What Type of Degree Is Required for an LPN?

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a medical professional who preforms patient care in a variety of settings like physicians' offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics and long-term care facilities. For those interested in a nursing career, the position of LPN is sometimes preferred because it requires less schooling than registered nursing.

Identification

In order to become an LPN, nurses must attend a state-approved training course that results in a diploma rather than a degree.

Time Frame

The training programs for LPNs typically require one year of full-time study to complete.

Features

LPN education usually combines classroom lectures in topics like anatomy and physiology with hands-on experience in a clinical setting. During training, LPNs gain experience in many fields of medicine, such as pediatrics, obstetrics, surgery and psychiatric care, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Cost

In 2009, the average cost for LPN training programs was between $7,000 and $12,000, according to SucessDegrees.com. In some states, the cost can be as high as $20,000.

Considerations

In addition to education, graduates from LPN training programs must pass a national exam known as the NCLEX-PN before being able to treat patients in a professional setting.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses
• SuccessDegrees.com: Cost of a Licensed Practical Nursing Diploma