LVN Programs in Kilgore, Texas

Get your LPN license in Kilgore, Texas - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse in Kilgore, Texas

Are you considering a career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in Kilgore, Texas? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LVN, from understanding what the role entails to finding the best local LVN programs.

Licensed Vocational Nurses are essential members of the healthcare team, providing basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. Let’s dive into why Kilgore is a great place to start your LVN journey and what steps you need to take.

Why Become an LVN in Kilgore

Kilgore, Texas, is a charming city known for its rich history in the oil industry and beautiful parks like the Kilgore City Park. With a supportive community and growing healthcare needs, Kilgore offers a promising environment for aspiring LVNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LVNs in Texas is around $48,500, with a projected job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

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

Prerequisites for LVN Programs

Before enrolling in an LVN program in Kilgore, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:

High school diploma or GED
Minimum age of 18
Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS test)
Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

LVN programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Courses often cover subjects like:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Fundamentals
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing

Clinical training provides real-world experience in healthcare settings, allowing students to practice their skills under supervision.

LVN Training Programs in Kilgore, Texas

Here are some local options for LVN programs in and around Kilgore:

Kilgore College
- Location: 1100 Broadway Blvd, Kilgore, TX 75662
- Program Description: Kilgore College offers a comprehensive LVN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is known for its experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Cost: Approximately $4,000 – $5,000
- Link: Kilgore College LVN Program
Panola College
- Location: 1109 W Panola St, Carthage, TX 75633 (approximately 30 miles from Kilgore)
- Program Description: Panola College offers an LVN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam. The curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and clinical rotations.
- Cost: Approximately $6,000 – $7,000
- Link: Panola College LVN Program
Tyler Junior College
- Location: 1400 E 5th St, Tyler, TX 75701 (about 25 miles from Kilgore)
- Program Description: Tyler Junior College provides a robust LVN program with a focus on hands-on training in various healthcare settings. The program is well-regarded for its high NCLEX-PN pass rates.
- Cost: Approximately $5,000 – $6,000
- Link: Tyler Junior College LVN Program

LVN Employment Opportunities in Kilgore

After completing your LVN program, you’ll find several healthcare facilities in Kilgore where you can seek employment:

Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center – Longview
- Location: 700 E Marshall Ave, Longview, TX 75601
- Description: A major healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
- Link: Christus Good Shepherd Careers
Kilgore Health and Rehabilitation
- Location: 2700 S Henderson Blvd, Kilgore, TX 75662
- Description: This facility provides comprehensive nursing care and rehabilitation services, making it an excellent place for new LVNs to gain experience.
- Link: Kilgore Health and Rehabilitation Careers
Longview Regional Medical Center
- Location: 2901 N 4th St, Longview, TX 75605
- Description: A full-service hospital offering a variety of medical services, including advanced surgical procedures and specialized care.
- Link: Longview Regional Medical Center Careers

LVN Certification Requirements

In Texas, LVNs must be licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing. Requirements include:

Completion of a state-approved LVN program
Passing the NCLEX-PN exam
Submitting fingerprints for a background check

For more information, visit the Texas Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

LVN program costs in Kilgore range from $4,000 to $7,000. Financial aid options include:

Federal Pell Grants
Texas Public Education Grants (TPEG)
Scholarships from local foundations and organizations
Student loans

Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

Texas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LVNs to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. If you’re moving to Texas from another state, you must meet Texas’s licensure requirements and apply for endorsement through the Texas Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to take the first step toward your new career. Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their LVN programs and start your journey today!

Which Kilgore schools offer LVN programs?

Kilgore LVN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LVN programs) are medical training programs. LVN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LVN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LVN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LVN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LVN in Texas?

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 LVN licensure.

How long will my LVN Course be?

Most LVN 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 LVN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LVN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LVN 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 LVN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LVN program, Texas LVN 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 Kilgore LVN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LVN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in Texas offer CNA to LVN programs. Usually, a CNA to LVN 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 LVN level.