Best LPN Programs in Louisiana 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Louisiana with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Louisiana.
Cities in Louisiana That Have LPN Programs
2026 Best LPN Programs in Louisiana
Southern University at Shreveport
Shreveport, LA - Public 2-Year - susla.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern University at Shreveport's Practical Nursing program is a campus-based, non-credit offering designed to train students for LPN roles. It emphasizes developing essential nursing skills for diverse healthcare environments, with graduates prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. As an HBCU, it fosters personal and professional growth, focusing on practical competencies without requiring entrance exams. The program's hands-on approach ensures readiness for the nursing field, making it a solid choice for those seeking direct entry into practical nursing careers in Louisiana.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Focus on basic nursing skills.
- Non-credit program.
- Eligible for LPN licensure.
- Campus-based learning.
SOWELA Technical Community College
Lake Charles, LA - Public 2-Year - sowela.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles provides a campus-based Practical Nursing program that equips students for careers as Licensed Practical Nurses through a blend of classroom and clinical training. Emphasizing holistic nursing and problem-solving, the curriculum covers patient care across all life stages. Graduates receive a diploma and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, with an 80% minimum grade required in all courses for progression. The program also offers an Associate of Applied Science degree option. Admission involves submitting necessary documents directly to the Practical Nursing department without a formal application process.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
- Combines classroom and clinical learning.
- 80% minimum grade required.
- Offers diploma and AAS degree options.
- No formal application needed.
- Holistic nursing approach.
- Patient care across lifespan.
- Includes clinical activities.
- Focus on problem-solving skills.
Fletcher Technical Community College
Schriever, LA - Public 2-Year - fletcher.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fletcher Technical Community College's Practical Nursing Diploma Program offers a two-year, 64-credit hour curriculum that combines classroom learning with supervised clinical rotations in diverse healthcare environments. Accredited by ACEN, it requires a high school diploma, specific ACT or ACCUPLACER scores, and background checks. Financial aid options include federal grants, loans, TOPS, and the MJ Foster Promise Program, making it an affordable choice. Admission is competitive with limited seats available each fall, emphasizing hands-on training and comprehensive preparation for LPN licensure.
- Two-year diploma program
- 64 credit hours total
- ACEN accredited program
- Clinical training included
- Fall semester admission
- Multiple funding options
- Supervised healthcare experiences
- Limited seating available
Baton Rouge Community College
Baton Rouge, LA - Public 2-Year - mybrcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Baton Rouge Community College's Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing is a five-semester, 59-credit program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. It emphasizes geriatric and long-term care skills, with comprehensive training for roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Admission requires pre-nursing courses with 80% or higher grades, specific entrance exams, and background checks. This limited-enrollment program focuses on clinical and academic rigor to ensure graduates are ready for diverse employment opportunities.
- Five-semester, 59 credit program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Focus on geriatric care
- Limited enrollment program
- Comprehensive nursing skills training
- Clinical and academic requirements
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
- Specific admission test scores required
- Pre-nursing course prerequisites
- Criminal background check mandatory
Delgado Community College
New Orleans, LA - Public 2-Year - dcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Delgado Community College offers a 16-month Practical Nursing program in New Orleans, emphasizing extensive clinical experience that comprises over half the curriculum. Students develop essential skills in patient care, medication administration, and health monitoring, preparing for LPN licensure. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of prerequisite courses with a 'C' or better, and a Kaplan Pre-Nursing Exam. The program focuses on comprehensive nursing practices, legal standards, and teamwork, ensuring graduates are equipped for diverse healthcare settings. This campus-based training fosters readiness for immediate contribution to healthcare teams through hands-on learning and practical application.
- 16-month program duration.
- Over 50% clinical experience.
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Campus-based learning.
- High school diploma required.
- Kaplan Pre-Nursing Exam needed.
- Courses in anatomy and physiology.
- Focus on patient care skills.
- Employment in diverse healthcare settings.
- Emphasis on teamwork and legal standards.
Louisiana LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
In Louisiana, individuals interested in enrolling in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program must meet several baseline requirements. Prospective students must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Most programs require applicants to be at least 17 years old, though some institutions may require students to be 18. In addition, candidates typically need to pass an entrance assessment such as the HESI Admission Assessment or TEAS exam. Criminal background checks and drug screenings are required prior to enrollment or clinical placement, in accordance with Louisiana state regulations. Students may also be required to provide up-to-date immunization records and CPR certification.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
The Louisiana LPN curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to provide competent nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Coursework generally includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and geriatric nursing. Clinical training is integrated throughout the program to offer hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
It’s vital that students choose a program approved by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE). LSBPNE approval ensures the program meets state educational standards for nursing and that graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN examination, a requirement for licensure in Louisiana. Approved programs also provide better job placement odds and may be more readily accepted for further educational advancement.
LPN Schools and Classes
Louisiana offers a variety of educational pathways for those pursuing a practical nursing career, including programs at technical schools, community colleges, and select universities. These institutions are spread throughout the state, serving both urban centers and rural communities. Students can expect to undertake a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training.
Core subjects in Louisiana LPN programs typically include fundamentals of nursing, nutrition, pharmacology, mental health nursing, and patient care across the lifespan. Specialized areas such as pediatric, surgical, and maternal health nursing are also included. Clinical rotations provide practical experience across hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge with real patients under supervision.
Career Outlook
LPNs in Louisiana can pursue employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home health services. With an aging population and increased access to healthcare services, demand for LPNs remains strong across the state. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana is among the higher-employment states for LPNs. Many find the career offers a satisfying work/life balance, especially for those choosing shifts that accommodate family life or pursuing employment in outpatient or residential care settings.
Advancement opportunities are also available through bridge programs leading to Registered Nurse (RN) credentials for those wishing to continue their education in the future.
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in Louisiana are available in several formats to suit different schedules. Full-time programs typically last around 12 to 16 months, with students attending classes during weekdays. Part-time programs may extend up to 20 to 24 months and are designed for those balancing work or family obligations. Evening and weekend programs also exist and can be an excellent option for working adults, although they may take longer to complete due to reduced weekly instructional hours.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Louisiana
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College |
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| Infinity College |
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| Central Louisiana Technical Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Louisiana varies widely based on the type of institution and program format. On average, students can expect to pay between $4,000 and $14,000 for the entire program. Community colleges generally offer more affordable rates for in-state residents. Additional costs include textbooks, uniforms, supplies, licensure exam fees, and clinical insurance, which can add approximately $1,000 to $2,500.
Housing costs for students living away from home vary by region, with average monthly rents ranging from $600 to $1,000, depending on the location. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to help reduce the financial burden of LPN education.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Louisiana
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Central Louisiana Technical Community College |
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| Northshore Technical Community College |
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| South Louisiana Community College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
No, LPN programs in Louisiana cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on training that is essential in nursing education. The Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners mandates that students complete in-person clinical requirements and laboratory coursework under the supervision of licensed instructors. While some theoretical instruction may be available in hybrid formats, students must attend labs and clinical rotations in person to ensure proper skill development and meet program accreditation and licensure standards.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Louisiana
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
All individuals seeking to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Louisiana must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and tests the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice. In Louisiana, candidates must first graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program before submitting an application to the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE) to sit for the exam. The LSBPNE provides a detailed application packet and guidelines for NCLEX-PN candidates on its official site. Applicants must also complete fingerprint-based background checks as part of the exam application process.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Louisiana does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) for Licensed Practical Nurses. Therefore, LPNs licensed in other states are not eligible for a multi-state license to practice in Louisiana.
For LPNs licensed in other states, Louisiana offers licensure by endorsement. Applicants must submit proof of graduation from an approved nursing program, verification of current licensure in another state, and must meet all Louisiana licensure requirements. The endorsement process is overseen by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE).
Licensure Requirements
The Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE) is responsible for issuing LPN licenses in the state. To qualify for initial licensure, applicants must:
- Graduate from a Louisiana-approved or equivalent practical nursing program
- Submit a formal application to the LSBPNE
- Pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting process
- Successfully pass the NCLEX-PN exam
The board also requires any practical nursing program to meet established educational standards in order to prepare students adequately for licensure and practice.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Louisiana must be renewed annually. The renewal period opens each October and all renewals must be completed by January 31 of the following year to avoid expiration. Per LSBPNE regulations, LPNs must fulfill the following requirements to renew their license:
- Complete the online renewal application
- Pay the required renewal fee
- Complete a minimum of 8 contact hours of continuing education (CE) OR demonstrate proof of practice of at least 1,600 hours during the immediately preceding two years (24 months) from the date of renewal
Licensees are encouraged to maintain documentation of continuing education and/or practice hours in case of audit. Failure to renew on time may result in additional fees or the need to reinstate the license.
Louisiana LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse in Louisiana is $54,610, which falls below the national average of $62,340 for LPNs and LVNs. This wage disparity is influenced by several local economic and healthcare market factors, most notably Louisiana's lower-than-average cost of living index, which affects general wage scales. Additional dynamics, such as the regional demand for long-term care services, the financial stability of local hospital systems, and state-specific population trends, also contribute to the salary difference. State regulations defining the LPN's scope of practice can further shape compensation levels within Louisiana's healthcare environment.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Louisiana LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Technical Diploma (TD) or Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Successful completion of a state-approved program grants eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
Program Focus:
Concentrated on foundational, hands-on nursing skills, basic patient care, and performing tasks under the supervision of an RN or physician.
Average In-State Tuition in Louisiana:
$5,000 - $12,000 for the entire program.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce and begin earning an income.
School Types:
Louisiana's Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) campuses are the primary providers.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (24 months), including prerequisite courses.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No. This path leads to eligibility for the NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) exam.
Program Focus:
A broader curriculum that includes general education courses, more in-depth nursing theory, patient assessment, leadership skills, and critical thinking.
Average In-State Tuition in Louisiana:
$10,000 - $20,000 for the entire program at a public institution.
Best For:
Students who want to become a Registered Nurse, desire a formal college degree, and plan for future educational advancement to a BSN.
School Types:
Community colleges and some universities.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry to the Workforce: Programs are significantly shorter, allowing you to start working and earning as a nurse in about a year.
- Lower Initial Cost: The overall tuition and fees are generally much lower than for a two-year associate degree program.
- Focused Clinical Skills: The curriculum is intensely focused on the essential, hands-on skills needed for immediate employment without general education requirements.
- Excellent Bridge Opportunity: It serves as a practical entry point into nursing, allowing you to work as an LPN while pursuing an LPN-to-RN bridge program later.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Become a Registered Nurse (RN): This is the direct path to becoming an RN, which offers a wider scope of practice, greater autonomy, and more job opportunities.
- Higher Earning Potential: Registered Nurses consistently earn a higher salary than Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana.
- Stronger Educational Foundation: Earning a college degree provides a solid base of knowledge and includes general education courses that enhance critical thinking and communication skills.
- Clearer Path to Advancement: An associate degree is a direct stepping stone to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which is often required for leadership, management, or specialized nursing roles.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Louisiana
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $46,500 - $59,500 | 12-18 months | NCLEX-PN | Minimum 800 hours | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| MA | $29,000 - $37,500 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) | 160-240 hours | $12,000 - $18,000 |
| CNA | $24,500 - $32,000 | 4-8 weeks | State Competency Exam (Prometric) | Minimum 40 hours | $600 - $1,500 |
| DA | $31,500 - $47,000 | 9-12 months | Board-approved course exam for EDDA certification | 200-300 hours | $13,000 - $19,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $30,500 - $46,000 | 6-12 months | PTCE (PTCB) or ExCPT (NHA) | 120-300 hours | $12,000 - $18,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $30,000 - $43,000 | 1-4 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 40-120 hours (plus 100+ successful collections) | $800 - $2,500 |
| OTA | $61,500 - $78,500 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours (16 weeks) | $9,000 - $25,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Louisiana
Alexandria, LA
Central Louisiana Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Program length: 18 months.
- Available at all CLTCC campuses.
- Includes classroom, lab, clinical training.
- Prepares for Louisiana LPN licensure exam.
- Offers AAS, TD, and CTC credentials.
- Cost per semester: $2,495.
- Total program cost: $12,475.
- Typical debt: $8,580.17.
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Five-semester, 59 credit program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Focus on geriatric care
- Limited enrollment program
- Comprehensive nursing skills training
- Clinical and academic requirements
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
- Specific admission test scores required
Fortis College-Baton Rouge
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Covers anatomy and pharmacology
- Financial aid available
- High school diploma required
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Small class sizes
Bossier City, LA
Bossier Parish Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Five-semester nursing program
- High local job demand
- Multiple healthcare work settings
- Leads to LPN certification
- Comprehensive academic preparation
Chalmette, LA
Nunez Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Limited enrollment program
- 56 total program hours
- NCLEX-PN licensing preparation
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical learning experiences
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
- Accredited by Louisiana State Board
- Requires 'C' or better grades
Gonzales, LA
River Parishes Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Accuplacer scores required
- Free refresher course available
- Final acceptance based on ranking
- Prepares for practical nursing career
Lacombe, LA
Northshore Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Selective enrollment process.
- Hands-on nursing training.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Financial aid available.
- Ranking system for admission.
- Comprehensive nursing education.
- Practical skills focus.
Lafayette, LA
Infinity College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration.
- Expert faculty guidance.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Diverse clinical exposure.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Day classes available.
- Hands-on learning experience.
- Licensed practical nurse preparation.
South Louisiana Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Combines classroom, lab, clinical.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Night classes available.
- Technical Diploma option.
- Associate of Applied Science option.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Financial aid available.
Lake Charles, LA
SOWELA Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
- Combines classroom and clinical learning.
- 80% minimum grade required.
- Offers diploma and AAS degree options.
- No formal application needed.
- Holistic nursing approach.
- Patient care across lifespan.
Minden, LA
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Includes classroom, lab, clinical activities.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Focuses on safe, competent patient care.
- Develops critical thinking, decision-making skills.
- Experienced faculty guidance.
- State-of-the-art learning facilities.
- Supportive learning environment.
Monroe, LA
Louisiana Delta Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Includes clinical experiences.
- Minimum 80% course score required.
- Basic computer skills needed.
- Limited enrollment program.
- ACT or AccuPlacer scores required.
- Focuses on workforce development.
New Orleans, LA
Delgado Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration.
- Over 50% clinical experience.
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Campus-based learning.
- High school diploma required.
- Kaplan Pre-Nursing Exam needed.
- Courses in anatomy and physiology.
- Focus on patient care skills.
Schriever, LA
Fletcher Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year diploma program
- 64 credit hours total
- ACEN accredited program
- Clinical training included
- Fall semester admission
- Multiple funding options
- Supervised healthcare experiences
- Limited seating available
Shreveport, LA
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month certification program
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- 1,540 total training hours
- 2.8 GPA minimum requirement
- Day classes in January/August
- Approved by Louisiana State Board
- Monday-Friday class schedule
- Multiple application documents required
Southern University at Shreveport
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Focus on basic nursing skills.
- Non-credit program.
- Eligible for LPN licensure.
- Campus-based learning.
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