1-Year LPN Program
Grand Rapids Community College’s Practical Nursing Certificate Program offers a pathway for individuals aspiring to become licensed practical nurses. This LPN program consists of 35 credits and can be completed in one year. The program, accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Michigan Board of Nursing, combines classroom instruction with clinical lab work, providing hands-on healthcare experience.
After completing the Practical Nursing Program, graduates are eligible to sit for the state licensure exam NCLEX-PN. LPNs seeking to advance their education may qualify for advanced standing in the associate’s degree program, expediting their path to graduation with 2000 hours of LPN work experience.
GRCC Nursing graduates consistently surpass national and state averages in licensure exam success, contributing to excellent job prospects for program alumni. Prospective students can find detailed information on the nursing programs by visiting the official website or contacting the nursing department directly.
Admission to the Practical Nursing program requires applicants to be high school graduates or possess a GED. Additionally, a minimum GPA of 2.0 is required, along with demonstrated math competency within the last five years. Various pathways, including completion of specific courses or achieving a designated score on the Math Placement Test (ALEKS), ensure eligibility.
The admission process involves the HESI A2 Admission Assessment, testing knowledge in reading, vocabulary, grammar, and math. A negative 7-panel urine drug screen and a Preliminary Background Check are also required. Students must maintain good academic standing, with specific grade requirements for General Education and nursing courses.
Completion of foundational courses, including NUR 100, GH 125 or BI 117, PY 201, and EN 101, is necessary before formal acceptance into the Practical Nursing program. Students should carefully consider scenarios affecting their eligibility, as outlined by the Nursing Department.
The program curriculum comprises 35 credit hours, covering courses like NUR 115, PN 110, PN 118, PN 131, PN 140, and PN 150. LPNs holding current certifications as Certified Medical Assistants or Registered Medical Assistants may receive credit for NUR 115, subject to competency validation.
Practical Nursing program cost details can be obtained directly from the institution, and opportunities exist for LPNs with experience to enter the Associate Degree Nursing program with advanced standing. GRCC emphasizes affirmative action, equal opportunity, and non-discrimination, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
In summary, Grand Rapids Community College’s Practical Nursing Certificate Program provides a comprehensive and accredited route for individuals seeking a career as LPNs, ensuring a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the field. For further information, prospective students can contact the nursing department at (616) 234-4238 or [email protected].
Program Costs
GRCC keeps costs particularly low for residents. Resident status is conferred upon students who have been residents of the Kent Intermediate School District (KISD) and have paid property taxes in support of GRCC for at least six (6) consecutive months prior to the semester’s commencement. Alternatively, individuals aged 26 and under, residing with their parent(s) or legal guardian, who own or lease a home within the college’s taxing boundaries, are exempt from the six-month requirement.
Non-resident status applies to students who have been residents of Michigan for at least six (6) consecutive months before the semester begins but do not meet the criteria for resident status.
Out-of-state status encompasses students who do not fit the definitions of either resident or non-resident status, including those with temporary entry permission, such as a Student Visa or Au Pair.
In total, the program requires 35 contact hours, and here’s how those costs break down based on a student’s status.
| 35 Hour Cost For: | Per Contact Hour | Total |
| Resident | $ 154 | $ 5,390 |
| Non-Resident | $ 329 | $ 11,515 |
| Out-of-State | $ 495 | $ 17,325 |
Program at a Glance
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | Resident: $154 per hour, $5,390 total Non-Resident: $329 per hour, $11,515 total Out-of-State: $495 per hour, $17,325 total |
| Accreditation | Yes (ACEN, Michigan Board of Nursing) |
| Location | 143 Bostwick Avenue, NE, Grand Rapids 49503 |
| Phone | (616) 234-4238 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.grcc.edu/schools-departments/nursing-programs/practical-nursing-program |
| Job Placement | Yes |