Explore A Career In Nursing At Penn State Dubois Open House November 10th

Individuals interested in exploring a career in nursing will have an opportunity to experience the classroom and laboratory environment firsthand when Penn State DuBois Continuing Education hosts its Step into the Scrubs Open House at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at Penn State DuBois.

The interactive event is designed for prospective students who want to learn more about the Practical Nursing program and what it takes to prepare for a career in healthcare. Rather than simply hearing about the program, attendees will have an opportunity to participate in activities that reflect the educational experiences of current Practical Nursing students.

Throughout the evening, participants will engage in classroom activities led by Practical Nursing faculty, take part in hands-on simulations in the program's nursing laboratory, and interact with current students to learn more about their experiences in the program.

“Our goal with this open house is to give people a chance to see what nursing education looks and feels like before they make the decision to enroll,” said Lori Wills Gray, interim Practical Nursing program coordinator at Penn State DuBois. “By participating in classroom activities, exploring the lab and talking with our students, attendees can get a better understanding of the skills they'll develop, the expectations of the program and the opportunities that a career in practical nursing can offer.”

The Practical Nursing program at Penn State DuBois is an 18-month, noncredit certificate program offered through Continuing Education. Designed with working adults and individuals balancing other responsibilities in mind, the program features a part-time schedule with evening and weekend instruction.

The curriculum includes 1,500 hours of education and training, combining classroom instruction with clinical experiences at healthcare facilities in Clearfield and Jefferson counties. Graduates who successfully complete the program meet the educational requirements to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), an important step toward becoming a licensed practical nurse.

John Brennan, director of Continuing Education at Penn State DuBois and Penn State Altoona, said the open house is an opportunity for individuals to explore a potential career path while learning about the educational opportunities available close to home.

“Healthcare professionals play an essential role in our communities, and programs like Practical Nursing help prepare individuals to enter a field where their skills can make a meaningful difference,” Brennan said. “The Step into the Scrubs Open House allows prospective students to experience the learning environment, connect with the people who will help guide their education and begin exploring whether practical nursing is the right path for their future.”

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2027-28 Practical Nursing program, with the early admission period continuing through Jan. 31, 2027. The application fee is waived during the early admission period.

Additional Step into the Scrubs Open House sessions are scheduled for Jan. 7, March 4 and May 6, 2027, with each beginning at 6 p.m.

Individuals interested in attending the Nov. 10 open house are encouraged to register in advance. Registration and additional information about the event is available online. Those unable to attend are asked to call 814-375-4715 for more information.