The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers a comprehensive nursing program designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to succeed in the nursing profession. With a strong focus on affordability, FSCJ's nursing program is an attractive option for individuals seeking a career in healthcare without incurring significant debt. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and become licensed registered nurses (RNs).
Nursing Program Overview
FSCJ’s nursing program is designed to be completed in two years, with students earning an Associate in Science (AS) degree in Nursing. The program consists of 72 credit hours, including 48 hours of nursing coursework and 24 hours of general education requirements. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the sciences, including anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, as well as hands-on training in clinical settings. Simulation labs and clinical rotations are integral components of the program, allowing students to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed RNs.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to FSCJ’s nursing program, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include earning a high school diploma or equivalent, completing prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and achieving a minimum GPA of 2.5. Applicants must also take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, which assesses their knowledge in areas such as reading, mathematics, and science. TEAS scores are used to determine an applicant’s eligibility for the program, with a minimum score of 60 required for admission. A background check and drug screen are also required prior to admission.
| Admission Requirement | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| GPA | 2.5 |
| TEAS Score | 60 |
| Prerequisite Courses | Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics |
Affordability and Financial Aid
FSCJ’s nursing program is designed to be affordable, with tuition rates significantly lower than those of private colleges and universities. In-state tuition is approximately 2,500 per semester, while <strong>out-of-state tuition</strong> is around 9,900 per semester. Financial aid is available to eligible students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The Federal Pell Grant and Florida Student Assistance Grant are two examples of financial aid programs available to FSCJ students. Additionally, the college offers a nursing scholarship program, which provides funding to students pursuing a degree in nursing.
Job Outlook and Salary Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for RNs is excellent, with employment projected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030. The median annual salary for RNs is around 76,000, although salaries can range from 60,000 to over $100,000 depending on factors such as location, experience, and specialty. FSCJ’s nursing program is designed to prepare students for a variety of nursing roles, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and critical care nursing.
- Median annual salary for RNs: $76,000
- Job growth rate: 12% (2020-2030)
- Nursing specialties: medical-surgical, pediatric, critical care
What are the admission requirements for FSCJ's nursing program?
+To be eligible for admission to FSCJ's nursing program, applicants must earn a high school diploma or equivalent, complete prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5. Applicants must also take the TEAS exam and achieve a minimum score of 60.
How long does it take to complete FSCJ's nursing program?
+FSCJ's nursing program is designed to be completed in two years, with students earning an AS degree in Nursing. The program consists of 72 credit hours, including 48 hours of nursing coursework and 24 hours of general education requirements.
In conclusion, FSCJ’s nursing program offers an affordable and comprehensive education in nursing, with a strong focus on hands-on training and clinical experience. With a highly competitive job market and excellent salary potential, FSCJ’s nursing program is an attractive option for individuals seeking a career in healthcare. By providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to succeed in the nursing profession, FSCJ’s nursing program is helping to meet the growing demand for skilled nurses in the healthcare industry.
