Can I Take Nursing Prerequisites While Working Full-Time?

Feasibility Assessment

Realistic Expectations

What's actually achievable:

• 1-2 courses per semester is typical for full-time workers
• 2-3 year completion timeline for all prerequisites
• 10-15 hours per week for one course, 20-25 for two
• Sacrifices required in social life and free time

Success Factors

Keys to making it work:

• Strong time management and discipline
• Supportive employer and family
• Flexible course formats (online, self-paced)
• Realistic schedule and boundaries
• Good physical and mental health

Challenges to Anticipate

Common difficulties:

• Time pressure and stress
• Fatigue from work + study
• Limited social and family time
• Difficulty with science courses
• Burnout risk without proper balance

Strategic Course Planning

Optimal Course Selection

Choose courses strategically:

Start with "Easier" Courses

• English Composition I
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Public Speaking
• Build confidence and study habits

Progress to Moderate Difficulty

• College Algebra or Statistics
• Nutrition
• General Chemistry I
• Balance difficulty with work demands

Save Most Challenging for Last

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II
• Microbiology
• Take when you have established study routines

Course Load Strategies

Conservative Approach (Recommended)

• 1 course per semester initially
• Add second course after successful first semester
• Take summers off or one light course
• Prioritize grades over speed

Moderate Approach

• 2 courses per semester (one science + one non-science)
• Summer courses for faster completion
• Requires strong time management
• Higher stress but faster completion

Aggressive Approach (Not Recommended)

• 3+ courses per semester
• High risk of burnout and poor grades
• Only for exceptional circumstances
• Often leads to dropping courses

Time Management Strategies

Daily Schedule Optimization

Maximize your available time:

• Early morning study (5:30-7:30 AM before work)
• Lunch break study (30-45 minutes)
• Evening study block (7:00-9:00 PM after dinner)
• Weekend dedication (4-6 hours Saturday/Sunday)

Weekly Planning

Structure your week effectively:

1. Sunday planning: Schedule study blocks for the week
2. Monday/Wednesday/Friday: Content learning and reading
3. Tuesday/Thursday: Homework and practice problems
4. Saturday: Major assignments and exam preparation
5. Sunday: Review and upcoming week planning

Efficiency Techniques

• Pomodoro method: 25-minute focused study sessions
• Active learning: Practice problems vs. passive reading
• Study groups: Learn with others for efficiency
• Online resources: Use videos and interactive tools
• Mobile learning: Study during commutes and breaks

Workplace Considerations

Employer Support

Maximize workplace flexibility:

• Discuss your educational goals with supervisor
• Request flexible scheduling if possible
• Explore tuition reimbursement programs
• Ask about reduced hours during difficult semesters
• Use paid time off strategically for exams

Work-Study Balance

Maintain professional performance:

• Don't let studies affect work quality
• Keep work and study time separate
• Use work breaks for quick review sessions
• Avoid studying during core work hours
• Maintain good relationships with colleagues

Job-Related Strategies

If you work in healthcare:

• Apply coursework to your job
• Study relevant medical terminology at work
• Use clinical experiences to reinforce learning
• Network with healthcare professionals

Online and Flexible Learning Options

StraighterLine and Self-Paced Options

Ideal for working students:

• Study on your own schedule
• Pause when work gets demanding
• Accelerate during lighter periods
• No fixed class times to attend
• Significant cost savings

Hybrid Course Formats

Best of both worlds:

• Online lectures with in-person labs
• Flexible assignment deadlines
• Some face-to-face interaction
• Structured but adaptable

Evening and Weekend Classes

Traditional but flexible:

• Classes scheduled after work hours
• Weekend intensive options
• Regular schedule for planning
• In-person instructor support

Family and Personal Life

Family Communication

Get buy-in from your support system:

• Discuss time commitments with family
• Explain long-term career benefits
• Schedule dedicated family time
• Ask for help with household responsibilities
• Include family in your success celebrations

Social Life Management

Maintain important relationships:

• Schedule regular social activities
• Combine studying with friend time
• Be honest about availability limitations
• Quality over quantity in social interactions
• Find friends who support your goals

Self-Care Priorities

Prevent burnout:

• Protect sleep (7-8 hours minimum)
• Maintain regular exercise routine
• Eat nutritious meals regularly
• Schedule downtime and relaxation
• Seek help if feeling overwhelmed

Financial Considerations

Budget Planning

Plan for educational expenses:

• Tuition costs per course
• Textbooks and materials
• Technology and internet access
• Potential reduced work hours
• Emergency fund for unexpected costs

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Community college for lower costs
• Employer tuition reimbursement
• Scholarships for adult learners
• Used textbooks and digital options
• Tax credits for education expenses

Income Protection

Maintain financial stability:

• Don't reduce work hours dramatically
• Build emergency savings before starting
• Consider part-time vs. full-time work
• Plan for slower progression if needed
• Keep career options open

Success Stories and Timeline Examples

Conservative Timeline (3 Years)

Year 1: English I, Psychology, Math

Year 2: Chemistry I, A&P I, Sociology

Year 3: Chemistry II, A&P II, Microbiology

Result: Strong grades, manageable stress

Moderate Timeline (2 Years)

Year 1: English I, Psychology, Chemistry I, Math

Year 2: Chemistry II, A&P I, A&P II, Microbiology

Result: Faster completion, higher stress

Accelerated Timeline (18 Months)

Semesters: 2-3 courses including summers

Requirements: Very flexible job, strong support

Risk: High burnout potential