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Minnesota State College Southeast
A Technical & Community College

Nursing Program

Associate of Science in Nursing Degree - AS
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Academics > Nursing > Associate of Science in Nursing Degree - AS

Associate of Science in Nursing Degree - AS

Career Area: Health Sciences
Program: Nursing
Campus(es): Winona/Red Wing


Major Details

Courses

Cost

Careers

Outcomes

Highlights

Instructors

Nursing is a challenging, innovative, and caring profession where you can make a real difference in the lives of your patients.

Minnesota State College Southeast's new 5-semester nursing program is designed to prepare graduates to earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, take the NCLEX-RN® exam, and become registered nurses.

The college utilizes curriculum resources from a nationally renowned provider to offer a modern learning experience, complete with high fidelity virtual skills labs and simulations, online student learning materials, faculty support, and national benchmarking of student progress.

The college will apply for initial candidacy for national accreditation of the ASN program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), with a vision to complete the accreditation process prior to graduation of the first cohort of students.

In the Associate of Science in Nursing program plan, students will take two semesters of required prerequisite college-level general education courses prior to beginning nursing courses as well as additional general education courses during the nursing program.

To prepare for acceptance to the Associate of Science in Nursing program, students should enroll in the Health Sciences Broad Field major and begin with required prerequisites. Upon completion of the prerequisites, students are eligible to apply for entry into the ASN program. Download the Program Plan (PDF) for more information.

Traditional vs. Mobility Track: Two pathways are available for ASN students. The traditional track is for students who are beginning their nursing education. The mobility track is for current LPNs seeking to transition to RN status.

Note: The Associate of Science in Nursing is offered on our campuses in Winona and Red Wing. During clinical rotations, nursing students may be required to travel up to a 100-mile radius from their home campus.

Admission Deadlines

Applications for the fall 2021 cohort open on February 1, 2021 with an application deadline date of June 1, 2021.

Continued Education Pathways

RN-BSN Completion Program: MSC Southeast has entered into dual admission partnership with Winona State University. This allows students pursuing an ASN at MSC Southeast to bridge to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at WSU.

Minnesota State has a Statewide Nursing Program Transfer Agreement for both Practical Nursing Diploma to Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Science in Nursing to Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing which supports a smooth transfer pathway. Learn More (PDF)

Cluster/Pathway
Career Field: Health Science Technology
Cluster: Health Science
Pathway: Therapeutic Services
Recommended high school classes and basic job/program skills

Download the Program Plan

Courses

1) Must complete a minimum of 6 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences

2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified

PREREQUISITE
MnTC General Education
MnTC General Education Elective (Goal 8 or Goal 10 recommended)
3 cr
Required Biology or Chemistry Elective(s)
MnTC General Education Elective credits or BIOL 1200 or BIO 1201 (Goal 3) as required for BIOL 2531 and/or CHEM 1010 as required for CHEM 2518
7 cr
BIOL2515
Anatomy & Physiology I
Human Anatomy and Physiology I introduces the structure and function of the human body with an emphasis on normal health. This course includes a review of cellular biology, cellular transport, cell reproduction and basic biochemistry. Topics covered include tissues, the integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscular system, and nervous system. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: Recent High School Biology or BIOL1001 or equivalent) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
BIOL2516
Anatomy & Physiology II
Human Anatomy and Physiology II continues the study of the human body from Human Anatomy and Physiology I. This course includes principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology as they relate to the study of normal body function. Topics covered include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and reproductive systems. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIOL2515 Anatomy & Physiology I) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
BIOL2531
Microbiology
Microbiology explores the general characteristics, classification, and pathology of microscopic organisms. Fundamental aspects of microbial control, growth, reproduction, and metabolism, are explored with relation to the role they play in human health, disease, and immunity. Basic laboratory procedures, such as staining techniques, nutrient preparation, microbial isolation, and microorganism identification are introduced in the laboratory component of this course. (Fulfills MnTC goal 3) (Prerequisite: CHEM2518 or BIOL1200 or BIOL1201 or BIOL1001 or equivalent) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
3 cr
CHEM2518
General, Organic & Biochemistry I
This course is intended as a broad introduction to the basic principles of general, organic, and biochemistry. Atomic structure, radioactivity, ionic and covalent compounds, reactions, oxidation-reduction, solutions, acids and bases are covered through descriptive, theoretical, and laboratory topics. These principles are related to organic and biological chemistry throughout the course as it is a foundational course for students enrolled in the health related programs. However, this course is open to all students enrolled in any program. (Fulfills MnTC Goal 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: Successful completion of CHEM1010 Fundamentals of Chemistry or permission from the instructor) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
PSYC1110
Introduction to Psychology
Psychology applies to everyone's personal and workplace daily life. In this course, you will be introduced to the history of psychology, consciousness, learning theories, memory, problem-solving, intelligence, motivation, life-span development, personality, abnormal psychology and therapy. (Fulfills MnTC Goal 5 & 7) (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
PSYC1115
Lifespan Psychology
Students will explore theories of human development to understand the connections and relationships of stages of growth from conception to late adulthood. Genetics; prenatal development and birth; physical, cognitive and psychosocial development from birth through late adulthood; and dying, death, and bereavement will be examined. (Fulfills MnTC Goals 5 and 7) (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
 
