Practical Nursing

Practical Nursing

Get the Skills to Begin a Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in as few as 15 Months

Licensed practical nurses are vital members of today's growing healthcare teams. LPNs work directly with patients and physicians and help concerned family members learn how to best care for their loved ones. If you want a career where you can make a real difference in people's lives, begin your training in the Practical Nursing program at Porter and Chester Institute today!

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Fast Facts

  • This program is offered in a residential format, with lectures and labs on campus, and clinical rotations at approved, off-site locations
  • Program approved at Bridgeport CT, Hamden CT, and Waterbury CT
  • 15 Months
  • Passing the Wonderlic and TEAS tests is required for acceptance

Get Started Today

How/When to Apply

We start new sessions on a regular basis.
Next Start Date: January 15, 2024 (Hamden CT, and Waterbury CT campuses only)

At Porter and Chester Institute, we're making it easier than ever for you to enroll using our automated application portal. Upload your documents and start the financial aid process without the hassle of drawn-out application processes. And our admissions staff is still available to help you every step of the way. Taking control of your career just got easier!

Apply Online Now

Schedule

  • Day Classes: Monday - Thursday, 8am - 3:30pm

Is a Rewarding Practical Nursing Career Right for You?

Take the "PCI Practical Nursing Career Training Readiness Quiz"

The fun, online quiz takes 3 minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.
Get your Practical Nursing Career Training Readiness score now!

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Porter and Chester Institute (PCI) offers a Practical Nursing program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. Graduates earn a diploma and can become...

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How Can I Afford It?

Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. Our team of Educational Funding Specialists will work with you to determine what you’re eligible for and how to pay for school.

There are federal, institutional and private programs that can make your career training more affordable, as well as grant and scholarship opportunities that may be available to you.

Financial Aid

Will I Get A Job?

While employment is not guaranteed, our Career Service Advisors are dedicated to helping you find the right job for you! We'll help you with your job search, and also with resume and cover letter writing, and interviewing skills.

Career Services

Why PCI?

If you like helping others and you want a job that’s in demand, here are just a few of the reasons to choose our Practical Nursing program:

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Concrete Skills: 
Our science-based Practical Nursing program will train you in the fundamentals of human anatomy, first aid and medical terminology so you’ll have a solid base of knowledge from which to build your career. You’ll learn about proper medical administrative procedures and patient care and how to most effectively work in a modern healthcare center. You’ll also learn the clinical skills you’ll need to work directly with patients, administering medications, changing dressings, assisting with personal grooming and monitoring overall patient health. You’ll learn how to be a comforting presence for your patients and their families and how to serve as liaison between your patient and the rest of the medical team.

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Hands-on Training: 
At Porter and Chester Institute, you get to learn by doing. Whether you’re working in our labs or using actual medical equipment and mannequins, our practical nursing program is designed to give you real experience. We even get you out to area facilities to work with actual patients.

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Qualified Instructors: 
All of our teachers are registered nurses who are committed to the nursing profession and also to your success. Our small class sizes allow them to get to know you as an individual so they can help you reach your full potential in our program and beyond.

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Job Outlook: 
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for licensed practical nurses are expected to grow by 6% through 2031 and the training you’ll get from Porter and Chester Institute will help you prepare to take the NCLEX-PN exam and become licensed. We’ll work with you until you find the career opportunity that matches your newly acquired skills.

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Soft Skills: 
In addition to clinical and administrative skills, you’ll learn how to interact with patients, doctors, and medical staff with professionalism. We’ll teach you what it means to be a good employee in a real world setting.