LPN Schools
LPN Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Get your LPN license in Sioux Falls, South Dakota - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Are you considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Sioux Falls, South Dakota? This guide is here to walk you through the steps to becoming an LPN, from choosing the right LPN program to understanding certification requirements. An LPN plays a critical role in healthcare, providing essential care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors.
Why Become an LPN in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, known for its beautiful Falls Park and vibrant downtown area, offers a great environment for starting your nursing career. The average LPN salary in South Dakota is approximately $46,000 per year, with the field expected to grow by 9% over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
For more about Sioux Falls, visit the official city website.
Prerequisites for LPN Programs
Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet a few prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18
- Completion of any required entrance exams (such as the TEAS test)
- Background check and drug screening
Typical Program Curriculum
LPN programs typically cover a range of subjects to prepare you for the diverse challenges of practical nursing. Expect to take courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Clinical Practice
Clinical practice is a significant component, giving you hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
LPN Training Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in Sioux Falls:
- Southeast Technical College
- Address: 2320 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
- Program Page: LPN Program at Southeast Tech
- Description: Southeast Technical College offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. The program can typically be completed in about 11 months.
- University of South Dakota Community College for Sioux Falls
- Address: 4801 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
- Program Page: LPN Program at USD
- Description: USD’s program emphasizes hands-on training and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills and patient care techniques.
- Southeast Technical College – Hovland Learning Center
- Address: 2001 E. 8th Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
- Program Page: Hovland Learning Center Nursing
- Description: This extension of Southeast Technical College provides additional resources and support for nursing students, including state-of-the-art simulation labs.
LPN Employment Opportunities in Sioux Falls
Several major healthcare facilities in Sioux Falls offer employment opportunities for LPNs:
- Sanford Health
- Website: Sanford Health Careers
- Description: Sanford Health is one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, providing a wide range of services and employing numerous healthcare professionals, including LPNs. It’s located in the central part of Sioux Falls.
- Avera Health
- Website: Avera Health Careers
- Description: Avera Health operates several hospitals and clinics in Sioux Falls, offering many opportunities for LPNs across different specialties. Their facilities are spread throughout the city, particularly in the downtown area.
- VA Sioux Falls Health Care System
- Website: VA Sioux Falls Careers
- Description: The VA Health Care System provides services to veterans and employs LPNs in various roles. Their main hospital is located in northeast Sioux Falls.
LPN Certification Requirements
To practice as an LPN in South Dakota, you must:
- Complete an approved LPN program
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
- Apply for licensure through the South Dakota Board of Nursing
Cost and Financial Aid
LPN programs in Sioux Falls typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Institutions often provide information about financial aid on their websites or through their financial aid offices.
Licensure Reciprocity
South Dakota is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in South Dakota without additional licensure. If moving from a non-NLC state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the South Dakota Board of Nursing.
Get Started Today
Becoming an LPN is a rewarding career choice with many opportunities for growth and specialization. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their programs and start your journey toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Which Sioux Falls schools offer LPN programs?
Sioux 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 South Dakota?
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, South Dakota 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 Sioux 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 South Dakota 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 Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Southeastern Technical Institute
- 2320 N Career Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57107
Programs: CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, Nuclear Medicine Tech
1(800)247-0789