AASN

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) graduate is prepared to provide and manage direct care to individuals with common well-defined problems. The AASN graduate functions as a team member using nursing diagnoses and established protocols for individuals in acute care and community-based settings. Additionally, the graduate participates as a member of the profession in appropriate specialty and politically focused nursing organizations

AASN End of Program Student Learning Outcomes

AASN graduates will: 

I. Create a culture of safety in all aspects of professional practice.  

II. Prioritize nursing judgment based on evidence-based practice.  

III. Utilize effective communication techniques to build trust and support collaborative care.  

IV. Facilitate collaboration with the healthcare team to achieve quality patient care.  

V. Exemplify the professional standards and ethics as a member of the nursing profession.  

Traditional AASN Admission Information

Prerequisites

Prerequisite requirements for application to the Traditional AASN degree program include:

The courses required prior to acceptance into the AASN degree program can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin.

Prerequisites include the following courses:

The required courses can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin.
All required courses must be completed with a minimum "C" in each course.

Prerequisite requirements for application to the LPN to AASN degree program include:

Prerequisites include the following courses:

The required courses can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin. All required courses must be completed with a minimum "C" in each course.

Admission Process

Limited Positions Available

Acceptance to the University does not guarantee admission to any nursing program.

Traditional AASN (You do not have an LPN License)

Class size is limited and all applicants may not be accepted into the program. Interested individuals are encouraged to seek an advisor early in their college career to ensure that all prerequisite courses are completed in a timely manner.

Applicants for admission will be ranked according to application completeness, the GPA of the 10 hours of prerequisites and admission test score. Consideration will be given to students completing prerequisite courses by the end of the Fall semester.

Based on recent legislation in Arkansas, students admitted to professional programs that lead to licensure upon graduation are required to have a successful background check to complete formal admission. 

Online applications will be available August 31st - October 15th.

Applicants Must Complete

  1. Admission to Arkansas State University
  2. Online application for Admission to the School of Nursing available August 31st.  Link to apply is on the School of Nursing website (when available). 
  3. Take the required SPANS admission exam.  SPANS is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure readiness for the academic demand of health science programs. The exam consists of 150 questions that evaluate critical skills in reading comprehension/English, math, and scientific knowledge. The exam is completed remotely and should be completed prior to the deadline. Estimated cost is about $70 and the exam can be completed one time during the application cycle. Exam results are valid for 3 years. For those interested, there is a prep book available online for purchase through SPIN Learning. Instructions for SPANS:

    1. Visit https://www.spin-learning.com/

    2. Click SPANS Registration button at top of webpage

    3. Select SPANS SPIN-Learning

    4. Click “Buy SPANS Ticket”

    5. Choose Preferred Date

    6. Checkout

  4. Smarter Measure Online Readiness Assessment: The online readiness tool helps indicate the degree to which distance learning and/or learning in a technology rich environment will be a good fit for the student.  This assessment requires students to answer questions and complete a few activities.  It takes about 35 minutes to complete and measures reading rate and recall, technical competency, technical knowledge, and typing speed and accuracy. There is no cost for the Smarter Measures Assessment and it can be completed one time during the application cycle.  Exam results are valid for 3 years.

     

     

                 Link to the assessment: Smarter Measures Assessment

                 Username: Traditional AASN  Password: traditional

     

  5. If you have previously attended a RN program and did not complete the program, you MUST submit a letter of good standing.  The letter must be sent from the previous RN program dean/director/chair/coordinator prior to the application deadline to the AASN Program Chair or designate.  The letter can be emailed to sdearing@astate.edu

  6. Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts showing all college work completed, including grades on courses taken in the last semester of enrollment to the Registrar's Office (PO Box 1570, State University AR 72467).  
  7. Submit a list of currently enrolled prerequisite coursework with application.
  8. Documentation of English proficiency, if applicable.

You DO have an LPN license:

  1. Apply for admission to A-State.
  2. Apply for admission to the LPN-AASN program. The application will be available on the School of Nursing website on April 30th.

  3. Take the required SPANS admission exam.  SPANS is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure readiness for the academic demand of health science programs. The exam consists of 150 questions that evaluate critical skills in reading comprehension/English, math, and scientific knowledge. The exam is completed remotely and should be completed prior to the deadline. Estimated cost is about $70 and the exam can be completed one time during the application cycle. Exam results are valid for 3 years. For those interested, there is a prep book available online for purchase through SPIN Learning. Instructions for SPANS:

    1. Visit https://www.spin-learning.com/

    2. Click SPANS Registration button at top of webpage

    3. Select SPANS SPIN-Learning

    4. Click “Buy SPANS Ticket”

    5. Choose Preferred Date

    6. Checkout

  4. Smarter Measure Online Readiness Assessment: The online readiness tool helps indicate the degree to which distance learning and/or learning in a technology rich environment will be a good fit for the student.  This assessment requires students to answer questions and complete a few activities.  It takes about 35 minutes to complete and measures reading rate and recall, technical competency, technical knowledge, and typing speed and accuracy. There is no cost for the Smarter Measures Assessment and it can be completed one time during the application cycle.  Exam results are valid for 3 years.

     

     

                 Link to the assessment: Smarter Measures Assessment

                 Username: Traditional AASN  Password: traditional

     

  5. If you have previously attended a RN program and did not complete the program, you MUST submit a letter of good standing.  The letter must be sent from the previous RN program dean/director/chair/coordinator prior to the application deadline to the AASN Program Chair or designate.  The letter can be emailed to sdearing@astate.edu
  6. Submit the following by the June 7th deadline:

Deadline

All application materials must be received by June 7th for the fall semester. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Applications are reviewed after the application deadline and preference is not given for early submission.

Additional Documentation

Students admitted will be required to supply additional documentation, including current CPR certification, Hepatitis B immunizations, TB skin test or chest x-ray, tetanus and MMR and proof of professional liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000/$6,000,000).

