UniversityHigh School

University High School - Orange Technical College
Practical Nursing Dual Enrollment Program

The purpose of the Practical Nursing Program offered by Orange Technical College as a dual enrollment program at University High School is to prepare students for direct entry into the nursing profession as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN} and to provide access to the health care career ladder.

Career Ladder

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in 2020 was $23.4 7 /hour ($48,820 annually}, with a projected growth rate of 9% through the year 2030. Being an LPN can provide a solid income in a growing job market for those who choose to pursue career advancement on the nursing career ladder, those who choose to go directly to work full-time or those who plan to work while continuing their postsecondary education, in any field. Students completing this program and earning the LPN credential can seamlessly transition from the Practical Nursing program to a Registered Nurse (RN) program.

Commitment and Partnerships

The University High School and Orange Technical College administration, as well as the OCPS Career and Technical Education Department to supporting the Practical Nursing Program at University High School. Enrollment in the Practical Nursing Dual Enrollment program requires a commitment on the part of the student to successfully complete 6 weeks of summer school each year during the summers before the sophomore, junior and senior years and to commit 1 class period per day in the freshmen and sophomore years and 3 class periods per day during the junior and senior years. Clinicals will take place at area hospitals, long-term care facilities and utilizing simulation and learning labs at the Orange Technical College and University High School

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to enroll in the Practical Nursing Program at University High School?

Students entering 9^th grade at University High School who plan to pursue a career in nursing are eligible to apply and will be considered for enrollment in the program.

Is Summer school required? What if I have a family vacation planned?

All 3 summer school sessions are required.  If students do not successfully complete summer school or any of the courses in the program, they will not be able to continue in the program.   

Are the courses in this program weighted?

The 9^th grade course (Medical Skills and Services) and one of the 3 credits in the senior year are unweighted; the other 9 credits in the program are weighted on the same scale as AP/IB courses.

Is there a cost to participate in the program?

No tuition or fees are charged by Orange Technical College and all required books are provided.  Students will be required to purchase the required uniform and pay for background screening and drug screening prior to beginning clinicals. 

Will I get to work with “real” patients?

Yes!  Students will participate in clinical experiences at local long term care facilities. We hope to begin clinicals during the summer between 10^th and 11^th grade.

Are there additional requirements before I start clinicals?

Students will be required to pass a background check and drug screening, as well as provide documentation of required immunizations and health screenings prior to participating in clinicals.

When will I be able to take the Practical Nursing licensure exam?

Students are eligible to take the licensure exam after successfully completing the Practical Nursing program. 

Is there an age requirement?

Currently, there is a requirement that candidates for licensure are 18 or older at the time they take the licensure exam.  

The following outlines the classes required each year for the Practical Nursing Program: