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Practical Nursing Certificate

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Four Practical Nursing Certificate students in a simulation hospital room with a 'patient' on the bed.

If you are seeking a career in nursing, beginning as a practical nurse is a great way to start. The Practical Nursing Certificate at NECC includes classroom study, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences to prepare you for an entry level job as a practical nurse.

Why Choose NECC?

NECC’s program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. As a successful graduate of the program you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). You can also apply credits earned to NECC’s associate degree in nursing, which also offers an advanced placement option for licensed practical nursing. In this program you will:

  • Learn about human anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology
  • Compete a sequence of nurse training courses including significant laboratory work
  • Benefit from multiple supervised experiences in clinical care settings
  • Gain the skills to provide effective, safe, entry-level patient care
  • Prepare for a career that is emotionally and financially rewarding

Because of NECC

You will be well prepared to take the national certification exam and begin a career working in a variety of practical nursing roles. Upon completion of the program you can:

  • Take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN)
  • Work for long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health care, rehabilitation centers, and more
  • Apply credits toward NECC’s Associate Degree in Nursing, or the Nursing Advanced Placement LPN to RN

 

Courses and Requirements

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Program Pathway

A pathway is the most efficient sequence of courses semester-to-semester recommended for students to complete their degree. View the suggested pathway for Practical Nursing.

Career Paths & Job Market

Job Opportunities

Job Opportunities

There is a growing market for LPNs. See the US Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information, including median expected salaries. As working professions, LPNs may specialize in a particular disease, ailment or condition. They can practice in a variety of settings and may specialize in a particular disease, ailment or condition or they may provide basic care to patients. Most LPNs work alongside registered nurses, physicians, surgeons, and other health care practitioners. LPNs may practice in a variety of settings:

  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Physicians’ offices
  • Schools
  • Outpatient treatment facilities
  • Home health care agencies
  • Correctional facilities
  • Travel Corps
  • Summer Camps
  • Military
Career Paths

Career Paths

Students in NECC’s Practical Nursing Certificate Program graduate as competent nurses eligible and prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Upon successful completion of NCLEX and ability to meet specific Nursing Board of Registration requirements, you are issued the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Transferring to a 4 year College or University

Transferring to a 4 year College or University

Students who complete a certificate program may choose to directly enter the workforce or they may further their education by transferring into an associate degree or bachelor’s degree program in preparation of their registered nursing licensing exam. Please contact the Academic Advising Department for further information. Students may also refer to the Transfer Programs and Events pages. Transfer information specific to the program.

Contact

Assistant Dean of Nursing and Health Professions

Assistant Dean of Nursing and Health Professions

Kelly Fisher, PhD, RN

Phone: 978-655-5931 Please call to schedule an appointment Email: kfisher@necc.mass.edu

PN Level Coordinator

PN Level Coordinator

Brienna Woodworth, MSN, RN, CNE

Office LC-312 C
Phone: 978-655-5902
Email: bwoodworth@necc.mass.edu
Please email inquiries in regard to the PN program.

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Contact Information

Susan Fichera, MSN, RN, NP-C, Professor

Email: sfichera@necc.mass.edu
Phone: 978-655-5882
Office: LC-312D

Sheila Kane, MS, RN, CNE, Professor

Email: skane@necc.mass.edu
Phone: 978-655-5884
Office: LC-312B

Brienna Woodworth, MSN, RN, CNE

Email: bwoodworth@necc.mass.edu
Phone: 978-655-5902
Office LC-312 C

Additional Information

Accreditation

Accreditation

The nursing program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing, Boston, MA.

The Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc., 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400; Atlanta, Georgia 30326; (404) 975-5000; https://www.acenursing.org

The Associate Degree nursing program at NECC located in Lawrence, MA is accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate degree nursing program is continuing accreditation.

The Practical Certificate nursing program at NECC located in Lawrence, MA is accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Practical Certificate nursing program is continuing accreditation.

Program Effectiveness Data

Program Effectiveness Data

Student Achievement Outcome Data

1. Graduates’ success on the licensure/certification examination

1 Graduates’ success on the licensure examination
Class of 2024 – pending
Class of 2023 – 95%

2. Students’ completion of the nursing program within 150% of the stated time for the program.
Class of 2024 – 100%

3. Graduates employed within one year
Class of 2023 100%

Additional Program Costs

Additional Program Costs

View the Additional Program Costs for Nursing Programs

Required Documents

Criteria Packets Technical Standards CORI/CHRI/SORI

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