Maria Delgado, RN
June 17, 2025
District of Columbia LPN programs prepare students for practical nursing roles in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics throughout the nation’s capital. These state-approved programs, offered by community colleges, technical schools, and healthcare organizations, combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and, upon passing, become Licensed Practical Nurses under DC’s nursing board.
Washington, DC - Public 4-Year - udc.edu
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The University of the District of Columbia's Practical Nursing Certificate Program is a campus-based HBCU initiative that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses. It requires a 2.8 GPA, high school diploma or GED, and a 'B' or better in science prerequisites. The program emphasizes clinical competencies, evidence-based practice, and patient care across health continuums in a supportive environment, with costs for uniforms, supplies, and exam fees. No specific entrance exam like ACT or SAT is mentioned for this certificate-level program.
While DC regulations mandate in-person clinical skills labs, many programs deliver theory lectures online via asynchronous modules and scheduled webinars. Students review core concepts remotely before attending campus-based simulation labs and clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare sites. This hybrid model offers flexibility for working or non-traditional students without compromising essential hands-on training.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of the District of Columbia |
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| Certifying Board | District of Columbia Department of Health – Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a Board-approved practical nursing program with official transcript or program certification |
| Application & Fees | $237 application & background check fee, $200 NCLEX-PN exam fee |
| Processing Time | Authorization To Test in 1–2 weeks, permanent license typically issued within 30 business days after passing NCLEX and background clearance |
| License Renewal | Biennial renewal every two years in odd-numbered years by June 30 with a $195 renewal fee (late fee $85) |
| Continuing Education | 18 contact hours required every two years, including mandated HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ/cultural awareness training |
| Licensure by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs may endorse with a $280 application & background check fee, verification of current unrestricted license, official transcript, and proof of recent practice or board-approved refresher |
Licensed Practical Nurses in DC earn an average of $60,000–$65,000 per year, reflecting the region’s higher cost of living. Entry-level LPNs often start around $50,000 annually, while those with specialty experience, in areas like geriatric care or IV therapy, can earn upward of $70,000.
| Salary & Career Outlook | District of Columbia | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $63,592 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $31.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$73,350 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $62,540 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$52,000 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~3% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~54,000 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of the District of Columbia |
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Many LPNs leverage their clinical experience to enroll in bridge programs, such as LPN-to-RN associate degree tracks, reducing the time and credit requirements to become registered nurses. Others earn specialty certificates (IV therapy, gerontology) to qualify for higher pay or supervisory roles. Continued education can lead to careers in nursing management, case coordination, or allied health professions like medical assisting and phlebotomy.
Additional Nursing Programs in District of Columbia
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