Lakeview College of Nursing reserves the right to make appropriate revisions, amendments, or corrections to policies and procedures at any time with or without notice.

Academic Calendar

Academic Calendars are here: http://www.lakeviewcol.edu/academic-calendar

General Information

Registration for the next semester should be done on designated dates indicated on the academic calendar to avoid late fees.

Degree seeking students must meet with their academic advisor prior to registration for classes. All admission records must be completed prior to registration. Failure to have student health records on file with CastleBranch will prevent a student from participating in any clinical courses.

Non-degree seeking students must contact the Director of Enrollment/Registrar in order to register. Class size is limited, and enrollment for late registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Each registered student must show verification of financial aid coverage and/or pay tuition and fees by the date specified on their semester invoice. Failure to pay or to make financial arrangements by the date specified will result in an automatic drop of all courses. The student must then register during the late registration period if they still wishes to attend and pay tuition and fees, as well as the late payment fee of $50 at the time of registration. Students who have produced a certificate of eligibility by the first day of class for Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment or Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits will not be charged a late fee or denied access to college resources.

A student cannot register for a course that has already started (this includes clinical and/or lab).

Registrations are subject to administrative change to insure that all students are placed in courses they need, and courses and clinical groups are balanced according to faculty availability and clinical agency requirements.

Current Student Registration

Students enrolled are encouraged to register for the upcoming semester in October and March according to the dates established for registration (see academic calendar). A late registration fee of $50 will be applied to a student account if registrations are received after the two-week registration period.

The following procedure should be followed:

• Students can view their advisor's name from their SONIS account.
• Students will contact their advisor for an appointment to register in October and March.
• The advisor will review, complete, and sign the program plan.
• Any changes in a student's program plan due to course failure or withdrawal may cause the student's name to be placed on a waiting list for courses that need to be repeated.
• The student will sign the program plan.
• A copy of the program plan will be given to the Director of Enrollment/Registrar by the advisor.
• A billing statement will be generated and mailed to the student by the College Secretary/Cashier. Students have the capability from their SONIS account to view the balance of their account.

Cancellation of Courses

The College reserves the right to cancel a course up to and including the first day of the class meets.

Students planning to audit a class may register on a space-available basis before the scheduled start date of the class. Auditing is for theory coursework only, and students will still be expected to take the exams. Once the class has met, students may not change from audit to credit status or vice versa without written permission of the instructor. The fee for auditing is $50 per credit hour. If a student changes to credit status before the first class meeting, the tuition rate in effect at the time will be assessed with no late registration fee applied.

General Attendance/Absence Policy

Lakeview College of Nursing students are expected to attend all meetings of classes (live and online), scheduled laboratory, and clinical sessions in which they have enrolled. Attendance at clinical and lab sessions is required. Attendance will be recorded for each scheduled clas, laboratory, and clinical experience. It is the student's responsibility to attend all classes, arrive on time, and stay for the entire designated time. Students who violate the clinical/lab dress code and/or student conduct code will not be permitted to attend or remain in the class, laboratory or clinical experience, and an absence will be recorded. Students must wear a Lakeview College of Nursing-issued student ID badge at all times while in class, lab, and at clinical sites.

Theory Attendance Policy

Attendance at all classroom sessions are expected and missing any classroom sessions can have an impact on the student's course grade and ability to be successful in the course.  Students are expected to prepare for each classroom session by completing the required readings and other assignments. If the student does not attend two (2) scheduled class(es) during the semester, the course coordinator will evaluate their ability to complete the course. Attendance will be taken during each theory period. Refer to the syllabus for further explanation of the theory attendance policy, requirements, and consequences for the course.

On-Line Course Attendance Policy

Attendance in the online classroom platform is expected, and missing any online coursework can have an impact on the student's course grade. Attendance will be taken weekly. Students are expected to prepare for each online session by completing the required readings and other assignments. Active participation is an exception from the very beginning of the course, and ongoing active participation must be maintained throughout the semester. If the student does not actively complete content for two (2) online sessions during the semester, the course coordinator will evaluate the student's ability to complete the course and may result in failure of the course. 

Clinical Attendance Policy – See Clinical Policies.

