Nursing Track 3:  Part-time Evening Weekend (PTEW)

The mission of the Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Program (AAS in Nursing degree) and other nursing programs of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is to provide affordable, community access to quality nursing education. The VCCS nursing programs prepare qualified students to provide safe, competent, entry-level nursing care in 21st century healthcare environments. Students are prepared to meet the ever-increasing complexity of the healthcare needs of the citizens of Virginia. Upon successful completion of the program, qualified graduates have the opportunity to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) leading to licensure as a registered nurse.

The Track 3 Part-time Evening Weekend (PTEW) curriculum in Nursing is specifically designed for those who are interested in becoming RNs but have other responsibilities that interfere with being able to attend the rigorous Track 1 scheduling during the day. General education courses can be completed as night classes or by distance education options such as web-based learning. Nursing courses, labs and clinicals are taught either in the evening or on weekends. The program is proceeds at a slower pace and is completed in 4 years. This is an academically challenging program.

The MECC nursing program has three other tracks in an effort to meet the different needs of students,  Track 1: Two Year Curriculum , Nursing Track 2: Advanced Placement Option for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Transition and Track 4 Part-time Evening Weekend Advanced Placement Option for LPN Transition.

Employment Opportunities

The occupational objective of nursing graduates is to secure and sustain employment as a registered nurse providing nursing care to individuals, families, communities, and/or populations in a variety of healthcare settings.

Accreditation and State Approval Statement for Nursing Program

Pursuant to United States Department of Education (US DOE) regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v), the Mountain Empire Community College Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program provides the following information for all prospective and current students:

The Mountain Empire Community College ADN program meets all Virginia Board of Nursing requirements for pre-licensure nursing education programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition, the ADN nursing program at Mountain Empire Community College located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia is accredited by the:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3390 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326

(404) 975-5000

ACEN is officially recognized as a national accrediting agency for nursing education by the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation (COPA) and by the U.S. Department of Education.

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the ADN nursing program is Continued Accreditation with Conditions. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program ACEN Accredited Programs.

National Compact Licensure and Reciprocity Information

The Commonwealth of Virginia participates with multiple other states in the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) National Licensing Compact (NLC) to allow nurses licensed in one state to provide nursing care across state lines in other compact states. Compact Licensure and Reciprocity Information.

College Accreditation

Mountain Empire Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) .

Purpose

The mission of the Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Program (AAS in Nursing degree) and other nursing programs of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is to provide affordable, community access to quality nursing education. The VCCS nursing programs prepare qualified students to provide safe, competent, entry-level nursing care in 21st century healthcare environments. Students are prepared to meet the ever-increasing complexity of the healthcare needs of the citizens of Virginia. Upon successful completion of the program, qualified graduates have the opportunity to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) leading to licensure as a registered nurse. The mission of the nursing program compliments the MECC Mission and Vision.

The Mountain Empire Community College Nursing Program faculty ascribe to the core competencies for nursing and nursing education.

  • While firmly based in science and the arts, the essence of nursing is caring and compassionate patient centered care.
  • Ethical standards, respect for individual dignity, and consideration of cultural context are implicit in the practice of patient centered care.
  • The nurse advocates for patients and families in ways that promote self-determination, integrity, and ongoing growth as human beings.
  • Nursing care is provided in collaboration with the patient, the family and members of the health care team.
  • The nurse displays a spirit of inquiry by examining evidence to improve quality of care, promote safety and improve patient outcomes.
  • Nursing judgment is integral to making competent decisions related to the provision of safe and effective nursing care.
  • Information management essential to nursing care is communicated via a variety of technological and human means.

