Gulf Coast State College Nursing Program Review

Gulf Coast State College (GCSC) was founded in 1957, and joined Florida’s family of 28 community college serving local residents across the state. The college enrolls over 7,000 students in its degree and certificate programs in addition to higher numbers of students in various other continuing education programs.

Students at Gulf Coast College experience high job placement and transfer rates (to four-year universities). Gulf Coast State College strives to make educational opportunities available to all members of the community despite their current status and financial situation. Online courses and financial aid are available. New programs to suit student needs are in constant development. Gulf Coast State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Review of Gulf Coast State College Nursing Degree Programs

Nursing programs at Gulf Coast State College are available to those people seeking an associate degree in Nursing (ADN) as well as nursing certificates at the undergraduate level. A new building was added to the program in 2009. In the past several years, the college has received several grants which has allowed the program to expand to a nursing lab, simulation software and computers for various classrooms. Nursing programs at Gulf Coast State College are limited enrollment, meaning even nurses that meet the minimum admission requirements may not be admitted to the program. Nursing programs at Gulf Coast State College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Gulf Coast State College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Traditional ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program

Aspiring nurses interested in an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) may enroll in the traditional ADN program at Gulf Coast College and take all necessary requirements at the school. The program is two years and upon completion nurses may take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse.

LPN to ADN Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate’s Degree in Nursing

This program is ideal for LPNs holding a diploma who would like to earn an associate’s degree. Upon completion of the program nurses will receive an ADN and be eligible to sit the NCLEX-RN to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Admission requirements include meeting course prerequisites as well as taking three Excelsior Nursing Exams in Adult Nursing, Gerontology and Foundations of Nursing. Nurses can enroll in the traditional or weekend course option.

Advanced Placement ADN Program

Students who have completed a portion of the requirements to become a registered nurse may enroll in the advanced placement program option to complete the remaining portion of their course at Gulf Coast State College.

Transfer Track ADN Program

The transfer track ADN is ideal for nurses seeking to meet prerequisites before transferring to a four year BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree program. Students are encouraged to plan their courses carefully with the help of both a Gulf Coast State College advisor and advisor from their prospective BSN program(s) to ensure they meet all requirements necessary to enter their desired nursing course. These requirements can be completed in about 2 years.

Gulf Coast State College Certificate Programs

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The CNA program at Gulf Coast College is a 165 hour certificate program; upon completion students receive a certificate to work in a variety of facilities assisting nurses and other health professionals in delivering care to patients.

Practical Nurse Certificate (Licensed Practical Nurse-LPN)

The Practical Nurse program is a 1,350 hour vocational program which leads to qualification as a PN-VN (practical nurse or vocational nurse). Upon completion of the program nurses may take the NCLEX-PN exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Gulf Coast State College Nursing Courses

Perioperative Nursing Courses

The perioperative nursing course is a requirement for nurses serving in a surgical setting. Nurses will learn about the patient experience, as well as pre and post operation procedures. Nurses will complete a theory course as well as a clinical practicum which will involve working in a surgical environment. The courses can be completed in one to two semesters.

Contact:
Gulf Coast State College
5230 West Highway 98
Panama City, FL 32401

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