Best LPN Programs in Ohio 2026

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

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 Ohio

If you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Ohio, you need a great education to start your career. At practicalnursing.org, we have looked at many LPN programs across the state to find the best ones for you. Our team checks factors like how well students do on exams, job placement rates, and what current students say. We rank these programs to help you pick the right school without stress. You can trust our list because we focus on what matters most for your success. Learn more about how we create our rankings at https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

ATA College-Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - ata.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

ATA College-Cincinnati's Practical Nursing Program provides a 15-month accelerated diploma track with a hybrid format that integrates online coursework with on-campus labs and clinical experiences. No prerequisites or waiting list are required, allowing immediate entry. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and comprehensive nursing knowledge to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. Provisional OBN approval ensures program quality, and career placement assistance supports job readiness. Day classes and laptop availability enhance accessibility for students pursuing roles in diverse healthcare settings.

15-Month Diploma Program
No prerequisites required
No waiting list
Hybrid program
Online and on-campus labs
Clinical experience included
NCLEX-PN eligibility
Accelerated track
Experienced faculty
Critical thinking focus

Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati offers a Practical/Vocational Nursing program that can be completed in just 12 months full-time or 21 months part-time, with four annual start dates for flexibility. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical coursework and practice-based training to thoroughly prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED, and financial aid is available. This program is ideal for individuals entering the nursing field, providing a swift path to an in-demand LPN career without requiring entrance exams.

12 months full-time
21 months part-time
On Campus
Four start times yearly
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
High school diploma or GED required
Financial aid available
Engaging clinical coursework
Practice-based training
Rewarding, in-demand career

Professional Skills Institute

Maumee, OH - Private 4-year - proskills.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse

Campus Based - Visit Website

Professional Skills Institute offers a 48-week Practical Nurse diploma program with flexible daytime and evening hybrid classes that blend online coursework with hands-on campus labs. Students complete 270 hours of clinical training in medical facilities, gaining real-world experience under qualified instructors. Approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, this program meets educational requirements for licensure in Ohio and Michigan, and graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN. Financial aid is available for qualified students, supporting access to this career-focused education.

48-week diploma program
Daytime and evening hybrid classes
270 hours of clinical training
Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing
Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure
Financial aid available
Hands-on campus labs
Online learning flexibility
Real-world clinical experience
Qualified instructors with field experience

Ohio Medical Career College

Dayton, OH - Private 2-year - omcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Ohio Medical Career College's 40-week Practical Nursing diploma program in Dayton prepares students for LPN licensure through the NCLEX-PN. Combining classroom instruction with supervised clinical practice, it covers essential topics like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and holistic patient care. The program requires prerequisites of CNA or MA certification and CPR training, and offers flexible day and evening classes. Authorized by the Ohio State Board with provisional approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing, it addresses the growing demand for LPNs in healthcare.

40-week program length.
Day and evening classes available.
Combines classroom and clinical practice.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
Covers anatomy, physiology, patient care.
Requires CNA or MA certification.
CPR training prerequisite.
Authorized by Ohio State Board.
Provisional approval by Ohio Board of Nursing.
Diploma upon completion.

Fortis College-Columbus

Westerville, OH - Private 2-year - fortis.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fortis College-Columbus provides a hybrid Practical Nursing program that combines online coursework with on-campus labs and clinical rotations, offering flexibility for students. The curriculum emphasizes nursing theory, hands-on skills, and patient care across various healthcare settings, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial aid is accessible for eligible candidates, and transfer credits are available for STNAs seeking career advancement. This program focuses on comprehensive clinical experience without a specific concentration, making it ideal for those entering the LPN field.

Hybrid learning format.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Financial aid available.
Hands-on clinical experience.
Transfer credits for STNAs.

*Source data: IPEDS 2023, compiled by NCES.

Ohio LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Ohio, prospective students must meet specific eligibility criteria. Ohio applicants typically need to have a high school diploma or GED. Many programs require submission of prior academic transcripts, a passing score on a pre-entrance exam such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), and a background check. Some schools may also require proof of immunizations, a physical exam, CPR certification, and a drug screening. Meeting these prerequisites is essential before progressing to the formal application phase

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

Ohio LPN programs combine classroom instruction with clinical training to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. The curriculum generally includes courses in anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, pediatric nursing, and mental health concepts. Clinical experiences in hospitals and long-term care settings give students practical skills needed to care for patients across the lifespan.

