Nursing
- Associate Degree
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
Have you ever thought about becoming the heartbeat of a healthcare team? That's exactly what you'll be as a registered nurse (RN)! Our program isn't just about teaching you the nuts and bolts of nursing; it's about turning you into a leader in healthcare. Imagine combining knowledge from social, mathematical, and physical sciences with pharmacology and pathophysiology to make crucial clinical decisions. That's what you'll learn here.
Communication is key in nursing, and you'll become an expert at it. You'll also learn how to work effectively with others and use available resources to help patients maintain, regain, and improve their health. Think about mastering the art of critical thinking and problem-solving using the nursing process. It's not just about following procedures; it's about leading with compassion, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
Nurses are in high demand in all sorts of care settings, so your skills will be sought after. Plus, to ensure you're fully prepared, all registered nurses must pass a national exam to practice. Our graduates have consistently aced this exam compared to other programs nationwide. So, if you're ready to step into a career that's both challenging and rewarding, where you can truly make a difference, our RN program is the perfect place to start your journey.
You will enhance your clinical skills through hands-on, high-fidelity simulations in our cutting-edge Simulation and Extended Reality (XR) Labs, where you’ll practice patient care in lifelike scenarios. Learn more about our Simulation and XR Labs. [1]
The Nursing program uses a Petition Process to determine acceptance into the core Nursing courses. Read the information in the Admissions Requirements section below, or visit the Nursing Petition Requirements [2] page for details.
To view the Nursing program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [3].
Nursing 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 262 |
| Graduates Responding | 79 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 74 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 0 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 4 |
| Not in Labor Market | 4 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 11 | 34 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 29 | 39 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $32.69 | $34.60 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $25.50-$36.10 | $27.50-$45.00 |
| Average Annual Salary | $48,000 | $69,628 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Registered Nurse, RN Circulator, Nurse Manager, Pod Lead Registered Nurse
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Integrate professional nursing identity reflecting integrity, responsibility, and nursing
- 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
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Transcript:
Program Specific Requirements
Once you have been admitted to the college and accepted as a Nursing Pre-Major student, your next step is to complete the Nursing Associate Degree Petition Requirements.
Nursing Petition Requirements [2]
If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [4].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [5].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [6] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [7]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [8].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [9] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [10]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Accreditation
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Western Technical College located in La Crosse Wisconsin is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (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 at Western Technical College is Continuing Accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at https://www.acenursing.org/search-programs [11].
[12]
Additional Information
Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents below:
- Program Details [13]
- Program Handbook [14]
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes [15]
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes LPN to RN [16]
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes Paramedic to RN [17]
Program Contact
Deb Kaiser (last names A-L)
608-785-9078
kaiserd@westerntc.edu [18]
Elliot Knoke (last names M-Z)
608-785-9842
knokee@westerntc.edu [19]
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [20] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [21] self-service portal for academic planning.