Top Board-Approved Online Practical Nursing Programs in Florida
If you’re looking to start or advance your nursing career in Florida, an online LPN program could be the answer. These flexible hybrid options combine online learning with in-person clinical training to give you a convenient path to entry while acquiring the real world skills necessary for success. Discover how to become an LPN, explore affordable LPN programs in Florida, and find LPN scholarships to ease the cost of attendance.
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Exploring Florida’s Online LPN Programs
Florida’s hybrid LPN programs combine online coursework (such as anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care) with in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities. When choosing a program, look for the nursing school’s accreditation and NCLEX-PN pass rates as they ensure that your investment pays off. For examples of popular choices for students like you, take a look at the spotlighted schools below.
Pinellas Technical College — Practical Nursing Program
Pinellas Technical College in Clearwater offers a hybrid Practical Nursing Program that combines online theoretical coursework with in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities, providing flexibility for working students. Graduates of the program can pursue immediate licensure and employment as LPNs or continue their education with an LPN-to-RN Bridge Program. The program is one of the top ranked LPN & LVN programs by PracticalNursing.org and is also approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing.
Duration: 15 months (full-time)
Mode: Hybrid (online coursework and in-person clinicals)
Cost: Approximately $8,807 (including tuition, lab fees, books, tools, and supplies)
Admissions Requirements:
High school diploma/GED
Completion of prerequisite courses
TEAS test scores
Proof of immunizations
Curriculum:
Nursing fundamentals
Medical-surgical nursing
Maternal-child health
Pharmacology
675 hours of supervised clinical rotations
Manatee Technical College — Practical Nursing Program
Manatee Technical College offers a hybrid Practical Nursing Program that blends online coursework with in-person clinical training. Students have the option to start in either August or January, depending on the type of hybrid program you pursue, with dual enrollment starting in January. Financial aid may be available to students meeting eligibility criteria through the school’s financial aid and scholarship resources.
Duration: 11-13 months (full-time)
Mode: Hybrid (online and in-person clinicals)
Cost: Approximately $9,855 (includes tuition, lab fees, books, uniforms, and supplies)
Admissions Requirements:
High school diploma/GED
TEAS test scores
Background check
Proof of immunizations
Completed application
Curriculum:
Nursing fundamentals
Medical-surgical nursing
Comprehensive nursing
Transitional skills
Student Help Center: Florida LPN Questions Answered
Considering LPN programs in Florida often raises questions about cost, duration, clinical training requirements, and more. This section answers the most common questions prospective students have, so you make informed decisions about your education and career.
How long does it take to complete an LPN program in Florida?
Most LPN programs in Florida take between 12 and 18 months to complete if you are enrolled full-time, while part-time students take longer. Accelerated LPN programs are also available but require an intensive schedule due to the condensed timeframe.
How much does an LPN program in Florida cost?
The cost of an LPN program in Florida typically ranges from $4,000 to $10,000. This includes tuition, fees, and supplies. Some schools, like Pinellas Technical College, estimate total costs at $7,600.
Financial aid options like scholarships for LPN students and grants are available to ease expenses. Additionally, in-state students often benefit from reduced tuition rates.
Are LPN programs in Florida available online?
No. Florida requires in-person clinical experience, so no fully online LPN programs exist. However, many Florida schools offer hybrid options where online coursework for theoretical topics like pharmacology and anatomy is paired with in-person clinical training at healthcare facilities.
What are the clinical training requirements for LPN students?
Florida LPN students typically complete 600-700 hours of hands-on clinical training in healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Clinicals are required for licensure and vary by program.
What career paths are available after completing an LPN program?
LPNs in Florida can work in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare. Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees through online LPN to AND bridge programs or online LPN to BSN bridge programs, opening doors to higher-paying roles.
LPN Licensing Requirements in Florida
To work as an LPN in Florida, you must meet licensing requirements set by the Florida Board of Nursing to ensure you’re prepared for a successful career. Here’s an overview of the steps:
- Complete an Approved Program recognized by the Florida Department of Health at a school accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized agency or approved by the state’s Board of Nursing.
- Submit to Fingerprinting by a Live Scan provider. Fees for this service vary by provider.
- Disclose Criminal History and report any convictions or guilty pleas beyond minor traffic offenses. You’ll need to provide arrest records, court documents, and letters of recommendation as required.
- Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam Register for the NCLEX-PN exam through Pearson VUE. The exam costs $200, with an additional $110 licensing application fee.
- Renew and Maintain Your License Florida LPNs must renew their licenses every two years, complete 30 hours of continuing education (tracked via CE Broker), and pay a $75 renewal fee.
Salary & Career Overview for Florida’s Practical Nurses
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $50,450 | $61,770 | $74,320 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL | $51,260 | $61,530 | $72,480 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL | $48,400 | $59,060 | $68,150 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, FL | $49,780 | $60,620 | $73,780 |
| Gainesville, FL | $50,790 | $59,970 | $69,600 |
| Homosassa Springs, FL | $50,890 | $59,510 | $75,460 |
| Jacksonville, FL | $50,810 | $62,070 | $73,500 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL | $46,110 | $59,940 | $70,470 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL | $52,070 | $62,610 | $74,840 |
| Naples-Marco Island, FL | $55,570 | $64,590 | $72,450 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, FL | $51,750 | $63,770 | $74,000 |
| Ocala, FL | $48,170 | $59,070 | $66,330 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL | $49,950 | $61,030 | $74,190 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL | $50,090 | $61,000 | $72,880 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach, FL | $48,440 | $56,120 | $67,020 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent, FL | $49,300 | $59,990 | $72,990 |
| Port St. Lucie, FL | $49,960 | $61,300 | $75,150 |
| Punta Gorda, FL | $48,810 | $60,380 | $71,910 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor, FL | $48,860 | $62,110 | $68,640 |
| Sebring, FL | $44,360 | $58,320 | $70,560 |
| Tallahassee, FL | $49,140 | $59,040 | $72,430 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | $50,740 | $62,490 | $74,720 |
| Wildwood-The Villages, FL | $49,910 | $60,900 | $70,160 |
Source: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 23 entries | Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | Curr. Jobs ↕︎ | Proj. Jobs ↕︎ | New Jobs ↕︎ | Growth % ↕︎ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Florida | 37,770 | 42,580 | 4,810 | 12.70% | 3,520 |
Source: Projections Central
Ranking the Best Online LPN Programs in Florida
ATA Career Education
Program Details
- Location: Spring Hill, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 92%Students W/ Aid
- $4,327Avg. Aid Amount
- 20/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected ATA Career Education
- Career Services helps Practical Nursing graduates with career placement after completion.
- The program is offered in Spring Hill and supports flexible day and evening class schedules.
- ATA provides financial aid for qualified students, helping reduce upfront education costs.
Program Details
- Location: Spring Hill, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 92%Students W/ Aid
- $4,327Avg. Aid Amount
- 20/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Fortis College
Program Details
- Location: Cutler Bay, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- NoCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $5,994Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Fortis College
- Fortis Practical Nursing offers hands-on clinical training with passionate, real-world experienced instructors to build confidence.
- Students benefit from dedicated career services, including connections to local healthcare employers and job databases.
- The program provides an efficient, streamlined path to graduate and start working sooner in an in-demand nursing field.
Program Details
- Location: Cutler Bay, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- NoCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $5,994Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Jacksonville University
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $35,622Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Jacksonville University
- Students complete the Practical Nurse program in just 12 months and become eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Learners train with expert faculty using lifelike, high‑fidelity simulation manikins in a state-of-the-art Healthcare Simulation Center.
- Graduates benefit from Baptist Health employer partnership offering a work-promise agreement and a $2,000 scholarship for the inaugural class.
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $35,622Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Chancellor Institute
Program Details
- Location: Ft Laurderdale, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $4,536Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Chancellor Institute
- Accelerated hybrid Practical Nursing program lets working adults graduate in just 15 months and start earning sooner.
- Flexible blended distance learning with small classes and experienced field-based instructors supports personalized, real-world training.
- Institutional scholarships, financial aid options, and flexible payment plans help reduce tuition burden for Practical Nursing students.
Program Details
- Location: Ft Laurderdale, FL
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $4,536Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Saint Johns River State College
Program Details
- Location: Palatka, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 25%Students W/ Aid
- $4,911Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Saint Johns River State College
- Clinicals are scheduled at facilities within the tri-county area, giving students hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
- SJR State offers financial aid support for Practical Nursing applicants, helping reduce the cost of entry.
- The program is designed to prepare graduates for employment as licensed practical nurses, with a built-in job-focused outcome.
Program Details
- Location: Palatka, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 25%Students W/ Aid
- $4,911Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Marion Technical College
Program Details
- Location: Ocala, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 64%Students W/ Aid
- $4,189Avg. Aid Amount
- 9/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Marion Technical College
- The Practical Nursing program offers extensive hands-on clinical externships at local hospitals, long-term care, rehab, and ambulatory clinics, giving students robust real-world experience.
- Graduates of this Florida Board of Nursing–approved, accredited program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, supporting a direct path to becoming a licensed practical nurse.
- The program reports a 100% job placement rate, with graduates employed in hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers within a year of completion.
Program Details
- Location: Ocala, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 64%Students W/ Aid
- $4,189Avg. Aid Amount
- 9/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Manatee Technical College
Program Details
- Location: Bradenton, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 58%Students W/ Aid
- $3,677Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Manatee Technical College
- The Practical Nursing program offers flexible day and evening hybrid schedules, allowing accelerated completion in approximately 11–13 months.
- Students benefit from high outcomes, including about 93–95% NCLEX pass rates and 94–98% job placement rates after graduation.
- The program provides extensive hands-on clinical experience at top local hospitals, blending on-campus labs with online coursework for real-world preparation.
Program Details
- Location: Bradenton, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 58%Students W/ Aid
- $3,677Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Florida Academy of Nursing
Program Details
- Location: Miramar, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $4,070Avg. Aid Amount
- 6/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Florida Academy of Nursing
- Flexible day and evening class schedules allow working students to complete the program conveniently.
- Highly dedicated, experienced faculty provide intensive success coaching and NCLEX preparation support for nursing students.
- Financial aid options, including grants, student loans, and payment plans, make tuition more affordable for Practical Nursing students.
Program Details
- Location: Miramar, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $4,070Avg. Aid Amount
- 6/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Lively Technical College
Program Details
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 37%Students W/ Aid
- $5,101Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lively Technical College
- Flexible January and March start dates and afternoon class schedules accommodate working adult learners.
- Mandatory clinical practicum provides extensive hands-on experience in real healthcare settings before graduation.
- Streamlined application process with online submission, clear checklist, and defined HESI score requirements reduces barriers to entry.
Program Details
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 37%Students W/ Aid
- $5,101Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Pinellas Technical College-Clearwater
Program Details
- Location: Clearwater, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 44%Students W/ Aid
- $2,510Avg. Aid Amount
- 8/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Pinellas Technical College-Clearwater
- Competitive tuition and fees make the program an accessible, cost-effective path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse.
- Flexible traditional and hybrid/online formats allow students to tailor learning around work and family commitments.
- Strong local healthcare connections support graduates’ transition into the workforce, enhancing clinical experience and employment opportunities in the region.
Program Details
- Location: Clearwater, FL
- COEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 44%Students W/ Aid
- $2,510Avg. Aid Amount
- 8/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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