Online LPN Programs in North Carolina: Finding the Right School
Looking to become a nurse in North Carolina? Hybrid/online licensed practical nursing (LPN) programs in NC give you the chance to earn a credential in a flexible and affordable setting. Use this guide to learn how these programs work, how much the cost, and, ultimately, find the right school for you.
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How Online LPN Programs Work in NC
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in North Carolina offers a relatively fast entry into nursing, with many programs completed in about a year. While LPN training can’t be completed fully online due to clinical requirements, hybrid options make the process more flexible.
Here’s what to know as you explore LPN programs in North Carolina:
- Program format: Fully online LPN programs aren’t available, but hybrid programs combine online coursework with required in-person labs and clinical training.
- Course delivery: General education and foundational science courses are often completed online, while nursing courses and clinical experiences take place on campus and at nearby healthcare facilities.
- Time to completion: Most LPN programs take around 12 months, making them a quicker option than RN programs.
- Career scope: LPN training sits between CNA and RN programs, offering greater responsibility and skill development than CNA roles without the longer commitment of an RN program.
Below, we’ve highlighted a few North Carolina LPN programs that demonstrate how quickly and effectively you can prepare for a rewarding nursing career.
Cape Fear Community College
The practical nursing diploma program at Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) provides the skills and knowledge you need to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and step into the healthcare field.
The 44-credit, full-time program at CFCC is accredited by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. It prepares students to provide direct client care under the supervision of an RN, licensed dentist, or physician. Applications are accepted near the start of the year, and scholarships and financial aid are available.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $3,344 in state, $11,792 out of state (plus additional fees)
Admissions Requirements:
- CFCC general admission application
- Official high school transcript or equivalent
- Official college transcripts (if any)
- Associates degree, high school GPA of 2.8 or higher, or other specified educational achievements through various schools or coursework
- 2.5 GPA in any coursework completed at CFCC
- Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a minimum score of 50 in each section
- Filed Intent to Apply
- Medical report
- Drug screening
- CPR certification
- Criminal background check
Core Curriculum:
- General education coursework (English, Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology classes)
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Practical Nursing
- General Psychology
- Writing and Inquiry
- Developmental Psychology
- Practical Nursing
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Guilford Technical Community College
At Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC), the practical nursing program prepares you to take the NCLEX-PN. Upon successful completion, you should be able to plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care under the supervision of an RN or other licensed healthcare professional. The program requires 41 to 44 credits and is approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
Once fully licensed as an LPN, you can work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and more. Admission is competitive, with 30 spots available for students each fall. GTCC offers financial aid.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $5,000 in state, $12,607 out of state (plus $2,290 for books/supplies)
Admissions Requirements:
- GTCC general admission
- Online program information session
- College readiness in English and math
- Competency in biology
- CNA certification
- TEAS exam with minimum score of 66
- Application
- Office of Inspector General (OIG) review
- Background check
- Drug screening
Core Curriculum:
- Writing and Inquiry
- Practical Nursing
- General Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology
Craven Community College
Through the practical nursing diploma program from Craven Community College, you’ll learn to provide evidence-based nursing care and individualized treatment under the direction of an RN or other healthcare professional.
Delve into the ethical and legal aspects of being an LPN, practice professional nursing behaviors, and focus on culturally competent, client-centered care for patients of all ages. This 45-credit program holds the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). Applications are due in March, and classes begin in August.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $2,114 in state, $4,898 out of state (plus $1,300 books/supplies)
Admissions Requirements:
- Practical Nursing application
- TEAS completion
- Current unrestricted CNA listing
- Developmental requirements for general education courses
- Chemistry course of C grade or higher
- High school diploma or GED
- High school transcript
- GPA of 2.5
- CPR certification
Core Curriculum:
- College Student Success
- Basic Anatomy and Physiology
- General and Developmental Psychology
- Practical Nursing
- Writing and Inquiry
Online LPN FAQs for Students
While you’ve learned a lot about LPN programs in North Carolina, you might still have lingering questions. Here are some of the most common queries along with their answers.
What skills do you learn in LPN programs in NC?
The bulk of what an LPN student learns involves nursing medical theory and nursing practice. You’ll learn about scientific concepts relating to processes of the human body, and you’ll explore professional behaviors, caring interventions, effective communication, and more.
Students also learn hands-on skills such as taking vital signs and conducting patient assessments. Finally, nursing practice instruction includes policy- and rules-driven topics, such as ethics, professional behavior, and healthcare delivery systems.
