Online Prerequisite Courses for Entry to Nursing

Registration can be found at this link. To register, select the course and complete the process on the screen. You may enroll in up to 3 courses per term.

Courses begin in August 2026 and will enroll students every fall, spring, and summer term. Four courses will be offered in August, with two additional courses launching in January 2027.

Fall courses begin in August. Spring courses begin in January. Summer courses begin in April.

The courses are 100% online, instructor-facilitated asynchronous modules—pre-recorded so they can be accessed at your convenience. Courses include weekly online quizzes, evaluations, live chats and class message boards.

14-weeks, a full term.

Students are expected to engage in approximately 3.75 hours of direct instructional activity each week, in addition to a minimum of 7.5 hours of independent learning activities, including readings, assignments and study. Total student engagement is estimated at 11.25 hours per week for each course. Actual time commitment will vary by student.

o No, the courses are offered asynchronously to provide convenience and flexibility for students to engage in coursework and complete assignments on their schedules. New learning modules will be released weekly.

If you are admitted or applying to Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing, courses must be completed prior to the first day of the Master of Nursing program. If entering in the fall, courses must be completed by August 10. If entering in the spring, courses must be completed by December 10.

No. The courses are for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. They are designed for entry to nursing students in Vanderbilt’s Master of Nursing program and students pursuing similar accelerated nursing degrees at other institutions. Vanderbilt University undergraduate students may not enroll in these courses.

No, acceptance to a degree program is not required to enroll in these courses. The prerequisite course content is designed to prepare students for the academic rigor and pace of accelerated nursing programs. 

Virtual laboratory and simulation-based learning activities are embedded within the learning management platform and integrated throughout each course to provide hands-on application of course concepts and competency development.

No. Laboratory activities are completed online through the learning platform and do not require in-person attendance

No. Prerequisite students enroll as non-degree seeking students and therefore are ineligible for federal student aid. Financial aid for prerequisite courses must come from private sources such as private student loans or third-party tuition aid.

Yes, prerequisite course credits can transfer to any second-degree or entry to nursing program. You will receive an official transcript from Vanderbilt University to share with other institutions. Transfer credit decisions are made at the discretion of the receiving institution, and students are encouraged to confirm transferability with their intended school or program prior to enrollment.

Students who successfully complete courses will receive an official Vanderbilt transcript reflecting earned academic credit. Transfer credit decisions are made at the discretion of the receiving institution, and students are encouraged to confirm transferability with their intended school or program prior to enrollment.

At Vanderbilt, our prerequisite courses are built on 100+ years of distinction in nursing teaching and practice and an international reputation for academic excellence. That means by taking our courses, you will be thoroughly prepared in critical subjects and able to begin your nursing degree with a strong foundation for academic success.

o For VUSN applicants without nursing degrees, prerequisites include human anatomy*, human physiology*, microbiology*, nutrition and lifespan development or developmental psychology. Associated lab courses are strongly recommended when available. *Must be taken within 5 years of application.

We understand that circumstances can change. The Prerequisites Cancellation Policy outlines the terms under which cancellations and refunds are granted for course enrollments for all Vanderbilt University School of Nursing prerequisite courses. 

Students who wish to withdraw from a course after it has begun may do so at any time during the course. A formal withdrawal results in a grade of "W" (Withdrawal) will be recorded on the student's transcript. No refund of tuition or fees will be issued for withdrawals. Review the Prerequisites Withdrawal Policy for complete details.

Refunds may be issued for course cancellation. Refunds are not issued for withdrawal. Review the Prerequisite Cancellation Policy and Prerequisite Withdrawal Policy for more information.

Yes. Prerequisite students who already have comparable personal health insurance coverage may waive the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) fee by completing the university waiver process and providing proof of insurance coverage. Students who successfully complete the waiver process and provide appropriate documentation will not be required to purchase SHIP coverage. Visit https://www.vanderbilt.edu/student-care-network/student-health-insurance/how-to-enroll-or-waive/ for important information about waiving the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), including waiver policies, criteria for comparable coverage and important deadlines.

All Vanderbilt students have mandatory fees that support their student experience and benefits. Note: The Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) fee can be waived, but initially, fees are:

• Student fees - $71
• Healthcare (SHIP) fee - $130 (waived if proof of insurance provided)
• Transcript fee (one-time) - $100

Students who successfully complete the waiver process and provide appropriate documentation will not be required to purchase SHIP coverage. Visit https://www.vanderbilt.edu/student-care-network/student-health-insurance/how-to-enroll-or-waive/ for information about waiving the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), including waiver policies, criteria for comparable coverage and important deadlines.

As an online Vanderbilt student, you have access to:

1. Jean & Alexander Heard Libraries (robust online materials, including subscription-based)
2. Student Care Network (holistic network of services and resources pertaining to health and wellness)
3. Writing Studio (free and confidential writing assistance)
4. Project Safe (central resource for those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence; can assist with navigating the university’s resource and support network)

Those within driving distance of campus (or who may be planning a Nashville vacation or visit) can also enjoy on-campus events and activities, including tickets to athletic events and entertainment. You might even spend a few delightful hours exploring Vanderbilt’s beautiful 340+ acre campus, which is also designated as an arboretum. And we encourage you to stop by the school and introduce yourself—we’d love to meet you.