Military Attendance and Withdrawal Policy

This policy is for students who are currently in the National Guard, Reserves, or active duty United States military and have been called to active duty service or deployment. An official copy of the military orders must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office. Any student called to active military service, specialized training, or disaster relief efforts may receive an excused absence for class time missed (less than 7 consecutive days or one weekend for a weekend course). If the required military leave results in the student missing 7 or more consecutive days of class/clinical/lab time or more than one weekend for a weekend course, the student may withdraw from all courses. The student has the right to receive a refund of tuition and fees for missed classes of 7 or more consecutive days or more than one weekend for a weekend course associated with active-duty military service. Students should speak with the Financial Aid Office and Business Office.  Alternatively, with the permission of the Dean of Nursing, a student may receive an incomplete on all courses registered. Students should refer to the Incomplete Policy for additional information.

Request to make up missed class time due to Military obligations

For those students wishing to receive an excused absence for Military obligations, an official copy of the military orders must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office. Any request to make-up missed class time must be made within a week of receiving official notification by the military service. Students seeking an excused absence for class time missed due to military obligations will be considered absent for the day(s) until the missed course content is completed. If the student is unable to complete missed course content, the absence will remain in effect and will be subject to the consequences outlined in the Attendance Policy.

To withdraw from a course, a student must meet with their Advisor or Course Coordinator to complete an ADD/DROP/WITHDRAW form before to the deadline for course withdrawal. Students are advised to consult with the Financial Aid Office regarding the effect on financial aid status before withdrawing from a course. Students who withdraw from a course need to be aware that they may be placed on a wait list for repeating the needed course.  The withdrawal procedures are as follows:

Five Week Classes:

The first class day through the end of the 3^rd week course a grade of “W” (withdrawal) will be recorded on transcript.

Eight Week Classes:

The first class day through the end of the 6^th week course a grade of “W” (withdrawal) will be recorded on transcript.

Ten Week Classes:

The first class day through the end of the 8^th week course a grade of “W” (withdrawal) will be recorded on transcript.

Fifteen Week Classes:

The first class day through the end of the 13th week course a grade of “W” (withdrawal) will be recorded on transcript.

Short Session/ Weekend Courses:
The deadline to withdraw from any short session weekend class is prior to the third class meeting.

Students may only repeat a course one time in which they received a grade of “W” or failing grade.  Any student who has withdrawn from one course will be placed on academic probation. Students withdrawing from two different courses will be dismissed from the College.

The student may not withdraw from a course if there is a Student Code of Conduct issue or a Grievance is pending or being investigated.

Withdraw due to Military Obligations

A student who withdraws from the program due to military obligations, must complete a Withdrawal Form must and attach an official copy of the military orders. The form and orders must be submitted to the Dean of Nursing. 

Late Withdrawal

In the case of extreme circumstances where the deadline to withdraw without academic penalty has passed, a student may petition the Dean of Nursing for a late withdrawal from all courses. If granted, the student would receive a grade of “W” for any course not completed in the semester.

Withdrawal from the College

A student may withdraw for academic reasons or serious personal problems.  To withdraw from the College, the student must complete a Withdrawal from the College Form obtained from the Registrar's Office.  If a student withdraws from the College by the official withdraw date, a “W” will be posted on the student transcript (see SAP).  A student may not withdraw from the College or any courses after the official withdraw date.  Students who have been awarded financial aid must contact the Financial Aid Office prior to officially withdrawing from the College. A return of Title IV funds calculation may be required – refer to Financial Aid Implications (Return of Title IV Funds). All obligations to the College must be cleared at the time of withdrawal.

A student who withdraws from the College and wishes to return at a later time must go through the readmission process. If readmitted, the student will be accountable to the policies and procedures of the current handbook.

Lakeview College of Nursing does not have a Leave of Absence Policy.  Please refer to the Withdrawal policies and procedures and Tuition Refund Policies.

The Dean of Nursing has the authority to dismiss and/or to refuse readmission to any student at any time if circumstances of a legal, moral, health, social or academic nature are considered to justify such action. The dismissal may be a result of a probationary period (see SAP) or may be independent of probation.

A faculty member may recommend to the Dean of Nursing the dismissal of a student if it is inadvisable for the student to continue in the College. A recommendation for dismissal may be based upon observed problems in mental or physical health, conduct, attendance, quality of clinical performance, and/or failure to meet academic requirements. The Dean of Nursing may make an immediate decision or take the recommendation to the Faculty Organization for further discussion. The student will be afforded due process.

