#United States #Rasmussen University #Ocala #Practical Nursing #Ocala Campus

Rasmussen University Launches Weekend Practical Nursing Diploma Program in Ocala

Rasmussen University, a prominent part of the American Public University System, has recently announced the introduction of a new Practical Nursing (PN) Diploma program at its Ocala campus. This innovative program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working adults and families, making it easier for them to pursue a nursing education while managing their professional and personal responsibilities. Enrollment is currently open, with classes scheduled to commence in January 2027.

Why a Weekend Program?

The launch of the weekend program, which combines in-class and online learning formats, aims to provide students with greater flexibility in their studying approach. Classes will be held from Friday through Sunday, incorporating hands-on learning experiences and clinical training. This comprehensive model is engineered to equip students with the skills necessary for delivering safe and effective patient care while preparing them for the NCLEX-PN® examination, a critical step toward becoming licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

Heather Ann Smith, the area dean of nursing, emphasized the necessity of providing quality education that caters to the needs of today's students. She noted the significant demand for weekend programs at other Florida campuses, reflecting a wider trend towards flexible educational paths in nursing. Smith remarked, “Bringing this program to Ocala provides students with an opportunity to prepare for a career in healthcare, while supporting their work and family commitments.”

Addressing Demand for LPNs

The introduction of this weekend program is particularly timely, as Florida is currently experiencing an increasing demand for licensed practical nurses. According to projections from the Florida Center for Nursing, the need for LPNs in the state is expected to grow by 2.3% annually through 2037. However, simultaneous projections indicate a decline in the supply of LPNs, illustrating a potential workforce gap that this new program aims to help bridge.

Practical nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential care in a variety of environments such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. By expanding the availability of weekend nursing programs, Rasmussen University is responding to the urgent need for skilled healthcare professionals in Ocala and beyond.

Pete Beasley, senior campus executive director at Rasmussen University—Ocala, highlighted the unprecedented growth of the Ocala metropolitan area, noting that it was among the fastest-growing regions in the country according to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2025. He expressed pride in the expansion of nursing programs aimed at nurturing more healthcare professionals for their burgeoning community.

A Flexible Pathway to Nursing

Rasmussen’s weekend Practical Nursing program combines both online education and in-person training, ensuring that students have a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. Available at multiple campuses across Florida, including regions such as Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Myers, this program stands out by offering an expedited route to obtaining a Practical Nursing Diploma in approximately 15 months, at an estimated total cost of $27,000.

With multiple start dates throughout the year and no prerequisite courses required for admission, this program is designed to lower barriers for individuals keen on venturing into the nursing profession. Graduates will be fully prepared to take the NCLEX-PN® examination and may opt to further their education through Rasmussen's LPN-to-RN Bridge program.

To explore more about the weekend Practical Nursing Diploma program available at Rasmussen University’s Ocala campus, prospective students can visit their official website at Rasmussen University Ocala.

In summary, Rasmussen University’s establishment of a weekend Practical Nursing program exemplifies the institution’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of healthcare education while promoting pathways for working individuals and career changers in Central Florida.


Note: NCLEX-PN is a registered trademark of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. The completion time and costs involved can vary based on accepted transfer credits and the number of courses taken each term.