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.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Louisiana
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Shreveport, LA - Public 4-Year - lsus.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Louisiana State University-Shreveport's 12-month Practical Nursing certificate merges 730 theory hours with 810 clinical hours, totaling 1,540 clock hours. The curriculum emphasizes nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and patient care skills, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN. Graduates join a network of over 550 successful alumni working in hospitals, clinics, and long-term facilities. Fully approved by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nursing, the program maintains a stellar 100% licensure pass rate. Classes are held Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm, with clinicals starting at 6:45am; no evening classes are available. Admission requires a 2.8 GPA, ACT scores, and an interview. Applications open September 8, 2025, with a $20 fee and an October 6, 2025 deadline. Spring and fall start dates are offered.
- Louisiana State Board of Practical Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 12-Month program
- Apply by 2025-10-06
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts spring/fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- 810 clinical hours
Central Louisiana Technical Community College
Alexandria, LA - Public 2-Year - cltcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Louisiana Technical Community College's Practical Nursing program is an 18-month, campus-based pathway to LPN licensure. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, hands-on lab practice, and supervised clinicals in diverse healthcare settings, moving from fundamental to complex patient care. Students benefit from three credential exit points and the flexibility of multiple campus locations across Louisiana. Tuition totals $12,475 (about $2,495 per semester), and the average graduate debt is $8,580. Graduates are fully prepared for the NCLEX-PN exam and careers in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home health. The program also lays a strong foundation for professional advancement and continued education in nursing.
- $12,475 total program tuition
- 18-Month program
- Prepares for LPN licensure exam
- Offered at multiple campus locations
- Three credential exit points
- Average graduate debt $8,580
- Cost per semester $2,495
- Supervised clinical training
- Employment in nursing homes
- Opportunities for professional growth
Louisiana Delta Community College
Monroe, LA - Public 2-Year - ladelta.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing at Louisiana Delta Community College offers a campus-based pathway to LPN licensure. The curriculum integrates classroom theory, lab practice, and clinical rotations at partner facilities, including St. Francis Medical Center and Glenwood Regional Medical Center. Students master the nursing process, technical skills, communication, critical thinking, and ethical care. With limited enrollment and multiple start dates, the program operates at locations such as Lake Providence and West Monroe. Applicants must take the ACT as an entrance exam. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN and enter the workforce quickly, making it a strong fast-track option for aspiring practical nurses.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- Starts summer/fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Limited enrollment program
- Clinical experiences at partner facilities
- Offered at multiple Louisiana locations
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 offers a five-semester, 59-credit Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing at its Acadian site, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN and LPN licensure. The curriculum spans pharmacology, drug calculations, IV therapy, nutrition, and nursing care across pediatric, obstetric, mental health, and geriatric populations, with strong emphasis on long-term care. Graduates pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and long-term facilities. Admission is competitive and requires prerequisite coursework plus entrance scores from ACT, Accuplacer, or TEAS; pre-nursing courses demand an 80% minimum grade. Criminal background checks and drug screens are mandatory. Limited enrollment ensures personalized instruction, and the program starts each fall.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- 59 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Focus on geriatric and long-term care
- Criminal background check required
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College
Minden, LA - Public 2-Year - nltcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College offers a Practical Nursing diploma program focused on preparing students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The campus-based curriculum integrates classroom theory, laboratory skills practice, and clinical rotations across diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals and nursing homes. Coursework covers foundational nursing principles, advanced pharmacology, and specialty training in pediatric, obstetric, and mental health nursing. Students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentoring, while partnerships with regional healthcare employers provide networking and career connections. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and can pursue employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and outpatient clinics. The program emphasizes compassionate, evidence-based care and critical thinking to meet the demands of the growing nursing field.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Hands-on clinical experience at local facilities
- Curriculum: basic nursing, advanced pharmacology, rotations
- Supportive learning environment with dedicated faculty
- Partnerships with local healthcare organizations
- Career options in hospitals, nursing homes, home care
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.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Louisiana
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Infinity College |
|
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| Louisiana State University-Shreveport |
|
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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.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Louisiana
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Central Louisiana Technical Community College |
|
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| Fletcher Technical Community College |
|
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| Infinity College |
| - |
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
- $12,475 total program tuition
- 18-Month program
- Prepares for LPN licensure exam
- Offered at multiple campus locations
- Three credential exit points
- Average graduate debt $8,580
- Cost per semester $2,495
- Supervised clinical training
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- 59 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Bossier City, LA
Bossier Parish Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in just five semesters
- Apply by 2026-05-05
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Clinical training in diverse healthcare settings
Chalmette, LA
Nunez Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Louisiana State Board Practical Nursing Examiners (LSBPNE) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 56 total credit hours
- Starts spring/fall
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Gonzales, LA
River Parishes Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Apply by 2026-05-01
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares skilled, compassionate nurses
- Free Accuplacer Refresher course
- No-cost Accuplacer retake
- Evening cohort available
Lafayette, LA
Infinity College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 16-Month program
- Apply by 2026-08-21
- Cohort-based structure
- Financial aid available
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Diverse clinical placements
- Immersive simulation labs
South Louisiana Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Semester program
- Starts fall/spring
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Night classes available in Lafayette
- Prepare for NCLEX exam
- Career pathway: LPN, RN, LPN to RN
- Average salary $54,610
Minden, LA
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Hands-on clinical experience at local facilities
- Curriculum: basic nursing, advanced pharmacology, rotations
- Supportive learning environment with dedicated faculty
- Partnerships with local healthcare organizations
- Career options in hospitals, nursing homes, home care
Monroe, LA
Louisiana Delta Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- Starts summer/fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Limited enrollment program
- Clinical experiences at partner facilities
- Offered at multiple Louisiana locations
Schriever, LA
Fletcher Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 4-Semester program
- 62 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
Shreveport, LA
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Louisiana State Board of Practical Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 12-Month program
- Apply by 2025-10-06
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts spring/fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
Southern University at Shreveport
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Continuing Education/Non-Credit Program
- Practice in a variety of health care settings
- Competent basic nursing practice
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