Online LPN Programs: More Flexibility For Success
Career opportunities for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are expected to grow much faster than average in the coming years, so now is a great time to start your nursing career. Consider an online or hybrid LPN program if you’re looking for a more flexible way to earn your degree. Here’s what you need to know about LPN programs online.
Get Your Degree!
Find schools and get information on the program that’s right for you. Powered by Campus Explorer
Overview of LVN/LPN Online Schools
What Is an Online LPN Program?
An LPN course online is a distance learning program that allows you to complete most of your coursework online. These programs are designed for working adults and other students who need more flexibility than traditional brick-and-mortar programs.
The average salary for an LPN is $48,000 per year. After completing an accredited program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to earn your LPN license.
Online programs typically offer the same coursework as traditional programs, but they provide different ways to learn and earn your degree. For example, you might take online courses, participate in online discussions, and complete clinical rotations in your local community.
Some online LPN classes are hybrid programs, combining online and on-campus coursework. These programs offer the best of both worlds: the flexibility of online learning with the benefits of face-to-face instruction.
LPN Programs Online
Here’s a list of some of the best online LPN programs in the country:
Ashland Community and Technical College
Are you looking for an LPN online program that’s flexible and fits your schedule? Look no further than Ashland Community and Technical College.
With both in-person and online classes, the school offers various learning styles to fit your needs. And with a one-year program, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam in no time.
Tuition: $10,846-12,616 for entire program
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 1400 College Drive, Ashland, KY 41101
Phone: (606) 326-2000
Website: https://ashland.kctcs.edu/
Holmes Community College
Holmes Community College is a superb choice if you’re looking for a program online with a hybrid option. The school offers online and on-campus classes, so you can take advantage of the flexibility of online learning while completing clinical rotations and other hands-on training on campus.
Tuition: $255 per credit hour
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 1 Hill St, Goodman, MS 39079
Phone: (662) 472-2312
Website: https://holmescc.edu/
Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University offers a convenient LPN class online that can be completed in as little as 15 months. The school’s small class sizes ensure you’ll get the individualized attention you need to succeed.
And with several start dates throughout the year, you can begin the program when it’s most convenient for you.
Tuition: $10,935 *estimated for total cost of program
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 385 Douglas Ave Suite #1000, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Phone: (407) 635-8200
Website: https://www.rasmussen.edu/
Lake Area Technical Institute
With a highly respected online LPN school, Lake Area Technical Institute is an excellent choice for students who want the flexibility of online learning. They can complete the program in as little as one year, and you’ll take advantage of the school’s state-of-the-art simulation lab.
Tuition: N/A
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 1201 Arrow Ave NE, Watertown, SD 57201
Phone: (605) 882-5284
Website: https://www.lakeareatech.edu/
Northland Community and Technical College
Northland Community and Technical College offer an accredited LPN program online that can be completed in as little as one year. With small class sizes and experienced instructors, you’ll get the individualized attention you need to succeed.
Tuition: $11,142 total cost of program.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 1101 State Hwy 1, Thief River Falls, MN 56701
Phone: (218) 683-8800
Website: https://www.northlandcollege.edu/
North Central Texas College
With an accredited LPN online program, North Central Texas College is an excellent choice for students who want the convenience of online learning. They can complete the program in as little as one year, and you’ll take advantage of the school’s state-of-the-art simulation lab.
Tuition: $10,000 *estimated total cost
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate.
Contact Information:
Address: 1525 W California St, Gainesville, TX 76240
Phone: (940) 668-7731
Website: https://www.nctc.edu/
Do I Need to Have Experience as a CNA to Apply to an LPN School?
You don’t need to have experience as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) to apply to a program, but it can give you a leg up on the competition. Many programs require applicants to have at least a year of experience working as a CNA, and some even give preference to those with more experience.
If you don’t have experience as a CNA, you can still apply to programs, but you may want to consider completing a CNA training program first.
What is an LPN?
An LPN is a licensed practical nurse. They provide primary nursing care and perform many duties as registered nurses (RNs), but an RN or a doctor supervises them.
