Most people think that in order to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), they need to complete coursework in a traditional daytime program. While that is one way to earn an LPN license, it’s not the only way. Many schools offer night classes for students who want to complete their education while still working or taking care of other responsibilities during the day.
If you’re considering an LPN night program, you probably have a lot of questions about what to expect. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about LPN night classes.
What is the difference between an LPN day program and an LPN night program?
Day programs typically meet during the daytime hours, while night programs meet during the evening or nighttime hours. Daytime classes will take place during a 9AM – 5PM time period while night classes typically take place between a 6PM – 10PM time period.
Because there is less time to fit required classes into a night program, they typically take longer to complete than a daytime program. Depending on your state, many daytime programs take 12 months to complete while night programs may require 12 – 16 months.
What types of classes will I take in an LPN night program?
The types of classes you’ll take in an LPN night program will be similar to those in a daytime program. However, the order in which you take them may be different. For example, you may take general education classes such as math, English, and science in the first semester, followed by nursing classes in subsequent semesters.
Some of the specific types of classes you’ll likely take include human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, obstetrics and pediatrics, and psychiatric nursing.
When do I complete clinical hours?
Clinical hours are an important part of any nursing program and provide students with the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world patients. They are also a required component of licensure.
In a daytime program, you’ll typically complete clinical hours during the daytime hours that correspond with your class schedule. However, in a night program, you will likely be able to complete most of your clinical hours at night or on the weekends. Your program may require that you complete some clinical hours during the day, but these will typically be for the duration of a single semester.
Every program is different, so it is important to reach out to individual program to find out how they schedule clinical hours for LPN night programs.
What are the admission requirements for an LPN night program?
Admission requirements for an LPN night program are typically the same as those for a daytime program. Most programs require that applicants have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a background check. Some programs may also require that applicants take a pre-entrance exam.
Can I still work while taking LPN night classes?
In most cases, you are still able to work while taking LPN night classes. Many students who enroll in night programs do so because they are already working during the day and cannot attend a daytime program. Many LPN night programs are offered to CNAs or other healthcare professionals who are already working in the field.
Many LPN night classes are referred to as part-time LPN programs because of this. They are structured to provide enough flexibility to allow students to work while still completing their coursework. However, these programs will take longer to complete than a traditional daytime program.
What are the benefits of taking an LPN night program?
There are several benefits to taking an LPN night program. For those who are already working in the healthcare field, it can allow you to complete your education without having to quit your job or reduce your hours. Night programs also offer more scheduling options for those who have other commitments during the day, such as caring for young children.
Additionally, night programs can provide a more intimate learning environment. Class sizes are often smaller in night programs than in daytime programs, which can allow for more one-on-one interaction with instructors.
Night programs may also be more affordable than daytime programs. While the total cost of tuition will likely be about the same for a night program compared to a daytime program, you are able to spread the cost out over a longer period of time. Additionally, most night programs are eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and you may be able to acquire multiple scholarships and grants for the same program.
What are the drawbacks of taking an LPN night program?
LPN night programs may be tougher to find in your area as they are not offered at all schools. You may have to travel a greater distance to find a program that meets your needs.
LPN night programs generally take longer to complete than daytime programs. They typically take 50% – 100% longer than a traditional program. For example, a traditional daytime program is usually completed over 3 semesters while a night program would be completed in 5.
If you are planning on working in the day while completing LPN program requirements at night and on the weekends, it can take a toll on your personal life. It is important to make sure you have a strong support system in place to help you balance work, school, and your personal life.
Clinical hours may be more difficult to complete if you work during the day, and not all programs who offer LPN night classes also offer clinical hours at night. You may have to take time off from work or arrange your schedule around your clinical hours. Depending on where you currently work, some employers may not be willing to accommodate your school schedule. It is important to check with your employer before enrolling in an LPN night program to make sure they are able to work with your new schedule.
How much does an LPN night program cost?
The cost of an LPN night program can vary depending on the school you attend and the length of the program. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 for tuition and fees. Additionally, you’ll need to budget for the cost of textbooks, supplies, and clinical uniforms.
Do I need to take the NCLEX-PN exam?
All LPNs in the United States must pass the NCLEX-PN exam before they can begin working, regardless of the type of LPN program they completed. The NCLEX-PN exam is a national exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
Is there anything else I should know about LPN night programs?
All LPN programs require their students to have a high school diploma or equivalent. So if you have not yet completed your high school education, you will need to fulfill those requirements or complete a GED before enrolling in an LPN program.
Before enrolling in an LPN night program, it is important to make sure that the program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These accreditations ensure that the program meets high standards and will prepare you for the NCLEX-PN exam.
It is also important to check with your state’s Board of Nursing to make sure the program you are interested in is approved. Each state has different requirements for LPN programs, and some states may not approve of certain night programs.
You can typically verify this by looking at the program details on the provider’s website, or by emailing them asking if their LPN night program is accredited.