04:04:05:00 DSCC Admissions Requirements Policy | Dyersburg State Community College

Purpose:

The following policy shall ensure Dyersburg State Community College (DSCC) establishes admission requirements consistent with Tennessee Board of Regents policy 02:03:00:00 for the admission of students to DSCC degree or certificate programs and provides for the admission of non-degree seeking students.

Scope:

This policy applies to all DSCC employees and students.

Policy:

Medical or Health Information

DSCC will require all applicants for admission to provide health information that, at a minimum, establishes the applicant’s compliance with Rules promulgated by the Tennessee Department of Health regarding requirements for immunization against certain diseases prior to attendance.

Residency Classification

DSCC shall, in the admission or readmission process, assign each student a residency classification using TBR Policy No. 03:05:01:00 Policy for Classifying Students In-State and Out-of-State for Paying College Fees and Tuition and for Admission Purposes. Residents of Dunklin County, Missouri; Pemiscot County, Missouri; New Madrid County, Missouri; and Mississippi County, Arkansas will consider in-state for tuition purposes.

Prevision for Admission to DSCC

High School Graduate from a Public School

Submission of a completed Application for Admission

Proof of Immunizations

Submission of an official copy of a high school transcript verifying a Regular or Honors diploma and the date of graduation.

Transcripts of applicants who graduated from Tennessee public high schools in 1983 or after must include a transcript entry stating that a passing score was made on the proficiency test battery. If applicants have not passed the required proficiency test battery, they must submit official High School Equivalency (HSE) test results indicating an average standard score of 450 or above and a minimum score of 410 on each HSE sub score. For HSE tests taken before January 2002, an average standard score of 45 or above and a minimum score of on HSE sub score are required. An official copy of ACT scores may be used for placement only if the ACT scores are no older than five years. *Official SAT scores may be accepted in lieu of ACT Scores.

High School Graduate from a Non-Public School (including schools, home schools, and church-related schools)

Submission of a completed Application for Admission

Proof of Immunizations

Submission of an official copy of a high school transcript verifying a Regular or Honors diploma and the date of graduation.

The transcript must also include all credits earned and final grades in each course. The transcript of a home school applicant must be an official copy from an affiliated organization as defined by T.C.A. 49-50-801 or be accompanied by certification of registration with the superintendent of the local education agency which the student would otherwise attend. Applicants who cannot provide a satisfactory secondary school credential may substitute acceptable scores on the HSE test or the American Council on Education (ACE) External Degree examination. An official copy of ACT scores may be used for placement only if the ACT scores are no older than five years. *Official SAT scores may be accepted in lieu of ACT Scores.

High School Equivalency (HSE) Recipient (formerly GED)

Submission of a completed Application for Admission

Proof of Immunizations

Submission of an official copy of HSE test results (Hi-SET or GED) indicating a passing score. For GED test taken before January 2002 through August 2015, the average standard score of

450 or above and a minimum score of 410 on each sub score. For GED tests taken before January 2002, an average standard score of 45 on each sub score are required. An official copy of ACT scores may be used for placement only if the ACT scores are no older than five years. *Official SAT scores may be accepted in lieu of ACT Scores.

American Council on Education (ACE) External Degree Recipient

Submission of completed Application for Admissions.

Proof of Immunizations.

Submission of an official copy of ACT scores may be used for placement only if the ACT scores are no older than five years. *Official SAT scores may be accepted in lieu of ACT Scores.

Transfer Students

Submission of a completed Application for Admission.

Proof of Immunizations.

Submission of an official copy of a high school transcript verifying a Regular or Honors diploma and the date of graduation.

Submission of official copies of transcripts from each college or university attended.

Concealment of previous college or university attendance may be cause for rejection, cancellation of admission or dismissal of the student.

Course placement for Transfer students will be based on the following:

Transfer students who have completed a college-level English and Mathematics course with a grade of “D” or higher will be placed in all college-level courses.

An official copy of ACT scores may be used for placement only if the ACT scores are no older than five years. *Official SAT scores may be accepted in lieu of ACT Scores.

International Students Applicants- DSCC believes that the enrollment of international students will enrich the educational environment of all students. Therefore, DSCC is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant, alien students on “F-1” and “J-1” student visas. Applicants must file complete credentials before the date published in the DSCC Catalog and Student Handbook for the term the student wishes to be admitted.

Complete credentials include all the documents listed below.

Submission of a completed Application for Admission.

Proof of Immunizations.

Submission of certified or notarized copy of authenticated academic records translated into English. These records should describe the courses of instruction in terms of years spent in school and the type of subject matter covered, with grades earned in each subject. The educational level attained must be comparable to a high school graduate in the United States.

Submission of an official transcript from each college or university that the international applicant has attended.

All international applicants whose native language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 133 on the computer-based TOEFL or 45 on the Internet-based TOEFL or 450 on the paper-based TOEFL is required. Official TOEFL scores must be submitted.

International applicants must show evidence of financial capability. Applicants must provide a statement indicating who will provide funds for the applicant’s educational and living expenses while he/she is enrolled at Dyersburg State Community College. Because DSCC has no financial aid assistance for international students, international applicants must have at their disposal a minimum of $17,000 may be increased without notice.