The program philosophy and curricular framework reflects the mission of the college and the VCCS Common Curriculum for Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. MECC is dedicated to the belief that each individual should be given a continuing opportunity to develop skills, extend knowledge, and increase awareness of their roles and responsibilities to society. The philosophy and curricular framework are consistent with the legal framework of the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the curriculum, students are expected to be able to incorporate competencies that accomplish the following outcomes:

Client-Centered Care Provide client- centered care promoting therapeutic relationships, caring behaviors, and self-determination across the lifespan for diverse populations.
Safety Practice safe nursing care that minimizes risk of harm across systems and client populations.
Clinical Judgment Demonstrate nursing judgment through the use of clinical reasoning, the nursing process, and evidence-based practice in the provision of safe, quality care
Professional Behaviors Practice professional behaviors that encompass the legal/ethical framework while incorporating self-reflection, leadership and a commitment to recognize the value of life-long learning.
Quality Improvement Manage client care through quality improvement processes, information technology, and fiscal responsibility to meet client needs and support organizational outcomes
Collaboration Demonstrate principles of collaborative practice within the nursing and interdisciplinary teams fostering mutual respect and shared decision-making to achieve stated outcomes of care.

NCLEX-RN Licensure Examination Pass Rates, and Program Completion Data

Upon successful completion of the curriculum, students are expected to be able to incorporate competencies that accomplish the following outcomes:

Year of Graduation Program Completion Rate Program NCLEX-RN Pass Rate* National NCLEX-RN Pass Rate All US Graduates*
2018 (N=190) 77% 90.53% 85.11%
2019 (N= 180) 73% 87.7% 88.18%
2020 (N= 197) ** 81% 72.54% 82.5%
2021 (N=57) *** 88% 73.68% 78.78%
2022 (N=50) 47.6%**** 78.18% 77.91%

*NCLEX National Statistics from www.NCSBN.org

**2020 were the last graduates of the Virginia Appalachian Tri-College Nursing Program at MECC.

***2021 were the first graduates of the MECC Nursing Program.

****Previous completion rates calculated by student completing in 150% of length of program. ACEN changed formula to graduating on time. This calculation reflects that formula change.

Program Admission

An academic advisor will review your preparation in Mathematics and English with you. You’ll be guided to appropriate preliminary coursework to give you the greatest chance of success in this program. Admission to the MECC Nursing Program is a selective and competitive process. The program is open to applicants who are free of any physical or mental condition that might adversely affect performance as a member of the nursing profession. In addition to the requirements for admission to the college, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

  • Transcript showing graduation from a state recognized high school, home school program and be at least 18 years of age, or General Educational Development (GED) program transcript.
  • College students must be in good standing with the most recently attended institution with a minimum GPA of 2.0
  • Demonstrated competency in science as evidenced by completion of high school biology (with laboratory) or high school chemistry (with laboratory) or the college equivalents or completion of BIO 141 and BIO 142 with no grade below a “C” prior to application deadline.
  • Demonstrated competency in mathematics as evidenced by placement out of MTE 1-5 on the Virginia Placement Test (VPT) or completion of MDE 10 or a college-level math course (MTH 154 or higher).  For those who do not meet this requirement, all prescribed developmental work must be completed prior to  application deadline.
  • Demonstrated competency in English as evidenced by placement into or completion of ENG 111. For those who do not meet this requirement, all prescribed developmental work must be completed prior to application deadline.
  • Completion of Nursing Application for each academic year interested in being considered for the nursing program.
  • Completion of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a National Percentile Rank score of 45 or above within the past 5 years.
  • Applicants to Nursing Track 3: Part-time Evening Weekend (PTEW) curriculum must complete 22 credits of general education courses prior to admission to the program: BIO 141, BIO 142, BIO 150, ENG 111, PSY 230, LBR 105, NUR 135, and SDV 100.
  • A 2.5 curricular grade point average (GPA) for the following six general education courses: BIO 141, ENG 111, SDV 100, PSY 230, LBR 105 and NUR 135 is required for the nursing program. These courses must be completed prior to enrollment in any nursing (NSG) courses
  • Students must not have been enrolled in the first semester of the nursing program (NSG) courses more than one time. After two attempts in first semester NSG courses, students are ineligible for admission consideration unless permission is obtained from the nursing coordinator.
  • Any student who does not have evidence on file in Enrollment Services by the February 15th deadline indicating that these requirements will be met by the end of the Summer semester will not be considered for the Track 3: Part-time Evening Weekend curriculum. All admission requirements (including English, science and math competencies) must be met.

