SBCC School of Nursing Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What nursing programs does SBCC offer?
A:
1. Associate Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.); Director: Sheri Shields
2. Vocational Nursing (V.N.); Director: Anne Marie Kopeikin
3. Certified Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.), Director: Mary Webber
4. N194-Review and Updating of Nursing Skills; Contact Jane Metiu
Q: How can I learn more about the nursing programs?
A: Information meetings are regularly held for the A.D.N., V.N., and C.N.A. programs. No appointments are necessary to attend.
A.D.N. Information Meetings: 2nd Monday of each month, 3:00 p.m., Room A218
V.N. Information Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of each month, 3:30-4:30, Room A218
C.N.A. Information Meetings: 1st Thursdays in February, March, April (except 1st week), and October, November & December, 4:00 p.m.,
Room A214
NURS 194, Nurse Review and Update Meetings: 1st Thursday, February & March and Sept/October, 3:00-4:30pm, A218.
• No Information Meetings are held during the summer or during school holidays
and there are no meetings in December or May.
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Q: What do I need to apply to the A.D.N. program?
A: You will need to complete the following:
Submit an application to the college at http://www.sbcc.edu/apply or call Admission
Outreach at (805) 965-0581, ext. 7222
and
Official Transcripts for the following::
1. ADN Application. Download the application from the website. Applications are also available in the Health Technologies office, A218 or call, 965-0581, ext. 2366 to have one mailed to you.
2. Proof of High School Graduation or GED
3. One semester of college Chemistry with lab (SBCC Chem 101 or 104)
4. Math: Intermediate Algebra (SBCC Math 107 or Math 111, or SBCC Math
Assessment result showing eligibility for a class higher than Math 107 or Math
111).
5. English: (SBCC English 110, Composition and Reading)
6. Anatomy with lab: (SBCC BMS 107)
7. Physiology with lab: (SBCC BMS 108)
8. Microbiology with lab: (SBCC BMS 127)
9. A cut score of 72 or greater. This score is determined by a formula based on an
evaluation of all college transcripts. For questions, call Health Technologies
Cluster Counselor at SBCC.
10.Overall college GPA of 2.0 or higher
11. Score of at least 67% on Test for Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
12. LVN to RN applicants must have current LVN license.
Students are placed at the bottom of the wait list when all application materials and transcripts have been evaluated and it has been determined that all prequisites have been met.
Please be sure to keep the Health Technologies office updated of new phone number or address if you move or decide not to pursue the nursing program.
 Q: What do I need to apply to the V.N. program?
A: You will need the following:
1. Proof of High School Graduation OR equivalent.
2. Eligibility for ENG 100, Fundamentals of
Composition or ENG 103, Improvement of College
Reading Skills with a minimum of C
3. Eligibility for MATH 100, Elementary Algebra
4. Completion of COMM 121 OR 131 (Interpersonal
Communications or Public Speaking), with a
minimum of a C
5. Anatomy (SBCC BMS 100 or 107 with a C) Must be completed within the last five
years of beginning the VN program
6. CNA Certificate, must be current
7. Application to the VN Program. Application can be downloaded from website or is available in the Health Technologies Office, Room A218.
Applications are accepted on a year-round basis from students who have met all prequisites.
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Q: What do I need to apply to the CNA program?
A: You will need the following:
1. Completed application for CNA program. Available on website or in Health Technologies Office, Room A218
2. Proof of eligibility for English 70 and 80. (If results are lower than 70 and 80, make appointment with the Program Coordinator.)
3. A valid Social Security number (Department of Health Service regulation).
After completing 1 through 3 above, you are ready to apply! Download application from website. Applications are also available in the Health Technologies office, A218, or call 965-0581, ext. 2366.
Q: What are the differences between CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant,) LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse-also known as LPN -Licensed Practical Nurse) and ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)? The ADN is a RN (Registered Nurse).
A: Initial differences are educational level, number of prerequisites, program requirements, length of program and pay after completion of the program.
The CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) program is one semester long. This program is an excellent way to see if the nursing field is for you. The CNA is a member of the patient care team. The CNA works under the RN and LVN to provide direct care to the patient. Tasks include assisting with personal hygiene, nutrition and elimination, mobility, and comfort activities.
