The Practical Nursing 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 such as administering medications, monitoring patients, changing dressings, and collaborating with other members of the health care team. This is done through a selected number of general core and occupational courses providing a variety of techniques and materials necessary to assist the student in acquiring the needed knowledge and skills to give competent care. A variety of clinical experiences are 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. Once a student has met the criteria, then he/she will follow the sequence of Practical Nursing Practice courses. After completing the general core and occupational classes, the program generally takes a minimum of three (3) consecutive semester terms to complete. To graduate, students must earn a minimum of 60 semester credit hours. Students may enter the program in either Fall or Spring semesters on the Swainsboro or Vidalia campus. Immediately upon graduation, students have obtained gainful employment in various healthcare facilities including nursing homes, hospitals, and doctors’ offices.