Working as an LPN in North Carolina
With over 17,000 LPNs working throughout North Carolina, licensed practical nursing has become a popular career choice for those seeking to enter the medical field. These nurses work in various health care settings, including nursing homes, ambulatory care service facilities, and hospitals. The first step to becoming an LPN typically begins in the classroom, and students in North Carolina will find certificate and diploma options at colleges across the state. This page discusses the education options for licensed practical nurses, and includes information on state licensing, salary potential, and where the most LPN jobs can be found in North Carolina.
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Top 20 LPN Programs in North Carolina
These rankings include
#1 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
McDowell Technical Community College
Marion, NC - 2 years
- Campus
With online and on-campus options, McDowell Technical Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in North Carolina. While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, students gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
Enrollees located anywhere can take advantage of the school's online programs. Students who need flexible scheduling options, such as working professionals, often choose online programs as well. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should ensure the institution offers a program that aligns with their professional goals.
McDowell Technical Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 26
Number of Certificate Programs: 50
#2 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Rockingham Community College
Wentworth, NC - 2 years
- Campus
A public institution, Rockingham Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Based in Wentworth, North Carolina, the school delivers many programs in online and on-campus formats. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
While earning a nursing associate degree or certificate, participants 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 in nursing and related fields. Graduates can also pursue a bachelor's degree, which they may use to qualify for more advanced roles with higher earning potential.
Rockingham Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 21
Number of Certificate Programs: 30
#3 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Vance-Granville Community College
Henderson, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Vance-Granville Community College provides nursing-specific career preparation through associate and certificate programs. Although the school's campus is in Henderson, North Carolina, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. With flexible scheduling options, online learning is an excellent choice for working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level nursing roles. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
Vance-Granville Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 25
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 22
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7
#4 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Wayne Community College
Goldsboro, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, North Carolina-based Wayne Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. After earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, graduates can apply for entry-level positions in the field. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.
Enrollees can study online without relocating to Goldsboro. 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 enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Wayne Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 44
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 14
#5 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Montgomery Community College
Troy, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With nursing programs at various academic levels, Montgomery Community College provides learners with field-specific career preparation. While physically located in Troy, North Carolina, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. With flexible scheduling options, online programs allow learners to maintain full-time employment while completing their program.
In addition to coursework, associate and certificate programs in nursing feature 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. Additionally, many graduates enroll in bachelor's programs, saving money by transferring associate or certificate credits.
Montgomery Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 16
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 34
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 14
#6 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
College of the Albemarle
Elizabeth City, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in North Carolina, public College of the Albemarle delivers nursing associate and certificate programs. The coursework required by an associate or certificate program helps students gain knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in nursing positions. An associate degree can also prepare graduates for advanced study, such as bachelor's programs.
Enrollees living outside of Elizabeth City benefit from these programs being available online. In addition, online learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. Before selecting a program, applicants should research the education requirements for positions they plan to pursue.
College of the Albemarle at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 22
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 31
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#7 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Coastal Carolina Community College
Jacksonville, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Coastal Carolina Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Many of the school's programs are available in on-campus and online formats. 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. 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.
Coastal Carolina Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 26
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 41
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#8 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Asheville, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College offers associate and certificate programs in nursing. While the school's campus is located in Asheville, North Carolina, students can complete online programs from anywhere. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
Nursing-specific coursework and training in associate and certificate programs help participants understand the field and gain practical skills. After earning their degree or certificate, many individuals enter the workforce and apply their training to entry-level nursing positions. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 54
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 58
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#9 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Bladen Community College
Dublin, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in nursing from Bladen Community College. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in North Carolina and other parts of the country. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, allowing busy learners to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
In addition to practical training, associate and certificate programs in nursing help participants gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. After completing their program, individuals can qualify for entry-level jobs related to nursing. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Bladen Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 28
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7
#10 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Cleveland Community College
Shelby, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cleveland Community College is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. Although the school's campus is in Shelby, North Carolina, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. Learners with full-time jobs often study online because of the increased flexibility remote learning offers.
Nursing-specific coursework and training in associate and certificate programs help participants understand the field and gain practical skills. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. Additionally, many graduates enroll in bachelor's programs, saving money by transferring associate or certificate credits.
Cleveland Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 29
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 9
Number of Certificate Programs: 62
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 12
#11 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Craven Community College
New Bern, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Craven Community College delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate and allows learners the flexibility to maintain full-time employment.
Coursework in nursing programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the field. Individuals often use the training from their degree or certificate program to succeed in entry-level roles in nursing and related fields. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
Craven Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 22
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 36
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 16
#12 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Forsyth Technical Community College
Winston-Salem, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, North Carolina-based Forsyth Technical Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. To qualify for nursing positions, students can earn an associate degree or certificate, which require coursework and technical training. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
The school's online options eliminate transportation costs for enrollees not based in Winston-Salem. Additionally, online programs allow students to maintain employment while pursuing their degree. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Forsyth Technical Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 65
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 67
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
#13 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
James Sprunt Community College
Kenansville, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
James Sprunt Community College delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. With the knowledge and skills developed during their training, individuals can enter the workforce 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.
