The PNP Prep Pathway is a slower-paced and expansive pathway for students into the Practical Nursing Program at Vantage Career Center. This pathway offers 174 theory clock hours. These courses will provide students with the knowledge that prepares them for the Practical Nursing Program. Once the preparation courses are successfully completed, students can then apply for admission into the Practical Nursing Program. Once admitted into the Practical Nursing Program, students will take fewer courses, which will allow them to focus on the main nursing courses. The PNP Prep Pathway is beneficial for students looking to become a Practical Nurse at a slower pace, which will potentially allow for more time for studying, family, and work.
CREDENTIALING INFORMATION
Students must complete all courses with a 75% or better grade and an attendance average of 90% or better in each phase. Successful graduates of this program will receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Practical Nurses to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Students must pass the NCLEX for practical nurses to be licensed and work as practical nurses in the state of Ohio.
PNP Prep Pathway ADMISSIONS CRITERIA
- 18 years of age or older; may be accepted at 17 years of age if otherwise meets the requirements of admission
- Possess a valid high school diploma or have attained a GED equivalency certificate; High school students in their last semester and on track to meet all requirements for graduation will be considered for acceptance upon graduation
- Meet required standards on one pre-admissions assessment: HESI - Required scores of at least 70% in Reading, 70% in Vocabulary, and 70% in Math.
- Pass a drug screening.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Deadline for Enrollment Requirements - August 1st
Mandatory Orientation by Invitation - August 20 & 21, 2025, 9 am-3 pm
Next Class: Begins September 2, 2025, Completes August 2026
174 total clock hours completed in approximately 44 weeks of training
Classes will meet Monday and Tuesday between 11:45a - 3:45p; times will vary
PNP Look Ahead ADMISSIONS CRITERIA
- FBI/BCI background check
- Meet necessary health requirements.
- Must be a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA or CNA) or will be by the first day of class.
- Must possess a current professional CPR certification by the first day of class and maintain it throughout the program
- Possess physical and mental capabilities (with documentation from health care provider on physical examination) to complete the nursing program and provide safe patient care successfully.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Deadline for Enrollment Requirements - August 1st
Mandatory Orientation by Invitation - August TBA
Next Class: Begins September 2026, Completes August 2027
1144 total clock hours completed in approximately 44 weeks of training
Classes will meet Monday through Thursday 7:30a - 3:45p; times will vary
Clinical hours will vary depending on the site
Precepting hours will vary according to availability
The class size is limited to 28 students.
EDUCATIONAL COSTS
Practical Nursing Prep (22 month)
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial Assistance is available for those who qualify from a variety of sources. Complete a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for Federal Financial Aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and Federal Student Loans. For details on all assistance available, see our
Financial Aid page
Contact the Financial Aid Office to complete certification.
Ohio Means Jobs - Financial Assistance may be available for those who qualify through your local Ohio Means Jobs (OMJ) agency. Students must work directly with OMJ to apply.
Additional information
JOB OUTLOOK
Healthcare workers are essential to our society. According to the United States Department of Labor, the need for Licensed Practical Nurses is projected to grow 11%, much faster than average for all occupations. The 2019 median pay for this profession was $47,480 per year. Statistics are taken from the U.S. Occupational Outlook Handbook. To explore this career further, visit O*NET Online. The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) is developed under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor.