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Practical Nursing Certificate

GRCC Practical Nursing Certificate graduates successfully complete licensure exams at rates above the national and state averages, and have excellent job prospects

In this program you will learn through a mixture of classroom instruction and clinical lab work, giving you direct, hands-on healthcare experience. A variety of clinical partnerships will provide learning opportunities for you while also connecting you with potential employers.

GRCC’s Nursing Programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN; 3390 Peachtree Rd. NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326), as well as the Michigan Board of Nursing.

Why Get Your Nursing Degree at GRCC?

  • Our program offers flexible, hands-on courses focused on healthcare experience and career-ready skills.
  • Comprehensive training includes a mix of classroom instruction and clinical lab work.
  • Students also train in a simulation lab space to practice skills in a hospital setting.
  • Students will be prepared for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
  • Students participate in clinical partnerships and connect with local employers early in their nursing career.
  • GRCC partners with local colleges for those who want to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Nursing Degree Tuition Calculator

GRCC is an affordable option for anyone seeking their nursing associate degree in Michigan. Our tuition calculator can help you estimate the cost of your degree. You may also qualify for financial aid and other scholarships, so be sure to schedule an admissions appointment if you have questions about your options to pay for college.

Tuition Calculator

Please note: This calculator does not include additional student costs like books or parking. These costs are an estimate only and do not constitute a contract or binding agreement of costs to attend Grand Rapids Community College.

Advanced Standing in the Associate Degree Program

Individuals already working as licensed practical nurses may qualify for advanced standing in the department’s associate degree program, putting them on a faster track toward completing graduation requirements. 

LPNs wanting to apply for advanced standing must have completed 2000 hours of work experience as an LPN prior to applying.

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Additional Program Information

Health Admissions Process

  1. Apply to GRCC
    • Submit an application as a degree-seeking student.
    • Select the Health and Exercise Sciences Pathway to identify your intent to enter a health program.
  2. Apply for Health Admissions

Need help? If you have questions about this secondary application, you can reach out directly to the Health Admissions team at healthprograms@grcc.edu to to the Nursing Department at nursingprograms@grcc.edu.

To be eligible for admission into the program, students must meet specific requirements, including completing foundational courses and maintaining a minimum grade point average. Please refer to the catalog for a full list of admission requirements.

Off-Campus Instruction

Off-site instruction accounts for approximately 40% of the program and includes clinical instruction. The off-site locations are typically located within a 15-mile radius of the GRCC main campus. Students are responsible for transportation to the off-site locations and any other costs associated with attending the off-campus location. A list of clinical requirements, including off-site instruction locations.

Additional Information

Want to learn more about this area of study?

Visit the Department of Nursing

Questions about this program?

Department email: nursingprograms@grcc.edu

Department phone: (616) 234-4238

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