Associate in Nursing

Program Overview

The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program at Columbia College is a rigorous, state-approved and nationally accredited pathway that prepares you to become a registered nurse (RN) through a combination of science-based coursework, hands-on learning, high-fidelity simulation, and supervised clinical experiences. The program serves both first-time nursing students and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking to advance their credentials. Once you graduate, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX examination and enter the workforce as nurses prepared for diverse care settings.

Why Choose Columbia College For Your Associate in Nursing?

• Exceptional licensure outcomes: CC alumni have an 86% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate as of fall 2025.
• Hands-on learning environment: Participate in extensive simulations, labs and supervised clinical experiences to ensure you enter the workforce with real-world confidence and skills.
• Open to any student: Whether you’re a first-time nursing student or an LPN seeking advancement, this is an accessible, structured pathway to becoming a registered nurse.
• Accredited and state-approved: This program is approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
• Convenient in-seat classes: Study during the day or in the evening at the Columbia and Lake of the Ozark’s campuses.

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Curriculum Overview

The ASN curriculum at Columbia College is carefully designed to build your knowledge step by step —from essential sciences to advanced nursing care. You’ll begin with a strong foundation in science, communication, and critical thinking, then progress into nursing courses that combine classroom instruction, simulation, and supervised clinical experiences.

General Education Requirements and Prerequisite Courses
33 credit hours
Build core academic and professional skills like writing, inquiry, communication, and analytical thinking through general coursework.

Core Requirements and Nursing Coursework
34 credit hours
Once admitted to the nursing sequence, you’ll move into focused nursing coursework. You’ll practice nursing care across a variety of real-world settings, gaining experience with diverse patient populations and health conditions.

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The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

The ASN program at Columbia College is accredited by The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) INC.
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326 
(404) 975-5000

In accordance with U.S. Department of Education regulation, the most recent Board of Commissioners accreditation decision is Continuing Accreditation with Warning. The program will be surveyed again in the fall of 2027.

Admission Details

Admission Dates and Deadlines

Candidates for the nursing program must first meet general Columbia College admission requirements.  Additional requirements and the ASN application packet are listed in the Nursing Program Admission Requirements.

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Get Credit Where You've Earned It

We believe your experience counts. Transfer credit may be available for prior coursework completed at accredited institutions. Your previous academic or professional experience will be evaluated to help you reduce time and cost where possible.

Tuition and Aid

At Columbia College, we believe a quality degree should be within reach. Our tuition is competitively priced among private, nonprofit colleges, and there are no hidden fees, ever. With financial aid, military tuition assistance, employer reimbursement programs, and more, our financial aid advisors are ready to help you explore options and make your degree affordable.

Straightforward Pricing
Our nursing undergraduate programs cost $450 per credit hour. Tuition is transparent here — with zero hidden fees, ever.

Tuition Details

Generous Financial Aid
Scholarships, payment plans, loans, and more are available to all. We’ll help you find the assistance you need to budget confidently.

Affordability at CC

Reduced Tuition for Partnership Organization Employees
We partner with hundreds of companies and organizations to offer 15% off tuition to employees and their families.

Participating Organizations

The Columbia College Experience: On Campus

We’ve been leading the way in flexible learning options since 2000. Our students are all over the world living their real lives, holding down jobs, and caring for others while learning their way to something better.

Here’s what you can expect from a degree at CC:

• Flexible coursework designed to help you create your future on your terms
• Interactive courses using modern, industry-standard tools for hands-on learning
• Personalized support from experienced faculty through regular virtual check-ins
• A connected global community of 100,000+ students and alumni

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Career Outcomes

Registered nursing is among the nation’s fastest-growing careers, with nearly 600,000 job openings projected nationally through 2029.

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.