Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing · ADN

Associate of Arts in Nursing (ADN) Program

Prepare for entry-level registered nursing through classroom instruction, laboratory learning and clinical training. MFSON’s Associate of Arts in Nursing program combines six 16-week semesters over 24 months with ongoing preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination.

CredentialAssociate of Arts in Nursing
Program typePreparation for RN licensure
Time to complete24 months
StructureSix 16-week semesters
Learning formatClassroom + lab + clinical
Licensure examNCLEX-RN
ON THIS PAGE
The short version

Build the foundation for your registered nursing career.

The ADN program provides year-round nursing education over six 16-week semesters. Students receive classroom, laboratory and clinical instruction in fundamentals, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, obstetrics and pediatric nursing. Graduates must be eligible through the nursing board and pass the NCLEX-RN before practicing as registered nurses.

24-month programYear-round studyNCLEX-RN preparation

Contact Admissions for current application requirements, program schedules and enrollment availability.

01
PROGRESS

Six semesters

Study year-round through six 16-week semesters over 24 months.

02
PRACTICE

Hands-on learning

Connect classroom education with laboratory practice and clinical instruction across nursing specialties.

03
LICENSURE PREPARATION

NCLEX-RN preparation

Ongoing exam preparation and personalized remediation support students as they work toward licensure.

04
SUPPORT

Career preparation

Faculty and career services assist with interviewing skills, resume building and preparation for the job search.

HOW LEARNING WORKS

Learn the science. Practice nursing care.
Prepare for professional responsibilities.

The ADN program combines classroom education, laboratory instruction and clinical experiences.

Classroom Coursework

Study nursing fundamentals, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, mental health, obstetrics, pediatrics and medical-surgical nursing.

Laboratory Learning

Develop knowledge of body systems, microbiology and essential nursing procedures through laboratory study and practical learning.

Patient-Care Skills

Build patient assessment, documentation, medication and treatment skills, care planning, teamwork and patient education.

Clinical Learning + NCLEX Review

Apply nursing knowledge in clinical settings and prepare for the NCLEX-RN through ongoing review and personalized remediation.

Nursing education at MFSON

Nursing education built around patient care.

MFSON nursing education connects academic learning with practical skills, clinical experience and professional development.

Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing program learning
ADN nursing education
Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing student
Student-centered learning
Nursing education at Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing
Learning for professional practice
Complete ADN curriculum

Explore the ADN curriculum.

Courses are organized into four learning areas. Open a course below to read its description.

24months

21courses listed

616-week semesters

01

Science foundations

Study anatomy, human physiology and microbiology through lecture and laboratory coursework.

A study of the microscopic and macroscopic structures of the human body. Emphasis on cell structures, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive systems of the body including disorders of these structures and respective pathologies. Laboratory activities as related to body systems/parts. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

A laboratory investigation of both the microscopic and macroscopic structures of the human body. Emphasis on cell structures, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive systems of the body including disorders of these structures and respective pathologies. Laboratory activities will also incorporate dissection studies of the fetal pig related to analogous body systems/parts. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

The study of the dynamic nature of life processes in the human body including cell physiology and functions and inter-relations of the organ systems. Laboratory experience utilizing experimentation and scientific reasoning is an integral part of the course. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

The study of the dynamic nature of life processes in the human body including cell physiology and functions and inter-relations of the organ systems. Laboratory experience in utilizing experimentation and scientific reasoning is an integral part of the course. This is the lab complement to the Human Physiology lecture course. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course is designed as an introduction to microbiology, genetics, taxonomy, metabolism, controlling microbes, and immunology. Laboratory experience in order: staining, culturing, analysis and classification of microorganisms. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course is designed as an introduction to Microbiology, pathogenicity, microbial morphology, genetics, taxonomy, metabolism, controlling microbes and immunology. Laboratory experience in order: staining, culturing, analysis and classification of microorganisms. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

02

Communication, people and society

Develop communication skills and understanding of psychology, sociology and human development.

