LPN Programs in Cocoa, Florida

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

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Cocoa, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Cocoa, Florida? This guide will walk you through the essentials of becoming an LPN, from understanding the role to finding the right local LPN programs, and everything in between.

Why Become an LPN in Cocoa

Cocoa, Florida, known for its beautiful riverfront and historic Cocoa Village, offers a vibrant community and a growing healthcare sector. The average salary for LPNs in Florida is around $48,500 annually, with an expected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This makes Cocoa an ideal location for pursuing a career in nursing.

For more information on the job outlook for LPNs, visit the BLS job outlook page for LPNs.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

To enroll in an LPN program in Cocoa, you typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• To be at least 18 years old.
• To pass entrance exams (such as the TEAS).
• To undergo a background check and drug screening.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually include both classroom instruction and clinical practice. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing

Clinical training is also a key component, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

LPN Training Programs in Cocoa, Florida

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs:

1. Eastern Florida State College
   • Address: 1519 Clearlake Rd, Cocoa, FL 32922
   • Program Page: Eastern Florida State College LPN Program
   • Description: Eastern Florida State College offers a comprehensive LPN program that prepares students through both theoretical and practical training. The program includes coursework and clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
2. Brevard Nursing Academy
   • Address: 405 Florida Ave S, Rockledge, FL 32955 (approximately 5 miles from Cocoa)
   • Program Page: Brevard Nursing Academy LPN Program
   • Description: Located a short distance from Cocoa, Brevard Nursing Academy provides a focused LPN program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in nursing.
3. Keiser University
   • Address: 900 S Babcock St, Melbourne, FL 32901 (approximately 18 miles from Cocoa)
   • Program Page: Keiser University LPN Program
   • Description: Keiser University offers an LPN program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice, ensuring students gain extensive hands-on experience in various healthcare environments.

LPN Employment Opportunities in Cocoa

Major healthcare facilities in Cocoa include:

1. Parrish Healthcare Center
   • Address: 5005 Port St. John Pkwy, Cocoa, FL 32927
   • Employment Page: Parrish Healthcare Careers
   • Description: Parrish Healthcare Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a range of services. It provides ample opportunities for LPNs in various departments.
2. Rockledge Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 110 Longwood Ave, Rockledge, FL 32955
   • Employment Page: Rockledge Regional Medical Center Careers
   • Description: Located close to Cocoa, Rockledge Regional Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering diverse LPN positions in different medical units.
3. Health First’s Cape Canaveral Hospital
   • Address: 701 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
   • Employment Page: Health First Careers
   • Description: Cape Canaveral Hospital is part of the Health First network, providing numerous opportunities for LPNs in a variety of clinical settings.

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.

For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Cocoa can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. It’s recommended to fill out the FAFSA and check with each school for specific financial aid opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Florida without additional licensure. For non-NLC states, you may need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Cocoa, Florida, is a fulfilling career choice with numerous opportunities for growth. Reach out to local schools today to start your journey in this rewarding field.

Which Cocoa schools offer LPN programs?

Cocoa 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 Cocoa 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