Practical Nursing
Questions? Contact Us.
Amanda Seidenzahl
- Executive Director
- Amanda%20Seidenzahl
- 479-788-7720
- Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Peak Innovation Center
Gain Skills to Make a Difference in Patient Care
Nurses are at the heart of healthcare, providing essential patient care in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. WATC’s Practical Nursing (LPN) Program offers students the opportunity to build a strong foundation in nursing, combining classroom instruction, hands-on clinical training, and cutting-edge simulation technology.
Upon completing this program, students can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Passing this exam is required to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and begin working in the field.
Location: Peak Innovation Center (Fort Smith) and Regional Healthcare Facilities
Times Offered: Morning and afternoon sessions available
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How to Get Started
Take the first step toward future success. Follow these steps to enroll.
- Apply for Admission - Complete UAFS's Application for Early College Program Admission.
- Meet with your High School Counselor - Work with your counselor to integrate WATC courses into your schedule.
What You Will Learn
The Practical Nursing (LPN) Program provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing care, preparing students to assist patients and healthcare teams in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Students who complete this program will be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN Exam. Coursework includes:
- Fundamentals of Nursing – Learn essential nursing skills, including infection control, patient hygiene, and medication administration.
- Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology – Develop a strong understanding of the human body, disease processes, and healthcare communication.
- Vital Signs and Patient Monitoring – Gain experience measuring blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory function, and other key health indicators.
- Clinical Experience in Local Healthcare Facilities – Work alongside nurses and medical professionals in real-world healthcare settings.
- Advanced Training at Peak Innovation Center – Practice patient care in high-tech simulation labs using lifelike mannequins and virtual reality tools.
- NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation – Upon successful completion of the program, students fulfill the requirements to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).
Industry Standards: This program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN), ensuring students receive high-quality, accredited training.
Earn Industry and University Credentials
Students in WATC’s Practical Nursing (LPN) Program can earn university and industry-recognized credentials, including:
This certification allows graduates to provide basic patient care in a healthcare setting.
Continue Your Education at UAFS
High school students who complete this program can continue at UAFS to earn:
These degrees open doors to higher-paying positions and career advancement in nursing and healthcare administration.
Sample Schedule and Course Progression
This two-year program integrates with your high school schedule, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while earning college credit. Below is a sample schedule of the courses you may take:
|
Fall Semester – First Year |
Spring Semester – First Year |
Fall Semester – Second Year |
Spring Semester – Second Year |
|
Basic A&P/Lab (BIOL 1433/1431) |
Fundamentals I (LPN 1187) |
Medical/Surgical I (LPN 1217) |
Medical/Surgical III with Specialties (LPN 1237) |
|
Medical Terminology (HLTH 1473) |
Fundamentals II (LPN 1197) |
Medical/Surgical II (LPN 1227) |
NCLEX Prep (Noncredit) |
** LPN spring semester requires admission to the program. This is a sample schedule. Actual course offerings may vary.
Career Opportunities & Industries
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Vocational Nurse (LVN)
- Clinical Nurse Assistant
- Long-Term Care Nurse
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospitals and Acute Care Facilities
- Major Employers: Mercy Hospital, Baptist Health
- Why It’s Important: LPNs provide direct patient care, administer medications, and assist in emergency
care.
- Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities
- Major Employers: Methodist Village, Legacy Health and Rehab, Peachtree Village
- Why It’s Important: Many elderly and rehabilitation patients rely on LPNs for daily medical support and long-term care.
- Physician Offices and Outpatient Clinics
- Major Employers: Cooper Clinic, River Valley Primary Care, Arcare
- Why It’s Important: LPNs assist doctors with patient intake, medication administration, and minor procedures.
- Home Healthcare and Hospice Services
- Major Employers: Visiting Angels, Elite Home Health, Gentiva Hospice
- Why It’s Important: Many patients require in-home nursing care, wound management, and chronic illness support.