Associate in Nursing

Why Study Nursing? 

Our determined and tenacious students are achieving their career goals in hospitals, home care, hospice, schools and nursing homes. Thanks to our comprehensive coursework, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and clinical experiences, graduates of our Missouri State Board of Nursing-approved program are well prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam.  

The program is open to individuals who have no prior nursing education and to individuals who hold a Licensed Practical Nursing license. 

What You'll Learn 

Our industry-leading curriculum and supportive faculty will help you successfully complete your journey to RN licensing. This program provides simulation lab experiences and clinicals that prepare you to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Our foundational coursework provides a strong background in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, microbiology and other sciences—plus specialties like mental health, women’s health and infant health.

Careers & Outcomes 

If you are selected for the program at Columbia College, you have the reassurance of knowing that our curriculum is reviewed systematically to ensure it prepares you to succeed in a position in the nursing field. We have also identified the prerequisite courses that will aid you the most in completing the nursing course sequence. 

Thanks to our comprehensive coursework, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and clinical experiences, graduates of our Missouri State Board of Nursing-approved program are well prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Successful completion of the program does not guarantee eligibility to take the licensure examination. 

According to the Nursing Practice Act, licensure may be withheld or revoked due to controlled substance abuse, criminal prosecution, and a variety of other offenses.   

Registered nursing jobs are growing at a fast rate across all settings—including hospitals, home care, hospice, schools and nursing homes. Some possible paths include: 

• Public health 
• Research 
• Psychiatric care 
• Flight nursing 
• Pharmaceuticals 

Accreditation 

The Associate in Nursing program at the Columbia College campus, located in Columbia, MO and the Lake of the Ozarks campus, located in Osage Beach, MO 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 in Nursing program is initial accreditation.

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.