Application Checklist
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Complete the Howard College application through ApplyTexas.
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Complete the Nursing application.
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Complete the required prerequisite courses:
- PSYC 2314 – Lifespan Growth and Development
- BIOL 2301 – Anatomy and Physiology I lecture
- BIOL 2101 – Anatomy and Physiology I lab
- BIOL 2302 – Anatomy and Physiology II lecture
- BIOL 2102 – Anatomy and Physiology II lab
- BIOL 2320 – Microbiology for Non-Science Majors lecture
- BIOL 2120 – Microbiology for Non-Science Majors lab
Official college transcripts are required for courses completed outside Howard College.
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Provide documentation of one of the following:
- A current, unencumbered LVN license
- An official transcript from an LVN program if you are waiting to take the NCLEX
- A current, unencumbered Texas or National Registry paramedic certification
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Take the TEAS exam.
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Submit the required supporting documents and complete the following requirements.
Immunization Requirements
- Hepatitis B: Three doses or a positive titer.
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Two doses or a positive titer.
- Varicella: Two doses or a positive titer.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap): One dose within the last 10 years.
- Influenza and tuberculosis screening: Required after acceptance into the program.
After acceptance, upload required vaccine documentation to CastleBranch using code
HQ91im.
Background Check and Licensure Eligibility
Complete a background clearance through CastleBranch using code HQ91bg before acceptance.
All applicants must review Texas Board of Nursing licensure eligibility information before acceptance. A clearance letter or blue card is mandatory before completion
of the Nursing Program. Providing inaccurate information may result in program dismissal.
Additional Requirements After Selection
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers card. Contact
432-264-5649 for more information.
- Copy of health insurance card
- Copy of driver's license
- Physical examination using the form provided by the program
- Tuberculosis or PPD test
Nursing has been an integral part of Howard College's history for more than 50 years.
The Vocational Nursing program began in 1958, and the Associate Degree Nursing program
began in January 1976. The Big Spring campus hosts Vocational Nursing, Registered
Nursing, and Transition programs. Vocational Nursing is also offered at the San Angelo
campus.
Since June 2003, the didactic portion of the second year of the RN program has been
delivered through an online learning environment.
Clinical rotations are varied and supported through affiliation agreements with hospitals
and clinics in Big Spring, San Angelo, and surrounding communities.
“Unless we are making progress in our nursing every year, every month, every week,
take my word for it we are going back.”
Florence Nightingale, 1914
We, the faculty, believe nursing is a practice discipline with a unique body of knowledge
based on principles and concepts derived from the sciences and humanities. The goal
of nursing as a caring profession is to assist individuals, families, and communities
in health promotion, maintenance, and restoration throughout the life process.
Student achievement data was not included in the source provided for this page. Add
the approved data or supporting document here when available.
Cost Information and Additional Expenses
The expenses listed below are approximate and subject to change. These costs are in
addition to standard tuition and fees. For current tuition and fee details, refer
to the Howard College Catalog or contact the Financial Aid Office.
Scholarship Opportunities
Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships to help offset educational costs.
Howard College Scholarship Opportunities
Fees Associated with Admission
- Immunizations: Variable
- Background check: Variable
- CNA course and certification: Variable
Additional Program-Related Expenses
- Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers: Approximately $56, depending on provider
- Physical examination: Variable, depending on health insurance
- Drug screening: Approximately $45
- Health insurance: Variable
- Annual tuberculosis test: Variable
- Annual influenza vaccination: Variable
- Clinical travel expenses: Variable and may include in-town and out-of-town travel
Uniform and Equipment Costs
- Scrubs: Approximately $60 per set; at least two sets are recommended
- Closed-toe and closed-heel shoes: Variable
- Lab coat, optional: Approximately $40
- Stethoscope: Variable
- Penlight: Variable
- Bandage scissors: Variable
- Program patch: Approximately $6
- Watch with a second hand: Variable; digital watches and smartwatches are not permitted
Textbooks and Online Testing Programs
Estimated costs vary by program:
- Vocational Nursing Program: Approximately $1,500
- Registered Nursing Program: Approximately $2,000
- Transition Program: Approximately $1,500
Computer access and printing may be required.
Licensing Expenses During the Final Semester
- NCLEX examination fee: $200
- Texas Board of Nursing application fee: $100
- Additional reviews or preparation products before taking the NCLEX: Variable