LPN Programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Get your LPN license in Cedar Rapids, Iowa - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Are you considering a career in healthcare, specifically as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa? This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding what an LPN does to exploring local training programs and job opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids, known as the “City of Five Seasons,” offers a vibrant community with rich cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and a thriving job market. Becoming an LPN in Cedar Rapids can provide a rewarding and stable career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for LPNs was $48,820 in May 2020, and the job outlook for LPNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030. Cedar Rapids is an excellent place to start your journey in healthcare. For more about Cedar Rapids, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you typically need:
– A high school diploma or GED
– To be at least 18 years old
– Completion of any required entrance exams (such as the TEAS test)
– A clean background check and up-to-date immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Courses often include:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatrics and Geriatrics
– Clinical Practicums

LPN Training Programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs:

1. Kirkwood Community College
   • Address: 6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
   • Program Overview: Kirkwood offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Kirkwood Community College LPN Program
2. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
   • Distance: Approximately 80 miles from Cedar Rapids
   • Program Overview: This program provides students with essential nursing skills and prepares them for the licensing exam. It includes classroom instruction and clinical experience.
   • Eastern Iowa Community Colleges LPN Program
3. Hawkeye Community College
   • Distance: Approximately 60 miles from Cedar Rapids
   • Program Overview: Hawkeye offers a Practical Nursing program designed to equip students with the practical skills needed for a nursing career. It combines classroom learning with clinical practice.
   • Hawkeye Community College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids has several major healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for LPNs:

1. Mercy Medical Center
   • Address: 701 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
   • Overview: Mercy Medical Center is a comprehensive medical facility providing a wide range of services. They regularly hire LPNs across various departments.
   • Mercy Medical Center Careers
2. UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital
   • Address: 1026 A Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
   • Overview: St. Luke’s Hospital offers extensive medical services and frequently has openings for LPNs in different specialties.
   • UnityPoint Health Careers
3. Heritage Specialty Care
   • Address: 200 Clive Dr SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
   • Overview: A long-term care facility that provides specialized care services, often seeking LPNs to join their team.
   • Heritage Specialty Care Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Iowa, you must:
– Graduate from an accredited LPN program
– Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
– Apply for licensure with the Iowa Board of Nursing
– Complete any continuing education requirements as mandated by the state

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Cedar Rapids can range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Be sure to check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an LPN moving to Iowa from another state, Iowa is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. For more details, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offers a fulfilling career with numerous opportunities for growth. Start your journey by contacting a local school today to learn more about their LPN programs and how to apply. The healthcare field needs dedicated professionals like you, so take the first step towards your new career!

Which Cedar Rapids schools offer LPN programs?

Cedar Rapids 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 Iowa?

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, Iowa 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 Cedar Rapids 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 Iowa 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