Based on recent legislation in Arkansas, students admitted to professional programs that lead to licensure upon graduation are required to have a successful background check to complete formal admission.

An unencumbered LPN license is to be maintained throughout the program.

All documentation required by the School of Nursing must be kept current al all times during the course of the program.

LPN Work Experience Requirements

Recent LPN Graduates

Applicants who complete their LPN program less than 12 months prior to application to the AASN program are not required to have 1000 hours of work experience. You are still required to to complete the work experience document to show proof of working as an LPN. 

Practicing LPNs

If it is greater than 12 months since graduation, the applicant must provide proof of work experience reflecting a minimum of 1,000 hours of nursing employment during the past 12-24 months.

Click here for employer documentation of work experience.

For any questions concerning this information, applicants are encouraged to see the AASN advisor, Samantha Dunavion (sadunavion@astate.edu)

Licensure Information

RN Licensure

Upon completion on this program, the student eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

A first-time applicant for any license by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing will have a state and national criminal background check. Any offenses identified in section §17-87-312 of the Nurse Practice Act may prohibit a graduate from obtaining a license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Arkansas. Although an appeal may be possible there are offenses that permanently disqualify an applicant from licensure.

The Nurse Practice Act may be viewed on the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website (www.arsbn.org) and also on the School of Nursing website.

Technology Requirements for Program

Readmission Process

For students seeking readmission to the AASN Nursing program:

Readmission Testing

Students seeking readmission to the LPN-AASN nursing programs are required to pass a standardized test created from the objectives of the courses successfully completed in previous semesters.

Criteria for readmission to the undergraduate nursing programs includes:

The cost of the readmission test will be the responsibility of the student

Please email NRStesting@AState.edu with any questions.

Program Application

Program applications for transfer and readmission will be available (Fall) April 30th - June 7th and (Spring) August 31st - October 15th.

Transfer Process 

The Traditional AASN program considers students for transfer into the program. Consideration as a Transfer student does not guarantee acceptance into the Traditional AASN program. Students accepted as Transfer students to the program are admitted to the 2nd semester of the program. All med-surg courses will be repeated. Students that have passed a specialty course (maternal/child or mental health) with a letter grade of C or better do have an option for specialty course waiver. Students interested in transferring to the Traditional AASN program should contact the AASN Program Chair to begin the process.  

Questions

For general questions and program information, please contact the following:

Samantha Dunavion, AASN Advisor - (870) 972-3074
                                                                                                                                                                   

For specific questions related to the application process and registration for pre-requisites (Health Assessment and Health Assessment Practicum) please contact the following:                                                                                                                                          
Lisa Montgomery, Admin Spec III - (870) 733-6031

The School of Nursing affirms that all students enrolled in the AASN program must possess those intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty for safe professional practice.  The criteria are included in the Nursing Student Handbook and are attached to the application for admission.

Traditional AASN (On-campus) Degree Plan

Pre-requisites:

Semester 1 (spring semester)

 

  • NURS 11234 Introduction to Nursing+
  • NURS 22392 Health Assessment*
  • NURS 11232 Fundamentals of Nursing Practicum+
  • NURS 22391 Health Assessment Practicum*

Total credit hours: 9

Summer Sessions

 

The following courses must be completed this semester or prior to progress to Semester 2 nursing courses:

  • BIOL 24103 Human Anatomy & Physiology II*
  • BIOL 24101 Human Anatomy & Physiology II Laboratory*
  • PSYC 11003 Introduction to Psychology*


Total credit hours: 7

Semester 2 (fall semester)

 

  • NURS 11235 Nursing I
  • NURS 11252 Role Development I
  • NURS 11243 Clinical Practicum I

Note: Students admitted with an LPN license begin courses in this semester of the program. 

 

 

Total credit hours: 10

Semester 3 (spring semester)

 

  • NURS 22263 Nursing II Medical Surgical
  • NURS 22242 Nursing II Mental Health
  • NURS 22251 Role Development II
  • NURS 22273 Clinical Practicum II

 

Total credit hours: 9

Summer Sessions

 

The following courses must be completed this semester or prior to progress to Semester 4 nursing courses:

  • BIOL 20003 Microbiology for Nursing and Allied Health
  • BIOL 20001 Microbiology for Nursing and Allied Health Laboratory 

 

Total credit hours: 4

Semester 4 (fall semester)

 

  • NURS 22233 Nursing III Medical Surgical
  • NURS 22232 Nursing III Maternal Child
  • NURS 22244 Clinical Practicum III
  • NURS 22272 Role Development Practicum

Total credit hours: 11

 

The following courses must be completed prior to graduation: 

  • ENGL 10203 Composition II
  • HIST 21103 United States to 1876  or HIST 21203 United States since 1876  or PLSC 20003 Introduction to United States Government
  • Total of 6 credit hours

+Articulation credit is provided for NURS 11234 Introduction to Nursing and NURS 11232 Fundamentals of Nursing Practicum for all practicing LPNs at the conclusion of the program.  

Note: All courses (prerequisite, general education, and nursing) must be passed with a letter grade of "C" or better. 

LPN to AASN Online Option Admission Information

Beginning Fall 2017, the A-State School of Nursing is offering an online alternative for LPN's working in acute or long term care who wish to attain their Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.

All courses will be taught in seven-week terms. All didactic courses will be delivered online, with the clinical component in a more "traditional" environment. Clinical hours will be held on selected weekends throughout each term in Jonesboro area health care facilities.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite requirements for application to the ONLINE LPN to AASN degree program include:

Prerequisites include the following courses:

The required courses can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin.
All required courses must be completed with a minimum "C" in each course.
ALL prerequisite courses MUST be completed prior to the first semester in the program.

