Practical Nursing
STARTS SPRING 2026
What is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. LPNs are essential members of the healthcare team and work in diverse settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and physicians’ offices.
How Do I Become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse, you must:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a state-approved practical nursing program, ex at GTC
- Pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses). We prepare you for this exam.
What is the difference between a Practical Nurse and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
- Practical Nurse = Student currently enrolled in a Practical Nursing program
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) = Graduate who has passed the NCLEX-PN and holds a valid nursing license
Practical Nursing (PN) Program Information
- PN Application Deadline
- 9/10/2025
- Regulation Status:
- The PN program is regulated by the Georgia Board of Nursing (BON)
The program currently has developmental approval from the BON
- The PN program is regulated by the Georgia Board of Nursing (BON)
- Program Start:
- Every Spring Semester. The 1st class Spring 2026.
- Length of Program:
- 3 semesters (1 year) [Spring, Summer, and Fall]
- Program Format:
- On-campus, daytime program only
No evening or online course options
- On-campus, daytime program only
- Annual Enrollment:
- 25 students are accepted per year
Required Courses (10 Total)
There is a total of 10 courses that will need to be completed
- PNSG 1600 Introduction to Pharmacology and Clinical Calculations
- PNSG 1605 Fundamentals
- PNSG 1610 Adult Health Nursing I
- PNSG 1615 Adult Health Nursing II
- PNSG 1620 Adult Health Nursing III
- PNSG 1625 Adult Health Nursing IV
- PNSG 1630 Mental Health Nursing
- PNSG 1635 Maternal Nursing
- PNSG 1640 Pediatric Nursing
- PNSG 1645 Practical Nursing Capstone
More Info…
Take the first step toward a career in Nursing and apply for next semester! Important dates and deadlines are listed to get you started, and if you’re looking for ways to pay for your education, explore our scholarships for this program. You can also learn about our faculty and clubs and organizations to join!
Gwinnett Tech builds relationships with local subject-matter experts to develop advisory boards that provide feedback that ensures we deliver relevant industry-specific curricula for today’s high-demand careers. See who serves on our and our Practical Nursing advisory board.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the program (3 semesters), students are awarded a Practical Nursing Certificate.
What exam is required to obtain my LPN License?
Graduates are then eligible to apply for and take the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses). This exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
It is a computer-based exam that varies in length. We prepare you to take this exam
What is deadline date to apply to the PN program?
Program Application Deadline for this Spring 2026 Semester: [September 10, 2025]
What is the age requirement?
Student will be 18 years old at start of program.
Are a background check, drug screen, health summary, test, and vaccines/immunizations required?
Yes. Per clinical site requirements (not GTC), all students accepted into the Practical Nursing (PN) program must complete a background check, drug screen, and provide proof of required vaccines/immunizations prior to clinical placement. Clinical sites reserve the right to accept or deny a student’s participation at their facility based on the results or lack thereof.
Do I need to be a CNA, have an associate degree, or complete any prerequisites to apply?
No. You do not need to be a CNA, hold an associate degree, or complete any specific prerequisites. However, to apply to the Practical Nursing (PN) program, you must:
- Meet diploma-level placement scores through Accuplacer, SAT, ACT, or high school GPA at GTC, prior to program entry. Placement into developmental-level classes will disqualify me from starting the program.
- Be admitted to and accepted by Gwinnett Technical College (GTC)
- Take the Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam. Earn a minimum score of 60% on the Kaplan exam
- Submit application to the program by the deadline 9/10/2025
Are there any prerequisites to enter the program?
No prerequisites are required to enter the Practical Nursing (PN) program.
Is an entrance exam required to apply?
Yes. Applicants must take the Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam and achieve a minimum score of 60% to be eligible for program admission consideration.
Can I choose my clinical site or lab days?
No. Clinical sites and lab days are assigned by the program and cannot be selected by students.
How many clinical hours will need to be completed?
A total of 485 clinical hours will need to be completed. We partner with clinical sites to assist with your clinical training.
Is the PN program offered on both the Lawrenceville and Alpharetta campuses?
The PN program is only offered on the Lawrenceville campus.
Who can I contact for more information about the program?
After acceptance into the college- For advisement and additional PN program details, please contact:
HealthTeam@GwinnettTech.edu
How much will it cost?
Gwinnett Tech offers affordability at $107 per credit hour + fees. Great opportunities for scholarships and financial aid with HOPE Grant, HOPE scholarship, HOPE Career Grants, and more!