Nursing Student Handbook 2026-2027

Introduction

Welcome to the Lake Superior College Nursing Program

Welcome to the Lake Superior College Nursing Programs! We are excited to have you join our diverse and dynamic community of future nurses. This manual provides a comprehensive guide to the policies and procedures that will support you throughout your educational journey.

Our DEI Commitment

At the heart of our program is a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We believe a diverse nursing workforce enhances patient care and promotes community health equity. Our program is designed to foster an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

We recognize that nursing is a profession that serves individuals from all walks of life. To effectively meet the needs of diverse populations, we must first cultivate a culture of understanding and respect within our program. This manual outlines our shared values and expectations regarding behavior, communication, and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of empathy and cultural competence in nursing practice.

Overview

Within this manual, you will find essential information regarding:

• Program Policies: Important guidelines that govern academic conduct, attendance, and professionalism.
• Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for various processes, including academic assessments, clinical placements, and conflict resolution.

Your Role

As a student in this program, you are encouraged to actively engage with these policies and procedures. We invite you to contribute to our culture of inclusion by sharing your perspectives, advocating for equity, and supporting your peers. Together, we can create an enriching educational environment that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Thank you for being a part of our program. We look forward to your contributions and successes as you embark on this rewarding journey in nursing. Let’s work together to make a positive impact on the lives of others!

Policy 1.0 — Admission to the Nursing Programs: 2026-2027 only

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Part 1: Nursing Programs Application Process

Before applicants are eligible to apply for admission to the nursing program, they must complete all pre-program courses and requirements as stated in the program guide. All applicants who have met the minimum admission requirements and completed the application procedures outlined in this policy by the program application deadlines will be considered for admission. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the nursing program. Qualified candidates are then ranked according to pre-program GPA and TEAS score.

Eligibility Requirements

• General admission to Lake Superior College (LSC).
• Declared major in AS Nursing, AS Nursing Advanced Standing LPN Track, or Practical Nursing Program.
• Completed the Online Nursing Program Application Form. Note: the online nursing program application is in addition to the general admission application to LSC. After completing the online application, applicants will receive an email confirmation of submission (save this email). Paper applications are not accepted; please contact advising if you need assistance with the electronic application.
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) on identified pre-requisite program courses (refer to the program guide and Part 2 of this policy).

Entrance Exam (ATI TEAS)

• All applicants must complete the most current Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) standardized Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) before the application deadline and release scores to LSC.
• Exceptions to the TEAS requirement:
  • If the standardized test edition has just changed, the previous edition will be accepted for 12 months.
  • If a student is applying for the Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN) and graduated from the Lake Superior College Practical Nursing Program within the last 10 years, the student does not need to retake the TEAS exam. A TEAS entrance exam is required if the student did not take the TEAS during the LSC PN program.
• Applicants must achieve a minimum ATI TEAS score of 58.6% to be considered for nursing program entry. The ATI TEAS test must be passed within the application window. Scores cannot be rounded up.
• If an applicant has taken the ATI TEAS test at another institution, scores must be sent electronically to LSC through ATI. LSC will not accept paper copies of ATI TEAS scores. Scores must be received before the application cycle closes. There is no limit to the number of ATI TEAS test attempts.
• To register for the ATI TEAS exam, create an account at . Once registered, access the testing store at .
• Lake Superior College has study materials available for the TEAS. Check with the Tutoring and Learning Center and the Library.

Part 2: Selection Criteria for Acceptance to the Nursing Programs

The ranking of applicants will be based on the following criteria:

• ATI TEAS Composite Score: The composite score is divided by a factor of 10 (e.g., a TEAS score of 58.6% = 5.86 points). The ATI TEAS test must be completed by the application deadline date.
• Pre-Program GPA (refer to program guide sheet):
  • Practical Nursing: Minimum 2.4 GPA on the following courses: ALTH 1410 Medical Terminology, ENGL 1106 College Composition I, and either BIOL 1000 Human Body in Health and Disease OR BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I AND BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II.
  • Professional Nursing: Minimum 3.0 GPA on the following courses: BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II, BIOL 1170 Microbiology*, and ENGL 1106 College Composition I**.

*If a student’s grade in BIOL 2170 is higher than in BIOL 1170, that grade may be substituted for the pre-program GPA calculation. Microbiology must be taken prior to acceptance into the professional nursing program. Note: BIOL 2170 is NOT a prerequisite.

**If a student’s grade in ENGL 1109 College Composition II is higher than in ENGL 1106, that grade may be substituted for the pre-program GPA calculation.

• The combined ATI TEAS composite score and pre-program GPA will be used to rank applicants for acceptance.
• In the case of a tied combined total, the applicant with the highest ATI TEAS Reading sub-score will advance in rank order. If a further tie exists, the applicant with the highest ATI TEAS Math sub-score will advance in rank order.
• Applications not resulting in acceptance will remain on file through that admission cycle only. Students who wish to be considered for the next admission cycle must resubmit the complete application.

Part 3: Timelines for Nursing Program Application

Fall 2026-Spring 2027 only

Fall 2026 Program Start — Practical Nursing (24 students)

Students are invited to apply once pre-program courses have been completed. Applications are accepted starting in January and remain open until filled, with a final closing date of August 7.

Sub-deadlines (when the admissions team reviews applications and accepts qualified applicants):

• March 15
• Last day of spring session
• August 7*

*If spots remain available at the end of May, the application window will remain open through the end of the LSC summer session.

Fall 2026 Program Start — AS Nursing (56 students/semester) and AST (numbers vary/semester)

Students are invited to apply after completing the pre-program courses. Applications are accepted starting in January and remain open until filled, with a final closing date of August 7.

Sub-deadlines:

• March 15
• Last day of spring session
• August 7*

*If spots remain available at the end of May, the application window will remain open through the end of the LSC summer session.

