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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Nursing and Allied Health

Nursing and Allied Health

Overview

The Nursing program consists of a combination of general education and nursing courses with related laboratory experience in local health agencies. Successful completion of the program qualifies the student to take the National Licensing Examination to become registered as a nurse and eligible for employment. A grade of "C" or better is required in each nursing course for progression in the program and for an Associate Degree in Nursing. The nursing curriculum is a two-year program offered in four sequential semesters. There are two application periods per year and students are accepted for the spring and fall semesters. There are morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend clinical experiences required which may change with limited notice.

The nursing program at American River College is impacted; there are more students who apply than can be accepted into the program. All applicants with 70 points or more are put into the selection pool (see Prescreening Criteria Form for details). If an applicant is not chosen, the student may reapply the next nursing application cycle.

Startup program costs are approximately $7,000. The student is responsible for providing uniforms, laboratory fees, malpractice insurance, necessary equipment, and transportation to off-campus laboratory locations. Nursing program students should expect fees of approximately $575.00 to take the R.N. licensure exam. All costs/fees are subject to change.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.S. in LVN to RN Career Mobility
  • A.S. in Pre-Health Occupations
  • A.S. in Registered Nursing
  • Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 30-unit option Certificate
  • Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate
  • Home Health Aide Certificate

Associate Degrees

A.S. in LVN to RN Career Mobility

Nursing is a health care profession that draws on nursing science, natural physical and biological sciences, as well as the social sciences and humanities. The Nursing Program consists of general education and nursing courses designed to prepare an entry-level registered nurse, who can function effectively in the rapidly changing healthcare environment. Simulated and actual patient centered learning experiences provide for application of concepts. Each semester of education builds upon previous learning.

This degree is designed for the California Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) who is admitted for advanced placement into the second year of the Registered Nursing (Associate Degree) Program. The graduate of the Associate Degree Nursing program at American River College demonstrates entry-level competencies and meets the educational requirements necessary to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed as a Registered Nurse and eligible for employment.

A grade of "C" or better is required in each nursing course for progression in the program. Clinical experiences may change with limited notice and occur morning, afternoon, evening, and weekends. Students are responsible for their own transportation. Students are required to pay for uniforms, necessary equipment, malpractice insurance, background checks, drug testing, and health requirements.

Note: The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) protects the public by screening applicants for licensure in order to identify potentially unsafe practitioners. The law provides for denial of licensure for crimes or acts, which are substantially related to nursing qualifications, functions, or duties. At time of licensure application, all convictions must be reported except for minor traffic violation. (Business and Professions Code §480 and Nurse Practice Act ARTICLE 3 §2761)

Note: Providing a Social Security Number (SSN) OR Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): Pursuant to Business and Professions Code §30(c) the BRN will not process any application for licensure unless the applicant provides a SSN or ITIN. The Nursing Practice Act provides for a unified examination and licensing application. Once an applicant passes the examination, a license is automatically issued. Under these circumstances the BRN cannot accept applications for the examination and licensure without a SSN/ITIN.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
Prerequisites for LVN to RN Mobility Program:
ANTH 310 Cultural Anthropology (3) 3
   or ANTH 481 Honors Cultural Anthropology (3)
   or SOC 300 Introductory Sociology (3)
   or SOC 480 Introductory Sociology - Honors (3)
BIOL 430 Anatomy and Physiology 51
BIOL 431 Anatomy and Physiology 5
BIOL 440 General Microbiology (4) 4 - 5
   or BIOL 442 General Microbiology and Public Health (5)
COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking (3) 3
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3) 3
   or ENGL C1000H Academic Reading and Writing - Honors (3)
NUTRI 300 Nutrition 3
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology (3) 3
   or PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors (3)
Positive Credit after LVN Transcript Evaluation:
NURSE 400 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts I 10.52
NURSE 410 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts II 10.53
1st Semester - Summer Session:
NURSE 305 Transition to Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts for the Associate Degree Nurse 5
2nd Semester:
NURSE 420 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts III 10.5
3rd Semester:
NURSE 430 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts IV 10.5
Total Units: 76 - 77

1BIOL 430, 440, and 442 have prerequisites. Please check catalog course descriptions.

2Credit for NURSE 400 will be given after evaluation of LVN program transcripts.

3Credit for NURSE 410 will be given after evaluation of LVN program transcripts.

The LVN to RN Career Mobility Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Possession of a current clear and active California Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) license at the time of application and through program completion.
  • A grade of "C" or better and a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 in the following science prerequisites: BIOL 430, BIOL 431, and BIOL 440 or 442.
  • A grade of “C” or better and a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.5 in the following prerequisite courses: ANTH 310, ANTH 481, SOC 300, or SOC 480; ENGL C1000 or ENGL C1000H; NUTRI 300; PSYC C1000 or PSYC C1000H; and COMM C1000.
  • Completion of the latest edition of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), developed by the Assessment Technologies Institute, LLC (ATI). A minimum composite score is necessary to be eligible for application to the program. Additional information is available from the ARC Nursing website: http://www.arc.losrios.edu/~nursing/
  • Note: In-progress grades are not accepted for prerequisite courses.
  • Note: The Nursing Admissions Committee will determine acceptance of pre-nursing courses taken outside the Los Rios Community College District.
  • Note: The American River College Nursing Program reserves the right to make changes in the enrollment criteria, academic requirements, grading standards and other processes without notice at any time.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Applicants must obtain a Los Rios Community College District student identification number in order to access the online application.
  • Detailed information about program requirements, enrollment criteria, enrollment applications and deadlines are available on the ARC Nursing website at www.arc.losrios.edu/ARC_Majors/Health_And_Education/Nursing.htm.
  • Applications for enrollment, transcripts, and all other supporting documents must be submitted by the posted due date for the candidate's application to be reviewed, and potentially placed into the pool for random selection. Only students who meet the educational and pre-nursing requirements and follow the enrollment procedures will be considered for the program. Meeting all these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
  • Only students who meet the educational and pre-nursing requirements and follow the pre-enrollment procedures will be considered for the program. Meeting all these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • use clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence based practice outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for decision-making and delivery of comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
  • use information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error.
  • participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards and errors, and to improve care.
  • coordinate, collaborate, and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of life.
  • demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking, communication, and change processes.
  • demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self-awareness, a spirit of inquiry, leadership, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment and competence, and mentorship.
  • adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.

Career Information

"Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 16 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; growing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population, as they live longer and more active lives" (Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dec. 2015. Job Outlook Registered Nurse. Retrieved from www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm).

A.S. in Pre-Health Occupations

This degree prepares students interested in a variety of Allied Health occupations. The degree will prepare students with a rigorous course of study prior to selecting the program of their chosen career. Students will complete coursework with an emphasis on basic science, healthcare delivery and culturally competent patient care. Students completing the degree will be prepared to enter programs for careers in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assisting, Health Information Technology, Nursing and others. Students may also choose to complete this degree in preparation for transfer to a Health Sciences Baccalaureate degree program. Completion of the degree does not guarantee enrollment in any health occupation program.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ANTH 310 Cultural Anthropology (3) 3
   or ANTH 481 Honors Cultural Anthropology (3)
   or SOC 300 Introductory Sociology (3)
BIOL 430 Anatomy and Physiology 5
BIOL 431 Anatomy and Physiology 5
BIOL 440 General Microbiology (4) 4 - 5
   or BIOL 442 General Microbiology and Public Health (5)
CHEM 305 Introduction to Chemistry (5) 5
   or CHEM 309 Integrated General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry (5)
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3) 3 - 4
   or ENGL C1000H Academic Reading and Writing - Honors (3)
   or ESLW 340 Advanced Composition (4)
NUTRI 300 Nutrition 3
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology (3) 3
   or PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors (3)
COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking (3) 3
   or COMM 331 Group Discussion (3)
STAT C1000 Introduction to Statistics (4) 3 - 4
   or PSYC 330 Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3)
   or STAT C1000H Introduction to Statistics - Honors (4)
Total Units: 37 - 40

The Pre-Health Occupations Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • articulate career options and necessary educational pathways.
  • describe the structure and function of each body system.
  • demonstrate a workable knowledge of medical language.
  • demonstrate professionalism in a range of clinical interactions and settings.
  • describe the principles of nutrition and their effect on health.
  • describe the role that culture and diversity play in patient care.

