15 Common Courses In RN Programs

Ann Feeney, CAE

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Nursing students studying together in the library

The class requirements for RN qualifying degrees will differ slightly depending on the level of education you plan to pursue. Most nursing programs will cover a wide array of material from math and chemistry to psychology and physiology. Some nursing students will choose electives based on their desired specialty, such as pediatrics , oncology , or geriatrics .

For a glance into 15 of the assorted common courses that an RN will see throughout their academic career, read on below.

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1 | Nursing Fundamentals

This is one of the first classes you can expect to take in a nursing program, often required during your first semester. Nursing fundamentals courses give you an overview of what it means to be a nurse, how healthcare works, and potential careers and roles for nurses. The focus is on the basics of patient care and fundamental nursing skills. Your nursing fundamentals course also prepares you for more advanced topics in particular areas. This course may have different names at different schools, such as “Nursing 101” or “Introduction to Nursing,” but it will cover the same topics.

This is one of the most important RN courses because it sets the foundation for all other nursing school classes and clinicals. It also provides you with a clearer understanding of nursing and different nursing roles, which helps you confirm whether nursing is the right career for you.

2 | Physiology

Physiology is the study of the human body and how it functions. You’ll learn about the names and functions of different parts of the body and how they all function together, both in a healthy person and throughout different types of illnesses and injuries. This is usually one of the earlier required classes, since many subsequent courses rely on your understanding how the body works.

Physiology also includes topics that are important for your own health and safety, such as how to safely lift and move patients. Physiology also ensures that you and other healthcare professionals are using the same terminology to describe the body and how it functions, so mastering this helps ensure effective communication and medical notes. This makes it a vital part of patient safety and positive health outcomes.

3 | Introduction to Psychology

Introductory psychology is typically a prerequisite course needed to enter nursing programs. It covers principles and practices of psychology and helps nurses understand both psychology as a medical discipline, and how to use applied psychology as a nurse and communicator. Topics include cognition (how people think and make decisions), personality and behavior, organizational psychology, and the psychology of illness.

Studying psychology can help you communicate better , understand your own personality and those of others, and make better decisions individually and as part of a group.

4 | Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, any organism too small to see without a microscope, including viruses, bacteria, and certain types of fungi. This is also a prerequisite course often taken before entering nursing school, because understanding the role that microorganisms play in human health is necessary to understand many other aspects of healthcare. Topics include microorganisms that cause and help prevent disease, including the emerging field of the human biome, and the microorganisms that are part of the human body. This course generally includes lab work as well as classroom work.

This is one of the most important nursing prerequisite classes because of how important microorganisms are to human health. It sets the groundwork for infection control, population health, clinical theory, and nursing practices.

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5 | Gerontology

Gerontology is the studying of aging. RN classes in gerontology include topics such as conditions associated with aging, the psychology of aging, how to effectively communicate with aging adults, and end-of-life concerns for nursing. Gerontology is included in nursing major classes because of the important role nurses play in providing care to aging patients. Because it is a specialized class, most nursing students take it during or after their second year.

This is a foundational course for nurses who plan to specialize in gerontology but vital for all nurses because of the aging US population. Aside from pediatrics and obstetrics, older adults make up a large and growing proportion of general and specialty care patients, so the ability to understand their needs and provide effective nursing care is vital.

6 | Psychology and Mental Health

While introductory classes on psychology cover all aspects of psychology, including organizational psychology, RN classes on psychology and mental health focus on providing mental healthcare. Because understanding the psychological aspects of health is important to many other nursing school classes, this course is usually included in the first or second years. These courses cover mental health conditions and their treatment, as well as the special legal and ethical considerations associated with caring for patients with mental health conditions.

Physical and mental health are closely related, and so this course and other RN courses on mental health are vital to understanding patient well-being. Because nurses provide so much hands-on care to patients and are a vital communications link for patients, their ability to understand mental health directly affects the quality of their nursing.

7 | Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of medications. Nursing courses in pharmacology focus on the safe administration of medications, including opioids and other substances with the potential for abuse; different methods for administering them; how to watch for medication errors; and potential drug interactions. In addition to learning about medications and how they work, you will learn about the major pharmacology reference sources, including databases and texts.

While nurses (other than advanced practice nurses) do not prescribe medications, they must understand the fundamentals of pharmacology in order to ensure patient safety and answer patients’ questions.

8 | Women and Infant Health

Women and infant health covers women’s health, reproductive health, pregnancy, delivery, and infant development. Nursing school classes in this subject emphasize the nurse’s role in patient education and communication, as well as their role in providing direct nursing care. Generally, this is a foundational course that students take earlier in their nursing school curriculum. Some schools offer this topic in two courses, one in reproductive health and the other in infant health.

This foundational course covers general nursing concepts, as well as preparing nurses who specialize in women and infant health for advanced courses. These courses can include pediatrics, gynecology, or obstetric nursing.

9 | Leadership Management

Leadership management is typically offered later in RN curriculum since it requires broader knowledge of the scope of nursing. These classes include management and administration, staff leadership and motivation, legal and ethical aspects of leadership, nursing strategic planning, and healthcare administration. The curriculum combines management theory and case studies of how that theory applies to real-life nursing situations.

In addition to preparing nurses for leadership roles , these nursing school classes prepare nurses to understand nursing leadership functions so that they can understand their own role in their organization. While there’s no substitute for real-world experience to teach leadership, leadership management courses also provide a theoretical underpinning to understanding organizational behavior and management theory.

10 | Ethics in Nursing

Ethics in nursing is a core class because of the many difficult ethical situations that nurses face, no matter where they practice. RN classes in ethics cover topics such as professional conduct, conflicts of interest, health equity, diversity and inclusion, and appropriate responses to unethical behavior. Like leadership classes, ethics classes combine theory and, so be prepared to critically analyze ethical issues.

Throughout their career, nurses will face ethical dilemmas that might not have an obvious right or wrong answer. No matter how ethical you may be as an individual, nursing major classes in ethics provide you with the mental framework to think through dilemmas and find the best resolution.

11 | Community and Environmental Nursing

Community and environmental nursing is a branch of public health . These courses, which are typically offered in BSN programs, look at how the community and environment affect health and how to promote health in different communities and environments. Students will study factors including community safety, pollution and its impact on health, and community design for health in urban, suburban, and rural settings. As part of this course, you are likely to study your own community and the factors impacting its health.

As frontline health workers, nurses are among the first individuals to be in contact with individuals in need of information on environmental hazards or communicable diseases. An understanding of the influence of community and environmental factors on health can allow nurses to better communicate with local leaders and organizations. This may be especially critical for at-risk or underserved populations.

12 | Care Transitions

Care transition programs teach students about the process of transferring patients from one health environment to another, changing treatments, or discharging patients. The course covers other subjects such as health promotion, risk reduction, safety standards, and healthcare interventions.

Transferring medically complex patients between healthcare settings can have a significant impact on patient comfort or even health outcomes. Transition processes are especially at-risk for human error. Nurses must understand how to transfer important patient information including health records, medication information, and adverse reactions between settings.

13 | Population Health

Population health is sometimes offered as a capstone course to include a clinical intensive or synthesized experience within the public health industry. This course explores information and processes within complex healthcare systems and social-ecological theories within the public health system. It covers topics such as epidemiology, promoting healthy behaviors, health equity, and increasing access to health care. During this course, you’ll learn about the social factors that affect health and the healthcare system, including government, employment and income, media messaging about health and disease, and public health initiatives such as vaccinations.

While much of your career as a nurse will be responding to individual patients, those patients and their nursing needs are affected by population health factors. Understanding these factors and how they work helps you promote health at a different level. This is also a vital subject if you plan to go into nursing administration or healthcare strategy.

14 | Clinical Theory

Clinical theory teaches you the theoretical underpinnings of medicine and nursing, and how medical and nursing practices are designed, tested, and applied. It is typically one of the later RN classes, as it requires some familiarity with nursing and healthcare theory and practice. In these courses, you will learn about how different models of medicine, health, and healthcare apply to nursing. You will also learn how to apply these theories to your daily work in nursing as you encounter different parts of the healthcare system. For an ADN degree, nursing school classes may include elements of clinical theory rather than having a separate class, while at the BSN level, this is more likely to be a separate class.

Clinical theory courses help you think more strategically about health and healthcare, and are particularly important for nurses preparing for roles in healthcare management and leadership or advanced practice nursing.

15 | Clinical Study

Clinical study (often abbreviated as “clinicals”) is a vital part of becoming an RN , since it requires fieldwork hours in a clinical setting such as a hospital, physician’s office, health clinic, or other healthcare facility. During this course, you will apply both the skills and the theory you learned, under the guidance of a preceptor. These courses usually start with theory, move on to simulations, and end with you working with your own caseload.

Clinical study is a vital test of how ready you are to become a nurse, as well as a chance to learn hands-on about different healthcare settings and specialties. This makes it one of, if not the most important, of the classes required for nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nurse Classes

What subjects are covered in nurse courses.

Nursing courses generally cover subject matter relating to biology and chemistry. Biology courses focus on anatomy, epidemiology, microbiology, and physiology. Chemistry courses include biochemistry, organic chemistry, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. Outside of the life sciences, nursing courses include study in mathematics, psychology, and sociology.

Are nursing classes hard?

Programs are intended to prepare nurses for a rigorous profession; therefore, they can be intense and challenging, but not impossible. Courses teach the complicated practices necessary for nurses to provide the best care to their patients. To ensure nurses can perform to the best of their ability, programs need to make sure students are up to the task of committing themselves to a difficult yet rewarding profession.

What is the easiest class in nursing school?

Some of the easiest classes in nursing school tend to be general education courses. These often focus on the memorization of key terminology or the development of soft skills, such as collaboration and communication. Some courses that are considered easier than others include the social sciences, introduction to speech, and information technology.

What is the shortest nursing program?

The shortest programs typically focus on becoming a practical nurse. Learners can become certified nursing assistants (CNAs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the shortest amount of time. CNA programs take 4-12 weeks to complete and prepare students to assist RNs in helping patients with daily functions. LPN programs take approximately one year to complete, preparing them to provide basic nursing tasks. Unlike CNAs, LPNs are licensed nurses.

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Nurse.org

Nursing Career Paths: How to Become a Nurse and Advance Your Career

  • Why Choose Nursing
  • Advanced Education
  • Alternate Paths
  • How to Decide

Nursing Career Paths: Degrees & Nursing Levels Explained

Nursing is an extremely diverse career field with endless options for advancement, specializations, and opportunities to  change nursing careers .

There's no right way to become a nurse. However, the sheer number of options can be intimidating to aspiring nurses. This article will break down the most common nursing career paths, including the differences in nursing levels, requirements, benefits, and disadvantages of each. 

Read on to find a nursing career path that suits your needs and goals.

Why Nursing Is An Excellent Career Path

Nurses are in high demand. According to the  BLS , in 2022, there were 3,172,500 registered nurses in the United States. By 2032, there will be a need for an additional 177,400 nurses , which is an expected growth of 6%.

As the U.S. population continues to age, these numbers may see a rapid increase over time. Therefore, nurses should never have trouble finding work.

Pathways into Nursing

While there are different degree programs you can choose, becoming a nurse is ultimately about what type of license you have. For example, nurses with associate's and bachelor's degrees take the same NCLEX exam to earn RN licensure.

Check out the graphic below for the differences between the 4 primary pathways into nursing. 

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, helps patients with activities of daily living and other healthcare needs. They work under the supervision of an RN or LPN. 

Pros and Cons of Becoming a CNA

Because the training process to become a CNA is just 4-12 weeks, it’s a great way for individuals to get their first experience in nursing and determine if they want to further their career to become an LPN or RN .

Many CNAs are already in a nursing school program and use this career as a chance to learn more about the healthcare world and gain additional real-world application and knowledge.

CNAs: earn your RN degree in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs with Achieve Test Prep's "Nursing Test-Out Program". All applicants must be a CNA to apply.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

An LPN license provides a nurse with a functioning nursing license, but in many states, an LPN is more limited in the care he or she can provide than an RN. For example, an LPN may not be able to deliver certain types of medications, so their work opportunities may be more restricted.

Pros and Cons of Becoming an LPN

Becoming an LPN can be a desirable choice for many looking to fast-track into the nursing field because you can achieve your LPN degree sometimes much faster than an RN degree.

You can get your LPN credentials in 12 to 15 months if you choose a diploma-based program. With an associate's program, you will become an LPN in about 18 to 24 months.

>> Related: RN vs LPN: What's the Difference?

As an LPN, you earn significantly less than a registered nurse. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average pay for an LPN in the United States is $54,620 per year or $26.26 per hour, while RNs earn on average $81,220.

But, there are LPN-to-RN bridge programs available if you choose to go the LPN route and want to advance your education to become an RN down the road.

LPNs: Achieve's Test-Out Bridge Program makes achieving your BSN faster and more affordable, and previous college credits will count toward your advanced degree. All applicants must be current LVN or LPN.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Becoming an RN is the gold standard in nursing. There are three main ways to become an RN: 

1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): You can become an RN by attending a bachelor's program through a university. Upon completion of the program, you will earn a BSN and take the NCLEX exam to earn RN licensure.

2. Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN): Similar to a BSN, you will earn your associate’s degree from an accredited program. Then, you'll take the same NCLEX to earn your RN credentials.

3. RN diploma program: Diploma programs are harder to find than ADN and BSN nursing programs. They're based on clinical hours and prepare you to take the NCLEX, which will award you an RN license.

Earning an ADN: Pros & Cons

Earning an ADN is preferable to many aspiring nurses because it's one of the  fastest ways to become a nurse . It's also cheaper than a BSN degree, which is beneficial to students on tight budgets. However, the ADN route does have its downsides.

Finding Employment

For example, many ADN nurses have a harder time finding employment despite their RN license. Most employers prefer BSN-RNs and will pass on ADN candidates. However, you should also be aware that some employers will sponsor ADN nurses to attend a BSN program while working.

Career Advancement

Additionally, only holding an ADN can make advancing your career more difficult. Most advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) programs require students to have a BSN. So, if you want to become a certified nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, or certified registered nurse anesthetist, you'll have to attend an  RN to BSN bridge program first.

Salary Differences

Finally, ADN-RNs earn less than their BSN counterparts. Payscale reports that ADN nurses earn $76,000 annually, while BSN nurses make around $92,000.

Earning a BSN: Pros & Cons

The American Association of Colleges of Nurses encourages a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as the minimum education requirement for RNs. Nursing and healthcare organizations consider a BSN the gold standard for RNs. In fact, an increasing number of facilities will only hire BSN-trained RNs, especially magnet and major teaching hospitals.

BSN Degree Cost

Forbes Advisor reports that BSN degrees cost between $20,000 and $100,000 in tuition alone. But, students can expect to incur additional fees for housing, meals, books, fees, and more.

Several factors will impact how much your BSN degree costs. These variables include whether you attend school part or full-time, your location, whether you attend a public or private university, and your residential status.

However, these costs don't always reflect what you actually pay. Remember that paying for nursing school is a combination of out-of-pocket costs, financial aid, scholarships, and government grants.

BSN Degree Paths

Students have three options for earning a BSN degree. The most common route is attending a traditional 4-year baccalaureate program. These programs offer two years of  nursing school prerequisites and general education, followed by two years of nursing and clinical training.

