Nursing
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 105431 | NUAD | 66.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall, Spring, Summer | In-Person | Available | 11668 | La Crosse, Black River Falls, Mauston | Health Sciences |
Have you ever thought about becoming the heartbeat of a healthcare team? That's exactly what you'll be as a registered nurse (RN)! Our program isn't just about teaching you the nuts and bolts of nursing; it's about turning you into a leader in healthcare. Imagine combining knowledge from social, mathematical, and physical sciences with pharmacology and pathophysiology to make crucial clinical decisions. That's what you'll learn here.
Communication is key in nursing, and you'll become an expert at it. You'll also learn how to work effectively with others and use available resources to help patients maintain, regain, and improve their health. Think about mastering the art of critical thinking and problem-solving using the nursing process. It's not just about following procedures; it's about leading with compassion, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
Nurses are in high demand in all sorts of care settings, so your skills will be sought after. Plus, to ensure you're fully prepared, all registered nurses must pass a national exam to practice. Our graduates have consistently aced this exam compared to other programs nationwide. So, if you're ready to step into a career that's both challenging and rewarding, where you can truly make a difference, our RN program is the perfect place to start your journey.
You will enhance your clinical skills through hands-on, high-fidelity simulations in our cutting-edge Simulation and Extended Reality (XR) Labs, where you’ll practice patient care in lifelike scenarios. Learn more about our Simulation and XR Labs.
Due to program demand and Wisconsin laws relating to admissions residency requirements, this program is currently not accepting out-of-state applications at this time unless the state has a reciprocity agreement. Minnesota applicants will be accepted based on the current reciprocity agreement.
Transfer Student Admission Review: All transfer student applications to the Nursing Program are reviewed on an individual, case-by-case basis. Admission decisions are based on a comprehensive evaluation of prior coursework, academic performance, program capacity, and clinical placement availability. Final approval of transfer admissions is made by the Associate Dean of Nursing to ensure alignment with program requirements, accreditation standards, and student success expectations.
To view the Nursing program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Additional Requirements
These Academic Preparedness Requirements must be complete to be admitted to the Nursing program core courses:
- High School or GED/HSED Transcript
- 1 year of High School Chemistry OR 3 credits of College Chemistry OR Developmental Chemistry*
- Strengths Seminar
- English Composition I*
- Speech OR Oral/Interpersonal Communications*
- Developmental Psychology*
- Introduction to Psychology*
- Intro to Sociology*
- General Anatomy & Physiology*
- Advanced Anatomy & Physiology*
- Microbiology*
- Nursing Assistant Course Completion or proof of CNA certification
- HESI A2 Exam with a cumulative score of 75% or better
- Technical Standards Signature Form
- Viewpoint Screening Background Check (PDF)
*Must be completed with a "C" or better
Viewpoint Screening Health Portal (PDF) must be completed after being selected to start core Nursing courses.
Additional Admissions Information
- After admission to the college, you will be considered a pre-core nursing student. Admission to core classes in the Nursing program is based on application date and successful completion of the academic preparedness requirements for the program. Students are able to apply for financial aid and take general education courses to meet academic preparedness requirements as a pre-core nursing student. There is an estimated wait time of approximately 6-7 terms between admission to the college and beginning core Nursing courses.
- Evaluation to determine those that have met all program admissions requirements will take place on the following dates. Students will be notified through their Western student email if selected for the next cohort to start core Nursing program courses.
- September 15, 2026 for spring term
- February 15, 2027 for summer term
Career Opportunities
Registered Nurse
Program Outcomes
- Integrate professional nursing identity reflecting integrity, responsibility, and nursing standards
- Communicate comprehensive information using multiple sources in nursing practice
- Integrate theoretical knowledge to support decision making
- Integrate the nursing process into patient care across diverse populations
- Function as a healthcare team member to provide safe and effective care
Accreditation
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Western Technical College located in La Crosse Wisconsin is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
404-975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate Degree Nursing program at Western Technical College is Continuing Accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at https://www.acenursing.org/search-programs.
Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025
| Graduates | 200 |
|---|---|
| Graduates Responding | 68 |
| Employed In Related Occupation | 63 |
| Employed In Non-related Occupations | 0 |
| Seeking Employment | 4 |
| Continuing Education | 1 |
| Not In Labor Market | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation | 20 |
| PT Average Hours per Week | 27 |
| PT Median Hourly Wage | $37.00 |
| PT Hourly Wage Range | $30.00 - $39.00 |
| PT Median Annual Salary | $51,000 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation | 37 |
| FT Average Hours per Week | 38 |
| FT Median Hourly Wage | $37.00 |
| FT Hourly Wage Range | $26.00 - $45.00 |
| FT Median Annual Salary | $72,500 |
| Related Occupations | ER Nurse, Gundersen Health System, House Supervisor RN, LPN, Nurse Manager, Registered Nurse (RN) |
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents below:
- Program Details (PDF)
- Program Handbook (PDF)
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes (PDF)
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes LPN to RN (PDF)
- ACEN Standard 5 Outcomes Paramedic to RN (PDF)
Program Contact
Briannna Rozmenoski (last names A-K)
608-785-9078
rozmenoskib@westerntc.edu
Elliot Knoke (last names L-Z)
608-785-9842
knokee@westerntc.edu
Career Pathways
This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.
Prior Learning
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.
Certificates
There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.
Technical Diplomas
There are currently no technical diplomas associated with this pathway.
Associate Degrees
There are currently no associate degrees associated with this pathway.
University Transfer
Winona State University
WebsiteCourses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10801136 - English Composition I | 3.00 |
| 10806177 - Gen Anatomy & Physiology | 4.00 |
| 10809198 - Intro to Psychology | 3.00 |
| 10801198 - Speech | 3.00 |
| 10890106 - Strengths Seminar | 1.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10806179 - Adv Anatomy & Physiology | 4.00 |
| 10543101 - Nursing Fundamentals | 2.00 |
| 10543104 - Nursing Intro Clinical Practice | 2.00 |
| 10543103 - Nursing Pharmacology | 2.00 |
| 10543102 - Nursing Skills | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10543108 - Intro to Clinical Care Management | 2.00 |
| 10806197 - Microbiology | 4.00 |
| 10543107 - Nursing Clinical Care Across the Lifespa | 2.00 |
| 10543105 - Nursing Health Alterations | 3.00 |
| 10543106 - Nursing Health Promotion | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10809188 - Developmental Psychology | 3.00 |
| 10543110 - Mental Health & Community Concepts | 2.00 |
| 10543112 - Nursing Advanced Skills | 1.00 |
| 10543109 - Nursing Complex Health Alterations I | 3.00 |
| 10543111 - Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10809196 - Intro to Sociology | 3.00 |
| 10543113 - Nsg: Complex Health Alterat 2 | 3.00 |
| 10543115 - Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice | 3.00 |
| 10543116 - Nursing Clinical Transition | 2.00 |
| 10543114 - Nursing Management & Professional Concep | 2.00 |