Accelerated courses and and different could put RN’s on the market faster.

Beginning this summer paramedics looking to jump into the high demand field of nursing will be able to quickly make that transition through the new Paramedic-to-RN option at College of the Canyons.

In what could provide a solution to California’s statewide nursing shortage, the recently introduced Paramedic-to-RN option will fast track qualified students through the process needed to obtain licensing as a registered nurse, in as little as 15 months.

Launching in August 2009, the option will allow qualified students the opportunity to challenge out of some academic components and complete the necessary coursework at an accelerated rate.

After completing an introductory semester of classes focusing on nursing theory and process and the role of nurses in the Healthcare industry, students will progress into entry-level courses dealing with pathophysiology, pediatric obstetrics and mental health nursing.

Qualified students can then challenge out of the final two semesters of medical surgical training by passing the final exams and clinical practicum demonstrations required for completion of those courses.

After completing all coursework and successfully challenging those exams students will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN), which is required by all United States and territorial Boards of Nursing. Due to the difficulty of these exams, many applicants choose to work with an NCLEX tutor in their preparation.

“At College of the Canyons we recognize the great skill and knowledge that trained paramedics bring to the nursing program,” said Sue Albert, dean of Allied Health at the college. “Our goal is to allow such students the opportunity to utilize their previous training and experience in order to become registered nurses at an accelerated rate.”

To be eligible for enrollment into the Paramedic-to-RN option students must have completed at least four units of prerequisite coursework in the subjects of anatomy, physiology and microbiology (12 units total) and three units in a college transferable English course.

In addition, students must have at least a 2.5 GPA in all prerequisite and core nursing coursework and have completed both Psychology 101 and Communication Studies 105 or 123.

In order to receive a degree from College of the Canyons students must also complete coursework to fulfill the college’s intermediate algebra and American Institutions academic requirements.

Applications for the Paramedic-to-RN option are available both online and in the college’s Allied Health office located in Aliso Lab room 311. Applications will be accepted through July 15. All students must follow the application process.

Qualified applicants will be asked to take a nursing-related Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Friday July 24, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. A student orientation will then take place Wednesday, July 29, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Classes are scheduled to begin August 24, 2009 pending approval from the Board of Registered Nurses.