Edison State at Eaton Offering New Practical Nursing Certificate Program

To meet regional workforce needs, Edison State Community College will begin offering a Practical Nursing certificate program at its Eaton location. The program will prepare students to provide safe, evidence-based, client-centered care in various settings such as hospitals, long-term care, rehabilitation, and home health settings.

“Becoming a licensed practical nurse opens doors to rewarding opportunities in health care,” said Leah Wells, Director of Associate Degree in Nursing and Practical Nursing Certificate. “LPNs play a vital role in supporting patient care, working closely with registered nurses and contributing to a strong, collaborative health care team—all while gaining hands-on experience and building toward an in-demand career.”

According to Ohio’s Top Jobs list, the current median salary for LPNs in the state is $50,590, with an average of 171 annual job openings. LPNs function under the supervision of a registered nurse, physician, dentist, podiatrist, or optometrist.

The Ohio Board of Nursing granted conditional approval to Edison State’s Practical Nursing certificate program on September 22, 2025. The Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission have also approved the program.

The program is currently accepting applications until December 1, 2025, with the first cohort starting in the spring semester, which begins January 20, 2026. Students can complete the program in two semesters. They will then need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses to become an LPN.

After completing the program and obtaining their licensure, students will be well prepared to enter the workforce or further their education. They can pursue an associate degree in registered nursing followed by a bachelor’s degree in registered nursing at Edison State with the credits they’ve earned applied toward these degree options.

Learn more about the program by visiting www.edisonohio.edu/health. Students must meet with nursing advisor Rhonda Rich before completing the online application. Schedule an appointment by calling 937.778.7850.