Build the Foundation for a Rewarding Nursing Career
What Will I Learn?
A Practical Nurse (PN), sometimes called a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in many U.S. states, provides essential hands-on nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician. Their work focuses on supporting patients’ basic health needs, monitoring conditions, and ensuring comfort.
Practical Nursing, Diploma
Westmoreland’s Practical Nursing Diploma program provides the academic and clinical preparation to start a career in entry-level nursing positions. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for the PN (NCLEX-PN) leading to the licensure to practice nursing.
The Practical Nursing Diploma program is offered at the Latrobe Campus.
- Lectures & Labs are usually scheduled Monday/Tuesday/Thursday beginning at 8 a.m. and usually ending by 4 p.m.
- Clinical is scheduled at an assigned healthcare facility Wednesday and/or Friday 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
- Classroom and Clinical schedules are subject to change due to faculty and clinical site availability
View Practical Nursing, Diploma in the College Catalog.
What Will I Earn?
If you plan to stay in the region, there are many occupations related to this program degree and certificates. In the 10-county region* surrounding Westmoreland County Community College, the earnings for occupations in this field range from $22.22 - $34.42 per hour, with an average hourly wage of $28.58.
It is important to remember that wages vary based on level of education, experience, job location and other factors.
Source: Data provided by Lightcast™ (https://lightcast.io/) 2025.1
* 10-county region includes Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland.
Career Opportunities
Practical nurses work in hospitals, physician’s offices, clinics, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. Others work in correctional facilities or schools, or serve in the military.
Pathways to an RN
Graduates of Westmoreland's Practical Nursing Diploma program who want to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing to become a Registered Nurse may transition within the college through its Advanced Standing for LPN’s program. Diploma graduates will need to have their Practical Nursing License before applying. More details can be found on the Nursing program page.
Approval
Westmoreland’s Practical Nursing Diploma Program is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
Website: PA State Board of Nursing
Mailing Address: State Board of Nursing, P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
Technology Requirements
- Examplify can be used on virtually any modern computer (i.e. purchased within the last 3-4 years).
- Examplify can only be supported on Mac, Windows, and iPad operating systems.
- Examplify will not run on Chromebook, Android, or Linux operating systems.
Basic Application Process - Health Professions
- Complete and submit an Application for Admission to
the college - Receive a College Login: 24-48 business hours after applying, you will receive a college login.
- Log into Westmoreland: Use your login to access "MyWestmoreland" from the top of any page on the college website.
- Complete the Health Professionals Program Application: Within MyWestmoreland, go to Student Resources and Popular Links to find the Health Professions Application. Two applications are required. Westmoreland application and Health Professions Application.
- Use this checklist to guide you.