Students attending DSCC on an F-1 visa may work only on campus if employment is available. Because of this uncertainty, international students should not assume that campus employment will be available or consider the possibility of earned wages from campus employment as part of their financial resources.

DSCC is a community college and has no residential housing. International students must make their living arrangements and should allow sufficient time to locate housing before the beginning of the term.

An international student who is in the United States on an F-1 visa may not claim Tennessee residence and will be charged out-of-state fees.

Within 30 days from the first day of classes, international applicants should submit a certificate from a licensed physician or other qualified medical authority verifying freedom from tuberculosis. Failure to furnish such a certificate shall result in denial of further enrollment or admission. In the event that the applicant either has tuberculosis or has potential tuberculosis requiring medical treatment, continued enrollment will be contingent upon the determination by a licensed physician that further enrollment does not present a risk to others and upon the applicant’s compliance with any prescribed medical treatment program. All international students born after January 1957 must provide evidence of having received two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Exceptions are made for students who are pregnant or allergic to the vaccine.

International students must become familiar with the regulations of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and assume responsibility for complying with those regulations.

International students will be subject to the same policies for determining course placement as are High School Graduates or Transfer Students.

All foreign non-immigrant students are required to have hospitalization insurance prior to completing registration. Student can either provide proof of adequate coverage or purchase coverage through the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR), as provided by a private contractor. The college will communicate information concerning the ability to purchase medical insurance to the applicant by email. The International applicant should check their MyDSCC email account for this information.

Admission to Specialized or Limited-Enrollment Programs

DSCC Health Information Management programs of study are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM).

Website: www.cahiim.org

Address: 233 N. Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60601

To be considered for admission to the Health Information Management programs of study, the following requirements must be met in addition to the requirements for admission to the College:

The student must be accepted to Dyersburg State Community College as a regular admission. Student should refer to Requirements for Regular Admission in this catalog section.
The applicant should indicate the Associate of Applied Science with the major Health Information Management (HIMC) or the Medical Coding certificate (MDTC) or the Electronic Heath Records certificate (HRTC) as their desired program of study on the DSCC Application for Admission/Readmission.
Admission to a Health Information Management program of study is based on previous high school and/or college achievement as described below:
1. An applicant admitted following completion of a regular high school diploma must have a high school cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
1. Applicants having earned prior college credit hours must have an overall college cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Students should complete Learning Support classes and HIMT 1301 Introduction to Health Information before acceptance into the HIM Program.
A member of the Health Information Management faculty will serve as the academic advisor for students accepted to a Health Information Management program of study and will assist the student in registering for classes prior to each semester of enrollment in the Health Information Management program.
The program director will monitor, advise, and evaluate the semester grades of each student admitted to a Health Information Management program. Minimum standards are:
1. a grade of “C” or better in each course required in the Health Information Management curriculum;
1. and complete prerequisite courses.
Students not meeting the minimum standards will be dismissed from the Health Information Management A.A.S. program of study or the Medical Coding certificate program or the Electronic Health Records certificate program. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in each course required in a HIM program of study and must have a 2.0 minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) in all college-level courses to be awarded a degree or certificate in a HIM program of study.
Students enrolled in the professional experience courses will be subject to a criminal background check and a drug screen required by most clinical facilities for assurance of patient safety. Based on the results of the criminal background check and drug screen, an affiliated clinical site may deny a student’s presence at their facility. This will result in the student’s inability to successfully complete the requirements of this program.
Students enrolled in the professional experience courses may be required to provide proof of current immunizations as well as a negative Tuberculosis (TB) skin test or chest X-ray as determined by a physician. Healthcare facilities may have additional requirements including the Covid vaccine.
BIOL 2010 and BIOL 2020 must have been completed within five years prior to the admission date or approved by the HIM Director based on experience.
Contact the HIM Program Director at 731.286.3294 about a portfolio for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) or Credit by Departmental Examination for consideration of credit for a class.
Students accepted to the HIM programs of study can expect additional expenses including the cost of liability insurance for professional practice experiences, background check, drug screen, TB skin test or chest X-ray, immunization booster(s) if or when required, and transportation to and from clinical facilities. Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam fees are included in tuition costs when the student enrolls in HIMT 2212 Seminar in Health Information Management and is a non-refundable fee.

Requirements for Admission to the Traditional Nursing Track

The Dyersburg State Community College AAS degree with a major in Nursing is a program of study designed to prepare individuals to be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). The Nursing Program is a daytime program that is offered at the Dyersburg Campus and at the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County. The Dyersburg State Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Website:		www.acenursing.org/

Address:		3390 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326

Telephone:		404-975-5000

Fax:		404-975-5020

The DSCC Nursing Program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Website:		www.tennessee.gov/health
Address:		Tennessee Board of Nursing 665 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37243
Telephone:		1-800-778-4123 615-532-5166

To be considered for admission to the Nursing Program, the following requirements must be met:

