ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING classes start in August. An acceptance form will sent to those applicants admitted; this form must be returned by the specified deadline to secure a position in the next available class.

The nursing program is designed to prepare students for employment as registered nurses. The practitioner will develop entry level skills and is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN: National Council (of State Boards of Nursing) Licensing Examination-Registered Nurses. The program meets the requirements for accreditation by the Bureau of Examining Boards, Board of Nursing of the State of Nebraska.

Mid-Plains Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a member of the North Central Association. The Associate Degree in Nursing is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission*. Advanced placement for LPN's and Paramedics is available. (Call or write for specific information.) The nursing program includes nursing and non-nursing courses. Non-nursing courses are available at the NPCC South Campus and McCook Community College.

The Associate Degree in Nursing program is a selective admission program. Approval for admission will be granted by the Faculty Organization in the ADN program. Early application is encouraged for High School students meeting the ACT requirement. All admission requirements must be met to be accepted into the ADN program. Failure to respond to requests for information, incomplete files, or failure to meet deadlines will inactivate the application for admission. Eligibility for licensing in Nebraska is determined by the Regulations Governing the Practice of Nursing. Contact the nursing program for that criteria.

The applicant will need to have a completed file to be accepted into the ADN Program. Please read and comply with the following admission requirements:

1. Fulfill Mid-Plains Community College's General Admission Requirement.
2. Complete application to Mid-Plains Community College specifying interest in ADN/RN program.
3. Submit official high school transcript or GED.
4. Submit official college transcripts if other than Mid- Plains Community College.
5. Complete COMPASS testing. Scores will be used to determine eligibility, remedial work may be required prior to admission. COMPASS Test Scores must meet the nursing criteria of: Pre- algebra 43; Reading 80; and Writing 48.
6. Submit two letters of recommendation from teachers and/or current employers.
7. Submit ACT scores which must be at least 21 with all subscores 17 or above OR complete 12 credit hours from the ADN program of study to include 8 credits from the required sciences (Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry or Microbiology) with a grade of "C" or higher. Check with science department for prerequisite courses for required sciences. Nutrition and Pharmacology must be taken within 7 years of the date of acceptance into the ADN program.
8. Successfully complete a nursing assistant class within six months of beginning the ADN program, be currently employed as a nursing assistant, or complete a Nursing Assistant skills check off the summer prior to beginning the program if not currently working as a Nursing Assistant.

Once all of the above criteria are met, the applicant will be accepted into the first available class and receive written notification of acceptance. It is the applicant's responsibility to notify the Nursing Department when the applicant thinks the file is complete.

The following must be completed by the first day of class:

1. Immunizations must be current (refer to immunization form.)
2. Current CPR card (2-man provider.)
3. Proof of professional liability insurance.
4. Criminal background check.

Program Objectives

• Provide safe individualized nursing care with accurate medication calculations.
• Apply the nursing process while providing patient care.
• Demonstrate critical/goal directed thinking.
• Communicate effectively.
• Demonstrate accountability by functioning within nursing's ethical and legal framework.
• Prepare to pass the licensing examination (NCLEX-RN).

Career Potential

The Associate Degree Registered Nurse gives care within the framework of his/her educational background. The curriculum is designed to prepare the graduate to provide nursing care in a variety of structured health care settings. Such areas include: hospitals, long-term care facilities and medical offices. Job openings are present throughout the country and in a variety of health care agencies. Mid-Plains Community College actively assists the graduate in job placement. Salary levels will vary with geographical area and the type of position.