Quick Answer: The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) strand is the best preparation for BS Nursing. It covers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, which are foundational to the nursing curriculum. However, students from other strands can still pursue nursing in college.
Introduction
Nursing remains one of the most sought-after professions in the Philippines, driven by strong demand both locally and internationally. Filipino nurses are recognized worldwide for their competence and compassion, and the career offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work abroad.
But the journey to becoming a registered nurse starts long before college. Your Senior High School strand plays a significant role in how prepared you will be for the rigors of a BS Nursing program. Many students ask the same question: "What strand should I take if I want to be a nurse?"
This guide gives you a clear, research-backed answer along with practical advice for preparing yourself during Grades 11 and 12.
Why STEM Is the Best Strand for Nursing
Research from Philippine universities confirms that STEM graduates perform better in nursing school. A study published in the Social Science Research Network found that STEM graduates had significantly higher academic self-regulated learning and academic performance compared to non-STEM completers enrolled in BS Nursing programs.
The reason is straightforward: nursing is a science-heavy profession. During your first two years of nursing school, you will take subjects like:
- Anatomy and Physiology (builds on General Biology)
- Biochemistry (builds on General Chemistry)
- Microbiology and Parasitology (builds on Biology concepts)
- Pharmacology (requires chemistry knowledge)
- Physics for Healthcare (builds on General Physics)
If you completed the STEM strand, you already have a foundation in these areas. Students from other strands often struggle in their first year because they are encountering these concepts for the first time.
Key STEM Subjects That Prepare You for Nursing
| STEM Subject | How It Helps in Nursing |
|---|---|
| General Biology 1 & 2 | Foundation for Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology |
| General Chemistry 1 & 2 | Essential for Biochemistry and Pharmacology |
| General Physics 1 & 2 | Helps with understanding body mechanics and medical equipment |
| Pre-Calculus & Basic Calculus | Develops analytical thinking for drug dosage calculations |
| Research/Capstone | Prepares you for nursing research requirements |
| Statistics & Probability | Required for evidence-based nursing practice |
Can I Take Nursing If I Am Not From STEM?
Yes, you can. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) does not restrict BS Nursing enrollment to STEM graduates only. Students from ABM, HUMSS, GAS, and even Technical-Vocational strands can apply and be accepted into nursing programs.
However, there are real consequences to consider:
- Steeper learning curve. You will need to learn Biology, Chemistry, and Physics concepts that your STEM classmates already covered.
- Lower initial grades. Studies show non-STEM nursing students tend to have lower grades in science-heavy subjects during their first year.
- Possible bridging classes. Some universities require non-STEM students to take preparatory or bridging courses before fully entering the nursing program.
- Extra study time. Expect to spend more hours self-studying science topics your curriculum did not cover.
What If I Am Already in a Non-STEM Strand?
Do not panic. Thousands of successful nurses in the Philippines came from non-STEM backgrounds. Here is what you can do to prepare:
- Self-study Biology and Chemistry. Use free resources like Khan Academy or YouTube channels focused on Biology and Chemistry fundamentals.
- Take online science courses. Platforms like Coursera offer free introductory courses in human biology and chemistry.
- Read ahead. Get a copy of popular nursing anatomy textbooks and start familiarizing yourself with the material.
- Join science-related extracurriculars. If your school has a science club or health-related organization, participate actively.
- Talk to nursing students. Ask them which first-year subjects were hardest and what they wish they had studied beforehand.