The applicant must be accepted to DSCC as a regular admission student. Refer to Requirements for Regular Admission in this catalog section.
The applicant must submit a completed Application for Nursing to the Division of Nursing by the deadline specified:
1. September 1 for spring admission – DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County, and
1. This application is in addition to the DSCC Application for Admission.
Applicants with prior college credits must have a cumulative grade-point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for all courses comprising the nursing curriculum and a minimum grade of “C” in each course in the nursing curriculum.
1. For repeated courses, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the nursing grade-point average.
1. By the application deadline for the Nursing Program, official transcripts from all previously-attended colleges and/or universities must be submitted to the Office of Records and to the Division of Nursing for evaluation. Failure to provide documentation as requested will result in the rejection of the student’s application.
1. At any time after a student has been admitted to the Nursing Program, if the student failed to submit all high school and/or college transcripts for review for admission, he/she will be dismissed from the Nursing Program at the point of discovery.
Each applicant is required to have on file his/her test results from the required preadmission examination: Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) for Registered Nurses.
1. Details regarding the dates, times, place and cost of the test are available from the Testing Office or at www.dscc.edu.
1. Test fees are non-refundable.
1. The test score will remain in the applicant’s file for three years from the testing date; if the student reapplies after three years, he/she must retake the preadmission examination again.
1. TEAS can be taken as many times as needed with the highest grade being used. There is a required six-month wait period between retesting.
1. Students must reapply for each class to be considered; the Division of Nursing does not keep a waiting list of applicants.
A criminal background check and drug screen are required by clinical facilities for assurance of patient safety. These will be required if accepted into the Program.
1. Based on the results of these checks, an affiliated clinical site may determine to not allow a student’s presence at their facility. This will result in the student’s inability to successfully complete the requirements of this program.
1. Additionally, applicants should be aware that conviction of certain crimes may make them ineligible for registered nurse licensure even though they successfully complete the Nursing Program. Detailed instructions regarding the background check will be given during nursing orientation.
1. The student will assume the cost of the physical examination, drug screens, and background checks. To obtain more information, please contact the Division of Nursing.
Students expected to have patient contact must present proof of protection against hepatitis B before patient contact. The applicant must submit a valid Basic Life Support (American Heart Association) CPR card to the Division of Nursing.
Transfer requests from other colleges will be considered on an individual basis and upon availability of space. Transfer requests should be directed to the Dean of Nursing.
Applicants may be interviewed by the Nursing faculty as part of the admission process.
Admission into the Nursing Program will be based on a point system.
1. The point system will be based upon the Preadmission Examination test score; GPA; BIOL 2010 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, and MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics courses completed with a grade of “B” or above; and a current certification/licensure in a healthcare field.
1. In the event an applicant has taken these courses more than once, the most recent grade will be calculated in the point system.
1. Science courses must have been completed within five years prior to the admission date and prior to the qualifying application deadline date to be included in the admission points (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg Campus, and summer term if applying for the next spring admission/DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County).
1. The five-year science requirement may be waived if the applicant successfully completed the science course(s) and has a current certification/licensure in the healthcare field.
Required Learning Support courses, if needed, must be completed prior to the qualifying application deadline date (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg Campus, and summer term if applying for the next spring admission/DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County).
Students who have made a “D” or “F” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses at DSCC (unless an Academic Fresh Start has been granted; refer to Academic Fresh Start in the Academic Affairs and Regulations section of this catalog) or any other college or university will not be considered for admission, readmission or transfer to the DSCC Nursing Program.
1. If a “D,” “F,” or withdrawal is made from two or more nursing courses in the same semester at DSCC or any other college or university, the attempt may be counted as one unsuccessful attempt.
1. Students who have made a “D,” “F,” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses prior to completion of Paramedic or LPN licensure may be considered on an individual basis for admission into the Traditional Nursing Track.
1. NURX CLEP exams given by Excelsior will not be considered an unsuccessful attempt if the student scored a “D” or “F.” Credit for courses will be given on a case-by-case basis as reviewed by the Nursing Admissions and Retention Committee.
Students admitted to the DSCC Nursing Program will be required to comply with the Nursing Program retention and progression policies. Details of these policies are published in the Division of Nursing Program Student Handbook.
Each semester, students will be required to pass a Math Dosage Validation Examination.
Students who apply but are not accepted for the class that begins in the fall semester on the Dyersburg Campus or for the spring semester class which begins in the spring semester at the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center must reapply if they wish to be considered for the following class. Applications will not be considered from previous semesters.

Requirements for Admission into the Advanced Standing LPN to RN Fast Track

The Dyersburg State Community College AAS degree with a major in Nursing is a program of study designed to prepare individuals to be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). The LPN to RN Nursing Fast Track is offered on the Dyersburg Campus. The Dyersburg State Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Website:		www.acenursing.org/
Address:		3390 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
Telephone:		404-975-5000
Fax:		404-975-5020

The DSCC Nursing Program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Website:	www.tennessee.gov/health
Address:	Tennessee Board of Nursing 665 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37243
Telephone:	1-800-778-4123 615-532-5166

To be considered for admission to the Nursing Program, the following requirements must be met:

