The practical nursing program will prepare you for entry-level employment in the health care field. This program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Coursework includes standard class work, laboratory simulation, and clinical education. The course schedule is rigid and must be taken in a specific order to progress.
"Three weeks into starting the Practical Nursing program I became a single mother. I completed the Practical Nursing program and passed the licensure exam and went to work. One year later I continued on in school to obtain my Registered Nursing license while working as an LPN..."
- Megan Lindsey, LPN
For applicants that are seniors in High School, a minimum GPA (grade point average) of a 2.75 for admission. Selection process for the applicant that is graduating from High School in May, acceptance year, is through a point ranking system that includes the following: TEAS score, ACT scores, and Medical Professions program participant. Candidates will be conditionally accepted pending completion of a clear criminal background check and drug screening.
The admission process to the Certificate (PN) Nursing Program is selective. It is 41 credit hours that are designed as an 11-month program that begins in July and students graduate in May with a full-time schedule Monday through Friday. Courses are taken in sequence requiring that each class be successfully completed before progressing to the next course. There are no pre-requisite courses for admission. College courses like Anatomy and Physiology may be accepted toward the PN certificate. Evaluation of college course work completion will be done by the Program Director and the Dean of Nursing. Science courses cannot be over seven years old at the time of entry into the nursing program. Applicants for the Certificate (PN) Nursing Program are chosen using a ranking system. Applicants receive points in the ranking system for the following: TEAS score, certifications; recent work experience in health care; and selected college credit. Visit the PN admissions page for more information. Candidates will be conditionally accepted pending completion of a clear criminal background check and drug screening.
View the Practical Nursing Technical Certificate degree plan for a complete course listing.
After completing this 11-month program, you will be prepared to take the National Licensure exam for an LPN license (Licensed Practical Nurse) or to continue advancing your education in the nursing field.
| Year | 1st Time Pass Rate NCLEX |
6 Month Job Placement |
6 Month Graduate Satisfaction |
6 Month Employer Satisfaction |
Retention Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 100% | Pending | Pending | Pending | 65.2% |
| 2023 | 86.6% | 100% | 100% | 90.9% | 51.1% |
| 2022 | 96.3% | 100% | 90% | 100% | 63% |
| 2021 | 74.1% | 90% | 90% | 100% | 51% |
