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Nursing
Welcome to our nursing program. We offer a range of training options, including CNA, LPN, and ADN programs, as well as transfer tracks. Let us prepare you for a rewarding career in nursing. Explore our site to discover how we can help you achieve your goals in healthcare.
Apply Now
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Mission Statement
Our mission is to prepare Associate Degree Nursing graduates to become lifelong learners and to function as multidisciplinary team members; able to provide safe, competent care addressing the changing needs of individuals, family, and the community across the lifespan. This goal is accomplished through instruction and practice of nursing skills, use of critical thinking and problem solving, and demonstration of effective oral and written communication throughout the steps of the nursing process.
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Nursing
The Nursing program is designed to provide a career mobility path for individuals interested in health care. The curriculum is a concept-based method of instruction emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, decision making, clinical reasoning, and nursing judgment. Graduates will be prepared to practice professional nursing in a variety of health care settings.
Plan Your AAS Degree in Nursing
program details
Courses
Total = 64 Hours
PREREQUISITES
Cr. Hrs.
CNA 1201 Certified Nurse Assistant
ENGL 1101 Rhetoric and Composition I
Both must be completed with a grade of "C" or better
Competency in math (see admission requirements)
A criminal history background check & drug testing are required.
NURSING COURSES
Cr. Hrs.
Each course in the curriculum must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to meet program requirements.
Fall Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1200 Intro to Health Concepts
NURS 1201 Intro to Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1202 Health – Illness Concepts
NURS 1203 Health – Illness Concepts Clinical
NURS 1204 Tools for Nursing Education
ZOO 1105 Anatomy & Physiology I
Spring Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1205 Family Health Concepts
NURS 1206 Family Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1207 Holistic Health Concepts
NURS 1208 Holistic Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1209 Pharmacology
ZOO 1106 Anatomy & Physiology II
Total
16
Fall Semester
Cr. Hrs.
MICR 1101 Basic Microbiology
NURS 1214 Medications in Nursing
NURS 2212 Health Care Concepts
NURS 2213 Health Care Concepts Clinical
NURS 2214 Health Systems Concepts
NURS 2215 Health Systems Concepts Clinical
Total
16
Spring Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 2201 Registered Nurse Review Course
NURS 2216 Complex Health Concepts
NURS 2217 Complex Health Concepts Clinical
PSYC 2101 Intro to Psychology
Total
15
Costs & How To Pay
Costs for this program
Tuition & Fees at RLC
Payments on student accounts must be made by the deadline included on the student statement.
Fall: July 15
Spring: December 15
Summer: May 15
Students who do not make payments by this deadline may be dropped from their classes.
More about paying for college
Nursing Handbook
View our
nursing handbook
for resources regarding our nursing program.
nursing
how to apply
Our nursing program has it's own application that's in addition to the college's primary application. The steps to apply are explained below.
1. Apply to the College
If you have never been a student at RLC, the first step is to apply to the college.
Apply Now
2. Schedule Testing
Once you are enrolled at RLC, the next step is to test. Click the button to learn all about Allied Health Testing and how to get started.
Schedule Testing
3. Apply to the Nursing Program
The final step is to submit the application to our nursing program
here
The nursing program testing and application open October 11th.
Nursing application deadline is March 31st, 2026 at midnight.
1. Apply to the College
If you have never been a student at RLC, the first step is to apply to the college.
Apply Now
2. Schedule Testing
Once you are enrolled at RLC, the next step is to test. Click the button to learn all about Allied Health Testing and how to get started.
Schedule Testing
3. Apply to the Nursing Program
The final step is to submit the application to our nursing program
here
The nursing program testing and application open October 11th.
Nursing application deadline is March 31st, 2026 at midnight.
End of Program Student Learning Outcomes
Nursing
1. Demonstrate clinical judgement to provide individualized, holistic, culturally diverse, patient-centered care to individuals, family, and community across the life span.
2. Collaborate effectively with the interdisciplinary team and client system in the healthcare continuum.
3. Utilize evidence-based practice for nursing interventions that are appropriate for diverse populations with multi-faceted healthcare needs across the lifespan.
4. Manage healthcare for the individual using cost effective nursing strategies, quality improvement processes, and current technology.
