Goals

The goals of the Practical Nurse program are to:

  • Reading and Written Communication: Students will demonstrate competent writing and reading throughout their programs of study.
  • Oral Communication: Students will demonstrate effective oral communication skills in both general and major-specific contexts.
  • Critical Analysis and Reasoning: Students will use critical analysis and reasoning, supported by knowledge and skills learned throughout their degree programs, to enhance personal and professional decision making:
    • Quantitative analysis and reasoning
    • Analysis and reasoning in the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and arts
    • Ethical analysis and reasoning
    • Reasoning in career-related contexts
  • Knowledge and Skills for Living in a Diverse Society: Students will consider multiple perspectives (quantitative and qualitative, among individuals, from different cultural contexts, etc.) when making decisions independently or as part of a team.
  • Information Literacy: Students will define and articulate their needs for information and access this information effectively and efficiently.
  • Integration of Learning: Students will develop the ability to integrate their learning, making connections within their major, between fields, between curricular and co-curricular activities, and between academic knowledge and practice.
  • Educate qualified women and men to assist the professional nurse in the care of patients within the scope and limitations indicated by the accepted definition of the Licensed Practical Nurse.
  • Prepare students to meet the expectations and demands of the current healthcare workforce by working collaboratively with clinical healthcare providers and other communities of interest to ensure a smooth transition from the classroom to the real-world healthcare environment.
  • Provide the basis for higher education in nursing for all who desire it.
  • Respond to community needs by preparing skilled practitioners.
  • Provide a course of study at the college level to qualify students who wish to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
  • Provide the practical nursing program curriculum as an academic entry point on the nursing career ladder.