The Practical Nursing (PN) Program is offered at three locations: the Moberly Campus; the Mexico Campus; and the Columbia Campus.
This 12-month (1 year) certificate program in Practical Nursing (PN) provides a combination of subject matter and clinical experiences to prepare the student to work in a variety of structured health care environments. A graduate from the MACC PN program will function as a client caregiver under the direction of the Professional Registered Nurse and/or a Licensed Physician.
The purpose of the practical nurse education is to help the student to acquire those attitudes, skills, and knowledge essential to the role of a competent practical nurse.
This program also offers intravenous therapy content and provides certification as outlined by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Effective May 9, 2025, this nursing program is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This candidacy status expires on May 9, 2027.
The following prerequisites are required for admission into the PN Program and must be completed prior to starting the program:
About the PN Program
- Financial Aid is available for students who qualify. It is your responsibility to apply at the MACC Financial Aid Office. Do not wait until the last minute to apply for financial aid. Apply immediately to determine your eligibility. Grants and scholarships are available to those who qualify. Contact Student Affairs and Financial Aid as early as possible to ensure the best chance of securing financial aid.
- The Practical Nursing Program is a one-year program. The program is fully approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. The Missouri State Board of Nursing approves the college to admit 32 students (Moberly); 30 (Mexico); and 30 (Columbia).
- Upon successful completion of program, graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Council of Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses. The State of Missouri Nurse Practice Act, Section 335.066, provides additional criteria for eligibility to apply for licensure as a practical nurse. Successful completion of the program does not guarantee eligibility to take the licensing examination. Satisfactory performance on this exam will qualify the student for licensure as a practical nurse. The State Board of Nursing may deny you the privilege of sitting for the exam if you have ever been convicted of a crime or have an addiction to drugs.
- A great deal of material is covered in a short period of time. This requires a dedicated student. We recommend two hours of study for every one hour of class time. It is recommended that student nurses be employed no more than 16 hours per week. (A backup babysitter may be necessary.)
- Clinical experience is an extremely important part of your education. Clinical experience is mandatory. Please be advised that clinical facilities request criminal background checks, a drug screen, health insurance, immunization information, and current BLS certification for the healthcare provider is required.
- Most health care facilities the program uses for clinical experience are smoke-free environments. It is mandatory the program follows the policies of each facility that are utilized.
- Each program determines their specific clinical days. Clinical hours vary; the majority will be days (6:30-3:00 pm). The Practical Nursing Program uses several health care facilities in the area for clinical site rotations. Transportation to and from clinical is your responsibility. (Students may carpool.)
- Students may be required to attend educational workshops (usually one per nursing class). The fee for these workshops varies.
- Purchase of scrubs and other clinical equipment that will be needed will be discussed the 1st week in class, and are the student’s financial responsibility.
- Professional Malpractice Insurance is required of all nursing students. The insurance is obtained as a group policy by MACC. The college can certify 100% coverage to the clinical facilities. This policy only covers you as you function in the student nurse role and NOT while working in any other capacity.
- There is one critical skills exam in the Practical Nursing program, Intravenous Therapy. This exam has to be passed to progress within the Practical Nursing program.
- The Student Practical Nurses Association is an active pre-professional organization here at MACC. All students are encouraged to join. (Missouri State Association of Licensed Practical Nurses).
- The MACC graduation ceremony is held in May. Participation is optional for Practical Nursing students. This signifies that two semesters have been successfully completed, and the student is entering their final phase of the program. The student is required to apply for graduation and take the HESI exams.
- Class hours vary, but are a complete day. Classes are held Monday-Friday. Class hours are subject to vary with each semester.
- No student is admitted after 5 class days have passed.
Admission and Application Information
If applying to the Columbia Practical Nursing program, students should submit completed forms to the PN Coordinator at MACC- Columbia. If applying to the Mexico PN program, students should submit completed forms to the Nursing Administration Office at MACC-Mexico. If applying to the Moberly PN program, students should submit completed forms to the Health Sciences Office in the Marie F. O'Keefe Center for Health Sciences on the Moberly campus.
- Complete all admission requirements for Moberly Area Community College.
- Submit official high school transcript, HiSET, or GED transcript, if applicable, to Student Affairs. It is the responsibility of the student to check on the status of their transcripts in Student Affairs.
- Submit official college or university transcripts to Student Affairs. This includes transcripts from any nursing schools attended, if applicable. It is the responsibility of the student to check on the status of their transcripts in Student Affairs.
