Heading down a new career path is a major decision. A career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can offer you stability and opportunities for growth.
Our list can help you consider your options if you are considering LPN classes. You’ll also find information on what LPNs do and what you need to obtain a nursing license.
What Should I Expect from an LPN Program in Pennsylvania?
LPN programs offer a great way to gain the skills and knowledge you need to join the healthcare industry or further your nursing career. You can expect to take classes on:
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Math
- Human Growth and Development
LPN programs typically include practice in a live setting. Students can expect to develop the skills they need to work as a nurse during their clinical rotations.
You can pass an entry-level certificate program in as little as 12 months. This may vary depending on the program you choose and your individual circumstances. Some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as six months, while others may require a longer commitment.
Accredited programs usually charge between $100-$400 per credit. Students can expect to pay tuition fees and additional expenses for supplies such as textbooks and uniforms.
LPN Classes in Pennsylvania
Look at our list to find a program that will help you achieve your goals. Contact the school for more information on tuition, certification requirements, etc.
LPN School Locations
Pennsylvania’s State Requirements
To work as an LPN, you need to meet the requirements set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. These include:
- Graduate from an accredited LPN school
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
- Pay a $35 fee and apply for a Practical Nursing License.
After taking the exam, you can work as a practical nurse (Graduate – PN) while your license is finalized. A temporary license can last up to a year. If you don’t pass, the state board of nursing will rescind your license, and you will need to retake the test.
If you are an LPN who is moving to Pennsylvania from a state that isn’t part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC,) you will need to obtain a license by endorsement.
What are the Details of the LPN Exam in Pennsylvania?
The cost of the LPN exam in Pennsylvania requires a $200 fee due to Pearson VUE. Once deemed eligible, you can schedule a day to take the exam at a testing site.
What are the Regulating Bodies for LPNs in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing is the regulatory body that grants permits in Pennsylvania. They are responsible for approximately 50,000 practical nursing licenses.
What Should I Expect Working as an LPN?
LPNs work in a variety of places. Practical nurses perform miscellaneous duties, including taking vital signs, changing dressings, and administering medication. They also consult with patients and families and supervise CNAs and nursing assistants.
LPNs typically work full-time, but they can also work part-time or on a per-diem basis. LPNs work various hours but most generally work during the day. They may also work early morning hours, during the day, late evening hours, or overnight shifts.
How Much Do LPNs Get Paid in Pennsylvania?
In May 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released data indicating that Licensed Practical Nurses in Pennsylvania earn an average of $24.56 hourly and $51,090 annually.
