Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) work alongside registered nurses and other medical professionals to provide patient care. Nearly 40% of LPNs work in residential treatment centers such as nursing homes. These facilities require round-the-clock staffing, so many LPNs work nights and weekends.
Aspiring LPNs can pursue a diploma or an associate degree. Applicants to either type of program need a high school or GED diploma. Learners pursuing a practical nursing degree take courses such as introduction to nursing and the principles of pharmacology. During a client-centered care class, degree-seekers complete clinical rotations.
View Our Rankings List HereFrequently Asked Questions About Practical Nursing
What do practical nurses do?
LPNs record patients' vital signs and keep patients clean. They may also assist RNs and doctors with medical procedures.
What's the difference between a practical nurse and a registered nurse?
Although RNs and LPNs share some job duties, RNs need more education and training. This qualifies RNs to perform tests and administer medication.
How long does it take to become a practical nurse?
Most students earn an LPN degree or diploma in about 12 months. Candidates must complete coursework and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
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Practical Nursing
#1 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Yale University
New Haven, CT - 4 years
- Campus
With top-quality graduate-level offerings, Yale University is a private institution based in New Haven, Connecticut. With 86 master's program options, the school educates students online and on campus. One of the institution's excellent offerings, the master of science in nursing program appeals to degree-seekers with diverse backgrounds.
While earning the nursing degree, students can complete internships to bolster their resume. The graduate program requires advanced nursing classes. While developing an academic and professional plan, learners can consult with faculty mentors. Professionals with a graduate degree typically earn higher salaries and qualify for advanced positions with more responsibility.
In-state graduate students pay a tuition rate of $43,300. In addition to federal financial aid, enrollees can apply for private and institutional scholarships. Transfer students can submit previous graduate credits to determine whether they can apply them toward their master's degree. Before enrolling in the nursing program, prospective applicants should contact the institution for specific information about program requirements.
#2 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With respected graduate-level offerings, Columbia University in the City of New York educates learners as a private institution. Along with studying on campus, students can pursue many of the school's 140 master's degrees in a virtual format. A popular choice for graduate degree-seekers, the master's direct-entry program for non-nurses is a good example of the institution's excellent offerings.
To gain experience while benefiting the nursing field, graduate students can conduct original research while completing their program. The graduate program requires advanced nursing classes. Learners discuss their career goals with faculty mentors in order to choose relevant courses from the school's offerings. Professionals with a master's degree often earn higher salaries and qualify for more career opportunities than bachelor's degree-holders.
The school's graduate tuition costs $47,600 for state residents. At the accredited college, graduate enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs, scholarships, and institutional aid. Students can transfer previous credits into the program to graduate more quickly and reduce the cost of their master's degree. Before enrolling in the nursing program, prospective applicants should contact the institution for specific information about program requirements.
#3 Best Practical Nursing Programs
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Known for top-quality graduate programs, the University of Pennsylvania is a private institution. Along with studying on campus, students can pursue many of the school's 141 master's degrees in a virtual format. One popular option for graduate degree-seekers at the institution is the women's health/gender-related nurse practitioner program.
Many graduate students pursue internships to gain professional experience in the nursing field. Degree-seekers complete high-level nursing classes in niche subfields. To customize the curriculum, learners can select classes based on their goals and specific interests. Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, graduates of master's programs often secure more advanced roles in the nursing field.
State residents enrolled in the school's graduate programs pay a tuition rate of $36,254. Graduate-level enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid, including grants and federal student loans. The school accepts transfer credits from other accredited institutions. Before enrolling, applicants considering the nursing program should research its requirements, outcomes, and start dates.
#4 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Duke University
Durham, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University stands out for its graduate programs. Through 92 online and in-person master's programs, the school educates students located near its campus and throughout the country. Many online and on-campus graduate degree-seekers pursue the institution's master's in nursing education.
Many graduate students pursue internships to gain professional experience in the nursing field. While completing the graduate program, degree-seekers take high-level courses in nursing education. Learners can benefit from seeking advice from a faculty mentor before selecting classes. Along with increased earning potential, a master's degree in nursing education qualifies holders to pursue doctoral studies.
State residents earning a graduate degree from the school pay a $55,680 tuition rate. Educational funding options such as federal aid and private scholarships can help graduate enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Transfer students may be able to apply previous credits toward the degree, reducing graduation time and tuition costs. The institution's admissions department can provide detailed information about the application process and the nursing education program's requirements.
#5 Best Practical Nursing Programs
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan delivers top graduate programs in a variety of fields. The school offers 140 master's degrees in on-campus and online formats. Among the institution's graduate degrees is the master of science in nursing.
The immersive nursing program features a comprehensive curriculum. During the graduate program, participants take advanced nursing classes. Before selecting classes, learners can discuss their options with faculty mentors in their department. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their nursing careers or break into the field.
For in-state graduate students, the school charges a tuition rate of $23,890. Graduate enrollees can fund their education through merit-based and need-based awards from the institution and third-party organizations. Transfer students may be able to apply previous credits toward the degree, reducing graduation time and tuition costs. Applicants should contact the institution to learn about admission requirements for the nursing program.
#6 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University delivers top graduate programs in a variety of fields. With 104 master's program options, the school educates students online and on campus. One popular option for graduate degree-seekers at the institution is the master of nursing.
While completing the nursing program, graduate students receive opportunities to apply gained skills in practical settings. The graduate program requires high-level nursing classes, which help degree-seekers gain field-specific skills. Learners work closely with faculty mentors to customize their course of study. Professionals who want to advance their current nursing career or transition to the field can benefit from obtaining a master's degree.
The school's tuition rate for in-state graduate students is $48,624. In addition to federal financial aid, enrollees can apply for private and institutional scholarships. Incoming students can save time and money by transferring credits toward their degree. Before enrolling in the nursing program, prospective applicants should contact the institution for specific information about program requirements.
#7 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Delivering high-quality academic options for graduate-level learners, Maryland-based Johns Hopkins University is a private institution. While students can take classes on campus, they can also pursue many of the school's 124 master's degrees in an online format. Degree-seekers can earn their master of science in nursing at the college.
The nursing program offers an immersive, challenging curriculum. The program's required credits include high-level nursing classes. Before selecting classes, learners can discuss their options with faculty mentors in their department. With a master's degree, graduates often advance their nursing careers or break into the field.
In-state graduate students pay a tuition rate of $55,350. Graduate-level enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid, including grants and federal student loans. By transferring graduate credits into the program, students can reduce tuition costs and enter the workforce more quickly. The institution's admissions department can provide detailed information about the application process and the nursing program's requirements.
#8 Best Practical Nursing Programs
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, New York University delivers graduate programs from its main campus. The school's online options allow students to pursue many of its 201 master's programs without relocating or commuting. Among the institution's offerings is a MS/MPH program, which represents a popular choice for graduate degree-seekers.
The public health program offers an immersive, challenging curriculum. To graduate from the program, degree-seekers fulfill the required credits. Learners work closely with faculty mentors to customize their course of study. A master's degree can lead to career advancement, leadership opportunities, and increased earning potential.
The school charges state residents $33,408 in tuition while pursuing a graduate degree. Graduate enrollees can fund their education through merit-based and need-based awards from the institution and third-party organizations. Incoming students can save time and money by transferring credits toward their degree. Prospective applicants to the public health program can contact the institution for details regarding admission requirements.
#9 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Emory University
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Campus
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University is a private institution delivering top-quality graduate programs. The school's online options allow students to pursue many of its 75 master's programs without relocating or commuting. A popular choice for graduate degree-seekers, the master of nursing program is a good example of the institution's excellent offerings.
The immersive curriculum includes opportunities to develop and practice nursing-specific skills. The graduate program requires advanced nursing classes. Before selecting classes, learners can discuss their options with faculty mentors in their department. Along with increased earning potential, a master's degree in nursing qualifies holders to pursue doctoral studies.
The school charges in-state graduate students $42,800 in tuition. Common funding options for graduate enrollees include fellowships and field-specific scholarships. The school accepts transfer credits from other accredited institutions. Before enrolling in the nursing program, prospective applicants should contact the institution for specific information about program requirements.
#10 Best Practical Nursing Programs
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Campus
With top-quality graduate-level offerings, the University of Rochester is a private institution based in New York. The school delivers 109 master's degrees in on-campus and online formats. Degree-seekers can pursue the institution's accelerated master's in nursing.
