The Practical Nursing program is a non-credit, clock-hour certificate program. The curriculum is divided into four modules/semesters that can be completed in 18 months with an evening and weekend schedule. Each module coincides with a term semester and offers at least a one-week break between modules. There is a total of 610 classroom hours and 890 clinical practice hours for a total of 1,500 hours. Quantitative grades are awarded for classroom instruction and the clinical/lab practicum portion grades are awarded on a pass/fail basis. In addition to meeting clock-hour requirements, students must maintain a minimum of a 75% average for classroom instruction and a passing grade for clinical practice to progress.

Module 1 - Fall 1

Structure and Function of the Human Body

  • HSSCI 6000 (90 hours)

Introduction to human anatomy and physiology as it relates to the body in health and disease. The relationship between the structure and function in each body system is emphasized. Students explore the interrelationships among all body systems for the maintenance of homeostasis.

Fundamentals of Practical Nursing

  • HSSCI 6001 (115 Classroom Hours & 180 Clinical Hours)

The course offers an orientation to the practical nursing program including objectives and requirements, responsibilities of the student nurse, communication skills, basic nursing knowledge, legal and ethical aspects for nursing and skills common to all areas of nursing practice.

Module 2 - Spring

Medical Surgical Nursing

  • HSSCI 6002 (155 Classroom Hours & 230 Clinical Hours)

This course introduces math for pharmacology and the study of drug preparation and administration. The study of nursing care of adults continues the basic medical-surgical concepts studied in Level I.

Prerequisites:  HSSCI 6000, HSSCI 6001

Module 3 - Summer

Reproductive & Pediatric Nursing

  • HSSCI 6003 (120 Classroom Hours & 230 Clinical Hours)

The system approach to the study of diseases and disorders continues with the study of the reproductive and respiratory systems. Content includes aspects of how disease processes affect individuals throughout the life span. Concepts of pediatrics and family centered nursing are studied.

Prerequisites: HSSCI 6000, HSSCI 6001, HSSCI 6002

Module 4 - Fall 2

Medical-Surgical, Mental Health, and Management

  • HSSCI 6004 (130 Class Hours & 250 Clinical Hours)

The course continues to build on the principles of medical-surgical nursing. Additional systems studied include the endocrine system, the integumentary system, and the nervous system. Mental health and illness concepts are also included. Issues and trends in nursing, nursing organizations, job seeking skills and the role of the LPN in society complete the course content.

Prerequisites: HSSCI 6000, HSSCI 6001, HSSCI 6002, HSSCI 6003