Accreditation is a key consideration in selecting an LPN program. Accredited programs meet educational quality standards required by state and national nursing authorities. In Ohio, accreditation ensures eligibility for the NCLEX-PN exam and facilitates job placement and further education. Students should verify that their program is approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

LPN Schools and Classes

Ohio offers numerous LPN programs through vocational schools, community colleges, and technical centers. Programs are available in both urban and rural areas, providing options for in-person learning throughout the state. Coursework blends general healthcare education with specialized nursing modules. Core subjects include human growth and development, nutrition, geriatric nursing, and pharmacology. Clinical rotations complement classroom study, covering areas like obstetrics, pediatrics, and medical-surgical nursing. These blended approaches ensure students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical application experience.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Ohio can pursue careers in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare agencies. The demand for LPNs remains consistent due to Ohio’s aging population and ongoing need for long-term care services. Many positions in the state offer shift flexibility, making the profession attractive for individuals seeking work-life balance. Additionally, LPNs may advance their careers through bridge programs that allow them to become Registered Nurses (RNs) while working.

LPN Program Length

Ohio LPN programs typically require 12 to 18 months of full-time study. Students looking for greater scheduling flexibility can choose part-time or evening and weekend options, which may extend the program to approximately 18 to 24 months. These options are suitable for individuals balancing employment or family responsibilities while pursuing their nursing education.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Ohio

Looking for the shortest LPN programs in Ohio? These fast-track options can help you start your nursing career sooner. Many schools across Ohio, from Cleveland to Columbus, offer quick certificate or associate programs. These programs focus on hands-on training and essential skills. With high graduation and retention rates, students often finish quickly and enter the workforce. Choosing a short program saves time and money, letting you begin helping patients faster. It's a great way to jump into healthcare without a long wait. Explore these opportunities to find the best fit for your goals in Ohio.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Ohio Medical Career College Practical Nursing	40-week program length. Day and evening classes available. Combines classroom and clinical practice. Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure. Covers anatomy, physiology, patient care. Requires CNA or MA certification. CPR training prerequisite. Authorized by Ohio State Board.	Graduation Rate: 78% Retention Rate: 78% Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati Practical/Vocational Nursing	12 months full-time 21 months part-time On Campus Four start times yearly Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam High school diploma or GED required Financial aid available Engaging clinical coursework	Graduation Rate: 55% Retention Rate: 78% Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
ATA College-Cincinnati Practical Nursing Program	15-Month Diploma Program No prerequisites required No waiting list Hybrid program Online and on-campus labs Clinical experience included NCLEX-PN eligibility Accelerated track	Graduation Rate: 71% Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1

*Source data: IPEDS 2023, compiled by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

The cost of an LPN program in Ohio generally ranges from $6,000 to $16,000, depending on the type of institution and program length. Community colleges tend to offer more affordable tuition compared to private institutions. Students should also budget for books, uniforms, clinical supplies, licensing exam fees, and health screenings. While most LPN students in Ohio live off-campus or commute, those relocating might encounter housing expenses that vary widely depending on location—generally between $500 and $1,000 per month for shared accommodations or student housing options.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Ohio

Finding affordable LPN programs in Ohio is key for many students. These programs help people start a career in nursing without a big financial burden. Ohio has schools in cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati that offer certificate or associate degrees. They focus on hands-on training and job readiness. The tuition range varies, but low-cost options make education accessible. This is important because it opens doors for more people to enter the healthcare field. By keeping prices down, students can graduate with less debt and quickly join the workforce. Affordable programs support a stronger community of nurses in the state.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Washington State Community College Certificate of Practical Nursing Education	Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam. High NCLEX-PN pass rates. Combines classroom and clinical learning. Eligible for financial aid. Designed for diverse life stages.	$3,300 - $5,000 (Undergrad In-State) $3,300 - $5,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Cuyahoga Community College District Practical Nursing Certificate	Career ladder curriculum. Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam. Seamless progression to ADN. Certificate of Proficiency awarded. Campus-based program. Contact Financial Aid for eligibility. Nursing and Health Professions school. Admission to ADN program required.	$3,700 - $5,500 (Undergrad In-State) $7,000 - $10,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Stark State College Practical Nursing	Day and evening/weekend options. Classes at Akron campus. Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam. Hands-on clinical experiences. Affordable tuition rates. 46 seats per cohort. Fall and spring semester starts. Background check required.	$3,700 - $5,600 (Undergrad In-State) $6,200 - $9,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

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

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

In Ohio, LPN programs cannot be completed fully online due to the clinical training required for licensure. The Ohio Board of Nursing mandates supervised hands-on practice in clinical settings to ensure graduates are competent in patient care. While some theoretical coursework may be available in a hybrid format, the core of the program—including clinical rotations, skills labs, and patient simulations—must be completed in person. This ensures practical nurses are prepared to meet the standards of care expected in real-world healthcare settings.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Ohio

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ohio, aspiring nurses must pass the NCLEX-PN examination after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. This national exam evaluates candidates’ knowledge and readiness to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN. Once the educational requirements are fulfilled, graduates must apply for licensure with the Ohio Board of Nursing and register for the NCLEX-PN. Ohio does not allow temporary permits for practice prior to licensure, so passing the NCLEX-PN is a required step before beginning LPN employment.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Ohio offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are licensed in other U.S. states. To apply, candidates must have graduated from an approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-PN, and be in good standing with their current licensing board. Fingerprinting and criminal background checks through the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and FBI are also required.

