Admission to: Practical Nursing

Consideration for admission to the Practical Nursing program is based on the following:

• All Applicants

  • Interview with the Practical Nursing Program Director and/or Clinical Coordinator/Instructor.
  • Essay (one page, double-spaced).  Why you have chosen to be a practical nurse; and why you chose UCI. Please sign and date your essay.
  • 2 References (educational, spiritual, or current/former employer). Please submit on business letterhead and/or include name, phone number, or email address.
  • Cumulative High School GPA
  • Applicant must take the TEAS exam and meet the cut scores of:
    • Reading - 60%
    • Math – 50%
    • Science – 40%

    • English – 50%

      (Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Office Administration graduates of United Career Institute will be exempt from the TEAS exam if their attendance in their respective programs was 85% or better and their GPA was 3.0 or better.)

  Cumulative Scores will be reviewed by the program director and will be considered on an individual basis.

*Refer to the Practical Nursing Program Admission Packet for more information and full details of all requirements. 

Individuals interested in the practical nursing program are to follow these procedures: 

1. Attend the Institution’s practical nursing information session.
2. Take the Practical Nursing Entrance Exam. 
3. Apply to the practical nursing program*. 
4. Interview with a campus representative. 
5. Receive notification of admission decision. 
6. Complete enrollment paperwork, financial planning, and submit seat fee. 
7. Complete required screening, immunizations, background checks, and acquire supplies.

IMPORTANT:

• No Guarantee of Admission – Admission to the practical nursing program is highly competitive. Submission and completion of the minimum admission requirements does NOT guarantee admittance to the program.
  • Licensure Eligibility — Requirements to become a licensed practical nurse are evolving as the practice of nursing evolves. Generally, the requirements are becoming more stringent. Before starting classes, you should go to your state practical nursing board website to review and confirm that you can meet the eligibility requirements to become a licensed practical nurse.  (PABON website address is: 
    https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dos/department-and-offices/bpoa/boards-commissions/nursing/licensed-practical-nurses-licensure-snapshot.html)  Be advised that the requirements may change between the time that you can begin school and the time you graduate and apply to become a licensed practical nurse. Any condition that could impair your ability to carry out nursing functions may disqualify you from eligibility to become a licensed practical nurse. This could include mental, emotional, physical, or other conditions. You should also be aware that, any abuse of legal drugs or use of illegal drugs will be a basis for disqualification. You may be tested for inappropriate drug use while in school, as a condition to participate in clinical rotations at some sites, and prior to receiving your practical nursing license. Once licensed, you may be required to be tested for inappropriate drug use as a condition of employment. (The College makes no representations, suggestions or warranties that any student is or will be eligible for licensure. This is the sole responsibility and authority of the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing.)