The 16-unit Pre-Nursing Health Science Certificate at Azusa Pacific Online University offers students the opportunity to complete science and lab courses which are required by most nursing and health-related degree programs. Integrating core science subjects with a Christian worldview, along with lab experience, this certificate will help students on a path to various careers in the health care field.
Learn more about the career opportunities available with a Pre-Nursing Health Science Certificate and how it’s designed to advance your educational goals.
Career Opportunities
The Pre-Nursing Health Science Certificate prepares students for entry into nursing and health degree programs, along a journey toward a variety of careers such as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), registered nurse (RN), physical therapist, and many more health care roles. Whether it is nursing, physical therapy or another career, the Pre-Nursing Health Science Certificate will prepare students to advance their professional potential.
Designed to Equip You
This certificate is designed to help students who want to apply to a nursing or health degree program by completing the common science prerequisites. For example, this certificate can be used as preparatory work for some Azusa Pacific University School of Nursing programs (admission is not guaranteed). (Students should check with other schools whether this certificate meets prerequisites.)
Program Highlights
- Prepare for advanced studies in nursing and professional programs in health care
- Complete lab experience and requirements without visiting a formal laboratory
- Integrate a Christian worldview
- Establish academic skills and habits needed to enter most nursing programs
- Support career aspirations in a variety of roles in the health care field
Coursework
The Pre-Nursing Health Science Certificate includes the following courses*:
BIOL 220 General Microbiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 220
General Microbiology/Lab
4 units
This class is for students majoring in or planning to major in nursing. The focus is on fundamental microbiological principles and laboratory techniques with an emphasis on disease-causing microorganisms, new and old methods of disease treatment and prevention, and host immune responses. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees. Prerequisite: BIOL 250 or BIOL 251, or their equivalents
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 250
Human Anatomy/Lab
4 units
This course is designed to introduce the principles of human anatomy. It is taught from a systems perspective. Material covered in this course includes basic anatomical terminology, cell, tissue and organ structure and function, and examination of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
BIOL 251 Human Physiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 251
Human Physiology/Lab
4 units
Introduction to the principles of human physiology and how function relates to anatomical structure. Fundamental principles of cellular metabolism, transport mechanisms, cell signaling, fluid and electrolyte balance are covered to lay the foundation for organ system physiology. The course emphasizes homeostatic mechanisms and reciprocal communication of the body’s organ systems and how malfunction can lead to disease. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
CHEM 115 Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
Course Description
CHEM 115
Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
4 units
This course covers organic and biochemistry topics related to the health sciences. Emphasis is placed on organic nomenclature, functional groups, selected organic reactions, and biochemical pathways. Lab activities will focus on the application of organic and biochemistry with respect to the health sciences. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
Note: This information is effective for the 2013 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. To view 2013 program information, please refer to the APOU catalog.
* All courses are WASC accredited.
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