Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) provide basic medical care for patients. Online LPN programs train students to monitor patients' health, conduct physical assessments, and administer basic care. Many prospective nurses complete LPN training in only one year.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), licensed practical nurses earn a median pay of $48,820 per year. The BLS projects employment for LPNs to increase 9% from 2020-2030, as fast as average for all occupations. LPNs can work in a variety of settings, including residential care facilities, hospitals, and doctors' offices.
Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) perform the same tasks as LPNs. Two states — California and Texas — use the title LVN, while every other state uses LPN. This article introduces online LPN programs and ranks the best programs for 2022. The following sections provide information to help aspiring nurses reach their academic and career goals.
FAQ About Online LPN Programs
What degree do I need to become a licensed practical nurse?
LPNs typically hold a one-year diploma or certificate in practical nursing. They can also earn an associate degree to become LPNs or LVNs.
How does nursing school work?
Nursing students complete classes and hands-on training to develop professional skills. Most programs require a minimum number of clinical hours.
How long does it take to to become an LPN?
Becoming an LPN generally takes at least one year. LPNs can enter the field with a one-year diploma or certificate. Some schools also offer a two-year associate degree for aspiring LPNs.
How does an LPN program compare to an LVN program?
LPN and LVN programs train students for nursing careers. While most states use the term LPN, two states identify these professionals as LVNs.
Career and Salary Outlook for Nursing
LPNs benefit from a strong career and salary outlook. The BLS projects healthcare occupations to grow 16% between 2020-2030. During that time, the BLS projects more new jobs in the healthcare field than in any other industry.
LPNs are in high demand. The BLS projects about 60,700 new LPN jobs on average each year from 2020-2030. LPNs earn a median pay of $48,820 per year. Those who work in government or nursing and residential care facilities earn the highest median salaries.
Demand and salaries for LPNs depend on factors including location, experience, employer, and specialty.
Career | Bottom 10% | Median Annual Salary | Top 10% |
---|---|---|---|
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | $35,570 | $48,820 | $65,520 |
Source: BLS
Accreditation for Online Nursing Programs
Prospective LPNs should research each prospective school's accreditation status before applying. Choosing an accredited online LPN program ensures graduates can qualify for licensure and positions in the field. Many state nursing boards only grant licensure to graduates of accredited programs. Some employers prefer to hire LPNs who attended an accredited program. In addition, applicants to BSN programs may need a degree from an accredited program. Only students at accredited schools can qualify for federal financial aid.
Accredited schools and programs meet high standards for academic quality. Programmatic accreditation in the field demonstrates that the program follows the best practices for training future LPNs. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) grants accreditation to LPN programs.
Nursing students can verify the accreditation status of any school or program using the U.S. Department of Education's online database. Learners can also search the ACEN database of accredited programs.
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Nursing Licensing for LPNs
Licensed practical nurses need a state license to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state. LPNs must typically complete an approved nursing program and pass an exam.
For example, LPN candidates in New York need a degree from a state-approved nursing education program. Approved programs include out-of-state programs and online licensed practical nursing programs. Candidates must have completed coursework in infection control.
Candidates must also pass an exam. Most states require LPN licensure candidates to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing delivers the NCLEX-PN exam, which tests candidates' nursing skills and knowledge.
In New York, the licensure and registration fee for an LPN license costs $143. Many states offer reciprocity for LPNs who hold a license from another state. Each state's board of nurses sets the requirements for LPN licensure. Prospective LPNs should research their state's requirements and licensing process.
Courses in a Nursing Program
Nursing programs prepare learners to care for patients, conduct health assessments, and follow ethical nursing practices. Students in online LPN programs receive classroom training and complete experiential components, including simulations and a practicum in a healthcare setting. Distance learners typically fulfill practicum requirements locally.
The courses below are common to many online LPN programs. Exact curricula vary by program, so learners should contact their prospective school to verify course availability.
Many online LPN programs begin with an introductory course on the nursing field. Students learn about the role of LPNs in the healthcare system and the relationship between nurses and patients. The course provides foundational training for advanced coursework and careers as LPNs.Introduction to Nursing
This class prepares future LPNs to deliver quality nursing care. Students explore medical terminology, physiological terms, and the normal functions of various bodily systems. Learners also study the structure and functions of organs, tissues, and cells.Human Anatomy and Physiology
Nurses must follow ethical principles when caring for patients. This course examines ethical practices in nursing care, standards of care, and the role of state nursing boards in enforcing laws and ethical standards. Learners also study patient confidentiality rules, ethical dilemmas, and the American Nurses Association's code of ethics.Ethical Practice
LPNs must assess patients to determine their healthcare needs. Students in this class learn how to take patients' histories, conduct physical examinations, and record health data. Learners train to identify risk factors, use different physical assessment techniques, and take vital signs.Health Assessment
Nursing students learn about patient-related risk factors. They also explore environmental hazards in healthcare settings and provider errors. Coursework prepares learners to identify risks and maintain safe environments for patients. Topics may include safe patient transfers, nursing ergonomics, and common accidents.Patient Safety
Best Online LPN Programs 2022
The following list ranks the top online LPN programs for 2022. Aspiring nurses looking for the most affordable LPN online programs can use this list to narrow their search. Choosing one of the best LPN online programs can help LPNs increase their competitiveness in the job market.
