Last Updated/Verified: November 15th, 2024

Maryland is a great place for entry-level and advanced nursing jobs on the east coast.

The demand for nurses has been skyrocketing. To meet this demand, vocational schools and colleges are offering a fast track to becoming an LPN through nursing education programs. Once a student completes healthcare courses, applies for licensure, and passes the NCLEX-PN exam, there well on their way to a rewarding career.

LPN’s in Maryland Quick Facts

• LPN programs typically take 1 year to complete
• Maryland LPN programs have a 96% passing rate on the NCLEX exam
• LPNs in Maryland earn an average of $29.92/hr and $53,651 annually
• The LPN job outlook is promising with a 9% increase by 2029
• LPNs make up 12% of Maryland’s licensed nursing population

Many options are available for LPN training programs at community colleges and vocation schools throughout Maryland. There exists grants, scholarships, and other financial aid for prospective students. Many cities offer learning and job opportunities including Baltimore and other metropolitan areas.

Overview of LPN Schools in Maryland

Maryland has many accredited schools and several board-approved LPN programs. All programs comprise a curriculum that teaches nursing skills through the classroom, labs, and clinicals. With so many programs from which to choose, students can find one that fits their budget, career goals, and other needs.

In general, LPN programs cover the following topics:

•  Nursing ethics
• Sciences
• Patient care
• Nursing skills
• Infection control
• Specialty courses including geriatrics, long-term care, and IV therapy

Accreditation

It is important that prospective students choose an LPN program that is accredited. Accreditation may be obtained regionally by the Higher Learning Commission (HCL), nationally by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or both. In Maryland, nursing students should also attend courses that are approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.

LPN Admissions Requirements

Admission to nursing school will vary from program to program. Prospective students must contact the specific college of interest to verify requirements. Most programs will require at least the following:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Completion of prerequisite courses
• Minimum GPA of 2.0
• Proficient score on TEAS aptitude exam
• Complete a criminal background check
• Pass a drug screening test

Tuition & Costs

The costs to complete an LPN program varies widely from school to school. In Maryland, many schools offer financial aid for students who live in particular counties. For example, Prince George’s Community College’s in-county tuition is $107/credit, out-of-county tuition is $202/credit, and out-of-state tuition is $304/credit. Regardless of where a student lives, they will find Maryland tuition to be very affordable.

LPN Licensing Requirements in Maryland

Maryland offers several healthcare pathways to becoming an LPN. Typically, after a year of nursing coursework, students are eligible to take the licensing exam.

Checklist to become a Maryland LPN:

1. Complete a board-approved nursing program
2. Apply for licensure with the Maryland Board of Nursing
3. Pass the NCLEX-PN exam

Maryland-licensed RNs and LPNs are required to renew their licenses every four years. Renewal may require a board-approved refresher course.

NCLEX-PN Exam

All graduates of an LPN program must apply for licensure in Maryland and pass the NCLEX-PN exam, administered by the National Council Licensure Examination. The exam’s content covers five main categories including safe and effective care environment, safety and infection control, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. All new nurses must receive a passing grade to become licensed.

LPN Reciprocity

LPNs from states who desire to work in Maryland can become licensed through endorsement. Candidates must show proof of licensing in another state. Foreign individuals must pass an Oral English Test (unless you have received an advanced degree from a U.S. college) and complete the Commission of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) evaluation before taking the licensure exam.

LPN Salaries in Maryland

In the state of Maryland, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) earn an average annual income of $53,651, which is 9% higher than the national average of $48,820. Maryland LPNs make an average of $7,819 in overtime per year.

LPNs in Maryland’s major metropolitan areas earn the following average salaries:

• Baltimore-Columbia-Towson: $55,420
• Salisbury: $49,780
• Hagerstown-Martinsburg: $52,790
• California-Lexington Park: $58,360
• Cumberland: $48,210

Source: https://www.bls.gov/

Nursing has grown rapidly throughout the U.S. including the state of Maryland. Salaries will vary widely from city to city based on various economic factors. Licensed nurses with more education and experience will receive higher salaries. In addition, certain fields bring in higher earnings such as surgical and geriatrics.

Job Outlook for LPNs in Maryland

Like most states, the job market in Maryland is very promising. Many locations have seen a shortage of nurses. As a result, employers are offering enticing incentives from sign-on bonuses and flexible schedules to continuing education assistance and student loan reimbursement.

In the U.S., the job outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses and Licenses Vocational Nurses will is estimated to increase by 9% by 2029. Maryland currently has 8,940 licensed LPNs with a location quotient of 0.73, which is slightly lower than the national average for employment distribution. In Maryland, employment for LPNs is projected to grow by 34% from 2014 to 2024.

Top LPN Schools in Maryland 

College of Southern Maryland

8730 Mitchell Rd
La Plata, MD 20646
301-934-2251

The ACEN-accredited nursing program at the College of Southern Maryland focuses on exemplary academics and community partnerships. The 40-credit Practical Nursing Certificate program is very competitive and prepares students to complete the NLEX-PN exam. The college has a 100% pass rate for students taking the exam the first time around. Graduates can obtain employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) as well as enroll in the LPN to ADN Transition Pathway leading to licensing as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Hagerstown Community College

11400 Robinwood Dr
Hagerstown, MD 21742
240-500-2000

Hagerstown Community College offers a 16-month practical nursing program that is accredited by the ACEN. The program is designated as a Health Manpower Shortage Program, so students residing in Washington County may be eligible for discounted tuition. After completing 42 credits, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.

Allegany College of Maryland

12401 Willowbrook Rd
Cumberland, MD 21502
301-784-5000

Allegany College of Maryland has a unique ladder-style nursing program designed to cater to students no matter their career goals. After completing one semester, students can become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA). After completed one year and a 5-week course, students are eligible to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN); after two years, they can be a Registered Nurse (RN). This ACEN-accredited program has a 100% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN exam.

Anne Arundel Nursing Department

101 College Pkwy
Arnold, MD 21012
410-777-7310

Students who complete successfully all program requirements of Anne Arundel Nursing Department are awarded a Practical Nursing Certificate. This makes them eligible to take the exam and become an LPN. This 41-credit accredited program has a 94% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN.

Baltimore City Community College

2901 Liberty Heights Ave
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-462-8300

Baltimore City Community College boasts a 100% pass rate for students who took the NCLEX-PN exam the first time around. The school offers both an Associate Degree Nursing and Practical Nursing Certificate Programs. The 45-credit certificate program prepares students for eligibility to become an LPN. It is accredited by the ACEN.

Cecil College

1 Seahawk Dr
North East, MD 21901
410-287-1000

Cecil College has ACEN-accredited programs for students to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Certificate in Practical Nursing (LPN). Some students may be eligible for supervised clinical training in Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Once the program requirements have been completed, students can take the licensing exam. This college has a 100% pass rate.

Frederick Community College

7932 Opossumtown Pike
Frederick, MD 21701
301-846-2400

Those interested in a career in nursing can become an LPN through Frederick Community College’s Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate Program. After completion of 48 credit hours, students will be ready to take the licensing exam. Graduates can expect a 100% nursing job placement. The ACEN accredits the college programs.

Wor-Wic Community College

401 Thomas Run Rd
Bel Air, MD 21015
443-412-2000

Wor-Wic offers programs for students who want to become LPNs or RNs. Graduates of the practical nursing certificate program can apply for licensure and take the exam. The program can be completed in three semesters, not including pre-nursing prerequisites. The course is accredited by the NLN.

Prince George’s Community College

301 Largo Rd
Largo, MD 20774
301-546-7422

Graduates of the 47-credit Nursing (LPN) Certificate Program at Prince George’s Community College will be able to sit for the licensing exam. This entry-level nursing career option is held with the RN program, so students can be assured of receiving a high-level education. The program is accredited by the ACEN.

Carroll Community College

1601 Washington Road
Westminster, MD 21157
410-386-8000

Carroll Community College offers a 60-credit Practical Nursing Certificate Program. After the first two terms of pre-clinical courses, prospective LPNs can take the summer clinical course. Graduates will be ready to take the CLEX-PN exam to qualify for professional licensure. This nursing program includes exposure to obstetrics, long-term care, and mental health.

Additional Resources

Explore the following Maryland resources for more information on becoming an LPN:

Maryland Board of Nursing

4140 Patterson Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215
410) 585-1900

Maryland Nurses Association

6 Park Center Court, Suite 212
Owings Mills, MD 21117
443-334-5110