Best LPN Programs in South Carolina 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in South Carolina with details on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across South Carolina.
2026 Best LPN Programs in South Carolina
Central Carolina Technical College
Sumter, SC - Public 2-Year - cctech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Carolina Technical College's Practical Nursing Diploma in Applied Science spans 48 semester hours, blending classroom instruction with extensive hands-on clinical training. This campus-based program emphasizes critical thinking and technology application in nursing care, preparing students for diverse patient populations in structured healthcare settings. Graduates are equipped to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure, with the program approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing and a candidate for ACEN accreditation. As a military-friendly institution, it offers a comprehensive education focused on compassionate, competent care, though admission requirements may evolve to meet state standards.
- 48 semester hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Approved by SC Board of Nursing
- Candidate for ACEN accreditation
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Focuses on critical thinking
- Technology in nursing care
- Caring for diverse populations
- Structured clinical settings
- Licensure preparation
Galen Health Institutes-Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, SC - Private 2-year - galencollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Galen Health Institutes in Myrtle Beach provides a Practical/Vocational Nursing program tailored for beginners, enabling students to become LPNs in 12 months full-time or 21 months part-time. With four annual start dates, it offers flexibility for quick entry into nursing. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical training and practice-based learning, ensuring readiness for the NCLEX-PN exam. This fast-track program blends theoretical education with real-world skills in a supportive campus setting, ideal for those starting their nursing careers without prior experience.
- 12 months full-time.
- 21 months part-time.
- Four start times yearly.
- On-campus classes.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Fast-track to nursing career.
- Theoretical and practical blend.
- Designed for new nursing students.
Williamsburg Technical College
Kingstree, SC - Public 2-Year - wiltech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Diploma – Health Science Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Williamsburg Technical College's 40-week Diploma in Health Science Practical Nursing requires 48 credit hours across three semesters. This campus-based program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN through classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience in healthcare settings. Admission mandates a TEAS exam score of 60 or higher, a 2.0 GPA, and prerequisite courses. Emphasizing hands-on learning and teamwork under registered nurse supervision, it equips graduates for practical nursing roles with a focus on real-world application.
- 40-week program duration.
- 48 credit hours required.
- Campus-based learning.
- TEAS exam score of 60+ needed.
- GPA requirement of 2.0.
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility.
- Clinical experience included.
- Hands-on learning focus.
- Teamwork under RN supervision.
- Prerequisite courses required.
Northeastern Technical College
Cheraw, SC - Public 2-Year - netc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Applied Science - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern Technical College's Practical Nursing program delivers a focused 48-semester-hour curriculum over two semesters and a summer term, blending classroom learning with clinical practice. Students gain expertise in therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventive care for diverse patient groups in various healthcare environments. The program emphasizes team-based nursing concepts and prepares graduates thoroughly for the NCLEX-PN exam, essential for LPN licensure. Admission is competitive and may require prerequisites, ensuring a strong foundation in health sciences for a successful nursing career.
- 48 semester hours total
- Classroom and clinical training
- Two semesters plus summer term
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Competitive admissions process
- Health sciences foundation
- Nursing team concept training
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Prerequisites may be required
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Conway, SC - Public 2-Year - hgtc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - PN Diploma
Campus Based - Visit Website
Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing Diploma program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam through 48 credit hours of rigorous training. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences across multiple campus locations, focusing on patient-centered care and critical thinking development. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, prerequisite courses, and passing the TEAS entrance exam. Graduates are equipped for diverse healthcare roles in hospitals, clinics, and extended care facilities, benefiting from strong employment prospects in South Carolina's growing healthcare sector.
