Online LPN & LVN Programs: Finding the Right School

If you’re ready to become a nurse, check out this EduMed guide. You have many paths to choose from if your goal is to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). So, you need to consider many details before you decide on a school/program.

Below, you’ll find a detailed look at top schools and online programs plus questions you should ask yourself to determine the best option. You’ll also learn about salary and career expectations and get answers to frequently asked questions. Keep reading for these and other insights.

Mikalee Byerman
Author: Mikalee Byerman
Editor: Ginny Gillikin
Norma-Battaglia
Reviewer:

Norma Battaglia

Norma is a Master’s prepared Registered Nurse with over 35 years of clinical and leadership experience. With education long being a focus of her career, she has worked teaching and coordinating programs for students, EMS providers, nurses, physicians, and community groups. Norma has been able to combine her knowledge and experience in EMS, acute care, and public health to mentor others to become part of the healthcare solution.

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How Online LPN/LVN Programs Work

Students must complete an accredited higher education program to become an LPN. Some accelerated programs can be completed in as little as nine months. But, longer and more robust programs can take up to two years to complete.

You might be a student who’s juggling multiple responsibilities or you might want more flexibility with your education. Schools are incorporating online learning into their practical nursing curricula more often. Online LPN/LVN programs use distance learning tools for academic courses. Typically, they host patient-facing opportunities or coordinate them with third-party facilities.

To become an LPN/LVN, you’ll generally pursue a diploma or certificate rather than a college degree. These programs usually take between one and two years to complete. They are offered by community colleges and vocational schools. If you’re interested in continuing your education, you might want to go further and earn an associate degree.

Schools that offer a hybrid learning approach are listed below.

Eagle Gate College

Eagle Gate College offers a hybrid Practical Nursing program that features online courses and hands-on training in simulations, labs, and healthcare facilities. Classes offer extensive instruction on clinical nursing skills such as patient monitoring, administering prescribed medications while reporting adverse reactions to treatment, starting intravenous fluids, and other duties that are common in the field, like educating patients and their families.

The school offers guidance and insight to help students pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Duration: 12 months

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: Tuition varies based onlocation. A previous tuition schedule listed $31,512 as the cost of tuition, fees, and supplies for Practical Nursing students who live off-campus, as of 2021.

Admissions Requirements: Applicants must meet certain admissions criteria. They must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens as designated by the Department of Homeland Security. They must be 18 years old at the time of admission; students under the age of 18 can obtain approval from a parent or legal guardian or demonstrate that they are covered under state emancipation statutes. Applicants must have earned a high school diploma or GED and must complete an admissions interview.

Curriculum: The program requires completion of 48 credit hours, including 39 credits of nursing core courses and nine credits of general education courses.

Best For: Idaho and Utah residents with a nearby Eagle Gate College campus

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Verve College

Verve College’s Practical Nursing program is a certificate/diploma program; students take most courses on campus in Chicago or Oak Brook, Illinois. The program features a hybrid approach. This includes classroom instruction, laboratory simulations at campus labs, externships in clinical settings (including hospitals and nursing care facilities), and online practice and exam preparation.

All theory classes are held via Zoom, and students must be visually present. Clinicals rotate between on-campus and off-campus locations.

Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, and the cost of tuition includes one attempt to pass the exam.

Duration: 1,080 credit hours (typically completed in 14 to 15 months)

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $24,995 (tuition)

Admissions Requirements: The college follows a robust admissions process. Requirements include:

  • Active CNA certification
  • High school diploma/GED or a minimum of eight credit hours from an accredited U.S. college or university
  • College transcripts for Anatomy and Physiology courses with a minimum of six to eight credit hours and a minimum C grade
  • ATI-TEAS Entrance Examination (must be taken at Verve College)
  • Proof of current personal medical insurance
  • Proof of professional liability insurance obtained from www.nso.com
  • Social Security card
  • CPR/BLS card
  • 400- to 500-word personal essay; topics should include Why I want to be a PN and What do I plan to do with my nursing career?
  • Two professional letters of recommendation

Curriculum: Three semester-long courses feature specific learning modules. Students explore how to provide nursing care for sick, injured, and/or otherwise disabled patients. They learn basic bedside care and how to take vital signs. They will prepare and give injections and enemas, monitor catheters, apply dressings, treat bedsores, and give alcohol rubs and massages.

Best For: Illinois students who are interested in entry-level nursing positions under the supervision of an RN or a physician

West Virginia Junior College (WVJC)

West Virginia Junior College offers a hybrid Practical Nursing program. It combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences at the school or local/regional healthcare facilities. In addition to hands-on training, students gain experience in real-world activities through clinical rotations at local area hospitals and medical facilities. Students can save time and money on this direct-admission program by immediately starting related classes.

The program meets the educational requirements for professional licensing in West Virginia. So, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN after completing the program.

Duration: 12 months

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: Tuition varies based on program mode (whether students choose a direct-admission approach or pursue an associate degree) and length. Use the school’s net price calculatorto get an estimate of costs.

Admissions Requirements: According to admissions requirements, students must:

  • Take the ATI-TEAS Entrance Examination
  • Complete a nursing application and pay a fee
  • Submit documents, including essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other documents requested by the admissions team
  • Complete an interview with a campus representative
  • Complete required health screenings, immunizations, and background checks

Curriculum: Students at WVJC can expect to learn and utilize the nursing process to provide safe and effective patient care. They learn how to practice sound nursing judgment, critical thinking, and patient care skills. They will complete classroom instruction and lab experiences in gerontological, medical, surgical, obstetric, and pediatric nursing.

Best For: Students who want to practice in West Virginiaand gain an entry-level nursing position. By earning a diploma in Practical Nursing, they can enter the workforce sooner, begin earning income, and gain valuable experience in the field. Graduates of the WVJC LPN program can complete the Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing Pathway Program later if they decide to further their education within five years of graduation.

Ask Yourself…

As you learn more about potential LPN/LVN programs, you’ll want to gain an understanding of the level of education you’d like to achieve and your career goals. Below, we list a few questions that might serve as a springboard for your self-reflection process.

  1. Am I willing to commit to the required education and licensing processes?
  2. Will I be comfortable helping patients by taking vital signs, assisting with basic hygiene needs, and administering medications under supervision?
  3. Will I be able to adequately prepare for the NCLEX-PN after I complete an LPN/LVN program?
  4. Do I have the stamina to endure a program that typically takes a minimum of 12 months and might take up to two years to complete?
  5. What are my long-term career goals, and does becoming an LPN/LVN fit into that path?

Answers to Common Questions from LPN/LVN Students

Can I take LPN/LVN classes online?

Yes; online courses and programs are available that allow students to complete classwork when it’s convenient. Many are programs are hybrid and include both online and in-person classes. Coursework can be completed early in the morning, late at night, or on weekends.

Each program will have its own system to provide a curriculum online. Most will feature varying degrees of asynchronous learning, so students can complete online requirements when it’s convenient. Occasional “real-time” (synchronous) meetings might be conducted online through video chat or discussion boards. But, students will not need to go to campus to attend online classes.

What is the fastest LPN/LVN program?

To become an LPN or LVN, students must complete an accredited and state-approved program. While standards vary according to the program, shorter programs can take as little as nine months; longer and more robust programs can take up to 18 months to complete. Some fast-track accelerated programs can be completed in as little as six months, but they are rare.

Can I take the NCLEX-PN without going to school?

No; in order to take the NCLEX-PN – which is a licensing requirement in every state that is currently administered by Pearson VUE for $200 – you’ll need a certificate or diploma in either licensed practical nursing (LPN) or licensed vocational nursing (LVN). These certificate and diploma programs are only offered by educational institutions, so you cannot take the exam without first completing a program.

Can I skip being an LPN/LVN before becoming an RN?

It is possible to skip the LPN step. But, most students look at it as a steppingstone to gain practical experience and ensure they’re on the right track for a nursing role. Many online bridge programs are available; most of them require an LPN credential at minimum before students can become an RN.

If you’re interested in skipping the LPN certification, you should look for a direct-entry RN program. However, RN programs are extremely competitive. Earning an LPN designation and gaining practical experience in the field can be an advantage for future RN students.

Can I become an LPN/LVN in six months?

Accelerated/fast-track programs usually take anywhere from six months to one year to complete. Although six-month programs are rare, they do exist – typically as a completion program for students who already earned related credits.

Regular one-year programs require full-time study and year-round attendance for classes and clinicals. Accelerated programs assume that incoming students completed some general education and/or prerequisite courses before enrolling in an LPN/LVN program. Students are required to complete as many as 22 credit hours (including clinicals) in one semester.

Tuition and Fees for Online LPN/LVN Courses: Cost Comparison

Tuition is only one factor that determines whether you can afford an online LPN/LVN program, and tuition is as varied as online program options. Students can expect to pay thousands to tens of thousands of dollars for an online certificate or diploma.

If you’re looking for the most affordable online LPN/LVN programs, you should factor in some indirect costs that can be a surprise if you’re not prepared. These include the cost of technology, such as a reliable internet connection and a laptop. You should also consider fees associated with background checks and exams, uniform costs, necessary equipment, and fees that schools charge for technology or other services.

Many programs offer financial aid, and scholarships are often available.

To give you an idea of the range of costs you can expect for an online LPN/LVN program, we’ll offer a pair of cost profiles from programs below, including some insight into what their tuition covers.

School NameProgram TypeTuition and Fees
Grand Rapids Community CollegeHybridThe cost of this program for Michigan residents is approximately $12,071; non-residents must pay approximately $23,609. This is the cost of tuition; it does not include online course fees, other school fees, uniforms, or licensure, which is approximately $500 (Michigan license = $208.80, fingerprints = $65, and NCLEX = $200).
Green River CollegeHybridThe cost of tuition and fees for full-time students is approximately $7,000; part-time students must pay approximately $8,000. This cost does not include textbooks (which typically range from $1,000 to $1,500), uniforms and supplies, immunizations, insurance, drug screens, a licensing exam, or technology requirements/fees.

Salary and Employment Outlook for LPNs/LVNs

Show entries
Search:
Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
U.S. $45,670 $59,730 $77,870
Alabama $33,710 $48,330 $61,530
Alaska $57,740 $75,610 $93,540
Arizona $54,060 $65,500 $77,190
Arkansas $38,100 $48,790 $60,390
California $61,500 $75,610 $96,790
Colorado $50,680 $64,720 $77,240
Connecticut $57,230 $65,670 $78,930
Delaware $53,080 $63,190 $72,460
Florida $45,780 $56,730 $68,750
Georgia $41,350 $54,770 $69,220
Hawaii $51,420 $61,110 $74,100
Idaho $26,580 $55,610 $74,210
Illinois $49,160 $62,600 $79,440
Indiana $48,170 $60,500 $72,470
Iowa $46,440 $54,460 $65,390
Kansas $42,200 $55,540 $66,860
Kentucky $43,710 $56,040 $64,790
Louisiana $39,200 $50,000 $61,840
Maine $51,240 $63,950 $124,330
Maryland $52,110 $64,510 $80,150
Massachusetts $62,230 $73,380 $82,850
Michigan $47,840 $61,850 $74,400
Minnesota $48,820 $58,870 $69,090
Mississippi $37,540 $48,260 $60,170
Missouri $43,990 $56,030 $64,410
Montana $42,640 $55,840 $68,460
Nebraska $43,410 $57,580 $65,660
Nevada $52,490 $64,920 $78,770
New Hampshire $54,350 $70,620 $90,260
New Jersey $57,940 $64,620 $76,510
New Mexico $36,570 $60,370 $73,680
New York $49,250 $62,360 $76,890
North Carolina $47,130 $58,590 $70,160
North Dakota $49,100 $57,910 $67,350
Ohio $46,310 $58,130 $70,420
Oklahoma $39,960 $50,510 $61,680
Oregon $59,210 $71,040 $84,300
Pennsylvania $47,020 $59,650 $72,270
Rhode Island $61,190 $76,840 $102,540
South Carolina $45,740 $56,710 $67,380
South Dakota $38,660 $49,610 $59,010
Tennessee $37,230 $49,780 $62,370
Texas $45,100 $57,010 $70,530
Utah $40,730 $57,200 $74,500
Vermont $49,210 $62,550 $80,130
Virginia $45,000 $58,200 $72,800
Washington $59,190 $76,190 $92,540
West Virginia $38,320 $47,610 $63,240
Wisconsin $48,520 $57,150 $68,910
Wyoming $48,080 $57,470 $71,410

