Nursing

Online Info Session for the Practical Nursing Program: October 16, 2025 at 3:30-4:30 PM.

Want to start your career in nursing as a Practical Nurse (PN) and are looking for a full-time or part-time education option? Join us for an information session for Bellingham Technical College’s Practical Nursing (PN) program. This online ZOOM Info Session is free and open to the public, and family members of prospective students are welcome to attend. The sessions will provide information about BTC’s Practical Nursing certificate program full-time and part-time options, the LPN pathway, and admissions process. Attendees can learn more about nursing education at BTC and hear about transfer options for those interested in earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

To register for this Practical Nursing Info Session, please use the Eventbrite Info Session Link

Nursing - Certificate - Practical Nursing - Part Time

This program option is designed for students interested in becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and looking for a part-time option that better meets their needs. The prerequisite foundational courses for the PN Certificate are fewer than those for the 2-year RN and LPN-RN options. Students will complete 6 quarters part-time then upon graduation sit for the NCLEX-PN. The graduates of the PN Certificate pathway are eligible to apply to the LPN-RN program option to complete the DTA/MRP Associates Degree after completing the remaining prerequisite foundational courses. Students enrolled in the PN pathway will not be allowed to transfer to the 2-year, full-time program option.

LPNs are in high demand and the BTC Nursing Program has partnered with Whatcom county employers to offer this program option.

Students should be aware that this pathway will take a student three or more years to complete their associate DTA/MRP degree to become an RN. This pathway is intended for students who want to work as an LPN and who part-time education better meets their needs.

BTC’s Nursing Department has six Nursing Pathway options.

Nursing Student Handbook 2024-2025

Note: BTC has not made a determination that the Nursing Program curriculum meets educational requirements for licensure/certification outside of Washington State. We encourage students who plan to work out-of-state to check relevant local licensure/certification requirements.

The BTC Practical Nursing Program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC)
PO Box 47864
Olympia, WA 98504
360.236.4700

Washington State Department of Health Website

The Practical Nursing Program at Bellingham Technical College located in Bellingham, WA is accredited by the:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste. 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
404.975.5000

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Website

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Practical Nursing Program is Initial Accreditation.

Nursing Video

Employment Information

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are in demand by employers in our region. As the Baby Boomer population ages, the number of healthcare jobs in our community and beyond is rapidly growing. Projected job openings in WA State are expected to grow 12% over the next ten years.

Data are provided on a program (not credential) level

95% BTC graduate placement rate¹

$95,846 starting annual wage²
$112,091 average annual wage²
$133,328 potential annual wage²

Employment and Wage Data Sources and Information

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect three-year averages among BTC students employed in either Washington or Oregon. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Whatcom County and WA State wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

³Additional employment rates are provided for programs with faculty who maintain their own employment records of students who graduated between 2017-18 and 2019-20 and who were employed within 9 months of graduation. Both overall and in field of study employment rates are included, respectively. For these programs, the format follows: ESD rate / faculty-tracked overall rate / faculty-tracked in-field rate. These additional, faculty-provided rates are particularly important for programs that tend to have graduates employed outside of WA and OR. Note that due to lack of available data, rates may represent fewer than 3 years of graduates.

Estimated Program Costs
Estimated costs based on 8 quarters to complete this program
The first quarter of study will likely be more expensive as students pay for materials needed to start the program.
Average Tuition and Fees per Quarter: $1,900
Average cost per credit: $208
Total Tuition and Fees: $15,200
Total Tools: $374 - $528
Total Clothing: $350
Average annual cost of living in Bellingham
Living expenses (housing and food): $16,512
Transportation: $1,935
Miscellaneous/Personal: $1,800
TOTAL: $20,247

Tuition Fees and Rates overview page

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

Watch the Application and Admission overview video

How to Apply: Get licensed in 18 months!

The 2025/2026 Practical Nursing Application Portal is now open! Program ready students are encouraged to apply for a Fall 2025 seat.

The application portal will remain open until 9:00 AM on August 15, 2025.

Students who submitted a complete application by the priority application deadline of April will receive an email communication regarding a program admissions decision by May. Students who submitted a complete application by the second priority application deadline of July will receive an email communication regarding a program admissions decision by August.

