Dutchess Community College – Nursing Department

The nursing program at Dutchess Community College prepares the student to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse (RN). After successful completion, the A.A.S. graduate is eligible to sit for the New York State licensing exam (NCLEX).

Classroom lectures, college laboratory practice, and clinical experiences in local health care facilities prepare the student for professional practice.

Students may pursue full-time or part-time study. There is a sequence of 4 semesters of nursing courses that cannot be shortened. Many students follow part-time study and complete the program over 3-4 years.

Students must complete any required remedial course work prior to registering for nursing courses. This will increase the length of time necessary to complete the program.

Potential full time or part time students who are either high school or GED graduates may apply for admission to the college. All entering students must take a series of tests, called ASSET testing, in the areas of math, reading, English, and biology. The results of these tests provide the basis for appropriate placement in college courses. Some students may be required to take remedial courses. Part-time students should also apply for matriculation, which means declaration of a major course of study.

Registration for nursing courses is always dependent on a space available basis. If there are more interested students than space availability, students are selected on a priority ranking using the following criteria:

• residence in the service area of Dutchess Community
• College (Dutchess County and Putnam County)
• good academic standing
• applicable, accumulated credits (maximum 35)
• date of matriculation
• grade point average

Official transcripts must be on file for review. Courses with grades of C or better will be evaluated for transfer. There is a five (5) year limitation on the age of ALL Biology courses required for the degree. NO NURSING COURSES WILL BE TRANSFERRED.

There is a day and evening program; however, the evening program is strictly a part-time one. Students must complete 26 applicable credits of general education requirements prior to entering the nursing sequence. There are a limited number of seats in the evening program. Students are selected on a priority ranking

Dutchess Community College
53 Pendell Road
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601-1595
Tel: (845) 431-8000

Visit the DCC Website