The main purpose of English 101 is to introduce the college student to the conventions of academic writing and critical thinking. In this course you will analyze and write about selected readings assigned to you. It is an objective of this course that you learn to compose an effective essay. Upon completion of this course you will have gained the skills necessary to express your ideas in written form in a clear, concise, articulate, and grammatically correct manner. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

Survey of introductory topics such as learning, memory, sensation and perception, personality, life-span development, physiological basis of human behavior which includes: human sexuality, personality, stress and coping, relationships, psychological disorders and psychotherapeutic as well as pharmacotherapeutic interventions. Additional topics such as stress and health, psychological disorders, social psychology, and research methods may also be addressed. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course enables the student to understand the ways that communication affects and relates to everyday experiences. COM101 is a fundamentals course that introduces the principles of effectively preparing, presenting, and critically consuming messages in nonverbal, one-on-one, small group, workplace, and public speaking contexts. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course provides an introduction to sociology, “the systematic study of the relationship between individuals and society” (Croteau and Hoynes, p.5). The students will become familiar with sociology as an academic discipline. This course is a study of human relationships as they apply to social institutions and culture. The analysis of human behavior and needs as relate to the development of social organized groups is emphasized. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

A survey of the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social factors in human development from conception to death. There will be an emphasis on understanding people at various ages of development in order to be more patient with them and to interact with them more effectively. This course will help the student develop a better understanding of people who are at a different stage in life than the one they are currently in. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

03

Nursing care across the lifespan

Study fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, specialty patient care and pharmacology.

An introduction to the basic concepts of nursing: Nursing process, critical thinking, nursing theory, and patient-centered care. Concepts of pharmacology, nutrition, the healthcare team, and basic nursing interventions skills are introduced. Other topics presented are views of health and different healthcare team members. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

The introductory medical surgical course delivers general assessment and alternations of health of various chronic disorders and their nursing management. Concepts of genetics, cancer, rehabilitation and perioperative care are also covered. The clinical experience will focus on providing basic patient care applying theoretical knowledge, analysis of medical management, and the nursing management of the hospitalized adult as a member of the healthcare team. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course introduces the student to the nursing care of the pediatric patient and their families. Concepts of growth and development, anticipatory guidance, health promotion and prevention are presented. Nursing care for children with chronic illness, acute illness, pain management, and life threating conditions are also discussed. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course focuses on the nursing care of women from young adulthood to the older adult stage. Concepts of health promotion prevention, common health concerns and reproductive health for women is presented. Theories and perceptions of parenthood, pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care are also discussed. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

This course provides students with nursing management for mental and psychiatric disorders and the corresponding nursing management. Standards of care and safety are discussed. Different intervention modalities are also presented. The student is also given ways to care for self. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

The intermediate medical surgical course focuses on the care of the older adult. The student develops skills to care for patients with many health, cultural, spiritual, and psychosocial needs. Alterations in health focuses on a variety of typical disorders of the older adult. Concepts of rehabilitation and perioperative care are also covered. The clinical experience will focus on providing basic patient care applying theoretical knowledge, analysis of medical management, and the nursing management of the hospitalized adult with chronic illness and working with the healthcare team. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

Pharmacological concepts important to nursing practice are discussed. Topics include general pharmacology concepts; safety of medication administration and risk reduction; types of mediations by system; pain management; life span considerations; herbals and supplements. Other topic includes cultural aspects of medication and patient adherence strategies. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

04

Advanced care and transition to practice

Prepare for complex care, professional responsibilities and the NCLEX-RN.

Advanced medical surgical nursing care provides students with a focus on critically ill and emergency patients; and different levels of floor nursing experiences. Patients with common critical illness and emergency presentations give students an opportunity to use prior nursing education for complex health assessment and setting priorities. Community base care is introduced in management of communicable disease, terrorism, mass causality, and disaster nursing. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

Provides content related to moving into the role of professional nursing practice using knowledge acquisition from student education and experiences. Leadership methods, prioritization and delegation are explored. Information about obtaining a license and preparing for the role of professional nursing is discussed. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

Preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam is the focus of this course. A self-assessment of knowledge and personalized plan is designed to concentrate the student’s efforts in preparing for state boards. Outside preparation and study time, in addition to regular classroom activities, is required to complete the class assignments. The type of outside preparation may take the form of homework assignments, projects, reading, and required studying.

