COUN 135: Nursing Career Pathways

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2025
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Total Student Learning Hours: 162
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: No
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

This course is designed for students interested in exploring diverse career paths within the nursing profession, including those achievable through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It provides an in-depth overview of various nursing roles, from certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to advanced practice nurses, and highlights the skills, educational requirements, and career trajectories associated with each pathway. Through guest speakers, case studies, and self-assessments, students will gain insights into the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of different nursing specialties. By the end of the course, students will develop a personalized career plan aligned with their strengths, interests, and long-term career goals. This course is ideal for anyone considering a career in nursing. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Students will explore and articulate the various roles within the nursing profession, including entry-level, mid-level, and advanced practice positions, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the career landscape in nursing.
  • Students will understand and compare the educational pathways leading to different nursing roles, including the requirements for obtaining an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), as well as other relevant certifications.
  • Students will analyze strategies for career development in nursing, including networking, mentorship, and continuing education, to facilitate informed decision-making about their career paths.
  • Students will evaluate their personal interests, strengths, and values in relation to various nursing specialties, enabling them to identify career paths that align with their individual goals.
  • Students will create a comprehensive career plan that outlines actionable steps for pursuing their chosen nursing pathway, incorporating insights gained from guest speakers, case studies, and self-assessments throughout the course.

Major Course Content

  1. Overview of Nursing Roles
    1. An introduction to the various roles within the nursing profession
      1. including certified nursing assistants (CNAs)
      2. registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs)
      3. specialized roles in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and critical care
  2. Educational Pathways and Requirements 
    1. Examination of the educational pathways leading to nursing careers
    2. Explore the differences between Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and other relevant certifications, along with the associated licensure processes
  3. Career Development in Nursing
    1. ​Strategies for career development within the nursing field
      1. including networking
      2. mentorship opportunities
      3. the importance of continuing education and professional certifications for career advancement
  4. Self-Assessment and Career Exploration 
    1. Tools and methods for self-assessment
      1. allowing students to evaluate their interests, strengths, and values as they relate to various nursing specialties and career paths
  5. Creating a Career Plan 
    1. Guidance on developing a comprehensive career plan that outlines actionable steps for pursuing a nursing career
      1. including goal-setting
      2. identifying potential educational programs
      3. strategies for gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer opportunities
  6. Current Trends in Nursing 
    1. Discussion of current trends and challenges in the nursing profession
  7. Ethics and Professionalism in Nursing 
    1. An exploration of the ethical principles and professional standards that guide nursing practice
      1. patient confidentiality
      2. informed consent
  8. Job Search Strategies and Interview Preparation
    1. Explore ​effective job search strategies specific to the nursing field
      1.  including resume writing
      2. cover letter preparation
      3. interview techniques
  9. Student Educational Plan (SEP) Pathway Mapping 
    1. ​Mapping out educational course pathways
      1. pre-requisite courses for ADN programs 
      2. pre-requisite courses for the BSN programs 
      3. potential transfer options 

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Fontaine, Dorrie K., and Elaine Sorensen Marshall. Self-Care for Nurses: A Guide to Mental and Physical Well-Being. Sigma Theta Tau International, 2021.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Reflective Essay on Personal Goals: As part of their self-assessment, students will write a 3-5 page reflective essay that explores their motivations for pursuing a nursing career. This essay should address their personal values, experiences that influenced their decision, and how they envision their future in nursing. This assignment encourages introspection and critical thinking about their career goals. Interview Reflection Paper: After conducting an informational interview with a nursing professional, students will write a 2-4 page reflection paper. This paper should summarize the key insights gained from the interview, how it relates to their understanding of nursing career pathways, and any shifts in their career aspirations as a result of the discussion.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Career Pathway Research Paper: Students will write a 5-7 page research paper on a specific nursing career pathway of their choice, focusing on its educational requirements, responsibilities, potential challenges, and job outlook. This paper should include a minimum of five peer-reviewed sources and must adhere to APA formatting guidelines. Students will be required to submit an outline and a draft for peer review before the final submission. Personal Reflection and Action Plan: As part of self-assessment, students will complete a reflective assignment where they assess their personal strengths, weaknesses, interests, and career goals in nursing. This assignment should be 3-5 pages and include a detailed action plan outlining steps they will take to pursue their desired nursing pathway, including educational goals and timelines.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture