Nursing Student Survival Guide

Welcome to the CCC Nursing Student Survival Guide — created especially for new and prospective nursing students, with input from faculty, current students, and alumni. These are the “Pearls of Wisdom” gathered to help you prepare for and succeed in our program. Whether you’re just starting your prerequisites or already in the nursing program, there’s something here for you.

— The Contra Costa College Nursing Faculty

In This Guide

1. I. Getting Ready for the Nursing Program
2. II. Costs & Financial Aid
3. III. What to Expect Once Accepted
4. IV. The Realities of Studying Nursing
5. V. Clinical Rotations
6. VI. Campus Resources
7. VII. Nursing Clubs & Items of Interest
8. VIII. Common Questions
9. IX. Web Resources

IGetting Ready for the Nursing Program

Recommended sequence for prerequisite courses

Many students suggest starting with English and Math first because of the foundational value these courses provide for everything that follows. Students recommend taking Anatomy → Physiology → Microbiology in that order, one science course per semester, and adding a few courses from other groups alongside. These “big lab classes” carry twice the workload — both in assignments and time on campus.

Student tipOne student warns about students who tried to cram all the big lab sciences in at the end when applying — their GPAs weren’t high enough in Group A and they weren’t accepted. Spread them out and protect your GPA.

NURS 212 (Pharmacology) and NURS 205 (Drug Dosage Calculation) are both prerequisites. Before beginning the nursing program, “brush up” in both areas. Beginning Fall 2021, students take a Drug Dosage Calculation competency exam each semester and must pass it to continue in the program.

How long will prerequisites take?

Most students report that full-time enrollment gets prerequisites done in 1½ to 2 years. How many courses you take depends on your lifestyle and schedule — but do your best in every course to build a strong foundation and meet the GPA requirements: cumulative 3.0 or higher in Group A (Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English, Drug Dosage, Pharmacology) and 2.75 or higher in Group B (Psychology, Speech, etc.).

Strong recommendationComplete all general education requirements for your degree before you begin the nursing program. It is very challenging to take other coursework on top of your nursing coursework.

Nursing is a science — and requires math

Nurses use science and math every day in clinical settings. Anatomy and Physiology teach you normal body function; nursing courses build on that to cover what happens when illness disrupts it. Drug administration requires basic algebra — “solving for x.” If you strengthen one math area before the program, make it algebra.

Nervous about math and science?

Get help early. Tutoring is available from peers and on campus. Make appointments outside class time with your instructors. Practice DDC problems every day — the more you practice, the more natural it becomes.

“The math is basic algebra and can be related to everyday use. The sciences can seem overwhelming and scary, but science is about everything in our lives. You’ll get through it and will be amazed at all the things you’ve learned.”— Current nursing student

“Do something every day, don’t slack off, and keep a positive attitude. Don’t be scared. Be confident — you’ve come so far to get here.”— 2nd semester student

The application process — what you need to do

The first step is reading the Basic Nursing Program Bulletin, which lists entrance requirements and prerequisite courses. The application is available online at contracosta.edu/academics/departments/nursing/ and in the Nursing Department, Health Sciences (AA) Building, Room 237.

The completed application packet must be submitted to the CCC Admissions & Records Office, Student Services Center (SSC), Room 115 — or via US mail with confirmation. Application deadlines are posted in the Nursing Program Bulletin. New classes begin each fall semester.

Faculty & student adviceApply to several nursing programs. Nursing admissions are impacted in most SF Bay Area programs. Multiple applications give you a better chance of getting into a program. It is always better to have more than one educational option.

Start the application process early — don’t wait until the last minute. Make an appointment in Admissions & Records to review your transcripts, especially if you’ve taken courses at other institutions. Request “official sealed” copies of transcripts early — they can take several weeks to arrive. Do not assume a similarly named course from another college automatically fulfills CCC’s entrance requirements; confirm equivalency with an Admissions Counselor before you enroll.

Group A and B GPA requirements

Use the CCC catalog to verify that courses you plan to complete at other colleges will be accepted as equivalent Group A or B requirements. Check with an Admissions Department counselor before enrolling elsewhere — this saves time, money, and frustration.

“Nursing school is 100% harder and requires more time and effort than you can imagine. Developing good study habits while taking prerequisites will be a benefit once you’re in the nursing program.”— Nursing alumnus

Aim high — keep as high a GPA as you can in your prerequisite courses. You may experience a grade drop as you adjust to the nursing program format. Focus first on completing Group A (sciences and English), but don’t minimize Group B — students report that information from those courses comes up again in the program.

