Practical Nursing Next Steps

Class Information

The Practical Nursing program requires two days per week in a clinical setting (some evenings may be required), with an additional two days per week in class.   

Program Commitment

To succeed in the Practical Nursing program, you should plan on a minimum of two hours of preparation for each clinical day, and at least eight hours of preparation for each nursing (NUR) course. Generally, expect to dedicate 2 to 3 hours outside of class for studying, reading, and coursework, for each hour in class. The program requires the same level of commitment as a full-time job.   

Mandatory Orientation

An in-person New Nursing Student Orientation will take place during the summer, likely in July or August.   

Clinical Compliance

• Nursing students are required to meet health and clinical compliance requirements prior to participating in clinical experiences. Vermont State University utilizes a third-party clinical compliance platform to manage required documentation, facilitate background checks, and if applicable, drug screening.
• Accepted students will receive instructions for accessing the platform and completing their requirements. Students are responsible for completing all assigned requirements by the established deadlines and maintaining compliance throughout the nursing program. Additional requirements may vary based on the nursing program and clinical partner.

Clinical Supplies

• Watch that is calibrated to read seconds 
• Stethoscope 
• Penlight 
• Bandage Scissors 

Computer

Nursing students must have a personal laptop with a privacy screen for use in class. Chromebooks, older MacBooks, and tablets will not work with our required testing software.

Uniforms

The uniform policy, detailing the specific scrubs that need to be purchased, will be posted in CastleBranch in May.