Best LPN Programs in Kentucky 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Kentucky with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Kentucky.
Cities in Kentucky That Have LPN Programs
2026 Best LPN Programs in Kentucky
Galen College of Nursing-Louisville
Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Galen College of Nursing-Louisville's Practical/Vocational Nursing program delivers an accelerated 12-month pathway to LPN licensure through immersive on-campus training. Students engage in comprehensive clinical coursework designed specifically for nursing newcomers, with curriculum focused entirely on NCLEX-PN exam preparation. The program offers remarkable flexibility with four annual start dates and both full-time (12 months) and extended part-time (21 months) completion options. Unlike many nursing programs, this pathway requires no prerequisite healthcare experience, making it exceptionally accessible for career changers seeking rapid entry into Kentucky's healthcare workforce.
- 12-month full-time program
- On-campus learning format
- 4 start times per year
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- 21-month part-time option available
- Offered at 8 campus locations
- Engaging clinical coursework
Ashland Community and Technical College
Ashland, KY - Public 2-Year - ashland.kctcs.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ashland Community and Technical College's Practical Nursing Diploma Program offers an accelerated 11-month path to LPN licensure, approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing. Students gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals and long-term care facilities, through a curriculum covering essential nursing skills and patient care. Kentucky residents may qualify for free tuition, and the program supports career advancement with LPN-to-RN transition options, requiring 45-53 credit hours without entrance exams.
- 11-month diploma program
- Kentucky Board of Nursing approved
- 45-53 total credit hours
- Free tuition eligible
- Works in multiple healthcare settings
- LPN to RN transition available
Sullivan University
Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - sullivan.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Visit Website
Sullivan University's 15-month Practical Nursing Diploma in Louisville offers a fast-track path to nursing licensure through immersive hands-on training. Students benefit from small class sizes with personalized instruction, skills labs, and clinical simulations that mirror real healthcare environments. The program includes e-books in tuition, 24/7 tutoring, and provided uniforms, emphasizing NCLEX-PN exam readiness. With experienced faculty guiding clinical rotations in hospitals and long-term care, graduates gain the practical skills needed for diverse healthcare roles, making it ideal for those seeking an efficient, supportive campus-based education.
- 15-month nursing diploma
- On-campus + clinical training
- Small class sizes
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Louisville campus location
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Real-world simulation experiences
- E-books included in tuition
- 24/7 tutoring available
- Uniforms provided
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
Cumberland, KY - Public 2-Year - southeast.kctcs.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College's Licensed Practical Nursing Program is a two-semester campus-based course preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam. It integrates classroom learning with clinical practice, covering patient care and nursing judgment. Admission is selective, requiring a pre-admission conference, ACT or NLN exam, minimum 2.0 GPA, and Nurse Aid proof, with document deadlines by October 1 for spring start. The total cost is approximately $5,291, including tuition, uniforms, and fees, with financial aid options. Accredited by SACSCOC and approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, it emphasizes hands-on training and professional readiness.
- 2-semester completion.
- Eligible for NCLEX PN exam.
- Combines classroom and clinical instruction.
- Selective admissions process.
- Approximate total cost $5,291.
- Requires pre-admission conference.
- Document submission by October 1.
- Background check and drug screen required.
- CPR certification needed.
- Uniforms and supplies approx. $200.
Hazard Community and Technical College
Hazard, KY - Public 2-Year - hazard.kctcs.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hazard Community and Technical College's Practical Nursing program offers a 12-month diploma pathway to LPN licensure, emphasizing hands-on clinical training across diverse healthcare environments. Students develop critical skills in vital signs monitoring, IV initiation, and comprehensive patient care through integrated classroom and practical instruction. The selective admissions process requires a high school diploma or GED, assessment tests, and a pre-admission conference. Notably, Kentucky residents may qualify for tuition-free education, enhancing accessibility. The program includes NCLEX-PN preparation and provides a bridge option for advancing to RN roles, making it a robust entry into nursing careers.
- 12-month LPN diploma program
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Selective admission process
- Potential free tuition
- Bridge program to RN available
- Multiple healthcare settings training
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
Kentucky LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Kentucky, prospective students must hold a high school diploma or GED. Most programs require applicants to pass a pre-entrance exam such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), meet minimum GPA requirements, and submit background checks and drug screens. Some schools may also request letters of recommendation or proof of certain vaccinations as part of the admission process. Students should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria established by both the program and the Kentucky Board of Nursing.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
An LPN program curriculum in Kentucky is designed to integrate classroom learning with hands-on clinical training. Students will study anatomy, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and patient care. Specialized topics may include pediatrics, mental health nursing, and geriatrics. Clinical hours are conducted in healthcare settings such as hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Accreditation is critical when choosing an LPN program. Accredited programs ensure that the education meets state and national standards, which is a vital component for eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and gain employment. In Kentucky, programs must be approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, and many also seek national accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
LPN Schools and Classes
Practical nursing programs in Kentucky are offered at a variety of institutions including community and technical colleges as well as vocational schools. These schools provide accessible training options tailored to different locations and student needs. Curriculum across programs typically includes courses such as Medical-Surgical Nursing, Human Growth and Development, Anatomy and Physiology, and Pharmacology. Clinical instruction allows students to practice in real-world healthcare environments under supervision, developing the competencies required to be licensed and perform effectively as an LPN.
Career Outlook
The demand for LPNs in Kentucky remains strong, especially in long-term care facilities, home health care services, and rural health clinics. According to state employment trends, LPNs enjoy favorable job prospects due to ongoing healthcare needs and a growing elderly population. Work can be found across diverse settings including hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, and rehabilitation centers. Many LPN positions offer stable schedules and balance, though shift work including evenings, nights, and weekends is common in healthcare settings.
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in Kentucky are typically completed in 12 to 18 months for full-time students. Part-time programs are available for students who need flexible scheduling, and these usually extend the completion time to about 18 to 24 months. Several institutions also offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate working professionals or students with family responsibilities, with program lengths varying depending on course load and clinical hour scheduling.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Kentucky
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Maysville Community and Technical College |
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| Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College |
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| Galen College of Nursing-Louisville |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Kentucky generally ranges from approximately $8,000 for in-state public colleges to over $30,000 for out-of-state enrollment or private institutions, depending on the school and program length. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, clinical supplies, licensing exam fees, and transportation to clinical sites. Housing in Kentucky is relatively affordable compared to national averages, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas, but costs can vary significantly by region and lifestyle.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Kentucky
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College |
|
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| Hazard Community and Technical College |
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| Somerset Community College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
In Kentucky, LPN programs cannot be completed entirely online due to the essential hands-on clinical training required for licensure. While some theoretical coursework may be offered in a hybrid format, all students must complete their clinical hours in person at approved healthcare facilities. The Kentucky Board of Nursing mandates these supervised clinical experiences to ensure students gain the practical skills needed to provide safe and competent patient care.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Indiana
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Kentucky, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. The exam measures a candidate’s knowledge and skills necessary to perform safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN. Kentucky nursing program graduates must apply to the Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) for authorization to test and complete a criminal background check prior to scheduling the NCLEX-PN. Exam registration is managed by Pearson VUE, and candidates must register and pay a fee before receiving their Authorization to Test (ATT).
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Kentucky issues LPN licenses by endorsement for nurses licensed in other states. Applicants must submit proof of current licensure, complete a criminal background check, and provide verification of education and licensure. Kentucky is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs from other NLC states to practice in Kentucky without obtaining a separate license. Similarly, a Kentucky-issued multistate license permits LPNs to work in all other compact states without additional licensure.
Licensure Requirements
The Kentucky Board of Nursing oversees practical nursing licensure. To qualify for initial licensure, applicants must:
- Graduate from a Kentucky Board-approved LPN program or a substantially equivalent program out of state
- Pass the NCLEX-PN examination
- Submit a completed application and fee
- Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check
The Board also requires direct submission of transcripts from nursing schools and verification of eligibility for licensure from other jurisdictions if applicable.
License Renewal
Kentucky LPN licenses must be renewed annually by October 31. To maintain licensure, LPNs are required by KBN regulations to complete 14 continuing education (CE) hours each year. Acceptable CE activities must meet Board standards and include content relevant to the licensee’s practice area. In certain cases, such as the first renewal after initial licensure, specific courses like HIV/AIDS education may be required. Additionally, LPNs must maintain documentation of CE completion and are subject to audit by the Board.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Kentucky LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11-15 months.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrates on core nursing theory and essential hands-on clinical skills required for entry-level LPN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Kentucky:
$9,000 - $15,000 at public institutions (KCTCS). Private and for-profit colleges are typically higher.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges (the majority of KCTCS schools) and private vocational/career colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (approximately 24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Includes all LPN clinical training plus required general education courses like English, math, and social sciences for a broader academic base.
Average In-State Tuition in Kentucky:
$11,000 - $16,000 at public institutions (KCTCS), covering the full two-year program.
Best For:
Students who want a college degree and may plan to bridge to a Registered Nurse (RN) program in the future.
School Types:
Primarily offered at community and technical colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry into the Workforce: The significantly shorter program length allows you to start working and earning an income in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: With fewer credit hours required, the total tuition and associated costs are generally lower than for a two-year degree program.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach you exactly what you need to pass the NCLEX-PN and succeed in an entry-level LPN role without extra general education classes.
- Wider Availability: In Kentucky, diploma and certificate LPN programs are more common and offered at more locations than standalone LPN associate degree programs.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Smoother Pathway to RN: The included general education credits are often required for RN programs, making the future transition to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) easier.
- Broader Skill Set: General education courses help develop valuable soft skills in communication, critical thinking, and writing that are beneficial in healthcare settings.
- Earn a College Degree: You graduate with a formal academic degree, which can be a personal goal and may be viewed favorably by some employers.
- Greater Career Flexibility: An associate degree provides a stronger foundation for pursuing further education, potentially opening more doors for long-term career advancement.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Kentucky
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $48,000 - $67,000 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 500-700 hours | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| MA | $31,000 - $48,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) Exam | 160-220 hours | $4,000 - $12,000 |
| CNA | $29,000 - $41,000 | 4-8 weeks | Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Exam | 16+ hours (within a 75-hour minimum total program) | $500 - $1,500 |
| DA | $36,000 - $56,000 | 9-12 months | DANB CDA Exam; State-specific exams for expanded duties | 300-500 hours | $12,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $30,000 - $47,000 | 4-9 months | PTCB CPhT Exam | 120-300 hours | $3,000 - $11,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $30,000 - $49,000 | 2-4 months | CPT (NHA) or PBT (ASCP) Exam | 40-120 hours | $800 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $48,000 - $79,000 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $18,000 - $35,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Kentucky
Ashland, KY
Ashland Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- 11-month diploma program
- Kentucky Board of Nursing approved
- 45-53 total credit hours
- Free tuition eligible
- Works in multiple healthcare settings
- LPN to RN transition available
Bowling Green, KY
Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Nurse - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical practicums.
- Grade 'C' or better required.
- 2.0 cumulative GPA minimum.
- Meets KCTCS digital literacy.
- Focus on patient-centered care.
- Prepares for nursing career.
- Essential nursing skills taught.
Cumberland, KY
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-semester completion.
- Eligible for NCLEX PN exam.
- Combines classroom and clinical instruction.
- Selective admissions process.
- Approximate total cost $5,291.
- Requires pre-admission conference.
- Document submission by October 1.
- Background check and drug screen required.
Elizabethtown, KY
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Nurse - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Requires 'C' or better in courses.
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 needed.
- Includes clinical practicums.
- Covers pharmacology and mental health.
- Focus on medical-surgical nursing.
- Meets KCTCS graduation requirements.
- Digital literacy included.
Florence, KY
Beckfield College-Florence
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month diploma program.
- 97.7% NCLEX pass rate.
- Hands-on training.
- Accredited by NLN.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Entry-level LPN positions.
- Financial aid available.
- Kentucky Board of Nursing approved.
Hazard, KY
Hazard Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month LPN diploma program
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Selective admission process
- Potential free tuition
- Bridge program to RN available
- Multiple healthcare settings training
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
Hopkinsville, KY
Hopkinsville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Practical Nursing Diploma program.
- Focus on real-world nursing skills.
- Approved by Kentucky Board of Nursing.
- Lowest tuition in Kentucky.
- Financial aid options available.
- Requires nurse aide certification.
- Pre-admission exam required.
- Develops essential nursing competencies.
Lexington, KY
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Less than one-year diploma
- Two campus locations available
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Hands-on clinical training
- NCLEX exam preparation
- Total program cost ~$10,300
- Potential free tuition
- ATI TEAS exam required
Louisville, KY
Galen College of Nursing-Louisville
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month full-time program
- On-campus learning format
- 4 start times per year
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- 21-month part-time option available
- Offered at 8 campus locations
- Engaging clinical coursework
Jefferson Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month diploma program
- Hybrid learning format
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Approved by Kentucky Board of Nursing
- Two payments of $1,435.33 total
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Clinical training in healthcare facilities
Sullivan University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month nursing diploma
- On-campus + clinical training
- Small class sizes
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Louisville campus location
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Real-world simulation experiences
- E-books included in tuition
Madisonville, KY
Madisonville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Integrated Nursing - Practical Nursing - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 42-45 credit hours
- CPR certification required
- Hands-on nursing skills
- Flexible prior learning credits
- Focus on patient care
- Includes human anatomy
- Psychology coursework
Maysville, KY
Maysville Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Nurse - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Hands-on clinical practicums
- Focus on nursing skills
- Pharmacology training included
- Requires 'C' or better grades
- 2.0 cumulative GPA needed
- Prepares for healthcare careers
- Comprehensive patient care training
Paducah, KY
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester diploma program
- ACEN accredited nursing program
- Kentucky Board of Nursing approved
- Low tuition cost
- Comprehensive patient care skills
- Prepares for nursing licensure exam
- Multiple healthcare setting opportunities
Prestonsburg, KY
Big Sandy Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Nurse - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Requires 'C' or better grades.
- 2.0 cumulative GPA needed.
- Includes clinical practicum.
- Covers anatomy and pharmacology.
- Focuses on mental health nursing.
- Teaches medical-surgical nursing.
- Meets digital literacy requirement.
Somerset, KY
Somerset Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 11-month full-time program
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Multiple campus locations
- Low tuition costs
- Flexible evening program available
- Clinical training in community agencies
- Potential scholarship opportunities
- Ranked top 10 LPN programs
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