If you’ve completed all Group A and B requirements

“Finish all general education courses needed for the application and for the ADN degree prior to starting the program. There will be little to no time to do it during the program. Consider attending summer school to complete all ADN degree requirements before the nursing program begins.”— 4th semester student

Is the program impacted? Will I be on a waiting list?

When more qualified applicants exist than available slots, the nursing program holds a lottery — giving all qualified students a fair opportunity. The lottery system has been in use for several years. Students not selected are placed on an alternate list; if accepted students decline or don’t qualify (TEAS results, background check, drug screen), alternates are offered admission in order.

ImportantContra Costa College does not maintain a waiting list. After the class list is finalized, anyone remaining on the alternate list must reapply for admission the following year.

IICosts & Financial Aid

The cost-saving nature of an ADN program

Attending an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at a community college can save you a significant amount of money compared to other nursing programs. Community college fees are approximately $46/unit (subject to change). A typical full load of ~12 units per semester costs approximately $522. You may also be eligible for Promise Grant money — contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

Many students find the ADN pathway faster for getting to work as an RN. After graduating, you can continue toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through evening, weekend, or online coursework — and some employers will help pay for it.

Concurrent Enrollment — BSN & MSN

CCC has a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) with the University of Phoenix that allows students enrolled in the CCC RN program to earn a BSN on the CCC campus while attending nursing classes — at a reduced fee, with completion approximately 6–9 months after graduating from the CCC RN program.

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, you may be eligible for the CEP Master of Science in Nursing option. CCC also has a bridge partnership with Cal State East Bay. You’ll hear more about both after admission to the RN program.

Nursing textbooks

Faculty have worked to reduce textbook costs. You’ll receive a required textbook list when selected for the program. The campus library keeps many nursing textbooks on the shelves and at the reserve desk (2-hour in-library use). The bookstore buys back “used” textbooks for half the original purchase price and also rents textbooks. A list of used books for sale is often posted on the bulletin board in the nursing department at the start of each semester.

“Compare and decide for yourself which recommended references work for you.”— Nursing student

Nursing uniforms

CCC nursing students wear white uniform tops (button-front or zipper, with pockets) and navy-blue uniform pants for hospital clinical rotations, except in Pediatric rotations. All-white leather professional shoes are required. A wristwatch with a second hand is also required — digital watches are not appropriate for clinical use.

If you are an incoming student, wait until you receive your welcome letter before purchasing uniforms or shoes — it will specify what you need. You can get ahead by purchasing the required CCC patches from the Bookstore to sew onto your uniforms, and a student name badge.

Estimated costAverage cost for 2 sets of uniforms (as reported by students): $150–$300.

Financial Aid

To qualify for financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available online and through the Financial Aid Office — Student Services Center (SSC), Room 102. Financial aid deadlines usually fall at the beginning of March. Apply as early as possible and renew your FAFSA each academic year.

EOPS/CARE services: The Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) program targets students from low-income backgrounds, offering grants for books and fee waivers for parking and student fees. CARE is an extension for single parents with at least one child under age 14 who qualify for EOPS. Both are in SSC Room 102. Students must also qualify for a Board of Governors (BOG) Grant Fee Waiver to receive EOPS benefits.

For more information: Financial Aid Office at (510) 215-6026.

Nursing scholarships and grants

Scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid — apply for as many as possible. The Scholarship Office in the Student Services Center posts nursing-specific grant and scholarship opportunities on the bulletin board in the main nursing department hallway. Apply online at the Scholarship Office and you’ll be matched to opportunities you qualify for.

Application deadlines often fall early in the spring semester (for funds needed the following fall). Some hospitals and health agencies also offer loan forgiveness programs — they cover tuition and related costs in exchange for working for that agency for a specified period after graduation.

“I received $5,000 in scholarships and grants alone — none of it had to be repaid!”— Nursing student

Students who received “learning disability” services through school may also want to explore funding through the State Department of Rehabilitation.

IIIWhat to Expect Once You’re Accepted

What new students can anticipate

Be prepared to adjust your schedule frequently throughout the semester. Students across all levels describe entering nursing school as an intense commitment — the program runs Monday through Friday, and some clinical rotations may include weekends. Thursday schedules may open up after your first semester.

Real talk from students“Your life is no longer your own.” — Nursing alumna  |  “Be prepared to give up your life for 2 years.” — 4th semester student. These comments aren’t meant to discourage you; they’re meant to help you plan ahead. Most students agree the sacrifice is absolutely worth it for a great future and profession.

Changes in time for work and family/friends

Most students — past and present — agree that you’ll have less time for work, family, and anything else while in the nursing program. Inform everyone in your life what to expect for the next two years. Family and friend support is cited repeatedly as critical to success.

• If you must continue working, do it part-time or on weekends — manageable during the 1st semester, not advisable afterward
• If you can work more over the summer before your first semester, especially the first 4 weeks, do so — it reduces financial pressure
• If you don’t need to work, don’t — working 32–40 hours/week while enrolled full-time is not feasible

“The whole family has to be in support of your going to school. There is little to no time for anything extra. Learn to use a schedule organizer.”— 4th semester student

Nursing tests: computerized testing and critical thinking

The biggest challenge many students report is adapting to the nursing test format. Nursing exams are taken on computer — no scantrons or paper. Once you choose and “lock in” an answer, you move on and cannot return to previous questions. This format mirrors the NCLEX-RN.

The format requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, not memorization. As one student explains: “The tests present a situation. All answers may be right, but you must choose which is most right for this situation.” There are usually two plausible answers; you must identify the most correct one.

Student strategyDon’t second-guess yourself. Research and students both confirm that your first instinct is often correct. Review NCLEX-RN questions early in the program to familiarize yourself with the question style.

“Exams seem harder — even though I study all the time.”

“Most nursing students are ‘A’ and ‘B’ students in prerequisites, but after a couple of months in the program they become ‘C’ students. It is very overwhelming. Talk to students who are doing well and see if they’re doing something you haven’t thought of. Remember — you’re in this together. Support each other.”— Nursing student

Nursing student advice for new students

• Get into a study group immediately
• Complete all the objectives in lecture study guides and pre-read all chapters
• In your study group, split lecture objectives so each person prepares a section
• Do pretests when available and use the computer lab
• Study case scenarios rather than memorizing facts (“What do you do if…? Why would the doctor prescribe…?”)
• Lectures can be recorded — rewrite your notes while listening back to fill in gaps
• Don’t procrastinate or stay in denial if you’re struggling. The longer you wait to address challenges, the harder recovery becomes

Your instructors are your first stop for content review. Visit the Nurse Mentor to explore strategies to improve your performance. “Time management and not falling behind are important to remember.”

IVThe Realities of Studying Nursing

Time management and study skills

• Make study cards or a study sheet — carry them everywhere for productive waiting time
• Keep a pocket study calendar; put everything on it and stick with it
• Plan day-by-day; in exam weeks, plan hour-by-hour
• Study a few hours every day — don’t leave all reading for the weekend before a test
• Listen to recorded lectures while commuting to review that day’s material
• Read the night before lecture to preview the next day’s content — lecture becomes a review
• Read your notes before bed — a proven strategy for memory retention

“Buy an NCLEX review book and go over 10 questions before you go to bed, just so you can start to change the way you think and critically pick apart the questions.”— Student suggestion

Schedule Planner Worksheet

Mapping out your weekly schedule lets you visually allocate time across all areas of your life — class, clinical, study, work, family, and personal time. Post a copy on the fridge for family members, or give one to your childcare provider. Remember: the planner is a guide, not a rigid contract.

How to block out time:

1. Block out all fixed activities first: lecture, skills lab, clinical, meals, workouts, family commitments
2. With remaining blocks, schedule study time, study group time, and personal time

Test preparation and test-taking strategies

• Study ahead of time — cramming increases stress without improving performance
• Read the full question stem before looking at answer choices; try covering the answers first
• Look for key words: “initial intervention,” “first priority,” “most important”
• Go with your gut on the first read — don’t change answers unless you realize you misread the question
• “Sit on your hands before you click the mouse”
• Some test anxiety is normal; take a breath, settle in, and focus on one question at a time

Test-taking strategies are reviewed early in Fundamentals of Nursing (NURS 210). The Nurse Mentor is also available one-on-one and in group settings. Recommended texts: Fundamentals Success by Nugent and Vitale (required for NURS 210); Lippincott’s NCLEX-RN Alternate Format Questions.

Notes vs. textbook — should I study both?

Yes — study both. Use the textbook to clarify and expand on concepts from lecture. Follow study guide objectives and lecture objectives from your course syllabus. To save time, some study groups divide up reading objectives, write out answers, and share them — just make sure everyone is accountable.

