Apply to Southwestern’s Nursing Program
Nursing Program applications open in January for Fall 2025—start preparing now! While we’re not currently accepting applications, read on to learn what to expect. Getting a head start ensures you’re ready to apply as soon as the window opens.
Ready to Start Your Nursing Journey at Southwestern? Here’s Your Step-by-Step Guide to Applying!
The Nursing Program at Southwestern Oregon Community College is a restricted-entry program. Applications are typically accepted starting in early January and are due February 15 (by 5:00 p.m. Pacific) for the cohort starting the following Fall Term.
Before you apply, check that you meet these key eligibility criteria, outlined in our Nursing Information Packet:
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- Complete 30 credits with a “C” or better by the end of the Fall Term preceding the nursing application process. IMPORTANT: You need a total of 53 specific credits before starting the Nursing Program, but you can apply with just 30 completed.
- Make sure your 30 completed credits include BI 231 Anatomy & Physiology I, concluded within the 7-year time limit.
If you are experiencing any issues with applying or have further questions after reading through these instructions, please contact the Nursing Program Assistant via email or phone: 541-888-7443.
Become a Southwestern Student
Already a student? If you’ve attended Southwestern within the last year, SKIP AHEAD TO STEP #2. Just make sure you can log into myLakerLink using your Student ID # and password. Trouble logging in or resetting your password? Visit the Help Desk Portal for step-by-step instructions.
New to Southwestern? If you are new to Southwestern and/or have not completed credit courses at Southwestern within the past year, COMPLETE THE FIRST TWO ITEMS on the “Steps to Student Enrollment” located on the Become a Student page.
IMPORTANT:
- This process can take up to 5 days, so plan accordingly!
- Make sure your official transcripts are submitted and received by the application deadline. Note: Transcripts from non-accredited colleges won’t be considered for your application or degree requirements.
- You must complete the first two steps; however, you only need to meet with an intake advisor (Step #3 in the “Become A Student” instructions) if you plan to take courses at Southwestern beyond those included as part of the nursing program. If you’ve completed all prerequisites or are finishing them at another college, meeting with an advisor isn’t necessary to apply to the Nursing Program. However, it can be helpful if you have questions or need additional support.
Read the Nursing Information Packet
PLEASE CAREFULLY READ ALL INFORMATION INCLUDED!
Dive into everything you need to know with our Nursing Information Packet—your roadmap to success! This document includes all relevant information about the upcoming Nursing Program cohort and requirements, including important dates to consider as part of the application process.
Submit the Southwestern Nursing Program Application
Applications are due February 15 by 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. NO EXCEPTIONS, so be sure to plan ahead!
1. Login to myLakerLink using your Student ID # and password.
2. Navigate to the Nursing Program Forms page. You’ll find the link to the application right next to the Nursing Information Packet (in the “description” column) or in the Program Applications – Nursing Program Application.
3. DOUBLE-CHECK EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU HIT SUBMIT! Incomplete applications will not be accepted, so make sure you’ve included all requested information. BONUS: Join or watch the “Nursing Program Information Session” (also available at the link above) prior to submitting your application–get your questions about the application answered in real-time or check to see what other common questions other applicants had that might also help you.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned! April is when you’ll find out if you’ve advanced to the next stage—“Phase 2” of your application journey. This involves sitting for in-person proctored essays and the Kaplan admission exam.
If you make it through “Phase 2,” you’ll hear from us in June about whether you’ve been provisionally accepted into the program. Provisional acceptance means you’re on track to start Southwestern’s Nursing Program in the Fall, as long as you complete all requirements by the deadlines. These include a background check, drug screening, immunizations and completing all 53 prerequisite credits before Fall Term begins.
Want a big-picture view of what’s ahead?
