LPN Programs in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Get your LPN license in Fort Wayne, Indiana - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Fort Wayne, Indiana

If you’re considering a career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a fantastic option. LPNs are crucial members of the healthcare team, providing essential care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming an LPN in Fort Wayne, Indiana, from understanding the prerequisites and program curriculum to finding local schools and employment opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a vibrant city known for its friendly community, diverse culture, and a range of attractions, such as the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and the historic Embassy Theatre. The average salary for LPNs in Fort Wayne is competitive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting an annual mean wage of around $48,000. The job outlook for LPNs is positive, with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed information, check the BLS job outlook for LPNs.

Visit the official Fort Wayne city website to learn more about what the city offers.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before you can enroll in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of high school completion or an equivalent.
Minimum Age: You generally need to be at least 18 years old.
Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to pass an entrance exam such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
Background Checks: A clean criminal background check is often necessary.
Immunizations: Up-to-date immunizations are usually required.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs combine classroom instruction with clinical experience. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

Core Courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology, Nursing Fundamentals, and Medical-Surgical Nursing.
Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.
Specialized Courses: Pediatric Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing.

LPN Training Programs in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Several schools in and around Fort Wayne offer LPN programs:

Ivy Tech Community College – Fort Wayne
- Location: 3800 N Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
- Program: Ivy Tech offers a Practical Nursing Technical Certificate, which includes both classroom and clinical training.
- Cost: Approximately $6,000 for in-state students.
- Ivy Tech LPN Program
University of Saint Francis – Fort Wayne
- Location: 2701 Spring St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808
- Program: The University of Saint Francis offers an LPN to RN transition program for those looking to advance their careers.
- Cost: Tuition varies; financial aid options are available.
- University of Saint Francis Nursing Programs
MedTech College – Fort Wayne Campus
- Location: 7230 Engle Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
- Program: MedTech provides a Practical Nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Cost: Contact the school for current tuition rates.
- MedTech College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne is home to several major healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for LPNs:

Parkview Health
- Location: 2200 Randallia Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
- Description: Parkview Health is a leading regional healthcare provider with multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities.
- Parkview Health Careers
Lutheran Health Network
- Location: 7950 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
- Description: Lutheran Health Network includes a network of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics.
- Lutheran Health Network Careers
St. Joseph Hospital
- Location: 700 Broadway, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
- Description: St. Joseph Hospital is part of the Lutheran Health Network and offers a variety of nursing opportunities.
- St. Joseph Hospital Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

In Indiana, LPNs must be licensed by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. The requirements include:

Completion of an Approved LPN Program: Graduating from a state-approved program is essential.
Passing the NCLEX-PN Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses is a standardized exam that tests your nursing knowledge.
Background Check: A criminal background check is mandatory.
Application to the State Board: Submit your application for licensure to the Indiana State Board of Nursing.

For more information, visit the Indiana State Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Fort Wayne can vary widely, generally ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options are available, including:

Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants that don’t require repayment.
Stafford Loans: Low-interest federal student loans.
Scholarships: Various scholarships are available from schools and private organizations.
Work-Study Programs: Part-time jobs offered through the school to help pay for education costs.

Licensure Reciprocity

Indiana participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to Indiana from another state, you’ll need to:

Provide Proof of Licensure: Submit proof of your current, active LPN license.
Meet Indiana’s Requirements: Ensure that your education and background meet Indiana’s standards.

For specific details, refer to the Indiana State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Taking the first step toward becoming an LPN in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is an exciting journey. With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, now is the perfect time to start your education. Contact a local school today to begin your path toward a rewarding career in nursing!

Which Fort Wayne schools offer LPN programs?

Fort Wayne 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 Indiana?

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, Indiana 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 Fort Wayne 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 Indiana 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.