What Courses Will You Take In Nursing School? 2023 Update

Pursuing a nursing job is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires both dedication and passion. One of the first steps to becoming a successful nurse is completing a rigorous nursing education program that includes a wide range of courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field. 

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nursing school courses you can expect to take in nursing school and how they'll prepare you for a fulfilling career in healthcare. Whether you're just starting your nursing education journey or considering a career change, this article will provide valuable insights into the essential courses for nursing you'll encounter as a nursing student.

How are nursing classes structured?

Nursing school classes are typically structured in a way that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills training. The specific structure may vary depending on the educational institution and program, but here is a general overview of how classes for nursing are typically organized:

• Lecture-based learning

Nursing school courses often include lectures delivered by instructors who cover various topics related to nursing theory, concepts, and principles. These lectures provide students with foundational knowledge and understanding of the nursing profession, healthcare systems, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and other relevant subjects.

• Laboratory sessions

In addition to lectures, classes to take for nursing frequently include laboratory sessions where students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on setting. These sessions involve practicing clinical skills, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, performing physical assessments, and practicing nursing procedures using simulation equipment.

• Clinical practice

Nursing education places significant emphasis on clinical practice. Students are assigned to clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities, where they work under the supervision of experienced nurses and clinical instructors.

During these clinical rotations, students have the chance to apply their knowledge and skills in real patient care situations, observe procedures, interact with patients, and collaborate with healthcare teams.

• Small group discussions

Some nursing school courses incorporate small group discussions or case studies to facilitate critical thinking and enhance problem-solving skills. These sessions provide opportunities for students to analyze complex healthcare scenarios, discuss patient care strategies, and collaborate with their peers to develop care plans.

• Examinations and assessments

Like any academic program, nursing school classes involve regular assessments to evaluate students' understanding and progress. These assessments may include quizzes, written exams, skills demonstrations, clinical evaluations, and comprehensive exams. They are designed to assess students' knowledge, clinical competence, and their ability to apply nursing principles in various contexts.

• Professional development

Nursing major classes often include components focused on professional development. This may involve topics such as nursing ethics, legal responsibilities, cultural competency, communication skills, teamwork, and leadership in healthcare settings. These aspects are crucial for preparing nursing students to become well-rounded professionals.

It's important to note that the specific structure and content of nursing classes can vary depending on the educational program, level of study and nursing degree (such as associate degree in nursing, BSN, or higher), and the country or region where the program is offered.

What are the most common general nursing school classes you are required to take?

While specific course requirements may vary slightly between nursing programs, there are several common general nursing school classes that are typically required. These nursing school courses provide a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for a career in nursing.

Here are some of the most common general nursing major classes:

1- Biology

Biology is a fundamental subject included in the curriculum of nursing school. It is a scientific discipline that plays a crucial role in equipping nurses with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of the human body. 

This course serves as a building block by introducing students to the structure and function of cells, the principles of DNA and genetics, and the interconnections of the various systems within the human body.

Here's why biology classes are important for the best nursing schools:

• Understanding human anatomy and physiology

Biology classes help students gain knowledge of human anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) at the cellular, tissue, and organ level. This understanding is crucial for nurses to comprehend how the body functions normally and how it may be affected by various diseases or injuries.

• Developing a foundation for pathophysiology

Pathophysiology, which is the study of the changes in the body associated with disease, builds upon the principles learned in biology classes. A solid grasp of biology enables nursing students to comprehend the underlying mechanisms and processes that occur during illness, injury, or abnormalities.

• Exploring microbiology and infection control

Microbiology, another important aspect of biology, focuses on microorganisms and their impact on human health. Nursing students learn about various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and how they can cause infections. This knowledge is crucial for implementing effective infection control measures and providing appropriate patient care.

• Understanding pharmacology

Biology classes provide a foundation for pharmacology, the study of medications and their effects on the body. Nursing students learn about drug interactions, mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and considerations for safe medication administration. Understanding basic biological concepts is essential for comprehending how medications interact with the body's physiological processes.

2- Microbiology

Microbiology is a foundational course within the health sciences curriculum that acquaints students with essential principles. This class centers around the study of microorganisms, delving into their genetics, metabolism, and interactions with humans. 