31 crs
 
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
BIOL1226
Nutrition
This course covers basic principles of nutrition and their relationship to human health and normal biological function. Students are exposed to current trends in nutrition, behaviors typical of a positive nutritional lifestyle, and a lab like experience to evaluate their own nutritional status. Topics covered include an introduction to the nutrients, digestive function and metabolism, the role of physical activity, dietary standards, proper diet planning, and nutrition related diseases. (Meets MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
BIOL2540
Pathophysiology
This course expands upon knowledge gained in Anatomy and Physiology I and II to explore the changes that result from disease processes in the body. The nature, cause, diagnosis, and treatment of common diseases will be emphasized. Topics will include the immune response, cancer, fluid imbalances, diseases of the individual body systems, and systemic pathophysiology. MnTC Goals 2 & 3 (Prerequisite: BIOL 2516) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
COMM1228
Interpersonal Communications
This course focuses on the practical and theoretical interpersonal communication skills needful in the personal, public, and professional contexts found within a diverse society. This course addresses subject matter, such as communication theory, verbal and non-verbal communication, intercultural and cultural communication, communication modes, communication styles, the language of conflict management/resolution, active listening, language choice, and perception. (Meets MnTC Goal 1 and Goal 7) (Prerequisites: A minimum score of 78 in the Reading Comprehension portion of the Accuplacer Basic Skills test, or a minimum score of 21 in the Reading Subject area of the ACT test, or successful completion of ENGL 0528) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
ENGL1215
College Writing I
This course involves expository writing based on experience, direct observation, research and reading with emphasis on critical thinking skills, rhetorical strategies, and style. (Meets MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisites: A minimum score of 78 on the Reading Comprehension portion of the ACCUPLACER basic skills test or a minimum score of 18 on the English subject area of the ACT test or successful completion of ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
HUMA1125
Moral Problems
An introduction to ethical principles as applied to the moral issues and challenges individuals encounter in everyday life. Emphasis will be given to the analysis and development of ethical views and decision making. A broad variety of topics will be explored, including personal moral character, medical, religious, racial, and cultural issues. (Fulfills MnTC Goals 6 & 9) (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
 
15 crs
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS (Traditional Track)
NURS1400
Nursing Fundamentals and Community Health
This course will provide the student an introduction to nursing and roles of the nurse in various community health care settings. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, quality, patient-centered care. The student is provided the opportunity to practice assessment skills and demonstrate nursing skills for populations across the lifespan in selected community settings. Adherence to ethical and legal standards in promoting a patient¿s physical, cognitive, and mental health is emphasized. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills. (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

4 cr
NURS1410
Nursing Fundamentals Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for fundamental nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. (2 credits: 0 lecture/2 lab)

Download the Course Outline

2 cr
NURS1420
Pharmacology in Nursing
This course will provide the student the opportunity to examine pharmacotherapeutic agents, including homeopathic and complementary therapies, used in the treatment of illness and the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of wellness in diverse individuals. It focuses on drug classification, concepts, and principles of pharmacology, with special consideration for the nursing role in developing a comprehensive approach to the clinical application of drug therapy through the use of the nursing process. Nursing implications relative to the utilization of drug therapy are examined. Safety, ethical, legal implications of drug administration are discussed. (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
NURS1440
Medical/Surgical Nursing I
This course will provide the student focus on the care of adult clients with health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of patient-centered care, cultural sensitivity, informatics, safe practice, priority-setting, and professionalism are integrated throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to adults in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (5 credits: 3 lecture/2 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
NURS1450
Med/Surg Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for advanced nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. Prerequisites: NURS 1400, NURS 1410, and NURS 1420, NURS 1460, and NURS 1430 for LPNs. (1 credits: 0 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

