Nursing

Associate in Applied Science
Career Degree
Cost
$17,034*

Help others get well

Learn the basics of healthcare

You need a servant’s heart and a lot of expertise to excel as a nurse, and College of Lake County can help you prepare for this challenging yet rewarding career.

Not only are we affordable (our tuition is about one-fourth that of Illinois four-year colleges), our graduates consistently pass the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX) at or above the state and national average.

Program completion rates

Become a Registered Nurse (RN) once you graduate from the nursing program. CLC students are successful in completing the program:

  • Fall 2022
    61% in 4 semesters
    82% in 6 semesters
  • Spring 2022
    56% in 4 semesters
    75% in 6 semesters
  • Fall 2021
    66% in 4 semesters
    81% in 6 semesters

NCLEX pass rates

You'll be prepared to take the Registered Nurse Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN®), developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). CLC students pass the NCLEX test:

  • 2023 - 92%
  • 2022 - 81%
  • 2021 - 84%

Job placement rates

You'll find a job after graduating within nine months after graduating from CLC.

  • 2021-2022 - 91%
  • 2020-2021 - 89%
  • 2019-2020 - 88%

What can you do with an A.A.S. in Nursing?

The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in nursing prepares you to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). There are many opportunities to continue your education to your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and beyond.

Nurses are in high demand, and the growth opportunities in health care are abundant. Choose this program if you’re dedicated and ready to succeed.

See what students love about the nursing program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

Highlights

  • Approved by IL Board of Nursing

    CLC's nursing program is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial Professional Regulation, Board of Nursing.

  • ACEN Accreditation

    Accredited by Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN)

  • PATH Grant Stipends

    Get extra financial support for school and living expenses through the Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce Program (PATH) grant.

  • WIOA Program

    Eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Career Degree

    Earn an associate degree in 2 years and gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills.

  • Program Length: 2 Years

    Full-time students finish in 2 years.


Accreditation

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) logoCollege of Lake County's nursing program is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Board of Nursing, 320 West Washington Street, Springfield, IL 62786 and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326, 404-975-5000.

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate Degree Nursing Program is continuing accreditation.

Career Outlook

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) helps you

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    BIO 123

    BIO 123 Principles of Biology

    Class Description

    This course introduces basic biological principles of life processes held in common by all organisms. Topics covered include the chemical and physical basis of life, cell structure and function, concepts of heredity, population genetics, and evolution. Note: Though this course will provide a general understanding of the basics of cellular biology qualifying it as general education course it will also provide a foundation for those students potentially entering an allied health program (dental hygiene, nursing, medical images, etc.).
         		4
    CHM 120

    CHM 120 Chemical Concepts

    Class Description

    A survey course that includes the fundamentals of chemical composition, chemical calculations, solutions, states of matter, the periodic table, acids, bases and pH, radioactivity and nuclear processes, and a brief overview of organic and biochemistry. NOTE: Recommended for non-science majors.
         		4
    ENG 121

    ENG 121 English Composition I

    Class Description

    This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
         		3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 123
      Course Title

      BIO 123 Principles of Biology

      Class Description

      This course introduces basic biological principles of life processes held in common by all organisms. Topics covered include the chemical and physical basis of life, cell structure and function, concepts of heredity, population genetics, and evolution. Note: Though this course will provide a general understanding of the basics of cellular biology qualifying it as general education course it will also provide a foundation for those students potentially entering an allied health program (dental hygiene, nursing, medical images, etc.).
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CHM 120
      Course Title

      CHM 120 Chemical Concepts

      Class Description

      A survey course that includes the fundamentals of chemical composition, chemical calculations, solutions, states of matter, the periodic table, acids, bases and pH, radioactivity and nuclear processes, and a brief overview of organic and biochemistry. NOTE: Recommended for non-science majors.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 121
      Course Title

      ENG 121 English Composition I

      Class Description

      This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    BIO 246

    BIO 246 Microbiology

    Class Description

    This course examines microorganisms with an emphasis on the bacterial groups. Morphology, principal activities and properties of bacteria, yeasts, molds, viruses, selected algae, and protozoan will be discussed. The role of microorganisms in natural systems, infection, immunity, foods, and industry will be covered. Laboratory techniques in handling, culturing, and identifying microorganisms will be emphasized.
         		4
    BIO 244

