Diploma programs prepare students to become registered nurses. The programs are typically associated with a hospital, but more recently are affiliated with a college or university. The programs prepare graduates for technical nursing practice.
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As a result of studies, commissions, and position papers, the setting for nursing education programs shifted to colleges and universities. The number of diploma schools and entrants in diploma schools has steadily declined since 1960. As of 1988 there were 177 diploma schools accredited by the NLN, with 21 scheduled to close.
Educational Setting
The hospital is the educational setting for the diploma program. Cooperative arrangements may be established with a community college or university to provide general education courses in biological and social sciences. The focus of the diploma program shifted from using students for service to the hospital to establishing a learning environment for the student and preparation for nursing practice in a variety of health care agencies.
Entry Requirements
A high school diploma is required for entry into a diploma school. Some schools use scholastic aptitude tests such as the SAT and nursing aptitude tests as admission guidelines.
Educational Base
The diploma program is based on a foundation of general education courses in the biological and social sciences. Generally, these courses are offered by a college or university with credit transfer arrangements with baccalaureate or masters degree programs.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to prepare nurses for direct patient care and includes couses in nursing management and home health care. The curriculum can be completed in 2 to 3 years. Heavy emphasis is on clinical practice.
Licensure
Graduates from diploma programs take the BCLEX-RN. Graduates are licensed as registered nurses.
Accrediting Agencies and Professional Organizations
Diploma programs are accredited by the Council of Diploma Programs of the NLN. Professional organizations representing the interests of diploma programs are the NLN and ANA.
References :
Grace L. Deloughery, Issues and Trends in Nursing, Mosby Year Book, St. Louis, Missouri, 1991.
American Nurses` Association, Board of Directors : Scope of nursing practice. Kansas City, Missouri, 1987.
National Commission on Nursing Implementation Project : Overview of the project, Milwaukee, WI, 1987, NCNIP.
Diploma Programs in Nursing accredited by the NLN, 1988-89, Nurs Health Care, 1988.
