• RNs have two- or four-year degrees.student image by Vasiliy Koval from Fotolia.com
  
  Different colleges require slightly different classes for a nursing degree, but all nursing students must study certain subjects. To become a registered nurse, or RN, you can earn an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN). RNs with a bachelor’s degree take more classes than those with just an associate’s degree. Some RNs go on to earn graduate degrees, so they take even more courses. The educational program for registered nurses also includes hand-on clinical work experience.
  
  

Human anatomy and physiology

• This class provides basic information about the human body and how it functions. Students also learn medical terminology. The course includes both classroom study and lab work in which animal dissection aids in the learning process.
  
  

Nutrition

• This class provides basic information about nutrition, including normal daily nutritional requirements, nutritional management of disease and dietary fads and trends. Students also learn about the biochemistry of nutrition.
  
  

Pharmacology and medication administration

• This class provides basic information about the active mechanism of medications, drug interactions and contraindications. Students learn to calculate the proper doses of medications and to administer them correctly and safely. The course covers oral, injectable and intravenous administration of medication.
  
  

Medical-surgical nursing

• This class includes information about common medical and surgical conditions and nursing interventions. The class covers both chronic and acute conditions. Students learn about health promotion and disease management. They receive information about conditions that affect the elderly as well as younger adults. The course covers both nursing theory and practice.
  
  

Critical care nursing

• This class includes information about dealing with patients with life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Students learn about the management of complex conditions. The course covers both nursing theory and practice.
  
  

Pediatric nursing

• This class includes information about nursing care for children and adolescents. Students also learn about providing education and support for the entire family. The class stresses the importance of family-centered nursing for pediatric patients.
  
  

Maternity nursing

• This class includes information about pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Students learn about nursing interventions during labor and delivery and how to support patients and family members during this sensitive time. The class stresses the importance of family-centered nursing in the maternity setting.
  
  

Mental health nursing

• This class includes information about common mental health disorders and the treatment of these disorders. Students learn to assess the emotional and mental health of patients and to develop a therapeutic relationship with them. The course stresses the importance of patient-centered care in the mental health setting.
  
  

Health care ethics

• This course focuses on ethical issues related to health care. Critical thinking and decision making are emphasized.