Online LPN Programs in Florida

Resources for LPNs in Florida, including license application and renewal information, an online license verification tool, and education and training program
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Updated November 16, 2023

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Finish Florida LPN Programs in Months

A variety of career paths and new openings in nursing make a career as an LPN a wise choice for anyone considering the healthcare field in Florida. According to the Florida Center for Nursing, which is part of the College of Health and Public Affairs at the University of Central Florida, there were 157 vacancies for LPNs in hospitals and 1,513 openings in home health care services in 2013.

Demand for qualified LPNs remains strong in Florida and practical nurses can find work in several other areas, such as public health organizations, hospices, or psychiatric hospitals. Those ready to take the first step towards this rewarding career should read on to learn more about LPN programs in Florida, licensing and renewal requirements, and employment and salary trends across the state.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Explore Top Online Nursing Programs

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Top Online LPN Programs in Florida

#1 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Charlotte Technical College

  • Port Charlotte, FL
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Charlotte Technical College is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. The school provides on-campus and online programming to support students located in Port Charlotte and throughout the country. With flexible scheduling options, online learning is an excellent choice for working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.

Enrollees in the school's practical nursing program complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. Individuals often use the training from their degree or certificate program to succeed in entry-level roles. An additional option for graduates of certificate or associate programs is to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.

Charlotte Technical College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: Data not available

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Number of Certificate Programs: 20

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,809
Out-of-state
$11,625
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
453
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Council on Occupational Education

#2 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Erwin Technical College

  • Tampa, FL
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Delivering online and on-campus associate and certificate programs, Erwin Technical College educates learners based in Tampa and throughout the country. To qualify for LPN positions, students can earn an associate degree or certificate, which require coursework and technical training. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.

Online enrollees in the college's practical nursing program eliminate the cost of commuting for on-campus classes. Asynchronous LPN programs often attract busy students and working professionals, who need the ability to schedule coursework around other responsibilities. For specific information about the institution's programs, prospective applicants can consult an admissions counselor.

Erwin Technical College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: Data not available

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Number of Certificate Programs: 33

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
48%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
811
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Council on Occupational Education

#3 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Santa Fe College

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Learners interested in pursuing an associate or certificate in nursing can consider Santa Fe College, a public institution in Gainesville. Students can enroll in the associate nursing bridge program on campus or online. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.

Along with field-specific knowledge, degree-seekers gain practical skills in the field. Many individuals apply their training to entry-level LPN positions immediately 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.

Santa Fe College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 37

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 37

Number of Certificate Programs: 42

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 42

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,872
Out-of-state
$7,418
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
14,915
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Traviss Technical College

  • Lakeland, FL
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Traviss Technical College is a Lakeland-based public institution offering a practical nursing program. The school provides on-campus and online programming to support students everywhere. Rather than relocating or commuting to campus, learners can choose to study online.

While earning a LPN associate degree or certificate, participants complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. These programs often lead directly to entry-level LPN positions. Many graduates of associate or certificate programs pursue bachelor's studies, often transferring their credits to reduce degree-completion time.

Traviss Technical College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: Data not available

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Number of Certificate Programs: 28

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,851
Out-of-state
$11,405
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
23%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
296
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Council on Occupational Education

#5 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Florida Gateway College

  • Lake City, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

With online and on-campus options, Florida Gateway College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in Lake City. Enrollees in the LPN-to-RN bridge program gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. Graduates often apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.

Online learning benefits working professionals who need to schedule their studies around full-time employment. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.

Florida Gateway College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 16

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4

Number of Certificate Programs: 37

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,369
Out-of-state
$9,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,406
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Online LPN Programs in Florida

College of Central Florida

  • Ocala, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners can obtain an associate degree or certificate from College of Central Florida, a public school located in Ocala. To prepare for entry-level roles in nursing, many students enroll in the LPN-to-ADN bridge program. Before pursuing employment, graduates can also earn a bachelor's degree, which can increase career opportunities.

Online students can eliminate the cost of commuting to campus for in-person classes. 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.

College of Central Florida at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 19

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4

Number of Certificate Programs: 38

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 5

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,987
Out-of-state
$7,947
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Online LPN Programs in Florida

South Florida State College

  • Avon Park, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners who plan to pursue nursing careers can earn an associate degree or certificate from South Florida State College, a public institution in Avon Park. Students enrolled in the LPN-to-RN program can attend classes on campus or online. Studying remotely allows learners to attend class without commuting or adjusting their schedule to attend day classes.

Coursework covers crucial theories and practical knowledge. After completing their associate or certificate program, individuals can apply for entry-level positions relevant to their training. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.

South Florida State College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 26

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 9

Number of Certificate Programs: 43

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,135
Out-of-state
$11,829
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Florida State College at Jacksonville

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Florida State College at Jacksonville delivers a practical nursing career certificate from its campus in Jacksonville. Certificate-seekers gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. After completing their program, graduates can enroll in bachelor's programs to increase their job options and earning potential.

Enrollees not located near campus can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Online learning is also ideal for students who work full time and need flexible scheduling options. For specific information about the institution's programs, prospective applicants can consult an admissions counselor.

Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 53

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10

Number of Certificate Programs: 98

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 17

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,095
Out-of-state
$7,947
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
24,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Pensacola State College

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Pensacola State College delivers a practical nursing vocational certificate. Featuring crucial technical training, the program help students gain LPN-specific skills necessary for entry-level positions. 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 Pensacola 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. Interested applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.

