Best Online LPN Programs: Accredited Programs in Nursing in 2023

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Chief Data Scientist & Head of Content

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Today, there is a high demand for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the healthcare industry. The occupation has been growing at a rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031, with 58,800 potential openings every year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). One of the advantages of becoming an LPN is that it does not require a long and expensive education. In fact, there are online LPN programs that allow aspiring nurses to complete their training in as little as 12 months.

Online LPN programs offer flexibility and convenience to students who have busy schedules or live far from campus. These programs typically consist of a combination of online coursework and clinical practice at a local healthcare facility. Students can learn the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing from the comfort of their own homes, while still gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings.

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However, online LPN programs are not for everyone. They require a high level of self-discipline, motivation, and organization. Students must be able to manage their time effectively, study independently, and communicate with instructors and peers through online platforms. In this article, we will list down some of the best online LPN programs in 2023 that offer quality education. Using public data, our research team has ranked them according to availability, reputation, and costs, among other key metrics. Hopefully, you will find the right program for you as LPNs are vital to the healthcare system.

Best Online LPN Programs in 2023 Table of Contents

• What is an LPN?
• How long does it take an LPN program?
• Can you take an LPN degree program online?
• What to Look for in an Online LPN Program
• General Requirements for an Online LPN Program
• Best Online LPN Programs

What is an LPN?

LPN stands for Licensed Practical Nurse, a type of health care professional who provides basic nursing care to patients in various settings. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians, and they perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, collecting samples, and assisting with personal hygiene. LPNs also monitor patients’ conditions and report any changes to the RN or physician. LPNs may also provide emotional support and education to patients and their families. In California and Texas, LPNs are known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs).

In 2021, there were 657,200 LPNs in the United States, earning a median annual salary of $48,070 at an hourly rate of $23.11. This is $2,310 more than the median yearly salary of all occupations in the country.  The highest-paying industry for LPNs is the government, with workers earning $52,210. This is followed by nursing and residential care facilities ($49,620), and home healthcare services ($48,350).

What is the difference between LPN and RN?

We already know what an LPN is, what they do, and who they work under. One of these is a registered nurse (RN). While LPNs perform certain medical duties, they have fewer responsibilities than the RNs that supervise them. RNs have more autonomy and authority to plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care for patients. They can perform more complex procedures such as inserting catheters, administering blood transfusions, and educating patients and families.

Also, the education and license requirements for RNs and LPNs are different. How to become a LPN? LPNs typically complete a one-year diploma or certificate program at a vocational school or community college while RNs usually need a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution. What about the difference between RN and BSN?RNs complete either an ADN or BSN program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. LPNs complete a specific LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.

How long does it take an LPN program?

LPN programs usually take one to two years to complete, depending on the school and the curriculum. TLPN programs are offered by many vocational and community colleges, as well as some universities and hospitals. LPN programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings. Note, however, that when completing an LPN program, you will not earn a full-fledged nursing degree, only a postsecondary diploma. LPN programs cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing skills, ethics, and communication. Students may also learn about legal and ethical issues, communication skills, and cultural competence in nursing. There are also 6-month lpn program online options, but one must have the prerequisite coursework to be eligible. Below are common courses offered.

Typical Courses in Online LPN Programs

• Anatomy and Physiology. This course covers the structure and function of the human body systems, such as the skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. It also explores the relationships between these systems and how they maintain homeostasis.
• Pharmacology. This course introduces the principles of pharmacology, such as drug classifications, actions, interactions, adverse effects, and administration. It also teaches the legal and ethical aspects of medication administration, as well as the calculation of dosages and conversions.
• Nursing Foundations. This course provides the basic knowledge and skills for nursing practice, such as health assessment, infection control, wound care, vital signs, documentation, communication, and patient education. It also covers the history and trends of nursing, the nursing process, and the LPN scope of practice.
• Nursing Care of Different Patient Groups. This course focuses on the nursing care of patients with different health needs and conditions, such as geriatric, pediatric, maternal-child, mental health, surgical, and medical-surgical patients. It also covers the cultural, psychosocial, and developmental factors that affect patient care.
• Nursing Leadership. This course prepares students for the leadership and management roles of LPNs in various healthcare settings. It covers topics such as delegation, supervision, teamwork, conflict resolution, quality improvement, and professional development. It is also tackled in MSN to DNP programs and MBA MSN dual degree programs online.

While there are no internship requirements, LPN programs require clinical hours. This is an essential component of an LPN program. This is the part of the program where students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings under the supervision of a licensed nurse. The number of clinical hours required to complete an LPN program may vary depending on the state, the school, and the curriculum. They usually fall between 500 to 750. There are programs, however, such as Mildred Elley in New York that require more than 1,000 clock hours.

Can you take an LPN program online?

Yes. There is a multitude of online LPN programs in the United States. There are also fast track LPN programs online, as well as the best direct entry MSN programs online, but you need to complete prerequisite coursework to become eligible. These online LPN programs make it more convenient to pursue a career in practical nursing and offer more flexibility to working professionals. Keep in mind, however, that while LPN programs offer online courses for the theoretical part of the curriculum but they still require students to complete clinical hours in person at a healthcare facility. Also, depending on the program itself, you may also be required to attend certain classes on campus for both theory and practice.

Some programs may award a certificate or diploma, while others may offer an associate degree in nursing. The choice of the program depends on the student’s goals, budget, and availability. Online LPN programs prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), which is required to obtain a license in most states. This may include an exit exam such as Elsevier’s Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) PN Exit Exam (E2) that help gauge student readiness (Riley et al., 2023). Additionally, some states have specific regulations for online LPN programs that may affect your eligibility for licensure. And this should also be covered by your online program. Therefore, before enrolling in any online program, you should check the accreditation status of the program and the licensing requirements of your state for perfect alignment.

However, students should also consider the challenges and limitations of online learning, such as lack of face-to-face interaction, technical difficulties, self-discipline, and time management. Students should also research the accreditation status, reputation, and outcomes of online LPN programs before enrolling.

How long does it take to become a LPN?

So, how long does it take to become a LPN? To become an LPN, one must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which usually takes one year to complete. After graduating from the program, one must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain a license.  The certification program usually takes one to one and a half years to complete, getting ready for and taking the NCLEX-PN exam may take a few months, and the same amount of time to get a job. So, in total, it takes about one to two years for one to become an LPN. Do note, however, that LPNs must also meet the continuing education requirements of their state to maintain their license.

What to Look for in an Online LPN Program

If you are interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you might want to consider enrolling in an online LPN program. Online LPN programs offer flexibility, convenience, and affordability to aspiring nurses. However, not all online LPN programs are created equal. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an online LPN program for you.

• Availability. While there are online programs that are generally available to everybody everywhere, there are online LPN programs that are designed specifically for local training with local field placements to fulfill clinical hours. So, before enrolling in a program, make sure it is available in your area.
• Accreditation. Accreditation is a process of quality assurance that ensures that an educational institution or program meets certain standards of excellence. Accreditation is important because it affects your eligibility for financial aid, transfer credits, licensure, and employment. You should look for an online LPN program that is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
• Curriculum. The curriculum of an online LPN program should cover the essential knowledge and skills that you need to practice as an LPN. The curriculum should include both theoretical and clinical components, such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child nursing, mental health nursing, and geriatric nursing. You should also look for an online LPN program that offers a variety of electives and specializations that match your interests and career goals.
• Faculty. The faculty should be qualified, experienced, and supportive. You should look for an online LPN program that has faculty members who have advanced degrees in nursing, relevant clinical expertise, and teaching experience. You should also look for an online LPN program that has a low student-to-faculty ratio, which means that you will have more opportunities to interact with your instructors and receive feedback and guidance.
• Clinical placements. Clinical placements are an integral part of any LPN program, as they provide you with hands-on experience in real-world settings. You should look for a program that has partnerships with reputable healthcare facilities in your area or region, where you can complete your clinical hours under the supervision of a licensed nurse. You should also look for an online LPN program that offers flexibility in scheduling your clinical placements so that you can balance your personal and professional obligations.
• Cost. Cost is another important factor to consider when choosing an online program. Online LPN programs vary in terms of tuition fees, financial aid options, and other expenses, such as books, supplies, and technology. You should look for an online LPN program that fits your budget and offers financial assistance, such as scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study programs. You should also compare the cost of different programs and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each one.

General Requirements for an Online LPN Program

If you are interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and pursuing your education online, you need to meet some general requirements before enrolling in an online LPN program. These include a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA, completing prerequisite courses in subjects like anatomy and physiology, and a passing score on an entrance exam, among others. Note, though, that requirements may vary depending on your state, the school you choose, and the level of education you want to achieve. Here are the most common ones:

• High school diploma or GED. This is the minimum educational requirement for most online LPN programs. You need to have a high school diploma or its equivalent to enroll.
• Minimum GPA. There are programs that require a minimum GPA of 2.75 in prerequisite courses in math, science, and English.
• Entrance exam. Some online LPN programs may require you to take an entrance exam to assess your academic readiness and aptitude for nursing. The entrance exam may cover topics such as reading comprehension, math, science, and vocabulary. You may need to achieve a certain score to be eligible for admission.
• Background check and drug screening. As a prospective LPN student, you need to undergo a background check and a drug screening to ensure that you meet the ethical and professional standards of the nursing profession. You may need to submit your fingerprints and personal information for the background check and provide a urine sample for the drug screening. If you have a criminal record or a positive drug test result, you may be disqualified from admission.
• Immunizations and health insurance. You need to provide proof of immunization and health insurance before enrolling in an online LPN program. You need to be immunized against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, varicella, and tetanus. You also need health insurance coverage in case of any accidents or injuries during your clinical hours.
• CPR certification and other credentials. It is best to have a CPR certification from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross before starting your online LPN program. These may even be required in some programs. Also, have other credentials ready as well such as a driver’s license, a social security card, or a state-issued ID card. These documents are necessary for identification and verification purposes.

Skill Requirements for Online LPN Programs

To be successful as a student in an LPN program, you need to have certain skills and abilities as well. And these also translate to fieldwork. These are foundational skills that also lend well to other healthcare occupations. For instance, it has some intersections with courses found in top online public health programs as well as healthcare administrator programs. Of course, as LPN credentials are postgraduate certificates and diplomas, not full-fledged degrees, coursework is more basic compared to the aforementioned programs.

Some of the most important skills are:

• Communication skills. You need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. You also need to be able to write clear and accurate reports and records.
• Critical thinking skills. You need to be able to apply your knowledge of nursing theory and practice to different situations and problems. You also need to be able to evaluate the quality and reliability of information and sources.
• Technical skills. You need to be able to quickly learn and perform various nursing procedures and tasks, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, inserting catheters, and dressing wounds. You also need to be familiar with the equipment and technology used in healthcare settings.
• Interpersonal skills. You need to be able to work well with others in a team and respect the diversity and dignity of your patients and colleagues. You also need to be compassionate, empathetic, and ethical in your interactions.
• Organizational skills. You need to be able to manage your time, prioritize your tasks, and cope with stress. You also need to be flexible and adaptable to changing situations and demands.

Technological Requirements of Online LPN Programs

To participate in LPN classes online, you need to have access to a reliable computer with a high-speed internet connection and a webcam. You also need to have basic computer skills, such as using email, word processing, and online learning platforms. Also, you may need some equipment and software, such as a headset, a microphone, a printer, and an antivirus program. These are the essential technical requirements to ensure a smooth and successful online learning experience in LPN schooling.

Best Online LPN Programs

There are many quality online LPN programs available today that can help you build the knowledge and skills to be a successful licensed practical nurse. While most are totally reliable, it is really best to choose a top online LPN program that has a good reputation and a vast network for credited field placements. Our research team has gathered publicly available data today to provide you with some of the best LPN online programs in the country. They are ranked according to key metrics such as availability, affordability, reputation, and alumni success. Again, do note that there really are no accredited fully-online practical nurse programs as hands-on experience is required. The programs listed below offer the greatest degree of flexibility.

1. Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global offers an online associate degree in nursing that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and licensure as an LPN. Courses available include those for Professional Roles, Foundational Nursing Skills, Health Care Technology, and Communication. There are also courses for leadership, problem-solving, and values. The institution is also offering some of the best online nursing degree programs available today at all levels. The most famous of them is the nurse practitioner program with four specializations. These include Adult-Gerontology, Family, and Psychiatric Mental Health. Completion rates for programs vary but, generally, it will take one to one and a half years. This is, of course, depending on their prior education and experience. The program includes online courses, clinical simulations, and supervised practicums in local healthcare settings. And

• Program length: 1.5 years (Associate of Nursing)
• Tracks/concentrations: None
• Cost per Credit: $315
• Required Credits to Graduate: 116
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Herzing University

Herzing University has a program for an online diploma in practical nursing that can be completed in 12 months of full-time study or 20 months of part-time study. The program covers topics such as pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and nursing care across the lifespan. The program also requires students to complete clinical hours at approved sites near their location. The online LPN program has rolling enrollment, providing a good degree of flexibility to working professionals. There are, of course, core on-campus courses. And while the program prepares students to become LPNs, it also serves as a prep program for other pathways. And the university is also known for having one of the best online NP programs. So, if you should finish your LPN program and want to further advance your nursing career, Herzing University has plenty of options to do so.

• Program length: 1 to 1.5 years
• Tracks/concentrations: None
• Cost per Credit: $495
• Required Credits to Graduate: 37
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. East Coast Polytechnic Institute (ECPI) University

ECPI University has a practical nursing (PN) program that you can take, in part, online. It introduces students to the nursing occupation and prepares them not only to become licensed practical nurses but for more advanced pathways in nursing as well. Typical courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Acute Care Nursing, Dosage Calculation, and Pharmacology. The university has physical campuses in five locations, including Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Manassas. NCLEX passing rates from the aforementioned campuses are 90.57%, 91.38%, and 91.14% respectively.

• Program length: 1.7 years or 90 weeks
• Tracks/concentrations: None
• Cost per Credit: $201 ($9,720 in total)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 48.5
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Hondros College of Nursing

Hondros College of Nursing has a Practical Nursing (PN) program that trains students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The program has no waitlists and offers four start dates per year, with the option of day or evening, and weekend LPN online classes. It takes as little as 12 months to complete the program, which requires 48 credits in Ohio and Michigan, and 49 credits in Indiana. The curriculum includes hands-on clinical experience, nursing simulations with interactive mannequins, training in IV therapy, and preparation for the licensure exam. Students also develop soft skills such as effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and professionalism. Upon completion of the program, students can apply to take the NCLEX-PN exam.

• Program length: 1 to 1.5 years
• Tracks/concentrations: None
• Cost per Credit: $201 ($9,720 in total)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 48 (Ohio and Michigan); 49 (Indiana)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Lake Area Technical College

Lake Area Technical College offers online full-time and part-time practical nursing programs, training students to become successful LPNs and preparing them for other nursing tracks. Typical courses include Medical Terminology, General Psychology, Mathematical Reasoning, and Anatomy. All of its theory portions are online but, like all accredited LPN school online offerings, students must report on campus to acquire clinical experience. It also offers a good degree of flexibility as all remote clinical courses can be completed at any other accredited technical college or school.

• Program length: 1.5 years
• Tracks/concentrations: None
• Cost per Credit: $124
• Required Credits to Graduate: 34
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Is an online LPN program right for you?

Online LPN programs offer some advantages over traditional programs, such as flexibility, convenience, and affordability. You can complete most of your coursework online, at your own pace and schedule, without having to commute or relocate to campus. You can also save money on tuition, fees, and transportation costs by choosing an online program. And they may also be more accessible to students who live in rural areas or have family or work obligations that prevent them from attending a regular program. However, as mentioned, online LPN programs also have some drawbacks that you should consider before enrolling.

First, you will still need to complete your clinical hours in person, at a local healthcare facility that is approved by your program. You will need to arrange your own transportation and schedule for these hours, which may be challenging depending on your location and availability. Second, you will need to have a reliable computer and internet connection, as well as the self-discipline and motivation to study online. You may also miss out on some of the social and academic support that comes with attending classes on campus, such as interacting with peers and instructors face-to-face. So, if you are not a self-starter yet, then an online program may not be the best fit for you.

Ultimately, the decision to take an online route to become an LPN depends on your personal preferences, goals, and circumstances. You should weigh the pros and cons carefully and compare different online programs to find the one that best suits your needs and interests. Moreover, if you want more upward mobility in the medical field, you should also consider finding an institution that offers other degrees; for instance, a master’s or online doctoral programs that can open more opportunities for career advancement.

References:

• Riley, T. A., Gouveia, C., Baker, R. S., Ruiz, K., & San Pedro, M. O. Z. (2023). Supporting student success on the practical nurse (PN) licensure exam: The Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) PN Exit Exam Study. Nurse Education Today, 121, 105669. PubMed.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, April 18). Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses. BLS.