Best LPN Programs in Columbus 2026

Fortis College-Columbus provides a hybrid Practical Nursing program that merges online coursework with in-person clinical training, offering flexibility for students. The curriculum emphasizes nursing theory, lab skills, and diverse patient care experiences, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial aid is accessible for eligible candidates, and the program supports career advancement for STNAs with transfer credit options. Unique features include a balanced blend of digital and hands-on learning, ensuring comprehensive preparation for LPN roles in various healthcare settings.

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

North Central State College's Practical Nursing Certificate is an intensive 30-credit program that prepares students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) through a blend of classroom instruction and clinical experiences. Approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, the curriculum focuses on patient care, medication administration, and clinical procedures, equipping graduates for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and medical offices. Enrollment is limited, requiring a minimum 77% grade and passing a background check. The program includes NCLEX exam preparation to ensure readiness for licensing.

• 30-credit nursing certificate
• Ohio Board of Nursing approved
• Clinical experience included
• NCLEX licensing exam preparation
• Limited enrollment program
• Minimum 77% grade requirement
• Background check mandatory
• Multiple healthcare work settings

Central Ohio Technical College's Practical Nursing Certificate is a one-year, 37.5-credit program delivered on campus across multiple locations including Newark, Coshocton, Knox, and Pataskala. ACEN-accredited and selective in admissions, it emphasizes hands-on clinical training for diverse patient age groups, preparing graduates for LPN licensure with an 86% NCLEX-PN pass rate. Financial aid is available, and the program focuses on building practical skills for roles under RNs and doctors, with a median annual wage of $58,130 for LPNs.

• One-year certificate program
• 37.5 total credit hours
• Campus-based learning
• ACEN accredited program
• 86% NCLEX-PN pass rate
• Selective admission process
• Multiple campus locations
• Financial aid eligible
• Median annual wage $58,130
• Prepares for LPN licensure

American Institute of Alternative Medicine's Practical Nursing program in Columbus, OH, offers a nine-month hybrid curriculum blending online coursework with hands-on clinical training. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized professor attention while developing skills in holistic patient care. The program specifically prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. With cost-conscious tuition and no entrance exam requirement beyond a high school diploma or GED, this program provides an accessible pathway to LPN certification in under a year.

• 9-month program duration
• Hybrid learning format
• Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
• Small class sizes
• Holistic patient care focus
• Cost-conscious tuition
• Real-world clinical experience
• One-on-one professor time
• Located in Columbus, OH
• High school diploma or GED required

Columbus State Community College's Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate is a comprehensive four-semester program offering flexible day and evening schedules. Students gain hands-on experience through lectures, labs, clinical rotations, and seminars, developing essential communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills for collaborative healthcare environments. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam, mandatory for Ohio licensure. Admission requires a HESI A2 entrance exam score of 73% or higher, along with a clean drug and background screen. This campus-based training emphasizes practical nursing concepts for entry-level patient care roles in diverse medical settings.

• Full-time day and evening options.
• Four-semester program duration.
• Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
• Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing.
• Requires HESI A2 score of 73%.
• Negative drug and background screen required.
• Offers lecture, lab, and clinical experiences.
• Develops communication and critical thinking skills.
• Sequential program structure.
• Licensure required for Ohio employment.