Online LPN Programs in Georgia
The U.S. is in need of more qualified nurses. In a number of states, including Georgia, demand for licensed practical nurses is expected to outpace supply by the year 2025. According to a December 2014 report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Georgia is on track to experience a shortfall of 7,100 LPNs by that year.
As current LPNs retire – and new positions are created – jobs for LPNs in Georgia are predicted to grow from 25,910 to 33,260, an increase of almost 30 percent. This has created a window of opportunity for anyone drawn to the healthcare profession. The following guide offers a ranking of the top LPN programs, a search tool to help aspiring LPNs browse through programs in Georgia, and licensure and renewal requirements in the state.
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Top LPN Programs in Georgia
These rankings include
#1 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Augusta Technical College
Augusta, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Augusta Technical College, a public school in Georgia, is a great choice for learners in search of an associate or certificate degree in nursing. The coursework required by an associate or certificate program helps students gain knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in nursing positions. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to campus for in-person classes. An additional benefit of online learning is the scheduling flexibility, which can be important to working professionals and students with family responsibilities. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.
Augusta Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 38
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 85
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 6
#2 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
Sandersville, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Oconee Fall Line Technical College offers associate and certificate programs in nursing. While physically located in Sandersville, Georgia, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
Coursework in nursing programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the field. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. An additional option for graduates of certificate or associate programs is to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Oconee Fall Line Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 21
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 71
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 14
#3 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Southeastern Technical College
Vidalia, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
To qualify for nursing careers, learners can pursue Southeastern Technical College's associate or certificate programs. Although the school's campus is in Vidalia, Georgia, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. With flexible scheduling options, online programs allow learners to maintain full-time employment while completing their program.
Associate degrees and certifications introduce participants to the basic ideas and practices used in nursing. The skills gained during these programs can be applied directly to entry-level work in nursing and related fields. Graduates can also transfer to a bachelor's program to advance their education and qualify for higher-level positions in the field.
Southeastern Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 20
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 67
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 19
#4 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
South Georgia Technical College
Americus, GA - 2 years
- Campus
South Georgia Technical College is a public institution offering nursing associate and certificate programs. Students can enroll online or on campus in Americus. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
Nursing-specific coursework and training in associate and certificate programs help participants understand the field and gain practical skills. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to nursing positions. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
South Georgia Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 19
Number of Certificate Programs: 94
#5 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Athens Technical College
Athens, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in nursing from Athens Technical College. Students located in Georgia can attend classes at the school's campus, while others can enroll online. These flexible remote programs are a great option for those unable to move for their education.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. Immediately after graduation, many individuals use their training to secure entry-level nursing roles. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Athens Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 44
Number of Certificate Programs: 113
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#6 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
Valdosta, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College provides nursing-specific career preparation through associate and certificate programs. Although the school's campus is in Valdosta, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
While earning a nursing associate degree or certificate, participants complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. After graduating from their associate or certificate program, individuals can apply for entry-level positions relevant to their training. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 37
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 106
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 13
#7 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Savannah Technical College
Savannah, GA - 2 years
- Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate from Savannah Technical College, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its Georgia campus. Associate and certificate programs in nursing prepare students for entry-level roles. To qualify for higher-paying jobs, many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to campus for in-person classes. This can also be a great option for students who wish to work in nursing but require more flexibility than a traditional in-person program provides. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Savannah Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs: 92
#8 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Ogeechee Technical College
Statesboro, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With nursing programs at various academic levels, Ogeechee Technical College provides learners with field-specific career preparation. Based in Statesboro, Georgia, the school delivers many programs in online and on-campus formats. Rather than relocating or commuting to campus, learners can choose to study online.
Associate degrees and certifications introduce participants to the basic ideas and practices used in nursing. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to nursing positions. To qualify for more advanced positions and higher earning potential, many graduates of associate or certificate programs pursue a bachelor's degree.
Ogeechee Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 30
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 103
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 15
#9 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Columbus Technical College
Columbus, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Columbus Technical College provides nursing-specific career preparation through associate and certificate programs. Students located in Georgia can attend classes at the school's campus, while others can enroll online. Studying remotely allows learners to attend class without commuting or adjusting their schedule to attend day classes.
While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, participants examine core concepts in the field. These programs often lead directly to entry-level nursing positions. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
Columbus Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 37
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 92
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
#10 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
North Georgia Technical College
Clarkesville, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
North Georgia Technical College is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, allowing busy learners to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels provide coursework and training that allow participants to develop a strong foundation in the field. Individuals can pursue entry-level nursing positions after graduation. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
North Georgia Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 25
Number of Certificate Programs: 70
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#11 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Clarkston, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia Piedmont Technical College delivers associate degrees and certificates in nursing. Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature technical training to prepare students to succeed in specialized roles. Many bachelor's programs accept transfer credits, allowing graduates of associate or certificate programs to earn a bachelor's degree in less than four years.
