Nursing

Start your journey toward becoming a registered nurse.

Explore nursing pathways, understand admissions requirements, and connect with advising before you apply.

Nursing students in simulation lab

Programs

Choose your nursing path

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

Prepare for beginning registered nursing practice through a four-semester nursing sequence.

4 semesters of nursing coursework

View ASN program

ASN + BSN Dual Degree

Complete one pathway leading to both an associate degree and a bachelor's degree in nursing.

5 semesters · 2 degrees

View Dual Degree program

Admissions

How to apply

  1. Meet with an Academic Success Coach
    Review entrance requirements and your coursework.
  2. Complete prerequisites
    Requirements vary by nursing pathway.
  3. Take the HESI A2 or ATI TEAS
    Review the current testing policy and dates.
  4. Submit your NursingCAS application
  5. Complete the interview and letter of intent
  6. Receive an admission decision

Why UNM-Valencia

A supportive place to prepare for nursing practice

Small class environment

Personalized instruction, faculty access, and support.

Hands-on learning

Simulation, clinical judgment, confidence, and real healthcare settings.

Close to home

Complete your nursing education through UNM-Valencia.

Deliberate Learning

Deliberate Learning is a program developed at the UNM-Valencia Nursing Program that was established in the Spring of 2022. The purpose of the Deliberate Learning Program is to promote nursing skill retention while developing the critical thinking skills necessary for effective clinical practice. This program presents an opportunity outside of inpatient clinicals and laboratory time for students to practice skills in short, frequent sessions. New skills are not taught during these sessions, as the purpose is to reinforce previously learned skills.

Students are presented with a scenario to analyze with the guidance of a faculty or clinical instructor. Students then complete orders and are given real-time feedback on skill performance. The program provides a time to review and practice skills and reinforce knowledge related to complex nursing skills.

Program outcomes

NCLEX-RN and completion results

NCLEX-RN examination pass rates
YearFirst-time ASNFirst-time BSNCombinedUltimate
202371.4%87.5%75%100%
202427.27%100%47%93%
202553.33%33.33%45.83%Pending
2026100%PendingPendingPending

Students who complete the program within six semesters

Completion Rate
YearCompletion Rate
202393.75%
202480%
202583.3%
202664.8%

Accreditation and approval

Program accreditation

The Associates Degree in Nursing program at the University of New Mexico Valencia Campus located in Los Lunas, New Mexico is accredited by the:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate of Science in Nursing program is continuing accreditation.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing seal

Fully Accredited through 2030

Regulatory status

New Mexico Board of Nursing

Board of Nursing Website https://www.bon.nm.gov/

New Mexico Board of Nursing logo

UNM-Valencia Nursing program status update as of 3/5/2026
Full Approval with warning.

Mission, vision and values

Mission

The UNM-Valencia Nursing Program prepares responsible, culturally competent, and professional registered nurses who serve individuals, families, and communities.

Vision

We prepare professional nurses to promote, restore, and maintain health within our rural communities.

Core values

  • Student Centered
  • Quality Education & Services
  • Diversity & Community
  • Ethics & Integrity
  • Creativity & Initiative
  • Responsible Stewardship

Questions about nursing at UNM-Valencia?

Email vcnursing@unm.edu or call 505.925.8870.

Contact & Advising