Indian River State College Nursing Program Review

Indian River State College (IRSC) was founded in 1959 as a community college in Florida. The college has grown to offer over 150 academic programs including at the associate’s, certificate (undergraduate), and bachelor’s degree level. Student life at Indian River State College is flexible as students can take online courses, yet still have the opportunity to interact in a learning community by joining one of the many on-campus clubs and student organizations.

The college is notable for having several alumni as major league baseball players, a feat not always achievable by smaller colleges. The college has over 17,000 students, and maintains a community atmosphere, with small classes and access to academic counselors for one-on-one counseling. Indian River State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Review of Indian River State College Nursing Degree Programs

Indian River State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Registered Nurse (RN)/Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program

The RN program is an entry-level degree program, which requires 72 credits and approximately 2 years to complete. Registered Nurses perform more complex care than certificated nurses in that they participate in patient education and monitoring medical machinery. Upon completion of the program, nurses will receive an ADN and will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN national certification exam to become registered nurses.

BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Degree Program

The BSN program at Indian River State College is ideal for nurses seeking to advance their careers in the nursing field, as earning a BSN is the first step towards leadership and advancement opportunities for nurses. The program is designed for nurses who hold an associate in nursing degree (ADN) and work as registered nurses (RN). Requirements include a grade of “C” or better in pre-requisite courses, some of which may be taken at Indian River State College. Courses are delivered online and require students to have regular access to the computer. The program also offers a leadership and management track for nurses who desire to pursue leadership opportunities upon earning the BSN qualification. The program requires approximately 60 credits of nursing and general education requirements in order to earn the BSN.

Indian River State College Certificate Programs

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

The certified nurse assistant program is ideal for students who want to work in a healthcare setting assisting nurses and other healthcare professionals in providing care to patients. The program is 165 hours and upon completion, students are awarded a certificate. Program length is 8 to 16 weeks depending on the schedule and location chosen.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program

The LPN program is a vocational program requiring 1,350 hours and the entry-level step into a nursing career. In addition to assisting with personal care, LPNs also perform routine medical tasks such as recording patient vitals and statistics. Upon completion of the LPN program, students are awarded a certificate and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Indian River State College’s (IRSC) Business and Technology Incubator

The Indian River State College Business and Technology Incubator is an online resource for students interested in pursuing entrepreneurial activities. The program offers office space, networking opportunities, and a full suite of business resources such as faxes, copiers, and scanners to aspiring entrepreneurs. Nurses with an entrepreneurial mind, perhaps those considering fields such as consulting, interpreting, or human resources management may find the business center on the campus of Indian River State College of particular interest.

Contact:
Indian River State College
3209 Virginia Avenue
Fort Pierce, FL 34981