LPN & RN Programs

Nursing education at Southwestern Community College is a "ladder concept" offering both Practical and Registered Nursing. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX PN or RN exam at the end of the one or two years respectively. Southwestern graduates have achieved a high pass rate upon taking the exam for the first time.

The curriculum offers students learning experiences in courses emphasizing concepts of the nursing process, the health-illness continuum, ethics, communications, the sciences, and the professional nursing practice role. Students spend 3 days per week in the classroom and 2 days per week at a health care facility. A variety of clinical sites provide excellent experiences with direct supervision of skilled clinical faculty.

In Iowa there is a plan for RNs with a 2 year degree to articulate into 4 year colleges to attain a BSN. Southwestern participates in the Iowa Articulation Plan, so if a four year degree in nursing is your goal, Iowa is the place for you.

Classes begin annually in late August and graduation is in late June. The main campus at Creston offers PN and RN, and the Red Oak Center offers RN only. Creston is 70 miles southwest of Des Moines, IA and Red Oak is 50 miles southeast of Omaha, NE.

Students enjoy participation in a local student nurse organization which provides opportunities to develop knowledge and problem solving skills in leadership roles, community activities, and in nursing.

Come to Southwestern Community College to start your new career in professional nursing. Personal attention is provided to students in a learning atmosphere where SWCC students may be the only health career students on campus or in the clinical facility.. You can start the process with a phone call or by filling in the Information Request Form.

Employment opportunities for RNs and LPNs are very good in Iowa and surrounding states. Wear the Southwestern Pin with pride as you accomplish your goals for the future!