Best LPN Programs in Alabama 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Alabama with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Learn about licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across the state.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in Alabama

Choosing the right Licensed Practical Nurse program is a big step. At practicalnursing.org, we rank the best LPN programs in Alabama so you can compare your options with confidence. Our rankings look at real-world factors like program cost, class size, clinical experience, and NCLEX pass rates. We also consider how well graduates do in the job market. Whether you're fresh out of high school or looking for a career change, these top programs give you the skills to start working as an LPN in Alabama. We're proud to help you find the right fit. For a detailed look at how we create these rankings, visit our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden, AL - Public 2-Year - gadsdenstate.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Gadsden State Community College's Practical Nursing program prepares students for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in just three semesters. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences at diverse healthcare facilities within a 65-70 mile radius. Students learn patient-centered care, nursing judgment, safety, and teamwork through a concept-based approach. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. The program also serves as a stackable credential, allowing LPNs to continue toward an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) through the Mobility Nursing Program. With four campuses, a Simulation Center, and competitive admission, Gadsden State offers a supportive pathway into the nursing workforce.

3-Semester program
Complete in can be completed in three semesters
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Stackable credential to ADN
Clinical sites within 65-70 miles
Simulation Center available
Four nursing campuses
75% minimum in nursing courses
Competitive admission based on scores

Wallace Community College-Dothan

Dothan, AL - Public 2-Year - wallace.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wallace Community College-Dothan offers a Practical Nursing certificate program that prepares students for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The curriculum covers bedside patient care, implementing care plans, and supervising nursing care delivery. Students learn under the supervision of registered nurses, physicians, or dentists. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. The program is accredited by ACEN and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. It is offered at two campus locations in Dothan and Eufaula, with a competitive admission process and start dates in fall and spring. The program spans three terms, providing a focused path to entering the nursing field.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN), Alabama Board of Nursing accredited
2 start dates per year
Starts fall/spring
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Three terms in length
Two campus locations available
Fall and Spring start terms

Northwest Shoals Community College

Muscle Shoals, AL - Public 2-Year - nwscc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northwest Shoals Community College offers a Practical Nursing certificate program preparing students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The three-semester curriculum blends nursing courses like Fundamental Concepts of Nursing and Nursing Concepts with general education in anatomy, physiology, English composition, and public speaking. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations at accredited healthcare facilities, developing skills in safe, knowledgeable patient care. The program is state-approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and accredited by ACEN, ensuring a quality education. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. With campuses in Muscle Shoals and Phil Campbell, the program offers a supportive learning environment and a clear transfer pathway to the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program for those wishing to advance.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT
3-Semester program
45 total credit hours
1 start dates per year
Starts summer
2.5 GPA minimum
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
State approved by Alabama Board of Nursing

Northeast Alabama Community College

Rainsville, AL - Public 2-Year - nacc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Certificate at Northeast Alabama Community College prepares you for a rewarding healthcare career. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training to ready you for the NCLEX-PN exam. You’ll learn essential nursing skills, patient care, and medical procedures in state-of-the-art facilities. NACC’s program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. Graduates qualify for LPN licensure and work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. Seamless transfer pathways to four-year universities are available for those pursuing an RN. With dedicated faculty and pre-nursing seminars, you’ll have the support to succeed.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Partnerships with four-year universities
Seamless transition to advanced degrees
Pre-nursing seminars available
Comprehensive student handbook
Hands-on training and clinical experience
State-of-the-art facilities
Alabama Board of Nursing approved

Bevill State Community College

Jasper, AL - Public 2-Year - bscc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bevill State Community College offers a Practical Nursing certificate program that prepares students for entry-level LPN roles. The curriculum uses a concept-based learning approach, adopted in 2016, which focuses on active learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students complete the certificate in three semesters, covering core nursing concepts through courses like NUR 112-115. The program builds from simple to complex topics, ensuring a solid foundation for clinical practice. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Admission is competitive, requiring a minimum ACT score of 18 and a 2.5 GPA in prerequisite courses. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations and must meet essential functions, including immunizations and background checks. The certificate also serves as a stepping stone to the ADN program, allowing seamless transition to registered nursing. Bevill State's program emphasizes diversity and holistic support, with small class sizes and dedicated faculty.

Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT
3-Semester program
2 start dates per year
Starts spring/summer
2.5 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Concept-based curriculum adopted 2016
Clinical background check required
Health insurance must be maintained

*IPEDS 2025 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Alabama LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To apply for a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Alabama, prospective students must meet several prerequisites. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, along with proof of immunizations and completion of a background check. Applicants often need to pass the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam and may be asked to provide references or undergo a personal interview. Some programs prefer candidates with prior healthcare experience, such as CNA certification, though it is not typically required.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

Alabama LPN programs include both classroom instruction and clinical training. Students will study core topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and practical nursing fundamentals. Clinical rotations are conducted in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings to provide real-world experience in patient care.

Accreditation is critical for ensuring educational quality and eligibility for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is required for licensure. It is also essential that the program is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing, as this confirms that the education meets state standards for licensure eligibility.

LPN Schools and Classes

LPN programs in Alabama are offered through community colleges, technical colleges, and some universities. These institutions provide comprehensive training in theoretical and practical nursing skills. Coursework typically includes subjects such as medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child nursing, geriatric care, and pharmacology. Students also complete training in patient assessment, communication techniques, and documentation. Clinical experiences are scheduled in various healthcare settings to ensure students are prepared for diverse work environments.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Alabama have favorable career prospects. LPNs commonly work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physicians’ offices, and home healthcare settings. Many positions offer stable hours, and some allow for flexible scheduling, making this a viable option for those seeking work-life balance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for LPNs are expected to grow due to increasing demand for healthcare services, especially in rural areas across Alabama.

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in Alabama generally take 12 to 18 months to complete for full-time students. Many schools also offer part-time tracks, which can be completed in approximately 18 to 24 months. Evening and weekend options are available at select institutions and are designed for students who are working or have other daytime commitments. These flexible formats allow students to progress at a schedule that suits their personal needs while maintaining the required clinical and classroom hours for licensure.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Alabama

Looking for a faster way to start a nursing career? The table below shows schools across Alabama offering LPN programs designed for speed. Choosing the shortest or fastest path can cut costs and get you into the workforce sooner. These programs focus on essential skills, often with flexible schedules. Review program highlights, graduation rates, and retention rates side by side. Whether you're near Birmingham, Montgomery, or Mobile, these quick options can help you earn a certificate or diploma in less time. Use this data to find the best fit for your goals.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Reid State Technical College Practical Nursing	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT, TEAS 3-Semester program 46 total credit hours 2.5 GPA minimum $51,604 median earnings Prerequisite courses required	Graduation Rate: 59% Retention Rate: 63% Student to Faculty Ratio: 15 :1
Northwest Shoals Community College Practical Nursing	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program 45 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts summer 2.5 GPA minimum	Graduation Rate: 39% Retention Rate: 69% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1
Wallace State-Hanceville Practical Nursing	ACEN accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring Prerequisite courses required Scholarships available	Graduation Rate: 51% Retention Rate: 66% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1

*Information derived from: IPEDS 2025 survey, conducted by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Alabama typically ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, depending on the institution and residency status. Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, background checks, and licensing exam fees. For students needing housing, average rental costs in Alabama are typically around $1,000 to $1,300 per month for one-bedroom apartments, depending on location. Some schools may offer on-campus housing or assistance finding nearby accommodations.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Alabama

We know that finding an affordable LPN program in Alabama is a big step toward a nursing career. With tuition costs rising, it pays to compare options carefully. The table below lists three schools offering certificate, diploma, and associate degrees. Each program has unique highlights, but the common thread is keeping price within reach. Whether in Birmingham, Montgomery, or Mobile, future nurses benefit from training that leads to licensure without breaking the bank. Review the program details and tuition ranges to find the best fit. Making a smart financial decision now helps build a stable future in healthcare.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Lawson State Community College Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	ACEN accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program 49 total credit hours 2 start dates per year Starts summer/fall 100% licensure pass rate	$4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State) $7,100 - $10,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Coastal Alabama Community College Practical Nursing (CER-LPN)	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited $8,640 total program tuition 3-Semester program 45 total credit hours 2.5 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available	$4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State) $7,100 - $10,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Gadsden State Community College Practical Nursing	3-Semester program Complete in can be completed in three semesters Prepares for NCLEX-PN Stackable credential to ADN Clinical sites within 65-70 miles Simulation Center available Four nursing campuses 75% minimum in nursing courses	$3,400 - $5,100 (Undergrad In-State) $5,900 - $8,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN programs in Alabama cannot be completed fully online. While some general education or theoretical nursing courses may be offered in a hybrid format, hands-on clinical training is a mandatory part of practical nursing education. Alabama requires that students complete supervised clinical hours to meet licensing requirements. In-person instruction and lab work are essential to developing the skills needed for competent and safe nursing practice.

Alabama LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Alabama is $50,760, which is significantly below the national average of $62,340. This wage difference is influenced by several local market conditions, primarily Alabama's lower cost of living index, which allows for lower nominal wages. Other contributing factors include regional labor market dynamics, such as state population trends, the demand for long-term care services, and the financial stability of healthcare systems, including rural hospital closures. State-specific regulations and the overall economic environment also play a crucial role in shaping compensation levels for LPNs within the state.

Average LPN State Salary in Alabama

$50,760

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Alabama LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

12-18 months

Credential Awarded:

Diploma or Certificate of Completion

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes

Program Focus:

Core nursing skills and patient care

Average In-State Tuition in Alabama:

$3,500 - $15,000

Best For:

Students wanting the quickest path to a nursing career.

School Types:

Community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

2 years

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes

Program Focus:

Broader general education alongside nursing-specific coursework.

Average In-State Tuition in Alabama:

$4,000 - $20,000

Best For:

Students who may want to bridge to an RN program later.

School Types:

Mainly community colleges

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

You want to enter the workforce as quickly as possible.
You prefer a curriculum tightly focused on hands-on nursing skills.
Cost and time are your primary concerns.

Choose Associate Degree If:

You plan to continue your education to become an RN in the future.
You want a more well-rounded education with general studies.
You believe an associate degree will provide better job opportunities or a higher starting salary.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Alabama

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$46,470 - $58,350	9-12 months	NCLEX-PN	450-550 hours	$7,500 - $12,000
MA	$29,660 - $38,200	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT)	160-200 hours	$7,000 - $17,000
CNA	$28,210 - $34,220	3-8 weeks	Nurse Aide Competency Examination	16-24 hours	$700 - $1,500
DA	$33,180 - $47,150	9-12 months	DANB (CDA) Exam	160-300 hours	$10,000 - $18,000
Pharm Tech	$29,650 - $39,520	8-12 months	PTCB (CPhT) Exam	120-200 hours	$4,500 - $10,000
Phlebotomist	$29,800 - $39,720	4-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-120 hours	$800 - $2,500
OTA	$51,680 - $74,270	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours	$15,000 - $20,000

List of LPN Programs in Alabama

Jump to City:

Alexander City, AL

Central Alabama Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Multiple campus locations

Bay Minette, AL

Coastal Alabama Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (CER-LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- $8,640 total program tuition
- 3-Semester program
- 45 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available

Birmingham, AL

Lawson State Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 3-Semester program
- 49 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts summer/fall
- 100% licensure pass rate

Dothan, AL

Wallace Community College-Dothan

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN), Alabama Board of Nursing accredited
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Three terms in length
- Two campus locations available
- Fall and Spring start terms

Evergreen, AL

Reid State Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 3-Semester program
- 46 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- $51,604 median earnings
- Prerequisite courses required