Nurses use their skills and training to promote optimal health for individuals, families, and communities. Working under the direction of a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse administers prescribed medications, draws blood and other fluids, cares for injuries, develops care plans, provides personal care, and observe and monitor patients’ progress. To practice as an LPN, you must pass a licensing exam after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. Many Wisconsin programs also require prospective students to secure certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant before entering the program. LPN programs are offered through community colleges or vocational schools where students must complete at least 31 credits of required coursework. An option to earn an associate’s degree with the completion of an additional year of coursework is also available at most schools.
Northeast WI Tech College
Graduates of the practical nursing program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College qualify for employment in a number of medical settings, including long-term care facilities, acute care hospitals, home health agencies, and physician’s offices. With a consistent pass rate of 92% and above on the NCLEX-PN, prospective students can be assured of success on the pre-licensure exam. The program is approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. Applicants must submit a completed application, high school transcript or equivalent, and acceptable Accuplacer or ACT scores. Other requirements for entry include attendance of a mandatory orientation, submission of immunization documentation, and completion of a background check and American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR. All students must complete nursing assistant training from a provider approved by the DHS. Students are eligible for graduation after completing the 31-credit curriculum plan and may enter the associate degree program. Courses include anatomy, English composition, developmental psychology, nursing fundamentals, nursing pharmacology, introduction to clinical practice, nursing health promotion, and clinical care across lifespan. The total approximate cost of completing the program is $7,425. The costs include tuition, books, and supplies. The program is eligible for financial aid.
- Website: https://www.nwtc.edu/programs/fields-of-interest/health-sciences/therapeutic-services/nursing-pathway/practical-nursing
- Address: 2740 W Mason St, Green Bay, WI 54307
- Phone: (920) 498-5400
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 93.38%
Fox Valley Tech College
Students enrolled in Fox Valley’s practical nursing program learn how to conduct health assessments and administer medications. Learning takes place in the classroom and simulated lab as well as practical learning experiences in a health care setting. Although the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and communication to produce skilled nurses, faculty also focus on the promotion of healthy lifestyles and drug classifications and their effect on the body. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Applicants must complete the TEAS and earn a composite score of 50 or above, attend a mandatory information session, produce high school transcript or equivalent, and sign and submit the Nursing Functional Ability Criteria form. The program is approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing and is a candidate for accreditation by the ACEN. Courses in the 30-credit program include nursing fundamentals, nursing health promotion, pharmacology, nursing skills, introduction to clinical practice, and clinical care across lifespan. Tuition costs $4,277. Books and supplies cost an additional $1,666.
- Website: https://www.fvtc.edu/program/health-science/31-543-1/practical-nursing
- Address: 1825 N. Bluemound Drive P.O. Box 2277, Appleton, WI 54912
- Phone: (920) 735-5600
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 96.99%
Moraine Park Tech College
Moraine Park Tech facilitates a career ladder program that leads to an associate degree in nursing. Students have the option to exit after the first two semesters (must pass an exit assessment) to take the NCLEX for practical nursing licensure and continue the final two semesters to earn an associate’s degree to practice as a registered nurse. Prospective students must submit a completed application and fee, transcript from high school and any college courses, and pass a college assessment test. All students must attend a program orientation, complete a background check and health requirements (immunizations, physical exam, and TB test), and complete the recommended prerequisite courses. Practical nursing students must complete at least 31 credits of the coursework to exit the program. Tuition is $6,750 plus $1,649 for books and supplies.
- Website: http://www.morainepark.edu/programs-and-courses/programs-of-study/Nursing+-+Associate+Degree+With+a+Practical+Nursing+Exit+Point/
- Address: 700 Gould St, Beaver Dam, WI
- Phone: (920) 887-1101
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100.00%
Lakeshore Tech College
Lakeshore Tech prepares practical nursing students to assume the role of a practical nurse in a way that reflects integrity, ethically, and responsibility. They use their social, mathematical, pharmacological skills to make clinical decisions in a multitude of healthcare environments. Applicants must submit a completed application and fee, official high school and college transcripts, ACT or Accuplacer scores, HESI scores, documentation of meeting the health requirements, and complete a background check. All students must complete the Functional Abilities Statement of Understanding form and meet with a program advisor. The background check must be completed before admission and within one month of commencing the clinical practicum. Students complete the program’s 31 credits in five terms. Course topics include nursing skills, nursing fundamentals, nursing health alterations, developmental psychology, body structure and function, nursing pharmacology, introduction to clinical practice, and introduction to clinical care management. The program is offered as a part-time evening program only. Classes meet four nights a week from 5:00pm to 9:30pm. Tuition for resident students is $4,340. Other fees include books, supplies, tools, materials, uniforms, and health-related exams.
- Website: http://gotoltc.edu/academics/programs-of-study/practical-nursing/
- Address: 1290 North Ave, Cleveland, WI
- Phone: (920) 693-1000
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 98.91%
Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.