Southwestern Illinois College Nursing Program Review

Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. The college has campuses in Belleville, Red Bud and Granite City, Illinois in addition to several off-campus locations including high schools and community centers which hold classes. Over 13,000 students are educated at the rural college each year. The college was established in 1946 and among its first students were veterans of World War II. There are over 150 programs of study that students can choose from in addition to the senior programs and services offered by the college.

Nursing Programs

Nursing programs at Southwestern Illinois College are under the Health Sciences and Homeland Security Division. The Nursing program at Southwestern Illinois College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Southwestern Illinois College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Nursing Education Program

The Nursing Education program is a 2-year, 71 credit nursing program awarding an AAS (Associate of Applied Science), a type of ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) for students who would like to pursue a career in nursing rather than a four-year degree. Upon completion of the program, students receive an AAS and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, national certification exam for RNs (Registered Nurses). Admission requirements to the nursing program include completion of a prenursing entrance exam, COMPASS Test (test of math, reading and writing abilities), and a minimum grade of “C” in all prerequisite courses which include algebra, biology and chemistry. Admission criteria to the nursing program is highly competitive and is granted on a points based system taking into account all admission criteria stated above.

LPN Articulation

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are eligible enter the RN program in advanced standing, pending successful completion of pre-requisites as stipulated by the nursing program. Upon completion, LPNs will receive 15 credits towards the RN program. LPNs also have the option of not pursuing this program, and entering the general RN program.

Nurse Assistant Articulation

Nurse Assistants have the option of entering the general RN program or the Nurse Assistant Articulation program which awards credits for the Nurse Assistant qualification pending successful completion of the Nurse Assistant articulation course. Nurse Assistants will receive two credits.

In either articulation course if articulation requirements are not meant, LPNs and Nurse Assistants will be required to enter the general Nursing Education program.

Southwestern Illinois College Nursing Certificate Programs

Nurse Assistant

The Nurse Assistant program is a one semester program that trains students to work alongside LPNs and RNs as entry level nurses. Nurse Assistants assist patients with basic tasks such as mobility, personal care and comfort. The program prepares students to take the Illinois certification exam to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). Upon completion of the 7 credit course, students will receive a Nurse Assistant Certificate.

Student Nurses Association at Southwestern Illinois College

The Student Nurses Association (SNA) at Southwestern Illinois College provides an opportunity for aspiring nurses to network and gain support during their academic program. SNA provides leadership opportunities for other nurses, in addition to holding an officer position in the nursing association; students have the opportunity to become a CPR instructor.

Contact:
Southwestern Illinois College
2500 Carlyle Avenue
Belleville, Illinois 62221-5899

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