Dutchess Community College Nursing Programs in Poughkeepsie, New York

The Registered Nursing (RN) program, typically offered as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), is a comprehensive educational program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The program’s primary goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary to provide safe, effective, and compassionate patient care across the lifespan. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world healthcare settings. Students will learn to assess patients’ health needs, develop and implement nursing care plans, administer medications, perform various nursing procedures, and educate patients and their families. A strong emphasis is placed on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and communication skills. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), and upon passing, become licensed registered nurses.