Massachusetts LPN Programs

Directory of state-approved LPN training classes

A licensed practical nurse works with people in just about every facet of the health care system. A registered nurse, doctor or dentist supervises an LPN. The LPN performs many functions depending on the facility. Some of these duties are evaluating patient needs, changing wound dressings, starting care plans, taking vital signs, patient observation and collecting lab specimens. They may work with catheters, oxygen equipment, intravenous lines and monitoring systems. Working in a doctor’s office or clinic, an LPN might be responsible for giving injections, scheduling appointments, chart documentation and supervising medical assistants. In nursing homes LPNs typically supervise the nurse aides. In long-term care facilities that house twenty-four hour residents, LPNs work all shifts including weekends and holidays.

The ideal LPN candidate should be compassionate, physically fit, self-confidant, have good judgment and strong decision-making skills. It’s not uncommon to be on your feet for long periods of time while assisting patients. Caring for the sick and elderly can also be stressful on your emotional being. These are all things to consider before jumping into a career as an LPN.

Students can take math and science classes in high school to prepare for an LPN program. A full time LPN program takes one year and includes clinical practice in an actual medical facility. The purpose of the clinical training is to give students a chance to apply theories learned in class and gain hands-on experience. The last step is passing the National Licensure exam for Practical Nurses. Upon passing the NCLEX-PN you will receive your certificate shortly thereafter and can begin looking for LPN employment opportunities.

LPN salaries in Massachusetts depend on multiple factors such as population, type of facility and job competition. The average LPN salary in2024 in Boston is $72,512 per year. The state of Massachusetts average LPN salary in 2024 is $69,938 per year.

Massachusetts has a number of community colleges offering LPN programs that count towards earning a Practical Nursing Certificate. Classes are given in psychology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology. Neighboring health care facilities provide clinical experiences. Students practice job skills in on-campus labs. Students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 for all general education and nursing courses to remain in the program. Before enrollment acceptance, students must pass a criminal background check, sex offender registry check and physical exam. Immunizations must be up to date and certification in CPR must be current. This is common procedure for anyone providing direct patient care.

The nursing field is competitive. Many LPNs remain competitive within the job market by becoming certified in IV therapy, long-term-care, hemodialysis, pharmacology and wound care. Certifications increase your marketability to employers and increase your knowledge base.

List of LPN Programs in Massachusetts (MA)

Massachusetts LPN Schools

Our directory lists all Massachusetts schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Massachusetts state board of nursing is the regulatory organization in charge of approving LPN education programs. To gain approval, educational institutions must demonstrate to the board of nursing that their program sufficiently prepares students with the knowledge and skills expected of a licensed practical nurse. The on-going approval of a program depends largely upon their graduation rates and the NCLEX pass rates of their graduates. If a program starts to produce poor results in either of these two categories they can quickly lose their state approval or be placed on probationary approval status until their results improve.

Required LPN Classes in Massachusetts

The specific course work required in practical nursing programs can differ from institution to institution. However, there are some subjects that are almost always included in most programs. Typical LPN classes include Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology and Pharmacology. Topics covered within these subjects prepare students with the knowledge base required to perform the work of a licensed practical nurse.

How to Become an LPN in Massachusetts

Start the process by researching available education programs to find one that suits your schedule and preferences. The next step is to enroll and complete an LPN training program that is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing. Most LPN programs take roughly one year to finish. Upon successful completion of all course requirements you are eligible to challenge the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the test you can register with the state of Massachusetts as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment.