Darton State College Nursing Program Review

Darton State College (DC), a part of the University System of Georgia, awards certificates and associate’s degrees. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Darton College has many resources for its students including the Center for Adventure Leadership which was built for students but also trains executives from around the nation. Darton State College was founded in 1963 and currently enrolls over 5,500 students annually.

Nursing Degree Programs

Associate degree level Nursing programs at Darton College are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Darton College Undergraduate Nursing Programs

ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Program

Admission requirements for the ADN program include a 2.5 GPA and completion of 3-5 prerequisite (core) classes. Students are also required to take an entrance test and the Computer READI reading assessment. Admission to the program is competitive and students are admitted based on GPA, test scores, and the number of prerequisites completed among other things. After program prerequisites are complete, the program can be completed in 5 semesters. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, the NCLEX-RN.

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

Students who are also Licensed Practical Nurses may participate in an accelerated version of the ADN program. LPNs take a challenge exam, which would exempt them from the first two semesters of the nursing program. LPNs should have at least one year of practical experience to be admitted to the advanced option. Other admission requirements for the LPN to ADN program are the same as those for the ADN program. After program prerequisites are met, the program can be completed in 3.5 semesters. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded an ADN and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, the NCLEX-RN.

Ft. Benning ADN and LPN to ADN Nursing Programs

Military professionals and civilians serving on the Ft. Benning military base may take part in customized versions of the two ADN programs, both the pre-licensure and advanced option for healthcare professionals. The program offers a hybrid option which allows students to complete fewer clinical hours than students in the traditional programs. Students interested in the program are still required to meet course pre-requisites and requirements. Students must take the HESI A2 nursing entrance exam as well as the COMPASS test (a basic academic skills test).

Online Hybrid Nursing Program

The online hybrid program at Darton State College offers the opportunity for aspiring Registered Nurses to take all required courses online. Students are still required to take all exams in-person at the Albany campus. Clinical practicum experiences will also be completed in the Albany area on a varied schedule (rotations may include weekends). Admission requirements include a personal essay, previous online learning experiences, and a 2.5 or higher overall GPA.

RN to BSN Completion Program

Darton State College is in the process of obtaining accreditation and approval from nursing bodies for the RN to BSN program, which would allow nurses with LPNs and ADNs to complete their BSN. The college has obtained developmental approval by the Georgia Board of Nursing. The RN to BSN program is a hybrid course (both online and on-campus courses are required) and can be completed in as little as 3 semesters. Admission to the program is selective, and students should have a 3.0 GPA in previous coursework and have completed all course prerequisites to be considered for the program.

Contact:
Darton State College
2400 Gillionville Road
Albany, Georgia 31707-3098

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