The curriculum encompasses various topics, including the mechanisms by which infectious microorganisms are disseminated and the strategies employed to control and prevent their transmission. Due to the laboratory component involved, Microbiology is often offered in a hybrid or classroom-only format, allowing students to engage in practical, hands-on learning experiences while working with biological samples.

This is one of the important classes to take to become a nurse for several reasons:

• Understanding infectious diseases

Microbiology classes provide essential knowledge about the causes, transmission, and prevention of infectious diseases. Nurses need to understand how different microorganisms can lead to infections and how to implement appropriate infection control measures to prevent the spread of pathogens in healthcare settings.

• Infection prevention and control

Nurses play a critical role in preventing and controlling infections. Microbiology classes equip them with knowledge about the principles of sterilization, disinfection, and proper hygiene practices. Understanding the characteristics and behavior of microorganisms helps nurses identify potential sources of infection and implement appropriate preventive measures.

• Antibiotic resistance and treatment

Microbiology classes shed light on the concept of antibiotic resistance, a growing concern in healthcare. Nurses learn about the mechanisms of resistance and the importance of responsible antibiotic use. This knowledge allows nurses to educate patients about the appropriate use of antibiotics and the importance of completing prescribed courses of treatment.

• Diagnostic testing

Microbiology is closely linked to diagnostic testing for infectious diseases. Nurses need to understand different laboratory tests, such as culture and sensitivity testing, molecular diagnostics, and serology, in order to collaborate effectively with laboratory professionals, interpret test results, and provide appropriate patient care.

• Understanding healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)

Healthcare-associated infections pose a significant challenge in healthcare settings. Microbiology classes provide nurses with knowledge about the common pathogens associated with HAIs, the risk factors, and strategies for prevention. This knowledge empowers nurses to identify potential infection sources, implement preventive measures, and educate patients and colleagues about infection control practices.

3- Pharmacology

Pharmacology focuses on the comprehensive study of medications and their effects. This class forms the foundation for delivering therapeutic patient care and holds immense significance within the field of medical sciences.

This is one of the important nursing school courses for several reasons:

• Medication administration

Pharmacology classes provide nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to administer medications accurately, understand dosing principles, and monitor patients for potential adverse reactions.

• Patient safety

Pharmacology emphasizes patient safety by educating nurses about medication errors, potential drug interactions, and adverse drug reactions. Understanding pharmacology helps nurses recognize and prevent medication-related risks, enhancing patient safety and minimizing harm.

• Individualized patient care

Pharmacology classes enable nurses to tailor patient care to meet individual needs. By understanding how medications interact with specific body systems and considering patient factors such as age, health status, and concurrent medications, nurses can make informed decisions about medication selection, dosing, and monitoring.

4- Biochemistry

Biochemistry classes explore the intricate processes that take place within different living organisms, focusing on the composition and functions of living cells. This knowledge is crucial for nurses as they need a deep understanding of how the human body operates in order to diagnose conditions like infections, fevers, cardiac arrest, trauma, and other health issues that their patients may experience. By comprehending biochemistry, nurses can make informed decisions regarding appropriate interventions.

Here are some key points about the importance of biochemistry classes to take for nursing:

• Understanding cellular function

Biochemistry classes help nurses comprehend the intricate biochemical processes that occur within cells. This knowledge is crucial for understanding how the body functions at a molecular level, enabling nurses to identify and address abnormalities in cellular function.

• Pharmacological knowledge

Biochemistry is closely linked to pharmacology. Nurses need to understand how medications interact with the body at a molecular level to make informed decisions about drug selection, dosage, and potential interactions or side effects. Biochemistry classes provide the necessary background to comprehend pharmacological concepts and ensure safe medication administration.

• Diagnosis and assessment

Biochemistry knowledge aids nurses in interpreting laboratory results and diagnostic tests. They can identify deviations from normal biochemical values, recognize patterns indicative of specific diseases or conditions, and contribute to accurate patient assessment and diagnosis.

5- Human anatomy

Human anatomy involves the examination and understanding of the structure of the human body. This class provides the fundamental knowledge that serves as a building block for all other nursing courses. 

