LPN Programs in Shreveport, Louisiana

Get your LPN license in Shreveport, Louisiana - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Shreveport, Louisiana

If you’re considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Shreveport, Louisiana, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an LPN, from understanding the prerequisites to selecting a training program and exploring employment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an LPN in Shreveport?

Shreveport, located in the northwest corner of Louisiana, is a vibrant city known for its cultural landmarks, such as the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium and the R.W. Norton Art Gallery. With a growing healthcare industry, Shreveport is an excellent place to start your career as an LPN.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for LPNs is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. The average salary for LPNs in Louisiana is approximately $45,000 per year, making it a rewarding career both financially and professionally.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

High School Diploma or GED: Proof of secondary education is required.
Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Entrance Exams: Some programs require you to pass entrance exams.
Background Checks: A clean criminal background check is often necessary.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs generally last about 12-18 months and cover a range of topics, including:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Fundamentals
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Pediatric Nursing
Geriatric Nursing
Clinical Practicum: Hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

LPN Training Programs in Shreveport, Louisiana

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in Shreveport:

Bossier Parish Community College
- Address: 6220 East Texas Street, Bossier City, LA 71111
- Program Description: BPCC offers a comprehensive LPN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice.
- Cost: Approximately $6,000 for the entire program.
- Program Page
Southern University at Shreveport
- Address: 3050 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Shreveport, LA 71107
- Program Description: This program provides students with the skills needed to excel in various healthcare settings.
- Cost: Around $7,500 for the entire program.
- Program Page
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College
- Address: 2010 North Market Street, Shreveport, LA 71107
- Program Description: NWLTC offers an LPN program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce.
- Cost: Approximately $5,500 for the full program.
- Program Page

LPN Employment Opportunities in Shreveport

Shreveport is home to several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:

Willis-Knighton Health System
- Address: 2600 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, LA 71103
- Description: One of the largest healthcare providers in the region, offering a wide range of services.
- Employment Page
LSU Health Shreveport
- Address: 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA 71103
- Description: A leading medical school and healthcare provider in the area.
- Employment Page
CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System
- Address: 1453 E Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport, LA 71105
- Description: A faith-based healthcare organization with several facilities throughout Shreveport.
- Employment Page

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Louisiana, you’ll need to meet specific certification requirements:

Complete an Approved LPN Program: Graduate from a state-approved nursing program.
Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Shreveport ranges from $5,500 to $7,500. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, student loans, and scholarships. Many schools offer financial aid packages to help offset the cost of tuition.

Licensure Reciprocity

Louisiana participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Louisiana without obtaining additional licensure. For more information, visit the Nurse Licensure Compact.

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right training program and a bit of determination, you can start your journey in the healthcare field. Contact a local school today to begin your path toward an exciting and fulfilling career as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Which Shreveport schools offer LPN programs?

Shreveport LPN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LPN programs) are medical training programs. LPN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LPN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LPN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LPN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LPN in Louisiana?

You must complete a practical nursing program and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam to be certified and receive your required LPN licensure.

How long will my LPN Course be?

Most LPN programs take 1 year to one and a half years complete. That's a 12 month to 18 month training program. Some nursing schools offer LPN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LPN training is not necessary before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN degree can be completed in as little as two years.

What are typical LPN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LPN program, Louisiana LPN schools are no exception. You can expect an entrance exam or at least a prerequisite check when you submit your application to determine your eligibility. There may be additional academic requirements also.

At the very least, most schools require applicants to have a High school diploma / GED. You also must get accepted to the college that you are applying to.

Financial aid, including nursing scholarships or federal grant money, may be available to you as a new students enrolling in Shreveport LPN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LPN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in Louisiana offer CNA to LPN programs. Usually, a CNA to LPN program will last one year. CNAs who Enroll in one of these programs will build upon their existing knowledge to learn the necessary skills to work at the LPN level.