5. Delegate safe nursing interventions in collaboration with the patient and family by utilizing leadership principles to provide competent patient care, health education, and health promotion.
6. Incorporate healthcare information technology in nursing practice to improve the quality and safety of patient care throughout the nursing process.
7. Demonstrate personal accountability and professionalism as defined in the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
Short-Term Certificates
CNA - Basic Nurse Assistant
This course is designed to prepare the individual to work in the role of a Certified Nurse Assistant in a variety of health care settings. It is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Upon successful completion of classroom and clinical experiences, the student will be eligible to apply to take the state CNA registry examination. The class must be completed with a grade of "C" or better.
Entry Requirements —
Be at least 16 years of age before starting course.
Score a minimum of 235 on the reading portion of the Accuplacer test.
Submit to background check as mandated by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Demonstrate current competency in American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR.
Accept provisions of the Rend Lake College Substance Abuse Policy.
The curriculum for this program has been developed to meet the licensing requirements for the State of Illinois.  It is not determined whether the curriculum meets licensing requirements for any other states.
Plan Your CNA Certificate
Costs for this program
Tuition & Fees at RLC
I'm Interested In CNA
Practical Nursing
Students who prefer to test out at the practical nurse level may do so after completing two semesters of listed Associate Degree coursework and then completing NURS 1212.
The curriculum for this program has been developed to meet the licensing requirements for the State of Illinois.  It is not determined whether the curriculum meets licensing requirements for any other states.
Plan Your Practical Nursing Certificate
Costs for this program
Tuition & Fees at RLC
PREREQUISITES
Cr. Hrs.
CNA 1201 Certified Nurse Assistant
ENGL 1101 Rhetoric and Composition I
Both must be completed with a grade of "C" or better
Competency in math (see admission requirements)
A criminal history background check & drug testing are required.
NURSING COURSES
Cr. Hrs.
Each course in the curriculum must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to meet program requirements.
Fall Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1200 Intro to Health Concepts
NURS 1201 Intro to Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1202 Health – Illness Concepts
NURS 1203 Health – Illness Concepts Clinical
NURS 1204 Tools for Nursing Education
ZOO 1105 Anatomy & Physiology I
Total
17
Spring Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1205 Family Health Concepts
NURS 1206 Family Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1207 Holistic Health Concepts
NURS 1208 Holistic Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1209 Pharmacology
ZOO 1106 Anatomy & Physiology II
Total
16
Summer Term
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1212 Transition to Practical Nursing
Overall Total
37
CNA - Basic Nurse Assistant
This course is designed to prepare the individual to work in the role of a Certified Nurse Assistant in a variety of health care settings. It is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Upon successful completion of classroom and clinical experiences, the student will be eligible to apply to take the state CNA registry examination. The class must be completed with a grade of "C" or better.
Entry Requirements —
Be at least 16 years of age before starting course.
Score a minimum of 235 on the reading portion of the Accuplacer test.
Submit to background check as mandated by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Demonstrate current competency in American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR.
Accept provisions of the Rend Lake College Substance Abuse Policy.
The curriculum for this program has been developed to meet the licensing requirements for the State of Illinois.  It is not determined whether the curriculum meets licensing requirements for any other states.
Plan Your CNA Certificate
Costs for this program
Tuition & Fees at RLC
I'm Interested In CNA
Practical Nursing
Students who prefer to test out at the practical nurse level may do so after completing two semesters of listed Associate Degree coursework and then completing NURS 1212.
The curriculum for this program has been developed to meet the licensing requirements for the State of Illinois.  It is not determined whether the curriculum meets licensing requirements for any other states.
Plan Your Practical Nursing Certificate
Costs for this program
Tuition & Fees at RLC
PREREQUISITES
Cr. Hrs.
CNA 1201 Certified Nurse Assistant
ENGL 1101 Rhetoric and Composition I
Both must be completed with a grade of "C" or better
Competency in math (see admission requirements)
A criminal history background check & drug testing are required.
NURSING COURSES
Cr. Hrs.
Each course in the curriculum must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to meet program requirements.