The LVN ( Licensed Vocational Nurse) is a three-semester program and primarily works under the direct supervision of an RN or physician in extended health care facilities. The LVN oversees patient care, administers medications and performs skilled treatments such as dressing changes. In acute care settings, their expertise is limited to medical, surgical nursing.
The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) is a four-semester program after prerequisite courses are completed.The ADN is the entry level of the Registered Nurse. This degree offers more opportunities and a variety of work environments such as clinics, hospitals, offices, surgery centers and all specialty areas including ICU (intensive care unit), CCU (coronary care unit), ER (emergency room), maternal child specialty areas and more. The registered nurse provides leadership and supervision for the health care team and creates the plan of care.
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 Q: What is the difference between a RN & ADN?
A: The RN (Registered Nurse) is the title for all levels of nursing starting with the ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing). Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are not registered nurses. The ADN (the A.S., Associate in Science or Associate Degree in Nursing) is the entry level of the Registered Nurse. The ADN graduate focuses on the application of basic nursing concepts and skills with an emphasis on integrating nursing judgment, problem solving, communication, supervision, and leadership. ADN graduates are able to work in acute care, clinics, home care, extended care, and physician’s offices.
Q: Between an ADN & a BSN?
A: The BSN (the BS, Bachelor in Science or Bachelor Degree in Nursing) focuses on care of the community, family systems, as well as individuals in the acute care setting. Emphasis is on a broader preparation in the sciences and an increased understanding of the health care delivery system. Leadership, problem-solving skills, and interpersonal skills are strong components at this level. BSN graduates receive a public health nurse certificate. In addition, they are able to work in the public school system, nursing education, and public health.
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Q: Where should I start?
A: That depends on your level of education, what life & work experiences you have had, & personal demands outside of school and what your ultimate goal is. If you want to be an RN and work independently, go directly into the ADN Program. It is not quicker to go into the VN program and transfer. You do not need a CNA to enter the RN program. If you love to work in extended care and work under the supervision of the RN, apply to the VN program. A CNA is required to enter the VN program. If you are unsure if nursing is for you or want to be a CNA, apply to the CNA program.
.To explore further, go to an Information Meeting or make an appointment with a, Health Technologies Cluster Counselor or go to the Career Center, located at SBCC on the second floor of the Student Services Building, room 282 to find out more.
Q: What is the most important item to remember when applying to a nursing program?
A: It is important to be aware of the current Application requirements for each program. These are available on the web site or in Health Technologies, A218 or attend an Information Meeting for the program you are interested in to have an opportunity to ask questions and meet the Director of the program.
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Q: What are Application Requirements?
A: Application requirements are necessary to apply and be placed on a wait list for the nursing programs. All application requirements must be complete to apply for any of the nursing programs. Applications are available year-round and accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Q: What is a prerequisite?
A: These are courses required for admission to the major. Students must earn a C or better in each of the courses. Transfer courses, which are articulated (identified as matching in content), may be used to meet these requirements. Transfer courses would need to be evaluated by one of the Health Technologies Cluster Counselors.
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Q: What does "eligibility for" mean?
A: When a student has met the prerequisite for a class, we say that the student is"eligible for" enrollment into that particular class. Students who want to enroll in a course with prerequisites must prove their readiness (eligibility) for the course. Students at SBCC prove their eligibility by either testing with our Math and English placement exams, or by providing acceptable outside test scores, and/or course work.
Q: How do I find out about English and Math Assessment Testing?
A: The Assessment Office is located in Student Services in SS251. There are two options for testing, computerized testing in a drop-in lab and paper & pencil testing. Information re: dates and times available for testing can be found online at www.sbcc.edu/home/pros/assess or by calling the office at 805-965-0581, ext. 2349.
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Q: Do any of the programs have a wait list?
A: . All three nursing programs do have wait lists. The lists generally move quickly once a student on the wait list has met the entrance requirements. It is always a good idea to attend one of the Program Information Meetings, which are offered monthly during the school year. See: How can I learn about the nursing programs?
Q: I want to talk to someone in person.
A: To talk to someone about what a program entails and information about the profession attend the Program Information Meeting. If you have questions about general education courses or credit for other college work, make an appointment with one of the Academic Counselors from the Health Technologies Cluster Academic Counselor.
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Q: I am interested in one of the nursing programs, and I have attended other colleges previously. Can I get credit for this previous coursework including general education?
