Top LPN Programs in Ohio

Top LPN Programs in Ohio
Jake Flannigan, NP

Jake Flannigan, NP

June 4, 2025

The healthcare workforce of Ohio depends heavily on Licensed Practical Nurses who serve as LPNs. Through direct patient care services LPNs help registered nurses and physicians in multiple healthcare settings. LPNs in Ohio provide vital medical support throughout various healthcare settings by giving medications and assisting with patient needs and health monitoring. The healthcare system of Ohio needs LPNs most in rural and underserved communities where medical professional access is restricted. The practical abilities together with caring service of LPNs deliver significant advantages to Ohio’s healthcare system. 

On this page

2026 Top LPN Programs in Ohio

Nursing students in Ohio have numerous opportunities to pursue their Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) education through quality programs across the state. TopNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the best LPN programs based on critical factors like student success rates, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and overall educational quality. Our comprehensive analysis helps prospective nursing students identify the most robust and effective LPN programs in Ohio, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare career path. These top-ranked programs provide students with excellent preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam and offer strong foundations for professional nursing practice. Each program has been thoroughly assessed to highlight its unique strengths and potential for student success. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Professional Skills Institute

Maumee, OH - Private 4-year - proskills.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nurse program at Professional Skills Institute prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing. This 48-week diploma program offers both daytime and evening hybrid classes, combining online learning with hands-on campus labs. Students gain real-world experience through 270 hours of clinical training in medical facilities. The program is approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing and meets educational requirements for licensure in Ohio and Michigan. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure.

  • 48-week diploma program
  • Daytime and evening hybrid classes
  • 270 hours of clinical training
  • Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing
  • Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure
  • Financial aid available
  • Hands-on campus labs
  • Online learning flexibility
  • Real-world clinical experience
  • Qualified instructors with field experience
#2

ATA College-Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - ata.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Program at ATA College-Cincinnati offers a fast-track to a nursing career with a 15-month diploma. This hybrid program combines online classes with hands-on lab training and clinical experience. No prerequisites are needed, and there's no waiting list. Graduates can sit for the NCLEX-PN. The program focuses on critical thinking and comprehensive nursing knowledge, preparing students for various healthcare settings.

  • 15-Month Diploma Program
  • No prerequisites required
  • No waiting list
  • Hybrid program
  • Online and on-campus labs
  • Clinical experience included
  • NCLEX-PN eligibility
  • Accelerated track
  • Experienced faculty
  • Critical thinking focus
#3

Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Galen College of Nursing in Cincinnati, OH, offers a Practical/Vocational Nursing program designed to fast-track your nursing career. Complete the program in as little as 12 months full-time or 21 months part-time. With four start times annually, you can begin your journey to becoming an LPN/LVN quickly. The program includes engaging clinical coursework and practice-based training, preparing you for the NCLEX-PN exam. Admissions require a high school diploma or GED, and financial aid options are available. This program is perfect for those new to nursing seeking a rewarding, in-demand career.

  • 12 months full-time
  • 21 months part-time
  • On Campus
  • Four start times yearly
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Financial aid available
  • Engaging clinical coursework
  • Practice-based training
  • Rewarding, in-demand career
#4

Ohio Medical Career College

Dayton, OH - Private 2-year - omcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing program at Ohio Medical Career College in Dayton, OH, prepares students for a rewarding career as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This campus-based program combines classroom study with clinical practice, covering essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and patient care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure. The program spans 40 weeks, offering both day and evening classes to fit various schedules. Prerequisites include Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) or Medical Assistant (MA) certification and CPR training. With a growing demand for LPNs, this program is an excellent step toward a stable healthcare career.