The LPN applicant must be accepted to DSCC as a regular admission student. Refer to Requirements for Regular Admission in this catalog section.
The applicant must submit a completed Application for the LPN to RN Fast Track to the Division of Nursing by the deadline specified:
1. December 31st
1. This application is in addition to the DSCC Application for Admission.
1. The applicant must submit evidence of a current active LPN license.
Applicants with prior college credits must have a cumulative grade-point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for all courses comprising the nursing curriculum and a minimum grade of “C” in each course in the nursing curriculum.
1. For repeated courses, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the nursing grade-point average.
1. By the application deadline for the Nursing Program, official transcripts from all previously-attended colleges and/or universities must be submitted to the Office of Records and to the Division of Nursing for evaluation. Failure to provide documentation as requested will result in the rejection of the student’s application.
1. At any time after a student has been admitted to the Nursing Program, if the student failed to submit all high school and/or college transcripts for review for admission, he/she will be dismissed from the Nursing Program at the point of discovery.
Each applicant is required to have on file his/her test results from the required preadmission examination: Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) for Registered Nurses. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) graduates with LPN licensure who have graduated within the past 3 years and have successfully passed the TCAT specific exit exam are not required to take the TEAS. The student must submit their TCAT specific exit exam score in place of the TEAS for inclusion in the point system calculation.
1. Details regarding the dates, times, place and cost of the test are available from the Testing Office or at www.dscc.edu.
1. Test fees are non-refundable.
1. The test score will remain in the applicant’s file for three years from the testing date; if the student reapplies after three years, he/she must retake the preadmission examination again.
1. TEAS can be taken as many times as needed with the highest grade being used. There is a required six-month wait period between retesting.
1. Students must reapply for each class to be considered; the Division of Nursing does not keep a waiting list of applicants.
A criminal background check and drug screen are required by clinical facilities for assurance of patient safety. These will be required if accepted into the Program.
1. Based on the results of these checks, an affiliated clinical site may determine to not allow a student’s presence at their facility. This will result in the student’s inability to successfully complete the requirements of this program.
1. Additionally, applicants should be aware that conviction of certain crimes may make them ineligible for registered nurse licensure even though they successfully complete the Nursing Program. Detailed instructions regarding the background check will be given during nursing orientation.
1. The student will assume the cost of the physical examination, drug screens, and background checks. To obtain more information, please contact the Division of Nursing.
If accepted, the applicant must submit proof of satisfactory physical and mental condition, current immunizations, including Tdap and Varicella, and a negative TB skin test or a chest X-ray, as indicated. TB skin tests and flu immunizations are required yearly. COVID-19 immunizations may be required based on a clinical site requirement. Students expected to have patient contact must present proof of protection against hepatitis B before patient contact. The applicant must submit a valid Basic Life Support (American Heart Association) CPR card to the Division of Nursing.
Transfer requests from other colleges will be considered on an individual basis and upon availability of space. Transfer requests should be directed to the Dean of Nursing.
Applicants may be interviewed by the Nursing faculty as part of the admission process.
Admission into the Nursing Program will be based on a point system.
1. The point system will be based upon the Preadmission Examination test score or TCAT specific exit exam score; GPA; and BIOL 2010 Human Anatomy & Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, and MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics courses completed with a grade of “B” or above.
1. In the event an applicant has taken these courses more than once, the most recent grade will be calculated in the point system.
1. Science courses must have been completed within five years prior to the admission date and prior to the qualifying application deadline date to be included in the admission points.
1. The five-year science requirement may be waived if the applicant successfully completed the science course(s) and has a current health care license.
Required Learning Support courses, if needed, must be completed prior to the qualifying application deadline date (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg campus, and summer semester if applying for the next spring admission/DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County). BIOL 2010 Human Anatomy & Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics, and PSYC 1030 Introduction to Psychology must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” prior to the qualifying application deadline.
Students who have made a “D,” “F,” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses at DSCC (unless an Academic Fresh Start has been granted; refer to Academic Fresh Start in the Academic Affairs and Regulations section of this catalog) or any other college or university will not be considered for admission, readmission or transfer to the DSCC Nursing Program.
1. If a “D,” “F,” or withdrawal is made from two or more nursing courses in the same semester at DSCC or any other college or university, the attempt may be counted as one unsuccessful attempt.
1. Students who have made a “D,” “F,” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses prior to completion of LPN licensure may be considered on an individual basis for admission to the DSCC Advanced Standing LPN to RN Fast Track.
1. NURX CLEP exams given by Excelsior will not be considered an unsuccessful attempt if the student scored a “D” or “F.” Credit for courses will be given on a case-by-case basis as reviewed by the Nursing Admissions and Retention Committee.
Students admitted to the DSCC Nursing Program will be required to comply with the Nursing Program retention and progression policies. Details of these policies are published in the Division of Nursing Program Student Handbook.
Each semester, students will be required to pass a Math Dosage Validation Examination.
Students who apply but are not accepted for the Program must reapply if they wish to be considered for the following class. Applications will not be considered from previous semesters.
If accepted into the LPN to RN Fast Track:
1. Basic nursing skills competency/validation is required prior to beginning clinical rotation in NRSG 1700 and NRSG 1340.
1. After successfully completing NRSG 1700, the student will be awarded 7 credit hours for NRSG 1710 on the basis of their prior LPN educational program. The student must successfully complete NRSG 1700 to receive the 7 credit hours.
1. The applicant who does not successfully complete NRSG 1700 and NRSG 1340 may seek admission as a regular student (see requirements for Admission to the Nursing Program).

