Practical Nursing (LPN)

Overview

This accredited program teaches you the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective practical nurse. Students will learn basic nursing skills in an academic program that balances classroom instruction with relevant clinical experience.

The Practical Nursing program is designed to help students develop basic nursing skills in medical, surgical, obstetrical and pediatric nursing. The role of the practical nurse focuses on the technical skills, general knowledge, and judgment necessary to organize and provide caring interventions to patients with commonly occurring medical conditions. The practical nurse participates in health promotion/maintenance activities for the individual in the context of the family. The practical nurse is prepared to provide nursing care within the scope of practice defined by the South Carolina Board of Nursing under the direct supervision of the registered nurse and/or other health care provider. The course of study balances classroom instruction with relevant clinical experience and provides the opportunity for students to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective practitioners of practical nursing.

Learning experiences for students in the Practical Nursing Diploma Program are provided in classrooms and laboratories on the Airport Campus in the Health Sciences Building and Lexington Hall. Student preclinical experience is provided in nursing skills labs and a state-of-the-art simulation lab. Required clinical experiences (externships/internships) are arranged through affiliations with local healthcare facilities.

See Program Outcomes Data.

Licensure

Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The program is approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing. Candidates who have criminal records may be required to appear before the South Carolina Board of Nursing, which will determine eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The practical nursing program at Midlands Technical College located in West Columbia, SC is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the practical and associate nursing programs is continuing accreditation.

Accrediting Agencies

South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation,
State Board of Nursing for South Carolina Synergy 
Business Park, Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Dr., Suite 202
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 896-4550
http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/NURSING/

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing logoAccreditation Commission for
Education in Nursing, Inc. 
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
www.acenursing.org
 

Information Sessions

Nursing Information Sessions provide foundational information to those interested in the MTC Nursing Programs.

If you have any questions, please attend an information session held via Zoom on the 1st Wednesdays of every month except December and May from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required via the Zoom link https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAtdu6trDkjE9B_bR5zMlYHa8Uhbl0aYBCq. Children may not attend.

If you have been assigned a personal advisor, you may also contact your advisor to have questions answered.

Special Requirements

Students are required to take standardized tests at an approximate cost of $195 a semester. The approximate cost for taking the licensure exam (NCLEX-PN) upon completion of the program is $350. Students must purchase liability insurance each semester at a cost of approximately $5. Students must purchase a uniform, special equipment and clinical documentation sessions in the first semester (the approximate cost is $350). Skills packets, learning packets, and books must be purchased at the bookstore for nursing courses.

In addition to the college’s placement test, students must meet one of the following criteria to be admitted to the Nursing Program:

Ensure all required prerequisite courses are completed in order to submit a competitive Nursing program application.

LPN Prerequisite Courses:

  1. ENG 101
  2. PSY 201
  3. PSY 203
  4. BIO 210 (must be completed within 5 years of starting NUR 134 or NUR-203)
  5. BIO 211 (must be completed within 5 years of starting NUR 134 or NUR-203)
  6. MAT 102 or higher

NOTE: No grade can be lower than a “C”.  No more than one repeat attempt per course at Midlands Technical College or any post-secondary institution, with no more than 2 courses repeated/attempted. “W”s awarded since Fall 2018 count as an attempt or a repeat with the exception of “W”s awarded in Spring 2020, Summer 2020, Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021.  Due to COVID-19, “W”s awarded during those semesters will not count as an attempt nor count against the students in future semesters.

Beginning Summer 2024, "W"s awarded in general education courses beginning this semester will not count as an attempt. Biology and math courses must be completed within 5 years.

Open Application Dates for Competitive Nursing Applications

Applications for all Nursing programs are released once your advisor deems you will, or should, meet eligibility requirements for on open application date. It is your responsibility as the student to submit the application once requirements are met. If an application is submitted too early, too late, or without meeting requirements it will not be reviewed.

- Open Application dates for Fall Semester starts are January 15 – May 15.

  • Applications will be accepted for ADN, LPN and Transition.
  • Notification of acceptance or denial into the Nursing program will be received by June 15.

- Open Application dates for Spring Semester starts are May 25 – August 25.

  • Applications will only be accepted for ADN and LPN.
  • Notification of acceptance or denial into the Nursing program will be received by September 15.

- Open Application dates for Summer Semester starts are September 15 – December 15.

  • Applications will be accepted for ADN, LPN, and Transition.
  • Notification of acceptance or denial into the Nursing program will be received by January 25.

 

 

Additional Requirements
  • High school or college credits in biology and algebra are recommended.
  • Emotional and physical ability to carry out normal activities of nursing care as determined by physical examination.
  • Cleared background check; negative drug screen; physical exam; immunizations such as Hepatitis B, Varicella, and MMR; a two-step TB skin test (PPD) or Quantiferon Gold; and CPR (American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers)  are required to enter clinical courses.

Qualified applicants must attend a two-part orientation session.

Applicants must have a cumulative 2.0 GPA for all Midlands Technical College course work for entrance into and progression through the nursing curriculum.

The Nursing Student Handbook outlines other policies relevant to students in the program.

Progression

The Nursing Student Handbook outlines the current progression policies in the nursing program. Students are responsible for following the policies in place at the time t hey begin NUR 134 or NUR 203..

Program Type

Diploma

How to Enroll

To pursue this degree, you must apply to MTC using our online application.

Apply Now

Questions?

