Pima County Community College Nursing Program Review
Pima County Community College (PCC) has a long-standing history that dates back to 1969 when the initial plans for construction came to fruition. Since then, it has prided itself for being ranked among the 10 largest multi-campus community colleges in the nation.
It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS). Additionally, both the Arizona Department of Education and/or the U.S. Department of Education have also given their stamps of approval on the courses being offered at the institution. Students can choose from a wide range of resources that make their transition into college life easier. For nursing students, the school currently offers the following programs.
Practical Nurse- Certificate
For college credit and a Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate, students are encouraged to apply at the school’s West Campus. Throughout the course, students are exposed to advanced patient care during the weekdays, evenings/weekends. Upon successful completion of the course, they can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN®, and if they pass will be eligible to receive the necessary licensure to work as a licensed practical nurse. Further studies will be necessary to be recognized as a registered nurse.
Nursing students also have the option to take the course at the Pima County Community (PCC) College Center for Training and Development. However, they won’t receive any college credit so careful planning about the intended career path and career plans are necessary when considering this route. The Center provides the necessary training that students will need to undertake jobs in high-demand areas. It also assists with job placement.
Nursing Assistant-Certificate
PCC Center for Training and Development offers this non-credit option for students that want to gain entry-level into the nursing profession. The course is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and successful completion unlocks the doors to an associate’s degree in nursing, and both credit and non-credit practical nursing. Students must pass the Certification Exam for Nursing Assistants in Arizona before they can qualify as nursing professionals.
Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the LPN – Certificate
LPNs and other health care professionals that want to update their skills or are not trained to administer IV therapy are suitable candidates for this course. It is offered by the PCC Center for Training and Development and is a non-credit certificate.
RN Refresher
RNs interested in continued education to update their skills and get additional training are encouraged to apply to the RN refresher course offered by the PCC Center for Training and Development. The courses can be completed both online and in classroom settings. The online courses are only open for theoretical areas, whereas practical experiments should be completed within the classrooms. The course is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing for nurses that want to refresh their skills before they undertake their duties as health care professionals.
Associate of Applied Science-Nursing
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at the college is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission. After the first three semesters of the course, students may qualify for a Practical Nurse Certificate and may be able to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) once they pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN®. If the students choose to leave the course after the first semester, then they may qualify for a Nursing Assistant certificate after passing the relevant exams.
Successful completion of the entire course provides the necessary foundation to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Contact:
Pima County Community College
4905 E. Broadway Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85709-1010
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