Nursing

Get hands-on training and personalized instruction to quickly prepare for a career in a progressive, high-demand healthcare profession. We offer associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and short-term training in a variety of disciplines, including registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, and nurse aide.

Our facilities feature some of the newest technologies and equipment available for teaching, and our high-tech simulation lab provides training in a learning environment that mimics a real hospital setting. You will learn to demonstrate personal responsibility and accountability while using nursing strategies, excellent communication, critical thinking skills, and technology to deliver care to patients.

Values & Benefits

1. Flexibility

   Our nursing programs offer a wide selection in medical fields of study. Whether you enjoy hands-on patient care and interaction in a busy setting or prefer to work in a smaller office, you’re sure to find the right path with our variety of available options.

2. Career Potential

   Mastering the concepts of the nursing field will make you a valuable asset to many different types of healthcare institutions, from large hospitals to private practices. It also boosts your salary potential and opens the door to obtaining a four-year or master’s degree.

3. Outlook

   When it comes to income and career prospects, nursing has a very promising outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of registered nursing is projected to grow 7% through 2029. The in-demand career typically provides generous pay and growth opportunities.

4. Transferability

   If you plan to pursue an advanced degree, our Associate Degree Nursing and Transition: LPN to ADN programs can transfer seamlessly to four-year universities. This allows you to pursue an advanced degree up to the doctorate level while working.

What is the difference between each of the nursing programs?

Nursing AAS (ADN) – 5-semester program with graduates who are eligible to take the registered nurse (RN) exam. RNs work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities with a wide range of responsibilities, usually supporting doctors.

Practical Nursing (PN) – 3-to-4-semester program with graduates who are eligible to take the practical nurse (PN) exam. PNs work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities with a narrower range of responsibilities, usually supporting RNs and doctors. 

LPN to ADN Transition Program – A specialized course for currently licensed PNs that want to pursue their RN. After completing this one (1) course, PNs are eligible to join the ADN program in the second year of the program.

Nurse Aide – A short-term program that qualifies completers to take the state Nurse Aide (NA) exam. NAs work in long-term care, hospitals, and other facilities to provide assistance with basic patient needs. This certificate is a requirement to apply for the PN and ADN programs.

Expanded Nursing Program Availability

Due to increased demand for nurses in our community, Craven CC now offers two application windows for our Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program.

Application Dates and Requirements

It's important to remember that each of our nursing programs have certain application requirements and deadlines. Follow the links below to view the complete listing of requirements for each program.

• For the AAS Nursing program, visit our ADN admission requirements page.
• For the Practical Nursing program, visit our PN admission requirements page.
• For the LPN to ADN Transition program, visit our Transition requirements page.
• For the Nurse Aide classes, visit our Nurse Aide requirements page.

Thanks to a new partnership with CarolinaEast Medical Center, students can now apply in the spring and fall. To apply for the next available ADN cohort, application timelines are as follows:

• Fall semester: Open October through February
• Spring semester: Open March through August

Deadlines for the PN and Transition nursing programs vary. Nurse Aide classes are offered year round. Please use the links above for more information on each program. 

Career Opportunities

There are many employment opportunities for Nursing graduates, including:

• Hospices
• Hospitals
• Mental health facilities
• Nursing homes
• Outpatient clinics
• Physicians’ offices
• Rehabilitation facilities