Fall Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1200 Intro to Health Concepts
NURS 1201 Intro to Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1202 Health – Illness Concepts
NURS 1203 Health – Illness Concepts Clinical
NURS 1204 Tools for Nursing Education
ZOO 1105 Anatomy & Physiology I
Total
17
Spring Semester
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1205 Family Health Concepts
NURS 1206 Family Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1207 Holistic Health Concepts
NURS 1208 Holistic Health Concepts Clinical
NURS 1209 Pharmacology
ZOO 1106 Anatomy & Physiology II
Total
16
Summer Term
Cr. Hrs.
NURS 1212 Transition to Practical Nursing
Overall Total
37
End of Program Student Learning Outcomes
CNA - Basic Nursing Assistant
1. Demonstrate professional communication skills including recording and reporting
2. Demonstrate competency in the 21 manual performance skills mandated by IDPH
3. Initiate basic life support (CPR) following American Heart Association guideline.
4. Develop an understanding of the role of the nurse assistant as part of the interdisciplinary health care team.
5. Identify Residents’ Right for Long Term Care Facilities.6. Identify symptoms and physical changes of Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders (including communication and handling of mood and behavioral disturbances with appropriate intervention to maintain patient/staff safety).
more Options
Accelerated BSN with SIUE
There has never been a better time to train for a great job in nursing. You can now earn a bachelor’s degree in the field without leaving the area, thanks to a new offer from Rend Lake College and Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
RLC and SIUE have teamed up to offer an accelerated Bachelor of Nursing track. Students can take classes at RLC for three years and begin a job in their profession while working online to obtain their BSN from SIUE.
LPN to RN Bridge
Current Licensed Practical Nurses interested in obtaining their associate degree in nursing may complete one, four-hour course before enrolling in the second year of the Associate Degree coursework. All program requirements apply. The student must be accepted into the Nursing Program and have completed ZOO 1106 with a “C” or better within the last five years, prior to enrollment.
Accelerated BSN with SIUE
There has never been a better time to train for a great job in nursing. You can now earn a bachelor’s degree in the field without leaving the area, thanks to a new offer from Rend Lake College and Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
RLC and SIUE have teamed up to offer an accelerated Bachelor of Nursing track. Students can take classes at RLC for three years and begin a job in their profession while working online to obtain their BSN from SIUE.
LPN to RN Bridge
Current Licensed Practical Nurses interested in obtaining their associate degree in nursing may complete one, four-hour course before enrolling in the second year of the Associate Degree coursework. All program requirements apply. The student must be accepted into the Nursing Program and have completed ZOO 1106 with a “C” or better within the last five years, prior to enrollment.
What our warriors are saying
student journeys
The faculty and staff are always friendly and very helpful. This school is very community-based, which I love. Not once have I ever regretted my decision.
Tarazz
Nursing - Class of '24
Rend Lake College has been a great resource for me as I continue my education. They’ve guided me through my first two years of college and helped me reach my full potential. Thank you for everything Rend Lake!
Jackson
Warriors Basketball - Class of '22
"I looked at several colleges but chose RLC because they stood out with a better program. I met some of my best friends at RLC. The teachers poured so much into me. The things they taught me will help me in life forever."
Riley
Studio RLC - Class of '22
More About Our Nursing Program
Accreditation
The Rend Lake College nursing program at Rend Lake College at the Ina campus located in Ina Illinois is accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
3390 Peachtree Road NE. Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975–5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate Degree nursing program is continuing accreditation.
View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program
on the ACEN website.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Nursing Program of Rend Lake College is to prepare competent nursing graduates in the art and science of healthcare across the lifespan.  This goal is accomplished through instruction and practice of basic and advanced nursing skills; demonstration and use of critical thinking throughout the steps of the Nursing Process; and satisfactory evaluation of each student’s performance in various clinical environments.
Learning
The nursing program is based on adult learning theory.  The goal is the preparation of competent, caring healthcare workers.  The teaching-learning process operates within the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains.  Nursing education involves the integration of knowledge and experience.  Critical thinking is an integral part of nursing process application.  It involves accepting responsibility and accountability for decisions while upholding ethical and legal standards.  Learning is affected by such factors as motivation, prior experiences, and learning style.  The program remains committed to practice oriented education.
