There are two main types of nurses--registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. Registered nurses typically enjoy higher pay and increased responsibilities because they have more education than licensed practical nurses.

Types of Education

Licensed practical nurses must compute a state-sponsored training program. Registered nurses must have an associate's degree, hospital training and certification or a bachelor's degree.

Time Frame

The training required for licensed practical nurses takes one year to complete. Associate's and bachelor's degrees for registered nursing require two and four years of study, respectively, and hospital training programs typically last three years.

Locations

LPNs earn their education at medical training schools, nursing schools or community colleges. Associate's degrees for registered nurses are offered by junior colleges and community colleges, and bachelor's degrees are earned at traditional colleges or universities.

Cost

In 2009, the average cost of LPN training programs was $7,000 to $12,000, according to SuccessDegrees.com. The average cost of an associate's degree program in 2009 was $5,088 for two years, plus supplies and books, and bachelor's programs cost $28,080 to $105,092 for four years, plus supplies and books, according to CollegeBoard.com.

Other Requirements

After graduation, licensed practical nurses must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and registered nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, to be licensed by the state to treat patients.

Source:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses

CollegeBoard.com: Average College Tuition

SuccessDegrees.com: Cost of a Licensed Practical Nurse Education

Resource:

Registered Nurse Career Information