Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can be a fulfilling career choice for those interested in healthcare. Vocational nursing programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin their careers as LPNs. Nashville, Tennessee, is home to several LPN programs that offer hands-on training and instruction. Applying to these programs can be a great way to start a career in healthcare, as they provide students with the opportunity to learn about patient care, medical terminology, and nursing procedures. In addition, vocational nursing programs can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries, making them a great investment in your future. A few featured programs are here:
Tennessee College of Applied Technology: Several campuses in the Nashville area
Nashville State Community College: Strong history of nurse job placement
Herzing University Nashville Campus: Nationally accredited program with Nashville campus
South College: Preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam with an emphasis on cultural sensitivity within patient care
Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Program Summary: The Tennessee College of Applied Technology offers a comprehensive Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the healthcare field. The program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing and focuses on hands-on training, patient care, medical terminology, and nursing procedures, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application form
- Entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
- Background check
- Immunization records
- Drug screening
- Personal interview
Program Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,119 |
| Program Duration | 12 months |
| Typical Class Schedule | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Program Website | TCAT Nashville LPN Program |
| Location | 100 White Bridge Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 |
| Phone Number | (615) 425-5500 |
Nashville State Community College
Program Summary: Nashville State Community College offers an LPN program aimed at providing students with practical nursing skills through rigorous coursework and clinical experiences. The program emphasizes patient-centered care and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam. Students will receive didactic and clinical training hours. Courses include fundamentals in nursing, pharmacology, mental health nursing and care of a child. Many graduates of the program go on to work as LPNs with an average salary of $56,257 in the state of Tennessee.
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application form
- Minimum GPA requirement
- TEAS test score
- Background check
- Immunization records
- Personal interview
Program Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $10,000 |
| Program Duration | 24 months |
| Typical Class Schedule | Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Program Website | Nashville State LPN Program |
| Location | 120 White Bridge Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 |
| Phone Number | (615) 353-3333 |
Herzing University Nashville Campus
Herzing University’s Nashville campus offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge required to pursue a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program emphasizes a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. Herzing is a national program with a campus in Nashville. The program is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Courses include pharmacology, medical surgical nursing, and fundamentals with lab and clinical.
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application form
- Minimum GPA requirement
- TEAS test score
- Background check
- Immunization records
- Personal interview
Program Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $16,000 – $18,000 |
| Program Duration | 12-18 months |
| Typical Class Schedule | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Program Website | Herzing University LPN Program |
| Location | 100 Centerview Dr, Suite 100, Nashville, TN 37214 |
| Phone Number | (615) 742-2300 |
South College
Program Summary: South College provides a comprehensive LPN program that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam and for successful careers in various healthcare settings. Students will learn skills in holistic patient care, critical thinking, patient communication, and cultural sensitivity.
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application form
- TEAS minimum test score
- Background check
- Immunization records
- Drug screening
- Passing of vision, hearing, sensory, and gross and fine motor strength tests
Program Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $7,000 – $9,000 |
| Program Duration | 21 months |
| Typical Class Schedule | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Program Website | South College LPN Program |
| Location | 616 Marriott Dr, Nashville, TN 37214 |
| Phone Number | (629) 802-3000 |
LPNs in the Nashville area can vary from healthcare employer to employer. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there are over 5,000 LPNs working in the Nashville area. The mean annual salary of LPNs in Nashville is $47,540, with an hourly wage of $22.86. This is competitive compared to both the state and national averages for LPN salaries. Those LPNs across the state of Tennessee make $22.81 an hour with an average annual salary of $47,450. Meanwhile, of the 135,500 LPNs working in the United States, the reported hourly wage is $19.51 with an annual salary of $40,580. Evaluating these numbers, it shows that it is very beneficial from an earnings standpoint to obtain your LPN certificate and work as an LPN in Nashville.
| Location | # of LPNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 135,500 | $19.51 | $40,580 |
| Tennessee | 36,970 | $22.81 | $47,450 |
| Nashville | 5,030 | $22.86 | $47,540 |
Influences on LPN Salaries in Nashville
Several factors can impact LPN salaries in the Nashville area. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Experience: One of the primary factors influencing LPN salaries is the level of experience. Generally, LPNs with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries. Healthcare facilities often value the knowledge and expertise gained through years of practice, which can result in increased compensation.
Education and Certification: LPNs who have pursued additional education or obtained specialized certifications may have an advantage in the job market and can negotiate higher salaries. Advanced certifications or degrees, such as becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or pursuing specialized training in areas like gerontology or critical care, can demonstrate a higher level of expertise and may result in higher pay.
Healthcare Setting: The specific healthcare setting in which an LPN works can impact their salary. LPNs employed in hospitals or specialty clinics, for example, may receive higher wages compared to those working in long-term care facilities or home health settings. The demand for LPNs in different healthcare sectors and the complexity of the work involved can influence salary differentials.
Demand and Supply: The supply and demand dynamics of LPNs in the Nashville area can affect salary levels. If there is a shortage of LPNs in the region, employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified candidates. Conversely, if there is an oversupply of LPNs, salaries may be more competitive or relatively lower.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nashville can also influence LPN salaries. Areas with a higher cost of living typically have higher wages to match the increased expenses. Employers may adjust salaries accordingly to ensure that LPNs can meet their financial needs and maintain a reasonable standard of living.
Unionization: Unionized LPNs may benefit from collective bargaining agreements that establish minimum wage standards, salary scales, and negotiated benefits. Union representation can provide LPNs with increased bargaining power and potentially lead to higher salaries and better working conditions.