The rigorous curriculum features unique opportunities in the nursing field, such as internships with relevant organizations. Program requirements include graduate-level nursing coursework. Departmental faculty mentors provide insights into the field and help learners plan their academic and professional futures. After completing a master's program in nursing, graduates can pursue high-level leadership roles or doctoral studies.
State residents enrolled in the school's graduate programs pay a tuition rate of $51,705. Graduate enrollees may qualify for educational funding by demonstrating financial need or academic merit. Students can graduate more quickly by transferring previous credits into their program. The institution's admissions department can provide detailed information about the application process and the nursing program's requirements.
#11 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
As a private institution, Georgetown University educates graduate-level learners through respected programs. The school delivers 87 master's degrees in on-campus and online formats. One of the institution's respected graduate degrees, the master of science in nursing represents a popular choice for online and on-campus degree-seekers.
While earning the nursing degree, students can complete internships to bolster their resume. To successfully complete the graduate program, degree-seekers earn 49 credits by completing advanced coursework. Learners can benefit from seeking advice from a faculty mentor before selecting classes. A master's degree often qualifies graduates for raises and promotions and can help professionals transition to a career in the nursing field.
State residents earning a graduate degree from the school pay a $51,336 tuition rate. Many organizations reserve scholarship funds for graduate enrollees in the nursing field. By transferring graduate credits into the program, students can reduce tuition costs and enter the workforce more quickly. The institution's website provides more detailed information about the nursing program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
#12 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Louis University's academic offerings include high-quality graduate programs, which learners can pursue at its Saint Louis campus. Currently, the school offers 68 master's degrees through its on-campus and online programs. One of the institution's excellent offerings, the MS in nursing program appeals to degree-seekers with diverse backgrounds.
The nursing program offers an immersive, challenging curriculum. To graduate from the program, degree-seekers fulfill the required credits. Learners work closely with faculty mentors to customize their course of study. Professionals with a graduate degree typically earn higher salaries and qualify for advanced positions with more responsibility.
The school's tuition rate for in-state graduate students is $20,880. Educational funding options such as federal aid and private scholarships can help graduate enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students with previous graduate-level experience often transfer credits into their master's program and graduate in less time. Start dates and requirements vary by program, so prospective applicants should contact the institution for details.
#13 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Case Western Reserve University delivers graduate programs from its main campus in Ohio. With 96 master's programs, the school enrolls students in person and online. Degree-seekers can pursue the institution's family nurse practitioner MSN.
The immersive nursing program features a comprehensive curriculum. The graduate program requires advanced nursing classes. Faculty mentors assist learners with choosing classes based on their long-term professional goals. A master's degree can help graduates advance in the nursing field or transition to the industry from another field.
The school charges state residents $46,524 in tuition while pursuing a graduate degree. Many organizations reserve scholarship funds for graduate enrollees in the nursing field. To save money on tuition, transfer students can apply previous credits toward their master's degree. Start dates and requirements vary by program, so prospective applicants should contact the institution for details.
#14 Best Practical Nursing Programs
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill delivers top graduate programs in a variety of fields. With 84 master's programs, the school enrolls students in person and online. One popular option for graduate degree-seekers at the institution is the MSN in healthcare leadership and administration.
Many online graduate students pursue nursing-related internships at facilities near their home. During high-level graduate coursework, degree-seekers in the nursing program gain practical skills necessary to succeed in the industry. Faculty mentors assist learners with choosing classes based on their long-term professional goals. Professionals with a master's degree often earn higher salaries and qualify for more career opportunities than bachelor's degree-holders.
The school charges in-state graduate students $10,552 in tuition. Common funding options for graduate enrollees include fellowships and field-specific scholarships. Transfer students can submit previous graduate credits to determine whether they can apply them toward their master's degree. Applicants interested in the nursing program should contact the institution to learn more about admission requirements and start dates.
#15 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Drexel University educates undergraduate and graduate learners from its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Online and on-campus students can pursue the school's 119 master's programs. The institution's graduate-level options include a master of science in nursing.
The immersive nursing program features a comprehensive curriculum. The program's required credits include high-level nursing classes. While developing an academic and professional plan, learners can consult with faculty mentors. Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, graduates of master's programs often secure more advanced roles in the nursing field.
For graduate students who reside in the state, graduate tuition costs $35,181. To minimize student debt, graduate enrollees can consider funding options including institutional awards, federal financial aid, and fellowships. Students can graduate more quickly by transferring previous credits into their program. Start dates and requirements vary by program, so prospective applicants should contact the institution for details.