NCLEX review books (Mosby, Lippincott, Saunders) are valuable at any point in the program — the sooner you get one, the sooner you start practicing the NCLEX thinking style. Always read all the rationales, including incorrect answers. CCC RN students also have access to UWorld for practice NCLEX questions — you’ll hear more about this once admitted.

Study tipPracticing NCLEX questions is like putting candles on a birthday cake — it’s the finishing touch after you’ve thoroughly studied the content, reinforcing and confirming your preparation.

Study groups

Start one from day one. Keep it small — 3 to 4 people works best. Everyone must come prepared. Groups don’t need to be large to be effective; even a pair counts.

“I never studied in groups before. Now I wouldn’t give it up. Study groups help you realize what you know and what you need help on.”— 2nd semester student

Common study group pitfalls to avoid:

• No consistent location — find a regular, quiet spot and stick with it
• Noisy/social environments — popular coffee shops seem appealing but often become social hours
• Unplanned sessions — agree before you arrive on what you’re covering
• Coming unprepared — review your own notes at least once before group study. Don’t see material for the first time during group session
• Breaks running long — 15 minutes max, except for a meal break (1 hour)

The Nurse Mentor has a handout on forming successful study groups — ask for it in her office.

Tutoring

Students who need additional help can contact the nursing tutors: CJ Price at cprice@contracosta.edu and Jacki Lindblom at jlindblom@contracosta.edu. You may also meet with the Nurse Mentor to explore your needs and connect with additional resources.

Attending lecture

Lecture is mandatory in the nursing program. Attendance is strictly enforced because lectures are considered irreplaceable. Getting notes from a classmate is not a substitute. Instructors highlight points they consider important, answer questions, and reinforce the textbook in ways that notes alone cannot replicate.

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN

NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is administered in all 50 states and five U.S. territories. It is sometimes called “The Boards” or “State Boards.” Its sole purpose is to determine whether it is safe for you to begin practice as an entry-level nurse. Once you pass, you may sign your name as “R.N.”

Every computerized exam you take in the nursing program is preparing you for NCLEX — the format, the critical thinking style, and the difficulty level all mirror it. “You are preparing for the NCLEX while you are in school.”

VClinical Rotations

What are clinical rotations and when do they begin?

Clinical rotations are the hands-on component of your nursing education — where you apply classroom and skills lab learning to real patients, under the supervision of a clinical instructor and the RN assigned to your patient. They begin approximately the 4th week of your first semester.

Clinicals typically fall on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (day or PM shift, and sometimes weekends). Clinical sites include, but are not limited to:

• Alta Bates-Herrick Campus (Berkeley)
• Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (Martinez)
• Summit Medical Center (Oakland)
• John Muir Medical Center (Concord and Walnut Creek)
• Kaiser (Oakland, Richmond, Vacaville, and Walnut Creek)

Student clinical placements are randomly assigned. Day shift typically runs 6:30 am to 4:00 pm — plan transportation and childcare accordingly. Most students use their own cars; some carpool.

A typical clinical day

Your clinical day includes:

1. Pre-conference with your clinical instructor — you’ll be asked about your patient(s), their conditions, and your care plan
2. Patient care on the clinical unit, supervised by your instructor and the assigned RN
3. Post-conference with classmates and instructor — discussion of experiences or a focused topic

“You will be asked many questions by your instructor — not to make you feel inadequate, but because asking questions helps the instructor understand what you know and where you need extra support.”— Nursing alumnus

All students receive the same classroom preparation before entering any clinical area. You will not be alone — your instructor, other nurses, and classmates will be there to support and guide you.

The Nursing Skills Lab

The skills lab is where you learn, prepare, and practice procedures common to registered nursing — on life-size mannequins and each other, in a hospital-room-like setting. Skills include bathing, injections, IV insertion and tubing setup, nasogastric (NG) tube placement, catheterization, and more.

You will only perform skills on patients in clinical after being “checked off” as safe and competent in the lab. Skills kits are sometimes required — contents and prices vary by semester.

“The bath is just the beginning of the bonding and humiliation we as nursing students will share together.”— Nursing student (said fondly)

Malpractice insurance

You do not need to obtain your own malpractice insurance. The college provides malpractice coverage for students while working in clinical areas.

