Practical Nursing Certificate
The Practical Nursing (PN) curriculum, approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, covers the essential education for the licensed practical nurse (LPN). This program prepares students to deliver competent nursing care as part of a team with registered nurses (RNs), other LPNs, and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in both acute care and long-term care environments. Clinical courses take place in a variety of healthcare facilities in the region, according to the course’s focus. Upon successful completion of the curriculum, the graduate is awarded a certificate in practical nursing and is eligible to sit for the (NCLEX-PN) board examination. The PN program can be completed in one year or less.
In addition to the scholastic standards required of all students in the College, PN students are required to achieve a grade of C or better in each nursing course to continue in the program.
After acceptance into the Practical Nursing Program, all students must obtain current CPR certification for “Healthcare Provider” or “Professional Rescuer” as well as a TB test or chest X-ray showing no evidence of tubercular disease. Clinical agencies require documented evidence (titers) of immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis B (immunization series may be in progress with titer obtained at its conclusion). In addition, knowledge of varicella (chicken pox) immune status by blood titer is required.
Health Sciences AdmissionsProgram Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, a student will be able to:
- Apply legal and ethical standards and adhere to professional codes of conduct of LPN practice.
- Utilize clinical reasoning skills to provide safe and effective care within the LPN scope.
- Prioritize the needs and preferences of patients, incorporating cultural, spiritual, and ethical considerations into their care.
- Effectively communicate and collaborate with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to promote patient outcomes and interdisciplinary care.
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of electronic health records (EHRs), medical devices, and other technological tools relevant to the LPN scope of practice.
- Identify and implement safety measures to prevent injury or harm to patients, themselves, and others in the healthcare environment.
Program Advising
Prospective students should attend an information session instead of contacting a program advisor. Students will receive advising through the nursing program after admission into the program. If you are a current nursing student, meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer.
- Find a Program Advisor
- For a printable degree planner, please go to the Programs of Study page in the catalog new window, locate and navigate to your program, and click on the "Print Degree Planner" icon at the top of the page.
Careers
For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.
Graduate of this program typically pursue a career as a registered nurse.
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- MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN) new window account and other job search topics.
- Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.
Curriculum
See syllabi for all nursing courses.
Health Sciences Admissions
Related Programs and Courses
General Studies Degree
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Health Career Training Programs: Students have the opportunity to learn an entry level skill in the field of health sciences such as dialysis, EKG, phlebotomy, pharmacy technician, or medical assistant. We also offer wellness training and TEAS test preparation. Learn more about Health Career Training Programs.
Nursing Related Courses: Nursing related courses include certified nursing assistant (CNA), certified geriatric assistant (GNA), and CPR and first aid training. We also offer nursing refresher classes for nurses wishing to reenter the field, as well as NCLEX RN review. Learn more about Nursing Related Courses.