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Accredited LPN Programs & Colleges in Tennessee
27 TCATs across the state run 12-month practical nursing programs at standardized low tuition ($4,000–$6,000). TCAT Nashville, TCAT Memphis, TCAT Knoxville, and TCAT Chattanooga serve the major metros. Rural TCATs often have less competition for seats. All programs are approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
| School | City | Type | Program Length | Approx. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Nashville | Nashville | Applied Technology | 12 months | $5,200 |
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Memphis | Memphis | Applied Technology | 12 months | $5,000 |
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Knoxville | Knoxville | Applied Technology | 12 months | $5,100 |
| Volunteer State Community College | Gallatin | Community College | 12 months | $5,400 |
Tuition figures are approximate and reflect in-state rates. Contact each school for current pricing, financial aid, and enrollment deadlines. Always confirm the program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
Online & Hybrid LPN Programs in Tennessee
No Tennessee LPN program is fully online — clinical training at approved facilities is required. TCAT programs are primarily campus-based. Tennessee's 27-campus coverage means there's a TCAT within reasonable driving distance from most locations in the state.
Hybrid programs are ideal for working adults, parents, or anyone who needs scheduling flexibility. Typical hybrid programs cover 40–60% of coursework online, with the remainder as on-site clinical hours at approved partner hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and clinics.
For a complete list of online-friendly LPN programs available to Tennessee residents, visit our dedicated guide:
Requirements to Enroll in a Tennessee LPN Program
TCAT admissions are competitive with standard prerequisites. Tennessee Reconnect eligibility requires: Tennessee resident, no associate's or bachelor's degree, not currently enrolled. Apply at TNReconnect.gov before enrolling. Tennessee is an NLC compact state with no state income tax on wages.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum age of 18 (some programs accept students at 17 with parental consent)
- Completed prerequisite courses — typically includes basic math, English, and introductory biology or anatomy & physiology
- Passing score on an entrance exam (TEAS or HESI A2 are most common)
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- Current CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association)
- Up-to-date immunization records including TB test, Hepatitis B, and flu vaccine
Quick Facts: LPN Licensing in Tennessee
After completing an approved program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and apply for licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Most candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing.
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LPN Salary & Job Outlook in Tennessee
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 OEWS data), LPNs in Tennessee earn an average of $53,490 per year ($25.72/hour). This places Tennessee below the national LPN average of $62,340.
Salaries in Tennessee typically range from $39,800 for entry-level positions to $66,800 for experienced nurses in high-demand specialties or metro areas.
LPN Salary by City in Tennessee
| City / Metro Area | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $56,800 |
| Memphis | $54,200 |
| Knoxville | $53,400 |
| Chattanooga | $52,800 |
Job Outlook
Employment of LPNs in Tennessee is projected to grow 4% over the next decade — about as fast as average for all occupations. The state sees approximately 1,800 annual job openings for LPNs, driven by retirements, career transitions, and growing demand in skilled nursing facilities and home health.
Where LPNs Work in Tennessee
The majority of LPNs in Tennessee work in skilled nursing facilities and long-term care, which together employ roughly 35% of the state's practical nurses. Other common employers include hospitals, physician offices, home health agencies, and outpatient care centers. Shift differentials for evenings, nights, and weekends can add $2–$5/hour on top of base pay.
First Job Tips for New LPN Graduates
Landing your first LPN position in Tennessee is usually straightforward given current demand. Skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers actively recruit new graduates and often offer sign-on bonuses. Staffing agencies are another option — they can place you quickly and often pay above-average hourly rates. Once you have 6–12 months of experience, you'll qualify for positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.
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Explore More Nursing & Healthcare Careers in Tennessee
Whether you're starting out or planning your next credential, these guides can help:
Tennessee
Tennessee LPN Scope of Practice — What You Can and Can't Do
Tennessee LPNs are regulated by the TN Board of Nursing. Tennessee is an NLC state.
You Can Direct Patient Care
- Medication administration (oral, IM, SubQ, topical, rectal, inhaled)
- Focused assessments and ongoing monitoring
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Vital signs and point-of-care testing
- Foley catheter insertion and management
- Tracheostomy care and suctioning
- Contributing to care plans
- Supervising CNAs/UAPs
Conditional IV Therapy
- LPNs may perform IV therapy after completing a Board-approved course
- Must work under direction of an RN or physician
- Peripheral IV starts and IV fluid/medication administration permitted
- LPNs CANNOT administer blood products, chemotherapy, or manage central lines
You Cannot RN-Only Functions
- Comprehensive assessments
- Creating or modifying care plans
- Blood product or chemotherapy administration
- Central line management
- Triage
- Independent practice
Tennessee LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs
| School | Format | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville State Community College | On-campus + clinical | 12–16 months | ADN bridge in Nashville |
| Chattanooga State Community College | On-campus + clinical | 12–18 months | ADN bridge in Chattanooga |
| Excelsior University | 100% Online | Self-paced | Online + local clinicals, no waitlist |
Tennessee Board of Nursing Contact
- Website: tn.gov — Nursing Board
- Phone: (615) 532-5166
- Address: 665 Mainstream Dr, Nashville, TN 37243
Ready for the Next Step?
Bridge from LPN to RN — Expand Your Scope and Your Paycheck
Tired of scope limitations? RNs earn 35–50% more, perform initial assessments, create care plans, start IVs without extra certification, and run triage. Bridge programs let you earn your RN while you keep working.
Explore LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs →