Program Information
-
Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus
- Pathway: Healthcare
- Program Code: 31-543-1
- Offering: In-Person
- Degree Type: Technical Diploma
- Start Dates: August/January
About the Practical Nursing Diploma
Description
The Practical Nursing program exposes you to a variety of classroom and clinical experiences to prepare you for employment in nursing homes, hospitals and other healthcare settings. Upon program completion, you will be eligible to take the licensure exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Nursing Assistant training is required prior to petitioning for this program.
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are in high demand in various healthcare settings.
This technical diploma ladders into the Registered Nursing associate degree. Contact an MATC advisor for more details.
This program admits students via a waiting list process.
Additional program details: Keys to success in the program are being able to think critically and communicate effectively.
Career Outlook
Related Programs
LPN to ADN Progression
If you are a licensed practical nurse interested in a career as a registered nurse, this program is for you. Your work experience may earn you advanced-standing credits. Graduates are eligible to take the RN Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN).
Registered Nursing
Prepare for a registered nursing (RN) career at MATC. Theory and lab courses on campus set the foundation for your clinical practice. Simulation and guided practice in clinical settings further prepare you for practice as an RN. Graduates are eligible to take the RN licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).
Detailed Program Information
2025-26 Curriculum
| Course | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOSCI-177 |
Gen Anatomy & Physiology ‡ (or) BIOSCI-201 Anatomy & Physiology 1 ‡ and BIOSCI-202 Anatomy & Physiology 2 ‡ |
4 |
| ENG-195 |
Written Communication ‡ (or) ENG-201 English 1 ‡ |
3 |
| NRSPN-301 | Nursing Fundamentals | 2 |
| NRSPN-302 | Nursing Skills ‡ | 3 |
| NRSPN-303 | Nursing: Pharmacology | 2 |
| NRSPN-304 | Nursing: Introduction to Clinical Practice ‡ | 2 |
| ENG-196 |
Oral/Interpersonal Communication ‡ (or) Any 200-level ENG or SPEECH course |
3 |
| NRSPN-305 | Nursing: Health Alterations ‡ | 3 |
| NRSPN-306 | Nursing: Health Promotion ‡ | 3 |
| NRSPN-307 | Nursing: Clinical Care Across the Lifespan ‡ | 2 |
| NRSPN-308 | Nursing: Introduction to Clinical Management ‡ | 2 |
| PSYCH 198 | Introduction to Psychology (or) PSYCH-231 Introductory Psychology (or) PSYCH-188 Developmental Psychology (or) PSYCH-238 Lifespan Psychology |
3 |
|
TOTAL CREDITS |
32 |
‡ Prerequisite required.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.
Search for available classes now (link) to see course descriptions, class times and locations.
Already a student? You can visit Self-Service (link) and choose Student Planning to register for classes.
2025-2026 Program Flyer
2024-2025 Spanish Program Flyer
Links & Resources
Important Dates
Fall start: Review Window in February
Spring start: Review Window in September
Deadlines and important dates can be found on:
Cost & Aid Deadlines
Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Events Calendar
Program Outcomes
Practical Nursing Program End of Program Student Learning Outcomes
- Integrate Practical Nursing identity reflecting integrity, responsibility and nursing standards
- Communicate basic information using multiple sources in nursing practice
- Utilize theoretical knowledge to participate in decision making
- Apply the nursing process to basic client care across diverse populations
- Function as a healthcare team member to provide safe and effective care
Admission Requirements
Waiting List
This program admits students via a waiting list process. Students must complete all academic preparedness requirements before being placed into core program courses when seats are available.
- Program capacity is 96 students total: 48 in Fall and 48 in Spring.
- Waiting time upon completion of all academic preparedness requirements is one year.
Academic Preparedness Requirements
- Official high school transcript with a graduation date
- GPA of 2.5 or higher at MATC
- Complete BIOSCI-177 (or BIOSCI-201 and BIOSCI-202) with a B- or higher. Science courses must be taken within the last five years.
- Pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a score of 58.7% or higher (three lifetime attempts in person). Score is valid for five years.
Scholarships
Accreditation
The Practical Nursing program at Milwaukee Area Technical College at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus located in Milwaukee, WI is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326 404-975-5000; www.acenursing.org
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Practical Nursing program is continuing accreditation.
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QUESTIONS?
Healthcare Academic & Career Pathway
414-297-6263
262-238-2281
healthpathway@matc.edu