Top LPN Programs in Georgia

Top LPN Programs in Georgia
Jake Flannigan, NP

Jake Flannigan, NP

June 2, 2025

Georgia’s LPNs are essential in the delivery of healthcare service to the state’s population and are employed in hospitals, long term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and home health care. Health care professionals in urban centers and rural areas who, working under the direction of physicians and RNs, help take care of patients’ health, administer medications, offer physical care and support for daily living, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.

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2026 Top LPN Programs in Georgia

When it comes to launching a successful nursing career in Georgia, choosing the right Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program is crucial. At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the best LPN programs across the state, considering factors like academic quality, clinical training opportunities, student success rates, and affordability. Our comprehensive analysis helps aspiring nurses navigate the educational landscape and find programs that will provide them with the strongest foundation for their healthcare careers. These top-rated Georgia LPN programs offer students exceptional preparation, experienced faculty, and pathways to meaningful employment in various medical settings. Whether you're looking to start your nursing journey or advance your current healthcare skills, our rankings will guide you toward the most reputable institutions. Explore our detailed ranking methodology.
#1

Dalton State College

Dalton, GA - Public 4-Year - daltonstate.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Dalton State College offers a 12-month Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate program, blending classroom and online learning with essential clinical rotations. Designed for aspiring nurses, the curriculum covers general education and nursing theory, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam. With affordable tuition and high standards, the program is an excellent choice for those seeking a nursing career. Admission is available for spring and summer semesters, with clinical experiences that may include evening and weekend hours. Contact Mrs. Jennifer Parker for more information.

  • 12-month program duration.
  • Blended classroom and online format.
  • Includes clinical rotations.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Admission in spring and summer.
  • Affordable tuition rates.
  • High educational standards.
  • Clinicals may involve travel.
  • Evening and weekend clinicals possible.
  • Approved by Georgia Board of Nursing.
#2

Southeastern Technical College

Vidalia, GA - Public 2-Year - southeasterntech.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southeastern Technical College in Georgia offers a Practical Nursing Diploma program, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam and a career as a licensed practical nurse. This program combines general core and occupational courses with clinical experiences, ensuring students gain the knowledge and skills needed for competent patient care. Graduates are ready for employment in various healthcare settings. The program requires 60 semester credit hours, typically completed in three consecutive semesters. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing the TEAS exam, and meeting GPA requirements. Start your nursing career with hands-on training and comprehensive education at Southeastern Technical College.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
  • 60 semester credit hours required.
  • Minimum three semesters to complete.
  • Offered on Vidalia and Swainsboro campuses.
  • Combines classroom and clinical training.
  • Admission requires TEAS exam.
  • High school diploma or equivalent needed.
  • GPA of 3.0 for program progression.
  • Clinical experiences integrated with theory.
  • Graduates qualify as entry-level nurses.

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing PN 21

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southeastern Technical College's Practical Nursing program prepares students to become licensed practical nurses through a comprehensive 49-credit hour technical certificate. Designed to meet Georgia Board of Nursing standards, the program offers extensive clinical experiences across multiple healthcare settings. Students learn critical nursing skills and complete coursework in pharmacology, adult health, mental health, maternal and pediatric nursing. Admission requires a TEAS test score of at least 58.7%, with selective entry based on test performance. Graduates can expect promising job prospects, with the U.S. Department of Labor projecting five percent growth in licensed practical nursing through 2032 and a median annual wage of $59,730.

  • 49-credit hour technical certificate
  • Three consecutive semester program
  • NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
  • Diverse clinical experiences
  • Multiple campus locations
  • TEAS test required for admission
  • Multiple healthcare career pathways
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Central Georgia Technical College

Warner Robins, GA - Public 2-Year - centralgatech.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Georgia Technical College's Practical Nursing program provides comprehensive training for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This rigorous program prepares students to enter the healthcare field with essential clinical skills and knowledge. Students learn comprehensive patient care across various healthcare settings, focusing on nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternity care, and leadership. The program emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and professional development. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN licensing examination and pursue careers in diverse healthcare environments. Total program costs range from approximately $2,500-$3,500, including tuition, uniforms, supplies, and required certifications. Admission requirements include basic health science prerequisites and successful completion of a competitive selection process.

  • NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation
  • Comprehensive Clinical Training
  • Multiple Campus Locations
  • Hands-on Nursing Skills Lab
  • Electronic Health Record Training
#4

Coastal Pines Technical College

Waycross, GA - Public 2-Year - coastalpines.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate PN21

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Certificate PN21 at Coastal Pines Technical College prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, leading to licensure as practical nurses. This program combines theoretical knowledge with clinical experience, ensuring graduates are ready to provide competent nursing care. Courses cover pharmacology, mental health nursing, adult health nursing, and more, totaling 49 credit hours. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a TEAS test score of at least 58.7%, and a satisfactory criminal background check and drug screen. The program is approved by the Georgia Board of Examiners of Licensed Practical Nurses, ensuring a quality education for aspiring nurses.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
  • 49 credit hours total.
  • Combines theory and clinical practice.
  • Approved by Georgia Board of Examiners.
  • Requires TEAS test for admission.
  • Covers pharmacology and mental health.
  • Includes adult and pediatric nursing.
  • Satisfactory background check required.
  • Drug screen mandatory for clinical placement.
  • High school diploma or equivalent needed.

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing PN12

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing diploma program at Coastal Pines Technical College prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, leading to licensure as practical nurses. This campus-based program combines academic coursework with clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are ready to provide competent nursing care. Admission requires a background check and drug screening. The curriculum includes courses in human body structure, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing, totaling 57 credit hours. Graduates are qualified for entry-level practical nursing positions, with the program approved by the Georgia Board of Examiners of Licensed Practical Nurses.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Combines academic and clinical training.
  • Requires background check and drug screening.
  • 57 credit hours for graduation.
  • Approved by Georgia Board of Examiners.
  • Courses in pharmacology and nursing.
  • Entry-level practical nurse qualifications.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Includes medical-surgical nursing courses.
  • Clinical experiences integrated with theory.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Oconee Fall Line Technical College

Sandersville, GA - Public 2-Year - oftc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Oconee Fall Line Technical College's Practical Nursing program provides a fast-track pathway to a rewarding healthcare career. Students can complete the technical certificate in just three semesters, enabling them to enter the workforce quickly with strong earning potential. The program equips students with essential skills to provide basic medical care, assist patients with daily living activities, and communicate effectively with healthcare professionals. With tuition as low as $5,673 and potential financial aid opportunities through HOPE Grants and scholarships, students can minimize educational expenses while preparing for a stable, in-demand profession.

  • Three-semester technical certificate
  • Low tuition $107 per credit hour
  • Multiple financial aid options
  • Hands-on patient care training
  • Flexible scheduling options
*Reference: U.S. DOE, NCES, IPEDS 2023 data release.

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Anatomy & Physiology
Nursing Fundamentals
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical
Maternal Health
Mental Health

Clinical Rotations

Are Online LPN Programs Available in Georgia

The hands-on requirements of nursing education can be met through various learning formats, which several Georgia LPN programs provide. Students in hybrid programs learn remotely through lectures and assignments, yet they must attend scheduled on-site lab sessions and clinical rotations. The state board clinical requirements prevent fully online LPN programs from being offered, but flexible models provide students with different lifestyles the opportunity to complete their training without compromising its quality.

2026 Fastest LPN Program Options in Georgia

Aspiring nurses in Georgia can quickly launch their healthcare careers through streamlined Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs designed for rapid professional entry. These shortest training options across Atlanta, Savannah, and other major metropolitan regions provide accelerated pathways to certification. Students seeking efficient educational routes will appreciate programs that minimize time investment while maintaining high-quality training standards. By focusing on core nursing skills and practical experiences, these certificate and associate degree tracks help motivated individuals transition into the nursing workforce faster. With competitive graduation and retention rates, these programs offer an attractive option for those wanting to start their medical careers without spending years in traditional academic settings.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Southeastern Technical College
  • 49-credit hour technical certificate
  • Three consecutive semester program
  • NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
  • Diverse clinical experiences
  • Multiple campus locations
  • TEAS test required for admission
  • Multiple healthcare career pathways
  • GPA of 3.0 for program progression.
  • Graduation Rate: 34%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Savannah Technical College
  • Competitive selection program.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN examination.
  • Offered at Savannah and Liberty campuses.
  • Starts in Spring and Fall semesters.
  • Combines academic and clinical experiences.
  • Entry-level practical nurse qualifications.
  • Guidance from clinical instructors.
  • Licensure process eligibility post-graduation.
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
  • Three-semester technical certificate
  • Low tuition $107 per credit hour
  • Multiple financial aid options
  • Hands-on patient care training
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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 BoardGeorgia Board of Nursing, Professional Licensing Boards Division, Secretary of State
CertificationNational Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) administered by Pearson VUE
Educational PrerequisiteGraduation from a Board-approved practical nursing program with official transcripts and program verification
Application & Background CheckOnline application with $40 non-refundable application fee plus $10 processing fee, register concurrently with Pearson VUE and GAPS/Idemia for fingerprint-based state & FBI background checks
Application Processing TimeApplications reviewed in order received, allow approximately 4–6 weeks for licensure decision once all materials are complete, deficiencies must be corrected within 60 days to avoid withdrawal
License Renewal PeriodBiennial renewal every two years by March 31 of odd-numbered years with a $65 renewal fee (late renewal $75) plus $10 processing fee
Continuing EducationCompletion of at least 20 contact hours of Board-approved continuing education or equivalent academic nursing coursework per renewal cycle
Licensure by EndorsementOut-of-state LPNs apply with a $75 endorsement fee, submit verification of a current unrestricted LPN license, official transcripts, and fingerprint/background check, eligible for eNLC multistate licensure if primary residence is Georgia and criteria are met.

Salary and Job Outlook

The average salary for licensed practical nurses in Georgia matches national levels but shows differences based on workplace location, professional experience, and practice environment. According to recent data, LPNs in Georgia receive salaries between $47,000 and $55,000 per year. LPNs working in the Atlanta, Augusta, and Savannah metropolitan areas receive higher compensation because of high demand and expensive living costs, yet rural areas provide lower salaries with more affordable housing options. The job prospects for LPNs continue to be favorable throughout the entire state. The combination of Georgia’s aging population with its expanding healthcare infrastructure maintains consistent demand for nursing professionals at every level.

Salary & Career OutlookGeorgiaUSA
Avg Annual LVN Salary$55,396$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$27.00$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$61,910$80,510
Median Salary$55,396$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$49,936$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)19%3%
Annual Job Openings~2,230~54,000

2026 Affordable LPN Program Options in Georgia

Aspiring nurses in Georgia can find promising paths to becoming Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) through affordable programs across the state. From bustling Atlanta to smaller communities in the coastal and northern regions, students have multiple opportunities to launch their healthcare careers. Affordable educational options help make nursing more accessible, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue this critical profession. These programs not only provide quality training but also offer flexible learning environments that consider students' financial constraints. By focusing on cost-effective certificate and associate degree programs, nursing students can minimize their educational expenses while gaining essential skills needed in Georgia's growing healthcare landscape.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Dalton State College
  • 12-month program duration.
  • Blended classroom and online format.
  • Includes clinical rotations.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Admission in spring and summer.
  • Affordable tuition rates.
  • High educational standards.
  • Clinicals may involve travel.
  • $2,600 - $3,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $8,200 - $12,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Southern Regional Technical College
  • 3-semester technical certificate
  • NCLEX-PN preparation
  • Multiple campus locations
  • 49 total semester hours
  • Comprehensive clinical experiences
  • High school diploma required
  • TEAS exam entrance requirement
  • BLS Healthcare CPR certification
  • $2,500 - $3,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $4,400 - $6,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
  • Three-semester technical certificate
  • Low tuition $107 per credit hour
  • Multiple financial aid options
  • Hands-on patient care training
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • $2,600 - $3,800 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $4,500 - $6,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*IPEDS 2023 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Advancement Pathways

Many LPNs continue working as practical nurses long-term, while others advance their education from their original LPN licenses. Georgia has a range of LPN-to-RN bridge programs to choose from for those who want an expedited way to become a registered nurse. The programs allow LPNs to apply past coursework and clinical practice expertise to earn their associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing, speeding time to completion.

 

Programs in Georgia

Georgia offers a diverse range of educational programs across its colleges and universities. From innovative technology tracks to robust healthcare curricula, students can find compelling academic pathways in cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. These programs provide strong foundations for future careers, combining rigorous academic training with practical skills and local industry connections that prepare graduates for success in their chosen fields.
Jump to City:

Albany, GA

Albany Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • 57 credits for graduation.
    • Minimum 375 clinical hours.
    • Requires TEAS score of 55.
    • High school diploma or equivalent needed.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Focuses on patient care and pharmacology.
    • Includes leadership in healthcare.

Athens, GA

Athens Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Diploma in Practical Nursing
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Part-time evening program available
    • Advanced simulation training
    • Experienced nursing faculty
    • Clinical experiences integrated
    • Elbert County campus location
    • Fully in-person instruction

Augusta, GA

Augusta Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • High licensure pass rate.
    • 100% job placement rate.
    • Hands-on learning focus.
    • Prepares for nursing profession.

Clarkesville, GA

North Georgia Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Focuses on practical nursing skills.
    • Prepares for healthcare careers.
    • Emphasizes patient care.
    • Teaches medical procedures.
    • Covers healthcare ethics.

Clarkston, GA

Georgia Piedmont Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 49 required credit hours.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Includes clinical experiences.
    • Teaches vital nursing skills.
    • Prepares for entry-level nursing.
    • Criminal background check required.
    • Drug screening mandatory.
    • Focus on patient care.

Columbus, GA

Columbus Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • Combines academic and clinical training.
    • High job placement rate.
    • Experienced faculty support.
    • Strong licensure pass rates.

Dalton, GA

Dalton State College

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month program duration.
    • Blended classroom and online format.
    • Includes clinical rotations.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Admission in spring and summer.
    • Affordable tuition rates.
    • High educational standards.
    • Clinicals may involve travel.

Marietta, GA

Lincoln College of Technology-Marietta

  • Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Focuses on patient care.
    • Prepares for LPN role.
    • Located in Marietta, GA.
    • Skills for healthcare industry.

Sandersville, GA

Oconee Fall Line Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester technical certificate
    • Low tuition $107 per credit hour
    • Multiple financial aid options
    • Hands-on patient care training
    • Flexible scheduling options

Savannah, GA

Savannah Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Competitive selection program.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN examination.
    • Offered at Savannah and Liberty campuses.
    • Starts in Spring and Fall semesters.
    • Combines academic and clinical experiences.
    • Entry-level practical nurse qualifications.
    • Guidance from clinical instructors.
    • Licensure process eligibility post-graduation.

Statesboro, GA

Ogeechee Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • Focuses on critical thinking
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice
    • Cultural sensitivity training
    • Quality patient care focus
    • Safe, competent practitioners
    • Licensed Practical Nurse preparation

Thomasville, GA

Southern Regional Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-semester technical certificate
    • NCLEX-PN preparation
    • Multiple campus locations
    • 49 total semester hours
    • Comprehensive clinical experiences
    • High school diploma required
    • TEAS exam entrance requirement
    • BLS Healthcare CPR certification

Valdosta, GA

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-term certificate program
    • Multiple campus locations
    • NCLEX-PN preparation
    • Comprehensive clinical experiences
    • Competitive admission process
    • HESI A2 exam required
    • Ranked #6 LPN program
    • Covers multiple nursing specialties
  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Diploma

    Campus Based - Website

    • 57-hour comprehensive curriculum
    • Multiple campus locations
    • 300 clinical training hours
    • NCLEX-PN preparation
    • Standards-based enrollment
    • GPA and HESI exam requirements
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Transitioning to certificate program

Vidalia, GA

Southeastern Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • 60 semester credit hours required.
    • Minimum three semesters to complete.
    • Offered on Vidalia and Swainsboro campuses.
    • Combines classroom and clinical training.
    • Admission requires TEAS exam.
    • High school diploma or equivalent needed.
    • GPA of 3.0 for program progression.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing PN 21

    Campus Based - Website

    • 49-credit hour technical certificate
    • Three consecutive semester program
    • NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
    • Diverse clinical experiences
    • Multiple campus locations
    • TEAS test required for admission
    • Multiple healthcare career pathways

Waco, GA

West Georgia Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Practical Nursing Certificate
    • Campus-based program
    • Located in GA
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
    • Hands-on learning experiences
    • Competitive admission requirements
    • Accessible cost structure

Warner Robins, GA

Central Georgia Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation
    • Comprehensive Clinical Training
    • Multiple Campus Locations
    • Hands-on Nursing Skills Lab
    • Electronic Health Record Training

Waycross, GA

Coastal Pines Technical College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate PN21

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
    • 49 credit hours total.
    • Combines theory and clinical practice.
    • Approved by Georgia Board of Examiners.
    • Requires TEAS test for admission.
    • Covers pharmacology and mental health.
    • Includes adult and pediatric nursing.
    • Satisfactory background check required.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing PN12

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Combines academic and clinical training.
    • Requires background check and drug screening.
    • 57 credit hours for graduation.
    • Approved by Georgia Board of Examiners.
    • Courses in pharmacology and nursing.
    • Entry-level practical nurse qualifications.
    • Campus-based program.
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/