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LPN Programs in Fergus Falls, Minnesota

Get your LPN license in Fergus Falls, Minnesota - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Fergus Falls, Minnesota

Welcome! If you’re considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, you’re about to embark on a rewarding journey. LPNs play a critical role in healthcare, providing essential care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LPN in Fergus Falls, from local training programs to employment opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls is a charming city in Minnesota known for its beautiful parks and vibrant community. It’s a great place to start your career as an LPN, with plenty of opportunities for growth and development. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LPNs is around $48,820 per year, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This makes it a promising career choice with stable job prospects.

For more information about Fergus Falls, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program in Fergus Falls, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. Here are the typical requirements:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age of 18 years
– Passing scores on any required entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
– Background check and immunizations

Make sure to check with individual schools for any additional requirements they may have.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually combine classroom instruction with clinical practice. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its functions
Pharmacology: Learning about medications and their administration
Nursing Fundamentals: Basic nursing skills and patient care techniques
Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings like hospitals and nursing homes

LPN Training Programs in Fergus Falls, Minnesota

Fergus Falls offers several excellent options for LPN training programs. Here are three local schools you can consider:

  1. Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State)
    • Address: 1414 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
    • Program: Practical Nursing Diploma
    • Description: M State’s Practical Nursing program prepares students for entry-level nursing positions. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
    • Website: M State Practical Nursing Program
  2. Alexandria Technical & Community College
    • Address: 1601 Jefferson St, Alexandria, MN 56308 (Approx. 30 miles from Fergus Falls)
    • Program: Practical Nursing Diploma
    • Description: This program offers comprehensive nursing education with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience.
    • Website: ATCC Practical Nursing Program
  3. Northland Community & Technical College
    • Address: 1101 Highway One East, Thief River Falls, MN 56701 (Approx. 120 miles from Fergus Falls)
    • Program: Practical Nursing Diploma
    • Description: Northland’s program provides a solid foundation in nursing principles and practices, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Website: Northland Practical Nursing Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls is home to several healthcare facilities that hire LPNs. Here are some major employers:

  1. Lake Region Healthcare
    • Address: 712 S Cascade St, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
    • Description: Lake Region Healthcare offers a wide range of medical services and is one of the largest employers of LPNs in the area.
    • Website: Lake Region Healthcare Careers
  2. PioneerCare
    • Address: 1131 South Mabelle Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
    • Description: PioneerCare provides senior care services, including skilled nursing, and regularly hires LPNs.
    • Website: PioneerCare Careers
  3. Prairie Ridge Hospital and Health Services
    • Address: 930 1st St NE, Elbow Lake, MN 56531 (Approx. 20 miles from Fergus Falls)
    • Description: This hospital offers a variety of healthcare services and employs LPNs in multiple departments.
    • Website: Prairie Ridge Hospital Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Minnesota, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements. Here are the steps:
1. Complete an approved LPN program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
3. Apply for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

The Minnesota Board of Nursing oversees the licensure and regulation of LPNs in the state.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Fergus Falls can vary, but you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Minnesota participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Minnesota without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Minnesota’s specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, is a great career choice with plenty of opportunities for growth and development. Contact a school today to get started on your educational journey. Good luck!

Which Fergus Falls schools offer LPN programs?

Fergus Falls 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 Minnesota?

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, Minnesota 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 Fergus Falls 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 Minnesota 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.

LPN Schools Near You & Online Near Fergus Falls, Minnesota

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Minnesota State Community & Technical College

  • 900 Minnesota 34 Fergus Falls, MN 56501
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (218) 846-3700

Alexandria Technical College

  • 1601 Jefferson Street Alexandria, MN 56308
    Programs: CNA, LPN
    1(888)234-1222

Central Lakes College

  • 501 West Campus Drive Brainerd, MN 56401
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (218) 855-8000

Ridgewater College

  • 2101 15th Ave NW Willmar, MN 56201
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (320) 222-5200