Online LPN Programs in Maryland: Review Top Schools
Becoming an LPN in Maryland is an achievable goal thanks to the state’s top hybrid online programs, and we’re here to help you take the right steps towards this exciting career. This guide will walk you through the best online LPN programs in Maryland, licensing steps, financial aid opportunities, and job prospects, helping you get one step closer to your dream of becoming an LPN.
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Inside Online LPN Classes in Maryland
LPN programs offer a flexible, efficient path to nursing for students who want to start working sooner rather than later. While fully online LPN programs aren’t possible due to required clinical training, Maryland offers several high-quality hybrid options. These programs combine online coursework (covering subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and core nursing concepts) with in-person labs and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities.
LPN programs strike a balance between speed and depth of training. Most can be completed in 12 to 18 months and provide more comprehensive preparation than CNA programs, equipping graduates for a wider range of patient care responsibilities.
When researching online/hybrid LPN programs in Maryland, start with these six factors:
- Hybrid program structure. Expect a mix of online classes and required in-person labs and clinical experiences.
- Faster time to completion. LPN programs are shorter than RN programs, allowing quicker entry into the workforce.
- Broader scope than CNA training. LPN education goes beyond basic care to include more advanced nursing skills.
- Accreditation and approval. Programs must be approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) to ensure licensure eligibility.
- NCLEX-PN performance. Strong pass rates are a reliable indicator of program quality.
- Schedule and clinical logistics. Consider class flexibility and the location of clinical sites to ensure the program fits your personal and professional commitments.
To help you compare your options, the sections below highlight three standout LPN programs in Maryland that combine quality instruction with flexible scheduling.
Baltimore City Community College (BCCC)
The Practical Nursing Certificate Program at Baltimore City Community College offers a clear path to becoming an LPN in just 12 months. Students learn through a mix of classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. The program is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON), ensuring that it meets high educational and professional standards.
One of the biggest advantages of BCCC is its affordability, particularly for Maryland residents. The cost-effective tuition makes it a great choice for students who want a quality education without the financial strain. With small class sizes, the program offers personalized attention, allowing students to build strong relationships with instructors.
The curriculum includes essential areas like multicultural healthcare practices, effective teamwork in medical settings, and identifying health concerns across various age groups. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles, including positions in acute care, specialty clinics, and transitional care units, ensuring they are ready to succeed in diverse healthcare environments.
Duration:
12 months (45 credits)
Mode:
Hybrid (in-person labs and clinicals, with some online coursework)
Cost:
- $110 per credit for in-state students
- $280/credit for out-of-state students
Admissions Requirements:
- TEAS test (completed within one year of starting the program)
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 in science courses and overall GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Computer literacy requirement completion
- Prerequisite courses completed
- Meeting computer literacy standards (Note: Meeting requirements doesn’t guarantee admission)
Curriculum:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternal and Pediatric Nursing
- Clinical Skills Training
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Cecil College
Cecil College offers a licensed Practical Nursing Certificate that focuses on giving students hands-on training in small classes, allowing for a more personalized education experience as you learn nursing skills. You’ll work with experienced faculty in person while having the option to complete some coursework online.
Cecil College’s nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON), ensuring that students meet high standards of nursing education.
Graduates are trained to provide safe and competent nursing care, communicate effectively with patients and their families, and make smart, critical decisions in clinical settings. The program emphasizes core nursing values like integrity, ethics, and patient-centered care.
Cecil College also offers great support for students, including career services that help with job searches, resume writing, and interview prep. Plus, they have accessibility services to support students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to all educational opportunities.
Duration:
12 months (45 credits)
Mode:
Hybrid (in-person labs and clinicals with online components)
Cost:
- $135 per credit for in-county students
- $250 per credit for out-of-county students
- $308 per credit for out-of-state students
Admissions Requirements:
- TEAS scores
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
- KAPLAN Admissions Test results
- Completion of prerequisite courses
Curriculum:
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternal-Child Nursing
- Leadership in Nursing
Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown Community College takes a slightly different approach with its Practical Nursing Program. Both the college and the program are approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring that graduates meet the high standards required for licensure and employment.
The program’s curriculum blends classroom learning with hands-on practice through labs and clinical experience, preparing students for work in a wide variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and doctor offices.
HCC’s LPN program is widely recognized for its excellence, having been ranked the Top Practical Nursing Program in Maryland for 2023 by NursingProcess.org. The ranking takes into account NCLEX-PN pass rates, academic quality, and affordability, reflecting the program’s commitment to preparing graduates for successful careers in nursing.
Duration: 16 months (42 credits)
Mode: Hybrid (online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals)
Cost:
- $128/credit (in-county)
- $200/credit (out-of-county)
- $245/credit (neighbor state)
- $262/credit (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- TEAS test (minimum 69% in Reading, 60% overall)
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Prerequisite courses: BIO 203, BIO 204, ENG 101, PSY 101
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- Current American Heart Association Basic Life Support CPR certification
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Practical Nursing
- Care of Human Needs
- Practical Nursing Through the Lifespan I, II, III
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternity, Pediatrics, and Behavioral Health
FAQs from LPN Students in Maryland
As you explore LPN programs in Maryland, you likely have more questions about your education, career opportunities, and financial aid options.
These are common concerns for many prospective students, and we’ve answered them in detail below to help you make informed decisions on your path to becoming an LPN.
How do I know if an LPN program in Maryland is accredited?
You can ensure that an LPN program is accredited by verifying that it is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) and recognized by reputable bodies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Be sure to check the program’s accreditation status before applying, as accredited programs meet rigorous standards for quality and ensure you can sit for the NCLEX-PN after graduation.
