LPN Schools
LPN Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
Get your LPN license in St. Louis, Missouri - online & campus-based options available.
Contact a school today for more info.
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in St. Louis, Missouri
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in St. Louis, Missouri? This guide will walk you through the steps to get started, from understanding what an LPN does to finding the right training program and navigating certification requirements. Let’s dive into the world of LPNs and explore your future in healthcare.
Why Become an LPN in St. Louis?
St. Louis, the Gateway to the West, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving healthcare sector. Home to iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and Forest Park, St. Louis offers a dynamic environment for healthcare professionals. The average salary for an LPN in St. Louis is around $48,000 per year, and the job market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. For more detailed job outlook information, check out the LPN page on bls.gov.
Prerequisites for LPN programs
Before enrolling in an LPN program in St. Louis, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, these include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Being at least 18 years old
- Passing a background check
- Completing any required entrance exams, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
Typical Program Curriculum
LPN programs combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. You can expect to take courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Mental Health Nursing
Clinical training is a crucial component, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.
LPN Training Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
Here are three local options for LPN training programs in St. Louis:
- St. Louis Community College (Forest Park Campus)
- Address: 5600 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Program Description: Offers a comprehensive LPN program with both theoretical and clinical training.
- LPN Program Page
- Ranken Technical College
- Address: 4431 Finney Ave, St. Louis, MO 63113
- Program Description: Includes a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- LPN Program Page
- Concorde Career College
- Address: 1524 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104
- Program Description: Offers a fast-paced LPN program with a focus on hands-on learning.
- LPN Program Page
LPN Employment Opportunities in St. Louis
St. Louis is home to several major healthcare facilities that frequently hire LPNs:
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital
- Address: 1 Barnes Jewish Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Description: One of the largest hospitals in Missouri, known for its high-quality patient care.
- Employment Opportunities
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis
- Address: 615 S New Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141
- Description: A comprehensive healthcare facility offering a wide range of services.
- Employment Opportunities
- SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
- Address: 1201 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104
- Description: Renowned for its teaching and research programs.
- Employment Opportunities
LPN Certification Requirements
To become an LPN in Missouri, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam after completing an accredited LPN program. The Missouri State Board of Nursing oversees LPN licensure in the state. For more information, visit the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
LPN program costs in St. Louis can range from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many schools offer financial aid assistance to help you explore your options.
Licensure Reciprocity
Missouri participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Missouri without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-NLC state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an LPN in St. Louis, Missouri, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With a variety of local training programs and abundant job opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their LPN programs and start your path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Which St. Louis schools offer LPN programs?
St. Louis 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 Missouri?
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, Missouri 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 St. Louis 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 Missouri 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.