Nursing Education
Application ProcessThe annual application period for the traditional Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program will open January 31st, 2025 at 8:30 am CST and will remain open for one week. The application period for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program will open in May 2025 and will remain open for 1 week. Exact dates of the application period will be updated at the beginning of 2025. After the admission date listed above, for each program, applications will be considered on a rolling basis. We admit based upon capacity on each campus location. If your first choice campus does not have space available you will be considered for the waitlist on that campus or may pursue admission on campuses that have remaining capacity. For both programs, seats are assigned to applicants with completed application requirements and submission of complete documentation on a first come first serve basis. Please see the “Nursing Program Application Requirements” section of this webpage for additional details on the application process. Contact Denise Kingery, Pre-Nursing Advisor at [email protected] or 308-398-7360 for assistance with your nursing application. There has not been a better time to consider becoming a nurse. Healthcare is experiencing a critical shortage of nursing staff that is predicted to last beyond the year 2025. The field of nursing offers many opportunities, challenges, and rewards you will not find in other areas of employment. If you are dynamic, motivated, and possess a caring personality, our nursing program wants you! |
Program OptionsAssociate Degree in NursingDiplomaAdmissions and Degree OverviewCourse Descriptions Course Sequence
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Why Choose CCC for Nursing?
All students accepted into the program who successfully complete the first two semesters of nursing will graduate with a diploma in nursing. These students will have the option to sit for NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. The student may then continue to take the remaining two (2) semesters of the program to receive an associate degree in nursing and take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. Nebraska belongs to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) compact. Any student passing the NCLEX-RN exam in Nebraska may also practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in any of the other compact States without reapplying for a license in that state. View compact states |
By choosing to earn a diploma or degree from CCC, you will receive an education that prepares a nurse for the challenges and demands of a fast-paced healthcare environment. Our curriculum provides a comprehensive, rigorous, and individualized education that prepares the student nurse for success in a variety of nursing roles. The program includes a concept based curriculum and a state of the art simulation area to improve student and program outcomes. Your education through CCC also offers a broad base knowledge in natural sciences, communications, and humanities. |
CCC offers a program designed for the current licensed practical nurse, who wishes to return to college to become a registered nurse. After successful completion of the last two semesters of the program, students will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The program is offered on three sites: Columbus Campus, Grand Island Campus, and the Kearney Center. Travel will be required to complete course and clinical requirements. Enrollment into the program is limited to seats available and a first come qualified applicant basis. |
State Licensure or Certification Requirements
States where licensure or certification requirements are met by this program’s curriculum – Nebraska.
No determination has been made for any other State as to whether the program’s curriculum does or does not meet licensure or certification requirements.
If a student from a state outside of Nebraska is interested in this program, state licensure will be investigated.
Graduates of this program are eligible to apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Nebraska belongs to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) compact. Any student passing the NCLEX-RN exam in Nebraska may also practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in any of the other compact States without reapplying for a license in that state. Click on this link to access all NCSBN compact states.
Transfer Options
Central Community College has collaborated with several four-year nursing programs throughout the state that allow credits to be transferred from the ADN program into a BSN program. The acceptance into a BSN program is subject to those colleges or university’s policies and requirements. Students are encouraged to contact the other college as early as possible.
Nursing Accreditation
Central Community College graduates meet the education eligibility requirements to apply for the National Council of State Board of Nursing Licensing Examination for either licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
Central Community College associate degree and practical nursing program is approved by:
Nebraska State Board of Nursing- Health and Human Services
301 Centennial Mall South,
1st Floor, 14th and M Streets,
Lincoln, NE. 68508.
Central Community College associate degree program is accredited by:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Rd. NE
Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA. 30326
Phone- 404-975-5000
Central Community College Nursing Program current accreditation status is continuing accreditation with conditions.
CCC is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Nursing Program Application Requirements
Application into the traditional Associates Degree Nursing (ADN) program is open annually in January. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to ADN application period opens in late spring. Students are encouraged to complete all application requirements as soon as possible in order to apply to the program. Seats for the program are limited and are open on a first come basis. Students accepted will start the following August or fall semester. Applicants not accepted into the program are encouraged to apply during the next application period.
