Prism Career Institute prepares students to become licensed practical nurses through a 15-month program. Students learn basic patient care, how to give injections, apply dressings and collect patient data. Applicants must have a high school diploma or a General Equivalence Development (GED) diploma, as well as pass a basic skills assessment issued by the school. As of February 2011, Prism Career Institute's nursing program costs $21,000.
The Pennsylvania Institute of Technology offers both a certificate program and an associate of science degree track that prepare students for practical nurse licensure. The nursing certificate can be completed in 12 months while the degree program requires two years to complete. Available specialties include maternity care, long-term care, pediatrics and acute care. Interested applicants must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. As of February 2011, yearly tuition for the practical nursing certificate is $14,175. Yearly tuition for the degree program is $21,500.
Aria Health School of Nursing offers advanced placement to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who have valid licensure, are in good standing with the state board of nursing and have at least one year of current work experience as LPNs. Applicants must pass an assessment examination with a score of at least 75 percent. Aria Health School of Nursing offers entrants the opportunity to earn associate degrees in nursing with preparation for registered nurse licensure. As of February 2011, tuition costs $3,555 per semester. A full course load consists of three semesters per year.
Community College of Philadelphia offers an associate of applied science degree in nursing that prepares students for registered nurse state licensure. Licensed practical nurses are accepted through advanced placement. Applicants must submit proof of active LPN licensure, an LPN school transcript no older than 10 years and a reference letter from the school. LPN school transcripts must show a grade point average of 2.75 in basic college-level biology, chemistry, math, dietetics and English. Applicants are also required to take a noncredit transition course. As of February 2011, residents of Philadelphia pay $128 per credit hour. Pennsylvania residents pay $256 per credit hour plus a $10 nonresident fee per credit hour. Out-of-state students pay $384 per credit hour and an additional $20 nonresident fee per credit hour.