LPN Programs in Little Rock, Arkansas

Get your LPN license in Little Rock, Arkansas - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Little Rock, Arkansas

Are you considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Little Rock, Arkansas? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LPN in Little Rock, from prerequisites to finding the right training programs and exploring employment opportunities. Let’s get started!

Why Become an LPN in Little Rock?

Little Rock, Arkansas, is not just the capital city; it’s a vibrant community known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and cultural landmarks like the William J. Clinton Presidential Library. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and southern charm, making it an ideal place to start your career in healthcare.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for LPNs in Arkansas is around $44,000, with a projected job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly in long-term care facilities and outpatient care centers.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before you can enroll in an LPN program in Little Rock, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:

High school diploma or GED
Minimum age of 18
Passing score on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
Background check and drug screening
Immunizations and health screenings

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs typically take about 12 to 18 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body
Pharmacology: Learning about medications and their effects
Nursing Fundamentals: Basic nursing skills and patient care
Medical-Surgical Nursing: Caring for patients with various medical conditions
Pediatric Nursing: Child healthcare
Clinical Practice: Hands-on experience in a healthcare setting

LPN Training Programs in Little Rock, Arkansas

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs in Little Rock:

University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College
- Address: 3000 West Scenic Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72118
- Program Description: The LPN program at UA-PTC offers comprehensive training with a focus on both theoretical and practical skills. The program includes classroom instruction and clinical practice in local healthcare facilities.
- LPN Program Page
Baptist Health College Little Rock
- Address: 11900 Colonel Glenn Rd, Little Rock, AR 72210
- Program Description: This program provides a robust curriculum that covers all essential areas of practical nursing, including clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.
- LPN Program Page
Southeast Arkansas College
- Address: 1900 Hazel St, Pine Bluff, AR 71603 (approximately 45 miles from Little Rock)
- Program Description: SEARK College offers an LPN program designed to prepare students for immediate employment in healthcare. The program blends classroom learning with clinical experiences.
- LPN Program Page

LPN Employment Opportunities in Little Rock

Little Rock boasts several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment. Here are a few:

UAMS Medical Center
- Location: Central Little Rock
- Description: UAMS is a leading academic medical center offering a wide range of healthcare services. It’s a great place for LPNs to find diverse job opportunities.
- Employment Opportunities
Baptist Health Medical Center
- Location: West Little Rock
- Description: This facility is known for its comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty care. LPNs are integral to their team.
- Employment Opportunities
CHI St. Vincent Infirmary
- Location: Midtown Little Rock
- Description: A part of the CHI St. Vincent Health System, this hospital offers a variety of patient care services and is a significant employer of LPNs in the region.
- Employment Opportunities

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Arkansas, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Additionally, you need to meet state-specific requirements set by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. These may include continuing education and periodic license renewals.

Arkansas State Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Little Rock varies, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many schools also offer payment plans to help manage the costs.

Licensure Reciprocity

Arkansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re an LPN moving to Arkansas from another compact state, you can transfer your license with minimal hassle. Non-compact state license holders will need to apply for endorsement through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to become an LPN in Little Rock, Arkansas, it’s time to take the next step. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and start your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare.

Which Little Rock schools offer LPN programs?

Little Rock LPN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LPN programs) are medical training programs. LPN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LPN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LPN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LPN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LPN in Arkansas?

You must complete a practical nursing program and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam to be certified and receive your required LPN licensure.

How long will my LPN Course be?

Most LPN programs take 1 year to one and a half years complete. That's a 12 month to 18 month training program. Some nursing schools offer LPN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LPN training is not necessary before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN degree can be completed in as little as two years.

What are typical LPN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LPN program, Arkansas LPN schools are no exception. You can expect an entrance exam or at least a prerequisite check when you submit your application to determine your eligibility. There may be additional academic requirements also.

At the very least, most schools require applicants to have a High school diploma / GED. You also must get accepted to the college that you are applying to.

Financial aid, including nursing scholarships or federal grant money, may be available to you as a new students enrolling in Little Rock LPN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LPN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in Arkansas offer CNA to LPN programs. Usually, a CNA to LPN program will last one year. CNAs who Enroll in one of these programs will build upon their existing knowledge to learn the necessary skills to work at the LPN level.