Is caring for others one of your many passions? Do you enjoy taking care of your friends and family. Turn your passion into a new career with Broward Technical Colleges Practical Nursing program. Our program will prepare you to plan, implement and participate in the evaluation of nursing care. You’ll learn the ins and outs of patient care and office protocol in hospitals and extended care facilities so you’ll be able to turn your caring nature into a caring career.
This full-time Practical Nursing program is 1,350 hours and can be completed in approximately 12 months, helping students build the classroom knowledge, clinical experience, and professional skills needed to pursue practical nursing opportunities in Florida.
Students are introduced to the clinical area early in the program, allowing them to connect what they learn in the classroom with real health care settings. Theory and clinical procedures are integrated throughout the program to reinforce learning and help students gain confidence as they prepare for patient care responsibilities.
After completion of our Practical Nursing program, you’ll be certified and eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The Florida State Board of Nursing issues licenses for passing scores so you’ll be well on your way to a new career.
A certificate is issued after successful completion of the program in accordance with State guidelines. Graduates are entitled to take the NCLEX-PN licensure examination, and the Florida State Board of Nursing will issue a license to those who pass the examination.
Our program is approximately 12-months at full-time pace so you’ll be on a path for a career in a year in the rewarding nursing profession. Registration is now open!
Skills and Topics Covered in the Program
In addition to nursing care planning, implementation, and evaluation, students receive instruction in a wide range of practical nursing skills and health science topics. Areas covered may include:
- Administering medications
- Anatomy and physiology
- Aseptic technique and infection control procedures
- CPR and response to emergency situations
- Care of the geriatric and medical/surgical patient
- Maternal/newborn care and pediatrics
- Personal patient care
- HIPAA, legal, and ethical responsibilities
- Safety and security procedures
- Communication and interpersonal skills
Admission Requirements
Students interested in the Practical Nursing program should plan ahead before registration. Completion of the requirements for entry into the program may take a minimum of three weeks, so applicants should allow enough time before the registration period to complete all entry requirements.
Admission requirements for the Practical Nursing program include having a standard high school diploma, state-awarded high school diploma, or high school equivalency, with any college degrees coming from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also complete the Basic Skills Test or qualify for an exemption, meet the minimum required scores on the TEAS or HESI before registration, and attend a Practical Nursing-specific orientation for additional program entry details. Before entering the program, applicants must also receive clearance on an FDLE Level II background check, provide negative drug test results, and complete all required immunizations and a physical.
Industry Certification and Credential Exam Information
The Practical Nursing program helps prepare students for the certification or licensure exams required for their field. While exam fees are not included in the program cost, students who pass may be eligible to have those costs reimbursed. For details about approved exams, fees, and possible reimbursement options, students should connect with their program counselor or advisor.
College Credit Transfer Opportunity
Students who complete the Practical Nursing program may be able to apply their training toward free associate degree credits at Broward College or another Florida state college. Earning industry certifications may also create opportunities for additional college credit. Students are encouraged to review the articulation agreement information online or speak with a program counselor or advisor to learn what credits they may qualify for.