Online LPN Programs in Louisiana: View & Compare Top Schools

Inside Online LPN Classes in Louisiana

If you’re considering becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), don’t let concerns about fitting school into your busy lifestyle hold you back — Louisiana’s hybrid LPN programs were designed with students like you in mind. These programs combine the flexibility of online learning with hands-on clinical training that builds real-world nursing skills. It’s the best of both worlds; you can study anatomy and pharmacology from your living room and then put that knowledge into practice in actual healthcare settings.

Unlike longer RN programs that can take up to four years, LPN programs typically wrap up in just 12-18 months, getting you into the workforce faster. While certified nursing assistant (CNA) classes can also get you into the field quickly, they generally focus on basic patient care. Meanwhile, LPN training gives you a broader foundation in nursing, opening doors to more career opportunities and higher earning potential. In many cases, you can also qualify for LPN bridge programs later in your career if you decide you want to become a registered nurse (RN).

Before choosing a program, look for key quality markers: accreditation from the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE), strong NCLEX-PN pass rates, and flexible scheduling options that match your lifestyle. The best programs also offer academic support and help arrange clinical placements at local healthcare facilities.

To help you better understand your educational options in Louisiana, let’s explore three standout LPN programs that offer a great mix of quality education and flexible scheduling.

LPN Student FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Now that you understand Louisiana’s LPN programs, you may be wondering about things like licensing, financial aid, and career opportunities. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions from online LPN students to help guide you on your journey to becoming a licensed practical nurse.

How do I know if an LPN program in Louisiana is accredited?

Choosing an accredited nursing program is essential to ensure you’re eligible for licensure and ready to take the NCLEX-PN exam. Accreditation confirms that the program meets high standards and adequately prepares you for the responsibilities of an LPN.

When looking at programs, ensure they’ve been approved by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE). Additionally, consider the program’s NCLEX-PN pass rates to see how well it prepares students for success. Some accredited programs are also nationally recognized by agencies like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), offering you even more confidence in your training.

Can I transition from a medical assistant to an LPN in Louisiana?

Yes, you can. Many students transition from medical assistant to LPN by enrolling in MA to LPN bridge programs. These programs build on your existing healthcare knowledge and experience, allowing you to skip some foundational courses and focus on more advanced nursing concepts. You’ll still complete the necessary clinical hours and coursework for LPN licensure, but the process is faster than starting from scratch. If you’re already working in healthcare, this is a fantastic way to advance your career in nursing while applying the skills you’ve already gained.

How can I pay for my LPN program in Louisiana?

There are plenty of options to help cover the cost of your LPN education. Start by filing for FAFSA, which can open doors to federal grants and low-interest loans. Many Louisiana schools also offer financial assistance, such as the MJ Foster Promise Program and school-specific scholarships to help with tuition. If you already work in a healthcare setting, ask about employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs. Additionally, you can explore LPN scholarships to reduce costs further. With these options, paying for school becomes much more manageable, so you can focus on your studies without financial stress.

What are the job opportunities for LPNs in Louisiana?

LPNs in Louisiana have a variety of career options. You’ll find roles in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare. The demand for LPNs is growing, with a 3% projected job growth rate through 2033. In 2023, the median salary for LPNs was around $59,730, but it can increase depending on your location, specialization, and experience. Many LPNs also specialize in areas like geriatrics or pediatrics, which can boost both salary and job satisfaction. Plus, you can further your career by exploring LPN to ADN bridge programs or LPN to BSN programs, allowing you to transition into registered nursing roles for more opportunities.

How long does it take to complete an LPN program in Louisiana?

Most LPN programs in Louisiana take between 12 to 18 months, depending on whether you’re attending full-time or part-time. Full-time students can typically finish in about a year, while part-time students may take a little longer, which can be ideal for those juggling other commitments. If you want to complete the program more quickly, consider exploring accelerated LPN programs, which can help you graduate in as little as 6 months. These accelerated programs are intensive, combining online coursework with in-person clinical hours to get you into the workforce faster.

Licensing for Practical Nurses in Louisiana

According to the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners, you must submit an application for a criminal background check to become an LPN in Louisiana. The background check can take up to 12 weeks to process, and the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) will review the results to determine your eligibility to practice. If you have a criminal record, they will assess whether it could affect your ability to work as an LPN.

To become a practical nurse in Louisiana, you must complete an accredited practical nursing program with a minimum grade of 80% in every course. This program must consist of at least 700 theory and 800 clinical hours that adequately prepare you to practice as an entry-level nurse. However, completing an LPN program doesn’t guarantee licensure, as students must take and pass the NCLEX-PN after graduation.

Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to renew your LPN license every two years between November 1st and January 31st. The renewal fee is $61.08, or $162.88 if your license has lapsed. Unlike many states, Louisiana doesn’t require continuing education for renewal, but you must have worked at least eight hours in the last two years to keep your license active. Renewal is done easily online via the Nurse Portal.

Salary and Career Details for Louisiana LPNs

Now that you know what to expect from the education for LPNs, it’s time to look at the job outlook and salary you might expect once the graduation ceremony is over. The national average job growth for LPNs is projected at 5.3% from 2022 to 2032. However, those in Louisiana will enjoy a higher rate of 7.5%, which translates into 1,650 annual job openings for new grads.
Graduates can also look forward to a solid salary. The median income for LPNs in Louisiana is $50,000; those in the 10th percentile will see an average of $39,200, while those in the 90th percentile can make approximately $61,840 per year. Keep in mind that those who live and work in more populated areas of Louisiana will earn higher pay; for instance, those who work in the New Orleans area will see a median pay of $54,770, and those in the Baton Rouge area will make $52,390. Those who choose to specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as oncology or geriatrics, might see higher pay when they find a job within that specialty.