Practical Nursing (Certificate)
Start Your Nursing Career in Just 12 Months
Alfred State's Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate Program is an intensive 12-month program designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing practice in a variety of healthcare settings. Beginning each August and concluding the following August, this fast-paced program combines classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, simulation experiences, and clinical practice to develop the knowledge and skills needed for patient-centered care.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates earn a Practical Nursing Certificate and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure examination to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Why Choose the PN Program?
In this program, students will:
- Complete your nursing education in just 12 months
- Gain extensive hands-on clinical experience'
- Learn in state-of-the-art nursing labs and simulation settings
- Prepare for success on the NCLEX-PN
- Enter the healthcare workforce quickly as a Licensed Practical Nurse
- Build a strong foundation for future educational advancement, including RN and BSN pathways
Graduates from this Program Will be Able to:
- Utilize standards of care to provide safe, holistic, quality care to diverse populations in a variety of healthcare settings respecting the dignity, diversity, equity, inclusion, and self-determination of clients and families.
- Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication with clients, significant others, and all members of the health care team to work collaboratively in the provision of safe and effective care.
- Select evidenced based interventions in the provision of nursing care based on a plan of care determined by a registered professional nurse or other authorized licensed health care provider that ensure client's safety, comfort, dignity, and self-esteem consistent with their developmental stage.
- Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for nursing practice within the scope of the licensed practical nurse, including continued learning and further personal and professional development.
Professional Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses play a vital role in healthcare and are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, physician offices, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and home healthcare agencies.
Begin your nursing journey at Alfred State and become a compassionate, skilled healthcare
professional in just one year.
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| 2026 Median Pay | $64,400/year or $30.96/hour |
| No. of Jobs in 2026 | 51,800 |
| Job Outlook | 3% |
| Employment Change for 2025-2035 |
Which Nursing Program is Right for me?
-
Nursing (AAS)Traditional 2-Year path to entering the nursing profession.
-
Nursing Dual Degree (AAS and BS)An accelerated pathway to becoming an RN in four years.
-
Nursing (RN to BS)Designed for RNs who want to advance their career in nursing.
-
Practical Nursing12-Month intensive program to quick-start your nursing career.
Program Details
Courses You May Take
PNUR1006: PN Fundmntls of Nursing Theory
Credits: 0-6
PSYC1023: Human Development
Credits: 3
Entrance Requirements
Required
- Algebra
- Biology
High School or College Chemistry OR TEAS scores of 50% or better on both math and science)
NOTE: Students who have been out of school or do not have recent prerequisites will be asked to take a proctored TEAS test. TEAS exam MUST be taken within 1 year of start of program, and scores MUST be sent directly to Alfred State College Admissions and Nursing Department.
Continuing Your Education
Other Nursing Programs at Alfred State College Include:
- Nursing (AAS) for students who have already completed A&P I & II (same institution, in person), 24 credits, and review by Nursing Department Chair
- Nursing Dual Degree (AAS and BS) (add link to AAS & BS degree page)
- RN to BS in Nursing (BS, online) for transfer and readmit student who have completed nursing core courses and have RN or are within 1 semester of obtaining.
Facilities and Labs
Alfred State provides labs, equipment, and learning spaces that mirror the tools and technology used in the real world.
With 200+ labs on campus and experiential learning in every major, you’ll work with the same resources the pros use and be ready for the workplace on day one.
SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN
In the Practical Nursing program at Alfred State, you will gain the skills needed to care for patients in many different settings. You will learn how to take vital signs, give medicines safely, and help patients with their daily needs. You will also practice communication skills to work with patients, families, and other members of the health care team. Hands-on labs and clinical training will prepare you to give safe and supportive care while building your confidence as a nurse.
MEET OUR FACULTY
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
You've seen our wide variety of majors at Alfred State, our great faculty who help you build your skills, and that you can do it at an incredible low cost. Now's the time to become an Alfred State Pioneer.
