Bachelors in Patient Care Administration Justice

Bachelors of Science in Patient Care Administration

University of Justice proudly presents its Bachelor of Science in Patient Care Administration (BS-PCA). This innovative, interdisciplinary degree blends foundational medical sciences, ethical legal frameworks, and compassionate health leadership, preparing students to become pioneers in equitable patient care, policy development, and community wellness.

Designed as a robust four-year program, the BS-PCA aligns with national transfer standards and is fully articulated for seamless credit transfer to the University of Houston (UH), particularly into health sciences, public policy, and pre-law tracks. Each course at the University of Justice features a PCAJ prefix followed by a four-digit course ID and includes a designated transfer equivalent at the University of Houston, ensuring academic continuity for students pursuing advanced degrees or professional license. Below is the 4 year degree plan but if you have an associate the degree plan is only 2-years.

Degree Plan for Patient Care Administration Services

Year 1: Foundations of Science and Service

Semester 1 (Freshman Fall)

BIOL 1306/1106: Biology for Science Majors I & Lab – An introductory study of biological molecules, cell structure, and metabolic pathways essential for clinical understanding.
ENGL 1301: First Year Writing I – Develops the fundamental rhetorical and ethical communication skills required for professional environments.
HIST 1377: US History to 1877 – Examines the socio-political origins of the United States to provide historical context for modern governance.
PCAJ 1101: Introduction to Bedside Care – Teaches foundational skills for direct patient interaction, including comfort measures and mobility assistance.
PCAJ 1102: Introduction to Paralegal Studies – Provides an overview of the American legal system and the role of legal support in professional settings.
PCAJ 1103: EHR Systems & Data Entry – Trains students on the technical accuracy required for operating Electronic Health Record software.
PCAJ 1104: Foundations of Healthcare Ethics – Explores the moral frameworks and bioethical dilemmas faced by modern medical practitioners.

Semester 2 (Freshman Spring)

BIOL 1307/1107: Biology for Science Majors II & Lab – Focuses on evolutionary patterns, plant/animal systems, and ecological interactions within the natural world.
CHEM 1311/1111: Chemistry I & Lab – Covers the fundamentals of atomic structure, chemical bonding, and stoichiometry vital for pharmacology.
ENGL 1302: First Year Writing II – Enhances advanced research and argumentative writing skills necessary for legal and clinical documentation.
PCAJ 1304: Therapeutic Nutrition and Clinical Feeding Techniques
- This class provides in-depth training on dietary planning for chronic conditions and the safe implementation of various feeding techniques for patients with compromised mobility or swallowing difficulties.
PCAJ 1311: Healthcare Research and Writing – Teaches how to locate statutes and draft clear, concise legal memorandum regarding medical law.
PCAJ 1203: Front Office Patient Scheduling – Managing the logistical flow of healthcare facilities through efficient appointment and resource coordination.
PCAJ 1204: Tort Law for Medical Practitioners – Analyzes civil wrongs, negligence, and liability specific to healthcare delivery.

Year 2: Intermediate Practice and Core Sciences

Semester 3 (Sophomore Fall)

CHEM 1312/1112: Chemistry II & Lab – Investigates chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium in complex liquid environments.
PHYS 1301/1101: General Physics I & Lab – Applies the principles of mechanics and heat to the physical movement and stability of the human body.
MATH 1342: Statistics – Introduces the statistical methods used to interpret medical research and healthcare data trends.
Health Assessment 1 – Establishes the primary techniques for systematic history-taking and basic physical observation of patient symptoms.
PCAJ 2301: Assisting with ADLs & Hygiene – Professional training in supporting Activities of Daily Living, including personal grooming and nutrition for patients.
PCAJ 2302: Drafting Legal Pleadings – Teaches the preparation of formal documents required for the initiation of medical litigation.
PCAJ 2303: Medical Billing & Coding Essentials – Translating clinical procedures into standardized codes for insurance reimbursement and financial tracking.
PCAJ 2304: Medical Malpractice & Liability – Evaluates the legal standards of care and the consequences of professional clinical errors.

Semester 4 (Sophomore Spring)

CHEM 2323/2123: Organic Chemistry I & Lab – A detailed study of the structure and reactivity of carbon-based compounds fundamental to medicine.
PHYS 1302/1102: General Physics II & Lab – Explores electricity, magnetism, and optics as they relate to medical imaging and diagnostic equipment.
HIST 1378: US History since 1877 – Surveys the development of the modern American state and the evolution of its healthcare policies.
PCAJ 2404 Health Assessment II– Provides advanced training in head-to-toe physical examinations and interpreting complex vital sign variances.
PCAJ 2401: Disability Support, Accommodations, and Inclusion
- Enrollment in PCAJ 104 offers a comprehensive overview of the legal and ethical standards for disability accommodations, teaching professionals how to navigate environmental modifications and person-centered support systems for diverse populations.
PCAJ 2402: Case Management & File Org – Managing the administrative life cycle of a patient’s legal and medical journey through systemic organization.
PCAJ 2403: Insurance Verification Procedures – Navigating the complex requirements of private and public insurance providers to secure care authorization.
PCAJ 2404: Patient Rights & Informed Consent – Examines the legal necessity of ensuring patients fully understand and agree to medical interventions.

Year 3: Advanced Applications

Semester 5 (Junior Fall)

CHEM 2325/2125: Organic Chemistry II & Lab – Continues the exploration of complex chemical synthesis and the behavior of functional groups.
PCAJ 3301 Geriatric Health 1 – Explores the physiological changes associated with aging and the unique healthcare needs of the elderly population.
PCAJ 3501: Specimen Collection & Lab Procedures – Hands-on training in the collection of biological samples and maintaining the integrity of the diagnostic chain.
PCAJ 3502: Trial Prep & Support Services – Instructs students on how to organize exhibits and witnesses for health-related legal proceedings.
PCAJ 3503: HIPAA Compliance in Digital Records – Deep-dive into federal regulations regarding the privacy and security of patient health information.
PCAJ 3504: Texas Health Policy & Bioethics – Analyzes the specific legal and moral landscape of healthcare within the State of Texas.

Semester 6 (Junior Spring)

BCHS 3304: Biochemistry – Examines the chemical processes occurring within living organisms, bridging the gap between biology and medicine.
PCAJ 3302 Geriatric Health II – Focuses on managing chronic age-related diseases and the administrative frameworks for long-term care and hospice.
PCAJ 3601: Advanced Bedside Documentation – Mastery of detailed clinical charting and reporting to ensure continuity of care and legal protection.
PCAJ 3602: Client Interviewing & Intake – Developing the communication skills required to gather accurate legal and medical histories from new clients.
PCAJ 3603: Financial Management in Health Offices – Practical instruction on budgeting, payroll, and revenue cycle management in medical facilities.
PPCAJ 102: Medical Spanish for Healthcare Providers
- Course PCAJ 102 focuses on specialized Spanish medical terminology and cultural competency to ensure clear, accurate communication between caregivers and native Spanish-speaking patients regarding their daily needs and medical histories.

Year 4: Professional Oversight and Specialization

Semester 7 (Senior Fall)

Advanced Biology Course – A high-level elective focusing on specialized physiological or microbiological topics.
PCAJ 4330: Maternal and Child Health Administration – Analyzes perinatal services and pediatric compliance standards to manage the health of women and children.
PCAJ 4340: Mental Health Policy and Administration – Investigates the regulatory frameworks governing psychiatric facilities and the burgeoning field of teletherapy.
PCAJ 4701: Wound Care & Clinical Support – Specialized training in identifying, dressing, and documenting the healing process of various skin injuries.
PCAJ 4702: e-Discovery for Medical Litigation – Teaches the technical process of identifying and retrieving digital evidence for healthcare lawsuits.
PCAJ 4703: Cybersecurity for Medical Records – Covers the protocols required to protect electronic health data from breaches and cyber threats.
PCAJ 4704: Healthcare Contract Law – Focuses on the creation and enforcement of legal agreements between providers, insurers, and vendors.
PCAJ 4401: Nursing Administration Justice Specialization I
- Advanced study in nursing administration justice theory and practice.

Semester 8 (Senior Spring)

PHAR 4350: Pharmacology for Administrators – Provides a non-clinical overview of drug classifications and the legalities of medication management systems.
PCAJ 4802: Legal Liaison & Professional Communication – Training in acting as the primary point of contact between medical teams and legal counsel.
PCAJ 4803: Advanced Clinical EHR Documentation – Final mastery of complex medical coding and electronic record-keeping for administrative audit readiness.
PCAJ 4402: Nursing Administration Justice Specialization II
Applied research and case studies in nursing administration justice.
PCAJ 4801: Senior Clinical Practicum (Capstone) – A culminating hands-on experience where students apply all clinical skills in a supervised healthcare setting.

* Students can exchange any of these electives courses below during their fourth year to satisfy their studies.

Electives to choose:

HLE 3345: Legal Case Studies in Patient Care (UH: HLE 4345)
HLE 3350: Advanced Healthcare Ethics: Palliative & End-of-Life Decisions (UH: HLE 4350)
HADM 3355: Healthcare Fraud & Compliance Auditing (UH: HADM 4355)
HADM 3360: Healthcare Economics & Budgeting (UH: HCRT 4360)
HPRC 3135: Clinical Lab: Advanced Infection Control (UH: HPRC 3135)
HPRC 3195: Clinical Rotations II: Emergency & Critical Care (UH: HPRC 3192)
CRIM 3320: Crimes in Healthcare: Forensics & Liability (UH: CRIM 3320)
HLE 3395: Mortality Investigations & Wrongful Death Cases (UH: HLE 4395)
HLTH 4420 (UH: HSCI 4420): Global Perspectives in Healthcare
Comparative analysis of healthcare systems in the EU vs. the U.S.
HLTH 4430 (UH: HSCI 4430): Directed Studies in Healthcare
Custom research on AI in patient safety or telehealth expansion.
HLTH 4400 (UH: HSCI 4400): Healthcare Policy Development
Drafting legislation for equitable vaccine distribution.
HLTH 4390 (UH: HSCI 4390): Capstone: Compliance Strategies
Creating risk mitigation plans for new clinical departments.
HLTH 4305 (UH: HSCI 4305): Strategic Healthcare Management
SWOT analysis and strategic plans for hospital mergers.
HLTH 4370 (UH: HSCI 4370): Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Team-based care models integrating physicians, social workers, and administrators.
HLTH 4320 (UH: HSCI 4320): Advanced Healthcare Research
Publishing patient outcome studies in peer-reviewed journals.
POLS 3325 (UH: POLS 3325): Healthcare Policy Analysis
Impact of policy on underserved populations and access to care.
HLTH 3380 (UH: HSCI 3380): Ethics in Healthcare Decision-Making
Ethical frameworks for end-of-life decisions and patient consent.
HLTH 3370 (UH: HSCI 3370): Legal Case Studies in Healthcare
Analysis of landmark malpractice lawsuits and settlements.
HLTH 3620 (UH: CSLA 3620): Clinical Rotation I
Direct patient care in surgical units and infection control labs.
HLTH 3400 (UH: HSCI 3400): Wrongful Death and Medical Malpractice
Case law for identifying negligence in patient outcomes.
HLTH 4020: Dialysis Safety Protocols & Clinical Skills
HLTH 3360 (UH: HSCI 3360): Advanced Clinical Research Methods
Designing IRB-approved research for patient safety innovations.
NURS 4360 (UH: NURS 4360): Patient Assessment Techniques
Vulnerability screening for chronic disease management.

HLTH 3350 (UH: HSCI 3350): Clinical Billing and Reimbursement

Coding audits and third-party payer negotiations.

HLTH 3310 (UH: HSCI 3310): Workforce Development

Staff training, retention strategies, and labor laws.

HLTH 2360 (UH: HSCI 2360): Advanced Patient Safety Measures

Fall prevention, medication error tracking, and sentinel events.

HLTH 3310 (UH: HSCI 3310): Workforce Development

Staff training, retention strategies, and labor laws.

The PCAJ nursing track at University of Justice is structured to accommodate different academic backgrounds while maintaining rigorous clinical standards. The standard path is designed as a four-year curriculum; however, students who enter the program already possessing an associate degree can complete the nursing-specific component in just two years. This flexibility allows for a diverse cohort of learners, ranging from traditional students to working professionals seeking a career pivot into healthcare.

Structural Framework of the Program

The PCAJ program operates on a competitive admission model, meaning that meeting the minimum requirements serves only as a baseline for eligibility rather than a guarantee of a seat. The department admits approximately 40 students per cohort for both the Fall (August) and Spring (January) start dates. This limited capacity ensures that cadaver labs, clinical placements, and classroom environments maintain a high instructor-to-student ratio, which is vital for safe clinical practice.

The distinction between the four-year and two-year tracks primarily concerns the timing of general education and prerequisite completion. For those on the two-year track, all non-nursing courses must be finalized before beginning the core nursing sequence. This accelerated pace requires significant dedication, as the nursing curriculum itself is demanding and involves both intensive classroom theory and hands-on clinical rotations at various healthcare facilities.

Academic Standards and Expectations

Success in the PCAJ program begins with a strong academic record. You must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all courses taken at University of Justice While this is the minimum threshold, the competitive nature of the program often means that the average GPA of admitted students is significantly higher. Grades for courses currently in progress at the time of application are not factored into your GPA calculation for ranking purposes, though they must be completed successfully before the program begins.

Academic integrity and professional behavior are foundational to the nursing profession. The program maintains strict exclusion criteria. You are ineligible for admission if you have had two program exits from University of Justice nursing tracks within the past five years. Additionally, any history of dismissal from University of Justice or another Allied Health program for unethical or unprofessional conduct will result in immediate disqualification. These standards are in place because nursing students are entrusted with the safety and well-being of vulnerable patients from their very first clinical day.

Communication Protocols

The Nursing Department utilizes email as the primary and official method of communication throughout the application and enrollment cycle. It is your responsibility to maintain a current email address on file and to monitor your inbox regularly. All official inquiries regarding application status, document submission, or program updates should be directed to the nursing staff via email at justology.us@gmail.com. Because the department processes a high volume of applications, individual status updates are typically not provided during the review period. You should expect to receive a notification regarding your status approximately six weeks after the application deadline has passed.

If you have general questions regarding the program structure or need to speak with a representative, the department can be reached at 346-626-9555. However, please remember that formal documentation and official letters must always be sent via email to ensure a verifiable paper trail for your application file.

Preparation for Admission

Preparing for the PCAJ program involves more than just submitting a form. It requires a systematic approach to satisfying prerequisites and entrance exams. The TEAS 7 (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is a mandatory component of the application. You must achieve a minimum overall score of 58.7% to be considered. This exam measures your proficiency in reading, mathematics, science, and English, providing the admissions committee with a standardized metric to predict your success in a rigorous medical curriculum.

In addition to testing, you must ensure that all previous college work is documented. Official transcripts from every institution you have attended must be sent to the University of Justice Admissions Office. If you are a transfer student from another nursing program, a Letter of Good Standing from your previous program director is mandatory. This letter must be sent directly from the director’s email to justology.us@gmail.com. Self-submitted letters from students will not be accepted. This step verifies that you left your previous program in good academic and professional standing.

Defining Success in the PCAJ Track

Entering the nursing field through the PCAJ track signifies a commitment to lifelong learning and clinical excellence. The program is designed to transform students into competent, compassionate registered nurses capable of navigating the complexities of modern healthcare. By understanding the timeline, the academic rigor, and the administrative requirements early on, you position yourself to navigate the application process effectively.

The following sections of this guide will provide technical details on the application timeline, specific course requirements, and the point-based ranking system used to select the final cohort. Clear adherence to these guidelines is the first step in your transition from applicant to nursing student.

A clear understanding of the application timeline is vital for securing a seat in the PCAJ nursing program. Because admission is highly competitive and operates on a strict seasonal cycle, missing a deadline or failing to complete prerequisites within the allotted window will disqualify your application for that cycle. The program offers two primary entry points each year, corresponding with the Fall and Spring semesters.

Seasonal Application Windows

The PCAJ program utilizes two distinct application periods. You must align your preparation with these dates to ensure all documentation, including test scores and transcripts, arrives on time.

Spring Application Period The first window opens on February 1 and closes on May 1 at 4:00 PM (CT). This cycle is intended for students aiming to begin their nursing coursework in the Fall semester, which typically starts in August. If you apply during this window, you are expected to have all prerequisite courses completed by the end of the Spring semester in which you are applying.

Summer Application Period The second window opens on June 1 and closes on August 1 at 4:00 PM (CT). This cycle is for students planning to start the program in the Spring semester, which begins in January. For this window, all prerequisite courses must be finished by the end of the Summer semester of the application year.

Deadline Precision and Submission

Deadlines in the nursing department are absolute. The 4:00 PM (CT) cutoff on the final day of the application period is the hard limit for the electronic submission of your nursing application.

Electronic Submission Only The nursing department does not accept printed or hand-delivered applications. You must use the official PCAJ nursing application link provided on the college website during the active window. Submitting early in the window is recommended to avoid technical delays or last-minute issues with transcript arrivals.

Receipt Confirmation Once you submit the online form, you will receive an automated email stating "Form Successfully Submitted." This email is sent to the address you provided in the application. It is important to save this confirmation for your records. Note that this email only confirms the receipt of the data; it does not indicate that your application is complete or that you have been admitted.