- 48 total credit hours
- Clinical experience included
- Prepare for NCLEX-PN exam
- Multiple campus locations
- Accredited nursing program
- Diverse healthcare career paths
- Comprehensive admission requirements
- Patient-centered care focus
- Safe healthcare environment training
- Critical thinking development
South Carolina LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in South Carolina, applicants must meet a set of prerequisites established by individual schools and overseen by state education and nursing boards. Common requirements include a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA (typically 2.5 or higher), and satisfactory scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Many programs also require background checks, drug screenings, up-to-date immunization records, CPR certification, and proof of South Carolina residency. Students may need to complete prerequisite coursework in subjects such as anatomy, biology, or algebra before applying to certain programs.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in South Carolina are designed to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and entry into the healthcare workforce. The curriculum includes both theoretical instruction and practical clinical training. Students take courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pediatrics, mental health, gerontology, and medical-surgical nursing. Hands-on experience is integrated through supervised clinical rotations across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.
Accreditation is essential in South Carolina; it ensures that a program meets industry and educational standards. Programs must be approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing to ensure they meet state standards for licensure eligibility. While not mandated by the state for program approval, many programs also seek national accreditation from bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which provides additional assurance of quality and is often beneficial for credit transfer and advanced educational opportunities. Graduating from a Board-approved program is required to sit for the NCLEX-PN and is crucial for future employment and educational opportunities.
LPN Schools and Classes
South Carolina offers a variety of practical nursing programs through technical colleges, community colleges, and healthcare-focused trade schools throughout the state. These institutions provide state-approved LPN training that includes both in-class and on-site clinical instruction.
The coursework in LPN programs often begins with fundamentals of nursing, human growth and development, and basic pharmacology. Specialized classes may include maternal-child health, psychiatric nursing, and long-term care. Clinical rotations help students apply classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings under professional supervision. The blend of classroom learning and practical experience ensures students are fully prepared for caregiving roles upon licensure.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in South Carolina can pursue careers in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, clinics, and home healthcare services. The demand for LPNs remains steady, particularly in rural and medically underserved areas. According to labor market data, South Carolina anticipates continued demand for practical nurses due to its aging population and expanding healthcare services.
LPNs often work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians, earning competitive wages and benefits. Schedules may offer flexibility, with opportunities for part-time or shift-based work allowing for work/life balance, particularly in long-term care and outpatient settings.
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in South Carolina can typically be completed in 12 to 18 months for full-time students. For those needing a flexible schedule, many schools offer part-time or evening/weekend options which may extend the completion time to 18 to 24 months. These extended formats are designed for working adults or students with family obligations, allowing them to balance life and education while progressing toward licensure.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in South Carolina
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northeastern Technical College |
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| Galen Health Institutes-Myrtle Beach |
|
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| Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College |
|
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Tuition and Costs
LPN program tuition in South Carolina generally ranges between $4,000 and $12,000, depending on the institution and residency status. Public technical and community colleges tend to offer lower tuition rates compared to private schools. In addition to tuition, students should plan for textbook costs, uniforms, lab and clinical fees, liability insurance, and testing fees for the NCLEX-PN.
Housing and living expenses vary by region. Students attending urban campuses like those in Charleston or Columbia may encounter higher housing costs than those in rural areas. On-campus or nearby shared housing options may start around $500 to $800 per month, depending on location and housing type.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in South Carolina
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Tri-County Technical College |
|
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| Midlands Technical College |
|
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| Denmark Technical College |
|
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in South Carolina cannot be completed entirely online. While some general education or theoretical coursework may occasionally be offered in a hybrid format, the majority of nursing instruction—including critical clinical skills and hands-on laboratories—requires in-person attendance. Clinical rotations are a fundamental requirement for licensure and must be completed in approved healthcare facilities under supervision. Therefore, students must be prepared to attend classes and clinical assignments in person at designated times and locations as part of their educational commitment.
LPN Licensure Requirements in South Carolina
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina, applicants must successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam assesses a graduate’s knowledge and competencies required to perform safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN. Upon graduating from a state-approved practical nursing program, candidates must apply to the South Carolina Board of Nursing to receive authorization to test (ATT). Once the ATT is issued, the candidate can schedule an exam date with Pearson VUE.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
South Carolina offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are licensed in another U.S. state or territory. Applicants seeking reciprocity must submit an application to the South Carolina Board of Nursing, provide verification of their current license, undergo a criminal background check, and meet the same educational criteria as in-state applicants.