Admission Process

Limited Positions Available

Acceptance to the University does not guarantee admission to any nursing program.

Admission Criteria:

To apply, submit the following by deadline. 

  1. Apply for admission to A-State for Undergraduate Admissions (NOT A-State Online).
  2. Apply for admission to the LPN-AASN Online option. The application is available August 31 - October 15th (for Spring program), January 5 - March 1 (for Summer program) and March 15 - May 1 (for Fall program). Link to apply is on the School of Nursing website (when available)
  3. Official transcripts of ALL college work must be submitted to the Registrar’s office.
  4. Validation of work experience (The applicant must provide proof of work experience reflecting a minimum of 1,000 hours of nursing employment during the past 12-24 months. (Acute or long-term care experience desired, i.e., hospital or nursing home)

  5. Take the required SPANS admission exam.  SPANS is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure readiness for the academic demand of health science programs. The exam consists of 150 questions that evaluate critical skills in reading comprehension/English, math, and scientific knowledge. The exam is completed remotely and should be completed prior to the deadline. Estimated cost is about $70 and the exam can be completed one time during the application cycle. Exam results are valid for 3 years. For those interested, there is a prep book available online for purchase through SPIN Learning. Instructions for SPANS:

    1. Visit https://www.spin-learning.com/

    2. Click SPANS Registration button at top of webpage

    3. Select SPANS SPIN-Learning

    4. Click “Buy SPANS Ticket”

    5. Choose Preferred Date

    6. Checkout

  6. Complete the Smarter Measure Online Readiness Assessment: The online readiness tool helps indicate the degree to which distance learning and/or learning in a technology rich environment will be a good fit for the student.  This assessment requires students to answer questions and complete a few activities.  It takes about 35 minutes to complete and measures reading rate and recall, technical competency, technical knowledge, and typing speed and accuracy. There is no cost for the Smarter Measures Assessment and it can be completed one time during the application cycle.  Exam results are valid for 3 years.

     

                  Link to the assessment: Smarter Measures Assessment

                  Username: Online AASN   Password: Online1

     

  7. If you have previously attended a RN program and did not complete the program, you MUST submit a letter of good standing.  The letter must be sent from the previous RN program dean/director/chair/coordinator prior to the application deadline to the AASN Program Chair or designate.  The letter can be emailed to sdearing@astate.edu

  8. Documentation of English proficiency, if applicable.
  9. Spanish Proficiency:  Spanish proficiency is not required for application but may enhance the applicant’s overall score. Students must  prove their proficiency by taking the ACTFL – OPI (Oral Proficiency Interview).
  10. Professional Recommendations:  Students are required to have three academic or professional recommendations.  The Professional Recommendation link is located within the nursing application.
  11. If you have previously attended a RN nursing program you did not complete, you MUST have the program Dean/Director send a letter stating your standing when you left the program. This letter must be in the nursing office by the application deadline.
  12. Applications will be ranked for admission by prerequisite GPA, admission exam, Online Learning Readiness assessment, professional recommendations,  with special consideration for those with Spanish proficiency.
Deadline

All application materials must be received by the deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Applications are reviewed after the application deadline and preference is not given for early submission.  

Additional Documentation

Students admitted will be required to supply additional documentation, including current CPR certification, Hepatitis B   immunizations, TB skin test or chest x-ray, tetanus and MMR and proof of professional liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000/$6,000,000).

Based on recent legislation in Arkansas, students admitted to professional programs that lead to licensure upon graduation are required to have a successful background check to complete formal admission. 

For questions, please contact:

Samantha Dunavion, AASN Advisor - 870-972-3074

Tammy Daffron, Admin Spec III - 870-232-6021

Work Experience

The applicant must provide proof of work experience reflecting a minimum of 1,000 hours of nursing (LPN) employment during the past 12-24 months.  (Acute or long-term care experience desired, i.e., hospital or nursing home) Click here for Employer Documentation of work experience.

Licensure Information 

RN LICENSURE

Upon completion of this program, the student is eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

A first-time applicant for any license by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing will have a state and national criminal background check. Any offenses identified in section §17-87-312 of the Nurse Practice Act may prohibit a graduate from obtaining a license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Arkansas.  Although an appeal may be possible there are offenses that permanently disqualify an applicant from licensure.

The Nurse Practice Act may be viewed on the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website (www.arsbn.org) 

Technology Requirements for Program

Readmission Process

For students seeking readmission to the LPN-AASN Nursing program:

Readmission Testing (required if separation is greater then 1 calendar year)

Students seeking readmission to the LPN-AASN nursing programs are required to pass a standardized test created from the objectives of the courses successfully completed in previous semesters.

Criteria for readmission to the undergraduate nursing programs includes:

Please e-mail nrstesting@astate.edu for readmission applications and information on scheduling a testing date. 

The cost of the readmission test will be the responsibility of the student.

Program Application for Re-Admission

Program applications for transfer and readmission will be available (Fall) April 30th - June 7th, (Spring) August 31st - October 15th and (Summer) March 1st - May 1st 

Transfer Process

The LPN-AASN Online option does not accept transfer students. 

Questions

For general questions and program information, please contact the following:

Samantha Dunavion, AASN Advisor - (870) 972-3074
                                                                                                                                                                   

For specific questions related to the application process and registration for pre-requisites (Health Assessment and Health Assessment Practicum) please contact the following:                                                                                                                                          
Tammy Daffron, Admin Spec III - (870) 232-6021

The School of Nursing affirms that all students enrolled in the AASN program must possess those intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty for safe professional practice.  The criteria are included in the Nursing Student Handbook and are attached to the application for admission.

