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FAQs

 

Frequently Asked Program Questions & Answers

If you do not see you question listed below, please email LPN@Harrisonvilleschools.org

Question 1: How many students can be enrolled in the Practical Nursing Program?
A maximum of 32 students are admitted each year.

Question 2: How do I become fully admitted into the program?

To be considered for admission, applicants must complete all required steps in the application process:

  • High school diploma or equivalency

  • Appropriate TEAS test score

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Submission of a video interview response and written essay through the Kira Talent platform

Once these materials are submitted, applications are reviewed and scored by the admissions team using standardized rubrics. Applicants will then be contacted directly by the Cass Career Center admissions team with next steps.

After acceptance, students must provide immunization records, pay required fees, and submit additional forms and documents to maintain eligibility. Incomplete or late submissions may result in forfeiting your spot in the class.

Question 3: What TEAS score is required for admission?
A minimum score of 54% or higher is required for full admission.

Question 4: What if I score less than 54% on the TEAS exam?

  • Scores between 50–53%: You will be placed on the alternate list (pending submission of other required documents).

  • Scores below 50%: You must retake the exam; you will not be admitted with this score.

Question 5: How long do I have to wait before retaking the TEAS exam?
Cass Career Center has no required wait time, but ATI requires 15 days between attempts.

Question 6: How long are TEAS scores valid?
We accept TEAS scores from the past 3 years.

Question 7: Are there any prerequisites before the program starts?
No. All required courses (such as Anatomy & Physiology, Growth & Development, and Nutrition) are included in our curriculum.

Question 8: If I have already taken Anatomy & Physiology, Growth & Development, or Nutrition, do I still have to take them in this program?
Yes. These courses are built into and integrated throughout the curriculum, so all students receive the material together.

Question 9: What does it mean that the program is “hybrid”?
Certain days, outlined on the program calendar, are designated as virtual learning days where students may complete work from home. These are the minimum virtual days; additional adjustments may occur based on curriculum needs or unforeseen circumstances. Students will be notified as soon as possible of any changes.

Question 10: What is the class schedule?
Students are required to attend full-time, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Question 11: Can I work while I am in the program?
We strongly recommend that students do not attempt to work while enrolled. The program is full-time and academically rigorous, requiring significant study time outside of class to be successful.

Question 12: How far back does the hair follicle drug test check?
Approximately 6 months.

Question 13: What happens if I fail the drug test?
A positive result for illegal substances will result in dismissal from the program.

If a student is taking prescribed medications that cause a positive result, the sample will be reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO). The MRO will verify prescriptions directly with the student. If verified, the result will be documented as negative. If the student does not respond to the MRO, the result will remain positive, and admission will be denied.

Question 14: Does the program allow medical or recreational marijuana use?
No. Although marijuana is legal in Missouri, most clinical facilities prohibit it, and it remains federally illegal.

Question 15: Can I attend Cass Career Center if I have a felony?
Possibly. Applicants with a felony must self-report during the application process so eligibility can be reviewed. Certain offenses (such as crimes against children, abuse, certain drug offenses, or violent crimes) may prevent enrollment.

Question 16: Will I be able to become licensed if I have a felony?
Licensure approval is determined solely by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Graduation from this program does not guarantee eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.

All applicants must comply with the Missouri Nurse Practice Act, Section 335.066. If you are concerned that your criminal history may prevent licensure, you are encouraged to complete the petition for determination of eligibility (found at the bottom of the State Board of Nursing webpage) before enrolling in a nursing program. Cass Career Center staff will help you complete this petition if needed.

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