Practical Nursing Certificate
The Practical Nursing (PN) certificate program at Clover Park Technical College prepares graduates for entry into the nursing profession as practical nurses under the direction of a licensed registered nurse, licensed physician, or dentist. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX PN exam.
Clover Park Technical College’s Practical Nursing Certificate program consists of 60 credits of nursing courses and 45 credits of general education courses. Students must receive a “B-” or better in all technical (nursing) courses to satisfy graduation requirements. In addition, all students entering the practical nurse program must have completed a state-approved nursing assistant program (NA-C), successfully passed the state exam, and maintained a current unencumbered nursing assistant license throughout the program. (Addendum: Requirement removed.)
This PN program focuses on the art and science of nursing. Students learn in the classroom, by simulation in the skills laboratory, and in clinical practice settings. Clinical learning experiences are obtained in various health care settings in the community under the guidance of nursing faculty. Clinical experiences are largely scheduled between 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. The college reserves the right to schedule clinical experiences during evening and/or on weekends if necessary, and students may be required to travel up to 50 miles for clinical site.
To apply, download and complete the LPN Admission Packet and follow the directions given in the packet for deadlines and how to submit.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Practical Nursing certificate, students will be able to:
- Promote the dignity, integrity, self-determination, and personal growth of diverse patients, their families and oneself to provide individualized, culturally appropriate, relationship-centered nursing care.
- Make judgments in practice, substantiated with evidence, that integrate nursing science in the provision of safe, quality care for diverse patients and their families in collaboration with the health care team.
- Articulate a unique role as a member of the health care team, committed to evidence-based practice, caring, advocacy, and safe quality care, to provide optimal health care for diverse patients and their families.
- By collaborating with health care team members, utilize evidence, tradition, and patient preferences in predictable patient care situations to promote optimal health status.
Physical Activity Requirements
This occupation requires medium physical activity and lifting/handling objects weighing up to 50 lbs. and handling body fluids. Nurses are often standing for long periods of time. For safety and protection of patients, student nurses must be able to perform basic cardiac life support, including CPR, and function in stressful and/or emergency situations.
Employability Requirements
Graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and meet state eligibility requirements, including a criminal background check, in order to apply for licensure. Persons with some types of criminal convictions may not be eligible for licensure.
Program Length
This program is designed to be completed in four quarters. This is an academically rigorous program that requires a high degree of ability to read, understand, and critically think about and apply complex concepts in order to provide quality patient care. Students can expect 3-4 hours per week per class for homework and study (e.g. 15-20 hours per week for five classes) in addition to actual class time. It is strongly recommended that students not work more than 20 hours per week while in the nursing program to allow for adequate study time.
Admission Dates
Fall, winter, and spring quarters. It is a day program.
If students are taking or have taken prerequisite courses at another educational institution, they must have credits evaluated prior to submitting the application. Students must request an official college transcript be sent to CPTC Enrollment Services for evaluation and complete a transfer credit request form. Mail your official transcript to Clover Park Technical College ATTN: Credential Evaluator.
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure their application is complete and the nursing program receives the required documents. Instructions for submitting applications are included in the application packet.
Completion Requirements
Prerequisite(s)
CPTC courses with an “&” in the course name are transferable to other Washington State educational institutions.
Completion of the following academic prerequisites:
General Education Courses:
General Education Courses: You must achieve a “B” or better within 2 retakes (3 total) of the following:
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BIOL& 241 Human A & P 1 w/Lab (5 Cr.)
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BIOL& 242 Human A & P 2 w/Lab (5 Cr.)
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BIOL& 260 Microbiology with lab (5 Cr.)
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ENGL& 101 English Composition or ENGL& 235 Technical Writing (5 Cr.)
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MAT 099 Intermediate Algebra or MATH& 141 Precalculus I or MATH& 146 Introduction to Stats (5 Cr.) or MATH& 151 Calculus I
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NUTR& 101 Nutrition (5 Cr.)
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PSYC& 100DIV General Psychology (5 Cr.)
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PSYC& 200 Lifespan Psychology (developmental psychology) (5 Cr.)
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COLL 102 College Success for All (3 Cr.)
Speaking, understanding, and writing the English language is required.
State-approved nursing assistant course (NA-C), and current unencumbered/unrestricted NA-C certification from the state. (Addendum: Requirement changed). American Heart Association CPR for the Health Care Provider. This includes adult, child, and infant, under the guidelines of the American Heart Association. Online CPR courses are not accepted. Students are required to carry personal health/medical insurance throughout their clinical rotations.
NLN PAX Pre-admission Exam with a score of 102 or higher. This exam is offered in the college Testing Center.
Students must receive a “No Record On File” report related to crimes against persons from the Washington State Patrol. A non-refundable fee is charged to each student for the background check.
Program Course List