  • 40-week program length.
  • Day and evening classes available.
  • Combines classroom and clinical practice.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
  • Covers anatomy, physiology, patient care.
  • Requires CNA or MA certification.
  • CPR training prerequisite.
  • Authorized by Ohio State Board.
  • Provisional approval by Ohio Board of Nursing.
  • Diploma upon completion.
#5

Fortis College-Columbus

Westerville, OH - Private 2-year - fortis.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fortis College in Columbus, OH, offers a hybrid Practical Nursing program designed for aspiring LPNs. This program blends online and on-campus learning, providing flexibility. Students gain hands-on clinical experience, preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify. The curriculum covers nursing theory, lab skills, and patient care across diverse settings. Ideal for STNAs looking to advance their careers with transfer credit opportunities.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Transfer credits for STNAs.
*IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Anatomy & Physiology
Nursing Fundamentals
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical
Maternal Health
Mental Health
Clinical Judgment
Holistic Care

Clinical Rotations

Are Online LPN Programs Available in Ohio

LPN programs in Ohio operate mostly in traditional classroom settings because students need direct clinical training. Students cannot enroll in completely online programs because state regulations require them to demonstrate clinical competencies in actual healthcare facilities. Some educational institutions provide students with hybrid learning opportunities. Students in these programs can take general education courses and theory-based subjects through online learning but must participate in nursing-specific classes, clinicals, and lab work in person. All LPN students in Ohio need to attend in-person classes because state licensing requirements and clinical training necessitate this format although online elements provide convenient learning opportunities.

2026 Fastest LPN Program Options in Ohio

Ohio offers promising opportunities for aspiring practical nurses seeking the shortest nursing programs available. Across major regions like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, students can find accelerated pathways to launch their healthcare careers efficiently. These condensed programs prioritize rapid skill development and quick entry into the nursing workforce. By focusing on streamlined curriculum and intensive training, learners can complete their certifications faster than traditional educational routes. Prospective students benefit from programs that minimize time investment while maintaining high-quality education standards. The table below highlights key details for practical nursing programs, showcasing graduation rates, program highlights, and other critical information for those wanting to start their nursing journey swiftly.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Ohio Medical Career College
  • 40-week program length.
  • Day and evening classes available.
  • Combines classroom and clinical practice.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
  • Covers anatomy, physiology, patient care.
  • Requires CNA or MA certification.
  • CPR training prerequisite.
  • Authorized by Ohio State Board.
  • Graduation Rate: 78%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati
  • 12 months full-time
  • 21 months part-time
  • On Campus
  • Four start times yearly
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Financial aid available
  • Engaging clinical coursework
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
ATA College-Cincinnati
  • 15-Month Diploma Program
  • No prerequisites required
  • No waiting list
  • Hybrid program
  • Online and on-campus labs
  • Clinical experience included
  • NCLEX-PN eligibility
  • Accelerated track
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 dataset.

Admission Requirements

High School Graduate
GPA of 2.5 or higher
Prerequisite Courses
Including: Biology, Medical Terminology
TEAS
Test of Essential Academic Skills Entrance Exam
Background Checks
Screening for patient safety.
CPR Certification
Preparedness to serve patients.
Immunization records
TB test results, proof of Hepatitis B vaccination and other required vaccines

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardOhio Board of Nursing, Department of State
CertificationNCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE
Educational PrerequisiteGraduation from an Ohio Board-approved practical nursing program with official transcript or Program Completion Letter
Application & FeesApply online via Ohio eLicense, $75 licensure-by-exam fee, $200 NCLEX exam fee, $47.25 fingerprint background check fee
Application Processing Time4–6 weeks for initial licensure after submission of all requirements
License Renewal PeriodBiennial renewal in even-numbered years between July 1 and October 31, $65 renewal fee (late renewals $115) plus $3.50 transaction fee
Continuing Education24 contact hours per renewal cycle (one Category A hour required, 12 hours if licensed by reciprocity <1 year before first renewal, first renewal exempt)
Licensure by Endorsement$75 reciprocity application fee, verification of current unrestricted LPN license, fingerprint background check, proof of education and recent practice or board-approved

Salary and Job Outlook

The career of Ohio LPNs provides stability along with competitive salaries while showing growing job market demand. The average yearly compensation for LPNs in Ohio amounts to $60,000 yet actual salaries differ based on location and work experience and employer. Entry-level nurses typically make around $45,000 yet nurses with extensive experience and specialized certifications can reach earnings above $60,000. LPNs working in Ohio experience fulfilling positions that offer promising career development alongside strong job stability.

