Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Georgia will experience the nation’s second-highest nursing shortage between 2022 and 2032, according to a 2024 report from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
Licensed practical nurses (LPN) can help fill the gap.
Labor market forecasters project that more than 26,000 LPN jobs will become available in Georgia from 2020-2030. These projections include both newly created positions and vacancies arising from current LPNs exiting the field.
The following guide offers a ranking of the state’s top LPN programs in Georgia and an overview of the state’s LPN licensure and renewal requirements.
Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Augusta Technical College
Augusta, GA- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,237
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
- Sandersville, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,859
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Southeastern Technical College
- Vidalia, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,972
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
South Georgia Technical College
- Americus, GA
- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$3,000
- Out-of-state$6,000
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,117
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Athens Technical College
- Athens, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,132
- Out-of-state$4,264
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,756
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
- Valdosta, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,669
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Savannah Technical College
- Savannah, GA
- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,003
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Ogeechee Technical College
- Statesboro, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Columbus Technical College
- Columbus, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,489
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
North Georgia Technical College
- Clarkesville, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,697
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
- Clarkston, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,406
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Lanier Technical College
- Gainesville, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$3,000
- Out-of-state$6,000
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,616
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
- Rome, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,616
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
West Georgia Technical College
- Waco, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,074
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Chattahoochee Technical College
- Marietta, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled10,184
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Licensure Requirements for Georgia LPNs
To obtain an LPN license in Georgia, you must meet the state’s education and exam requirements. LPNs must also pass a background check as part of the process.
Notably, the Georgia Board of Nursing (BON) will automatically consider you for multi-state licensure when you apply for your Georgia license. A multi-state license allows nurses to practice in any state that participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Education Requirements for LPNs in Georgia
After obtaining your high school diploma or equivalent, you must complete a pre-licensure nursing program. Georgia offers paths to LPN licensure for candidates who have completed schooling designed for LPNs, vocational nurses, or registered nurses (RNs).
Your educational program must have formal approval from the Georgia BON. This Georgia state resource contains categorized links to approved program lists. All online LPN programs in Georgia included in this ranking have board approval.
If you trained outside the U.S., the Georgia BON will need to verify your educational credentials. Georgia uses CGFNS International to perform this verification. You must also be a licensed nurse in your home jurisdiction at the time you apply.
Georgia LPN Examination Requirements
The BON requires LPN applicants to achieve a passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). You must pass the NCLEX-PN within three years of completing a board-approved education program.
If you’re unable to pass the NCLEX-PN within three years, you must return to school and complete the program to reset the three-year window.
Character Requirements for Georgia LPNs
To complete Georgia’s LPN licensing process, you must undergo a background check by registering with Fieldprint’s Georgia Application Processing Services on the same day to send your initial LPN license application to the BON.
Additional documentation requirements may apply if you have been arrested, or if you have a history of disciplinary action or sanctions related to a previous professional license. The board may ask for court documents related to your case(s) and/or letter(s) of explanation.
Personal Documentation Requirements
Georgia can only license U.S. citizens or documented immigrants as LPNs. You must submit an affidavit of U.S. citizenship or immigration documentation to the BON when you apply for your license.
Employment Outlook for Georgia LPNs
In short, the current outlook for LPNs in Georgia is very promising.
Georgia offers LPNs a strong employment outlook. O*NET Online, a U.S. Department of Labor data resource, projects 19% job growth for LPNs in Georgia from 2020-2030. This exceeds O*NET Online’s national growth projection for the profession by nearly 400%.
According to O*NET Online data from May 2024, LPNs earn a median salary of $54,770 per year in Georgia. While this figure lags about 9% below the national median, remember that the cost of living in Georgia is lower than the national average by about the same margin.
You can also close the earnings gap by working in Georgia’s top-paying LPN markets, where the median salary comes much closer to the national average. O*NET Online’s data identifies these areas as the top-paying destinations for LPNs in Georgia:
| Metro Area | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | $58,200 |
| Gainesville | $57,050 |
| Savannah | $55,470 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | $55,280 |
| Athens-Clarke County | $54,150 |
Many of the state’s highest-paying destinations also rank among the largest employers of LPNs in Georgia. The table below highlights the 10 Georgia localities with the highest LPN employment, as identified by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2023.
| Area | LPN Employment |
|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | 11,440 |
| South Georgia Nonmetropolitan Area | 1,750 |
| Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC | 1,460 |
| Middle Georgia Nonmetropolitan Area | 1,160 |
| Savannah | 850 |
| North Georgia Nonmetropolitan Area | 820 |
| East Georgia Nonmetropolitan Area | 810 |
| Macon | 790 |
| Columbus, GA-AL | 720 |
| Athens-Clarke County | 520 |
Resources for LPNs in Georgia
- Complete information for aspiring nurses from the Georgia Board of Nursing
- A how-to guide for LPN license applicants from the Georgia Secretary of State
- A list of scholarship programs for Georgia nursing students from the Georgia Health Care Association
- A comprehensive list of professional nursing organizations from the Georgia Center for Nursing Excellence
- Resources for nursing students from the Georgia Center for Nursing Excellence
- A searchable database for nursing jobs in Georgia from the Georgia Nurses Association
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN Programs in Georgia
It typically takes about 12 months to complete face-to-face or online LPN programs in Georgia. Programs may lead to an associate degree or diploma, and they usually require about three semesters of full-time study.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed on July 16, 2024.