James Sprunt Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 18
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 29
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 8
#14 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Sampson Community College
Clinton, NC - 2 years
- Campus
From its main campus in North Carolina, Sampson Community College is a public school educating learners through associate and certificate programs. Associate degrees and certificate programs help prepare graduates for entry-level positions in nursing requiring modest technical training. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
Offering online programs, in addition to on-campus classes in Clinton, the school educates enrollees in many states. Students who need flexible scheduling options, such as working professionals, often choose online programs as well. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Sampson Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 22
Number of Certificate Programs: 32
#15 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Mayland Community College
Spruce Pine, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With online and on-campus options, Mayland Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in North Carolina. With technical, subject-specific classes, associate and certificate programs in nursing prepare students to succeed in entry-level roles. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
Enrollees not based near the Spruce Pine campus can pursue the school's programs online. This can also be a great option for students who wish to work in nursing but require more flexibility than a traditional in-person program provides. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Mayland Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 15
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 28
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#16 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Lenoir Community College
Kinston, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Lenoir Community College is a public institution offering nursing associate and certificate programs. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
Along with field-specific knowledge, participants pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing gain practical skills in the field. With the knowledge and skills developed during their training, individuals can enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Graduates can also choose to transfer to a bachelor's program for continued education and expanded opportunities, often with a reduced course load or fewer prerequisites.
Lenoir Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 40
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10
Number of Certificate Programs: 63
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 16
#17 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Carteret Community College
Morehead City, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in nursing can pursue a certificate or an associate degree from Carteret Community College, a public school. Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature technical training to prepare students to succeed in specialized roles. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
Enrollees not located near Morehead City can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Additionally, many online nursing programs allow students to complete coursework at their convenience, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Carteret Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 23
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 33
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#18 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Isothermal Community College
Spindale, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Isothermal Community College delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in North Carolina and other parts of the country. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels provide coursework and training that allow participants to develop a strong foundation in the field. Immediately after graduation, many individuals use their training to secure entry-level nursing roles. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
Isothermal Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 28
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 56
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 9
#19 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Central Carolina Community College
Sanford, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Central Carolina Community College educates learners based in North Carolina and throughout the country by offering online and on-campus programs. To prepare for entry-level roles in nursing, many students pursue an associate degree or certificate in the field. Many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced positions.
The school's online options eliminate transportation costs for enrollees not based in Sanford. Asynchronous nursing programs often attract busy students and working professionals, who need the ability to schedule coursework around other responsibilities. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Central Carolina Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 38
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 61
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 13
#20 LPN Programs in North Carolina [2023 Guide]
Cape Fear Community College
Wilmington, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can obtain an associate degree or certificate from Cape Fear Community College, a public school located in North Carolina. Students who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate to obtain technical training. Graduates often apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Enrollees who prefer not to relocate to Wilmington can study remotely, in an online format. Additionally, online programs allow students to maintain employment while pursuing their degree. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Cape Fear Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 49
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10
Number of Certificate Programs: 74
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 12
How to Get an LPN License in North Carolina
Attending nursing school can be challenging, but that is only one hurdle that LPNs must jump over in order to practice in North Carolina. After graduation, prospective nurses must go through the licensing process and meet the requirements set forth by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This section provides information on those requirements and the LPN licensing procedure.
Basic Requirements
- Complete the license by examination application and submit it to the Board four to six weeks before graduating from a nursing program.
Education & Training Requirements
LPNs are required to graduate from a school that has been approved by the state.
Additional Requirements
- Register for and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN, which is administered by Pearson VUE.
- In-state nursing school graduates must have their program director send a program verification form. Out-of-state students must arrange to have official nursing school transcripts sent to the Board of Nursing.
- Complete criminal background check.
- Pay $75 non-refundable fee.
Renewing Your License
LPN licenses are renewed every two years in North Carolina. In order to successfully renew a license, nurses must complete the continuing competency requirements, which can be fulfilled by taking 30 hours of continuing education classes, completing a Board-approved refresher course, or completing 640 hours of work experience and 15 hours of continuing education.
Salaries for LPNs in North Carolina
Like other nursing professionals, an LPNs salary is largely driven by where they choose to work. This section provides salary data for nurses in different geographical areas in North Carolina, as well as a comparison of nursing salaries on the state and national level.
North Carolina LPN Employment Trends
Although LPNs can work in a number of health care settings, some types of employers have more opportunities than others. Continue reading to get data on where North Carolina LPNs find jobs, what areas of nursing they specialize in, and what level of education they generally receive.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill NC-SC | 2,710 |
| Other North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 1,790 |
| Raleigh-Cary | 1,280 |
| Winston-Salem | 1,170 |
| Greensboro-High Point | 1,120 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Fayetteville | 1,060 |
| Western Central North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 1,030 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | 1,000 |
| Asheville | 970 |
| Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 840 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in North Carolina
2012 16,590
2022 20,780
Average Annual Openings 820
Source: Projections Central
North Carolina LPN Resources
Provides information on how nurses from other states can get a license by endorsement through the North Carolina nursing board.
Licensed Practical Nurse - North Carolina Board of Nursing
This page includes information on the legal responsibilities of LPNs in North Carolina.
Includes employment statistics about LPNs from the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
North Carolina Board of Nursing
Founded in 1903, the North Carolina Board of Nursing oversees the state's nursing profession and education programs. LPNs can find important news and announcements, as well as information on licensure, education, and the state's nursing practice in general.
North Carolina Nurses Association
Founded in 1902, the North Carolina Nurses Association promotes nurses by helping them provide quality patient care in facilities around the state. In order to deliver this support, the organization offers education, networking opportunities, and industry news.
North Carolina Trends in Nursing Education: 2010 – 2014
This report includes information about enrollment and graduation statistics from nursing schools around the state.
Protecting the Public by regulating the Practice of Nursing
This report provides licensing statistics for nurses in the state.
The Board of Nursing provides information about the NCLEX pass rates for all nursing schools in North Carolina.
Understanding the Scope of Practice and Role of the LPN
This site provides information about what the state expects from LPNs working in North Carolina, including decision making methodologies.