LPN Programs in Clearwater, Florida

Get your LPN license in Clearwater, Florida - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clearwater, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Clearwater, Florida? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an LPN does to finding the best local LPN programs.

Why Become an LPN in Clearwater

Clearwater, Florida, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community, offers a wonderful setting to start your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. With landmarks like Clearwater Beach and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, this city is not only a great place to live but also to work in healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LPNs is around $48,070 per year, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you will typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• To be at least 18 years old
• To pass an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
• To undergo a background check

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs generally include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Courses often cover:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Clinical Practice in various healthcare settings

LPN Training Programs in Clearwater, Florida

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs:

1. Pinellas Technical College – Clearwater Campus
   • Address: 6100 154th Avenue North, Clearwater, FL 33760
   • Program Description: Pinellas Technical College offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program can be completed in about 12 months.
   • Cost: Approximately $5,000
   • More Info: Pinellas Technical College LPN Program
2. Jersey College – Tampa Campus (Approximately 20 miles from Clearwater)
   • Address: 3625 Queen Palm Dr, Tampa, FL 33619
   • Program Description: Jersey College offers an LPN program designed to provide the foundational nursing skills necessary for entry-level positions. The program spans 15 months for full-time students.
   • Cost: Around $22,000
   • More Info: Jersey College LPN Program
3. Rasmussen University – Tampa/Brandon Campus (Approximately 25 miles from Clearwater)
   • Address: 4042 Park Oaks Blvd, Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33610
   • Program Description: This program offers a blend of online and on-campus coursework, along with extensive clinical practice. The program duration is about 12 to 18 months.
   • Cost: Approximately $21,000
   • More Info: Rasmussen University LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Clearwater

Major healthcare facilities in Clearwater include:

1. BayCare Health System
   • Location: Multiple locations throughout Clearwater
   • Description: BayCare is a leading healthcare system offering a variety of employment opportunities for LPNs. They are known for their comprehensive patient care and innovative medical treatments.
   • More Info: BayCare Careers
2. Morton Plant Hospital
   • Location: 300 Pinellas St, Clearwater, FL 33756
   • Description: Part of BayCare Health System, Morton Plant Hospital is a 687-bed facility offering numerous positions for LPNs in various specialties.
   • More Info: Morton Plant Hospital Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Florida, you must:

• Complete an approved LPN program
• Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Clearwater can range from $5,000 to $22,000. Financial aid options include:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Florida Student Assistance Grant
• Scholarships from local healthcare organizations
• Student loans

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Florida without additional licensure. For more details, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an LPN in Clearwater, Florida? Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and start the application process. Your rewarding career in healthcare awaits!

Which Clearwater schools offer LPN programs?

Clearwater 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 Florida?

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, Florida 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 Clearwater 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 Florida 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.

• National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
• American Nurses Association
  
• Licensed Practical Nurses - BLS
• AACN
• National League for Nursing
• National Student Nurses' Association - NSNA
• International Nursing Honor Society