The Practical Nursing diploma program is designed to prepare students to write the NCLEX-PN for licensure as practical nurses. The program prepares graduates to give competent nursing care through a selected number of academic and occupational courses providing a variety of techniques and materials necessary to assist the student in acquiring the needed knowledge and skills. A variety of clinical experiences is planned so that theory and practice are integrated under the guidance of the clinical instructor. Program graduates receive a practical nursing diploma and have the qualifications of an entry-level practical nurse. Practical nursing is a diploma program to be implemented with new cohorts of students beginning fall and spring semesters. Students most commonly will have to submit a satisfactory criminal background check as well as a drug screen in order to be placed in a clinical health care facility to complete the clinical portions of their educational training.