The Top 20 LPN Programs in Raleigh, NC (2026)

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), play a critical role in providing essential health services and ensuring quality care for patients. As an LPN, you can launch your nursing career in as little as 12 months with the right education program to gain the necessary knowledge, clinical skills, and hands-on experience.

This definitive guide covers everything you need to know about choosing and getting into one of the top LPN training programs in the Raleigh, North Carolina area.

Overview of LPN Licensing in North Carolina

LPNs in North Carolina must complete a state-approved training program, pass the national NCLEX-PN licensing exam, undergo a criminal background check, and meet all additional requirements to receive their license.

The North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the licensing process. Once licensed, LPNs in NC must complete 30 continuing education contact hours every 2 years to keep their license current. At least 15 of these hours must be classroom-based.

It‘s crucial to maintain your LPN license in accordance with all renewal and CE requirements. Failure do so can put your license and nursing career at risk.

The Top 10 LPN Programs in Raleigh, NC

I evaluated over a dozen LPN programs in the Raleigh area and narrowed it down to the top 10 based on metrics like accreditation, admission requirements, program formats and lengths, course curriculum, tuition costs, exam pass rates, and overall reputation.

1. Durham Technical Community College

Established over 55 years ago, Durham Tech offers one of the most well-rounded and affordable LPN programs in the region.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Blended online and in-person coursework
• Strong exam pass rate of 94%
• Financial aid and scholarship options available

The LPN program provides students with top-notch SimMan patient simulators and other technology to develop clinical skills. With small classes of 24 students taught by experienced nurse educators, Durham Tech graduates are sought after by major healthcare employers.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent, placement tests

2. Wake Technical Community College

As the largest community college in the state, Wake Tech has an excellent LPN program that prepares students to meet growing workforce demands.

Highlights:

• Three program options: 1-year diploma, hybrid evening program, online program
• Transfer agreements with RN programs
• 93-95% first-time exam pass rate
• Job placement assistance upon graduation

Wake Tech offers unmatched flexibility. Students can progress through the LPN curriculum at their own pace with hybrid evening and online courses in addition to traditional daytime classes. With so many educational pathways, Wake Tech is an ideal choice for aspiring LPNs.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent, placement testing

3. Johnston Community College

Founded in 1969, Johnston Community College (JCC) provides students with personalized instruction from faculty members with years of industry knowledge and connections.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Small class sizes up to just 18 students
• Free tutoring services
• Over 90% of graduates pass NCLEX exam

At JCC, the LPN program curriculum covers topics like anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, maternal health, mental health, and more. With robust job placement services upon completion, JCC consistently produces work-ready nurse graduates.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent, placement testing

4. South Piedmont Community College

With campuses across Anson and Union counties, SPCC has been training LPNs for over 30 years through its well-established practical nursing program.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Affordable in-state tuition rates
• Financial aid counseling services
• Strong graduate job placement rates

Taught by registered nurse instructors, students gain hands-on clinical experience across various healthcare settings. The program utilizes cutting-edge human patient simulators and advanced technologies to enhance learning. With flexible schedules and scholarships available, SPCC is an affordable pathway to an LPN career.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent

5. Central Carolina Community College

Through its fully accredited nursing program, Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) produces exceptional LPN graduates ready to enter the workforce.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Blended online and in-person learning
• State-of-the-art simulation lab
• Financial aid assistance

With a competitive selection process due to limited seats, graduates from CCCC‘s LPN program have over a 90% first-time exam pass rate. Students gain clinical experience across sites like hospitals, clinics, rehab centers and more. If you meet the admission criteria, CCCC is a strong option.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent, satisfactory placement test scores, GPA and ATI TEAS exam requirements

6. Wilson Community College

Offering nursing programs since 1967, Wilson Community College provides students with invaluable real-world learning opportunities across a range healthcare facilities.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Small class sizes up to just 20 students
• Over 90% pass rate on NCLEX-PN exam
• Job placement assistance after graduation

WCC students gain experience in pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health and other key areas of nursing practice. With affordable tuition and accessible program formats, WCC is an attractive option for launching an LPN career.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent

7. Nash Community College

With streamlined admissions and affordable tuition, Nash Community College (NCC) offers a high-value pathway to becoming an LPN.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Blended online and in-person courses
• Dedicate LPN lab for skills practice
• Student support services

