Vocational Nursing (leading to LVN)

Applying to the Vocational Nursing Program

The VN program is a “closed” program and requires additional application and acceptance into the program. Admission to Panola College does not guarantee admission to specific courses or programs of study. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will receive a Certificate of Completion and may take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).

The VN program is offered on the Carthage (fall start) and Center (spring start) campuses. This face-to-face program is taught over three semesters.

Clinicals will be scheduled during days, evenings, nights, and/or weekends within a 70-mile radius of Carthage, Texas. Clinicals are scheduled by the instructors and the clinical site. Applicants must have these times available until the schedule is finalized.

BEFORE Applying to the VN Program

1. You must apply and be admitted to Panola College.
2. Complete prerequisite BIOL 2404 with a “C” or higher or BIOL 2401 with a “C” or higher. Lab must have been taken in the same semester and at the same school as the lecture portion of the course.
3. Pass the HESI A2 with a minimum score of 75 on Reading Comprehension, Math and Grammar sections. This a $60 non-refundable fee and may only be taken twice within the past year. Call (903)693-2036 for an appointment. https://www.panola.edu/student-success/placement-testing/hesi.html

How to Apply to the VN Program

1. Call (903) 694-4026 or (936) 598-9543 for questions regarding the VN Program. Students can apply to the program at the Health and Natural Sciences Building in Carthage or at the Shelby College Center in Center, Texas. Applications are given to students September 1 through October 1 and February 1 through March 1. To receive an application, bring with you:
   • HESI A2 scores
   • Transcript evaluation completed by Student Services office
   • Proof of required Hepatitis B immunization series or positive antibody titers by the deadline.
   • Unofficial transcript from Panola College, if applicable.
2. Verify official transcripts from each college or university attended were received. Send official transcripts from all other colleges and universities attended to: Admissions/ Records Office, 1109 W. Panola St., Carthage, TX 75633.
3. Applicants not accepted for admission at one campus may reapply at the next enrollment period.

Requirements of the VN Program

• Must have a clear criminal background check (to be completed at time of application)
• Must have a clear drug screen (to be completed after admission to program)
• Must have all required immunizations or antibody titers.

Deadline to Apply

• Carthage program - March 1st for fall admission
• Center program - October 1st for spring admission

Important Information

• This program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing. Upon successful completion of the program, the student may take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Those who pass this examination are granted a license to practice as Licensed Vocational Nurses in Texas.
• Approximate expenses of the VN program = $9,800.

Accreditation

The VN program has full approval status by the Texas Board of Nursing, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460, Austin, TX 78701, (512) 305-7400.

For program-specific information and FAQs, please visit the Vocational Nursing link: https://www.panola.edu/programs/health-sciences/.

For more information, email lvn@panola.edu or call 903-693-2038 for advising