Best LPN Programs in Vermont – Accredited Online LPN Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Like in most other states, Vermont is seeing an increased demand for health care services and health professionals, including licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This is mainly due to a declining labor force, staffing challenges, and an aging population. As of March 2022, there were 1,582 actively licensed practical nurses in the state (VTAHEC, 2023). Among the different age groups, those aged 55 to 59 years old made up the highest percentage. Practical nurses who are 50 years old and above represent 48.9% of the LPN workforce. This means a significant number of LPNs planning to retire in the next few years.

If you plan to become an LPN in Vermont and help ease the nursing shortage, this in-depth guide will help you. The team of experts at Research.com gathered data and information regarding the best LPN programs in Vermont, the license requirements for LPNs in Vermont, and even the nursing school cost or tuition and fees for an LPN program.

Best LPN Programs in Vermont Table of Contents

1. How to Become an LPN in Vermont
2. What is the typical cost of LPN programs in Vermont?
3. How long does it take to become an LPN in Vermont?
4. Can you become an LPN in Vermont with an online degree?
5. Best Online LPN Programs in Vermont for 2025
6. Is Vermont a good state to be an LPN?
7. What are the opportunities for advanced education and certification after becoming an LPN in Vermont?
8. How can I transition from an LPN certificate to an RN degree?
9. Can LPNs Broaden Their Career by Specializing in Nutrition?
10. What can I do with an LPN certificate in Vermont?
11. What are the current Vermont nursing license requirements?
12. What types of financial aid options are available for LPN students in Vermont?
13. How can Vermont LPNs Transition to Nurse Practitioner Roles?
14. How can I evaluate the quality of Vermont LPN programs?
15. What are the nurse midwife education requirements in Vermont?
16. What are the challenges of pursuing an LPN career in Vermont?
17. Alternative Career Paths and Advanced Opportunities for Vermont LPNs
18. How can Vermont LPNs Advance Their Professional Development?
19. How can Vermont LPNs Accelerate Their Transition to an RN Role?

How to Become an LPN in Vermont

The first step to obtaining LPN certification in Vermont is to complete an LPN program. To get admitted into such program, you need to meet certain entrance requirements, which include:

1. official high school transcript or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) scores
2. official transcripts of colleges previously attended, if any
3. two letters of recommendation
4. personal essay

There are not many LPN programs in Vermont other than the ones offered by the different campuses of Vermont Technical College (Vermont Tech), which is now Vermont State University. For you to get admitted, you need passing scores on the Vermont Tech placement test. Vermont Tech also has an age requirement. You will need to be 18 years old by September 1 of the fall term of the LPN program.

Licensure Requirements

After obtaining your practical nursing certificate, you need to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The NCLEX is a pass-or-fail exam that uses computerized adaptive testing technology, where the exam questions adapt to how well you answer them. This ensures a valid and reliable measurement of your nursing competence.

In order to be granted a license by the Vermont Board of Nursing, you need to submit the following requirements:

1. official transcript from the nursing education program
2. proof of passing score on the NCLEX-PN exam
3. application fee
4. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification Card

License Renewal

You need to renew your LPN license in Vermont on May 31 of every even-numbered year. For your license to be eligible for renewal, you need to complete 400 active practice hours over the past two years or 960 hours in the last five years.

Nurse Licensure Compact

Vermont is now part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows registered nurses (RNs) and LPNs in participating states to practice between them without having to seek additional licensure.

LPNs who have been granted a license in a non-participating state may be licensed in Vermont if they are licensed or certified in good standing in another jurisdiction whose required standards and qualifications are substantially equivalent to Vermont’s and if they have worked a minimum of 50 days in the last two years or 120 days in the last five years under that license. LPNs can apply for licensure by endorsement in Vermont by submitting proof of current licensure and proof of having passed the NCLEX-PN.

What is the typical cost of LPN programs in Vermont?

