General Education Courses at St. Joseph’s College of Nursing
(BIO 101) Human Anatomy & Physiology I (4cr)
This course explores human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on concept application. Students develop an integrated understanding of how body systems maintain homeostasis and health, beginning with cellular and tissue organization and progressing through the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems. Through lecture and laboratory experiences, students investigate structural and functional relationships within and between organ systems, explore how physiological processes sustain life, and examine how disruptions can impact overall health.
(BIO 102) Human Anatomy & Physiology II (4cr)
This course continues the exploration of human anatomy and physiology with a focus on the coordination and regulation of body functions. Students build on foundational knowledge to investigate the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Emphasis is placed on the integration of these systems in maintaining homeostasis and supporting human health. Through lecture and laboratory experiences, students examine structural and functional relationships, explore the physiological mechanisms underlying system interactions, and consider how imbalances or disruptions can lead to disease or dysfunction.
(BIO 201) Microbiology (4cr)
Microbiology introduces students to the biology of microorganisms and their relevance to human health, disease, and the environment. Topics include microbial structure and function, metabolism, genetics, immunity, pathogenesis, and microbial control. The course supports the development of scientific reasoning and foundational microbiological concepts relevant to healthcare, public health, and environmental contexts. Laboratory activities, virtual and in-person, develop core microbiological skills and reinforce safety, identification, and data interpretation techniques.
(PSY 101) Introductory Psychology (3cr)
Introductory Psychology is designed to provide you with a broad overview of contemporary psychology, its diverse approaches to the understanding of behavior, and the basic principles and research findings associated with each of these approaches. Specific areas of psychological inquiry discussed include physiological, cognitive, and social psychology, learning, sensation and perception, emotion and motivation, personality, and psychopathology. This course is a prerequisite for most psychology courses and nursing courses.
(PSY 220) Human Growth and Development (3cr)
This course provides an in-depth exploration of human development across the entire lifespan, from conception to late adulthood. Students will examine the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that occur at each stage of life. Emphasis is placed on major theories of development, research methods, and the interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors influencing growth. Topics include prenatal development, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging, as well as issues related to family, education, and cultural diversity. By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of developmental processes and their practical applications in personal and professional contexts.
(SOC 101) Introductory Sociology (3cr)
This course introduces students to the basic principles, concepts, and perspectives used in sociology to study human society systematically. Students will learn to think sociologically by examining how social patterns, institutions, culture, and inequality shape individual and group behavior. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills and social awareness by applying sociological theories and concepts to contemporary social issues.
Why This Matters for Nursing Students
- Tailored Learning Experience: These courses are designed specifically for nursing students, with content scaffolded to align with upper-level nursing courses.
- Embedded Clinical Relevance: Students will learn anatomy, physiology, and microbiology in the context of real-world nursing scenarios, making the material more meaningful and easier to retain.
Why Internal Is Better Than External
- More Support, More Success: While community colleges offer instructor access, our internal courses provide a fully integrated support system. Students have access to their nursing and science faculty all on one campus. This means easier coordination, more consistent guidance, and no need to travel between institutions.
- Consistent Quality: Internal courses maintain the same academic standards and rigor as the rest of the nursing curriculum.
- Community & Belonging: Students stay connected to their cohort and campus resources.
Academic & Career Advantages
- Better Preparation for Clinicals: Students will enter clinical rotations with a stronger foundation in systems biology and infection control.
- Improved NCLEX Readiness: Scaffolded content helps reinforce key concepts tested on the NCLEX.
- Streamlined Path to Graduation: No need to navigate external enrollment, transfer credits, or mismatched syllabi.



