Stellar Career College Chicago

Stellar Career College  ·  Chicago  ·  ACCSC Accredited

Practical Nursing Program

At a Glance

15-month hybrid diploma program

Learn from experienced nursing faculty

Prepare for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam

Clinical rotations in hospitals & community facilities

Externship at affiliated healthcare facilities

Financial aid available for qualifying candidates

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.

Enrollment Steps

  1. Apply online at stellarcollege.edu, then attend a mandatory orientation session
  2. Register for and complete the HESI Exam (email admissions@stellarcollege.edu) — two attempts allowed; must score 70% or above
  3. Submit your admission documents in PDF format to admissions@stellarcollege.edu (see list below)
  4. Complete online assessments — Digital Literacy (score 70% or above) and the Distance Education Orientation Course
  5. Complete Stellar’s in-house, state-approved criminal background check ($25, completed in person)
  6. Attend a required in-person interview with the Program Director
  7. Receive your official acceptance letter and sign the enrollment agreement

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

  • Government-issued ID
  • Transcript — minimum CGPA 2.00 required
  • Updated résumé
  • Letter of recommendation — from a supervisor or instructor
  • Essay (1–2 pages, APA format) — Why are you interested in this program? Why now? What impact do you hope to make in healthcare?

Financial Aid Information

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Stellar Career College provides financial guidance throughout the process.

  • Our FAFSA school code is 037593. Please enter the school code exactly as shown so that Stellar Career College receives your financial aid information.
  • The school associated with the code may show “Computer Tutor Business and Technical Institute” — that is the previous name of our institution and can be used to process your FAFSA. The site may also show Stellar Career College based in Modesto, CA; that is correct, as we have a branch there as well.
  • If you’d prefer to pay out of pocket through our interest-free payment plan, please contact us and we’ll help you set it up.

Ready to start your nursing career?

Apply online or request a call, and our admissions team will guide you through every step.