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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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New Hampshire LPN programs offering practical nursing education and hands-on clinical experience for entry-level nursing roles
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2027 Best LPN Programs in New Hampshire

We rank the best LPN programs in New Hampshire to help future nurses pick a strong start. Our team looks at tuition, NCLEX pass rates, and hands-on clinical training. The top programs offer small classes, flexible schedules, and real-world experience at local healthcare sites. Many schools provide evening options for working adults. We also check how well graduates perform on the licensing exam, because that shows real readiness for the job. Programs that make the list meet high standards for quality and student support. Some shine with modern labs and caring teachers, while others stand out through hospital partnerships and career help. To see the exact way we build these rankings, visit our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

Manchester Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Manchester Community College offers a one-year, 36-credit Licensed Practical Nursing certificate designed for individuals with a medical background, including current Licensed Nursing Assistants looking to advance. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on simulation training in a modern lab equipped with hospital beds and high-fidelity mannequins, followed by real-world clinical rotations at Parkland Medical Center. Structured as a cohort-based program starting each January, applicants must apply by September 30. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and can pursue further advancement through MCC's LPN-to-RN bridge program, making it a practical launchpad for a nursing career in acute care settings.

  • 1-Year program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2022-09-30
  • Starts winter
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • State-of-the-art simulation lab
  • Clinical training at Parkland Medical Center
  • Pathway from LNA to LPN
  • Program-sharing model lowers costs
#2

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 offers a one-year, 36-credit LPN certificate program developed in partnership with River Valley Community College. Spanning three semesters, the curriculum blends classroom instruction, simulation labs, and hands-on clinical rotations at healthcare facilities across the White Mountains Region. Core coursework includes anatomy and physiology, professional nursing concepts, and patient care fundamentals. Applicants must hold a current NH LNA license, CPR certification, and pass a criminal background check; admission also requires the TEAS entrance exam. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and find employment in hospitals, long-term care, outpatient centers, and home health. An LPN-to-RN advancement track is available, and the program is a candidate for ACEN accreditation.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2023-09-30
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts spring
  • 90% job placement rate
#3

Nashua Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nashua Community College, in partnership with River Valley Community College, offers a one-year LPN Certificate program designed to fast-track students into New Hampshire's high-demand healthcare workforce. The curriculum integrates professional nursing concepts, anatomy and physiology, and progressive LPN care, supported by simulation labs and hands-on clinical rotations at Greater Nashua healthcare facilities. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, opening doors to careers in long-term care, hospitals, home health, and physician offices. Admission requirements include TEAS testing, active LNA licensure, and prerequisite coursework. The program, a candidate for ACEN accreditation, maintains small cohorts to ensure personalized faculty support and a strong learning environment.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2024-09-30
  • Starts spring
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
#4

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 ACEN-accredited LPN program is a one-year, 36-credit-hour curriculum spread across three semesters, covering anatomy, physiology, psychology, and core professional nursing concepts. Students build clinical competency through simulation lab experiences alongside traditional coursework, with an emphasis on patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. Notably, admission requires passing the TEAS exam. A free Anatomy & Physiology prep course supports incoming students, and multiple campus locations throughout New Hampshire make the program highly accessible. Graduates are well-positioned to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue roles in long-term care, hospitals, outpatient settings, or home health, with a reported 100% job placement rate. A built-in pathway to an associate degree RN program also enables seamless academic advancement.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 1 start dates per year
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2025, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in New Hampshire

We've put together a table of the shortest LPN programs in New Hampshire for 2027. These certificate and associate degree options help students get into nursing faster. In a high-demand field, the quickest paths allow graduates to start working sooner. Shorter programs often focus on essential skills, which makes them a smart choice for anyone eager to enter the workforce. The table below lists each school, program offered, program highlights, and graduation and retention rates. Use this information to compare options across the Granite State, from Manchester to Concord, and find the right fit for your goals.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
White Mountains Community College
  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2023-09-30
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 7 :1
Manchester Community College
  • 1-Year program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2022-09-30
  • Starts winter
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • State-of-the-art simulation lab
  • Clinical training at Parkland Medical Center
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 :1
Nashua Community College
  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2024-09-30
  • Starts spring
  • Graduation Rate: 38%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 8 :1
*Citation: IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.

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.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in New Hampshire

We've gathered information on three schools in New Hampshire offering LPN programs at certificate, diploma, or associate degree levels. The table below displays each school, the program offered, highlights, and tuition ranges. Finding an affordable program is key to starting a nursing career without heavy debt. Compare costs and features to choose a path that fits your budget and goals. These options can lead to rewarding opportunities across the Granite State, from Manchester to Nashua. Remember that a smart investment in education keeps long-term costs in mind. Use this data to make a confident decision about your future in nursing.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
White Mountains Community College
  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2023-09-30
  • 1 start dates per year
  • $5,600 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $12,200 - $18,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
River Valley Community College
  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in in just one year
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 1 start dates per year
  • 100% job placement rate
  • $5,600 - $8,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $12,200 - $18,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Manchester Community College
  • 1-Year program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2022-09-30
  • Starts winter
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • State-of-the-art simulation lab
  • Clinical training at Parkland Medical Center
  • $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $12,300 - $18,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Based on: IPEDS 2025, U.S. Department of Education. 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

VS

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

We have compiled a helpful list of LPN programs in New Hampshire. The table below gives you key facts about each school, including where it is located, what makes the program stand out, and a direct link to the program page. Use this information to compare your options and find the training that works best for you. Explore the list and take the next step toward a nursing career.
Jump to City:

Berlin, NH

White Mountains Community College

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 1-Year program
    • Complete in in just one year
    • 36 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2023-09-30
    • 1 start dates per year

Claremont, NH

River Valley Community College

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 1-Year program
    • Complete in in just one year
    • 36 total credit hours
    • 1 start dates per year
    • 100% job placement rate

Manchester, NH

Manchester Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 1-Year program
    • 36 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2022-09-30
    • Starts winter
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • State-of-the-art simulation lab
    • Clinical training at Parkland Medical Center

Nashua, NH

Nashua Community College

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 1-Year program
    • Complete in in just one year
    • 36 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2024-09-30
    • Starts spring
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2025 Final Release Data.

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