Do you like helping people and want a career that is in high demand? You can earn your Licensed Practical Nurse license in as little as one year.
LPN programs are available at schools and community colleges across Maryland. View our list of LPN programs in Maryland to find the right one for you. LPN programs vary from school to school, so it’s important to do your research before enrolling. Let’s look at what becoming an LPN entails and what your career will look like.
What Should I Expect from an LPN Program in Maryland
Licensed Practical Nurses must have a strong foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge. Core classes include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Communication
- Human Growth and Development
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacology
Students will complete clinical rotations in various medical settings, such as hospitals. You can expect to learn about various patient care techniques, taking vital signs, and working with a team of nurses and doctors.
Completing enough coursework to earn your license takes about one to two years, though the length of training can vary. Requirements also vary. Schools may want to see your high school transcripts and pass prerequisite classes.
The majority of certificate programs cost between $100-200 per credit. Students can also expect to pay for tuition, textbooks, equipment, and other associated costs.
LPN Classes in Maryland
With the proper education, you can get the best training available. Explore the schools below to find out where your opportunities are.
LPN School Locations
Maryland’s State Requirements
You must meet Maryland’s minimum requirements to enroll in an LPN program. Generally, this means:
- Graduate from a state-approved LPN program.
- Apply for a license and pay the application fee.
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
After you take the NCLEX, you can start working while your test is being processed. You will be granted a temporary permit until your license is either denied or approved.
You must apply for licensure by endorsement if you already have a practical nursing license and plan to work in Maryland. You don’t need to do this if you have a transferable multi-state compact license.
What are the Details of the LPN Exam in Maryland?
The cost of the LPN exam in Maryland is $200. Pearson VUE will let you know when you have been approved to take the test and give you a certain amount of time to take the test.
What are the Regulating Bodies for LPNs in Maryland?
The Maryland Board of Nursing is the regulating body for LPNs in Maryland. The board currently handles nearly 9,000 licensed practical nursing licenses.
What Should I Expect Working as an LPN?
Working as an LPN can be both challenging and rewarding. It is important to have excellent communication skills. Physical fitness is a factor, too, since you will most likely be on your feet all day.
There are many different locations you can work in. The most common is a hospital, but you may want to work in other settings like nursing homes, long-term care facilities, schools, business offices, or private residences.
On average, practical nurses in the state work between 40-50 hours per week. Many nurses expect to work long shifts, usually 10-12 hours.
How Much Do LPNs Get Paid in Maryland?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), LPNs in Maryland earn an annual median wage of $56,380 and an hourly wage of $27.11.
