🎓 Find Out What LPN Programs Cost in Your Zip Code
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Accredited LPN Programs & Colleges in Hawaii
The University of Hawaii system runs Hawaii's LPN training — programs are limited to 1–2 campuses with very few seats per cohort. Clinical placements include Queen's Medical Center (Honolulu), Tripler Army Medical Center, and community health centers across the islands. Admissions are highly competitive due to limited capacity.
| School | City | Type | Program Length | Approx. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kapiolani Community College | Honolulu | Community College | 12 months | $4,600 |
| Hawaii Community College | Hilo | Community College | 12 months | $4,400 |
Tuition figures are approximate and reflect in-state rates. Contact each school for current pricing, financial aid, and enrollment deadlines. Always confirm the program is approved by the Hawaii Board of Nursing.
Online & Hybrid LPN Programs in Hawaii
No Hawaii LPN program is fully online — in-person clinical training is required. The geographic challenge of island-based education makes any online coursework component valuable, but options are currently limited. Students on outer islands may need to relocate to Oahu for the program duration.
Hybrid programs are ideal for working adults, parents, or anyone who needs scheduling flexibility. Typical hybrid programs cover 40–60% of coursework online, with the remainder as on-site clinical hours at approved partner hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and clinics.
For a complete list of online-friendly LPN programs available to Hawaii residents, visit our dedicated guide:
Requirements to Enroll in a Hawaii LPN Program
Hawaii's limited program capacity makes admissions among the most competitive in the country. Strong prerequisite GPAs and entrance exam scores are essential. Military-affiliated applicants may have access to additional pathways through Tripler Army Medical Center's education programs.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum age of 18 (some programs accept students at 17 with parental consent)
- Completed prerequisite courses — typically includes basic math, English, and introductory biology or anatomy & physiology
- Passing score on an entrance exam (TEAS or HESI A2 are most common)
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- Current CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association)
- Up-to-date immunization records including TB test, Hepatitis B, and flu vaccine
Quick Facts: LPN Licensing in Hawaii
After completing an approved program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and apply for licensure through the Hawaii Board of Nursing. Most candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing.
🎓 Find Out What LPN Programs Cost in Your Zip Code
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LPN Salary & Job Outlook in Hawaii
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 OEWS data), LPNs in Hawaii earn an average of $67,540 per year ($32.47/hour). This places Hawaii above the national LPN average of $62,340.
Salaries in Hawaii typically range from $50,800 for entry-level positions to $82,400 for experienced nurses in high-demand specialties or metro areas.
LPN Salary by City in Hawaii
| City / Metro Area | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Honolulu | $69,200 |
| Hilo | $64,800 |
Job Outlook
Employment of LPNs in Hawaii is projected to grow 3% over the next decade — about as fast as average for all occupations. The state sees approximately 200 annual job openings for LPNs, driven by retirements, career transitions, and growing demand in skilled nursing facilities and home health.
Where LPNs Work in Hawaii
The majority of LPNs in Hawaii work in skilled nursing facilities and long-term care, which together employ roughly 35% of the state's practical nurses. Other common employers include hospitals, physician offices, home health agencies, and outpatient care centers. Shift differentials for evenings, nights, and weekends can add $2–$5/hour on top of base pay.
First Job Tips for New LPN Graduates
Landing your first LPN position in Hawaii is usually straightforward given current demand. Skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers actively recruit new graduates and often offer sign-on bonuses. Staffing agencies are another option — they can place you quickly and often pay above-average hourly rates. Once you have 6–12 months of experience, you'll qualify for positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.
🎓 Find Out What LPN Programs Cost in Your Zip Code
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Explore More Nursing & Healthcare Careers in Hawaii
Whether you're starting out or planning your next credential, these guides can help:
Hawaii
Hawaii LPN Scope of Practice — What You Can and Can't Do
Hawaii LPNs are regulated by the Hawaii Board of Nursing under DCCA (Dept. of Commerce and Consumer Affairs). Hawaii is NOT an NLC state.
You Can Direct Patient Care
- Medication administration (oral, IM, SubQ, topical, rectal, inhaled)
- Focused assessments and ongoing patient monitoring
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Vital signs and point-of-care testing
- Foley catheter insertion and management
- Tracheostomy care and suctioning
- Contributing to care plans
- Supervising CNAs/UAPs
Conditional IV Therapy
- LPNs may perform IV therapy after completing an approved IV therapy education program
- Must work under direction of an RN or physician
- Peripheral IV starts and IV fluid/medication administration permitted after training
- LPNs CANNOT administer blood products, chemotherapy, or central line medications
You Cannot RN-Only Functions
- Comprehensive assessments
- Creating or modifying care plans
- Blood product or chemotherapy administration
- Central line management
- Triage
- Independent practice
Hawaii LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs
| School | Format | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaii — Maui College | On-campus + clinical | 2 years | ADN program accepting LPN credits on Maui |
| Hawaii Pacific University | On-campus + clinical | 18–24 months | BSN program in Honolulu with LPN credit consideration |
| Excelsior University | 100% Online | Self-paced | Online + local clinicals — popular for island-based LPNs with limited local options |
Hawaii Board of Nursing Contact
- Website: cca.hawaii.gov — Board of Nursing
- Phone: (808) 586-3000
- Address: 335 Merchant St, Room 301, Honolulu, HI 96813
Ready for the Next Step?
Bridge from LPN to RN — Expand Your Scope and Your Paycheck
Tired of scope limitations? RNs earn 35–50% more, perform initial assessments, create care plans, start IVs without extra certification, and run triage. Bridge programs let you earn your RN while you keep working.
Explore LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs →