Salary, Training Time, Requirements & Which to Choose
| Category | PCT | LPN |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $35,610/year ($23.08/hr) | $64,920/year ($31.21/hr) |
| Training Time | 1-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Program Cost | $1,500-$5,000 | $4,000-$12,000 |
| License Required? | No | YES (NCLEX-PN) |
| Give Medications? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
💰 Salary Difference: LPNs in Rhode Island earn $29,310 MORE per year than PCTs (82% higher).
Note: Rhode Island's aging population and high concentration of hospitals create steady PCT/LPN demand.
3-12 months
14-20 months
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
PCT: Community colleges, private training centers (3-12 months).
LPN: Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), several private training centers offer accredited LPN programs (12-18 months).
PCT: Limited (mostly workforce grants).
LPN: YES! Federal Pell Grants, state scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement available. Many students attend LPN school for little/no cost.
Yes! This is a popular path. Work as a PCT (earn $35,610/year), attend LPN school part-time evenings/weekends. Many Rhode Island hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for PCTs advancing to LPN.
Whether PCT (fast entry) or LPN (higher pay), both lead to rewarding healthcare careers.