LPN Programs in Maryland: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
Maryland LPN programs offer a strong pathway into nursing in a state with robust healthcare demand driven by proximity to Washington, D.C., and major medical institutions like Johns Hopkins. With approximately 11,690 LPNs employed and a median salary of $58,780, Maryland provides competitive compensation — especially in the D.C. suburbs where salaries exceed $62,000. LPN schools in Maryland include well-established community college programs spread across the state, from Baltimore to the Eastern Shore. The Maryland Board of Nursing oversees all practical nursing licensure. Whether you’re looking for LPN classes in Maryland near the Baltimore metro or in more rural areas like Western Maryland, accredited options are available across the state.
LPN Salary in Maryland
The median annual salary for LPNs in Maryland is $58,780, which is $950 below the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 11,690 LPNs, with projected job growth of 5% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in Maryland
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Bethesda | $63,000 |
| Silver Spring | $62,100 |
| Columbia | $60,500 |
| Baltimore | $59,200 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LPN in Maryland
To practice as an LPN in Maryland, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Here's the process:
Complete prerequisites
High school diploma or GED, CPR/BLS certification, passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, background check, and current immunizations.
Enroll in an approved LPN program
Choose a program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing. Maryland LPN programs include clinical rotations at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and community health centers, with a minimum of 400 supervised clinical hours.
Complete coursework and clinical rotations
Programs cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical rotations take place at hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across Maryland.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the Maryland Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LPN license.
Apply for Maryland licensure
Submit your license application through the Maryland Board of Nursing. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many Maryland employers hire pending license verification.
Top LPN Programs in Maryland
The following accredited programs are among the most established LPN schools in Maryland:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community College of Baltimore County | Baltimore | 12 months | In-person |
| Anne Arundel Community College | Arnold | 12 months | In-person |
| Allegany College of Maryland | Cumberland | 11 months | In-person |
| Hagerstown Community College | Hagerstown | 12 months | In-person |
| Chesapeake College | Wye Mills | 12 months | In-person |
Program details are subject to change. Verify current offerings directly with each school.
Browse LPN programs in all 50 states
Career Pathways for Maryland LPNs
Your LPN license in Maryland opens several advancement routes:
MA to LPN
Already a medical assistant? Bridge programs can fast-track your LPN in 6–12 months.
CNA to LPN
CNAs can earn advanced standing and complete LPN programs faster.
LPN to RN
Advance to Registered Nurse and boost your salary to $86K+ median.
LPN to BSN
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing for the widest career options.
Exploring options in nearby states? Check out LPN programs in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Programs in Maryland
How much do LPNs make in Maryland?
The median LPN salary in Maryland is $58,780 per year. The highest-paying areas are the D.C. suburbs — Bethesda ($63,000) and Silver Spring ($62,100) — where demand from both hospitals and government healthcare facilities drives up pay.
How long does it take to become an LPN in Maryland?
Maryland LPN programs take 11 to 12 months to complete. After graduating, you must pass the NCLEX-PN and apply for licensure through the Maryland Board of Nursing. The entire process from enrollment to licensure typically takes 13 to 16 months.
What are the best LPN programs in Maryland?
Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is the largest LPN program in the state with strong NCLEX pass rates. Anne Arundel Community College near Annapolis and Allegany College of Maryland in Cumberland are also well-regarded. All are approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
Does Maryland have online LPN programs?
Maryland does not currently offer fully online LPN programs. All approved programs require in-person attendance for lab work and clinical rotations. Some programs may offer select didactic courses in an online or hybrid format, but the majority of instruction is on-campus.
What does the Maryland Board of Nursing require for LPN licensure?
The Maryland Board of Nursing requires completion of an approved practical nursing program, a passing NCLEX-PN score, a criminal background check and fingerprinting, and a completed application with fees. Maryland participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing compact-licensed LPNs to practice across member states.
Find LPN Programs in Maryland
Compare accredited LPN programs near you. Search by location, schedule, and cost to find the right fit.
Last updated: 2026-03-03. Salary data: BLS May 2024 OES, SOC 29-2061.