NCC has transfer partnerships with several RN programs to allow LPN graduates to continue advancing their nursing education. With small class sizes, students form close bonds with fellow future nurses during the intensive LPN program.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent

8. Randolph Community College

Since 1962, Randolph Community College (RCC) has prepared many graduates for success as LPNs through its practical nursing program.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Financial aid available, including scholarships
• Strong graduate satisfaction and hiring rates
• Flexible day and evening course schedules

With rigorous coursework and clinical training hours, RCC instills graduates with the comprehensive nursing knowledge and capabilities that health care employers are looking for when hiring LPNs.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent

9. Davidson County Community College

With over 50 years educating students in the community, Davidson County Community College (DCCC) offers a high-quality practical nursing program rich with hands-on learning.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Small class sizes up to just 24 students
• State-of-the-art simulation lab
• Consistently high license exam pass rate

Taught by industry-expert instructors, students develop clinical skills through lab instruction, patient simulations, and real-world experience in hospitals and clinics. DCCC graduates have strong job prospects thanks to the program‘s excellent reputation.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent

10. College of The Albemarle

Since 1962, College of The Albermarle (COA) has prepared many exceptional LPN graduates who enter the field ready to provide safe, effective patient care.

Highlights:

• 1-year diploma program
• Blended online and in-person course options
• Financial aid counseling services
• Strong graduate satisfaction and job placement

COA has transfer options allowing LPN program graduates to continue towards RN or BSN degrees. With small cohort sizes and robust industry partnerships, COA is a student-centered option for launching your nursing career.

Admission requirements: High school diploma/equivalent, satisfactory placement test scores

How to Choose the Best LPN Program

With many quality LPN training options around Raleigh, it‘s important to determine the best fit based on your needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Program format: Traditional, hybrid/blended, online, part-time/evening
• Location and accessibility: Close to home or work? Flexible scheduling?
• Cost and financial aid: Balance affordability with education quality
• Success outcomes: High graduate satisfaction, job placement, exam pass rates
• Admission requirements: Assess if you meet all prerequisites and compete well
• Student experience: Support services, faculty relationships, cohort dynamics

During your research, make sure to connect with admissions counselors who can provide insider guidance about matching your learning requirements, skills, and interests with the right practical nursing curriculum.

Thoroughly comparing multiple schools will help you determine the ideal option for your goals, learning style, schedule and budget.

Application Requirements for LPN Programs

While specific documentation varies by school, most LPN programs require prospective students to submit the following:

• High school diploma/GED/equivalent
• Transcripts from high school and any colleges attended
• Letters of recommendation
• Placement test results
• Completed application form and enrollment agreement
• Tuition deposit and fees
• Current CPR certification
• Updated immunization records
• Criminal background check
• Negative drug screening

Some schools also require a physical exam signed by a provider to confirm fitness standards for nursing duties.

It‘s critical to prepare early and submit a complete application package inclusive of every item required by your target LPN program. This will put you in the best position for admission selection.

Preparing for an LPN Career

Beyond academic coursework, developing soft skills and real-world experience are key to being an effective LPN. Here are some top tips:

Communication: Hone bedside manner through roleplay exercises. Practice explaining complex health topics clearly and simply.

Organization: Develop methods to track tasks, documentation, medications across multiple patients.

Time management: Structure days wisely to complete all patient care duties during shifts.

Compassion: Work on relating to people from diverse backgrounds and connecting empathetically.

Leadership: Take initiative to collaborate with nurse partners and advocate for patients.

Also explore volunteer clinical opportunities, mentorships, online courses like the Nurse Aide I certification, and professional association memberships. These will all help enrich your capabilities, experiences and network to hit the ground running as an LPN.

I hope this guide provided you with comprehensive details on finding, researching, comparing, choosing and applying to the top LPN training programs available near Raleigh.

With rigorous academics, extensive clinical hours, compassion-building soft skill development, plus networking and real healthcare experience during school, you will establish a strong foundation for an inspiring and rewarding career in this growing and meaningful field.

If you still have any other questions about becoming a licensed practical nurse, be sure to check the additional resources on the North Carolina Board of Nursing website at www.ncbon.com.

Now that you are equipped with the must-know details and strategic insights, I wish you the very best pursuing your goal of getting into the ideal LPN program for your needs!