helpp!!! LPN question!!

[missycares]

im a newbie here and have spent a considerable amount of time researching the net and a bit confused with where to go for LPN classes and what to do.

community colleges? LPN nursing programs..? costs and locations,

I spend a considerable amount of time online and heard they offer online as well.

any input would be greatly appreciated!

i just want to know what my best options are so ican get this show on the road.the people ive asked our local community colleges offices havent been very helpful at all bc they no longer offer it the area.

is it worht going to another region and going community college there even if its more than hour half away? or taking a program spicifically for LPN?

any suggestions??

thanks!!

missy

[CT Pixie, BSN, RN]

My only suggestion is to check your State's Board of Nursing. Usually, the Board of Nurses website has a section for nurse education for LPN and RN.

I wish you the best.

[kat7ap]

First of all welcome!

When it comes to your LPN education you have probably a couple options depending on where you live. Number one is going to a community college that offers an LPN program. Most CC require you to complete prerequisite courses such as sciences before you apply for admission the program. You may find more competition to get into a CC, so placement is not guaranteed. The advantages are that CC are usually much less expensive and are more commonly accredited so your credits will transfer if you choose to go on to your RN.

Another option would be a private or technical college that offers an LPN program. These programs are typically about 12 months long and some require no prerequisites except the ability to pass an admission test. Depending on the school, competition for admission will be much less than a CC. These schools are typically quite a bit more expensive than a CC, but one can usually complete their education in a shorter time than at a CC. Usually your credits will not transfer if you want to bridge to RN, so you will have to eventually take prerequisites.

At this time there are no online only LPN programs either.

To find approved LPN programs in your area, google your state's board of nursing. You should be able to get a list. Then you can decide if it is worth the drive to a school. Keep in mind LPN school is very intense because you are receiving lots of info in a short time frame. So if you choose to commute expect ALOT of driving. I found it much less stressful to attend a school that was just a few miles away.

Good luck in your decision!

[Jules A, MSN]

I went to a CC and it was a full year, 3 semesters but very reasonably priced. I would guess I didn't spend more than $4,000 for tuition, books, uniforms etc. Good luck.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I was living in California when I attended a 12-month LPN/LVN program back in late 2004 and most of 2005. The school, which was in the greater Los Angeles area, was located approximately 95 miles away from my home in Central California. Therefore, I had a commute of about 90 minutes per day, sometimes longer if traffic conditions were bad. Overall, it has been worth it.