Whether you’re beginning your nursing career or looking to advance your skills, Charleston offers three reputable LPN programs tailored to meet various educational and career needs.
- Trident Technical College: Three-semester diploma program focused on practical nursing fundamentals and NCLEX-PN preparation. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
- Technical College of the Lowcountry: One-year program starting each fall, emphasizes hands-on learning and boasts a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate. Classes held during the day.
- ECPI University: 15-month intensive diploma, prepares students through hands-on training and theoretical coursework. Offers year-round enrollment and various financial aid options.
Each institution offers unique features and opportunities. Learn more about each program’s various factors such as program length, cost, curriculum focus, and NCLEX-PN preparation effectiveness when choosing the LPN program that’s right for you.
Trident Technical College
Trident Technical College offers a Diploma in Applied Science in Practical Nursing, which is a structured three-semester program. This program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to provide patient care under the guidance of registered nurses, physicians, or dentists. Successful completion of this program allows graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Passing this exam grants the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Program Structure and Curriculum
The curriculum of the Practical Nursing program integrates general education and specialized nursing courses. It encompasses classroom lectures, laboratory simulations, and clinical practices. The program totals 43 credit hours, broken down into 9 credits of general education and 34 credits of major-specific courses.
Key courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Basic Nursing Care Skills, Pharmacology for Nurses, and Patient-Centered Nursing Care, among others. A distinctive requirement is the completion of the Practical Nursing Level Dosage Proficiency Placement Exam before enrolling in certain advanced nursing courses.
Progression Opportunities
Upon completing the Practical Nursing diploma, students may have the opportunity to continue their education and pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing at Trident Technical College. This progression is contingent upon meeting specific academic and licensure prerequisites, including holding an unencumbered S.C. licensure as a Practical Nurse.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, ensuring that it meets high standards of nursing education quality.
Admission Requirements
Admission into the Practical Nursing program involves several prerequisites:
- Submit Official Transcripts: From all attended post-secondary institutions. Laboratory sciences must be recent within five years of the program’s start date.
- Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required on each transcript.
- Course Requirements: Completion of ten semester hours with a grade of C or better, including courses in Anatomy and Physiology.
- Program-Specific Requirements: Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Hold an associate degree or higher with a minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Achieve the required score on the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Exam (PAX).
- Complete the Pre-Nursing certificate with a minimum GPA of 2.75.
How to Apply
Prospective students should first apply to Trident Technical College and meet all general college admission requirements. Thereafter, they can apply directly to the Nursing program, which accepts students on a first-qualified, first-admitted basis. Assistance with the application process is available through the Nursing success coach at the Student Success Center.
The program does not have a specific application deadline, offering flexibility for applicants. Information sessions and additional support are provided to help prospective students navigate the entry process.
Trident Technical College’s Practical Nursing program offers a comprehensive pathway for those aspiring to enter the nursing field, supported by a strong curriculum and progression opportunities.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | Three semesters |
| Class Schedules | Not specified |
| Website | Trident Technical College LPN Program |
| Location | 7000 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406 |
| Phone | 843-574-6111 |
Technical College of the Lowcountry
The Practical Nursing (PN) Diploma program at the Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) is located in Beaufort, South Carolina for those who are willing to travel from Charleston or who may be in the Beaufort area.
This full-time program lasts three semesters (about one year) and is held during the day, starting each fall. It offers a blend of general education, science, and specialized nursing courses, totaling 42 credit hours.
Curriculum and Program Structure
Students enrolled in the TCL’s PN program undertake a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing care skills, and health promotion among others. The structure of the program ensures that students not only gain foundational knowledge but also apply this knowledge through practical nursing skills essential for patient care. This curriculum is built to meet the requirements set by the South Carolina LLR Board of Nursing, ensuring relevancy and rigor.
Exceptional Outcomes
One of the standout features of the program is its impressive NCLEX-PN pass rate, which, as of 2023, stands at 100%—significantly higher than the national average of 86.68%. This exemplary pass rate underscores the quality of education and preparation that students receive, equipping them effectively for licensure and employment as practical nurses.
Accreditation
The PN program boasts full accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), affirming its adherence to high educational standards. TCL is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), further establishing its credibility as a reliable institution for nursing education.
Fast Track to a Nursing Career
The PN program at TCL is designed for completion within one year, allowing students to fast-track into their nursing careers. This accelerated timeline is ideal for students eager to enter the workforce swiftly while ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of practical nursing.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of TCL’s college admission application.
- Meeting with a Health Sciences Advisor to discuss program specifics and obtain the nursing program application.
- National background check and drug screening are mandatory for program participation.
- Prior academic records and references may be required for application review.
TCL’s PN program stands out not only for its high NCLEX pass rate but also for its structured pathway, robust curriculum, and strong support systems, all designed to foster student success in the nursing field. For those interested in pursuing a practical nursing diploma, TCL offers an excellent blend of affordability, quality education, and rapid entry into the healthcare profession.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $8,988 total program tuition |
| Program Duration | One year (three semesters) |
| Class Schedules | Full-time day program, fall start only |
| Website | Technical College of the Lowcountry Practical Nursing Diploma |
| Location | 921 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC 29901 |
| Phone | 843-525-8230 |
| [email protected] |
ECPI University
ECPI University Practical Nursing Program Overview
The Practical Nursing (PN) diploma offered by ECPI University’s College of Nursing, Medical Careers Institute, is a 15-month intensive program designed to prepare students for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program, requiring 48.5 credit hours, equips students with the skills to work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
Program Features and Educational Focus
ECPI’s Practical Nursing program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and effective communication skills. These are crucial for effective interaction with patients, families, and healthcare teams. The curriculum is comprehensive, including both theoretical and hands-on training in essential nursing care.
Curriculum and Learning Outcomes
The program spans several core areas of nursing, from anatomy and physiology to more advanced topics like acute care nursing and medical-surgical nursing. Each course is meticulously designed to build upon previous knowledge, culminating in a thorough understanding of practical nursing. Upon completion, graduates are expected to:
- Deliver competent care to clients and families.
- Utilize critical thinking in clinical settings.
- Communicate effectively within the healthcare environment.
- Uphold ethical and professional standards in nursing practice.
Practical Application and NCLEX Preparation
All students are prepared for real-world nursing challenges through extensive classroom learning, lab simulations, and clinical experiences. The program aims to thoroughly prepare graduates for the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), a required step for licensure as an LPN.
Program Location and Contact Information
The Practical Nursing program is offered at ECPI University’s North Charleston campus:
- Address: 3800 Paramount Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405
- Phone: 843.606.5902
- Website: ECPI Practical Nursing Program
Financial Information and Tuition Assistance
The cost for each semester is approximately $9,720, with various financial aid options available, including federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Prospective students can seek tuition assistance through military benefits, vocational rehabilitation programs, and other grants.
NCLEX Pass Rates
While ECPI University discloses NCLEX pass rates for other locations, potential students should inquire about recent pass rates specifically for the Charleston campus to assess program effectiveness.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must consider the following prerequisites for admission into the Practical Nursing program:
- No specific pre-requisites required for starting the program.
- Completion of an application to ECPI University.
- Consultation with an admissions advisor to discuss program specifics and career objectives.
- Financial planning and application for tuition assistance, if necessary.
This program is ideal for individuals looking to quickly enter the nursing field, emphasizing a hands-on approach to learning and comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $9,720 per semester |
| Program Duration | 15 months |
| Class Schedules | In-person classes only, no online classes specified |
| Website | ECPI Practical Nursing Program |
| Location | 3800 Paramount Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405 |
| Phone | 843-606-5902 |