LPN-AASN Online Option Degree Plan

Pre-requisites:

Semester 1

Session I Courses

  • NURS 11333 Nursing I Medical Surgical
  • NURS 11332 Role Development I
  • NURS 11351 Clinical Practicum I

Total credit hours: 6

Session II Courses

  • NURS 11353 Nursing II Medical Surgical
  • NURS 11331 Role Development II
  • NURS 11341 Clinical Practicum II

Total credit hours: 5

Semester 2

Session I Courses

  • NURS 22453 Nursing III Medical Surgical
  • NURS 22491 Role Development III
  • NURS 22441 Clinical Practicum III

Total credit hours: 5

Session II Courses

  • NURS 22352 Nursing IV Mental Health
  • NURS 22331 Role Development IV
  • NURS 22351 Clinical Practicum IV

Total credit hours: 4

 

**Complete this semester or prior:

  • BIOL 20003 and BIOL 20001 Microbiology for Nursing and Allied Health and Laboratory
  • ENGL 10203 Composition II
  • HIST 21103 United States to 1876  or HIST 21203 United States since 1876  or PLSC 20003 Introduction to United States Government
  • Total credit hours: 10

Semester 3

Session I Courses

  • NURS 22332 Nursing V Maternal Child
  • NURS 22341 Role Development V
  • NURS 22361 Clinical Practicum V

Total credit hours: 4

Session II Courses

  • NURS 22333 Nursing VI Medical Surgical
  • NURS 22371 Clinical Practicum VI
  • NURS 22382 LPN-AASN Capstone

Total credit hours: 6

*Students are given a six (6) hour articulation for NURS 11234 Introduction to Nursing and NURS 11232 Fundamentals of Nursing Practicum at the conclusion of the program. 

**All courses (prerequisite, general education, and nursing) must be passed with a letter grade of "C" or better. 

NOTE: Session I courses are taught for the first 7-weeks of the semester while Session II courses are taught for the second 7-weeks of the semester.  It is recommended that students receiving any type of financial aid register for all courses as listed for the semester. 

Paramedic to AASN Admission Information

Beginning Spring 2023, the A-State School of Nursing is offering a Paramedic to AASN option for paramedics who wish to attain their Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Courses in the first semester will be taught in the traditional classroom setting, then the remaining three (3) semesters will be taught in seven week terms. Didactic courses in the first semester are provided in person at the Jonesboro A-State campus.  Didactic courses for the final three (3) semesters will be delivered online, with the clinical component in a more "traditional" environment. Clinical hours will be held on selected weekends throughout each term in Jonesboro area health care facilities.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite requirements for application to the Paramedic to AASN degree program include:

The courses required prior to acceptance into the AASN degree program can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin.

Prerequisites include the following courses:

The required courses can be found in the most current Undergraduate Bulletin.
All required courses must be completed with a minimum "C" in each course.

Admission Process

Limited Positions Available

Acceptance to the University does not guarantee admission to any nursing program.

HOW TO APPLY

Class size is limited and all applicants may not be accepted into the program. Interested individuals are encouraged to seek an advisor early in their college career to ensure that all prerequisite courses are completed in a timely manner.

Applicants for admission will be ranked according to application completeness, the GPA of the 10 hours of prerequisites and admission test score. Consideration will be given to students completing prerequisite courses by the end of the Fall semester.

Based on recent legislation in Arkansas, students admitted to professional programs that lead to licensure upon graduation are required to have a successful background check to complete formal admission. 

Online applications will be available August 31st - October 15th.

Admission Criteria: 
Applicants Must Complete
  1. Admission to Arkansas State University
  2. Online application for Admission to the School of Nursing available August 31st.  Link to apply is on the School of Nursing website. 
  3. Take the required SPANS admission exam.  SPANS is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure readiness for the academic demand of health science programs. The exam consists of 150 questions that evaluate critical skills in reading comprehension/English, math, and scientific knowledge. The exam is completed remotely and should be completed prior to the deadline. Estimated cost is about $70 and the exam can be completed one time during the application cycle. Exam results are valid for 3 years. For those interested, there is a prep book available online for purchase through SPIN Learning. Instructions for SPANS:

    1. Visit https://www.spin-learning.com/

    2. Click SPANS Registration button at top of webpage

    3. Select SPANS SPIN-Learning

    4. Click “Buy SPANS Ticket”

    5. Choose Preferred Date

    6. Checkout

  4. Smarter Measure Online Readiness Assessment: The online readiness tool helps indicate the degree to which distance learning and/or learning in a technology rich environment will be a good fit for the student.  This assessment requires students to answer questions and complete a few activities.  It takes about 35 minutes to complete and measures reading rate and recall, technical competency, technical knowledge, and typing speed and accuracy. There is no cost for the Smarter Measures Assessment and it can be completed one time during the application cycle.  Exam results are valid for 3 years.

     

     

                Link to the assessment: Smarter Measures Assessment

                Username: Traditional AASN  Password: traditional

     

  5. If you have previously attended a RN program and did not complete the program, you MUST submit a letter of good standing.  The letter must be sent from the previous RN program dean/director/chair/coordinator prior to the application deadline to the AASN Program Chair or designate.  The letter can be emailed to sdearing@astate.edu

  6. Submit the Work Verification Form to your employer for completion and submission.  
  7. Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts showing all college work completed, including grades on courses taken in the last semester of enrollment to the Registrar's Office (PO Box 1570, State University AR 72467).  
  8. Submit a list of currently enrolled prerequisite coursework with application.
  9. Documentation of English proficiency, if applicable.
Deadline

All application materials must be received by the deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Applications are reviewed after the application deadline and preference is not given for early submission.  

Additional Documentation

Readmission Requirements (required if separated from program greater than 1 calendar year)

Students seeking readmission or transferring from another school to the AASN nursing programs are required to pass a standardized test created from the objectives of the courses successfully completed in previous semesters.

Criteria for readmission to the undergraduate nursing programs includes:

Readmission applications and information on scheduling a testing date are located on the School of Nursing website each semester.