Requirements for Admission to the Paramedic to RN Track

The Dyersburg State Community College AAS degree with a major in Nursing is a program of study designed to prepare individuals to be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). The Paramedic to RN Nursing Track is offered at the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County location. The Dyersburg State Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Website:		www.acenursing.org/
Address:		3390 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
Telephone:		404-975-5000
Fax:		404-975-5020

The DSCC Nursing Program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Website:		www.tennessee.gov/health
Address:		Tennessee Board of Nursing 665 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37243
Telephone:		1-800-778-4123 615-532-5166

To be considered for admission to the Nursing Program, the following requirements must be met:

The Paramedic applicant must be accepted to DSCC as a regular admission student. Refer to Requirements for Regular Admission in this catalog section.
The applicant must submit a completed Application for the Paramedic to RN Track to the Division of Nursing by the deadline specified:
1. September 1^st for spring admission
1. This application is in addition to the DSCC Application for Admission.
1. The applicant must submit evidence of a current active Paramedic license.
Applicants with prior college credits must have a cumulative grade-point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for all courses comprising the nursing curriculum and a minimum grade of “C” in each course in the nursing curriculum.
1. For repeated courses, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the nursing grade-point average.
1. By the application deadline for the Nursing Program, official transcripts from all previously-attended colleges and/or universities must be submitted to the Office of Records and to the Division of Nursing for evaluation. Failure to provide documentation as requested will result in the rejection of the student’s application.
1. At any time after a student has been admitted to the Nursing Program, if the student failed to submit all high school and/or college transcripts for review for admission, he/she will be dismissed from the Nursing Program at the point of discovery.
Each applicant is required to have on file his/her test results from the required preadmission examination: Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) for Registered Nurses.
1. Details regarding the dates, times, place and cost of the test are available from the Testing Office or at www.dscc.edu.
1. Test fees are non-refundable.
1. The test score will remain in the applicant’s file for three years from the testing date; if the student reapplies after three years, he/she must retake the preadmission examination again.
1. TEAS can be taken as many times as needed with the highest grade being used. There is a required six-month wait period between retesting.
1. Students must reapply for each class to be considered; the Division of Nursing does not keep a waiting list of applicants.
A criminal background check and drug screen are required by clinical facilities for assurance of patient safety. These will be required if accepted into the Program.
1. Based on the results of these checks, an affiliated clinical site may determine to not allow a student’s presence at their facility. This will result in the student’s inability to successfully complete the requirements of this Program.
1. Additionally, applicants should be aware that conviction of certain crimes may make them ineligible for registered nurse licensure even though they successfully complete the Nursing Program. Detailed instructions regarding the background check will be given during nursing orientation.
1. The student will assume the cost of the physical examination, drug screens, and background checks. To obtain more information, please contact the Division of Nursing.
If accepted, the applicant must submit proof of satisfactory physical and mental condition, current immunizations, including Tdap and Varicella, and a negative TB skin test or a chest X-ray, as indicated. TB skin tests and flu immunizations are required yearly. COVID-19 immunizations may be required based on a clinical site requirement. Students expected to have patient contact must present proof of protection against hepatitis B before patient contact. The applicant must submit a valid Basic Life Support (American Heart Association) CPR card to the Division of Nursing.
Transfer requests from other colleges will be considered on an individual basis and upon availability of space. Transfer requests should be directed to the Dean of Nursing.
Applicants may be interviewed by the Nursing faculty as part of the admission process.
Admission into the Nursing Program will be based on a point system.
1. The point system will be based upon the Preadmission Examination test score; GPA; and BIOL 2010 Human Anatomy & Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, and MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics courses completed with a grade of “B” or above.
1. In the event an applicant has taken these courses more than once, the most recent grade will be calculated in the point system.
1. Science courses must have been completed within five years prior to the admission date and prior to the qualifying application deadline date to be included in the admission points.
1. The five-year science requirement may be waived if the applicant successfully completed the science course(s) and has a current health care license.
Required Learning Support courses, if needed, must be completed prior to the qualifying application deadline date (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg campus, and summer semester if applying for the next spring admission/DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County). BIOL 2010 Human Anatomy & Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics, and PSYC 1030 Introduction to Psychology must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” prior to the qualifying application deadline.
Students who have made a “D” or “F” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses at DSCC (unless an Academic Fresh Start has been granted; refer to Academic Fresh Start in the Academic Affairs and Regulations section of this catalog) or any other college or university will not be considered for admission, readmission or transfer to the DSCC Nursing Program.
1. If a “D,” “F,” or withdrawal is made from two or more nursing courses in the same semester at DSCC or any other college or university, the attempt may be counted as one unsuccessful attempt.
1. Students who have made a “D,” “F,” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses prior to completion of Paramedic licensure may be considered on an individual basis for admission into the Paramedic to RN Track.
1. NURX CLEP exams given by Excelsior will not be considered an unsuccessful attempt if the student scored a “D” or “F.” Credit for courses will be given on a case-by-case basis as reviewed by the Nursing Admissions and Retention Committee.
Students admitted to the DSCC Nursing Program will be required to comply with the Nursing Program retention and progression policies. Details of these policies are published in the Division of Nursing Program Student Handbook.
Each semester, students will be required to pass a Math Dosage Validation Examination.
Students who apply but are not accepted for the Program must reapply if they wish to be considered for the following class. Applications will not be considered from previous semesters.
If accepted into the Paramedic to RN Track:
1. Basic nursing skills competency/validation is required prior to beginning clinical rotation in NRSG 1700 and NRSG 1340.
1. After successfully completing NRSG 1700, the student will be awarded 7 credit hours for NRSG 1710 on the basis of their prior Paramedic educational program. The student must successfully complete NRSG 1700 to receive the 7 credit hours.
1. The applicant who does not successfully complete NRSG 1700 and NRSG 1340 may seek admission as a regular student (see requirements for Admission to the Nursing Program).