Career Information

Upon completion students are prepared to enter a range of Allied Health and Nursing training programs. This may include training programs for professions such as: nursing, dental hygiene, physical therapy assistant, occupational therapy assistant, respiratory therapy, and radiology technician.

A.S. in Registered Nursing

Nursing is a health care profession that draws on nursing science, natural physical and biological sciences, as well as the social sciences and humanities. The Nursing Program consists of general education and nursing courses designed to prepare an entry-level registered nurse, who can function effectively in the rapidly changing healthcare environment. Simulated and actual patient centered learning experiences provide for application of concepts. Each semester of education builds upon previous learning. The graduate of the Associate Degree Nursing program at American River College demonstrates entry-level competencies and meets the educational requirements necessary to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed as a Registered Nurse and eligible for employment.

A grade of "C" or better is required in each nursing course for progression in the program. Clinical experiences may change with limited notice and occur morning, afternoon, evening, and weekends. Students are responsible for their own transportation. Students are required to pay for uniforms, necessary equipment, malpractice insurance, background checks, drug testing, and health requirements.

Note: The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) protects the public by screening applicants for licensure in order to identify potentially unsafe practitioners. The law provides for denial of licensure for crimes or acts, which are substantially related to nursing qualifications, functions, or duties. At time of licensure application, all convictions must be reported except for minor traffic violations. (Business and Professions Code §480 and Nurse Practice Act ARTICLE 3 §2761)

Note: Providing a Social Security Number (SSN) OR Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): Pursuant to Business and Professions Code §30(c) the BRN will not process any application for licensure unless the applicant provides a SSN or ITIN. The Nursing Practice Act provides for a unified examination and licensing application. Once an applicant passes the examination, a license is automatically issued. Under these circumstances the BRN cannot accept applications for the examination and licensure without a SSN/ITIN.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
Prerequisites for Nursing:
ANTH 310 Cultural Anthropology (3) 31
   or ANTH 481 Honors Cultural Anthropology (3)
   or SOC 300 Introductory Sociology (3)
   or SOC 480 Introductory Sociology - Honors (3)
BIOL 430 Anatomy and Physiology 52
BIOL 431 Anatomy and Physiology 5
BIOL 440 General Microbiology (4) 4 - 5
   or BIOL 442 General Microbiology and Public Health (5)
COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking (3) 33
   or COMM 331 Group Discussion (3)
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3) 3 - 4
   or ENGL C1000H Academic Reading and Writing - Honors (3)
   or ESLW 340 Advanced Composition (4)
NUTRI 300 Nutrition 3
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology (3) 3
   or PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors (3)
1st Semester:
NURSE 400 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts I 10.5
2nd Semester:
NURSE 410 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts II 10.5
3rd Semester:
NURSE 420 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts III 10.5
4th Semester:
NURSE 430 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts IV 10.5
Total Units: 71 - 73

1ANTH or SOC must be taken either prior to or concurrently with NURSE 410.

2BIOL 430, 440, and 442 have prerequisites. Please check catalog course descriptions.

3COMM C1000 or 331 must be taken either prior to or concurrently with NURSE 400.