The cost of the readmission test will be the responsibility of the student.

Please email NRStesting@AState.edu with any questions.

Readmission Deadline

Program applications for transfers and readmission will be available (Fall) April 30th - June 7th and (Spring) August 31st - October 15th.

Transfer Process

The Paramedic-AASN option does not accept transfer students. 

Technology Requirements for Program

RN LICENSURE

Upon completion of this program, the student is eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

A first-time applicant for any license with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing will be required to have a state and national background check. Any offenses identified in section §17-87-312 of the Nurse Practice Act may prohibit a graduate from obtaining a license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Arkansas. Although an appeal may be possible there are offenses that permanently disqualify an applicant from licensure.

The Nurse Practice Act may be viewed on the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website www.arsbn.org or on the nursing website.

Questions

For general questions and program information, please contact the following:

Samantha Dunavion, AASN Advisor - (870) 972-3074
                                                                                                                                                                   

For specific questions related to the application process and registration for pre-requisites (Health Assessment and Health Assessment Practicum) please contact the following:                                                                                                                                          
Lisa Montgomery, Admin Spec III - (870) 733-6031

The School of Nursing affirms that all students enrolled in the AASN program must possess those intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty for safe professional practice.  The criteria are included in the Nursing Student Handbook and are attached to the application for admission.

Paramedic - AASN Program Option Degree Plan

Pre-requisites:

Semester 1 (spring semester)

  • NURS 11234 Introduction to Nursing
  • NURS 22392 Health Assessment*
  • NURS 11232 Fundamentals of Nursing Practicum
  • NURS 22391 Health Assessment Practicum*

 Complete this semester or prior:

  • BIOL 24103 and BIOL 24101 Human Anatomy & Physiology II and Laboratory
  • PSYC 11003 Introduction to Psychology

Total credit hours: 16

Semester 2 (summer semester)

Session I Courses

  • NURS 11333 Nursing I Medical Surgical*
  • NURS 11332 Role Development I*
  • NURS 11351 Clinical Practicum I*

Total credit hours: 6

Session II Courses

  • NURS 11353 Nursing II Medical Surgical*
  • NURS 11331 Role Development II*
  • NURS 11341 Clinical Practicum II*

Total credit hours: 5

Semester 3 (fall semester)

Session I Courses

  • NURS 22453 Nursing III Medical Surgical*
  • NURS 22491 Role Development III*
  • NURS 22441 Clinical Practicum III*

Total credit hours: 5

Session II Courses

  • NURS 22352 Nursing IV Mental Health*
  • NURS 22331 Role Development IV*
  • NURS 22351 Clinical Practicum IV*

Total credit hours: 4

 

Complete this semester or prior:

  • BIOL 20003 and BIOL 20001 Microbiology for Nursing and Allied Health and Laboratory
  • ENGL 10203 Composition II
  • HIST 21103 United States to 1876  or HIST 21203 United States since 1876  or PLSC 20003 Introduction to United States Government

Total credit hours: 10

Semester 4 (spring semester)

Session I Courses

  • NURS 22332 Nursing V Maternal Child*
  • NURS 22341 Role Development V*
  • NURS 22361 Clinical Practicum V*

Total credit hours: 4

Session II Courses

  • NURS 22333 Nursing VI Medical Surgical*
  • NURS 22371 Clinical Practicum VI*
  • NURS 22382 LPN-AASN Capstone*

Total credit hours: 6

*Nursing courses delivered in a WEB or hybrid format require minimal attendance on campus. 

**All courses (prerequisite, general education, and nursing) must be passed with a letter grade of "C" or better. 

NOTE: Session I courses are taught for the first 7-weeks of the semester while Session II courses are taught for the second 7-weeks of the semester.  It is recommended that students receiving any type of financial aid register for all courses as listed for the semester. 

AASN Program Statistics

AASN Progam Statistics 

Year
First-time Pass Rate*
First-time Pass Rate and Repeaters
Program On-Time
Completion Rate
Job Placement+ 
2022
48.1%
82.41%
68.97%
67.3%
2023
49.5%
93.6%
63.87%
73.7%
2024
74.4%
93.4%
52.63%
57.9%
2025
82.5%
92.37%
 58.6% 50%
2026
75.8%
To date: 85.71%
To date: 79.41%

*Recorded and reported based on academic year from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. All other values based on calendar year. 

+Job placement percentages are calculated using data from a graduate survey, which students often complete prior to employment. The majority of the AASN graduates are LPNs and do not seek employment as an RN until obtaining their RN license. Therefore, the program believes that job placement values are closer to 100%, considering the national nursing shortage. 

The AASN programs are ACEN accredited. Contact information for ACEN is found on the AASN program websites.  

AASN Frequently Asked Questions

 

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### ❓ Question 1: [When do I apply to the LPN-AASN Online Program Option?]
**Answer:**

Applications for this program are accepted every semester for students to begin the following semester.  You must be currently enrolled or have completed all pre-requisite courses at the time of applying to the program option.  The application timeframes are for the a) Fall semester start apply March 15 - May 1; b) Spring semester start apply August 31 - October 15; and c) Summer semester start apply January 5 - March 1.  

---

### ❓ Question 2: [How does the application process work for the LPN-AASN Online Option, Traditional AASN Program Option, and Paramedic-AASN Program Option?]
**Answer:**

All applications are internal applications to the AASN program options. So, you must be accepted to A-State Jonesboro campus before you apply to any AASN program option you are interested in completing.  Internal nursing applications are submitted through Slate, which is the same application software used to apply to A-State Jonesboro campus, be sure to log-in as a Returning Student when completing your application. Select, "Nursing Internal Application" from the application list.  Be sure to complete all entrance exams (SPANS and Smarter Measures Assessment).    