However, there are further options for ADN nurses and those with non-nursing degrees to earn a BSN. The three paths to this degree are as follows:

Advancing Your Nursing Education

Nurses looking to increase their salary and career opportunities can do so by earning an advanced degree. 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

As more job opportunities for MSN-trained nurses become available, the popularity of MSN programs skyrockets. If you're interested in non-direct patient care nursing positions, you'll most likely need a  Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Earning an MSN: Pros & Cons

MSN nurses are eligible for higher nursing positions with greater responsibility and autonomy. If they take on an APRN, education, or administrative role, MSN nurses often also earn higher salaries than ADN or BSN-trained RNs.

The BLS reports that APRNs earn a median annual salary of $125,900 or $60.53 per hour. But, your chosen specialty will affect how much you earn. Median annual salaries for different MSN nurse roles include the following:

  • Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) : $203,090
  • Certified nurse midwife (CNM) : $120,880
  • Nurse practitioner (NP) : $121,610
  • Nurse administrator : $104,830 
  • Nurse educator : $78,580

MSN programs are available online or in person, but they can be costly. Forbes Advisor reports that MSN programs can range from $24,000 to $80,000, with the most expensive programs exceeding $100,000.

Types of MSN Degrees

  • A non-clinical MSN degree is most suitable for nurses who are looking for management, administrative, leadership, or educator roles.
  • An APRN MSN is the type of degree you would choose if you are looking to become an advanced practitioner, like NPs, CNMs, and CRNAs.

Depending on the MSN program you select, you can take on the following nursing roles:

  • Clinical nurse leaders
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Certified nurse midwives
  • Clinical nurse specialists
  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists
  • Nurse administrators
  • Nurse educators
  • Nurse informatics

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctors of nursing practice are leaders in advanced nursing practice who bring evidence-based knowledge to clinical settings. They work to improve healthcare outcomes and strengthen nursing leadership in clinical and academic environments. DNPs can have the same APRN roles as MSN nurses, but many work in research, academia, or as administrators.

Earning a DNP: Pros & Cons

There are several benefits to earning a DNP, which include knowledge expansion, greater career satisfaction, and higher salaries. However, these programs are expensive, so weighing the pros and cons of earning a DNP is necessary.

DNP nurses can function as providers or work in APRN roles, but most work to generate new clinical knowledge for nursing and healthcare fields. DNP-trained APRNs don't have more authority or a wider scope of practice than MSN nurses. Additionally, they rarely conduct scientific research or teach.

More often, DNPs work as researchers, administrators, and educators. Therefore, if you want to remain in a direct patient care APRN role, earning a DNP may not be worth it to you.

DNP nurses make $117,859 per year, which is $57 an hour, according to reports from  ZipRecruiter . Payscale estimates a similar average salary of  $111,000  a year or $55.13 an hour.

Earning your DNP does not come cheap. Forbes advisor reports that DNP programs cost between $10,000 and $100,000 depending on the school you attend, your residential status, and whether you go full or part-time.

Alternative Nursing Career Paths

Nursing is a complex and ever-changing profession that provides individuals with countless job opportunities. Most know about pediatric, medical-surgical, operating room, and even hospice nursing.

However, there are less popular but still exciting career paths for nurses:

  • Forensic Nurse  
  • Legal Nurse Consultant  
  • Wound Care Nurse  
  • Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse

How to Decide Which Nursing Career Path

Though becoming a nurse may be your dream, it can also be a formidable task. There are hundreds of programs and several nursing career paths to take. Before starting on your journey, ask yourself:

  • Do I want to advance my career upon graduation and become a CRNA or CRNP?
  • How will I pay for this program?
  • Will I be working throughout the program?
  • Will I go to school part-time or full-time?
  • Can I move away from home for undergraduate school?

Determining what your goals are for nursing will help narrow down the choices.  Nursing is a fulfilling and amazing career- regardless of the path chosen, becoming a nurse is an amazing accomplishment.

Find Nursing Programs

Kathleen Gaines

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

Nurses making heats with their hands

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Bachelor of Science

Prelicensure Nursing BSN

Because You Care

One Program to Become Both an RN and Earn a BSN

If you are looking to become a registered nurse and live in Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, or Utah, this nursing program could be for you. In areas where this program is available, WGU has partnerships with healthcare employers who provide practice sites and clinical coaches to help teach and inspire you on your path to becoming a nurse.

Learn more about navigating through your Enrollment Portal.

Where Clinical Opportunities Are Available

  • North Carolina
  • South Carolina

Districts with clinical placement opportunities:

  • Jacksonville
  • Ft Lauderdale

Clinical assignments are based upon a variety of factors such as state of residence, student program status, and student capacity at the time of clinical progression. Lab assignments are aligned with the location of the clinical district chosen.

Clinical opportunities are available within 60 miles of the district listed. Students can be placed at clinical partner sites throughout the 60 mile radius.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Florida clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.

Program start dates vary. 

Districts with clinical opportunities:

  • Idaho Falls

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Idaho clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, Utah.

  • Indianapolis
  • Michigan City

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Indiana clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Iowa clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

  • Kansas City/Overland Park

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Kansas clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

Program start dates vary.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Kentucky clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.

  • Grand Rapids

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Michigan clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.

  • Kansas City
  • Springfield

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Missouri clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Nevada clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, Utah.

  • Albuquerque

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. New Mexico clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

  • Raleigh/Durham

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. North Carolina clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Ohio clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.

  • Oklahoma City

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Oklahoma clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. South Carolina clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.

  • Chattanooga

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Tennessee clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.

Districts with clinical opportunites:

  • College Station
  • San Antonio
  • Midland/Odessa

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Texas clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.

  • Salt Lake City

Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Utah clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Learn more about professional licensure in the states where the Prelicensure program is approved. 

If you don't live in one of the states listed above, there is an alternative route for patient care through our Bachelor's of Science in Health and Human Services  degree. This degree allows you to still be involved with patients by working to help with insurance, payments, and other details of healthcare that can be confusing and frustrating. If you want to work with patients, but our nursing degree isn't feasible, consider the Health and Human Services degree instead.

This program is paced to have a completion time of 

You will be expected to complete all required credits assigned each 6-month term. Students may be able to accelerate some portions of the program.

Tuition per six-month term is

$6,430 then $8,755

During the pre-nursing terms students pay $6,430 per six-months, then during the clinical nursing terms students pay $8,755 per six-months.

Expect to spend about

30 hours/week

on your studies, assessments, and in the completion of clinical rotations and simulation labs.

Next Start Date: Varies

If admitted, WGU will grant a start date based on a variety of factors.

HOW IT WORKS

Pre-Nursing and Clinical Nursing Portions

nursing course work

Pre-Nursing

Students begin the prelicensure program at WGU with their pre-nursing coursework. This includes general education courses, as well as introductory medical coursework. This allows students to satisfy required prerequisites for the clinical portion of the program.

nursing course work

Clinical Nursing

After finishing the pre-nursing portion of the program, students that have met progression requirements are eligible to progress into the clinical nursing portion of the program. This portion of the program contains more specific nursing coursework, as well as hands-on clinical experiences that are required for students to earn their Bachelors of Science in Nursing Degree and become eligible to sit for the RN licensure exam after graduation.

Nursing Prelicensure Courses

You will work with your WGU Program Mentor and Instructors to prepare for rigorous assessments, virtual-reality simulations, and high-fidelity simulations. Once you've successfully completed those, you will qualify to attend your agency-based clinical rotations. Expect to spend at least 30 hours or more per week on your studies, and in the completion of clinical rotations and simulation labs.

This program has a standard path and is paced to be completed in 8 terms or 4 years. Some students may be able to accelerate their pace with transfer credits.

Transferrable courses for the prelicensure program must have a minimum "C" grade or better to be approved for transfer credit.

The curriculum in WGU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is designed not only to prepare you to become a nurse, but to provide you with the skills to become an outstanding nurse, ready to contribute to a strong healthcare team and better patient outcomes.

The WGU B.S. Nursing (Prelicensure) curriculum was designed and is regularly updated with input from the experts on our Nursing Program Council, ensuring you learn what you need to know and master the skills you need to excel as a nurse and play your part on a vital team.

Pre-Nursing Courses (4 Terms)

  • Critical Thinking: Reason and Evidence*
  • Composition: Writing with a Strategy
  • Integrated Physical Sciences
  • Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others
  • Global Arts and Humanities 

*Course not eligible for transfer credit

Second Term

  • Introduction to Chemistry
  • Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (within 5 years)
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • World History: Diverse Cultures and Global Connections
  • Applied Healthcare Statistics
  • Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (within 5 years)
  • Microbiology with Lab: A Fundamental Approach (within 5 years)
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • Health and Wellness Through Nutritional Sciences*

Fourth Term

  • Applied Algebra
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Pathophysiology (within 5 years)
  • Medical Dosage Calculations and Pharmacology*
  • Foundations of Nursing*

Clinical Nursing Courses (4 Terms)

  • Basic Nursing Skills (in-person lab course)
  • Health Assessment
  • Adult Health I*
  • Intrapersonal Leadership and Professional Growth

*Clinical portion in this course

  • Intermediate Nursing Skills (in-person lab course)
  • Adult Health II*
  • Women's and Children's Nursing*
  • Scholarship in Nursing Practice
  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing*
  • Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing*
  • Information Technology in Nursing Practice
  • Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
  • Advanced Nursing Skills (virtual lab course)
  • Adult Health III*
  • Professional Nursing Role Transition*

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

  • Communications:  Successfully communicated effectively across diverse cultural contexts, fostering understanding and collaboration among individuals from different backgrounds.
  • Critical Thinking:  Evaluated evidence based on specific criteria, ensuring the use of high-quality and reliable information for decision-making and problem-solving.
  • Pathology:  Differentiated major types of microorganisms based on their structural and other characteristics, enhancing the ability to identify and address microbial challenges effectively.
  • Physiology:  Demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of normal physiological functions of living organisms and their parts, providing a solid foundation for healthcare and biological studies.
  • Problem Solving:  Analyzed complex medical problems skillfully, leading to the identification of optimal solutions and improved patient outcomes.
  • Research:  Synthesized research information from multiple sources adeptly, enabling comprehensive and well-informed insights.

“My heart is with the Prelicensure BSN students who have chosen the noble profession of nursing as a career. Should you choose WGU to prepare you, know that this is the university of the future: It is affordable, it's flexible, and it offers learning based in competencies rather than just class time.”