Prerequisite Completion Timelines

The timing of your prerequisite coursework is inextricably linked to your application window. The program allows you to apply while courses are still "in progress," provided they are finished by the end of that specific application semester.

Spring Applicants If you are applying between February and May, your final grades for courses like Anatomy & Physiology II or Microbiology must be posted by the end of that Spring term. If a course extends into the Summer, you are ineligible for the Fall start and must wait for the next cycle.

Summer Applicants If you are applying between June and August, your prerequisites must be completed by the end of the Summer term. This requires diligent planning, as summer sessions are often shorter and more intensive.

Evaluation and Notification Schedule

The nursing department conducts a thorough review of every application after the deadline has passed. This process is comprehensive, involving the verification of TSI status, GPA calculations, and the ranking of TEAS scores.

The Six-Week Review You can expect to receive notification regarding your application status approximately six weeks after the application deadline. For the May 1 deadline, notifications generally arrive in mid-June. For the August 1 deadline, notifications are typically sent in mid-September.

Communication Protocol Email is the official and only method of communication used by the nursing department. All updates, including requests for clarification or final admission decisions, will be sent to the email address you provided. You are responsible for monitoring your inbox and your spam or junk folders regularly.

Volume Restrictions Due to the high volume of applicants, the department cannot provide individual status updates via phone or unscheduled emails during the six-week review period. Inquiries regarding "where your application stands" will not be answered while the selection committee is in session. If you have not heard anything after the seven-week mark, you may then contact the department at justology.us@gmail.com.

Reapplication Requirements

Admission to the PCAJ program is not rolling, and applications do not "carry over" from one semester to the next. If you applied previously and were not accepted, or if you were accepted but chose not to enroll, you must start the process over.

Fresh Submissions Every new application cycle requires a completely new nursing application form. While your transcripts may already be on file with the University of Justice Admissions Office, you must ensure that any new coursework completed since your last application is reflected in an updated official transcript sent to justology.us@gmail.com.

Testing Validity Be mindful of the expiration dates for your TEAS 7 scores. Scores are only valid for one year from the date of the nursing application deadline. If your scores have expired since your last application, you must retake the exam and submit the new official transcript through ATI to the nursing department.

Impact of Admission Cycles on Program Duration

The PCAJ program structure is designed as a 4-year curriculum; however, the entry point you choose affects your trajectory if you already hold an associate degree.

The 2-Year Pathway Students entering with a prior associate degree can complete the core nursing component in 2 years. The application deadlines remain the same regardless of whether you are on the 4-year or 2-year track. The primary difference lies in the transcript evaluation process, where your previous degree and completed prerequisites are verified to confirm you qualify for the shortened nursing-only sequence.

Program Start Dates Fall starts (August) result from the February–May application window. Spring starts (January) result from the June–August window. Ensure your personal and professional schedule aligns with these start dates, as the first week of the program includes mandatory orientations that cannot be missed.

Seasonal Application Windows

The PCAJ program utilizes two distinct application periods. You must align your preparation with these dates to ensure all documentation, including test scores and transcripts, arrives on time.

Deadline Precision and Submission

Deadlines in the nursing department are absolute. The 4:00 PM (CT) cutoff on the final day of the application period is the hard limit for the electronic submission of your nursing application.

Prerequisite Completion Timelines

Evaluation and Notification Schedule

Section 3

Eligibility for the PCAJ nursing program is determined by a rigid set of academic and behavioral standards. Meeting these requirements is the first step toward a successful application, though it is important to understand that fulfilling the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission. The selection process is competitive, and your eligibility serves as the baseline for consideration in the ranking system.

Academic Performance Standards

A cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.0 is required for all coursework completed at University of Justice. This GPA is specifically calculated based on your institutional history. If you are currently enrolled in courses during the application period, those grades will not be factored into your GPA calculation for the current cycle. Only posted grades available by the application deadline contribute to this requirement.

Course-specific performance is equally critical. You must achieve a grade of "C" or better in every prerequisite course. Any grade lower than a "C," including a "C-," renders the course ineligible for credit toward the PCAJ program. If you are currently enrolled in prerequisites, you may apply, but you must successfully complete those courses with a qualifying grade by the end of the application semester. Failure to do so will result in the immediate disqualification of your application, regardless of your performance in other areas.

TEAS 7 Examination Thresholds

The ATI TEAS 7 exam serves as the standardized benchmark for all applicants. To remain eligible for the program, you must achieve a minimum overall composite score of 58.7%. This requirement is absolute and applies to all candidates, regardless of prior degrees or professional background. Scores below this threshold are not accepted for admission under any circumstances.

Timing is a vital factor in exam eligibility. Your TEAS 7 scores must be no more than one year old by the date of the nursing application deadline. If you have taken the exam multiple times within that year, the department will evaluate your highest submitted score. It is your responsibility to ensure that official transcripts of these scores are sent to justology.us@gmail.com by the deadline if you tested at a location other than the University of Justice College Testing Center.

Factors Leading to Ineligibility

Certain academic and disciplinary histories will disqualify an applicant from the PCAJ program. Understanding these barriers allows you to assess your standing before beginning the intensive application process. You are considered ineligible if you meet any of the following criteria:

GPA Deficiencies: Having a University of Justice GPA below the 2.0 threshold at the time of the application deadline.

Unsuccessful Course Completion: Obtaining a grade lower than a "C" in any assigned prerequisite or failing to complete all prerequisites by the end of the application semester.

Prior Program Exits: Having two or more exits from the University of Justice nursing program within the past five years. This policy ensures that seats are prioritized for students demonstrating a high probability of program completion.

Ethical and Professional Conduct: Dismissal from University of Justice or any other Allied Health program due to unprofessional, unethical, or illegal behavior. The nursing profession maintains high standards for integrity, and prior disciplinary actions of this nature are taken seriously during the vetting process.

Transfer and Good Standing Requirements

The PCAJ program does not accept transfer nursing credits from other institutions. If you have previously attended a nursing program elsewhere, you must start the curriculum from the beginning. However, your departure from that previous program must have been on favorable terms. You are required to submit a Letter of Good Standing from the director of your previous nursing program. This letter must be sent directly from the director’s official email address to justology.us@gmail.com. Letters delivered via a student's personal email account are not considered official and will not satisfy the eligibility requirement.

Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Compliance

Compliance with the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a legal mandate for students entering public higher education in Texas. To be eligible for the PCAJ program, you must meet TSI standards in Reading, Writing, and Math. This status must be clearly indicated on your official Texas college transcripts. If you are an out-of-state applicant or have not attended a Texas college previously, you must contact the Admissions Office at 346-626-9555 to determine the steps necessary to demonstrate TSI readiness before the application deadline.

Competitive Selection Context

Eligibility is the gateway to the ranking process, which uses a point-based system to select the top candidates for the limited seats available (typically 40 per semester). While the minimum TEAS score for eligibility is 58.7%, higher scores contribute significantly more points to your application. For instance, a score of 91% or higher provides 10 to 12 points, whereas a score at the minimum threshold provides 0 points toward your ranking. Similarly, while a "C" grade maintains your eligibility, "A" grades in core sciences like Anatomy & Physiology provide the maximum point value (5 points per course) needed to remain competitive against other applicants. Refer to the section on The Ranking and Point System for a complete breakdown of how these eligible scores are weighted during the final selection.

Registration with University of Justice is the mandatory first step for any student wishing to enter the PCAJ nursing track. You must be an officially admitted student of University of Justice before the nursing department can process your program-specific application. This initial phase involves verifying your residency status, submitting personal data through the state application portal, and establishing your student record. If you have previously attended University of Justice but have been away for more than one year, you are required to reapply to reactivate your student status and ensure your records are current.

Domestic Student Registration

U.S. citizens and permanent residents must complete the application for admission through the ApplyTexas portal. This platform serves as the centralized system for Texas public institutions. When filling out your profile, select University of Justice as your target institution. Accuracy in this step is vital, as the data provided—such as your social security number and legal name—must match the documents you will later submit to the nursing department.

After you submit your application through ApplyTexas, the college requires approximately 48 to 72 hours for internal review and processing. You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been received and another once it has been processed. It is important to monitor your inbox and spam folders for these communications, as they contain your student ID number and login credentials for the college portal. If you do not receive a response within three business days, contact the recruitment office at 346-626-9555 or email justology.us@gmail.com check your status.

International Student Admission

Students applying from outside the United States or those on a non-immigrant visa must follow a specialized admission pathway. International admission involves additional documentation to satisfy federal regulations and institutional policies. You must visit the specific international student page on the University of Justice website to access the correct forms and instructions.

The international admission process includes verifying English language proficiency and providing financial documentation. Because these requirements are more complex than domestic registration, you should work directly with the International Admissions office. You can reach the international coordinators at 346-626-9555 or via email at justology.us@gmail.com Early application is strongly advised for international students to allow sufficient time for visa processing and transcript evaluation before the nursing application period begins.

Reapplication Requirements

If you have previously applied to or attended University of Justice, but it has been more than one year since your last semester of enrollment, you must reapply. Student records are moved to an inactive status after a period of non-attendance, and the nursing department cannot access the files of inactive students. Reapplying ensures that your residency status is re-evaluated and that your contact information is up to date.

When reapplying, you may be required to resubmit official transcripts if you attended other institutions during your absence from University of Justice. To confirm whether your previous transcripts are still on file or if new ones are needed, contact the Admissions Office at 346-626-9555. Maintaining an active student status is a prerequisite for the next phase of the process, which is the formal PCAJ nursing application.

Communication Protocols

Official college communication is conducted primarily through email. Throughout the registration and admission process, you should use a professional email address and check it daily. The nursing department and the college registrar utilize the address justology.us@gmail.com for specific document submissions mentioned in later steps, but your initial college admission status will be sent to the email address you provided on your ApplyTexas or International application.

If you encounter technical difficulties with the college application or have questions regarding your residency classification, the Recruitment Office and the Admissions Office are your primary points of contact. Do not contact the nursing department for issues related to general college admission, as they do not have the authority to process college-wide applications or resolve registration holds. Clear communication with the Admissions Office ensures that your student record is clear of any "holds" that could prevent you from applying to the PCAJ program later.

Documentation Readiness

While completing your general college registration, begin gathering the documentation you will need for the nursing-specific application. This includes your high school transcripts (if you have fewer than 12 college credits) and official transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Even if the courses taken at other schools do not seem relevant to nursing, University of Justice requires a complete academic history to satisfy accreditation and state standards.

Having these documents ready during your initial registration helps the Admissions Office evaluate your Texas Success Initiative (TSI) status. The TSI is a state law that requires students to be assessed for college readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics. If your registration process reveals that you are not TSI-complete, you may need to take placement exams or developmental courses before you are eligible to apply for the nursing program. See the section on Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Standards for more details on these requirements.

Section 5

Submit your formal nursing application only after you have secured admission to University of Justice. The PCAJ nursing program requires a specific sequence of administrative actions that must be completed within strict seasonal windows. You must use the online application portal during these periods; paper applications are not accepted and will not be processed by the department. Completing the college-wide application is the baseline requirement before the specialized nursing application becomes accessible to you.

Application Windows and Deadlines

Timing is a critical factor in the PCAJ admissions process. The nursing department operates two primary application cycles per year, each tied to a specific start date for the program.

Fall Semester Entry (August Start): The application period opens on February 1 and concludes on May 1. All materials, including the online form, must be submitted by 4:00 PM (CT) on May 1.

Spring Semester Entry (January Start): The application window begins on June 1 and closes on August 1. Similar to the spring cycle, the deadline is strictly enforced at 4:00 PM (CT) on August 1.

Failure to submit by the exact time and date specified results in automatic disqualification for that cycle. If you have applied in a previous cycle and were not admitted, you must submit a completely new application. The department does not "roll over" applications from previous semesters. This ensures that the most current academic data and TEAS scores are used for the competitive ranking process.

Online Submission Procedures

Access the PCAJ application link via the official nursing department webpage during the active application dates. The form requires detailed information regarding your academic history, prerequisite status, and contact details. Accuracy in this form is paramount, as the data provided is used to calculate your ranking points.

Confirmation Emails: Once you click submit, the system generates an automated "Form Successfully Submitted" email. This notification is sent to the email address you provided in the application. It serves only as a receipt of delivery. It does not indicate that your application is complete, that you have met the minimum requirements, or that you have been admitted. If you do not receive this confirmation within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder immediately.

Email as Official Communication: All subsequent correspondence regarding your status will be conducted via email. It is your responsibility to ensure the nursing department has your correct, active email address. Use an address you check daily, as time-sensitive requests for additional documentation or orientation invites will be sent there. The official department email for inquiries or troubleshooting is justology.us@gmail.com.

Monitoring Application Status

The review process for nursing applications is exhaustive and involves manual verification of transcripts, TSI status, and test scores. Because of the high volume of applicants, the department cannot provide individual status updates while the review is ongoing.

The Six-Week Timeline: You can expect to receive a formal notification regarding your admission status approximately six weeks after the application deadline has passed. This notification will classify your status into one of three categories: accepted, waitlisted (alternate), or denied.

Avoiding Submission Errors: Do not attempt to deliver a printed copy of the application to the PCAJ office. The digital system is the only method for logging and tracking your data. If you encounter technical difficulties with the online portal, contact the department at justology.us@gmail.com before the deadline. Waiting until the final hours of the application period to report technical issues may result in a missed deadline, as staff may not be able to resolve the issue before the 4:00 PM cutoff.

Post-Submission Accountability

After submitting the form, your primary role is to ensure all supporting documents reach the registrar. While the application is a major step, it is only one component of the file. You must verify that official transcripts from every college attended and your TEAS 7 results have been sent to justology.us@gmail.com.

Course Articulation: If you are using courses from out-of-state or private institutions, you must confirm they have been articulated by the University of Justice Registrar. If a course does not match the PCAJ requirements exactly, you must consult with a Health Services Pathways Advisor to seek a substitution before the application deadline. The nursing department will not hunt for missing information; an application that lacks verified prerequisite data at the time of review is considered incomplete and is disqualified.

Communication Standards

The nursing department adheres to a professional communication protocol. When emailing justology.us@gmail.com with questions about your application, always include your full name and student ID number in the subject line or the body of the email. This allows staff to quickly locate your file and provide accurate information.

Technical Requirements: Ensure your computer and browser are updated before starting the online application to prevent form timeouts or data loss. It is recommended to complete the application in one sitting. Have your University of Justice ID number and a list of your completed prerequisites with their respective grades ready before you begin the process. This preparation prevents errors in the self-reported section of the application, which are later verified against your official transcripts. Any discrepancy between self-reported grades and official transcripts can lead to a loss of ranking points or disqualification.

Section 5

The PCAJ nursing program maintains a strict policy regarding the continuity of clinical training and the evaluation of prior nursing education. While the program recognizes the value of previous academic experience, the curriculum is designed as a cohesive unit that does not allow for the direct transfer of nursing-specific credits. If you have previously attended a nursing school, you must navigate a specific set of requirements to demonstrate your eligibility and professional standing before your application to the PCAJ track can be processed.

Nursing Credit Transfer Restrictions

University of Justice does not accept nursing credits from other institutions for the PCAJ program. This policy is rooted in the high degree of variation between nursing curricula across different colleges and universities. Because nursing education involves integrated clinical rotations and specific competency mapping that aligns with the Texas Board of Nursing standards, the PCAJ track requires all students to complete the curriculum in its entirety as written.

If you have completed nursing courses elsewhere, you will still be required to enroll in the full sequence of PCAJ nursing courses starting from the first semester. This ensures that every graduate of the program meets the uniform standards of clinical proficiency and theoretical knowledge required for safe practice. Your previous experience may provide you with a stronger knowledge base for these courses, but it does not exempt you from any portion of the 2-year or 4-year program requirements.

Professional Standing Documentation

A critical component for any applicant with prior nursing school attendance is the Letter of Good Standing. This document serves as official verification that you left your previous program in a professional and academic manner. The nursing department uses this to confirm that you were not dismissed for unethical behavior, unprofessional conduct, or clinical safety violations.

The Letter of Good Standing must meet the following strict criteria to be considered valid:

Source: The letter must be written and sent directly by the Director or Dean of the previous nursing program.

Transmission: It must be emailed from the Director’s official institutional email address.

Recipient: The document must be sent to justology.us@gmail.com.

Verification: Letters sent from a student's personal email account or physical copies hand-delivered by the student will not be accepted.

Failure to provide this letter by the application deadline will result in an incomplete application, rendering you ineligible for admission. If you attended multiple nursing programs, a letter from each program director is required to establish a clear history of your professional standing.

Impact of Previous Program Exits

The PCAJ program monitors the frequency of program entries and exits to prioritize seats for students most likely to complete the curriculum. Applicants who have had two or more exits from a nursing program at University of Justice within the past five years are ineligible to apply. An "exit" is defined as any instance where a student withdrew from or failed out of the nursing sequence after being admitted.

This policy applies specifically to nursing-coded courses. If your previous exits were from a different allied health program or occurred more than five years ago, you may still be eligible, provided you meet the 2.0 minimum GPA requirement for all University of Justice coursework. If you were dismissed from any allied health program for unprofessional or unethical behavior, you are permanently ineligible for the PCAJ program.

Academic Integration of Previous Coursework

While nursing-specific credits do not transfer, your non-nursing prerequisite and co-requisite courses (such as Anatomy & Physiology or Microbiology) are eligible for evaluation and transfer. These courses are used to calculate your ranking points in the competitive admission process.