Program Effectiveness Data
Pass Rate
The NCLEX-RN Pass Rate shows what percentage of our graduates pass the test on the first attempt within a 12-month period.
2022=86%
2023=91%
2024=75%
Completion
The Program Completion Rate shows what percentage of our students complete our program within 100% of the length of the program.
2022=47%
2023=42%
2024=77.5%
Job Placement
The Job Placement Rate shows what percentage of our graduates find a job in nursing within 8 months of completing our program.
2022=100%
2023=100%
2024=100%
Nursing FAQs
Please read all application materials and the section of the catalog that pertains to your program of interest. Many of your questions may be answered there.
Does everything have to be into the Director of Nursing's office before the deadline?
Yes, all college transcripts, transcript evaluation (if necessary) and program application must be in prior to the deadline. All additional information must be turned in as well.
Does the nursing department have an admission fee?
No, there is no admission fee.
Do I have to be accepted by RLC before I can be accepted into any of the nursing programs?
Yes. Please visit
here
to complete the online application.
When do the nursing programs start?
The program accepts new students each fall semester.
How many students are accepted into the program each year?
We accept approximately 50-60 students in ADN program each year.
Should I apply before I ask for the transcript to be sent?
You may turn in the application form before you ask other schools to send transcripts. As long as your file is complete before the deadline, it is not important in what order things arrive. It is your responsibility to make sure RLC receives everything needed for your file before the deadline
Should I speak to an advisor before I sign up for classes?
We expect prospective nursing students to meet with a nursing advisor before registering for the nursing programs.
Do students have to do clinical work?
Yes, there is a required amount clinical work required by the state of Illinois.
Can I go part-time?
General education coursework may be completed on a part-time basis. However, once the nursing program begins, coursework is completed only on a full-time basis.
How do you choose candidates?
Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) test scores are used, with preference given to in-district students.
Do I need my own computer?
Many courses include computer and Internet-based assignments. Having your own computer gives you more freedom in completing course assignments. Computer labs are available on campus for student use. As a student, you receive free access from home to the Internet and an email address.
Can I work while completing the programs?
This will depend on the type of job that you have. The nursing programs require a large amount of independent study time outside of class. While some students continue to work part-time throughout the program, most find this a challenge. We recommend that students plan their schedules prior to starting the program to ensure that they have enough time to attend to family matters, attend class and have time at home to complete independent study activities.
Start Here. Go Anywhere.
Transfer Information
Students who graduate with an Associate Degree can transfer their credits to a university and pursue a Bachelor's degree and beyond.
Articulation agreements - also known as Transfer Guides - document the pathway between RLC and the university. Historically, RLC has built articulation agreements with midwestern universities. However, students have worked with both institutions to build a pathway.
View our transfer guides and more about articulation agreements
Transfer Guides
We have guides that document a pathway between your degree at RLC and many universities.
View Articulation Agreements
Faculty & Staff
Bria Robinson
Dean of Allied Health
Dr. Susan Wiley
Director of Nursing Program
Dezaraye Rogers
Administrative Assistant - Allied Health
Denise Griffith
Associate Professor of Nursing
Sarah Hopfinger
Associate Professor of Nursing
Zach Hostetter
Nursing Associate Professor
Cheyenne McCoy
Nursing Instructor
Allied Health Division
Phone: (618) 437-5321 Ext. 1251
Email:
ah_info@rlc.edu
Address: 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, IL 62846 Attn: Allied Health
Fax Number: (618) 437-5677 Attn: Allied Health
News
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Student Success
PATH Grant Supports RLC Graduate on Nursing Journey
With the assistance of the PATH Grant, Kaitlyn Worley, a 2025 RLC Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program graduate, has been able to make a major, successful step in the...
Student Success
RLC holds pinning ceremony for 2025 Nursing Students
Rend Lake College held a pinning ceremony on May 15 to celebrate over 30students who successfully completed the Nursing program.
Events
View Events
October 1, 2025
Nursing Application & Testing Opens
March 31, 2026
Nursing Application Closes
May 14, 2026
ADN Pinning Ceremony
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Ina, IL 62846
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