The Dickson Practical Nursing program at Central Piedmont Community College is a one year (three semesters) diploma program. The curriculum provides knowledge, skills, and strategies to integrate safety and quality into nursing care, practice in a dynamic environment, and meet individual needs that impact health, quality of life, and potential achievement. Coursework includes and builds upon the domains of individual, healthcare systems, and nursing practice. Content emphasized the practical nurse role is a dependent role under the supervision of the registered nurse (RN), a member of the interdisciplinary team, providing safe, individualized care while employing evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics.
Graduates of this program are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN), which is required for practice as a Practical Nurse. Employment opportunities are vast within the global healthcare system and may include positions within acute, chronic, extended, industrial, and community healthcare facilities.
For specific information about potential positions and wages in nursing employment, visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website. The Dickson Practical Nursing program has the initial approval of the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
A diploma in Practical Nursing is awarded by the college upon completion of this program.
Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent is required as the foundation of a career in this area.
The Practical Nursing program is in the Nursing Division. For more information, call the Practical Nursing program Chair at 704.330.2722 x3129.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| PSY 150 | General Psychology | 3.0 |
| Major Requirements | ||
| NUR 101 | Practical Nursing I | 11.0 |
| NUR 102 | Practical Nursing II | 10.0 |
| NUR 103 | Practical Nursing III | 9.0 |
| BIO 168 | Anatomy and Physiology I | 4.0 |
| BIO 169 | Anatomy and Physiology II | 4.0 |
| Total Credits | 44 | |
This certificate is available to eligible high school students through the Career and College Promise program.
| Major Requirements | ||
| ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | 1.0 |
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| PSY 150 | General Psychology | 3.0 |
| BIO 168 | Anatomy and Physiology I | 4.0 |
| NAS 101 | Nurse Aide I | 6.0 |
| Total Credits | 17 | |
The following is the suggested sequence for when to take each course to complete the Practical Nursing Diploma, based on the program requirements of the 2024-2025 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order if you need to. This sequence is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the sequence and any questions. This program does not offer certificates at this time; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
| Term I | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| NUR 101 | Practical Nursing I | 11.0 |
| BIO 168 | Anatomy and Physiology I | 4.0 |
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Term II | ||
| NUR 102 | Practical Nursing II | 10.0 |
| BIO 169 | Anatomy and Physiology II | 4.0 |
| PSY 150 | General Psychology | 3.0 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Term III | ||
| NUR 103 | Practical Nursing III | 9.0 |
| Credits | 9 | |
| Total Credits | 44 | |