microbiology

Additional Requirements

  • Students are required to attend nursing orientation and complete the following requirements once admitted to the program.
  • Students will be required to pass a mandatory background check.
  • Students will be required to submit (at their own expense) a completed physical examination form and immunizations for health care providers.
  • Current certification in CPR-Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers**.
  • Current certification in Mandatory Reporter-Adult & Child Abuse**.
  • Signed Confidentiality Agreement.
  • Current HIPAA Certification.
  • Current Blood Borne Pathogen certification.

**Certifications may be obtained at Southeastern Community College. Students should work with a Student Success Advocate for the appropriate courses and dates to obtain these certifications.

All health career programs require students to earn a grade of "C" (2.0) or above in all coursework within the program. All other eligibility requirements must be met. See a Student Success Advocate for more information or to help obtain any further information regarding these requirements.

National League of Nursing Commision for Nursing Accreditation Seal

The Southeastern Community College Associate Degree in Nursing Program holds initial accreditation from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20037. 202-909-2487.

Verification of program accreditation can be found on the National League of Nursing website: https://cnea.nln.org/accredited-programs#IA

View Program Outcome and Accreditation information at https://nursing.iowa.gov/

For specific information regarding program rules and expectations, please view the Nursing Program Handbook.

Summary Sheet

The summary sheet provides a program overview and other information.

Download the Summary Sheet.

Curriculum Sequence


Prerequisite Course Title Credit
BIO-168 Human Anatomy and Physiology I 4
BIO-173 Human Anatomy and Physiology II 4
BIO-186 Microbiology 4
TOTAL CREDITS 12

Summer Semester 1 Course Title Credit
ENG-105 Composition I 3
PNN-160 Introduction to Nursing Practice 2
PSY-121 Developmental Psychology 3
TOTAL CREDITS 8

Fall Semester 1 Course Title Credit
PNN-222 Pharmacology I 1
PNN-534 Nursing I 12.5
TOTAL CREDITS 13.5

Spring Semester 1 Course Title Credit
PNN-311 PN Issues and Trends 1
PNN-535 Nursing II 12
TOTAL CREDITS 13

Summer Semester 2 Course Title Credit
ADN-145 Role Transition 1
ADN-223 Pharmacology III 1
ADN-641 Nursing III 14.5
SOC-110 Introduction to Sociology 3
TOTAL CREDITS 19.5

Spring Semester 2 Course Title Credit
ADN-311 RN Issues and Trends 1
ADN-236 Pharmacology IV 1
ADN-642 Nursing IV 14
TOTAL CREDITS 16

BIO-168 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I

Lecture: 3

Lab: 2

Credit: 4

The first of a two-semester sequence providing a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body for college transfer and/or allied health prerequisites. Topics include body organization; homeostasis; cytology; histology; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems and special senses. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships. Laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy and dissection of selected organisms as well as the study of physiological concepts via experimentation. It is highly recommended that a student complete this series (BIO-168 and BIO-173) at SCC in order to maintain transferability to four-year institutions.

BIO-173 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Lecture: 3

Lab: 2

Credit: 4

Second of a two-semester sequence continuing the comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body for college transfer and/or allied health prerequisites. Includes the study of the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships. Laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy and dissection of selected organisms as well as the study of physiological concepts via experimentation. Prerequisite: BIO-168 with a minimum grade of C.

BIO-186 - Microbiology

Lecture: 3

Lab: 2

Credit: 4

A study of microbial populations and their relationships to the human in health and diseases. 

ENG-105 - Composition I

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

A study of the principles of writing. Emphasis on rhetoric, mechanics and development of expository patterns: narration, description illustration, comparison/contrast, classification, process and cause/effect. Required for AA and AS Degrees. Prerequisite: Meet minimum test score requirements.

PNN-160 - Introduction to Nursing Practice

Lecture: 2

Credit: 2

This course provides the student with an introduction to nursing concepts and principles. From a historical perspective, the student will explore the roles and challenges of the nurse in the health care continuum. The nursing process is introduced and serves as the foundation for the development of critical thinking and test taking strategy skills for success in the nursing program. Communication, stress and adaptation, wellness, professional accountability, information technology, time management and priority setting are also introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-168, BIO-173 and BIO-186 with a minimum grade of C or higher. Corequisites: PSY-121 and ENG-105 with a minimum grade of C or higher.

PSY-121 - Developmental Psychology

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

A systematic study of life-span development. Individual differences in behavior as well as cultural norms are considered in relation to heredity and environment.

PNN-222 - Pharmacology I

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course introduces the student to the basics of pharmacology. Principles of drug administration and dosage calculation will be introduced. Legal/ethical considerations, as related to drug therapy, are discussed. An overview of drug classifications, drug actions, common adverse reactions and nursing interventions are included. Emphasis is placed on nursing responsibilities in drug therapy. Prerequisites: BIO-168, BIO-173 and BIO-186 with a minimum grade of C or higher. Corequisites: PNN-160 and ENG-105.

PNN-534 - Nursing I

Lecture: 8

Lab: 1

Credit: 12.5

This course builds on concepts previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach is utilized in providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. The course emphasizes selected common and chronic alterations in health and includes essential content in fundamental nursing concepts and care. An opportunity is provided for students to apply theoretical knowledge, to utilize the nursing process and to practice nursing techniques in clinical settings. Prerequisites: PNN-160, PNN-222, BIO-168, BIO-173 and BIO-186

PNN-311 - PN Issues and Trends

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course is an overview of the role of the licensed practical nurse. Ethical and legal responsibilities of the nurse are identified. Levels of practice, licensure, career opportunities, and beginning the job-seeking skills are addressed. Opportunities for professional growth are explored. Prerequisite: PNN-534. Corequisite: BIO-186.

PNN-535 - Nursing II

Lecture: 8

On Job Training: 4

Credit: 12

This course continues to incorporate concepts previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach is utilized in providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. This course emphasizes selected common and chronic alterations in health and includes essential content related to maternal-child care. An opportunity is provided for students to apply theoretical knowledge, to utilize the nursing process, and to practice nursing techniques in clinical settings. Prerequisites:  BIO-168, BIO-173, BIO-186, PNN-160, PNN-222, PNN-534.  Corequisite: PNN-311.

ADN-145 - Role Transition

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course allows associate degree nursing students to explore the role expectation of the registered nurse and facilitate the transition from practical nursing to registered nursing. An emphasis is placed on health education and advanced application of the nursing process. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Practical Nursing Diploma or LPN license. Co-requisite: ADN-221.

ADN-223 - Pharmacology III

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course focuses on concepts of pharmacology with special emphasis on the role of the nurse in
developing a comprehensive approach to the clinical application of drug therapy. Concepts of safe medication administration to meet the health needs of patients will be presented.  Client education will be emphasized with each concept.  Successful completion of PNN-535 and/or LPN licensure, ADN-145 and PSY-111

ADN-641 - Nursing III

Lecture: 9

Lab: 1

Clinical: 15

Credit: 14.5

This course integrates concepts and strands previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach is utilized in planning and providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. This course emphasizes selected acute and complex alterations in health and includes advanced content related to maternal-child care. An opportunity is provided for students to expand their theoretical knowledge, to broaden the application of critical thinking to the nursing process and to develop their nursing skills in clinical settings. Prerequisites: ADN-145 and ADN-221. Corequisite: PSY-111.

SOC-110 - Introduction to Sociology

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

An analysis of social organization (or the social order). This course deals with the nature of sociology as a science, the original nature of man, the socialization of the individual, the development of groups and group behavior, the nature of culture and culture patterns, the organization of institutions, the nature of social order, the organization of human stratification and examination of major social processes. Special emphasis is placed upon the American cultural patterns.

ADN-311 - RN Issues and Trends

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course assists the associate degree nursing student to begin the transition to an autonomous nursing practice. Career development, opportunities and challenges of the registered nurse are explored in relation to changing health care trends. Principles of leadership and management are introduced. Prerequisite: ADN-641.

ADN-236 - Pharmacology IV

Lecture: 1

Credit: 1

This course focuses on concepts of pharmacology with special emphasis on the role of the nurse in
developing a comprehensive approach to the clinical application of drug therapy. Concepts of safe medication administration to meet the health needs of patients will be presented. Client education will be emphasized with each concept.  Pre-requisites:  ADN-145, ADN-641, ADN-223, co-requisite ADN-311

ADN-642 - Nursing IV

Lecture: 9

Clinical: 15

Credit: 14

This course integrates concepts and strands previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach continues to be utilized in planning and providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan (pediatrics, adult and geriatrics). This course emphasizes selected acute and complex alterations in health and includes advanced content related to mental health. An opportunity is provided for students to expand their theoretical knowledge, to extensively apply critical thinking to the nursing process and to continue to refine their nursing skills in clinical settings. Prerequisite: ADN-641. Corequisite: ADN-311.

Kristi Schroeder - Dean of Nursing & Health Professions

Email: kschroeder@scciowa.edu
RN, Augustana Hospital School of Nursing
BSN, University of Phoenix
MSN, University of Phoenix

Maureen Ewinger - Associate Dean of Nursing

Email: mewinger@scciowa.edu
AA, Clinton Community College
BSN, Iowa Wesleyan University
MSN, University of Phoenix

Diane Aliprandi - Instructor - Nursing

Email: daliprandi@scciowa.edu
BSN, Jacksonville University
MSN-Ed, Western Governors University
CCRN, Critical Care Registered Nurse Certification
CHSE, Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator

Jami Genkinger - Instructor - Nursing

Email: jgenkinger@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Jacksonville University
MSN Ed, Jacksonville University

James Mueller - Instructor - Nursing

Email: jmueller@scciowa.edu
BSN, Clarke University
MS, Capella University
DNP(c), Capella University

Nancy Roed - Professor - Nursing

Email: nroed@scciowa.edu
LPN, Southwestern Community College
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Iowa Wesleyan College
MSN, Walden University

Cecillie Vinson - Instructor - Nursing

Email: cvinson@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Chamberlain College of Nursing
MSN-Ed, Chamberlain University of Nursing