Nursing Programs

The nursing curricula prepare graduates to function as members of the health care team in various health care environments. The curricula focus on preparation for employment and articulation. The nursing programs consist of an Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing and an Associate Degree in Registered Nursing. The nursing program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing.

In the Fall of 2010, the statewide curriculum for the PN program was implemented, which means all PN students will be required to have all eight prerequisite classes completed before being admitted into the clinical portion of the program. PN students will be admitted in both the fall and spring semesters.

The Associate of Science degree leading to the registered nursing program is currently following the statewide curriculum, continuing as a Fall-Spring sequence program.

Admission to the program also requires completion of the UM-Helena application for admission and the  nursing program application.  Applications are also available through the nursing department at the Donaldson Campus at UM-Helena. Deadlines can be obtained from the nursing department and will be posted on the webpage. A student may apply while enrolled in the prerequisite courses with acceptance to the program to be determined after the current completed semester grades are finalized. A general physical examination is part of the application process.

A student must maintain a “C” or better in each of the courses required and complete each semester prior to progressing to the next semester. After the student is accepted into the nursing program, he or she must provide proof of the following health requirements: tuberculosis testing using the PPD or chest x-ray; Hepatitis B vaccine (a series of three injections); MMR series (those born before 1956 who did not receive the MMR will have to complete a titer); illness or vaccination for Varicella (chicken pox); Tetanus; current CPR for the Health Care Provider; and a criminal background check.

Students who have been accepted into the nursing program are required to have laptop computers.  For laptop requirements and recommendations please click here.

Practical Nursing

LPN Student Handbook

The practical nurse uses specialized knowledge and skills that meet the health care needs of people in a variety of settings under the direction of qualified health professions. The curriculum focuses on preparation for employment. Students learn practical nursing skills through independent study, lectures, simulation demonstrations, and practice in the skills lab. Under instructor supervision, students also provide patient care in a variety of health care settings. The program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing

Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the National Council of Licensing Examination (NCLEX) PN licensure examination from the Montana State Board of Nursing. Upon passing the examination, the graduate becomes a Licensed Practical Nurse, LPN. After licensure, graduates typically find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, and other health care agencies.

Admission is by application only. The application process includes a Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) pre-entrance exam. Applications are good for current start only; current applications are available through the nursing department. The application process requires that a student successfully complete the following coursework with a “C” or better:

Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing
(New Statewide Curriculum)

Prerequisite Courses
To be completed prior to application to the program. A prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.

Length of Program: Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing: 4 semesters, 51/52 credits

Prerequisite Courses
These courses are to be completed prior to application to the program. A prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times. Please see a program advisor for any questions concerning changing to the statewide curriculum.

Third Semester

Admission is by application only. Please check with the nursing department for current application information.

Students- Please note! Weekly schedule includes labs, clinical and simulations that cannot be reflected on the course catalog schedule. Students should plan for 30-40 hours per week. The nursing department will supply students with a schedule once admission is determined.

Associate Degree Leading To Registered Nursing

ASRN Nursing Student Handbook

The Associate degree program prepares graduates to function as members and leaders of health care teams in various health care environments. The curriculum focuses on preparation for employment. Some of the course work is transferable. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination from the Montana State Board of Nursing. After passing the examination, the graduate becomes a Registered Nurse, RN.

Entry into the ASRN program is by application-only in the spring for fall semester. Applications are available through the nursing department. The application process includes a LPN STEP pre-entrance exam and a physical examination. Applications are good for current year only; current applications are available through the nursing department. The application process requires that a student have a current, unencumbered LPN licensure (from any state) and/or is a graduate of the statewide curriculum PN program, and has successfully completed the following coursework with a “C” or better:

Students- Please note! Weekly schedule includes labs, clinical and simulations that cannot be reflected on the course catalog schedule. Students should plan for 30-40 hours per week. The nursing department will supply students with a schedule once admission is determined.