Best LPN Programs in Kansas 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Kansas with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and nursing career opportunities across Kansas.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Kansas
Rasmussen University-Kansas
Topeka, KS - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rasmussen University-Kansas offers a Practical Nursing Diploma program that can be completed in just 12 months, with no prerequisite courses required and eight annual start dates for flexible enrollment. This hybrid program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, totaling 56 credit hours across 15 courses, to thoroughly prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial support is available through the LPN Care Grant, reducing tuition costs. The program is military-friendly and provides career-focused training ideal for those seeking a fast entry into nursing with advancement opportunities.
- 12 months to complete
- No prerequisite courses
- Eight start dates yearly
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- LPN Care Grant available
- 56 credit hours
- 15 courses total
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Career-focused training
Kansas City Kansas Community College
Kansas City, KS - Public 2-Year - kckcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kansas City Kansas Community College's Practical Nursing Program equips students with robust clinical skills for diverse healthcare settings. Emphasizing evidence-based care, the program trains learners in safe, cost-effective interventions and sharpens clinical judgment for real-world challenges. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-PN® exam, supported by high pass and employment rates. Approved by the Kansas State Board, it focuses on client-centered approaches without requiring entrance exams, ensuring accessible entry into the nursing workforce.
- NCLEX-PN® exam preparation
- Client-centered nursing care
- High employment rates
- Kansas State Board approved
- Evidence-based clinical training
Neosho County Community College
Chanute, KS - Public 2-Year - neosho.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Neosho County Community College offers a Practical Nursing Certificate program delivered on-campus in both Chanute and Ottawa locations. This 39-credit hour curriculum spans 1.5 years and thoroughly prepares students for the NCLEX-PN examination and subsequent LPN licensure. Admission requires attendance at an informational session along with standard college application procedures. The program emphasizes patient-centered care through courses in human anatomy and nursing assessment, providing a solid foundation for immediate workforce entry. Graduates have the option to continue their education toward an Associate Degree in Nursing, enhancing career advancement opportunities in the healthcare field.
- 39 credit hours required.
- 1.5 years to completion.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- On-campus program.
- Offered in Chanute and Ottawa.
- Admission requires informational meeting.
- Includes human anatomy courses.
- Focus on patient-centered care.
- Leads to LPN licensure.
- Option to continue to ADN.
Salina Area Technical College
Salina, KS - Public 2-Year - salinatech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Salina Area Technical College's Practical Nursing program delivers an intensive nine-month technical certificate pathway that prepares students for direct entry into healthcare careers. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with advanced simulations and clinical rotations across medical-surgical, gerontology, and mental health nursing disciplines. This comprehensive training equips graduates to confidently pursue NCLEX-PN licensure. With a total program cost of $13,650 and potential entry-level earnings around $37,900, this campus-based program offers an affordable route to nursing roles in diverse healthcare environments without requiring standardized entrance exams.
- Nine-month nursing program
- Program cost $13,650
- Potential salary $37,900
- Campus-based instruction
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Prerequisites required
- Clinical experience included
- Multiple healthcare career paths
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan, KS - Public 2-Year - manhattantech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Manhattan Area Technical College's Practical Nursing program delivers a 46-credit certificate through on-campus lectures and clinical training, aligning with the Kansas Practical Nursing Core Curriculum. It boasts a 96.15% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate and 100% job placement, with graduates earning an average Kansas salary of $55,610. The program costs about $19,060, offers financial aid, and requires a criminal background check. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and approved by the Kansas State Board, it starts in August, preparing students for successful healthcare careers without requiring an entrance exam.
- 46-credit certificate program
- 96.15% NCLEX pass rate
- 100% job placement
- On-campus lecture/clinical training
- Average salary $55,610
- Financial aid available
- Higher Learning Commission accredited
- Kansas State Board approved
- August semester start
- Criminal background check required
Kansas LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Prospective Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) students in Kansas must meet specific eligibility requirements prior to admission into a program. Applicants generally need to have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED), and many programs require a minimum GPA. Some institutions may also ask for scores from entrance exams such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Additional prerequisites may include criminal background checks, up-to-date immunizations, drug screenings, and CPR certification. Certain programs may also require students to complete pre-nursing coursework, such as basic anatomy or medical terminology.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
Kansas LPN programs are designed to prepare students with both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills essential for entry-level nursing practice. Core coursework covers topics such as human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health nursing. Clinical rotations allow students to gain hands-on experience in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.
Accreditation is vital for any LPN program in Kansas. It ensures that the curriculum meets state and national standards for nursing education. Accreditation from bodies like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing is crucial for students who plan to take the NCLEX-PN exam, transfer credits, or pursue advanced nursing education in the future.
LPN Schools and Classes
LPN programs in Kansas are offered through community colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutions across the state. These programs blend classroom instruction with supervised clinical training. The coursework typically includes foundational sciences such as microbiology and nutrition, along with nursing-specific classes like geriatric nursing, pediatric care, and pharmacology. Students are taught critical thinking, patient care techniques, and communication skills necessary for working in medical environments.
Career Outlook
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Kansas remains steady across healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals, physicians’ offices, and home health care agencies. LPNs in Kansas can expect a balanced work schedule that may include full-time shifts, evenings, weekends, or rotating shifts based on the employer. According to data from the Kansas Department of Labor, employment opportunities for LPNs are expected to grow, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. The position offers strong job stability, especially for those willing to work in long-term care or underserved communities.
LPN Program Length
In Kansas, full-time LPN programs typically take around 12 months to complete, including classroom instruction and clinical hours. Part-time options are available and often extend the program duration to 18-24 months, ideal for students balancing education with other obligations. Some schools also offer evening and weekend classes, which can give working adults flexible study options while preparing for licensure.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Kansas
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Rasmussen University-Kansas |
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| Neosho County Community College |
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| Johnson County Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Kansas varies depending on the type and location of the institution. On average, students can expect to pay between $5,000 and $13,000 for the full program. Additional expenses may include textbooks, lab fees, uniforms, equipment, and costs associated with clinical placements. For students requiring housing, Kansas offers relatively affordable living costs, with average student housing expenses ranging from $500 to $900 per month depending on the city and accommodations.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Kansas
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Colby Community College |
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| Barton County Community College |
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| Salina Area Technical College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in Kansas cannot be completed fully online due to the hands-on nature of nursing education. While some theoretical coursework may be available in a hybrid format, all clinical requirements and essential skills labs must be completed in person under faculty supervision. Kansas LPN licensure mandates clinical training in real-world healthcare settings to ensure student competency before taking the NCLEX-PN exam.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Indiana
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Kansas, candidates must successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). After graduating from a state-approved practical nursing program, applicants must submit an application for licensure and examination through the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN). Along with the application, students must provide official transcripts, a fingerprint-based background check, and the required fees. After meeting all application requirements, KSBN will issue Authorization to Test (ATT), which allows candidates to register and schedule their NCLEX-PN exam through nclex.com.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Kansas offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who hold a valid license in another state. Candidates applying for reciprocity must submit an application to the Kansas State Board of Nursing, provide verification of licensure from the original state, evidence of completion of a state-approved LPN program, a criminal background check, and the applicable fees.
Kansas is a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs in Kansas to practice in other compact member states without needing additional licenses. This multistate license is particularly beneficial for nurses who live or work near state borders or who travel for their profession. As of 2024, 41 states participate in the NLC.
Licensure Requirements
The Kansas State Board of Nursing oversees practical nurse licensure in the state. To obtain an initial LPN license in Kansas, applicants must:
- Graduate from a board-approved practical nursing program
- Submit an online application with the required fee
- Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Have official transcripts sent directly from the nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
License Renewal
In Kansas, LPN licenses must be renewed biennially by the last day of the licensee’s birth month in even-numbered years. The Kansas State Board of Nursing requires LPNs to complete 30 contact hours of approved continuing nursing education during each renewal cycle. There are no clinical hour requirements for renewal, but all continuing education must be relevant to the nurse’s practice and provided by an accredited source. Failure to renew by the deadline results in license expiration and may require reapplication or reinstatement procedures.
Kansas LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Kansas is $59,930, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This wage difference is often influenced by regional economic factors, most notably Kansas's lower-than-average cost of living, which typically corresponds with more moderate compensation levels. Other contributing elements include state-specific supply and demand for healthcare workers, driven by population trends and the specific needs of its long-term care and hospital sectors. State regulations and the competitive landscape among local healthcare employers also play a significant role in determining overall pay scales.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Kansas LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Typically 10-12 months of full-time study.
Credential Awarded:
Technical Certificate or Diploma in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Programs are approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) to qualify graduates for the exam.
Program Focus:
A concentrated curriculum on foundational nursing theory, essential patient care skills, and extensive hands-on clinical practice required for an entry-level LPN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Kansas:
Approximately $9,000 - $15,000 for the entire program, including tuition and fees.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to becoming a licensed LPN and entering the workforce.
School Types:
Technical colleges and community colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
This program is not a standard offering in Kansas. LPN education is delivered almost exclusively via certificate/diploma programs.
Credential Awarded:
An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Practical Nursing is extremely rare or non-existent in Kansas. Students pursuing an associate degree in nursing typically enroll in an RN program (ADN).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, if a program were to exist and be KSBN-approved, it would grant eligibility.
Program Focus:
Would combine core LPN coursework with general education classes like English, math, and anatomy, providing a broader academic foundation.
Average In-State Tuition in Kansas:
Not applicable due to the lack of programs. An Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN for RNs) typically costs $12,000 - $20,000.
Best For:
Primarily a theoretical option in Kansas; best for a student aiming for an eventual RN license who wants to build general education credits alongside nursing studies.
School Types:
Community colleges (typically for ADN-RN programs, not LPN associate degrees).
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Speed to Employment: It is the fastest path to licensure and employment, allowing you to start earning an income in about one year.
- Lower Cost: With a shorter duration and fewer required credit hours, the total cost of tuition and fees is significantly lower than a degree program.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates solely on the essential skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work effectively as an LPN, without extra general education requirements.
- Career Entry Point: It serves as an excellent, lower-risk entry into the nursing field, allowing you to confirm your career choice before committing to a longer and more expensive RN program.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Stronger Foundation for Advancement: The general education courses included in an associate degree provide a solid base and are required for advancing to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Easier Credit Transfer: Credits from an associate degree program are more easily transferred to four-year universities for higher education than credits from a technical certificate.
- Higher Earning Potential (as an RN): An associate degree is the standard pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), which comes with a broader scope of practice, more job opportunities, and a higher salary.
- Long-Term Career Planning: This route is better for students who are certain from the start that their ultimate goal is to become an RN or achieve a BSN degree.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Kansas
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $48,000 - $61,000 | 9-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 440-600 hours | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| MA | $36,000 - $45,000 | 8-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) exam | 160-200 hours | $7,000 - $12,000 |
| CNA | $30,000 - $38,000 | 4-8 weeks | Kansas Nurse Aide Test | Minimum 45 hours | $500 - $1,200 |
| DA | $37,000 - $50,000 | 9-12 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam | 200-350 hours | $7,000 - $10,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $36,000 - $47,000 | 8-12 months | PTCB CPhT Exam | 160-320 hours | $5,000 - $8,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $36,000 - $45,000 | 3-6 months | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) exam | 100-120 hours | $2,500 - $4,000 |
| OTA | $58,000 - $77,000 | 2 years (Associate Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours (fieldwork) | $18,000 - $25,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Kansas
Arkansas City, KS
Cowley County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pratt Nursing Partnership Program - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Offers LPN pathway.
- Collaboration with Pratt Community College.
- Located at Winfield Allied Health Center.
- Includes Certified Nursing Assistant certification.
- CPR training provided.
- Pre-requisites available at Cowley College.
- English Composition I required.
Chanute, KS
Neosho County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 39 credit hours required.
- 1.5 years to completion.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- On-campus program.
- Offered in Chanute and Ottawa.
- Admission requires informational meeting.
- Includes human anatomy courses.
- Focus on patient-centered care.
Coffeyville, KS
Coffeyville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- Two-year program duration.
- Requires Certified Nurse Aide certificate.
- Pre-admission exam required.
- Approved by Kansas State Board.
- Pathways to BSN available.
- Admissions January to May.
- Program starts August 2025.
Colby, KS
Colby Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate in Practical Nursing.
- Prepares for LPN licensure.
- Accredited by KSBN and ACEN.
- Financial aid available.
- Criminal background check required.
- Emphasizes caring and critical thinking.
- Supports transition to ADN.
- On-campus program.
Dodge City, KS
Dodge City Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certification
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited program
- Strong clinic orientation
- Financial assistance available
- Campus-based classes
- Clinical experience included
- Eligible for licensure post-completion
- Application period: Sept 1 - Mar 1
- Fall semester start
Great Bend, KS
Barton County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- 45 credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Campus-based program
- Clinical partnerships included
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
- Licensed Practical Nurse career path
Hutchinson, KS
Hutchinson Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- 10-month or 18-month programs
- 97.67% NCLEX-PN pass rate
- Culturally sensitive nursing care
- Multiple program delivery options
- Kansas State Board approved
Kansas City, KS
Kansas City Kansas Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- NCLEX-PN® exam preparation
- Client-centered nursing care
- High employment rates
- Kansas State Board approved
- Evidence-based clinical training
Liberal, KS
Seward County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Campus-based program.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Background check necessary.
- Focus on nursing fundamentals.
- Direct access to instructors.
- Skills for various healthcare settings.
Manhattan, KS
Manhattan Area Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 46-credit certificate program
- 96.15% NCLEX pass rate
- 100% job placement
- On-campus lecture/clinical training
- Average salary $55,610
- Financial aid available
- Higher Learning Commission accredited
- Kansas State Board approved
Overland Park, KS
Johnson County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 9-14 month program length
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Advanced healthcare simulation center
- Multiple program scheduling options
- Kansas Promise Scholarship eligible
- High program completion rates
- Clinical experiences in multiple settings
Salina, KS
Salina Area Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Nine-month nursing program
- Program cost $13,650
- Potential salary $37,900
- Campus-based instruction
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Prerequisites required
- Clinical experience included
- Multiple healthcare career paths
Topeka, KS
Rasmussen University-Kansas
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12 months to complete
- No prerequisite courses
- Eight start dates yearly
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- LPN Care Grant available
- 56 credit hours
- 15 courses total
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 48 Credit Hour Program
- NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation
- Technical Certificate Option
- No Experiential Learning Credit
- Degree Pathway Options
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