Free College Starts Here. Do you qualify? Click here

Nursing (RN)

Associate of Science Degree

Overview

The Quincy College Associate of Science Degree in Nursing curriculum is based on sound educational principles and follows the mission, philosophy, and outcomes identified for the program and for the students. The curriculum design is a blended competency and concept-based curriculum. Delivery of the curriculum is through an active learning environment that encourages individual student contributions as they learn and achieve. This requires faculty to be actively involved with students in the classroom through mutual respect, responsibility, and collaboration. The teaching skills needed to deliver the concept-based curriculum require consideration of the diverse student backgrounds and perspectives that are represented in our student body.

The faculty also believe in delivering a curriculum that represents current nursing practice at the level of nursing for which the student is preparing. As demonstrated by the curriculum materials, the programs include the development of nursing critical thinking/clinical reasoning; leadership and management skills; professional role socialization (including legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities) consistent with the level of licensure; and, the ability to delegate, supervise others, and provide leadership. All these components are included in the curricula as required by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, 244 CMR 6.04.

Apply to the Surgical Technology  Join the next Surgical Technology Info Session

Questions

Jennifer Davis, Office of Admissions
jdavis@quincycollege.edu | (617) 984-1715

Academic Division of Nursing Mission

The Mission of the Academic Division of Nursing is congruent with the mission, values, and goals of Quincy College.  The mission of the nursing program is to prepare each graduate for success on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX®) to ensure graduates safely practice nursing with professional competence and care holistically for individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds. The graduate will function as an integral member of the inter-professional team with a commitment to educational advancement and lifelong learning.

The Academic Division of Nursing at Quincy College provides clinical education for our students at top healthcare facilities and in community settings in Massachusetts including:

  • Beth Israel Deaconess Plymouth
  • Boston Medical Center
  • Bournewood Hospital
  • Hancock Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
  • Hebrew Rehabilitation Center
  • Life Care Center of Plymouth
  • Quincy Public Schools
  • Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
  • South Shore Hospital
  • Walden Behavioral Care

Board of Registration in Nursing

The Quincy College Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN) program has full approval granted by the Massachusetts Board of Registered Nursing (MABORN).  For more information, contact MABORN on the web at http://www.mass.gov/dph/boards or at 250 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108, or by phone (800) 414-0168 or Alt. (617) 973-0900.

Effective 1/16/24, the ASN nursing programs at Quincy College at the Quincy/Plymouth campuses located in MA is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This candidacy status expires on 1/16/25. Visit http://www.acenursing.org for more information.

NCLEX-RN® Pass Rates for Quincy Campus

Year ASN Graduates First-Time NCLEX-RN® MA Pass rate National Pass Rate
(U.S. Educated)
2021 22 94% 86% 82%
2022 21 73% 82% 80%
2023 11 Pending Pending Pending

NCLEX-RN® Pass Rates for Plymouth Campus

Year ASN Graduates First-Time NCLEX-RN® MA Pass rate (U.S. Educated)
2021 18 89% 86% 82%
2022 13 85% 82% 80%
2023 13 Pending Pending Pending

