Frequently Asked Questions
IF I AM AN MA, EMT, PARAMEDIC, LVN, OR OTHER HEALTH RELATED PROFESSION, DO I STILL NEED A
CNA?
Yes. We are looking for consistency. You can use your current education and experience
to apply for the CNA without taking additional course work.
CAN I CHALLENGE THE CNA REQUIREMENT?
At this time we are requiring the actual CNA certificate as it demonstrates introduction
to basic nursing skills and clinical practice/application. Our revised curriculum
will not be spending much time on teaching this content except to evaluate these skills
to be sure everyone knows our programs expectations/requirements. If you feel you
meet these basic criteria, the CNA exam can be challenged so you can obtain the CNA
without taking the entire course. The information and form for CNA is found in the
middle of our ADN webpage or at www.cdph.ca.gov. This site can also refer you to schools in the area that teach classes and offer
clinical requirements for CNA certification.
HOW LONG IS THE WAITING TIME?
There is no waitlist. Applicants not accepted for whatever reason are recommended
to save application information and resubmit during the next application period.
HOW MANY ADN STUDENTS ARE ENROLLED EACH YEAR?
Napa Valley College invites 40 ADN candidates to start the program each Spring.
IS THERE A RECENCY REQUIREMENT FOR PREREQUISITE COURSES?
No.
IF YOU THINK YOU MIGHT HAVE A LEARNING DISABILITY, WHEN & HOW SHOULD YOU GET HELP?
Diagnostic testing for eligibility for Identification of Students with Learning Disabilities
in California Community Colleges is available through the Diagnostic Learning Services
Department. Students must be enrolled in 3 academic units to be assessed. The office
is located in Room 1766. You may call for an appointment 707-256-7442. The earlier
one uses these services, the more likely they are to benefit. Please do not wait until
you start the nursing program to seek this assessment.
WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE THE BEST USE OF MY TIME WHILE I WAIT TO ENTER THE ADN PROGRAM?
The students who are most likely to succeed in the ADN program are those who use the
time before they enter to build the academic foundation needed for the rigorous program.
A NVC counselor can help you select courses to build this foundation. Computer skills
are strongly recommended. You are strongly encouraged to take all the co-requisite
courses underlined and bolded on the "Courses" page before starting the nursing component
of the program. (Social Science, Career Communications, Math, etc. & other recommended
courses)
IS THERE AN ADVANTAGE TO WORKING IN A HEALTH-CARE SETTING BEFORE I START THE PROGRAM?
Yes, if you are employed in the health-care field before you begin the program you
will probably feel more comfortable in the lab & clinical settings, become more familiar
with medical terminology and develop the communication skills needed to be an effective
nurse. Some health facilities provide scholarship assistance to their employees who
are pursuing a career in nursing.
WHAT IS A FOREIGN TRANSCRIPT EVALUATION?
If your High School or College transcripts are from other countries they must be evaluated by
an International Evaluation Service prior to submission of your application, or you
must provide Napa Valley College with a certificate from the International Evaluator.
Forms are available on the Admissions & Records webpage.
Definitions
Prerequisites: A course requirement that must be completed prior to enrolling in another course.
Co-requisite: A course that is required to be taken at the same time or before another course.
Advisory: A course or other preparation which is recommended in order to increase a student's probability of success in the program.