Nursing

Return to: Programs of Study

Overview

Graduates of the Associate Degree Nursing program are prepared to take the state licensure exam for Registered Nurses- NCLEX-RN. The Associate Degree Nursing program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC). The NCQAC may be reached at PO Box 47864 Olympia, WA 98504-7864 360-236-4700 nursing@doh.wa.gov.

The Nursing Program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission  (NCQAC) and the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC).

Bellingham Technical College Nursing Program is nationally accredited through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). ACEN, 3343 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste. 850, Atlanta, GA 30326, (404) 975-5000, info@acenursing.org, acenursing.org.

The Registered Nurse performs acts that require substantial knowledge, judgment and skill based on the principles of biological, behavioral, health, and nursing sciences. Such acts are grounded in the elements of the nursing process which includes, but is not limited to, the assessment, analysis, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing care and health teaching in the maintenance and the promotion of health or prevention of illness of others and the support of a dignified death. The registered nurse using specialized knowledge can perform the activities of administration, supervision, delegation and evaluation of nursing practice.

Graduates are well prepared in the art and science of nursing to meet the challenging and changing demands of the healthcare industry. Graduates of the BTC Nursing program work in a variety of settings including acute care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, skilled home care, hospice, clinics, day-surgery centers, schools, and public health.

Academic preparation includes core courses in arts and sciences and those focusing on basic nursing skills and knowledge. In addition to providing pathways designed for those new to the field, Bellingham Technical College is committed to providing pathways for the movement of licensed practical nurses into its Associate Degree- Transfer program. Agreements are in place with baccalaureate programs, enabling graduates to continue their education. Applicants are encouraged to plan early for Baccalaureate Degree completion by meeting with an admissions adviser at their school of choice.

The Associate Degrees in Nursing DTA/MRP and LPN to Associate in Applied Science programs includes instruction in English, psychology, mathematics, and science and will position you to enter select Washington State four-year pre-licensure nursing programs as a junior, where you may complete your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

Direct Transfer Agreement/Major Related Program (DTA/MRP)

Upon completion of BTC’s Associate Degrees in Nursing DTA/MRP and LPN to Associate in Applied Science program degree, students are eligible to transfer to a number of Washington State institutions.

Important note: Admission into many schools is competitive and higher grade point averages and course grades are often required. Completion of the general Associate Degree in Nursing DTA/MRP or LPN to Associate in Applied Science program degree does not necessarily satisfy all transfer requirements; some institutions may have additional course requirements. Check individual schools for the most up-to-date admission requirements and recommendations.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities, please contact Accessibility Resources at 360-752-8576.

Program Outcomes

The BTC Associate Degree Nursing graduate will be able to:

• Nursing Care: Integrate the nursing process to deliver individualized culturally competent care.

• Self-Care Promotion: Formulate strategies to promote the health of self and others.

• Professionalism: Model integrity through professional boundaries, ethical behaviors, and respectful communication.

• Collaborative Leadership: Maximize positive health outcomes through the promotion of evidence-based clinical care within the interdisciplinary team.

• Clinical Judgment: Model safe nursing care by integrating critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and prioritization.

Program Entry Information

The AAS-T program option is closed, please see the DTA/MRP Associate Degree in Nursing. Continue reviewing the Nursing website for future information.

Program Start

• LPN’s who are interested in applying to the Nursing program should meet with an advisor to plan a course of study. Please call the Admissions and Resource Center at 360-752-8345 to make an appointment.

Degree and Certificate Requirements

Nursing DTA/MRP Degree completion requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater and minimum grade of B- /2.7 for all Program Core courses, and minimum grade of B/3.0 for all academic courses.

Programs

• Associate in Nursing, DTA/MRP

Return to: Programs of Study