North Idaho College

Nursing Programs Offered

ADN Program Details

The faculty of the Associate Degree Nursing program upholds the mission of North Idaho College in supporting student success, teaching excellence, and responding to the needs of the community.

The mission of the nursing program is to provide the opportunity for eligible individuals to acquire the education necessary for entry into the profession of nursing as a registered nurse. In collaboration with the healthcare community, the program strives to provide competent, caring registered nurses who are committed to lifelong learning. The curriculum includes general education courses in the arts and sciences and nursing courses, which provide nursing theory in the classroom and clinical experiences in health care agencies.

Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Passing the examination qualifies the individual to apply for licensure as a registered nurse in any state. The program prepares the graduate for employment in entry level positions in a variety of health care settings and areas of nursing practice. The program is designed as a transfer degree and will satisfy core requirements at Idaho public colleges and universities which offer RN to BSN programs.

The Associate Degree Nursing Program is approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Inquires can be made by contacting the above agencies at: Idaho Board of Nursing, P.O. Box 83702, Boise, ID 83720-0061, 208.334.3110, www2.state.id.us/ibn/ibnhome.htm, and/or National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, 3343 Peachtree Road N.E. Suite 500, Atlanta, GA, 30326 or www.nlnac.org

The Associate Degree Nursing program has a selective admission process requiring specific prerequisite courses. See below for details regarding specific requirements. It is highly recommended that potential applicants meet with a nursing advisor as they begin planning their pre-nursing coursework. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are eligible to apply for advanced placement. LPNs must meet the same admission criteria as other program applicants. Applicants desiring advanced placement should meet with the chair of the Nursing Advanced Placement Committee for advisement.

LPN Program Details

This 11-month program prepares students for entry-level employment as practical nurses in hospitals, home health care, convalescent homes, and related health service professions. A technical certificate is awarded upon successful completion of the program. Students who wish to continue to the R.N. level should consult with their advisor for those program requirements.

Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Students who pass the exam are qualified to practice as licensed practical nurses in Idaho and may apply for licensure in other states by endorsement.

The curriculum includes basic and clinical foundations of nursing, medical and surgical nursing, maternal and infant care, nursing of children, psychiatric nursing, pharmacology, and geriatrics. The program is offered in cooperation with Kootenai Medical Center, local extended care facilities, physician offices, and the Idaho Division of Professional-Technical Education.