Practical Nursing - Diploma
You’re compassionate, detail-oriented and know how to handle stressful situations. You will make an excellent nurse!
Other programs in the Nursing pathway are Nursing Aide which is a one-class course offered in afternoons in many locations and in hybrid format to accommodate high school students and working individuals.
Successful completion of the Nursing Diploma program can be completed in Summer, Fall and Spring semesters (11-months) allows the student to test for the NCLEX-PN for licensure as a licensed practical nurse.
Successful completion of the Nursing AAS program can be completed in two years (starting in Summer) allows the student to test for the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a registered nurse.
Nursing is one of the most trusted healthcare professions. Those interested in entering nursing should be caring and compassionate, responsible, detail-oriented and have the ability to manage stress in dealing with patients and families with acute and chronic diseases.
The majority of the nursing workforce today consists of LPN's (Licensed Practical Nurses) and RN's (Registered Nurses). SCC's nursing program offers an educational program for each of these options.
Licensed Practical Nurses work primarily in long-term care settings, physicians' offices, clinics and home health care.
Upon completion of the requirements of the nursing program for the practical nursing diploma option (first three semesters) you are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) for practical nursing. Successful completion of the NCLEX-PN allows you to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Once achieving the requirements to become an LPN, you may advance to the Associate Degree Nurse career option. Students receiving the PN Diploma and passing the licensure examination may work as an LPN while pursuing the Associate Degree in Nursing.
PREPARATORY NURSING
Many students prep for Nursing by completing the related courses before enrolling in the PNN courses. Before enrolling in any of the preparatory courses, please review the offerings with an Enrollment Specialist.
Developmental Psychology
English Composition I
Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
Microbiology
Admissions standards apply for this program. Please contact the Enrollment Services Office for details.
Board of Nursing Professional Licensure Requirements by State/U.S. Department of Education
Regulation 34 CFR
https://www.ncsbn.org/14730.htm
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows a nurse to have one multistate license with
the ability to practice in the home state and other compact states.
https://www.ncsbn.org/compacts.htm
For specific information regarding program rules and expectations, please view the handbook. View the Program Handbook
Program Outcome and Accreditation Information
View the Gainful Employment Disclosure for Licensed Practical Nurse.
Southeastern Community College Practical/Vocational Nursing and Associate Degree in Nursing programs hold pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. 800-669-1656. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received.
*Additional Health professions student outcomes are available on the Consumer Information page.
West Burlington and Keokuk campus
Practical Nursing Diploma
Admission Criteria for Nursing Programs (#317) applies to this program. Below is a summary of the guidelines for convenience and is subject to change. Application deadlines apply to this program. Please contact Enrollment Services for more details.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalency.
- Current Iowa Certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant**.
- Complete and attain minimums in standardized scores within 24 months of review for
acceptance into the program:
- ACT
- Reading: 19
- Math: 19
- English: 17
- OR Composite of 20
- SAT
- Reading/Writing: 330
- Math: 510
- OR Composite of 1040
- Next-Gen ACCUPLACER:
- Reading: 248
- Writing: 260
- ALEKS:
- Math: 14
- Complete the following classes with a grade of C or better:
- BIO-168 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
- BIO-173 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
- BIO-186 Microbiology
- ACT
Additional Requirements
- Students are required to attend nursing orientation and complete the following requirements once admitted to the program.
- Students will be required to pass a mandatory background check.
- Students will be required to submit (at their own expense) a completed physical examination form and immunizations for health care providers.
- Current certification in CPR-Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers**.
- Current certification in Mandatory Reporter-Adult & Child Abuse**.
- Signed Confidentiality Agreement.
- Current HIPAA Certification.
- Current Blood Borne Pathogen certification.
**Certifications may be obtained at Southeastern Community College. Students should work with a Student Success Advocate for the appropriate courses and dates to obtain these certifications.
All health career programs require students to earn a grade of "C" (2.0) or above in all coursework within the program. All other eligibility requirements must be met. See a Student Success Advocate for further information or assistance with these requirements.
View Program Outcome and Accreditation information at https://nursing.iowa.gov/
Summary Sheet
The summary sheet provides a program overview and other information.
Curriculum Sequence |
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| Prerequisite | Course Title | Credit |
| BIO-168 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| BIO-173 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 4 |
| BIO-186 | Microbiology | 4 |
| TOTAL | 12 | |
| Summer Semester | Course Title | Credit |
| ENG-105 | Composition I | 3 |
| PNN-160 | Introduction to Nursing Practice | 2 |
| PSY-121 | Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| TOTAL | 8 | |
| Fall Semester I | Course Title | Credit |
| PNN-222 | Pharmacology I | 1 |
| PNN-534 | Nursing I | 12.5 |
| TOTAL | 13.5 | |
| Spring Semester I | Course Title | Credit |
| PNN-311 | PN Issues and Trends | 1 |
| PNN-535 | Nursing II | 12 |
| TOTAL | 13 | |
BIO-168 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I |
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Lecture: 3 |
Lab: 2 |
Credit: 4 |
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The first of a two-semester sequence providing a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body for college transfer and/or allied health prerequisites. Topics include body organization; homeostasis; cytology; histology; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems and special senses. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships. Laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy and dissection of selected organisms as well as the study of physiological concepts via experimentation. It is highly recommended that a student complete this series (BIO-168 and BIO-173) at SCC in order to maintain transferability to four-year institutions. |
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BIO-173 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II |
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Lecture: 3 |
Lab: 2 |
Credit: 4 |
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Second of a two-semester sequence continuing the comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body for college transfer and/or allied health prerequisites. Includes the study of the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships. Laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy and dissection of selected organisms as well as the study of physiological concepts via experimentation. Prerequisite: BIO-168 with a minimum grade of C. |
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BIO-186 - Microbiology |
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Lecture: 3 |
Lab: 2 |
Credit: 4 |
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A study of microbial populations and their relationships to the human in health and diseases. |
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ENG-105 - Composition I |
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Lecture: 3 |
Credit: 3 |
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A study of the principles of writing. Emphasis on rhetoric, mechanics and development of expository patterns: narration, description illustration, comparison/contrast, classification, process and cause/effect. Required for AA and AS Degrees. Prerequisite: Meet minimum test score requirements. |
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PNN-160 - Introduction to Nursing Practice |
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Lecture: 2 |
Credit: 2 |
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This course provides the student with an introduction to nursing concepts and principles. From a historical perspective, the student will explore the roles and challenges of the nurse in the health care continuum. The nursing process is introduced and serves as the foundation for the development of critical thinking and test taking strategy skills for success in the nursing program. Communication, stress and adaptation, wellness, professional accountability, information technology, time management and priority setting are also introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-168, BIO-173 and BIO-186 with a minimum grade of C or higher. Corequisites: PSY-121 and ENG-105 with a minimum grade of C or higher. |
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PSY-121 - Developmental Psychology |
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Lecture: 3 |
Credit: 3 |
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A systematic study of life-span development. Individual differences in behavior as well as cultural norms are considered in relation to heredity and environment. |
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PNN-222 - Pharmacology I |
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Lecture: 1 |
Credit: 1 |
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This course introduces the student to the basics of pharmacology. Principles of drug administration and dosage calculation will be introduced. Legal/ethical considerations, as related to drug therapy, are discussed. An overview of drug classifications, drug actions, common adverse reactions and nursing interventions are included. Emphasis is placed on nursing responsibilities in drug therapy. Prerequisites: BIO-168, BIO-173, BIO-186, ENG-105 and PSY-121 with a minimum grade of C or higher. Corequisite: PNN-534. |
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PNN-534 - Nursing I |
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Lecture: 8 |
Lab: 2 |
Clinical: 10.5 |
Credit: 12.5 |
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This course builds on concepts previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach is utilized in providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. The course emphasizes selected common and chronic alterations in health and includes essential content in fundamental nursing concepts and care. An opportunity is provided for students to apply theoretical knowledge, to utilize the nursing process and to practice nursing techniques in clinical settings. Prerequisites: PNN-160, PNN-222, BIO-168, BIO-173 and BIO-186 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite: PSY-121. |
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PNN-311 - PN Issues and Trends |
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Lecture: 1 |
Credit: 1 |
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This course is an overview of the role of the licensed practical nurse. Ethical and legal responsibilities of the nurse are identified. Levels of practice, licensure, career opportunities, and beginning the job-seeking skills are addressed. Opportunities for professional growth are explored. Prerequisite: PNN-534. Corequisite: BIO-186. |
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PNN-535 - Nursing II |
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Lecture: 8 |
Clinical: 12 |
Credit: 12 |
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This course continues to incorporate concepts previously presented in the curriculum. A systematic approach is utilized in providing nursing care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. This course emphasizes selected common and chronic alterations in health and includes essential content related to maternal-child care. An opportunity is provided for students to apply theoretical knowledge, to utilize the nursing process, and to practice nursing techniques in clinical settings. Prerequisite: PNN-534 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite: PNN-311. |
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Kristi Schroeder - Dean of Nursing & Health Professions, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5100 (WB) or (319) 524-3221 ext. 1979 (Keokuk)
Email: kschroeder@scciowa.edu
RN, Augustana Hospital School of Nursing
BSN, University of Phoenix
MSN, University of Phoenix
Tiffany West - Clinical Coordinator-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5218
Email: twest@scciowa.edu
BA, Luther College
BSN, Western Governors University
MSN Ed., Western Governors University
CHSE, Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator
Diane Aliprandi - Instructor-Nursing, (319) 524-3221 ext. 1978
Email: daliprandi@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Jacksonville University
MSN Ed., Western Governors University
CCRN, Critical Care Registered Nurse Certification
NR-EMT, Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician
Kimberly Hinson - Associate Professor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5267
Email: khinson@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Western Governors University
MSN Ed., Western Governors University
CEN, Certified Emergency Nurse Certification
Deanna Kline - Professor-Nursing, (319) 524-3221 ext. 1980
Email: dbkline@scciowa.edu
BSN, University of Nebraska Medical Center
MSN Ed., Walden University
CCRN, Critical Care Registered Nurse Certification
Tamika Miller - Assistant Professor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5264
Email: tmiller@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Iowa Wesleyan College
MSN Ed., University of Phoenix
Nancy Roed - Associate Professor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5223
Email: nroed@scciowa.edu
LPN, Southwestern Community College
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Iowa Wesleyan College
MSN Ed., Walden University
Trisha Thomann - Professor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5206
Email: tthomann@scciowa.edu
BSN, St. Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
MSN Ed., Walden University
Jeanie Titus - Professor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5260
Email: jtitus@scciowa.edu
ADN, Carl Sandburg College
BSN, Iowa Wesleyan College
MSN Ed., Clarkson College
Kali Watson - Instructor-Nursing, (319) 524-3221 ext. 1981
Email: kwatson@scciowa.edu
RN, Indian Hills
BSN, Kaplan University
MSN Ed., Western Governor's University
Jami Genkinger - Instructor-Nursing, (319) 208-5000 ext. 5131
Email: jgenkinger@scciowa.edu
ADN, Southeastern Community College
BSN, Jacksonville University
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