With 73 hospitals and countless other healthcare facilities throughout the state, LPNs in Maryland are in demand for a number of roles. Maryland LPN jobs are expected to grow nearly 12 percent by 2022, with an estimated 1,500 positions being added to the 13,000 already in existence. Salaries for LPNs in Maryland are slightly above the national average, making the state a promising destination to earn an education and start a nursing career.
Colleges from Baltimore to Cumberland feature accredited LPN programs that are training the state's next wave of practical nurses. On this page, prospective students can find the top-rated LPN schools in Maryland and explore program details. Maryland LPN licensure requirements, salary information, and metro areas with the best job prospects are also covered at length.
Top LPN Programs in Maryland
#1 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Carroll Community College
Westminster, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Westminster-based Carroll Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. Through coursework and technical training, the practical nursing certificate program prepare students to secure employment and succeed in entry-level roles. Graduates often transfer their credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
Enrollees not based near the Westminster campus can pursue the school's programs online. An additional benefit of online learning is the scheduling flexibility, which can appeal to working professionals and students with family responsibilities. Interested applicants should ensure the institution offers a program that aligns with their professional goals.
Carroll Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 19
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#2 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Frederick Community College
Frederick, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in nursing can pursue a practical nursing certificate at Frederick Community College, a public school in Frederick. Coursework helps students gain knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field. Along with entry-level roles, graduates can apply their new knowledge to bachelor's studies.
Enrollees not located near campus can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Additionally, online programs allow students to maintain employment while pursuing their degree. Interested applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Frederick Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 52
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 87
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
#3 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Hagerstown Community College, learners can enroll in the practical nursing program online or on campus in Hagerstown. Students undergo technical training and gain industry-relevant skills employers value. Before pursuing employment, graduates can also earn a bachelor's degree, which can increase career opportunities.
Interested learners who do not reside near campus can enroll online. Working professionals often pursue online programs because of the increased flexibility, which allows students to complete coursework at their convenience. For specific information about the institution's programs, prospective applicants can consult an admissions counselor.
Hagerstown Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 9
Number of Certificate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
#4 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Wor-Wic Community College
Salisbury, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn a practical nursing certificate from Wor-Wic Community College, a public institution in Salisbury. Students can complete the certificate online or on campus. These flexible remote programs are a great option for those unable to move for their education.
The program features practical training opportunities to prepare participants for work in the field. This training is usually sufficient to begin entry-level jobs in nursing and related fields. Graduates often pursue bachelor's studies before entering the workforce, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salary potential.
Wor-Wic Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 21
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 13
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#5 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Allegany College of Maryland
Cumberland, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Allegany College of Maryland delivers LPN programs at various academic levels. In addition to on-campus programs in Cumberland, the school delivers online classes students can attend remotely. With flexible scheduling options, online programs allow learners to maintain full-time employment while completing their program.
Enrollees in the LPN-to-RN program complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to LPN positions. Graduates can also pursue bachelor's studies, often transferring their credits to reduce degree-completion time.
Allegany College of Maryland at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 29
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#6 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Cecil College
North East, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn a practical nursing certificate at Cecil College. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. These flexible remote programs appeal to those unable to move for their education.
The certificate program features coursework exploring relevant theories and practical knowledge. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to LNP positions. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
Cecil College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 56
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 58
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available
#7 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Harford Community College
Bel Air, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Harford Community College educates learners based in Bel Air and throughout the country by offering online and on-campus programs. The LPN-to-RN program prepare students for entry-level roles. Graduates often transfer their credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting 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. The institution's admissions counselors can provide program details and help prospective applicants understand their options.
Harford Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 38
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available
#8 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Howard Community College
Columbia, MD - 2 years
- Campus
With online and on-campus options, Howard Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in Columbia. To qualify for LPN positions, students can earn a licensed practical nursing certificate, which requires coursework and technical training. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
The school's online programs allow enrollees who do not live near campus to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Students who need flexible scheduling options, such as working professionals, often choose online programs. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.
Howard Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 45
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: Data not available
Number of Certificate Programs: 51
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: Data not available
#9 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Baltimore City Community College
Baltimore, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners pursuing an associate of science in nursing should consider Baltimore City Community College, a public institution in Baltimore. The school offers many of its programs online. Rather than relocating or commuting to campus, learners can choose to study online.
Associate degree-seekers examine core concepts in the field. After completing their program, individuals can qualify for entry-level nursing jobs. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
Baltimore City Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 38
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 33
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#10 LPN Programs in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Prince George's Community College
Largo, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing a certificate or an associate degree can study online or on campus in Largo through Prince George's Community College. Coursework in the licensed practical nurse program helps students gain knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in LPN positions. Graduates often apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Enrollees not based near campus can pursue the school's programs online. In addition, online learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. Prospective applicants should look into the associate and certificate programs offered and see if any meet their needs.
Prince George's Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 58
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 73
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 5
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How to Become Licensed as a Maryland LPN
For those who seek a career in nursing, becoming an LPN is the quickest way to do so. Maryland requires one year of classes plus hands-on experience. Find out what other requirements must be met to become an LPN in Maryland.
Basic Eligibility
Before enrolling in a state-approved certificate program, prospective candidates should first ensure they meet these basic requirements for eligibility:
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Are at least 17 years of age
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Can show proof of American citizenship or alien registration
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Have a recent passport-style photograph
Education and Training Requirements
To become a fully licensed LPN in Maryland, students must first attend a state-approved academic program and complete clinical hours during their educations. Once the one-year degree has been completed, students must fill out the Board of Nursing's application for licensure by examination and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination at a nearby Pearson Vue testing center.
Applications for licensure can either be completed online or by mail, depending on the candidate's preference.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
In addition to the mandates listed above, prospective LPNs must also complete a few other requirements in order to be fully licensed in Maryland. These include:
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Competing CPR training and present CPR card with application
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Successfully passing state and FBI fingerprinting ($34.50)
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Showing proof of a clean criminal history records check
Renewal
Maryland-based LPNs must renew their licenses on a biennial rotation according to their birth date. Renewals may be completed online provided those seeking renewal have a valid email address. Depending on the date when a previous license renewal was issued, some LPNs may need to complete a criminal background check as this law is relatively new to the state. Nurses must also show proof of 1,000 hours of practice or complete a board-approved refresher course every five years.
Average Salary for Maryland-Based LPNs
With a statewide median wage of $50,030, Maryland-based LPNs earn significantly more than the national average. Earning potential can vary greatly depending on whether an LPN is new or a seasoned veteran.
Maryland LPN Employment Trends
With both metropolitan and rural areas spread throughout Maryland, prospective LPNs can choose to work anywhere. Maryland regions that saw the most growth in 2014 are listed below:
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Baltimore-Towson | 5,790 |
| Bethesda-Rockville-Frederick Metropolitan Division | 2,700 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg MD-WV | 730 |
| Salisbury | 300 |
| Upper Eastern Shore nonmetropolitan area | 290 |
| Cumberland MD-WV | 210 |
| St. Mary's County Maryland nonmetropolitan area | 170 |
| Garrett County Maryland nonmetropolitan area | 70 |