All applicants to the BTC Practical Nursing Program must be Program-Ready before they can apply online during the Application Window. Students are Program-Ready once they have completed the following:

Current BTC application on file with Practical Nursing Certificate as the program of intent.
Complete all prerequisite foundational courses with required minimum grades and number of credits. Transcript evaluation process for all courses taken at another institution must be complete.
- If you plan to transfer credits from another institution, they must be submitted and evaluated at least 6-8 weeks before the application deadline. All transfer credits must be evaluated and in student’s BTC student record. Please note that it takes 6-8 weeks to process transcripts once they arrive at BTC.
- Effective April 12, 2023, the Nursing program will no longer require the ATI TEAS assessment as an admissions requirement.
Approved healthcare experience. More information below.

Pre-Application Self-Audit

Students are encouraged to conduct a self-audit before submitting their application to their intended program. These Self-Audit Instructions serve as a guide to ensure they meet all requirements and are fully prepared to apply.

Practical Nursing Certificate Checklist

PN Certificate Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Students interested in the Practical Nursing program should apply to the college and contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at outreach@btc.edu for assistance with getting started at BTC. A college application and your score on complete guided self-placement and/or previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence.

The Practical Nursing Program enrolls new cohorts of 10 students in the fall.

Students who are program-ready may apply using the Practical Nursing Certificate Admission Application at any time the portal is open. Complete applications will be added to the PN Certificate Program-Ready Waitlist in the date/time order in which they are received.

The BTC Nursing Program is educating our students in-person. Please be aware that this is not an online program.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Watch the Program Prerequisites overview video

Healthcare Experience

Experience in healthcare may be demonstrated by certification or training in an allied healthcare field. Other experience will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by program staff. DO NOT turn in original certificates or licenses.

Healthcare Experience Verification Form (For DTA/MRP 2-year Program & PN Cert Entry Only)

Healthcare experience must be approved by the program prior to applying.

Early Program Course Requirements

ALL COURSES MUST BE A MINIMUM OF 5 QUARTER CREDITS OR 3 SEMESTER CREDITS

The following courses must be completed with a B (3.0) or higher in each course:

Intro to Statistics (MATH& 146)
Human A & P 1 (BIOL& 241)
Human A & P 2 (BIOL& 242)
Introduction to Chemistry (CHEM& 121 or CHEM& 161)
English Composition I (ENGL& 101)

The following courses must be completed with a C (2.0) or higher in each course:

General Psychology (PSYC& 100)
General Biology with lab (BIOL& 160)

The transcript evaluation process for courses taken at another institution must be complete prior to applying to the program.

Physical Requirements

Watch the Clinical Placement Requirements overview video

AFTER a student has accepted an offer of admission into the program and prior to beginning program classes, students must submit proof of all Clinical Placement Requirements.

Clinical Placement Requirement Info Sheet
This program requires a criminal history background check prior to attending the clinic practicum. Criminal History Background Check Information Sheet

Notice About Marijuana Usage

Students who test positive for THC (marijuana, including prescription marijuana) will not be allowed entrance to Nursing and Allied Health programs with clinical components. Drug screening is a requirement of our clinical partner agencies. Although private recreational and medical use of marijuana is legal in Washington state, our clinical partner agencies are governed by federal laws, and marijuana is a prohibited substance at the federal level. If your final drug test results are positive, you will be ineligible to participate in the program that year and will be allowed to reapply to the program 12 months from the date of the positive test.

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 73

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

Quarter 1

NURS 113

PN Introduction to Health Concepts

4 CR

PHIL 113

PN Ethics and Policy in Healthcare I

1 CR

NUTR 113

PN Nutrition in Healthcare I

1 CR

PSYC 113

PN Psychosocial Issues in Healthcare I

1 CR

Quarter 2
NURS 114 PN Introduction to Health Concepts - Clinical Lab 6 CR
Applies competencies within the practical nursing scope of practice necessary to meet the needs of individuals, families, and groups in a safe, legal, and ethical manner using the nursing process related to selected alterations discussed in PN Introduction to Health Concepts. These concepts are applied through on-campus theory, skills and simulation labs and off-campus clinical experiences at local elder care agencies, assisted living and long-term care facilities.
Prerequisites:
NURS 113, NUTR 113, PSYC 113 and PHIL 113 all with a B- or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Quarter 3

NURS 123

PN Health and Illness Concepts 1

5 CR

NUTR 123

PN Nutrition in Healthcare II

1 CR

PSYC 123

PN Psychosocial Issues in Healthcare II

1 CR

Quarter 4
NURS 124 PN Health and Illness Concepts 1 - Clinical Lab 6 CR
Applies competencies within the practical nursing scope of practice necessary to meet the needs of individuals, families, and groups in a safe, legal, and ethical manner using the nursing process related to selected alterations discussed in PN Health and Illness Concepts 1. These concepts are applied through on-campus theory, skills and simulation labs and off-campus clinical experiences at local community clinical agencies.
Prerequisites:
NURS 123, NUTR 123 and PSYC 123 all with a B- or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Quarter 5

