Jake Flannigan, NP
June 2, 2025
LPNs are the backbone of Louisiana’s healthcare system. LPNs work under the direction of registered nurses or doctors, administering basic nursing care such as taking vital signs, helping patients bathe and eat, administering medications, and keeping records on patients. LPNs in Louisiana are employed in a variety of health care facilities such as hospitals and physicians’ offices as well as nursing homes, clinics and home health care agencies. Long-term care and rural-based nursing are dependent on LPNs because LPNs are the providers of essential care in areas that are struggling with nursing shortages.
Schriever, LA - Public 2-Year - fletcher.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fletcher Technical Community College's Practical Nursing Diploma Program provides an accessible pathway to a healthcare career in just two years. Students complete a comprehensive 64-credit hour curriculum featuring classroom instruction, service learning, and supervised clinical experiences across various healthcare settings. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, ensuring high-quality training. Prospective students need a high school diploma, meet specific ACT or ACCUPLACER scores, and pass background checks. Affordable funding options include federal grants, student loans, TOPS, and the MJ Foster Promise Program.
Shreveport, LA - Public 2-Year - susla.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing program at Southern University at Shreveport prepares students for a rewarding career as licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This non-credit program focuses on equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide competent basic nursing care in various healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam, a crucial step towards licensure. The program emphasizes personal growth and professional development, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the nursing profession. With a strong foundation in practical nursing, graduates are poised to make a significant impact in the healthcare industry.
Lacombe, LA - Public 2-Year - northshorecollege.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing Program at Northshore Technical Community College prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. Offered at multiple campuses, this program emphasizes hands-on training and comprehensive nursing education. Admission requires meeting specific qualifications and completing a detailed application process, including a ranking system based on multiple indicators. Financial aid options are available to help manage tuition costs. This program is ideal for those seeking to enter the nursing field with a strong foundation in practical nursing skills.
Lake Charles, LA - Public 2-Year - sowela.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles, LA, offers a Practical Nursing program designed to prepare students for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. This program combines classroom instruction with clinical activities in healthcare settings. Students learn holistic nursing, problem-solving, and patient care across the lifespan. Graduates earn a diploma and can take the NCLEX-PN for licensure. The program requires an 80% or above in all coursework for progression. It includes options for an Associate of Applied Science degree. Admission does not require a formal application but submission of required documents to the Practical Nursing department.
Baton Rouge, LA - Public 2-Year - mybrcc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Baton Rouge Community College's Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing is a comprehensive five-semester program preparing students for diverse healthcare careers. Spanning 59 credit hours, the program equips students with essential nursing skills, focusing on geriatric and long-term care. Graduates become eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, opening doors to employment in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and long-term care facilities. Admission requires completing pre-nursing courses with 80% or higher, passing specific entrance exams, and meeting rigorous background and health screening requirements.
The practical nature of nursing education leads to the absence of completely online LPN programs throughout Louisiana. All practical nursing students must complete their clinical training and laboratory work in person. Some educational institutions provide flexible learning options through their programs. A few LPN programs at educational institutions offer evening and weekend classes that enable working adults to pursue their training beyond standard weekday hours.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College |
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| Infinity College |
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| Central Louisiana Technical Community College |
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| Certifying Board | Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners |
|---|---|
| Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from an LSBPNE-approved practical nursing program (minimum 1,500 clock hours, including at least 700 theory and 800 clinical hours) |
| Application & Background Check | Submit the LPN Initial Exam application through the Nurse Portal (valid for 12 months or one testing attempt) and complete state/FBI fingerprint-based criminal background checks |
| Fees | NCLEX-PN registration $200, state application $100, endorsement application $185, fingerprint processing fees as required |
| Application Processing Time | Permanent license generally issued within 4–6 weeks of passing NCLEX and completion of all requirements |
| License Renewal Period | Annual renewal November 1–January 31 with a $61.08 fee, reinstatement after January 31 costs $162.88, no continuing education hours required but licensees must have practiced within the past four years |
| Licensure by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs apply online with a $185 endorsement fee, verification of a current unrestricted license, fingerprint background check, and proof of recent practice or completion of a board-approved refresher if inactive over four years |
The career earnings of LPNs in Louisiana maintain stability that increases as they gain experience in their profession. In 2025 the average yearly salary of a licensed practical nurse working in Louisiana reaches the range of $50,000 to $55,000, with an hourly rate around $25 to $26. The starting salary for fresh LPN graduates falls in the range of low-$40,000s, yet experienced LPNs working in larger cities or specialized roles can earn $60,000 or higher annually. The wage levels for LPNs in Louisiana vary by region yet provide a satisfactory standard of living for the profession.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Louisiana | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $52,498 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $25.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$63,607 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $52,498 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$43,134 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~6.7% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~850 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Northshore Technical Community College |
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| South Louisiana Community College |
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| Central Louisiana Technical Community College |
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Multiple career growth opportunities exist for licensed practical nurses operating in Louisiana. Experienced LPNs can earn their registered nursing degree through the LPN-to-RN bridge program. The state offers numerous bridge programs that enable practical nurses to finish their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) education more efficiently than traditional paths. After completing their RN license through a bridge program, LPNs become qualified for positions that demand more responsibility and pay better. The career path of practical nursing allows complete job satisfaction and provides essential skills for RN licensure and advanced nursing specializations in future careers.
Additional Nursing Programs in Louisiana
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