This program is accredited by the Higher Learning commission and approved by the Illinois community college Board and the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations. Associate Degree Nursing education prepares practitioners who provide direct care and meet complex health needs of individuals in community-based environments. The graduate of the Associate Degree program is prepared to make collaborative nursing assessments with other health care professionals, to act as a health educator and client advocate, and to provide leadership by making responsible, ethical decisions within the nursing profession. The AND/RN program at DACC implements a multi-exit ladder approach in which the student may exit after the first level of nursing education with a Practical Nursing Certificate, qualified to write the licensure exam for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) OR the student can continue in the second level and earn an Associate Degree in Nursing/Registered Nursing. The purpose of the ladder associate degree nursing curriculum is to prepare qualified men and women to fulfill the current responsibilities of the Practical Nurse (Level I) and of the Registered Nurse (Level II). Upon satisfactory completion of both levels of this curriculum the graduate is qualified to write the licensure exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN). Clinical laboratories include Provena-United Samaritans Medical Center and the Veterans Affairs Illiana Healthcare System. Acceptance into the program is dependent upon qualifications and testing in addition to admission to the College.

General Education courses: Sciences must be current within 5 years. All courses must be "C" or better. Math requirement prior to admission: Successful completion of MATH 101 (Basic Algebra) or higher level algebra-based math course within five (5) years of the desired admission date OR placement into MATH 105 (Intermediate Algebra) or higher level algebra-based math course by placement testing within three (3) years of the desired admission date. No substitutions will be accepted for SPCH 101 Oral communications. BOFF 140 Medical Terminology and HLTH 102 First Aid and Personal Safety are recommended.

Students must submit documentation of current CPR certification upon admission to the program, including two=rescuer for children and adults, and must maintain such certification throughout the program. This program is an occupational program typically not designed to transfer. However this program has been articulated to some senior institutions. Please contact a counselor for specific details.

NOTE:  Graduate must meet Constitution requirement (see academic advisor in Student Services).

Designated as a Tech Prep program.