Nursing student takes vitals of practice mannequin.

Practical Nursing (LPN)

Undergraduate Certificate

Mercyhurst has a reputation for producing skilled and dedicated nurses. The combination of experienced faculty and state-of-the art facilities makes us one of the most trusted providers of nursing education in the region. Our one-year certificate program prepares students for licensure as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Because registered nursing is one of today's most in-demand careers, our LPN alumni often return to work towards their associate degree in our two-year LPN to RN Bridge program. Start the next chapter of your life and career with Mercyhurst and become the qualified, dedicated nurse you were meant to be. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to write the PN National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) for licensure as a practical nurse and begin their satisfying and successful career.

Program Overview

Practical nursing involves the performance of selected nursing acts in the care of the ill, injured, or infirmed to clients across the life span. Our curriculum is based on well-defined behavioral objectives, with individual course objectives contributing to the total program objectives. Students entering the practical nursing program bring their life experiences with them, take responsibility for self-directed learning, and learn by actively participating in partnership with their faculty to achieve the program goals and objectives. Learning is best achieved in a democratic atmosphere, which remains sensitive and adaptive to student needs and input. Learners are accountable for their accomplishments and failures.

Upon satisfactory completion of this program, the graduate will have knowledge, insights, skills, and vision necessary to lead a fulfilling and productive life as a health care provider. The program is approved by the PA State Board of Nursing and consists of a minimum of 30 credits.

Fast Facts

Graduates are prepared for employment in multiple heath care settings such as hospitals, private medical practices, home hospice care, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, schools, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities.
Upon completion graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) for licensure as a practical nurse and begin their satisfying and successful career.
Mercyhurst has a reputation for producing skilled, qualified, and hard working nurses, which is why we have nearly a 100% job placement rate for our graduates.

Learning Outcomes

Incorporate theory from the physical, biological, social, and behavioral sciences when providing nursing care
Communicate effectively with clients, families, significant others, and members of the health care team
Prioritize the biopsychosocial needs of clients
Utilize the nursing process when providing care to meet identified needs
Apply ethical, moral, and legal standards in keeping with the Practical Nurses Code of Ethics and applicable nursing law

Requirements for admission include a high school diploma or GED certificate. Applicants must have completed coursework equal to a standard high school course with a minimum of 16 units. These must include four units of English, three units of social studies, two units of mathematics (one of which is algebra), and two units of science (including a laboratory or the equivalent).

An assessment test to evaluate basic academic skills and the potential for success in the program will be administered by the university. Acceptance into the certificate program is conditional until receipt and review of required physical examination records, drug testing, federal, state, and child abuse clearances.

Apply Today

Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination-PN (NCLEX-PN) for licensure as a licensed practical nurse. Graduates will be prepared to work in various health care settings such as acute care hospitals, long term care centers, ambulatory clinics, and home health care.

The LPN Program Undergraduate Certificate delivered via distance education at Mercyhurst University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20037. They can be contacted at 202-909-2487.

Nursing Facilities

Our recently renovated nursing space on Mercyhurst’s campus in Erie, Pennsylvania, houses one of the best nursing facilities in the region. Two clinical skills labs provide the abilities necessary for you to have a safe transition from classroom learning to a real-world setting. You'll practice critical nursing skills using computer-controlled mannequins, medical equipment, task trainers, and low-fidelity mannequins in the clinical skills lab. Our simulation suite contains high-fidelity mannequins, debriefing rooms, video-recording equipment, and medical equipment that closely mimics the clinical environment.

Watch the videos below to receive an overview and virtual tour of our nursing facilities.