LPN Programs in Louisiana

LPN Programs in Louisiana

By EveryNurse Staff on February 01, 2021

LPN Programs in Louisiana

Due to an aging population that only continues to grow in size, healthcare careers in the U.S., such as the licensed practical nurse position, are becoming increasingly attractive. From offering jobs in the fast-paced work environment of a hospital to positions that provide targeted care related to a specialized private practice, an LPN has a multitude of employment opportunities to consider. Before he or she is able to care for patients in the state, completion of an accredited LPN program in Louisiana is required.

Schools With LPN Programs in Louisiana

  • Located in New Orleans, Delgado Community College has an LPN program where students work towards earning a technical diploma in Practical Nursing from the Charity School of Nursing. With classes starting in the fall, students must have completed all developmental English, reading, and mathematics coursework in May in order to be considered for enrollment. A sample of required nursing courses in the program includes Essential Nursing Skills; Medical-Surgical Nursing; and Pharmacotherapy and Nursing. This program is accredited by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners.
  • Sowela Technical Community College offers a Practical Nursing program for students looking to become an LPN in Louisiana. Combining supervised clinical activities with classroom instruction, students have a chance to strengthen their skills through experiences gained at accredited hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care agencies. After completing 59 semester credit hours, a student will earn a diploma. Some of the courses that a student will encounter includes Basic Nutrition & Diet Therapy; Introduction to Health Care; and Pediatric Nursing.
  • Our Lady of Lake College, located in Baton Rouge offers an LPN program spread across four semesters of classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience. Classes are admitted every fall and spring semester. As students aim to earn a Diploma in Practical Nursing, they will complete 13 academic credits and 40 technical credits.
  • It is the Technical Education Center that is responsible for the classroom instruction and clinical experiences that a student in the LPN program at River Parishes Community College will receive. The curriculum is broken down into four semesters with the intent to prepare graduates to take and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to gain licensure as an LPN. Courses found within the program include Nutritional Aspects; Basic Pharmacology; IV Therapy; and PN Leadership & Management.
  • The Practical Nursing program found at Delta College of Arts & Technology offers a handful of opportunities for students to earn an advanced certificate after completing the one-year program. Daytime students typically complete the program within 15 months, while night learners finish within 24 months. Pre-requisites that must be fulfilled before taking any nursing courses include Sciences, English, Math, Pharmacology, Medical Terminology, and Introduction to Nursing Careers. Campus locations for students to choose from include Lafayette, Covington, Baton Rouge, and Slidell.
  • Fletcher Technical Community College offers an LPN program that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students prepare to take the NCLEX-PN exam through classroom instruction that touches upon psychology, pharmacology, communication, documentation and nutrition), as well as with supervised clinical experiences gained at local hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care agencies. The total program consists of 62 credits, and generally takes students about 18 months to complete.

Degree Guides

Louisiana LPN Checklist

  • Apply to a state-approved educational program, which typically takes one year to complete.
  • After getting a certificate in practical nursing, take the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN) exam in Louisiana within four attempts and within four years of graduation.
  • Gain licensure as an LPN by submitting an application to the Louisiana Board of Nursing, and paying the initial ~$142.50 fee. A federal background report is also required at the time of submission. The Board must receive an official transcript verifying program completion directly sent from educational institution.
  • Renew LPN license in the state every year.
  • Fulfill continuing education requirements for the state of Louisiana, which include 5 contact hours (for full-time nursing practice), 10 contact hours (for part-time nursing practice), or 15 contact hours (for LPNs who are not currently employed or have worked less than 160 hours).

Louisiana Salary & Job Outlook

Upon the completion of an accredited LPN program, individuals may apply to one of the many job positions that await a new graduate. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), entry-level licensed practical nurses finding work in the state of Louisiana typically earn a median salary of $37,820. Over the years, many LPNs will also encounter opportunities to increase their annual salary, such as taking on a more supervisory role within the workplace.

Additional Louisiana Program Rankings

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