NOTE: Applicants who meet the requirements listed above will be ranked for admission using their ATI TEAS National Percentile Rank.

Applications are accepted.from the start of the academic year.  The application deadline is February 15th of each year.  All documents must be submitted by that deadline.  Late applicants may apply for consideration should there be space available. The nursing program application is available online and further details of the nursing program application process may be found at  https://www.mecc.edu/forms/.

The number of qualified applicants offered admission to the nursing program is contingent upon space available in the classrooms and nursing laboratories, the program’s access to sufficient clinical placements in the region’s healthcare settings in order to meet the program’s learning outcomes, and the number of qualified nursing faculty to teach students in classrooms, laboratories, and clinical settings. If the number of applicants exceeds the number of available qualified faculty and the amount of enrollment space available in the program, some applicants may not be accepted even if the minimum requirements for admission are met.

Transcripts from other Virginia Community Colleges are not required; however, any Virginia Community Colleges attended must be listed on both the MECC College Admissions Application and the Nursing Program Application.

Although applications are welcomed from residents of other jurisdictions, first priority will be given to all qualified applicants who are domiciled residents of Lee, Wise, Scott, and Dickenson Counties and the City of Norton, and to Virginia domiciled residents not having access to a given program at their local community college, provided such students apply for admission to the program prior to registration or by a deadline established by the college and that they meet the minimum admission requirements. A domiciled resident is one who has been a permanent resident in the locality or state for the twelve months before the program application deadline. In addition, residents of localities with which the college has clinical-site affiliation may receive equal consideration for admission. Please contact Enrollment Services immediately upon applying to the program with any questions regarding jurisdiction.

The nursing program is dependent on use of local clinical agencies to meet the experiential or clinical learning needs of its students. In order to protect patients and visitors, as well as students, clinical agencies require that each student have proof of completion of the following:

  1. Required Student Forms
  2. Annual Student Statement of Health form
  3. Student Information, Physical and Immunization forms (must be completed by a healthcare practitioner, MD, PA or NP-C).
    1. Immunizations include Tetanus, Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR), Varicella, Hepatitis B, and COVID
    2. Proof of negative two-step TB Skin Test (TST) or proof of negative approved TB screening blood test. If a person has a previously documented positive TB screening test or a documented diagnosis of TB or Latent TB Infection (LTBI) in the past, an annual risk assessment/symptom check must be performed by your healthcare provider. Chest x-ray is only required if symptoms develop.
    3. Documentation of ability to perform physical demands required in direct patient care activities.
  4. Purchase a background check, drug screen, and Medical Document Package
  5. Clearance of criminal background check and drug testing
  6. Student must provide a current copy of CPR certification, American Heart Association, “Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers” completed during the summer (May 15-August 15) prior to admission to NSG courses.  Certification must be maintained throughout enrollment in the nursing program.
  7. Additional annual immunization requirements: Flu immunizations are required by most healthcare agencies and should be obtained when instructed to do so.
  8. Personal health insurance
  9. Other mandatory clinical facility requirements including professional responsibilities and patient confidentiality.

Students should not attempt to complete any of these requirements until they have been admitted to the nursing program and have completed the mandatory orientation modules. The cost of these requirements is the responsibility of the student. The requirements must be completed by August 1 for Track 3 students.

In addition to the nursing program’s admission requirements, the nursing program sets forth eligibility requirements by citing the core performance standards. The standards set forth cognitive, sensory, affective and psychomotor performance requirements for every nursing student. Each core performance standard is accompanied by examples of activities nursing students and nurses are required to perform while executing nursing care. Students must be able to demonstrate satisfactory application of these core performance standards in classroom, clinical and laboratory settings, with or without reasonable accommodations, during the course of the nursing program.

