Advanced Placement Pathway: Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and Licensed Psychiatric Technicians (LPT) to Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Announcement:
The ADN Program application period includes the second Thursday through the fourth Thursday each February. Proof of the COVID-19 vaccine is required for clinical placement. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we continue to be affected by a reduction in clinical space. The number of available spaces in the ADN program will continue to be reduced until the clinical space is increased. Updates will be provided when new information is available. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. Please wear a mask, wash your hands frequently, and maintain social distancing of at least six feet. Be safe!
Modesto Junior College (MJC) does not have an LVN or LPT program, but rather a pathway for LVNs and LPT to continue their education to obtain an Associate of Science degree in nursing and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN
On this page:
- Announcements
- Pathway Description
- Nursing Philosophy
- Career Opportunities
- Pathway Eligibility & Preparation
- Pathway Advisory
- Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
- Selection Process
- Additional Requirements for Accepted Applicants
- Advanced Placement Pathway
- Scholastic Requirements
- Accommodations and Support Center
- Policy for Denial of Licensure
- Veterans
- Accuracy/Changes Statement
Links to additional information:
- The ADN Program application period includes the second Thursday through the fourth Thursday each February
- LVN 30 Unit Option
- Multicriteria Screening Process Advising Record (MSPAR) 12082019 kwb
- Program Costs 12032018 kwb
- Supporting Documentation Forms
- Military/Veterans Policy 02132020_km
Important!
Please check the highlighted changes on the revised multicriteria screening process
advising record (MSPAR)
TEAS:
All students applying for the MJC Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program will have
to take the latest version of the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and
achieve a total scaled score of 427 (62%) or higher within the first two attempts
to apply to the program. For information on scheduling the TEAS, go to www.atitesting.com. The TEAS is offered at the MJC Testing Center.
Revised Re-Entry Policy: Procedural Steps for Re-Entry after a second failed attempt
See links below on this page for more information.
Advanced Placement may include Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) applicants. Advanced Placement applicants may be eligible for acceptance into the Modesto Junior College (MJC) Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)Program on a space available basis. Completion of the ADN Program prepares the LVN /LPT to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), leading to licensure as a Registered Nurse.Applicants are evaluated on an individual basis, taking the following criteria into consideration:
- Proof of completion of a LVN / LPT program.
- Proof of active LVN / LPT License. Probation and/or Restricted license not accepted.
- Successful completion of Nurse 259: Transition in the RN Role at MJC prior to the ADN Program application period.
- It is recommended for Advanced Placement applicants to meet with a nursing advisor or counselor prior to the ADN Program application period.
- An individual assessment of evaluating and granting equivalency credit for prior education and experience will take place prior to student placement in the ADN program.
If you would like information on financial aid, call 209-575-7700. For academic advising contact Allied Health 209-575-6362.
The Advanced Placement Pathway uses a Multicriteria Screening Process for admission. The ADN Program application period includes the second Thursday through the fourth Thursday each February. Detailed information is posted under the Multicriteria Screening Process Advising Record (MSPAR) and on the Online Application Instructions. Students interested in obtaining information about the program and the selection process should enroll in NURSE 115: Introduction for Nursing Majors. The Advanced Placement Pathway at MJC prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), leading to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) and is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).
See other links on the ADN web page for more information or call the Allied Health Office at (209) 575-6362. For information on Financial Aid, call (209) 575-7700. If you are just beginning your preparation for the nursing program, contact the Counseling Center at (209) 575-6080.NOTE TO INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: before applying, contact the MJC International Student Program at MJC_InternationalStudents@yosemite.edu or (209) 575-6012.Veterans, for additional information CLICK HERE
Nursing Philosophy
The philosophy of the Associate Degree Nursing Program reflects the faculty’s beliefs about persons, the art and science of nursing, and nursing education. These beliefs are embodied in program terminal objectives and offer a compass for the instruction of nursing. Similarly, the program philosophy is congruent with the Modesto Junior College Mission Statement which acknowledges the uniqueness of individuals and a commitment to excellence in education.
Persons:
We believe that each person is an individual worthy of respect and caring. Each person possesses a unique combination of attitudes, values, life experience, learning styles, culture, ethnicity, and support systems. Each person is a complex entity with biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. As described in the Roy Adaptation Model, each person is in constant interaction with a dynamic environment. Multiple factors from the environment, both past and present, challenge the person to make adaptive responses. The well-being or survival of the person depends on coping mechanisms which lead to adaptation to an ever-changing environment.
The Art and Science of Nursing:
By its nature and process, we believe that nursing is a profession of both art and science. The art of nursing lies in caring. Caring is defined as a way of being within the context of a therapeutic relationship. It is through caring that the patient is empowered to perform activities that promote health, prevent illness, and maintain or restore an optimal level of wellness across the lifespan. As Madeleine Leininger states, “Caring is the central and unifying domain for the body of knowledge and practice in nursing.”
In the practice and profession of nursing, it is the ethic of care that paramountly distinguishes nursing as holistic, differentiates it from other health professions, and therefore, comprises its essence. Caring is evidenced by respect for persons, sensitive and therapeutic communication, and the nonjudgmental provision of care. These behaviors are extended to patients, their families, and their support systems. Caring is also manifested by respect for self, colleagues, and the profession of nursing. It is in the milieu of respect for persons, the fundamental principle of our profession’s Code of Ethics, that nursing care occurs. Conversely, in its absence, nursing care cannot take place.
The science of nursing lies in the nursing process, the problem-solving approach to nursing care grounded in the scientific method, and in the application of knowledge from an array of related scientific disciplines. Equally important to the science of nursing is its own evolutionary heritage contributing to the body of knowledge comprising nursing theory. We therefore acknowledge the historical roots of the nursing profession and recognize the contributions to the development of nursing theory by pivotal nurse leaders.
Nightingale defined nursing as “the care that puts the patient in the best possible condition for nature to act” and described health as not only being well, but “to be able to use well every power that we have.” Henderson described the process of nursing as “assisting the individual, sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health or recovery (or to a peaceful death) that he would perform unaided if he had the necessary strength, will, or knowledge.”
Based on these ideals, we believe that a major role of nurses, who care for persons at various points along the health-illness continuum, is to promote the person’s well being and to manage or prevent complications of illness. In our conceptual framework, the nurse primarily achieves these goals by facilitating adaptation when there are identified alterations in health and coping along this continuum.
While promotion of health and adaptation is a salient role in nursing, it is the nursing process that provides the methodology for nursing care. Nursing process, implemented with critical thinking and skill and drawing on relevant scientific knowledge, provides the essential framework for organizing and delivering care. When this process is delivered with caring, the union of art and science in nursing is complete.
Nursing Education:
Nursing education may be defined as the acquisition of a unique body of knowledge that is continually expanding and increasing in complexity. This learning includes knowledge of nursing theory and core principles as well as knowledge drawn from the physical, biological, and social sciences. The knowledge of theory is fused with practical applications of learning in a variety of health care settings where patients are experiencing alterations and needs along the health-illness continuum. The evolving nature of nursing mandates that nursing learning transcends the time frame of the educational setting and is, in fact, lifelong.
No less important than the acquisition of knowledge and skills in nursing education is the acceptance and development of values resulting in a professional work ethic. As we believe that respect and caring are essential behaviors in the provision of nursing care, it is important that these and other professional values be taught as well. The socialization of the student of nursing into the profession of nursing, then, is an educational goal of the highest order.
Our beliefs about nursing education also acknowledge the diversity of our student population and the uniqueness of the individual learner. We identify multiple factors in the adult learner, including learning styles, values, attitudes, culture, ethnicity, life experience, and support systems as significant characteristics to be appraised. Assessment of these factors identifies students’ learning needs and goals, as well barriers to their success. We believe that sensitivity and responsiveness to the needs of individual students is a precursor to facilitating the academic success of all students.
While embracing individualism in the academic environment, successful nursing education must also result in measurable and consistent standards of student achievement culminating in competent entry-level practice. We believe this can best be achieved by excellence in education and a collaborative partnership between instructor and student. The instructor serves as learning facilitator, role model, support person, expert teacher, resource person, advisor, and evaluator. The student, as an adult learner, takes responsibility for learning by sustainable commitment to academic expectations, communication of learning needs, and accountability for self-behavior.
Career Opportunities
Part-time or full-time work is available during the days, evenings, or nights. Twelve-hour shifts are an option at many hospitals. Most nurses work in hospitals, clinics, home health care agencies, doctors’ offices, hospices, mental health facilities, drug rehabilitation units, and convalescent hospitals. Some nurses choose to specialize in areas such as Intensive Care or Cardiac Care Units, Emergency Rooms, and Labor and Delivery. Salaries range from $39 to $43 per hour plus benefits.
Pathway Eligibility and Preparation
Admission to Modesto Junior College
High School Graduation or equivalent (GED or College Degree) Although high school graduation is highly recommended, it is not required for acceptance into the Advanced Placement Pathway.
Transcripts on File in the MJC Enrollment Services
All transcripts from other colleges must be submitted as part of your documentation packet unless your transcripts are already on file in the MJC Enrollment Services, Student Services building 102, 209-575-6853. We will accept hand-carried transcripts that are in a sealed envelope with a school seal.
Required Math Competency for Acceptance into the Advanced Placement Pathway
- Score of 3, 4, or 5 on AP Exam: Calculus AB or Calculus BC or Statistics
- Completion of MATH 89, MATH 989, or course from CSU-GE:B4 or IGETC:2, or equivalent course with a grade of C or higher.
- Score of 5 on IB exam; Mathematics HL
Students who possess a baccalaureate or higher degree completed at a regionally accredited college will have satisfied general education and competency requirements including guidance and activities for the associate of science degree.
In accordance with the California Nurses Practice Act and the Board of Registered Nursing, the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 1430 states: An approved nursing program shall have a process for a student to obtain credit for previous education or for other acquired knowledge in the field of nursing through equivalence, challenge examinations, or other methods of evaluation. The program shall make the information available in published documents, such as college catalog or student handbook, and online. Students interested in obtaining credit for previous education or for other acquired knowledge in the field of nursing should reference the current MJC catalog under “Credit.” In addition, the student may make an appointment with a nursing advisor by calling (209) 575-6362. A nursing advisor will inform the student of available options and assist the student in completing the process for the appropriate option such as course equivalency, course substitution, upper division course credit, course challenges, advanced placement and/or theory and skill set critical element testing.
To determine if the college you attended is accredited by one of the accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, google “Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education” and click on “Accreditation of Postsecondary Education in the United States.” Applicants applying for the first semester of the ADN program will be disqualified for entering prerequisite coursework from non-accredited institutions. If you are applying as a transfer from another nursing program or as a LVN from a non-accredited institution, your program eligibility and placement will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Documentation of License
LVNs and LPTs must have an active License. LVNs must have current IV certification. Probation and/or Restricted License Not Accepted.
Prerequisites
The following eight prerequisites must be completed with a grade on transcript by the application deadline. All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. Anatomy, Physiology and Microbiology must have a minimum combined GPA of 2.5. Psychology, Sociology (or Anthropology 102) and communication studies must have a minimum combined GPA of 2.5. A combined GPA of less than 2.5 will disqualify a student and prevent them from moving forward in the application.
Prerequisites |
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Units |
Anatomy 125 | 4 | |
Physiology 101 | 4 | |
Microbiology 101 | 4 | |
English 101 | 3 OR | |
English 100 | 5 OR | |
ELIC 100 | 5 | |
Psychology 101 or 141 | 3 | |
Sociology 101 or 102 or 125 or 150 or 154 or 156 or Anthropology 102 | 3 | |
Communication Studies 100 or 102 | 3 | |
Nurse 259: Transition to the RN Role | 2 |
Recommended for Success
The following courses are not required, but they are highly recommended for the ADN program. Students will receive one (1) point in the selection process for having completed each course:
FDNTR 219: Nutrition or equivalent (MJC) | 3 | |||||
MDAST 321: Medical Terminology | 3 | |||||
NURSE 115: Introduction for Nursing Majors(MJC) | 1 OR | |||||
GUIDE 50: Guidance for Nursing Majors (Columbia College) | 1 |
Pathway Advisory
Students are strongly advised to complete the following three additional GE graduation requirements prior to entering the Advanced Placement Pathway. These courses must be completed by the end of the 4th semester of the ADN program with a pass or grade of C or better in order to complete the ADN Program and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Additional GE Graduation Requirements |
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Unit(s) |
Activities | 2 | |||||||||||
Humanities | 3 | |||||||||||
Guidance course | 0.5 |
LVNs Who Challenged the LVN Board: An applicant who became an LVN by challenging the LVN Board must complete 30 college units in the nursing major and have a total of 60 college units in order to receive an AS Degree. Contact Allied Health for advising regarding this issue at (209) 575-6362.
Prerequisites Completed at a College on the Quarter System: If you took prerequisites at a college on the quarter system you may need to make up units before you complete the program to meet the AS degree requirements.
Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
All applicants are required to take the TEAS which measures skills in the content area domains of Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English and Language Usage. Applicants must take the TEAS and obtain a score of 427 (62%) or higher in order to meet program entrance requirements. This score was imposed by the California Community College Nursing Advisory Council (3CNAC) and is not exclusive to MJC. Each applicant has two opportunities to take the latest version of the TEAS. Points will be awarded for the highest of the first two scores. Applicants who have already taken the latest version of the TEAS at another institution must have official scores sent by ATI to MJC.
It is highly recommended that students review the TEAS study guide prior to taking the TEAS. Preparation materials are available from Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) at www.atitesting.com. Copies of the TEAS Pre-test Study Manual are available at both MJC libraries and at the Columbia College Library. If you have questions regarding the TEAS, you may call Email Araceli Baliel at (209) 575-6362 or email Email Araceli Baliel at baliela@mjc.edu.
Selection Process
MJC's Advanced Placement Pathway utilizes a multicriteria screening process to evaluate and select applicants for admission. Specified criteria used to evaluate applicants includes, but is not limited to, academic degrees, healthcare work, volunteer experience, military healthcare work experience, life circumstances, special experiences, foreign language proficiency, and the Test of Essential Academic Skills score.
On the application, applicants must indicate which campus they would like to attend nursing classes. They may select between MJC and Columbia College. An applicant may not apply for both MJC and Columbia.
All nursing applications will be scored electronically. All communication to applicants is sent to the applicant’s student email address. After ranking all of the applications, the applicants with the highest points will be selected to provide their required supporting documentation. All supporting documentation will be reviewed and the qualified applicants will be selected in order of points for fall and spring semesters. Qualified applicants are admitted into either second or third semester of the ADN program on a space available basis.
For a detailed explanation of our multicriteria screening process, go to the Allied Health website and search ADN Program and click on the Multicriteria Screening Process Advising Record (MSPAR).
Additional Requirements for Accepted Applicants
Accepted applicants will be required to successfully complete the Clinical Clearance process.
Clinical Clearance
Health Clearance:
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- A medical history and physical examination completed by a physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner within six months prior to program start date. The physical must state that the applicant does not have any health conditions that would create a hazard to self, employees, or patients.
- Documentation of required immunizations.
- A negative PPD skin test must be obtained. If a positive reaction is obtained, or has previously been obtained, a chest x-ray must be taken unless medically contraindicated.
Background Check:
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- All students participating in clinical assignments are required by acute care hospitals to complete a criminal background check and be cleared by the clinical facility in order to participate in the clinical experience. (See Policy for Denial of Licensure.)
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification:
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- The ADN Program will offer a Health Care Provider BLS class from the American Heart Association for all accepted applicants.
Drug Screen:
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- All students will be required to pass a drug screen.
Advanced Placement Pathway Curriculum
The transition course (Nurse 259: Transition to the RN Role) is required for LVNs, Psych Techs, and selected Military Personnel/Veterans. An individualized process for evaluating and granting equivalency credit for prior education and experience that results in meeting the same course objectives and competency standards.
Suggested Nursing Courses, may include: |
Units |
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Nurse 272 Nursing Process: Geriatrics | 1 | |||||||||||
Nurse 273 Nursing Process: Maternal - Child | 6.5 | |||||||||||
Nurse 274 Nursing Process: Mental Health | 3 | |||||||||||
Nurse 275 Nursing Process: Medical-Surgical | 7 | |||||||||||
Nurse 278 Nursing Process: Advanced Medical-Surgical | 10 |
Additional MJC GE Requirements
Selected from the approved course list (MJC-GE) in the current MJC Catalog |
Unit(s) |
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Activities | 2 | |
Humanities | 3 | |
Guidance | 0.5 | |
Total Units for A.S. Degree |
65.5 - 67.5 |
Students who possess a baccalaureate or higher degree completed at a regionally accredited college or university will have satisfied general education and competency requirements including guidance and activities for the associate of arts or associate of science degree.
Veterans or reservists who submit proof of US military Basic Training will receive two (2) units of activities. File copy of DD214 with MJC Veterans Office.
Total Units for the Advanced Placement Pathway: Based on Individualized Evaluation
NOTE: To graduate from the MJC ADN Program, a student must: 1) complete all ADN Program requirements; 2) complete the 4th semester of the MJC ADN Program; 3) complete 12 units “in residence” at MJC; and 4) complete the MJC GE graduation requirements.
Scholastic Requirements
Continuation in the Advanced Placement Pathway is dependent upon completion of all courses with a C grade or better. If a student receives less than a C in any required course, that course must be repeated with a C or better in order to qualify for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
Accommodations and Support Center
Students with declared or suspected disabilities are urged to contact MJC’s Accommodations and Support Center prior to entering the nursing program. For more information, please call (209) 575-6225 or visit the Student Services Building, Room 112 on the MJC East Campus. Accommodations and Support Center (ASC)
Policy for Denial of Licensure
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) protects the public by screening applicants for licensure in order to identify potentially unsafe practitioners. Statutory authority for denial of licensure is set out in the Business and Professions Code. Any student considering a career in nursing who has a criminal record is advised to go to the BRN website at www.rn.ca.gov and search Enforcement and then License Discipline and Convictions prior to applying to the ADN Program.
Criminal Record
Pre-Nursing students with a criminal record should attempt to have convictions expunged prior to applying for entrance into the nursing program. A criminal record may prevent students from clinical placement and therefore continuing in a nursing program.
Veterans
In compliance with the Board of Registered Nursing and California Code of Regulations 1426 (1), Theory and clinical practice requirements of the curriculum will be adjusted in recognition of military education and experiences of the student, when applicable, through an individualized process for evaluating and granting equivalency credit for military education and experience that results in meeting the same course objectives and competency standards.
VETERANS AND MILITARY PERSONNEL:
Veterans and Military Personnel may be eligible for acceptance into the Modesto Junior College (MJC) Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program on a space available basis. Healthcare related education and experience within fi ve years prior to application is recommended. Applicants are evaluated on an individual basis, taking the following criteria into consideration:
- Military records and transcripts must be reviewed by the MJC Veterans Center Coordinator (Certifying Offi cer), (209) 575-6670.
- Military records must include a DD-214 showing completion of military coursework and service/discharge under honorable conditions. If applicant is in active duty, a letter from the applicant’s military supervisor verifying current honorable service is required.
- To assist with the transition to civilian life and to prepare for success in the nursing program, applicants must have successfully completed Nurse 259: Transition into the RN Role at MJC prior to the ADN Program application period.
- It is recommended for veterans/military personnel to meet with a nursing advisor or counselor prior to the ADN Program application period.
- An individual assessment of evaluating and granting equivalency credit for prior healthcare related military education and experience will take place prior to student placement in the ADN program.
Please call (209) 575-6017 to schedule an appointment or email Veterans Services for additional information. Please refer to the Veteran's Policy link listed under “links to additional information.”
Accuracy/Changes Statement
The Yosemite Community College District and Modesto Junior College have made every effort to determine that everything stated in this document is accurate. Courses and programs are subject to change without notice by the head administration of the Yosemite Community College District or Modesto Junior College for reasons related to student enrollment, level of financial support, or for any reason at the discretion of the District and the College.