Nursing (RN) Courses
    •  
    • Code
    • Course
    • Credits
    • BIO 111
    • General Biology I w/Lab
    • 4
    An introductory course in Biology with main emphasis on cell structure and function. Lecture topics include: Gene structure and inheritance, study of plants and fungi, evolution, and ecology. Extensive discussion of concerns facing humanity today including quality of nutrition, environmental pollution, genetic engineering, inheritable diseases, and birth defects. Safety protocols must be observed in all lab classes. These include: no food, no drink, and no open-toe shoes, appropriate clothing. Only registered students may enter labs. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • BIO 131
    • Anatomy & Physiology I w/ Lab
    • 4
    This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body from the cellular level to the systemic level. Topics include: anatomical terminology, molecules, cells, basic histology, and organs. The integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems are also studied. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised. Prerequisite: BIO 111 with “C” or better.
    • BIO 132
    • Anatomy & Physiology II w/ Lab
    • 4
    This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body including the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Prerequisite: BIO 131 with “C” or better.
    • BIO 251
    • Microbiology w/Lab
    • 4
    A study of non-pathogenic and pathogenic microorganisms designed primarily for students in the health sciences area. Topics covered include: microbial characteristics, control of microorganisms, defenses of the host, and cause, prevention, and control of infectious diseases. Microbial metabolism, structure and classification will be looked at first, followed by host- pathogen interactions and immunology. The laboratory includes basic techniques in staining, cultivation, and identification of microorganisms. Prerequisite: BIO 111 with “C” or better.
    • ENG 101
    • English Composition I
    • 3
    A required course for all students who have demonstrated acceptable writing proficiency as measured by a standard test or satisfactory completion of ENG 090. This course will emphasize developing the student’s ability to articulate his/her thoughts in writing a coherent, unified, and well- structured composition. The student will write a series of papers. The student will also learn the techniques needed to produce a library research paper. The required research paper is a major component of the course.
    • ENG 102
    • English Composition II
    • 3
    A required course, which introduces the student to themes and techniques in the basic genres of literature: the short story, drama, and poetry. Expository papers may be written in response to ideas embodied in literature. Prerequisite: ENG 101 or permission of instructor.
    • MAT 103
    • College Algebra
    • 3
    This college level algebra course expands upon a student’s knowledge by further developing algebraic concepts. Topics include graphing equations with an introduction to functions, factoring polynomials, operations on rational functions, simplifying rational exponents, and solving quadratic equations. Students will be required to complete homework assignments using a web-based computer program. Prerequisite: Appropriate score on the placement test or successful completion of MAT 097.
    • PSY 101
    • General Psychology
    • 3
    This course is an introduction to the basic concepts, major theories, different theoretical perspectives and research methods in psychology. The focus is on theories of personality, motivation, learning, intelligence, emotions, developmental processes, physiological psychology, perception, and psychological assessment. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • PSY 216
    • Growth & Development
    • 3
    This course explores human growth and development across the lifespan, from how the fetus develops a preference for familiar voices, to the adolescent identity crisis, to the development of wisdom in late adulthood. The course is organized around major developmental periods in the lifespan. Contributions of significant developmental theorists are highlighted. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • RNU 100
    • Pharmacology for Nursing
    • 3
    Principles of pharmacology and pathophysiology are presented in an integrated manner to provide a basis for the study of selected medications that are used to treat or manage diseases with an application to nursing practice. Pathophysiology relates manifestations of disease, risk factors for disease, and the principles of pathology underlying illness and injury to therapeutic nursing interventions and outcomes. Pharmacology focuses on the basic drug classification, concepts and principles of pharmacology with special consideration for the nursing role in developing a comprehensive approach to the clinical application of drug therapy using the nursing process. Nursing implications relative to the utilization of drug therapy are examined.
    • RNU 108
    • Fundamental Concepts of Client Care
    • 7
    This course is designed to introduce the student to the foundational principles of contemporary nursing practice. The focus is on fundamental concepts necessary for safe, patient-centered nursing care for a diverse patient population with well-defined healthcare concerns. Legal and ethical responsibilities of the Registered Nurse will be introduced. The student will begin to use clinical reasoning as applied to nursing practice. Other topics discussed include the nursing process, cultural diversity, and communication techniques utilized when interacting with patients, families, other support persons, and members of the interprofessional team. Other program concepts such as evidence-based care, teamwork/collaboration and information technology are also introduced. Select nursing skills are taught in the skills/simulation laboratory; theory and skills are applied in various clinical settings.

