Top Ranked LPN Programs in Phoenix AZ

Compare the most highly rated LPN education programs in Phoenix AZ

By Sybil Morneau
Published on July 8th, 2013

When studying to be a licensed practical nurse, LPN, it is essential to choose the best program possible. It is also important to choose an accredited school, and the goal of the program is to prepare the student to take the state nursing exam. LPN’s work under the direction of a registered nurse and provide basic bedside patient care.

At the completion of an LPN program, students will be trained in patient care, critical thinking and decision making with the associated and necessary skills. A trained LPN will have the ability to implement a care plan and perform the evaluation of patients based on best nursing care criteria.

Maricopa Skill Center

The Maricopa Skill Center offers an LPN program that takes approximately 50 weeks to complete. Applicants must have a high school diploma or a GED to qualify for acceptance. Applicants must complete the online application form and pass the HESI A1 entrance examination with a score of at least 75% in math and 75% in English. The applicant must also submit a finger print clearance card. A clear fingerprint card allows the student to complete the application package and submit it for consideration of acceptance.

The program includes nursing theory and planned patient care that takes place in hospitals, nursing homes and other health care facilities. Midway through the program, students may apply to take the certified nursing assistant (CNA) certification exam and work as a CNA while completing the program. Students who complete the program successfully qualify to take the National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX-PN).

Fortis College of Phoenix

Fortis College offers a licensed practical nurse (LPN) program that gives students the skills to secure employment in an entry level setting in a hospital, nursing home or other health care facility. LPN’s provide patient care for all ages, cultures and ethnicities, as well as all stages of wellness or illness. Applicants must be a high school graduate or hold a GED. Applicants must also submit proof of fingerprint and criminal background check, along with the completed application. Because the program is competitive, applicants who have a concentration in math and science have the best chance of admission.

The 12 month program includes courses in basic patient care, nutrition, pharmaceuticals and leadership. The program also includes practical patient care with an internship at a health care facility under the direction of a registered nurse. Graduates will be prepared to take the National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX-PN). Licensed graduates will be able to secure employment at nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, medical centers and doctor’s offices.

Gateway Community College

Gateway Community College offers a fast track license practical nurse (LPN) program that is intense in nature, but can be completed within 2 semesters. The LPN program is streamlined to offer, and efficient and economical method of education, as well as prepares students to take the National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX-PN). Gateway Community College awards a certificate of completion and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. The fast track program is offered, in addition to the standard LPN program.

Applicants must at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or a GED. Depending on the number of applicants may require applicants to take an entrance exam, in addition to the submission of an application, criminal background check and finger print card documentation are required. The LPN program includes course study in nursing skills, nutrition, pharmaceuticals and patient communication.

Students are also encouraged to have access to a computer and be familiar with basic computer skills. An internship in a hospital, nursing home or other health care facility will be provided to allow the student to gain practical, hands on experience.

Sybil Morneau