The demand for skilled and compassionate nurses has never been higher, and Delaware Technical Community College (Delaware Tech) is committed to helping meet this need through its comprehensive nursing program. With a strong focus on academic excellence, hands-on training, and community engagement, Delaware Tech's nursing program prepares students for successful careers in this rewarding field.
Delaware Tech's nursing program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of nursing, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of healthcare settings. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Delaware Board of Nursing.
Program Overview
Delaware Tech offers several nursing programs, including:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This two-year program prepares students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and a career as a registered nurse (RN).
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to ADN: This program is designed for LPNs who want to advance their education and become RNs.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This four-year program is designed for students who want to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing.
- RN to BSN: This program is designed for RNs who want to advance their education and earn a BSN degree.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Delaware Tech's nursing program is competitive, and applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- GPA: Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Prerequisite Courses: Applicants must complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and algebra.
- TEAS Exam: Applicants must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam and achieve a minimum score of 60.
- Background Check: Applicants must undergo a background check and provide proof of health insurance.
- Immunizations: Applicants must provide proof of immunizations, including MMR, varicella, and hepatitis B.
Program Requirements
Once admitted to the nursing program, students must complete a series of required courses and clinical rotations. These include:
- Nursing Fundamentals: This course introduces students to the principles of nursing, including patient assessment, nursing diagnosis, and care planning.
- Anatomy and Physiology: This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the human body and its systems.
- Pharmacology: This course introduces students to the principles of pharmacology, including medication administration and management.
- Clinical Rotations: Students participate in clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
- NCLEX-RN Prep: This course prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for licensure as a registered nurse.
Clinical Rotations
Clinical rotations are an essential part of Delaware Tech's nursing program, providing students with hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings. Students participate in clinical rotations in the following areas:
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: Students learn to care for patients with medical and surgical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory disorders.
- Pediatric Nursing: Students learn to care for infants, children, and adolescents, including well-child visits, vaccinations, and acute care.
- Maternal-Child Nursing: Students learn to care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as newborns and infants.
- Mental Health Nursing: Students learn to care for patients with mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Facilities and Resources
Delaware Tech's nursing program is supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including:
- Simulation Lab: This lab provides students with a realistic and immersive learning environment, where they can practice clinical skills and scenarios.
- Clinical Skills Lab: This lab provides students with hands-on experience in clinical skills, including vital signs, medication administration, and wound care.
- Library and Learning Commons: This resource provides students with access to nursing textbooks, journals, and online resources, as well as study spaces and tutoring services.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Delaware Tech's nursing program are in high demand, and can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN): RNs work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations, providing direct patient care and education.
- Nurse Educator: Nurse educators teach nursing students in academic settings, including community colleges and universities.
- Nurse Practitioner: Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care to patients, including well-child visits, vaccinations, and acute care.
- Nurse Manager: Nurse managers oversee nursing staff and operations in healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Salary Range
The salary range for nursing professionals in Delaware varies depending on the position, employer, and level of experience. Here are some approximate salary ranges for nursing professionals in Delaware:
- Registered Nurse (RN): $65,000 - $90,000 per year
- Nurse Educator: $70,000 - $100,000 per year
- Nurse Practitioner: $80,000 - $120,000 per year
- Nurse Manager: $90,000 - $140,000 per year
Conclusion
Delaware Tech's nursing program provides students with a comprehensive education and training in nursing, preparing them for successful careers in this rewarding field. With a strong focus on academic excellence, hands-on training, and community engagement, Delaware Tech's nursing program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in nursing.
Gallery of Nursing Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the admission process for Delaware Tech's nursing program?
+The admission process for Delaware Tech's nursing program includes submitting an application, taking the TEAS exam, and completing prerequisite courses. Applicants must also undergo a background check and provide proof of health insurance.
What is the program length for Delaware Tech's nursing program?
+The program length for Delaware Tech's nursing program varies depending on the degree and certificate options. The ADN program is a two-year program, while the BSN program is a four-year program.
What are the career opportunities for graduates of Delaware Tech's nursing program?
+Graduates of Delaware Tech's nursing program can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including registered nurse, nurse educator, nurse practitioner, and nurse manager.