The study of nursing is the application of knowledge from the arts and sciences. The purpose of the Bakersfield College Associate Degree Program is to provide the foundation for students to become competent registered nurses. The ADN Program respects the individuality of students and recognizes that each student has different educational, experiential, cultural, spiritual, economic and social backgrounds and a unique support system.

The aim of the Program is to provide a positive, innovative learning model that fosters the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills so that the graduate nurse is equipped to deliver care to a culturally diverse population in a variety of healthcare settings.

MISSION

The mission of the Bakersfield College Associate Degree Nursing Program is to prepare entry- level registered nurses as providers and managers of care across the health/illness continuum and as members within the profession. Graduate nurses will collaborate with members of the health care team, be effective communicators, be politically aware, and demonstrate a commitment to life long learning.

PROGRAM APPROVAL ACCREDITATION

The California Board of Registered Nursing approves the Bakersfield College Associate Degree Nursing Program. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges accredits Bakersfield College. Currently in process of securing National Certification through Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Important Information

Military Veterans

Military Challenge Advanced Placement Policy - Individuals with military health education and experience who have held Military Health Care Occupations may be eligible to obtain credit for ADN program courses. 

Priority Placement for Veterans

Students will be admitted to the program based on their scholastic eligibility and placement on a nursing assessment test as per SB 1309.

If the program is receiving Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding, in accordance with the Jobs for Veterans Act (JVA), priority will be given to applicants with proof of military, naval, or air service and discharge under conditions other than dishonorable; students must work with Admissions & Records to determine eligibility.

An eligible spouse/widow(er) or dependent will also be extended this priority status. This eligibility is determined by proof of valid Certificate of Eligibility (C.O.E.) along with the eligible DD-214 support. 

Estimated Program Costs (Gainful Employment)

Students will be required to purchase uniforms, textbooks and selected equipment, provide transportation to off-campus clinical education sites and pay current college fees. See the Registered Nursing Program Projected Costs Per Semester for estimated cost for books, uniforms, fees and required equipment for the first term of the Program. Second and third semesters usually only require registration fees and books. In addition to registration fees and books, the ADN fourth semester’s expenses will include Program Completion activities, Program pin, ATI test, Board or Registered Nursing application fees and NCLEX Licensure.

Program Accreditation and Approval

The California Board of Registered Nursing accredits the BC Associate Degree Nursing Program.  Bakersfield College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The ACCJC is one of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Currently in process of securing National Certification through Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Basic Life Support Certification

Prior to the beginning of the nursing program, and then throughout the program, students are required to show proof of a valid American Heart Association BLS card. This BLS card must be valid until the end of the 2-year ADN Program. It is your responsibility to provide a copy of the current BLS card to the nursing department and to carry a copy of this card while attending clinical in the healthcare facilities, preferably in your portfolio.

Students Transferring to CSUB

Students who plan to obtain their Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at Cal State University Bakersfield after completing the Bakersfield College ADN Program should consult the CSUB Nursing for current requirements.