LPNs have many job opportunities, such as:
- Hospitals
- Senior care communities
- Long-term care locations
- Doctor’s offices
- Outpatient surgery centers’
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Home health care
- Immunization clinics
- Clinical call centers
An LPN also allows you to continue your education online with an RN or BSN degree. Many online nursing schools offer an LPN to RN or BSN program.
Once you accomplish your LPN, you may find that you want to enhance your career by becoming an RN. With the experience from an LPN online program, you’ll be well to an RN or BSN degree.
What Is an LPN Program?
It is a one-year to two-year educational program that leads to a career as a licensed practical nurse. LPNs provide primary nursing care and perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and dressing wounds.
Most LPN schools combine classroom instruction with clinical experience in a healthcare setting.
LPN classes typically cover human anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and pharmacology. You’ll also learn about the legal and ethical aspects of nursing and how to provide quality patient care.
Benefits of An LPN Online Course
Several advantages of online post-secondary education in nursing include:
- More flexible schedules
- No need to commute
- Ability to complete coursework on your own time
- Increased interaction with instructors and classmates
You’ll also get to network with other students from around the country, which can be helpful when you’re looking for a job after graduation.
Program Requirements
LPN schools have specific admission requirements, varying from school to school. Some standard requirements include a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA, and completion of prerequisite courses.
Some schools also require you to submit SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Be sure to check with your chosen school for specific requirements.
This course’s goal is to prepare you to take and pass the NCLEX-PN, a licensing exam required in all states. To be eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass a background check.
After you earn your license, you’ll need to renew it every two years and complete continuing education courses to maintain your license. You can take most of these classes online, too.
Can You Take an Online LPN Program?
Yes, you can take a program over the internet. However, these programs are not for everyone and you will have to do your clinical experience in person eventually. If you’re not self-motivated or disciplined, you might find it challenging to complete an online program.
You should also consider your learning style when deciding if an online program is right for you. A traditional brick-and-mortar program might be better if you prefer face-to-face instruction or need more hands-on learning.
Another consideration is a hybrid online LPN. These programs offer the best of both worlds:
- Online education for flexibility
- On-campus learning opportunities
If you’re not sure an online program is right for you, a hybrid program might be an excellent option. You can take some of your courses online while completing other studies and clinical rotations on campus.
What to Consider in an LPN Program
There are many factors to consider when choosing a program. Start by thinking about your goals and objectives. Ask the following questions:
- Do you want to work in a hospital, nursing home, or doctor’s office?
- What type of schedule do you need?
- Do you have the time to commit to a program?
It depends on your schedule and how much time you’re willing to commit to your education. Some programs can be completed in as little as one year, while others may take two years or more. You should also consider the cost of tuition and fees and the length of the program.
Finally, make sure a national or regional accrediting body accredits the program. This ensures that the program meets high standards and prepares you for the licensure exam.
The top agencies include:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
You can verify a program’s accreditation status on the agency’s website.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll be ready to choose a program that’s right for you.
What is the Difference Between an LPN and an RN Program?
The significant difference between an LPN and an RN program is the length of time to complete the program. LPN programs can be completed in as little as one year, while RN programs typically take two years.
LPNs have a more limited scope of practice than RNs, but they can still work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
What Are the Clinical Requirements for an Online LPN Course?
Clinical rotations allow you to put your knowledge into practice and gain hands-on experience working with patients. While programs online offer more flexibility than traditional on-campus programs, they still require students to complete clinical rotations.
Most programs require students to complete their clinical rotations at a facility near their homes, but some programs may have arrangements with facilities in other states.
Is an Online LPN Program Right for Me?
An LPN class online is a good choice for students who want the convenience of online learning and the flexibility to complete the program at their own pace. Online programs also allow students to complete their clinical rotations at a facility near their homes.
If you’re considering an online program, choose one that is accredited and offers the courses you need to meet your career goals.
If you’re considering it, choose one that is accredited and offers the courses you need to meet your career goals. A program online can be a great way to gain the skills and knowledge you need to work in the nursing field.
With so many options available, it’s essential to do your research and find the right program for you.
Congratulations on your decision to pursue a career in nursing! You’re making the first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling career. Nursing is a challenging and demanding profession, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.