Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by NAMS Editor
A career in nursing can be incredibly rewarding both professionally and personally. However, the journey to becoming a registered nurse often requires years of prerequisites, general education courses, and other academic hurdles before even being accepted into a nursing program. For students without a background in science or those changing careers, the prerequisites alone can seem overwhelming and prevent them from pursuing their dream of nursing school. Fortunately, some excellent nursing schools have minimal or no prerequisites, opening the door for a wider range of students to begin this life-changing educational path.
In this article, we will explore what it means for a nursing school to have no prerequisites, examine whether prerequisites are truly necessary, and provide an in-depth overview of ten top-rated nursing schools across the United States that require little to no previous coursework. By learning about these options, you can find a practical and affordable way to turn their passion for caregiving into a meaningful and in-demand career.
What is a Nursing School Without Prerequisites?
A nursing school without prerequisites is an institution that allows students to enroll in and complete a nursing program without requiring prior completion of specific science and general education courses. These programs are designed to remove barriers and make nursing education more accessible to individuals who may not have had the opportunity to complete traditional prerequisite coursework.
Nursing school prerequisites commonly include college-level courses in biology, anatomy & physiology, microbiology, chemistry, psychology, English composition, and mathematics. Programs without prerequisites integrate these foundational courses into the nursing curriculum, allowing students to gain the necessary knowledge while progressing through their clinical nursing coursework.
This approach is particularly beneficial for career changers, students who took non-science-related courses in high school, or those who struggled with prerequisites in the past. By integrating science coursework with hands-on nursing training, these programs provide a structured and supportive learning environment that fosters success.
Do You Need Prerequisites for Nursing School?
While some nursing schools do not require prerequisites, having a background in foundational sciences can be helpful. Courses like anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry provide essential knowledge that is directly applicable to nursing practice. However, many students successfully complete nursing programs without prior exposure to these subjects by leveraging academic support services, tutoring, and structured learning environments.
For students who may have struggled with science in the past or are balancing work and family responsibilities, nursing programs without prerequisites offer a second chance. These programs recognize that students come from diverse educational backgrounds and emphasize a holistic approach to learning by integrating science and clinical knowledge.
10 Top Nursing Schools Without Prerequisites
Below is a list of handpicked nursing schools you can get into without having to worry about prerequisites.
1. Georgetown University
Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown University is a prestigious private research institution that offers an accelerated nursing program without requiring traditional prerequisites. Admission is based on academic performance, personal statements, recommendation letters, and a phone interview. The program incorporates science coursework into the nursing curriculum, allowing students to complete prerequisites and clinical nursing classes concurrently within three years.
2. Oklahoma City University
This private Catholic university in Oklahoma City offers a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that does not require separate science prerequisites. Students take integrated science and nursing courses together over four years. The program emphasizes strong academic advising and mentorship to help students navigate the challenges of a concurrent curriculum.
3. Regis College
Part of Regis University in Denver, Colorado, Regis College offers a traditional four-year BSN pathway without specific prerequisites. Professors help weave general education classes together with nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and pathophysiology. The program fosters collaboration, and student advisors provide additional support for academic success.
4. Loyola University Chicago
This private Jesuit research university in Illinois offers a BSN program without separate prerequisites. Students complete general education and science foundation courses integrated into the nursing curriculum over four years. The program emphasizes leadership development and offers strong faculty mentorship to support student transitions.
5. Metropolitan State University of Denver
Metro State’s Gentle Nursing program provides an alternative nursing education path for students without college prerequisites. Science subjects such as anatomy and physiology are taught as part of the curriculum, allowing students to prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) within three years of full-time study. The program offers extensive academic advising and a supportive learning community.
6. University of Memphis
The Loewenberg College of Nursing at the University of Memphis in Tennessee admits students to its pre-licensure BSN option without requiring specific prerequisites. Students complete science and general education courses as built-in components of the nursing curriculum. The program features small class sizes and dedicated faculty to facilitate a well-rounded nursing education.
7. Purdue University
This major public research institution offers pre-licensure BSN pathways at its West Lafayette, Indiana campus without separate prerequisite courses. Purdue integrates foundational sciences, such as microbiology and human anatomy, into its nursing curriculum. Students benefit from resources such as tutoring, counseling, and academic advising to help them succeed in an integrated learning environment.
8. California Baptist University
Located in Riverside, California Baptist University allows students to pursue a BSN while concurrently completing prerequisite and clinical nursing courses. The admissions process emphasizes personal skills and healthcare experience rather than prior coursework. The program provides ample academic support to help students succeed in a rigorous curriculum.
9. Idaho State University
Idaho State’s nursing program in Pocatello offers options without separate science prerequisites. Students complete courses such as microbiology, nutrition, and pathophysiology as part of their nursing degree requirements. Dedicated academic advisors assist students with course planning and ensure they meet all nursing standards.
10. Montana State University
The College of Nursing at Montana State University in Bozeman offers a pre-licensure BSN curriculum that does not mandate specific prerequisites. Students have the flexibility to complete integrated science courses over three years of full-time study or take longer if opting for a part-time schedule. Faculty members are highly engaged and provide strong mentorship to foster student success.
Conclusion
Nursing is a fulfilling and impactful career, but traditional academic pathways can present obstacles for some aspiring nurses. By choosing a nursing school that does not require prerequisites, students can bypass common barriers and enter the field with a structured, integrated approach to learning.
These programs are particularly beneficial for career changers, individuals with non-traditional educational backgrounds, and those who need flexibility in their academic journey. With proper academic support and commitment, students can thrive in nursing school and embark on a rewarding career in healthcare. If you are passionate about nursing but concerned about meeting prerequisites, these schools offer excellent opportunities to achieve your goals.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working professional looking for a career change, or someone who previously struggled with science courses, there is a path to nursing that fits your unique situation. Explore these programs, reach out to academic advisors, and take the next step toward becoming a registered nurse!
