From High School to Nursing School: A Complete Guide

If your teen is already thinking about a future in nursing, now is the perfect time to help them take their first steps. Some nursing programs allow students to begin their education right after high school, making it possible to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) without delay.

This guide will walk you through key information for parents and students, including nursing school prerequisites, direct admit programs, and opportunities like summer nursing programs for high schoolers. With the right preparation and support, your teen can start college confident and ready to pursue their nursing goals.

Direct Admit Nursing Programs: Starting Strong After High School

For students who are passionate about nursing, a direct admit program can offer a clear and immediate path to their goals. These programs allow students to enter a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program directly after high school without first completing general college coursework or a separate degree.

Chamberlain University’s 3-Year BSN program is an accessible option for first-time college students. Designed with flexibility and support in mind, it helps motivated students start their nursing journey right away.

Here’s what sets Chamberlain apart:

• No prerequisites are required, so students can begin nursing school immediately after high school graduation.
• Multiple start dates throughout the year, so they don’t have to wait to get started.
• Year-round terms that help keep students on track to finish in as few as three years.
• Online and campus-based learning options to fit their needs.
• Hands-on clinical experiences and state-of-the-art nursing labs.
• One-on-one support from faculty, academic advisors, and NCLEX^® prep resources.

Chamberlain’s direct admit BSN program is built to give students a strong start and a straight path to a career that makes a difference. For high school graduates who are ready to take the next step, it’s a smart, supportive, and streamlined option.

Nursing Prerequisites: What High School Students Should Know

While most nursing schools require college-level prerequisites before you can begin nursing courses, others (like Chamberlain) do not. Still, it’s a good idea to make sure your teen is academically ready for the rigor of a BSN program.

Here are common high school courses that help build a strong foundation for nursing:

• Biology: Essential for understanding human anatomy, physiology, and life sciences.
• Chemistry: Key to medication knowledge, lab work, and understanding the body’s systems.
• Math: Algebra and statistics support nursing concepts, dosage calculations, and research.
• English: Strong reading and writing skills are vital for communication and documentation.
• Psychology or Health Sciences: Helpful for building empathy, patient understanding, and emotional intelligence.

Encourage your teen to talk to their school counselor about Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment or honors-level courses in these areas. A strong academic record can help them stand out during the application process, even if prerequisites aren’t required.

Summer Nursing Programs for High Schoolers

If your teen is eager to explore nursing before college, a summer program can be a great opportunity. These programs give students hands-on exposure to healthcare careers, often through workshops or lab experiences.

Here are a few options to look for:

• Health science summer camps at universities or hospitals
• Nursing pathway programs offered by local colleges or school districts
• Public health ambassador programs or internships through city or state health departments
• Online courses or modules focused on healthcare careers or medical terminology
• HOSA-Future Health Professionals events or competitions

These experiences help students connect what they’re learning in school to real-world nursing careers, and they look great on college applications.

Helping Your Teen Take the Next Step

If your teen is ready to move from high school to nursing school, they don’t have to wait. With your support, they can explore programs and build a strong academic foundation, so they can begin their nursing education with confidence.

Chamberlain University offers an accessible and student-focused BSN program. With no prerequisites, flexible options, and support at every step, your teen can go directly from high school into a program designed to help them succeed.

Visit our high school nursing program page for more information here.

Learn More About Nursing Programs at Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University is proud to be recognized as the largest nursing school in the United States. Offering both online and campus-based options, Chamberlain’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

When your teen is ready to make a difference in healthcare, contact Chamberlain online or at 877.785.4955 to learn more. They can explore nursing degree programs that match their goals, interests, and learning style—and take the next step toward building their future in nursing.

Chamberlain University, an HLC-accredited institution, offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs in nursing and healthcare professions. With a growing network of campuses and robust online programs, Chamberlain continues to build on more than 135 years of excellence in preparing extraordinary healthcare professionals.

By Chamberlain University