The Registered Nursing Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduation from an accredited high school or successful completion of General Education Development (GED) or California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE). Graduates from outside the United States must have transcripts evaluated by an approved independent agency. These requirements are defined by the Nurse Practice Act, California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Division 14, ARTICLE 1, §1412.
  • A grade of "C" or better and a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 in the following science prerequisites: BIOL 430, BIOL 431, and BIOL 440 or BIOL 442.
  • A grade of "C" or better and a cumulative college GPA of 2.5 in the following courses: ENGL C1000, ENGL C1000H, or ESLW 340; NUTRI 300; and PSYC C1000 or PSYC C1000H.
  • Completion of the latest edition of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), developed by the Assessment Technologies Institute, LLC (ATI). A minimum composite score is necessary to be eligible for application to the program.
  • Note: In-progress grades are not accepted for prerequisite courses.
  • Note: The Nursing Admissions Committee will determine acceptance of pre-nursing courses taken outside the Los Rios Community College District.
  • Note: The American River College Nursing Program reserves the right to make changes in the enrollment criteria, academic requirements, grading standards and other processes without notice at any time.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • The Associate in Science Degree Registered Nursing Program at American River College uses a multi-criteria enrollment process. Students must reapply each semester. There is no waiting list.
  • Detailed information about program requirements, enrollment criteria, enrollment applications and deadlines are available on the ARC Nursing website at www.arc.losrios.edu/ARC_Majors/Health_And_Education/Nursing.htm
  • Applicants must obtain a Los Rios Community College District student identification number in order to access the online application.
  • Applications for enrollment, OFFICIAL transcripts, and all other supporting documents must be submitted by the posted due date for the candidate's application to be reviewed, and potentially placed into the pool for random selection. Only students who meet the educational and pre-nursing requirements and follow the enrollment procedures will be considered for the program. Meeting all these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
  • Students wishing to transfer into the second, third, or fourth semester of the nursing program must contact the department office at (916) 484-8254. The office will provide a transfer packet and current information on space availability.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • use clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence based practice outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for decision-making and delivery of comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
  • use information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error.
  • participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards and errors, and improve care.
  • coordinate, collaborate, and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of life.
  • demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking, communication, and change processes.
  • demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self-awareness, a spirit of inquiry, leadership, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment and competence, and mentorship.
  • adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.

Career Information

"Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 16 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; growing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population, as they live longer and more active lives" (Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dec. 2015. Job Outlook Registered Nurse. Retrieved from www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm).

Certificate of Achievement

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 30-unit option Certificate

The LVN 30-unit option program, which is required by the Board of Registered Nursing (California Code of Regulations §1429), provides the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) the opportunity to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) once the registered nursing course requirements have been met and without meeting the degree requirements for the Associate in Science Degree. This option does not satisfy American River College's Nursing Program requirements nor lead to an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.

A grade of "C" or better is required in each nursing course for progression in the program. Clinical experiences may change with limited notice and occur morning, afternoon, evening, and weekends. Students are responsible for their own transportation. Students are required to pay for uniforms, necessary equipment, malpractice insurance, background checks, drug testing, and health requirements.

Note: The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) protects the public by screening applicants for licensure in order to identify potentially unsafe practitioners. The law provides for denial of licensure for crimes or acts, which are substantially related to nursing qualifications, functions, or duties. At time of licensure application, all convictions must be reported except for minor traffic violations. (Business and Professions Code §480 and Nurse Practice Act ARTICLE 3 §2761).

Note: Providing a Social Security Number (SSN) OR Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): Pursuant to Business and Professions Code §30(c) the BRN will not process any application for licensure unless the applicant provides a SSN or ITIN. The Nursing Practice Act provides for a unified examination and licensing application. Once an applicant passes the examination, a license is automatically issued. Under these circumstances the BRN cannot accept applications for the examination and licensure without a SSN/ITIN.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
BIOL 431 Anatomy and Physiology 51
BIOL 440 General Microbiology 4
NURSE 400 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts I 10.5
NURSE 410 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts II 10.5
Total Units: 30

1BIOL 431 and 440 have prerequisites. Please check catalog course descriptions.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Possession of a current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers through the American Heart Association. Acceptance in the program based on admission criteria.
  • Note: In-progress grades are not accepted for prerequisite courses.
  • Note: The Nursing Admissions Committee will determine acceptance of pre-nursing courses taken outside the Los Rios Community College District.
  • Note: The American River College Nursing Program reserves the right to make changes in the enrollment criteria, academic requirements, grading standards and other processes without notice at any time.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Contact the Nursing Department at 916-484-8254 for an appointment with the Program Director. Objective counseling of this option and individual evaluation will occur at the appointment.
  • Provide unofficial transcripts and course descriptions of physiology, microbiology, and previous LVN program at the appointment.
  • Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Entry is subject to space availability.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • use clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence based practice outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for decision-making and delivery of comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
  • use information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error.
  • participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards and errors, and to improve care.
  • coordinate, collaborate, and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of life.
  • demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking, communication, and change processes.
  • demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self-awareness, a spirit of inquiry, leadership, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment and competence, and mentorship.
  • adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.