Advice for clinical success

• Keep an open mind and stay eager to learn
• Ask your instructor anything — no question is a dumb question
• Arrive on time and in proper uniform with your name badge; aim to arrive a few minutes early
• Come prepared: review your patient’s medications and conditions before arriving
• Keep up with laundry and ironing — if you can afford it, buy more than 2 uniform sets
• Never argue with the RN assigned to your patient
• If you have any problems, go to your clinical instructor first
• Students are only allowed to miss a total of 16 clinical hours per semester — stay healthy and plan ahead (see Nursing Student Handbook for policies)

Supplies to bring to clinical

• Student ID in a plastic badge holder on your uniform
• Stethoscope
• Bandage scissors
• Penlight
• Clinical worksheet (provided by instructor)
• Extra pens: highlighter, black pens, red pen, pencil, and a permanent-ink “Sharpie” for labeling specimens

VICampus Resources

Counseling Department

Make an appointment to create a plan for your prerequisite and general education courses, or discuss personal concerns. For nursing-specific questions, ask for an Admissions Counselor or stop by the Nursing Department.

SSC Room 108 ·(510) 215-3935

Multilingual Learner (ESL) Resources

If English is not your first language, the ESL office can help with reading comprehension, identifying main points in test questions, and completing reading more efficiently.

GE Building, Room 208F · Ext. 4926

Disabled Students Programs & Services (DSPS)

All nursing courses comply with the ADA. If you have a learning, physical, or psychological disability — or suspect you might — schedule an evaluation. Accommodations such as extended exam time can be arranged with your nursing instructors.

SSC Room 109 · Ext. 7220

“Get tested at DSPS. It can offer unbelievable alternatives and opportunities for those with test anxiety.”— Nursing student

Nurse Mentor

A Registered Nurse available exclusively to students enrolled in the CCC nursing program. Works closely with faculty to support students with test-taking strategies, time management, and balancing school, work, and home responsibilities.

AA Building, Room 237 ·JWheeler@contracosta.edu

“The Mentor is here so students have someone to talk to — someone who helps steer us back on track when we’re about to jump ship.”— Student

Nurse Tutors

Two Registered Nurses available for enrolled CCC nursing students. They help with test-taking strategies, study habits, pathophysiology, and studying more efficiently.

cprice@contracosta.edu
jlindblom@contracosta.edu

Faculty Advisors

All nursing faculty are open and willing to speak with you — no specific assignment needed. They assist with academic advising, referrals to campus services, and general student support. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Library and Reserve Desk

Nursing textbooks and reference books are on the shelves and at the Reference Desk (2-hour in-library use). Ask about passwords for online nursing journal access from home. Library staff can also help you retrieve required reading articles on reserve.

Early Childhood Learning Center

On-campus childcare for children ages 2 years 9 months through kindergarten (must be toilet-trained). Parents participate weekly; nursing students may fulfill hours in flexible ways. Hours: Monday–Friday.

(510) 215-4885(leave a message)

Additional childcare resource:cocokids.org· West Area (Richmond):(510) 758-5439

Health Insurance

The Contra Costa Community College District offers a low-cost student health insurance policy. Info available at the Student Activities Office (Student Association Building). Contra Costa County residents may also explore the CC County Health Plan at1-800-524-2247.

Uninsured/sliding scale access:1-877-661-6230, Option 2. Children’s health: CHOP at1-800-696-9644.

Physical Exam & Immunizations

Students are required to have an annual physical exam (at student cost), current immunizations (including COVID-19) per clinical partner requirements, an annual 2-step TB test, and a background clearance. Details will be in your welcome letter if accepted.

West County Health Center:(510) 231-9400
Lifelong Brookside (San Pablo):(510) 215-9092

Parking

All vehicles require a valid CCC parking permit. Nursing students recommend Lot 9 — spaces are usually available and it’s close to the AA Building.

Semester permit: $48.00 (subject to change) — purchase online at the main CCC website. Daily permit: $3.00 (quarters) at machines in Lots 1, 2, 7, 9, and 10.

Nurse Mentor Book Lending Library

The Nurse Mentor loans books and resources to currently enrolled nursing students with a good-faith return history. Topics available include: Critical Thinking, Drug Dosage Calculation, Nursing Care Planning, Fundamentals of Nursing, NCLEX Question Books, Nursing Diagnosis, Job Search/Career Guides, Student Success, and more.

VIINursing Clubs & Items of Interest

California Student Nurses Association (CSNA)

CCC has a California Student Nurses Association chapter open to currently enrolled students and students interested in nursing as a career. Elections are held each spring.