Read About Our Methodology Here
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Lake Area Technical Institute
Location
Watertown, SD
Tuition
$11689
(Video) A Compete Guide to Online LPN ProgramsGraduation Rate
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Located in Watertown, South Dakota, LATI offers an online licensed practical nursing (LPN) program for state residents as well as applicants living in North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Applicants must complete all prerequisite coursework prior to enrolling in LPN classes. Prerequisites include anatomy, college algebra, and general psychology. Full-time students can complete the 34-credit program in 11 months, while part-time enrollees usually take up to 23 months.
The curriculum includes classes in nutrition, fundamentals of nursing practice, and pharmacology. Many of the courses require enrollees to complete clinical hours along with classroom instruction. Students work with program coordinators and faculty to schedule clinical hours in Watertown and in their home region. The online LPN degree prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN.
Applicants must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills and possess a 2.5 GPA or higher. LATI's online LPN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
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Northland Community and Technical College
Location
Thief River Falls, MN
Tuition
$10406
(Video) ALL ABOUT MY LPN/LVN PROGRAM|WHAT TO EXPECT IN NURSING SCHOOL?!Graduation Rate
42%
NCTC's online licensed practical nursing (LPN) program comprises 44 credits and prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN. Students participate in off-campus classes as well as onsite clinical experiences. The online LPN program allows enrollees to engage in supervised direct patient care in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and hospices
The curriculum includes courses in nursing foundations, caring for mothers and newborns, invasive nursing therapies, and clinical care. The online LPN degree follows a cohort model of education.
Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and a grade of "C" or higher in prerequisite coursework. Prerequisites include math applications for nurses, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and composition. Applicants need a cumulative score of at least 50 on the Test of Essential Academic Skills.
(Video) HOW TO BECOME AN LPN/LVN 2022 🩺💉💊🩹NCTC's online LPN program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation.
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Holmes Community College
Location
Goodman, MS
Tuition
$5723
Graduation Rate
35%
The 45-credit licensed practical nursing (LPN) program at Holmes Community College follows a hybrid delivery method. Most students complete the LPN after five semesters of continuous enrollment. The program fulfills NCLEX-PN educational requirements, which students can take after graduation.
(Video) DONT GO TO NURSING SCHOOL BEFORE WATCHING THIS !The curriculum includes classes in nursing fundamentals, IV therapy and pharmacology, and adult health nursing concepts. Students must complete classroom instruction before proceeding to the clinical experience. The program meets the prescribed clinical hours required by the Mississippi Board of Nursing.
Applicants need a high school or GED diploma and must submit their ACT scores. Although college credits are not required to apply, applicants with a college background must show a 2.0 GPA or higher for admission consideration. Applicants must show completion of prerequisite coursework prior to enrolling in LPN classes.
See AlsoDMW 10 Best Websites to Learn German15 Best Online English Courses for Adults & Beginners (2022)CNAPP buyers guide: Top tools compared[2022] Teaching English in Vietnam - Requirements, salary, visa, moreThe LPN program at Holmes Community College is accredited by the Mississippi Community College Board.
FAQs
What is the fastest LPN program? ›
Delta's Practical Nurse Advanced Certificate program features a fast-track program that is typically completed in one year not counting prerequisite coursework.
How much is LPN school in Ohio? ›LPN Program Cost in Ohio
The cost of attending school to become an LPN requires a small investment. For a certificate or a diploma, you will spend at least $2,200 on courses. It will cost more than $6,700 to meet the schooling requirements for a degree.
Online degrees
From January 2021, some universities are offering adult nursing courses where the theoretical content is mainly delivered online, making it easier to fit studies around home life. You can search for the courses, sometimes called 'blended' courses on our course finder.
The 6 months LPN program is otherwise called LPN accelerated program. Normal classes take 12 months. Although many LPN schools offer 6 months, 8 months, 10 months LPN program.
What are the hardest classes for LPN? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
Central Ohio Technical College
General education courses can be completed online, but most of the LPN-related courses, clinical labs, and nursing practicums need to be completed in person.
How much does a LPN make in Ohio? As of Oct 30, 2022, the average annual pay for a LPN in Ohio is $44,306 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $21.30 an hour. This is the equivalent of $852/week or $3,692/month.
Can an LPN call themselves a nurse? ›Once they complete the program, their qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurse or NCLEX-PN. The answer is yes. LPN stands for Licensed Practical NURSE. They are nurses.
What short courses can a nurse do? ›- Short Course in Ophthalmic Nursing.
- Short Course on Integrated Management of Childhood Illness.
- Short Course on Primary Clinical Care (PC) 101.
- Short Course on Neurodevelopmental Supportive Care of the Preterm Infant.
Six month In-service Certificate programmes/short courses
As an enrolled nurse (EN) or registered nurse (RN), you can develop your career by specialising in one or more fields of health care.
Can I study nursing part-time? ›
Yes, there are many institutions that offer Nursing courses part-time.
Is studying for LPN hard? ›LPN schooling can be very challenging at times; however, you can get the hang of it with dedication and good study habits! Furthermore, nursing is a gratifying job, motivating you to work towards it persistently.
What is the easiest nurse to become? ›The easiest role you can have as a nurse is that of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). LPNs and LVNs work under registered nurses (RNs), providing basic nursing care.
What's the quickest nursing degree? ›Licensed Practical Nurse
An LPN program prepares students to become practical nurses in as little as 54 weeks. After graduation and successful passing of the NCLEX-PN exam, students can enter the field and provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or doctor.
It tends to be basic math. If you can do fractions, decimals, and percentages, then you can do the med math that is required of you in an LPN program. This is true, unless your LPN program requires elementary algebra as a prerequisite.
Which LPN makes the most money? ›- Occupational Health - $50,000.
- Rehabilitation - $50,000.
- Palliative care / Hospice - $47,500.
- Geriatric/Gerontology - $47,000.
- Nephrology - $46,600.
One of the reasons why nursing school is so hard is that nursing students need to manage multiple academic responsibilities at the same time. As a nursing student, you'll not only need to do well on exams, but you'll also need to develop hands-on skills, communication skills, and bedside nursing skills.
How do LPNS make money from home? ›- Build a profitable blog/website.
- Apply to work from home jobs for nurses.
- Create, market, and sell products.
- Create an online course.
- Become a freelance healthcare writer.
- Become a tutor or consultant.
How much does an Entry Level LPN make in Ohio? The average Entry Level LPN salary in Ohio is $42,208 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $38,328 and $46,952.
Can LPN start IV in Ohio? ›(B) Upon receiving satisfactory documentation that a licensed practical nurse has successfully complete an approved intravenous therapy course, the board shall approve such nurse as authorized to provide intravenous therapy.
What state pays LPN the most? ›
As a Licensed Practical Nurse, you would earn the highest wages an LPN in the US can earn in Alaska, where LPNs take home around $67,620 yearly. California is second, with an annual salary of $64,090, and Massachusetts is a close third, with a yearly wage of $60,400.
What type of nursing gets paid the most? ›- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – $202,000.
- Nursing Administrator – $120,000.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – $95,000.
In this setting, LPNs are responsible for the day-to-day care of patients. This includes monitoring medication, assisting with personal hygiene, feeding patients and watching for changes in overall health. Home health care: LPNs work in home health settings under the direction of a physician or RN.
What LPNs Cannot do? ›LPNs cannot diagnose any medical condition or prescribe any medication. However, they can handle most of the routine tasks of day-to-day medical care. Typically, they dispense medication and perform basic medical tasks such as changing bandages.
Why are LPN being phased out? ›LPNs have been phased out of hospitals because of research that shows a BSN-prepared nurse results in better outcomes.
Are LPN allowed to draw blood? ›Yes Based on training and competency an LPN may draw blood and administer vaccines.
What is the easiest nursing specialty? ›- Nurse educator. ...
- Long-term care nurse. ...
- Nurse administrator. ...
- Clinical research nurse. ...
- School or summer camp nurse. ...
- Clinic nurse. ...
- Nurse informatics. ...
- Lactation consultant nurse.
- Medical Assistant. A medical assistant is a certified healthcare professional that takes on both administrative and clinical tasks in a medical practice. ...
- Dental Hygienist. ...
- Histology Technician. ...
- Respiratory Therapist. ...
- Occupational Therapy Assistant.
Medical Assisting
Like nurses, medical assistants work alongside doctors and nurses in a variety of healthcare settings, including doctors' offices, hospitals, health clinics, and more. Medical assistants typically take on a combination of clinical and administrative duties in a healthcare setting.
Nursing programs have a demanding credit load, and many nursing students stack challenging courses during the same term in order to fast-track their degrees. That could mean multiple critical exams falling on the same day or week. However, as long as you take the time to study and prepare, you should be okay.
How many hours a day should I study for nursing school? ›
How many hours a day should I study for nursing school? Everyone is different, but in general, it is recommended that nursing school students study anywhere from 2-4 hours a day. Committing class material to memory is essential to becoming a registered nurse, so the more time studying, the better!
Can I study nursing one year? ›The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) training programs are approximately one year long. An LPN/LVN works under the direction of a registered nurse. LPN/LVN programs are offered at many colleges throughout the United States. These programs do not typically require prerequisite classes.
Can I study nursing without experience? ›If you've got no experience whatsoever in healthcare, care work, anything like that, you can absolutely go into Nursing. Don't sweat it. You can do it. Nursing is a degree only qualification now.
Can I study nursing without? ›Studying nursing without matric is very difficult. If you wish to study at a university it requires matric but, if you take a health course through a TVET college it will equipped with the skills to do nursing. This however requires Grade 9.
Can I study nursing without maths? ›YES, you will be eligible for bsc Nursing course. you do not need Mathematics in Class 11th or 12th for bsc Nursing course admission.
› Courses ›Best Courses in Nursing 2023
Nursing Degrees
Become a nurse - study a Master of Nursing
Accredited licensed practical nursing programs usually take only 12 months to complete, including internships and coursework. However, depending on the school, or whether you decide to attend full- or part-time, the length can sometimes vary.
What's the quickest nursing degree? ›Licensed Practical Nurse
An LPN program prepares students to become practical nurses in as little as 54 weeks. After graduation and successful passing of the NCLEX-PN exam, students can enter the field and provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or doctor.
If you're itching to enter the field, the fastest way to become a nurse would be taking the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) route. While you wouldn't actually be an RN, you could complete a Practical Nursing program and be well on your way to launching a nursing career in as few as 12 months.
How long is LPN school in Louisiana? ›It will take less than a year and a half to graduate from Delta College's LPN schools in Louisiana. Even the night classes, which naturally take longer, require only 2 years.
Is the LPN exam hard? ›
NCLEX-PN was fairly easy for me. Most test-takers do not realize that you only need to answer about 50 percent of the questions correctly, just as long as you get enough of the "higher level" questions correct.
Are LPNs still in high demand? ›Jobs in the medical field are always in high demand as we will always need healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for LPNs specifically are expected to grow 9% in the next decade.
Is LPN harder than CNA? ›Is an LPN higher than a CNA? LPNs hold practical nurse licenses and receive more training and responsibility than CNAs. CNAs must pass a competency exam in most states, but they fill assistant roles and often work under the supervision of LPNs. In addition, LPNs earn higher salaries than CNAs.
What is the easiest nurse field? ›- Nurse Educator. Average Annual Salary: $62,000. ...
- Nurse Blogger. Average Annual Salary: N/A. ...
- Clinic Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $65,000. ...
- Traveling Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $70,000. ...
- School Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $50,000. ...
- Summer Camp Nurse. ...
- Nurse Administrator. ...
- Public Health Nurse.
“Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) has been chosen as the TOUGHEST courses of all other courses including MBBS, BCOMM, Bca, IAS, IPS, and engineering by the Guinness book of world records on 18 May 2011. It has 64 university exams + 164 series exams + 174 assignments within 2 years (max 1000 working days).
Can you do a fast track nursing degree? ›Accelerated or shortened courses are available in certain clinical professions such as nursing and the allied health professions. Typically, these courses allow graduates to undertake training in two years instead of three or four.
Which nurses are the happiest? ›There are countless nursing specialties that one can choose from, especially given the ongoing nursing shortage. But Nurse.org found that nurse educators, home health nurses, nurse managers, OR-perioperative nurses, and pediatric nurses reported the highest levels of job satisfaction.
How do nurses get straight A's? ›- Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
- Study a little every day. ...
- Focus on the material covered in class. ...
- Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
- Form a study group. ...
- Skim-read first. ...
- Use outside sources. ...
- Know your learning style.
Six month In-service Certificate programmes/short courses
As an enrolled nurse (EN) or registered nurse (RN), you can develop your career by specialising in one or more fields of health care.
How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make in Louisiana? The average Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Louisiana is $48,910 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $44,414 and $54,407.
How much money does a LPN make in Louisiana? ›
Licensed practical nurses in Louisiana earn an average of $43,900 per year (or $21.11 per hour). Louisiana licensed practical nurses earn 15% lower than the national average salary for LPNs, at $51,850 (or $24.93 per hour).
How much does LPN school cost in Louisiana? ›School | Program | Tuition & fees |
---|---|---|
Delta College - Covington | Certificate in Practical Nursing | $22,100 |
A & W Healthcare Educators | Certificate in Practical Nursing | $18,500 |