CNA to LPN: How to Make the Transition
Why Become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
LPNs have a higher level of responsibility and scope of practice than CNAs. While CNAs typically assist patients with activities of daily living, LPNs can also perform more advanced tasks such as taking vitals, placing catheters, giving injections and enemas, dressing wounds, and collecting samples for lab testing. LPNs also have more education and licensure requirements than CNAs, which can lead to increased career growth opportunities.
Check out the chart below for a side-by-side comparison of CNA and LPN responsibilities and requirements.
| CNA | LPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Duties | Assist Patients with activities of daily living | Take vitals, place catheters, give injections and enemas, dress wounds, and collect samples for lab testing |
| Education | Completion of state-approved CNA program | Complete a state-approved LPN program |
| Licensure | Pass state competency exam to obtain CNA certification | Pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure |
| Career Growth | Limited career growth opportunities | Increased career growth opportunities, such as becoming a registered nurse (RN), nurse educator, or healthcare administrator |
By becoming an LPN, you will have the opportunity to take on more responsibilities and advance in your nursing career. Jersey College's LPN program offers a flexible curriculum and a wide range of campus locations to make it easy for students to find a program that fits their needs.
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The Lpn Program at Jersey College
Jersey College's LPN program is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to start their nursing career. Our program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers as Licensed Practical Nurses. Our professors are experienced professionals who provide students with a quality education. Our alumni have found success in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare agencies. Here is what some of our alumni have to say about their experience at Jersey College:
I feel Jersey College more than prepared me for my career.
Some of my most memorable moments from being a student at Jersey College involve instructors. I remember when I was taking an exam and I was so nervous, I felt as if I could not breathe. My instructor, Ms. Jackie, was there to tell me to take a deep breath and gave me some words of encouragement and I felt so much better. Throughout all my semesters, the instructors always offered words of encouragement and always made me feel that they believed in me which helped me believe in myself. Every day at 6:00am, Ms. Molina would give a quote of power, knowledge, and inspiration and I made it a point to read these every day.
There are many great student resources at the Campus. My favorite student resource is student services. They are always available when I need them and they know me by name. I also appreciate the knowledge staff in financial aid and their assistance with any questions I had, Ms. Mitchell is very knowledgeable and helpful.
I feel Jersey College more than prepared me for my career. When I took my NCLEX for my nursing license, it felt easy to me and I passed on my first try. I love what they do at this school and plan to continue my journey here to become an RN."
- Almarie C.
LPN Graduate, Teterboro Campus
“My decision to return to school and change careers made it very important for me to pick the right learning institution. I was very anxious about entering the field of nursing with the academic demands it required. Choosing Jersey College had such an impact on my learning experience, it absolutely changed my life."
The administration provided a nurturing environment that accommodated my academic and emotional well-being. The instructors are very interactive and care immensely about your success. In spite of my anxiety about nursing math I completed the Practical Nursing program and passed my boards on the first attempt.
Jersey College made it possible for me to continue on to the RN program in which I'm currently mid way through. I implore anyone seeking a nursing career to come look at this school. The clinical and academic skills they teach you will give you all you need to become a successful licensed nurse. Thank you Jersey College!”
- Virginia T.
LPN Graduate, Ewing Campus
Jersey College's LPN program also provides students with opportunities for a clinical experience that can prepare them for their career.
Learn more about the LPN program closest to you:
Career Outlook
Note: The salary and informational data presented here is aggregated data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and are provided for information only and are not a promise of employment nor attainment of any certain wage. Best efforts have been made to ensure the information is accurate according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals are advised to visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for the latest information.
The career outlook for LPNs is very promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $48,070 as of 2021. The most common career paths for LPNs include working in nursing care facilities, hospitals, and physicians' offices. The rate of employment by position is also high, with LPNs being in demand across a variety of healthcare settings.
Long-term employment projections for LPNs are positive, with the BLS projecting a 6% growth rate in LPN jobs between 2021 and 2031. This growth rate is driven by the aging baby boomer population, which will require increased healthcare services in the coming years.
How to Become an LPN
To become an LPN, you must first complete an LPN program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Admissions criteria vary by program, but generally, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum GPA. Most LPN programs take about one year to complete and include both classroom and clinical training.
At Jersey College, our LPN program includes a flexible curriculum and opportunities for clinical experience, as well as certifications and degrees that will prepare you for your career.
For more detailed information on how to become an LPN, including sample curriculums, admissions criteria, and exam scores needed, visit our How to Become an LPN page.
Program length is subject to change and is determined based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to: (i) pace of completion, (ii) quantity of credits taken per term, (iii) repeats of coursework, and (iv) leaves.
Accreditations & Licenses
Jersey College is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education. Each of our campuses has licenses and approvals from their state departments of education and state nursing boards.
For more information on our accreditations and licenses, visit our Accreditations and Licensing page.
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Based on the success of our programs, we have grown to serve communities in 7 states (and counting!). Find a campus near you to start your NurseLife.