The cost and expenses of attending an LPN program vary depending on whether it’s with a private or public institution, whether you are a full-time or part-time student, whether you’re a Vermont resident or you’re from out of state, whether it’s a traditional or online program, and whether you have transfer credits.

Note, however, that there are not many schools offering LPN programs in Vermont. In fact, Vermont Technical College is the only LPN educational program in the state. Tuition for practical nursing students at Vermont Tech is $21,219 for Vermont residents and $44,814 for non-Vermont residents. If you add fees like student activity fees and security fees, as well as room and meals, the cost of attendance can total up to $38,210 for residents and $61,805 for non-residents.

The good thing is that Vermont Tech offers a number of scholarships, such as the Evelyn M. Soforenko Scholarship, the J. William Sumner Memorial Scholarship, the Sadie T. Fitzgerald Scholarship, and the VTC LPN Scholarship Fund, among others.

How long does it take to become an LPN in Vermont?

The length of LPN programs in Vermont Tech’s various locations is one year. However, this certificate program extends over three terms or three semesters, from August through June.

The program will equip you with the basic requirements of patients’ care by LPNs. You will learn practical nursing skills through independent study, lectures, demonstrations, and practice in a nursing skills lab. You will also learn patient care under instructor supervision in various healthcare settings.

Vermont Tech’s LPN program includes 495 hours of theory and 630 hours of clinical/lab.

Only 35 credits from the program count toward cumulative credits. Only nonclinical hours or courses count toward your GPA.

Can you become an LPN in Vermont with an online degree?

There are no LPN programs in Vermont other than those offered by Vermont Tech in various sites across the state. As well, none of these sites or campuses offer a fully online LPN program since hands-on clinical experience in a physical healthcare setting is essential. Some sites, however, may offer an online component for some of the courses included in the practical nursing curriculum.

Generally, online nursing degrees and programs are legitimate as long as they are with accredited and credible educational institutions. An online format also doesn’t affect the quality of instruction. As a matter of fact, Vermont Tech offers other types of nursing degrees and certificates online and it assures students that the curricula they offer through distance education are the same as those they offer in their face-to-face campuses or classrooms and result in the same degree or certificate. Vermont Tech says that distance learning and telepresence allow them to offer quality education in local communities so that students no longer need to take on an excessive commute to progress in their education.

Best Online LPN Programs in Vermont for 2025

If you are looking for top LPN programs in Vermont, you may be disappointed to know that you don’t have many options because only Vermont Tech offers practical nursing education in the state. If that’s not enough limitation, Vermont Tech offers its LPN program via classroom format.

The good news is that Vermont Tech has many sites or campuses across the state. Specifically, Research.com expert reviewers found that Vermont Tech has two residential campuses and 10 satellite campuses. It offers its LPN program in all these locations:

1. Randolph Center Campus
2. Williston Campus
3. Bennington, VT
4. Brattleboro, VT
5. Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, VT
6. Johnson, VT
7. Lyndonville, VT
8. Middlebury, VT
9. Newport, VT
10. St. Albans, VT
11. Rutland, VT
12. White River Junction, VT

Vermont Tech is one of the best accredited nursing schools in Vermont. Its LPN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Vermont Tech boasts excellent clinical simulation laboratories, which enrich and enhance course content and allow for participant-centered high-quality simulation experiences that contribute to professional expertise. These cutting-edge multi-disciplinary labs strive to meet the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL) standards.

You’d also be happy with the high placement rate of Vermont Technical College. Since 2014, the school has had an average placement rate of more than 97%. Its graduating class of 2021 achieved an impressive 99% placement rate, reflecting that they are either employed or enrolled in continuing education programs after obtaining their certificates or degrees. As in the previous years, 98% of its 2021 graduates are working in their field of study.

It goes without saying that Vermont Tech single-handedly contributed to the state’s average NCLEX-PN pass rate of 95.1% for first-time takers in 2022.

