Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

The LPN program at CDE Career Institute consists of a comprehensive 1,501 clock hours, which is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required in entry-level practical nursing. Students may choose between two formats: a 12-month day program for students who are able to attend full-time during normal business hours, and an 18-month evening program that accommodates working adults or students with daytime commitments. Both timelines include a structured mix of classroom instruction, lab skills development, and supervised clinical rotations within real-life healthcare environments. The program is delivered entirely in person at the Paterson, NJ campus. Please note that completing this program does not guarantee employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse. You must successfully pass the NCLEX-PN licensure examination and meet all state requirements to practice as an LPN.

The LPN program covers a broad range of subjects that are crucial for practical nursing. Topics include nursing fundamentals and infection control, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and safe medication administration (oral, IM, IV), medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health and pediatric care, mental health and behavioral care, and clinical rotations at approved New Jersey healthcare facilities. NCLEX-PN exam preparation and job readiness training are also embedded in the program to equip graduates not only with knowledge but also confidence while joining the workforce.

Yes, the program is structured with flexible scheduling and two distinct tracks. Students can pursue the full-time daytime track that takes 12 months, or the 18-month evening schedule, which is advantageous for students who must balance work, child care, or other parts of their lives. Students, regardless of track, receive an identical number of hours and quality of training.

To enter the LPN program, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 17 years of age. They must pass the LPN entrance examination; CDE offers a free, one-week entrance exam prep course to help applicants prepare. Applicants must also complete a criminal background check (required by N.J.A.C. 13:37-1.8(h)), complete a drug screening prior to the start of clinical rotations, provide documentation of required immunizations and health screenings, and obtain current CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association) prior to their first clinical rotation. No prior medical experience is required. Important: A criminal history record background check is required by N.J.S.A. 45:1-28 et seq. prior to receiving an LPN license. Applicants with certain criminal records may be ineligible for licensure even after program completion.

The Licensed Practical Nursing program costs $15,300 total, which includes $13,000 in tuition, a $100 application fee, and $2,200 for books. The program is not eligible for Title IV federal financial aid. However, CDE provides a no-interest monthly payment plan with no credit check and no FAFSA required. This financing plan makes the program accessible to a great number of students, especially those wanting to change or upgrade careers without assuming excessive debt.

Yes. The LPN program is licensed by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. CDE Career Institute is also nationally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures the program meets high standards for educational quality, faculty credentials, and student services.

Students participate in clinical rotations at healthcare agencies approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing, allowing the application of learning from the classroom setting to practice with patient contact under professional supervision. Clinical instruction takes place in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics.

CDE Career Institute provides placement assistance services and career counseling to all LPN graduates. While employment is not guaranteed, the school helps students with resume preparation, interviewing skills, and job search strategies. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN licensure examination and meet all state requirements to practice as an LPN. If local employment opportunities are not available, relocation may be necessary.

NCLEX-PN preparation is embedded in the curriculum of the LPN program. Students are taught test-taking techniques, study major nursing concepts, and complete practice tests so that they can familiarize themselves with the format of the exam. This prepares students to pass the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and proceed with their professional lives with confidence.

LPN students must maintain minimum attendance of 80% for theory/classroom instruction and 90% for clinical rotations. Missed clinical hours must be made up in full. The school does offer free make-up sessions for students who fall behind. Make-up hours are offered Monday to Thursday between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM and Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Students must make up missed classes and assignments within five business days of returning to school. Students falling below these attendance thresholds will be placed on attendance probation.

To successfully graduate from the LPN program, students must achieve a minimum grade of 78% (C+) in all nursing theory courses, receive a grade of Pass in all clinical practicum courses, maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 across all program courses, complete all 1,501 clock hours, maintain minimum attendance of 80% (theory) and 90% (clinical), meet all financial obligations to the school, and have a clear criminal background check and drug screening on file. Graduates will be awarded a Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing and will be eligible to apply to the New Jersey Board of Nursing for NCLEX-PN licensure authorization.

Rotation sites for clinical practice are chosen by the school according to school agreements with local health agencies and NJ Board of Nursing approval. While students do not select their own sites, assignments are made to give them broad, practical experience in diverse care settings, including long-term care facilities, hospitals, and community health agencies.

Once they pass the NCLEX-PN and are licensed, graduates can practice as Licensed Practical Nurses in an array of healthcare facilities. These include hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, and schools. The median entry-level salary in New Jersey is $54,000 to $62,000+. Please note that employment is not guaranteed, and actual salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, and other factors. This figure is provided for informational purposes only and does not represent a guarantee of earnings.