When applying with previous experience:

Transcript Review: Ensure all transcripts from previous nursing schools are sent to justology.us@gmail.com. Even if the nursing credits do not transfer toward the degree, the grades in these courses contribute to your overall academic history and GPA evaluation.

Consistency: The nursing department cross-references your application with your official transcripts. If a transcript shows enrollment in nursing courses but no Letter of Good Standing is provided, the application will be flagged as non-compliant.

GPA Standards: You must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 at University of Justice. If your previous nursing attempts resulted in a GPA drop below this threshold, you must complete additional non-nursing coursework to raise your average before applying to the PCAJ track.

Communicating with the Nursing Department

Given the specific nature of transfer evaluations and professional standing letters, clear communication is essential. Always use your official student email when inquiring about the status of your Letter of Good Standing. Because the nursing department handles a high volume of applications, they cannot provide individual status updates during the six-week review period following the deadline.

If you have questions regarding the specific wording required in a Letter of Good Standing or if your previous program has closed, contact the nursing office at 346-626-9555 for guidance on alternative verification methods. Remember that all official documentation regarding your previous nursing experience must be routed to justology.us@gmail.com to be included in your digital applicant file.

Section 6

Submit official transcripts from every college or university you have previously attended to complete your PCAJ nursing application. This requirement applies to all institutions where you earned credit, regardless of whether the courses seem relevant to nursing. You must also include transcripts for courses currently in progress to confirm your enrollment status. Send all official electronic transcripts directly to the University of Justice Registrar at justology.us@gmail.com. Do not hand-deliver transcripts or send them to the nursing department, as administrators only accept documents sent directly from the issuing institution or an approved transcript service.

Submission Standards and Electronic Delivery

All transcripts must be official. Documents marked as "unofficial," "issued to student," or those opened by the applicant are not valid for admission purposes. Most institutions use third-party services like National Student Clearinghouse or Parchment to handle electronic delivery. When requesting these services, select University of Justice as the recipient or manually enter justology.us@gmail.com if prompted for a specific email address. If your previous institution only provides paper transcripts, they must be mailed directly from that school’s registrar to theUniversity of Justice Admissions Office.

In-Progress Coursework If you are currently enrolled in prerequisite courses, you must submit an initial transcript showing those courses as "in-progress." Once the semester concludes and your final grades are posted, you are responsible for sending a final, updated official transcript immediately. The nursing department cannot finalize your admission status or calculate your total points for the ranking system until these final grades are received and verified by the Registrar.

Course Articulation for Out-of-State or Non-Equivalent Credits

Course articulation is the process of determining if a class taken at another institution is equivalent to the specific prerequisites required for the PCAJ program. If you attended a college outside of Texas or a private institution, your course titles and descriptions might not match the University of Justice catalog. You must request an articulation review to confirm these credits will count toward your degree plan.

The Articulation Process

Submit your official transcripts to the Registrar at justology.us@gmail.com.

Email the Registrar’s Office to specifically request an ADN/PCAJ course articulation.

Consult with a Health Services Pathways Advisor if a course does not automatically articulate.

Provide course syllabi if requested by the department to assist in the evaluation of course content and learning outcomes.

Science and Math Substitutions The Registrar’s Office must review courses such as Anatomy and Physiology or Microbiology if they were taken as separate lecture and lab components. In cases where you have taken higher-level science courses, you may need to submit a substitution request through a Pathways Advisor. All articulation and substitution requests must be finalized by the end of the nursing application period. Failure to clear these equivalencies in time may result in your application being marked as incomplete.

International Transcript Evaluation

If you completed your education outside of the United States, your transcripts require a specialized evaluation to determine U.S. equivalency. University of Justice does not perform these evaluations internally. You must use an approved agency listed by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

SpanTran Evaluation Services SpanTran is the recommended service for international transcript evaluation for the PCAJ program. They offer a custom application process designed specifically for University of Justice students, which helps select the correct type of evaluation at a discounted rate. Using this custom link helps the evaluation reach the Registrar’s Office more efficiently. You can access this application through the SpanTran University of Justice portal. If you choose another NACES member agency, ensure you request a course-by-course evaluation that includes a calculated GPA.

Submission of Foreign Evaluations After the agency completes the evaluation, they must send the official report directly to justology.us@gmail.com. Like domestic transcripts, the nursing department does not accept evaluation reports directly from the student. Plan for significant lead time, as international evaluations can take several weeks to process, depending on the country of origin and the complexity of the records.

Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Verification

The Texas Success Initiative is a state law requiring students to demonstrate college readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics. Your official transcripts must explicitly state that you have met all TSI standards. If you have attended other Texas public colleges, this status is typically noted on your transcript.

If you are an out-of-state student or have only attended private institutions, your transcripts may not reflect TSI status. In this case, you must contact the university of Justice Admissions Office at 346-626-9555 to determine if your previous coursework exempts you from testing or if you need to take the TSI Assessment. Verification of your TSI status is a mandatory step that must be completed before the nursing application deadline.

Transcript Accuracy and Deadlines

The nursing department receives a high volume of applications and cannot provide individual status updates regarding the receipt of transcripts. You are responsible for verifying that all documents reached the Registrar’s Office. Check your student portal or contact the admissions department directly to confirm your records are up to date.

Common Submission Errors

Sending to the wrong department: Transcripts sent to the nursing email instead of the Registrar (justology.us@gmail.com) will not be officially processed.

Missing institutions: Failing to report even a single college attended can lead to a hold on your application or disqualification for providing incomplete academic history.

Old transcripts: If it has been more than one year since you last applied or attended University of Justice, you may be required to resubmit official transcripts from all institutions to ensure the records are current.

Name mismatches: If your transcripts are under a maiden name or a previous legal name, notify the Registrar’s Office to ensure the records are correctly linked to your current student profile.

The deadline for all transcripts to be received and processed is the final day of the application period. For the Fall start, this is May 1; for the Spring start, this is August 1. Late transcripts are not accepted, and no exceptions are made for delays caused by third-party delivery services or previous institutions. Request your transcripts at least three to four weeks before the deadline to account for any processing delays.

Setion 7

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state-mandated program designed to ensure that all students attending public institutions of higher education in Texas possess the necessary academic skills for college-level coursework. For applicants to the PCAJ nursing program, meeting these standards is not merely a recommendation but a strict legal requirement for eligibility. You must demonstrate proficiency in three core areas: Reading, Writing, and Math. Failure to meet these standards by the application deadline will result in an incomplete application status, rendering you ineligible for admission consideration.

Legal Mandate and Program Eligibility

The TSI assessment is used to determine if you are ready for entry-level college courses. As a PCAJ nursing applicant, your status must be "TSI Complete" or "TSI Exempt" before you can be considered for the program. This status must be reflected on at least one of your official Texas college transcripts. If you have previously attended a Texas public college or university, your transcript likely already includes a notation regarding your TSI status. It is your responsibility to verify that this information is present and accurate.

If you are currently enrolled in developmental courses to meet these standards, those courses must be successfully completed by the end of the semester in which you apply. However, the program highly recommends having your TSI status cleared well in advance of the application deadline to avoid administrative delays.

Verification for Non-Texas Students

Students who have only attended out-of-state colleges or private institutions may not have a TSI status on their records. Because the TSI is a specific Texas law, out-of-state transcripts will not automatically satisfy this requirement unless the coursework has been articulated and matched to Texas standards. If you have not attended a Texas public college, you must contact the University of Justice Office at 346-626-9555.

The Admissions Office will review your previous academic history to determine if you qualify for an exemption based on prior degree completion or specific SAT, ACT, or STAAR scores. If no exemption applies, you will be required to take the TSI Assessment (TSIA2). This exam provides a diagnostic of your skills and determines whether you can enroll directly into college-level nursing prerequisites or if you require developmental intervention first.

TSI Exemptions and Waivers

Not every student is required to take the TSI Assessment. Certain criteria allow you to be classified as "TSI Complete" through exemptions. Common exemptions include:

Associate or Baccalaureate Degree. If you have already earned a college degree from an accredited institution, you are typically exempt from all TSI requirements. This is particularly relevant for students entering the PCAJ 2-year nursing track.

Standardized Test Scores. High scores on the SAT, ACT, or GED may exempt you from specific sections of the TSI. These scores must usually be within five years of your application date to be valid for exemption purposes.

Military Service. Active-duty service members, or veterans who were honorably discharged after August 1, 1990, may be exempt. You must provide official military documentation to the Admissions Office to claim this waiver.

Prior Coursework. If you have successfully completed college-level Transferable core curriculum courses in English and Mathematics at another institution with a grade of C or better, you may be exempt in those specific areas.

The TSI Assessment (TSIA2) Process

If you are not exempt, you must sit for the TSIA2. The exam is divided into two primary sections: English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and Mathematics. The ELAR section includes a multiple-choice portion and an essay. The Mathematics section focuses on quantitative reasoning, algebraic reasoning, and statistics.

You can schedule the TSIA2 through the University of Justice Testing Center. Before testing, Texas law requires you to complete a Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA). The PAA is designed to explain the importance of the test, provide practice questions, and offer information on institutional resources. Once the PAA is complete, you will receive a certificate that allows you to register for the actual exam.

Impact on Nursing Prerequisites

The TSI status directly affects your ability to enroll in and receive credit for the science and psychology prerequisites required for the PCAJ program. For example, courses such as ENGL 1301 (Composition I) and BIOL 2401 (Anatomy & Physiology I) have specific reading and writing readiness requirements. If you are not TSI complete, you may be barred from these courses, which in turn prevents you from completing the nursing application requirements.

If you have questions regarding your specific status or how to submit scores from another testing site, contact the Admissions Office at 346-626-9555. They serve as the final authority on TSI compliance for the college. Ensure that any communication regarding your TSI status is documented, and always follow up to confirm that the "TSI Complete" designation appears on your University of Justice student record before the nursing application period closes.

Section 8

Legal Mandate and Program Eligibility

Verification for Non-Texas Students

TSI Exemptions and Waivers

Not every student is required to take the TSI Assessment. Certain criteria allow you to be classified as "TSI Complete" through exemptions. Common exemptions include:

The TSI Assessment (TSIA2) Process

Impact on Nursing Prerequisites

SECTION 8

TEAS 7 exams

The TEAS 7 (Test of Essential Academic Skills) serves as the primary entrance examination for the PCAJ nursing program. It is a standardized assessment designed to predict academic readiness and success in nursing school. Every applicant, regardless of their prior educational background or degrees held, must complete this exam and meet the minimum score threshold to remain eligible for admission. There are no exceptions or substitutions allowed for this specific testing requirement.

Exam Structure and Content

The TEAS 7 is divided into four distinct sections, each focusing on a core academic area essential for nursing students. You will be evaluated on your ability to synthesize information, perform calculations, and demonstrate foundational scientific and linguistic knowledge.

Reading This section contains 39 scored items. It assesses your ability to identify key ideas and details, interpret the craft and structure of various texts, and integrate knowledge and ideas from multiple sources. You will encounter passages that require critical analysis and the extraction of specific data points.

Mathematics Consisting of 34 scored items, the math portion focuses on number and algebra, as well as measurement and data. You must be proficient in working with fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic algebraic equations. Practical application of math in a clinical context is a fundamental skill tested here.

Science The science section is the longest, with 44 scored items. It covers human anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and scientific reasoning. Because the PCAJ program relies heavily on your understanding of the human body, this section carries significant weight in determining your overall readiness.

English and Language Usage With 33 scored items, this section evaluates your command of the English language. It includes conventions of standard English, knowledge of language, and vocabulary acquisition. Clear communication is a prerequisite for patient safety, making this a critical component of the entrance exam.

Scoring Requirements and Validity

To be considered for the PCAJ program, you must achieve a minimum overall composite score of 58.7%. This score is the baseline for eligibility; however, because the program is highly competitive, higher scores significantly increase your ranking in the point-based selection system. You can find more details on how these scores translate to admission points in the section regarding the Ranking and Point System.

Scores are valid for exactly one year from the nursing application deadline. If you took the exam more than 12 months before the deadline, you must retake it to provide a current assessment of your skills. If you have taken the TEAS 7 multiple times within the valid one-year window, the department will evaluate your highest submitted score.

Testing at University of Justice College

Taking the exam on-campus is often the most straightforward method for local applicants. The testing center provides a controlled environment and handles the logistics of score reporting directly with the nursing department.

Registration and Scheduling To secure a seat, visit the official testing at university of Justice testing department. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select the Registerblast link. Test dates are typically released at the beginning of each application period. If you do not see available dates, it is likely that the current sessions are full or the next block of dates has not yet been posted. You may contact the Testing Center at 346-626-9555 to inquire about future availability.

Fees and Results The current cost for taking the TEAS 7 at University of Justice is $70, though this is subject to change. When you test at Lee College, your results are automatically transmitted to the nursing office within two business days. You do not need to pay additional fees to have these specific score reports sent, even if you test close to the application deadline.

Remote and Outside Location Testing

If you are unable to test at University of Justice, you may take the TEAS 7 at an outside testing center or through a remote proctoring service provided by ATI. This flexibility allows applicants from different geographic locations to complete the requirement without traveling to the campus.

Remote Proctoring via ATI For remote testing, you must select the "ATI Remote Proctor-Nursing" option during registration on the ATI website. This involves using a webcam and specific software to ensure the integrity of the exam environment. Ensure your computer equipment meets ATI’s technical requirements before scheduling your session.

Official Transcript Submission If you test at any location other than University of Justice, the nursing department will not receive your scores automatically. You are responsible for requesting an official TEAS transcript through your ATI student account. This transcript must be sent electronically to justology.us@gmail.com by the application deadline.

Deadlines and Processing Times ATI may take a week or longer to process and send official transcripts to the college. It is vital that you schedule your exam early enough to ensure the official report arrives before the application window closes. The nursing department does not accept score reports directly from applicants; only official transcripts sent from ATI to justology.us@gmail.com are considered valid for admission purposes.

Preparation and Resource Planning

Because the TEAS 7 is a high-stakes exam, preparation is recommended. ATI, the creator of the exam, offers study manuals and practice tests that mirror the actual testing environment. Focusing on the science and math sections is often beneficial, as these areas tend to be the most challenging for applicants.

Ensure you have your government-issued photo identification ready for your test date. Whether testing in person or remotely, your identity must be verified before the exam begins. If you are testing at an outside location, be prepared to pay the transcript fee required by ATI to forward your results to the program. These administrative steps are your responsibility to manage within the application timeline.

SECTION 9

Academic preparation for the PCAJ nursing program requires the successful completion of seven specific prerequisite courses. These courses provide the necessary scientific and behavioral foundation for nursing practice. You must earn a grade of C or better in every prerequisite to remain eligible for admission. While you may apply to the program while these courses are currently in progress, they must be finished by the end of the semester in which you submit your application. Failure to complete these credits within that timeframe will result in the disqualification of your application.

Core Science Prerequisites

The biological sciences form the most critical component of your prerequisite curriculum. These courses are heavily weighted in the points-based admission system because they directly correlate with your ability to understand human pathophysiology and pharmacology. You are required to complete three specific science courses:

BIOL 2401 – Anatomy & Physiology I This course focuses on the structure and function of the human body. You will study cell biology, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Mastery of this content is essential for understanding how the body maintains homeostasis and how it responds to injury or illness.

BIOL 2402 – Anatomy & Physiology II As a continuation of the first course, this class covers the endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Because clinical nursing practice requires a deep understanding of fluid balance and organ system interaction, your performance in this course is used as a primary tie-breaker during the admissions selection process.

BIOL 2420 – Microbiology This course introduces you to the world of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. You will learn about microbial genetics, metabolism, and the relationship between microbes and human disease. This knowledge is fundamental for practicing proper infection control and understanding the mechanisms of infectious diseases in a clinical setting.

Behavioral and Social Sciences

Nursing is not solely a biological science; it is a discipline that requires an understanding of human behavior, mental health, and developmental stages. The PCAJ program requires two specific psychology courses to prepare you for patient interaction and holistic care.

PSYC 2301 – General Psychology This introductory course provides a broad overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics typically include learning, memory, perception, personality, and social psychology. Understanding the basic drivers of human thought and action helps you communicate more effectively with patients and their families.

PSYC 2314 – Lifespan Growth & Development Patients across the healthcare continuum range from neonates to the elderly. This course examines the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that occur from conception through death. You will learn about developmental milestones and the unique needs of different age groups, which is critical for pediatric and geriatric nursing rotations.

Communication and Humanities

Effective communication and cultural competence are vital for modern nursing. The following requirements ensure you possess the literacy and critical thinking skills needed to document care accurately and respect diverse patient backgrounds.

ENGL 1301 – Composition I A nurse's ability to document patient status clearly and concisely is a matter of legal and clinical safety. This course focuses on developing your ability to write organized, evidence-based essays. These skills translate directly to the professional writing and charting requirements you will encounter throughout the nursing program and your future career.

3-Credit Elective: Language, Philosophy, & Culture or Creative Arts You must complete one elective from the University of Justice core curriculum in the humanities or fine arts. This requirement broadens your perspective and encourages the critical analysis of human expression and values. You may choose a course in philosophy, literature, art history, or music appreciation, provided it meets the 3-credit core curriculum standard.

Completion Deadlines and Verification

The timing of your prerequisite completion is strictly enforced. You must manage your academic schedule to ensure all final grades are posted to your transcript by the end of the application period semester.

