How to use this list
These entries are starting points for your research. For each program, ask about state board approval, accreditation, NCLEX‑PN first‑time pass rates, clinical placement partners, remediation services, and total cost (tuition + fees + supplies). Compare outcomes and clinical site variety when choosing between programs.
Featured programs (A–D)
Anoka Technical College — Practical Nursing (Anoka, MN)
Program type: Diploma / Practical Nursing certificate; accelerated pathway designed for rapid entry to practice.
Why students choose it: Short, focused curriculum with simulation labs and local clinical placements; prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX‑PN.
Confirm current program length, start dates, and NCLEX outcomes with the college.
Akron School of Practical Nursing — Akron, OH
Program type: Community‑based practical nursing program with classroom and clinical rotations.
What to ask: clinical site mix (long‑term care vs hospital), remediation support, and first‑time NCLEX‑PN pass rates for recent cohorts.
Rasmussen University — Practical Nursing (multiple campuses)
Program type: Diploma/certificate program offered at several campuses with blended learning options.
Notes: Rasmussen offers multiple start dates and structured student support; verify campus‑specific clinical hours and state approval for your licensure jurisdiction.
Ross Education / Ross College — Practical Nursing (OH campuses)
Program type: Practical Nursing diploma offered at several Ohio campuses with integrated clinical experience.
Consider: campus location, clinical contact hours, and whether the program offers hybrid coursework or primarily in‑person instruction.
FVI School of Nursing — Practical Nursing (Florida campuses)
Program type: Practical Nursing certificate with hands‑on simulation and clinical placements in Florida.
Why look here: multiple campus options and career services; confirm accreditation status and NCLEX‑PN outcomes for the campus you plan to attend.
Community and technical colleges (examples)
Many community and technical colleges offer strong LPN programs (often lower tuition and strong local clinical partnerships). Examples include community colleges in Ohio, Kansas, and Minnesota—check your state board or local college catalog for approved programs.
Questions to ask every school
Is the program approved by the state board of nursing and accredited by a recognized agency (ACEN or similar)?
What is the program’s recent first‑time NCLEX‑PN pass rate and cohort size?
How many clinical hours, what types of sites, and are placements arranged by the school?
Does the program offer tutoring, remediation, simulation labs, and job placement assistance?
Request a full cost breakdown: tuition, fees, uniforms, supplies, background checks, and clinical travel.
How to verify and compare programs
Use these steps to compare programs objectively:
- Confirm state board approval and search the board’s list of approved programs for the most current status.
- Request the program’s most recent graduate outcome report (NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, employment rates).
- Visit campuses and simulation labs when possible; ask to speak with faculty and current students about clinical placements and workload.
- Compare total cost and available financial aid (FAFSA, state grants, institutional scholarships). See our Financial Aid page for planning tips. LPN Schools Financial Aid.
Next steps
Pick 3 programs from this list or from your state board’s approved list, request admissions packets, and compare using the questions above. Use our Quizzes & Tests and Fun & Games packs to prepare while you apply.