It starts by exploring the basic cellular organization and gradually progresses to encompass the structure of all body systems. In human anatomy, the human body is studied by analyzing individual body systems and examining the organization at various levels, including cells, tissues, organs, systems, and overall organization.

This class is important for nursing schools for several reasons:

• Understanding body structure

Human anatomy classes provide nurses with comprehensive knowledge of the anatomical structures, including bones, muscles, organs, and systems of the human body. This understanding is essential for nurses to accurately assess and interpret physical signs, symptoms, and abnormalities in their patients.

• Application in clinical practice

Nurses use their knowledge of human anatomy to perform physical assessments, palpate body structures, locate anatomical landmarks, and understand the relationships between different body parts. This knowledge enables nurses to provide accurate and effective patient care, including administering medications, performing procedures, and assisting with diagnostic tests.

• Pathophysiology correlation

Human anatomy forms the basis for understanding pathophysiology, which is the study of abnormal bodily functions as a result of disease or injury. Nurses with a strong foundation in anatomy can better comprehend how pathological changes affect specific body systems and organs, leading to improved assessment, intervention, and patient outcomes.

6- Chemistry

Nursing classes list wouldn’t be complete without chemistry. As one of the nursing school courses, 

chemistry encompasses the examination of the overall chemical composition of living organisms. In nursing schools, the study of chemistry involves gaining knowledge about atomic structure, acids and bases, chemical bonding, organic functional groups, reactions, and their relevance to nursing applications. 

Chemistry concepts are integrated into multiple classes throughout nursing school. There are four primary types of chemistry courses that nursing students may encounter: General Chemistry, Biochemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Pharmacology.

This class is important for nursing schools for several reasons:

• Understanding drug actions

Chemistry provides the foundation for understanding how drugs interact with the body at a molecular level. Nurses need to comprehend concepts such as chemical bonding, drug formulations, and mechanisms of action to administer medications safely, assess their effectiveness, and identify potential adverse reactions.

• Pharmacology knowledge

Chemistry knowledge is vital for pharmacology, the study of medications. Nurses need to understand drug classifications, chemical structures, and properties to make informed decisions about drug selection, dosage, and administration routes. This knowledge ensures safe and effective medication management.

• Clinical laboratory interpretation

Nurses often encounter laboratory tests in their practice, and chemistry knowledge allows them to interpret and analyze results accurately. They can understand lab values, assess organ function, monitor electrolyte imbalances, and recognize signs of metabolic disturbances.

• Biochemistry understanding

Biochemistry, a branch of chemistry, focuses on the chemical processes occurring within living organisms. A solid foundation in chemistry is essential for comprehending biochemistry, which is crucial for understanding cellular function, metabolism, and the relationship between biochemical changes and disease.

7- Psychology

Psychology is a mandatory general education class in nursing that serves as an introduction to the field. This course establishes the groundwork for more advanced psychology courses. Students are introduced to various aspects, including the history and roots of psychology, biological factors influencing psychology, and research methodologies. 

As one of the courses in nursing, it familiarizes students with medical terminology relevant to psychology and explores the impact of consciousness, behavior, and interpersonal relationships on mental and physical well-being.

So Psychology classes in nursing schools explore the study of human behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This class is important for nursing schools for several reasons:

• Patient understanding

Psychology classes provide nurses with insight into human behavior, helping them understand their patients' perspectives, emotions, and motivations. This understanding enables nurses to develop therapeutic relationships, effectively communicate, and provide compassionate care.

• Mental health awareness

Nurses encounter patients with various mental health conditions. Psychology classes equip nurses with knowledge about different mental disorders, symptoms, and treatment approaches. This understanding helps nurses identify signs of distress, provide appropriate interventions, and promote mental well-being.

• Effective communication

Psychology classes enhance nurses' communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and non-verbal cues. Nurses can effectively communicate with patients, their families, and the healthcare team, fostering open and trusting relationships.

• Stress and coping

Nursing is a demanding profession that often involves high-stress situations. Psychology classes provide nurses with an understanding of stress, coping mechanisms, and resilience. This knowledge helps nurses manage their own stress and support patients in developing effective coping strategies.

8- Nutrition

Nutrition is a required general education class in nursing school that aims to familiarize nursing students with clinical dietary and nutritional principles. The class emphasizes the significance of nutrition in promoting proper growth, development, and overall health. 

