College Credit Certificate in Practical Nursing

Student must achieve a grade of “C” or above in all courses to continue in the program. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA in order to graduate from Black Hawk College.

Due to the required Black Hawk College GPA of 2.0 or better to graduate, you must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 while in the PN program.

Upon application for admission to the PN program, if your GPA is below 2.0 or if you have not yet earned a GPA, you must meet with a BHC academic advisor to create and sign an academic plan to attach to your application. The academic plan must reflect that your GPA can be maintained at or above 2.0 during the PN program.

If you are unable to graduate and receive your certificate from BHC you will not be allowed to sit for the post-program test (NCLEX). Successful completion of the NCLEX is required to receive licensure to practice as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Call 309-796-5101 to schedule an appointment with an advisor to complete a plan.

All prospective PN students are required to take the TEAS test (Test of Academic Essential Skills).  Students are encouraged to prepare for this exam in order to assure that the necessary score is achieved to be considered for admission into the nursing program. Study materials can be found at ATI Testing and at the BHC bookstore.

Scoring

A minimum score of 50 is required to be considered for admission.

Prospective PN students will be ranked on the following criteria:

• TEAS score
• Grades in PN 110 or BIOL 145
• GPA of 2 or above
• CNA certificate (not required)

Completion of the Practical Nursing program does not automatically guarantee a graduate the right to take the National Council Licensing Examination or to become licensed as a practical nurse. The student is bound by the Illinois Nursing Act.

For more information, refer to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules – Administrative Code.