Online LPN Programs: Get Your Practical Nursing Certification at Home

An LPN is a licensed practical nurse who works under the direction of a registered nurse. To become an LPN usually takes only a year of training and does not require a university degree. LPNs receive a certificate or diploma on completion of their studies.

Training Institutions

• To become eligible to be a licensed LPN, candidates must complete a state-approved training program in practical nursing. Training programs are usually available through technical and vocational schools and community and junior colleges. High schools and hospitals as well as universities may also provide training. Some of these institutions offer online courses.

Finding a Training Program

• The board of nursing in each state has a list of state-approved nursing programs, including those for the LPN designation. This may be available on the board's website. Alternatively, a web-search of online LPN programs will reveal a list of institutions that the interested person could then cross-reference against the list of state-approved nursing programs.

Clinical Practice

• Coursework, from basic nursing concepts to subjects related to patient care, pediatrics and physiology, can be completed online. However, the clinical practice portion of the LPN program must be completed at a hospital or other health care facility.