Students delve into the scientific foundations of human nutrition, exploring topics such as nutritional requirements across the lifespan, healthy eating behaviors, prevention of chronic diseases, and the impact of nutrition on individual and population health.

These nursing school courses are important for nursing schools for several reasons:

• Patient nutrition assessment

Nutrition classes equip nurses with the knowledge and skills to assess patients' nutritional status accurately. They learn how to evaluate dietary intake, identify nutritional deficiencies or excesses, and recognize the impact of nutrition on overall health. This enables nurses to develop appropriate care plans and interventions tailored to individual patient needs.

• Disease prevention and management

Nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing and managing various diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and malnutrition. By understanding the relationship between nutrition and these conditions, nurses can educate patients about healthy eating habits, guide them in making nutritious food choices, and support disease prevention and management efforts.

• Health promotion and education

Nutrition classes provide nurses with the knowledge to promote healthy eating behaviors and lifestyle habits. They can educate patients about the importance of balanced nutrition, portion control, and the benefits of consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Nurses play a vital role in empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions regarding their dietary habits and overall health.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration

Nutrition is a multidisciplinary field, and nurses often collaborate with registered dietitians and nutritionists as part of the healthcare team. Understanding nutrition principles allows nurses to effectively communicate and collaborate with these professionals to develop comprehensive care plans and promote optimal patient outcomes.

• Special populations and lifespan considerations

Nutrition classes cover specific nutritional requirements for different populations, such as infants, children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with specific medical conditions. Nurses gain an understanding of how nutrition needs vary throughout the lifespan and how to address specific dietary challenges and considerations for each group.

9- Human physiology

Human physiology is a vital general education class in nursing school that focuses on understanding the function, regulation, and coordination of the diverse systems within the human body. In this class, students delve into the significance of homeostasis in maintaining optimal health and explore strategies to promote it. 

The study of human physiology in nursing entails integrating knowledge across multiple levels, encompassing chemical processes, cellular physiology, organ systems, and the holistic functioning of the entire body.

Here is why human physiology is one of the important courses in nursing:

• Understanding body systems

Human Physiology classes provide nurses with in-depth knowledge about the structure and function of various body systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, digestive, and endocrine systems. This understanding is crucial for assessing patient health, identifying deviations from normal functioning, and planning appropriate nursing interventions.

• Applying pathophysiology

Understanding human physiology forms the foundation for comprehending pathophysiology, which involves the study of how diseases and disorders disrupt normal body functions. Nurses need to grasp the physiological changes occurring in different diseases to effectively manage patient care, administer medications, and implement appropriate treatments.

• Clinical assessment skills

Human Physiology classes enhance nurses' ability to perform comprehensive clinical assessments. By understanding normal physiological processes, nurses can recognize abnormal signs and symptoms, interpret patient data, and make informed decisions regarding patient care and treatment.

• Emergency response

In emergency situations, nurses need a solid understanding of human physiology to recognize life-threatening conditions, initiate appropriate interventions, and stabilize patients. Human Physiology classes provide the knowledge necessary for rapid assessment and decision-making in critical scenarios.

10- Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology is a comprehensive course offered in nursing school that delves into the study of diseases and abnormal body processes. This class focuses on understanding the disruptions in normal physiological functioning caused by illnesses or pathological conditions. 

Students in pathophysiology learn to identify deviations from normal physiology that contribute to or are consequences of various diseases or disorders.

Here is why pathophysiology is one of the required classes to take to become a nurse:

• Understanding disease processes

Pathophysiology classes provide nurses with in-depth knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and processes that lead to the development and progression of diseases. This understanding enables nurses to recognize signs and symptoms, understand disease trajectories, and plan appropriate interventions.

• Clinical decision-making

Nurses often encounter complex patient cases with multiple comorbidities. Pathophysiology classes enhance critical thinking skills, allowing nurses to analyze and interpret clinical data in the context of disease processes. This knowledge helps nurses make informed decisions regarding patient care, prioritize interventions, and anticipate potential complications.