—Brenda Cleary, Ph.D., RN, FAAN Adjunct Faculty University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill

PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

nursing course work

Pre-Nursing and Clinical Nursing Coursework

Within the Prelicensure program at WGU, there are two sections for students to complete. The first section is pre-nursing, which include general education coursework, and introductory healthcare coursework. These satisfy prerequisites that students need to enter the clinical nursing portion of the program. Students then progress to the clinical nursing portion of the program, which contains specific nursing courses that prepare students for their careers.

nursing course work

Clinical and Lab Experience

You will work one-on-one with a clinical coach/preceptor (under the guidance of a WGU clinical instructor) to complete several “intensives” of clinical rotations. Your clinical coach/preceptor is an experienced staff nurse trained to help you throughout the duration of your rotations. Assessment of your clinical competence will be conducted by your WGU clinical instructors. Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Lab locations are assigned based on the student’s state of residence. Click below to learn more about clinical and lab experiences.

nursing course work

Program Coursework

The B.S. Nursing (Prelicensure) program requires that you work closely with WGU faculty and clinical coaches/preceptors. You will be expected to complete all required CUs assigned each 6-month term. Together with your Course Instructor and Program Mentor, you will decide when you are ready to complete course assessments.

The first person you speak with at WGU will be your Enrollment Counselor, an expert in your program who can explain all the requirements and expectations in more detail. You can also read more about each course in the Program Guide.

Admissions Requirements Unique to This Nursing Degree

Admission Requirements (for more information click on the live links below)

  • HESI A2 Nursing Exam
  • Background Check *
  • Nursing Application Essay
  • Active Nursing Prelicensure File (a short form found in your Enrollment Portal)

*Click the arrows below for more details about applying, the background check, and admissions.

Admission Requirements for the B.S. Nursing Prelicensure Program

The Leavitt School of Health at Western Governors University is committed to student success and partners with the WGU Office of Admissions to determine academic eligibility for the Prelicensure Nursing program. Applicants who submit all admission requirements will be reviewed through a weighted evaluation system that considers several factors. The Office of Admissions reviews all applicants based on their academic experience and nursing entrance exam scores.   

  • Admission is competitive and not guaranteed; additional factors important to student success in the nursing program may also be considered.
  • Admission to and enrollment in the Prelicensure Nursing program does not guarantee acceptance into the clinical nursing portion of the program.  
  • Only residents of the following states are eligible to apply to this program. Prospective students seeking admission to the WGU Prelicensure Nursing program may apply to a district within their state of residence. Any applications from residents outside of these states will not be accepted.

Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, or Utah

To be considered for enrollment into the Prelicensure Nursing Program, applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, be at least 16 years of age (must be 18 at the time of clinical experiences), AND complete the following admission requirements:

  • Complete the  HESI A2 nursing exam  within the last five years. You must receive a score of at least 75% in the following sections: Vocabulary, Reading, Math, and Grammar. HESI exams scheduled 9/1/2023 and beyond will also include a Biology section that will be graded but not included in the admissions review. The overall score will also not be considered in the admissions review. WGU will only consider two attempts at passing the HESI A2 exam per 12-month period. The 12-month period begins with the first attempt.
  • Submit to a criminal background check through  American Databank . 
  • Submit a Prelicensure Nursing Application Essay 
  • Activate their Prelicensure Nursing File which includes a declaration of:
  • The date and location an applicant is applying to
  • Completed certifications
  • Completed licenses
  • Military service and training

Requirements that must be satisfied in pre-nursing terms to be eligible to progress to the clinical nursing program

There are costs outside of tuition and fees involved with creating your compliance account early in your pre-nursing terms and purchasing uniforms and supplies by the end of your last pre-nursing term. These costs will vary based on each item along with geographic location/provider.

Students who are successful in the pre-nursing terms will be eligible for progression into the nursing portion of the program. The following must be completed to be considered for progression into the nursing portion of the program: 

  • Proof of health insurance†.
  • Proof of successfully passing of a criminal background check (also may require a state background check to be completed per state regulatory requirements for nursing programs).
  • Proof of successfully passing a urine drug test.
  • Proof of a current immunization record and current negative TB test.
  • Proof of meeting the specific physical requirements in accordance with the core performance standards of the nursing profession.
  • Participation in the Nursing Progression Committee process.

Students in the pre-nursing term will be required to submit evidence of all of the requirements below to be considered for progression into the nursing portion of the program: 

Immunization Requirements

  • Tetanus/Diphtheria and Pertussis vaccination
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations and Titer
  • Varicella Zoster vaccination and Titer
  • Hepatitis B vaccination and Titer
  • Seasonal flu vaccination
  • Additional immunizations may be required based on state and clinical requirements.

It is necessary to have the following physical abilities for the Clinical portion of the program: 

Essential Performance Standards/Clinical Nursing

  • walk the equivalent of five miles per day
  • reach above shoulder level
  • hear tape recorded transcription and emergency monitors
  • distinguish colors
  • adapt to shift work
  • sit and stand for long periods of time
  • climb stairs
  • lift 50 pounds
  • perform CPR

If you have any questions about these required immunizations and physical requirements, please speak with an Enrollment Counselor.

† Note: Student malpractice insurance will be provided by WGU at no cost to you.

Background Check Details

1. Create your COMPLIO account. 2. Select Program: Prelicensure. 3. Select your state of residence. 4. Under "Optional Compliance Items" select: *Criminal Background Check: $52 (base package price)

Note: Do not select the Prelicensure Bundle or the Immunization Package.

nursing course work

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to a WGU Enrollment Counselor.