    Total per semester: 60 hrs. Classroom / 30 hrs. Skills/Simulation Lab / 90 hrs. Clinical
    Pre-requisites: ENG 101; MAT 103 or 107 (107 is preferred); BIO 111 with lab (this is a required prerequisite to BIO 131 and BIO 251); BIO 131 with lab
    • RNU 109
    • Concepts of Adult Health Nursing I / Mental Health Nursing
    • 10
    This course applies concepts of nursing practice to the acquisition and application of adult health nursing theory in the care of diverse patients with acute and chronic conditions. This includes patients needing various levels of health promotion and mental health management, their families, and other support persons. The course incorporates the legal and ethical responsibilities of the Registered Nurse in the care of adult and mental health patients. Application of knowledge, patient care skills, and clinical reasoning will occur in a variety of clinical settings.

    Total per semester: 75 hrs. Classroom / 30 hrs. Skills/Simulation Lab / 180 hrs. Clinical
    Pre-requisites: RNU 108; ENG 102; PSY 101; BIO 132 with lab
    • RNU 206
    • Concepts of Family-Centered Nursing
    • 10
    This course applies concepts of nursing practice to the acquisition and application of family nursing theory, including care of a diverse population of children and the childbearing family. The course also applies legal and ethical responsibilities of the Registered Nurse to the care of children and the family. Application of knowledge, patient care skills, and clinical reasoning will occur in a variety of clinical settings.

    Total per semester: 75 hrs. Classroom / 30 hrs. Skills/Simulation Lab / 180 hrs. Clinical
    Pre-requisites: RNU 109; PSY 216
    • RNU 207
    • Nursing Informatics, Leadership and Trends
    • 3
    This course introduces the student to theory, structure, and application of nursing informatics with a focus on leadership and health-related trends. The course will explore how to identify, define, manage, and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom to enhance nursing practice. The student will demonstrate a mastery of fundamental skills in using computer technology and the ability to access, process, and assess information efficiently using health information technology tools. The student will identify how meaningful use of information and communication will improve care coordination, quality and safety, and the health of patients, families, and communities worldwide. The student will demonstrate how nursing informatics supports nurses, consumers, patients, the interprofessional health care team, and other stakeholders in their decision making in all roles and settings to achieve desired outcomes.

    Total per semester: 45 hrs. Classroom/Computer Lab
    Pre-requisite: RNU 206; Co-requisite: RNU 208
    • RNU 208
    • Concepts of Complex Nursing Care
    • 10
    This comprehensive course expands upon the interrelated concepts of nursing practice for the application, analysis and acquisition of care of complex adult patients. The course addresses healthcare quality measures leading to optimal healthcare outcomes. Legal and ethical responsibilities of the Registered Nurse are integrated. Integration of knowledge and mastery of patient care skills and clinical reasoning occurs in a variety of clinical settings and in the simulation laboratory. In final preparation for entry into professional practice, the learner will be encouraged to utilize more independent critical thinking and decision-making skills to formulate nursing clinical judgments.

    Total per semester: 75 hrs. Classroom / 30 hrs. Skills/Simulation Lab / 180 hrs. Clinical
    Pre-requisites: RNU 206; BIO 251 with lab; HIS or GOV course; Co-requisite: RNU 207

Admission Requirements

Fall 2024 Admissions: Must be completed PRIOR to submitting an application

  • Proof of high school/GED completion
  • Official transcripts from previously attended colleges (if applicable)
  • Attend a Nursing Information Session
  • HESI A2 Admission Exam
  • ENG 101: English Composition I
  • MAT 103: College Algebra OR MAT 107 Statistics (preferred)
  • BIO 111: General Biology I w/lab
  • BIO 131: Anatomy & Physiology I w/lab
  • BIO 132: Anatomy & Physiology II w/lab

Prerequisites

  • Accepted with a grade of C (73+) or better
  • All pre-requisites must be completed by May 2024
  • Sciences must have been taken within the last 5 years (Fall 2019 or later)
  • Some prerequisites can be satisfied upon a transfer evaluation of prior high school or college coursework

