Quick Answer: An LPN diploma at HCI College takes about 16 months and leads to the NCLEX-PN. HCI’s Associate Degree in Nursing takes about two years and leads to the NCLEX-RN. The right choice depends on your timeline, finances and career goals.
Two Nursing Credentials, Two Timelines
Broward County students often start their search looking for an RN school Fort Lauderdale residents can attend, then discover a shorter licensed option. HCI College offers both paths at its Cypress Creek Road campus, and it helps to understand how they differ before applying.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Practical Nursing (LPN) | Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | About 16 months | About 2 years |
| Credits | 46 | 72 |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN | NCLEX-RN |
| Credential | Diploma | Associate degree |
HCI’s Associate Degree in Nursing is a 72-credit program that can be finished in as little as two years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX to become a Registered Nurse. The Practical Nursing program totals 46 semester credits and 1,350 clock hours over four semesters. hcihci
When the LPN Path Makes Sense
The Fort Lauderdale LPN training course fits students who:
- Need to start earning a nursing paycheck sooner
- Want to test-drive bedside nursing before committing to a longer degree
- Prefer long-term care, rehab or clinic settings
- Plan to keep working while weighing further education
When the RN Path Makes Sense
Students comparing an RN nursing school West Palm program or a Broward option usually choose the associate degree when they want broader scope of practice, hospital roles, or a direct route toward a bachelor’s degree later. HCI’s ASN curriculum includes general education courses such as English Composition, Algebra, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Psychology, Nutrition and Microbiology alongside nursing courses. hci
How the Roles Differ on the Floor
LPNs provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and other licensed providers, including administering medications and treatments and monitoring patient health. RNs typically take on care planning, patient assessment and supervision of LPNs and aides. hci
HCI’s Nursing History in Broward
HCI College isn’t new to nursing education. Founded in 1993 as Health Career Institute, it introduced its Associate Degree in Nursing in 2013, opened a branch in Lauderdale Lakes in 2017, and moved that branch to a remodeled Fort Lauderdale facility in 2019, when it also became HCI College. hci
That Fort Lauderdale campus is where LPN nurse training in Fort Lauderdale now takes place. Palm Beach County residents can take the same diploma through LPN certification classes West Palm Beach students attend on Congress Avenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an LPN a stepping stone to RN?
For many nurses, yes. Working as an LPN builds clinical experience. Ask HCI Admissions how prior LPN coursework applies to the ADN program.
Which program has a shorter wait to start working?
The Practical Nursing diploma, at about 16 months versus roughly two years.
Do both programs require a licensing exam?
Yes. LPN graduates take the NCLEX-PN. ADN graduates take the NCLEX-RN.
Where to Find HCI College
Fort Lauderdale — 1201 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 · (954) 626-0255
West Palm Beach — 1764 North Congress Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33409 · (561) 586-0121
Sources and Further Reading
- HCI College, Practical Nursing Program — https://www.hci.edu/programs/practical-nursing
- HCI College, Associate Degree in Nursing — https://www.hci.edu/programs/associate-degree-in-nursing
- HCI College, History and Mission — https://www.hci.edu/about/history-mission
- NCSBN, NCLEX Examinations — https://www.ncsbn.org/exams.page
About the Author
