Nursing (A.S.) Next Steps

  • Class Information: Nursing, A.S. students may spend up to three days each week in class and clinical settings; some evenings may be required.
  • Program Commitment: To succeed in the Nursing, A.S. program, you should plan on a minimum of two hours of preparation for the clinical day, and at least eight hours of preparation for each nursing (NUR) course. In general, for each hour in class, expect to dedicate 2 to 3 hours outside of class for studying, reading, and coursework.
  • CastleBranch Requirements:
    • Students must purchase the student clinical clearance data warehouse through CastleBranch and complete all requirements by the program’s July 1 deadline. Failure to meet the July 1 deadline will result in the student receiving a Professional Warning Report (PWR). Every time a submission deadline is missed, the student will receive an additional PWR. Three PWRs will result in automatic dismissal from the program. (Note: Annual flu vaccine deadline is only exception, and is required by November 1. See below.)
    • Your CastleBranch package code is site-specific, and will be provided to you from the Department of Nursing shortly after program acceptance.
    • CastleBranch requires a physical exam within the past year and up-to-date immunizations. While you wait for your code and purchase, begin collecting this paperwork from your healthcare provider and/or make all necessary appointments.
    • In addition to uploading your VTSU Health Form to the college, you must also upload it to CastleBranch.
    • Part of the CastleBranch package includes fingerprinting, background checks, and policy reviews. Do not wait to complete this process as it takes a minimum of three (3) weeks for the information to become available.
    • You are required to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association or the Red Cross before classes begin. Other CPR certifications will not be accepted. Your BLS card must be uploaded to CastleBranch by July 1. 
    • Your annual flu vaccination is the only exception to the July 1 deadline. The current year formulations are available in the fall; you must receive your flu vaccination no later than November 1.
  • Laptop Computer and Software: All incoming nursing students must have a personal laptop with a privacy screen for use in class. 
    • Chromebooks, older MacBooks, and tablets WILL NOT WORK with our required testing software.
    • Software Expectations: Students are expected to be able to competently use Microsoft products (i.e., Word, PowerPoint). Software can be obtained at no cost through the VTSU Portal.
    • Canvas courses open one week before the semester begins. If Canvas is unfamiliar to you, you’re encouraged to enroll in the Passport to Canvas course prior to the start of classes to familiarize yourself with it.
    • Review additional VTSU computer requirements for more information.
  • Uniforms: The uniform policy, detailing the specific scrubs that need to be purchased, will be posted in CastleBranch in May.
  • Clinical Supplies:
    • Watch that is calibrated to read seconds
    • Stethoscope
    • Penlight
    • Bandage Scissors
  • If you have a criminal history, you must notify admissions immediately and disclose this information. Clinical facilities have the right to review your background check and FBI fingerprint results and conduct a state abuse registry scan. VTSU and our clinical partners reserve the right to deny student entry based on these results. Additionally, former employees of clinical partners who are not eligible for rehire may be denied entry. If you are refused placement at a clinical site, you will be withdrawn from the program.

Questions? Please contact the nursing department at Nursing@VermontState.edu with any CastleBranch or nursing program questions.