There is also a CCC Nursing Club open to enrolled students and those interested in nursing as a career.

Class Leadership

Each fall semester, faculty solicit student volunteers to attend department meetings as student representatives. This is a valuable way to get to know the nursing department from the inside, build relationships with faculty outside the classroom — and it looks excellent on a résumé.

Student Issues Committee

The Student Issues Committee gives all students a voice to bring forward concerns about anything related to the nursing program. Meetings are casual, open to all students, and occur approximately twice per semester on dates posted on the bulletin board in the main nursing hallway.

ADN Program Committees

Students are invited to serve as representatives on four program committees: ADN Faculty Meeting, Curriculum Committee, Policy Committee, and Advisory Committee. You can share the role with another student and alternate attendance — making the commitment manageable for both of you. To volunteer, simply contact any faculty member. (See “Student Representatives to the Nursing Committees” in the Nursing Student Handbook.)

The Nursing Pin

The tradition of the nursing pin dates to Florence Nightingale, who was presented a pin by Queen Victoria upon her return from nursing British soldiers in the Crimean War. In 1880, the first graduates of Bellevue Hospital School of Nursing in New York City were pinned — and the tradition has continued ever since.

CCC’s nursing program has its own distinct pin — no two programs’ pins are alike. Pins are purchased at the campus bookstore by special order during the spring semester before graduation. Prices start at approximately $30.00+ (tax), beginning with a 10-karat double gold-filled option; 24-karat versions are also available at higher cost.

The nursing program holds a Pinning Ceremony — separate from college graduation — where faculty, staff, family, and friends gather to honor graduates and pin them. It marks the transition from student nurse to Registered Nurse.

VIIICommon Questions About Nursing and the CCC Program

I’m a man interested in becoming a nurse. Any advice?The number of men in nursing school is growing, and nursing is a great career for anyone. While some areas still see a preference for female nurses, all nurses care for patients of all genders.“Do it. Men are highly regarded.”— StudentNursing will be my second career. Will being older be a disadvantage?“I was 39 when I entered the program. I was concerned about keeping up, but I found my age to be an asset rather than a hindrance. Besides, you grow older whether you’re a nurse or not!”— StudentDo nurses always have to deal with blood? I have concerns about exposure risks.You will encounter blood and other body fluids. In nursing school, you’ll be trained in Standard Precautions — the same protective protocol used with every patient, regardless of their known health status. You’ll also learn what to do if you’re accidentally exposed.“Wear your gloves and wash your hands.”— StudentWill I take the same licensing exam as BSN students?Yes. The ADN program prepares you to take the same NCLEX-RN licensing exam as students from BSN programs. After passing, you hold the same nursing license.Where can I get a job after graduation?As a CCC ADN graduate, you’ll be prepared for entry-level RN positions in hospitals and ambulatory care settings. Your clinical rotations during nursing school will expose you to several different hospitals, giving you a solid picture of different environments before you graduate.How much do nurses earn, and how flexible are the schedules?New graduate nurses in California report starting wages of $60+ per hour, depending on setting. Some nurses earn over $100K per year depending on hours and specialty. Work schedules are very flexible — you can choose 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts. A nurse working 12-hour shifts can complete a full work week in just 3 days.

IXWeb Resources

The following websites provide nursing-related information and resources commonly used by nursing students:

• contracosta.edu — NursingProgram admission requirements, application check-off lists, application and acceptance processes for Basic RN, Advanced Placement, 30-Unit Option, Transfer, and Foreign-Trained applicants. Also includes the Nursing Student Handbook.
• contracosta.eduCampus policies, procedures, course catalog, student activities, support services, and the CCC Student Handbook.
• cnsa.orgCalifornia Nursing Students’ Association — resources and information for nursing students, including job site links and local chapters.
• discovernursing.comJohnson & Johnson Discover Nursing — links to nursing programs, national scholarship information, and answers to questions about becoming an RN.
• nsna.orgNational Student Nurses’ Association — articles of interest, State Board of Nursing information, and state chapters.
• nurse.comNurse Week — content from the Nurse Week magazine, distributed free to licensed RNs. Student subscriptions are also available.
• nursinghumor.comNursing jokes for all specialties, plus links to sites supportive of nursing students.
• nursefriendly.comSupport services and information for nurses — job sites, nursing gifts, medical information, and more.
• rn.ca.govCalifornia Board of Registered Nursing — information about licensure, nursing program NCLEX pass rates, and BRN contact information.