Associate Degree
8 Months Program*
Job Placement Assistance
Veteran and Military Benefits*33 Approved Instructional Weeks
Tuition & Fees Select Program Available Area FirstPlease follow the link to get a comprehensive price breakdown.
TOTAL PROGRAM COST*
*Program Fees are subject to change
Alumni Grant (for Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts VN Graduates): $16,468.00
Program Mission
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts’ mission is to offer quality allied health and nursing programs that integrate professional skills, career-focused education, and hands-on practical experience by empowering students to develop and achieve their personal and career goals.
A.S. in Nursing Program Student Handbook
ADN Student Handbook
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts nursing graduates play an essential role in healthcare. Registered Nurses are a vital part of the healthcare team as they provide and coordinate patient care. RNs assess patients, administer medication and treatments, consult doctors, and teach patients how to manage illness or injuries.
We offer two (2) different pathways. Both include didactic and hands-on training. The first track is a six-semester program for non-nursing applicants.
We offer a second track for those with an LVN license and completed general education courses. LVN to RN applicants can complete the program in two semesters and a three-week LVN to RN transition course. After program completion, students will receive an NCLEX prep class to prepare for the RN board examination.
Provide a high-quality educational experience to each individual whose goal is to enter the health care profession.
Provide a depth of human understanding and a wide range of nursing skills based on communication and scientific principles.
Guide the Associate Degree student in collaborative practice with other healthcare professionals to meet patient nursing needs.
Employ the nursing process in the provision of safe and effective care.
Help develop the Associate degree student to become a role model, patient advocate, patient educator, and caregiver who provides an environment conducive to maintaining dignity and maximizing each individual’s wellness.
Guide the Associate Degree student to become active participants in the learning process and assist with self-awareness and self-direction.
Provide a shared learning environment among faculty and students by exchanging knowledge and experience to promote change within the participants.
Prepare the Associate Degree student with the knowledge, skill, and ability to administer safe, ethical, and competent nursing care as a beginning practitioner in various settings.
Show More Show Less*(33 Approved instruction Weeks)
LVN to RN Advanced Placement (2 semesters for a total of 25 Semester credit hours):
Students in this pathway can complete the ADN program within 33 weeks (2 semesters and a 3-week LVN to RN transition course), assuming maximum credit granting for nursing and GE courses.
An admission course is required for all students electing to enroll in the LVN to RN Advanced Placement program. The admission course is RN 180—Nursing Transition Advanced Placement Theory and Lab Course. It is a 5-unit, 120-hour course that evaluates the student’s readiness to be eligible for enrollment into the Advanced Placement pathway. The student must demonstrate the required knowledge and skills to complete this course. All students must complete before starting any Professional Courses.
The third semester is 16 Semester Credit Hours (11—lectures, 5—clinical). Classes will be held Monday through Friday, with two (2) days on campus (nine (9) hours of class each week for 15 weeks) and nine (9) hours two (2) days per week in clinical practice for ten (10) weeks.
The fourth semester is nine (9) Semester Credit Hours (five (5) lecture hours and four (4) clinical hours). Classes will be held Monday through Friday with two (2) days on campus (seven (7) hours of class) and three (3) days per week in clinical practice, each for eight to nine (8-9) hours.
Students of this pathway receive two hundred ninety-two point five (292.5) hours of didactic and four hundred seventy-two point five (472.5) hours of clinical and lab instruction, allowing them to apply the lecture topics in practical use. The curriculum provides students with the technical, clinical, and interpersonal skills necessary to succeed in this challenging field. This program’s standard completion time is thirty-three (33) weeks, excluding holidays and vacation.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts has adopted ATI standardized testing to assess student learning outcomes and evaluate student readiness for the nursing licensure examination. The NCLEX Preparation and Remediation course assists students in this program by focusing directly on the current NCLEX-RN test plan, application process, and test-taking strategies to prepare for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Preparation for NCLEX-RN (ATI) is provided to the students. Students are permitted two (2) attempts to pass the ATI exit exam to graduate. The first attempt is given after program completion. The second attempt is given two (2) weeks after program completion. Under extraordinary circumstances, applicable students may be eligible for a third attempt. See the Student Grievance and Appeals Policy for more information.
LVN 30-Unit Option
This option is available to all individuals who are Licensed Vocational Nurses in California. Completing the required courses will provide the opportunity and eligibility to take the California Registered Nurse licensure examination. This option does not meet the Associate of Arts Degree in Nursing graduate requirements, and students will not graduate from the nursing degree program. In addition, several states do not recognize individuals who complete this option or pass the NCLEX-RN examination as registered nurses.