Please read and comply with the following admission requirements.
Traditional Nursing Student Admissions Requirements
- Apply to Central Community College and select Nursing as your area of interest.
- Provide proof of an active Nebraska Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- Provide an active American Heart Association, Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider CPR Certification.
- Take the ATI TEAS test and score 58.7% or higher (fees apply).
- Complete a background check and urine drug screen through OneSource (fees apply).
- Complete Campus Selection Form.
- Begin gathering details of your Immunizations using the CCC Immunization Form. This form does not need to be submitted at the time of application, but it will be required before you can start the program in August.
Course Requirements
To be eligible to apply in January:
- BIOS 1010 General Biology – this is a pre-requisite to BIOS 2250 Anatomy & Physiology I and must be completed to be eligible to apply in January. If you have completed Anatomy & Physiology I with a D or higher at any point in your college career, you do not need to complete BIOS 1010 General Biology. If using BIOS 1010 as your elective, you must achieve a grade of “C” or higher.
To be eligible to start the program in the fall:
- BIOS 2250 Anatomy and Physiology I – must be completed with a grade of “B” or higher
- ENGL 1010 English Composition I – must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
The following are the additional general education courses required for the degree. These can be completed in advance but do not need to be completed to apply. Please note, these classes must be completed no later than the semester they are listed in the nursing curriculum sequence.
- BIOS 2260- Anatomy and Physiology II – must be completed with a grade of “B” or higher
- PSYC 2890 – Developmental Psychology- must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- BIOS 2460 Microbiology - must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- ENGL 1020 English Composition II – must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- Elective – choose one of these classes: BIOS 1010, CHEM 1050, CHEM 1090, MATH 1150, MATH 2170, NUTR 1470, PHIL 2650, PSYC 1810, SPCH 1110, SOCI 1010 - must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
How to Apply
When the application period opens, FROM YOUR CCC EMAIL, send an email with PDF copies of your Nebraska CNA license, CPR certificate, TEAS test results, and campus selection form to [email protected]. This email will serve as your application to the program. Please note, the documents in the email must be sent as PDF attachments, not links.
LPN to ADN Nursing Student Admission Requirements
- Apply to Central Community College and select NURSING as your area of interest.
- Provide proof of an active unencumbered LPN license or Compact State License.
- Provide an active American Heart Association, Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider CPR certification.
- Complete a background check and urine drug screen through OneSource. (fees apply).
- Complete the Campus Selection Form.
- Begin gathering details of your Immunizations using the CCC Immunization form. This form does not need to be submitted at the time of application, but it will be required before you can start the program in August.
Course Requirements
The following prerequisite classes must be completed to be eligible to start the nursing program in the fall but are not necessary to apply in late spring.
- ENGL 1010 - English Composition I - must be completed with a "C" or higher
- BIOS 2250 -Anatomy & Physiology I – must be completed with a grade of “B” or higher
- NOTE: BIOS 1010 (C or higher) is a prerequisite for BIOS 2250 if BIOS 2250 has not been previously completed.
- BIOS 2260 - Anatomy and Physiology II – must be completed with a "B" or higher
- PSYC 2890 - Developmental Psychology - must be completed with a "C" or higher
The following are the additional general education courses required for the degree. These can be completed in advance but do not need to be completed to apply. Please note, these classes must be completed no later than the semester they are listed in the nursing curriculum sequence.
- BIOS 2460 Microbiology - must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- ENGL 1020 English Composition II – must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- Elective – choose one of these classes: BIOS 1010, CHEM 1050, CHEM 1090, MATH 1150, MATH 2170, NUTR 1470, PHIL 2650, PSYC 1810, SPCH 1110, SOCI 1010 - must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher
How to Apply
When the application period opens, FROM YOUR CCC EMAIL, send an email with PDF copies of your Nebraska LPN or compact state license, CPR certificate, and campus selection form to [email protected]. This email will serve as your application to the program. Please note, the documents in the email must be sent as PDF attachments, not links.