---

### ❓ Question 3: [How will I know my application is received?]
**Answer:** You will get a verification after you submit your application in Slate provided to the email address you used to apply to the program option.  Please keep a copy of this for your records and check the email often for communications regarding missing items for your application to be considered complete.  

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### ❓ Question 4: [When will I find out if I’ve been accepted?]   
**Answer:** Once the AASN Admissions Committee has analyzed all qualified applicants and student ranks have been determined, a decision letter will be posted to your Slate account.  You should also receive an email to the email addressed provided in Slate.  The time required to process applications depends on the total number of applications, but generally students that apply for a Spring semester start will be notified before Thanksgiving; stuents that apply for a Summer semester start (LPN-AASN Online Option Program only) will be notified around Spring Break; and students that apply for a Fall semester start (LPNs only either online or on-campus) will be notified around the July 4th Holiday.  You will receive notification of the decision made concerning your application for admission of denied admission, waitlist admission, or admission to the program option via your Slate account.

---

### ❓ Question 5: [How many students are accepted/admitted into the program?]
**Answer:** The number of students accepted/admitted varies by program option and the total number is dependent on clinical site availability. Generally for the LPN-AASN Online option there are 25-35 students admitted each semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer).  The Paramedic-AASN program option has about 10-15 students admitted every Spring semester.  The Traditional AASN program option has approximately 60-80 non-licensed students (individuals not holding an active LPN license) admitted each Spring semester and approximately 20-30 licensed students (individuals with an active LPN license) admitted each Fall semester. Students admitted to the Traditional AASN and the Paramedic-AASN program options are divided between the Jonesboro and West Memphis campuses.  

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### ❓ Question 6: [What is the minimum GPA requirement to be accepted into the program?]
**Answer:** 

The minimum GPA requirements vary by program option for the AASN degree.  The overall GPA is used as the minimum GPA and can be found in Degree Works or on your unofficial transcript, which are both found in Banner Self-Service.

Traditional AASN Program option: 2.0 overall GPA 

Paramedic-AASN Program option: 2.0 overall GPA 

LPN-AASN Online Program option: 2.5 overall GPA 

**Due to the competitive nature of the application process, meeting minimum program admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program. Cohort size is limited to clinical site availability.

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### ❓ Question 7: [How many applicants apply and what is the average GPA of those accepted/admitted into the program?]
**Answer:** 

Typically, there are 100 - 150 applicants each semester for the AASN program. The average GPA of those accepted/admitted to the program is 3.1 overall GPA.  

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### ❓ Question 8: [Do I need to get my flu shot prior to starting the program?]
**Answer:** You will be required to get a flu shot each year that you are in the program. Flu shots are given at every health unit and most pharmacies when the annual flu shot serum is available, typically late September or early October.  You do NOT have to get it before starting the program, if you begin prior to September.  

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### ❓ Question 9: [When do classes start?]
**Answer:** Classes begin the same day that classes start for the University during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters of each academic year. When you are amitted, you will be required to attend an orientation that is typically scheduled about a week before the first day of class.  If the first day of class begins on what is a typical clinical day (Monday, Wednesday, or Friday) then students should expect to meet for the first day of class.  

---

### ❓ Question 10: [Once accepted/admitted, will I be able to work outside of school?]
**Answer:** It is recommended that a student’s combined employment AND classroom/clinical load not exceed 40 hours per week. However, many students do work full-time hours and are successful in the program. The number of hours worked outside of school is very dependant on the student and the best way for them to learn. If you have too many competing priorities for your time (work, school, family, social engagments, etc.) it can be detrimental to the stuent's performance, both as a student and an employee.  Professional behavior regarding patient safety is essential for nursing students; therefore a student cannot work any portion of an 11:00pm - 7:00 am shift immediately prior to clinical.

---

### ❓ Question 11: [Who is my academic advisor?]
**Answer:** Prior to admission all students who have declared nursing as their major will be assigned to the nursing advisor. The nursing advisor's name and contact information can be found on the School of Nursing website. When you are accepted to the AASN program option, your advisor will be Samantha Dunavion. Email is the best way to reach your academic advisor.  

BSN: Hannah Williamson (hwilliamson@astate.edu)

AASN: Samantha Dunavion (sadunavion@astate.edu)

---

### ❓ Question 12: [Whom do I contact for help with my schedule?]
**Answer:** Students should contact their academic advisor for questions pertaining to their course schedule. Prior to admission all students who have declared nursing as their major will be assigned to the pre-nursing advisor. When you are accepted to the AASN program option, your advisor will be Samantha Dunavion. Email is the best way to reach your academic advisor.  

BSN: Hannah Williamson (hwilliamson@astate.edu)

AASN: Samantha Dunavion (sadunavion@astate.edu)

---

### ❓ Question 13: [What are the pre-requisites for this program?]
**Answer:**

Traditional AASN (On-campus) Program Option: A minimum overall GPA of a 2.0 and the following courses passed with a letter grade of "C" or better: 

Paramedic-AASN Program Option: A minimum overall GPA of a 2.0 and the following courses passed with a letter grade of "C" or better: 

LPN-AASN Online Program Option: A minimum overall GPA of a 2.5, unencumbered LPN license, and the following courses passed with a letter grade of "C" or better: 

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### ❓ Question 14: [How do I know if a class I have previously taken can be transferred?]
**Answer:** You can submit an official transcript to the Office of the Registrar for review and courses that are accepted as transfer credit will appear on your unofficial transcript and Degee Works. You can also use the Course Equivalency Tool to search and determine if the course will transfer, click here.

---

### ❓ Question 16: [What can I expect once I have been accepted?]
**Answer:** You will receive a letter on your Slate account as notification of being accepted/admitted. A follow-up email will be provided by an Administrative Specialist III to your A-State student email to those accepted/admitted and those on the waitlist.  The email sent to your A-State student email has important information that will require your immediate attention to prepare to begin the AASN program.  Details of your mandatory orientation is also provided in the information sent to your A-State student email.  

