Best LPN Programs in West Virginia 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in West Virginia with details on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across West Virginia.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

Edit Template

2026 Best LPN Programs in West Virginia

If you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in West Virginia, finding the right program is a key step. At practicalnursing.org, we have carefully reviewed and ranked the best LPN programs across the state to help you make a smart choice. Our rankings look at factors like program quality, student success, and affordability, giving you clear insights into where you can get a great education. We aim to support your journey into nursing with reliable information you can trust. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out and why. https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

West Virginia Junior College-Bridgeport

Bridgeport, WV - Private 2-year - wvjc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

West Virginia Junior College-Bridgeport's 12-month hybrid practical nursing program combines online coursework with in-person clinical training, allowing students to balance education with personal commitments. This program focuses on developing essential skills such as patient care, wound management, and IV therapy, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. With financial aid options and career support services, it offers a fast-track path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, ideal for those seeking flexibility and hands-on experience without the need for entrance exams.

12-month program duration.
Hybrid online and in-person learning.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
Hands-on clinical experience included.
Financial aid available for qualifying students.
Direct admission for accepted students.
Comprehensive patient care training.
Skills in IV therapy and wound care.
Academic and career support services.
Flexible for working students.

West Virginia Northern Community College

Wheeling, WV - Public 2-Year - wvncc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - License Practical Nursing (LPN), C.A.S.

Campus Based - Visit Website

West Virginia Northern Community College offers a campus-based License Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate of Applied Science program, designed to prepare students for direct patient care roles under RN supervision. This program emphasizes hands-on clinical skills and comprehensive nursing education, focusing on compassionate care delivery in various healthcare settings. Admission involves a special application process with detailed requirements available online. The college is military-friendly, supporting veterans and active service members. Graduates are equipped to pursue LPN certification and essential healthcare positions, making it an ideal choice for those starting their nursing careers in West Virginia.

Campus-based program
Comprehensive nursing education
Special application process
Supervised by registered nurses
Prepares for essential healthcare roles
Admissions requirements detailed online
Focus on compassionate patient care
Ideal for healthcare career starters
Equips with practical nursing skills
Prepares for LPN certification

New River Community and Technical College

Beaver, WV - Public 2-Year - newriver.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

New River Community and Technical College offers an intensive 11-month Practical Nursing certificate program that prepares students for LPN licensure through rigorous classroom and clinical training. The curriculum covers medical-surgical, maternal-child, geriatric, and mental health nursing across diverse healthcare settings. With ACEN accreditation, high NCLEX pass rates, and a 95.2% job placement rate, this program provides a solid career foundation. Multiple campus locations and WV Invests tuition options enhance accessibility, while career ladder opportunities support future advancement in nursing. No entrance exam is required for this practical nursing program.

11-month intensive certificate
Multiple campus locations
ACEN accredited program
High NCLEX pass rates
Career ladder opportunities
Clinical experience diverse settings
95.2% job placement rate
WV Invests tuition options
NCLEX-PN preparation

BridgeValley Community & Technical College

South Charleston, WV - Public 2-Year - bridgevalley.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing CAS

Campus Based - Visit Website

BridgeValley Community & Technical College offers a one-year Certificate of Applied Study in Practical Nursing that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam. This campus-based program features state-of-the-art simulation labs and hands-on clinical experiences, training students in supervised patient care across various healthcare settings. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, English proficiency, minimum GPA, and a TEAS exam score of 58.7%. Graduates can pursue further education through the LPN Advanced Placement Program, making it an efficient pathway into nursing.

One-year program duration.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
State-of-the-art simulation laboratory.
Hands-on clinical experiences.
Opportunity for advanced placement.
High school diploma required.
English proficiency needed.
Minimum GPA requirement.
TEAS exam score of 58.7%.
Campus-based program.

Pierpont Community and Technical College

Fairmont, WV - Public 2-Year - pierpont.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pierpont Community and Technical College offers a hybrid Licensed Practical Nursing Program as a one-year certificate, blending online theory with in-person labs and clinical rotations. Students gain hands-on experience across diverse healthcare settings, supported by a curriculum accredited by the WV Board of Nursing. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam, with a projected 16% job growth in the field. Admission is selective, requiring a minimum TEAS test score of 50, a 2.0 GPA, health immunizations, and a cleared background check. No concentration is specified, focusing on general LPN skills for entry into roles with median wages around $44,090.

One-year certificate program
Full accreditation by WV Board
16% employment growth projected
Multiple healthcare settings
Clinical and theory training
NCLEX-PN preparation
Selective admission process
Minimum 2.0 GPA required
Criminal background check
Health immunization requirements

*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

West Virginia LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in West Virginia, applicants must typically hold a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old. Most programs require students to pass a pre-admission assessment, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), which evaluates proficiency in subjects like math, reading, and science. Additional requirements may include a criminal background check, drug screening, proof of immunizations, and a physical examination. Strong academic preparation in subjects like biology and algebra can also enhance admission chances.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

The LPN curriculum in West Virginia combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Core topics include anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, pediatric and geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Students develop competencies in patient assessment, communication, and safe medication practices, all essential for entry-level nursing practice.

Accreditation is a key factor for prospective students in West Virginia. Accredited LPN programs meet quality standards set by nursing authorities and are recognized by the West Virginia Board of Nursing. Graduating from an accredited program ensures eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is required for licensure in the state.

LPN Schools and Classes

West Virginia offers LPN programs at technical centers, community colleges, and career institutes throughout the state. These institutions provide approved curriculum tracks that include both general education and nursing-specific coursework. Common classes include nutrition, pharmacology, foundations of nursing, and clinical nursing concepts. Students early on will complete clinical training in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings to gain real-world experience with patients under supervision.

Career Outlook

LPNs in West Virginia can find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, physicians’ offices, and rehabilitation centers. As the state’s population ages, demand for LPNs is increasing, making this a stable career path. Many LPNs enjoy consistent schedules, particularly those in long-term care settings, which can support strong work/life balance. With additional training and education, LPNs have opportunities for advancement into registered nursing or specialized roles.

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in West Virginia typically take about 12 months to complete when pursued full-time. Part-time options are available at some schools, allowing students to extend their studies over 18 to 24 months. For those with daytime commitments, some institutions offer evening and weekend classes that extend the program length accordingly. Clinical hours are mandatory and must be completed in person, regardless of the schedule format.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in West Virginia

When you're looking into nursing education in West Virginia, shorter programs can be a big help. They let you start your career faster, which is great if you want to get into healthcare without a long wait. In places like Charleston or the Eastern Panhandle, these quickest options mean you can finish your training and begin working sooner. This is important because it helps meet the need for more nurses in the state. The table shows details like graduation and retention rates, so you can pick a program that fits your goals and gets you on the job in no time.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
West Virginia Junior College-Bridgeport Practical Nursing	12-month program duration. Hybrid online and in-person learning. Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Hands-on clinical experience included. Financial aid available for qualifying students. Direct admission for accepted students. Comprehensive patient care training. Skills in IV therapy and wound care.	Graduation Rate: 61% Retention Rate: 60% Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Pierpont Community and Technical College Licensed Practical Nursing Program	One-year certificate program Full accreditation by WV Board 16% employment growth projected Multiple healthcare settings Clinical and theory training NCLEX-PN preparation Selective admission process Minimum 2.0 GPA required	Graduation Rate: 39% Retention Rate: 63% Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
New River Community and Technical College Practical Nursing	11-month intensive certificate Multiple campus locations ACEN accredited program High NCLEX pass rates Career ladder opportunities Clinical experience diverse settings 95.2% job placement rate WV Invests tuition options	Graduation Rate: 30% Retention Rate: 62% Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1

*Data derived from the 2023 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

The cost of LPN programs in West Virginia generally ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on the institution and program format. Community colleges and career centers often offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, supplies, lab fees, and exam costs. Housing expenses vary by region, but students in urban areas like Charleston or Morgantown may face higher rent compared to more rural parts of the state. Financial aid and state-supported grants may be available to qualifying students.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in West Virginia

Finding affordable education is key for many students in West Virginia. Low-cost programs help people start careers without heavy debt. The state offers several options for nursing certificates and associate degrees. These programs are designed to be cost-effective, keeping tuition within reach. In cities like Charleston and Huntington, students can access quality training. Affordable education opens doors to stable jobs in healthcare. This is especially important in rural areas where good jobs are needed. Investing in low-cost programs supports both students and communities across West Virginia.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
New River Community and Technical College Practical Nursing	11-month intensive certificate Multiple campus locations ACEN accredited program High NCLEX pass rates Career ladder opportunities Clinical experience diverse settings 95.2% job placement rate WV Invests tuition options	$4,100 - $6,200 (Undergrad In-State) $6,500 - $9,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
West Virginia Junior College-Bridgeport Practical Nursing	12-month program duration. Hybrid online and in-person learning. Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Hands-on clinical experience included. Financial aid available for qualifying students. Direct admission for accepted students. Comprehensive patient care training. Skills in IV therapy and wound care.	$11,800 - $17,700 (Undergraduate)
West Virginia Northern Community College License Practical Nursing (LPN), C.A.S.	Campus-based program Comprehensive nursing education Special application process Supervised by registered nurses Prepares for essential healthcare roles Admissions requirements detailed online Focus on compassionate patient care Ideal for healthcare career starters	$3,600 - $5,500 (Undergrad In-State) $10,200 - $15,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2023 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

No, LPN programs in West Virginia cannot be completed entirely online. Practical nursing education relies heavily on hands-on clinical training and in-person laboratory work to build essential patient care skills. While some coursework such as nursing theory or general health concepts may be available in a hybrid format, the state’s licensure requirements include supervised clinical experiences that cannot be substituted with virtual alternatives. The West Virginia Board of Nursing mandates that all accredited programs offer sufficient in-person training to prepare graduates for licensure and safe practice.