Requirement Performance Standard Examples
Critical Thinking Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment and delivery of safe client care. Identify cause and effect relationships in clinical situations; evaluate effectiveness of nursing interventions; use the scientific method in the development of nursing interventions; prioritize nursing tasks and solve problems.
Quantitative Literacy Quantitative literacy sufficient for clinical judgment and delivery of safe client care. Ability to take measurements; perform arithmetic and numerical operations (such as is necessary for calculating medication dosages and rates); read and record graphical displays of scientific and real-time physiologic data.
Professional Relationships Interpersonal and emotional skills sufficient for professional interactions with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds. intellectual backgrounds. Establish rapport with clients and colleagues; ability to engage in conflict resolution, demonstrate peer accountability; adapt to changing environments/stressors; perform multiple responsibilities concurrently; establish therapeutic boundaries.
Communication Ability for professional interactions with others in verbal, non-verbal and written form. Explain treatment procedures; initiate health teaching; document and interpret nursing actions and client responses; ability to interpret common non-verbal expressions indicating pain, discomfort, anxiety and other behavioral states.
Mobility/Endurance Physical abilities sufficient for movement from room to room and in small spaces; ability to execute movements required to provide care and treatment to clients in all health settings including functioning in emergency situations. Move around in client rooms, work spaces and treatment areas; administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation; walk and/or stand for prolonged periods during a 12-hour shift. Perform lifting, as required, up to 50 pounds.
Motor Skills Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient for providing safe, effective nursing care. Ability to bend, squat, kneel, climb stairs, push, pull, reach for extended periods and assist in lifting, transferring, ambulating and positioning clients of all age groups and weights; calibrate and use equipment such as IV pumps; manipulate small equipment and containers such as syringes, vials and medication packages.
Hearing Auditory ability sufficient for monitoring and assessing health needs. Ability to hear alarms and other emergency signals, normal speaking level sounds, cries for help and auscultatory sounds on assessment.
Visual Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in client care. Ability to observe client’s condition and responses to treatments; ability to discern colors and changes in color shading; ability to read handwritten and printed data such as orders, medication labels, calibrations on syringes; ability to read chart content and interpret data correctly by clearly viewing monitors.
Tactile Sense Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment. Ability to sufficiently perform physical assessments including palpation, pulses, changes in skin temperature and anatomical appearance.

The nursing program is committed to the policies set forth by the Virginia Community College System regarding disabilities and reasonable accommodations. Students may request academic accommodations for disabilities through the Office of Student Services. That office will evaluate the request and make recommendations for appropriate and reasonable accommodations, which the student will provide to the instructor. Individuals requiring temporary parking accommodations due to short-term illness should also contact Student Services. All correspondence will be kept confidential. You may visit the Disability Services web page www.mecc.edu/disabilityservices. The nursing program recommends contact be made with the Disability Services Counselor for an appointment at least 2 weeks prior to the beginning of nursing classes. The success of all students is contingent upon their ability to fulfill the core performance standards of the program with or without reasonable accommodations.

Admission Criteria

The number of qualified applicants admitted to the nursing program is contingent upon space available in the classrooms and nursing laboratories, the program’s access to sufficient clinical placements in the region’s healthcare settings in order to meet the program’s learning outcomes, and the number of qualified nursing faculty to teach students in classrooms, laboratories, and clinical settings. If the number of applicants exceeds the number of available qualified faculty and the amount of enrollment space available in the program, some applicants may not be accepted even if the minimum requirements for admission are met.

Although applications from residents of other jurisdictions are welcome, first priority will be given to all qualified applicants who are domiciled residents of Lee, Wise, Scott, and Dickenson Counties and the City of Norton, and to Virginia domiciled residents not having access to a given program at their local community college, provided such students apply for admission to the program prior to registration or by a deadline established by the college and that they meet the minimum admission requirements. A domiciled resident is one who has been a permanent resident in the locality or state for the twelve months before the program application deadline. In addition, residents of localities with which the college has clinical-site affiliation may receive equal consideration for admission. If you have a question regarding your jurisdiction status, please contact Enrollment Services enroll@mecc.edu immediately upon applying to the program.

Students seeking to transfer credit from nursing programs at other institutions will be considered on an individual basis. Students must meet the admission requirements identified by MECC and the nursing program. The student may be asked to provide course descriptions, documentation of completed direct patient care clinical hours, course syllabi, achievement or progressive testing scores, and selected data from the course instructor or program coordinator in order to determine placement in the nursing program. Consideration will be subject to availability of space.