    BIO 244 Anatomy and Physiology I

    Class Description

    This course is the first of a two semester Anatomy and Physiology sequence that begins with an introduction to homeostasis and feedback loops. The structure and function of the following body systems will be explored: the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system and nervous system. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. Human skeletons, human models, human donors (cadavers), and preserved animal organs are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
         		4
    • Course Code BIO 246
      Course Title

      BIO 246 Microbiology

      Class Description

      This course examines microorganisms with an emphasis on the bacterial groups. Morphology, principal activities and properties of bacteria, yeasts, molds, viruses, selected algae, and protozoan will be discussed. The role of microorganisms in natural systems, infection, immunity, foods, and industry will be covered. Laboratory techniques in handling, culturing, and identifying microorganisms will be emphasized.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 244
      Course Title

      BIO 244 Anatomy and Physiology I

      Class Description

      This course is the first of a two semester Anatomy and Physiology sequence that begins with an introduction to homeostasis and feedback loops. The structure and function of the following body systems will be explored: the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system and nervous system. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. Human skeletons, human models, human donors (cadavers), and preserved animal organs are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    BIO 245

    BIO 245 Anatomy and Physiology II

    Class Description

    This course is a continuation of BIO 244. It builds on the general information about homeostasis and the specific body systems covered in BIO 244. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. This course begins with the endocrine system, followed by the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, digestive system (including metabolism), urinary system (including fluid and electrolyte regulation), and the reproductive system. Human skeletons, human models, human donors (cadavers), and preserved animal organs are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
         		4
    NUR 133

    NUR 133 Foundational Concepts of Nursing Practice

    Class Description

    This course introduces the nursing process and the nursing assessment of patients and families in various clinical settings within the health care system. There is a focus on physical assessment, therapeutic communication and the role of the professional nurse. Students will learn clinical decision making and develop critical thinking skills. The course introduces pharmacology, information technology, and introductory nursing skills required for safe and effective patient care. The course focuses on the adult population and evidence-based practice with special emphasis on the older adult.
         		8
    PSY 121

    PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

    Class Description

    This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
         		3
    • Course Code BIO 245
      Course Title

      BIO 245 Anatomy and Physiology II

      Class Description

      This course is a continuation of BIO 244. It builds on the general information about homeostasis and the specific body systems covered in BIO 244. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. This course begins with the endocrine system, followed by the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, digestive system (including metabolism), urinary system (including fluid and electrolyte regulation), and the reproductive system. Human skeletons, human models, human donors (cadavers), and preserved animal organs are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code NUR 133
      Course Title

      NUR 133 Foundational Concepts of Nursing Practice

      Class Description

      This course introduces the nursing process and the nursing assessment of patients and families in various clinical settings within the health care system. There is a focus on physical assessment, therapeutic communication and the role of the professional nurse. Students will learn clinical decision making and develop critical thinking skills. The course introduces pharmacology, information technology, and introductory nursing skills required for safe and effective patient care. The course focuses on the adult population and evidence-based practice with special emphasis on the older adult.
      Credits 8
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 121
      Course Title

      PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

      Class Description

      This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    NUR 134

    NUR 134 Medical Surgical Nursing

    Class Description

    This course builds upon NUR 133 and focuses on assessment of primarily adult populations with acute and chronic health disorders. The course expands on skills of critical thinking, clinical decision making, and interventions for patients with acute and chronic illnesses. The course provides the opportunity to work collaboratively with the healthcare team in patient care planning building on evidence-based practices. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
         		8
    PSY 220

    PSY 220 Lifespan Development

    Class Description

    This course integrates theory and research as they relate to neurobiological, cognitive, social and emotional development of individuals in cultural context from conception throughout adulthood. The course emphasizes both normal and atypical developmental stages and patterns of adjustment to differing life-time demands. Students will gain an understanding of hereditary and environmental factors on development; prenatal development and the birth process; physical development; language and cognitive development; family relationships; friend and peer relations; school, college, and career experiences; identity; gender; sexuality and health; the aging process and death and dying; as well as the research methods psychologists use to study development.
         		3
    HUM 127

    HUM 127 Critical Thinking

    Class Description

    Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
         		3
    • Course Code NUR 134
      Course Title

      NUR 134 Medical Surgical Nursing

      Class Description

      This course builds upon NUR 133 and focuses on assessment of primarily adult populations with acute and chronic health disorders. The course expands on skills of critical thinking, clinical decision making, and interventions for patients with acute and chronic illnesses. The course provides the opportunity to work collaboratively with the healthcare team in patient care planning building on evidence-based practices. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
      Credits 8
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 220
      Course Title

      PSY 220 Lifespan Development

      Class Description

      This course integrates theory and research as they relate to neurobiological, cognitive, social and emotional development of individuals in cultural context from conception throughout adulthood. The course emphasizes both normal and atypical developmental stages and patterns of adjustment to differing life-time demands. Students will gain an understanding of hereditary and environmental factors on development; prenatal development and the birth process; physical development; language and cognitive development; family relationships; friend and peer relations; school, college, and career experiences; identity; gender; sexuality and health; the aging process and death and dying; as well as the research methods psychologists use to study development.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUM 127
      Course Title

      HUM 127 Critical Thinking

      Class Description

      Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CMM 121

    CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

    Class Description

    For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
         		3
    NUR 230

    NUR 230 Nursing Care of Special Patient Populations

    Class Description

    This course focuses on nursing care of special populations in Maternity, Pediatric and Mental Health. Specific concepts of health and illness of these individuals form the basis of planning and implementing culturally diverse, age-appropriate nursing care. The nurse develops this care through the use of the nursing process, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
         		8
    • Course Code CMM 121
      Course Title

      CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

      Class Description

      For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code NUR 230
      Course Title

      NUR 230 Nursing Care of Special Patient Populations

      Class Description

      This course focuses on nursing care of special populations in Maternity, Pediatric and Mental Health. Specific concepts of health and illness of these individuals form the basis of planning and implementing culturally diverse, age-appropriate nursing care. The nurse develops this care through the use of the nursing process, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
      Credits 8
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    ANT 221

    ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology

    Class Description

    This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.
         		3
    NUR 234

    NUR 234 Complex Medical, Surgical, and Leadership Nursing

    Class Description

    This course builds upon previous nursing courses and focuses on assessment of individuals with multiple and complex health disorders, leadership development and transition into practice. The course includes clinical decision making and care coordination for all patients. The course focuses upon application of the nursing process to a group of patients using delegation, collaboration, prioritizing and leadership skills. Students are engaged in evidence-based practice activities. A primary focus of this course will be transition to practice as a registered nurse. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
         		9
    • Course Code ANT 221
      Course Title

      ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology

      Class Description

      This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code NUR 234
      Course Title

      NUR 234 Complex Medical, Surgical, and Leadership Nursing

      Class Description

      This course builds upon previous nursing courses and focuses on assessment of individuals with multiple and complex health disorders, leadership development and transition into practice. The course includes clinical decision making and care coordination for all patients. The course focuses upon application of the nursing process to a group of patients using delegation, collaboration, prioritizing and leadership skills. Students are engaged in evidence-based practice activities. A primary focus of this course will be transition to practice as a registered nurse. Instructional methodologies include patient-centered clinical experiences and structured classroom student-teacher interactions.
      Credits 9
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

72

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.



Female student taking notes in class

Nursing at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This degree is just one possible way to study Nursing. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Nursing Program Overview

Frequently asked questions

  • Photo of a small group of CLC nursing students

    Johnnie Lovelace

    Graduate

    “What I liked about the nursing program here was that it was a small community. You feel more at home in a smaller group.”

    After graduating from CLC's nursing program, Johnnie worked in emergency rooms, ICUs, clinics and home health settings. She currently is CEO of three assisted living facilities in Atlanta.

    Read nursing student stories

    Photo of a small group of CLC nursing students

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Visit us

Get a feel for life on campus when you register for a tour. We'd love to show you around. Oh, and bring family and friends along for the fun, if you want!

Take a tour

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!
1/4