1 cr
NURS1460
Health Assessment
This course will provide the student the framework for preparing students to perform a holistic comprehensive health assessment on clients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on taking a thorough nursing history, performing physiological, developmental, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual assessments, as well as identifying stressors and health risks. Students are provided the opportunity to document subjective findings from the health history as well as objective assessment findings. Laboratory experiences provide an opportunity to practice assessment skills. Prerequisites: BIOL1200 OR BIOL2515 (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

1 cr
NURS2400
Medical/Surgical Nursing II
This course will provide the student to continue to build on Medical/Surgical Nursing I with a focus on patients experiencing more complex medical/surgical health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and teamwork and collaboration will be emphasized throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe, patient-centered care to patients in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1440, NURS1450, NURS2410, AND NURS1430 if LPN, BIOL 1226, COMM 1228 (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
NURS2410
Family Nursing
This course will provide the student an integrative, family-centered approach to the care of mothers, newborns, and children. Emphasis is placed on normal and abnormal conditions of pregnancy, normal growth and development, family structure and function, family dynamics, health and illness states of children, and the promotion of safe, healthy behaviors in the growing family. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to mothers, newborns, and children in select settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of growing families facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, and NURS1430 if LPN (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
NURS2420
Complex Care and Leadership Concepts
This course will provide the student transition of the student to the role of the professional registered nurse is a focus of this course. The course also builds on Medical/Surgical II with a focus on patients experiencing complex, multisystem alterations in health that require integration of medical/surgical concepts of nursing care. Emphasis is placed on implementing time management and organizational skills, while managing the care of patients with multiple needs and collaborating with the interprofessional team. Complex clinical skills, as well as priority setting, clinical judgment, and legal and ethical practice, are integrated throughout the course. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Contemporary issues and management concepts are a focus, as well as the development of the skills of delegation, conflict management, and leadership. Healthcare policy, standards of practice, legal issues, and ethical issues are analyzed, with a focus on personal accountability and responsibility in relation to state regulations. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1440, NURS1450, NURS1460, NURS2410, and NURS1430 if LPN (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
 
29 crs
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS (Mobility Track)
Completion of NURS 1430
Upon completion of NURS 1430, mobility track students are awarded five credits of advanced standing in the ASN program.
5 cr
NURS1430
Transition to the Professional Nurse Role
This course will provide the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) student with concepts regarding transition to the professional Registered Nurse (RN) role. Theories and practices related to quality, safety, and evidence-based patient-centered care will be emphasized. The LPN will develop professional identity as an RN by expanding nursing knowledge and skills while promoting health and wellness across the lifespan. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills. Lab experiences will include nursing skills, medication administration, and documentation. (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

4 cr
NURS1440
Medical/Surgical Nursing I
This course will provide the student focus on the care of adult clients with health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of patient-centered care, cultural sensitivity, informatics, safe practice, priority-setting, and professionalism are integrated throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to adults in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (5 credits: 3 lecture/2 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
NURS1450
Med/Surg Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for advanced nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. Prerequisites: NURS 1400, NURS 1410, and NURS 1420, NURS 1460, and NURS 1430 for LPNs. (1 credits: 0 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

1 cr
NURS1460
Health Assessment
This course will provide the student the framework for preparing students to perform a holistic comprehensive health assessment on clients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on taking a thorough nursing history, performing physiological, developmental, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual assessments, as well as identifying stressors and health risks. Students are provided the opportunity to document subjective findings from the health history as well as objective assessment findings. Laboratory experiences provide an opportunity to practice assessment skills. Prerequisites: BIOL1200 OR BIOL2515 (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

1 cr
NURS2400
Medical/Surgical Nursing II
This course will provide the student to continue to build on Medical/Surgical Nursing I with a focus on patients experiencing more complex medical/surgical health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and teamwork and collaboration will be emphasized throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe, patient-centered care to patients in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1440, NURS1450, NURS2410, AND NURS1430 if LPN, BIOL 1226, COMM 1228 (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
NURS2410
Family Nursing
This course will provide the student an integrative, family-centered approach to the care of mothers, newborns, and children. Emphasis is placed on normal and abnormal conditions of pregnancy, normal growth and development, family structure and function, family dynamics, health and illness states of children, and the promotion of safe, healthy behaviors in the growing family. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to mothers, newborns, and children in select settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of growing families facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, and NURS1430 if LPN (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
NURS2420
Complex Care and Leadership Concepts
This course will provide the student transition of the student to the role of the professional registered nurse is a focus of this course. The course also builds on Medical/Surgical II with a focus on patients experiencing complex, multisystem alterations in health that require integration of medical/surgical concepts of nursing care. Emphasis is placed on implementing time management and organizational skills, while managing the care of patients with multiple needs and collaborating with the interprofessional team. Complex clinical skills, as well as priority setting, clinical judgment, and legal and ethical practice, are integrated throughout the course. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Contemporary issues and management concepts are a focus, as well as the development of the skills of delegation, conflict management, and leadership. Healthcare policy, standards of practice, legal issues, and ethical issues are analyzed, with a focus on personal accountability and responsibility in relation to state regulations. Prerequisites: NURS1400, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1440, NURS1450, NURS1460, NURS2410, and NURS1430 if LPN (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)

