What Are the Math Requirements for a BSN?

Registered nurses (RNs) are a key part of any healthcare system. One type of degree you can get to work as an RN is a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree.

BSN degrees include many requirements, but what are the math requirements for a BSN? It depends on the program, but there's usually only a small amount needed. We explain more below.

What Are the Math Requirements for a BSN?

BSN degree math requirements can vary between programs, but there are some general consistencies for these programs.

Most nursing programs themselves do not include a math course. However, that does not mean you don't need to take a math course to earn your BSN.

For nearly every type of bachelor's degree, you'll need to complete the general education courses required by the college or university.

These courses are designed to give students a strong foundation and well-rounded education.

They often include a math requirement, though students can usually choose what type of math they want to take.

Some programs require students to finish their general education courses before they can begin their nursing program, while others allow students to take both types of classes from the start.

Often, a college-level math course is required as a prerequisite to beginning a nursing program.

Most often these programs will require a statistics course, but occasionally they'll require calculus instead.

Again, program requirements can vary. You can often find program prerequisites and required courses on the college or university's website.

Other Requirements for a BSN

In addition to math, a Bachelor of Science in nursing program requires students to complete the rest of their general education requirements, the program's nursing courses, and some sort of clinical experience.

Many colleges and universities require students to take an English composition course as part of their general education requirements, and sometimes a course on how to succeed in college.

Outside of those, students are usually allowed to choose their courses to fulfill their general education requirements.

These courses often need to be in fields like:

• Humanities
• History and Social Science
• Foreign Language
• Life Science or Natural Science

Your nursing program courses will often cover a variety of topics in the field of nursing.

These may include:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Community and Public Health
• Foundational Nursing Concepts
• Geriatric Nursing
• Healthcare Ethics
• Maternal Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
• Physical Assessment
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing

Most programs will have a set of core courses that all nursing students must take, and then a set number of elective courses so nurses can learn about a particular area that interests them.

Additionally, nearly all nursing programs will require you to complete clinical experiences, in which you get hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

Often, a background check and immunization check are required before clinicals.

RN to BSN Requirements

It's possible to become a registered nurse with either a bachelor's degree or a two-year associate degree.

Some students choose to earn their associate degree in nursing, obtain their license and find a job, then return to school for their bachelor's through an RN to BSN program.

RN to BSN programs vary, but they are often flexible and can be done online to accommodate the busy schedule of working nurses.

The exact requirements will depend on the program and the courses you completed in your associate program.

However, most programs focus specifically on nursing courses and don't include a math course.

Some RN to BSN programs give students credit for already holding their license, and as a result, students may be able to bypass some courses and complete their program in as little as a year.

Other Requirements to Become a Registered Nurse

The licensure requirements to become a registered nurse may vary between states but generally require a nursing degree and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

The NCLEX is an exam that all nurses must take and pass to obtain their license. It's a standardized exam offered on the computer at testing sites across the nation.

Questions on the NCLEX cover four areas of client needs:

• Safe and effective care management, including management of care and safety and infection control
• Health promotion and maintenance
• Psychosocial integrity
• Physiological integrity, including basic care and comfort, pharmacological and parenteral therapies, reduction of risk potential, and physiological adaptation

The exam is adaptive, meaning the computer determines what your next question will be based on your past answers.

The amount of questions on the test ranges from 85-105 and you have five hours.

Your state may also require you to pass a background check before you can obtain your license.

Some employers may require certifications like CPR or basic life support (BLS).

Find a BSN Program Today

BSN math requirements are usually limited to one math course taken as part of your general education courses.

To learn more about BSN degrees, contact Learn.org today.