Pre-Nursing
Build the science foundation for a career in nursing
The Pre-Nursing program at Kentucky Wesleyan College prepares students for admission to nursing schools through coursework in biology, chemistry, and health sciences. With personalized advising, laboratory experiences, and service opportunities, students gain the academic and professional readiness needed to enter nursing programs and healthcare careers.
Pre-Nursing Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Pre-Nursing track provides the rigorous preparation required for success in nursing school. Students complete foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, paired with electives in nutrition and psychology. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentorship ensure students receive personalized guidance. Engaged learning opportunities include advanced laboratory work, service-learning projects, and shadowing experiences that connect coursework to patient care. A pre-professional advisor helps students plan prerequisites, prepare for nursing school admission, and gain exposure to the healthcare profession. With a liberal arts foundation that emphasizes communication and ethical decision-making, graduates are equipped for admission to nursing programs and meaningful careers in patient care.
Career Paths
Registered Nurse (with Nursing School) – Registered nurses provide direct patient care, administer medications, and coordinate treatment plans. They work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings, serving as the backbone of healthcare.
Nurse Practitioner (with Graduate Study) – Nurse practitioners diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide advanced patient care. With graduate-level training, they often serve as primary care providers in high-demand areas.
Clinical Nurse Specialist – Clinical nurse specialists are experts in specialized fields such as cardiology, oncology, or pediatrics. They combine patient care with research, leadership, and education.
Nurse Educator – Nurse educators teach in nursing schools and healthcare settings, training future generations of nurses. They blend clinical expertise with a passion for teaching.
Public Health Nurse – Public health nurses focus on community-wide health issues, designing and implementing programs that promote wellness and prevent disease at the population level.
Healthcare Administrator – Healthcare administrators manage nursing teams, departments, or entire healthcare facilities. They oversee budgets, policies, and staffing to ensure efficient, high-quality patient care.
Pre-Nursing Program Requirements
Pre-Nursing is a pre-professional track that integrates with general education requirements and prepares students to transfer into a nursing program. Required courses typically include General Biology I & II, Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, General Chemistry I & II, Nutrition, and Introductory Psychology. Laboratory components develop technical skills and scientific understanding critical to nursing success. Students also complete coursework in communication and social sciences to build well-rounded patient-care skills. A pre-professional advisor works closely with students to align coursework with nursing school requirements and arrange clinical shadowing or service-learning opportunities. This curriculum provides the academic preparation and professional readiness necessary for admission to nursing school and a career in nursing.