South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other compact member states without obtaining additional licenses. This compact facilitates greater mobility for nurses and is especially beneficial for those living near state borders or relocating.
Licensure Requirements
The South Carolina Board of Nursing regulates the licensure of LPNs in the state. To be eligible for LPN licensure, applicants must:
- Graduate from a practical nursing program approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing or an equivalent out-of-state program
- Submit a completed application and the required fee
- Undergo and pass a state and federal criminal background check
- Receive an ATT and pass the NCLEX-PN exam
The Board also requires applicants to submit official transcripts directly from the nursing education program and report any criminal convictions or disciplinary actions.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in South Carolina must be renewed every two years. The renewal period typically opens in August of odd-numbered years and closes by April 30 of the following even-numbered year. The South Carolina Board of Nursing requires LPNs to complete at least 30 contact hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle. Alternatively, LPNs may fulfill renewal requirements by maintaining national certification or completing academic coursework related to nursing practice.
No minimum clinical hours are mandated for renewal, but LPNs must attest to having practiced nursing safely if using work experience as a part of maintaining competency. Renewal notifications and instructions are sent by the Board before the expiration date.
South Carolina LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in South Carolina is $58,430, which is below the national average of $62,340. This wage difference often reflects the state's lower overall cost of living index, which impacts general compensation levels across many professions. Additional factors influencing this disparity include local market dynamics such as the specific demand for long-term care services, state population trends, and the balance of hospital openings and closures. State-specific regulations that define the LPN scope of practice can also contribute to how regional salaries compare to the national benchmark.
Average LPN State Salary in South Carolina
$58,430
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
South Carolina LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11 to 12 months.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma in Applied Science or Certificate.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
Program Focus:
Concentrated training on fundamental nursing skills, patient care, pharmacology, and clinical practice required for the LPN scope of practice.
Average In-State Tuition in South Carolina:
Approximately $9,000 - $14,000 for the entire program, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as a licensed practical nurse.
School Types:
South Carolina's technical colleges and some private career colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Approximately 24 months (2 years).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No (prepares for NCLEX-RN). However, some ADN programs may offer an LPN exit option after completing the first year, which would grant NCLEX-PN eligibility.
Program Focus:
A broader education including general education courses (English, math, psychology) alongside more in-depth nursing theory, leadership, and clinical reasoning for the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in South Carolina:
Approximately $15,000 - $22,000 for the full two-year program.
Best For:
Students who plan to become a Registered Nurse (RN) from the outset and want a degree that provides a direct bridge to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
School Types:
South Carolina's technical and community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry into the Workforce: You can complete the program and become a licensed, working nurse in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: With a shorter program length, the total tuition and associated costs are significantly less than a two-year degree.
- Focused, Hands-On Training: The curriculum is streamlined to teach the essential clinical skills needed for the LPN role without general education requirements.
- Strong Job Demand: Graduates can quickly find employment in settings like long-term care facilities, clinics, and physicians' offices, which have a high demand for LPNs.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Clear Pathway to RN: It serves as the primary route to becoming a Registered Nurse, offering a higher scope of practice and greater responsibility.
- Increased Earning Potential: As an RN, the salary potential is substantially higher than that of an LPN.
- Wider Career Opportunities: An RN license opens up roles in more diverse settings, including hospitals, critical care units, and leadership positions.