Source: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
United States 655,000 689,900 34,900 5.30% 54,400
Alabama 11,440 11,700 260 2.30% 900
Alaska 320 360 40 12.50% 30
Arizona 6,540 8,210 1,670 25.50% 730
Arkansas 10,930 11,660 730 6.70% 930
California 78,100 92,000 13,900 17.80% 7,830
Colorado 4,970 5,590 620 12.50% 460
Connecticut 9,070 9,450 380 4.20% 740
Delaware 2,140 2,500 360 16.80% 210
District of Columbia 1,210 1,320 110 9.10% 110
Florida 37,770 42,580 4,810 12.70% 3,520
Georgia 23,160 25,940 2,780 12.00% 2,130
Idaho 2,800 3,340 540 19.30% 290
Illinois 18,960 19,480 520 2.70% 1,510
Indiana 12,080 12,990 910 7.50% 1,040
Iowa 5,990 6,710 720 12.00% 550
Kansas 7,000 7,420 420 6.00% 590
Kentucky 10,720 11,440 720 6.70% 910
Louisiana 19,230 20,670 1,440 7.50% 1,650
Maine 960 980 20 2.10% 80
Maryland 7,740 8,230 490 6.30% 650
Massachusetts 4,790 5,160 370 7.70% 410
Michigan 10,590 10,730 140 1.30% 820
Minnesota 14,340 14,850 510 3.60% 1,150
Mississippi 8,930 9,420 490 5.50% 740
Missouri 13,010 13,750 740 5.70% 1,090
Montana 1,950 2,250 300 15.40% 190
Nebraska 6,050 6,580 530 8.80% 530
Nevada 3,220 3,840 620 19.30% 330
New Hampshire 2,140 2,250 110 5.10% 180
New Jersey 16,510 17,550 1,040 6.30% 1,390
New Mexico 1,820 2,110 290 15.90% 180
New York 45,960 57,020 11,060 24.10% 1,110
North Carolina 16,650 18,320 1,670 10.00% 1,490
North Dakota 2,570 2,800 230 8.90% 230
Ohio 37,590 38,230 640 1.70% 2,930
Oklahoma 13,590 14,450 860 6.30% 1,150
Oregon 3,540 3,990 450 12.70% 330
Pennsylvania 34,410 36,560 2,150 6.20% 2,900
Rhode Island 1,660 1,810 150 9.00% 150
South Carolina 9,300 10,500 1,200 12.90% 870
South Dakota 2,150 2,320 170 7.90% 190
Tennessee 18,350 21,950 3,600 19.60% 1,890
Texas 62,840 70,660 7,820 12.40% 5,830
Utah 1,670 2,080 410 24.60% 180
Vermont 1,070 1,200 130 12.10% 100
Virgin Islands 110 100 -10 -9.10% 10
Virginia 18,880 20,240 1,360 7.20% 1,620
Washington 7,900 8,730 830 10.50% 800
West Virginia 6,610 7,270 660 10.00% 590
Wisconsin 6,740 6,720 -20 -0.30% 510
Wyoming 640 730 90 14.10% 60

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Ranking the Best Online LPN/LVN Programs

Many colleges and universities offer online LPN/LVN programs. Which schools offer the best online LPN/LVN programs with quality instruction, affordable costs, and top-notch student and career support? We listed some info to help make your college-vetting process easier. We factored in data pulled from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) that was self-reported by schools.

1

Lakeshore Technical College

Cleveland, Wisconsin

Lakeshore Technical College offers a Practical Nursing program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program, accredited by the ACEN, spans five terms and requires 31 credits. It includes both in-person and evening classes, with clinical courses also part of the curriculum. Graduates can expect a median annual income of $49,535. Admission requires a high school diploma, background check, and completion of the Health Occupation Entrance Assessment.