---

### ❓ Question 17: [What grade average must I maintain once accepted into the program?]
**Answer:** All courses (pre-requisites, general education, and nursing) must be completed with a letter grade of "C" or better. 

---

### ❓ Question 18: [Is financial aid/scholarships offered for this program?]
**Answer:** Any loan obtained for use at Arkansas State University-Jonesboro Campus may be used to pay for tuition, fees, and course materials for nursing courses, as they would be for any course on campus.  All institutional scholarships are applicable to courses taken through the Jonesboro campus for the nursing program (even if the student sits on the West Memphis campus).  There are several private scholarships for which students may apply as well. State and Federal grants may also be available to students pursuing an AASN degree. No financial aid is awarded by the program, but financial aid may be reached at https://www.astate.edu/admissions-and-aid/financial-aid-and-scholarships/index.html

---

### ❓ Question 19: [If I have completed my prerequisites, what courses would be beneficial to take prior to application and admission?]
**Answer:** You will want to take all the general education courses required to earn your AASN degree, which are all courses not beginning with a "NURS" prefix on the degree plan.  Additionally, students wanting to earn a BSN can contact the AASN advisor to ask about a double major in RN-BSN to take courses that will count toward a BSN.  

AASN: Samantha Dunavion (sadunavion@astate.edu)

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### ❓ Question 20: [Whom do I contact for help with my application?]
**Answer:** The person to contact for assistance with your application depends on if you plan to attend on-campus or online.  

On-campus: Any student that will attend in person (on-campus) at the Jonesboro or West Memphis campus will contact Lisa Montgomery (limontgomery@astate.edu). 

Online: Any student interested in the LPN-AASN Online option will contact Tammy Daffron (tdaffron@astate.edu).  

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### ❓ Question 21: [I am an LPN and only need Health Assessment and Health Assessment Practicum to qualify for application to the program, whom do you contact for help registering for these classes?]
**Answer:** All LPNs will contact the AASN Advisor, Samanatha Dunavion, to register for classes. Ms. Dunavion will help you determine the best time for you to apply to the program option you want and request permission for you to register for the two classes (Health Assessment and Health Assessment Practicum). The AASN Program Chair controls admission to the courses, so permission is not provided unless requested by the AASN Advisor. 

AASN: Samantha Dunavion (sadunavion@astate.edu)

---

### ❓ Question 22: [Is there an entrance exam or admission testing for the AASN program?]
**Answer:** Yes, all applicants for the AASN program are required to complete two entrance exam or admission tests.  All applicants to the program (traditional non-licensed student/LPN/Paramedic) will complete a SPANS entrance exam and a Smarter Measures Assessment.

The SPANS entrance exam is scheduled and completed with SPIN Learning and there is a fee to take this exam. All fees and scheduling the exam are completed on the SPIN Learning website - look for SPANS Registration. 

The Smarter Measures Assessment (no fee for this entrance exam) is completed by every applicant. Go to the Smarter Measures Assessment website and select "First Time User Login." Then you will enter the username and password below that applies to you: 

## Contact / Support

Questions

For general questions and program information, please contact:
Jonesboro 
AASN Academic Advisor: Samantha Dunavion
sadunavion@astate.edu 
(870) 972-3074

For program option location/campus and application-specific questions contact the following:

LPN-AASN Online Option (LPNs only) 
Tammy Daffron, Admin Spec III
tdaffron@astate.edu 
(870) 232-6021
Traditional Program Options (On-campus Jonesboro or West Memphis) 
Lisa Montgomery, Admin Spec III
limontgomery@astate.edu 
(870) 733-6031

Affirmation

The School of Nursing affirms that all students enrolled in the AASN program must possess those intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty for safe professional practice. The criteria are included in the Nursing Student Handbook and are attached to the application for admission.

Work Verification Form - Paramedic - AASN Option

Arkansas State University – School of Nursing

Paramedic – AASN Program Option

Employer Documentation of Work Experience

 

Student Name: _______________________________________________________     A-State Student ID#: ________________________________

The applicant MUST provide proof of work experience reflecting current employment as a paramedic. The form MUST be signed by the Human Resource Representative or Supervisor and returned to the School of Nursing by the employer. The form may be returned by postal mail or email from the employer.  If returned by postal mail, then a facility envelope must be used with a signature across the seal. An email submission must be from an employer email address, not a personal email address. Please use the instructions below for submission by postal mail or email.

**Note: If documentation of work experience is not submitted properly, the student’s application will be incomplete.**

 

 My signature below confirms that ___________________________________ has completed over ____________ hours work within the past

_________ years at the facility indicated below.

 

Name of Institution: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________

City/State/Zip: __________________________________________________________               Telephone: ______________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________                       Date: __________________________

Title of Person Completing Form: __________________________________________________________________

Mail to:

A-State School of Nursing

Attention: Paramedic – AASN Admission Committee

P.O. Box 910

State University, AR 72467

 

Email to:

cnhp@astate.edu 

Work Verification Form - LPN-AASN Program Option

Arkansas State University – School of Nursing

LPN – AASN Program Option

Employer Documentation of Work Experience

 

Student Name: ___________________________________________________________     A-State Student ID#: _____________________________________

The applicant MUST provide proof of work experience reflecting a minimum of 1,000 hours employed as a licensed practical nurse during the past 12-24 months in an acute or long-term care setting. The form MUST be signed by the Human Resource Representative or Registered Nurse Supervisor and returned to the School of Nursing by the employer. The form may be returned by postal mail or email from the employer.  If returned by postal mail, then a facility envelope must be used with a signature across the seal. An email submission must be from an employer email address, not a personal email address. Please use the instructions below for submission by postal mail or email.

**Note: If documentation of work experience is not submitted properly, the student’s application will be incomplete.**

 My signature below confirms that ___________________________________ has completed over ____________ hours work within the past

_________ years at the facility indicated below. All hours counted were performed under the direction of a registered nurse.

 

Name of Institution: __________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________

City/State/Zip: ________________________________________________________________          Telephone: _________________________________

Signature: ________________________________________________________________________        Date: ________________________

Title of Person Completing Form: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Mail to:

A-State School of Nursing

Attention: LPN-AASN Admission Committee

P.O. Box 910

State University, AR 72467

Email to:

cnhp@astate.edu

Technical Abilities and Skills

Abilities and Skills for the Undergraduate Nursing Major 

The professional nurse must possess the knowledge and ability to effectively assess clients’ biophysical, psychological, social, cultural, and intellectual domains. Further, the professional nurse must competently analyze the assessment data through intellectual processing to arrive at a definition of the client’s status or problem, plan independently or collaboratively for full range of therapeutic interventions, execute all or part of the plans through nursing acts, and evaluate the care delivered and the client’s responses to it. A candidate for professional nursing must have the abilities and skills necessary for use of the nursing process. These skills and abilities include observations; communication, motor ability, conceptualization, integration and quantification, and behavioral/social acceptability. 

 

Standards and Functional Abilities for the Undergraduate Nursing Major 

The School of Nursing affirms that all students enrolled in a nursing program must possess those intellectual, ethical, physical, and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty for safe professional practice. 

Technological compensation can be made for some handicaps in certain areas, but a candidate should be able to perform in a reasonably independent manner. The use of a trained intermediary is not acceptable, in that a candidate’s judgment must be mediated by someone else’s power of observation and selection. 

Standards 

Functional Abilities 

Critical Thinking: ability sufficient for clinical judgment 

Identify cause-effect relationship; problem-solve; predict/evaluate outcomes; sequence information. 

Reading: ability sufficient to comprehend the written word. 

Read written documents, graphs, policies, protocols, etc. 

Mathematics: ability sufficient to perform computations at least at the tenth-grade level. 

Measure time; compute medication dosage; count rates; use measuring tools; add, subtract, multiply, divide whole numbers; compute fractions. 

Hearing: ability sufficient for physical and environmental monitoring 

Auscultate faint body sounds, voices; hear monitor alarms, emergency signals. 

Visual: ability sufficient for accurate observation and assessment 

Observe patient response/condition: distinguish color and color intensity; prepare medication; see graphs, and computer screens. 

Smell: ability sufficient to detect environmental and client odors. 

Detect foul-smelling odors; detect smoke/gases. 

Physical strength/endurance: ability sufficient to perform full range of patient care activities. 

Stand for long periods of time at bedside; perform nursing care duties for entire shift; push/pull/support light and heavy objects; carry equipment; support patients in ambulation, turning, standing. 

Motor Skills: ability sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care. 

Position patients; obtain specimens; calibrate instruments/ equipment; prepare and administer medication; reach and bend with ease; grasp small objects, write, fine motor skills.  

Mobility: ability sufficient to move from room to room and within confined space. 

Move about in populated areas; twist, stoop, squat; move quickly, administer repetitive movements (CPR).  

Tactile: ability sufficient for physical monitoring and assessment. 

Perform palpation; detect hot/cold; detect differences in skin surface; shapes and sizes.  

Communication: ability sufficient for interaction with others, in both the verbal and written English language. 

Teach; explain procedures; give oral report; speak on the telephone; document and interpret nursing actions and patient responses and convey information through writing.  

Interpersonal skills: ability sufficient to interact with others. 

Establish rapport with patient, family and coworkers; respect differences, negotiate interpersonal conflict, remain calm in crisis situations.  

Behavioral and Social Attributes: ability sufficient to possess emotional health required for full utilization of his/her intellectual abilities. 

Compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, interests, and motivations are all personal qualities necessary for professional nursing. 

 The following abilities and skills are necessary to meet the requirements of the curriculum: 

Observations: The candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision and tactile sensation. It is enhanced by the functional sense of smell. 

 Communication: The candidate must be able to speak, hear, and to observe patients in order to elicit information; describe changes in mood, activity, and posture; and perceive nonverbal communications.  A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients. Communication includes not only speech but reading and writing. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written form with all members of the health care team. 

 Motor: Candidates should have sufficient motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion, and other assessment maneuvers. A candidate must have sufficient motor skills to gain access to clients in a variety of care settings and to manipulate the equipment central to the treatment of patients receiving professional nursing care. Such actions require coordination of both gross and fine muscular movements, equilibrium, and functional use of the senses of touch and vision. Examples of required fine motor skills would include, but are not limited to, preparation and administration of oral and injectable medications, assessment of vital signs, application of dressings, and insertion of drainage catheters. Examples of required gross motor skills would include, but are not limited to, positioning clients in bed, assisting with ambulation, transferring clients and maneuvering in confined spaces. In addition, the candidate should be able to lift and carry a minimum of 35% of his or her own body weight.  Also, the candidate should be able to sit, bend, reach and/or walk and stand for most of the day. 

 Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities: These abilities include measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, and synthesis. Problem solving, the critical skill demanded of nurses, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, the candidate should be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationships of structures. 

 Behavioral and Social Attributes: A candidate must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients. Candidates must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and function effectively under stress for extended periods of time during a clinical day. The candidate must be able to adapt to noisy, stressful situations and rapidly changing environments, to display flexibility, and to learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients.  

 The citations for these guidelines are as follows: 

Section 504 of the 1973 Vocational Rehabilitation Act and 42 U.S.C.  12101 et seq., the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) 

Bower, D., Line, L., & Denega, D. (1988). Evaluation instruments in nursing (pp. 71). New York: National League for Nursing 

Revised 5/2023