As of January 1, 2023, Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows LPNs with a multistate license from another NLC member state to practice in Ohio without getting a separate license. Likewise, Ohio LPNs with a compact license may practice in any other NLC participating state, helping streamline cross-state employment opportunities.

Licensure Requirements

The Ohio Board of Nursing is responsible for regulating LPN licensure in the state. Initial licensure applicants must meet the following requirements:

Graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
Submit an online application through the Ohio eLicense system
Complete BCI and FBI criminal background checks

The Board also requires applicants to provide documentation of lawful presence in the United States, and to respond to questions regarding their criminal and disciplinary history.

License Renewal

Ohio LPN licenses expire on October 31 of odd-numbered years, irrespective of the date of issuance. To qualify for renewal, LPNs must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal cycle. Of these, one hour must be directly related to the laws and rules governing nursing practice in Ohio (Category A).

Continuing education hours must be completed by the time of license renewal submission. LPNs are advised to retain records of completed continuing education for at least six years in case of audit by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Ohio LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ohio is $60,600, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This salary difference is often influenced by Ohio's lower-than-average cost of living, which allows for competitive local wages that still fall under the national benchmark. Other contributing factors include regional demand for long-term care services, state population trends, and the financial landscape of local hospital systems.

Average LPN State Salary in Ohio

$60,600

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.

Ohio LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

11 to 15 months.

Credential Awarded:

Practical Nursing Diploma or Certificate of Completion.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Concentrated curriculum on fundamental nursing skills, patient care, and clinical practice required for entry-level LPN roles.

Average In-State Tuition in Ohio:

Approximately $18,000 - $30,000 (total program cost).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to becoming a licensed practical nurse and entering the workforce.

School Types:

Career-technical centers, private career colleges (e.g., Hondros College of Nursing), and some community colleges.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

Approximately 2 years (4-5 semesters).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Technical Study (ATS) in Practical Nursing.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Combines the core LPN curriculum with general education courses such as English, psychology, and anatomy, providing a broader educational base.

Average In-State Tuition in Ohio:

Approximately $15,000 - $25,000 (total program cost).

Best For:

Students who want a college degree and a smoother pathway for future education, such as an LPN-to-RN bridge program.

School Types:

Primarily community colleges and technical colleges.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Employment: It is the fastest path to qualify for the NCLEX-PN and start working as an LPN, often in a year or less.
Focused Curriculum: The program avoids general education requirements, allowing students to concentrate entirely on the nursing skills needed for the job.
Immediate Income: By entering the workforce sooner, you can begin earning an income more quickly compared to a two-year degree path.
Hands-On Emphasis: These programs are heavily weighted toward clinical skills and direct patient care, preparing you for the immediate demands of the role.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Easier Transition to RN: The general education credits earned are typically required for and transferable to LPN-to-RN or BSN bridge programs, simplifying future career advancement.
Broader Knowledge Base: The inclusion of general education courses enhances critical thinking, communication, and foundational science knowledge.
Potential for More Financial Aid: As traditional degree programs, they often provide more straightforward access to federal grants, loans, and institutional scholarships.
Enhanced Marketability (in some cases): While not always required, some employers may view an associate degree as a sign of a more well-rounded candidate.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Ohio

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$48,000 - $75,000	12-18 months	NCLEX-PN	500-750 hours	$15,000 - $25,000
MA	$33,500 - $49,000	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA)	160-200 hours	$5,000 - $17,000
CNA	$31,000 - $47,000	2-4 weeks (75-hour minimum)	Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP)	16+ hours	$400 - $1,200
DA	$37,500 - $60,000	9-12 months	Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) from DANB	150-300 hours	$3,000 - $10,000
Pharm Tech	$31,500 - $49,500	6-12 months	PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT)	120-300 hours	$5,000 - $15,000
Phlebotomist	$33,000 - $50,500	4-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-120 hours	$800 - $3,000
OTA	$54,000 - $82,500	2 years (Associate's degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours (16 weeks minimum)	$15,000 - $25,000

List of LPN Programs in Ohio

If you're looking to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ohio, you have many great programs to choose from. This guide helps you explore schools across the state, showing where they are located, what makes each program special, and direct links to learn more. Finding the right fit for your career goals is easy with this clear and helpful information. Start your journey today by checking out the options below.

Jump to City:

Archbold, OH

Northwest State Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Combines lectures, labs, clinicals.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- 100% graduate employment rate.
- Separate application required.
- Admission deadlines in February, September.
- Financial details available online.

Brecksville, OH

Stautzenberger College-Brecksville

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- 14-month program length.
- 76.5 credits required.
- Prepares for licensure exam.
- Career services available.
- Small class sizes.
- Experienced faculty.
- Hands-on training.