Transfer Credits

Accredited,

Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

NWCCU accreditation logo

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master's degree program in nursing at WGU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( http://www.ccneaccreditation.org ).

The post-graduate APRN certificate program at WGU is pursuing initial accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( http://www.ccneaccreditation.org ). Applying for accreditation does not guarantee that accreditation will be granted.

Unbelievably Low Tuition

By charging per term rather than per credit, WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees.

Other student responsibilities:

Uniforms: Approx. $150 plus shipping, handling, and applicable taxes. Uniforms do not have to be purchased through WGU. Lab kit fees: Approx. $250  Drug screen, background check, and immunization tracking system: $94, which includes one alias search; there will be a separate charge for each additional alias search, and due to expenses associated with accessing court documents, the fees for students in the following states will be as follows: MI ($10), NV ($12). All fees are subject to change.

Compliance fees will vary depending on the compliance items a student needs for placement. Generally (though subject to change), prices are as follows:

  • ADB/Complio Background Check (varies by state – completed every 24 months) - $52 - $150
  • ADB/Complio Immunization Tracking Package (varies by package term) - $25- $50
  • ADB/Complio Drug Screen (varies by panel) - $36
  • ADB/Complio HIPAA Training - $15
  • ADB/Complio OSHA Training - $15
  • Third-Party Onboarding (varies by vendor - MCE, ACEMAPP, TCPS, CPNW, etc.) - $25- $50

Additional fees to the student may include: fingerprints, physician office visits, titer screenings, immunizations, physical exams, eye exams, and any additional items required by the health facility. All prices subject to change.

Costs for Pre-Nursing (1-4 Terms)

Tuition per 6-month term

The first 4 terms of the prelicensure program consist of pre-nursing courses, and the tuition is slightly lower than the rest of the program. There is an additional e-books and resources fee of $200 per six-month term.

Costs for Clinical Nursing (4 Terms)

At WGU, tuition is charged every six months. There is an additional e-books and resources fee of $200 per six-month term.

A Prelicensure Nursing Bachelor's Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

nursing course work

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

nursing course work

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

nursing course work

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

CLINICAL AND LAB EXPERIENCES

A Hands-On Nursing Preparation Program

Approximately 60% of this program is online coursework, with the remaining 40% as hands-on clinical and lab time.

Students must be available for three-week clinical windows for each clinical course and 5 weeks during your final clinical course. Preparation will be completed online under the guidance of a WGU Program Mentor and through mandatory attendance at high-fidelity clinical simulation learning labs.

  • Cutting-edge clinical simulations, including virtual and high-fidelity simulations to develop clinical skills.
  • Agency-based clinical rotations in hospitals and other key healthcare sites within the community.
  • One-on-one guidance, supervision, and support in a busy, contemporary clinical setting with a clinical coach/preceptor—an experienced staff nurse and clinical expert.
  • You will complete multiple clinical rotations each year, both in-hospital and community-based settings

WGU’s B.S. Prelicensure Nursing students will travel to clinical learning labs twice during the program. Clinical learning labs are approximately one week in length for each of the two sessions. There will also be one virtual lab (which includes two virtual meetings) that will not require travel to a facility.

  • Florida clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.
  • Idaho clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, UT
  • Indiana clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.
  • Iowa clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • Kansas clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • Kentucky clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.
  • Michigan clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.
  • Missouri clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • Nevada clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, Utah.
  • New Mexico clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • North Carolina clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.
  • Ohio clinical district students will attend lab in Indiana.
  • Oklahoma clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • South Carolina clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.
  • Tennessee clinical district students will attend lab in Florida.
  • Texas clinical district students will attend lab in Houston, Texas.
  • Utah clinical district students will attend lab in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Students must complete any additional compliance and onboarding items as indicated by an affiliation agreement with the partnering facility. Items may include, but are not limited to: N95 fit tests, COVID vaccines/boosters, colorblindness/eye exam, fingerprints, and other immunizations as indicated.

"I've always wanted to become a RN. I took the longest route to get here and now I'm 27 and finally accomplished my dream! All thanks to WGU for making a program that I could work and get my school work done.”

—Brittney Burns B.S. Nursing, Prelicensure

WGU Houston Lab for Prelicensure Students

"I've always wanted to be a nurse. But I have found that traditional school never really worked for me. I found that teaching my self and working online was a better fit and by doing that I ended up getting back to back bachelor degrees. I realized that I enjoy learning just not the way schools were traditionally structured where you are always lectured to.

—Brian Cowan B.S. Nursing, Prelicensure

WGU Houston Lab for Prelicensure Students

CAREER OUTLOOK

Your Path to Becoming a Nurse

You need your RN license to achieve your goal of being a nurse. Becoming a bachelor’s-prepared nurse as well will open the door to many opportunities—whether you want to serve on decision-making committees at your facility or desire greater employability at hospitals seeking Magnet status. 

Caring for others in their time of need has been your lifelong passion. It’s your heart and soul—it’s why you feel called to be a nurse. WGU’s nursing programs are designed around a philosophy and a conceptual model of nursing that recognizes the nurse’s diverse roles as detective, scientist, and healer.

We’re committed to our mission of forming “confident, caring, and competent professional nurses prepared to meet emerging healthcare needs of diverse populations.”   