A: First you must apply to the college for admission, it does not cost anything. Apply at http://sbcc.edu/apply or call Admissions Outreach at (805) 965-0581, ext. 7222. Yes, you may be able to get credit from previous coursework! If you took courses from a regionally accredited post-secondary institution, we can award you transfer credit. If the courses were in general education, and you are interested in getting an Associate Degree, send official transcripts to Health Technology Office of Santa Barbara City College.
After you apply to the college and all transcripts have been received, it is recommended you call the Academic Counseling Department at 805 965-0581 X 2285& ask for a Health Technologies Cluster Counselor, or come into the SBCC Counseling Center and make an appointment with one of the Health Technologies Cluster Counselors. This will prevent any delay in awarding your associate degree due to lack of general education courses.
*Please note that to evaluate transcripts, academic counselors need to see transcripts. Student statements (written or oral) of completion of classes are not acceptable. Evaluations of transcripts by counselors from other colleges are not considered official for SBCC academic programs. If transcripts are not in English, they will need to be translated by a recognized professional evaluation service for a fee.
 Q: I have college transcripts from another country; can I get credit for those courses
A: If the transcripts are to fulfill prerequisites for a Health Technologies program follow the directions in question about previous college coursework and send to Health Technologies office. All transcripts must be in English or translated into English by an official from college, country, or professional credential evaluation service.
VN (Vocational Nurse)
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Q: I am interested in the SBCC VN program; what is my first step?
A: You will need the following: Application to the college
1. Proof of High School Graduation or equivalent.2. Completion of ENG 80 and ENG 70 OR eligibility for ENG 100 and ENG 103 through SBCC Assessment Test results OR completion of the equivalent of ENG 110 at another college.
3. Completion of MATH 4 OR Eligibility for MATH 100 through SBCC Assessment test results OR Completion of the equivalent of MATH 4 OR higher at another college.
4. BIOMED 100, 107, OR 109 (The Human Body, Anatomy, OR combined Anatomy/Physiology)
5. COMM 121 OR 131 (Interpersonal Communications OR Public Speaking)
6. Current CNA Certificate
After completing 1 through 6 above, you are ready to apply! Download from the website and mail or bring in official transcripts and application to Health Technologies Office, Room 218.
Q: How long is the VN program?
A: The VN Program is 3 semesters not including summer.
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Q: When does it start?
A: Attend an Information Meeting to meet the Director and find out about the program start dates. The program starts every three semesters.
Q: I have transcripts from other colleges. How do I find out if they are acceptable to fulfill general education or VN prerequisites or requirements?
A: Apply to the college. Send official transcripts to Health Technology Office of Santa Barbara City College. If you would like to communicate with a SBCC counselor, call the Counseling Department at (805) 965-0581 X 2285 & ask for a Health Technologies Cluster Counselor. Please note that to evaluate transcripts, counselors need to see transcripts. Student statements (written or oral) of completion of classes are not acceptable. Evaluations of transcripts by counselors from other colleges are not considered official for SBCC academic programs.
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Q: Can I work while I am enrolled in VN program?
A: Yes, however it is a full-time program. You can expect to spend at least 40 hours a week in classes, hospitals, and in the Nursing laboratory. This does not include homework. The department recommends 8 hours per less week of outside work.
Q: I want to talk to someone in person.
A: Attend the Program Information Meeting for a chance to meet the program faculty and learn more about the program. If you have questions about general education requirements, call the Academic Counseling Department at (805) 965-0581 X 2285 & ask for to see a Health Technologies Cluster Academic Counselor.
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Q: Do I need a certain g.p.a.(college grade point average) to qualify for the VN program?
A: A grade of C in all application requirements or entrance requirements is necessary. Overall college g.p.a. (grade point average) is not considered for acceptance into the program.
Q: Is there a wait list?
A: Yes, it is first come first serve. You will be placed on the wait list when you meet the application requirements. Applications are available and accepted year-round.
Q: How do I apply?
A: The VN application process is separate from the college. First, you apply to the college and then to the VN program by completing an application for the program and meeting the application requirements.
Registered Nursing Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
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Q: I am interested in the SBCC ADN program; what is my 1st step?
