Best LPN Programs in Oklahoma 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Oklahoma with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Oklahoma.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Oklahoma
Moore Norman Technology Center
Norman, OK - Public 2-Year - mntc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Moore Norman Technology Center's Practical Nursing (LPN) program is an ACEN-accredited, full-time campus program for adult learners. The curriculum includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pediatric and maternal-newborn nursing, medical-surgical nursing, and mental health, with a strong emphasis on medication administration, phlebotomy, and infection control. Students train in an advanced simulation lab and gain real-world experience through clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-PN and Oklahoma licensure, and the program reports a 96% job placement rate and an 89% on-time completion rate. Financial aid, scholarships, military benefits, and prior learning assessment credit are available. The program also offers articulation into associate degree nursing programs.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Oklahoma Board of Nursing accredited
- Apply by 2026-04-03
- 96% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Clinical rotations at local facilities
- Advanced simulation lab
- Medication administration and phlebotomy
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing 1+1 (LPN 1+1)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Moore Norman Technology Center's Practical Nursing 1+1 (LPN) program is a full-time, campus-based track designed to launch nursing careers in just 10 months. Students complete 1,415 class hours covering foundational nursing concepts, anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and maternal-newborn care, alongside clinical rotations at local hospitals and clinics. The ACEN-accredited program boasts a 100% positive placement rate, and graduates can sit for the NCLEX-PN and articulate directly into associate degree nursing programs. Admission requires prerequisite coursework in Medical Terminology and an entrance exam (Accuplacer, SAT, or ACT). Financial aid and military benefits are available, with classes starting in the fall. Apply by June 1, 2026, to secure your spot.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: SAT, ACT
- 10-Month program
- 14 total courses
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Starts fall
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Certificate/Diploma - PN Select
Campus Based - Visit Website
Designed exclusively for high school seniors, Moore Norman Technology Center's PN Select program offers a direct pathway to LPN licensure. This ACEN-accredited, campus-based program combines classroom instruction in anatomy, pharmacology, pediatric and maternal-newborn nursing, medical-surgical nursing, and mental health with hands-on training in an advanced simulation lab and clinical rotations at local facilities. With 1,450 class hours on a Monday-Friday schedule, the program achieves a 100% on-time completion rate and a 100% positive placement rate. Graduates are ready for the NCLEX-PN and can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. Prior learning assessment credit, direct articulation to ADN programs, and financial aid options are available. Apply by February 3, 2025.
- ACEN accredited
- Apply by 2025-02-03
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- High school seniors only
- 100% on-time completion rate
Tulsa Technology Center
Tulsa, OK - Public 2-Year - tulsatech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Tulsa Technology Center's Practical Nursing program offers a streamlined path to LPN licensure in 15–18 months. The curriculum blends nursing theory, patient assessment, and technical procedures with extensive clinical practice. Students train in state-of-the-art simulation labs, gaining hands-on experience in a controlled environment before working with real patients. Both daytime and evening schedules accommodate working adults. With small class sizes and dedicated instructors, students receive personalized guidance throughout the program. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. As Oklahoma faces a growing demand for LPNs, this program positions graduates for immediate employment.
- 15-month or 18-month program
- Prepares for LPN certification
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
Gordon Cooper Technology Center
Shawnee, OK - Public 2-Year - gctech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon Cooper Technology Center's Licensed Practical Nursing track is an intensive 11-month, three-semester curriculum blending classroom theory, simulated lab practice, and clinical rotations. Students master nursing skills, medical terminology, and patient care techniques while training in real healthcare settings. Approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, the program specifically prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, with preparation embedded throughout. Applicants must complete Medical Terminology, hold current CNA certification, and possess CPR credentials before enrollment. Classes run Monday through Friday, supplementing with variable clinical hours. Program fees cover books and uniforms, and eligible students can access financial aid via FAFSA. Graduates typically pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
- Oklahoma Board of Nursing accredited
- 11-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Includes classroom and clinical practice
- Three semesters long
- NCLEX preparation included
- Financial aid available via FAFSA
- Books and uniforms included
- Pre-requisites include CNA certification
Canadian Valley Technology Center
El Reno, OK - Public 2-Year - cvtech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Canadian Valley Technology Center's Practical Nursing program, based at the Cowan Campus, offers a comprehensive 1,540-clock-hour curriculum for adult learners. Coursework spans nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal/newborn care, mental health nursing, and pharmacology. Students gain clinical experience in medical-surgical, maternal/newborn, pediatric, and mental health rotations, building real-world competence. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN and pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Admission requires minimum Accuplacer scores of 250 in reading and arithmetic. Financial aid, including the Next Step Scholarship, is available. Scrubs are mandatory for class. Entry-level salaries range from $12 to $27 per hour, reflecting strong career potential.