Without proper accreditation, you may not be eligible for licensure, limiting your career opportunities down the line. Accredited programs will also give you the best foundation for passing your licensing exam.
What is NCLEX-PN, and how do I prepare for it?
The NCLEX-PN assesses your knowledge and competency in areas like patient care, pharmacology, and medical procedures, and taking this exam is the final step in becoming an LPN. To prepare, ensure that your program provides NCLEX-PN prep courses and uses additional resources, like practice exams and study guides.
Staying organized and consistent in your study habits will help you succeed. Check out our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX-PN and essential study skills for health students for extra support.
Can I transition from a medical assistant to an LPN in Maryland?
Yes; if you’re currently a medical assistant, you may qualify for a bridge program that allows you to transition to becoming an LPN more quickly. Online medical assistant to LPN bridge programs are designed to leverage your existing healthcare knowledge and experience, allowing you to skip some foundational nursing courses.
These bridge programs often include a mix of online coursework and in-person clinicals, helping you earn your LPN certification in less time. Be sure to check the specific program requirements to see how your current qualifications can help streamline your path.
How can I pay for my LPN program in Maryland?
Start by filling out your FAFSA application to qualify for federal financial aid. In addition to federal loans, you can explore state-specific aid programs like those offered through the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Many schools also offer their own scholarships, such as those available through LPN scholarships, to help reduce tuition costs.
If you’re already employed in healthcare, you may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement. Also, be sure to visit EduMed’s online resources and scholarships for LPN students and financial aid guide to learn about more ways to pay for your practical nursing education.
What are the job opportunities for LPNs in Maryland?
LPNs in Maryland have diverse career options in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home healthcare settings. The state’s growing healthcare industry creates numerous opportunities for skilled LPNs, with a 7.5% job growth rate projected through 2032. You can specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or even behavioral health to increase your job prospects and earning potential.
The median salary for LPNs in Maryland is around $50,000, but salaries can rise significantly depending on your location and area of expertise. For those interested in further advancement, exploring LPN to ADN bridge programs or LPN to BSN programs can open doors to higher-paying roles and increased responsibilities.
LPN Licensing Requirements in Maryland
To work as an LPN in Maryland, you must be licensed by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON).
Already Licensed? Start Here
- Non-NLC license holders: If your LPN license is from a non-NLC state, you must apply through Licensure by Endorsement, which may require additional documentation and license verification.
- Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC): Maryland is an NLC state. If you hold an active LPN license from another NLC member state or U.S. territory, you can practice in Maryland without applying for a separate state license.
First-Time LPN Applicants
If you’re applying for your first LPN license, you’ll use the Licensure by Examination pathway:
Complete an approved LPN program
- Must be approved by MBON or an equivalent out-of-state program
- ACEN-accredited programs are strongly recommended
- Out-of-state students may complete clinical hours during or after coursework
Submit your MBON application
- Create an online MBON account
- Upload transcripts
- Complete a criminal background check with fingerprints
- Pay the $100 application fee
Pass the NCLEX-PN
- Register and pay the $200 exam fee
- Upon passing, MBON issues your LPN license
License Renewal
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years
- Renewal fee: $110
- Continuing education: Not required
With its compact licensure participation and simple renewal process, Maryland makes it relatively easy for new and experienced LPNs to get licensed and stay licensed.
Salary & Career Outlooks for Practical Nurses in Maryland
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $47,960 | $62,340 | $80,510 |
| Maryland | $59,430 | $69,870 | $85,570 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $60,070 | $68,850 | $90,470 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | $50,800 | $61,580 | $82,780 |
| Lexington Park, MD | $54,770 | $67,270 | $76,390 |
| Salisbury, MD | $49,290 | $62,800 | $76,390 |
Source: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Maryland | 7,740 | 8,230 | 490 | 6.30% | 650 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online LPN Programs in Maryland
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $1,756 Avg. Aid Amount
- 26% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cecil College
- Cecil College’s Practical Nursing program offers an accelerated summer option that prepares students quickly for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
- The program has strong clinical affiliations across Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, ensuring diverse and high-quality hands-on clinical experiences.
- Graduates benefit from articulation agreements with four-year institutions, facilitating seamless progression to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $1,756 Avg. Aid Amount
- 26% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $2,616 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Allegany College of Maryland
- The Practical Nursing program at Allegany College of Maryland is offered exclusively at the Cumberland Campus, providing a focused learning environment with competitive admissions enhancing student quality and cohort cohesion.
- The program features a structured ladder-style pathway allowing graduates to seamlessly advance from Practical Nursing certification to Registered Nurse licensure, including options such as LPN to RN Online and hybrid cohorts.
- Students receive approximately 1400 clinical hours supervised by faculty, ensuring extensive hands-on experience and readiness for healthcare settings immediately upon graduation.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $2,616 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $2,109 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Hagerstown Community College
- The Practical Nursing Program at Hagerstown Community College is designated as a Health Manpower Shortage Program, making some Maryland residents eligible for in-county tuition rates, providing significant cost savings.
- The program’s scheduling is designed to accommodate working students by offering classes primarily on weekends, enabling students to maintain part-time or full-time employment.
- The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, ensuring high educational standards and eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $2,109 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $1,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Anne Arundel Community College
- The Practical Nursing program at Anne Arundel Community College is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing and prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, ensuring professional qualification.
- Students gain experience with state-of-the-art equipment in simulated nursing labs and diverse hospital clinical placements, providing strong hands-on skill development.
- The program boasts a high job placement rate of at least 90% within 12 months of graduation, reflecting strong employer connections and graduate success in the nursing field.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $1,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/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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