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Suncoast Technical College Nursing Programs are in compliance with the U.S. Department of Education's (USDE) Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v).

This program is designed for individuals holding a valid and unencumbered Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license issued by the Florida Board of Nursing. It aims to prepare them for employment as Registered Nurses (RN). The curriculum blends classroom and online theoretical instruction with hands-on simulation labs and clinical rotations. Clinical experiences take place at healthcare facilities across Sarasota and Manatee counties, following the Florida Department of Education’s (FLDOE) Professional Nursing curriculum framework.

As per the Florida Board of Nursing and Florida Statutes 464.019, the program covers the following key areas:

• The professional role and legal scope of practice for registered nurses.

• Body structure and function.

• Patient care in acute, long-term, and community settings, including geriatrics, psychiatry, medical-surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, and professional nursing.

• Pharmacology and medication administration.

• Mental health and interpersonal relationship skills.

• Health education, counseling, human growth and development, nutrition, and family care.

This program maintains approval from the Florida State Board of Nursing. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) given by the Florida State Board of Nursing.

All teachers are registered nurses, licensed by the State of Florida, and credentialed by the Board of Nursing.

Important Note
According to the Florida Department of Education, this is a Professional Nursing (LPN-RN) Program. The Florida Board of Nursing identifies it as a Diploma Nursing Program. This program does NOT confer an associate or bachelor’s degree; however, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Passing this exam leads to RN licensure, just as it does for associate and bachelor’s degree nursing graduates.

Registration Steps

1. Click on APPLY NOW. Complete application. 

2. Attend a Health Information Session. Click to view dates, times, and locations.

• Sarasota Campus (941) 924-1365, Ext. 62283

NOTE: OCP-A is awarded after the student successfully completes all 9 courses in the program.