Program Description

This practical nursing program provides academic, theoretical, and clinical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, geriatric, and mental health nursing. The program will introduce the basic elements of the healthcare delivery system and the multi-disciplines that are incorporated into the system. Concepts of disease and wellness will be presented throughout the program and will bridge across the human lifespan. Legal and ethical issues, with an emphasis on confidentiality and effective communication skills, will be included. The student will acquire skills in nursing procedures, measurement of vital signs, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. They will understand the concepts of medical asepsis, infection control, and universal precautions applicable to all areas of healthcare. The importance of safe practice and the use of proper body mechanics are stressed. Mental health concepts, administration of medications, body structure and function, nutrition, and personal, family, and community concepts are studied. Clinical experience is an integral part of the program. Graduates will be eligible to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Program Outcomes (Student Learning Outcomes)

Upon completion of this program, the student should be able to: 

1. Practice quality, safe, and relationship-centered care as guided by practical nurse scope of practice.
2. Using a systems approach, ensure nursing judgement and collaboration in caring for diverse patients and families.
3. Employ a spirit of inquiry and integrity in providing care consistent with legal and professional standards of the practical nurse.
4. As a coordinator of care, generate system and professional resources for health and wellness which facilitate patient, family, personal, and professional growth.

Special Admissions Requirements

Please refer to the “Undergraduate Nursing Admission Requirements” policy in the Admissions Information section of this catalog for nursing program admission requirements.

Program Content

A minimum of 37.00 semester credit hours is required for graduation.

Third Party Testing

Assessment and remediation are critical components of nursing education. Students in the nursing program may be required to take third-party, standardized, proctored exams in an electronic format throughout the curriculum. Students may be required to go to a third-party testing site to complete exams.  These standardized tests are valid and reliable predictors of success on the NCLEX examination and provide valuable feedback concerning student strengths and weaknesses. Student learning outcome data identifies content areas that require remediation, allowing faculty to personalize student support and intervention. Courses that utilize third-party exams will incorporate the points earned on the test as a percentage of the final grade earned for the course as specified in the course syllabus.

PN Exit Exam

The exit exam will cover content from all nursing courses, is reflective of NCLEX readiness and is administered in the final semester. Students will take practice assessments during the NP 280 course, in conjunction with individualized remediation and completion of assignments focused on NCLEX readiness. This is followed by a final exit exam.

Students who are unable to reach the *benchmark score on the exit exam will receive an Incomplete (I) grade for their NP 280 course and will be required to successfully reach this benchmark on the final exit exam by the second week of the subsequent semester to resolve the (I) grade. 

If they are unable to resolve the (I) grade by the second week of the subsequent semester, the grade will convert to an (F) grade and the student will be placed on “Approved Break” for the remainder of the semester, during which time they must remain actively engaged in formal remediation. This will cause a delay in program completion and graduation. Students should discuss the implications of being on “Approved Break” with their financial aid advisor.

*Threshold benchmark scores required to pass the exit exams are based upon national student performance data and may be changed at any time by the university.

Statement on the Importance of Proficiency in Dosage Calculation in Nursing Programs

Proficiency in dosage calculation is a critical competency for nursing students and a foundational requirement for safe and effective patient care. Accurate dosage calculations are essential to ensure that patients receive the correct amount of medication, minimizing the risk of adverse drug events and medication errors, which can have serious or even life-threatening consequences.

In recognition of the vital role that dosage calculation plays in clinical practice, nursing programs require that students demonstrate mastery in this area before they are eligible to participate in clinical experiences. This ensures that nursing students are adequately prepared to handle the responsibilities of medication administration in real-world healthcare settings.

Validating proficiency in dosage calculation is not only a measure of academic achievement but also a safeguard for patient safety. By upholding this standard, nursing programs affirm their commitment to producing competent, confident, and responsible nursing professionals who are equipped to deliver high-quality care. Please refer to syllabi for specific requirements for individual courses.

Clinical Readiness Requirement

This program requires completion of a clinical readiness  preparation.