In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and aid for your Pre-Nursing studies at Wayne State.
Pre-Nursing Program
About the Pre-Nursing Program
Compassion and a medical background are two important qualities to have for the nursing profession. In our Pre-Nursing program, you will spend time at Wayne State building a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, or other health-related courses, then transfer to a professional school to complete your nursing degree. Or you can remain at WSC for all four years and obtain your undergraduate degree with the major of your choice, then pursue nursing through an accredited, accelerated nursing program. A graduate degree can follow after earning your BSN. Recommended majors at WSC are Biology and/or Chemistry, if in residence at WSC for four years. As a nurse, you’ll be trained for a nursing career in hospitals, clinics, emergency management, or even mission work.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Fast Facts
Program details: You can begin your education at Wayne State and transfer to a nursing school to receive your bachelor’s degree from them. Or you can receive your B.S. in a recommended field of study at Wayne State, then pursue a nursing degree through an accredited, accelerated nursing program.
Hours required:
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120
School: Science, Health, and Criminal Justice
Department: Life Sciences
GPA required (to enter nursing school): C+ or better, 3.0 cumulative GPA, 3.0 math/science GPA. Certification as a nursing assistant (CNA) is also required prior to acceptance into nursing school.
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the Pre-Nursing program.
Skills Learned
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Dissection techniques
- Biological systems and structures
- Medical ethics
- Lab techniques and safety
- Observation
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Communication
Possible Careers
- Clinical nurse
- Midwife
- Psychiatric nurse
- Pediatric or NICU nurse
- School nurse
- Nurse educator / mentor
- Home health nurse
- Traveling nurse
- Surgical nurse
- Hospice nurse
- Parish nurse
- Flight nurse
Employers
- Hospitals and medical clinics
- Health care institutions
- Private practices
- Surgical centers
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Government / federal agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Medical research companies
- Insurance companies
- Churches / parishes
- Aviation / travel companies
Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP)
The pre-nursing program is eligible for RHOP. RHOP educates students from rural Nebraska who will return to practice health care in rural areas of the state. If selected for RHOP, you’ll receive free tuition at Wayne State College and guaranteed admission into the relevant nursing program at UNMC to earn your nursing degree.
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the Pre-Nursing program.
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, activities, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- Research, trips, and more – Conduct your own research and even present your findings at regional conferences, help judge at the Junior Academy of Science Fair, and visit area science labs.
- Peer tutoring and mentoring programs – Help fellow students master their courses and improve their skills, or be part of a support system for new students, all while gaining valuable experience for your resume.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Internships
Internships are not required for pre-professional programs at WSC, as these are typically completed in your final years of professional school for degree completion. However, Career Services is available to help you find job opportunities if you are looking for field-related work experience.