Contact Admissions for current course scheduling, program requirements and enrollment information.

Approval, accreditation + licensure

Understand program approval and California licensure.

Review the program’s approval, accreditation and licensure information before applying.

PROGRAM APPROVAL

California BRN approval

The Associate of Arts in Nursing program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Graduates must be made eligible by the BRN before taking the NCLEX-RN.

ACCREDITATION

Accreditation information

The program’s published information identifies ABHES accreditation at Glendale Career College, North-West College San Diego, North-West College Bakersfield and North-West College West Covina.

California licensure pathway

The Associate of Arts in Nursing program meets the educational requirements for registered nurse licensure in California. California requires completion of a 58-semester-credit nursing program at a BRN-approved institution. Graduates must also pass the NCLEX-RN.

The College has not made a determination that this program meets registered nurse licensure requirements in any other state. For Las Vegas program information, review the Nevada campus page.

career context

Prepare for nursing practice across a range of settings.

Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and families, and work with other healthcare professionals. Career settings include hospitals, medical clinics, physicians’ offices, nursing and residential care, outpatient clinics, schools, government health organizations, correctional facilities, home health and military services.

Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing cannot guarantee employment. Individual roles depend on licensure, experience, additional qualifications and employer requirements.

Admissions + next steps

Take the next step toward the ADN program.

Contact Admissions to discuss current requirements, program schedules and enrollment opportunities.

Request ADN information

Choose your campus and the associate degree nursing program so your inquiry reaches the appropriate team.

Review admission criteria

Read the published ADN admission criteria and discuss the requirements with Admissions.

Apply online

Use the nursing application to begin the application process and follow the Admissions team’s instructions.

Discuss your program plans

Ask about current schedules, enrollment availability, nursing education and preparation for licensure.

Nursing education at Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing
Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing
Where you will learn

Explore MFSON campuses and plan a visit.

Find campus contact information, program offerings and tour options. Confirm the program available at your preferred location.

Frequently asked questions

Practical answers about the ADN program.

Explore program length, learning format, curriculum and professional preparation.

The ADN program prepares students for entry-level registered nursing through classroom, laboratory and clinical instruction. Graduates must meet nursing board requirements and pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed registered nurses.

The program consists of six 16-week semesters over 24 months, with year-round study. Contact Admissions for current schedules and enrollment information.

Students receive classroom, laboratory and clinical instruction in nursing fundamentals, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, obstetrics and pediatrics.

The page lists 21 courses, including science and laboratory foundations, communication and social science, nursing care across the lifespan, pharmacology, transition to registered nursing and NCLEX Review.

Yes. The College provides ongoing NCLEX-RN preparation and personalized remediation. The curriculum also includes an NCLEX Review course.

Review the published ADN admission criteria and contact Admissions to discuss current requirements.

Military healthcare training and experience may be reviewed for nursing course credit. Credit is not automatic and depends on review and required assessments. Read the Military training credit policy (PDF) and discuss your circumstances with Admissions.

No. Graduates must apply through the nursing board, be found eligible and pass the NCLEX-RN. Program completion alone does not grant a nursing license.

The program meets the educational requirements for registered nurse licensure in California. The College has not determined that this program meets another state’s registered nurse licensure requirements. Review campus-specific program information when considering another location.

Settings include hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, nursing facilities, outpatient care, schools, government organizations, correctional facilities, home healthcare and military services. Qualifications vary by role and employer.

Faculty and career services assist with interviewing skills, resume building and preparation for the nursing job search. Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing does not guarantee employment.

Keep exploring

Explore your nursing pathway and campus options.

Your next step

Ready to learn more about ADN?

Request information and an Admissions representative can help you understand the program, current availability and application process.