Spring 2027 Start — AS Nursing (56 students/semester) and AST (numbers vary/semester)

Applications are accepted starting in September and closing in December after the fall semester. The application window will close when it is full.

Sub-deadlines:

• October 15
• November 15
• December 24*

*If spots remain after the initial reviews, the application window remains open through the end of the fall semester.

Part 4: Advanced Standing Track (AST) Students

Applicants for the LPN to RN Advanced Standing Track professional nursing program must have and maintain an active, unencumbered practical nursing license to qualify for admission. AST students must keep the license active and unencumbered throughout the program.

Part 5: Notification to Applicants

• Applicants will receive an email letter of acceptance, denial, or alternate list status within two weeks of the admission cycle closing or sub-deadline.
• Applicants must notify LSC of acceptance as directed in the acceptance letter. Failure to notify LSC by the date listed in the acceptance letter may result in forfeiture of the seat in the nursing program.
• Admitted applicants must register for classes as directed. Do not register for classes until instructed.

Part 6: Post-Acceptance Additional Requirements

After acceptance into the nursing program, the following must be submitted to the nursing department by the deadline stated in the acceptance letter. All information must be current throughout the program. Please reach out to the program’s administrative assistant with questions.

Requirements include, but are not limited to:

• Acknowledgment of accepting a seat in the program.
• Copy of current CPR for Healthcare Providers certification. This must stay current throughout the nursing program.
• Completed Minnesota Human Services Background Study. This applies to all nursing students except those who currently have a MN LPN license that was issued after 2018.
• Completed National Background Check.
• Completed health declaration form and immunization record, including tuberculosis testing and/or requirements as defined by clinical partners.
• AS Program Only: Proof/documentation of a qualifying healthcare role. Accepted roles include: CNA, Military Medic, Paramedic, EMT, PTA, Radiology Technologist, Respiratory Therapist, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), or CMA.

Other roles accepted with documentation and an approved exception to policy: Dialysis Care Technician, Emergency Department Technician, Behavioral Health Technician, Direct Service Provider in a residential group home setting, or Personal Care Attendant (PCA).

Roles NOT accepted: Surgical Technologist, Massage Therapist, Pharmacy Technician.

Examples of Qualifying Healthcare Experience

• Within the last 5 years, the student completed a healthcare training course from the roles identified above, passed the relevant exam (nursing assistant, medical assistant, etc.), and has proof of current, active registration.

Acceptable Documentation

• Work experience: a letter from the employer stating dates of employment and job responsibilities.
• Copy of passing scores on nursing assistant or equivalent exams.
• Proof of current registration with the relevant healthcare organization (nursing assistant registry, paramedic, rad tech, etc.).
• Advanced Standing LPN Track: Proof of active, unencumbered LPN/LVN license. This license must remain active throughout the nursing program.

Disclaimer

Before starting the program, all students must have a clear criminal background check with no unresolved disqualifying convictions. Contact the Licensing Division, Minnesota Department of Human Services at (651) 296-3802 for information about the background study process and disqualifying crimes. Review a list of disqualifying offenses at

Minnesota Statutes Section 245C.15 — Disqualifying Offenses.

A student’s seat in the nursing program will be forfeited if the student fails or refuses to complete the background study or background check, or if they are disqualified through the background study or background check. The MN background study applies to all nursing students except those who currently have a MN LPN license that was issued after 2018.

Policy History

Policy 2.0 — Academic Progression and Students Out of Sequence

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Process and Procedures

Grounds for Non-Progression or Dismissal

A student may be considered for dismissal if they:

• Fail to make timely progress toward the degree:
  • Practical Nursing: expected completion in 2 semesters; maximum of 3 semesters. Note: since PN courses are offered once per year, any semester in which the course is not offered does not count toward this limit.
  • AS Nursing, Traditional Track: 4 semesters standard; maximum of 6 semesters.
  • AS Nursing, Advanced Standing Track: 3 semesters standard; maximum of 5 semesters. Note: ADN 1524 may not be offered every semester; any semester when it is unavailable does not count toward the limit.
• Fail to demonstrate progress through the curriculum:
  • Students have a maximum of two attempts to pass any course. Withdrawals and failures both count as attempts. Failure to pass after two attempts results in dismissal.
  • Two total course failures anywhere in the nursing program will result in dismissal.
  • Advanced Standing Track Students from the Traditional Track: If a student previously failed a course in the traditional professional nursing track and has since moved to the PN track and enrolled in the AST program, the student has only one remaining attempt to pass that previously failed or withdrawn course.
  • Technical nursing courses expire after five (5) years. Students will need to retake courses if there has been significant time between programs.
• Demonstrate behavior that endangers patient safety, confidentiality, or acts in direct opposition to the nursing team or clinical instructor’s direction. Examples include:
  • Patient safety: completing tasks outside of the scope of practice; causing patient harm; repeated unsafe behaviors such as leaving a client unattended who requires supervision.
  • Confidentiality: HIPAA violation, including posting confidential information or photos on social media; accessing chart information for patients not assigned to you. Patient care sheets cannot leave the clinical facility.
  • Conduct: providing care that is inconsiderate of a patient’s expressed cultural or spiritual needs; engaging in discriminatory or aggressive communication with classmates, faculty, or healthcare team members.
• Fail to comply with the policies of Lake Superior College or the healthcare facility, particularly when there is a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
• Are prohibited from completing clinical at a community partner facility that is the only available site for a required clinical (e.g., OB, behavioral health). In this case, the student cannot fulfill the clinical requirement and therefore cannot graduate.

Leave of Absence

If a student needs to take time off for any reason, one semester off may be taken without consequence. If the absence is one year or longer, the student must petition the Nursing Faculty Committee to request a return to the program. Please review Policy 6.0 Return to Program and Policy 9.0 Nursing Petition Process. Return to the program is contingent on available space. Students are encouraged to communicate with the program director as soon as possible.

Program-Specific Considerations

Practical Nursing (PN)

• Students must complete all nursing courses in their assigned semester before taking courses the following semester.
• PN Semester 1: Students must pass the assigned test-out skills in NUPN 1430 to administer oral medications in NUPN 1468 Clinical II. If the clinical is already in progress and the student fails the skills test-out, the student must petition the faculty to continue in Clinical II.

Professional Nursing (AS)

• Students must complete all nursing courses in their assigned semester before taking courses for the following semester.
• AS Semester 1: Students must pass ADN 1422 Introduction to Pharmacology to enroll in ADN 1450 Clinical I. Students who withdraw from ADN 1415 or ADN 1417 must speak with the program director to determine whether they can start/continue ADN 1450.
• Advanced Standing Track: If a student fails ADN 1524, the student must wait until the course is offered again before progressing to the second semester of the AST program.

Out-of-Sequence Students

Definition: A student who is not with the cohort they started with due to life circumstances, financial aid, or academic issues, resulting in the need to repeat a semester or take time off.

• Placement into a new cohort is based on reason and space availability. If no space is available, the student must wait until a spot opens.
• Students should communicate with the nursing program director as soon as they identify the need to withdraw, indicating whether they intend to return. Students are placed in new cohorts in the order in which they contact the program director.
• If the program guide has changed since the student entered, the student must follow the updated guide.
• See Policy 6.0 Return to the Nursing Program for additional requirements.

Policy History

Policy 4.0 — Grading

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Clinical Grading Scale

All clinical courses are graded on a pass/fail basis.

Test and Quiz Average Benchmarks

• Practical Nursing: The test/quiz average benchmark is 75%. Students must meet this benchmark before other assignment points are added to the grade calculation.
• Professional Nursing: The test/quiz average benchmark is 80%. Students must meet this benchmark before other assignment points are added to the grade calculation.
• For both programs, once the test/quiz average benchmark has been met, then the assignment points will be added.

Extra Credit

Extra credit assignments are only added after the test/quiz benchmark and the 80% class average have been met. Extra credit may not exceed 5% of total course points (e.g., for a course worth 200 points, no more than 10 extra credit points will be added to the grade book).

Finals Week

• Once final exams have started, no assignments from earlier in the semester may be completed.

Points Back on Final Exams

• AS/AST: The student’s test/quiz cumulative score must be within 2 test points of passing to request a review and challenge final exam test items after credits have been applied. The request must be made within two business days of the grade’s release.
• PN: The student’s test/quiz cumulative score must be within 5 test points to request a review. The request must be made within two business days of the grade’s release.

Final course grade appeal

Students who wish to appeal a final course grade should follow Procedure 3.17.5 Grade Appeal Form and comply with Lake Superior College policy.

Grading Scale

Students Starting Fall 2025 and Beyond

Students must score at least 80% to pass nursing courses (courses beginning with ADN, NUPN, or NURS). Grades of A and B are passing. Grades of C, D, and F are non-passing.

Students Who Started the Program Before Fall 2025 (AS students graduating Dec 2026)

Students must score at least 82% to pass nursing courses (courses beginning with ADN or NUPN). Grades A, B, and C are passing. Grades of D and F are non-passing.

Assignment Deadlines

• Students must submit assignments on time. If you anticipate difficulty meeting a deadline, contact your faculty member in advance to request a potential extension. Life happens — please communicate.
• No late assignments will be considered for grading once final exams have started.
• Screenshots: On rare occasions, a student may be asked to upload a screenshot documenting assignment completion. Examples include: known course platform glitches or a make-up clinical assignment using vSim. Assistance with screenshots is available from the Student Technology Desk, assigned nursing faculty, or peer tutors in the Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC).

Lippincott Grading

All tasks assigned in Lippincott count for assignment points, not test/quiz points.

Practice and Learns

If points are assigned for Practice and Learns, use the following grading scale:

PrepU

• Due dates: Mastery must be completed by the due date/time on the class schedule. Assignments may appear as “open” in CoursePoint+ Enhanced, but still follow the deadlines on the class schedule.
• Each course’s mastery level is different. The instructor may increase it at any point in the semester with at least one week’s notice before the due date.
• Each chapter’s mastery is worth 5–10 assignment points.
• If targeted mastery (example Mastery Level of 5) is not achieved, no points will be awarded. Plan your time accordingly.
• Extra credit PrepU assignments (if assigned) are generally worth fewer points.
• PrepU assignments are required regardless of absences from class and will receive a score of zero if not completed by the due date.

vSims (25–30 Points)

*Not all courses require the documentation component.

Kaplan Grading

Kaplan assignments are generally entered under assignment points, not test/quiz points.

Kaplan Focused Review Exams

Kaplan Integrated Exams

Points vary based on the number of questions on the Kaplan assignment. For example, an assignment worth 20 points may have up to 10 points for test score and 10 points for remediation. A student who scores at or above the benchmark (10 points) but remediates approximately half of the incorrect questions receives 8 of 10 remediation points, for a total of 18/20 points.

Policy History

Policy 5.0 — Clinical Attendance

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Definitions

• Absence: Not in attendance for more than half of the assigned shift.
• Onboarding: Completion of all pre-assigned tasks: immunizations, background check, photograph, and facility-specific forms.
• Tardy: More than 7 minutes late (consistent with industry standards).

Process and Procedures

Absence

Students must notify their instructor as soon as they know they will be absent. If a student wakes up after the clinical has started, they must contact the faculty member immediately. Follow the syllabus guidelines or the faculty member’s specific directions for notifying the faculty member of your absence. All absences must be made up.

Minimum Hours of Direct Patient Care

If a student’s absence ratio exceeds 25% of direct patient care clinical hours, the faculty must determine whether clinical objectives have been met.

