LSCO Launches Nursing Programs at TSUS Polk County Center
June 2, 2025
LIVINGSTON, TX 鈥� In response to the growing demand for licensed vocational nurses and registered nurses across rural East Texas, 暗网禁区 (LSCO) is expanding its footprint with the launch of two new programs, the and the at the Texas State University System鈥檚 Polk County Center in Livingston.
Both programs will begin accepting applications on June 1, 2025, providing students in the region with a direct path into high-demand healthcare careers while supporting the needs of local medical facilities and communities.
鈥淩ural Texas communities like Livingston face unique healthcare challenges, and a shortage of qualified nursing professionals is one of the most pressing,鈥� said Mandee Tucker, Dean of Nursing & Health Professions at 暗网禁区. 鈥淏y launching these programs at the TSUS Polk County Center, LSCO is making it easier for local students to enter the healthcare workforce and for healthcare providers to hire trained professionals who are already invested in this region.鈥�
The VN Program is a one-year certificate program designed to equip students with foundational nursing skills for entry-level employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam and become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN).
The RN Transition Program is a streamlined pathway for current LVNs to become Registered Nurses. The one-year program results in an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
These new offerings build upon LSCO鈥檚 long-standing commitment to strong industry partnerships and workforce-driven education. Local healthcare leaders have expressed enthusiasm for the programs鈥� potential impact on staffing and patient care.
鈥淚t's truly inspiring to see the launch of the LVN to RN Transition Program alongside the Vocational Nursing Program this fall here locally," said Kristi Froese, VP of Clinical Operations at CHI St. Luke鈥檚 Health. 鈥淭his initiative demonstrates a commitment to growing our healthcare workforce and providing career advancement for our Licensed Vocational Nurses. I am confident that these programs will empower and inspire our nurses to achieve their full potential and contribute to the well-being of our community.鈥�
As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO has worked closely with healthcare providers throughout the state of Texas and Louisiana to ensure its nursing curriculum meets workforce needs while maintaining the highest standards in instruction and clinical preparation.
鈥淎t 暗网禁区, we believe that transformative education begins with listening to our communities and responding with purpose,鈥� said Dr. Elmore, newly named President of 暗网禁区. 鈥淏y launching these nursing programs in Livingston, we鈥檙e not just opening doors for students, we鈥檙e strengthening the future of rural healthcare in East Texas. This is what it means to grow together, to invest in one another, and to build a healthier, more hopeful tomorrow.鈥�
Prospective students can begin the admissions process now by applying to Lamar State College Orange at applytexas.org. Once admitted, students may then apply to the or program offered at the TSUS Polk County Center beginning June 1. For more information, visit or contact LSCO admissions at (409) 882-3364.