Richland Community College

Nursing Programs Offered

ADN Program Details

This is a career and technical education program. Upon successful completion of all program requirements an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing is awarded. This is commonly called Associate Degree Nursing (ADN). Eligible graduates may take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and are considered a Registered Nurse upon successful completion. Some courses may not transfer to four-year institutions, but transfer opportunities exist for students wanting a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

The Nursing Program is a selective admission program, and minimum criteria must be met in order to receive an application. Admission to the program is by application. Admission to Richland Community College does not guarantee acceptance to the program. The program begins each fall and spring semester, and takes two full years to complete. Out-of-district students will be considered for the program when space is available.

LPN Program Details

The Practical Nursing Program is a selective admission program, and minimum criteria must be met in order to receive an application. Admission to the program is by application. Admission to Richland Community College does not guarantee acceptance to the program. The program begins in June (Summer semester), and takes one year to complete.

The Practical Nursing program is approved by the Illinois of Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and prepares entry-level students to provide nursing care to clients with normal and common health problems through the use of basic skills under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed physician. Job opportunities for LPNs include a variety of nursing positions such as in hospitals, agencies, physician’s offices, and extended care facilities. The program consists of classroom instruction, laboratory, and clinical experiences in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings. In addition, the curriculum is structured so that the practical nurse graduate may choose courses that will allow for continued study in Richland Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing program.

Upon successful completion of the program and on passing the required criminal background check, the graduate will then be eligible to write the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). After successfully passing this examination, the graduate can apply for licensure as a practical nurse. As required by the Illinois Nursing & Advanced Practice Nursing Act, the licensing process includes a criminal background check.