LPN Licensure Requirements in West Virginia

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, which is the national licensure exam for practical nursing. Graduates from a state-approved LPN program must apply for licensure through the West Virginia Board of Nursing and register for the NCLEX-PN through the official NCLEX website. Applicants are required to submit proof of graduation, undergo a criminal background check, and receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) before scheduling the exam.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

West Virginia offers LPN licensure by endorsement for nurses already licensed in another state. Applicants must submit verification of their existing license, provide fingerprints for a background check, and verify completion of an approved LPN program. West Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs from other NLC member states to practice in West Virginia without obtaining additional licensure. Likewise, LPNs licensed in West Virginia can work in other compact states without needing separate licenses.

Licensure Requirements

The West Virginia Board of Nursing regulates all aspects of practical nursing licensure in the state. To obtain an initial license, applicants must:

Graduate from a Board-approved LPN program
Submit a completed application and fee
Undergo state and federal criminal background checks
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam

Approved LPN programs in West Virginia are offered at institutions such as West Virginia Northern Community College, Cabell County Career Technology Center, and Raleigh County School of Practical Nursing. A full list of approved programs is available on the Board’s website under the education section.

License Renewal

LPN licenses in West Virginia must be renewed annually by June 30. The renewal period begins May 1 each year. As part of the renewal process, LPNs are required to complete 24 contact hours of Board-approved continuing education every two years. At least 12 of these hours must be completed in live, real-time sessions. In addition, licensees must complete a mandatory 2-hour continuing education course on mental health conditions common to veterans and their families.

No minimum clinical practice hours are required for renewal, but licensees must attest to compliance with all Board rules and continuing education requirements. Failure to renew on time results in a lapsed license and can result in additional fees or disciplinary action.

West Virginia LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia is $52,540, which is considerably lower than the national average of $62,340. This wage difference is often influenced by state-specific factors, including a lower cost of living index which typically correlates with lower overall compensation across various professions. Additionally, regional economic conditions such as state population trends, the financial stability of local hospitals, and specific levels of demand within the long-term care sector can exert downward pressure on wages compared to the national benchmark.

Average LPN State Salary in West Virginia

$52,540

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

West Virginia LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

11-12 months.

Credential Awarded:

Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) or Diploma.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Concentrated on fundamental nursing skills and direct patient care required for entry-level practice under the supervision of an RN or physician.

Average In-State Tuition in West Virginia:

Approximately $7,000 - $12,000 (total program cost including tuition, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the fastest and most cost-effective path to begin working as an LPN.

School Types:

Community & Technical Colleges and county-level Career & Technical Centers.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

Approximately 24 months (2 years).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes, though this credential in WV is more commonly associated with RN programs that may have an LPN exit option after completing the first year of coursework.

Program Focus:

Combines core nursing coursework with general education courses (e.g., English, Math, Psychology), providing a broader academic foundation.

Average In-State Tuition in West Virginia:

Approximately $12,000 - $18,000 (for the full two-year degree).

Best For:

Students who are certain they want to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a built-in, seamless pathway to continue their education after licensure.

School Types:

Community & Technical Colleges.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Workforce: It is the fastest route to becoming a licensed nurse, allowing you to start earning an income and gaining practical experience in about one year.
Lower Cost: The overall tuition and fees are significantly lower due to the shorter program length and lack of required general education courses.
Focused Curriculum: The program is intensely focused on the essential, hands-on clinical skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work effectively as an LPN.
Test the Field: It provides a lower-cost, lower-commitment way to enter the nursing profession and confirm it's the right career before pursuing a longer, more expensive RN degree.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Smoother RN Transition: Credits, particularly general education courses, are designed to transfer directly into an LPN-to-RN bridge program, often at the same institution, saving time later.
Broader Education: General education courses enhance critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, which are valuable for future leadership roles and advanced patient care.
Enhanced Marketability (Future): While not required for LPN licensure, an associate degree can be viewed favorably by some employers and provides a stronger foundation for career advancement.
Built-in Pathway: In West Virginia, this route is often part of a planned two-year RN program, making it an integrated first step rather than a separate, terminal program.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in West Virginia

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$43,000 - $58,500	11-12 months	NCLEX-PN	400-750 hours	$6,000 - $15,000
MA	$31,000 - $41,500	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-200 hours	$10,000 - $18,000
CNA	$30,000 - $38,000	3-8 weeks	NNAAP Exam	Minimum 55 hours	$700 - $1,500
DA	$31,500 - $47,000	9-11 months	DANB RHS Exam for radiography permit	160-300 hours	$10,000 - $17,000
Pharm Tech	$31,000 - $40,000	6-9 months	PTCE or ExCPT	120-200 hours	$4,000 - $12,000
Phlebotomist	$31,000 - $41,500	4-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	30-100 successful draws	$800 - $2,500
OTA	$47,500 - $64,000	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	Minimum 640 hours	$18,000 - $25,000

List of LPN Programs in West Virginia

If you are looking to start a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia, you have several great options. The table below lists schools across the state that offer LPN programs. You can see where each program is located, learn about its key features, and click the links to get more details directly from the school's website. This makes it easy to find a program that fits your needs and location.

Jump to City:

Beaver, WV

New River Community and Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 11-month intensive certificate
- Multiple campus locations
- ACEN accredited program
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Career ladder opportunities
- Clinical experience diverse settings
- 95.2% job placement rate
- WV Invests tuition options