Best LPN Programs in Nebraska 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Nebraska with information on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Nebraska.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska Methodist College
Omaha, NE - Private 4-year - methodistcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nebraska Methodist College offers a one-year hybrid Practical Nursing Certificate that prepares students for entry-level practice through a blend of online coursework, hands-on labs, and clinical training. The curriculum emphasizes critical patient care skills across diverse settings like hospitals and home healthcare, requiring prerequisite courses and including CNA certification. With a median annual salary of $59,730 and strong job growth, this program provides a solid foundation for aspiring LPNs. It features high-fidelity simulation training, NCLEX-PN exam prep, and career advancement opportunities, approved by the State Board of Nursing with a minimum 2.25 GPA requirement and affordable tuition at $250 per credit hour.
- One-year hybrid nursing certificate
- State Board of Nursing approved
- $250 per credit hour
- Minimum 2.25 GPA required
- Clinical experiences included
- High-fidelity simulation training
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Career advancement opportunities
Mid-Plains Community College
North Platte, NE - Public 2-Year - mpcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN) Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mid-Plains Community College's Practical Nursing Program readies students for entry-level LPN roles through a concept-based curriculum that blends theory with extensive clinical practice. Utilizing state-of-the-art simulations, the program offers hands-on experiences in diverse healthcare settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-PN exam. Admission mandates a composite ACT score of 21 or higher, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and completion of specific prerequisites. Accredited by the HLC and approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing, it emphasizes professional development and practical skills, with required orientation and laptop specifications.
- Concept-based curriculum
- State-of-the-art simulations
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam
- ACT score of 21 required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Approved by Nebraska Board
- Accredited by HLC
- Mandatory orientation
- Laptop specifications required
Central Community College
Grand Island, NE - Public 2-Year - cccneb.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Community College's Practical Nursing Diploma provides an accelerated pathway where students can complete the first two semesters and sit for the NCLEX-PN exam before continuing toward an Associate Degree in Nursing. The program emphasizes comprehensive clinical training with over 650 hours across state-of-the-art simulation centers and local healthcare facilities, supported by a low faculty-to-student ratio for individualized learning. With a 90.77% NCLEX-RN pass rate and multiple campus locations, it offers rigorous, hands-on education to launch successful nursing careers through collaborative clinical experiences and tailored support.
- Two-semester NCLEX-PN pathway
- 650+ clinical training hours
- Low faculty-to-student ratio
- State-of-art simulation centers
- 90.77% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Multiple campus locations
- Individualized learning support
- Collaborative clinical experiences
Western Nebraska Community College
Scottsbluff, NE - Public 2-Year - wncc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing (Practical)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Nebraska Community College's Practical Nursing program offers a fast-track two-semester diploma that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and immediate entry into healthcare. Approved by the Nebraska State Board, it combines classroom learning with diverse clinical rotations across multiple healthcare settings, providing hands-on experience. This program is ideal for those seeking a quick start in nursing and serves as a stackable credential for future advanced degrees. Available on three campuses, it emphasizes entry-level career readiness without requiring entrance exams.
- Two-semester nursing diploma
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Available on three campuses
- Nebraska State Board approved
- Multiple clinical rotation opportunities
- Entry-level healthcare career
- Stackable credential option
Southeast Community College Area
Lincoln, NE - Public 2-Year - southeast.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Community College's hybrid Practical Nursing program offers flexible part-time and full-time options at an estimated cost of $10,094. Students develop comprehensive patient care skills across all life stages, from newborns to end-of-life care. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, professional accountability, and effective communication. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-PN exam and can practice in multiple states through the nursing compact. With ACEN accreditation and projected 25% job growth in Nebraska, this program provides diverse career opportunities in various healthcare settings through both in-person and online components.
- Diploma program with flexible scheduling
- $10,094 total estimated cost
- Nebraska Department of Labor projects 25% growth
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Multiple campus locations
- In-person and part-time tracks
- ACEN accredited program
- Career options in diverse settings
Nebraska LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Nebraska, prospective students must meet several prerequisites. Applicants are generally required to have a high school diploma or GED and pass a criminal background check. Many programs also require placement testing through exams like the Accuplacer or ACT. Immunization records, CPR certification, and completion of prerequisite coursework such as anatomy, physiology, and basic math may also be required by some institutions. Meeting these requirements is the first step to ensuring admission into a state-approved LPN program.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
The curriculum of Nebraska LPN programs covers foundational nursing concepts and clinical skills necessary for safe and effective patient care. Students learn pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric care, obstetric nursing, gerontology, and mental health concepts. Clinical rotations across various healthcare settings are a core part of the training, allowing students to gain real-world experience under supervision.
Choosing an accredited program is essential for students planning to apply for licensure and work in Nebraska. Accreditation ensures that the program meets educational standards approved by the state and national accrediting bodies. Graduating from an accredited program is required to be eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam and licensure from the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
LPN Schools and Classes
In Nebraska, LPN programs are commonly offered by community colleges, technical schools, and some universities. These institutions provide practical nursing education through a combination of classroom instruction and supervised clinical training. Core coursework includes nursing fundamentals, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing. Specialized courses often cover maternal-child nursing, mental health nursing, and geriatric care. The programs prepare students to handle a range of patient care responsibilities and function as integral members of healthcare teams.
Career Outlook
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Nebraska remains steady, especially in rural and underserved areas. LPNs typically work in settings such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician offices, home health, and clinics. Many LPNs enjoy a balanced work/life schedule with options for day, evening, and weekend shifts. The Nebraska Department of Labor projects stable employment for LPNs, with opportunities influenced by healthcare needs in aging populations and the expansion of outpatient care services across the state.
LPN Program Length
LPN programs in Nebraska vary in length based on the student’s enrollment status. Full-time students can typically complete their program in about 12 months, whereas part-time students may take 18 to 24 months. Some institutions offer evening and weekend tracks to accommodate working adults, which can extend the program duration slightly. Regardless of schedule, students must complete both classroom and clinical requirements to be eligible for graduation and licensing.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Nebraska
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast Community College |
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| Nebraska Methodist College |
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| Mid-Plains Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Nebraska generally ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on the school and whether the student is classified as in-state or out-of-state. Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, supplies, background checks, immunizations, and licensing exam fees. For students living away from home, housing costs in Nebraska can vary widely but average around $700 to $1,000 per month in most cities. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are often available through schools and state programs to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Nebraska
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Community College Area |
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| Southeast Community College Area |
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| Nebraska Methodist College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
Nebraska LPN programs cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on nature of nursing education. Essential components of the curriculum require in-person attendance, including clinical rotations and lab practice. Although some theoretical coursework may be offered in a hybrid format through online platforms, students must complete all clinical instruction in approved healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed instructors, as mandated by the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Nebraska
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Nebraska, graduates of approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national examination evaluates the competencies needed to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed entry-level LPN. Applicants must first submit an application for licensure by examination to the Nebraska Board of Nursing, along with an official transcript from an approved nursing program and a criminal background check. Once eligibility is approved by the Board, candidates will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) to schedule their NCLEX-PN exam.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Nebraska participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs holding an unencumbered multistate license from another compact state to practice in Nebraska without obtaining additional licensure. For nurses licensed in non-compact states, Nebraska provides licensure by endorsement. Applicants must provide verification of their existing license, completion of an approved nursing program, and proof of having passed the NCLEX-PN. Additional documentation such as proof of citizenship or lawful presence and completion of a criminal background check is required for endorsement applicants.
Licensure Requirements
The Nebraska Board of Nursing, part of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), regulates the licensure of LPNs within the state. To obtain initial LPN licensure by examination, candidates must graduate from a Board-approved practical nursing program, pass the NCLEX-PN, and undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Applicants must also attest to having good moral character and be at least 18 years of age. The Board reviews all application materials to ensure each candidate meets the necessary qualifications before issuing a license.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Nebraska must be renewed biennially, with the renewal deadline falling on October 31 of odd-numbered years. To qualify for renewal, LPNs must complete at least 20 contact hours of continuing education, or meet one of the following practice requirements: a minimum of 500 hours of active practice in nursing in the previous five years, completion of a refresher course, or graduation from a nursing program within the past five years. Renewal applications must be submitted through the DHHS online portal along with the appropriate renewal fee and verification of meeting all educational or practice standards.
Nebraska LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Nebraska is $60,240, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340 for LPNs and LVNs. This wage difference is largely influenced by Nebraska's lower-than-average cost of living, which means a lower nominal salary can offer similar purchasing power. Other factors contributing to this salary level include regional population trends and the specific demand for LPNs within the state's long-term care facilities, which are major employers for this role.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Nebraska LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11-12 months (typically 3 semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated training on core nursing theory and direct, hands-on clinical skills for entry-level patient care under the supervision of an RN or physician.
