Diploma In Nursing (DIP) Programs

A diploma is awarded to students after the completion of a non-degree nursing program. Diploma in Nursing programs were traditionally offered at hospitals and large health care centers. Today, however, many community colleges and vocational schools offer similar programs. Students awarded a nursing diploma will enter the workforce as a Practical Nurse, Vocational Nurse, or Registered Nurse depending upon the duration of the nursing program.

In our list of nursing schools we identify Diploma in Nursing programs by the abbreviation DIP, short for Diploma. The end result of a Diploma in Nursing program can be either Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) (California, Texas), or Registered Nurse (RN) credentials. For this reason, we use the acronyms LPN, LVN, and RN more often than DIP to better identify schools offering these non-degree nursing programs.

Diploma in Nursing Overview:

• Prepares students for an entry-level nursing position as a Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse.
• Program lengths range from 12 to 30 months.
• Tuition costs vary by state from $1,500 to $8,000.
• Graduates will take the nursing exam which matches their length of training, NCLEX-PN, NCLEX-VN, or NCLEX-RN.
• Only 1% of candidates taking the NCLEX-RN exam each year graduate from a diploma nursing program.
• For the RN, lack of an Associate or Bachelor Degree may limit career advancement.

What does Diploma in Nursing mean?

A Diploma in Nursing (DIP) generally means that a student has completed a non-degree training program with the expectation of becoming a Practical Nurse (PN), Vocational Nurse (VN), or Registered Nurse (RN). A diploma is a certificate of completion traditionally issued by hospitals and career training centers.

Is a Diploma in Nursing equivalent to a degree?

A diploma in nursing is not a college degree therefore they are not equal. Both a diploma in nursing and an associate degree in nursing can prepare the student to work as a Practical Nurse (PN), Vocational Nurse (VN), or a Registered Nurse (RN). In both cases you will train in a health care setting and prepare for the NCLEX-PN, NCLEX-VN, or the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain a nursing license.

Today more Registered Nurse training programs are offered as Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree programs at traditional colleges and universities. The quarterly NCLEX examination reports show us clearly that only 1% of first time US educated candidates are trained in diploma nursing programs. The balance of candidates are roughly equally trained in associate or bachelor degree in nursing programs.

Practical Nurses and Vocational Nurses on the other hand, generally do not obtain a degree upon completion. They may accumulate college credit and have the option to transfer into a degree program upon completion.

How do you get a Diploma in Nursing?

To get a Diploma in Nursing (DIP), you must complete a Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, or a Registered Nursing program, typically in the state for which you intend to work. Once you complete your state mandated education requirements, you will receive your diploma and become eligible to sit for the NCLEX exam.

If you live in Alabama, visit our Alabama nursing programs page to help identify nursing schools near you which offer the desired program. Likewise, if you live in Florida, visit our Florida nursing programs page.

How long does a Diploma in Nursing take?

A Diploma in Nursing (DIP) leading to Practical Nurse (PN) credentials typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete. A diploma in nursing leading to Registered Nurse (RN) credentials typically takes 24 to 30 months to complete.

How much does a Diploma in Nursing program cost?

Diploma in Nursing programs typically cost between $4,000 to $8,000 nationwide. The cost varies depending on the diploma program length, location, and type of institution. Local community colleges and vocational schools offer the lowest tuition rates, especially in states with significant education subsidies, such as California. In these states, tuition could be as low as $1,500.

In addition to tuition, however, you should also account for other costs associated with the program. These may include textbooks, uniforms, medical equipment, lab fees, parking fees, insurance, NCLEX exam fees, and the annual state licensing fee. While tuition might cost $1,500 at a community college, total costs can quickly exceed $3,000 when these additional expenses are considered.

Below is an example list of costs you can expect from a nursing diploma program:

• Tuition $1,500
• Textbooks $1,000
• Stethoscope $40
• Gait belt $15
• Watch $15
• Uniforms and shoes $100
• Student health fee $20
• Student center fee $10
• Insurance liability fee $12
• Parking permit $50
• Immunization tracker $28
• Drug and alcohol clearance $50
• CPR certification exam $30
• NCLEX exam $200
• State license fee $300
• Total Cost $3,370

Be aware that some schools may include books, supplies, and fees in a higher quoted program cost, while other lower priced programs may list them separately. You will also need a computer and internet access to complete assignments. Additionally, consider transportation, meals, and other personal expenses when budgeting for your education.

Can you earn a nursing diploma online?

Some classes and lectures might be offered online, however, it's not possible to earn a complete nursing diploma online. The trend in education is towards self-study and online classes including in the field of nursing. Entry level and advanced patient care, however, requires hands on time at a hospital or related nearby health care facility.

Diploma in Nursing Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for a Diploma in Nursing will vary by school policy and local demand for the program. Rural vocational schools, community colleges, and for-profit nursing schools generally have more relaxed admission requirements versus well known city hospital and college extension programs.

Example admission requirements for a Diploma in Nursing program:

• Submit an application.
• Submit a written essay.
• Submit high school diploma or GED records.
• Interview with nursing program staff.
• Pass an entrance exam.
• Provide documentation from a recent health exam.
• Provide current immunization documentation.
• Provide a tuberculosis test or chest x-ray documentation.
• Submit to a ten panel drug screen test.
• Abuse registry clearance.
• Level 2 background check and fingerprinting.

We recommend that you find and read the actual application forms from a few nearby nursing school websites early on in your research. Such application forms will list each school's admission requirements, and when you will need to complete the admission requirements listed above. Browse our list of nursing programs to easily find their web sites.

Curriculum for Diploma in Nursing Programs

There are more diploma nursing programs for entry level Practical Nurse training than there are for Registered Nurse training. The majority of Registered Nursing programs available today award an Associate Degree in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor Degree in Nursing (BSN). For that reason we will briefly describe the Practical Nursing curriculum here.

Diploma in Nursing classes for Practical Nursing are generally taught in a traditional classroom setting. Clinical experience is then provided at a nearby hospital, nursing home, or long-term health care facility. Courses may be offered on a semester, trimester, or accelerated schedule.

Curriculum taught in diploma nursing programs:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Biology
• Medical Terminology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Psychology
• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Mathematics for Nursing
• Adult Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Maternal and Newborn Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing

Students who successfully complete the program become eligible to have their names submitted to the state board of nursing to be considered as a candidate for the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-VN exam. Additional self-study time is generally required to prepare for and pass the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-VN exam.

Diploma in Nursing programs may offer day and evening schedules. Day programs generally schedule classroom and clinicals Monday through Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm. Evening diploma nursing programs schedule training Monday through Thursday 5:30pm - 10:00pm with one weekend day class.

Clinicals for Diploma in Nursing Programs

The goal of the diploma nursing program is to prepare the entry level nurse to assist in the care of patients. Students will practice their newly acquired nursing skills during clinical hours. A clinical may take place in a lab or at a partner site such as a hospital or extended care facility.

Examples of clinical rotations:

• Community health
• Critical care
• Emergency
• Geriatrics
• Labor and delivery
• Medical-surgical
• Pediatrics
• Perioperative
• Psychiatric

Clinical education may be half of the program's total length. You will shadow a staff nurse and assist with patient care. You will be graded on attendance, participation, preparedness, and clinical specific homework.

Skills practiced during clinicals:

• Assist physicians and RNs.
• Assist patients with daily activities.
• Evaluate patient's emotional status.
• Perform physical assessments.
• Monitor and report vital signs.
• Perform Electrocardiogram (EKG) test.
• Care for and bandage wounds.
• Administer medications.
• Perform IV therapy.
• Give injections.
• Insert Foley catheters
• Insert Nasogastric tubes
• Collect blood samples.
• Collect medical specimens.
• Perform routine lab tests.
• Monitor medical equipment.

Nursing skills are built up gradually over the course of the program. Students may first learn how to take and evaluate vital signs which include temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration. Nursing students then learn how to observe patient wounds and report such observations. Eventually students answer call lights and assist patients with daily tasks and beyond.

Diploma in Nursing Program Tuition Cost

Practical Nursing diploma programs are generally offered at vocational schools and at local community colleges. This helps to keep the cost of tuition down compared to the longer duration Associate and Bachelor degree programs.

Nationwide the cost of Practical Nursing programs range from $1,500 to $8,000. If you live in a city and wish to attend a well known nursing school your cost will be higher than average. If your state subsidizes college education heavily than your nursing diploma cost will be lower than average.

Tuition cost for Diploma in Nursing programs at community colleges of select states:

• California $1,500
• Florida $2,500
• Georgia $3,000
• Texas $3,000
• Ohio $4,000
• Alabama $4,500
• New York $5,000
• Michigan $7,000
• Illinois $8,000
• Pennsylvania $8,000

As we mentioned previously, only 1% of NCLEX-RN exam takers graduate from a Diploma in Nursing program. Most RN students enroll into associate and bachelor degree nursing programs, many of which are offered at lower cost community colleges. Diploma nursing programs for Registered Nurses generally last two years. The cost at a community college would therefore be double the one year cost for practical nursing.

As with most nursing programs, there will be additional costs to consider. Nursing students are generally required to purchase text books, their own stethoscope, uniforms, shoes, and related trade dress which can quickly add up to over $1,000. Students will also need a computer and internet access. Meals, housing, and transportation are also costs to consider while comparing nursing schools.

Career Prospects after Completing a Diploma Nursing Program

Graduating from a Diploma in Nursing (DIP) program provides a pathway to various entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. Salaries for nurses with a diploma vary based on location, facility type, and level of experience. For a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), typical salaries range from $40,000 to $55,000 annually, while a Registered Nurse (RN) may earn between $60,000 and $80,000 depending on their specialization and geographic location.

Job roles for Diploma in Nursing graduates include:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) (in California and Texas)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Charge Nurse
• Clinic Nurse
• Dialysis Nurse
• Home Care Nurse
• Hospital Nurse
• Long-term Care Nurse
• Office Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse

Many graduates of Diploma in Nursing programs choose to continue their education after gaining some experience. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), for example, can open up career advancement opportunities.

Tips for Choosing the Right Diploma Nursing Program

Choosing the right diploma nursing program is a critical step for a successful nursing career. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a program:

• Compare different diploma nursing programs and their curriculum to ensure they align with your career goals, such as becoming an LPN, LVN, or RN.
• Research the accreditation status of the nursing program to ensure its quality and that it meets state requirements for licensure.
• Consider the reputation and ranking of the institution, as this can impact your educational experience and job placement prospects.
• Look for flexible scheduling options, including evening or weekend classes, especially if you need to balance work or family commitments while attending the program.

Selecting the right program is essential for your long-term career growth in nursing. Whether you aim to start your career as an LPN, LVN, or RN, choosing a well-regarded and accredited program will prepare you for a successful future in healthcare. After completing a Diploma in Nursing, many students choose to further their education through bridge programs or degree advancement opportunities to continue growing in their nursing careers.

Nursing Degrees

Last updated: September 18, 2024