Since there frequently are differences among nursing programs, students wishing to transfer should be aware that there may be an interruption in program progression and courses may need to be repeated. Applicants must be in good standing at their previous college with a “C” average or better and must provide documentation of eligibility to return to that nursing program as well as documentation of the number of hours of clinical experience providing direct patient care supervised by a qualified instructor. Nursing courses which are being transferred must have been completed within three (3) years prior to admission to the nursing program.

Decisions on admission offers to transferring applicants will be determined by the nursing program coordinator following official transcript analysis, review of completed nursing course outlines, and space and faculty availability. A transferring student must demonstrate expected level proficiencies by testing including demonstration of competency in critical skills.

Performance Requirements

The nursing program is dependent on use of local clinical agencies to meet the experiential or clinical learning needs of its students. In order to protect patients and visitors, as well as students, clinical agencies require that each student have proof of completion of the following:

  • Required Student Forms
  • Annual Student Statement of Health form
  • Student Information, Physical and Immunization forms. The nursing program physical examination form must be completed by a medical practitioner, MD, PA or CNP.
    • A) Immunizations include Tetanus, Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR), Varicella, and Hepatitis B. COVID vaccination is optional
    • B) Proof of negative two-step TB Skin Test (TST) or proof of negative approved TB screening blood test or if a person has a previously documented positive TB screening test or a documented diagnosis of TB or Latent TB Infection (LTBI) in the past, perform an annual risk assessment/symptom check with healthcare provider. Chest x-ray is only required if symptoms develop.
    • C) Documentation of ability to perform physical demands required in direct patient care activities.
  • Purchase a background check, drug screen, and Immunization and Document Package.
  • Clearance of criminal background check and drug testing.
  • Copy of course completion card for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), American Heart Association, “Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers” completed during the summer (May 15-August 15) prior to admission to NSG courses and maintained throughout the program.
  •  Additional annual immunization requirements: Flu immunizations are required by most healthcare agencies and are usually not required until October.
  • Personal health insurance.
  • Other mandatory clinical facility requirements including facility orientation with safety orientation and patient confidentiality.

Applicants should not attempt to complete any of these requirements until they have been admitted to the nursing program and participated in the mandatory orientation available on Canvas. The cost of these requirements is the responsibility of the nursing student. Students accepted to the program who do not provide the required clinical documentation will be removed from the program.

The State Board of Nursing has the authority to deny licensure to any applicant who has violated any of the provisions of 54.1-3007 of the Code of Virginia. Most healthcare organizations are prohibited from hiring persons who have been convicted of certain criminal acts see Virginia Department of Health Guidance Document Students with convictions or positive drug tests may be prohibited from clinical practice and may not be able to complete the program requirements.

All prospective students are required to be eligible to participate at all clinical facilities where the nursing program is contracted to provide clinical instruction and supervision. Students who are not eligible for rehire in any facility may be excluded from clinical experiences, and thus may forfeit their seats in the nursing program. Students will be asked to disclose, upon admission, if they are current or former employees of any regional healthcare agencies.

Nursing Program Progression

The student is required to complete the sequence of courses as outlined by the curriculum pathway, see Track 3 Part-time Evening Weekend .

  • All courses, general education and nursing, must be completed in sequence prior to continuing in the program. Exceptions due to unusual circumstances must be approved by the program Coordinator.
  • Students must have a “C” or above in theory plus “satisfactory” in clinical performance in all nursing courses to remain in the program. A grade of “C” or above in any related requirements is a requisite for continuing in the nursing program.
  • Students must enroll only in the nursing courses listed in their current semester and track in the nursing program.
  • Students are required to complete a sequence of courses and learning experiences provided at the college and selected community agencies such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physicians’ offices and comparable facilities. The nursing faculty will observe and evaluate the students’ suitability for nursing and direct patient care.
  • The nursing program faculty reserves the right to recommend, through appropriate channels, the withdrawal of any student who does not exhibit suitable demeanor/attendance.

