Program Overview

The Practical Nursing (PN) Program at Stellar Career College is a career-focused training path that prepares students for a rewarding healthcare profession through classroom learning, hands-on lab practice, and supervised clinical experience.

From the very first module, students develop confidence and learn to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care across the lifespan. The curriculum explores the fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, mental health, maternal/child health, adult health, nutrition, and gerontological nursing — emphasizing evidence-based practice, clear communication, and cultural competence.

Through real-world clinical rotations in hospitals and community facilities, students apply what they’ve learned directly with patients, building both professional confidence and clinical judgment.

Upon completion, graduates are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and begin their careers as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Provide patient-centered care across the lifespan while promoting health, safety, and wellness
• Apply the nursing process and the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) to deliver evidence-based care
• Integrate legal, ethical, cultural, and spiritual principles into every nursing decision
• Educate patients and families on health promotion, disease prevention, and self-care
• Administer medications and perform clinical procedures safely within the PN scope of practice
• Communicate clearly and effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure continuity and quality of care
• Advocate for patients to promote dignity, respect, and safety in every setting
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and lifelong learning

Program Highlights

Duration

15 months

Format

Hybrid

Externship

Provided by the College at its affiliated healthcare facilities

Admission Requirements

Prerequisites

A minimum High School Diploma with a 2.00 cumulative GPA. Healthcare experience (e.g., CNA certification) and a college degree are preferred.

Admissions Process

1. Submit the Online Application
2. Attend the mandatory Orientation Session
3. Complete the Practice Test
4. Complete the online assessments — Digital Literacy Assessment and Distance Education Assessment
5. Complete the on-campus PN Entrance Exam (2 attempts only)
6. Complete Stellar’s in-house, state-approved criminal background check ($25, completed in person)
7. Submit required admission documents (see below)
8. (Optional) Submit certifications (CPR, CNA, etc.)
9. Get estimates / payment plan from the Financial Aid Department
10. Attend an interview with the Program Director
11. Receive your acceptance documents and sign them
12. Receive onboarding instructions and information

You must successfully pass all of the steps above to be considered for acceptance into the program.

Required Admission Documents (PDF format)

• Government-issued ID (front and back)
• Transcript — official high school or college transcript, or GED report
  • High school or college transcripts — all programs: required GPA 2.0
  • GED report equivalent GPA (students must submit the full GED report) — all programs except MA/PHL: required GPA 3.0; Medical Assisting/PHL: required GPA 2.0
• Updated résuméNeed help? Review this guide: Harvard Career Services: Create a Strong Resume
• Letter of recommendation — from a supervisor or instructorSample format: University of California, Berkeley – Sample Recommendation Letter (PDF)
• Essay (2–3 pages, APA format) — Why are you interested in this program? Why now? What impact do you hope to make in healthcare?APA formatting reference: Purdue OWL: APA Sample Paper