Orlando – Certificate in Practical Nursing
Program Quick Facts
| Duration | 12 months (full-time) |
| Start Dates | January/April/June/October |
| Format | On-campus |
| Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
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In our Practical Nursing (PN) certificate program, you’ll work to complete academic and clinical practice opportunities to build the knowledge and skills essential for the demands of today’s healthcare environment in Orlando. The LPN program offers a challenging curriculum that cultivates your ability to apply knowledge, think critically, and communicate effectively. In our courses, you’ll focus on proper procedures to collect and organize healthcare data, coordinate with other nurses and healthcare providers to provide patient care, contribute to the care plan, and identify and understand common health problems in patients. Courses cover medical surgical, mental health, pediatric, geriatric, and maternal infant nursing, including hands-on practice in nursing simulation labs and clinical sites. As a graduate, you’ll be eligible to take the LPN licensure examination (NCLEX-PN).
Learn more about preparing for the TEAS Test, required for Admission to the program on Episode 31 of the LIVE From South College Podcast including Tips & Tricks to studying!
Develop Essential Skills In
- Evidence-based, patient-centered care
- Critical thinking and clinical judgment
- Communication and teamwork
- Patient education
- Cultural sensitivity and competence
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Licensure
Upon completion of certificate requirements, each student enrolled in the Orlando PN program must make application to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN). Practical/Vocational nurses are prohibited in all states from practicing nursing until the examination is successfully completed and licensure has been granted. Specific information regarding licensure will be provided to the student during the last quarter of the nursing program. Background Check: Students are required to sign an acknowledgment form that they understand that our school background check may not revel potential barriers to licensure in each state. Each Board of Nursing conducts extensive background checks upon application for licensure with that state. Graduation from this program, does not specifically guarantee licensure in each state.
Student Learning Outcomes of the PN Program
Upon completion of the Orlando PN program, the graduate will meet the following student learning outcomes:
- Display responsibility and accountability for personal and professional development with the application of legal and ethical principles and compliance with the standards of nursing practice.
- Utilize effective communication with interacting with patients, families, and members of the interdisciplinary health care team.
- Provide safe and effective nursing care to diverse patient populations.
- Demonstrate appropriate clinical decision making based on an evolving patient situation.
- Contribute to the interprofessional team using therapeutic communication to promote patient safety and continuity of care.
These End of Program Student Learning Outcomes are based on the NLN Practical/Vocational Nursing Program Outcomes (2010c), ANA Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice (2015), and Quality and Safety Education for Nurses Competencies (2024).
Additional Information
Need to Know More About the CERT PN Program? Here Are Frequently Asked Questions!
An LPN provides basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or doctor, including monitoring patient vital signs, administering medications and injections, changing bandages, and assisting with daily activities. LPNs document patient care, report health status, and provide emotional support and patient education within their scope of practice. They work in various settings, from hospitals and long-term care facilities to private practices and medical offices, with specific duties varying by state and employer
The main differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN) are their education, scope of practice, and level of responsibility. RNs have a college degree and a broader scope of practice, including developing care plans and complex assessments, while LPNs have a shorter training period and provide basic patient care under the supervision of an RN or doctor.
Education & Licensure
- LPN: Requires completion of an accredited practical nursing program, followed by passing the NCLEX-PN exam to earn licensure.
- RN: Requires a more extensive education, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, followed by passing the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure.
No, you do not need an Associate or Bachelor’s degree to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN); instead, you need to complete a diploma or certificate program in practical nursing from an accredited institution and then pass the NCLEX-PN examination. These practical nursing programs, often found at community colleges or vocational schools, provide foundational knowledge and clinical skills in about one year.
Here are the general steps to becoming an LPN:
- Complete High School or GED: You must have a high school diploma or a GED to begin training for an LPN program.
- Enroll in an LPN Program: Attend an accredited practical nursing program, which can be offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or specialized nursing schools.
- Complete Program Requirements: These programs typically involve coursework in subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care, along with hands-on clinical practice.
- Pass the NCLEX-PN: After graduating from the program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed and practice.
The Certificate program in Practical Nursing at South College is designed for completion in 12-18 months (full-time). The length is dependent upon the state requirements relating to the location of the chosen campus.
Yes, please scroll up on this page to see more on the financial aid programs available for those that qualify.
Accreditation
Programmatic Accreditation
The Practical Nursing (PN) program at South College – Orlando Campus located in Orlando, FL is accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326, (404) 975-5000. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Practical Nursing (PN) program is initial accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program on the ACEN website, www.acenursing.org.