Individual contracts are in effect with each affiliate clinical agency and these contracts differ in requirements for students. If students cannot comply with these contractual requirements, they will not be able to participate in clinical activities and will be asked to withdraw from the program.

  • Clinical performance in a course is graded as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. A student who does not meet the clinical learning outcomes will fail the course
  • Clinical agencies reserve the right to dismiss a student from their agency at any time with due cause. This will be done with advance notice except in an emergency.
  • Published policies of the clinical agency must be followed.
  • Students must wear the proper uniform, adhering to program and healthcare agency standards.
  • Students must attend and complete the healthcare agency’s orientation program prior to participating in clinical activities.
  • Clinical agencies require that all students have documentation of ability to perform the physical demands required in direct patient care activities.
  • Students must meet health, immunity, and immunization requirements.
  • Student releases clinical agencies, their agents and employees from any liability for any injury or death to self or damage to personal property arising out of the clinical agreement or use of the clinical agency’s facilities. Students must sign an Assumption of Risk document that serves to provide a general outline of hazards encountered within nursing. This list includes exposure to infectious, biological, chemical, environmental/mechanical, and psychosocial hazards, as well as, loss of personal property.
  • Students are financially responsible for any medical care required while in the clinical setting.
  • Students must provide current copy of course completion card for American Heart Association CPR BLS for Healthcare Provider.
  • Students must successfully complete Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) training prior to attending first clinical activity.
  • Student must complete a criminal background check and drug screen prior to first nursing course, which may be repeated during the program. A health care agency can deny a student participation in direct patient care based on results of the criminal background check and drug screen.
  • Demonstration of professional behavior is expected at all clinical learning experiences. Faculty will direct a student to leave the learning environment if unacceptable behaviors are observed.
  • Clinical agencies may require personal health insurance as a condition for student placement.
  • Students must submit required clinical documents with each clinical rotation. A student who does not meet published deadlines for submission forfeits their enrollment.
  • If a student is dismissed by a clinical agency, alternate placement (if available) will require disclosure of information related to the dismissal. The student must consent to disclosure through completion of a Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) form.
  • Students who miss a clinical/simulation day must notify the instructor prior to the absence. Failure to do so is considered a “no call/no show.” A no call/no show will result in immediate dismissal from the nursing program.
  • Students who miss more than two clinical days in a semester will be dismissed from the nursing program. Clinical space is limited, and makeup days cannot be guaranteed.
  • Students who miss more than one simulation day in a semester will be dismissed from the nursing program.
  • Students who miss any portion of a lab class must attend the scheduled lab practice hours during the following week. These hours are not tutoring, nor instructor led. This time will be individual practice time for the student. Students may work with a peer to complete this time. Failure to attend those practice hours during the following week will result in a point deduction as specified in the course syllabus. Any missed checkoffs must be completed on the scheduled makeup checkoff days. Failure to do so will result in a zero (0) score on that skill/assessment.

Students who are not successful in any first semester nursing (NSG) course must reapply to the nursing program. Reenrollment must occur no later than three years from successful completion of NSG 100 or 115, otherwise the student will have to repeat all nursing courses.

  • Any student who drops or withdraws from NSG 106 or NSG 200 must also drop or withdraw from NSG 100 due to the inability to complete clinical requirements.
  • A student may continue in NSG 200 regardless of dropping or withdrawing from NSG 100 and/or NSG 106.
  • Any student who drops or withdraws from NSG 252 or NSG 270 must withdraw from the other course as they are corequisites.
  • A student who has 2 academic failures (grades below a “C”) in nursing courses in two separate semesters, will be ineligible for reenrollment in the program unless the student obtains licensure as a practical nurse. The student may then apply to Tracks 2 and 4.
  • A student who wishes to reenter the nursing curriculum at level other than first semester (e.g., NSG 152, 170, 210, 211, 230, 252, 270) must write a letter to the nursing program coordinator requesting readmission in the semester prior to the semester of enrollment. Each student’s application for readmission will be considered by the nursing faculty and the decision to readmit will be based on additional requested data, prior performance in the nursing program, and space availability. Based on the course(s) that must be repeated, the student who is readmitted may be.
  • This policy must be approved by the Nursing Program Coordinator and the required to complete a skills competency course or demonstrate competency in critical nursing skills before progressing to the next level.
  • According to the VCCS Policy 5.7.4, “A student will normally be limited to two enrollments in the same credit course.” Any exception to Vice President of Academic Affairs and Workforce Solutions.

A student must obtain permission from the Nursing Coordinator to continue in the Nursing Program under the following conditions:

  • Repeating a course with a grade below “C”;
  • Withdrawal from a nursing course;
  • Cumulative GPA below 2.0.

Graduation and Licensure Requirements

To be eligible for graduation students:

  1. Must file an application for graduation with Enrollment Services by the posted deadline. Graduation applications are completed online and must be completed in their entirety with academic requirements report attached to the application.
  2. Are eligible for graduation upon satisfactorily completing the nursing program degree requirements listed in the MECC catalog/degree progress report.
  3. Must have earned a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all applicable studies for graduation from the nursing program and be in good academic standing.
  4. Must have a high school diploma or GED on file with MECC registrar to graduate from the nursing program.
  5. Must have completed each NSG course (classroom and clinical) with satisfactory performance grades of at least 80% or C or greater.
  6. Must have met all financial obligations to MECC. Any remaining obligations must be resolved. All borrowed library, program and MECC materials must be returned.

To be eligible to participate in the pinning ceremony students must be dressed as they would for clinical. Students refusing to meet clinical appearance guidelines will not be allowed to walk through pinning.

Faculty award deserving students with awards for Outstanding Academic Performance, Outstanding Clinical Performance and Outstanding Professional.

Graduating nursing students who are residents of Virginia may apply for licensure 2 weeks prior to graduation, Virginia apply for RN license . Graduating nursing students residing in other states must following the instructions of the state board of nursing for their state of residence. Graduating nursing students are responsible for all fees required for licensure.

  • Please refer to the link below for guidance on Virginia State Board of Nursing guidance on requests and follow through of requests for accommodations on NCLEX RN examination.
  • Nursing guidance documents on accommodations

Additional Information

ITEM COST
Pre-Admission Testing (Test of Essential Academic Skills or TEAS) $70.00
Uniforms/Shoes/Watch/Stethoscope $400.00
Standardized Progressive Testing Program $1440.00
Textbooks/Electronic Resources $1800.00
CastleBranch© Criminal Background Check, Drug Screen, Document Manager $133.00
Physical Exam, Immunizations, TB test $250.00
AHA CPR BLS for Healthcare Providers $157.50
Estimated In-state Tuition 67 credit hours @ $157.50 per credit hour $10,522.50
NCLEX-RN Application Fees $436.00
Transportation (to and from college and clinical agencies) Variable

In addition to the usual college tuition and fees, the nursing program requires pre-admission testing and other expenses as identified below. Students are responsible for these costs as well as the cost of transportation to and from the college and health agencies used for clinical experiences.

Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid and scholarships even if they feel are not eligible as the college has several programs that may provide financial assistance to those who have completed applications for financial aid and applied for scholarships plus meet requirements of those programs.

The Mary Marshall Scholarship is administered by the Virginia Department of Health. Information regarding the scholarship: Mary Marshall Scholarship.

The Virginia Department of Health reviews the applications and selects the recipients of the scholarship. The funds are then distributed to the programs by the Board of Nursing. In scholarships of $2,000 per year. The next application cycle begins Feb 1, 2024 and ends April 1, 2024. To apply, visit: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/health-equity/forms-and-applications/. Scholarship Programs Send questions to: olivette.burroughs@vdh.virginia.gov or call 804-864-7435.

Educational Facilities

Clinical Facilities, Labs, Classrooms and Simulation Lab

MECC nursing program’s clinical facilities include both small rural and larger urban facilities. These facilities provide diverse clinical experiences for students throughout their enrollment in the nursing program.

