How to Go From CNA to LPN

LPNs have a wider scope of practice, more training, and more room to grow than CNAs, including a direct path to becoming a registered nurse (RN).

LPNs have a higher level of responsibility and scope of practice than CNAs. While CNAs typically assist patients with activities of daily living and take vital signs, LPNs can also perform more advanced tasks, depending on their state's scope of practice, such as giving medications and injections, placing catheters, 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.

 CNA vs. LPN at a Glance

Check out the chart below for a side-by-side comparison of CNA and LPN responsibilities and requirements.

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.

Jersey College's Practical Nursing program combines classroom instruction with clinical experience to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN. Graduates earn a Practical Nursing diploma.

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:
 

Jersey College's LPN program also provides students with opportunities for a clinical experience that can prepare them for their career.

To find the LPN program closest to you, visit our Practical Nursing program page.

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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.

LPNs are needed across nursing care facilities, hospitals, and physicians' offices, and the BLS projects continued job growth through 2034.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average (mean) annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $64,150 as of 2024. The most common career paths for LPNs include working in nursing care facilities, hospitals, and physicians' offices. 

Long-term employment projections for LPNs are positive, with the BLS projecting a 3% growth rate in LPN jobs between 2024 and 2034.

As a CNA, you already have patient care experience. To become an LPN, you complete a state-approved practical nursing program, then pass the NCLEX-PN to earn your license.

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.

Here is how the process typically works for a CNA:

1. Choose a state-approved practical nursing program. Look for a program approved by your state Board of Nursing at an institution accredited by a recognized agency, such as the Council on Occupational Education.
2. Meet the admissions requirements. Review your program's criteria, including the Nursing Entrance Exam.
3. Plan how you will pay for school. Explore federal, state, and private aid options on the Financial Aid page. If you plan to keep working as a CNA, ask about evening nursing programs.
4. Complete classroom and clinical training. Clinical rotations build on the patient care skills you already use every shift as a CNA.
5. Graduate, Pass the NCLEX-PN and apply for your license. The NCLEX-PN is developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Your state Board of Nursing issues your LPN license.

At Jersey College, our LPN program includes a flexible curriculum and opportunities for clinical experience, as well as a practical nursing diploma 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.

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.

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.

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