Online LPN Programs in Maryland: Review Top Schools

Inside Online LPN Classes in Maryland

LPN programs provide flexibility for students pursuing a nursing career who want to enter the field quickly. While fully online LPN programs aren’t available due to clinical requirements, Maryland offers several hybrid options. These programs let you complete foundational coursework online (anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing concepts) while gaining hands-on experience through in-person labs and clinicals at local healthcare facilities.

Unlike registered nurse (RN) programs which require more extensive education and clinical work, LPN programs typically take 12-18 months to complete. They also go beyond certified nursing assistant (CNA) training by offering more comprehensive nursing education, preparing you for broader patient care responsibilities.

When choosing a program, make sure it’s accredited by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON). Look at NCLEX-PN pass rates, which indicate program quality, and consider how the schedule fits with your existing commitments. Also check clinical site locations, as you’ll need to plan for regular in-person training sessions.

To help you better understand your pathway to becoming an LPN in Maryland, we’ve highlighted three standout programs below.

Answering Common Questions 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?

There are many ways to make your LPN education in Maryland more affordable through financial aid. 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 become an LPN in Maryland, you must obtain a license from the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON). Maryland is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means if you hold an active LPN license from another NLC member state or U.S. territory, you do not need to apply for a Maryland-specific license. However, if you have an LPN license from a non-NLC state, you must apply through the Licensure by Endorsement process, which may require submitting additional documentation and verification from your previous state of licensure.

For first-time applicants, you must go through the Licensure by Examination process. This includes completing an MBON-approved LPN program or an equivalent out-of-state program. W Choose programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to ensure high-quality education and easier licensure. Graduates from out-of-state programs may complete their clinical hours either concurrently with or after their theoretical coursework.

The application process involves setting up an account with MBON, submitting your transcripts, undergoing a criminal background check (including fingerprints), and paying a $100 application fee. Once the application is approved, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and pay a $200 registration fee. After passing, you’ll receive your LPN license from MBON.

LPN licenses in Maryland are valid for two years. Renewal costs $110, and no continuing education (CE) is required, making the renewal process straightforward. Maryland’s streamlined licensure and renewal process make it a welcoming state for aspiring LPNs.

Salary & Career Outlooks for Practical Nurses in Maryland

LPNs in Maryland are in high demand, as evidenced by the job outlook graduates can expect upon completing their LPN program. The national average job growth for LPNs is 5.3%, but in Maryland, that growth increases to 6.3%. This translates to about 650 annual job openings for LPNs from 2022 to 2032, with 490 new jobs each year during that period. These job openings will result from the expansion of the healthcare system, more individuals taking a proactive approach to health and wellness, and LPNs retiring from the profession or advancing to become registered nurses.

The median salary for an LPN in Maryland is $64,510. Those in the 10th percentile can expect $52,110, while those in the 90th percentile will see $80,150, on average. LPNs working in more populated areas will earn higher wages, such as a median of $65,870 in Baltimore and $64,710 in Lexington Park. This income can be even higher for LPNs who choose to specialize in a particular in-demand area of the profession, such as nephrology or pediatrics. Check out the tables below to learn more about the salary and job outlook for graduates of LPN programs in Maryland.