Download the Course Outline

5 cr
 
29 crs

Total Credits Required for this Major: 75 Credits

Estimated Costs for this Major
Approximate Tuition/Fees:$14,594
Minimum Tool Cost:$2,450
Books/Supplies:$602
Estimated Total:$17,646
 

 

Career Opportunities

  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Home Health Care
  • Hospice Care
  • Long Term Care

Outcomes

ASN End-of-Program Student Learning Program Outcomes:

  1. Patient-centered care
    Evaluate nursing care provided to patients, families, groups, populations, and communities from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings to ensure that it is compassionate, age and culturally appropriate, and based on a patient's preferences, values, and needs.
  2. Teamwork and collaboration
    Collaborate with members of the interprofessional healthcare team, utilizing effective communication, to engage in shared decision-making when managing and coordinating patient care.
  3. Evidence-based practice
    Integrate use of current evidence, clinical expertise, and patient/family preferences and values when making clinical decisions.
  4. Quality improvement
    Utilize quality improvement strategies to effect change in the delivery of patient care.
  5. Safety
    Implement strategies that minimize risk and provide a safe environment for patients, self, and others.
  6. Informatics
    Integrate information technology into practice that supports the application of clinical judgment in the management of patient care.
  7. Professionalism
    Integrate accountable and responsible behaviors that uphold established regulatory, legal, and ethical principles.
  8. Leadership
    Utilize leadership, management, delegation, and priority-setting skills in the provision and management of safe, quality, patient-centered care.

Highlights

  • Earning an Associate of Science in Nursing degree offers more opportunities for advancement and higher level of professional challenge.
  • Meets the needs of students by offering small class sizes and close, personal attention from college faculty and staff.
  • Program is focused on preparation for passing the NCLEX-RN® exam and successfully beginning a nursing career.
  • An ASN degree is a solid pathway to a sustaining career.

Instructors

Dean of Health Sciences

  • Jennifer Eccles, PhD(c), MScN, MEd, RN

Associate Dean of Nursing

  • Janine Mason, MSN, RN (Red Wing)

Instructor

  • Katie Maschka, MSN, RN (Winona)

 

Other Majors in the Nursing program

Practical Nursing DIP

More Information

Become a certified Nursing Assistant
Certified Nursing Assistant

Nursing Assistant Training
This 80-hour class can lead directly to a new career, plus it's a prerequisite for entry into Nursing at MSC Southeast.

Nursing Assistant Testing - Red Wing
Nursing Assistant Testing - Winona

After you complete the course, take the required test to be placed on the national registry.

Licensure Requirements by State Disclosure

The U.S. Department of Education has implemented regulations (Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v)) which require Minnesota State College Southeast's Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program to provide the following:

  1. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution's curriculum meets state educational requirements for professional licensure or certification;
  2. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution's curriculum does not meet state educational requirements for professional licensure or certification; and
  3. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution has not made a determination of whether the curriculum meets educational requirements.

The Associate of Science in Nursing program at MSC Southeast is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing and meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Minnesota. MSCS has not made a determination of whether the ASN curriculum meets educational requirements for initial licensure in any other state. Students should contact the state Board of Nursing they would like to be licensed in for specific requirements. Students may also explore the following link to determine other states' licensure requirements: Board of Nursing Professional Licensure Requirements

 

 
 

© 2021 Minnesota State College Southeast

RED WING CAMPUS | 308 Pioneer Road | Red Wing, MN 55066 | 651-385-6300
WINONA CAMPUS | 1250 Homer Road | Winona, MN 55987 | 507-453-2700

Minnesota State College Southeast is an affirmative action/equal opportunity educator and employer. ADA accessible. MSC Southeast is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. In addition, discrimination in employment base on membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited.

 

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