Co-Requisites: (preference will be given to those who have these completed PRIOR to the program)

  • ENG 102: English Composition II
  • BIO 251: Microbiology
  • PSY 101: General Psychology
  • PSY 216: Human Growth & Development
  • HIS/GOV core (HIS 101, HIS 102, GOV 201 or GOV 211)

HESI A2 Admission Exam:

  • MUST be taken in person at a Prometric Testing Center (See HESI A2 Exam Information Fall 2025)
  • Maximum of 3 attempts allowed per academic year (must wait 30 days prior to retesting)
  • A composite score of 75% is required
  • Subjects: Math 75%,  English Language 75%,  Science 75% (Biology, Anatomy & Physiology)

 

The Academic Division of Nursing will evaluate only those applicants who took the HESI A2 Admission exam on or after September 1, 2023. If an applicant fails to meet the minimum required composite score indicated above, they may take the HESI A2 Admission exam a maximum of three times in an academic year (September 1st through August 31st). Applicants must wait 30 days prior to each retest. Applicants will be required to retake all sections. HESI A2 Admission exam registration is available online: www.prometric.com.

Please Note: At this time, Quincy College’s Nursing program can only accept applicants who are Massachusetts residents due to onsite program requirements.

HESI A2 Exam Info

All students applying to the Associate of Science in Nursing Degree Program are required to take the HESI A2 RN Admission Assessment exam with Critical Thinking for the fall 2025 admission cycle. The HESI A2 exam assesses an applicant’s academic readiness and is a predictor for success in the first semester of a nursing program. Preparing for the HESI Admission Exam.

Preparation

Preparing for the HESI A2 Exam is essential and strongly recommended. Elsevier publishes a review book specifically for this exam, HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review, 6th Edition. The review book is available online or at bookstores such as Barnes and Noble and is also available for purchase through Quincy College’s Barnes & Noble campus bookstore.

The book will include samples of test questions from the subject areas (i.e., English Language, Math, Science) on the HESI Exam as well as information about test question formats. It will highlight important concepts and provide tips for studying and test-taking. It also offers a 25-question pre-test at the beginning of the review book that helps you assess your areas of strength and areas requiring more preparation before using the review book, along with a 50-question comprehensive post-test that covers all the text’s subject areas. The questions will also include rationales for correct/incorrect answers. Other online preparation courses, flashcards, and review materials are available via an internet search.

When to take the HESI A2 Exam

Students typically take the HESI Exam during the fall or spring semester immediately prior to applying to the ASN program. The HESI A2 is required to be taken in-person at a Prometric Testing Center. No remote or virtual test results will be accepted for admission consideration. You will have up to 4.5 hours to take the HESI A2 Admission Exam.

Required Scores

An applicant may take the HESI A2 up to three times within two years prior to the application deadline (May 31, 2025) for Fall 2025. A 30-day wait period is required between exam retakes. The required composite score is 75%. There is Version #2 and Version #2. When retesting after taking Version #1, select Version #2 for any retakes after the 30 day wait period.

Note: Please review the Preparing for the HESI Admission Exam handout for the specific categories. Please note that Physics and Chemistry are not included as part of the Quincy College Admission HESI A2 Exam.

Cost

The cost of the HESI A2 is per the Prometric testing Center payable when you register for the exam date via their website: www.prometric.com

You might also be interested in...

  • related_0

    Nursing (LPN)

    Quincy College's Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing, is a blend of Nurse of the Future Competencies and concept-based curriculum.

  • related_1

    Admissions

    Becoming a Quincy College student is as simple as meeting with our Admissions team.

  • related_2

    Areas of Study

    Quincy College is a unique learning environment where cultures meet, join forces, and weave a global context around college academics.

  • related_3

    Certified Nursing Assistant

    The Certified Nursing Assistant Program prepares students to take the MA State CNA exam & become a member of (DPH) the professional registry.

Take the Next Step

Scroll To Top