LPN Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Get your LPN license in Knoxville, Tennessee - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Knoxville, Tennessee

Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Knoxville, Tennessee, is an excellent choice. LPNs play a vital role in patient care, working under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LPN in Knoxville, from the prerequisites and program curriculum to local schools and employment opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in Knoxville

Knoxville, known for its vibrant downtown and beautiful natural surroundings, offers a supportive community and numerous professional opportunities for LPNs. Nestled in the Tennessee Valley, the city is renowned for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains and the University of Tennessee. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LPNs in Tennessee is approximately $45,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

For more information about Knoxville, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites:

High school diploma or GED
Minimum age of 18 years
Passing score on entrance exams (if required)
Background check and drug screening
Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology or anatomy)

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Fundamentals of Nursing: Introduction to basic nursing skills and patient care techniques.
Anatomy and Physiology: Study of the human body’s structure and function.
Pharmacology: Understanding medications and their administration.
Medical-Surgical Nursing: Care for patients with various medical and surgical conditions.
Pediatric Nursing: Focus on nursing care for infants, children, and adolescents.
Geriatric Nursing: Care for elderly patients.
Clinical Practicum: Hands-on training in a healthcare setting.

LPN Training Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs in Knoxville:

Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Knoxville
- Address: 1100 Liberty Street, Knoxville, TN 37919
- Program Description: TCAT-Knoxville offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes classroom instruction and clinical experience. The program can be completed in about 12 months.
- Program Page: TCAT-Knoxville LPN Program
South College
- Address: 3904 Lonas Drive, Knoxville, TN 37909
- Program Description: South College offers an LPN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
- Program Page: South College LPN Program
Pellissippi State Community College
- Address: 10915 Hardin Valley Road, Knoxville, TN 37932
- Program Description: Pellissippi State provides an LPN program that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through clinical rotations.
- Program Page: Pellissippi State LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Knoxville

Knoxville is home to several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment opportunities:

University of Tennessee Medical Center
- Address: 1924 Alcoa Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920
- Description: A leading academic medical center offering a wide range of healthcare services and a robust employment program for LPNs.
- Employment Page: UT Medical Center Careers
Covenant Health
- Address: 244 Fort Sanders West Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37922
- Description: The largest healthcare provider in East Tennessee, Covenant Health operates multiple hospitals and clinics, providing numerous job opportunities for LPNs.
- Employment Page: Covenant Health Careers
Tennova Healthcare
- Address: 900 East Oak Hill Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917
- Description: Tennova Healthcare offers comprehensive medical services and has various openings for LPNs across its facilities.
- Employment Page: Tennova Healthcare Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Tennessee, you must meet the following certification requirements:

Complete an approved LPN program
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
Submit an application to the Tennessee Board of Nursing
Complete a background check

For more details, visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Knoxville varies, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with the financial aid office at each school for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

Tennessee participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs with a license from another compact state to practice in Tennessee without additional licensure. If you are moving from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Becoming an LPN in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a fulfilling and attainable goal. Reach out to local schools to learn more about their programs and get started on your journey today. Your future in healthcare awaits!

Which Knoxville schools offer LPN programs?

Knoxville 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 Tennessee?

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, Tennessee 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 Knoxville 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 Tennessee 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.