Requirements for Admission to the RN Program-Evening Track

The Dyersburg State Community College AAS degree with a major in Nursing is a program of study designed to prepare individuals to be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). This track within the Nursing Program is offered at the Dyersburg Campus every other even year and at the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County every other odd year. The Dyersburg State Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Website:		www.acenursing.org/
Address:		3390 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
Telephone:		404-975-5000
Fax:		404-975-5020

The DSCC Nursing Program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Website:		http://health.state.tn.us/Boards/Nursing/index.htm
Address:		Tennessee Board of Nursing 665 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37243
Telephone:		1-800-778-4123 615-532-5166

To be considered for admission to the Nursing Program, the following requirements must be met:

The applicant must be accepted to DSCC as a regular admission student. Refer to Requirements for Regular Admission in this catalog section.
The applicant must submit a completed Application for Nursing to the Division of Nursing by the deadline specified:
1. May 15th for Fall Admission-Dyersburg Campus.
1. October 15th for Spring Admission-JNC
1. The evening program will be offered every other year.
1. This application is in addition to the DSCC Application for Admission.
Applicants with prior college credits must have a cumulative grade-point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for all courses comprising the nursing curriculum and a minimum grade of “C” in each course in the nursing curriculum.
1. For repeated courses, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the nursing grade-point average.
1. By the application deadline for the Nursing Program, official transcripts from all previously-attended colleges and/or universities must be submitted to the Office of Records and to the Division of Nursing for evaluation. Failure to provide documentation as requested will result in the rejection of the student’s application.
1. At any time after a student has been admitted to the Nursing Program, if the student failed to submit all high school and/or college transcripts for review for admission, he/she will be dismissed from the Nursing Program at the point of discovery.
Each applicant is required to have on file his/her test results from the required preadmission examination Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) for Registered Nurses.
1. Details regarding the dates, times, place and cost of the test are available from the Testing Office or at www.dscc.edu.
1. Test fees are non-refundable.
1. TEAS can be taken as many times as needed with the highest grade being used. There is a required six-month wait period between retesting.
1. The test score will remain in the applicant’s file for three years from the testing date; if the student reapplies after three years, he/she must retake the preadmission examination again.
1. Students must reapply for each class to be considered; the Division of Nursing does not keep a waiting list of applicants.
A criminal background check and drug screen are required by clinical facilities for assurance of patient safety. These will be required if accepted into the Program.
1. Based on the results of these checks, an affiliated clinical site may determine to not allow a student’s presence at their facility. This will result in the student’s inability to successfully complete the requirements of this Program.
1. Additionally, applicants should be aware that conviction of certain crimes may make them ineligible for registered nurse licensure even though they successfully complete the Nursing Program. Detailed instructions regarding the background check will be given during nursing orientation.
1. The student will assume the cost of the physical examination, drug screens, and background checks. To obtain more information, please contact the Division of Nursing.
If accepted, the applicant must submit proof of satisfactory physical and mental condition, current immunizations, including Tdap and Varicella, and a negative TB skin test or a chest X-ray, as indicated. TB skin tests and flu immunizations are required yearly. COVID-19 immunizations may be required based on a clinical site requirement. Students expected to have patient contact must present proof of protection against hepatitis B before patient contact. The applicant must submit a valid Basic Life Support (American Heart Association) CPR card to the Division of Nursing.
Transfer requests from other colleges will be considered upon an individual basis and upon availability of space. Transfer requests should be directed to the Dean of Nursing.
Applicants may be interviewed by the Nursing faculty as part of the admission process.
Admission into the Nursing Program will be based on a point system.
1. The point system will be based upon the Preadmission Examination test score; GPA; BIOL 2010 Anatomy and Physiology I, ENGL 1010 English Composition I, and MATH 1530 Introductory Statistics courses taken with a grade of “B” or above; and current certification/licensure in a healthcare field.
1. In the event an applicant has taken these courses more than once, the most recent grade will be calculated in the point system.
1. Science courses must have been completed within five years prior to the admission date and prior to the qualifying application deadline date to be included in the admission points (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg Campus).
1. The five-year science requirement may be waived if the applicant successfully completed the science course(s) and has a current certification/licensure in the healthcare field.
Required Learning Support courses, if needed, must be completed prior to the qualifying application deadline date (fall semester if applying for the next fall admission/Dyersburg Campus, and summer semester if applying for the next spring admission/DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County).
Students who have made a “D” or “F” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses at DSCC (unless an Academic Fresh Start has been granted; refer to Academic Fresh Start in the Academic Affairs and Regulations section of this catalog) or any other college or university will not be considered for admission, readmission or transfer to the DSCC Nursing Program.
1. If a “D,” “F,” or a withdrawal is made from two or more nursing courses in the same semester at DSCC or any other college or university, the attempt may be counted as one unsuccessful attempt.
1. Students who have made a “D,” “F,” or have withdrawn from two nursing courses prior to completion of a Paramedic or LPN license may be considered on an individual basis for admission into the evening track.
1. NURX proficiency exams given by Excelsior will not be considered an unsuccessful attempt if the student scored a “D” or “F.” Credit for courses will be given on a case-by-case basis as reviewed by the Nursing Admissions and Retention Committee.
Students admitted to the DSCC Nursing Program will be required to comply with the Nursing Program retention and progression policies. Details of these policies are published in the Division of Nursing Program Student Handbook.
Each semester, students will be required to pass a Math Dosage Validation Examination.
Students who apply but are not accepted for the Program must reapply if they wish to be considered for the following class. Applications will not be considered from previous semesters.
New high school graduates will be assessed for admission using points from the Preadmission Examination test score; high school GPA; and the math, science, and reading section of the ACT test. Applicants admitted as a high school student must have a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
New high school graduates who have completed general education courses listed in the nursing degree plan will be considered as a student with college hours when calculating points for admission into the Nursing Program.