The school's online options eliminate transportation costs for enrollees not based in Clarkston. Additionally, online learning provides flexible scheduling options that improve accessibility for busy students. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Georgia Piedmont Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 31
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 105
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 24
#12 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Lanier Technical College
Gainesville, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate from Lanier Technical College, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its Georgia campus. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the nursing field. Graduates often apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
The school's online options eliminate transportation costs for enrollees not based in Gainesville. Additionally, online learning provides flexible scheduling options that improve accessibility for busy students. Before enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Lanier Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 43
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 123
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 16
#13 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Rome, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With associate and certificate programs in nursing, Georgia Northwestern Technical College maintains a campus in Rome. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the nursing-specific skills employers value. Graduates often apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to campus for in-person classes. Online programs typically offer more flexible scheduling options than on-campus programs, which can benefit busy students and working professionals. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 41
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 131
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 27
#14 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
West Georgia Technical College
Waco, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
West Georgia Technical College is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. The Waco-based school delivers courses online and on campus, providing opportunities for students located in the state and elsewhere. Learners with full-time jobs often study online because of the increased flexibility remote learning offers.
While completing an associate or certificate program in nursing, participants develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. With the knowledge and skills developed during their training, individuals can enter the workforce immediately after graduation. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
West Georgia Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 29
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 92
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 21
#15 Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Chattahoochee Technical College
Marietta, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing can consider Chattahoochee Technical College, a public institution. While physically located in Marietta, Georgia, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. Online learners often work full time while completing their program, scheduling their studies around work.
Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. These programs often lead to entry-level employment in the nursing field. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Chattahoochee Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 44
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 119
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 9
LPN Licensure Steps in GA
As healthcare professionals tasked with patient care, nurses must be licensed in the state they practice. This is true throughout the country, and requirements for licensure and renewal are slightly different from state to state. This section provides a closer look at the specifics of what it takes to become an LPN in Georgia.
Basic Eligibility for Georgia LPNs
- Be at least 18 years of age and “in good physical and mental health”
- Provide proof of high school diploma or the equivalent
- Register to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN)
LPN Education and Training in Georgia
The path to becoming an LPN in Georgia begins with enrolling in an accredited educational program, which may award a degree or a certificate in practical nursing. These programs include classroom and clinical training for LPNs and generally take about 12 full months, or three semesters, to complete.
Students who graduate from a Georgia Board of Examiners of Licensed Practical Nurses approved school in the state of Georgia are qualified to apply for licensure after passing the NCLEX-PN, a process known as “licensure by examination”. They are also not required to submit transcripts from their nursing program, as these are automatically forwarded electronically to the state's Board of Nursing. Graduates of accredited out-of-state nursing programs must submit a paper application that includes an official transcript from their nursing program.
The Georgia Board of Nursing also has a provision that allows for licensure by endorsement. This option is only open to those who are already licensed as a practical nurse in another jurisdiction, and as a result have already completed an approved LPN program or the equivalent.
Additional Requirements
- Pay a non-refundable $40 application fee
- Complete a criminal background check
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse exam (NCLEX-PN) within three years of graduating from nursing school
- LPNs who are licensed in another state must apply for licensure by endorsement in Georgia, which requires a non-refundable $75 application fee
Keeping Your License Active in GA
Nursing licenses in Georgia must be renewed by January 31 of every even or odd year, depending upon when the original license was granted. This requires the submission of a non-refundable renewal fee of $65. And, as of March 31, 2017, LPNs in Georgia will also be required to demonstrate that they have completed 20 hours of continuing education in order to be relicensed.
LPNs who fail to renew their licenses by January 31 must go through a reinstatement process, which involves the payment of a non-refundable $80 application fee. They must also provide documentation either of employment for three consecutive months (500 hours) or graduation from an LPN training program within the past five years. Applicants who cannot demonstrate either, must pass the NCLEX-PN.
Employment Outlook for Georgia LPNs
The Health Resources and Service Administration analyzed census data collected from all 50 states between 2008 and 2010, and concluded, in a 2013 report, that Georgia ranked in the middle range for per-capital employment of LPNs, with 196 – 242 LPNs per 100,000 people. Of course, the distribution of LPNs and employment opportunities varies by region within Georgia, with more densely populated metropolitan areas employing larger numbers of LPNs than rural areas. The 2013 report also does not take into account the significant growth in projected job openings for LPNs that the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects to see in Georgia over the next decade.
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta | 9,940 |
| South Georgia nonmetropolitan area | 2,050 |
| Augusta-Richmond County GA-SC | 1,860 |
| Middle Georgia nonmetropolitan area | 1,590 |
| East Georgia nonmetropolitan area | 1,250 |
| Savannah | 1,210 |
| North Georgia nonmetropolitan area | 1,160 |
| Columbus GA-AL | 980 |
| Macon | 870 |
| Gainesville | 580 |
Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014