Best LPN Programs in Virginia 2026
Find Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Virginia with information on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Virginia.
Cities in Virginia That Have LPN Programs
2026 Best LPN Programs in Virginia
ECPI University
Virginia Beach, VA - Private 4-year - ecpi.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
ECPI University's Practical Nursing diploma program equips students to become Licensed Practical Nurses through intensive, campus-based training. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical skills, patient care techniques, and medical communication, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. Students learn to work effectively under supervision in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals and long-term care facilities. With multiple Virginia campus locations, this military-friendly program focuses on developing collaborative team members who deliver quality care. No concentration is specified, and entrance exams are not required for this practical nursing level.
- Campus-based practical nursing diploma
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Hands-on clinical skills training
- Works under medical professional supervision
- Multiple campus locations in VA
Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing
Falls Church, VA - Private 2-year - standardcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing in Falls Church offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing Program designed to prepare students for LPN licensure. This program spans 14 months full-time or 18 months part-time, featuring a hybrid model that blends online coursework with in-person labs and clinical rotations. Students gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings while studying essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam, with financial aid options available to support their education. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills and patient care across various environments, ensuring readiness for entry-level nursing roles.
- 14-month full-time program.
- 18-month part-time option.
- Hybrid learning method.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Combines theory and clinical practice.
- Focuses on diverse patient care.
- Financial aid available.
- Anatomy and pharmacology included.
- Hands-on lab sessions.
- Clinical experiences in healthcare settings.
Rappahannock Community College
Glenns, VA - Public 2-Year - rappahannock.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rappahannock Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate is a campus-based program starting in January, requiring a Kaplan Entrance Exam for admission. It emphasizes hands-on practical skills tailored to healthcare demands, achieving a perfect 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2023. Graduates benefit from high employment rates within six months, supported by financial aid options. This restricted-enrollment program ensures a dedicated student cohort through specific admission criteria, focusing on career readiness and success in nursing.
- Campus-based program.
- January start date.
- Kaplan Entrance Exam required.
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
- Strong employment outcomes.
- Financial aid available.
- Restricted enrollment program.
- Focus on practical nursing skills.
- High graduate employment rate.
- Commitment to student success.
Patrick & Henry Community College
Martinsville, VA - Public 2-Year - patrickhenry.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Patrick & Henry Community College offers a campus-based Practical Nursing Certificate program that spans three intensive semesters, equipping students with essential medical knowledge and clinical skills for the NCLEX-PN exam. Fully approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing, it features pre-admission ATI TEAS testing, mandatory information sessions, and annual spring applications. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training through structured coursework and access to resources like the Learning Resource Center, preparing graduates for diverse nursing roles without requiring an ACT or SAT entrance exam.
- 3-semester certificate program
- Full approval from VA Board of Nursing
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Annual spring semester applications
- Pre-admission ATI TEAS testing
- Official transcripts required
- Mandatory information sessions
- Campus-based program
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Charlottesville, VA - Public 2-Year - pvcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Piedmont Virginia Community College's Practical Nursing certificate is a 37-credit hybrid program that blends online coursework with extensive clinical training. Students complete over 400 hours in various healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience in therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventative care. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam and entry-level LPN roles under RN or physician supervision. Financial support is available through the G3 initiative, which may cover tuition, fees, and books for eligible students, making it an accessible path to a nursing career.
- 37-credit hybrid nursing certificate
- Over 400 clinical training hours
- G3 program with potential free tuition
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Supervised clinical experiences
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Multiple clinical settings exposure
- Entry-level licensed practical nurse pathway
Virginia LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Virginia, applicants must typically have a high school diploma or GED. Most programs require completion of specific prerequisites such as biology, algebra, and basic health science courses. Additionally, students may need to pass an entrance exam like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and complete a background check and drug screening. Some schools also require CPR certification and recent immunization records before clinical placements.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Virginia are designed to prepare students for entry-level practical nursing roles. Coursework includes fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities provide hands-on training to ensure readiness for licensure and employment.
Accreditation is crucial for ensuring the program meets the standards set by regulatory bodies. Programs must be approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing for graduates to be eligible for licensure and to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Many programs also seek additional accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Attending a Board-approved program is a requirement for licensure and employment, and ACEN accreditation often ensures eligibility for federal financial aid.
LPN Schools and Classes
Virginia offers a variety of LPN programs through community colleges, technical schools, and some universities. These institutions provide both classroom instruction and clinical practice to build students’ knowledge and skills. Courses in Virginia LPN programs typically include patient care techniques, health assessment, nutrition, ethics and legal aspects of nursing, and specialized topics in maternal-child and long-term care. Labs and supervised clinical experiences in hospitals and nursing facilities are integral components of the curriculum.
Career Outlook
The career outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses in Virginia remains strong. LPNs are in demand in settings such as long-term care facilities, assisted living communities, hospitals, physician offices, and home health agencies. With Virginia’s aging population, especially in rural areas, the need for LPNs is expected to continue growing. LPNs in Virginia can enjoy flexible work hours, opportunities for advancement, and pathways to continue their education to become Registered Nurses (RNs).
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in Virginia typically take 12 to 18 months to complete when attending full-time. Part-time and evening/weekend programs are offered at select institutions and may take 18 to 24 months, allowing flexibility for working students or those with other obligations. Clinical and coursework components must be completed regardless of schedule type, and all students must meet competency standards prior to graduation.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Virginia
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest Virginia Community College |
|
|
| Galen Health Institutes-Richmond |
|
|
| Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing |
|
|
Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Virginia generally ranges from $6,000 to $30,000, depending on the type of institution (public vs. private) and residency status. In addition to tuition, students should budget for books, uniforms, clinical supplies, liability insurance, and testing fees for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. If on-campus housing is offered, room and board can add $6,000 to $10,000 annually. Students should also factor in transportation, health requirements, and personal expenses.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Virginia
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Piedmont Virginia Community College |
|
|
| Southside Virginia Community College |
|
|
| Virginia Highlands Community College |
|
|
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN classes in Virginia cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on clinical training required for licensure. While some programs may offer a portion of theoretical coursework in an online or hybrid format, the Virginia Board of Nursing mandates in-person clinical experiences in approved healthcare settings. Skills such as patient care techniques, communication, and clinical decision-making require supervised, real-world practice that cannot be replicated virtually.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Virginia
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia, graduates of a state-approved practical nursing program must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national exam assesses foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for safe and effective nursing care. Candidates must first apply for licensure with the Virginia Board of Nursing and receive Authorization to Test (ATT) before scheduling the exam with Pearson VUE. Virginia does not limit the number of times a candidate may retake the NCLEX-PN.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Virginia offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are already licensed in another U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants must provide verification of their existing license, proof of completion of an approved nursing program, and have passed the NCLEX-PN or an equivalent exam. The Virginia Board of Nursing also conducts a criminal background check as part of the endorsement process.
Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs holding a multistate license in another compact state to practice in Virginia without obtaining additional licensure. Similarly, Virginia-based LPNs can practice in other compact states under their Virginia license, provided they meet NLC requirements such as primary state residency and a clean disciplinary record.
Licensure Requirements
Prospective LPNs in Virginia must graduate from a Virginia Board-approved nursing education program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The Virginia Board of Nursing oversees all licensure processes. Applicants must complete the LPN licensure application, submit fingerprints for a state and federal criminal background check, and pay the required fees. Foreign-educated nurses must also submit their credentials for review through an approved educational equivalency service before being considered for licensure.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Virginia must be renewed every two years. To be eligible for renewal, LPNs are required to complete one of the following: current specialty certification by a national certifying body approved by the board; at least 15 contact hours of continuing education or 1.5 CEUs for each biennium; completion of a nursing-related independent study; publication of a nursing-related article in a peer-reviewed journal; presentation of a nursing-related topic to a group of professionals; participation in a nursing-related research project; completion of a nursing-related academic course resulting in at least three semester hours or five quarter hours of credit; teaching or developing a nursing-related course; or a minimum of 640 hours of active practice as a nurse within the two-year renewal period. The renewal application and required documentation must be submitted to the Virginia Board of Nursing along with the renewal fee. The Board sends out renewal notices approximately 60 days before the expiration date, and LPNs are encouraged to renew online through the Virginia Department of Health Professions portal.
Virginia LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia is $63,380 per year, which is slightly higher than the national average of $62,340. This modest difference can be attributed to a combination of factors, including Virginia's specific cost of living index and regional demand for healthcare services. The state's consistent need for LPNs, particularly within its robust long-term care sector, likely contributes to a salary figure that remains competitive with the national landscape. Furthermore, state-specific population trends and the overall balance of hospital and outpatient facility employment opportunities also influence this compensation level.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Virginia LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate or Diploma.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated curriculum on core nursing theory and essential hands-on clinical skills required for entry-level practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Virginia:
$7,000 - $12,000 at public community colleges/technical centers. Private career schools can be significantly higher.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Virginia community colleges, public school system technical centers, and private vocational/career colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (approximately 24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. In Virginia, most A.A.S. nursing programs are designed for RN licensure, but many allow students to exit after the first year with a certificate and eligibility for the NCLEX-PN.
Program Focus:
A broader educational foundation that combines the core LPN curriculum with required general education courses (e.g., English, psychology, anatomy).
Average In-State Tuition in Virginia:
$11,000 - $16,000 for the full two-year degree at a Virginia community college.
Best For:
Students who plan to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a seamless transfer of credits.
School Types:
Primarily offered through the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry to Workforce: The shorter program length (typically 12 months) allows you to get licensed and start earning an income much quicker.
- Lower Overall Cost: With fewer required credit hours, the total tuition and associated fees are generally lower than for an associate degree.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach only the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work effectively as an LPN.
- Wider Program Availability: Certificate and diploma programs are offered at a greater variety of institutions in Virginia, including technical centers and private schools, providing more options.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Smoother Path to RN: This is the primary advantage. General education credits are completed, making the transition into an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN bridge program much easier.
- Greater Credit Transferability: The general education courses are designed to transfer to four-year universities, preserving your investment if you pursue a bachelor's degree later.
- Broader Skill Set: The inclusion of courses like communications and social sciences helps develop stronger critical thinking and "soft skills" valued by employers.
- Potential for Expanded Roles: Some employers may give preference to associate-degree-prepared LPNs for roles that require more autonomy or leadership potential.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Virginia
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| MA | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| CNA | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| DA | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Pharm Tech | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Phlebotomist | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| OTA | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
List of LPN Programs in Virginia
Abingdon, VA
Virginia Highlands Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Conditional approval by VA Board.
- Affordable in-state tuition.
- Financial aid available.
- Hands-on training provided.
- 17:1 student to instructor ratio.
- Guaranteed transfer agreements.
- No application fee.
Alberta, VA
Southside Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 49 Credit Hours.
- Campus-based program.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN.
- Starts January 2025.
- Also starts August 2025.
- Located in Alberta, VA.
- Also in South Boston.
- Financial aid available.
Annandale, VA
Northern Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time program at Reston Center
- 8 comprehensive nursing courses
- Requires current CNA license
- ATI-TEAS Version 7 testing required
- Two cohort schedules available
- Day and evening program options
- Approved by Virginia Board of Nursing
- Background check and immunizations needed
Big Stone Gap, VA
Mountain Empire Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 51 total credit hours
- Campus-based program
- Entry-level nursing preparation
- Prepares for LPN certification
- Professional healthcare training
Cedar Bluff, VA
Southwest Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester completion.
- Hybrid program format.
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation.
- Personalized nursing faculty instruction.
- Hands-on training included.
- Approved by Virginia State Board.
- Financial aid options available.
- High NCLEX-PN first attempt pass rate.
Charlottesville, VA
Piedmont Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 37-credit hybrid nursing certificate
- Over 400 clinical training hours
- G3 program with potential free tuition
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Supervised clinical experiences
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Multiple clinical settings exposure
- Entry-level licensed practical nurse pathway
Chester, VA
Brightpoint Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN examination.
- Focuses on safe, effective nursing care.
- G3 tuition assistance available.
- Hands-on learning emphasis.
- Meets high legal, ethical standards.
- Campus-based program.
- Affordable pathway to nursing.
- Accessible admissions requirements.
Clifton Forge, VA
Mountain Gateway Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 44-credit nursing certificate
- 12-month full-time program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Clinical experiences in multiple specialties
- Eligible for G3 Funding
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
- Comprehensive medical coursework
- Supervised practical training
Dublin, VA
New River Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Experienced faculty mentoring
- Multiple clinical practice sites
Falls Church, VA
Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 14-month full-time program.
- 18-month part-time option.
- Hybrid learning method.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Combines theory and clinical practice.
- Focuses on diverse patient care.
- Financial aid available.
- Anatomy and pharmacology included.
Franklin, VA
Paul D Camp Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester full-time certificate
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Diverse healthcare employment opportunities
- Patient-centered care training
- Competitive entry-level wages
- Interdisciplinary healthcare skills
- Culturally competent nursing practice
Glenns, VA
Rappahannock Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- January start date.
- Kaplan Entrance Exam required.
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
- Strong employment outcomes.
- Financial aid available.
- Restricted enrollment program.
- Focus on practical nursing skills.
Locust Grove, VA
Germanna Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 1-year Certificate Program
- Healthcare Career Focused
- Estimated Cost $6,700
- NCLEX Exam Preparation
- Multiple Healthcare Settings
Martinsville, VA
Patrick & Henry Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 3-semester certificate program
- Full approval from VA Board of Nursing
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Annual spring semester applications
- Pre-admission ATI TEAS testing
- Official transcripts required
- Mandatory information sessions
- Campus-based program
Melfa, VA
Eastern Shore Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Virginia State Board approved
- Campus-based learning
- Equal opportunity admissions
- Non-discriminatory policy
- Not ACEN or CNEA accredited
- Career in various healthcare settings
Middletown, VA
Laurel Ridge Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1-year certificate program
- VCCS and VA Board of Nursing approved
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Middletown campus location
- G3 Scholarship eligible
- Health insurance required
- HESI A2 admission test mandatory
- Affordable tuition rates
Norfolk, VA
Fortis College-Norfolk
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Financial aid available.
- Transfer credits for CNAs.
Tidewater Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Education Certificate Program
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester nursing program
- 45 total program credits
- NCLEX-LPN exam preparation
- Virginia Beach campus location
- State Board of Nursing approved
Richmond, VA
Galen Health Institutes-Richmond
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12 months full-time
- 21 months part-time
- On-campus learning
- Four start times yearly
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN® exam
- Hands-on clinical training
- Patient interaction focus
- No essays for application
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing C
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure
- Requires current C.N.A. license
- High first-time pass rates
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Admission GPA requirement 2.0
- Prerequisite courses required
- Focus on safe, quality care
Roanoke, VA
Virginia Western Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 18-month practical nursing program
- 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2023
- 48 total credit hours
- Multiple healthcare employment opportunities
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Campus-based instruction
- Patient-centered care focus
Virginia Beach, VA
Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month diploma program
- 41 total credit hours
- Prepare for NCLEX-PN exam
- State-approved nursing program
- Multiple campus locations
- Clinical experience included
- Career-focused curriculum
- ACEN accredited program
ECPI University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based practical nursing diploma
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Hands-on clinical skills training
- Works under medical professional supervision
- Multiple campus locations in VA
Wytheville, VA
Wytheville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Five-semester sequential program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- High school biology/algebra required
- Clinical experiences included
- Approved by VA nursing board
Related Articles
- Fastest LPN/LVN Programs of 2025: Complete Your Nursing Education in Record Time
- LPN as Role Model
- Nurse / Health Coach Careers with BSN
- LPN/LVN Program Admissions: What Schools Are Really Looking For
- Complete Guide to LPN/LVN Clinical Rotations: What to Expect and How to Excel
- Specialty Certification for LPNs
- Culture of LPNs and RNs in Team Nursing
- Most Affordable LPN/LVN Programs for 2026: Your Path to Nursing Success on a Budget