How Quickly Can You Launch an LPN Career?
Posted On September 18,2025
Choosing a healthcare career is one of the smartest decisions you can make, and becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a great entry point. The healthcare industry boasts some of the most in-demand roles, ensuring excellent job security and stability. As the population continues to age and medical technology advances, there will always be a need for individuals seeking a career in healthcare. Not only are there practical reasons to choose a career in healthcare, but many who go down this path do so because they want a career where they can help people and make a real difference. One of the biggest deterrents, however, is that many potential LPNs are intimidated about the process of entering the field and aren’t excited about returning to the classroom. However, if you choose to become an LPN, you’ll be happy to know that this is a career that you can launch quickly. From your first day of classes until your first day of employment can take as little as 12-18 months with the right program.
Deciding to Become an LPN
There are several options available for those interested in pursuing a career in nursing. You can choose to be a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant), an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), or an RN (Registered Nurse). Becoming an LPN is a great option that will enable you to start working quickly while still providing opportunities for career growth.
Choosing a program requires some research. Ideally, you want to find a comprehensive program that teaches you everything you need to be successful, but one that is also flexible enough to fit into your life. Programs for LPNs are available at community colleges, career academies, and other training institutions that cater to busy adults. The application process is usually quick. You’ll need to complete an application, submit the materials that prove that you have graduated from high school or have a GED, and meet with an admissions advisor to ensure that you are eligible to enroll and arrange your funding. For a healthcare degree, you will typically need to pass a drug screen, become CPR certified, and ensure that all your vaccinations are up to date. New classes begin every few months, so the time from the decision to enroll to your first class can be very rapid.
Phase 1: Training
Your program has started, and the countdown to your first job as an LPN begins from your first day of classes. Your program, which will last 12-18 months depending on the track you choose, will include:
- Courses in all relevant topics, including Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, Fundamentals of Nursing, Medication Administration, Mental Health, Pediatrics, Maternal/Newborn, and Medical-Surgical Nursing.
- The Clinical Skills Lab is a practice facility for practical skills.
Phase 2: Exam Prep
Before you can begin working as an LPN, you will need to take and pass the licensing exam for nurses, known as the NCLEX-PN. If you have chosen a good program for your LPN education, you should already be well-prepared; however, you will still need to invest time in studying and preparing for the exam. Most LPNs take the exam quickly after graduation from their program (a few weeks to a few months), when they’ve had time to study, but the material is still fresh. Take advantage of all the resources your school offers for preparation. Some of the best tips for exam success include:
- You can’t cram for the NCLEX. You need to build a study routine leading up to your test date. Create dedicated study time daily, almost like another class or shift at your job. When it’s built into your schedule, you can’t blow it off.
- Access practice materials tailored to the NCLEX-PN. This can include study guides, review videos, online resources, and practice tests that will help you become familiar with the exam format and various question types.
- As you go through the practice exams, notice where you are weakest, and focus on building up those areas. Your school can offer support for concepts or skills that are most challenging for you.
- Before the exam, conduct a full practice run by creating a testing environment and completing a full practice test.
Phase 3: Job Search
You can’t work as an LPN before passing the NCLEX-PN, but that doesn’t mean you need to wait for your results to come in before you can begin your job search. Many hospitals, medical centers, and physician offices will hire a new graduate contingent on passing the exam, so you don’t need to wait to begin your job search. A good LPN training program will have job placement assistance. Your school should help you look for open positions, build your resume, and help prepare you for interviews. Many quality career academies will use their extensive network of employers to help connect you with the proper facilities. Begin searching for potential positions during your final semester of classes. With the right help from your program, some LPNs can start their first role within a few weeks of passing the NCLEX.
Phase 4: First Job and Beyond
Once you’ve started your first job as an LPN, a world of options will open. Some LPNs love their role just as it is and will choose to continue working as LPNs, finding the perfect facility for them. Others will use their first job as an LPN as a stepping stone and, after gaining practical experience, will choose to pursue a bridge to RN program, obtain additional certifications to work in other medical roles, or become a nursing supervisor or instructor.
When you are ready to become an LPN, the total time from starting your application process to working your first job as a nurse can be as little as 18 months. With a relatively small investment, you can stop feeling stuck in a dead-end job and start making a difference in the lives of your patients, and have a well-paying, secure, and satisfying career as an LPN.
Ready to launch your LPN career without waiting years? Athena Career Academy offers flexible programs designed to get you into the field in as little as 12–18 months. Visit Athena Career Academy today to take the first step toward your nursing future.