How much do LPN programs cost in North Carolina?
North Carolina residents attending one of the many community colleges in the state can expect to earn their practical nursing diplomas for roughly $3,000 to $6,000.
Additionally, you can typically pay by semester instead of paying the full price up front, allowing you to plan for expenses and put money aside throughout the year. Keep in mind that base tuition rates don’t include school fees, books and supplies, transportation to campus and clinicals, and technology for online classes.
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my LPN program in North Carolina?
Yes, many LPN programs in North Carolina offer financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and student loans. Most grants and scholarships are offered by nonprofit groups and corporations. However, some schools, such as CFCC, offer scholarships through their foundation, and some of these scholarships are exclusively for nursing students.
As you’re looking for the most affordable online LPN programs, keep each program’s length in mind. Fast-track (aka accelerated) LPN programs can put you in the workforce a bit faster, which means you’ll start earning money a bit faster as well.
How long do LPN programs in North Carolina take to finish?
With full-time study, the typical student graduates with 42-45 credits in about one year by taking courses year-round during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Some schools also offer courses during evenings and weekends.
If you’re interested in taking your education even further, LPN to associate degree in nursing programs and LPN to bachelor of science in nursing programs are an excellent option. Many of these programs are designed for working nurses, so you can maintain your LPN career as you continue your education.
What’s the difference between CNAs and LPNs?
While CNAs provide basic personal care directly to the patient, LPNs perform more medically centered tasks. CNA responsibilities are focused on helping patients with activities of daily living. For example, a CNA might assist with bathing, dressing, feeding, and repositioning patients. While CNAs spend quality time with patients and make a difference in their care and recovery, their level of responsibility is limited.
LPNs spend more time on healthcare roles and less time on personal care. LPNs perform the following tasks:
- Check blood pressure, temperature, and other vital signs
- Change bandages
- Discuss care with patients
- Report information to other members of the healthcare team
- Document patient care
- Maintain health records
Many LPN programs require you to already have a CNA license. Convenient CNA to LPN bridge programs are designed to help you quickly move on to the next stage of your nursing career.
North Carolina LPN Certification Explained
North Carolina is like most other states regarding LPN licensing. Its general requirements include:
- Graduating from an LPN program approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing
- Passing the NCLEX-PN
- Application for licensure
- Passing a criminal background check
Before you can earn your license, you must first graduate from an LPN program that’s approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Programs may also be accredited by either the ACEN or the NLN CNEA.
Most LPN programs take about a year. When you’re done, you’ll be ready to pass the NCLEX-PN and get your license to practice. At least two weeks before finishing your LPN program, register and schedule your exam with Pearson VUE, the test administrator. You’ll also need to sign up on the NC Board of Nursing Nurse Portal, provide your background information, and pay the $75 application fee.
The last major component of the licensing process is the criminal background check. This consists of passing both state-based and FBI criminal history checks. If you’re a North Carolina resident, you can usually complete this by submitting electronic fingerprint scans through a local law enforcement office. Once you receive your license, it’ll be good for two years.
North Carolina LPN Pay and Opportunities
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $47,960 | $62,340 | $80,510 |
| North Carolina | $49,050 | $61,380 | $75,580 |
| Asheville, NC | $49,090 | $62,220 | $75,560 |
| Burlington, NC | $55,950 | $67,550 | $80,830 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | $50,970 | $63,450 | $75,770 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | $49,050 | $62,960 | $75,240 |
| Fayetteville, NC | $50,300 | $62,000 | $74,360 |
| Goldsboro, NC | $47,390 | $58,120 | $68,740 |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC | $51,390 | $62,210 | $73,310 |
| Greenville, NC | $49,410 | $56,510 | $68,330 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC | $48,920 | $61,310 | $70,650 |
| Jacksonville, NC | $45,570 | $54,920 | $66,310 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC | $44,040 | $56,960 | $65,910 |
| Raleigh-Cary, NC | $49,920 | $61,890 | $78,470 |
| Rocky Mount, NC | $49,310 | $60,280 | $70,020 |
| Wilmington, NC | $47,690 | $60,390 | $78,370 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | $49,690 | $61,520 | $72,480 |
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 |
| North Carolina | 16,650 | 18,320 | 1,670 | 10.00% | 1,490 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online LPN Programs in North Carolina
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,737 Avg. Aid Amount
- 85% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Edgecombe Community College
- Edgecombe Community College’s Practical Nursing program boasts a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate since its inception, demonstrating exceptional student success and licensure readiness.
