Richland Community College Nursing Program Review

Based in the well-known suburb of Decatur Illinois, Richland Community College (RCC) offers two year associate’s degree and certificate programs for students in various professions. The college was founded in 1971 as the Community College of Decatur to serve the educational needs of the Central Illinois community in which it was located.

In addition to the Decatur main campus, students may also take classes at the Clinton Extension Center in Clinton, Illinois and the Fairview Park Plaza Extension Center in Decatur. Just fewer than 4,000 students are served at Richland Community College and can pursue study opportunities in business, education, nursing and other health care professions. Richland Community College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Nursing Degree Programs

Nursing degree programs at Richland Community College are housed under the Health Professions Division, which also includes courses in surgical technology, respiratory therapy, and emergency medical technology. Students can choose from a variety of health programs ranging from one day (CPR) to one class (Nurse Assistant) to a full degree program (AAS Nursing). The nursing program at Richland Community College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Richland Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Pre-Nursing AS (Associate of Science) Degree

Through agreements with several colleges, such as Milliken University and Eastern Illinois University students may pursue a general ADN degree and continue to a BSN in nursing. The program can be completed in 4 years total, and requires students to complete the first two years of their nursing education at Richland Community College and the final two at the BSN granting institution. Students will earn a general AS (Associate in Science) Degree and are eligible to attend a BSN program.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN program offers students an Associate in Applied Science Degree and prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN upon completion of the ADN program. The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing differs from an AS degree in that it is for nurses who desire to enter the workforce upon completion of the ADN program. Admission to the program is competitive and selective and criteria include a 2.5 GPA in nursing pre-requisite courses and in coursework overall. Upon completion of the Nursing AAS program, students take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become Registered Nurses (RNs).

LPN Bridge to ADN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Associate Degree in Nursing)

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) may complete the LPN to ADN program in order to earn the ADN in less time than students without previous nursing experience. The program may be completed on a full or part-time basis in 3 to 5 semesters respectively.

Richland Community College Nursing Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing (LPN)

The Practical Nursing program is a certificate program to prepare students for a career as an LPN. LPNs are entry-level nurses who serve in basic patient care roles, but not in leadership positions. LPNs complete the NCLEX-PN (National Council for Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses) to become certified LPNs upon completion of their program.

Nurse Assistant Training

Nurse Assistant Training is a one course (16 week) program that prepares students for an entry level career in nursing as nurse assistants. Nurse assistants work under the direction of nursing staff such as LPNs and RNs and treat basic patient needs. Upon completion of the program, students may take the certification exam to become a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant) in Illinois.

Contact:
Richland Community College
One College Park
Decatur, Illinois 62521-8512

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