The Practical Nursing Program at Union County College is a 4 semester, full-time program leading to a Diploma. Currently, the nursing courses are offered during the day, however, college courses may be taken during the evening or weekend hours, as available. There may be some clinical rotations offered in the afternoon or evening hours.

The curriculum incorporates theoretical knowledge from the biological and social sciences into the nursing framework. Students are able to apply information acquired in the classroom and skills laboratory to clinical client care experiences.

This new program has received accreditation from the New Jersey Board of Nursing through July 2014.

Graduates of this program are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN examination for Practical Nurse licensure. Upon licensure, the Practical Nurse is able to take advantage of a wide variety of employment opportunities in the health care field. The Licensed Practical Nurse has a critical role in the provision of care for clients throughout the life span. Beginning salaries average around $32,000 and may start as high as $40,000, dependent upon the setting.

Admission:

It is the applicant's responsibility to provide the following to the Union County College Admissions Office in order to complete his/her application. This information is also required for determination of advanced standing credit.

􀁺 Application form and payment of fee

􀁺 Official high school transcript or GED scores

􀁺 Official transcripts from other colleges/universities attended

􀁺 Review of foreign education transcripts by the World Education Services

Upon meeting the admission and placement criteria, student records will be reviewed for enrollment in PNU 110. Enrollment in the first nursing course will be based on completion of all developmental course work, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and determination of advanced standing, as appropriate. With extensive applicants and limited seating, preference will be given to those students with the highest GPAs who are already enrolled and continuing at Union County College. Upon reaching the maximum enrollment for PNU 110, qualified students will be evaluated for the next regular semester offering of the course.

Note: Students enrolled in nursing courses and applicants for nursing licensure are required to complete criminal history background checks.

All Students enrolled in the nursing program are responsible for the information contained in the Practical Nursing Student Handbook.