Vermont Tech also has a Nurse Re-entry certificate program for former LPNs and registered nurses whose licenses have lapsed. This program is a self-paced course of study and is completely online.

Is Vermont a good state to be an LPN?

Vermont is a good state to be an LPN because LPNs are considered an invaluable resource for the state’s health care system. The average annual salary of LPNs in Vermont is $57,150, or $27.47 per hour, which is higher than the national mean annual wage of $55,860 (BLS, 2023).

Generally, the job outlook for LPNs in the United States is good, with about 54,400 openings projected each year from 2022 to 2032 (BLS, 2023).

The LPN job outlook in Vermont is relatively great. The employment of LPNs was projected to grow 10% from 2020 to 2030, with 90 job openings projected each year over this 10-year period.

Many of the LPN job openings are expected to result from the need to replace the ones who exit the labor force to retire or who transfer to different occupations. Some LPNs also pursue advanced education and leave their current positions for more advanced roles. For example, some pursue an LPN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) bridge program and then go for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree to specialize in a certain field of practice. An online MSN nursing administration degree, for instance, would allow a former LPN to move up to an administrative role.

Moreover, as the baby boom generation ages, the need for healthcare services increases. This means that more LPNs are and will be needed in in-home health environments and residential care facilities to care for senior patients. Additionally, the number of chronic diseases continues to become more prevalent. Patients with these illnesses, which include diabetes and obesity, will need LPNs to assist and care for them.

There are also many medical procedures now that can be done outside of the hospital setting. This has created a demand for LPNs in other settings like outpatient care centers.

What are the opportunities for advanced education and certification after becoming an LPN in Vermont?

After becoming an LPN in Vermont, there are several opportunities for advanced education and certification. Many LPNs choose to pursue a registered nursing (RN) degree or specialized certifications in areas such as gerontology or pediatrics. For those interested in advanced practice, best nurse practitioner programs in Vermont can provide the necessary education and training to become a nurse practitioner. With advanced education and certification, LPNs can expand their career opportunities, increase their earning potential, and provide high-quality patient care in a variety of healthcare settings. Additionally, advanced education and certification can also lead to leadership roles, education, and research opportunities, allowing LPNs to make a greater impact in the healthcare field.

How can I transition from an LPN certificate to an RN degree?

Transitioning from an LPN role to an RN position requires targeted academic planning and clinical preparation. Vermont professionals can take advantage of bridge programs that acknowledge practical experience while providing accelerated coursework tailored to meet RN licensure requirements. Prospective candidates should analyze program accreditation, course structure, and state-specific mandates before committing to a pathway. For those considering online formats, it is essential to evaluate curriculum intensity and delivery methods as discussed in How hard are RN to BSN online programs?. Strategic planning that incorporates preparatory courses, guided mentorship, and exam readiness can facilitate a smoother, more efficient transition into advanced nursing roles.

Can LPNs Broaden Their Career by Specializing in Nutrition?

Integrating nutritional expertise with LPN training can offer a competitive edge in providing holistic patient care. This interdisciplinary approach allows LPNs to address not only basic care needs but also contribute to dietary counseling and chronic disease management. Specialized training in nutrition can open pathways to roles in wellness programs and preventive healthcare settings, enhancing career versatility and patient outcomes. For more information on building expertise in this area, see how to become a nutritionist in Vermont.

What can I do with an LPN certificate in Vermont?

What are the current Vermont nursing license requirements?

Vermont LPNs should prioritize staying informed about evolving licensure standards to maintain professional eligibility and comply with state regulations. This includes regularly reviewing mandatory continuing education updates, ensuring that documentation and practice hour records meet renewal standards, and adapting to revised compliance criteria set by the state. For detailed procedures and documentation needs, consult Vermont nursing license requirements.

What types of financial aid options are available for LPN students in Vermont?

For prospective LPN students in Vermont, financing an education can be a challenge, particularly given the high tuition costs. However, several financial aid options are available to help offset the costs of obtaining an LPN certificate. Here are some financial support opportunities for LPN students in Vermont:

Scholarships Offered by Vermont Tech

Vermont Technical College offers various scholarships specifically for nursing students. Notable scholarships include:

• Evelyn M. Soforenko Scholarship: Awarded to nursing students based on academic merit and financial need.
• J. William Sumner Memorial Scholarship: Helps students with educational costs, especially those with a demonstrated interest in healthcare.
• Sadie T. Fitzgerald Scholarship: Aids students pursuing a nursing career, with priority given to those showing financial need.
• VTC LPN Scholarship Fund: Exclusively for students enrolled in the LPN program at Vermont Tech, providing financial support based on academic performance and need.

State Financial Aid Programs

The Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) offers grants and loans to Vermont residents attending in-state programs. Grants are need-based and do not need to be repaid, making them a favorable option for students with financial constraints.

Federal Financial Aid

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step for federal aid, including Pell Grants, which provide need-based funding that does not require repayment. Federal loans with lower interest rates and deferred repayment options are also available.

Work-Study Programs

Many schools, including Vermont Tech, offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time on campus or in community roles related to healthcare. Earnings from work-study can help cover tuition, supplies, and living expenses.

Loan Forgiveness Programs

Students who complete their LPN program and work in qualifying healthcare facilities in underserved or rural areas may be eligible for loan forgiveness through state and federal programs, reducing the burden of student debt.

Career Advancement for Medical Assistant to LPN in Vermont via Bridge Programs

For Medical Assistants (MAs) in Vermont looking to expand their career opportunities, transitioning to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) role is an excellent pathway. Bridge programs specifically designed for MAs streamline this transition, recognizing the clinical and administrative expertise that MAs already possess. These programs provide a faster route to becoming an LPN while allowing individuals to maintain their current roles.

Bridge programs often combine online coursework with hands-on clinical training. While Vermont has limited options locally, there are nationally recognized online bridge programs tailored to meet state-specific requirements. For example, the MA to LPN Bridge Program Online offers flexible scheduling and prepares students to pass the NCLEX-PN, which is essential for licensure.

How can Vermont LPNs Transition to Nurse Practitioner Roles?

For LPNs seeking extended clinical responsibility and autonomy, advancing to a nurse practitioner role offers a distinct pathway to enhanced patient care and broader clinical decision-making. This progression requires targeting accredited bridge programs that recognize LPN experience while integrating advanced coursework in diagnostics, pathophysiology, and patient management. Strategic steps include thorough program evaluations, securing relevant clinical placements, and aligning with mentorship opportunities that support role expansion. For detailed guidance on the required academic and clinical benchmarks, review how to become a nurse practitioner in Vermont. Emphasizing regulatory updates and professional networking can facilitate a seamless transition into advanced practice roles.

How can I evaluate the quality of Vermont LPN programs?

When assessing Vermont LPN programs, consider key factors such as accreditation status, NCLEX-PN pass rates, and the quality of clinical training facilities. Analyze program curricula for hands-on experience and review partnerships with local healthcare organizations that support practical learning. Also evaluate tuition costs alongside available financial aid options to ensure financial viability. Refer to objective comparisons from the best nursing schools in Vermont as a benchmark for program quality and educational outcomes.

What are the nurse midwife education requirements in Vermont?

For LPNs exploring a pathway toward advanced maternal health care, transitioning into nurse midwifery involves distinct academic and clinical benchmarks. Prospective candidates must complete additional coursework focused on women’s health, prenatal care, labor management, and postpartum support. Accredited programs typically require a bachelor’s degree, specific prerequisite courses, and substantial clinical hours in maternal and neonatal settings. Applicants are advised to verify program accreditation, review detailed admission criteria, and ensure that state licensure processes are met. For further guidance on these parameters, please review nurse midwife education requirements in Vermont.

What are the challenges of pursuing an LPN career in Vermont?

Becoming an LPN in Vermont offers many rewards but also comes with its share of challenges. Understanding these hurdles can help prospective students and professionals make informed decisions about their career paths.

• High Cost of Education: The cost of LPN programs in Vermont can be a significant barrier for many. For example, tuition at Vermont Technical College is $21,219 for residents and $44,814 for non-residents, with total expenses rising to over $38,000 for in-state students. While scholarships and financial aid can help, many students still face financial strain.
• Limited Program Availability: Vermont has a small number of LPN programs, which may make it challenging for students to find a program close to home. This can lead to additional expenses for commuting or relocating.
• Demanding Licensing Requirements: Obtaining an LPN license in Vermont requires passing the NCLEX-PN exam, submitting various documents, and completing a background check. While these steps ensure high standards in nursing, they can feel overwhelming for some candidates.
• Workload in Rural Settings: Many LPNs in Vermont work in rural or underserved areas. While this offers the chance to make a significant impact, it often comes with high workloads and limited resources, leading to burnout if not managed properly.
• Lack of Fast-Track Options: Although Vermont offers high-quality nursing programs, students looking for accelerated pathways may struggle. Exploring fast track LPN programs online can provide flexible and quicker options. However, these may require travel to other states for clinical components.

Alternative Career Paths and Advanced Opportunities for Vermont LPNs

Vermont LPNs enjoy a diverse range of career opportunities that often lay the groundwork for further advancement within the healthcare field. Many LPNs opt to continue their education to become registered nurses (RNs), unlocking roles with greater responsibilities and remuneration. Transitioning from an LPN to RN generally requires completing an accredited bridge program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and fulfilling additional state licensure requirements. Learning more about the process of advancing further can significantly streamline this transition. Start by understanding exactly how to become a registered nurse in Vermont, which involves structured steps to elevate your qualifications.

Additionally, LPN certification in Vermont can open doors in specialized areas such as geriatric care, pediatric nursing, or palliative care. For LPNs interested in leadership, roles including charge nurse or team leader are achievable with experience and additional certifications. Expanding into education, LPNs can become instructors in vocational or technical nursing schools, depending on their qualifications.

For those considering a broader scope, Vermont LPNs can tap into opportunities in less conventional environments, such as community health programs, correctional facilities, or telehealth roles. These settings provide diverse work experiences while addressing gaps in healthcare access in rural or underserved communities. Continuing education and credentialing remain key for LPNs aspiring to specialize or transition to advanced career paths.

How can Vermont LPNs Advance Their Professional Development?

Vermont LPNs can bolster their clinical expertise by strategically engaging in continuing education programs, specialized certifications, and professional workshops. Actively participating in local and state nursing conferences helps them stay abreast of evolving healthcare practices and technological advancements. Additionally, aligning with nursing associations and mentorship programs offers access to peer reviews and hands-on training opportunities that contribute to enhanced patient care. For further guidance on streamlining career progression, explore our guide on how to become a certified LPN in Vermont.

How can Vermont LPNs Accelerate Their Transition to an RN Role?

Transitioning from an LPN certificate to an RN qualification involves targeted bridge programs that leverage existing clinical skills while incorporating advanced coursework. Many institutions offer accelerated and hybrid models that combine in-person clinical practice with flexible online coursework, ensuring adherence to state licensure standards without compromising hands-on patient care. Prospective candidates should evaluate program accreditation, curriculum intensity, and clinical placement support to identify opportunities that meet their career objectives. For additional insights on expedited pathways, explore how fast can I finish an RN to BSN.

Kick-start Your Career in Healthcare Through LPN Programs in Vermont

Enroll in one of the LPN programs in Vermont Tech and get started on your dream of becoming a nurse. You can work as an LPN and begin earning your own money after a year or two. Then you can step up the professional ladder and advance your career at your own pace.

The opportunities are endless from here. You can advance your education and become an RN, or pursue a graduate degree and specialize. With enough hard work, determination, and dedication, you could even end up being a nurse anesthetist, a nurse midwife, or even a family nurse practitioner (FNP). All you need is to look for the fastest FNP program online or any MSN or doctorate program online or in-person for that matter, and maximize your potential.

Key Insights

• Growing Demand for LPNs in Vermont:
  • The aging population and declining labor force have increased the demand for health professionals, including LPNs.
  • A significant portion of the current LPN workforce is nearing retirement, highlighting the need for new LPNs.
• Educational Pathways:
  • Vermont Technical College (Vermont Tech) is the primary provider of LPN programs in the state.
  • The LPN program at Vermont Tech takes one year to complete and includes both theoretical and clinical training.
• Cost and Financial Aid:
  • Tuition for Vermont Tech’s LPN program is $21,219 for Vermont residents and $44,814 for non-residents.
  • Financial aid options, including scholarships, are available to help offset the cost of the program.
• Licensure Requirements:
  • After completing the LPN program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure.
  • LPNs in Vermont must renew their licenses biennially and complete continuing practice requirements.
• Job Outlook and Opportunities:
  • The job outlook for LPNs in Vermont is positive, with projected growth in employment and numerous job openings due to retirements and career advancements.
  • LPNs can work in various settings, including in-home health environments, residential care facilities, and outpatient care centers.

FAQ

1. How do I become an LPN in Vermont?

To become an LPN in Vermont, you must complete an LPN program, such as the one offered by Vermont Technical College. After obtaining your practical nursing certificate, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). You must also meet other requirements, such as submitting an official transcript from your nursing education program, proof of passing the NCLEX-PN, an application fee, and a CPR Certification Card.

2. What is the typical cost of LPN programs in Vermont?

The cost of LPN programs in Vermont varies. At Vermont Technical College, tuition is $21,219 for Vermont residents and $44,814 for non-residents. Additional fees and room and board can bring the total cost to $38,210 for residents and $61,805 for non-residents. Scholarships and financial aid are available to help reduce these costs.

3. How long does it take to become an LPN in Vermont?

The LPN program at Vermont Technical College takes one year to complete, extending over three terms or semesters from August through June. The program includes 495 hours of theory and 630 hours of clinical/lab experience.

4. Can you become an LPN in Vermont with an online degree?

No, Vermont Technical College does not offer a fully online LPN program. The LPN program includes essential hands-on clinical experience that must be completed in a physical healthcare setting. Some courses may have online components, but the program as a whole is conducted in person.

5. Is Vermont a good state to be an LPN?

Yes, Vermont is a good state to be an LPN. LPNs are highly valued in Vermont’s healthcare system, and the average annual salary for LPNs in Vermont is $57,150, which is higher than the national average. The job outlook is positive, with a projected 10% growth in employment from 2020 to 2030.

6. What are the licensure requirements for LPNs in Vermont?

To be licensed as an LPN in Vermont, you must complete an approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. You must also submit an official transcript, proof of passing the NCLEX-PN, an application fee, and a CPR Certification Card. License renewal is required every two years, with completion of 400 active practice hours over the past two years or 960 hours in the last five years.

7. What can I do with an LPN certificate in Vermont?

With an LPN certificate in Vermont, you can work as a licensed practical nurse in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, in-home health environments, residential care facilities, and outpatient care centers. You can also pursue further education to become a registered nurse (RN) or specialize in advanced nursing roles through bridge programs and higher degrees.

By enrolling in an LPN program in Vermont, you can start your nursing career and contribute to addressing the nursing shortage in the state. With opportunities for career advancement and further education, an LPN certificate can be a stepping stone to a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare.

References:

1. Vermont Area Health Education Center. (2022). Licensed Practical Nurses Working in Vermont 2022. VTAHEC.
2. United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 29-2061 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. BLS.
3. United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6). Occupational Outlook Handbook | Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. BLS.
4. National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.. (2023). Nurse Licensure Compact. NCSBN.