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Best LPN Programs in Virginia 2026

Find Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Virginia with information on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Virginia.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.
Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.
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Virginia LPN programs offering practical nursing education and hands-on clinical experience for entry-level nursing roles
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Cities in Virginia

2027 Best LPN Programs in Virginia

Searching for the best LPN programs in Virginia? You are in the right place. The rankings here come from practicalnursing.org, and we have done the careful work for you. We looked at pass rates, tuition costs, and student reviews to pick programs that really prepare nurses for the field. These schools offer strong hands-on training and good job outlooks. Whether you want to study near home or online, this list covers top options across Virginia. Each program on the list meets high standards for quality and support. To understand how we built these rankings, check out our full method on this page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

Wytheville Community College

Wytheville, VA - Public 2-Year - wcc.vccs.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wytheville Community College’s Practical Nursing certificate is a five-semester program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN and licensure. Coursework includes nursing skills, pharmacology, body structure, maternity, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical experiences provide hands-on training across hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Classes are held at the Crossroads Institute in Galax, meeting two days weekly for the first two semesters and four days weekly for the remaining three. Admission requires a C or better in high school biology and algebra; criminal background checks and drug screenings are mandatory. The program starts each fall, boasts an 88% licensure pass rate, is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and the Virginia Community College System, and offers a dual-credit option for high school seniors.

  • 5-Semester program
  • Starts fall
  • 88% licensure pass rate
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Classes at Crossroads Institute in Galax
  • Two days per week first two semesters
  • Four days per week last three semesters
  • Criminal background check required
  • Drug screening required
#2

Rappahannock Community College

Glenns, VA - Public 2-Year - rappahannock.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rappahannock Community College delivers a Practical Nursing Certificate designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN and LPN licensure across hospital, clinic, and long-term care settings. The three-semester program features multiple entry tracks, including Traditional and ADN-to-PN pathways, accommodating diverse student backgrounds. Applicants must complete an entrance exam, and the deadline is the first Monday in October for a January start. Instruction takes place at both Glenns and Warsaw campuses, supported by experienced faculty in a collaborative environment. The program reports a 100% licensure pass rate and 100% job placement, underscoring its effectiveness in equipping graduates for immediate practice. With a focused curriculum in essential nursing skills and patient care, this certificate offers a solid foundation for a practical nursing career.

  • 3 concentration options
  • Entrance exam required
  • 3-Semester program
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Glenns campus location
  • Warsaw campus location
  • Application due first Monday in October
#3

New River Community College

Dublin, VA - Public 2-Year - nr.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

New River Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing Certificate delivered entirely on campus, preparing students to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue Virginia LPN licensure. Coursework combines classroom theory with clinical rotations in acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, and private practices. Faculty provide individualized mentoring throughout the clinical experiences. A significant curriculum update begins fall 2027, shifting to a concept-based model that sharpens clinical judgment and critical thinking. Graduates qualify for entry-level nursing positions in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The program is designed to meet Virginia Board of Nursing standards, ensuring graduates practice safely and effectively in modern healthcare settings.

  • 1-Year program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Individualized clinical mentoring
  • Acute care clinical placements
  • Outpatient clinic rotations
  • Home care agency rotations
  • Private practice settings
  • Aligned with Virginia Board of Nursing
  • Concept-based curriculum transition
  • Prepares for safe effective practice
#4

Piedmont Virginia Community College

Charlottesville, VA - Public 2-Year - pvcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Piedmont Virginia Community College offers a hybrid Practical Nursing certificate that blends online coursework with in-person clinical training. The 37-credit program covers nursing concepts, pharmacology, and nutrition, plus rotations in long-term care, medical-surgical, mental health, OB/GYN, and pediatrics. Students complete at least 402 clinical hours at sites within 50 miles of campus. Admission requires the TEAS exam and prerequisite courses; the program uses limited cohorts. Accredited by the Virginia Board of Nursing, the curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN, with recent pass rates reaching 100%. Through Virginia's G3 program, many students receive free tuition, fees, and books.

  • Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 37 total credit hours
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • 402 clinical hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Financial aid available
#5

Virginia Western Community College

Roanoke, VA - Public 2-Year - virginiawestern.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Virginia Western Community College offers a Practical Nursing diploma program that can be completed in two years (48 credit hours). The curriculum includes medication administration, IV management, wound care, and patient assessment, with clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings. Students benefit from small cohort sizes and personalized faculty attention. The program is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and features two start dates per year (fall and spring). Admission requires the HESI entrance exam. Financial aid, scholarships, and G3 funding are available. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-PN, with a recent 100% licensure pass rate. Career opportunities include hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: HESI
  • 2-Year program
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/spring
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Financial aid available
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2025).

Virginia LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Virginia, applicants must typically have a high school diploma or GED. Most programs require completion of specific prerequisites such as biology, algebra, and basic health science courses. Additionally, students may need to pass an entrance exam like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and complete a background check and drug screening. Some schools also require CPR certification and recent immunization records before clinical placements.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Virginia are designed to prepare students for entry-level practical nursing roles. Coursework includes fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities provide hands-on training to ensure readiness for licensure and employment.

Accreditation is crucial for ensuring the program meets the standards set by regulatory bodies. Programs must be approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing for graduates to be eligible for licensure and to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Many programs also seek additional accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Attending a Board-approved program is a requirement for licensure and employment, and ACEN accreditation often ensures eligibility for federal financial aid.

LPN Schools and Classes

Virginia offers a variety of LPN programs through community colleges, technical schools, and some universities. These institutions provide both classroom instruction and clinical practice to build students’ knowledge and skills. Courses in Virginia LPN programs typically include patient care techniques, health assessment, nutrition, ethics and legal aspects of nursing, and specialized topics in maternal-child and long-term care. Labs and supervised clinical experiences in hospitals and nursing facilities are integral components of the curriculum.

Career Outlook

The career outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses in Virginia remains strong. LPNs are in demand in settings such as long-term care facilities, assisted living communities, hospitals, physician offices, and home health agencies. With Virginia’s aging population, especially in rural areas, the need for LPNs is expected to continue growing. LPNs in Virginia can enjoy flexible work hours, opportunities for advancement, and pathways to continue their education to become Registered Nurses (RNs).

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in Virginia typically take 12 to 18 months to complete when attending full-time. Part-time and evening/weekend programs are offered at select institutions and may take 18 to 24 months, allowing flexibility for working students or those with other obligations. Clinical and coursework components must be completed regardless of schedule type, and all students must meet competency standards prior to graduation.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Virginia

In Virginia, finding the quickest route to becoming an LPN can make a huge difference. Shorter programs allow students to start their nursing careers faster, saving both time and tuition costs. With a growing demand for healthcare workers across the state, from Northern Virginia to the Tidewater region, completing a certificate or diploma in the shortest possible time helps fill critical roles sooner. These accelerated options still provide solid training and often boast strong graduation and retention rates, giving students confidence. For anyone eager to begin working and earning, prioritizing the fastest program is a smart move.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing
  • 14-Month program
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 80% licensure pass rate
  • 80% job placement rate
  • 400 clinical hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Hybrid online and on-campus instruction
  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 31 :1
Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach
  • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
  • 12-Month program
  • 41 total credit hours
  • $0 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Transfer credits to RN program
  • On-campus program in Virginia Beach
  • Graduation Rate: 24%
  • Retention Rate: 100%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 22 :1
Wytheville Community College
  • 5-Semester program
  • Starts fall
  • 88% licensure pass rate
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Classes at Crossroads Institute in Galax
  • Two days per week first two semesters
  • Four days per week last three semesters
  • Graduation Rate: 47%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 23 :1
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Virginia generally ranges from $6,000 to $30,000, depending on the type of institution (public vs. private) and residency status. In addition to tuition, students should budget for books, uniforms, clinical supplies, liability insurance, and testing fees for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. If on-campus housing is offered, room and board can add $6,000 to $10,000 annually. Students should also factor in transportation, health requirements, and personal expenses.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Virginia

When searching for LPN programs in Virginia, it is important to weigh both quality and cost. We know tuition can be a major concern for many future nurses. That is why we have gathered this table of options from across Virginia, including schools in the Richmond area, Tidewater, and the Shenandoah Valley. These programs show that affordable training is within reach. The table includes each school, the program offered, highlights, and the tuition range to make comparing easier. Remember, a nursing career is a valuable investment, but it should not cause financial strain. We hope this helps you find a smart option that fits your budget and leads to a successful career.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Mountain Gateway Community College
  • Entrance exam required
  • 12-Month program
  • 44 total credit hours
  • Full-time enrollment
  • Starts summer
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Financial aid available
  • Clinical experiences across multiple specialties
  • $4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $9,200 - $13,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Virginia Highlands Community College
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • $172 per credit
  • Apply by 2025-03-15
  • Rolling admissions
  • $0 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Financial aid available
  • $4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $9,200 - $13,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Virginia Western Community College
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: HESI
  • 2-Year program
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/spring
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • $4,300 - $6,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $9,500 - $14,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Data source: NCES, IPEDS 2025 institutional survey.

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN classes in Virginia cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on clinical training required for licensure. While some programs may offer a portion of theoretical coursework in an online or hybrid format, the Virginia Board of Nursing mandates in-person clinical experiences in approved healthcare settings. Skills such as patient care techniques, communication, and clinical decision-making require supervised, real-world practice that cannot be replicated virtually.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Virginia

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia, graduates of a state-approved practical nursing program must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national exam assesses foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for safe and effective nursing care. Candidates must first apply for licensure with the Virginia Board of Nursing and receive Authorization to Test (ATT) before scheduling the exam with Pearson VUE. Virginia does not limit the number of times a candidate may retake the NCLEX-PN.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Virginia offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are already licensed in another U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants must provide verification of their existing license, proof of completion of an approved nursing program, and have passed the NCLEX-PN or an equivalent exam. The Virginia Board of Nursing also conducts a criminal background check as part of the endorsement process.

Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs holding a multistate license in another compact state to practice in Virginia without obtaining additional licensure. Similarly, Virginia-based LPNs can practice in other compact states under their Virginia license, provided they meet NLC requirements such as primary state residency and a clean disciplinary record.

Licensure Requirements

Prospective LPNs in Virginia must graduate from a Virginia Board-approved nursing education program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The Virginia Board of Nursing oversees all licensure processes. Applicants must complete the LPN licensure application, submit fingerprints for a state and federal criminal background check, and pay the required fees. Foreign-educated nurses must also submit their credentials for review through an approved educational equivalency service before being considered for licensure.

License Renewal

LPN licenses in Virginia must be renewed every two years. To be eligible for renewal, LPNs are required to complete one of the following: current specialty certification by a national certifying body approved by the board; at least 15 contact hours of continuing education or 1.5 CEUs for each biennium; completion of a nursing-related independent study; publication of a nursing-related article in a peer-reviewed journal; presentation of a nursing-related topic to a group of professionals; participation in a nursing-related research project; completion of a nursing-related academic course resulting in at least three semester hours or five quarter hours of credit; teaching or developing a nursing-related course; or a minimum of 640 hours of active practice as a nurse within the two-year renewal period. The renewal application and required documentation must be submitted to the Virginia Board of Nursing along with the renewal fee. The Board sends out renewal notices approximately 60 days before the expiration date, and LPNs are encouraged to renew online through the Virginia Department of Health Professions portal.

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

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia is $63,380 per year, which is slightly higher than the national average of $62,340. This modest difference can be attributed to a combination of factors, including Virginia's specific cost of living index and regional demand for healthcare services. The state's consistent need for LPNs, particularly within its robust long-term care sector, likely contributes to a salary figure that remains competitive with the national landscape. Furthermore, state-specific population trends and the overall balance of hospital and outpatient facility employment opportunities also influence this compensation level.

Average LPN State Salary in Virginia

$63,380

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.

Virginia LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

VS

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

12 to 18 months.

Credential Awarded:

Certificate or Diploma.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Concentrated curriculum on core nursing theory and essential hands-on clinical skills required for entry-level practice.

Average In-State Tuition in Virginia:

$7,000 - $12,000 at public community colleges/technical centers. Private career schools can be significantly higher.

Best For:

Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.

School Types:

Virginia community colleges, public school system technical centers, and private vocational/career colleges.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

2 years (approximately 24 months).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. In Virginia, most A.A.S. nursing programs are designed for RN licensure, but many allow students to exit after the first year with a certificate and eligibility for the NCLEX-PN.

Program Focus:

A broader educational foundation that combines the core LPN curriculum with required general education courses (e.g., English, psychology, anatomy).

Average In-State Tuition in Virginia:

$11,000 - $16,000 for the full two-year degree at a Virginia community college.

Best For:

Students who plan to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a seamless transfer of credits.

School Types:

Primarily offered through the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

  • Faster Entry to Workforce: The shorter program length (typically 12 months) allows you to get licensed and start earning an income much quicker.
  • Lower Overall Cost: With fewer required credit hours, the total tuition and associated fees are generally lower than for an associate degree.
  • Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach only the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work effectively as an LPN.
  • Wider Program Availability: Certificate and diploma programs are offered at a greater variety of institutions in Virginia, including technical centers and private schools, providing more options.

Choose Associate Degree If:

  • Smoother Path to RN: This is the primary advantage. General education credits are completed, making the transition into an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN bridge program much easier.
  • Greater Credit Transferability: The general education courses are designed to transfer to four-year universities, preserving your investment if you pursue a bachelor's degree later.
  • Broader Skill Set: The inclusion of courses like communications and social sciences helps develop stronger critical thinking and "soft skills" valued by employers.
  • Potential for Expanded Roles: Some employers may give preference to associate-degree-prepared LPNs for roles that require more autonomy or leadership potential.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Virginia

Career Salary Program Length Exam Clinical Hours Tuition
LPN N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
MA N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
CNA N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
DA N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pharm Tech N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phlebotomist N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
OTA N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

List of LPN Programs in Virginia

We have compiled a list of LPN programs in Virginia to help you find the right training. The table below provides each school's city and state location, key program highlights, and a link to the program page for more details. These programs vary in length and cost, so it is worth checking the details carefully. With many schools across the state, there is likely a convenient choice near you. Take a look to compare options and start your journey toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Jump to City:

Abingdon, VA

Virginia Highlands Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • $172 per credit
    • Apply by 2025-03-15
    • Rolling admissions
    • $0 application fee
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available

Alberta, VA

Southside Virginia Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certificate In Practical Nursing (PN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 49 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-05-01
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Next cohort starts August 2026 at Alberta campus

Annandale, VA

Northern Virginia Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • $29,655 total program tuition
    • Complete in 12 - 14 months
    • 8 total courses
    • Apply by 2026-04-15
    • Full-time enrollment
    • Capstone required

Big Stone Gap, VA

Mountain Empire Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Leading to LPN, C

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • $12,000 total program tuition
    • 51 total credit hours
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 2.0 GPA minimum

Cedar Bluff, VA

Southwest Virginia Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (Certificate)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI, TEAS
    • 4-Semester program
    • 56 total credit hours
    • Starts fall
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Charlottesville, VA

Piedmont Virginia Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 37 total credit hours
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 402 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required

Chester, VA

Brightpoint Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Military benefits accepted
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Approved by Virginia Board of Nursing

Clifton Forge, VA

Mountain Gateway Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • 12-Month program
    • 44 total credit hours
    • Full-time enrollment
    • Starts summer
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Clinical experiences across multiple specialties

Dublin, VA

New River Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 1-Year program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Individualized clinical mentoring
    • Acute care clinical placements
    • Outpatient clinic rotations
    • Home care agency rotations
    • Private practice settings
    • Aligned with Virginia Board of Nursing

Falls Church, VA

Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-Month program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 80% licensure pass rate
    • 80% job placement rate
    • 400 clinical hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Hybrid online and on-campus instruction
    • 24/7 access to online resources

Franklin, VA

Paul D Camp Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-Semester program
    • Complete in A college-ready student attending Camp full-time can complete this certificate in three semesters
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Selective admissions process
    • Careers in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics
    • 266 new LPN jobs projected annually

Glenns, VA

Rappahannock Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Entrance exam required
    • 3-Semester program
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Glenns campus location
    • Warsaw campus location

Martinsville, VA

Patrick & Henry Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 3-Semester program
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Melfa, VA

Eastern Shore Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure

Middletown, VA

Laurel Ridge Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI
    • 1-Year program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • In-demand G3 tuition funding
    • Approved by Virginia Board of Nursing

Norfolk, VA

Fortis College-Norfolk

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Theory, lab, and clinical experiences
    • CNA transfer credit available
    • Career Services assistance
    • Financial aid offices on campus

Tidewater Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Education Certificate Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 3-Semester program
    • Complete in only three semesters of study
    • 45 total credit hours
    • Starts spring
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Roanoke, VA

Virginia Western Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI
    • 2-Year program
    • 48 total credit hours
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure

Virginia Beach, VA

Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • 12-Month program
    • 41 total credit hours
    • $0 application fee
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Transfer credits to RN program
    • On-campus program in Virginia Beach

ECPI University

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 15-Month program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Foundational nursing skills for LPN
    • Work alongside doctors and RNs
    • NCLEX-PN exam preparation
    • Hands-on labs and clinical training

Wytheville, VA

Wytheville Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 5-Semester program
    • Starts fall
    • 88% licensure pass rate
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Classes at Crossroads Institute in Galax
    • Two days per week first two semesters
    • Four days per week last three semesters
*Postsecondary education statistics from IPEDS 2025, NCES.

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