The South Central College Professional Nursing Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (ASN) is approved by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Degree will prepare a student for the future registered nurse role. The RN role is important to leading a team and overseeing safe, high-quality care for diverse clients and families across the lifespan. Employment is with clinics, long-term care and assisted living, home care, treatment facilities, and hospitals.

The ASN degree can be earned in four semesters after the Pre-Nursing requirements are completed. Once accepted into the Professional Nursing program, you will be able to enroll in nursing (NURS) classes. Successful completion of the Professional Nursing program provides eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam enabling you to obtain the RN credential for entry level practice.

If already an LPN and interested in becoming a registered nurse, the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is an option for you. This is accomplished by applying to the LPN to RN Transition Plan which is part of the ASN program. The LPN to RN Transition Plan grants advanced standing of four (4) credits to the future LPN to RN student. In your first semester of the nursing program, completion of one course, NURS 2200 LPN to RN Transition Role is required. The course is four (4) credits and a combination of theory, lab, and clinical to “transition” LPN students to the RN role. Subsequent semesters are with the traditional, non-degree ASN students. 

*National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a nationwide examination for licensure in the U.S. and Canada

It is recommended students take as many of the required Arts and Science courses as possible before beginning the Nursing program which is a full-time study.

Individuals earning an ASN Degree may transfer credits to a four-year institution to work towards a Bachelor~~s~~ of Nursing Degree. Learners will be required to take additional liberal arts and science courses, and should visit with whichever institution they wish to transfer to for further information.

Admitted Nursing candidates are required to participate in a background study.