Nursing Career Outlook in the Philippines
The nursing profession continues to offer strong career prospects:
- Local Salary Range: PHP 18,000-45,000/month depending on experience and hospital type
- Government Nurse (Salary Grade): Nurse I starts at approximately PHP 33,575/month under the 2025 Salary Standardization Law, while Nurse IV earns around PHP 56,390/month in 2026
- International Opportunities: Filipino nurses are in high demand in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and other countries where salaries range from USD 3,000-7,000/month
- Specialty Growth: Nurses who specialize in critical care, operating room, or emergency nursing command higher salaries
Top Nursing Schools to Consider
Some of the most respected nursing programs in the Philippines include:
- University of Santo Tomas in Manila — one of the oldest and most prestigious nursing programs
- University of the Philippines Manila — the country's premier state university nursing program
- Our Lady of Fatima University — known for high board exam passing rates
- Silliman University in Dumaguete — a top nursing school in the Visayas
- Saint Louis University in Baguio — consistently strong in nursing board exam results
The Nursing Board Exam (NLE)
After completing your four-year BS Nursing degree, you must pass the Nursing Licensure Examination (NLE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The exam covers:
- Nursing Practice I (Foundations of Nursing)
- Nursing Practice II (Community Health Nursing)
- Nursing Practice III (Care of Clients with Physiologic and Psychosocial Alterations)
- Nursing Practice IV (Care of Mother, Child, and Adolescent)
- Nursing Practice V (Professional Adjustment and Nursing Leadership and Management)
The nationwide passing rate typically ranges from 50-65%, making preparation critical.
Alternative Paths to Nursing
While STEM is the ideal strand, it is important to understand the alternative routes available:
From ABM to Nursing
ABM graduates can enter nursing programs at most universities. The challenge is primarily in science subjects during the first year. Some students hire tutors for Biology and Chemistry during the summer before college starts. Your ABM background in organization, management, and business math can actually be useful in healthcare administration later in your career.
From HUMSS to Nursing
HUMSS graduates bring strong communication and interpersonal skills, which are highly valued in nursing practice. Patient communication, health education, and community health nursing all benefit from the skills developed in HUMSS. However, be prepared for a steeper learning curve in laboratory-based science subjects.
From TVL to Nursing
Students from the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track, especially those who took Health Care Services under the Home Economics strand, may have practical healthcare experience that complements their nursing education. Hands-on skills like basic patient care, vital signs monitoring, and first aid provide a real advantage in clinical settings.
What Nursing Students Wish They Knew Before College
Based on conversations with current Filipino nursing students, here are insights they frequently share:
- The first year is overwhelming with science subjects regardless of your SHS background, so start studying early.
- Clinical rotations (hospital duty) begin as early as second year and require both physical stamina and emotional resilience.
- Study groups are essential — nursing covers an enormous volume of material that is easier to digest collaboratively.
- Time management becomes your most important skill because the workload is relentless.
- Building genuine relationships with patients during clinicals is one of the most rewarding experiences of the program.
Actionable Tips for Aspiring Nurses
- Choose STEM if you still can. If you are about to enter Grade 11, STEM is the strongest foundation for nursing.
- Do not let your strand define you. Non-STEM students succeed in nursing every year through hard work and dedication.
- Start building your science foundation now. Whether through formal classes or self-study, every bit of Biology and Chemistry knowledge helps.
- Develop your empathy and communication skills. Nursing is not only about science; it requires genuine care for people.
- Research nursing schools early. Compare tuition, board exam passing rates, clinical facilities, and hospital affiliations.
- Consider the long game. The first few years may be financially challenging, but nursing offers strong career growth and international opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is STEM required for nursing? No, it is not required. CHED does not mandate a specific strand for BS Nursing. However, STEM is strongly recommended because it provides the best scientific foundation.
What if I took ABM but want to switch to nursing? You can still apply for BS Nursing. Focus on self-studying Biology and Chemistry before college starts. Some schools offer bridging programs for non-STEM students.
How many years is the nursing course in the Philippines? BS Nursing is a four-year degree program under the K-12 system.
How much does nursing school cost? Tuition varies widely: PHP 30,000-60,000 per semester in public universities and PHP 50,000-150,000+ per semester in private institutions.
Is nursing still in demand in 2026? Yes. Both local hospitals and international healthcare systems continue to face nursing shortages, making it one of the most stable career choices.
What is the passing rate for the nursing board exam? The NLE passing rate typically ranges from 50-65% nationally, though top nursing schools achieve rates above 90%.
Can I work abroad as a nurse? Yes. After passing the NLE and gaining some clinical experience, Filipino nurses can apply for work in countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East.
Ready to find the best nursing school near you? Use SchoolFinderPH to compare nursing programs, tuition fees, and board exam passing rates across the Philippines.