Salary & Career OutlookOhioUSA
Avg Annual LVN Salary$55,924$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$27.00$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$62,500$80,510
Median Salary$55,924$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$50,413$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)3%3%
Annual Job Openings~6,910~54,000

2026 Affordable LPN Program Options in Ohio

Ohio offers promising opportunities for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking affordable educational pathways. Students across major regions like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati can find budget-friendly programs designed to launch healthcare careers without overwhelming financial burden. Practical nursing certificates provide a critical entry point into the medical field, with many institutions developing low-cost options to support workforce development. These affordable programs recognize the importance of accessible education, helping students gain essential clinical skills and professional credentials. By investing in nursing education with reasonable tuition rates, individuals can transform their career prospects while maintaining financial stability. The following table highlights several Ohio-based LPN programs that balance quality training with economic accessibility.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Stark State College
  • Day and evening/weekend options.
  • Classes at Akron campus.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Affordable tuition rates.
  • 46 seats per cohort.
  • Fall and spring semester starts.
  • Background check required.
  • $3,700 - $5,600 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,200 - $9,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Washington State Community College
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
  • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
  • Eligible for financial aid.
  • Designed for diverse life stages.
  • $3,300 - $5,000 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $3,300 - $5,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Central Ohio Technical College
  • One-year certificate program
  • 37.5 total credit hours
  • Campus-based learning
  • ACEN accredited program
  • 86% NCLEX-PN pass rate
  • Selective admission process
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Financial aid eligible
  • $4,100 - $6,200 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,300 - $9,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

Advancement Pathways

Ohio provides LPNs with an excellent starting point that leads to nursing career progression. The majority of LPNs follow LPN-to-RN bridge programs to advance their education because they can apply their previous coursework and experience to these programs. The programs enable LPNs to complete associate or bachelor’s degree programs in nursing before becoming registered nurses. Registered nurses possess expanded clinical responsibilities together with greater autonomy and higher compensation levels. LPNs who want to improve their skills can choose from specialized certifications that include intravenous therapy, geriatrics, and wound care to gain more job prospects. An experienced nurse can become qualified for leadership positions that include charge nurse or unit coordinator after additional training. Teaching roles in nurse aide training programs become accessible to LPNs who want to instruct students. The nursing profession leads to advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist for LPNs who pursue further education. The profession provides different career paths for those dedicated to continuous learning.

List of LPN Programs in Ohio

Jump to City:

Archbold, OH

Northwest State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year certificate program.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Combines lectures, labs, clinicals.
    • High NCLEX pass rates.
    • 100% graduate employment rate.
    • Separate application required.
    • Admission deadlines in February, September.
    • Financial details available online.

Brecksville, OH

Stautzenberger College-Brecksville

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • 14-month program length.
    • 76.5 credits required.
    • Prepares for licensure exam.
    • Career services available.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Experienced faculty.
    • Hands-on training.

Cincinnati, OH

ATA College-Cincinnati

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-Month Diploma Program
    • No prerequisites required
    • No waiting list
    • Hybrid program
    • Online and on-campus labs
    • Clinical experience included
    • NCLEX-PN eligibility
    • Accelerated track

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester comprehensive program
    • NCLEX-PN exam preparation
    • 2.50 GPA admission requirement
    • Diverse clinical practice settings
    • 39 total program credits
    • State Board of Nursing approved
    • Career opportunities in multiple healthcare environments

Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12 months full-time
    • 21 months part-time
    • On Campus
    • Four start times yearly
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Financial aid available
    • Engaging clinical coursework

Cleveland, OH

Cuyahoga Community College District

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Career ladder curriculum.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Seamless progression to ADN.
    • Certificate of Proficiency awarded.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Contact Financial Aid for eligibility.
    • Nursing and Health Professions school.
    • Admission to ADN program required.

Columbus, OH

American Institute of Alternative Medicine

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 9-month program duration
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • Small class sizes
    • Holistic patient care focus
    • Cost-conscious tuition
    • Real-world clinical experience
    • One-on-one professor time

Columbus State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time day and evening options.
    • Four-semester program duration.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing.
    • Requires HESI A2 score of 73%.
    • Negative drug and background screen required.
    • Offers lecture, lab, and clinical experiences.
    • Develops communication and critical thinking skills.

Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Fortis College-Cuyahoga Falls

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration.
    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Focus on diverse patient care.

Dayton, OH

Ohio Medical Career College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 40-week program length.
    • Day and evening classes available.
    • Combines classroom and clinical practice.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • Covers anatomy, physiology, patient care.
    • Requires CNA or MA certification.
    • CPR training prerequisite.
    • Authorized by Ohio State Board.

Elyria, OH

Lorain County Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year technical certificate.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • Hands-on nursing care training.
    • Requires high school diploma or GED.
    • State-approved nurse aide training prerequisite.
    • 2.0 GPA requirement for college coursework.
    • ATI TEAS Exam required for admission.
    • Curriculum includes medical/surgical nursing.

Hillsboro, OH

Southern State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester certificate program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • Campus-based instruction
    • 35 total credit hours
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Offered at Brown County Campus
    • Minimum 'C' grade requirement
    • Clinical and lab experiences

Lima, OH

James A. Rhodes State College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year certificate program.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Combines classroom, lab, clinical.
    • 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2019.
    • Scholarship opportunities available.
    • High demand for LPNs.
    • Admission requires high school diploma.
    • 2.0 GPA requirement.

Mansfield, OH

North Central State College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-credit nursing certificate
    • Ohio Board of Nursing approved
    • Clinical experience included
    • NCLEX licensing exam preparation
    • Limited enrollment program
    • Minimum 77% grade requirement
    • Background check mandatory
    • Multiple healthcare work settings

Marietta, OH

Washington State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certificate of Practical Nursing Education

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
    • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
    • Eligible for financial aid.
    • Designed for diverse life stages.

Maumee, OH

Professional Skills Institute

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse

    Campus Based - Website

    • 48-week diploma program
    • Daytime and evening hybrid classes
    • 270 hours of clinical training
    • Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure
    • Financial aid available
    • Hands-on campus labs
    • Online learning flexibility

Newark, OH

Central Ohio Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year certificate program
    • 37.5 total credit hours
    • Campus-based learning
    • ACEN accredited program
    • 86% NCLEX-PN pass rate
    • Selective admission process
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Financial aid eligible

North Canton, OH

Stark State College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Day and evening/weekend options.
    • Classes at Akron campus.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Affordable tuition rates.
    • 46 seats per cohort.
    • Fall and spring semester starts.
    • Background check required.

Parma, OH

Bryant & Stratton College-Parma

  • Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse Diploma

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month program length
    • 41 credit hours
    • On-campus learning
    • NCLEX-PN exam preparation
    • ACEN accredited
    • Ohio Board of Nursing approved
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Anatomy and physiology courses

Perrysburg, OH

Owens Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • For Licensed Practical Nurses
    • Prepares for diverse nursing roles
    • Combines academic and practical learning
    • Located in Perrysburg, OH

Piqua, OH

Edison State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-term completion
    • Campus-based program
    • ACEN accredited
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN
    • Requires high school chemistry
    • 2.5 GPA requirement
    • Hands-on healthcare experience
    • Focus on evidence-based nursing

Springfield, OH

Clark State College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month nursing certificate
    • Ohio Board of Nursing approved
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • NCLEX-PN exam preparation
    • 84.91% licensure pass rate
    • 45 total credit hours
    • CPR and nurse aide credentials required

Steubenville, OH

Eastern Gateway Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year certificate program.
    • Combines lectures and clinical experience.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Pathway to LPN to ADN program.
    • Career opportunities in various settings.

Westerville, OH

Fortis College-Columbus

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Transfer credits for STNAs.
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.