Community College of Allegheny County Nursing Program Review

Beyond just basic education, the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) offers a complete college campus experience including social organizations, athletics, and clubs. Students can attend classes on one of six campuses, in neighborhood satellite locations, or even online for ultimate convenience.

Nursing Program

The Nursing Program at CCAC prepares students to pursue careers in the medical field, as well as providing a foundation for furthered education and professional advancement. Admission to any of the courses of study within the program is dependent on several educational factors, but also on moral character and physical health. A comprehensive criminal background check will be performed to ensure that no offenses have occurred that would preclude the applicant from being a part of the program. Fully physical and mental examinations must also be completed, with documentation of physical health and necessary immunizations. As a part of this physical exam applicants will also undergo extensive drug screenings. These screenings test for a wide array of prescription and recreational drugs and are used for the strict elimination of any applicant or student that is found to be illegally using a controlled substance.

Associate of Science Degree in Nursing

An Associate of Science Degree in Nursing enables graduates to take the exams necessary for licensure as a Registered Nurse. RNs provide close medical care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings. The two year program covers four semesters comprised of both theoretical and clinical instruction. These semesters build upon each other in intensity and complexity, making the specific order in which the courses are taken critical to the proper development of the program. Students will complete a minimum of 68 credits in liberal arts general education and core nursing courses. Each course will be made up of classroom lecture and applicable clinical experiences. Successful graduates from this program will be prepared to sit for state licensing exams required to seek gainful employment.

LPN to RN Option

Already licensed Practical Nurses can enter the Associate’s Degree program at the Community College of Allegheny County with advanced standing. This advanced standing assures that these qualified nurses will be able to further their career options in a shorter time than those entering the program without experience. Applicants must meet all of the prerequisites required for the program, as well as demonstrating understanding and skill in the areas covered by the early parts of the course of study. A transition course must also be passed to show competence in areas such as theory and clinical knowledge. An applicant has two tries to complete and pass the transition course. The second attempt may be dependent on space availability and may not be immediately offered should the applicant be unsuccessful during a first attempt at advanced placement.

Campus Options

The Community College of Allegheny County has several campus options from which to choose. Each campus offers a slightly different version of the Nursing Program, including the timing of the courses and the venues for clinical experiences. Students should closely review the amenities and details of each campus, including location and resources, prior to making a selection. The semester that an applicant wishes to enter the program, as well as the particular type of nursing she wishes to perform, will impact the campus chosen.

Successful completion of this program will provide graduates with advanced degrees in their chosen field and prepare them for examination necessary to seek employment in the competitive and rapidly-growing world of nursing. Opportunities for career development and advancement are extensive as graduates either immediately find job placement or choose to further their education through pursuit of a Master’s or Doctoral degree.

Contact:
Community College of Allegheny County
8701 Perry Highway,
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Tel: (404) 975 5000