Discover how an accelerated LPN program works, including typical timelines, online coursework options, and how to fast-track your entry into the nursing field.
If you’re looking to enter the nursing field quickly, an accelerated online LPN program can offer a fast track into practical nursing. These programs focus on essential clinical skills and knowledge, preparing you to provide basic patient care in a variety of healthcare settings.
Accelerated LPN programs typically move at a quicker pace than traditional options, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training. Understanding how these programs work can help you decide if this path fits your schedule and career goals.
Accelerated LPN Programs
An accelerated LPN program, often called a 'fast track' program, condenses what typically takes a year to complete into about six months. If you are a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or if you have completed some college credits, an accelerated or fast track LPN program might be for you. These programs are designed to prepare you for the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and result in a certificate of completion.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutAcceleratedLPNPrograms"> Important Facts About Accelerated LPN Programs</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td> Online Availability </td><td> Some schools offer hybrid LPN and LPN-to-RN programs.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Learning Tools & Methods</td><td>Simulations, lectures, case studies, clinical experiences in healthcare settings</td></tr>
<tr><td> Possible Work Environments </td><td> Programs train students to handle nursing duties for acute and extended care facilities, including physicians' offices, hospitals, and nursing homes.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Continuing Education</td><td> May be required to maintain state licensure</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $48,070 (<i>for all licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 6% growth (<i>for all licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AcceleratedLPNToRNProgram">Accelerated LPN-to-RN Program</h3><p>There are also many accelerated programs that train LPNs to become RNs. These accelerated LPN-to-RN programs allow you to apply your LPN credits and other academic credits to either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. An accelerated ADN program can be completed in one year and an accelerated BSN degree program can be completed within two years, instead of the usual two years and four years, respectively. Completing an accelerated LPN-to-RN program prepares you to pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to become a registered nurse.
</p><h3 id="section---Prerequisites">Prerequisites</h3><p>Before you can enter an accelerated LPN program, you'll have to complete criminal background and health checks. If you aren't a CNA, you'll need to complete a nurse assisting course. In order to enroll in an LPN-to-RN program, you must first hold a valid LPN license. You must also score well on pre-admission exams, which could include the one offered through the National League for Nursing. This exam tests your LPN skills to determine whether you qualify to begin an accelerated LPN-to-RN program.
</p><h3 id="section---Curriculum">Curriculum</h3><p>The accelerated LPN program typically consists of two courses focused on the skills necessary to perform the duties of a practical nurse. You'll learn to work with clients of all ages and in a variety of care settings, including extended and emergency care. Your coursework will cover anatomy and physiology, mental health, psychology and nursing care plans.
</p><p>Accelerated LPN-to-RN programs focus on giving LPNs the theoretical knowledge and decision-making skills that separate RNs from LPNs. In this program, you won't retrain in basic nursing areas in which you are already familiar. Instead, you'll begin taking advanced courses that build on your previous education and experience.</p>
