The Best Arkansas LPN Programs
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) assumes responsibility for direct patient care, encompassing tasks like personal hygiene, therapeutic procedures, and medication administration, all performed under the watchful supervision of a registered nurse. The LPN track proves advantageous for students in the midst of defining their nursing career trajectory. Delve into an exploration of the finest LPN programs in Arkansas through this guide, which elucidates the operational dynamics of LPN programs, prerequisites for admission, and the pivotal significance of accreditation.
Whats the LPN Role?
An LPN’s role revolves around the delivery of hands-on patient care, spanning diverse activities from personal hygiene to therapeutic procedures and the meticulous administration of medications. This role is executed under the careful guidance of a registered nurse, offering students a beneficial track to traverse while they navigate their nursing career paths. The flexibility inherent in LPN programs allows nurses to initiate their professional journey and subsequently decide whether to pursue further education.
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Navigating the LPN Program Landscape:
This guide extends insights into the inner workings of LPN programs in Arkansas, elucidating the application process and emphasizing the critical role played by accreditation. Employing a data-driven methodology, we present a ranking of the premier LPN programs in Arkansas, aiming to simplify your search for a program aligning with your aspirations. Our evaluation metrics prioritize factors like academic quality, affordability, institutional reputation, and the breadth of program offerings.
Top-Ranked Arkansas LPN Programs:
A cursory glance reveals the top four LPN programs in Arkansas:
1. Arkansas State University
2. Baptist Health College
3. Arkansas State University Three Rivers
4. Northwest Technical Institute
Key Features of Arkansas LPN Programs:
Typically spanning a condensed timeframe of 12 months, Arkansas LPN programs offer a fast-paced educational experience. Classes are conducted in diverse formats, including on-campus, online, or through a hybrid model. The curriculum encompasses fundamental nursing concepts, documentation practices, and specialized areas such as medical/surgical nursing, women’s health, pediatrics, and gerontology.
Clinical practicums constitute a significant component, focusing on the provision of healthcare across various age groups. Arkansas LPN programs are mandated to include a minimum of 560 theory hours and 768 clinical practicum hours.
Successful completion of coursework and clinical practicums culminates in the requirement to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to attain LPN licensure.
Admission Procedures for Arkansas LPN Programs:
The application process typically involves the submission of an online application along with high school transcripts. Admission requirements vary among institutions, with some necessitating minimum ACT or other college test scores. Prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology, may also be stipulated.
Essential admission materials include a high school or GED diploma, official transcripts, and completion of an anatomy and physiology course with a lab component. Immunization records may be another prerequisite, and some schools may consider ACT exam scores.
The Significance of Accreditation:
Accreditation, a rigorous evaluation conducted by a third party, scrutinizes a school’s faculty, coursework, study materials, and labs to ensure they meet stringent quality standards. LPN programs are often accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Opting for an accredited program is imperative for several reasons:
1. Accredited programs guarantee a high standard of education.
2. Graduates from accredited institutions possess the skills and knowledge aligned with LPN diploma-level nursing standards.
3. Many educational institutions do not recognize credits from unaccredited colleges or universities.
4. Accreditation is often a prerequisite for various forms of student financial aid, including federal loans.
In alignment with these principles, our curated list of the top LPN programs in Arkansas exclusively features accredited schools, ensuring that aspiring nurses receive education of the highest caliber.
1. Arkansas State University
School website: AR State University Technical Center
Location: Jonesboro, AR
The origins of the Newport site date back to 1976, initially established as a vocational technical school. However, it merged with ASU in 1992, ultimately evolving into a standalone campus by April 2000. Presently, the institution boasts three campuses, each offering practical nursing certificates.
– Campus: Jonesboro, Arkansas
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
– Tuition: $5,310
– Completion Time: 10 months
– Online Availability: Yes
– Degree Requirements: Open admission
– Programs: Practical Nursing
– School Website: AR State University Technical Center
2. Baptist Health College
School website: Baptist Health Schools Little Rock
Location: Little Rock, AR
Licensed practical nurses, operating under the guidance of registered nurses, play a crucial role in direct patient care. Their responsibilities span treatment, personal hygiene, and medication administration. The Baptist Health Schools Little Rock features an exceptional program designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel as LPNs, all grounded in a faith-driven approach.
– Campus: Little Rock, Arkansas
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: NLNAC
– Tuition: Varies depending on the needs of the student
– Completion Time: 2 semesters
– Online Availability: Yes
– Degree Requirements: GED, transcripts, ACT
– Programs: Practical Nursing
– School Website: Baptist Health Schools Little Rock
3. Arkansas State University Three Rivers
School website: Arkansas State University Three Rive
Location: Malvern, AR
Functioning as a two-year college overseeing the OACC (Ouachita Area Career Center), Arkansas State University Three Rivers is a multifaceted institution. It manages various post-secondary programs, offers adult education, and operates a comprehensive workforce center. The college is a popular choice for those seeking direct entry into the workforce or aspiring to pursue further education.
– Campus: Malvern, Arkansas
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
– Tuition: $1,950 in state or $3,900 out of state
– Completion Time: One year
– Online Availability: Yes
– Degree Requirements: Open admission
– Programs: Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, Practical Nursing Technical Certificate, Medication Administration Program Certificate of Proficiency, Nursing Assistant Certificate of Proficiency
– School Website: Arkansas State University Three Rivers
4. Northwest Technical Institute
School website: Northwest Technical Institute
Location: Springdale, AR
Collaborating with the NWA community, Northwest Technical Institute emphasizes providing a top-tier practical nursing program. The institution is dedicated to meeting the educational needs of students, whether they aspire to enter the nursing profession immediately or continue along their educational pathway.
– Campus: Springdale, Arkansas
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education and/or the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the State Board of Career Education
– Tuition: $2,016
– Completion Time: One year
– Online Availability: Yes
– Degree Requirements: COMPASS, TEAL, GED, transcripts, immunization records, references
– Programs: Practical Nursing
– School Website: Northwest Technical Institute
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas LPN Programs
How do I get my LPN license in Arkansas?
To obtain an LPN license in Arkansas, you must graduate from an accredited LPN program, fulfill all clinical requirements, and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN for licensure.
How much does an LPN make in Arkansas?
As per 2021 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, LPNs in Arkansas earned a mean salary of $43,040 or $20.69 per hour. However, individual LPN income may vary based on factors such as employer, geographical location, and experience.
How long is an LPN program in Arkansas?
Arkansas LPN programs typically span 12-15 months, with completion times varying depending on the school and whether attendance is on a part- or full-time basis.
Is it worth becoming an LPN in Arkansas?
Becoming an LPN in Arkansas is highly worthwhile. Acquiring an LPN license serves as a stepping stone for further education, positioning individuals for higher salaries and enhanced career advancement. Numerous LPN-to-RN programs, many available online, cater to working LPNs seeking to broaden their professional horizons.
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