MECC provides four nursing skills labs with hospital equipment, manikins, and consumable supplies. Robb Hall 120 is s nursing lab, Robb Hall 119 is a nursing lab and Robb Hall 118 is a classroom with lab space. Robb 118 and 119 are being utilized primarily for first-year courses. There is a lab in Phillips Taylor Hall 115 which is used for health assessment.

All classrooms are equipped with electronic classroom resources including projectors or Promethean boards, computers, and document cameras. Students have access to computers and printers in the nursing classrooms and throughout the college.

MECC features a simulation lab in Robb Hall 208. The MECC nursing program simulation lab activities were developed with faculty input. The simulation lab has state-of-the-art manikins, computers, electronic medication cart, iPads, IV pumps, crash carts and other relevant technology found in the acute care environment. The high-fidelity manikins allow for a realistic simulation experience. There is a control room allowing the simulation to be recorded while the simulation lab nursing faculty directly monitors the students. There is a separate debriefing area where students can review the recording of their simulation experience.

Wampler Library

The Wampler Library at MECC provides several nursing databases, electronic versions of nursing journals, and areas to study as an individual or as a study group. For more information regarding the library go to www.mecc.edu/library.

Student Activities and Services

MECC Nursing Program sponsors the Rho Nu Nursing Club. The club focuses on raising money for nursing scholarships and participating in community service activities. Students must be admitted to the MECC Nursing Program to be members of the club.

Other student clubs and student activities are available at MECC. For more information go to www.mecc.edu/get-involved.

MECC provides a number of support services for students. Students are encouraged to take advantage of academic, career, and other related support services to be successful. The Student Services Office, which provides career, transfer, disability, testing and advising support, is located in Holton Hall. The Center for Student Outreach and Success, which provides success coaching and advising to students in their program, is located in Holton Hall. For list of services provided and links to more information go to www.mecc.edu/studentsupport.

The MECC Student Handbook is a valuable resource for information on academic policies including those for filing grievances, complaints and appeals. It also includes information on academic support services student life and the MECC code of conduct. See MECC Student Handbook.

There is also a MECC Nursing Student Handbook which provides information specific to the nursing program. Students are subject to the policies outlined in the version that their graduating co-hort began with.

Important dates are provided to students on the Academic Calendar. See Academic Calendar.

Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) is an open entry institution. Its mission is to provide quality higher education and workforce training programs and services that are financially and geographically accessible and meet individual, business, and community needs. The following pathways exist:

  • Allied Health
  • Arts & Music
  • Business
  • College Transfer
  • Construction
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Environmental
  • Health Sciences
  • Manufacturing
  • Public Safety
  • Technology

MECC is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law.

Harassment of an individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, or membership or activity in a local commission has no place in a learning or work environment and is prohibited. Sexual violence has no place in a learning or work environment.

Further, MECC shall work to eliminate violence in all its forms. Physical contact by designated system, college, and university staff members may be appropriate if necessary to avoid physical harm to persons or property.

Lack of English skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation. In order to eliminate barriers, we take appropriate measures to assess each student’s ability to participate and benefit through placement testing and counseling. Based on the assessment and counseling, students are then provided with campus services or a referral to community services to be better prepared for successful participation.

Nondiscrimination Coordinators:

  • Title IX Coordinator – Ron Vicars, Room 136, Godwin Hall, 276-523-7478
  • Title IX Deputy Coordinator (Students) – Lelia Bradshaw, Room 133, Holton Hall, 276-523-9107
  • Title IX Deputy Coordinator (Employees) – Val Lee, Room 138, Godwin Hall, 276-523-9079
  • Disabilities Coordinator – Dale Lee, Room 131, Holton Hall, 276-523-9108

This information is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities. Consumers with hearing or speech disabilities may contact us via their preferred Telecommunications Relay Service.

Note all information provided on this page is subject to change. It is important to double check individual situations with a nursing advisor.

For More Information, Contact:

Clarkston, Sarah

Kristen Clark

Phillips – Taylor Hall Office 139

276-523-9018

kclark@mecc.edu

Davis, Tess

Wes Mullins