
Online Pre-Nursing Associate Degree
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.

Online: $240 per credit [More Info]
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.

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.
What is pre-nursing?
Is pre-nursing the same as nursing?
What can you do with a pre-nursing degree?
How long does pre-nursing take?
What’s the difference between pre-nursing and pre-licensure programs?
Does this pre-nursing associate degree include clinical experience?
Program Curriculum
General Education Requirements
Required General Education Courses
Core Courses

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.
