Program of the Month: Nursing

May 1, 2018 Youngwood, Pa.

Westmoreland County Community College’s associate degree Nursing Program provides the academic and clinical preparation to start a career in entry-level nursing positions.

Upon completion of the associate degree program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for the RN (NCLEX-RN) leading to the licensure to practice nursing.

Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members.

They 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.

In the 10-county region surrounding Westmoreland County Community College, earnings for occupations related to this program range from $26.12 to $34.88 per hour, with an average hourly wage of $29.66 (data provided by EMSI).

For the 2016-2017 academic year, the program had a 100% graduate job placement rate, with 92% of students passing the NCLEX exam.

The program is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Additionally, the Westmoreland program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

The application deadline for spring-start classes is May 15. The spring program is an evening program. The fall-start program is a day program.

Westmoreland also offers a program for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to climb the career ladder by enrolling in the Nursing Advanced Standing to AAS for LPNs Program. 

Call the Information Center at 724-925-4077 for additional information.