Key Takeaways
- Somerset Community College is the primary accredited provider of Practical Nursing programs in Somerset, Kentucky.
- The program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursues strong licensure pass outcomes each year.
- Total program cost is significantly lower than many private institutions in Kentucky.
- Students gain hands-on clinical experience through partnerships with local healthcare facilities.
- LPN graduates in Somerset benefit from steady regional demand in hospitals, long-term care centers, and home health agencies.
Why Choose a Practical Nursing Program in Somerset, Kentucky?
Somerset, located in Pulaski County, serves as a healthcare hub for south-central Kentucky. Aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) benefit from affordable public education, strong clinical partnerships, and high regional demand for nursing professionals.
Practical Nursing programs in Somerset are designed for students seeking a fast, cost-effective entry into the nursing field. Most programs can be completed in about one year, allowing graduates to quickly enter the workforce and begin earning while gaining experience toward advanced nursing credentials.
Kentucky continues to report steady demand for LPNs, particularly in rural and regional healthcare systems. Employers include Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, physicians’ offices, and home health agencies.
Accredited Practical Nursing Programs in Somerset, KY
Somerset Community College (SCC) – Practical Nursing Diploma
Somerset Community College, part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), is the leading provider of Practical Nursing education in Somerset. The program is approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and structured to meet state licensure requirements.
Program Overview
- Credential Awarded: Practical Nursing Diploma
- Program Length: Approximately 11 to 12 months (full time)
- Admission Cycle: Typically once per year
- Delivery Format: Primarily in-person with lab and clinical components
- Clinical Hours: Required and conducted at regional healthcare facilities
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum combines classroom instruction, simulation lab practice, and supervised clinical rotations. Core subject areas include:
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Maternal-Newborn Nursing
- Mental Health Concepts
- Professional Issues and Patient Care
Students graduate eligible to take the NCLEX-PN examination, the national licensing exam required to practice as an LPN.
NCLEX-PN Pass Rates and Outcomes
Licensure exam performance is one of the strongest indicators of program quality. Somerset Community College maintains Kentucky Board of Nursing approval and publishes licensure performance data through state reporting systems.
YearNCLEX-PN Pass RateRecent Reporting Year 1Above Kentucky State AverageRecent Reporting Year 2Strong First-Time Pass PerformanceRecent Reporting Year 3Consistent Outcomes Within Board Standards
Prospective students should consult the Kentucky Board of Nursing website for updated statistics before applying. Consistency in meeting or exceeding state benchmarks signals program reliability and effective student preparation.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Minimum Entry Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA requirements in prerequisite coursework
- Completion of required pre-nursing classes
- TEAS or other standardized exam scores if required
- Background check and drug screening
- Proof of immunizations and CPR certification
Competitive Admission
Admission is selective. Applicants are typically ranked based on GPA, exam scores, and completion of prerequisites. Early preparation significantly improves acceptance odds.
Application Tips
- Complete science prerequisites with strong grades.
- Meet with an SCC academic advisor early.
- Prepare thoroughly for entrance exams.
- Submit all documentation well before deadlines.
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
One of the strongest advantages of pursuing Practical Nursing in Somerset is affordability. As a public institution within KCTCS, Somerset Community College offers lower tuition than private career schools.
Estimated Costs
- In-state tuition calculated per credit hour
- Additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, equipment, and testing fees
- NCLEX-PN examination and licensure fees
Students may qualify for:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Kentucky state grants
- KCTCS scholarships
- Work-study programs
- Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement
Completing the FAFSA early maximizes financial aid eligibility.
Clinical Training and Local Healthcare Partnerships
Hands-on experience is central to LPN education. Clinical rotations through Somerset-based healthcare facilities expose students to real-world patient care environments.
Clinical partners may include:
- Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital
- Local long-term care and rehabilitation centers
- Community clinics and physician offices
- Home healthcare agencies
These partnerships often lead to hiring pipelines after graduation, particularly in long-term care and rehabilitation settings.
LPN Salary and Job Outlook in Somerset, KY
According to statewide labor data, Licensed Practical Nurses in Kentucky earn competitive wages relative to the cost of living. While salaries vary by employer and experience, LPNs in south-central Kentucky typically find steady employment in:
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Home health services
The aging population in Kentucky continues to drive demand for skilled nursing professionals, making practical nursing a stable career path.
Bridging from LPN to RN in Somerset
Many students use the Practical Nursing diploma as a stepping stone toward becoming a Registered Nurse. Somerset Community College offers associate degree pathways within the KCTCS system, allowing LPNs to pursue:
- LPN-to-ADN bridge programs
- Transition pathways toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at partner universities
This laddered approach allows students to earn income as an LPN while continuing their education.
How Somerset Compares to Other Kentucky LPN Programs
FeatureSomerset Community CollegePrivate Career Schools (KY)AccreditationKentucky Board of Nursing ApprovedVariesTuitionLower Public RatesTypically HigherProgram LengthAbout 1 Year9 to 15 MonthsClinical PartnershipsRegional Hospital NetworkVaries by SchoolLPN-to-RN PathwayBuilt into KCTCS SystemOften Limited
For affordability, public oversight, and academic progression opportunities, Somerset Community College remains the most comprehensive option in the immediate area.
Is a Practical Nursing Program in Somerset Right for You?
An LPN program in Somerset is ideal for students who want:
- A fast entry into the nursing workforce
- Affordable in-state tuition
- Strong licensure preparation
- Local employment opportunities
- A pathway to advanced nursing degrees
Success in the program requires discipline, compassion, and strong study habits. The accelerated format demands consistent time commitment and clinical readiness.
Frequently Asked Questions about Practical Nursing Programs in Somerset, KY
How long does the Practical Nursing program at Somerset Community College take?
You can usually complete the full-time Practical Nursing diploma at Somerset Community College in about 11 to 12 months, including classroom, lab, and clinical courses.
Is the Somerset Community College Practical Nursing program accredited?
Yes. The Somerset Community College Practical Nursing program is approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and designed to meet state licensure requirements for LPNs.
Will this program prepare me for the NCLEX-PN exam?
Yes. The curriculum is built to prepare you for the NCLEX-PN, and graduates are eligible to sit for the exam after completing all program and state requirements.
How much does the LPN program in Somerset usually cost?
You pay in-state tuition by credit hour plus costs for books, uniforms, equipment, and testing. Total costs are often lower than many private nursing schools in Kentucky because Somerset Community College is a public institution.
What are the basic admission requirements for the Practical Nursing program?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED, required prerequisites with a minimum GPA, entrance exam scores if needed, a background check, drug screen, immunizations, and current CPR certification. Admission is competitive, so strong grades help.
Can I become an RN after finishing the LPN program in Somerset?
Yes. After you earn your LPN diploma and license, you can apply to LPN-to-ADN bridge options within the KCTCS system and then continue on to BSN programs through partner universities if you choose.
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