Best LPN Programs in New Hampshire 2026

Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in New Hampshire with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across New Hampshire.

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

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2026 Best LPN Programs in New Hampshire

If you're looking to start a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Hampshire, finding the right program is your first step. At practicalnursing.org, we've done the research for you by ranking the best LPN programs across the state. Our list highlights schools that offer strong training, support students well, and help you get ready for the NCLEX-PN exam. We focus on what matters most to future nurses, like hands-on experience and job placement rates. You can trust our rankings to guide you toward a program that fits your goals and sets you up for success in healthcare. https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

White Mountains Community College

Berlin, NH - Public 2-Year - wmcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Nursing-Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

White Mountains Community College's Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, delivered in collaboration with River Valley Community College, provides a comprehensive one-year certificate pathway into healthcare. Students engage in classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations throughout the White Mountains Region, building practical skills for diverse settings like long-term care, hospitals, and outpatient centers. The program readies graduates for the national licensing exam and supports progression to RN studies. Entry mandates New Hampshire Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) licensure, though allied health professionals may qualify for waivers. Financial aid options help make this high-demand career accessible in New Hampshire.

One-year certificate program.
Combines classroom and simulation labs.
Clinicals in White Mountains Region.
Pathway to LPN to RN track.
High demand for LPNs in NH.
Requires NH LNA licensure.
Potential waivers for allied health.
Financial aid available.
Prepares for national licensing exam.
Opportunities in various healthcare settings.

River Valley Community College

Claremont, NH - Public 2-Year - rivervalley.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Nursing-Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

River Valley Community College's LPN program delivers intensive one-year training across multiple New Hampshire campuses, combining classroom instruction with simulation lab experiences. Students develop practical skills through clinical rotations in diverse healthcare environments including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings. The program maintains a perfect 100% job placement record and prepares graduates thoroughly for the NCLEX-PN licensing examination. Admission requires a high school diploma, completion of prerequisite courses, and successful TEAS test results. This certificate program emphasizes evidence-based nursing practices while offering comprehensive career preparation in just 36 credits.

One-year nursing certificate
Multiple NH campus locations
100% job placement rate
Simulation laboratory training
NCLEX-PN exam preparation
Diverse healthcare career paths
36 total program credits
TEAS test required
Clinical site experiences
Evidence-based curriculum

Nashua Community College

Nashua, NH - Public 2-Year - nashuacc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nashua Community College's one-year LPN Certificate program, offered in partnership with River Valley Community College, provides comprehensive training through classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical experiences in the Greater Nashua Region. This fast-track program prepares students for the national licensing exam and addresses New Hampshire's high demand for LPNs. Admission requires a high school diploma, TEAS test scores, and current New Hampshire LNA licensure, though exceptions exist for Allied Health workers. Additional prerequisites include CPR certification, criminal background checks, drug tests, medical insurance, and mandatory Covid and Flu vaccines. The program holds accreditation candidate status and starts in Spring 2025.

One-year program duration.
Combines classroom and lab learning.
Clinicals in Greater Nashua Region.
Prepares for national licensing exam.
High demand for LPNs in NH.
Partnership with River Valley CC.
TEAS test admission requirement.
Current NH LNA licensure needed.
Exceptions for Allied Health workers.
CPR certification required.

Manchester Community College

Manchester, NH - Public 2-Year - mccnh.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Manchester Community College's LPN program provides a direct pathway into nursing through comprehensive campus-based training. Students gain essential skills in patient care, medication administration, and clinical procedures while preparing for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. The program maintains affordability with various financial aid options and requires a high school diploma or GED for admission. Through a balanced curriculum of theoretical instruction and practical clinical experience, graduates are well-equipped for employment in diverse healthcare settings including hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Campus-based LPN program.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Affordable tuition options.
High school diploma required.
Focus on patient care.
Hands-on clinical experience.
Financial aid available.
Emphasizes teamwork skills.
Medication administration training.

*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

New Hampshire LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in New Hampshire, prospective students must meet several standard prerequisites. These typically include having a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check, and being at least 18 years of age. Most programs also require applicants to complete a pre-admission exam, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). In addition, schools often request immunization records, CPR certification, and proof of a recent physical exam. Some programs may also require completion of foundational courses in biology or anatomy prior to acceptance.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in New Hampshire are designed to provide students with the knowledge and hands-on skills required for entry-level nursing practice. Curricula typically cover areas such as pharmacology, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, and mental health nursing. Clinical experiences are integral to every program, allowing students to apply learned competencies in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings under supervision.

Accreditation plays a critical role in ensuring that the program meets educational standards set by nursing regulatory bodies. Graduating from an accredited program is important for eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam and for future employment opportunities. Programs in New Hampshire must be approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing, which ensures they meet the required licensing standards and guidelines.

LPN Schools and Classes

In New Hampshire, LPN programs are offered at various vocational schools, community colleges, and technical education centers located throughout the state. These institutions provide both theoretical instruction and clinical training in an array of nursing subjects. Students can expect courses in patient care, nursing ethics, pediatrics, obstetrics, and geriatric care. Additional topics include infection control, pharmacology, and professional development to prepare students for the practical roles they will undertake.

Career Outlook

LPNs in New Hampshire typically work in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, home health services, physician offices, and outpatient clinics. The demand for LPNs remains steady, especially due to the state’s aging population. Licensed Practical Nurses in New Hampshire often enjoy consistent employment opportunities and can maintain a balanced lifestyle with shift-based scheduling. According to the New Hampshire Economic & Labor Market Information Bureau, healthcare is one of the state’s fastest-growing sectors, making practical nursing a stable career choice.

LPN Program Length

In New Hampshire, full-time LPN programs generally take about 12 months to complete, while part-time options may extend to 18 to 24 months. For students balancing work or family responsibilities, some schools offer evening or weekend classes, which also extend the program length. Clinical hours are mandatory regardless of schedule type and must be completed in person. The variation in program lengths allows for flexibility while ensuring students receive comprehensive training.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in New Hampshire

If you're looking to start a nursing career in New Hampshire, shorter programs can be a great choice. They help you enter the workforce faster, which is key in areas like Manchester or the Seacoast where healthcare jobs are growing. These quickest options focus on practical skills, leading to good graduation and retention rates. By finishing sooner, you can begin helping patients and earning an income without a long wait. This makes education more affordable and accessible for many people in the state.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Nashua Community College Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate	One-year program duration. Combines classroom and lab learning. Clinicals in Greater Nashua Region. Prepares for national licensing exam. High demand for LPNs in NH. Partnership with River Valley CC. TEAS test admission requirement. Current NH LNA licensure needed.	Graduation Rate: 30% Retention Rate: 61% Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
White Mountains Community College Nursing-Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	One-year certificate program. Combines classroom and simulation labs. Clinicals in White Mountains Region. Pathway to LPN to RN track. High demand for LPNs in NH. Requires NH LNA licensure. Potential waivers for allied health. Financial aid available.	Graduation Rate: 60% Retention Rate: 74% Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Manchester Community College Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program	Campus-based LPN program. Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam. Affordable tuition options. High school diploma required. Focus on patient care. Hands-on clinical experience. Financial aid available. Emphasizes teamwork skills.	Graduation Rate: 37% Retention Rate: 67% Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1

*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Tuition and Costs

The cost of LPN programs in New Hampshire varies by institution but typically ranges from $10,000 to $18,000 for tuition alone. Additional expenses may include textbooks, uniforms, clinical supplies, licensing exam fees, and health insurance. Students who require housing can expect monthly costs of approximately $900 to $1,400 for rent, depending on the location. Cost planning is essential, and some schools offer financial aid or payment plans to help manage these expenses.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in New Hampshire

Finding an affordable education is key for many students in New Hampshire. This table shows low-cost LPN programs across the state, including areas like Manchester and the Seacoast region. It lists schools, their programs, highlights, and tuition ranges. These options help people start their nursing careers without high debt. Choosing a cost-effective program makes education more accessible. This is important for building a strong healthcare workforce in New Hampshire by 2026.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
White Mountains Community College Nursing-Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	One-year certificate program. Combines classroom and simulation labs. Clinicals in White Mountains Region. Pathway to LPN to RN track. High demand for LPNs in NH. Requires NH LNA licensure. Potential waivers for allied health. Financial aid available.	$5,600 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State) $12,200 - $18,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Manchester Community College Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program	Campus-based LPN program. Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam. Affordable tuition options. High school diploma required. Focus on patient care. Hands-on clinical experience. Financial aid available. Emphasizes teamwork skills.	$5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State) $12,300 - $18,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Nashua Community College Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate	One-year program duration. Combines classroom and lab learning. Clinicals in Greater Nashua Region. Prepares for national licensing exam. High demand for LPNs in NH. Partnership with River Valley CC. TEAS test admission requirement. Current NH LNA licensure needed.	$5,700 - $8,600 (Undergrad In-State) $12,300 - $18,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

No, LPN programs in New Hampshire cannot be completed entirely online. While some theoretical coursework may be offered in a hybrid format, all clinical training must be conducted in person under direct supervision. Hands-on experience is a core component of practical nursing education and is necessary for developing patient care skills. The New Hampshire Board of Nursing requires supervised clinical hours as part of licensing eligibility, which cannot be substituted with virtual learning.

