Registered Nursing AS Degree

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse (RN) in a variety of healthcare settings. This program emphasizes foundational nursing concepts integrated into the following key threads: Professionalism, Evidence-Based Practice, Communication, Safety, and Holistic Client-Centered Care.

This program combines classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experiences to develop the skills, knowledge, and professional competencies required for entry-level nursing practice.

The curriculum focuses on building competencies in medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, gerontological health, and community health while addressing the physical, emotional, and cultural needs of patients.

Graduates of the ADN program are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and are prepared to deliver safe, ethical, and compassionate care in California’s diverse healthcare environments. The program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

Registered Nursing Course Sequence

Students can complete the nursing program in two years once accepted to the nursing program.

It is recommended that students interested in a Nursing degree see a counselor in the counseling department and read the information on the School of Health Sciences & Education webpage.

Program Entrance Requirements: Acceptance under the existing eligibility and selection criteria available on the School of Health Sciences & Education webpage.  Program eligibility and selection processes are subject to change. Prospective students are encouraged to check the school web page periodically or call 760.773.2579. 

Please note:  Students are strongly encouraged to complete all general education courses prior to the program application. Licensure can be achieved when all courses required for the degree are completed.

Graduates are eligible for Registered Nurse Licensing Examination in California. All courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate accountability for the delivery of nursing care while influencing the behaviors of others to achieve shared goals.
2. Assimilate clinical judgement, rooted in evidence-based practice, to provide nursing care at an entry level.
3. Design client-centered care for individuals that recognizes the client as a full partner with individual preferences and beliefs.
4. Integrate communication principles to foster a respectful environment that supports shared decision-making in the efforts of improving client's optimal wellness.
5. Competently manages all aspects of safety for clients through system effectiveness, individual performance, and quality improvement to minimize risk of harm to patients.  
6. Demonstrate the professional identity of the nurse.

Program Requirements