Grades are issued at the end of each semester. The requirements for obtaining the course grade will be stated in each course syllabus.  If there is a question, the student is responsible for clarifying the instructor’s expectations.

Grading Scale

The grades given in LCN courses are as follows:

No grade will be rounded.

For all courses, students must earn at least a C average on all exams to pass the course, except N311 Foundations of Professional Practice an B must be earned. Test averages are calculated prior to adding in papers, projects, or other non-exam scores. If the average is less than a C or B for N311, the student earns the test average for the course.  If the student’s test average is C or B or higher, all of the remaining course assignments are calculated into the final grade. Students who do not earn a C in all courses except a B in N311 when exams are averaged fail the course, regardless of the grades on the other non-exam course activities.

In a nursing course that contains a clinical or lab components, a student must earn a grade of at least C in theory, except N311 Foundations of Professional Practice a B must be earned and C or S (satisfactory) in the clinical or lab components to receive degree credit for the course. If the student’s clinical-grade is satisfactory, the grade for the course is the theory grade. A U (unsatisfactory) clinical performance results in failure or an F grade for the course.

No extra credit will be provided for students to raise a grade. Students cannot earn more than 100% on any assignment or exam in any course.

No rounding of grades. Student letter grades will be determined by the whole number; no rounding is used. Therefore if a student earns a 76.9, the grade earned is a 76. If a student receives an 84.5, the student receives an 84.

Grade Point Average
Grade point averages are computed at the end of each semester and cumulatively over the semesters. All LCN semester hours count on the student’s grade point average in determining scholastic eligibility to remain in the College. The procedure for computing grade point averages in available from the Registrar.

Grade Reports

Grades are issued at the end of each semester.  Students may review their grades through the SONIS system. No grades will be given out by the Registrar’s Office over the phone or by e-mail in accordance with the Family and Educational Right to Privacy Act of 1974. Official grades are in SONIS.

Dean's List
The Dean's list recognizes students who have demonstrated academic achievement. Students who complete a semester of 6 or more semester hours with a GPA of 3.6 or higher are eligible for the Dean's list.

The Dean's list may be forwarded to media and/or posted to Lakeview website following the final grade notification each semester. If a student does NOT wish for this information to be published, they just opt-out of Merit with the first week of class for the semester that will be publicized. The information is released to newspapers based upon the zip code of the student.

Incomplete Grades

An incomplete grade may be requested by a student with the approval of the Dean of Nursing when a student is unable to complete the coursework because of illness, serious injury or other circumstances beyond the student's control.  An "I" may be assigned if at least three quarters of the course has been completed within the term grading period and the student has maintained a consistent rate of progress in the course. Failure to appear for a final exam or to complete coursework in the time allowed is not justification for an incomplete. The Course Coordinator will complete Section 1 of the Incomplete Grade Record, which identifies the reason for the incomplete.

The Course Coordinator will complete the incomplete form after the last day of class; set the date for completion within a 30 day time limit; and, will distribute the form to the Registrar and Financial Aid Office.  The student and Course Coordinator will also retain copies.

An incomplete grade must be removed no later than 30 days after the course has ended.  Students who do not complete the course in the designated time will receive a grade of "F," which will be recorded on the student's transcript.  Any course with an incomplete grade that is a prerequisite for another nursing course must be completed before starting in the course. The due date for removal of the incomplete grade "I" must be met whether or not the student is currently enrolled in college courses. In the event the Course Coordinator from whom a student receives an incomplete grade "I" is not on campus, the disposition of the grade will be made by the Dean.

Grade Appeal

Consistent with the College’s mission and academic policies, course instructors have both the right and responsibility to render constructive and critical judgment regarding the quality of the academic work performed by students according to the grading criteria stated in the respective course syllabus. The College will not review the judgment of a faculty member in assessing the quality of students’ work.

Grounds for Grade Appeal

Students may appeal a grade for the following reasons:

1. An error in the calculation of the grade or clerical error in the recording of the grade that remains uncorrected.
2. The assignment of a grade to a particular student by applying more requirements than were applied to other students in the course or
3. The assignment of a grade to a particular student on some basis other than performance in the course or clinical.

The following are not grounds for a grade appeal:

1. Specific test questions.
2. The assignment was too challenging or required too much work.
3. The assignment was poorly designed or facilitated.
4. Final course grades.  

In all grade appeals, the student has the burden of proof. Note: If a student does not meet any of the steps by the set time frames, the grade appeal is void.

Step 1: Before Appealing a Grade - Informal Conference with the Instructor

Before a student raises a concern about a grade, the student should review the syllabus carefully. After the syllabus review, the student who believes that a grade was improperly assigned must promptly, within three (3) calendar days after the grade was submitted in Edvance 360, meet with the instructor face to face to discuss the concerns.

The best opportunity for a revised grade is with the faculty member - while an appeal to the Review Committee and Dean of Nursing is open, it is much less likely to result in a grade change. It is the instructor who knows the student’s work and is in a position to evaluate and assign a grade.

If the informal conference does not result in a mutually agreeable resolution, the student may proceed with the Formal Grade Appeal Process, if it meets the requirements.

Written verification of each step below is critical to promote a thorough review.

Step 2: Appeal to the Instructor - Formal Grade Appeal

The student is responsible for organizing their argument and has three (3) calendar days from the informal conference to submit the following to the instructor of the course:

1. Completed Formal Grade Appeal Form. The appeal form can be accessed via the Lakeview website https://www.lakeviewcol.edu/forms and
2. Copies of any relevant supporting materials.

When a student discusses concerns about a grade, the case should be presented factually: the student needs to explain how they believe their work meets the criteria and rubrics that the instructor assigned for the assignment.

Emotional language and personal attacks should be avoided. Mentioning grades in other classes is not relevant. When appealing a grade, student’s may think it is relevant to mention if they are a "strong student" overall. However, to most instructors, that information is not relevant; they are considering only the performance in their class.

Within five (5) calendar days from the date of receipt of the student's Formal Grade Appeal, the instructor shall complete the instructor’s section of the form. The instructor should explain how the grade in question was determined and address any other issues raised in the student's appeal statement. The instructor will submit the completed grade appeal form with their final decision and any supporting materials to the student.

Once the instructor has made a final decision about the grade appeal, the student has the right to appeal to the Review Committee – Faculty Organization. The student has three (3) calendar days to appeal the faculty’s decision to the Review Committee. The student should sign the appeal form and submit to the Faculty Organization Chair.

Step 3: Appeal to the Review Committee – Faculty Organization
The Faculty Organization Committee will:

1. Verify the student has valid grounds for an appeal.
2. Schedule a meeting with the student and instructor. The student and the instructor will present to the Faculty Organization Committee their sides of the Formal Grade Appeal. The student has the opportunity to bring one support representative to the committee. The support representative must be named as attending at least 24 hours before the meeting and cannot be legal counsel.
3. Prepare a written summary of the meeting that includes the informal meeting date and any outcome of the grade appeal.

Within three (3) calendar days, the Chair of the Committee will notify the student and the instructor in writing of the Committee’s decision. The student has three (3) calendar days to appeal the Review Committee's decision to the Dean of Nursing. The student should sign the appeal form and submit to the Dean of Nursing.

Step 4: Final Level of Review – Appeal to the Dean of Nursing

The Dean of Nursing will review the Formal Grade Appeal, all supporting material, and all decisions. The Dean of Nursing will also evaluate the process of the grade appeal. Within three (3) calendar days of receipt, the Dean of Nursing will make a final decision.

Step 5: What to Expect After Formal Grade Appeal

If the student’s grade appeal is successful, the instructor will adjust the assignment grade to reflect the outcome. If the student’s appeal is not successful, and the student thinks the grade will affect their future success in the course, the student should make an appointment with their academic advisor. The academic advisor can help the student plan whether or not to withdraw from the course or help identify academic improvement resources.

The purpose of the Testing Policy is to increase the consistency of grading practices and testing procedures to improve the assessment student learning.

Tests or examinations that fall under this policy are proctored. Some courses are exempt from this policy – refer to course syllabus to determine if the course is exempt. 

Students entering Lakeview College of Nursing are required to have a personal laptop computer configured to the college's specifications (Microsoft Office, webcam for video conferencing, video assignments, and testing, plus internal and external audio capabilities). This requirement responds to technical changes on the computerized testing platform, as well as the widespread adoption of computer technology in health care. Specifications are outlined on the College website here.

Testing Learning Management Software (LMS)

Edvance360 is the learning management software used by all nursing courses. Lectures, PowerPoint slides, tests, discussion forum questions, grades, and assignments will be posted on Lakeview College of Nursing Edvance360. The minimum requirements for this LMS is Firefox or Internet Explorer with Javascript enabled, and the latest Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader used to view PDFs.

Please note that there are scheduled maintenance times for Edvance360. It is essential that you are aware of those times and make sure that you have submitted any work in progress (e.g., tests, assignments, posts to journal, wikis or discussion boards) prior to the systems being shutdown for maintenance. Any work in progress will be lost when the servers go down for maintenance. Students will be notified about scheduled maintenance by Miranda Shake, Library Director.

ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGIES INSTITUTE (ATI)

ATI Nursing Education (Assessment Technologies Institute®) is a technology-based educational assessment and testing program. The program’s focus is on helping students succeed in the licensure examination (NCLEX) that all graduates need to successfully pass in order to practice nursing after graduation. Today’s nursing students are diverse with different learning styles and needs. ATI Nursing Education’s learning systems are designed to offer a variety of learning methods. ATI information and services are available to students throughout their academic career. The PDF linked here is a summary of the ATI testing that students are exposed to across the nursing curriculum.

At the end of each semester, the Registrar's Office will notify the Dean of Nursing and the Financial Aid Office of any student who been placed on academic probation/financial aid warning or dismissed from the college/financial aid suspension.

Academic Probation
The Registrar will notify the student by e-mail of the academic probation/financial aid warning with the required academic probation remediation requirements. The Registrar's Office will note the academic probation or academic dismissal on the student's transcript.

Academic Probation Remediation: The student will receive an academic probation remediation form. The student will be required to develop and submit their remediation plan with detailed action steps to help them be successful in future courses. Note: The student must submit their remediation plan by the first day of the next semester. Failure to provide the remediation plan will cause the student to be dropped from all of their courses. To enroll back into courses, the student will have to go through the readmission process and sit before the admissions committee.

Once the student submits the remediation form, the student’s academic advisor, the college tutor, and the campus lab coordinator will review the student’s plan. The individualized remediation plan will be developed, and the student must fulfill all requirements of the plan throughout the semester. Failure to meet the requirements will cause the student to be academically dismissed.

Academic Dismissal
The Registrar will notify the student by certified letter of the academic dismissal. The Registrar's Office will note the academic dismissal on the student's transcript. A student who has been dismissed is prohibited from enrolling in any courses and therefore not eligible for any federal, state or private aid. If the student has pre-registered for an upcoming semester, they will be automatically disenrolled from their classes. The student will receive a 100% refund of tuition and fees. The student may reapply for readmission after the dismissal period of one semester.

Glossary of Terms:

Academic Dismissal/Financial Aid Suspension – student failed to meet the minimum standard by total withdraw in a semester and/or being on a warning status previously and/or reaching maximum time frame for Program of Study

Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) - prepared by the student’s instructor or academic advisor/counselor (or other pertinent LCN staff).

Academic Probation/Financial Aid Probation (Re-admitted Status) - the student has an approved Appeal for readmission to the College and reinstatement of Title IV and/or State student aid for one additional term unless an Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) is being met.

Academic Probation/Financial Aid Warning - the first time a student fails to meet the minimum standard in any one of the components. 

Good Standing – a student is meeting the minimum standards each enrollment period.

Minimum Standards - student has a Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 and is staying on pace with a success rate of completing all credit hours attempted and is completing (on pace) their program within the published time frames formatted in credit hours.

Program of Study - the educational program the student has indicated they are pursuing at the College. LCN has one program, the BSN Degree.

Quantitative Measure - the Pace at which the student must be completing their Program of Study, which must be monitored for completion before maximum time allotted for program is reached. The Pace varies by level of enrollment each term but has set maximums.

Standards of Academic Progress (SAP) - a Federal requirement applied to all students who have Federal Student Aid funding (pending, actual, or estimated awards). LCN has one policy that applies to all students.

Time of Completion - the Maximum timeframe is 150% completion of the published program timeframe. This calculation considers all cumulative credit hours attempted (not earned).

Purpose of the Remediation and Academic Improvement Plan Procedure:

Lakeview College of Nursing actively promotes and supports student’s academic achievement through remediation.  Students are required to demonstrate ongoing remediation efforts to improve academic success. The remediation of content will be suggested by the course coordinator in the Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) for students failing to meet academic standards.

The student is responsible for the implementation of the AIP and the course expectations, as directed in the course syllabus. 

For Insufficient Academic Progress:

1. The student will be notified by the course instructor when the student fails to meet the academic standard in the course by the online AIP via email.
2. A copy of the AIP will be emailed to the academic advisor and the record’s office. A copy will be sent to the Skills Lab Coordinator and to the tutor as needed.   
3. The suggested remediation plan will be written out by the instructor for the student within the AIP. This may include all or any of the following recommendations or assignments:
   1. Review corresponding content in any of the course’s resources and develop a study plan.
   2. Take/repeat ATI focused review tests, online learning assignments, and/or other learning activities that correlate with the syllabus content.
   3. If AIP is related to skill performance, the student will make an appointment with the Skills Lab Coordinator to practice and demonstrate mastery.
   4. Make an appointment with the course instructor/coordinator, advisor, or tutor.

For Insufficient/ /Unsatisfactory Clinical Performance Remediation Plan:

1. The student will be notified by the course coordinator or clinical instructor when the student fails to meet the clinical performance standards in the course by the online AIP via email.
2. In addition, a copy of the AIP will be emailed to the academic advisor and the record’s office. A copy will be sent to the Skills Lab Coordinator and to the tutor as needed.   
3. The student will meet with the course coordinator and/or clinical instructor to identify areas of weakness and expected level of performance.
4. The suggested remediation plan will be written out and discussed by the coordinator and/or clinical instructor for the student. This may include all or any of the following recommendations or assignments:
   1. Review corresponding content in any of the course’s resources and develop a study plan.
   2. Take/repeat additional ATI focused review tests, online learning assignments, and/or other learning activities that correlate with the syllabus content.
   3. If AIP is related to skill performance, the student will make an appointment with the Skills Lab Coordinator to practice and demonstrate mastery.
   4. Make an appointment with the course instructor/coordinator and advisor.

Unsafe Practice/Unprofessional Behavior Remediation Plan:

Unsafe practice and unprofessional clinical behavior may include abandonment, neglect, or actions that are outside of the student nurses’ scope of practice. Unprofessional clinical behavior may include violating any clinical policies, LCN policies, and/or professional codes of conduct.

1. The student will be notified by the course coordinator or clinical instructor of the failure when the student failure to meet the safe practice and/or professional behavior standards by the online AIP via email.
2. A copy of the AIP will be emailed to the academic advisor and the Record’s office. A copy will be sent to the Skills Lab Coordinator as needed.
3. The student will meet with course coordinator and/or clinical instructor to identify the unacceptable behavior(s) and to develop an individual plan for remediation.
4. The suggested remediation plan will be written out and discussed by the coordinator and/or clinical instructor for the student. This may include all or any of the following recommendations or assignments:
   1. Review corresponding content in any of the course’s resources and develop a study plan.
   2. Take/repeat additional ATI focused review tests, online learning assignments, and/or other learning activities that correlate with the syllabus content.
   3. If AIP is related to skill performance, the student will make an appointment with the Skills Lab Coordinator to practice and demonstrate mastery.
   4. Make an appointment with the course instructor/coordinator, advisor, or tutor as needed.

Assessment Information

Assessment and program improvement efforts are expectations for accreditation of colleges and nursing programs.  LCN uses a systematic process to obtain relevant data for program effectiveness.   The process is inclusive of the campus community and is used to drive decision making.  The process is written, ongoing, comprehensive, and exists to evaluate the achievement of program outcomes.

Student participation in the assessment program is critical for program improvement.  Students participate in assessment upon admission to the college, during the program, and during post college experiences.  The following activities are designed to obtain student input into the academic experience at LCN. 

Admissions Testing
All students every semester:

• Course and clinical evaluations
• Midterm Evaluations
• Tea with the Dean of Nursing
• Student Forums
• Student suggestion boxes

All students biennially

• Noel Levitz

Students in 400 level courses

• EBI

Graduates

• Graduate survey [prior to graduation]

Alumni

• Post graduate employment survey [6 months following graduation]

For graduates to be eligible for the bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN), a student must satisfactorily:

1. Complete the prescribed curriculum of 120 semester hours:
   1. Complete all the related general education College course requirements. (60 semester credit hours) with a minimum GPA of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
   2. Complete all required nursing courses (60 semester credit hours) with a minimum GPA of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
2. Earn a minimum of 30 semester credit hours of nursing coursework from Lakeview College of Nursing.
3. Complete 20 hours of service throughout the curriculum. This service requirement will be implemented with students who start in the fall of 2018.
4. Attend the NCLEX-RN review class, offered by LCN, in the last semester of coursework.

The responsibility for knowing and achieving the graduation requirements rest with the students.

Service Learning

Service-Learning Outcomes

1. Develop a habit of critical reflection as they integrate professional values and leadership principles throughout their career. (Program Outcome 5)
2. Incorporate an ethic of social and civic responsibility into their professional values and practice. (Program Outcome 4 & 5)
3. Develop an understanding of the complex underlying issues impacting family, population, and community health needs. (Program Outcome 4)
4. Develop their ability to work collaboratively in a variety of settings. (Program Outcome 1 & 7)
5. Learn about diverse cultural perspectives and develop a respect for cultural differences (Program Outcome 6)
6. Observe organizational and community decision making styles and reflect on how these are utilized to promote health and wellness in communities. (Program Outcome 1)

Completion of 20 hours of service-learning is a graduation requirement of Lakeview College of Nursing. The 20 hours of service-learning will be completed throughout the student's time at Lakeview and must be fulfilled before graduating.

Five (5) hours are recommended to be completed each semester, totaling TWENTY (20) hours by graduation. There are a multitude of organizations that seek out volunteers to serve the community. A list is provided to students at new student orientation of organizations within the area that would serve as potential sites to complete these hours. All organizations require prior authorization to complete hours. Please contact the site before completing the hours to fulfill the site’s needs.

At the time of registration each semester, students will bring completed hours to their advisor. Proof of completed hours should be documented on the Community Service Form located on the LCN website with the signature and contact information of the site. If a student wishes to complete service hours at a different location than the pre-approved list, the student will have to contact their advisor for approval first. 

Standardized Nursing Assessment Testing for Graduation
A passing score on the standardized nursing assessment test, ATI Comprehensive Predictor, is required. The minimum required score on ATI Comprehensive Predictor will indicate that the graduate is 95% likely to pass the NCLEX-RN and is based on national norms. The assessment test is given before commencement.  If a student does not meet the minimum required score on the ATI Comprehensive Predictor on the first attempt, the student will be required to complete the Virtual ATI (VATI). When the VATI nurse educator determines that the student has achieved the benchmark score or a "green light" from VATI indicating a high likelihood of success on the NCLEX, the student's name will be released to the state and the student will be allowed to take the NCLEX-RN.

If the passing score is not attained, then the student must complete a virtual remediation program before the student's name will be released to allow the student to register for the NCLEX-RN.

Students will begin to develop a portfolio which will reflect their academic and professional accomplishments.  The portfolio will begin in N314:  Introduction to Professional Practice and will be completed in N443:  Leadership and Management. The purpose of the portfolio is to “showcase” credentials that are not included in a resume.
The portfolio is a biographical account of the student’s educational career at Lakeview College of Nursing (i.e., goals, objectives met, improvements in writing and nursing skills). Collections of papers, Care Plans, and PowerPoint handouts should be included to demonstrate the student’s best ideas, work, and accomplishments during the program. The student’s progress through the program will be reflected, which may be helpful during employment interviews.  The portfolio will become an excellent place to keep all certificates of completion, (e.g., CPR, conferences, in-services) and health records. 
Students will want to ask faculty for references to include in their portfolio.  A letter of reference-recommendation form has been developed for students to complete and give to faculty.  Students need to give faculty at least two weeks’ notice when requesting a letter of reference-recommendation.

The Faculty Letter of Reference – Recommendation Form for Current LCN Students is available at http://www.lakeviewcol.edu/sites/default/files/CurrentStudentLetterofRecommendationForm.pdf

Before photographing, videotaping, or audio recording individuals as part of a course requirement of Lakeview College of Nursing, you are required to obtain the consent of individuals 18 years of age or older or the consent of a parent/guardian for individuals younger than 18 years of age.
The Consent form is found here: https://www.lakeviewcol.edu/forms

Graduation honors are based upon the student's cumulative Lakeview GPA one semester prior to meeting graduation requirements at LCN.  Students with GPAs of 3.6 and above earned at the College will be recognized and published according to the following:

• Summa Cum Laude - 3.95 or Higher
• Magna Cum Laude - 3.80 - 3.94
• Cum Laude - 3.6 - 3.79

Sigma Theta Tau International
Honor Society of Nursing

Alpha Alpha Delta Chapter Membership

Philosophy of Membership Eligibility
Sigma Theta Tau International Society membership is by invitation to baccalaureate nursing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship and to nurse leaders exhibiting exceptional achievements in nursing. Sigma Theta Tau encompasses more than 150 chapters located at colleges and universities throughout the world. Lakeview College of Nursing is home to the Alpha Alpha Delta Sigma chapter.

Purpose of Sigma Theta Tau International

• Recognize superior achievement and scholarship
• Recognize the development of leadership qualities
• Foster high professional standards
• Encourage creative work
• Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession

Membership Invitation

Membership in the LCN chapter of Alpha Alpha Delta Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society is by invitation to baccalaureate students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship. Students who have completed at least one-half of the nursing curriculum, ranked upper 35% of their class, have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and no unprofessional or student code of conduct issues may be inducted in the Honor Society.

Candidates for membership are reviewed biannually. Invitations are extended to all BSN students who meet the Sigma Theta Tau International’s membership criteria. An induction ceremony is held each spring and fall for all new members.

Fingerprinting & Background Check Requirement for NCLEX

All individuals applying for initial licensure as a registered nurse in Illinois must submit to a criminal background check and provide evidence of fingerprint processing from the Illinois State Police, or its designated agent. Lakeview College of Nursing senior students may contact a livescan-fingerprinting vendor, approved by the Illinois State Police, to schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. Fingerprinting may also be arranged by Lakeview College of Nursing. Each NCLEX-RN applicant will be provided a written receipt once they have been fingerprinted. This receipt must be submitted to the Department’s testing vendor along with the examination application and fee in order for the applicant to be scheduled for the examination. Fingerprints must be taken within 60 days prior to submission of the application for licensure. Any cost that is incurred is the responsibility of the student.

NCLEX-RN Procedures & Registered Nurse Licensure

The following describes the procedures for applying to sit for the NCLEX-RN Examination.

1. The Dean or designee will meet with seniors during the final semester to discuss the application procedures for registering to take the NCLEX-RN examination and applying for a RN licensure.
2. Students will register on line for the NCLEX-RN examination through Pearson Vue (http://www.personvue.com/). The application can be submitted on line with a credit card payment of $200 or downloaded and mailed in with a cashier’s check or money order. Students should maintain a copy of all applications sent on line or via certified mail.
3. State licensure forms must be completed by the student. This can be done by identifying the state board of nursing in the desired state for licensure, accessing the website, and applying online or downloading the application for licensure by examination. All states require a fee for submitting an application that can be paid form by credit card, cashier’s check, or money order. Some states require a background check as a part of the licensure process. Students must identify the time limit set by the state for an acceptable background check. (The State of Illinois will only accept background checks done within 60 days from submission of the application for licensure).
4. Students are responsible for sending to the state agency processing their application for licensure their receipt of fingerprinting and background check by certified mail.
5. Transcripts and/or verification of graduation forms will not be sent until the student meets all of the requirements for graduation. All transcripts and/or verification forms will be sent by certified mail to the desired state of licensure, or when needed to the graduate.
6. Any information that is sent by mail for licensure or registration SHOULD be copied and sent by registered/certified mail.
7. The Dean of Nursing will be available for questions.

The Illinois Nurse Practice Act includes criteria for eligibility to apply for licensure to practice nursing, the definition of professional nursing and items related to grounds for licensure refusal, suspension, or revocation. Specifics can be found in the publication, Illinois Nursing, and Advanced Nursing Practice Act.