Best LPN Programs in Virginia
Licensed practical nurses (LPN) help care for people in many parts of Virginia. They are also benefitting from a strong professional tailwind, as LPNs are in demand across the commonwealth.
Virginia Workforce Connection reports more than 3,200 LPN job openings in the state as of July 2024.
LPN training programs in Virginia can help you advance in this in-demand healthcare field. Start on your LPN career path with our statewide rankings below, along with more information on how to get started and get your license. We’ve also included career and salary data for Virginia LPNs.
Top LPN Programs in Virginia
Southwest Virginia Community College
Cedar Bluff, VA- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Southwest Virginia Community College delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for licensed practical nurse (LPN) careers. Students can enroll online or on campus in Cedar Bluff, Virginia. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
LNP programs at the associate or certificate level feature coursework exploring relevant theories and practical knowledge. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level LNP roles. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from community colleges.
Southwest Virginia Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 59
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,338
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Mountain Gateway Community College
- Clifton Forge, VA
- 2 year
- Campus
With 11 associate and 42 certificate programs, Mountain Gateway Community College is a public institution. The school provides on-campus and online programming to support students located in Virginia and throughout the country. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
Along with field-specific knowledge, participants pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing gain practical skills in the field. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to licensed practical nurse positions. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from community colleges.
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,032
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Mountain Empire Community College
- Big Stone Gap, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners can obtain an associate degree or certificate from Mountain Empire Community College, a public school located in Virginia. Students who plan to pursue licensed practical nurse careers can earn an associate degree or certificate to obtain technical training. To improve their job prospects and earning potential, graduates can continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
Enrollees living outside of Big Stone Gap benefit from these programs being available online. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. Prospective applicants should review the associate and certificate programs available from the institution before enrolling.
Mountain Empire Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 36
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,313
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
Laurel Ridge Community College
- Middletown, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Virginia, Laurel Ridge Community College is a public school offering associate degrees and certificates in nursing. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many licensed practical nurse positions. An associate degree can also prepare graduates for advanced study, such as bachelor's programs.
Enrollees can study online without relocating to Middletown. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.
Laurel Ridge Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 14
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 5
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,716
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Southside Virginia Community College
- Alberta, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Southside Virginia Community College delivers licensed practical nurse (LNP) programs at various academic levels. While physically located in Alberta, Virginia, 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 working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Coursework in LNP programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the field. These programs often lead directly to entry-level LNP positions. An additional option for graduates of certificate or associate programs is to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Southside Virginia Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 12
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 50
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,219
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Shore Community College
- Melfa, VA
- 2 year
- Campus
Delivering seven associate and 19 certificate programs online and on campus, Eastern Shore Community College educates learners based in Virginia and throughout the country. While earning an associate degree or certificate in licensed practical nursing (LPN), students gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. To improve their job prospects and earning potential, graduates can continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
While enrollees located near Melfa can study on campus, others may pursue the school's programs online. 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. Admissions counselors can help applicants verify that their prospective program meets the education requirements for their field.
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled620
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Paul D. Camp Community College
- Franklin, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Paul D. Camp Community College provides nursing-specific career preparation through associate and certificate programs. While physically located in Franklin, Virginia, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
While earning a nursing associate degree or certificate, participants complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. The skills gained during these programs can be applied directly to entry-level work in nursing and related fields. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
Paul D. Camp Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 26
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate46%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,257
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Rappahannock Community College
- Glenns, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public school, Virginia-based Rappahannock Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. To qualify for nursing positions, students can earn an associate degree or certificate, which require coursework and technical training. 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.
Offering online programs, in addition to on-campus classes in Glenns, the school educates enrollees in many states. Additionally, distance learning provides flexible scheduling options that improve accessibility for busy students. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Rappahannock Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 6
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 29
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,909
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Danville Community College
- Danville, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With online and on-campus options, Danville Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in Virginia. To prepare for entry-level licensed practical nurse roles, many students pursue an associate degree or certificate in the field. To increase their career options, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
Enrollees located anywhere can take advantage of the school's online programs. Additionally, the flexibility of distance learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants can speak with an admissions counselor to ensure the institution offers a program aligning with their goals.
Danville Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 13
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 63
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,813
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Patrick & Henry Community College
- Martinsville, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Delivering online and on-campus associate and certificate programs, Patrick & Henry Community College educates learners based in Virginia and throughout the country. Associate degrees and certificate programs help prepare graduates for entry-level licensed practical nurse positions requiring modest technical training. Along with entry-level roles, graduates can apply their new knowledge to bachelor's studies.
Enrollees who prefer not to relocate to Martinsville can study remotely, in an online format. In addition, distance learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Patrick & Henry Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 15
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 47
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,238
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Wytheville Community College
- Wytheville, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Virginia, Wytheville Community College is a public school offering associate degrees and certificates in nursing. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the nursing field, such as licensed practical nurses. Additional education, such as a bachelor's degree, can help graduates qualify for more advanced nursing roles.
The school's online options provide opportunities for enrollees not based near Wytheville. Distance learning is also ideal for students who work full time and need flexible scheduling options. Before enrolling, applicants can speak with an admissions counselor to ensure the institution offers a program aligning with their goals.
Wytheville Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 40
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Piedmont Virginia Community College
- Charlottesville, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners interested in pursuing a certificate or an associate degree can study online or on campus in Virginia through Piedmont Virginia Community College. The coursework required by an associate or certificate program helps students gain knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in licensed practical nurse positions. 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.
Enrollees who prefer not to relocate to Charlottesville can study remotely, in an online format. Virtual programs typically offer more flexible scheduling options than on-campus programs, which can benefit busy students and working professionals. Prospective applicants should look into the associate and certificate programs offered and see if any meet their needs.