Print Plan

Sample Program Plan and Costs

On-Campus Traditional. Classes meet on campus.
Virtual 100% online. Meets with a live instructor and classmates on specific days, at specific times. Uses web conferencing software, like Zoom.
Hybrid Some classes on campus. Some classes online or virtual.
Online 100% online. Due dates for projects and assignments. Self-paced work on your time.
Semester Course ID Course Title Classroom Online Hybrid Virtual Credits
Semester 1
(16 Credit Hours)
ENG-101 English Comp I

English Comp I

ID: ENG-101

Credit Hours: 3

This is a (college transfer) course in which the following topics are presented: a study of composition in conjunction with appropriate literary selections, with frequent theme assignments to reinforce effective writing. A review of standard usage and the basic techniques of research are also presented.

3
BIO-210 Anatomy and Physiology I

Anatomy and Physiology I

ID: BIO-210

Credit Hours: 4

This is the first in a sequence of courses, including an intensive coverage of the body as an integrated whole. All body systems are studied. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which systems interact to maintain homeostasis. The study includes general chemistry principles, biochemistry, cells and tissues and the following systems will be covered: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and special senses.

4
PSY-201 General Psychology

General Psychology

ID: PSY-201

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics and concepts in the science of behavior: scientific method, biological bases for behavior, perception, motivation, learning memory, development, personality, abnormal behavior, therapeutic techniques, and social psychology.

3
NUR-131 Introduction to Pharmacology

Introduction to Pharmacology

ID: NUR-131

Credit Hours: 1

This course is a study of drug calculations and basic concepts of pharmacology.

1
NUR-134 Beginning Nursing Skills

Beginning Nursing Skills

ID: NUR-134

Credit Hours: 5

This course is a study of beginning nursing skills. The course prepares the student to assist in patient care and function as an efficient member of the nursing team.

5
Semester 2
(15 Credit Hours)
BIO-211 Anatomy and Physiology II

Anatomy and Physiology II

ID: BIO-211

Credit Hours: 4

This is a continuation of a sequence of courses, including intensive coverage of the body as an integrated whole. All body systems are studied. Emplasis is placed on the manner in which systems interact to maintain homeostasis. The following systems will be covered: endocrine, lymphatic, immune, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive.

4
PSY-203 Human Growth and Development

Human Growth and Development

ID: PSY-203

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the physical, cognitive, and social factors affecting human growth, development, and potential.

3
NUR-155 Contemporary Nursing Practice I

Contemporary Nursing Practice I

ID: NUR-155

Credit Hours: 6

This course provides further development of proficiency in nursing care of individuals experiencing commonly occurring health problems with predictable outcomes.

6
NUR-141 Pharmacological Therapies I

Pharmacological Therapies I

ID: NUR-141

Credit Hours: 2

This course introduces the role of the nurse in the safe and effective administration of medications.

2
Semester 3
(13 Credit Hours)
MAT-102 Intermediate Algebra

Intermediate Algebra

ID: MAT-102

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: properties of numbers; fundamental operations with algebraic expressions; polynomials; systems of equations; ratio and proportion; factoring; functions; graphs; solutions of linear inequalities; and linear and quadratic equations.

3
NUR-158 Health Promotion for Families I

Health Promotion for Families I

ID: NUR-158

Credit Hours: 4

This course focuses on nursing care of the childbearing and childrearing families experiencing normal developmental changes and common health problems.

4
NUR-166 Issues in Practical Nursing

Issues in Practical Nursing

ID: NUR-166

Credit Hours: 1

This course addresses current issues for the practical nurse.

1
NUR-235 Contemporary Medical Surg Nur Concepts

Contemporary Medical Surg Nur Concepts

ID: NUR-235

Credit Hours: 5

This course advances the development of the practical nurse in providing medical surgical care for individuals with complex health problems with predictable outcomes.

5
  Total Credit Hours 44
  Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
$8,800.00
Not including fees and equipment

Careers

Practical Nurse – Long-term Care Facility

Long-term care facilities provide a variety of services, both medical and personal care, to people who are unable to manage independently in the community. The Practical Nurse in these facilities provides direct patient care, administers medications, provides and manages patients’ comfort, prevention, and treatment under the direction of the Registered Nurse.

Projected Job Growth

+4.7%

Average Annual Salary

$47,175
According to EMSI data as of 2022

Where Can I Work?

  • Nursing Home Facilities
  • Long-term Care Facilities

Careers

Practical Nurse – Rehabilitation Centers

The goal of a practical nurse in a rehabilitation facility is to assist patients to achieve milestones and regain their independence. The practical nurse will assist the patient on their road to recovery from strokes, joint replacements, and spinal cord injuries.

Projected Job Growth

+4.7%

Average Annual Salary

$47,175
According to EMSI data as of 2022

Where Can I Work?

  • Rehabilitation Centers
  • Sports Facilities

Careers

Practical Nurse – Physician's Offices and Clinics

Working in physician’s offices and well-care clinics, the practical nurse is responsible for collecting patient data, scheduling appointments or hospital admissions, taking vital signs, collecting specimens, assisting the doctor during medical procedures, administering oral and injectable forms of medications, and documenting patient care as delivered.

Projected Job Growth

+4.7%

Average Annual Salary

$47,175
According to EMSI data as of 2022

Where Can I Work?

  • Private Practices
  • Medical Clinics

What’s next after I complete this program?

Join the WorkForce

Completing the practical nurse program and successfully passing the NCLEX-PN exam will allow the licensed practical nurse to enter work as an entry-level Practical Nurse. Work is available in various health care settings.

LPN-ADN

Licensed Practical Nurses can further their education to become a Registered Nurse in the LPN - Associate Degree Nurse program. Midlands Technical College offers a program specifically for LPNs who want to transition to ADNs. Upon completion of this program, the licensed practical nurse has the qualifications to take the NCLEX -RN, the national RN licensing exam

Want more information?

Academic programs count as academic credit for a certificate, diploma or degree and may transfer toward future academic endeavors at four-year colleges and universities.
Training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months, are focused on career training, and provide credentials and certificates needed in the specific fields of study. Coursework does not transfer.
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