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source:  2023 Harris Poll Survey  of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Employment of nurses is projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

WGU's BSN Grads are Working in Diverse, Fulfilling Roles

Our 20,000-plus Bachelor of Science Nursing alumni have great jobs and satisfying careers:

  • Staff nurse
  • Flight nurse
  • Nurse case manager
  • Public health nurse
  • Forensic nurse

Diverse Industries

  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • Doctor’s offices and clinics
  • U.S. military
  • Public health departments
  • Nonprofit organizations

Major Employers

  • Intermountain Healthcare
  • U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs
  • Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
  • Synergy Home Health
  • HCA Healthcare
  • Peace Health

WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers

Hospitals and clinics around the country know the benefit of a degree from WGU, so your healthcare degree is valuable.

More About Prelicensure Nursing

  • General Program Questions
  • Financial Aid Questions

Common Questions About the Prelicensure Program

When does the program start?

The WGU BS Nursing Prelicensure program does not follow set start dates like other programs. We have sporadic start dates throughout the year within each geographic region inside each participating state. The clinical hospital partners that we work with determine when our cohorts will begin and the size of those cohorts. We encourage applicants to diligently work on completing their entire application to ensure they are eligible to be considered for as many cohort start dates as possible in their geographic area. You will only be considered for one start date at a time. Your  Enrollment Counselor  can provide specific location details.

How competitive is the program, and what are the chances of me being admitted?

Like most nursing programs, the B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program at WGU is competitive. WGU reviews a variety of factors when making an admission decision. WGU continues to focus on growth and this means obtaining new clinical hospital partnerships which allows us more space to enroll Nursing Prelicensure students. 

Will having a background in healthcare increase my chances of being admitted?

WGU reviews a variety of factors when making a Holistic admissions decision. Healthcare experience will be factored into the Holistic admission decision but experience in the healthcare realm is not a requirement for admission.

Can I find my own preceptor and arrange an individual clinical agreement with a location in my area to complete this program, since I do not live in any of the areas listed on the website?

At this time, we do not allow individuals to set up their own clinical arrangements. Clinical arrangements require a great deal of legal approval and contracts. WGU is committed to the growth of this program and we encourage you to check back in the future to see if we have expanded to your geographic area. 

I live outside the states listed for program availability. Can I travel to another state to complete the clinical and labs for this program?

Unfortunately, you must be living in one of the following states to be eligible to apply for this program. Any applications from individuals living outside one of the states listed will not be accepted.  

Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee , Texas, Utah

The prelicensure nursing program at WGU is constantly growing, and there will be more states where we are able to offer this program as we continue to grow. Check back often to see if your state has been added to the list of available areas, or talk to an Enrollment Counselor to learn more. 

Can I relocate once I am in the program if I decide to move to another state?

The BS Nursing Prelicensure program is set up to have the student complete the program in the state where they started the program. Once a WGU student, relocation to another state is not a guarantee due to cohort availability and competitiveness.

Is the BS Nursing – Prelicensure program a bridge program? (EX: LVN to RN, LVN to BSN, EMT to RN, accelerated BA/BS, Non nursing to BSN?)

The B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program is not a traditional bridge program. Our program is for individuals seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and obtain the clinical hours required to sit for the NCLEX exam to become a registered nurse.

Can I pick the days and times I am available for clinical rotations and labs?

BS Nursing Prelicensure students will be assigned a set schedule outlining their lab and clinical requirements that they will be expected to follow.  Every WGU Nursing Prelicensure student is assigned a clinical coach/preceptor that they will work with one-on-one. Our clinical coaches/preceptors are experienced RN’s and our students will be assigned to work the schedule of their clinical coach/preceptor. This could include weekends, evenings and holidays.

How long is the program, and can I complete it faster?

The B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program has an expected pace of 4 years for completion. Students can accelerate some of their coursework, particularly the pre-nursing coursework, and may be able to complete their program faster.

Can I do my prerequisites at WGU?

Yes, you are now able to complete all of your prerequisite nursing courses at WGU. You can talk with your Enrollment Counselor about the specific courses in the program and possible transfer credit for previous college courses. 

Will I be able to earn a nursing license in my state with WGU's degree?

Completing an accredited nursing program, like our WGU B.S. Nursing Prelicensure offering, is a requirement to qualify to take the NCLEX exam. Upon successful completion of the NCLEX exam you can work toward applying for a license in the state you plan to work. We encourage you to connect with your state Board of Nursing website to verify specific state licensing information. 

Does WGU offer financial aid?

WGU is approved to offer  federal student aid . You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.  This video shows more  about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:

  • How to apply
  • Eligibility requirements
  • Examples of scholarships
  • What happens after you apply
  • Other financial aid options

How does tuition work at WGU?

WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools. 

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and Museum

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

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Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

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To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

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Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

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At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

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The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia

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    Elektrostal Geography. Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal. Elektrostal Geographical coordinates. Latitude: 55.8, Longitude: 38.45. 55° 48′ 0″ North, 38° 27′ 0″ East. Elektrostal Area. 4,951 hectares. 49.51 km² (19.12 sq mi) Elektrostal Altitude.

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    Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia in WGS 84 coordinate system which is a standard in cartography, geodesy, and navigation, including Global Positioning System (GPS). Latitude of Elektrostal, longitude of Elektrostal, elevation above sea level of Elektrostal.