- Complete application packet for Practical Nursing program.
- Once you have completed your MACC Admissions Application and received your username and password information, log into myMACC.
- Click on the Student Tab
- On the left-hand side, click on Program Applications
- Click on the PN Application Form
- Complete and submit the form.
- Complete the Missouri State Highway Patrol Criminal Background check (Name Search). This service is called the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) and may be accessed at: www.machs.mshp.dps.mo.gov. You can make payment using a debit or credit card. You will need to print and email a pdf of the results to the location you are applying to:
Columbia PN Program: pncolumbia@macc.edu
Mexico PN Program: pnmexico@macc.edu
Moberly PN Program: pnmoberly@macc.edu
Admission Criteria
- Completion of the ATI TEAS exam with a score of 58% or higher - this test can be scheduled through the MACC website at www.macc.edu/testing-at-macc
- Earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 from high school or college. All university and college coursework attempted will be considered when determining a student’s cumulative grade point average. College transcript supersedes high school transcript.
- Completion of college level Human Anatomy/Lab with a “C” or above and Fundamentals of Math or equivalent or higher with a minimum grade of “C” or have a placement score for Transitional Algebra or higher.
- Health insurance is required for all nursing students.
- Admission is contingent on maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 2.5.
- Is English your second language? Earn a TOEFL score of 560 on the written exam or a score of 86 on the TOEFL IBT exam, or an ACT English score of 20 or greater, or a “C” or better in Composition I.
Students are selected for admission into the program via a weighted admission process. Applicants whose records indicate the greatest potential for successful achievement will be admitted to the program. Qualified applicants not admitted for the current academic year will be placed on an alternate list. If no position becomes available, these applicants must reapply for the next academic year. PN Admission Scoring Sheet
MACC is committed to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital or parental status, pregnancy, religion, genetics, ancestry, or veteran status, in admissions, educational programs, activities, and employment.
These are minimum application criteria for this program and do not guarantee admission.
Please be advised that clinical facilities are requesting a physical exam, Basic Life Support (BLS)-Health Care Provider certification proof, a drug screen, health insurance, and criminal background checks for nursing students completing clinical practicums in their facilities. This will be at the student’s expense.
Please remember that these are the minimum application criteria for this program and do not guarantee admission.
Admission Process
Applicants whose records indicate the greatest potential for successful achievement in nursing will be selected for admission into the program. A weighted admission process is utilized to select qualified candidates for acceptance into the Practical Nursing program. Those students not meeting automatic admission criteria, but still meeting minimum criteria, will go to the Practical Nursing Admissions Committee for a competitive selection process. Incomplete packets will not be considered. The specific process for selection is outlined in the admission packet. After annual updates are complete, admission packets are available through the PN Coordinator at MACC-Columbia, at the Health Sciences Office on the Moberly campus, at the Nursing Administration Office at MACC-Mexico, and online.
In the event of an unusual situation concerning an applicant, an admissions committee will make the decision to accept or decline admission. The committee will consist of the Dean of Health Sciences, the Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, the Director of Health Sciences, the Practical Nursing Coordinator, Nursing Faculty, a member of the science faculty, and a member of the health care community. Decisions of the PN Admissions Committee are final.
Essential Qualifications
MACC Program of Practical Nursing (PN) signifies that the holder of that degree has been educated to competently enter nursing practice in all healthcare settings and to apply for PN licensure in the State of Missouri. The education of a nurse requires assimilation of knowledge, acquisition of skills and development of judgment through patient care experience in preparation for a.) Independent and b.) Semi-autonomous and or c.) making appropriate decisions required in practice. The practice of nursing emphasizes collaboration among physicians, nurses, allied health care professionals, and the patient.
The curriculum leading to the Certificate in Practical Nursing (PN) from MACC requires students to engage in diverse complex and specific experiences essential to the acquisition and practice of essential nursing skills and functions. Unique combinations of cognitive, affective, psychomotor, physical, and social abilities are required to satisfactorily perform these functions. In addition to being essential to the successful completion of the requirements of the LPN, these functions are necessary to ensure the health and safety of patients, fellow candidates, faculty and other healthcare providers.
The essential abilities necessary to acquire or demonstrate competence in a discipline as complex as nursing and needed for successful admission and continuance by candidates for the Practical Nursing Certificate at Moberly Area Community College include by are not limited to the following abilities:
Motor Skills
Candidates should have sufficient motor function so that they are able to execute movements required to provide general care and treatment to patients in all health care settings. (For example: For the safety and protection of the patients, the candidate must be able to perform basic life support, including CPR, and function in an emergency situation. The candidate must have the ability, within reasonable limits, to safely assist a patient in moving, for example, from a chair to a bed, or from a wheelchair to a commode.
Sensory/Observation
A candidate must be able to acquire the information presented through demonstrations and experiences in the basic and nursing sciences. He or she must be able to observe a patient accurately, and at a distance and close at hand and observe and appreciate non-verbal communications when performing nursing assessment and intervention or administering medications. The candidate must be capable of perceiving the signs of disease and infection as manifested through physical examination. Such information is derived from images of the body surfaces, palpable changes in various organs, and tissues, and auditory information (patient voice, hear tones, bowel and lung sounds.) are not limited to the following abilities:
Communication
The candidate must communicate effectively and sensitively with other students, faculty, staff, patients, family, and other professionals. He or she must express his or her ideas and feelings clearly and demonstrate a willingness and ability to give and receive feedback. A candidate must be able to: convey or exchange information at a level allowing development of a health history; identify problems presented; explain alternative solutions; and give directions during treatment and post-treatment. The candidate must be able to process and communicate effectively in oral and written forms. The candidate must be able to process and communicate information on the patient’s status with accuracy in a timely manner to members of the health care team. The appropriate communication may also rely on the candidate’s ability to make correct judgment in seeking supervision and consultation in a timely manner.
It should be noted that successful completion of the requirements for a degree does not guarantee eligibility to take the NCLEX licensing examination or the ability to become licensed to practice nursing. Candidates with concerns or questions about specific health conditions, personal histories, or disabilities should contact the Missouri State Nursing Commission. Practice Advisory Questions and Advisory Opinions (573) 751-0073.
Cognitive
A candidate must be able to measure, calculate reason, analyze, integrate, and synthesize in the context of undergraduate nursing study. The candidate must be able to quickly read and comprehend written material. He or she must be able to evaluate information and engage in critical thinking in the classroom and clinical setting.
Behavioral/Emotional
A candidate must possess the emotional health required for the full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients and families. In addition, he/she must be able to maintain mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients, students, faculty, staff, and other professionals under all circumstances including highly stressful situations. The candidate must have the emotional stability to function effectively under stress and to adapt an environment that may change rapidly without warning and/or in unpredictable ways. The candidate must be able to experience empathy for the situations and circumstances of others and effectively communicate that empathy. The candidate must know that his or her values, attitudes, beliefs, emotions, and experiences affect his or her perceptions and relationships with others. The candidate must be able and willing to examine and change in his or her behavior when it interferes with productive individual or team relationships. The candidates must possess skills and experience necessary for effective and harmonious relationships in diverse academic and working environments.
Professional Conduct
Candidates must possess the ability to reason morally and practice nursing in an ethical manner. Candidates must be willing to learn and abide by professional standards of practice. He/she must possess the attributes that include compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, honesty, responsibility, and tolerance. Candidates must be able to engage in a patient care delivery in all settings and be able to deliver care to all patient populations including but not limited to children, adolescents, adults, developmentally disabled persons, medically compromised.
Conditions for Graduation
- To meet the requirements for graduation from Moberly Area Community College, a student must meet the requirements of the degree or certificate and:
- Complete 15 semester hours of college level credit applicable to a degree or certificate at Moberly are Community College;
- Complete the recommended course sequence for the degree or certificate program;
- Achieve a minimum of 2.0 grade point average;
- Submit an application for graduation;
- Pay in full all fees due to Moberly Area Community College.
Practical Nursing Certificate graduates must also meet the following requirements:
- complete the HESI exam before or during the last semester of enrollment prior to completion of the PN certificate; and
- earn a grade of “C” or above in all courses required in the PN curriculum.
Career Opportunities
Whether you’re passionate about bedside care, patient advocacy, or community health initiatives, practical nursing offers a multitude of avenues to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Start exploring the exciting career opportunities available to you in practical nursing today and take the next step towards a fulfilling and dynamic career in healthcare!
Staff Nursing in Hospitals
Public Health Agency Nursing
Home Health Agency Nursing
Nursing in Clinics
Nursing in Physician Offices
Long-Term Care Facility Nursing
Nursing in Government Service
Industrial Nursing
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests are required for admission into the program?
The TEAS test must be completed with a score of 58% or greater for admission into the Practical Nursing Program. Please refer to the “Testing at MACC” webpage (www.macc.edu/testing-at-macc) for additional test information and schedules.
What if I have already had College Algebra and Composition I, do I still have to take the ACCUPLACER or ACT?
No. Please follow the guidelines for admission which can be found at www.macc.edu/admissions-advising and speak with an academic advisor.
Is there a study guide for the TEAS?
A TEAS study guide can be located at www.atitesting.com and at the college libraries.
What happens if I do not get the minimum score of 58% on the TEAS?
You can re-take the TEAS.
Do you round GPAs? (Example: My GPA is a 2.47; do you round it to a 2.5?)
No, GPAs are not rounded. Please refer to the admissions criteria for the GPA requirement of each program.
Do I have to have my high school transcript or HiSET/GED transcript?
Yes. Your official high school or HiSET/GED transcript is required as part of the admissions requirement. Submit all official transcripts to MACC’s Registrar. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all transcripts are ordered and sent to MACC.
Do I have to have all of my college transcripts?
Yes. All college transcripts (including dual credit) must be provided in order to evaluate the student’s cumulative GPA. A transcript is required for each individual school you have attended. Submit all official transcripts to MACC’s Registrar. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all transcripts are ordered and sent to MACC.
Are references required?
No. We no longer require references for the PN program.
When will I be notified of the admissions committee’s decision?
Letters of acceptance or regret will be sent via MACC student email 60 days after the admissions deadline.
Can I apply to all three programs - Columbia, Mexico and Moberly PN programs?
You may apply to only one location. If you are not selected at the initial location, your application will be referred to one of the other program locations provided seats remain available.
How much does the program cost?
Cost including tuition and program specific cost can be located on the college website at www.macc.edu/tuition-and-fees
How long is the program?
The Practical Nursing program is a full-time, one-year certificate program. The program follows an alternate college calendar, beginning the middle of August.
If I am accepted in the program, where should I expect to travel for clinical experiences?
A list of possible clinical locations is available upon request.
If I am accepted and complete the LPN program, can I continue with my education to become an RN?
Yes. MACC offers a Virtual Associate Degree Nursing - Bridge Option that enables LPNs to obtain an Associate Degree in Nursing.
Academic Map
First Semester (Fall)
| BIO209 | Physiology | MOTR LIFS150LP | 4 |
| PNC110 | Personal Vocational Concepts I | | 1 |
| PNC119 | Fundamentals of Practical Nursing | | 10 |
| PNC125 | Medication Administration | | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 17 |
Second Semester (Spring)
| PNC111 | Nursing Care of Adults I | | 13 |
| PNC113 | Maternal Newborn Nursing | | 4 |
| PNC126 | Mental Health Nursing | | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 19 |
Third Semester (Summer)
| PNC114 | Personal Vocational Concepts II | | 2 |
| PNC122 | Nursing Care of Adults II | | 8 |
| PNC123 | Nursing Care of Children | | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 14 |
Total Credit Hours: 50
Nursing courses taken at other schools of nursing or at MACC will not be accepted for transfer after two years.
- PNC courses are taken by students entering the Practical Nursing Program once they have been approved for admission.
- PNC courses must be taken in sequence as outlined in the academic map.
- A grade of "C" or better must be obtained in all required courses.
- There is a clinical fee assessed per credit hour for each nursing course. Prior to clinical experience, a physical examination and a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course are required.
For additional admission information, please see the PN Application located on the MACC website.
This academic map is not a contract, either expressed or implied, between MACC and the student, but represents a flexible program of the current curriculum which may be altered from time to time to meet the academic objectives of the college. MACC specifically reserves the right to modify, delete, or add to any academic map at any time within the student’s period of study at the college.
Program Outcomes
When students complete Practical Nursing certificate at MACC they will be able to:
- Demonstrate readiness to function within the practical nursing role, as described in the Missouri Nurse Practice Act, as a contributing member of the healthcare team.
- Prioritize nursing actions to meet the holistic needs of the client utilizing the nursing process.
- Exemplify safe, legal, and ethical nursing care.
- Develop therapeutic communication techniques with interdisciplinary health care teams, the client, and the client support systems.
- Apply principles of teaching and learning within the practical nursing scope.
This is our program promise.