The Vocational Nursing program at Texarkana College was established in 1956 to prepare graduates for entry-level employment in health careers. Upon completion of the 12 month program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become Licensed Vocational Nurses. The program prepares nurses for entry-level employment in health care to provide direct nursing care to acutely and chronically ill patients with predictable health outcomes in structured health care settings.

Employment settings include hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Vocational nurses function under the leadership of registered nurses and physicians.

VN Admission Requirements
Two classes are admitted each year: February and August.
Applications are accepted September 1-November 1 for the February class and April 1-June 1 for the August class. All steps for admission, including Hepatitis B vaccination series, must be completed before the applicant can be accepted into the program.
Candidates are expected to have effective judgment, basic communication, math, and learning skills, as well as have physical characteristics to practice nursing.

Steps for admission include:

1. College application for admission, indicating VN Nursing as the major and the date of desired enrollment.

2. Personal guidance interview with a member of the college counseling center staff. No appointment is necessary.

3. Meet Texas Success Initiative criteria for admission. A copy of scores must be submitted with application.

4. An official high school transcript or GED scores and transcripts from all colleges attended. High School Seniors must submit a seven (7) semester transcript to be on file 2 weeks prior to registration.

5. Any student on suspension or probation must be cleared through the Admission’s office.

6. Transcripts of high school or college computer application course or a non-credit computer course. “Introduction to Computers for Health Occupations Students” is available from the Texarkana College Continuing Education Division. ADN course #ITSW 1191 is acceptable.

7. Successful completion of American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers. Available through the Continuing Education Division. Card/certificate must not expire prior to graduation.

8. Prior to acceptance, a physical examination, negative drug screen, and satisfactory criminal background check. These are not required until written notification of “Conditional Acceptance” into the nursing program has been received.

9. Complete Hepatitis B series.

10. Checklist on file in the Admissions Office with original signature.

For more information on Vocational Nursing program, admission requirements, and degree plans see the TC Catalog.