2026 Pennsylvania Guide

Top LPN Programs & Schools in Pennsylvania

Compare accredited LPN programs, tuition costs, and salary data. Find the right nursing school to launch your career in Pennsylvania.

$62,550 Avg. Annual Salary
$30.07 Avg. Hourly Wage
3% Job Growth (10-yr)
~3,400 Annual Openings

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Accredited LPN Programs & Colleges in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers several accredited LPN programs through community colleges, technical centers, and vocational schools. Most programs can be completed in 11 to 14 months and include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical rotations. The table below lists top programs — tuition shown is approximate in-state/in-district and does not include books, fees, or supplies.

School City Type Program Length Approx. Tuition
Community College of Philadelphia Philadelphia Community College 12 months $7,200
Bucks County Community College Newtown Community College 12 months $7,800
HACC – Central Pennsylvania's Community College Harrisburg Community College 12 months $7,400
Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Scranton Technical Center 12 months $9,200
Delaware County Community College Media Community College 12 months $7,600

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 Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

Online & Hybrid LPN Programs in Pennsylvania

LPN programs require hands-on clinical training, so no program is 100% online. However, many schools in Pennsylvania now offer hybrid formats that let you complete didactic coursework (anatomy, pharmacology, nursing theory) online while attending in-person clinicals at local healthcare facilities.

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 Pennsylvania residents, visit our dedicated guide:

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Requirements to Enroll in a Pennsylvania LPN Program

Admission requirements vary by school, but most LPN programs in Pennsylvania share these common prerequisites:

Quick Facts: LPN Licensing in Pennsylvania

Licensing Exam NCLEX-PN
Regulatory Board Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
Min. Education State-approved LPN program (typically 12 months)
Background Check Required

After completing an approved program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Most candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing.

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LPN Salary & Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 OEWS data), LPNs in Pennsylvania earn an average of $62,550 per year ($30.07/hour). This places Pennsylvania near the national average the national LPN average of $62,340.

Salaries in Pennsylvania typically range from $46,600 for entry-level positions to $77,800 for experienced nurses in high-demand specialties or metro areas.

LPN Salary by City in Pennsylvania

City / Metro Area Average Annual Salary
Philadelphia $66,200
Pittsburgh $63,800
Allentown $62,400
Harrisburg $61,200

Job Outlook

Employment of LPNs in Pennsylvania is projected to grow 3% over the next decade — about as fast as average for all occupations. The state sees approximately 3,400 annual job openings for LPNs, driven by retirements, career transitions, and growing demand in skilled nursing facilities and home health.

Where LPNs Work in Pennsylvania

The majority of LPNs in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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.

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Explore More Nursing & Healthcare Careers in Pennsylvania

Whether you're starting out or planning your next credential, these guides can help: