Nursing - Associate Degree
As a nurse, you make a difference in the lives of your patients. You plan, provide, and evaluate patient care. You act as a liaison between physicians, other health care workers, and the patient. You also supervise other health care providers. Why choose the ADN program at NWTC? Quality – NWTC ADN graduates take the same national licensing exam that graduates from four-year colleges and universities do, and NWTC graduates consistently score above the national average. Success – NWTC nursing graduates report greater than 90 percent job placement as RNs within six months of graduation. Expertise – classroom, lab and simulation instruction, extensive clinical experience at area hospitals, extended care facilities and clinics, and service opportunities like work at the N.E.W. Clinic at NWTC all provide hands-on patient care experience that helps make NWTC graduates effective on the job. This program is accredited by the ACEN: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.This program is fully eligible for financial aid.
Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Explore Locations
Follow Your Path
All credits from the following technical diploma(s) apply toward this associate degree:
Practical Nursing, 315431
Some credits from the following technical diploma(s) apply toward this associate degree:
Paramedic, 315311
Currently certified/practicing paramedics may apply credit from prior education and work experience toward this associate degree.
Delivery
How do I get started in this program?
Requirements for Program Entry
- For instructions on how to get started, download the application checklist for this program.
Program Availability
A waitlist often forms for this program. Learn more about program waitlists.
Application Checklist
What are my courses?
Curriculum
Students following the study plan below will complete the Nursing Associate Degree program in the number of semesters shown.
Pre-First Semester
First Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Second Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Third Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Fourth Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
- Curriculum Note: Graduates are eligible to apply for direct transfer of credit in the Bachelor of Science completion nursing programs at the University of Wisconsin and private colleges and universities.
- Individuals with criminal records may be ineligible for licensure. Individuals with abuse records may be ineligible for employment in nursing homes.
- Licensed Practical Nurses may receive advanced standing for nursing courses in the first year of the program.
- The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses. To find out more about which of your program courses may offer an opportunity during this academic year, contact your academic advisor or visit nwtc.edu/studyabroad.
Flexible Learning Option
A part-time evening track is available. This option is scheduled over eight-semesters, including three summers.
Program Outcomes
- Integrate professional nursing identity reflecting integrity, responsibility, and nursing standards.
- Communicate comprehensive information using multiple sources in nursing practice.
- Integrate theoretical knowledge to support decision making.
- Integrate the nursing process into patient care across diverse populations.
- Function as a healthcare team member to provide safe and effective care.
What careers are in my future?
Graduate Employment
with 84% in field
Median Starting Salary
Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey
Employment Potential
A graduate of this program who becomes a Registered Nurse in a variety of health care settings will have the potential for employment in the following areas:
- STAFF NURSE: is responsible for making nursing diagnoses and treating human responses to actual and potential health problems in health care facilities and insurance areas.
- CHARGE NURSE: assumes the same responsibilities of a Registered Nurse in addition to directing the work flow and coordinating and managing the provision of care of patients and other staff in a medical facility.
What's next after graduation?
Start here. Finish at a four-year.
NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners. See where your associate degree credits will transfer.
What else do I need to know about the program?
Accreditation
The Nursing-Associate Degree program is accredited by: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta GA 30326 (404) 975-5000, www.acenursing.org The Nursing Associate Degree program is approved by: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services Dept. of Regulation & Licensing 1400 East Washington St. P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI 53708-8935 (608) 266-2112
Industry Credentials
Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN Examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). After completion of second semester, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure as a Practical Nurse
Clinical Experience
- Students will be required to purchase a uniform, provide their own transportation to assigned sites, and cover any other expenses related to clinical experiences. Students may be expected to travel distances, and participate in p.m. clinicals.
- Students will be required to show proof of an annual flu vaccine. Students may be required to complete drug testing by clinical agencies.
Wisconsin Caregiver Law
NWTC is required to comply with the Wisconsin Caregiver Law (1997 WISCONSIN ACT 27). The completion of a caregiver background check includes the review of criminal records for convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behavior. Students accepted into this program must complete a background check through www.viewpointscreening.com/nwtc AND complete a Background Information Disclosure (BID) form disclosing any acts, crimes, or convictions prior to program entry and/or clinical, practicum, field experience. The information provided in the BID form must be truthful and match any findings on the criminal record check. Information regarding this process is provided to students immediately upon acceptance into the program. Please review your entry/admission checklist. Students with a criminal history may be denied access to placement at the discretion of the clinical, practicum, or field experience site. Consequently, should a student have a history of convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behaviors, NWTC cannot guarantee clinical/practicum/field experience placement or guarantee graduation.
Defy expectations and follow your passion
Dream jobs have nothing to do with gender. Discover the benefits of nontraditional occupations.
Additional Options
Complete this program by following the full or part-time academic plan, the LPN to Nursing bridge program, or the Paramedic to Nursing bridge program which gives you credit for your education and experience. For students in the Shawano area, you may choose to complete the first year of the program right in Shawano.
Practical Nursing to Nursing Associate Degree Bridge:
LPN's can jump into the fifth semester of the Nursing-Associate Degree (RN) program. Learn more »
Paramedic to Nursing Bridge:
Apply your knowledge as a Paramedic towards the Nursing Associate Degree. Learn more »
A Grant Program for Nursing Students in Need
The EARN program is dedicated to increasing diversity in nursing in Northeast Wisconsin. Learn more »
Curriculum Examples:
- Full-time Green Bay
- Full-time Marinette
- Full-time Sturgeon Bay
- Part-time Green Bay – Fall Start
- Part-time Green Bay – Spring Start
Additional Resources:
- Online
-
Classes wherever you have an internet connection.
- An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
- Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
- Day
- Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
- Evening
- Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
- Weekend
- A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
- Full-time
- 12 or more credits per term.
- Part-time
- Fewer than 12 credits per term.