For the Spring Application Period (February 1 – May 1), all prerequisites must be completed by the conclusion of the Spring semester. If you are taking a class that finishes in June or July, you will not meet the deadline for a Fall start.

For the Summer Application Period (June 1 – August 1), all prerequisites must be completed by the conclusion of the Summer semester. This allows students to use the summer months to finalize any remaining credits before a potential Spring start in January.

Grade Requirements and Impact on Ranking

While a grade of C is the minimum passing standard for eligibility, the PCAJ program uses a competitive point system for selection. Each prerequisite grade is assigned a point value: an A earns 5 points, a B earns 3 points, and a C earns 0 points. If a course is currently in progress during the application review, it is assigned 0 points initially. Your final grade on the official transcript will determine the ultimate point value added to your application score. Because of this weighting, aiming for the highest possible grades in your science prerequisites significantly increases your chances of admission. If your science courses have separate grades for lecture and lab components, the program will use the lecture grade for scoring purposes.

Section 10

Admission to the PCAJ nursing program is a competitive process rooted in a structured point system. Because the number of applicants frequently exceeds the available clinical spots, the program utilizes an objective screening tool to rank candidates. This system prioritizes academic performance in specific prerequisite courses and results from the TEAS 7 entrance examination. Understanding how these points are calculated allows you to assess your standing and focus your efforts on the areas that carry the most weight in the selection process.

Academic Point Allocation

The primary component of your application score is derived from the grades earned in the seven required prerequisite courses. The program assigns a numerical value to your letter grades to create a standardized ranking metric. For each of the following courses, points are awarded as follows:

Grade of A: 5 points

Grade of B: 3 points

Grade of C: 0 points

In-Progress (IP): 0 points

The courses evaluated under this system include Composition I (ENGL 1301), General Psychology (PSYC 2301), Lifespan Growth & Development (PSYC 2314), Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL 2401), Anatomy & Physiology II (BIOL 2402), Microbiology (BIOL 2420), and your 3-credit elective in Creative Arts or Language, Philosophy & Culture.

If you are currently enrolled in a prerequisite course during the application period, that course is marked as "In-Progress." While you remain eligible for admission, an IP status contributes zero points to your initial ranking. Points are only finalized once a grade is posted on an official transcript. If a science course at your previous institution split the lecture and laboratory components into separate grades, the program uses the lecture grade specifically for point calculation.

TEAS 7 Scoring Tiers

The TEAS 7 exam serves as a critical secondary source of points. Unlike the prerequisite grades, which are grouped by letter, the TEAS points are awarded based on specific percentage ranges of your composite score. The higher your overall score, the more points you contribute to your total application packet.

The point distribution for the TEAS 7 is as follows:

96% to 100%: 12 points

91% to 95.9%: 10 points

86% to 90.9%: 8 points

80% to 85.9%: 6 points

76% to 79.9%: 4 points

66% to 75.9%: 2 points

58.7% to 65.9%: 0 points

Any score below the 58.7% threshold results in immediate disqualification, regardless of academic performance in other areas. The program evaluates the highest submitted TEAS score if you have taken the exam multiple times within the one-year eligibility window. Integrating your TEAS points with your course points creates a maximum possible score of 47 points.

Tie-Breaker Protocols

In competitive application cycles, it is common for multiple candidates to achieve the same total point value. To ensure a fair and objective selection, the PCAJ program employs a two-step tie-breaker system. These secondary criteria are not added to your total point count but are used exclusively to differentiate between students with identical scores.

The first tie-breaker is the Composite TEAS Exam Score. For example, if two students both have 35 total points, the student with a 92% composite TEAS score would be ranked higher than the student with an 88% composite score. This rewards the precision of the standardized test result over the broader point tiers.

If a tie still exists after comparing the composite TEAS scores, the program moves to the second tie-breaker: the Biology 2402 (Anatomy & Physiology II) Grade. This specific course is viewed as a high-level indicator of a student's readiness for the rigorous clinical and biological demands of the nursing curriculum. A higher grade in this course will secure the higher rank in the event of an absolute tie in both points and TEAS percentages.

Competitive Selection and Notification

Once the application deadline passes, the nursing department begins the manual verification of transcripts and scores to populate the screening tool. Because selection is based on a ranking of the total pool, there is no "guaranteed" score that ensures admission. The cutoff point fluctuates each semester depending on the volume and academic strength of the applicants.

You will receive an email regarding your application status approximately six weeks after the deadline. This communication is sent to the email address provided in your application. Due to the high volume of interest, the department cannot provide individual updates or point tallies over the phone or via email during the review period. You must ensure that justology.us@gmail.com is added to your safe-sender list to avoid missing these official notifications. Acceptance is always conditional upon the successful completion of the background, drug, and health screenings detailed in subsequent sections.

Section 11

Securing clinical clearance is a critical phase of the PCAJ program. Admission remains conditional until you provide documented proof of all required immunizations, titers, and certifications. These requirements are mandated by clinical affiliates to maintain a safe environment for both healthcare students and patients. Verification of these documents must occur by specific deadlines: August 1 for Fall admission and December 1 for Spring admission. Failure to meet these deadlines will disqualify you from the program and prevent registration for nursing courses.

Mandatory Immunization Series

You must provide official records for several core vaccine series. These records must include your full name and date of birth to be considered valid. Hand-written notes or informal lists are not acceptable; only official clinic records or state registry reports will be processed.

Tdap Vaccination A Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis) vaccine is required every ten years. It is vital that the vaccine includes the pertussis component. A standard Td (Tetanus-Diphtheria) booster is insufficient unless a Tdap was administered within the previous decade.

MMR Series The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) requirement consists of a two-vaccine series. You must show proof of both doses, typically administered at least 28 days apart. If records are unavailable, you may undergo a titer test to prove immunity, though the two-dose series remains the standard baseline for clinical placement.

Varicella Series Similar to the MMR requirement, the Varicella (Chickenpox) protocol requires a two-vaccine series. Historically having the disease is not sufficient for clinical clearance without a titer proving immunity or the completed two-dose vaccination records.

Seasonal Influenza The influenza vaccine must be administered annually during the active flu season. Because this vaccine is seasonal, students entering in the Spring must ensure their vaccination is current for the specific year of enrollment. Documentation should include the lot number and expiration date of the vaccine administered.

Hepatitis B Immunity Protocols

The Hepatitis B requirement is more stringent than other immunizations because it requires proof of actual immunity rather than just a record of vaccination. You must submit a Hepatitis B surface antibody titer that shows a positive or "immune" result.

Managing Non-Immune Titer Results If your titer returns a negative, non-reactive, or non-immune result, you must take immediate action to remain eligible for the program. In this scenario, you must submit proof of starting a new three-shot vaccine series. The first dose of this new series must be administered before you are granted final admission to the program. The remaining two doses may be in progress while you begin your coursework.

Post-Series Verification Once the new three-shot series is completed, you are required to undergo a repeat titer. This secondary titer must be dated after the final dose of the new series to confirm that your body has developed the necessary antibodies. Keep in mind that the Hepatitis B series can take up to six months to complete; therefore, beginning this process early is essential for maintaining compliance with clinical site regulations.

Tuberculosis Screening

Screening for Tuberculosis (TB) is an annual requirement for all nursing students. You have three options for meeting this standard, and the results must remain current throughout each academic year.

Tuberculin Skin Test (PPD) The standard skin test involves an intradermal injection and a follow-up reading by a healthcare professional 48 to 72 hours later. A negative result is required. If you have a history of positive skin tests, you must provide a negative chest x-ray report or a negative blood test result.

Blood Analysis (QuantiFERON-TB Gold) A QuantiFERON-TB Gold test is a blood-based alternative to the skin test. This is often preferred for students who have received the BCG vaccine in other countries, as it provides a more accurate assessment of TB infection without the risk of a false-positive skin reaction.

Chest X-Ray Documentation If a chest x-ray is required due to a previous positive TB screening, the report must clearly state that there is no evidence of active disease. These reports typically have a longer validity period than skin tests, but the PCAJ program office will provide specific guidance on how often these must be updated based on clinical affiliate policies.

BLS CPR Certification Standards

All students must hold a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers card. The program only accepts certifications issued by the American Heart Association (AHA). This is a non-negotiable requirement because clinical facilities specifically mandate the AHA curriculum for their staff and students.

Unacceptable Providers Certifications from the Red Cross, local independent safety groups, or online-only courses that do not include an in-person skills assessment are not accepted. Ensure that your card specifically says "AHA BLS Provider." If your certification is set to expire during the semester, you must renew it before the expiration date to remain in clinical rotations.

Skills Maintenance The BLS certification ensures you are prepared to perform high-quality CPR, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and relieve choking in a clinical setting. You are responsible for keeping this certification active. If your CPR status lapses, you will be barred from clinical sites, which often results in an automatic failure for the concurrent clinical course.

