LPN Programs in Arizona

LPN Programs in Arizona

By EveryNurse Staff on February 01, 2021

LPN Programs in Arizona

Combining targeted coursework in biology and anatomy, the LPN programs in Arizona prepare the next generation of licensed practical nurses to enter the workforce. Students in a Practical Nursing program learn the necessary skills to enhance his or her ability to care for patients in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and nursing facilities. Some of the duties that LPNs are responsible for include keeping patient records, changing bandages, and checking vital stats. In Arizona, aspiring LPNs may gain their training and credentials at a handful of different educational programs located throughout the state.

Schools With LPN Programs in Arizona

  • The typical length of the LPN program at Estrella Mountain Community College is four semesters (48 weeks), where students aim to earn 31 to 41 credits along the way. Upon acceptance into the program, students are required to pay for a background check, drug screening, fingerprint clearance card, health and safety documents, uniforms, and other supplies. Graduates of the certificate program are eligible to apply for licensure as a practical nurse (LPN).
  • With a direct, hands-on approach to learning, Central Arizona College trains students to become compassionate, efficient LPNs through a multiple-exit program. After completing the first two blocks of the program, qualified students may take the practical nursing licensing exam (NCLEX-PN). Others can choose to continue on with his or her studies to earn an Associate of Applied Science-Nursing degree to become a registered nurse. Entrance into the highly competitive Nursing Program starts for new students every Fall and Spring semester.
  • Mohave Community College offers a Practical Nursing Certificate program for aspiring licensed practical nurses, which offers a curriculum comprised of 32 credits. The school also has a unique Practical Nursing Step-Out Program for current AAS Nursing students who wish to ‘step out’ of the RN program, and instead, earn the credentials of a practical nurse. Following satisfactory completion of the first year of the AAS nursing program (and either NUR 221 or NUR 123), the graduate receives a certificate of proficiency. They are then eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN), which allows a graduate to practice in the state of Arizona.
  • Offering Practical Nursing programs across the nation, Fortis College has a campus location in Phoenix for Arizona residents with an interest in becoming an LPN. Students in the program will encounter a curriculum that focuses on equipping the next generation of licensed practical nurses with solid theory, laboratory and clinical experiences. Upon completion of the coursework, graduates receive a certificate and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX exam to get an LPN license.
  • GateWay Community College is home to a Fast-Track Practical Nursing program, in addition to the typical Practical Nursing Certificate program. Students will encounter a curriculum that incorporates nursing theory with real-life experiences in planned patient care settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and health care agencies. Lectures, role play, online case studies, and simulation are just some of the ways that the program intensifies the learning of students. GateWay is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
  • In order to earn a Practical Nursing Certificate from Pima Community College, students are allowed to complete program requirements by scheduling classes on weekdays, as well as on evenings/weekends. Students earn college credits and ultimately, a Licensed Practical Nurse certificate at the West Campus, whereas the Center for Training and Development offers the same certificate program, but does not allow students to earn college credit. Some of the courses that a student in the program will encounter include Microbiology; Human Nutrition and Biology; and Drug Calculations. Three sections of Nursing Processes are also required as core courses. Before candidates for the program can start the program application process, the following prerequisites must be fulfilled: Intermediate Algebra, Critical Reading, Fundamental Chemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and Intro to Psychology.
  • Northland Pioneer College offers a Practical Nursing (LPN) program that grants graduates a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS). Upon the completion of the 51-credit curriculum (which takes place during the first year of study), one can choose to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses. Some students of the NPC nursing program may opt to finish the second year of education to earn an Associate of Applied (AAS) degree if they wish to become a registered nurse.

Arizona LPN Checklist

  • Apply to a state-approved educational program for LPNs, which typically takes one year to complete.
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN) exam in Arizona after earning an LPN certificate.
  • Gain licensure as an LPN by submitting an application to the Arizona Board of Nursing, and paying the initial ~$300 fee.
  • Renew LPN license every four years.
  • There are no continuing education requirements for LPNs employed in the state of Arizona.

Level Up Your Career

Arizona LPN Salary & Job Outlook

As LPNs search for the highest levels of employment for his or her skill set, the greatest number of opportunities across the nation are typically found at local nursing care facilities, doctor’s offices, home health care services, and assisted living facilities for the elderly. As for Arizona, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that licensed practical nurses working in the state earn a median salary of $50,290. With experience, LPNs can also earn more money by taking on a supervisory role within their workplace.

Additional Arizona Program Rankings

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