Career Information

The State of California provides the LVN with an option to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) after completing 30 college semester units. The LVN seeking this path to RN licensure will not receive a degree and this may impact employment opportunities. Additionally, reciprocal RN licensure in other states may be affected. LVNs considering moving out-of-state are encouraged to consult with that state's board of nursing for RN licensure requirements before committing to the 30-unit option.

Certificates

Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate

The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certificate program provides instruction in the holistic care and health needs of people over 65 years of age, who live in long-term care facilities. Students who successfully complete the program receive a certificate of course completion and become eligible to take the California state exam to become a certified nurse assistant.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
AH 311 Medical Language for Health-Care Providers 3
NURSE 100 Nurse Assistant 7
Total Units: 10

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • The program reserves the right to make changes in the enrollment criteria, academic requirements, grading standards, and other processes without notice at any time.
  • Students must complete course AH 110 with a "C" or better.
  • Student will be required to submit a negative TB skin test completed within 90 days prior to class entrance or a negative chest x-ray completed within 90 days prior to class entrance.
  • Spring semester student must submit proof of having a current influenza vaccine to participate in clinical experiences. Fall semester student must obtain an influenza vaccine when the vaccine becomes available.
  • Student must submit a completed health history and physical exam completed within 90-days prior to class entrance. Physical exam must clear student to fully participate in clinical labs. Student must use and submit the ARC Nurse Assistant Medical Form.
  • Student must meet the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) regulation that requires the student be able to listen, comprehend, and respond appropriately, both verbally and in action, to the English language at a minimum sixth grade level.
  • CNA student-applicants must obtain a criminal screening prior to acceptance into the course.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Read the application process located at the ARC Nursing Department website and follow the directions.
  • Admission to the course is by department consent only and determined after review of the applications.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • explain the California Administrative Code, Title XXII, Section 72527, as it relates to the role and responsibilities of the Certified Nursing Assistant regarding professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality.
  • discuss resident rights, appropriate interaction with residents, families, and other members of the health care team.
  • describe and demonstrate rehabilitation and restorative care with proper and safe body mechanics.
  • explain what constitutes an emergency and the basics of emergency care required of a Certified Nurse Assistant.
  • discuss and practice basic restraint use and associated safety measures and alternatives to restraints.
  • differentiate common therapeutic diets.
  • discuss and demonstrate basic care procedures required of a Certified Nurse Assistant.
  • state and demonstrate protective measures to prevent the spread of infection.

Career Information

Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA) have a wide variety of work opportunities. The most common work placement is in long-term care facilities. Additionally, CNA work may be found in acute care settings, assisted care facilities, and rehabilitation care centers.

Home Health Aide Certificate

This certificate expands on previously learned Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) theory to incorporate the holistic care and health needs of the elderly homebound person. This program introduces the student to the roles and responsibilities of the home health aide. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion from the instructor. The State of California will certify the CNA as a Home Health Aide after successful course completion and without further testing.

Note: More information is available about NURSE 101 at the ARC nursing website in the NURSE 101 course information packet.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
NURSE 101 Home Health Aide 1.51
Total Units: 1.5

1Student must submit one of the following items prior to the start of class: (A.) A copy of a current Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certificate (B) Be currently enrolled in a CNA course at ARC.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Proof of having completed a CA approved nurse assistant course or proof of current California nurse assistant certification.
  • have a completed health history and physical exam done within 90 days prior to the start of class. The health history and physical exam must be signed by the student and the health care provider. Physical exam must clear student to fully participate in clinical labs. Student must use the ARC Nurse Assistant Medical form provided.
  • provide a Tuberculin [TB] skin clearance test within 90 days prior to start of class, or submit a TB clearance chest x-ray within 90 days prior to start of class.
  • proof of current influenza vaccine and other required vaccines.
  • proof of criminal clearance before entering the NURSE 101 class.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Student must submit completed, time-sensitive prerequisites. Student must refer to the ARC Nursing website, NURSE 101 information for complete information about course prerequisites and prerequisite submission deadline.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • explain and discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Home Health Aide (HHA).
  • discuss and demonstrate documentation requirements of the HHA.
  • describe how culture, religious/spiritual needs, lifestyle, and life experiences of the client and family can influence care provided by the HHA.
  • describe and discuss the signs and symptoms of common diseases and disorders of the homebound client.
  • provide basic personal care needs and a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the homebound client.

