Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Program Review

Mountain Empire Community College is located in the rural setting of Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) is a public 2 year college serving students in Norton (city), and Scott, Wise, Dickenson and Lee counties. The college serves over 3,000 students and is part of the Virginia Community College System. The Virginia Community College system was established in 1966, with the Mountain Empire Community College campus being established in 1971.

Students of all ages and backgrounds find a home at the college, including both adult students and those continuing schooling immediately after completing their higher education. The college awards associate’s degrees and certificates in nursing, engineering, and business among other fields. Mountain Empire Community College is accredited by The Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Nursing Programs

The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program at Mountain Empire Community College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing. The nursing department at Mountain Empire Community College offers nursing programs for Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), including nursing mobility and career advancement programs and opportunities. Mountain Empire Community College is one of three colleges in the Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program (VATNP).

Mountain Empire Community College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Nursing Associate Degree Leading to RN

The Nursing Associate Degree Leading to RN program prepares students to serve on a healthcare team in a variety of settings. The program is 2 years and leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree designed to prepare nurses who are entering a career after earning a degree, rather than pursuing four year education. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, to become a licensed RN. Admission criteria include a 2.5 GPA in high school (or 2.0 or higher GPA in college coursework) and a score in the 45th percentile or higher on a nursing entrance exam. Students interested in the program should submit an application directly to the Health Sciences program before their deadline. Students may participate in a 2 year program (Track 1) or 3 year part-time program (Track 3) with classes held on evenings and weekends.

Advancement Placement: Summer LPN to RN Bridge Summer Program

LPNs with a minimum of one year of work experience that have completed all of the general education requirements for the nursing program are eligible to take a summer bridge course allowing for advanced standing in the nursing program. LPNs in the summer bridge course will complete the RN program in less time than those in the traditional RN program. Recent LPN grads that do not yet have nursing experience may be eligible for the program by gaining work experience while simultaneously enrolled in the program. The LPN to RN (Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse) program offers a 1 year option (Track 4) or 2 year part time option (Track 5), the latter of which is suitable for recent LPN grads with little experience.

Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Certificate Programs

Practical Nursing Certificate Leading to LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)

The Nursing Certificate Leading to RN provides education to serve as an entry-level nurse. Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate in practical nursing and are eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses, NCLEX-PN, to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Admission criteria include a 2.5 GPA and satisfactory performance on the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). The program can be completed in one year (three semesters).

Nursing Assistant CNA Program

The Nursing Assistant program provides education and training necessary to work alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals in a healthcare setting. The program can be completed in 2 years and is 28 academic credits. Upon completion of the program, students will take exam to become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). CNAs provide personal care to patients, including assistance with their comfort and mobility.

Contact:
Mountain Empire Community College
3441 Mountain Empire Road
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219