Admission to the LVN 30 Unit Option is dependent on space availability. The candidate must meet the criteria to enroll in the 30 Unit Option. The 17.5 units must be completed in the Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts Associate Degree Nursing program. The remaining eight (8) units will be transfer credits of four (4) units from any standalone Physiology with lab that includes all body systems equivalent to the GE 020A & GE 020B or Human Body in Health & Disease I w/Lab and Human Body in Health & Disease II w/Lab and four (4) units of Microbiology with Lab which are admission requirements for this option. This option does not apply to ADN students enrolled in the program or to students who failed any course from the ADN program. The RN 180 Nursing Advanced Placement Transition course is not required but is recommended for completion as an elective course.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers two pathways for admission to the Associate of Science in Nursing Program: one is for currently licensed LVNs, and the other is for non-LVNs.
Each program has specific physical and non-physical requirements to ensure our students’ and patients’ safety and welfare. (Check with an admission advisor.) Almost all of our students, if applicable, must be able to do the following:
The following requirements must be met for a student to graduate from the A.S. in Nursing (ADN/ASN) program at Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts:
| I. Admission Exam | 40 |
|---|---|
| TEAS (90.00-100.00) | 40 |
| TEAS (80.0-89.99) | 30 |
| TEAS (70.0-79.99) | 20 |
| TEAS (64.0-69.99) | 10 |
| Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts uses the Test of Essential Academic Skills. The required minimum composite score is 64 percent for admission to the Associate Degree Nursing Program. The program will only accept a maximum of two (2) attempts in one year, with the first passing score of 64 percent. If students do not attain the minimum of 64 percent on the first attempt, they may retest within one (1) year. | |
| II. Post-Secondary Education | 20 |
| Associate Degree | 5 |
| Baccalaureate Degree | 10 |
| Graduate/Master's Degree and Higher | 20 |
| III. Academic Achievement: College Level Courses and High School AP Courses | 30 |
| A. GPA in Non-Biology Prerequisite Courses: Reading and Composition, Psychology, Public Speaking, Sociology, Critical Thinking, Nutrition | |
| GPA 2.50-2.59 | 2 |
| GPA 2.60-3.00 | 5 |
| GPA 3.01-3.59 | 10 |
| GPA 3.60-4.00 | 15 |
| B. GPA in Math and Sciences: Intermediate Algebra, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology | |
| GPA 2.50-2.59 | 2 |
| GPA 2.60-3.00 | 5 |
| GPA 3.01-3.59 | 10 |
| GPA 3.60-4.00 | 15 |
| IV. Application Essay to Nursing Program - APA Format | 10 |
| Essay will include | |
| Statement of purpose for enrolling into the nursing program | 2 |
| The essential functions and role of a nurse | 2 |
| Preparation to become successful in the nursing program | 2 |
| Accountability and integrity in the nursing profession | 2 |
| Grammar | 2 |
| V. Healthcare Background | 5 |
| 1-3 Years | 3 |
| More than 3 Years | 5 |
| VI. Personal Interview | 20 |
| Professionalism | 4 |
| Appearance and Demeanor | 4 |
| Communication Skills | 4 |
| Answering Skills | 4 |
| Overall Impression | 4 |
| Total Possible Points for Criterion I through Criterion VII | 125 |
The LVN To RN Transition Course (120hrs) is an Admission Course that must be completed before starting the LVN to RN CORE courses.
The table below reflects upcoming future starts only.
| LVN to RN PROGRAM FEES (Advanced Placement Pathway)* | |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee (Non-Refundable) | $100.00 |
| Transition Student Tuition Recovery Fund (Non-Refundable) | $0.00 |
| Transition Books (Non-Refundable, if accessed) | $100.00 |
| Transition Course Tuition | $9,000.00 |
| Student Tuition Recovery Fund (Non-Refundable) | $0.00 |
| Core Books* (Non-Refundable, if accessed) | $175.00 |
| Core Tuition Fee | $52,500.00 |
| TOTAL PROGRAM COST | $61,875.00 |
| TEAS Test Fee (additional, prior to registration and not Financial Aid eligible) | $120.00 |
| *Several books must be obtained by students on their own and the cost of these books is not included in Books and Materials Fee. |
Alumni Grant (for Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts VN Graduates): $16,468.00
Creating a portfolio resume is a powerful way to showcase your skills and experiences to potential employers. At Gurnick Academy, we help you create a professional and polished resume to set you apart from the competition.
Mock Interviews
Mock interviews are a valuable tool to prepare you for the real thing. Gurnick Academy offers mock interviews to help you build confidence and practice your interviewing skills before meeting with potential employers.
Support you after graduation
Your success doesn't end at graduation, that's why we offer support for our graduates even after they leave our institution. From career counseling to networking opportunities, we're here to help you take the next step in your career journey.
Gurnick Edge
Gurnick Edge is a website geared to professionally enhancing nurses. There are multiple professional building segments with easy to use tutorials. Along with the professional development, Gurnick Edge offers professional profiles that the student creates while in their respective programs.
Professional Development Workshops
Continuous learning is key to professional growth and success, that's why we offer professional development workshops to help our students and alumni stay current in their field. From soft skills to industry-specific training, our workshops provide valuable insights and skills to advance your career.
One-on-One and Interview Coaching
Achieving your career goals can be challenging, but with our one-on-one and interview coaching services you'll have the support you need to succeed. Our expert coaches will work with you to develop your skills, confidence and prepare you for success in job interviews.
Show More Show LessPrerequisite-General Education Courses LVN to RN Advanced Placement. (Can be completed at Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts or be credit granted.)
| Course Number | Title | ABHES Clock Hours | BRN Clock Hours | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE 020A | Human Body in Health and Disease I w/ Lab | 75.0 | 90.0 | 4.0 |
| GE 041 | General Microbiology with Lab | 75.0 | 90.0 | 4.0 |
| GE 222 | English Reading and Composition | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 112 | Algebra I | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 202 | General Psychology | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 020B | Human Body in Health and Disease II with Lab | 75.0 | 90.0 | 4.0 |
| GE 031 | Nutrition in Health and Disease | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 110 | Critical Thinking | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 201 | Introduction to Sociology | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| GE 240 | Public Speaking, Basics of Effective Communication | 45.0 | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| Total | 540.0 | 585.0 | 33.0 |
All prerequisite courses must meet the baseline general education criteria for the California State University system (CSU).
Please note: A transcript MUST be provided for the above prerequisites if credit granting and will only be accepted from an accredited institution approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
The minimum composite score is 64 percent for admission to the Associate Degree Nursing Program. The program will only accept a maximum of two (2) attempts in one (1) year, with the first passing score of 64 percent. If students do not attain the minimum of 64 percent on the first attempt, they may retest within one (1) year.
Prerequisite- Nursing Courses: LVN to RN Advanced Placement
(These courses are to be credit granted for LVNs, subject to Credit Granting Policy.)
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN 100 | Fundamentals of Nursing Theory* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 101 | Fundamentals of Nursing Clinical and Lab* | 157.5 | 3.5 |
| RN 102 | Health Assessment Theory* | 30.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 103 | Health Assessment Skills Lab* | 67.5 | 1.5 |
| RN 104 | Fundamentals of Pharmacology | 30.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 200 | Medical/Surgical I Theory-Introduction to Med/Surg* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 201 | Medical/Surgical I Clinical-Introduction to Med/Surg* | 90.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 202 | Medical/Surgical II Theory-Intermediate Med/Surg* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 203 | Medical/Surgical II Clinical-Intermediate Med/Surg* | 90.0 | 2.0 |
| Total Nursing Prerequisite Courses | 600.0 | 22.0 |
*Paired course. See the course description for more details.
The LVN To RN Transition Course (120hrs) is an Admission Course that must be completed before starting the LVN to RN CORE courses.
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN 180 | Nursing Transition Advanced Placement Theory and Lab Course | 120.0 | 5.0 |
| Total | 120.0 | 5.0 |
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN 106 | Pathophysiology | 30.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 300 | Maternal Newborn Theory* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 301 | Maternal Newborn Clinical* | 67.5 | 1.5 |
| RN 302 | Care of Children Theory* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 303 | Care of Children Clinical* | 67.5 | 1.5 |
| RN 304 | Medical/Surgical III Theory-Advanced Med/Surg* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 305 | Medical/Surgical III Clinical-Advanced Med/Surg* | 90.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 400 | Mental Health Theory* | 30.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 401 | Mental Health Clinical* | 90.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 402 | Medical/Surgical IV Theory-Complex/Critical Care, Med/Surg, and Leadership* | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 403 | Medical/Surgical IV Clinical-Complex/Critical Care, Med/Surg, and Leadership* | 90.0 | 2.0 |
| Total Professional Courses |
Degree Total (Prerequisites plus Professional)
*Paired course. See the course description for more details.
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN 180 | Nursing Transition Advanced Placement Theory and Lab Course | 120.0 | 5.0 |
| Total | 120.0 | 5.0 |
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Quarter Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN 102 | Health Assessment Theory | 30.0 | 2.0 |
| RN 103 | Health Assessment Skills Lab | 67.5 | 1.5 |
| RN 304 | Medical/Surgical III Theory-Advanced Med/Surg | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| RN 305 | Medical/Surgical III Clinical-Advanced Med/Surg |
Total Program for 30-Unit Option (Transfer plus Professional)
Credit Granting Policy
Credits earned from courses or programs accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (U.S.DOE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA):
Students who fail RN 402 may submit proof of passing the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain credit for RN 402 and graduate from the ADN Program. All other graduation requirements (i.e., zero account balance) must also be met.
In compliance with the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), credit for military education and experience is available at Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts. Individuals who have held Military Health Care Occupations, specifically: Basic Medical Technician Corpsman (Navy HM or Air Force BMTCP), Army Health Care Specialist (68W Army Medic) or Air Force Independent Duty Medical Technician (IMDT 4NOX1C) may achieve advanced placement into semester two of the associate degree nursing program upon review and approval from the Associate Degree Nursing Program Director. Submission of documentation of education and experience qualifying them for the specific Military Health Care Occupation, and upon successful completion of the challenge exam, dosage calculation exam and skills competency evaluation.
An admission course is required for all students electing to enroll in the LVN Advanced Placement Pathways for the ADN and BSN programs. The RN 180 Nursing Transition Advanced Placement Theory & Lab is the admission course. It is a five (5) unit, 120-hour course that evaluates the student’s readiness to be eligible for enrollment into the Advanced Placement pathway. The student must demonstrate the required knowledge and skills to complete this course.
All students must complete the RN 180 course before starting any Professional Courses. Students enrolled in the RN 180 are eligible to challenge the OB and Pediatrics courses. Students must contact the Assistant Director to request the challenge exams. The OB and Pediatrics theory courses are paired with a corresponding clinical course. Failure in one course equals failure in the paired course.
Students must pass the challenge exams before scheduling the competency exams. The minimum passing score for the challenge exam is 90%, and the minimum passing score for the competency exam is 90%. If the above requirements are unmet, the student will complete the required courses as scheduled.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts considers clinical experience essential in healthcare education.
Students must be rotated throughout our affiliated medical facilities while attending our A.S. in Nursing (LVN to RN) Advanced Placement Program.
View the O*Net Online 29-1141.00 Registered Nurses job profile for general information about the profession. Find information about salary data for California and major cities near the campus where the program is offered.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts holds national institutional accreditation by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). ABHES accreditation does not include continuing education courses.
ABHES Mailing Address:
6116 Executive Blvd., Suite 730
North Bethesda, MD 20852
ABHES Phone: 301-291-7550
ABHES Email: Info
ABHES Website: abhes.org
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts is a private institution approved to operate by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. Approval to operate means the institution is compliant with the minimum standards in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act (CPPEA) of 2009 (as amended) and Division 7.5 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations. CPPEA governs the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education.
The Office of Student Assistance and Relief is available to support prospective students, current students, or past students of private postsecondary educational institutions in making informed decisions, understanding their rights, and navigating available services and relief options. The office may be reached by calling (888) 370- 7589, option #5, or by visiting osar.bppe.ca.gov.
BPPE Mailing Address:
1747 N. Market Blvd., Suite 225
Sacramento, CA 95834
BPPE Phone: 888-370-7589
BPPE Email: General
BPPE Website: bppe.ca.gov
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) to provide the A.S. in Nursing (LVN to RN) Advanced Placement Program.
BRN Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244
BRN Phone: 916-322-3350
BRN Website: rn.ca.gov
Consult the Catalog with the Addendum to find more information about Licensure, Certification, and Registry Disclaimer.
*Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts has not determined if any programs fulfill the educational requirements for specific professional licensure or certification required for employment outside California unless identified by the program below. It is recommended that students located in or planning to relocate to a state apart from where the program’s physical campus is located research any certification or employment requirements for their intended state.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts aims to help every student obtain Financial Aid* to attend their chosen program. Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts participates in various federal and state student financial assistance programs.
The financial aid programs are designed to assist students with inadequate financial resources to meet their education’s total cost. Each campus has a Financial Aid Advisor who can help students with any financial aid questions.
For more information, please visit our Financial Aid page.
