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School of Practical Nursing

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A student assists a patient during her clinical training at a hospital.

The School of Practical Nursing opened in 1890, the first one in the United States. It provided women from their 20's to their 50's an opportunity to have a meaningful career. For some it was a chance to escape from welfare. 

The one year course included four months of classwork in theory and methods, and eight months supervised clinical experience, during which formal classes continued. The clinical period provided students with a monthly stipend, meals and laundry service. Completion of the course enabled graduates to take the State Board Examination for a practical nurse license.

The school closed in January 1973, due to lack of funds and competition from community colleges and vocational high schools.

School of Nursing