| Date: |
|
April 8, 2011 |
| Contact: |
|
Bonnie Hughes, Communications Officer, 509-865-8588 or hughes_b@heritage.edu |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LPN to RN program starting at Heritage University
Toppenish, Wash. - An addition to Heritage University's nursing program is giving those seeking to advance in their profession in a way earn registered nursing credentials. This fall, Heritage launches a Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN) program on its Toppenish Campus.
"Washington state already has one of the lowest ratios of nurses to the total population. As our population continues to age, we expect to see the need for skilled registered nurses to climb to meet growing demands," said Michelle Bartholet, program director.
This one-year program is designed to help licensed practical nurses (LPNs) advance in their field as RNs. Students will move through the program as a cohort, completing theory and lab courses during fall and spring semesters before completing clinical training during the summer. Graduates will earn an Associate in Nursing and qualify to take the Washington State registered nurse exam, required to be fully licensed.
Admission into the program is expected to be competitive, with 10 positions open for the first year. In order to qualify, applicants need to have completed an accredited practical nursing program, hold current LPN licensing, and complete an LPN to RN transition assessment test. Complete application materials are available online at heritage.edu
Heritage began its nursing program 7 years ago to fill growing community needs. Since then, it has graduated more than 150 LPNs, most continue to live and work in the Yakima Valley.