The Registered Nursing Program provides educational opportunities to qualified students utilizing a curriculum that is designed to prepare graduates who are competent to function as entry-level registered nurses. Professional nursing is a dynamic and interactive process that views the client, family, and community holistically. The curriculum includes a balance of general education, current nursing theory, and clinical and laboratory experience. HCC offers two program options that allow students to choose between a three-year program or a more intensive, two-year program. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Traditional Daytime Option – Allows students to earn the associate of science degree in nursing in three calendar years. This option is for students who have completed or are in progress of completing a minimum of 12 credits of required general education courses by the supplemental application deadline and meet other admission standards prior to enrolling in the two years of nursing courses. The application deadlines are January 15 for the fall start cohort and July 15 for the spring start cohort.
Weekend/Evening Option – Allows students to earn the associate of science degree in nursing in three calendar years. This option is for students who have completed or are in progress of completing all required general education courses by the supplemental application deadline and meet other admission standards prior to enrolling in the two years of nursing courses. Classes and labs will be held at HCC during evening hours, with clinical instruction to occur on weekends at Meritus Medical Center and other clinical facilities. Coming 2026.
Upon completion of the program, students may choose to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing.
HCC’s two-year daytime nursing program allows qualified students to earn an associate of science degree in nursing in two years instead of the traditional three years by completing most general education courses while being enrolled in nursing courses. Upon completion of the program, students can choose to begin work or or transfer to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing. This program is a good fit for students who are able to take up to 16 credits a semester and who are academically prepared for a more rigorous course load.
HCC has developed plans to help students earn associate and bachelor’s degrees in nursing in as little time as possible, sometimes just four years. HCC offers an associate to bachelor’s (ATB) program with Frostburg State University, Towson University, and the University of Maryland, where competitive applicants can take classes toward their associate and bachelor’s degrees at the same time, minimizing the amount of time needed to complete the BSN. Several other BSN options allow students to apply during the second year of HCC nursing courses and start taking courses toward their BSN online.
Median annual salary for registered nurses
