GCU Launches Online Pre-Nursing Degree to Address Nursing Shortage and Enable Pathway to BSN

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has announced a new Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing degree aimed at supporting students entering the nursing field. This fully online program comprises 60 credits and serves as a foundational stepping stone towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The introduction of this program comes at a crucial time as the nation grapples with a significant nursing shortage.

New Pathways for Aspiring Nurses

Dr. Lisa Smith, Dean of GCU's College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions, emphasizes the importance of creating varied educational pathways to cater to diverse student backgrounds. While the new Pre-Nursing degree does not lead directly to registered nurse licensure, it lays a strong academic foundation for future nursing studies. The program is eligible for federal financial aid, which significantly lowers financial barriers for potential students.

Graduates from the Pre-Nursing program will have a seamless transition into GCU's accelerated BSN program designed for those with prior college experience. GCU has established 12 accelerated BSN sites across the country that utilize a hybrid approach to learning, combining online education with practical skills labs and clinical experiences.

Commitment to Nursing Education

In the 2025-2026 academic year, GCU awarded degrees to 4,116 students across its BSN programs, underscoring its commitment to meeting the healthcare workforce demand. Furthermore, GCU achieved an impressive average first-time NCLEX pass rate of 94.67% in 2025, a figure that greatly exceeds the national average of 86.71%, showcasing the university's dedication to producing well-prepared nursing professionals.

The launch of the Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing degree by Grand Canyon University not only addresses the current nursing shortage but also reinforces GCU's role as a pivotal player in nursing education, offering flexible and accessible pathways for aspiring healthcare professionals.