7 Fast Track LPN Programs Online | 3, 6, 9, 12 Month Programs 2025
Several colleges across the U.S. offer accelerated LPN programs for students to fast-track their careers. Many also allow students to take some courses online.
The best accredited LPN programs give students a thorough understanding of practical nursing (or vocational nursing if you're in California or Texas). They also prepare students to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), which is necessary for LPN and LVN licensure.
Students looking to fast-track their education can enroll in accelerated LPN program. You'll easily be able to find 12-month LPN programs, but nine-month LPN programs are also pretty common. Sometimes these programs offer some of the coursework online, which can be a huge benefit for busy adult learners. Keep reading to discover accelerated LPN programs online.
Accelerated LPN Programs Online
It's important to note that there are no vocational or practical nursing programs that allow students to complete all of their coursework completely online. LVN/LPN programs by nature require students to take some courses on campus and to complete in-person clinical rotations.
This is especially true when it comes to the shortest LPN programs, as these programs require intensive learning. However, some of these programs still allow you to become an LPN fast while offering a portion of the coursework online.
For accelerated LPN programs, online learning is usually for prerequisites or general education courses, but some offer a few lecture-style nursing courses online as well. Below, we've listed some of the fastest LPN programs that also have some online courses.
1. Illinois Valley Community College
Illinois Valley Community College is a public school in Oglesby, IL. It offers a three-semester nine-month licensed practical nursing certificate that prepares students for an active role in the healthcare industry through classroom, laboratory, and hands-on experiences in modern, high-tech healthcare facilities.
While most nursing courses are in-person, some general education courses, like English Composition I, are offered online. IVCC has had a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in recent years and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
2. Montgomery Community College
At Montgomery Community College, students can earn a practical nursing diploma in nine months. The diploma program gives students the knowledge and skills to provide nursing care to children and adults. It's offered in a blended format, with in-person courses that meet three to four days each week.
The community college, located in Troy, NC, has had an average NCLEX-PN pass rate of 96% over the last three years. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
3. Highland Community College
Highland Community College, accredited by the HLC, offers a nine-month LPN program. The public college is based in Highland, KS, but the nursing school is located at the campus in Atchison, KS.
The program requires a few prerequisite courses, some of which can be taken online, and some of the nursing courses are available online as well. The program has an average 95% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN.
4. Anoka Technical College
A practical nursing diploma program is available at Anoka Technical College. The program has an average NCLEX-PN exam pass rate of 91.19% and typically a 90% job placement rate.
The technical college, located in Anoka, MN, is accredited by the HLC, and its nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Some program requirements are available online.
5. Central Texas College
Central Texas College, accredited by the SACSCOC, is a public community college in Killeen, TX. It offers a vocational nursing certificate for those who have already completed prerequisite courses. Some courses are available online.
This program helps students hone their nursing skills through nursing theory courses and hands-on learning experiences. It had an NCLEX-PN pass rate of 84.21% in the last reported year.
6. Johnson Community College
Students at Johnson Community College can earn a practical nursing certificate in just nine months. This program allows LPN students to gain nursing practice experience in areas like pediatrics, gerontology, and mental health.
Johnson County Community College, located in Overland Park, KS, has an average 90% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN. Some courses in this program are available online while others, as well as clinical experiences, are in person.
7. Casper College
Casper College offers a practical nursing program that has an average 97.14% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN. The public college is based in Casper, WY.
This program is only two semesters for those who have completed the prerequisite courses, many of which are available online. Casper College is accredited by the HLC.
What Does a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Do?
Licensed practical nurses and licensed vocational nurses are nurses who provide basic medical care to patients. Their job duties may include:
- checking patient vital signs
- providing basic care like changing bandages
- assisting patients with daily tasks like eating, bathing, or dressing
- documenting patient care
Their tasks require less medical knowledge than those of registered nurses (RNs), who are required to do things like administer medication, operate medical equipment, and perform diagnostic tests. However, LPNs and LVNs still need to have a strong understanding of the fundamentals of nursing and patient care.
LPNs and LVNs can work in several healthcare settings, including:
- nursing homes and long-term care facilities
- hospitals
- home healthcare services
- physician offices
The specific tasks an LPN or LVN may do can greatly depend on the care setting in which they work.
What To Expect From Fast-Track LPN Programs and Licensure
Accelerated LPN programs are designed to help nursing students learn the fundamentals of the nursing field in under one year. With an online fast-track medical LPN program, you'll be able to take some of your courses through distance learning. However, you'll still need to complete some components in person, including real-world clinical experiences.
Once you've completed your program, you'll be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. If you pass that, you can earn your LPN license through your state board and begin your nursing profession.
If you're ever interested in furthering your nursing career, many schools offer LPN to RN pathways. This allows you to earn an associate degree. After that, you can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Many BSN programs are available online.
Coursework in Accelerated LPN Programs
Common LPN course requirements often include topics like:
- anatomy and physiology
- basic nursing skills
- clinical judgment
- gerontology
- mental health
- patient care
- pediatrics
- pharmacology
These courses not only help you develop strong nursing skills but also help you develop soft skills like critical thinking and problem-solving.
Benefits of Fast Track Medical LPN Online Programs
The key benefit of a fast-track medical LPN program is the ability to enter the workforce quickly. A full-time LPN program often lets you earn your license and begin your nursing career in less than a year.
Those with online components have the added benefit of flexibility. Most online courses allow you to complete your coursework on your own time, meaning you can still take care of other responsibilities like childcare or work while learning.
FAQs About the Fastest LPN Programs Online
If you still have some questions about completing an online LPN program, we've answered some frequently asked questions about becoming an LPN, how much a program may cost, and more.
What Is the Fastest Way To Become an LPN?
Since the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts around 54,000 LPN job openings each year, you may want to become an LPN quickly. The fastest way to become an LPN is to look for the quickest LPN programs. You may be able to find six-month LPN programs or even three-month LPN programs, but these aren't nearly as common as six and 12-month programs.
If you have previous college experience, transferring these credits may allow you to finish more quickly. Additionally, focusing on your coursework so you don't have to retake any classes will get you to licensure faster.
How Much Does an Accelerated Online LPN Program Cost?
The cost of an accelerated online LPN program can range anywhere from about $5,000 to $10,000. It depends on several factors, like the state you live in, whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student, and whether you have previous college credits.
To help lower costs, look for online colleges that accept financial aid. This allows you to use scholarships and grants toward your tuition.
Are Online Fast Track LPN Programs Accredited?
All of the programs listed above hold regional accreditation. However, not all fast-track LPN programs are accredited. Always check a program's accreditation before enrolling; regional accreditation is usually better than national.
What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in an Accelerated LPN Program Online?
When choosing a fast-track medical LPN program, keep in mind that many have specific admissions requirements. These often include:
- a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- passing a background check
- being up-to-date on immunizations
- completing prerequisite courses
- having a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license
Some programs may also require an entrance exam.
Discover Online LPN Programs Today
Find the perfect online LPN program today by exploring the options featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools in your state to learn more about admissions, financial aid, and program format. Find a fast-track LPN program in your state below: