Best LPN Programs in Mississippi 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Mississippi with details on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Mississippi.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in Mississippi

Choosing the right LPN program in Mississippi is a big step toward a nursing career. At practicalnursing.org, we rank the best LPN programs across the state to help future nurses make an informed choice. Our rankings focus on key factors like NCLEX pass rates, accreditation, program quality, and affordability. We analyze data to highlight programs that truly set students up for success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance, these top Mississippi LPN schools offer the training and support you need. For a closer look at how we calculate these rankings, visit our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Perkinston, MS - Public 2-Year - mgccc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's Practical Nursing program is an ACEN-accredited, three-semester pathway to LPN licensure. Coursework emphasizes client-centered care, evidence-based practice, safety, informatics, and interprofessional collaboration, blending classroom instruction with clinical experience. Graduates are fully prepared for the NCLEX-PN, and the program reports a 100% first-time pass rate for 2024. Admission requires the TEAS exam and prerequisite coursework, along with a criminal background check, physical exam, and immunizations. Students also pay a $475 skills lab bag fee and licensure exam fees. Career settings include hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Financial aid is available.

ACEN accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
3-Semester program
100% licensure pass rate
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Three-semester program
Skills lab bag fee $475
Criminal background check required

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant to LPN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Medical Assistant to LPN bridge at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers a streamlined route to practical nursing for those with prior MA training. The curriculum starts with one semester of prerequisites followed by three semesters of nursing courses, combining didactic instruction and clinical rotations at the Bryant Center in Biloxi. The ACEN-accredited program covers client-centered care, safety, informatics, and collaboration. Graduates earn a diploma and are eligible for the NCLEX-PN, with the college boasting a 100% pass rate. Applicants must take the TEAS exam and complete a physical, background check, and substance testing each semester. Standardized testing resources cost $800 per semester.

MCCB, MSBON, ACEN accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
3-Semester program
100% licensure pass rate
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Located at Bryant Center in Biloxi
Criminal background check required
Pre-admission physical exam required

Show 1 More Programs ˅

Holmes Community College

Goodman, MS - Public 2-Year - holmescc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Holmes Community College's Practical Nursing hybrid track prepares students for the NCLEX-PN and LPN licensure through a 5-semester curriculum that begins every other fall. Combining online lectures with in-person lab sessions and clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities, the program covers lifespan nursing care including medical-surgical, pediatric, maternal-newborn, and psychiatric nursing. Emphasizing clinical reasoning and hands-on skill development, graduates pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. Eligible students can access financial aid and scholarships, including state aid. The hybrid format offers flexibility while maintaining required in-person clinical experiences.

5-Semester program
Starts fall
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
Lecture online, clinical on campus
Clinical experiences in local facilities
Curriculum covers lifespan nursing care
Includes pediatric, maternal, psychiatric nursing
State aid and scholarships available

Southwest Mississippi Community College

Summit, MS - Public 2-Year - smcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southwest Mississippi Community College's Practical Nursing program is a full-time, three-semester track that awards 48 credit hours and prepares students for entry-level LPN positions. The curriculum integrates biological, physical, behavioral, and psychological sciences with nursing procedures, medication administration, and clinical skills, plus hands-on training in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home health settings. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, professional relationships, and safe patient care. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Accredited by the Mississippi Community College Board and the Mississippi Board of Nursing, the program requires an ACT composite score of 18, a background check, drug screen, and AHA CPR certification. ATI testing, financial aid, and scholarships are available. Apply by June 15, 2026.

Mississippi Community College Board, Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT
3-Semester program
48 total credit hours
Apply by 2026-06-15
Full-time enrollment
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Scholarships available

Itawamba Community College

Fulton, MS - Public 2-Year - iccms.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Itawamba Community College offers a Practical Nursing program leading to a Certificate of Completion and eligibility for the NCLEX-PN. This three-semester, campus-based curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, covering direct patient care, treatments, and medication administration. With a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students benefit from personalized attention. The program is accredited by the Mississippi Board of Nursing and admits new cohorts in both fall and spring. Applicants must complete prerequisite courses and achieve a minimum ACT score of 16 for admission. Graduates enter a field with a median annual wage of $49,050, working in hospitals, nursing homes, and physician offices. Projected job growth remains strong, making this an ideal fast-track option for aspiring LPNs.

Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT
3-Semester program
Complete in one-year (three-semester) program
2 start dates per year
Starts fall/spring
$49,050 median earnings
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX

Copiah-Lincoln Community College

Wesson, MS - Public 2-Year - colin.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Practical Nursing program is a full-time, three-semester career certificate track that equips students for the NCLEX-PN and immediate LPN licensure. The curriculum blends scientific theory with supervised clinical experiences across three campuses—Wesson, Natchez, and Simpson—partnering with regional healthcare facilities. Core coursework emphasizes patient safety, communication, ethical decision-making, and collaborative care. Admission is competitive and requires a minimum ACT score of 16, successful ATI TEAS testing, and a background check. Application deadlines are March 1 and September 1. Financial aid supports eligible students, and graduates are prepared for employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. Ideal for those seeking an accelerated route into practical nursing.

Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT, TEAS
3-Semester program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Career-certificate awarded
Three campus locations available
Application deadlines: March 1 and September 1
Competitive admission based on rubric

*Data extracted from: NCES IPEDS 2025 public dataset.

Mississippi LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

In Mississippi, candidates seeking entry into a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program must meet several prerequisites determined by both state regulations and individual schools. Common requirements include a high school diploma or GED, submission of official transcripts, and passing scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Applicants typically must be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check. Some programs may also require proof of immunizations, CPR certification, and a drug screening as part of the admissions process.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Mississippi focus on providing students with foundational nursing knowledge, combining classroom instruction with clinical experience. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and geriatric nursing, and patient care techniques. Clinical training takes place in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or clinics to ensure hands-on experience.

Accreditation is crucial when selecting an LPN program, as it ensures that the curriculum meets the standards required for licensure and employment. In Mississippi, reputable programs are approved by the Mississippi Board of Nursing and often hold accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Graduating from an accredited program is essential for eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN exam and enhances career opportunities.

LPN Schools and Classes

Throughout Mississippi, LPN programs are offered by community colleges, vocational-technical schools, and some universities. These institutions deliver practical nursing education through a blend of in-person courses and supervised clinical instruction. Coursework generally covers subjects like nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, nutrition, growth and development, mental health nursing, maternal-child health, and clinical practice. Specialized training includes care for diverse populations and nursing ethics. These programs equip students to deliver competent, safe, and ethical care in various healthcare settings.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Mississippi are in steady demand across a range of healthcare environments including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, physician offices, and home health agencies. The need for LPNs is particularly pronounced in rural and underserved areas. According to regional labor trends, the demand for LPNs is expected to grow due to an aging population and healthcare access needs. Many LPNs in Mississippi enjoy a stable work/life balance with opportunities for shift-based schedules. Career advancement is possible through additional certification or transition into Registered Nursing (RN) programs.

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in Mississippi offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate different student needs. Full-time programs typically take 12 to 18 months to complete and involve a combination of day classes and clinical rotations. Part-time and evening/weekend programs are often designed for students with work or family commitments and may extend the completion time to 18 to 24 months. While timeframes vary by institution, all approved programs provide the required clinical hours for state licensure eligibility.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Mississippi

Choosing the quickest path to an LPN career in Mississippi can save time and money. Shorter programs let students start working sooner, which is a big advantage in today's job market. The table below highlights programs that focus on efficiency, offering the shortest routes to certification. These programs often have strong graduation and retention rates, helping students stay on track. Whether located in Jackson, the Gulf Coast, or rural areas, these fast-paced options are designed for those ready to begin nursing quickly. Review the details and find a program that fits your schedule and goals.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Itawamba Community College Practical Nursing	Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program Complete in one-year (three-semester) program 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring $49,050 median earnings	Graduation Rate: 50% Retention Rate: 74% Student to Faculty Ratio: 21 :1
Copiah-Lincoln Community College Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required Exams: ACT, TEAS 3-Semester program Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Career-certificate awarded Three campus locations available Application deadlines: March 1 and September 1	Graduation Rate: 50% Retention Rate: 73% Student to Faculty Ratio: 20 :1
Southwest Mississippi Community College Practical Nursing	Mississippi Community College Board, Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program 48 total credit hours Apply by 2026-06-15 Full-time enrollment Prepares for NCLEX-PN	Graduation Rate: 56% Retention Rate: 69% Student to Faculty Ratio: 21 :1

*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025.

Tuition and Costs

LPN program tuition in Mississippi generally ranges from $4,000 to $12,000 depending on the institution and whether the student is classified as in-state or out-of-state. Additional costs may include uniforms, clinical supplies, textbooks, exam fees, and liability insurance. Many students also need to factor in housing. Mississippi maintains a relatively low cost of living, with student housing costs varying widely, though typically ranging from $600 to over $1,200 per month depending on location and type of accommodation. Institutions may offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to offset educational expenses.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Mississippi

We've compiled a table of three Mississippi schools offering LPN programs at the certificate/diploma and associate degree levels for 2027. The table lists each school, the program offered, program highlights, and the tuition range. Prioritizing an affordable program is crucial. High tuition can create serious financial stress. By focusing on lower-cost options, we help future nurses begin their careers with less debt. This makes it easier to compare choices and find a practical route to becoming an LPN. Knowing the tuition upfront allows everyone to plan effectively. Use this guide to make a smart, budget-friendly decision.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Southwest Mississippi Community College Practical Nursing	Mississippi Community College Board, Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT 3-Semester program 48 total credit hours Apply by 2026-06-15 Full-time enrollment Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$3,300 - $4,900 (Undergrad In-State) $5,400 - $8,100 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Copiah-Lincoln Community College Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required Exams: ACT, TEAS 3-Semester program Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Career-certificate awarded Three campus locations available Application deadlines: March 1 and September 1	$3,400 - $5,000 (Undergrad In-State) $4,200 - $6,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Holmes Community College Practical Nursing	5-Semester program Starts fall Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Scholarships available Lecture online, clinical on campus Clinical experiences in local facilities Curriculum covers lifespan nursing care	$3,000 - $4,500 (Undergrad In-State) $5,300 - $7,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

In Mississippi, LPN programs cannot be completed fully online due to the requirement for hands-on clinical instruction. Practical nursing requires in-person skills development and patient care simulations that meet competency standards set by the Mississippi Board of Nursing. While some theoretical or non-clinical courses may be offered in a hybrid format at select schools, the majority of instruction occurs on campus or at designated clinical sites to ensure proper preparation for real-world nursing responsibilities.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Mississippi

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To obtain licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mississippi, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam evaluates a candidate’s knowledge and readiness to perform safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN. Before taking the NCLEX-PN, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program.

In Mississippi, the Mississippi Board of Nursing oversees the NCLEX-PN application and approval process. Applicants must apply through the Board, provide a transcript from an approved nursing program, and submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. Once these requirements are met, the Board will notify Pearson VUE that the applicant is eligible to schedule and take the NCLEX-PN.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Mississippi offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state LPNs seeking to practice in the state. Nurses must submit verification of their current license, provide proof of passing the NCLEX-PN, complete a background check, and meet Mississippi’s legal and professional standards.

Mississippi is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs with a multistate license to practice in other NLC member states without needing additional licenses. This benefit provides flexibility for nurses who wish to work across state lines, particularly in border areas or through telehealth positions. LPNs must legally reside in Mississippi to hold a multistate license from the state.

Licensure Requirements

The Mississippi Board of Nursing governs the licensing process for all practical nurses in the state. To qualify for licensure, applicants must:

Graduate from a Mississippi Board-approved practical nursing program
Submit a completed licensure application with required fees
Undergo fingerprinting and criminal background screening
Pass the NCLEX-PN examination

A list of approved LPN programs is available on the Mississippi Board of Nursing’s website.

License Renewal

LPN licenses in Mississippi are valid for two years and must be renewed by December 31 of odd-numbered years. Renewal applicants must complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of continuing education related to nursing practice during each renewal cycle. These hours may include in-person courses, online programs, or employer-sponsored education sessions.

The Board may conduct random audits to verify continuing education compliance. LPNs are responsible for maintaining documentation of their completed contact hours for at least two years in case of audit. Failure to renew on time may result in additional fees or license suspension.

Average LPN State Salary in Mississippi

$49,960

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Mississippi LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

12-15 months.

Credential Awarded:

Technical Certificate or Diploma.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. All state-approved programs qualify graduates to take the exam.

Program Focus:

Concentrates on core nursing theory and essential clinical skills required for entry-level LPN practice.

Average In-State Tuition in Mississippi:

$6,000 - $10,000 (excluding books, supplies, and fees).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.

School Types:

Mississippi's community and technical colleges.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

20-24 months (approximately 2 years).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. All state-approved programs qualify graduates to take the exam.

Program Focus:

Includes the full LPN clinical curriculum plus required general education courses like English, math, and sciences.

Average In-State Tuition in Mississippi:

$9,000 - $15,000 (excluding books, supplies, and fees).

Best For:

Students who want a college degree and a stronger academic foundation that may ease future educational advancement.

School Types:

Primarily offered at Mississippi's community colleges.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Faster Workforce Entry: The shorter program length (typically one year) allows you to start working and earning sooner.
Lower Overall Cost: With fewer required credit hours, the total tuition and associated costs are generally lower than for an associate degree.
Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach only the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed for the job and the NCLEX-PN, avoiding extra general education requirements.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Easier Educational Advancement: The general education credits earned are more likely to transfer into a future RN or BSN program, creating a smoother LPN-to-RN bridge pathway.
Stronger Academic Foundation: The degree provides a more well-rounded education, which can enhance critical thinking and communication skills valued by employers.
Potential for Broader Financial Aid: Degree-seeking status can sometimes open up eligibility for a wider range of scholarships and federal financial aid options.
Potential Employer Preference: Some healthcare facilities may prefer candidates with a formal degree, viewing it as a sign of higher academic achievement and commitment.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Mississippi

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$45,860 - $50,290	12-15 months	NCLEX-PN	500+ hours	$8,000 - $12,000
MA	$30,220 - $36,990	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-200 hours	$4,000 - $6,000
CNA	$27,340 - $31,520	4-8 weeks	National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam	16+ hours	$800 - $1,500
DA	$37,130 - $46,280	10-12 months	DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam	300-450 hours	$4,500 - $6,500
Pharm Tech	$30,680 - $41,270	9-12 months	PTCE or ExCPT	240-300 hours	$4,000 - $5,500
Phlebotomist	$30,190 - $38,200	8-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-120 hours	$1,200 - $2,000
OTA	$56,710 - $67,590	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours	$14,000 - $18,000

List of LPN Programs in Mississippi

Looking for LPN programs in Mississippi? This table breaks down schools by city and state, with program highlights and direct links to each program's page. We've gathered the details to help compare options quickly. Whether starting fresh or advancing a nursing career, these LPN programs across Mississippi offer a clear path. Check the table to find schools near you, see what makes each program stand out, and follow the links for full information.

Jump to City:

Booneville, MS

Northeast Mississippi Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Education
Campus Based - Website
- Starts spring/fall
- 84% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Night program: 3 evenings + Saturdays
- Certificate of Practical Nursing awarded
- Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing
- Option to transfer from ADN program
- Located in Wright Hall on Booneville campus

Decatur, MS

East Central Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- One class per fall
- Priority deadline February 1
- Applications available October 1

Ellisville, MS

Jones County Junior College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Mississippi Community College Board accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in Three Semesters - Full Time
- Apply by 2026-04-01
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Fulton, MS

Itawamba Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in one-year (three-semester) program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- $49,050 median earnings

Goodman, MS

Holmes Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Lecture online, clinical on campus
- Clinical experiences in local facilities
- Curriculum covers lifespan nursing care

Meridian, MS

Meridian Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, Mississippi Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 98% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate

Moorhead, MS

Mississippi Delta Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prepares for entry-level nursing practice
- Meets Mississippi Board of Nursing requirements
- Certificate awarded upon completion
- Eligible to take NCLEX-PN exam