Piedmont Virginia Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 20
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 24
- In-State$4,650
- Out-of-state$9,948
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,312
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
New River Community College
- Dublin, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners interested in pursuing an associate degree or certificate in licensed nursing practice can consider New River Community College, a public institution. Students located in Virginia can attend classes at the school's Dublin campus, while others can enroll online. Distance learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
Associate degrees and certificate introduce participants to the basic ideas and practices used by licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Individuals can pursue entry-level LPN 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.
New River Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 15
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 38
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,332
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Virginia Western Community College
- Roanoke, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in nursing from Virginia Western Community College. Based in Roanoke, Virginia, the school delivers many programs in online and on-campus formats. Many distance learners complete coursework in the evenings and on weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. After earning their degree or certificate, many individuals enter the workforce and apply their training to entry-level licensed practical nurse positions. In addition to entering the workforce, graduates can continue their studies by earning a bachelor's degree.
Virginia Western Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
- In-State$4,680
- Out-of-state$9,978
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,303
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College
- Richmond, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in nursing practice from J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. Many of the school's programs are available in on-campus and online formats. With flexible scheduling options, distance learning is an excellent choice for working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
While completing an associate or certificate program in nursing practice, participants develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. Immediately after graduation, many individuals use their training to secure entry-level licensed practical nurse roles. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 32
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 44
- In-State$4,743
- Out-of-state$10,041
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,711
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Licensure Requirements for Virginia LPNs
Each state has its own licensing requirements for LPNs, with the Virginia Board of Nursing issuing licenses to LPNs in the state.
To become an LPN in Virginia, you’ll need to meet the following requirements.
Basic Eligibility
- Graduated from an approved LPN program
- Are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam
Education and Training Requirements
Did you graduate? If so, it’s time to pursue your LPN license. In Virginia, there are two primary tracks to licensure.
First, if you graduated from LPN programs in Virginia, you’ll use what’s known as the licensure by examination method. Students on this track must graduate from a Virginia-based program approved by the state. After graduation, students must pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Second, if you attended an approved LPN program from another state and hold an out-of-state license, you’ll use the licensure by endorsement method. To follow this track, LPN applicants must have a license in good standing as well as pass a criminal background check.
Either method requires applications to be submitted online only.
Additional Requirements for Licensure by Examination
- Complete online application
- Official transcript from your LPN program sent to the Virginia Board of Nursing
- Register and pass the NCLEX-PN
- Pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Pay the required fees:
- $100 examination
- $110 reexamination
- $115 endorsement
- $170 application fee
- About $46 fingerprint processing fee
- $200 to take the NCLEX-PN
- Paying a $120 fee (if the fee is late, another $40 is added)
- Complete a renewal application
- Meet continued competency (continuing education) requirements, which require a licensee to complete at least one of the following:
- Current specialty certification by a national certifying organization
- At least three hours of post-licensure education related to nursing practice
- A refresher course in nursing
- Published works in the nursing field
- Completion of a nursing-related, evidence-based project or study
- Teaching or developing a nursing-related course (covering no less than three semester hours, specialty certification, or a 15-week course)
- Teaching continuing education courses for up to 30 hours
- 15 hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses, in addition to 640 hours of active practice as a nurse
- 30 hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses related to nursing
Virginia is a Nurse Licensure Compact State. This means Virginia LPNs can work in other states that are also part of the compact agreement, which currently covers 41 states and the District of Columbia. This multi-state license can be obtained through Virginia if the applicant’s primary residence is in Virginia.
Renewal
Virginia LPNs must renew their license every two years. The process consists of:
Salary for LPNs in Virginia
What salary can you expect as an LPN in Virginia? As of 2023, Virginia LPNs earned an annual median salary of $57,810, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is comparable to the national median LPN salary, which the BLS estimated at $59,730 as of 2023.
As in other fields, LPN salaries vary by location, experience, and training level, among other factors. As LPNs gain experience, their salaries will often increase.
| Wage Category | Virginia | National |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Wage (25th percentile) | $49,980 | $50,640 |
| Annual Wage (Median) | $57,810 | $59,730 |
| Annual Wage (75th percentile) | $63,360 | $67,140 |
| Location | Annual Wage (25th Percentile) | Annual Wage (Median) | Annual Wage (75th Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $50,640 | $61,120 | $66,270 |
| Northwestern Virginia nonmetropolitan area | $52,540 | $60,270 | $65,790 |
| Northeastern Virginia nonmetropolitan area | $49,610 | $58,010 | $64,600 |
| Roanoke | $48,460 | $55,480 | $60,160 |
| Winchester VA-WV | $47,760 | $56,090 | $60,990 |
Employment Trends for LPNs in Virginia
Virginia currently employs 18,880 licensed practical nurses, according to Projections Central, with an additional 1,620 annual openings expected each year. That’s a projected annual increase of 7.2% from 2022-2032,
This could make it a good time to become an LPN in Virginia.
According to Virginia Workforce Connection, more than 3,200 job postings in the state include a request for an LPN certification.
| State Job Openings for LPNs | Average Wage for Posted Jobs (July 2024) | Locations with the Most LPN Job Openings |
|---|---|---|
| 3,272 | $63,346 | Fairfax, Roanoke, Richmond, Albemarle, Lynchburg, Virginia Beach, Norfolk |
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN Programs in Virginia
You can become an LPN in Virginia in as little as 15 months with an accelerated LPN program. These programs emphasize nursing skills and clinical knowledge while preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam and licensure as an LPN.