Career Information

The Home Health Aide may expand on the CNA work experiences and settings to include the homebound client.

Allied Health (AH) Courses

AH 112 Strategies for Student Success in Health Occupations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides realistic and useful strategies to enhance success in reaching career goals associated with health occupations. It covers the necessary skills to determine a career path based on a realistic understanding of specific health occupations and associated aptitudes.

AH 299 Experimental Offering in Allied Health

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

AH 311 Medical Language for Health-Care Providers

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an orientation to medical language. It covers the basic structure of medical terms and their components: prefixes, suffixes, roots, and combining forms with emphasis on meaning, spelling, and pronunciation. This course also builds a medical vocabulary applicable to the specialties of medicine, the systems of the body, names of major diseases, and terms used in physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment. This course was formerly known as AH 110, and is not open to students who have completed AH 110.

Nursing (NURSE) Courses

NURSE 100 Nurse Assistant

  • Units:7
  • Hours:86 hours LEC; 120 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:AH 311 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the CNA Program.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course leads to the nurse assistant certification exam. It emphasizes the gerontological nursing assistant's role and responsibilities as a healthcare team member. It also covers principles of asepsis, infection control, resident care skills, and emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the resident.

NURSE 101 Home Health Aide

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:22 hours LEC; 24 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:Proof of having completed a CA approved nurse assistant course or proof of current California nurse assistant certification
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course focuses on home health nurse aide responsibilities: personal and rehabilitation nursing care in the home, skills of maintaining a safe home environment, meal planning and preparation, emotional care of the homebound, and home emergency procedures. Additional information on this course is available on the ARC Nursing Program website.

NURSE 299 Experimental Offering in Nursing

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

NURSE 305 Transition to Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts for the Associate Degree Nurse

  • Units:5
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the career mobility track of the Associate Degree Nursing Program.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This bridge course is designed for the California Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) who is admitted for advanced placement into the second year of the Associate Degree Nursing (Registered Nursing) Program. It introduces the concept based curriculum and the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to nursing. It focuses on nursing management of the patient's response to health alterations as well as health promotion through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and evidence based practice. The clinical laboratory experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical practice: communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration, evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis is placed on health assessment across the lifespan, family communication, patient education, teamwork and collaboration, role transition, clinical judgment, and management of care.

NURSE 310 Pharmacology and Implications for Health Care Practitioners

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course presents the principles of drug therapy as they apply to treating disease and maintaining health. It covers the metabolism and action of drugs, absorption, duration of action, distribution in the body, and adverse drug reactions. Major drug classes are included, as well as their related implications for people receiving these drugs and the effects on the body. This course also includes discussions on the administration of medications according to nursing professional standards and other health care professionals.

NURSE 320 Medical Dosage Calculations

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:27 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course prepares health professionals to calculate oral and parenteral drug dosages with a focus on safety and accuracy. Three systems of measurement and conversion are practiced. This course also provides experience in understanding drug orders and drug labels. Calculation accuracy is emphasized by clinical scenarios and case study assignments.

NURSE 370 Focused Learning in the First Year of the ARC Nursing Program

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:27 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in NURSE 400 or NURSE 410
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course offers strategies to enhance student success in the first year of the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program. It provides an assessment of personal aptitudes, learning styles, strengths, and weaknesses in written and verbal communication, and potential barriers to successful completion of the nursing program. It also provides the development of personal and professional support systems and development of a purposeful analytic process that supports reasoned decisions and judgments as a healthcare professional. Pass/No Pass only.

NURSE 372 Focused Learning in the Second Year of the ARC Nursing Program

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:27 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:NURSE 410 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:NURSE 420 or 430
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course offers strategies to enhance student success in the second year of the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program. This course reviews personal aptitudes, learning styles, strengths, and weaknesses in written and verbal communication as well as potential barriers to completion of the nursing program. Course content addresses the specific theory and clinical needs of NURSE 420 and NURSE 430 while focusing on the development of critical thinking skills used when managing a group of patients in the clinical setting. Pass/No Pass only.

NURSE 400 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts I

  • Units:10.5
  • Hours:81 hours LEC; 324 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:COMM C1000
  • Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Associate Degree Nursing Program
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces essential concepts of safe and effective nursing care for patients across the lifespan, utilizing the nursing process and evidence-based practice. It focuses on the introduction of the wellness/illness continuum and the core competencies of clinical practice. The competencies include communication, leadership, patient-centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the fundamental acquisition of the core competencies of clinical practice. Emphasis in clinical is placed on health assessment across the lifespan, recognition of alterations from the norm, safety for patients and providers of care, interpersonal communication, patient-centered care, ethics, and safe, evidence-based technical skill interventions. The course consists of the following hours: theory 81, applied theory 199, clinical hours 125 and out of course work 164. Applied theory refers to the utilization of theoretical concepts in real-world situations or practical settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing for the effective application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.

NURSE 410 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts II

  • Units:10.5
  • Hours:81 hours LEC; 324 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COMM C1000 and NURSE 400 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:ANTH 310, ANTH 481, SOC 300, or SOC 480
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course applies concepts of safe and effective nursing care for diverse children, adults, and families, concentrating on healthcare needs on the wellness/illness continuum across the lifespan. It focuses on nursing management of the patient's response to health alterations as well as health promotion for childbearing and childrearing families through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and evidence-based practice. The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical practice: communication, leadership, patient-centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis is placed on family communication, patient education, teamwork and collaboration, clinical judgment, and management of care. Applied theory refers to the utilization of theoretical concepts in real-world situations or practical settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing for the effective application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. The course consists of the following hours: theory 81, applied theory 199, clinical hours 125 and out of course work 164. Applied theory refers to the utilization of theoretical concepts in real-world situations or practical settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing for the effective application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.

NURSE 420 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts III

  • Units:10.5
  • Hours:81 hours LEC; 324 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:NURSE 305 or 410 with a grade of "C" or better; SOC 300 or SOC 480, or ANTH 310 or ANTH 481, with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course adapts concepts of safe and effective nursing care for diverse adults experiencing acute and chronic alterations across the wellness/illness continuum. It focuses on nursing management of the adult patient's response to physical and mental health alterations through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and evidence-based practice. The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical practice: communication, leadership, patient-centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis in clinical is placed on clinical judgment, interprofessional communication, patient-centered care, safety, and team collaboration. The course consists of the following hours: theory 81, applied theory 199, clinical hours 125 and out of course work 164. Applied theory refers to the utilization of theoretical concepts in real-world situations or practical settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing for the effective application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.

NURSE 430 Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts IV

  • Units:10.5
  • Hours:81 hours LEC; 324 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:NURSE 420 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course integrates concepts of safe and effective nursing care for individuals and groups of patients across the lifespan. It is designed to facilitate integration of knowledge, evidence-based practice, and clinical judgment in the management of patients with complex healthcare needs, and to facilitate the student's transition into the profession of nursing. Clinical judgment skills are enhanced through advanced clinical experiences and role transition opportunities. The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development and demonstration of the core competencies of clinical practice: communication, leadership, patient-centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis in clinical is placed on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, team collaboration concepts, managing care for groups of patients, the role of the nurse in a systems based practice, interprofessional collaboration, legal precepts, and health policy. The course consists of the following hours: theory 81, applied theory 199, clinical hours 125 and out of course work 164. Applied theory refers to the utilization of theoretical concepts in real-world situations or practical settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing for the effective application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.

NURSE 499 Experimental Offering in Nursing

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog