Taking the right classes in high school, including math and science, can help you become a registered nurse.
Registered nurses (RNs), make up the largest segment of the health care workforce with 2.6 million jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This rewarding career involves treating and educating patients in a health care setting, including hospitals, clinics and community health facilities. While registered nurses must eventually complete at least an associate's degree (but in many cases, a bachelor's or master's degree) there's nothing wrong with getting a jump-start by gearing high school classes toward an eventual nursing career. Identifying what classes to take in high school can help you tailor schedule choices.
English
Because registered nurses must meet college entry requirements to earn at least an associate's degree, it's crucial to take college preparatory classes in high school when available. Enroll in English for all four years to prepare for college-level English courses and gain valuable writing and critical thinking skills. Learning analyze texts in high school classes develops helpful tools including predicting, identifying cause-and-effect, mastering Latin-based vocabulary words and presenting reasoned arguments --- all skills that can help you become a better registered nurse.
Math
Registered nurses require a strong math background, so prepare for challenging college-level math classes by taking classes for three to four years in high school. Be sure to take algebra and geometry for a solid math foundation to prepare for classes including calculus and trigonometry. Skills developed in math classes include critical thinking, accuracy, problem solving and memorizing and manipulating formulas to arrive at a solution.
Science
Taking two to four years of science classes in high school not only equips you for college-level science courses to become a registered nurse, it offers key concepts and skills that will ground your nursing practice. Definitely enroll in biology and chemistry, since content from these classes crosses over into knowledge required to become a nurse. When possible, also take classes in physics, computer science and human anatomy.
Foreign Language
Studying a foreign language in high school helps make your college application competitive, since many colleges require at least one year of foreign language study for students. Learning a new language helps you develop skills for decoding unfamiliar text, breaking down new vocabulary words and appreciating different cultures. Working as a registered nurse doesn't require fluency in another language, but this can give you a competitive edge in the job market and make it easier for you to communicate with patients and their families.
Social Science
Studying social sciences for four years in high school prepares you for college-level coursework requirements including history, U.S. government and other topics. Besides meeting academic prerequisites, studying the social sciences can help you develop an understanding and empathy for people. High school classes like sociology and psychology help you understand the external influences on people's thoughts and feelings, including feelings toward health care. Adding compassion to your nursing practice will help you become a better registered nurse.
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