Thomas Reed, RN
June 2, 2025
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide direct patient care and are vital to Florida’s healthcare system in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. LPNs are responsible for observing patient health, administering medication, providing care, and offering support for both registered nurses and physicians in a high-paced clinical environment.
Jacksonville, FL - Private 4-year - ju.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Jacksonville University's Practical Nurse program in Florida offers a fast-track to a rewarding healthcare career. Complete in just 12 months, this campus-based program equips students with essential nursing skills at the state-of-the-art Healthcare Simulation Center. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX for LPN licensure. The program, approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, focuses on hands-on learning with lifelike simulations. While currently not accepting applications, it's a standout choice for those aiming to enter the nursing field quickly and effectively.
Marianna, FL - Public 4-Year - chipola.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chipola College's Practical Nursing program provides comprehensive training for aspiring licensed practical nurses in just three semesters. Students complete 1,350 clock hours, gaining essential clinical skills and theoretical knowledge. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam and offers strong job placement potential, with 80% of graduates typically employed within 12 months. Admission requires TEAS testing, background checks, and specific health documentation. With targeted curriculum and clinical experiences, students can launch a rewarding healthcare career efficiently.
Panama City, FL - Public 4-Year - gulfcoast.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Gulf Coast State College's Practical Nurse Certificate provides an accelerated pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida. The comprehensive 45-week program equips students with essential clinical skills and medical knowledge, preparing them to take the NCLEX-PN licensing examination. Designed for high school graduates, the program offers hands-on training in various healthcare settings, with a curriculum focused on medical-surgical nursing and comprehensive nursing skills. Students can expect small class sizes, personalized instruction, and competitive tuition rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quick entry into the healthcare profession.
Madison, FL - Public 4-Year - nfc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Florida College in Madison, FL, offers a Practical Nursing program designed to prepare students for the National Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. This program is perfect for those looking to start a career in healthcare, providing the skills needed for patient care in various settings. With a focus on hands-on training, students gain real-world experience. The program is accredited, ensuring a quality education that meets professional standards. Admission requires meeting specific academic criteria, with applications accepted from March 1 to June 1 for classes starting in August.
Miami, FL - Private 2-year - fvi.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
FVI School of Nursing and Technology in Miami, FL, offers a 14-month Practical Nursing program designed for those eager to start a rewarding nursing career. This campus-based program combines classroom learning with hands-on training, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam. With experienced faculty, comprehensive NCLEX preparation, and access to quality clinical sites, students gain the skills needed for various healthcare settings. Financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible students. The program focuses on patient care, medication administration, and vital signs monitoring, ensuring graduates are ready to make a positive impact in the nursing field.
The scarcity of fully online LPN programs exists because clinical experience needs hands-on interaction, but Florida institutions provide hybrid learning options. Students in these programs study lectures and complete assignments through online platforms while they participate in laboratory sessions and clinical practice at campus facilities or healthcare sites. The hybrid model provides working adults and caregivers with flexible nursing education that maintains essential clinical training. Select campuses provide evening and weekend programs that enable students to manage their schoolwork with their employment responsibilities.
School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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Marion Technical College |
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South Florida State College |
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Concorde Career Institute-Tampa |
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Certifying Board | Florida Board of Nursing, Division of Medical Quality Assurance |
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Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) via Pearson VUE |
Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a Florida-approved or equivalent practical nursing program with an official transcript |
Application & Background Check | $110 application fee, $200 NCLEX exam fee, plus Livescan fingerprinting fee, submit online via the MQA portal with identity and background screening |
Application Processing Time | Initial review within 30 days, with full licensure typically issued within 4–6 weeks once requirements are met |
License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal every two years, licenses expire July 31 of odd-numbered years |
Continuing Education | 24 contact hours of Board-approved continuing education per 24-month cycle, reported through CEBroker |
Licensure by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs may endorse with a $110 application fee, proof of an active unrestricted license, fingerprinting, and license verification. |
The average annual pay for LPNs in Florida is $54,000, with higher salaries in Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. How much LPNs make in Florida varies based on the level of experience, working area, and region of Florida. The employment prospects for LPNs in Florida remain positive. The state experiences increasing demand for LPNs because of its aging population and the transition toward outpatient care services. Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and rehabilitation centers require LPNs to work in various roles, which provide multiple career options for new professionals.
Salary & Career Outlook | Florida | USA |
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Avg Annual LVN Salary | $54,345 | $62,340 |
Avg Hourly Wage | $26.00 | $29.97 |
90th Percentile Salary | >$60,735 | $80,510 |
Median Salary | $54,345 | $62,340 |
10th Percentile Salary | <$48,989 | $47,960 |
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~13% | 3% |
Annual Job Openings | ~14,110 (Registered Nurses) | ~54,000 |
Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Salary.com.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Florida State College at Jacksonville |
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South Florida State College |
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Florida Gateway College |
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The sunshine state has numerous opportunities for professional advancement. The LPN to RN bridge program is a great way for LPNs to become registered nurses. The courses then use previous training and experience to help speed through their LPN career. There are also paths to career advancement which include taking certification courses for IV therapy, wound care, or geriatrics, or moving up through leadership roles in clinical settings. Working LPNs have access to continuing education on their own time through online courses or local colleges in order to keep their jobs.
Additional Nursing Programs in Florida
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