Are you considering studying nursing and wondering if calculus is a requirement? It cannot be obvious to sort through all the program requirements and prerequisites information. If you’ve been searching for an answer to, ‘Do I need Calculus for Nursing School?’ – you are in the right place! In this blog post, we will explore exactly what is required for most nursing school programs so that you can make sure your academic path is set up correctly.
Whether it’s undergraduate or graduate studies, understanding what math courses are needed (or not) before enrolling in a program could save lots of time and money. Let’s jump into some important points so you can start making informed decisions about your future in nursing.
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Do You Need Calculus for Nursing or Med School?
For many students interested in pursuing a career in nursing & medical, the question of whether or not calculus is necessary may come to mind. While it is true that higher-level math courses, including calculus, are typically required for science-based majors such as engineering or physics, the same is not necessarily valid for nursing. While math skills are undoubtedly necessary for nursing, they typically pertain more to introductory algebra and statistics rather than calculus.
Additionally, those seeking to become a nurse through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program may be required to take additional math courses. Still, calculus is typically not one of them. Ultimately, the decision to take calculus as a precursor to nursing school should be made based on individual desires and career goals.
What Type of Math is Used in Nursing?
Nursing in the professional world necessitates basic math abilities; yet, almost all nurse training programs mandate taking at least one college-level algebra class. Some nursing colleges may even require a fundamental statistics course; thus, double-check if the universities you are applying to have this requirement.
What If I Don’t Like Math As a Nurse?
If you are among the many nurses who don’t know math, rest assured that it isn’t too tricky in nursing. Countless other nurses did not particularly enjoy math or excel at it and still achieved success in their nursing school programs. Not to mention, many of them went on to become exemplary nurses!
For further information, please see the article “Do You Have to Be Good in Math to be a Nurse?” I wrote about this topic. Reading it will provide you with more insight and help answer your questions.
Is Calculus Required for Nursing?
Calculus, the study of limits, derivatives, and integrals, is typically not required for nursing programs. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs need students to complete various math and science courses, but they usually do not include calculus. The BSN meaning refers to a degree program designed to prepare individuals for a career in nursing with a focus on leadership and management skills. While calculus may not be required for nursing, a solid foundation in math and science is essential for success in the field. Students must understand topics such as pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology, which require a firm grasp of foundational math and science concepts.
Common Pre-Req for Nursing Course
Many nursing programs require applicants to complete specific pre-requisite courses before being admitted. Commonly required courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Nutrition, and Mathematics (usually Algebra or Statistics). Many programs may also need a grade point average of 2.5 or higher to be accepted. Some programs may also require applicants to have taken a course in English composition or psychology. You must check with your chosen program for more information about the specific prerequisites needed for admission.
Final Words
If you are considering enrolling in a nursing school program and are wondering if calculus is required, the answer is no. Math skills are essential for nurses, but they typically focus more on introductory algebra and statistics than calculus. While some nursing colleges may require additional math courses, they will not include calculus. However, it is still a good idea to double-check with your chosen program before enrolling to ensure you are aware of all the math requirements needed for admission. Good luck on your journey to becoming a nurse.
Mrs. Marie Brown has been a registered nurse for over 25 years. She began her nursing career at a Level I Trauma Center in downtown Chicago, Illinois. There she worked in the Emergency Department and on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. After several years, she moved to the Midwest and continued her nursing career in a critical care setting. For the last 10 years of her nursing career, Mrs. Brown worked as a flight nurse with an air ambulance service. During this time, she cared for patients throughout the United States.