NURS 133

PN Health and Illness Concepts 2

3 CR

NUTR 133

PN Nutrition in Healthcare III

1 CR

PSYC 133

PN Psychosocial Issues in Healthcare III

2 CR

Quarter 6
NURS 134 PN Health and Illness Concepts 2 - Clinical Lab 6 CR
Applies competencies within the practical nursing scope of practice necessary to meet the needs of individuals, families, & groups in a safe, legal, and ethical manner using the nursing process related to selected alterations discussed in PN Health and Illness Concepts 2. These concepts are applied through on-campus theory, skills and simulation labs and off-campus clinical experiences at local community agencies and long-term care facilities.
Prerequisites:
NURS 133, NUTR 133 and PSYC 133 all with a B- or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Pre-Program

MATH& 146

Introduction to Statistics

5 CR

Fundamental concepts and basic tools of descriptive and inferential statistics. How to describe data and make reasonable conjectures about the populations from which the samples were taken. Topics include: sample distribution patterns, organization of data, sampling methods and experimental design, probability and simulation of random events, estimation of population parameters, confidence intervals, correlation, linear regression and basic hypothesis testing.
Prerequisite:
Placement into MATH& 146 or completion of MATH 099 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Newton	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MW	8:30 AM-10:40 AM	Ring	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Ring	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Newton	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	8:30 AM-10:40 AM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	MW	8:30 AM-10:40 AM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

BIOL& 241

Human A & P 1

5 CR

This course emphasizes understanding of the normal human, which will serve as a foundation of general understanding as well as a foundation for future study in allied health fields. Lecture, group discussion, literature and internet research, and laboratory exercises are included. Acquisition of basic knowledge, application and integration of concepts is emphasized. BIOL& 241 includes anatomy survey; tissues; and integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems.
Prerequisites:
Completion of BIOL& 160 and CHEM& 121 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Spurlin	Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	T	8:30 AM-12:30 PM	Spurlin	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	TTh	1:00 PM-2:30 PM		Face to Face
LAB	TTh	2:30 PM-4:30 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	5:30 PM-9:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	8:30 AM-12:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	8:30 AM-12:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	8:30 AM-10:00 AM		Face to Face
LAB	MW	10:00 AM-12:00 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	8:30 AM-12:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	8:30 AM-12:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	5:30 PM-9:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	8:30 AM-12:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	TTh	1:00 PM-2:30 PM		Face to Face
LAB	TTh	2:30 PM-4:30 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	5:30 PM-9:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.

BIOL& 242

Human A & P 2

5 CR

This course emphasizes understanding of the normal human, which will serve as a foundation of general understanding as well as a foundation for future study in allied health fields. Lecture, group discussion, literature and internet research, and laboratory exercises are included. Acquisition of basic knowledge, application and integration of concepts is emphasized. BIOL& 242 includes circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
Prerequisite:
BIOL& 241 with a C or higher

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	8:30 AM-12:30 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	5:30 PM-9:30 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	1:00 PM-5:00 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	1:00 PM-5:00 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	1:00 PM-5:00 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	5:30 PM-9:30 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	1:00 PM-5:00 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	8:30 AM-12:30 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	5:30 PM-9:30 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026			Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	1:00 PM-5:00 PM	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.

CHEM& 121

Introduction to Chemistry

5 CR

Introductory course for non-science majors, nursing, and environmental science students. Includes basic concepts of inorganic and organic chemistry, the nature of atoms, molecules and chemical bonds, chemical notation, chemistry of solutions, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving in the study of the theory and application of chemistry. Lab work is included.
Prerequisites:
Placement into ENGL& 101 or completion of ENGL 095 with or AENGL 100 with a C or higher, and placement to MATH& 107 or completion of MATH 099 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Gish	Online Asynchronous
LAB			Gish	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Gish	Online Asynchronous
LAB			Gish	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	1:00 PM-4:00 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	Th	5:30 PM-6:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
LAB	Th	6:30 PM-8:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	1:00 PM-3:00 PM		Face to Face
LAB	MW	3:00 PM-4:00 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	6:30 PM-8:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	2:00 PM-4:00 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	MW	1:00 PM-3:00 PM		Face to Face
LAB	MW	3:00 PM-4:00 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

CHEM& 161

General Chemistry w/Lab I

5 CR

ENGL& 101

English Composition I

5 CR

A composition course in which students read, analyze, and write essays using a variety of rhetorical strategies, as well as develop and verbally express ideas clearly and effectively. The critical reading of essays will provide a basis for the student's own critical writing, which will reflect a command of college-level literacy standards. Attention to writing fundamentals and stylistic techniques will also be included. Word processing, email and internet knowledge required.
Prerequisite:
Placement into ENGL& 101 or completion of ENGL 095 with a C or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Bracy	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
07/08/2025-08/29/2025	W	11:40 AM-1:50 PM	Barber	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	TTh	11:40 AM-1:50 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MW	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Bracy	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Bracy	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	TTh	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	11:50 AM-1:10 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	MW	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	TTh	8:30 AM-10:40 AM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

PSYC& 100

General Psychology

5 CR

An overview of the factors affecting behavior including topics related to theories of learning, the senses, perceptions, nervous system, emotions, personality theory, motivation, abnormal behavior and therapy, and social psychology.
Prerequisite:
Placement into ENGL& 101 or completion of ENGL 095 with a C or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Smith	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Smith	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MW	11:50 AM-1:10 PM	Smith	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Smith	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025			Smith	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	MW	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

BIOL& 160

General Biology with Lab

5 CR

This course provides introduction to basic concepts of biology, with an emphasis on the cells as the fundamental unit of life. Topics include cell structure, basic chemical and biochemical concepts, metabolism, cell division, principles of genetics, biological diversity, and methods of scientific inquiry and critical thinking. Course establishes foundation necessary for continued biology study, especially in human anatomy and physiology. Lab included.
Prerequisites:
Placement into ENGL& 101 or completion of ENGL 095 with a B or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher and placement into MATH 099 or completion of MATH 098 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Quesada	Online Asynchronous
LAB			Quesada	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Quesada	Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	T	9:00 AM-11:30 AM	Quesada	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MW	5:30 PM-7:30 PM		Face to Face
LAB	MW	7:30 PM-8:30 PM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	W	2:00 PM-4:00 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	9:30 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Find in ctcLink
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MW	8:30 AM-10:30 AM		Face to Face
LAB	MW	10:30 AM-11:30 AM		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	6:30 PM-7:20 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
01/06/2026-03/27/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	9:30 AM-10:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	9:30 AM-11:30 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	Th	6:30 PM-8:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Hybrid Asynchronous
LAB	F	2:00 PM-4:00 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Online Asynchronous
LAB				Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year you started or the closest prior:

Program Outcomes

The BTC Practical Nursing graduate will:

Demonstrate safe nursing care under the supervision of the registered nurse.
Identify culturally competent techniques to promote resilience in self and others.
Utilize therapeutic communication across a variety of settings.
Model integrity through ethical and professional behaviors.
Effectively implement the nursing process.

"Nursing Program Outcomes link to College and National Standards"

MISSION STATEMENT

Bellingham Technical College’s Nursing Program delivers high-quality nursing education to benefit the health of our region.

VISION STATEMENT

The Nursing Program will be a recognized leader in providing innovative, effective, and progressive nursing education. The Program creates options for career success by developing a professional nursing workforce.

PHILOSOPHY OF NURSING

Nursing is both an art and a science; an art requiring creativity and skill, and a science requiring knowledge and the application of evidence-based practice. Nursing provides safe, patient-centered care in collaboration with the healthcare team.

NURSING PROGRAM VALUES

In accordance with Bellingham Technical College’s values, the nursing program has established the following values:

Student-Centered: Use high-quality instruction to create pathways to reduce barriers and support student learning.
Collaborative: Strengthen student workplace readiness through partnerships and job placement services so students may achieve their education and career goals.
Principled: Cultivate a welcoming and accessible learning environment, which promotes student success through a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.
Responsive: Prioritize continuous quality improvement to keep pace with workforce needs and emerging industry trends.

NCLEX Pass Rate - All data reported by year

BTC First Time Pass Rate

2023: 100%
2022: 89%
2021: 100%

National First Time Pass Rate

2023: 75%
2022: 67%
2021: 67%

Program Completion

Within 100% of expected program length

2023-2024: 74%
2022-2023: 90%
2021-2022: 100%

Within 150% of expected program length

2023-2024: 90%
2022-2023: 90%
2021-2022: 100%

Job Placement

2023-2024: 100% (100% response rate)
2022-2023: 100% (100% response rate)
2021-2022: 100% (100% response rate)

Employment Outlook

BTC graduates are highly sought after by employers in our region and beyond. Graduates of BTC find top jobs in a variety of healthcare settings, including skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, skilled home care, hospice, acute care hospitals, clinics, and schools.

The BTC Nursing Program has partnered with employers in Whatcom County on its PN Certificate pathway to help meet the need for LPNs in our community.

Faculty & Support

Jennifer Tachiyama

Nursing Support Specialist

Personal Bio
Nursing Support Specialist - Advising for all Nursing and Pre-Nursing Master of Education Bachelor of Science – Mathematics I am a dedicated, goal oriented, team player with eight years’ experience teaching and four years teaching Middle School Summer School, three years running an After School Homework Center, and four years as an Accounting Clerk. I have been a Site Team Chair, Mathematics Head Chair, and the Middle School and High School Curriculum Director for Mathematics. I like challenges and finding solutions to them. I thrive on providing excellence in all areas of my job. My undergraduate schooling was completed at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama where I earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Mathematics and was awarded one of four of the University’s top awards, the George S. Benson Citizenship Award for Outstanding Contribution in Academics and Athletics. I have completed my Master of Education Degree and Teaching Certification in Secondary Education at Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington

Tiffany Port

Nursing

Degrees and Credentials
MS, Nursing Education, Northern Arizona University
License, Registered Nurse, Washington State
BSN, Nursing, Northern Arizona University
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State

Shawnee Moreland

Nursing

Degrees and Credentials
License, Registered Nurse, Washington State
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State
MSN, Nursing Education, Grand Canyon University
AAS, Nursing, Bellingham Technical College
BS, Nursing, University of Washington
Certificate, Practical Nursing, Bellingham Technical College
Certificate, Nursing Assistant, Bellingham Technical College

Mary Curran

Nursing

Personal Bio
Mary Curran has experience in providing nursing care in a variety of settings. Mary began her pursuit in the field of nursing at Bellingham Technical College by completing the nursing assistant program in 1991 and practical nursing program in 1993. The solid nursing foundation gained at Bellingham Technical College laid the ground work for her journey in nursing. Working at each level Mary continued her nursing education: Associate's Degree in Nursing, Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, and Master's Degree in Nursing. Mary is dedicated to quality nursing care and education through role modeling.

Degrees and Credentials
License, Registered Nurse, Washington State
MN, Nursing, University of Washington
ATA, Nursing, Skagit Valley College
BS, Nursing, University of Washington
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State

Stormy Wheeler

Nursing

swheeler@btc.edu

Degrees and Credentials
License, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, Washington State
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State
Certificate, Practical Nursing, Mohave Community College
AAS, Nursing, Mohave Community College
BS, Elementary Education, Northern Arizona University
BSN, Nursing, University of Texas at Arlington
MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, South University
License, Registered Nurse, Washington State
MA, Counseling, Northern Arizona University

Mary Curran

Nursing

Personal Bio
Mary Curran has experience in providing nursing care in a variety of settings. Mary began her pursuit in the field of nursing at Bellingham Technical College by completing the nursing assistant program in 1991 and practical nursing program in 1993. The solid nursing foundation gained at Bellingham Technical College laid the ground work for her journey in nursing. Working at each level Mary continued her nursing education: Associate's Degree in Nursing, Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, and Master's Degree in Nursing. Mary is dedicated to quality nursing care and education through role modeling.

Degrees and Credentials
License, Registered Nurse, Washington State
MN, Nursing, University of Washington
ATA, Nursing, Skagit Valley College
BS, Nursing, University of Washington
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State

Contacts

If you have questions about this program or want help with the admissions steps to Bellingham Technical College, please email outreach@btc.edu.

Current students wanting academic planning and support, can connect with the program Instructor(s) or email NursingAlliedHealthNav@btc.edu

Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MT	4:30 PM-8:00 PM	Wheeler	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MTWThF	4:30 PM-8:30 PM	Moreland	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026				Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	Port	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Find in ctcLink
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
04/07/2026-06/25/2026		Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

Nursing

Nursing

Nursing - Certificate - Practical Nursing - Part Time

Employment Information

Employment and Wage Data Sources and Information

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

Watch the Application and Admission overview video

How to Apply: Get licensed in 18 months!

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Watch the Program Prerequisites overview video

Healthcare Experience

Early Program Course Requirements

Physical Requirements

Watch the Clinical Placement Requirements overview video

Notice About Marijuana Usage

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 73

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

Pre-Program

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Job Placement

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Jennifer Tachiyama

Personal Bio

Tiffany Port

Degrees and Credentials

Shawnee Moreland

Degrees and Credentials

Mary Curran

Personal Bio

Degrees and Credentials

Stormy Wheeler

Degrees and Credentials

Mary Curran

Personal Bio

Degrees and Credentials

Contacts