The Practical Nursing Certificate program focuses on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to practice evidence-based, client-centered nursing. The practical nursing certificate consists of sequential courses which require two consecutive terms to complete. To extend the certificate over more than two semesters, a person may take general studies or science classes prior to applying for admission to the practical nursing program.
Possible career fields include ►
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) functions under the supervision of the registered nurse, physician, dentist, podiatrist, or optometrist. There are employment opportunities that provide satisfying and rewarding work in hospitals, extended care facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation units, medical offices, and private or home nursing. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is listed as an in-demand job that is in critical shortage on the Ohio Means Jobs website.
The Practical Nursing Certificate is offered exclusively at the Edison State Eaton location.
Continuation in and graduation from the practical nursing certificate is contingent upon the student earning a minimum grade of “C” in the courses indicated in the tables below. After completing the practical nursing certificate, students will receive a certificate in practical nursing and are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) for licensure as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). The Board of Nursing may, at its discretion, refuse to accept the application for licensure of any person who has been convicted or has charges pending against them for a felony or who has been convicted of a misdemeanor resulting from or related to the use of drugs or alcohol.
Minimum Criteria for Application to Practical Nursing Certificate ►
To be considered for acceptance into the Practical Nursing program, the student must meet the following minimum criteria for application:
1. Complete an Edison State Community College application (not required if previously submitted).
2. Meet the following minimum academic requirements:
3. Provide official high school transcript with graduation date (College Credit Plus students submit current high school transcript) or GED scores, postmarked by the application deadline for the desired term. A final transcript is required after graduation from high school.
4. Have an overall, cumulative GPA or high school GPA (if no college courses have been taken) of 2.5 or higher. Official transcripts postmarked by the application deadline for the desired term; (NOTE Students accepted into the Practical Nursing Certificate Program but whose Edison State GPA drops below 2.5 before the start of their program will be refused entry.)
5. Request official ACT, SAT, or placement scores, postmarked by the application deadline for the desired term, if not on high school transcript.
6. Provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended, postmarked by the application deadline for the desired term.
7. Meet with the nursing advisor prior to filling out this application. (Schedule an appointment with the nursing advisor, Carin Benning, by calling Student Services at 937.778.7850. Appointment may be in person, by phone, or virtual.)
8. Complete an online Practical Nursing Program Application (see below) for admission into Fundamentals of Practical Nursing (NUR 100S) during one of the two application periods. Applications are accepted from December 15 until the application deadline of January 31 for the next fall term. Applications are accepted from June 15 until the application deadline of July 31 for the next spring term.
►Since this is the first cohort and the application period has passed for this upcoming spring semester, applications will be open from November 1 to December 1, 2025. Applicants will get an email about acceptance or denial by December 8, 2025.
9. Note that applicants who have failed two or more nursing courses (can be the same course or different courses) at any college within the last three years will not be considered for admission.
10. Be at least 17 years of age to enter the nursing program. Parental signatures will be required for clinical forms if the student is under the age of 18.
The selection committee will review all nursing applications and select applicants. All applicants will receive an email of the status of their application approximately 6-8 weeks after the application deadline. Those selected for the program are required to have a physical and medical health form completed by a physician, a current CPR for the Professional Rescuer card, a successful background check, a successful drug screen, and proof of health insurance. Applicants not selected are welcome and encouraged to reapply.
NOTE Registration in and completion of support courses listed for the nursing program does not guarantee selection into the nursing program.
►Click here for the Practical Nursing Program Application (Students must meet with the nursing advisor prior to filling out this application. Schedule an appointment with nursing advisor, Carin Benning, by calling Student Services at 937.778.7850.)
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Program Outcomes ►
The student will
- practice as a healthcare team member within the scope of practice established by the Nurse Practice Act;
- apply clinical judgment in providing safe, holistic care to diverse populations;
- demonstrate the latest research findings and evidence-based guidelines for practical nursing situations;
- utilize effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with other healthcare professionals; and
- evaluate the effectiveness of technology in improving client safety and outcomes.