Why We Selected Lakeshore Technical College:

  • Hands-on clinical experiences at local hospitals enhance practical skills.
  • Accelerated eleven-month program structure allows for quick entry into the workforce.
  • Personalized instruction and commitment to excellence support student success.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,868
  • Average Institutional Aid$626
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award65%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
2

Lake Area Technical College

Watertown, South Dakota

Lake Area Technical College offers a Practical Nursing Hybrid E-Degree that blends online coursework with on-campus clinical experiences. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and offers paths to further nursing education. Full-time students can complete the program in 11 months, while part-time students take 18 months. Admission requirements include completion of specific prerequisite courses, ACT or Accuplacer scores, and a minimum GPA. The program is accredited by ACEN and meets licensure requirements in multiple states.

Why We Selected Lake Area Technical College:

  • The program offers a hybrid learning model combining online theory with on-campus clinical experiences.
  • Lake Area Tech provides a pathway to become a Registered Nurse after completing the LPN program.
  • The program offers automatic acceptance based on specific academic criteria, streamlining the application process.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,720
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,868
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course44%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award80%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
3

Central Community College

Grand Island, Nebraska

Central Community College (CCC) in Nebraska offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing (PN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and subsequent careers as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical experiences. Students will complete over 650 hours of clinical and simulation time.

Why We Selected Central Community College:

  • The program offers over 650 hours of clinical and simulation time for hands-on learning.
  • Individualized remediation plans are provided through Nursing Success Coordinators for effective study skills.
  • A state-of-the-art simulation center enhances learning with hi-fidelity simulators for realistic patient care scenarios.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,760
  • Average Institutional Aid$954
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award46%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
4

South Piedmont Community College

Polkton, North Carolina

The Practical Nursing Diploma program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to become effective practical nurses. The program focuses on developing basic nursing skills in medical, surgical, obstetrical, and pediatric nursing. Students engage in a combination of classroom instruction and clinical experiences to gain comprehensive knowledge and skills. The program prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. Admissions typically require specific prerequisites and assessments. Upon completion, graduates are qualified for entry-level positions as practical nurses, offering a pathway to careers in healthcare under the supervision of registered nurses or other healthcare providers. The program’s emphasis on clinical practice and theoretical knowledge provides a solid foundation for career advancement in nursing. Financial aid options may be available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected South Piedmont Community College:

  • The Practical Nursing program at SPCC integrates evidence-based practice and informatics into its curriculum.
  • The program emphasizes cultural competency and effective communication skills in nursing care.
  • Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam, enhancing their career prospects in healthcare.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,824
  • Average Institutional AidN/A
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award27%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
5

Panola College

Carthage, Texas

The Vocational Nursing Program at Panola College is designed to prepare students for a career as a competent vocational nurse. The program spans three semesters, totaling 42 semester credit hours. It follows a blocked curriculum system with a focus on clinical learning, progressing from simple to complex concepts. Students are prepared to apply nursing principles and skills in various clinical settings. Admission requires prerequisites such as Biology 2404 or equivalent courses. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam for vocational nurses. The program emphasizes collaboration with other healthcare professionals and provides a foundation for patient-centered care. Career outcomes include roles in healthcare settings, with opportunities for advancement and further education. Financial aid and support services are available to students.

Why We Selected Panola College:

  • The program offers reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities, ensuring inclusive learning.
  • Panola College's Vocational Nursing program is fully approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, enhancing credibility.
  • The program provides a structured curriculum with clinical placements within a 70-mile radius, offering practical experience.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$792
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,929
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award30%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
6

Holmes Community College

Goodman, Mississippi

The Practical Nursing program at Holmes Community College offers three distinct tracks: Full Time Day, Part-Time Evening/Weekend, and Part-time Hybrid. The Full Time Day option lasts three semesters and is available at multiple campuses. The Part-Time Evening/Weekend option spans five semesters, while the Hybrid option also lasts five semesters, combining online lectures with in-person labs and clinicals. Admissions requirements include a minimum ACT score, official transcripts, and prerequisite courses like Anatomy & Physiology I and Medical Terminology. Career outcomes prepare graduates for entry-level nursing positions in various healthcare settings. Financial considerations and specific costs are not detailed, but students can explore financial aid options through the college.

Why We Selected Holmes Community College:

  • Holmes Community College offers multiple program tracks, including full-time and hybrid options, for flexibility.
  • The Practical Nursing program provides intensive preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam, enhancing job readiness.
  • Holmes Community College's Practical Nursing program is designed to serve a specific nine-county area, offering localized job opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,700
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,174
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award34%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
7

Amarillo College

Amarillo, Texas

The Vocational Nursing Program at Amarillo College is a one-year Certificate of Completion program designed to prepare students for licensure as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). The program equips graduates to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Admission requirements include immunizations, certifications, and background checks. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). The program emphasizes lifelong learning and competency in nursing practice. Career outcomes include roles in patient care and advocacy, with opportunities for continued education and professional development. Amarillo College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.

Why We Selected Amarillo College:

  • The Amarillo College Vocational Nursing Program offers a one-year certificate completion, providing quick entry into the workforce.
  • Amarillo College's nursing programs are accredited by the Texas Board of Nursing, ensuring high standards and licensure preparation.
  • The program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, facilitating licensure as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,128
  • Average Institutional Aid$740
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award33%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
The Practical Nursing Certificate at Rhodes State College is a one-year program designed to prepare students for direct basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or other licensed healthcare professionals. The program requires 39 credit hours and includes classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction. Students must achieve a grade of “C” or better in all required coursework and meet specific admission requirements, including a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher and completion of prerequisite courses. Admissions requirements include a college-level cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher, completion of prerequisite courses with a “C” grade or better, and meeting general college requirements. Career outcomes are strong, with high job placement rates and licensure pass rates for graduates. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam and may choose to continue their education through articulation into the Associate Degree Nursing Program. Financial considerations include costs associated with clinical assignments and licensing exams, but specific tuition costs are not detailed in the provided information.

Why We Selected James A. Rhodes State College:

  • The program offers a well-rounded curriculum integrating classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction.
  • The Practical Nursing Certificate Program is fully approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, ensuring high standards.
  • Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam, facilitating licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,325
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,271
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course35%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award51%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
9

Hinds Community College

Raymond, Mississippi

Hinds Community College’s Practical Nursing program prepares students to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of registered nurses, physicians, or dentists. The program requires basic knowledge of biological, physical, behavioral, psychological, and sociological sciences, along with nursing procedures. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalency, and official transcripts from all colleges attended. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and mentorship, offering a fulfilling career path with opportunities for advancement. Graduates function as care providers, professionals, and managers. While specific program length and credits are not detailed, students gain essential skills for a career in nursing, with potential pathways for further education or specialization. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected Hinds Community College:

  • The program offers hands-on experience and mentorship crucial for future success.
  • The Practical Nursing program prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
  • The program is accredited by the Mississippi Community College Board, ensuring quality education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,500
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,964
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course44%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award26%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
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Mikalee Byerman

Mikalee Byerman AUTHOR

Mikalee Byerman (which rhymes with “prickly fireman,” though she claims to be neither grumpy nor adept at fire suppression) is a freelance writer/editor, marketing coach, humor strategist, keynote speaker, and author of “100 Things to Do in Reno Before You Die.” She holds a master’s degree in journalism, and her writing has been featured in Ladies’ Home Journal, Southwest Spirit Magazine, and Alaska Airlines Magazine, as well as on the Huffington Post. She was named “Best Creative Writer” and “Best Local Author” in the Best of Nevada awards. 

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Ginny Gillikin EDITOR

Ginny Gillikin is a detail-oriented and dedicated professional with over 3 years of experience as a copy editor. She enjoys editing and fact-checking informative and engaging content for healthcare and nursing education websites. Ginny earned a Communication/Print Journalism BA degree and an English minor from Virginia Tech.

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