How to use this page
These entries are research starting points. For each program, verify state board approval, accreditation, NCLEX‑PN first‑time pass rates, clinical placement partners, remediation services, and total cost (tuition + fees + supplies). Ask for the program’s most recent graduate outcome report when possible.
Featured programs and examples (N–O)
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College — Practical Nursing (Green Bay, WI)
Program type: Technical diploma (Practical Nursing) combining classroom, simulation, and clinical experiences to prepare graduates for NCLEX‑PN eligibility.
Why students consider it: NWTC reports consistently high first‑time NCLEX‑PN pass rates and strong local employer connections that often lead to job offers during final clinical experiences.
Ask admissions for the most recent cohort pass rate, clinical site partners, and any employer‑sponsored loan or hiring programs tied to the curriculum.
Norwalk Community College — Practical Nursing / LPN Pathways (Norwalk, CT)
Program type: Accelerated certificate/career program (often structured across multiple semesters) preparing students to sit for the NCLEX‑PN and to work in long‑term care, clinics, and other settings.
What to verify: Norwalk and similar community colleges publish program length, admission testing (TABE/TEAS or equivalent), and clinical placement details—confirm campus‑specific requirements and published outcome data.
Northwest Technical College / Northwest Technical Institute — Practical Nursing (regional examples)
Program type: Many regional technical colleges offer 40–45 credit practical nursing diplomas with simulation labs and clinical rotations; some partner with local health systems for forgivable loan or employment programs.
Why look here: Technical colleges often emphasize hands‑on training and local employer partnerships that can improve job placement after graduation. Confirm program admission cycles and cohort sizes with the school.
Oakland Community College — Practical Nursing / PN pathways (Oakland County, MI)
Program type: Community college practical nursing and related pathways (PN certificates, LPN‑to‑ADN options) with flexible scheduling options (including evenings/weekends at some campuses).
What to verify: OCC highlights multiple delivery tracks and scheduling options to accommodate working students; check admission testing, HESI requirements, and program guides for campus‑specific details.
Orange Coast College — Vocational Nursing (Costa Mesa / Orange County, CA)
Program type: Community college vocational nursing programs in California (often called Vocational Nursing or LVN programs) combine classroom, lab, and clinical experiences; program names and licensure pathways vary by state.
What to verify: In California, vocational nursing (LVN) programs have specific state board approval and distinct licensure pathways—confirm program approval, clinical site partners, and application timelines with the college.
Key comparison points for N–O programs
Always confirm the program appears on your state board of nursing’s approved program list before applying.
Request recent first‑time pass rates and cohort sizes; ask for multi‑year data if available to smooth variability from small cohorts.
Check the number and variety of clinical sites (hospital, long‑term care, outpatient) and whether the school arranges placements for students.
Look for simulation labs, tutoring, remediation, and NCLEX review resources that improve pass rates and job readiness.
Practical next steps
- Shortlist 3 programs from this page or your state board’s approved list and request admissions packets and the program’s graduate outcome report.
- Visit campuses or attend virtual information sessions; ask to see simulation labs and speak with faculty and current students.
- Compare total cost (tuition, fees, supplies, uniforms, background checks, and clinical travel) and available financial aid options. See our Financial Aid page for planning tips. LPN Schools Financial Aid.