New nursing program at WACTC offers bridge from LPN to ADN
HOUSTON – A new nursing program at Western Area Career and Technology Center will help students in the licensed practical nursing program make a seamless transition to advancing as registered nurses.
Community College of Beaver County this week announced the expansion of its associate degree in nursing program to WACTC.
The inaugural CCBC nursing class began in late August as part of CCBC’s fall semester course offerings. WACTC students will receive preferred placement into the program, but the college said others are encouraged to apply.
“We are very excited to announce our partnership with CCBC to offer a direct LPN to associate degree in nursing pathway right here in Washington County,” said Justin Trunzo, WACTC’s supervisor of Health Sciences. “This partnership will provide a seamless transition from our LPN program to their program.”
CCBC said in a news release its ADN program prepares students to become registered nurses. The curriculum includes general education and nursing courses, as well as clinical laboratory experiences in a variety of local hospitals and health-related agencies.
Students successfully completing the program are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination to become registered nurses. Successful completion of the program also provides students with a strong foundation to ultimately pursue a baccalaureate degree nursing at a four-year college or university.
CCBC President Dr. Chris Reber said the addition of a second CCBC associate degree in nursing program site in Washington County “will address the critical need for more highly skilled and trained nurses throughout the region.”
Dr. Shelly L. Moore, PhD, RN, CNE and dean of CCBC’s School of Nursing and Allied Health, said expanding the program to Washington County was a response to high demand for nurses in the area.
“We’ve seen such a demand for this nursing program – given the growing need for skilled nurses both here and throughout the country – that we’ve had to turn away students in the past,” she said during a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony at WACTC earlier this week.
To apply, those interested should submit an admissions applications online at www.ccbc.edu/ApplyOnline by choosing the “Main Application” and then selecting “Washington County Site.” Any previous college, high school and practical nursing transcripts, and/or GED documentation may be sent to CCBC’s information and registration center at 1 Campus Drive, Monaca, PA 15061. Questions about enrolling in the LPN to And Bridge Program can be directed too CCBC’s registration center at 724-480-3504.