Nursing Program Overview

two nursing students at bedsideThis page provides important information for students who want to join the Nursing program.

Important Information

The Program Information and Getting Started guides provide important tips on how to prepare for the program and complete your application.

Programs Offered

De Anza's Nursing Department offers three programs of study

  • Registered Nursing (A.S. degree)
  • LVN Transition to Registered Nursing (A.S. degree) –
  • Advanced Placement for Military Health Providers –

For more details about these programs, see the Degree Requirements webpage and attend an information meeting.

We also offer an advanced placement option to allow students from other registered nursing programs to transfer into our Registered Nursing Program, space permitting.

  • The prerequisites are identical to those of the RN program except that Nursing 50 is not required and the co-requisite Sociology or Cultural Anthropology class is a prerequisite. 
  • Detailed documentation of previous nursing education would be required beyond normal RN program requirements.

Application Dates and Exams

We accept applications three times a year, during these dates:

  • Sept. 1-15
  • Nov. 15-Jan. 15
  • Feb. 15-April 15

Applicants must take the HESI Admission Assessment Exam no later than the last day of the application period. We recommend taking it sooner than that, so you can include the results with your application.

Our programs usually have a waiting list.

  • When your application is accepted, you will be placed at the end of the waiting list.
  • Please check the Updates for Applicants webpage for further information about the next application period. 


Worksheets and Resources

The following are links to documents that provide information about De Anza College Nursing programs. Feel free to download and save these for your personal use, but remember to check back for updates.

Program Information

This guide has detailed information on preparing for the program, meeting prerequisites, assessment exams, the application and selection process, and more.

Getting Started

This worksheet summarizes information about prerequisites and General Education requirements. Bring this when you meet your counselor to discuss your educational plan.

Additional Resources

  • Chancellor's Formula Worksheet:  Use this spreadsheet to calculate your score for the chancellor's formula described in the Program Information document listed above –  
  • Course Challenge Policy: This explains the process for challenging requirements in subjects for which you may be qualified through previous education, training or experience. –
  • Course Equivalency Comparisons: This spreadsheet lists courses offered at neighboring colleges that are equivalent to De Anza Nursing prerequisites several areas –
  • Course Equivalency Petitions: Students must petition for approval of any core science prerequisites taken at colleges that are not included on the Course Equivalency Comparisons spreadsheet listed above. Contact the Biological, Health and Environmental Sciences Division office for a copy of the petition.
  • HESI/Evolve Reach Exam Registration Instructions:  Follow these instructions to create an online account and register for the HESI/Evolve Reach Exam. (See the Program Information document listed above for more information about the exam requirement.) –
  • Immunization Worksheet: Use this worksheet to be sure you comply with all immunization requirements for the Nursing program –
  • NCLEX Pass Rates: Visit this state website to see exam pass rates for various California colleges. –
  • Veterans Policies: In recognition of their service and experience, the Nursing program has adopted special procedures for current and former military personnel, including
      • Accelerated placement on the waiting list for admission to the program, for those who qualify
      • Admission as advanced placement students, for those who qualify
      •  
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