- Stronger Educational Foundation: The degree provides a broader base of knowledge, including critical thinking and communication skills, making for a smoother transition to a BSN degree later.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in South Carolina
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $48,340 - $61,280 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-550 hours | $7,000 - $10,000 |
| MA | $31,580 - $44,570 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) Exam or RMA (AMT) Exam | 160-200 hours | $5,000 - $8,000 |
| CNA | $29,260 - $36,890 | 4-8 weeks | NNAAP (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program) | 40 hours | $800 - $1,500 |
| DA | $37,790 - $51,020 | 9-12 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam | 300-400 hours | $6,000 - $9,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $31,200 - $46,470 | 9-12 months | PTCE (offered by PTCB) or ExCPT (offered by NHA) | 240-320 hours | $4,500 - $7,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $31,200 - $44,810 | 4-6 months | NHA (CPT) Exam or ASCP (PBT) Exam | 100-120 hours | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $59,190 - $76,140 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours | $13,000 - $18,000 |
List of LPN Programs in South Carolina
Beaufort, SC
Technical College of the Lowcountry
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Hands-on patient care training
- Located in Beaufort, SC
- High school diploma required
Charleston, SC
Trident Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester nursing program
- 43 total credit hours
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Clinical practice included
- Potential ADN progression
- Multiple admission pathways
- Accredited nursing program
Cheraw, SC
Northeastern Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Applied Science - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 48 semester hours total
- Classroom and clinical training
- Two semesters plus summer term
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Competitive admissions process
- Health sciences foundation
- Nursing team concept training
- Multiple healthcare settings
Conway, SC
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - PN Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- 48 total credit hours
- Clinical experience included
- Prepare for NCLEX-PN exam
- Multiple campus locations
- Accredited nursing program
- Diverse healthcare career paths
- Comprehensive admission requirements
- Patient-centered care focus
Denmark, SC
Denmark Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- GPA requirement: 2.50
- Accuplacer Next Generation scores required
- ATI TEAS Assessment proficiency
- Includes anatomy and pharmacology
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
Florence, SC
Florence-Darlington Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month diploma program
- 48 total credit hours
- NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
- Day program schedule
- Nursing & Allied Health division
- TEAS test required
- Biology prerequisite needed
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
Graniteville, SC
Aiken Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Diploma in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Focus on patient care.
- Entry-level nursing preparation.
- Opportunities for career advancement.
- Supervised clinical work.
Greenwood, SC
Piedmont Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, D.A.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester nursing program
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- 46 total credit hours
- Competitive admission process
- Multiple campus start options
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Pathway to advanced nursing
- Diverse healthcare settings
Kingstree, SC
Williamsburg Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Diploma – Health Science Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 40-week program duration.
- 48 credit hours required.
- Campus-based learning.
- TEAS exam score of 60+ needed.
- GPA requirement of 2.0.
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility.
- Clinical experience included.
- Hands-on learning focus.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Galen Health Institutes-Myrtle Beach
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12 months full-time.
- 21 months part-time.
- Four start times yearly.
- On-campus classes.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Fast-track to nursing career.
Orangeburg, SC
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Diploma in Practical Nursing.
- Hands-on learning experience.
- Traditional and FLEX models available.
- Prepares for various healthcare settings.
- Specific admission requirements.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- High board pass rates.
- Focus on real-life healthcare scenarios.
Pendleton, SC
Tri-County Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Diploma in Practical Nursing.
- Eligible for financial aid.
- Day and evening classes.
- Face-to-face format.
- Located at Easley Campus.
- Focus on hands-on skills.
- Prepares for immediate career entry.
- Covers patient care essentials.
Rock Hill, SC
York Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited Nursing Program
- NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation
- Diverse Clinical Rotation Experiences
- Located on Chester Campus
- Limited Enrollment Program
- Multiple Admission Tracks
- Comprehensive Clinical Requirements
- Flexible Clinical Scheduling
Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for beginning-level nursing.
- Under RN or physician supervision.
- ACEN accreditation candidacy.
- Focuses on practical nursing skills.
Sumter, SC
Central Carolina Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 48 semester hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Approved by SC Board of Nursing
- Candidate for ACEN accreditation
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Focuses on critical thinking
- Technology in nursing care
- Caring for diverse populations
West Columbia, SC
Midlands Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program
- 44 total credit hours
- Campus-based learning
- Estimated cost $8,800
- Multiple clinical settings
- Prepare for NCLEX-PN exam
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Prerequisite courses required
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