Average In-State Tuition in Nebraska:
Approximately $6,000 - $8,500 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce as a licensed practical nurse.
School Types:
Community Colleges (e.g., Central, Southeast, Northeast, and Western Nebraska Community Colleges).
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (typically 4-5 semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Most Nebraska associate degree programs are for RN licensure but are structured to allow students to earn a diploma and take the NCLEX-PN after the first year.
Program Focus:
Broader scope that includes all LPN competencies plus general education courses (e.g., English, psychology, sociology) and deeper nursing theory, preparing for the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Nebraska:
Approximately $9,500 - $13,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).
Best For:
Students who plan to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a seamless academic pathway with transferable credits.
School Types:
Community Colleges (e.g., Metropolitan Community College, Mid-Plains Community College).
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry into the Workforce: You can complete the program and be eligible for licensure in about one year, allowing you to start earning an income much sooner.
- Lower Cost: Total tuition and associated fees are significantly lower than for a two-year associate degree, reducing student debt.
- Focused Curriculum: The program avoids general education requirements and concentrates solely on the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed to be a successful LPN.
- Direct Pathway: It is the most efficient and direct educational path to becoming licensed specifically as an LPN.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Foundation for Advancement: Credits, especially general education courses, are designed to transfer directly into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, simplifying future educational goals.
- Seamless Transition to RN: Most programs are structured as the first half of an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN-RN) program, allowing you to continue directly toward becoming an RN without having to re-apply.
- Broader Skill Set: The curriculum includes leadership, advanced critical thinking, and communication courses, which can be valuable for future career growth.
- Greater Flexibility: Earning the LPN license after one year provides a "step-out" option, allowing you to work as an LPN while completing your RN degree.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Nebraska
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $48,000 - $60,000 | 9-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-500 hours | $8,500 - $10,000 |
| MA | $37,000 - $46,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) | 160-200 hours | $7,000 - $9,000 |
| CNA | $31,500 - $41,000 | 3-8 weeks | Nebraska Nurse Aide Competency Exam | Minimum 16 hours | $500 - $1,000 |
| DA | $39,500 - $52,500 | 9-12 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam | 300-400 hours | $7,000 - $9,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,000 - $46,000 | 9-12 months | PTCE (PTCB) or ExCPT (NHA) | 200-300 hours | $6,000 - $8,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $31,500 - $46,000 | 3-6 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 100-120 hours | $2,000 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $59,000 - $74,000 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours | $16,000 - $20,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Nebraska
Grand Island, NE
Central Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-semester NCLEX-PN pathway
- 650+ clinical training hours
- Low faculty-to-student ratio
- State-of-art simulation centers
- 90.77% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Multiple campus locations
- Individualized learning support
- Collaborative clinical experiences
Lincoln, NE
Southeast Community College Area
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Diploma program with flexible scheduling
- $10,094 total estimated cost
- Nebraska Department of Labor projects 25% growth
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Multiple campus locations
- In-person and part-time tracks
- ACEN accredited program
- Career options in diverse settings
Norfolk, NE
Northeast Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Flexible part-time and full-time options.
- State-of-the-art simulation learning.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam after two semesters.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Approved by Nebraska State Board of Nursing.
- Hands-on clinical experience in local settings.
- Customizable study plan.
- Experienced nursing faculty.
North Platte, NE
Mid-Plains Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN) Program
Campus Based - Website
- Concept-based curriculum
- State-of-the-art simulations
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam
- ACT score of 21 required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Approved by Nebraska Board
- Accredited by HLC
Omaha, NE
Metropolitan Community College Area
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Pathway to associate degree.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Financial aid available.
- Accredited by Nebraska Board.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on healthcare skills.
Nebraska Methodist College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- One-year hybrid nursing certificate
- State Board of Nursing approved
- $250 per credit hour
- Minimum 2.25 GPA required
- Clinical experiences included
- High-fidelity simulation training
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Career advancement opportunities
Scottsbluff, NE
Western Nebraska Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing (Practical)
Campus Based - Website
- Two-semester nursing diploma
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Available on three campuses
- Nebraska State Board approved
- Multiple clinical rotation opportunities
- Entry-level healthcare career
- Stackable credential option
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