Preceptorships (ADN 2483, ADN 2500, ADN 2505)

Absence and tardy policies apply to preceptorship-type clinicals. Failure to report an absence results in a lower grade and potentially an inability to pass the clinical. Preceptorship absences are not eligible for vSim or case study make-up assignments. All hours must be completed within the clinical partner’s assigned timeframe.

No Call / No Show

If a student does not report their absence by the start of the shift, it is considered a no-call/no-show.

• Results: A score of 1 in all categories of the evaluation tool for that day, and a required petition to the faculty committee before returning to clinical.
• Make-Up Options:
  • vSim or a similar alternative assignment (not for preceptorship courses).
  • Being moved to a different clinical group to make up hours (subject to availability).

Onboarding

If onboarding is not completed by the timeline specified on the student schedule and communicated via email from the Allied Health and Nursing administrative assistant and/or nursing clinical coordinator, the following consequences apply:

• A professionalism grade of 1 in Week 1.
• Inability to start clinical: if tasks have not been completed by the community partner’s deadline, the student will not be able to start clinical and will need to drop or withdraw. Students cannot begin clinical without meeting all requirements.

Tardy

If a student will be late, they must contact the assigned faculty member before the scheduled start time. Even with prior communication, the professionalism score may be set to 3 as a starting point on the clinical evaluation tool if tardiness is a recurring behavior. If the student does not directly contact the faculty, the communication score will be reduced as well.

Incomplete

If clinical objectives have not been met due to an absence, students may request an Incomplete. A certain percentage of the course must have been completed to be eligible. Please review for requesting an Incomplete

• Typically, the first absence may be made up with an alternate assignment (e.g., vSim). Subsequent absences may require joining a different clinical group for a shift to gain hands-on experience. The vSim option may not be available for clinicals with fewer days/hours.
• Make-up assignments generally do not affect grades earned from other completed clinical days. Their purpose is to ensure clinical objectives have been met.

Policy History

Policy 7.0 — Professionalism

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Definitions

• Dress Code: Clothing considered appropriate for the nursing program.
• Civility: Polite, kind, and respectful behavior and communication.

Professional Dress Guidelines

These dress guidelines promote a positive image to our community partners, whether on campus or in clinical settings. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• This policy must be followed while students are in the clinical setting.
• Students who arrive at a shift in violation of the dress code will not be permitted to participate in clinical activities until the issue is resolved. This may result in a lower Professionalism grade on the evaluation tool.
• Students must also meet any additional requirements of the clinical agency if their guidelines differ from those listed here.

Attire by Setting

• Class: Casual attire is acceptable if areas generally considered private are covered.
• Lab: See course syllabus for specific guidelines.
• Test-Out: Scrubs as described below.
• Simulation Course (ADN 2415): Dress according to the role being performed. See the syllabus and rubrics for guidance.

Clinical Dress Standards

Clinical Site Requirements and Expectations

Lake Superior College partners with a variety of healthcare settings to provide optimum clinical experiences. The college establishes clinical contracts with each facility, outlining mutual expectations. Students enrolled in nursing programs are expected to represent LSC positively and professionally.

The following standards of professionalism are required for all nursing students:

• Prepare for clinicals according to faculty directions.
• Demonstrate effective verbal and nonverbal communication.
• Display enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
• Demonstrate teamwork and cooperation.
• Accept constructive feedback professionally.
• Provide culturally responsive care: recognize the impact of your behavior on others. Patient care extends beyond the medical condition — you are caring for a whole person with unique needs.
• Demonstrate accountability and uphold legal and ethical responsibilities.

Confidentiality and HIPAA

• Do not write a patient’s full name on clinical worksheets.
• It is never permitted to access a non-assigned patient’s chart, your own chart, or a family member’s chart while in the clinical setting as an LSC student.
• Patient information is confidential and may not be discussed with anyone not directly involved in that patient’s care.
• Students are not permitted to remove patient healthcare records from the hospital, copy sections of a patient chart, take photos or screenshots of a patient’s chart, or photograph any patients or patient information.
• Students are permitted in the healthcare facility only during assigned clinical hours.
• Many clinical facilities require electronic documentation. Students must adhere to facility, LSC, and HIPAA regulations.
• Social Media: It is not acceptable to share any information about clinical experiences, fellow students, instructors, lab activities, instructor lectures, photos, videos, or demonstrations on social media at any time.
• Independent of LSC expectations, healthcare facilities may prosecute students for HIPAA violations and prohibit students from completing clinical experiences at the facility. If a student is no longer permitted at the clinical site, this will likely impact their ability to progress through the nursing program.

Infection Control

Students are responsible for following the Infection Control Policy of their assigned clinical facility. Violations will be reflected in the clinical evaluation tool and may fail the clinical rotation.

Travel and Parking

The nursing program utilizes clinical sites throughout the Duluth/Superior area. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from clinical sites and for all associated travel and parking costs.

Parking at clinical facilities is limited. Students are expected to follow each institution’s parking policies and are responsible for any fees incurred for violations.

Fit for Duty Expectations

Students are expected to arrive at all nursing program activities prepared to perform safely and professionally. Fitness for duty encompasses three domains:

• Physical Health: Adequate endurance for clinical activities; current health clearances, immunizations, and required documentation; and arriving at clinical activities rested and physically prepared.
• Mental and Emotional Health: Capacity for sound clinical judgment, focused attention, and effective communication. Recognizing personal mental health needs and proactively accessing support when needed.
• Chemical-Free / Substance-Free Status: Free from the effects of alcohol, illicit substances, and the unauthorized use of controlled substances during all program activities.
• ADA and Accommodations: Students with documented disabilities should work with the Accommodations Center, the program director, and clinical faculty to establish appropriate accommodations.
• Injuries, Pregnancy, Surgery, and Illness: Students with physical restrictions need to share those restrictions with the nursing program director, who will communicate with the clinical site partner. The clinical site partner determines whether the requested accommodation is feasible. If accommodation is not feasible (e.g., a back injury preventing any clinical participation), the student may need to complete clinical hours later in the semester or in a subsequent semester, which may delay program progression.

Clinical Dismissal

Patients’ and families’ physical and emotional well-being is the top priority. Students must consistently demonstrate physical and mental competence in clinical areas to deliver safe patient care. Facility policies and procedures must be reviewed before performing any skill or procedure. A student may be dismissed from the clinical area if they:

• Demonstrate clinically unsafe nursing practice that jeopardizes or could jeopardize patient welfare. A student displaying unsafe clinical behavior will be removed from the clinical area for the remainder of the day.
• Demonstrate unsafe performance of clinical skills. Students are accountable for all previously learned skills. Skills remediation may be required.
• Demonstrate clinically unsafe nursing practice by failing to look up facility policy or procedure before performing a skill.
• Demonstrate culturally insensitive or discriminatory care or communication.

Clinical Failure: If a student demonstrates unsatisfactory or unsafe behavior or performance, the faculty will address the concern verbally and document it on the clinical evaluation tool. It is the student’s responsibility to review the clinical evaluation feedback and address any deficiencies. Failure of a clinical will delay progression through the nursing program.

LSC Civil Discourse Statement and Guiding Principles

LSC values diverse ideas and perspectives. All members of the LSC community must have the freedom to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn equally and safely.

• LSC encourages respectful discussion on difficult topics and believes speech should not be suppressed even when it may be perceived as unreasonable, unpopular, or uncomfortable. All discourse and debate must follow Minnesota State and LSC policies.
• LSC recognizes that civil discourse may involve feelings such as anger, resentment, or frustration. However, communications intended to menace, intimidate, or discriminate against an individual or group are contrary to LSC’s values and are not acceptable.
• LSC is committed to protecting free speech and advancing equity and inclusion, understanding that respectful discourse includes respect for differences of opinion.
• LSC vows to protect and encourage free speech by providing equal access to training and spaces for debate and inquiry to promote courageous conversations on campus.

Class Content and Diverse Perspectives Statement

Lake Superior College and the Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities are dedicated to equity, inclusion, diversity, free speech, and academic freedom. Review the .

Both LSC and the MnState system are committed to educating about issues surrounding historically marginalized populations and identities. As part of this mission, some students may find course content unfamiliar or uncomfortable. The LSC Civil Discourse Statement and Guiding Principles will guide how this content is approached.

If you have concerns about course content that you prefer not to discuss with faculty or program directors, the following individuals are available: Executive Diversity Officer, [email protected]; Dean of Students, [email protected]; and Dean of Allied Health and Nursing, .

Academic Code of Civility

Adopted from: Porath, C. (2018, January 2). Make civility the norm on your team. Harvard Business Review.

• We greet and acknowledge each other.
• We say please and thank you.
• We treat each other equally and with respect, regardless of circumstances.
• We acknowledge the impact of our behavior on others.
• We welcome feedback and each other.
• We are approachable.
• We are direct, sensitive, and honest.
• We acknowledge the contributions of others.
• We respect each other’s time commitments.
• We address incivility.

Faculty Response to Incivility in the Classroom

If incivility occurs in the classroom, faculty may need to intervene. Depending on the situation, faculty may:

• Acknowledge the behavior.
• Ask the student(s) to leave.
• Ask the student(s) to meet outside of class with faculty and/or the program director.
• Request that an LSC official or security officer escort the student(s) off premises.
• Take a break or dismiss all students.

Policy History

Policy 8.0 — Program Dismissal

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Grounds for Dismissal

Academic Performance

• Accumulation of two or more course failures within the nursing program.
• Failure to pass a nursing course after two attempts.
• Failure to complete the nursing program within the allowed timeframe. Students who exceed the allowed semesters below will be exited from the program and must petition for re-entry.

Clinical Performance

• Demonstrating unsafe actions that may cause patient harm.
• Demonstrating unprofessional behavior in the clinical setting.
• Violating community partner policies.

Professional Conduct

• Violation of the Nursing Code of Ethics.
• Engaging in dishonest practices, including cheating, plagiarism, or falsification of records.
• Inappropriate behavior that negatively affects the institution’s learning environment or reputation.
• Behavior that promotes discrimination, exclusion, or bias.

Compliance Issues

• Failure to comply with immunization, health, or background check requirements.
• Non-compliance with institutional or program-specific policies and procedures.

Other Serious Violations

• Legal issues such as criminal convictions that impact the ability to practice nursing.
• Any other serious infraction that the nursing faculty determines is incompatible with the standards and expectations of the nursing profession.

Procedures for Dismissal

Notification

• The student will be notified in writing of the concerns or violations that may lead to dismissal.
• The notification will include specific details and evidence related to the grounds for potential dismissal.

Meeting

• The Nursing Program Director and relevant faculty will invite the student to meet to discuss the concerns.
• The student will have the opportunity to respond to the concerns and provide any supporting evidence or documentation.

Review and Decision

• The Nursing Program Director, in consultation with relevant faculty and administrators, will review all information and make a decision.
• The decision will be communicated to the student in writing within two (2) business days of the meeting.

Appeal

• The student has the right to appeal the nursing program dismissal decision. Please review Policy 3.6.1 Student Code of Conduct.

Readmission

• A student dismissed from the nursing program may be eligible to reapply if they can demonstrate significant improvement or resolution of the issues that led to dismissal.
• Readmission is not guaranteed and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Nursing courses are considered technical courses and expire after five (5) years.
• Students interested in petitioning for readmission should contact the nursing program director and review Policy 9.0 Nursing Petition Process.

Confidentiality

All proceedings related to dismissal and appeals will be conducted confidentially, respecting the privacy and rights of the student involved.

Support Services

Students at risk of dismissal are encouraged to seek support from academic advisors, counseling services, and other available resources to address issues impacting their performance and conduct.

Policy History

Policy 9.0 — Nursing Petition Process

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Grounds for Petition

Policy Exceptions

• Requests for exceptions to any other established program policies, provided compelling reasons and adequate supporting documentation exist.

Procedures for Petition

Submission of Petition

• Students must complete the Petition to Policy Form, available through the D2L Brightspace Nursing Student Resource course page.
• The petition must include a detailed explanation of the request, supporting documentation, relevant evidence, and an action plan for success.

Because the student will not attend the committee review, the petition must include:

• Situation: Background information about the student.
• Background: Information that contributed to the need for the petition.
• Assessment: Analysis of relevant contributing factors.
• Response: An action plan detailing measurable steps the student will take to overcome the barriers or obstacles affecting their success.

Submission Deadline

• Petitions requiring a full faculty committee must be submitted at least one business day before the faculty meeting. The program director will communicate upcoming meeting dates.
• Petitions requiring only part of the faculty should be submitted within one week of the decision being petitioned.

Initial Review

• The completed petition and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Nursing Program Director.
• The Nursing Program Director will conduct an initial review to ensure the petition is complete and meets the grounds for consideration.

Committee Review

• Certain petitions will only be reviewed via in-person, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams meetings.
• The petition will be reviewed by the Nursing Faculty Committee, which includes the Nursing Program Director, full-time faculty, and adjunct faculty members who teach in the student’s cohort.
• The committee will consider the petition’s merits, supporting evidence, and potential impacts on program standards.

Decision

• The committee will decide within two business days of reviewing and voting on the petition.
• The decision will be communicated to the student in writing, with reasons for approval or denial.

Appeal

• If the petition is denied, the student may appeal the decision in writing, following Procedure 5.12.21 Petition to Policy.

Confidentiality

• All petitions and related proceedings will be conducted confidentially, respecting the privacy and rights of the student involved.

Record-Keeping

• All petitions will be documented and maintained on the Exceptions to Policy log for record-keeping and future reference.

Petition Procedure by Policy

Certain petitions also require submission of the academic transcript or Degree Audit Report (DAR) for the nursing program.

Formal Complaints

Some issues are handled outside the Department of Nursing. Please follow the applicable LSC policy:

• Grade appeals and academic-related decisions: Follow LSC Policy 3.17.5.
• Discrimination or Violence: Follow LSC Policy 3.8.1 or 1B.1.
• Financial aid or academic suspension: Contact the appropriate LSC office.

Support Services

Students are encouraged to seek guidance from academic advisors, faculty mentors, or counseling services when preparing a petition.

Policy History

Policy 10.0 — Onboarding Requirements

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Onboarding Process

Acceptance Notification

All accepted applicants will receive an official admission letter via email, detailing the next steps for onboarding.

Orientation

Newly admitted students must attend an orientation session prior to the start of classes. The orientation will cover:

• Overview of the nursing program structure and curriculum.
• Introduction to faculty and staff.
• Review of the student handbook and D2L Brightspace Nursing Student Resource shell.
• Academic policies and expectations.
• Overview of clinical requirements.
• Resources available for academic support and student wellness.

Required Documentation

Students must submit the following documents by the specified deadlines:

• Health Declaration Form.
• Proof of immunizations (including Hepatitis B, varicella, MMR, and annual influenza vaccine).
• Tuberculosis screening results.
• Current CPR certification (American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers). This must remain current throughout all nursing clinicals.
• Background checks: Federal, Minnesota, and Wisconsin (AS students).
• Evidence of qualifying healthcare role: CNA, CMA, COTA, PTA, Radiology Technologist, Respiratory Therapist, EMT/Paramedic, or Military Medic (see Admission Policy 1.0).
• LPN to RN Advanced Standing Track only: Students must have and maintain an active, unencumbered LPN/LVN license. LSC accepts only students with active, unencumbered LPN licenses.
• Any additional documentation required by specific clinical facilities.

Health and Safety Requirements

Students must meet all health and safety standards set forth by clinical placement facilities, including:

• Adherence to infection control policies.
• Compliance with any additional requirements stipulated by clinical sites.

Clinical Placement Process

Clinical placements will be assigned based on:

• Academic performance and progression within the program.
• Availability of clinical sites.
• Students will be notified of their clinical placements at least four (4) weeks prior to the start of the clinical rotation. Students should check the schedules emailed by the program director or the administrative assistant.
• Students may not switch clinical groups without the express approval of the nursing program director.
• The nursing program director may request that students move to a different clinical group to maintain consistent group sizes, ensuring equitable faculty-student interaction opportunities.

Compliance

All nursing students must comply with the onboarding requirements outlined in this policy. Failure to complete onboarding or meet the outlined requirements may result in delayed entry into clinical placements and may delay the student’s progression to the next semester.

Background Check Details

• Students in the Allied Health and Nursing Division with direct patient contact will be required to obtain one to three background studies (Federal, Minnesota, and/or Wisconsin). Acceptance into the nursing program does not guarantee a clinical placement.
• Minnesota and Wisconsin state laws require all Allied Health and Nursing Division students to participate in required background screening (Minnesota DHS Background Study and Wisconsin DOJ Background Study). Students who are disqualified from direct patient contact and whose disqualification is not set aside will not be permitted to participate in clinical placement, resulting in failure to progress. The Minnesota Human Services Background Study is not required for nursing students who currently have a MN LPN license that was issued after 2018.
• National background studies, required by clinical partner agreements, are also required for direct patient contact.
• Clinical partners, not Lake Superior College, determine eligibility for direct patient contact.
• If a student is disqualified from direct patient contact by any background study and the disqualification is not set aside or expunged, the student will not be permitted to participate in direct patient care, resulting in failure to progress. It is the student’s responsibility to pursue set-aside or expungement of any disqualification. All costs are the student’s responsibility.
• Clinical partners have the right to refuse a student placement at their site. Allied Health and Nursing programs do not guarantee an alternative facility placement. If no alternative placement is available, the student cannot progress in the program.
• Lake Superior College will notify students of screening results and/or adverse events as required, including information about eligibility to participate in patient care.

Policy History

Policy 11.0 — Skills Test-Out

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Purpose

This policy establishes the procedure for testing in skills courses.

Definition

Test-Out: A required demonstration of competency in an assigned course outcome. This may be a hands-on psychomotor skill demonstration or a required written exam (e.g., a Medication Math test). Students must pass the test-out to earn a passing grade in the course.

General Skills Test-Out Requirements

• Students have two attempts to pass each skill or med math test-out. Follow the grading scale established in the course syllabus.
• If a skill/med math test has not been passed after the second attempt, the student must petition for a third attempt:
  • Complete a petition form explaining why the student was unsuccessful after two attempts, what the student will do differently, and specific actions to increase success on the third attempt.
  • Submit the petition to the nursing program director within one week after failing the skill.
• Criteria Requiring Mandatory Resubmission
  • A mandatory retest is required if any of the following occur:
    • Violation, omission, or incorrect performance of any bolded (critical) checklist item.
    • Total score of less than 80% of the possible points for the skill.
    • If an additional retest is required:
      • The student must review faculty feedback and resubmit a new video or complete the skill in person, demonstrating corrected performance by the specified retest deadline.
      • Failure to resubmit/retest by the deadline will result in a score of 0 for the assignment.
• Impact on Grading for Resubmissions
  • To reinforce the importance of safe and accurate performance on the first attempt while still providing an opportunity for mastery, the following grading policy applies:
  • First attempt (no required retest/resubmission):
    • The recorded score based on the checklist (0–100%) will be entered as the final grade for the assignment.
  • Second attempt (one required retest/resubmission):
    • The recorded score on the second video will be used to determine competency.
    • A 10% deduction will be applied to the second attempt score to calculate the final grade for the assignment (e.g., a score of 90% on the second attempt will be recorded as 80%).
  • Third attempt (if permitted by program policy):
    • If a third attempt has been granted, following the petition process, the highest score earned on the third video/retest demonstrating competency will be recorded with a 20% deduction applied (e.g., a score of 90% would be recorded as 70%).
    • Failure to demonstrate competency by the final allowed attempt will result in course failure in accordance with program policy.

Video Recorded Skills Demonstration

• As part of some lab courses, each student will independently record and submit a video recorded performance. This assignment is designed to evaluate competency and adherence to evidence-based practice and professional behavior expected of a nursing student.
• Submission and Evaluation
  • Students must submit the video to the designated learning platform by the posted due date.
  • Performance will be evaluated using the Skill Checklist specific to this course.
  • Items in bold on the checklist represent critical safety behaviors and steps (e.g., patient identification, allergy verification, rights of medication administration, pump programming accuracy, and aseptic technique).
  • A minimum score of 80% of the total possible points on the checklist is required to demonstrate competency for this skill.
  • Students must pass all skills to pass the class. A maximum of 2 attempts will be allowed for each skill. If a student does not demonstrate competency within 2 attempts, it will result in failure of the course.
• Criteria Requiring Mandatory Resubmission
  • A mandatory retest is required if any of the following occur:
    • Violation, omission, or incorrect performance of any bolded (critical) checklist item.
    • Total score of less than 80% of the possible points for the skill.
    • If an additional retest is required:
      • The student must review faculty feedback and resubmit a new video or complete the skill in person, demonstrating corrected performance by the specified retest deadline.
      • Failure to resubmit/retest by the deadline will result in a score of 0 for the assignment.
• Impact on Grading for Resubmissions
  • To reinforce the importance of safe and accurate performance on the first attempt while still providing an opportunity for mastery, the following grading policy applies:
  • First attempt (no required retest/resubmission):
    • The recorded score based on the checklist (0–100%) will be entered as the final grade for the assignment.
  • Second attempt (one required retest/resubmission):
    • The recorded score on the second video will be used to determine competency.
    • A 10% deduction will be applied to the second attempt score to calculate the final grade for the assignment (e.g., a score of 90% on the second attempt will be recorded as 80%).
  • Third attempt (if permitted by program policy):
    • If a third attempt has been granted, following the petition process, the highest score earned on the third video/retest demonstrating competency will be recorded with a 20% deduction applied (e.g., a score of 90% would be recorded as 70%).
    • Failure to demonstrate competency by the final allowed attempt will result in course failure in accordance with program policy.

Faculty Review of Petition

See Policy 9.0

Student Steps Following the Petition Decision

Petition Approved — Student May Retest

The student must practice the skill and demonstrate that remediation has been completed before the third attempt.

Examples of remediation:

• Skills remediation: Open lab practice, working with faculty, or working with the program director.
• Medication math: Meeting with a peer or professional math tutor in the Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC); completing a remediation assignment or extra textbook lessons.

Petition Denied — Student Cannot Retest

If the petition is not approved, the student must withdraw from the course before the withdrawal date. The Department of Nursing recommends that the student meet with an academic advisor.

Policy History

Policy 12.0 — Technology Requirements

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Policy Statement

Lake Superior College recognizes the importance of technology in nursing education. All students must meet the following technology requirements to support effective learning, communication, and successful clinical practice.

Technology Requirements

Device Specifications

Students must have access to a reliable computer or laptop meeting LSC’s technology requirements.

Important: Chromebooks are not compatible with testing platforms.

Software Requirements

• Office Suite: Microsoft Office 365 (or equivalent) for word processing and presentations. Provided to LSC students through the LSC website.
• Educational Software: Access to specific nursing program software as required (e.g., simulation software, clinical tracking systems).
• Web Browser: Latest version of Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari for accessing online course materials.
• Antivirus Software: Current antivirus software to protect devices from malware and viruses.

Learning Management System (LMS)

All students must be familiar with D2L Brightspace and be able to:

• Navigate online course materials and submit assignments.
• Participate in discussion boards and group projects.
• Access grades and feedback from instructors.

Communication Tools

• Students must use their LSC email account and regularly monitor it for communications from faculty and administration.
• Participation in online meetings may require Zoom.

Technical Support

The following resources are available:

• IT Help Desk: For technical issues related to accounts and software.
• Technology Resources:
• Tutorials and workshops for effective use of technologies related to coursework.
• Access to library resources and online databases for research purposes.

Compliance and Responsibility

• Students are responsible for ensuring their technology meets the outlined specifications and that they have regular access to required software and tools.
• Students without access to required technology may experience difficulty completing coursework or participating in clinical experiences.

Policy History

Policy 13.0 — Graduation

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Purpose

This policy provides structured guidelines for eligibility for graduation from an LSC nursing program.

Graduation Requirements

• Students must follow the assigned program guide, passing all courses listed on the program guide.
• Complete all make-up activities as per policy.
• Submit all required fees.
• Return all facility-provided ID badges.
• Submit an Application for Graduation to the Records Office by the deadline, which occurs during the semester before your final semester. Follow the .

Registration for Licensure

LSC’s nursing programs prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN licensure examination in Minnesota. Students wishing to take their NCLEX in another state or country are responsible for researching that state’s or country’s requirements and providing appropriate documents for the Director of Nursing to sign for release.

The licensure application process will be reviewed during the final semester. NCLEX registration is completed through Pearson VUE AND the individual state Board of Nursing. Additional fees apply for the license application and testing.

The Minnesota Board of Nursing requires all new applicants to complete a new background check when applying for licensure (effective January 2018). Applicants will receive instructions for the background check from the MN Board of Nursing after registering for the NCLEX. The MN Board of Nursing cannot use a background check previously completed at LSC or a place of employment.

NCLEX Preparation

The nursing program offers an NCLEX review preparation course. Information is available through nursing faculty and the Director of Nursing Programs. Students are strongly encouraged to attend Kaplan review sessions, as these are essential to NCLEX success and passing on the first attempt.

Policy History

Policy 14.0 — Transfer Students

Affected Student Groups

• Practical Nursing (PN) Students
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Traditional Track
• Professional Nursing AS Students, Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN)

Overview

Every nursing program is structured differently. Completing two semesters of nursing coursework at another institution does not automatically place a transfer student into the corresponding semester at LSC. The nursing faculty must review all prior nursing coursework to determine appropriate placement. In addition, LSC has institutional requirements governing the number of credits that must be completed at the college for it to award a degree.

Please refer to LSC Policy 3.21.1 — Procedure — Undergraduate Course Credit Transfer for details on institutional credit transfer requirements.

Key Considerations for Transfer Students

Course Review Requirement

Students anticipating transfer into the nursing program with nursing credit from another institution must have all prior nursing coursework reviewed by the nursing faculty. Students must provide detailed course syllabi, course schedules, and skills checklists so that faculty can evaluate course content for equivalency. This review process takes time — students should anticipate a minimum of 1 month for faculty to complete it. Do not assume placement until you have received official written confirmation from the program director.

Placement is Not Automatic

Because nursing curricula vary significantly between institutions, prior completion of nursing coursework does not guarantee equivalent placement at LSC. For example, completing two semesters at another nursing program does not automatically qualify a student for entry into the third semester at LSC. Placement decisions are based on the nursing faculty’s content review and are made on a case-by-case basis.

Special Consideration for Advanced Standing Track (AST) Students

If a student was originally enrolled in the LSC AS Nursing Program, was dismissed for academic reasons, subsequently obtained an LPN license, and is now applying to the Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN), the student has ONE attempt to pass any course that was previously failed or withdrawn from. This applies even though the student is entering through a different track, because each student is permitted a maximum of two total attempts per course across all tracks.

Please review Policy 2.0 — Academic Progression and Students Out of Sequence for full details on attempt limits and dismissal criteria.

Steps for Transfer into the Nursing Program

Required Documents for Nursing Course Review (Step 5)

• Course syllabus (including course description, learning outcomes/objectives, and grading breakdown).
• Course schedule/calendar (including topics covered, clinical hours, and simulation hours by week).
• Skills checklist (documenting all psychomotor and clinical competencies required by the course).

The nursing program director may request additional documentation as needed to complete the review. Incomplete submissions will delay the review process.

After the Review

Once the faculty review is complete, the program director will communicate the placement decision in writing. This communication will specify:

• Which, if any, courses are accepted for transfer equivalency.
• The semester into which the student is eligible to enter.
• Any conditions or additional requirements for entry (e.g., skills remediation, prerequisite verification).

Important Reminders

• Transfer credit decisions for nursing courses are made by the nursing faculty and program director, not by general academic advising. Once the faculty approves the courses, an additional step is required to process the course substitution(s).
• Transfer credit decisions for non-nursing courses are made by the transfer specialist and/or general education course faculty. Academic advisors can assist with this process. This step is not a part of the nursing policy. Please review
• Nursing credits are valid for a maximum of five (5) years. Coursework completed more than five years before tentative graduation will not be accepted for transfer equivalency.
• Placement into the program is contingent on available space in the applicable cohort.
• Background checks, immunizations, CPR, and all other onboarding requirements (see Policy 10.0) must be completed before the student may begin any nursing coursework at LSC.

Policy History

Date Implemented:	May 19, 2026
Reviewed by Division of Nursing:	May 19, 2026
Reviewed by Office of DEI:	Pending