- Entrance exam required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Adult-only program
- Minimum Accuplacer scores: 250 each
- Scrubs required for class
- Cowan Campus location
- 1540 total clock hours
- Entry-level salary $12-$27/hr
Meridian Technology Center
Stillwater, OK - Public 2-Year - meridiantech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Meridian Technology Center offers a 12-month, adult-only Practical Nursing pathway culminating in LPN licensure. The ACEN-accredited curriculum combines classroom theory, high-fidelity simulation with manikins, and clinical rotations across hospitals, long-term care, and home health settings. Coursework spans anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn, and pediatric care. Students must pass the HESI entrance exam and complete prerequisites prior to admission. The program features evening classes, a cohort-based structure, and tuition totaling $4,600. With an 84.38% completion rate, an 80% NCLEX-PN pass rate, and 89.5% job placement in 2024, graduates are well-prepared for entry-level nursing roles.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $4,600 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 80% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Adult-only learning environment
Oklahoma LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Oklahoma, students must meet specific prerequisites. The typical requirements include holding a high school diploma or GED equivalent, being at least 18 years old, and passing a background check and drug screening. Many programs also require applicants to take an entrance exam such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Certain schools may additionally request immunization records and proof of CPR certification. English language proficiency is also a critical requirement for non-native speakers. Additional admission criteria may vary by institution, so applicants should contact their prospective schools directly for specific guidelines.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Oklahoma provide students with a combination of classroom theory, laboratory instruction, and clinical practice. The curriculum covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, geriatric care, maternal and child nursing, and mental health nursing. This comprehensive training equips students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to deliver patient care under the direction of registered nurses or physicians.
Accreditation is vital because it ensures the program meets the educational standards set by national and state regulatory agencies. In Oklahoma, LPN programs must be approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to qualify for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam and for future employment or educational advancements.
LPN Schools and Classes
Oklahoma offers LPN programs through a network of career technology centers, community colleges, and private educational institutions. These schools serve a wide demographic across urban and rural areas of the state. Programs integrate foundational nursing classes with hands-on clinical rotations to provide real-world experience.
Common coursework in Oklahoma LPN programs includes fundamentals of nursing, human growth and development, medical terminology, pharmacology, nutrition, and health assessment. Specialized courses may address topics such as pediatric nursing, gerontology, and mental health care. Clinical rotations typically take place in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health environments.
Career Outlook
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Oklahoma remains steady due to the state’s aging population and the continued need for long-term care services. LPNs in Oklahoma work in hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, assisted living centers, and home health settings. Many positions offer stable hours, although overnight and weekend shifts are common in 24-hour care facilities.
According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, LPN positions are projected to experience moderate growth. The career offers opportunities for advancement with additional education, and many LPNs eventually pursue Registered Nurse (RN) licensure. With strong job stability and a range of care specialties, Oklahoma remains a supportive environment for nursing professionals.
LPN Program Length
In Oklahoma, full-time LPN programs generally take about 12 months to complete. Part-time programs are an option for students balancing other commitments and typically take 18 to 24 months. Some institutions also offer evening and weekend tracks designed for working adults, which may extend program duration similarly to part-time schedules. Program length varies depending on curriculum pacing and clinical hour requirements, but all must fulfill state-mandated training hours for licensure eligibility.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Oklahoma
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Moore Norman Technology Center |
|
|
| Gordon Cooper Technology Center |
|
|
| Meridian Technology Center |
|
|
Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Oklahoma varies based on institution type and residency status. In-state students at public career tech centers or community colleges can expect to pay tuition ranging from approximately $3,000 to $12,000. Private institutions may charge between $10,000 and $20,000. Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, background checks, immunizations, and licensing exam fees.
Housing costs in Oklahoma are comparatively low, with student housing or off-campus rentals averaging $600 to $900 per month in most areas. Commuter students should also budget for transportation and meal expenses during clinical rotations and class time.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Oklahoma
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Gordon Cooper Technology Center |
| - |
| Moore Norman Technology Center |
| - |
| Canadian Valley Technology Center |
| - |
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
Oklahoma does not allow students to complete LPN programs entirely online. While some theoretical coursework may be offered in an online format through select schools, practical nursing requires extensive hands-on training and in-person clinical experience. These components are essential for developing the competencies required for patient care and for meeting state educational requirements for licensure. All programs must adhere to the standards set by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, which mandate in-person clinical instruction under supervised environments.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Oklahoma
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Oklahoma, graduates of state-approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The Oklahoma Board of Nursing requires applicants to submit an application for licensure by examination, along with official transcripts and proof of completion of an approved program. Testing eligibility is granted once all documentation is reviewed and accepted. Candidates must register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE and pay the required testing fee.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Oklahoma offers licensure by endorsement for practical nurses who are already licensed in another state. To apply for licensure via reciprocity, applicants must provide proof of a current and active LPN license, verification of licensure from the original state, and completion of an approved nursing education program. Applicants must also complete the Oklahoma Board of Nursing application process and submit fingerprints for a background check.
