Online Pre-Nursing Associate Degree
Female studying a molecular model at a table with a laptop and an open textbook, learning chemistry concepts at home.
Start your GCU journey today.

Step 1: Educational Interests

This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.
Find Your Purpose
Start your GCU journey today.
Request Info
Overview

What Is an Associate Degree in Pre-Nursing?

The Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing at GCU is a foundational degree that provides comprehensive general education and prerequisite coursework that may be required for admission into certain professional nursing programs, such as the accelerated BSN (ABSN) program. 

While this pre-nursing online program alone does not lead to or qualify you for licensure as a registered nurse (RN), it is designed to equip you with the academic confidence and knowledge needed to start your nursing journey. If you feel called to make a difference in patients’ lives, this degree can serve as a first step toward a future in compassionate, professional nursing.

Female pre-nursing online student completing coursework on a purple laptop from home.
Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing
Class Settings
Online
Tuition Rate

Online$240 per credit [More Info]

Course Information
Credits: 60
Online: 7 weeks

[More Info]
Transfer Credits

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Why GCU

Why Should You Study Pre-Nursing at GCU?

Choosing GCU for your pre-nursing associate degree means taking courses from experienced faculty who are passionate about helping you build a strong academic foundation in the sciences and general education courses, which are essential for success in the program. You will also have access to supportive resources, such as academic advising, tutoring and student services designed to help you stay on track and confidently navigate your online educational journey. 

As a university known for preparing future nurses and healthcare professionals, GCU offers a reputation for quality education grounded in both academic excellence and compassion. With a supportive community and career-focused approach, we can help you take the next step toward achieving your nursing goals. 

Convenient Online Format

Complete your pre-nursing courses online and enjoy the flexibility to balance your education with work and personal commitments. Our online learning platform provides structured support, engaging digital resources and access to faculty, allowing you to stay connected while learning from wherever it works best for you.

Affordable Tuition Rates

GCU offers affordable tuition rates designed to help make earning your AS in Pre-Nursing degree more accessible. With competitive pricing, financial aid and scholarship options available to those who qualify, we are committed to providing a quality education that fits your budget while supporting your future nursing career.

Nursing Goal Support

While this pre-nursing program is not a clinical nursing degree and does not lead to licensure, it is a transfer-focused degree built to help you complete key prerequisites and prepare to apply to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program or master’s entry program. Our student services counselors will provide you with guidance to help you confidently plan your nursing pathway.

Transfer

Position Yourself for an Accelerated BSN Program

The Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing degree is for students who intend to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and ultimately enter the field of professional nursing. 

Graduates of this Associate of Science in Pre-nursing program can become well-positioned to transition into a BSN pathway with a strong academic foundation, a heart for service and a commitment to whole-person care.

Students intending to transfer this degree to other institutions should proactively consult with their target university to verify that the specific program of study meets their unique application requirements. Because GCU cannot determine the credit acceptance of other institutions, it is highly recommended that you submit your GCU coursework for review by those institutions as early as possible for guidance on transferability.

Notice of Transfer Intent

While credits from this pre-nursing program are eligible for transfer into GCU’s accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, they are not eligible for transfer into GCU’s campus-based pre-licensure BSN program.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Coursework

AS in Pre-Nursing Online Coursework

As a student in this 60-credit pre-nursing program, you will be exposed to rigorous academic preparation that includes key pre-nursing courses alongside general education coursework that fosters critical thinking, communication skills and ethical reasoning.

Here is a sample list of pre-nursing coursework included in this program:

Human anatomy and physiology

Microbiology

Biochemistry

Nutrition

Pathophysiology

General psychology

Mathematics

English composition

Statistics

Accreditation

Pursue Your Pre-Nursing Program at an Accredited University

GCU is an institutionally accredited university, having been proudly recognized by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

University Accreditation
Male pre-nursing student holding a laptop at home while working on anatomy coursework.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore the FAQs below to learn more about this Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing program and how it can support your future in nursing.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary
General Education Requirements15-20 credits
Major24 credits
Open Elective Credits16-22 credits
Degree Requirements60 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses

  • GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
  • Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
  • Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Online pre-nursing student wearing gloves analyzing data on a laptop beside lab equipment and test tubes.
Build Your Foundation for Nursing

Take the first step toward your nursing education by applying to GCU’s Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing program. Start building the academic preparation you need to pursue the next stage of your nursing pathway.

Apply Now