- The college offers an Advanced Placement option that accelerates LPNs' transition to Registered Nurses in just three semesters, supporting career advancement while working full time.
- The program is ranked #5 in North Carolina by PracticalNursing.org, reflecting top-tier quality and strong outcomes in student licensure and program size.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,737 Avg. Aid Amount
- 85% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Wake Technical Community College
Raleigh, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wake Technical Community College
- Wake Tech’s Practical Nursing program offers students preparation specifically designed to meet the NCLEX-PN requirements for rapid entry into nursing careers under RN supervision.
- The program emphasizes evidence-based clinical practice and lifelong learning, ensuring graduates develop competencies aligned with the National League of Nursing and National Academy of Medicine standards.
- Wake Tech integrates structured clinical experiences in diverse care settings, supporting practical skill development and enhancing graduate readiness for immediate employment in healthcare environments.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,152 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mayland Community College
- Mayland’s Practical Nursing program offers a hybrid evening format that combines rigorous instruction with hands-on clinical experience, providing flexibility for busy students.
- The program is taught by highly qualified, experienced faculty who provide expert classroom and clinical instruction and mentorship to students.
- Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam immediately upon completion, facilitating quick entry into the nursing workforce after just one year of study.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,152 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,332 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Isothermal Community College
- The Practical Nursing program at Isothermal offers an Advanced Placement option for students with prior nursing coursework, allowing them to earn credit and accelerate program completion.
- Admission is competitive with a limited enrollment of only 35 students per cohort, enhancing individualized instruction and close faculty mentorship.
- Successful graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and are prepared for employment in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,332 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,760 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Halifax Community College
- The Practical Nursing program at Halifax Community College offers priority admission and additional ranking points for applicants with relevant certifications, residency, and prior allied health experience, enhancing acceptance chances.
- Students benefit from dedicated day and night program options that provide flexible scheduling to accommodate diverse needs.
- The program emphasizes comprehensive hands-on clinical experiences supervised by expert faculty, preparing students to deliver culturally competent, client-centered care.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,760 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,560 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Richmond Community College
- Richmond Community College’s Practical Nursing program offers a Fast-Track Accelerated Nursing option for LPNs and EMS professionals to earn a registered nurse credential in just three semesters, providing a rapid career advancement path.
- Students benefit from comprehensive mentorship, academic advising, and tutoring throughout the program, enhancing their success and practical readiness for real-world healthcare environments.
- The program integrates high clinical placement rates with hands-on experience in local hospitals and healthcare settings, ensuring strong employment preparedness and professional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,560 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Gaston College
- Gaston College’s Practical Nursing program is consistently ranked #1 in North Carolina for high-quality education and student success by PracticalNursing.org and NursingProcess.org.
- The program offers a highly dedicated faculty that fosters critical thinking and hands-on skills required for professional nursing practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure and employment.
- Applicants benefit from a structured admission process including mandatory information sessions, ensuring informed and committed enrollment with clear guidance on certification requirements like CNA and CPR before clinical practice.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Vance-Granville Community College
Henderson, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $658 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Vance-Granville Community College
- The Practical Nursing program offers virtual information sessions specifically designed to help prospective students prepare for application and enrollment, enhancing accessibility and guidance.
- The program has a strong commitment to maintaining an NCLEX-PN pass rate at or above 90% of the national first-time test taker pass rate, supporting student success in licensure.
- Students benefit from a curriculum that combines classroom instruction, SimLab simulation, and clinical experience, providing hands-on preparation essential for practical nursing careers.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $658 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $850 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
- The Practical Nursing program offers a PN-to-ADN bridge option, allowing graduates to seamlessly transition to Registered Nurse education and advance their careers.
- Students benefit from articulation agreements with all North Carolina state universities, supporting smooth credit transfers and continuing education opportunities.
- Completion includes a mandatory NCLEX review lab workshop to increase first-time exam pass rates, enhancing graduates’ job readiness and licensure success.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $850 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sampson Community College
- The Practical Nursing program offers an accelerated online/hybrid LPN to ADN option that can be completed in just two semesters, allowing rapid career advancement.
- Sampson Community College provides additional admission points and advantages to local residents, former SCC nursing graduates, and those with active medical certifications, increasing admission competitiveness.
- The program emphasizes practical computer skills and provides clear hardware/software requirements to support successful online learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for digital healthcare environments.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 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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