Program Director's Message

Thank you for taking the time to browse through the Polk State College Department of Nursing website. You cannot go wrong with choosing such a rewarding profession for your career.  

The Department of Nursing was established in 1965 under a grant from the Kellogg Foundation and graduated its first class of nurses in 1967. To date, approximately 60% of the registered nurses in Polk County are graduates of our program. Enrollment has progressively increased, and currently there are approximately 400 students during any given term, with students in two program options and on two campuses. The Transition Option for individuals with a previous healthcare certificate or license is on the Lakeland campus, and the Generic Option for individuals new to healthcare is on the Winter Haven campus.  

The program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 500; Atlanta, Georgia 30326; Phone: 404-975-5000, Fax: 404-975-5020.

The program received its initial accreditation by the National League for Nursing in 1985. Many changes have occurred over the years, but the program continues to maintain high standards for nursing practice and contributes well-prepared graduates to the community. Our graduates have consistently scored higher than the state and national averages on the NCLEX-RN, the licensing exam to become a registered nurse. 

Polk State College is proud to have an active chapter of the Florida Nursing Student Association (FNSA) whose members contribute greatly to the College and to the community. Be sure to visit the FNSA page to learn more about this pre-professional organization.  

The Nursing faculty, staff, and students at Polk State College look forward to welcoming you to the program and to helping you reach your goal of becoming a member of the nursing profession.  

Annette Hutcherson, EdD, MN, CNE, RN Director, Department of Nursing Polk State College 999 Avenue H NE, Station #14 Winter Haven, FL 33881 Office: WSC-101 Phone: 863-292-3769 Email: ahutcherson@polk.edu