CDE Career Institute

Licensed Practical Nursing

Paterson Branch Campus
Paterson, NJ
Diploma · On Campus
Licensed Practical Nursing
Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE); approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and licensed by the NJ Department of Labor.
This program is delivered in person at the Paterson, NJ Branch Campus, with no online instruction.
Request Information
This program takes about 60 weeks to complete (1,501 clock hours), with Day and Evening tracks.
$0
Available

Licensed Practical Nursing is a Diploma program offered by CDE Career Institute in Paterson, NJ. The program takes 60 weeks to complete.

Program Overview

The Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at CDE Career Institute is a comprehensive diploma-level training program offered exclusively at our Paterson, NJ campus. The program consists of 1,501 clock hours delivered over 60 weeks (both Day and Evening tracks) and includes classroom instruction, lab skills development, and supervised clinical rotations. Led by a licensed medical doctor and supported by experienced nursing faculty, the LPN program prepares students for a licensed role in today’s fast-paced healthcare workforce. Instruction emphasizes practical skills, real-world clinical reasoning, and preparation for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.

The program covers:

  • Nursing fundamentals and infection control
  • Anatomy & physiology for practical nursing
  • Pharmacology and safe medication administration (oral, IM, IV)
  • Medical-surgical nursing care
  • Maternal-child health and pediatric care
  • Mental health and behavioral care
  • Clinical rotations at approved NJ healthcare facilities
  • Embedded NCLEX-PN exam preparation and job readiness training

Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and may pursue employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health, rehabilitation centers, and schools. Delivery Method: In-Person (No online instruction).

What sets this Program apart

Led by a licensed medical doctor. Led by a licensed medical doctor and supported by experienced nursing faculty, the LPN program prepares students for a licensed role in today’s fast-paced healthcare workforce.

Embedded NCLEX-PN preparation. 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.

Free entrance exam prep. A free, one-week entrance exam prep course is offered prior to the test to improve applicant readiness.

Day or evening tracks. Students, regardless of track, receive an identical number of hours and quality of training.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants must meet the following requirements for admission to the LPN program:

  • Hold a high school diploma or GED certificate.
  • Be at least eighteen (18) years of age on or before the first day of class (per New Jersey clinical site and NCLEX-PN licensure requirements).
  • Pass the LPN entrance examination. A free, one-week entrance exam prep course is offered.
  • 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.
  • Obtain current CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association) prior to first clinical rotation.

No prior medical experience is required. Important Disclosure: Pursuant to New Jersey law, a criminal background check is a prerequisite for nursing licensure. Individuals with certain criminal histories may be barred from licensure by the New Jersey Board of Nursing regardless of program completion.

General Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
    You must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate.
  • Minimum age of 18
    You must be at least eighteen (18) years of age on or before the first day of class, per New Jersey clinical site and NCLEX-PN licensure requirements.
  • LPN entrance examination
    You must pass the LPN entrance examination; a free, one-week entrance exam prep course is offered.
  • Criminal background check
    You must complete a criminal background check, which is required by N.J.A.C. 13:37-1.8(h).
  • Drug screening
    You must complete a drug screening prior to the start of clinical rotations.
  • Immunizations and health screenings
    You must provide documentation of required immunizations and health screenings.
  • CPR/BLS certification
    You must obtain current American Heart Association CPR/BLS certification prior to your first clinical rotation.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Complete the admissions interview
    Contact the school to schedule an appointment to meet with Admissions staff and visit the school; call Admissions at (973) 658-4901.
  2. 2
    Submit your application
    Complete the school’s online Student Application.
  3. 3
    Pass the LPN entrance examination
    Pass the LPN entrance examination; a free, one-week entrance exam prep course is offered prior to the test.
  4. 4
    Sign the Enrollment Agreement
    During the admission procedure, the Admissions staff and the student complete the Enrollment Agreement and plan the schedule required for the chosen program.
  5. 5
    Set up tuition through Financial Aid or a payment plan
    Meet with the Financial Aid Office to arrange payment of tuition, including a payment plan.
  6. 6
    Attend orientation and start classes
    Attend orientation and begin classes on the start date in your Enrollment Agreement.

Program Schedule

The program consists of 1,501 clock hours delivered over 60 weeks, with both Day and Evening tracks. The LPN application lists the Day track as Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM (30 hours per week) and the Evening track as Monday-Friday, 4:00 PM-10:00 PM (30 hours per week). LPN students must maintain a minimum attendance rate of 90% in all scheduled instruction.

No specific upcoming start dates are published.

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
FAFSA Code

Cost of attendance. The school’s current sources publish conflicting costs and financial-aid status for this program, so no figure is shown here; confirm current tuition and funding options with the Financial Aid Office at the Branch Campus, (973) 658-4901.

FAFSA. CDE Career Institute’s school code is 041275.

Curriculum

To graduate, 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 2.5 across all program courses, complete all 1,501 clock hours of scheduled instruction, maintain a minimum attendance rate of 90% in all instruction (theory and clinical), complete all clinical hours in full, meet all financial obligations to the school, and have a clear criminal background check and drug screening on file. Students who meet all graduation requirements 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.

Required Courses

Name
Nursing Fundamentals
Anatomy & Physiology
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical Nursing I
Medical-Surgical Nursing II
Maternal-Child Nursing
Mental Health Nursing
Nursing Practicum: Fundamentals
Nursing Practicum: Adult I
Nursing Practicum: Mental Health
Nursing Practicum: Adult II
Nursing Practicum: Maternal-Child
Nursing Practicum: Capstone
Pharmacology Lab / Dosage & Calculation / NCLEX Prep

Career Outcomes

Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and may pursue employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health, rehabilitation centers, and schools. Median Annual Wage for Licensed Practical Nurses in New Jersey: $60,780 (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2024, SOC 29-2061). Because the LPN program is newly established, program-specific outcome rates will be published once the first cohort completes. *While CDE Career Institute actively assists students in their job search, we cannot guarantee employment to any student. If local employment opportunities are not available, relocation may be necessary.

What to expect as a CDE Career Institute student

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. All LPN students are required to wear the official CDE Career Institute school uniform while attending classes, labs, and clinical rotations.

Campus Address

Paterson Branch Campus
157-183 Main Street
Paterson, NJ 07505

Why Accreditation Is Important

CDE Career Institute is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE). Licensed by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The Licensed Practical Nursing program is approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

  • A reliable indicator of quality
  • Approved program of study
  • Qualified instructors
  • Recognition by employers nationwide

Accreditations

Council on Occupational Education (COE)

Student Demographics

These are demographics for all students at the Paterson Branch Campus (IPEDS, 2024).

Gender Distribution
Women74%(230)
Men26%(81)
Race/Ethnicity Distribution
Primary Ethnic Group
Black/African American
39.2% · 122 students
Black/African American39.2% · 122
Hispanic/Latino37% · 115
White19.3% · 60
Asian0% · 0
American Indian/Alaska Native0% · 0
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander0% · 0
Two or More Races0% · 0
International Students0% · 0

Percentages are of total fall enrollment. 14 students whose race or ethnicity was not reported are included in that total but shown as no category, so the figures above come to 95.5% rather than 100%.

Testimonials

The instructor is very thorough and patient. She makes sure we understand everything before moving on to the next topic. I would recommend this school to anyone.

Patricia Brower
Verified Google Review

One of the best medical schools around. They offer different programs; on site campus, as well as on line courses. If you need extra help, they are always there. Cindy is one of the best! As well as Mr. Lopez. Their fast and secure enrollment process makes signing up significantly easier if you have a busy schedule. Thanks guys.

Sheanetta Potts Eaton
Verified Google Review

The school was amazing. The instructors and staff are very helpful, patient, and knowledgeable. I will recommend it to all my friends and family.

Ms. Boujee
Verified Google Review

The instructors here are excellent, especially Dr. Gad, who is very knowledgeable and approachable. The staff is kind, professional, and always willing to help. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for a quality education.

Wayne Smith
Verified Google Review

I wanna give a big shout out to Taquerah — she’s been one of the most influential, helpful people I’ve had. The rest of the team at the school has been amazing too. I walked in and my confidence was in the basement. Now I feel like a whole new person. Thank you CDE!

Aramis Colon
Verified Google Review

Images

Practical nursing student training
Practical nursing student training
LPN diploma program training and clinical practice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the LPN program's structure and how long is it?
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 a 12-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.
What are the LPN course topics?
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.
Is there availability for flexible scheduling for students?
Yes, the program is structured with flexible scheduling and two distinct tracks. Students can pursue the full-time daytime or evening track that takes 12 months, 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.
What are the admission requirements to the LPN program?
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.
How much does the program cost, and what financing options are available?
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.
Is the LPN program fully accredited and fully state-approved?
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.
What clinical experiences are part of the curriculum?
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.
Does the school offer any job placement programs?
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.
How does the program prepare students to take the NCLEX-PN exam?
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.
What happens if I fall behind or miss class time?
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.
What are the requirements to graduate from the program?
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.
Can students select their clinical rotation sites?
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.
What type of employment can LPN graduates seek upon receipt of their LPN license?
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.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Licensed Practical Nursing at Paterson Branch Campus.
Licensed Practical Nursing