Is Nursing a Hard Degree to Pass?
When it comes to academic pursuits, whether or not a degree is 'hard' to pass largely depends on one's dedication, love for the subject, and commitment to hard work. All medical and paramedical courses, including nursing, can be challenging but highly rewarding if you are passionate about the field.
Challenges of a Nursing Degree
Nursing is a rigorous yet rewarding degree that requires a heavy course load and dense content. The first two years are filled with hard sciences like biochemistry, pharmacology, anatomy, dissection, and microbiology. These subjects are fundamental to a strong foundation in nursing. For instance, in the first year, the course started with 120 students, but by Christmas, most of the "party girls" and two well-meaning students who thought it would be a quick route to medical school were gone. By year two, only 95 students remained. This intense focus on academics meant little time for leisure activities.
My best friend from high school taking a BA had just 8 hours of classes per week, compared to nursing students who had 30 hours of classes. A significant portion of our time was dedicated to reading, studying, and taking tests. Fourth year added a new dimension with clinical hours and a focus on leadership and teamwork as RNs lead their nursing teams. This highlights the multifaceted nature of nursing, which is not just about academic rigor but also practical skills and interpersonal competence.
Personal Experience and Perceptions
While personally, I did not find the exams particularly difficult, many of my peers struggled significantly with passing their tests. This variability in experience underscores the importance of individual dedication and preparation. For some, the challenge may seem less daunting, while for others, it can be overwhelming.
The Role of NCLEX
The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a crucial aspect of nursing education. It is often considered more challenging than the coursework itself. The NCLEX tests on information that may not have been directly covered in the curriculum. Passing the NCLEX requires adequate preparation, including reading and skimming through nursing textbooks before the exam. Despite the challenges, the payoff of passing the NCLEX is significant, as it opens doors to various career opportunities.
Conclusion and Reflection
Is a nursing degree hard to pass? Yes, it can be tough, but it is also rewarding. The challenge lies in the depth of knowledge required and the practical skills that must be mastered. Much like breaking through a coconut's hard outer shell to reveal its valuable contents, nursing is a hard degree that demands a lot, yet there is immense value in it. Whether you decide to pursue a BScN or one of the alternative paths like the associate degree or RPN in Canada, investing in your nursing education is an investment in a valuable and fulfilling career.