Practical Nursing
Program Description
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) The LPN program has existed since 1965. This division of Instruction is approved by the State department of Education and the Alabama Board of Nursing. Practical Nursing is a comprehensive course of study that combines theory with clinical practice. The curriculum is designed to provide qualified individuals an opportunity to acquire the knowledge, attitudes and skills to become safe and competent practitioners of practical nursing. To become licensed, graduates of this program must successfully write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).
Skills Needed
Successful LPNs have a caring and empathetic nature and have a high tolerance for stress. This profession also requires keen observational, decision-making and communication skills
Expected Earnings/Salary
Earnings for Licensed Practical Nurses as reported by the 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook are as follows:
Median annual earnings for Licensed Practical Nurses are $39,030.
The middle 50 percent earn between $33,360 and $46,710 annually.
The highest 10 percent earned more than $53,580.
Additional information available from the Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook.
NURSING PROGRAM POLICIES AND REQUIREMENTS
State Requirements for Eligibility for Licensure into the LPN Profession A certificate is issued to each student upon completion of the program. To become licensed, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEXPN). Application to write the exam is made during the last semester of the program. Examination results are filed in the nursing department and the office of admissions. Graduates desiring employment in practical nursing, pending licensure, may obtain a temporary license from the Alabama Board of Nursing, P.O. Box 303900, Montgomery, Alabama 36130-3900 or www.abn.state.al.us.
Program Policies
The intensity of the nursing curriculum and the development of acceptable workplace habits mandate that the LPN program establish departmental policies regarding absences and tardiness, professional and ethical conduct, uniform dress code, and testing. Since nursing is a profession that demands high ethical and professional standards, success in nursing depends on the nurse’s ability to provide safe, effective care while demonstrating acceptable workplace habits. Departmental policies promote the development of acceptable workplace habits and are consistently enforced. Attendance policies are included on each course syllabus and dress code and other policies related to clinical are included on the syllabi of courses with a clinical component.
Click on the certificate or degree option below to view the current course requirements.
Career Entry Certificate - Licensed Practical Nursing
The Practical Nursing Program also requires a separate enrollment packet with earlier application deadlines. The following information is available:
Full Nursing Packet (printable version)
Cost of LPN Program
LPN Admission Requirements
LPN Enrollment Plan
LPN Program Application
Important Deadlines and Dates
The deadlines have changed –
Spring 2012 deadline – October 1, 2011.
Summer and Fall 2012 deadline – February 1, 2012
Beginning 2013 –
Fall – February 1
Spring– August 1
Summer– December 1
*Please note that your application packet must be complete.
Estimated Program Cost
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
| Award Level |
Credit Hours |
Est. Tuition/Fees |
Est. Books/Supplies |
Est. Total Cost |
| Certificate (CER) |
54 |
$7,074.00 |
$2,000.00 |
$9,074.00 |
*Estimates based on Fall 2011 tuition/fees. Subject to change without notice.
For more information about the LPN Program, contact the New Nursing Student Advisor at 256.551.3158.