Pensacola State College at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 32

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5

Number of Certificate Programs: 53

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 6

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,887
Out-of-state
$7,547
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,713
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Online LPN Programs in Florida

Florida Gulf Coast University

  • Fort Myers, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners can enroll in the practical nurse program online or on campus in Fort Myers at Florida Gulf Coast University. Associate and certificate programs in nursing foster the field-specific skills graduates need to impress prospective employers. Before pursuing employment, graduates can also earn a bachelor's degree, which can increase career opportunities.

Offering online and on-campus classes, the school educates enrollees in many states. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Prospective applicants should review their program's requirements and graduate outcomes.

Florida Gulf Coast University at a Glance:

Number of Associate Programs: 1

Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Number of Certificate Programs: Data not available

Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,191
Out-of-state
$22,328
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,974
Out-of-state
$28,170
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
14,977
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Initial Licensure Requirements in FL

Every state has different mandates for practical nursing licensure and renewal. Before enrolling in a nursing program, review the requirements for licensing in the state you eventually wish to work in to make sure you fulfill all the necessary steps. The Florida Board of Nursing is the governmental body that oversees the state's licensure process and also ensures that the field follows all rules and regulations. This section explains the licensing process specifically for LPNs in Florida and requirements for keeping an active license.

Basic Eligibility

  • Proof of graduation from a Florida approved program or program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Submission of electronic fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) using a Livescan service provider

Education and Training Requirements

The Florida Board of Nursing has strict requirements on acceptable preparatory courses for licensure. A 3-week NCSBN course fulfills all criteria for preparing for the NCLEX and the full list of licensure examination preparatory courses from the Florida Department of Health are listed online. Candidates who complete a one-year LPN training program or associate degree from an accredited or Florida-approved nursing program should also be well prepared for the NCLEX exam.

Those who have graduated from a nursing education program in the jurisdiction they are practicing in or a military nursing program and has been issued an NCLEX code must submit this code along with their application for licensure.

Once licensed, practical nurses in Florida can only work under the direction of a registered nurse or other licensed health care provider.

Additional Requirements for Licensure

  • Submit an application with $110 Application and Licensing Fee to the Board of Nursing and a $200 fee to Pearson VUE, the testing vendor
  • Schedule an appointment with Livescan for electronic fingerprinting
  • Pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN)
  • Once eligibility is approved, you will receive instructions for registration with Pearson VUE

Maintaining a Florida LPN License

The Florida Department of Health will send a renewal postcard in the mail at least 90 days before a license expires. LPNs have until midnight, Eastern Time, on the day their license expires to renew without being placed in delinquent status. The expiration date for current licenses is July 31, 2017. Licenses can be renewed online or by mail. Renewal licensing fees range between $55 and $195 if renewed before the license expires, and depends on Active or Inactive status; higher fees apply if the license is already expired or has become delinquent.

Unless certified by a health care specialty program that has been accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification, renewal applicants are required to complete 27 continuing education hours. All hours must be board approved. A new two CE requirement for Recognizing Impairment in the Workplace goes into effect starting August 1, 2017 and will be required every four years thereafter. LPNs who were issued a license by examination during the current biennium do not need to complete any CEs for renewal. CEs can be fulfilled in person or through home study.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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A Look at LPN Employment in FL

The Florida Center for Nursing reports more than 78,000 LPN licenses were issued in 2013 with more than 50,500 LPNs in the workforce. More than 40 percent of LPNs worked in a long term care setting and 17 percent worked in home health care services. Job growth is expected to remain steady through 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which reports a 16 percent increase in jobs for LPNs across the nation.

Top Locations for Employment
Area Total Employment
Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach 10,470
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater 7,910
Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford 5,120
Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall Metropolitan Division 4,510
West Palm Beach-Boca Raton-Boynton Beach Metropolitan 3,270
Jacksonville 3,180
Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach-Deerfield Beach Metropolitan 2,690
North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota 1,790
Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach 1,490
Lakeland-Winter Haven 1,480

Resources for Students Attending Colleges In Florida

A professional organization for school nurses, provides career opportunities and membership information. Also provides information about the latest industry news, School Health Advocacy Day, and advocacy and legislative information for school nurses.

Resources for LPNs in Florida, including license application and renewal information, an online license verification tool, and education and training program information.

Only resource for nursing professionals and Florida residents who want learn more about the state of the workforce. Includes information about the Florida Action Coalition.

Designed for nursing professionals who specialize in pediatric care, this site features a career center, meeting minutes, and scholarship information. Comprehensive website listing all licensing and regulation information for LPNs and RNs, programs and services available to Florida residents, and certification information. Also provides a list of county health departments. LPNs who wish to work in emergency care can get involved with this organization to network with emergency nursing professionals and stay up-to-date on news relevant to the industry. Represents all areas of practice and also maintains a database of latest nursing jobs. Members can join special interest groups in their area of specialty, such as nursing research, ethics, faith community nursing, and nurse entrepreneurship. Serves as a networking organization for nursing professionals throughout the state of Florida. The site lists upcoming events and meeting minutes of recent meetings, as well as job opportunities. This organization is comprised of nursing student association chapters around the State of Florida. The website includes membership information and details about upcoming conventions and committees. Also sponsors Student Nurses Week each year. LPNs who wish to renew their license online can work directly with the Florida Department of Health. This section of the site features a link to the renewal and contact information for renewal specialist if the LPN needs additional assistance.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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