Best LPN Programs in Rhode Island 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Rhode Island with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Rhode Island.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Rhode Island
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RI - Private 4-year - neit.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
New England Institute of Technology's campus-based LPN Certificate program delivers intensive, hands-on nursing education focused on essential patient care skills. Students gain real-world clinical experience while mastering medical knowledge and nursing procedures. This fast-track pathway requires a high school diploma with science/math emphasis and offers financial aid options. The program prepares graduates for LPN certification and immediate entry into healthcare roles, making it ideal for career-changers seeking practical nursing training.
- Campus-based learning.
- Focus on nursing skills.
- Hands-on training.
- High school diploma required.
- Financial aid available.
- Prepares for LPN certification.
- Real-world experience.
- Fast track to healthcare career.
- Science and math focus.
- Patient care training.
Community College of Rhode Island
Warwick, RI - Public 2-Year - ccri.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Community College of Rhode Island's Practical Nursing Diploma delivers intensive healthcare training through a balanced curriculum of classroom instruction and clinical practice. This ACEN-accredited program prepares graduates for NCLEX-PN licensure with a 41-credit structure that emphasizes hands-on skill development. Admission requires a 2.0 minimum GPA and prerequisite courses like Human Biology, while offering multiple enrollment pathways including CNA certification options. The campus-based program maintains technical standards assessments and semester-based progression, creating accessible entry into licensed practical nursing careers without requiring standardized entrance exams.
- Accredited nursing program
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility
- Campus-based diploma
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Semester-based progression
- Clinical skills training
- Technical standards assessed
- Multiple admission pathways
- CNA certification possible
- 41 total program hours
Rhode Island LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Rhode Island, prospective students must typically hold a high school diploma or GED. Additional prerequisites can include passing a basic skills assessment, completing a background check, and submitting proof of immunizations. Some programs may require applicants to pass entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). CPR certification and a physical exam are also commonly required before clinical training begins. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old and demonstrate English language proficiency.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Rhode Island combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum generally includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and geriatric care. Clinical rotations give students the opportunity to work in real healthcare environments under the supervision of licensed professionals.
It is essential to enroll in an approved and accredited LPN program. Accreditation ensures that a program meets state education standards and adequately prepares students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Only graduates of accredited programs are eligible to apply for licensure in Rhode Island.
LPN Schools and Classes
Rhode Island offers several LPN programs through vocational-technical schools, community colleges, and healthcare-focused institutions. These schools are located throughout the state and are designed to accommodate traditional students as well as adult learners.
Coursework covers both general nursing principles and specialized care. Students can expect to take classes in nutrition, pharmacology, medical terminology, mental health nursing, and maternal-child health. Training also includes practical skills such as administering medications, performing wound care, and supporting patient rehabilitation. Clinical components are conducted in local hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Career Outlook
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island is steady, particularly in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health settings. LPNs may also find employment in physicians’ offices, schools, and outpatient clinics. While Rhode Island is a small state, its dense population and aging communities contribute to a growing need for nursing professionals.
LPNs generally enjoy a structured work schedule, offering a balance between professional responsibilities and personal life. The role offers opportunities for future career advancement by transitioning into Registered Nurse (RN) programs through bridge pathways.
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in Rhode Island can often be completed in 12 to 16 months when pursued full-time. Part-time options are also available, extending the completion time to around 18 to 24 months. Some schools additionally offer evening and weekend classes to support working adults or those with family obligations. Choosing between these formats depends on personal availability, learning preferences, and financial considerations.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Rhode Island
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| New England Institute of Technology |
|
|
| Community College of Rhode Island |
|
|
Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Rhode Island generally ranges from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the institution and program length. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, clinical supplies, and licensing exam fees. Housing expenses vary, but students living off-campus in cities like Providence can expect to pay between $800 and $1,400 per month in rent. Some schools may offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to assist with costs.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Rhode Island
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| New England Institute of Technology |
|
|
| Community College of Rhode Island |
|
|
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
Due to the hands-on nature of practical nursing, LPN programs in Rhode Island cannot be completed entirely online. While some prerequisite or theory-based lectures may be delivered in a hybrid format, a significant portion of training involves supervised clinical experience in real healthcare settings. These in-person requirements are essential for skill development and are mandated by Rhode Island nursing education standards.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Rhode Island
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rhode Island, candidates must graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The NCLEX-PN is a national standardized examination that assesses a candidate’s readiness to practice as an entry-level LPN. After graduation, prospective LPNs must apply for licensure and examination through the Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education. Once the application is approved and testing eligibility granted, candidates can register for the NCLEX-PN with Pearson VUE and schedule their exam at an approved testing center.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Rhode Island does not currently participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) for LPNs. Therefore, LPNs holding licensure in another state must apply for licensure by endorsement in Rhode Island to practice. To qualify for endorsement, applicants must have graduated from an accredited LPN program, passed the NCLEX-PN, and hold an active license in another U.S. jurisdiction. Verification of the original license, proof of education, and a background check are required.
Licensure Requirements
The Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education regulates LPN licensure in the state. Initial applicants must:
- Graduate from a board-approved practical nursing program.
- Submit an application along with the required fee.
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Undergo a state and federal criminal background check.
Applications and additional details are available through the Rhode Island Board of Nursing.
License Renewal
Rhode Island LPN licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed by August 1 of odd-numbered years. To renew a license, LPNs must complete continuing education requirements set by the Board. As of the most recent guidelines, LPNs must complete 10 contact hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle. At least 2 of these hours must cover topics in substance abuse or pain management. Documentation of completed hours should be retained by the licensee in case of audit. Renewal applications can be completed online through the Rhode Island Department of Health’s licensing portal.
Rhode Island LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island earn an average annual salary of $77,240, which is significantly higher than the national average of $62,340 for LPN/LVNs. This substantial salary difference is influenced by several key regional factors, primarily the state's high cost of living which necessitates more competitive wages to attract and retain talent. Furthermore, strong demand for LPNs within the state's long-term care sector, driven by regional demographic trends, and specific state regulations also contribute to compensation levels that exceed the national benchmark.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Rhode Island LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11-12 months.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma in Practical Nursing or Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated clinical skills and fundamental nursing knowledge required for entry-level patient care under the supervision of an RN or physician.
Average In-State Tuition in Rhode Island:
Varies significantly by school type, from approximately $6,000-$8,000 (public) to $28,000-$32,000 (private).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct route to enter the nursing field and begin working as an LPN.
School Types:
Public community colleges (e.g., CCRI) and private, for-profit career schools (e.g., Lincoln Tech).
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Not applicable. This program type is not offered as a direct path to LPN licensure in Rhode Island.
Credential Awarded:
Not applicable for LPN licensure. An Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN/ADN) is awarded for RN programs.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No. Associate degree nursing programs prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) exam.
Program Focus:
Broader theoretical knowledge, general education courses, and advanced clinical skills preparing for the more autonomous role of a Registered Nurse.
Average In-State Tuition in Rhode Island:
For an RN associate degree, tuition is approximately $10,000 - $12,000 at a public community college.
Best For:
Students who plan from the outset to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and can commit to a two-year program.
School Types:
Public community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- **Speed to Workforce:** It is the fastest path to becoming a licensed nurse in Rhode Island, allowing you to start earning and gaining experience in about one year.
- **Lower Initial Cost:** The total tuition for a certificate at a public community college is significantly lower than for an associate or bachelor's degree program.
- **Focused Curriculum:** The program concentrates exclusively on the core knowledge and hands-on skills necessary for the LPN role, avoiding extensive general education requirements.
- **Stepping Stone:** It provides a practical entry into the nursing profession. Many LPNs later use their license and experience to enter "LPN-to-RN" bridge programs.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- **Direct Path to RN:** If your ultimate goal is to be a Registered Nurse, the associate degree (ADN) is a more direct two-year path than becoming an LPN first.
- **Higher Earning Potential & Scope:** RNs have a wider scope of practice, greater professional autonomy, more diverse job opportunities, and a significantly higher salary than LPNs.
- **Stronger Academic Foundation:** An associate degree includes general education courses, providing a more well-rounded academic base that transfers more effectively into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program later.
- **Leadership & Advancement:** The ADN curriculum incorporates more training in leadership, critical thinking, and patient management, preparing graduates for roles with greater responsibility.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Rhode Island
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $62,000 - $77,000 | 12-15 months | NCLEX-PN | Minimum 540 hours | $8,000 - $35,000 |
| MA | $38,000 - $48,000 | 9-12 months (Certificate) | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) exam | 160-180 hours | $7,000 - $20,000 (Certificate) |
| CNA | $37,000 - $47,000 | 4-10 weeks | NNAAP Exam | Minimum 20 hours | $900 - $1,500 |
| DA | $47,000 - $59,000 | 9-11 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam | 300-450 hours | $7,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,000 - $47,000 | 6-9 months (Certificate) | PTCE or ExCPT Exam | 200-300 hours | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $44,000 - $50,000 | 8-16 weeks | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) exam | 100-120 hours | $1,800 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $62,000 - $83,000 | 18-24 months (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours (Level II Fieldwork) | $15,000 - $70,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Rhode Island
East Greenwich, RI
New England Institute of Technology
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based learning.
- Focus on nursing skills.
- Hands-on training.
- High school diploma required.
- Financial aid available.
- Prepares for LPN certification.
- Real-world experience.
- Fast track to healthcare career.
Warwick, RI
Community College of Rhode Island
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility
- Campus-based diploma
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Semester-based progression
- Clinical skills training
- Technical standards assessed
- Multiple admission pathways
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