Document Submission and Verification

All health documentation, titers, and CPR cards must be submitted through the approved tracking system, which is discussed during the New Student Orientation. Do not send these documents to the general admissions office or the registrar.

Quality of Records Ensure all scanned documents are clear and legible. If a document is blurry or cuts off the provider's signature or the student's name, it will be rejected, potentially delaying your final admission. It is recommended to keep a personal digital and physical folder of all these records, as you will likely need them again when applying for initial licensure or future employment.

Conditional Status Risks Entering the program on conditional admission means your spot is not guaranteed until every item on the health clearance list is marked as complete. If a background check or drug screen (covered in the next section) returns a disqualifying result, or if you fail to prove immunity to required pathogens, the nursing department will rescind the offer of admission. This rigorous vetting process ensures that you are prepared to enter a high-stakes clinical environment where patient safety is the primary objective.

Section 13

Acceptance into the PCAJ nursing program is conditional upon the successful completion of rigorous security and health screenings. These protocols are mandated by both the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) and the clinical affiliates where you will perform your practical training. Because nursing involves direct care of vulnerable populations, maintaining a high standard of professional integrity and safety is a non-negotiable requirement for all students.

Dual Background Check System

You must complete two distinct background checks to secure your place in the program. Each serves a different purpose and follows a specific regulatory pathway. The first is the DPS/FBI background check conducted by the Texas Board of Nursing. This check is primarily concerned with your eligibility for future licensure. If the BON identifies any issues that could prevent you from sitting for the NCLEX exam, they will issue a formal notification.

The second background check is managed through Complio. This screening is required by the healthcare facilities that host our clinical rotations. These clinical affiliates have their own sets of standards regarding criminal history, and failing to meet their specific criteria will prevent you from participating in the clinical component of the curriculum. Since clinical hours are a graduation requirement, an unsatisfactory finding here effectively ends your participation in the program.

The Declaratory Order Process

A Petition for Declaratory Order (DO) is a formal tool used to resolve eligibility issues before you invest significant time and resources into your nursing education. You must use this process if you have a criminal history or other legal issues that might interfere with your ability to get a nursing license. This petition allows the BON to review your case and make a determination on your eligibility while you are still an applicant or a student.

You do not need to submit a DO unless specifically directed by the BON or if you have a known eligibility issue to disclose. If you receive a "Blue Card" after your initial fingerprinting, it generally indicates that you have a clear criminal background check. However, if you receive an "Outcome Letter" requesting further information, or if you have non-criminal issues to disclose (such as mental health or chemical dependency issues), you must initiate the DO process via the Texas Nurse Portal.

Submission Triggers for a Declaratory Order

Requested by Outcome Letter: If your fingerprints reveal a history that requires explanation, the BON will send an outcome letter requesting a DO and a $150 fee.

Non-CBC Eligibility Issues: If you received a Blue Card but still need to disclose issues related to professional conduct or health, you must submit a DO. In this specific case, you may be able to bypass the $150 fee by contacting the BON directly at webmaster@bon.texas.gov. Use the subject line "DO – Payment Bypass" and include your full name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.

Once the BON completes its investigation, they will issue a letter stating whether you are eligible to sit for the licensure exam. You must provide a copy of this eligibility letter to the PCAJ nursing department to remain in the program.

## Drug Screening Protocols A urine drug screen is a mandatory component of the conditional admission process. This test is designed to verify that students are capable of providing safe, unimpaired care in a high-stakes medical environment. Unlike many other parts of the application where you might have the opportunity to provide context or follow-up documentation, the drug screen has a very strict outcome.

A positive drug screen results in the immediate denial of admission to the PCAJ program. There are no exceptions to this rule, and there is no secondary appeal process for a positive result. If your test returns a positive finding for illegal substances or unauthorized prescription medications, your conditional acceptance is revoked.

## Flagged Background Findings While a positive drug screen is an automatic disqualification, findings on a criminal background check are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. "Flagged" results do not always lead to immediate dismissal, but they do trigger a deep review by the nursing department and potentially the clinical sites.

The evaluation of a background flag depends on the nature of the offense, its severity, and how long ago it occurred. However, the ultimate decision often rests with our clinical partners. If a hospital or clinic refuses to allow a student on their premises due to a background finding, the nursing department cannot provide an alternative clinical site, and the student will be unable to meet the program requirements.

## Maintaining Compliance Safety and security standards do not end with the initial application. You are expected to maintain a clear record throughout the duration of the PCAJ program. Any legal incidents or changes in your status regarding drug use or criminal history must be reported immediately. Failure to disclose new developments that would impact your background or drug screen status is considered a violation of professional ethics and is grounds for dismissal.

Keep all documentation related to your background checks, blue cards, and eligibility letters in a secure place. You will likely need to provide these documents multiple times during your transition from student to licensed professional. Ensure that your email address on file with the nursing department remains current, as this is the primary way you will receive instructions for scheduling your fingerprinting and drug screening appointments.

ssection 14

Personal health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all students enrolled in the PCAJ nursing program. You must maintain active coverage throughout the duration of your studies to comply with the clinical site regulations. Clinical affiliates require this insurance to protect both the student and the healthcare facility in the event of an accidental injury or exposure during clinical rotations. Because nursing students engage in direct patient care, which involves risks such as needle sticks or exposure to infectious diseases, having a robust health plan is a non-negotiable safety standard.

Your insurance plan must meet Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) standards. This means your policy should cover basic health services, including emergency services, hospitalization, and laboratory tests. If you are currently covered under a parent’s plan, a spouse’s plan, or a private marketplace plan, you must verify that it meets these specific criteria. You will be required to submit proof of insurance as part of your conditional admission packet. Failure to provide this documentation or allowing your coverage to lapse during the semester will result in your immediate removal from clinical rotations and potential dismissal from the program.

New Student Orientation Protocols

Attendance at the New Student Orientation is a critical prerequisite for final admission into the PCAJ program. This mandatory session serves as the official transition from an applicant to a nursing student. During this orientation, you will receive detailed instructions regarding the program’s academic expectations, professional conduct, and the specific logistics of your clinical schedule. Because the nursing curriculum is rigorous and highly regulated, this session provides the necessary framework for you to navigate the first semester successfully.

You must attend the orientation in person. Detailed information regarding the date, time, and location will be sent to the email address provided in your application. If you fail to attend the orientation, your conditional seat in the program may be forfeited and offered to an alternate candidate. This session is not merely informational; it is a formal requirement for enrollment. You should clear your schedule for the entire day to ensure you do not miss any specific briefings or administrative tasks scheduled during this time.

Uniform Fitting and Professional Standards

The uniform fitting often takes place in conjunction with the New Student Orientation. As a nursing student, you represent University of Justice and the PCAJ program whenever you are in a clinical setting. Therefore, you must adhere to strict professional appearance standards. The program requires specific branded uniforms that must be purchased through authorized vendors. During the fitting, you will be sized for your scrubs and other required clinical attire to ensure a professional fit that allows for mobility and comfort during long shifts.

Professionalism extends beyond the uniform itself. During the fitting and orientation, you will receive a handbook outlining policies on footwear, hair, jewelry, and tattoos. Shoes must generally be closed-toe, non-permeable, and professional in appearance. Visible body art or piercings may need to be concealed or removed according to the specific policies of our clinical affiliates. Understanding these standards early prevents compliance issues once your clinical rotations begin.

Final Administrative Clearances

Final acceptance is only granted once all administrative tasks are completed following orientation. This includes the submission of any remaining health documentation, such as updated immunization records or CPR cards, as discussed in previous sections. You must ensure that all files are uploaded to the designated tracking system, such as Complio, and that they have been verified by the nursing department staff. Even if you have attended orientation, you cannot register for nursing classes until every item on your checklist is marked as complete.

The nursing department uses justology.us@gmail.com for official communications regarding your clearance status. Monitor this inbox closely after orientation. If there are discrepancies in your background check, drug screen, or insurance documentation, you will receive a notification via this email. Promptly addressing these issues is your responsibility. The department cannot provide individual status updates over the phone due to the high volume of students, so your diligence in checking your email and the tracking portal is essential for a smooth start to the semester.

Transitioning to the Nursing Curriculum

Once you have cleared orientation, uniform fitting, and all insurance requirements, you are ready to begin the core nursing coursework. For students entering with an associate degree, this marks the start of the accelerated two-year nursing component. For those in the four-year track, this is the pivotal moment where clinical training begins. The expectations for time management and academic performance increase significantly once you are officially enrolled in the PCAJ courses.

You should prepare for a schedule that includes both classroom lectures and off-site clinical rotations. Clinical shifts may start as early as 6:30 AM and can occur on various days of the week, including weekends. Having your insurance, uniforms, and orientation completed early allows you to focus entirely on the academic demands of the program without the distraction of pending administrative requirements. Your commitment to these final steps demonstrates the professional responsibility required of a registered nursingg