The Practical Nursing Program is designed to provide learning opportunities in various settings where students work closely with physicians, registered nurses and other health care professionals in the delivery of delegated medical care and skills. In addition, assistance is provided to individuals to meet their basic human needs. The program stresses meeting basic needs within the framework of normal growth and development throughout the life span. Learning experiences are developed utilizing the nursing process as a framework for training the practical nursing student. Emphasis is placed on safe practice and the role of the Licensed Practical Nurse. Past experience, the study of sciences, and personal initiative are all considered important for success in this program. The program is fully approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

The Practical Nursing Program provides a foundation for career mobility with associate or baccalaureate professional nursing programs.

The Part-time Evening/Weekend Practical Nursing Program has begun for Fall 2009 and may be offered again for Fall 2011. This part-time program is specifically designed for working adults who are interested in becoming LPNs but have other responsibilities that interfere with their ability to attend the rigorous full-time day Practical Nursing Program. Classes will be provided in a combination of evening, weekend and online. The program is designed at a slower pace to be completed over 4 semesters and one summer session. This will be a continuous program. If a student needs to leave the part-time program, they will need to wait until the next cohort beings.

Process
Additional Program Information is available from this webpage on the left-hand side including the Admissions Process for the programs, Program Faculty Information, and other important program related information.  Please review all of the program information on the Program Admissions link.  This is a professional education program and you will be expected to display personal responsibility and understanding of the requirements of the program and profession.  If you still have additional questions, please attend an information meeting and learn more about applying to the program and what types of jobs this education can lead towards.

Informational Meeting
All students interested in the Practical Nursing Program should sign up for an informational meeting. The meeting is held once a month and offers those interested in the program a chance to meet faculty and receive all the information needed to be considered for the program. This is also where the online application process will be discussed. This application is in addition to the college application. If you are not a current student, please enter Door 1 and go to Admissions and ask for a parking permit.  To find upcoming dates and times and to sign up for a meeting, view our informational meeting calendar here.