LPN Licensure Requirements in New Hampshire

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Hampshire, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice. Applicants must first complete a Board-approved practical nursing program and then apply for licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing before registering for the NCLEX-PN. The Board provides exam eligibility once academic and application requirements have been fulfilled.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

New Hampshire participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs licensed in another compact state to practice in New Hampshire without obtaining additional licenses. This benefits nurses who plan to work in multiple states. If relocating from a non-NLC state, LPNs must apply for licensure by endorsement with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Endorsement applicants must provide proof of current licensure, pass a criminal background check, and verify completion of an approved education program or equivalent education and experience.

Licensure Requirements

The New Hampshire Board of Nursing oversees licensure for LPNs in the state. To be licensed as an LPN in New Hampshire, candidates must:

Graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program
Submit a completed application via the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
Undergo a state and federal criminal background check
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam

The Board also requires applicants educated outside of New Hampshire to provide official transcripts and proof of equivalent training, if applicable.

License Renewal

LPN licenses in New Hampshire are valid for two years. Renewal is required by every even-numbered year by the licensee’s birth month. To renew their license, LPNs must complete at least 20 continuing education hours during the license period. Some of these hours may include in-service education or formal training related to practical nursing practice. Clinical hours are not required for renewal unless stipulated as part of a disciplinary action or re-entry to practice after license lapse.

New Hampshire LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

Licensed Practical Nurses in New Hampshire earn an average annual salary of $73,850, which is notably higher than the national figure of $62,340. This significant wage differential is influenced by several state-specific economic and demographic factors. New Hampshire's higher cost of living, coupled with a strong demand for long-term care services due to an aging population, elevates compensation levels. The competitive healthcare landscape and state regulations also play a role in driving salaries above the national benchmark to attract and retain essential nursing talent.

Average LPN State Salary in New Hampshire

$73,850

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.

New Hampshire LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

11 to 12 months.

Credential Awarded:

Diploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Concentrated, hands-on training on core clinical skills and nursing fundamentals required for the LPN role. Programs have minimal to no general education requirements.

Average In-State Tuition in New Hampshire:

$28,000 - $35,000 (total program cost, as these are often private institutions).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the quickest path to enter the nursing workforce and who are certain about the LPN career track.

School Types:

Private career and technical colleges (e.g., LNA Health Careers, Harmony Health Care Institute).

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

Approximately 12 months (first year of the 2-year RN program).

Credential Awarded:

Certificate of completion for the practical nursing component, making one eligible for the NCLEX-PN. The full Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is only awarded after 2 years.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes, after successfully completing the first year of the program.

Program Focus:

A broader academic foundation that includes nursing fundamentals alongside required general education courses like English, anatomy, and psychology.

Average In-State Tuition in New Hampshire:

$7,000 - $8,500 (for the first year at a community college).

Best For:

Students who want to keep their options open for a future RN degree, as credits are directly applied to the second year of the associate program.

School Types:

Community colleges (e.g., NHTI, Manchester Community College, River Valley Community College).

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Workforce: It is the most direct and fastest educational path to becoming a licensed LPN, often in under a year.
Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates exclusively on nursing skills and knowledge, avoiding general education courses for students who prefer a purely vocational focus.
High-Intensity Learning: The immersive, singular focus prepares students thoroughly for the specific duties and challenges of the LPN role.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Seamless RN Pathway: This is the primary advantage. All first-year credits apply directly toward earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (RN), creating a clear and efficient academic ladder.
Greater Cost-Effectiveness: The annual tuition at a public community college is significantly lower than the total program cost at most private diploma schools.
Transferability of Credits: General education credits earned are more likely to be transferable to other colleges or four-year universities for a BSN in the future.
Built-in Flexibility: It provides an optional exit point. A student can become an LPN and work while deciding whether to complete the second year to become an RN.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in New Hampshire

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$64,310 - $78,540	11-12 months	NCLEX-PN	500-600 hours	$9,000 - $15,000
MA	$39,630 - $48,930	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT)	160-200 hours	$6,500 - $11,000
CNA	$38,060 - $47,400	3-8 weeks	National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP)	60+ hours	$1,200 - $2,000
DA	$48,010 - $63,050	9-11 months	DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam	300+ hours	$7,000 - $12,000
Pharm Tech	$37,810 - $47,560	8-12 months	Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)	120-180 hours	$5,000 - $9,000
Phlebotomist	$39,260 - $48,770	1-4 months	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-120 hours	$1,000 - $2,500
OTA	$65,560 - $79,830	2 years (Associate's degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours	$15,000 - $25,000

List of LPN Programs in New Hampshire

If you are looking to start a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Hampshire, you have several great options. This list shows LPN programs across the state, including where they are located, what makes each program stand out, and direct links to learn more on the school's website. Explore the table below to find the right program for you and take the next step toward your nursing career.

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