• Medication administration and management

Understanding pathophysiology is essential for safe and effective medication administration. Nurses need to comprehend how medications interact with the body and how disease processes may affect pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This knowledge helps nurses administer medications appropriately, monitor for adverse effects, and evaluate their effectiveness.

Smart’n helps you afford nursing school courses

If you are interested in taking these nursing school courses but can’t afford them, it’s better to sign up for nursing school scholarships. 

Smart'n is a specialized platform created with the goal of assisting nursing students in successfully passing their nursing license exam and also providing them with an opportunity to earn additional income. This platform presents two distinct types of scholarships for students currently enrolled in accredited nursing schools located in North America. The nursing scholarship grants offered by Smart'n serve as a valuable resource, particularly for individuals seeking financial aid to support their educational endeavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the nursing school curriculum comprises a range of courses designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their nursing careers. These courses cover various disciplines, including biology, microbiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, human anatomy, chemistry, psychology, nutrition, human physiology, and pathophysiology. Each course serves a specific purpose in equipping future nurses with a solid foundation in scientific principles, healthcare practices, critical thinking, and patient care. 

From understanding the intricacies of the human body to comprehending disease processes and promoting optimal health, these courses play a vital role in shaping well-rounded and competent nursing professionals. By completing this diverse array of courses, nursing students are prepared to embark on their journey toward providing compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings.

FAQs

1- What is the easiest course in nursing school?

The difficulty level of courses in nursing school can vary depending on the individual student's strengths and interests. However, it's important to note that nursing school is generally rigorous and requires dedication and hard work regardless of the specific courses. That being said, some students may find certain courses relatively easier compared to others based on their prior knowledge or aptitude. Here are a few courses that students commonly perceive as relatively easier in nursing school:

• Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology: This course provides a foundational understanding of the human body's structure and function. While it can be content-heavy, many students find it easier to grasp compared to more advanced anatomy and physiology courses.

• Nutrition: This course covers the principles of nutrition and their application in healthcare settings. It often involves learning about dietary guidelines, different types of nutrients, and their effects on health. Students with a basic understanding of nutrition may find this course relatively easier.

• Pharmacology: While pharmacology can be challenging for some students, others may find it easier to comprehend. It involves studying different drugs, their actions uses, and potential side effects. Students with a keen interest in medications and a good understanding of basic science principles may find this course easier.

2- How do you survive nursing school?

Surviving nursing school requires dedication, hard work, and effective strategies to manage your time, study effectively, and take care of your well-being. Here are some tips to help you navigate through nursing school successfully:

• Stay organized: Use a planner or digital tools to keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and clinical rotations. Stay on top of your schedule and prioritize your tasks accordingly.

• Develop a study routine: Create a consistent study routine that works for you. Allocate dedicated study time each day and stick to it. Find a quiet and comfortable place to study where you can concentrate effectively.

• Break down the material: Nursing school can be overwhelming, with a vast amount of information to learn. Break down the material into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on understanding concepts rather than simply memorizing facts.

• Utilize various learning resources: Use textbooks, lecture notes, online resources, and practice questions to enhance your understanding. Explore different learning methods, such as videos, flashcards, and group study sessions, to reinforce your knowledge.

• Seek clarification: Don't hesitate to ask questions when you're unsure about a concept or procedure. Engage with your professors, clinical instructors, and fellow students to clarify doubts and deepen your understanding.

• Develop critical thinking skills: Nursing requires strong critical thinking skills. Practice analyzing situations, applying knowledge to patient scenarios, and making decisions based on evidence-based practice. Clinical experiences will provide opportunities to develop and refine these skills.

• Time management: Effective time management is crucial in nursing school. Prioritize your tasks, set realistic goals, and allocate time for studying, attending classes, completing assignments, and taking care of yourself. Avoid procrastination and create a schedule that allows for breaks and self-care.

• Collaborate with peers: Form study groups or join existing ones to collaborate with classmates. Sharing knowledge, discussing concepts, and teaching each other can enhance understanding and retention of information.

• Take care of yourself: Nursing school can be demanding, so self-care is vital. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or hobbies.

• Seek support: If you're feeling overwhelmed or struggling academically, don't hesitate to seek support. Reach out to your professors, academic advisors, or counseling services available at your school. Additionally, lean on friends, family, and fellow nursing students for emotional support.