Thomas Reed, RN
June 2, 2025
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are depended on to provide primary care to the healthcare team while being supervised by RNs and physicians. The healthcare role of the LPNs is crucial in Alaska given its unique geographic and demographic challenges. The healthcare availability in underserved and isolated areas receives substantial improvement through their contributions, which leads to better public health results throughout the state.
Fairbanks, AK - Public 4-Year - uaf.edu
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The Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is a 31-credit, campus-based program that spans two years. It emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, including rotations, and covers essential topics like pharmacology, anatomy, and cultural competency. Admission requires a background check, CPR certification, and immunization records. This program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, focusing on safe, effective patient care across the lifespan without requiring entrance exams such as ACT or SAT. Graduates are equipped with leadership and communication skills for immediate workforce entry.
Fully online LPN programs are not available in Alaska, as you need to have hands-on clinical education. However, Alaska institutions do include hybrid programs, which entail online didactic instruction plus required hands-on clinical labs and practicums. Hybrid or blended programs allow students to finish classroom work at home as they complete their clinical requirements at approved health institutions. Some schools offer evening and weekend courses for students who work or have families.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Alaska Fairbanks |
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| Certifying Board | Alaska Board of Nursing, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing – Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from an approved practical nursing program with official transcript and program verification |
| Application & Background Check | $200 application fee, $100 license fee, $75 fingerprint processing fee. submit FD-258 fingerprint card for state and FBI checks |
| Application Processing Time | Approximately 4–6 weeks for initial review and licensure decision |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal every two years, expiring September 30 of even-numbered years |
| Continuing Education | 30 contact hours required during each renewal cycle |
| License by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs may endorse by submitting current unrestricted license verification, endorsement fee, fingerprint card, and proof of recent practice or completion of a board-approved refresher |
LPNs in Alaska can receive a highly competitive salary of about $77,000 per year while surpassing the national median salary. The employment outlook for LPNs in Alaska shows strong growth potential at 10% during the upcoming decade. The rising demand for LPNs stems from population aging combined with nursing shortages and expanding healthcare requirements in rural areas. The main employment areas for LPNs consist of long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health services, and rural healthcare centers which serve Anchorage, Fairbanks, and remote locations that need better healthcare access.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Alaska | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $62,200 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $30.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$69,000 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $62,200 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$50,355 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~2% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~2,210 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Alaska Fairbanks |
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LPNs in Alaska have many career options. The most common form of career advancement for LPNs is becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), which they can do through bridge programs that allow them to broaden their scope of practice, take on more responsibility and receive higher pay. LPNs can obtain specialized certifications in IV therapy, wound care, geriatrics, pediatrics, and mental health to advance their knowledge and expand their career options. Experienced LPNs can become charge nurses or clinical supervisors and direct nursing and patient care management. Career development and quality health care delivery in Alaska are dependent on active involvement in nursing organizations as well as continued professional development and continuing education.
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