Jake Flannigan, NP
June 4, 2025
LPNs function as essential caregivers who provide medical services across different healthcare facilities. Tennessee depends heavily on LPNs to fill healthcare needs in both rural and urban communities. LPNs provide hands-on care through vital sign monitoring and medication distribution while supporting patients with their daily requirements. The healthcare system of Tennessee heavily depends on LPNs who work in long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health services because registered nurse shortages frequently occur in these areas.
Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - south.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the world of practical nursing at South College, where you'll gain comprehensive skills to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). This intensive certificate program equips students with essential healthcare knowledge, covering medical surgical, mental health, pediatric, geriatric, and maternal infant nursing. Through hands-on simulation labs and clinical experiences, students develop critical skills in patient-centered care, clinical judgment, communication, and cultural competence. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN licensure examination, opening doors to rewarding healthcare careers. Admission requires meeting academic prerequisites, including entrance exam scores and potential prerequisite courses.
Cookeville, TN - Private 2-year - fortis.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fortis Institute-Cookeville in TN offers a Practical Nursing program designed for those aiming to start a career in nursing. This campus-based program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, blending classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. Topics covered include patient care, pharmacology, and emergency care. The curriculum is tailored to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings. Financial aid options may be available for eligible students. Admissions requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent. The program is a stepping stone for those looking to make an impact in the nursing field.
Chattanooga, TN - Public 2-Year - chattanoogastate.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chattanooga State's Practical Nursing program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career as Licensed Practical Nurses. This comprehensive three-semester diploma program equips students with essential nursing skills through 1,357 clock hours of intensive training. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program boasts an impressive 95% job placement rate and an average annual earning potential of $41,920. Prospective students need a high school diploma or GED, must pass an ACCUPLACER or ACT test, and demonstrate college-level reading and advanced math skills. The program offers a structured pathway to enter various healthcare settings, including physician offices, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Embark on a rewarding journey to become a Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) in just 12 months full-time or 21 months part-time at Galen College of Nursing's Nashville Campus. This program is designed for those new to nursing, offering a fast-track to a fulfilling career with hands-on clinical coursework and practice-based training. Prepare for the NCLEX-PN® exam and start making a difference in patients' lives. With four start times annually, your path to nursing begins when you're ready. Explore financial aid options to support your education.
Crump, TN - Public 2-Year - tcatcrump.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Unlock a rewarding healthcare career through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology's Practical Nursing program. In just 12 months, students can transform their passion into professional nursing skills. The comprehensive curriculum blends classroom learning with extensive clinical experiences, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. With affordable tuition of $4,680 and additional supplies cost of $1,393.49, this program offers an accessible pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Ideal for motivated individuals seeking a quick entry into the healthcare field, the program provides full-time and hybrid learning options to suit diverse student needs.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing program at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump prepares students for licensure and employment as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This hybrid program combines classroom learning with clinical experiences in area facilities. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. The program requires a high school diploma or GED, passing the HESI entrance exam, and completion of a 12-month full-time or 16-month part-time curriculum. Total tuition and fees are $4,680, with additional costs for textbooks and supplies. Admissions are competitive, with applications due in June for a September start. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
The nursing education requires hands-on training which prevents Tennessee from offering fully online LPN programs. The state of Tennessee needs in-person clinical experience for nursing students to develop essential hands-on nursing abilities. Some educational institutions in Tennessee provide students with hybrid learning options through their campus locations. Students can finish their theoretical requirements online while spending time in person for lab work and clinical rotations through this approach. Hybrid programs provide flexible scheduling options for students who need to balance their academic responsibilities with work and family commitments.
School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump |
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Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Morristown |
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Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson |
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Certifying Board | Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, Department of State |
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Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) |
Educational Prerequisite | High school diploma or GED and completion of a board-approved practical nursing program (minimum 1,500 hours over at least 12 months) |
Application & Fees | $95 initial application fee for PA graduates ($115 for out-of-state), $200 NCLEX exam fee, $70 temporary permit fee |
Application Processing Time | Authorization To Test issued in 1–2 weeks, permanent license typically granted 4–6 weeks after passing NCLEX and meeting all requirements |
License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal every two years with a $76 renewal fee |
Continuing Education | 2 hours of board-approved child abuse recognition and reporting training required each renewal cycle |
Licensure by Endorsement | $120 endorsement fee ($145 if exam required), verification of an active, unrestricted LPN license |
The salary range for Licensed Practical Nurses in Tennessee offers competitive pay and promising career opportunities. The initial compensation for LPNs begins at approximately $40,000 and reaches up to $50,000 annually based on their work location and experience level. Nursing professionals in urban cities such as Nashville and Memphis can expect higher compensation rates particularly when working in hospital settings and specialized clinics. Rural locations provide lower initial compensation but their strong employment demand creates job stability together with growth potential.
Salary & Career Outlook | Tennessee | USA |
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Avg Annual LVN Salary | $53,673 | $62,340 |
Avg Hourly Wage | $26.00 | $29.97 |
90th Percentile Salary | >$59,984 | $80,510 |
Median Salary | ~$53,673 | $62,340 |
10th Percentile Salary | <$48,383 | $47,960 |
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~19.6% | 3% |
Annual Job Openings | ~4,200 | ~54,000 |
Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Salary.com.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Chattanooga State Community College |
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Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump |
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Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jacksboro |
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LPNs working in Tennessee possess different career advancement opportunities. The majority of LPNs decide to enter LPN-to-RN bridge programs because these programs allow them to build their existing knowledge while obtaining an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. These educational programs grant existing credit value to previous coursework and students can finish their studies within one to two years. Working LPNs can easily continue their education through part-time and online programs that various schools provide. LPNs who want to expand their skills can obtain certifications in IV therapy, wound care, and gerontology to increase their responsibility levels.
Additional Nursing Programs in Tennessee
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