#16 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Villanova University
Villanova, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution located in Pennsylvania, Villanova University stands out for its graduate programs. The school's online options allow students to pursue many of its 45 master's programs without relocating or commuting. One of the institution's excellent offerings, the master's in nursing education program appeals to degree-seekers with diverse backgrounds.
The rigorous curriculum features unique opportunities in the nursing education field, such as internships with relevant organizations. The program's required credits include high-level nursing education classes. Learners can schedule meetings with faculty mentors to customize the program curriculum and select classes that align with their goals. After completing a master's program in nursing education, graduates can pursue high-level leadership roles or doctoral studies.
The school's tuition rate for in-state graduate students is $20,506. Graduate enrollees can pursue funding options such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Students can graduate more quickly by transferring previous credits into their program. Prospective applicants to the nursing program can contact the institution for details regarding admission requirements.
#17 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With respected graduate-level offerings, Purdue University educates learners from its West Lafayette campus as a public institution. While students can take classes on campus, they can also pursue many of the school's 81 master's degrees in an online format. A popular choice for graduate degree-seekers, the master of science in family nurse practitioner is a good example of the institution's excellent offerings.
The rigorous curriculum features unique opportunities in the nursing field, such as internships with relevant organizations. Degree-seekers expand their knowledge of the field through advanced nursing coursework. Learners can benefit from seeking advice from a faculty mentor before selecting classes. Professionals who want to advance their current nursing career or transition to the field can benefit from obtaining a master's degree.
In-state graduate students pay a tuition rate of $9,208. Graduate enrollees can pursue funding options such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Students can transfer previous credits into the program to graduate more quickly and reduce the cost of their master's degree. Before enrolling, applicants considering the nursing program should research its requirements, outcomes, and start dates.
#18 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Creighton University
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton University delivers top graduate programs in a variety of fields. Students who wish to enroll in one of the school's 42 master's programs without relocating can choose to pursue their degree online. Among the institution's offerings is a master of science in nursing program, which represents a popular choice for graduate degree-seekers.
To gain experience while benefiting the nursing field, graduate students can conduct original research while completing their program. Degree-seekers complete high-level nursing classes in niche subfields. Before selecting classes, learners can discuss their options with faculty mentors in their department. Along with increased earning potential, a master's degree in nursing qualifies holders to pursue doctoral studies.
In-state students pay $16,128 in tuition to pursue the school's graduate programs. Graduate enrollees can fund their education through merit-based and need-based awards from the institution and third-party organizations. The school allows students to transfer approved graduate credits into the program, reducing the cost of the master's degree. Before enrolling in the nursing program, applicants can obtain more information by researching the institution's website and contacting an admissions counselor.
#19 Best Practical Nursing Programs
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Wake Forest University is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Currently, the school offers 34 master's degrees through its on-campus and online programs. The institution's master's in nurse anesthesia program attracts many degree-seekers interested in the field.
The immersive nurse anesthesia program features a comprehensive curriculum. Degree-seekers enrolled in the graduate program fulfill advanced coursework requirements to gain nurse anesthesia-specific knowledge. Learners consult faculty mentors when choosing classes and customizing their course of study. With a master's degree, graduates advance their nurse anesthesia careers or break into the field.
In tuition, graduate students who reside in the state pay $38,650. Educational funding options such as federal aid and private scholarships can help graduate enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Incoming students can save time and money by transferring credits toward their degree. Prospective applicants to the nurse anesthesia program can contact the institution for details regarding admission requirements.
#20 Best Practical Nursing Programs
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Miami's academic offerings include high-quality graduate programs, which learners can pursue at its Coral Gables campus. Currently, the school offers 104 master's degrees through its on-campus and online programs. Degree-seekers can earn their family nurse practitioner degree at the college.
Many graduate students pursue internships to gain professional experience in the nursing field. The graduate program requires high-level nursing classes, which help degree-seekers gain field-specific skills. Learners can benefit from seeking advice from a faculty mentor before selecting classes. After completing a master's program in nursing, graduates can pursue high-level leadership roles or doctoral studies.
Tuition costs for in-state graduate students at the school amount to $37,800. Graduate enrollees may qualify for educational funding by demonstrating financial need or academic merit. Transfer students may be able to apply previous credits toward the degree, reducing graduation time and tuition costs. Start dates and requirements vary by program, so prospective applicants should contact the institution for details.