Contact
Contact the Nursing Admission Technician at (308) 398-7410 with questions or to schedule an appointment with the prenursing advisor at our Columbus, Grand Island and Kearney location(s).
- You receive individual attention with low faculty to student ratio
- Hands-on experience! The best way to learn is to do. You will complete over 650 hours of clinical and simulation time.
- Small group and interactive learning in theory courses enhance knowledge.
- State-of-the-art simulation center on the Grand Island Campus with 4 adult, 1 pediatric, 1 newborn and 1 birthing hi-fidelity simulators. Mid-fidelity simulators are on each campus.
- Onsite simulation instructor and coordinator that collaborate with your clinical instructor to provide a safe environment to learn and experience entire management of patient care.
- Individualized remediation plans with Nursing Success Coordinators to support effective study skills
- Skills labs to perfect your nursing technical skills
- Recognition of academic honors through Organization of Associate Degree of Nursing Honor Society: Delta Nu.
- Clinical facilities offering a variety of clinical experiences and opportunities.
- Post-graduation program plan to assist in becoming prepared and pass NCLEX licensure exam.
- Supportive and caring faculty that want you to succeed!
Central Community College Nursing Program Outcomes and Success Measures
Program Outcome 1
NCLEX-RN pass rates will be at or above 80% (national average)
NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2018: 90.77%
Program Outcome 2
Program completion rates will be at or above 75% (percent students completing within 150% of program length) for the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program.
Percentage of students completing ADN program is 78%.
Program Outcome 3
Ninety percent (90%) of the graduates in Associate Degree Nursing programs will be employed or be seeking advanced education within one year of graduation.
2017: 98% of students, that graduated from ADN program were employed as a registered nurse.
The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Central Community College is accredited by:
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 850
Atlanta, GA 30326
404-975-5000
www.acenursing.org
Immunizations are required to complete clinical experiences.
A completed immunization form signed by your healthcare provider must be submitted at the time of application.
If records are not available to support your immunizations, blood titers must be drawn and evaluated for immunizations needed. A titer cannot be done for the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) as this is a vaccination. If the TdaP is older than 10 years, a booster is required. If any titer comes, back as negative or equivocal further immunizations are required. Results are to be submitted as part of the admission packet during enrollment period. If you have questions on how to complete, please contact the pre-nursing advisor.
The Two-step Tuberculosis Skin Test will be required prior to starting nursing courses.
The Influenza vaccine should be obtained as soon as possible each fall. Documentation must be submitted to attend clinicals.
If any portion of the Immunization form is left incomplete, including your full name and student ID#, your application to the nursing program may be voided.
It is highly recommended that you retain a copy of your immunization record and submit original to Nursing Department during open enrollment period.
Achieve an Associate Degree in Nursing in 2 years by completing 4 semesters of nursing courses after prerequisites are met.
The length of time to complete a program is based on a student taking only the courses required for the program as listed in our online catalog. It does not include the cost of foundations courses that may be required based on assessment scores, retaking courses or taking courses that are not required by your program of study.
Your adviser will develop a plan of study to meet your personal needs.
Approximate Educational Costs
College tuition and fees are established by the Board of Governors and may be subject to change.
Category | Cost |
Tuition and Fees - 64 credit hours at $112 per credit hour (in state) | $7,168 |
Uniforms, lab coat, shoes | $250 |
Books & printed materials | $800 |
Accessories - scissors, stethoscope, watch with a second hand | $100 |
Laptop (estimated cost) | $650 |
Student in Practicum Insurance per year | $12 |
Licensing & NCLEX-RN expenses | $323 |
Program fees | $95 |
ATI fees (estimated) | $2,850 |
Background Check/Drug Test | $112 |
Total $12,360 |
Associate Degree Nursing Purpose
The purpose of the Associate Degree in Nursing is to provide students with the foundation of nursing knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for safe, competent, and comprehensive practice of professional nursing.
ADN Nursing Program Outcomes
Systematic evaluation of the Associate Degree Nursing program is utilized for the development, maintenance, and revision of the program and program outcomes. Program outcomes that measure the effectiveness and quality of the program are focused on the benefits to the student, employer, and community. The following outcomes have been identified.
- Performance on Licensure exam: The annual mean for the licensure exam (NCLEX-RN) pass rate for CCC ADN graduates will be at or above the national mean for the same year. (NCSBN)
- Program Completion: 80% of CCC students will complete the ADN program within 150% of the time from the start of the first nursing course.
- Graduate Program Satisfaction: 90% of the CCC ADN graduates will report satisfaction (3 or above mean rating on the Graduate Satisfaction Survey) with the preparation for nursing practice provided by the program.
- Employer Program Satisfaction: 90% of employers of CCC ADN graduates will report satisfaction (3 or above mean rating on the Employer Satisfaction Survey) with the competency of graduates as defined by the student learning outcomes and graduate competencies.
- Job Placement Rates: 90% or more of CCC ADN graduates seeking employment as a Registered Nurse will be employed within 6 months of program completion.
Associate Degree Nursing Student Learning Outcomes
- Prioritize patient-centered care based on the unique needs of the human throughout the lifespan.
- Explain the nursing process to promote ideal clinical outcomes through the use of critical thinking and clinical reasoning supported by evidence –based practice.
- Recommend the human to develop adaptive responses to stressors in order to reach an optimal state of wellness.
- Integrate effective communication strategies with individuals, families, groups, and members of the health care team.
- Exemplify professional role behaviors and caring attitudes within the scope of practice of the registered nurse reflecting a commitment to ensure high standards of nursing care.
Practical Nursing Program Purpose
The purpose of the Practical Nursing (PN) program is to provide students with the nursing knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to assist in the delivery on safe, competent care under the direction of a Registered Nurse or other licensed practitioner.
Practical Nursing Program Outcomes
Program outcomes that measure the effectiveness and quality of the program are focused on the benefits to the student, employer, and community. The following outcomes have been identified.
- Performance on Licensure exam: The annual mean for the licensure exam (NCLEX-PN) pass rate for CCC PN graduates will be at or above the national mean for the same year. (NCSBN)
- Program Completion: 80% of CCC students will complete the PN program within 150% of the time from the time of the first nursing course.
- Graduate Program Satisfaction: 90% of the CCC PN graduates will report satisfaction (3 or above mean rating on the Graduate Satisfaction Survey) with the preparation for nursing practice provided by the program.
- Employer Program Satisfaction: 90% of employers of CCC PN graduates will report satisfaction (3 or above mean rating on the Employer Satisfaction Survey) with the competency of graduates as defined by the student learning outcomes and graduate competencies.
- Job Placement Rates: 90% or more of CCC PN graduates seeking employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse will be employed within 6 months of program completion.
Practical Nursing Student Learning Outcomes
- Provide patient-centered care based on the unique needs of the human throughout the lifespan.
- Manage in the use of the nursing process to promote ideal clinical outcomes through the use of critical thinking and clinical reasoning supported by evidence – based practice.
- Guide the human to develop adaptive responses to stressors in order to reach an optimal state of wellness.
- Select effective communication strategies with individuals, families, groups, and members of the health care team.
- Establish positive role behaviors and caring attitudes within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse reflecting a commitment to ensure high standards of nursing care.
Central Community College’s Nursing Program has collaborated with several colleges and universities within the state that allow for a seamless transition to further education to a bachelor’s of science in nursing. The agreements stipulate that credits earned from the associate degree of nursing program at CCC are accepted, decreasing the amount of time in earning your BSN. The acceptance into a BSN program is subject to those college or university’s policies and requirements. Additional general education courses needed for the BSN, can be earned while attending CCC saving time and money.
Earning your BSN can be completed on your time, your pace, and your preferred learning style. Programs are offered either face-to-face, on-line, or a hybrid. Below is a list of colleges/universities that have agreements with CCC. Check them out online to determine the fit best for you!