Emergency Medical Services Program of Study

The DSCC EMS programs of study are approved by the Tennessee Department of Health, and Division of Emergency Medical Services. Upon successful completion of each level of EMS courses, passing a State of Tennessee (EMT) or National Registry (AEMT, Paramedic) Practical Skills exam and a passing score on the National Registry of EMTs Cognitive Exam, students may apply for state licensure as an Emergency Medical Services Provider. For information, see Criteria: State of Tennessee, Division of EMS Rule (1200-12-1.04 and 1200-12-1-.13) pursuant to T.C.A. Title 68, Chapter 140.

Requirements for Admission to the DSCC Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Curriculum

The DSCC Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate includes the following curriculum: EMSB 1601 EMT Medical Emergencies and EMS Operations; EMSB 1602 EMT Trauma and Medical Emergencies; EMSB 1101 EMT Medical Skills Lab; EMSB 1102 EMT Trauma and Medical Skills Lab; EMSB 1111 EMT Clinical; and EMSB 1112 EMT Field Internship.

In addition to the requirements for admission to the College, eligible applicants for the DSCC EMT Certificate courses must meet the following prerequisites:

Be at least 18 years of age;

Provide proof to the Office of Admissions and Records that the applicant possesses a regular or academic high school diploma or a Tennessee High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma by successfully passing either the General Educational Development (GED) exam or the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET);

The applicant must demonstrate they meet college level reading and writing requirements or have successfully completed the appropriate Learning Support classes.

Pass a criminal background check and a drug screen. The cost of the background check and drug screen is the responsibility of the applicant.

Student Admissions and Conduct.

EMS Educational Institution admission requirements shall be clearly defined and published by the institution, and shall be non-discriminatory with respect to race, color, creed, sex, age, handicaps, or national origin.

Persons seeking admission to an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic education program shall:

Meet the admission requirements of the EMS educational institution;

Possess an academic or equivalent high school diploma or general education equivalent (GED);

or be a high school senior who is eligible for dual enrollment for college credit, and who will be eighteen (18) years of age within ninety (90) days of completing the training for which admission to a program is sought.

Upon selection for admission into the EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic program, the student shall:

Show good physical and mental health and possess no physical handicaps or disabilities which would impede the ability to fulfill the functions and responsibilities of an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic.

Submit a physical examination form indicating physical health sufficient to perform the duties of an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic completed by a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner, who has examined the individual. If there are any limitations in the individual’s ability to perform adequately, additional documentation shall be submitted from the appropriate professional evaluator which indicates the applicant’s abilities to perform adequately, Speech impairment – Speech Pathologist; Hearing impairment – Audiologist; Physical handicap or disability – Orthopedist or Registered Physical Therapist; or Vision – Ophthalmologist.

Readmission or transfer of students shall be made in accordance with clearly defined and published practices of the institution which shall be non-discriminatory with respect to race, color, creed, sex, age, handicaps, or national origin.

Dismissal. Students shall be subject to dismissal from the education program for cause.

A member of the EMS faculty will serve as the academic advisor for students enrolled in EMS curriculum and will assist the student in registering for classes prior to each semester of enrollment.

Requirements for Admission to the DSCC Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT)

The DSCC Advanced Emergency Medical Technician A.A.S. degree includes the Emergency Medical Technician curriculum and EMSA 1501 Advanced EMT Medical Emergencies; EMSA 1502 Advanced EMT Trauma and Medical Emergencies; EMSA 1101; EMSA 1102; EMSA 1111 Advanced EMT Clinical; and EMSA 1112 Advanced EMT Field Internship.

In addition to the requirements for admission to the College, eligible applicants for the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) candidate must meet the following prerequisites:

Be at least 18 years of age.

The applicant must demonstrate they meet college level reading, writing and mathematics requirements or have successfully completed the appropriate Learning Support classes.