Find LPN Programs in Your State
Why Get a Degree in Practical Nursing?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for LPNs to increase 9% from 2020-30, meaning graduates should enter a strong job market. LPNs earn a median salary of $48,820 per year, about $7,000 higher than the median annual salary for all occupations. Additionally, graduates can use their practical nursing degree and professional experience to earn a BSN.
Many LPN degree-seekers choose online programs, especially those with children or full-time employment. Online programs typically provide more scheduling flexibility than on-campus options. For example, students may complete coursework asynchronously. Distance learners can choose from programs nationwide and often pay lower tuition rates.
How Much Does a Practical Nursing Degree Cost?
The cost of a practical nursing degree depends on many factors, including residency status. Out-of-state tuition rates at public schools are much higher than in-state tuition rates. A degree's cost also includes transportation to clinical rotations, lab fees, and textbooks.
Students can reduce out-of-pocket expenses by applying for institutional and private financial aid, such as scholarships. Learners can also reduce the cost of earning an LPN degree by attending an online program. Students can work part time while in school, and some schools offer tuition payment plans.
How Much Do Practical Nursing Majors Make?
According to BLS data, LPNs earn a median annual salary of $48,820. However, earning potential for practical nursing degree-holders varies by geographic location. LPNs in California, Alaska, and Massachusetts earn significantly more than those in other states, according to the BLS. However, these states' costs of living exceed the national average.
LPNs can increase their salary potential by advancing their education and exploring related job opportunities. For example, occupational therapy assistants and physical therapists earn significantly higher median salaries than LPNs. These positions require an associate or bachelor's degree. Practical nursing degree-holders in these programs often graduate faster than their peers.
Courses in Practical Nursing
LPN degree-seekers gain academic knowledge and master essential skills such as communication, emotional coping, and analysis. These skills prepare people to work alongside other medical professionals and effectively treat patients. Degree-seekers hone these skills during clinical rotations in healthcare settings.
Although curricula vary by program, core coursework typically includes human anatomy and physiology, perspectives in nursing, and general psychology. Graduation requirements may also include a capstone course and a minimum GPA. Learners should consult their prospective school's academic or admissions advisors for details about the student experience.
LPNs must understand how the human body works to treat patients. This course covers various body structures and systems, such as the skeleton, the nervous system, and circulation. This introductory course provides an academic foundation for upper-division courses.General Human Anatomy and Physiology
Degree-seekers in this class learn about nurses' roles in healthcare settings. Topics include nursing professionalism, healthcare policies and rules, and trends affecting the nursing profession. The course prepares students to collaborate with healthcare peers and positively impact the field.Perspectives in Nursing
Psychology plays a significant role in the nursing profession. Illness and injury can affect patients' mental states. In this course, practical nursing degree-seekers analyze mental processes. Learners explore psychological theories, research methods, and treatments for mental health conditions. The class prepares learners to identify psychological disorders.General Psychology
How to Become a Practical Nurse
LPNs need an associate degree or an undergraduate certificate. Aspiring LPNs can earn these credentials from a community or junior college. Unlike undergraduate degrees, certificate programs do not require general education courses. Most learners complete certificate programs in about one year, depending on academic requirements and their enrollment status.
During clinical rotations, schools pair LPN degree-seekers with hospitals and clinics. Learners develop in-demand skills in practical settings. To earn state licensure, graduates take a certification exam. Some professionals supplement their license by earning professional certifications in areas such as phlebotomy.
Licensure for Practical Nursing
To qualify for licensure, prospective LPNs must first complete an approved academic program, such as an associate degree or undergraduate certificate program. This program must hold accreditation from the state board of nursing.
Completing an LPN program qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. This computer-adaptive national examination includes 85-205 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics including safe care environments, health promotion and maintenance, and psychosocial integrity. Candidates must submit an initial license application and create a Pearson VUE account to sign up for the exam.
Licensure fees vary by state and may exceed $200 for the initial LPN license. States also charge fees for delinquent licenses, reinstatement, and license verification. LPNs maintain their license by taking continuing education courses. Most states require 15-30 contact hours every two years. Some states, including Arizona, Colorado, and Connecticut, do not require continuing education.