The LPN and RN nursing programs at Helena College prepare graduates to become skilled providers in various health care environments. With an outstanding curriculum, dedicated faculty, and excellent job placement rates, these programs have become highly competitive with 20 new students admitted each semester in the Associate of Science in Registered Nurse program and 16 new students each year in the Certificate of Applied Science Practical Nurse program.
Nursing Program Outcome Data
Certificate of Applied Science Practical Nurse
- NCLEX pass rate for Practical Nursing program: 100% (Graduating cohort December 2024)
- Retention/Completion rate for Practical Nursing program: 100%
- Job placement rate for Practical Nursing program (within 6 months of graduation): 100%
Association of Science Registered Nurse
- NCLEX pass rate for Registered Nursing program: 100%
- Retention/Completion rate for Registered Nursing program: 96%
- Job placement rate for Registered Nursing program (within 6 months of graduation): 100%
The CAS PN uses specialized knowledge and skills that meet the health care needs of people in a variety of settings under the direction of qualified health professionals. Pre-requisite courses for the program may be taken at Helena College. The curriculum focuses on preparation for employment in doctor's offices, urgent care facilities, some hospital settings, and long-term care. Students learn practical nursing skills through independent study, lectures, simulation demonstrations, and practice in the skills lab. Under instructor supervision, students also provide patient care in a variety of health care settings. The program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the National Council of Licensing Examination (NCLEX- LPN) from the Montana State Board of Nursing. Upon passing the examination, the graduate becomes a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
This program is available through a virtual-blended format at Helena College. The PN program admits up to 16 students every year. Didactic courses are taught online via TEAMs on specific days and times. Labs, and simulations are done in-person at Helena College and clinical experiences are arranged in a variety of healthcare settings.
- Due date for Applications to the CAS PN Program Spring 2027 start is Monday, November 2, 2026 @ 5pm.
Practical Nursing (C.A.S.) Application Packet
Associate of Science Registered Nurse (ASRN)
The Associate of Science in Registered Nurse program prepares graduates to be skilled members and leaders in various health care environments. This program entails a series of pre-requisite courses that can be taken through the pre-Nursing program at Helena College. Students learn valuable nursing skills for various healthcare and acute care settings through independent study, lectures, simulations, practice in the skills lab, and supervised practice in clinical settings. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination from the Montana State Board of Nursing. After passing the examination, the graduate becomes a Registered Nurse (RN). The Associate of Science Registered Nursing degree program is ACEN accredited.
Applications accepted twice per year for Spring or Fall start.
- Due date for Applications to the ASRN Program Fall 2026 start is Monday, March 30 at 5pm .
- Due date for Applications to the ASRN Program Spring 2027 start is Monday, November 2, 2026 @ 5pm.
Questions regarding these application times contact the Nursing Department at 406-447-6985 or email: nursingapplications@helenacollege.edu
Information on Nurse Licensure Compact and Multi-state Licensure
Effective Oct 1, 2015, Montana joined the NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) allowing all MT unencumbered licensees with a primary residence of MT to be eligible for a multi-state license. MT licensees with a primary state of residence in a compact state, can use their compact license to practice in MT. For more information please see the Montana Board of Nursing-Nursing Licensure Compact https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/nursing/ and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) for information on other states where the multistate nursing licensee can practice https://www.ncsbn.org/compacts/nurse-licensure-compact.page
TEAS Test
If you are applying for the LPN or ASRN programs you are required to take the TEAS test. Seats are limited. Register and pay at the cashier's office at least 48 hours in advance by either stopping by in person or by calling 406-447-6921.
The test cost $95 per attempt. No refunds for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance (fee may be forwarded in event of illness.)
Tests are held at 10:00am. Check-in at Room 113.
- Friday, January 30, 2026
- Monday, February 23, 2026
- Monday, March 16, 2026
- Friday, April 10, 2026
- August-November dates TBD
Study Resources and Pre-tests are available at atitesting.com and in the Helena College Library.
You will receive a confirmation email with important information on Wednesday before your test. Please contact the Testing Center at 406-447-6946 or email testingcenter@helenacollege.edu with questions.
Before testing, you will need to setup an ATI account with these instructions.
The Associate of Science in Registered Nursing program at Helena College University of Montana at the Donaldson Campus located in Helena, Montana is accredited by the:
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
Fax (404)975-5020
Website acenursing.orgThe most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate nursing program is Continuing Accreditation.