Oklahoma is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs holding multistate licenses in other NLC member states to practice in Oklahoma without obtaining additional licenses. This enables qualified nurses to offer care seamlessly across participating states, provided they maintain licensure in their primary state of residence.
Licensure Requirements
The Oklahoma Board of Nursing regulates the licensure process for LPNs in the state. Applicants must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and meet criminal background requirements, submit official transcripts directly from the nursing program, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. All applicants must submit an application via the Oklahoma Board of Nursing’s online licensing system and complete fingerprinting for a national background check
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Oklahoma must be renewed every two years. According to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, LPNs are required to demonstrate continued competence to renew their licenses. Options include completion of at least one of the following in the previous two years: 520 hours of nursing practice, 24 contact hours of continuing education, completion of a Board-approved refresher course, or current certification in a nursing specialty. The renewal period opens several months prior to expiration, and renewal must be completed via the Board’s online portal.
Oklahoma LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) salary in Oklahoma, at $55,270, is notably lower than the national average of $62,340. This wage difference is largely influenced by Oklahoma's lower cost of living index, which generally results in more modest compensation across all professions. Other state-specific factors, including regional demand for long-term care, population trends, and the financial landscape of local hospital systems, also contribute to the variance from the national salary figure.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Oklahoma LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
10-15 months.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated on core clinical skills and fundamental nursing theory required for immediate entry-level practice as an LPN.
Average In-State Tuition in Oklahoma:
$6,000 - $12,000 (for the entire program, including books and fees).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to becoming a licensed LPN and entering the workforce.
School Types:
Oklahoma CareerTech (Vo-Tech) centers.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Approximately 2 years (including prerequisite courses).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Combines core LPN nursing education with required general education courses (e.g., English, math, anatomy), providing a broader academic foundation.
Average In-State Tuition in Oklahoma:
$10,000 - $18,000 (for the entire degree, including prerequisites and fees).
Best For:
Students who plan to eventually bridge to a Registered Nurse (RN) program and want a formal degree credential.
School Types:
Community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Completion: It is the quickest path to employment, allowing you to start earning a salary in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: Total program tuition and fees are typically less expensive than a two-year associate degree program.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates entirely on the nursing skills and knowledge needed for the job, with no general education requirements.
- Direct Entry: It is a highly streamlined path designed specifically for one goal: becoming a licensed practical nurse.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Easier Transition to RN: The included general education credits are often required for LPN-to-RN bridge programs, making the future transition much smoother.
- Broader Education: General education courses enhance critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, which are valuable in healthcare settings.
- Enhanced Career Options: Some employers may prefer or give hiring preference to LPNs with a formal academic degree for certain roles.
- Greater Credential Portability: An associate degree is a widely recognized academic credential that holds more weight outside of the nursing field than a certificate.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Oklahoma
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $43,000 - $62,000 | 12-15 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-700 hours | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| MA | $29,000 - $47,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) | 160-200 hours | $7,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $25,000 - $38,000 | 3-8 weeks | State Competency Exam | 16 hours minimum | $500 - $1,500 |
| DA | $32,000 - $55,000 | 9-12 months | DANB exams for state permit for expanded functions | 200-300 hours | $8,000 - $16,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $30,000 - $47,000 | 4-12 months | PTCE (PTCB) or ExCPT (NHA) | 120-240 hours | $4,000 - $12,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $29,500 - $47,000 | 1-4 months | Not required for practice; CPT (NHA) or PBT (ASCP) are common | 40-120 hours | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $48,000 - $80,000 | ~2 years (Associate's degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | ~640 hours (16 weeks minimum) | $15,000 - $25,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Oklahoma
El Reno, OK
Canadian Valley Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Adult-only program
- Minimum Accuplacer scores: 250 each
- Scrubs required for class
- Cowan Campus location
Norman, OK
Moore Norman Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - PN Select
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Apply by 2025-02-03
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Oklahoma Board of Nursing accredited
- Apply by 2026-04-03
- 96% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Clinical rotations at local facilities
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing 1+1 (LPN 1+1)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: SAT, ACT
- 10-Month program
- 14 total courses
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Starts fall
- 100% job placement rate
Shawnee, OK
Gordon Cooper Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Oklahoma Board of Nursing accredited
- 11-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Includes classroom and clinical practice
- Three semesters long
- NCLEX preparation included
- Financial aid available via FAFSA
Stillwater, OK
Meridian Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $4,600 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 80% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month or 18-month program
- Prepares for LPN certification
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
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