Transfer Colleges
Dean of NursingDr. Pam Bales
Area Wide
Phone Number - TBA
Email - TBA |
Admin. AssistantBev Mackie |
Admin. AssistantDonna Moore |
Nursing AdvisorDenise Kingery
308-398-7438
[email protected] |
Simulation TeamTami Jones, BS |
Marcia Donley, MSN, RN |
Columbus
Brenda Eller, MSN, RN Alysha Linder, MSN, RN |
Patricia Oborny, BSN, RN
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Amanda Rutter, MSN, RN, CEN, CPEN |
Grand Island
Mary Rose, BSN, RN, Director of Nursing
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Terri Bossow, MSN, RN
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Maureen Horne, BSN, RN
|
Allison Kleier, DNP, RN
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Barb McGraw, MSN, RN, CNE
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Amanda Rooker, MSN, RN
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Shari Stickels, BSN, RN |
Marie White, BSN, RN |
Kearney
Holly Goodell, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C |
Ross Huxoll, BSN, RN |
Bryce Zavadil, BSN, RN |
Katy Zavadil, MSN, RN |
Nursing Program FAQ
Yes. All general education courses that are required for the ADN program can be taken at CCC. You may also take general education courses that are needed for continued educational mobility (BSN) through CCC.
Yes. You can take CNA courses on any campus and the Kearney Center. You can register for HLTH 1200 or contact Extended Learning Services.
A registered nurse is known as a RN. To become registered, you first obtain a nursing degree then pass a national licensing exam after you graduate. Both associate degrees (ADN) and bachelor degrees (BSN) graduate as entry-level practitioners and earn the same RN designation.
ADN application opens January.
LPN to ADN opens late spring.
You will need to submit a completed admission packet in order to be selected for the program. Admission packet information can be found on the nursing webpage. If you are uncertain when to apply, contact a Pre-Nursing Advisor.
The TEAS exam is part of the admission requirement for the nursing program.
The Kearney division just moved in the new Central Community College building, fall of 2017. The Columbus division completed a renovation project to the health science wing in 2022. The Grand Island division’s facility was opened in 2010. The college is supportive of ensuring that all equipment, supplies, and simulators used in the nursing program are up-to-date with technology and healthcare environment.
For clinical rotations, you will need a stethoscope and professional uniform with lab jacket (scrubs). Textbooks are available through the CCC Bookstore. For all ADN coursework, having your own laptop/tablet computer is required.
The nursing program is 5 semesters in length. Students can take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam after successful completion after 2 semesters. Then continue on to complete associate degree in nursing after semesters 3 and 4 with opportunity to take NCLEX-RN.
No. Students take ADN courses in a certain progression over the 5 semesters.
No. The traditional ADN program does not offer summer courses in nursing. You may, however, take any required general education course.
You will receive learning through lab/simulation through the college’s state of the art simulation center. You will also complete clinical rotations in area medical centers, hospitals, and other health facilities. While faculty make every effort to notify you well in advance of your clinical schedule, things do sometimes change due to circumstances outside our control. Please plan some flexibility in your schedule to allow for unforeseen changes in your clinical rotation schedule.
Yes. Many students choose to work during evenings or weekends and during the summer. We recommend that you work part-time during semesters in order to devote adequate time and energy to your nursing studies. Please understand that clinical rotation schedules may sometimes change, so we recommend asking your employer if some flexibility can be scheduled if needed.
Yes. You will be assigned a nursing advisor when accepted into the program. Your advisor can help answer program questions. Your instructors can help with specific question that pertain to the nursing course you are registered for.
Alpha Delta NU is the honorary academic organization for Associate Degree in Nursing students. Central Community College’s chapter is Delta NU. The honor society recognizes the academic excellence of students enrolled in the ADN program. You will receive a letter to apply to the chapter if you earn a grade of “B” or better in all nursing courses and have no failures. The student will also need to demonstrate conduct in the classroom and clinical areas that reflect integrity and professionalism.
The nursing program has several agreements with colleges/universities that offer the BSN program. At this time, the BSN programs with agreements will accept all credits earned for the associate degree in nursing. You will have approximately 18 months to complete a BSN. Studies can be delivered in all formats, so it is easy to choose a program that fits your needs or style of learning.