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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2027 Best LPN Programs in Ohio

Choosing where to earn a licensed practical nurse (LPN) degree is a big decision. To help, we at practicalnursing.org have put together a list of the best LPN programs in Ohio. Our team looked at many factors, including NCLEX pass rates, affordability, program length, and student support. We also read real student feedback to see which schools stand out. We know that every student's situation is different, so we've made it easy to compare programs side by side. The goal is to give future nurses a clear, trustworthy starting point. Ohio has many quality options, so our rankings can help narrow things down. For a closer look at how these rankings are built, see our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

North Central State College

Mansfield, OH - Public 4-Year - ncstatecollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

North Central State College offers a one-year Practical Nursing Certificate approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, blending classroom theory with hands-on clinical experience. Students study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nutrition while developing skills in bedside care, medication administration, wound care, and vital sign assessment. Clinical rotations occur in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation units, and home health agencies. This limited-enrollment program begins each fall and requires a minimum 2.3 GPA and 77% grade in all courses, along with prerequisites. Applicants must complete a health physical, immunizations, background check, and drug screening. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and pursue entry-level LPN positions.

Ohio Board of Nursing, Ohio Board of Regents accredited
30 total credit hours
Starts fall
2.3 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX
Limited enrollment program
Clinical sequence begins fall semester
Background check and drug screening
Minimum 77% grade requirement

Edison State Community College

Piqua, OH - Public 4-Year - edisonohio.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Edison State Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate, offered exclusively at the Eaton campus, is a two-semester, 34-credit program designed to launch students into LPN careers. The curriculum blends foundational sciences—medical terminology, biology, nutrition, pharmacology, and microbiology—with core nursing topics including fundamentals, advanced concepts, and vulnerable population care. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Admission is selective, requiring a 2.5 GPA, prerequisite assessments, and an ACT or SAT entrance exam; conditional acceptance is possible for some courses. Students must complete CPR and First Aid certifications, background checks, and drug screenings before clinicals. Career opportunities span hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home health, addressing Ohio's critical workforce shortage. Advisors support progression, ensuring readiness for this rewarding, in-demand field.

Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT, SAT
2-Semester program
34 total credit hours
Starts fall/spring
2.5 GPA minimum
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Offered exclusively at Eaton location
In-demand job in critical shortage
Employment in hospitals, nursing homes

Washington State Community College

Marietta, OH - Public 4-Year - wsco.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certificate of Practical Nursing Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

Washington State College of Ohio’s Certificate of Practical Nursing Education prepares students for LPN licensure through a campus-based curriculum combining theory and clinical practice. Clinical rotations at Marietta Memorial Hospital, Camden Clark Medical Center, and other acute/long-term care settings give students hands-on experience under RN and physician supervision. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN and achieve a 100% pass rate, surpassing state and national averages. Admission requires the TEAS exam; the application deadline is March 12, 2026. This program builds skilled, compassionate LPNs ready for diverse healthcare roles.

Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
Apply by 2026-03-12
100% licensure pass rate
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Clinical experiences in acute and long-term care
Clinical site: Marietta Memorial Hospital
Clinical site: Camden Clark Medical Center

Clark State College

Springfield, OH - Public 4-Year - clarkstate.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Clark State College offers a 12-month Practical Nursing Certificate blending clinical training in anatomy, pharmacology, and lifespan care. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, disease processes, and pharmacology, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN. With locations in Beavercreek, Bellefontaine, and Springfield, the program provides full-time and evening-weekend options. Tuition totals $11,172 for 45 credit hours, with prerequisites in anatomy and medical terminology required. Approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, this limited-space program features a separate application and a deadline of September 4, 2026. Graduates can stack credits into associate degree nursing programs, enhancing career mobility in long-term care and hospital settings.

$11,172 total program tuition
12-Month program
45 total credit hours
Apply by 2026-09-04
Full-time and part-time options
Prerequisite courses required
Full-time and evening-weekend formats
Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing
Stackable into nursing degrees
Limited space, separate application required

Lorain County Community College

Elyria, OH - Public 4-Year - lorainccc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lorain County Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing Technical Certificate designed to equip students for LPN licensure. The curriculum integrates medical-surgical, maternity, pediatric, and geriatric nursing, alongside medication fundamentals and anatomy. Clinical experiences emphasize applying biological, physical, and behavioral sciences to patient care. Graduates qualify for the NCLEX-PN. This campus-based program mandates the ATI TEAS entrance exam and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students benefit from small cohorts, dedicated faculty, and articulation agreements that support further education, plus credit for prior learning. Career preparation targets entry-level roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, with American Heart Association certification also required.

Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
1-Year program
38 total credit hours
2.0 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX
American Heart Association certification required
Articulation agreements with colleges
Credit for Prior Learning available

*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2025 collection, National Center for Education Statistics.

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.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Ohio

Looking for the fastest way to become an LPN in Ohio? This table highlights schools across the Buckeye State offering some of the shortest programs available. Time matters, especially for those eager to start working in healthcare. Shorter programs let students enter the workforce quickly, saving both time and money. While pace is important, graduation and retention rates reveal how well these programs support their students. From Cleveland to Cincinnati, these schools balance speed with quality. Many Ohio towns have local options, so use this list to find a program that fits your life.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Collins Career Technical Center Practical Nursing Program	Entrance exam required Exams: ACT $13,550 total program tuition 1-Year program Full-time enrollment 2 start dates per year Starts winter/fall Cohort-based structure	Graduation Rate: 55% Retention Rate: 100% Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 :1
Ohio Institute of Allied Health Practical Nursing	12-month fast-track program. Campus-based with hands-on labs. No entrance exam required. Financial aid available. Eligibility for NCLEX-PN exam. Includes clinical experience. High NCLEX pass rate. Holistic nursing curriculum.	Graduation Rate: 100% Retention Rate: 86% Student to Faculty Ratio: 10 :1
Ohio Medical Career College Practical Nursing	40-Week program 60 total credit hours Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN Four ten-week terms Day and evening classes Supervised clinical practice Career as LPN or LVN	Graduation Rate: 79% Retention Rate: 83% Student to Faculty Ratio: 20 :1

*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2025. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Ohio

We've put together a table of three Ohio schools offering LPN programs, with details on the programs, highlights, and tuition ranges. Choosing an affordable program is key to starting a nursing career without taking on too much debt. Low-cost options make it possible for more people to enter the field. The table below shows each school's certificate or associate degree options, along with program features and price information. Use this to compare and find a path that fits your budget while still providing quality training. With the right choice, you can become a licensed practical nurse in 2027 without breaking the bank.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Central Ohio Technical College Practical Nursing Certificate	ACEN accredited Entrance exam required Exams: HESI 3-Semester program Complete in complete the program in three semesters 3 start dates per year Starts summer/fall/spring 86% licensure pass rate	$4,200 - $6,300 (Undergrad In-State) $6,400 - $9,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Clark State College Licensed Practical Nursing	$11,172 total program tuition 12-Month program 45 total credit hours Apply by 2026-09-04 Full-time and part-time options Prerequisite courses required Full-time and evening-weekend formats Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing	$3,500 - $5,300 (Undergrad In-State) $6,400 - $9,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Southern State Community College Practical Nursing	3-Semester program 35 total credit hours 92% licensure pass rate 100% job placement rate Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Day classes on two campuses Lecture, lab, and clinical experiences	$4,700 - $7,100 (Undergrad In-State) $8,700 - $13,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025 data system.

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

We've gathered the top LPN programs in Ohio to make your search easier. Below, you'll find a table listing schools across the state, including their city, program highlights, and direct links to each program's page. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your nursing career, these options offer solid training. Take a look and find the right fit for your goals.

Jump to City:

Archbold, OH

Northwest State Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to RN bridge available

Chesapeake, OH

Collins Career Technical Center

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- $13,550 total program tuition
- 1-Year program
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts winter/fall
- Cohort-based structure

Cincinnati, OH

ATA College-Cincinnati

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-Month program
- 26% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- No waiting list
- Laptops available to students
- Online portion of classes
- NCLEX preparation assessments included
- Career placement assistance

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
- 3-Semester program
- 39 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- $53,472 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Clinical practice in basic nursing skills
- Covers maternal, adult, child, geriatric care

Columbus, OH

Columbus State Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four semester full-time program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Day and evening options
- Careers in diverse health care settings
- Career path for nursing assistants

Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Fortis College-Cuyahoga Falls

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Hybrid online and campus learning
- Transfer credit for STNAs
- Career services support

Dayton, OH

Ohio Medical Career College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 40-Week program
- 60 total credit hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Four ten-week terms
- Day and evening classes
- Supervised clinical practice
- Career as LPN or LVN

Elyria, OH

Lorain County Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 38 total credit hours
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- American Heart Association certification required

Hillsboro, OH

Southern State Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- 35 total credit hours
- 92% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Day classes on two campuses
- Lecture, lab, and clinical experiences

Huber Heights, OH

Ohio Institute of Allied Health

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month fast-track program.
- Campus-based with hands-on labs.
- No entrance exam required.
- Financial aid available.
- Eligibility for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Includes clinical experience.
- High NCLEX pass rate.
- Holistic nursing curriculum.

Lima, OH

James A. Rhodes State College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Scholarships available