Choosing a nurse training school can be challenging, because there are so many factors to consider before diving in and starting your career path. From the obvious metrics, like mode of study, tuition, and location, to the more multi-faceted aspects, like learning about the school’s academic merits, and understanding the “campus culture,” each aspect will contribute a part to your total nurse training experience. Start asking the right questions with this guide to choosing an LPN nurse training school.
Are the LPN nursing classes flexible?
Will your training classes be offered on-site, or are online classes available, too? Is the LPN program part- or full-time? Do you expect to work while you attend school? Do you have existing family obligations? Do you dream of a traditional college experience, or is flexibility really what you need? These quick gauges will help you understand how you might integrate a nursing education into your life. Generally, you cannot earn your LPN diploma online, as you need to gain practical experience in patient care. However, many schools even offer multiple options to fit the lives of different learners. For instance, in Stone Academy’s LPN program, you can complete your coursework full-time (8am-3pm, M-F), or part-time (three nights a week 5pm-10pm and 8am-4pm Saturdays), if you have other priorities to balance alongside school.
How long is an LPN nurse training program?
It all depends on the school and the individual. Some accelerated programs can be as short as seven months long, while the longest LPN programs take two years to complete. A school like Stone Academy offers a happy medium, with a flexible, 63-week program.
What does nursing training school cost?
LPN programs can cost anywhere from $5,000 to upwards of $30,000. Other nursing school levels, such as BSN programs, can cost closer to $100,000. Why such a wide range? Tuition costs largely depend on location and the type of school, plus factors that indicate program level and strength. In a perfect world, the cost of education would correlate to annual income. In a thriving state like Connecticut (though you will shell out tuition costs at the top end of the spectrum), LPNs have the potential to earn nearly $57k annually. This number is $7,000 more than the United States’ average LPN salary of $50k.
Out-of-pocket nursing program costs are often offset by scholarship and lending options, including grants and loans. Every student is different, so total loaned and awarded amount will vary widely, based on the individual’s financial capacity and academic achievement. At Stone Academy, graduates leave with around $19k in debt, averaging to about a $200 monthly loan payment. Because 72% of graduates get jobs after college, it is safe to assume that you would be able to make regular payments towards your education, thanks to a great nursing career that you’ll earn with your new credentials.
Will I need pre-requisites to get into nurse training school?
Some LPN programs might require pre-requisite coursework. Stone Academy does not. There are no waiting lists, and no classes that you are required to accomplish before entering our program. However, there are advanced placement options, if this fits your profile. To get started, you’ll need to fill out a short application form, and schedule an interview with an Admissions Representative. In person, you will define your professional goals, and find out how Stone Academy can help you reach them.
Does the nurse training school program fit my career goals?
Becoming an LPN certifies you to work in both short- and long-term care settings, as a Licensed Practical Nurse, scheduling supervisor, an emergency room technician (EMT), a visiting clinical nurse, a dialysis technician, or a public school nurse, among other unique LPN careers.
What is most important about your program of studies is that it prepares you to pass the NCLEX-PN licensing examination upon graduation. You will be required to hold this licensure to practice nursing in any of these capacities.
The four key areas which you’ll need to study for the exam cover the care environment, psychosocial integrity, health promotion and maintenance, and physiology integrity. Your LPN training program will visit anatomy and physiology, the basics of nursing, nutrition, emergency care, pediatrics and obstetrics, and medical-surgical nursing. Not to mention, these areas of study will allow you to be an accomplished, prepared, and successful nurse!
How do I know if the school is right for me?
Before taking the time to visit campuses and speak with representatives, begin by gathering information from the school’s website. As you do research into nursing training programs, look closely for the language regarding the school ethos, such as website sections like “Life at Stone.” This will reveal the personality of the school. “Friendly and comfortable,” plus a “caring staff,” tells you exactly what to expect. Further information about tutoring, career services, or community building programs like clubs and associations, show you that there are student support systems available. If there is a “Blog” available, take some time to peruse the featured nursing articles. This will help you learn more about the college.
If you like what you read, go ahead and make that call, send that e-mail, and schedule a time to speak with someone at the school face-to-face. Attending a sample class and touring the labs can be incredibly motivating factors! You might feel right at home. Do not hesitate to reach out to someone who can answer more of your questions, too. If you would like to learn more about Stone Academy, simply use this request form, or contact us directly, today.