A: To find out more about the Associate Degree Nursing Program and how to apply, attend an Information Meeting. These are held on the 2nd Monday of each month at 3:00 pm in A218, except on school holidays and summer. There are no meetings in December or May.
Q: What is the difference between a RN & ADN?
A: The RN (Registered Nurse) is the title for all levels of nursing starting with the ADN. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) are not Registered Nurses. The ADN (the A.S, Associate in Science or Associate Degree in Nursing) is the entry level of the Registered Nurse. The RN learns the basic nursing concepts and skills with an emphasis on integrating nursing judgment, problem solving, communication skills and leadership and supervision in the provision of patient care.
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Q: What is the difference between ADN & a BSN?
A: The BSN (the BS, Bachelor in Science or Bachelor Degree in Nursing) focuses on care of the community, family systems, and individuals in the acute care setting. Emphasis is on a broader preparation in the sciences and an increased understanding of the health care delivery system. Leadership, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills are strong components.
Q: Do I need a certain g.p.a. (grade point average) to qualify for the program?
A: Yes, you will need a C or better in all of your prerequisite and required courses in the major. An overall g.p.a. of 2.0 of all completed college units is also required to receive a SBCC Associate Degree.
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Q: How do I ensure all prerequisites have been met?
A: The Health Technologies Office will notify you by mail a Reconfirmation Letter once a semester. This Reconfirmation Letter is used to verify if you are still interested in the program and to notify you of your Entrance Date. You must notify Health Technologies Secretary of any changes of address or phone number.
If the Reconfirmation Letter is not returned you will be removed from the wait list.
Transcripts MUST be sent to the Health Technologies office and they must be official. To be official, they must be sent directly from the school and be unopened. It is the responsibility of the applicant to verify receipt of all transcripts and completion of application file. Email at Michalak@sbcc.edu
Q: What if I miss the application deadline?
A: There is no deadline. Applications are accepted year-round. Students will be placed on waiting list in order of completion of application requirements. The process is described in detail in the Application Process for the ADN Program.
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Q: What science classes are required?
A: BIOMED 107 Human Anatomy, 108 Human Physiology, & 127 Medical Microbiology are Required . All must include a lab portion, with a minimum grade of C. .
Q: Is there a way to start the program earlier than the projected date?
A: Yes. Return the Reconfirmation Letter every semester and keep the Health Technologies informed of any changes in phone number and/or address. If a space becomes available, students will be called to see if they are interested in the order on the wait list.
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Q: What does prerequisite or proof of eligibility mean?
A: An application prerequisite must be completed or an assessment taken that proves that you have met the prerequisite by testing higher than required course. This would be determined by one of the Health Technologies Cluster Counselors. Or, a math or English assessment that would determine you are eligible for Math or English higher than what is required to apply. Eligibility with Assessment Testing is provided by the Assessment Office in the Student Services Building on the second floor (805 965-0581 x2349). Assessment Testing is not offered year-round, so please call to verify the testing schedule.
Q: What is mastery learning?
A: The ADN program is unique. It is a program based on the concept of mastery learning. This means that each short course (or module) has specific learning objectives for theory and clinical practice. Progress through the program is determined by mastery of these objectives and demonstration of theory plus nursing skills in the clinical (hospital) setting. Depending on student's mastery of material some students may progress more quickly through the program and some may need more time. The faculty feel that given the time and assistance, students can master the material required in the program.
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Q: What is a typical weekly schedule while in the ADN program?
A: Classes are held on Monday and Thursday and the clinical experiences are held on Tuesday and Wednesday or Friday and Saturday. A student can expect to spend many hours in the Nursing Laboratory practicing skills for skill evaluations before attending clinical. All students are expected to spend a a maximum of one semester in clinical on evenings and a minimum of one semester Friday/Saturday clinical shifts.
 Q: If you are a San Marcos Health Careers Academy graduates what do you need to do?
A: You will be given priority on the waiting list. Five spaces each semester are reserved for graduates of the Health Academy. You will still need to meet all the Application Requirements and apply to the college and the ADN Program, but when you have met all requirements there is a space reserved for you to enter the ADN Program.
Q: Who do I contact for the San Marcos Health Careers Academy?
A: Marce Newman, Health Careers Academy Director, 805-967-4581, extension 360.
Email address: mnewman@sbsdk.12.org
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