Learn what makes Kirkwood's nursing programs stand out! Find answers to common questions about getting started at Kirkwood, questions about transferring, and how to find a job after graduation.
If your question isn't answered here, feel free to contact the Department of Nursing at 319-398-5563.
The nursing program does not utilize a waiting list. We do, however, generally receive more program applications than we have openings in the fall. We do not hold those applications for the next term.
You must reapply each term. Upon completion of the necessary prerequisites, the program GPA is the deciding factor for acceptance into the nursing program.
Minimum program GPA of 2.75.
ALL prerequisites must have been completed (minimum "C" grade, unless noted):
Attending a program conference is also required. Attendance date must be less than two years old from date of entry into the technical portion of the program.
Your CNA license must be listed as Eligible on the Direct Care Registry for the State of Iowa OR have passed all of the units for HSP State Certification (CORE, HMM & PADL) and the HSP state exam.
If you graduated from a U.S. high school or college, you are not required to take the TOEFL.
If you graduated from a high school or college outside the U.S., a TOEFL IBT of ≥ 84 with a Speaking score ≥ 26 is required.
If you are from one of the countries listed below, you are eligible for an exemption from the TOEFL requirement:
Other foreign language tests may be substituted for TOEFL IBT. Verification of the ability to read, write, speak, and understand English as determined by the TOEFL or IELTS. A passing score is:
Algebra, Biology, English, Psychology, and Computer Technology classes will help you prepare for the nursing program.
Be sure to check out our High School Health Academy Program — we partner with local school districts to help you explore health care options and earn college credits before you graduate.
You're not able to take Gen Eds at the same time and must complete all of the general education requirements before you can start the technical portion of the program. Check out the worksheets and roadmaps below to help you build your academic blueprint for graduation, exams, and licensing.
Clinical courses are held within the 7-county area Kirkwood serves. A variety of long-term care facilities and hospitals are utilized.
Kirkwood's nursing curriculum is very intense and requires a lot of study time. Many students do work part-time while they're taking classes.
We recommend planning for 4-6 hours of studying for every hour you spend in a class or clinical. For example, a 3-credit lecture class will require about 12-18 hours of study per week.
If you must work, we advise not more than 20 hours a week.
Important note: You CANNOT work the shift directly prior to your clinical day. This is for patient safety and is closely regulated.
Once the criminal background check is completed, any offenses, other than traffic violations, must be reported to the Human Services department in Des Moines.
You'll be given documentation to complete, which will be sent along with the background check to the Department of Human Services. Human Services will then make the decision on whether or not the student will be allowed to participate in clinical.
Even if you are cleared to participate in clinical, the Iowa Board of Nursing (IBON) has the right to decline licensure. Criminal background checks are repeated prior to taking the licensure exam and are always done upon an offer of employment in any health care setting. IBON requires students to submit their legal paperwork prior to taking the licensure exam.
If you have concerns that something on your Criminal Background Check would prevent you from being licensed as a Registered Nurse, you can contact the Iowa Board of Nursing to determine your eligibility.
Nursing program staff will notify you in writing if you are unable to take a clinical course for any of the following reasons:
Any of the criteria listed below may also disqualify you from enrollment in Kirkwood's nursing program:
While enrolled in the nursing program at Kirkwood Community College, it is expected that students report all child abuse, dependent adult abuse, and/or criminal activity in which they are involved, to Kirkwood Community College Nursing Department within forty-eight (48) hours of the incident. Failure to do so could result in criminal charges per Iowa Code and removal from the program.
It depends on the number of prerequisites you have remaining — an advisor can help you determine what classes you'll need.
Note: Acceptance into the Technical Day Program is fall term only.
Your nursing and other general education courses will be evaluated by the Nursing Program department coordinator and Kirkwood Enrollment Services.
Before sending in your transcripts, we highly recommended meeting with an advisor first. Please bring a copy of your unofficial transcripts, unless you have already sent them to Enrollment Services/One Stop. This way, we'll be able to assess your current status and work with you to plan your path for success at Kirkwood.
Yes — you can work as an LPN in any state in the U.S. However,
Yes — you can work as an RN in any state in the U.S. However,
After the second semester of the technical portion of the nursing program, you'll earn a Practical Nurse diploma and will be eligible to complete the LPN licensure exam.
If you continue through the full program, you'll earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and will be eligible to complete the RN licensure exam.
Many area colleges and universities offer a bachelor's degree in nursing. Our ADN programs transfer to 11 accredited four-year nursing programs in Iowa and one in Nebraska. Your state license will remain as an RN.
You must apply to the Iowa Board of Nursing (IBON) and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) before you're licensed in the state of Iowa.
After successfully completing the practical Nursing program, you are eligible take the LPN licensure exam (Licensed Practical Nurse).
After successfully completing the ADN program, you are eligible to take the RN (Registered Nurse) licensure exam.