Submission of a completed Application for Advanced EMT by June 1st to the Director of Emergency Medical Services. The application is available online at www.dscc.edu.

Provide proof to the Director of Emergency Medical Services of having completed the EMT curriculum within 120 days prior to the start of the Advanced EMT class; or provide proof of a current State of Tennessee EMT License.

Provide proof to the Director of Emergency Medical Services of current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification as an American Heart Association Healthcare Provider.

Pass a criminal background check and a drug screen. The cost of the background check and drug screen is the responsibility of the applicant.

Student Admissions and Conduct.

Persons seeking admission to an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic education program shall:

Meet the admission requirements of the EMS educational institution;

Possess an academic or equivalent high school diploma or general education equivalent (GED);

Upon selection for admission into the EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic program, the student shall:

Show good physical and mental health and possess no physical handicaps or disabilities which would impede the ability to fulfill the functions and responsibilities of an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic.

Dismissal. Students shall be subject to dismissal from the education program for cause.

A member of the EMS faculty will serve as the academic advisor for students accepted to an AEMT program of study and will assist the student in registering for classes prior to each semester of enrollment in the EMS classes.

Requirements for Admission to the DSCC Paramedic Certificate Program or the DSCC Paramedic Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree Program

The DSCC Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP , www.coaemsp.org).

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs Address: 1361 Park Street, Clearwater, FL 33756

Telephone: 727-210-2350 Webpage: www.caahep.org

Paramedics are licensed by the Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Emergency Medical Services.

Candidates for the DSCC Paramedics programs of study complete the EMT and AEMT curriculum and Paramedic curriculum EMSP 1801 Fundamentals of Paramedic I; EMSP 1401 Paramedic Skills Lab I; EMSP 1311 Paramedic Clinical I; EMSP 2802 Fundamentals of Paramedic II; EMSP 2402 Paramedic Skills Lab II; EMSP 2412 Paramedic Clinical II; EMSP 2403 Paramedic Capstone; EMSP 2303 Paramedic Practicum; and EMSP 2513 Paramedic Field Internship.

In addition to the requirements for admission to the College, eligible applicant for the DSCC Paramedic Certificate Program and the DSCC Paramedic Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Program must meet the following prerequisites:

Be at least 18 years of age;

The applicant must demonstrate they meet college level reading, writing and mathematics requirements or have successfully completed the appropriate Learning Support classes.

Submission of a completed Application to the Paramedic Program by June 1st to the Director of Emergency Medical Services. The application is available online at www.dscc.edu.

Provide proof to the DSCC Emergency Medical Services Director of Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) licensure in Tennessee.

Complete the Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project (FISDAP) computer-based Paramedic entrance exam. The cost for this exam is the responsibility of the applicant.

Applicants will be interviewed by the EMS faculty as part of the admission process.

A member of the EMS faculty will serve as the academic advisor for students accepted to a Paramedic program of study and will assist the student in registering for classes prior to each semester of enrollment in the Paramedic classes.

Student Admissions and Conduct.

Persons seeking admission to an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic education program shall:

Meet the admission requirements of the EMS educational institution;

Possess an academic or equivalent high school diploma or general education equivalent (GED);

or Be a high school senior who is eligible for dual enrollment for college credit, and who will be eighteen (18) years of age within ninety (90) days of completing the training for which admission to a program is sought.

Upon selection for admission into the EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic program, the student shall:

Show good physical and mental health and possess no physical handicaps or disabilities which would impede the ability to fulfill the functions and responsibilities of an EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic.

Dismissal: Students shall be subject to dismissal from the education program for cause.

Requirements for Admission to the DSCC Eagle Access Program for Students with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD):

Potential students to this program will:

Complete an Eagle Access Paper Application to the College;

The following documents will be required for admission consideration:

Complete a Release of information form;

Completed Federal Student Aid Application (FAFSA);

Complete Interview (conducted with Tennessee Department of Vocational Rehabilitation to determine eligibility of services);

Submit proof of eligibility of intellectual disabilities, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or 504;

Complete an application for scholarships;

Completed behavioral assessment intake survey;

Submit Statement of personal goals from the applicant;

Request an official copy of high school diploma in any of four TN Diploma pathways (Regular, Special Education; Alternative, or Occupational) or HiSET, transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions and Records;

Submit Individual Education Plan (IEP); Fourth-grade reading level or higher is recommended (lower reading levels may be considered for conditional admission);

Submit Health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, private);

Submit Copy of State issued photo identification;

Submit Three letters of recommendation to program director from non-family community members (preferred);

Submit Conservatorship document (if applicable).

The Eagle Access Program Director will admit students to the Program based on alignment of goals and needs as well as space availability. A waiting list may be created (if applicable). The program will serve individuals between the ages of 18-29.

Compliance:

All faculty, staff and students will comply with this policy.

Definitions:

ACCUPLACER – an integrated system of computer-adaptive assessments designed to evaluate students’ skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
ACT – a standardized test for high school achievement and college admissions.

Revision History:

Approved by Admin council on 12/14/2016.
Revised and approved by Admin council on 7/26/2022 via electronic vote.
Revised and approved by Admin council on 10/27/2022.