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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2026 Best LPN Programs in Mississippi

If you're looking to start your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Mississippi, finding the right program is key. At practicalnursing.org, we've carefully reviewed and ranked the best LPN programs across the state to help you make an informed choice. Our rankings highlight schools that offer strong training, good support for students, and solid paths to getting your license. We focus on what matters most to future nurses, like program quality and job readiness. You can trust our list to point you toward programs that set you up for success in healthcare. Learn more about how we create these rankings at 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 delivers a comprehensive education through a structured sequence: one prerequisite semester, two ADN/PN coursework semesters, and a final PN semester. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Mississippi Board of Nursing, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam and state licensure. Admission mandates passing the TEAS entrance exam, a criminal background check, physical exams, immunizations, and substance testing. Costs cover tuition, program fees, uniforms, supplies, and licensure fees, with high NCLEX-PN pass rates ensuring quality outcomes.

State and nationally accredited.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN® licensure.
Includes one semester prerequisites.
Two semesters ADN/PN coursework.
Final semester PN coursework.
Eligible for Mississippi licensure.
TEAS entrance exam required.
Criminal background check required.
Program fees apply.
Uniforms and supplies needed.

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant to LPN

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, the Practical Nursing program offers a three-semester pathway with flexible entry options, including a pre-nursing track or integration into an Associate Degree in Nursing. Focusing on client-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice, it boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate. State and national accreditation underpins a curriculum that develops professional skills for diverse healthcare settings. Total costs range from $2,000 to $3,000, covering fees, exams, and supplies, with no specific concentration noted.

Three-semester nursing program
100% NCLEX-PN pass rate
State and nationally accredited
Client-centered care focus
Flexible entry options
Comprehensive clinical training
Professional skill development
Multiple career pathway options

Show 1 More Programs ˅

Southwest Mississippi Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southwest Mississippi Community College offers a 12-month Practical Nursing certificate program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and LPN licensure in Mississippi. The curriculum integrates biological, physical, behavioral, psychological, and sociological sciences with hands-on nursing procedures, focusing on supervised patient care under registered nurses or physicians. Emphasizing practical skills and professional development, this on-campus program provides comprehensive training for aspiring nurses in a supportive environment, ensuring graduates are ready to deliver general nursing care effectively.

12-month certificate program.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Covers essential nursing sciences.
Eligible for LPN licensure.
On-campus program format.
Focus on practical nursing skills.
Supervised patient care training.
Mississippi Board of Nursing approved.
Graduates can work under RNs.
Emphasizes professional development.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Copiah-Lincoln Community College's one-year Practical Nursing certificate program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam across its Wesson, Natchez, and Simpson County Center locations. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED, a minimum ACT score, and passing the ATI TEAS entrance exam. The curriculum blends scientific foundations with hands-on clinical skills, covering costs like $1,000 for books and $483 for ATI fees, with median graduate loan debt at $6,250. Graduates are equipped for roles as Licensed Practical Nurses, emphasizing safe and effective patient care through comprehensive training.

One-year curriculum.
Offered at three locations.
Eligible for NCLEX exam.
Requires high school diploma.
Minimum ACT score required.
ATI TEAS exam mandatory.
Books cost $1,000.
Student liability insurance $15.
CPR training $30.
Hepatitis B injections $210.

East Central Community College

Decatur, MS - Public 2-Year - eccc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

East Central Community College's Practical Nursing program in Decatur, MS, prepares students for roles under RN supervision with a focus on safe, quality care. The curriculum develops cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills for patient observation and intervention. Accredited by the Mississippi Board of Nursing, it offers fall-only admission; applications open October 1 with a February 1 priority deadline. This campus-based program admits one annual class, providing a direct pathway into nursing without requiring entrance exams.

Fall admission only.
Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.
Applications open October 1.
Priority deadline February 1.
Campus-based program.

Northeast Mississippi Community College

Booneville, MS - Public 2-Year - nemcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northeast Mississippi Community College's Practical Nursing Education program in Booneville offers a campus-based Certificate of Practical Nursing, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam with a solid 84% three-year mean pass rate. The curriculum focuses on essential nursing skills for providing basic care under RN or physician supervision. Admission requires separate applications to the college and PN program, making it a direct path for those entering nursing. Accredited by the Mississippi Board of Nursing, this program emphasizes hands-on training without a specified concentration, ideal for quick career entry.

Campus-based program.
Certificate of Practical Nursing.
Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
Strong NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Admission requires NEMCC application.
Located in Booneville, MS.
Prepares for basic nursing care.
Supervised by registered nurses.
3-year mean pass rate 84%.
Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.

*Postsecondary education statistics from IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Mississippi

In Mississippi, choosing the shortest LPN programs can be a smart move for your career. These programs help you start working faster, which is great if you want to enter the healthcare field without a long wait. With options like certificate, diploma, or associate degrees available by 2026, you can pick what fits your goals. Programs in areas like Jackson or the Gulf Coast offer quick paths to becoming a licensed practical nurse. Look for high graduation and retention rates to ensure you get the support you need. This approach saves time and gets you into a rewarding job sooner.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Practical Nursing Medical Assistant to LPN	Three-semester nursing program 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate State and nationally accredited Client-centered care focus Flexible entry options Comprehensive clinical training Professional skill development Multiple career pathway options	Graduation Rate: 47% Retention Rate: 65% Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Itawamba Community College Practical Nursing	3 semesters program length. Certificate of Completion awarded. Eligible for N-CLEX exam. Minimum ACT score of 16 required. 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Median annual wage $49,050. Employment growth projected at 3%. Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.	Graduation Rate: 45% Retention Rate: 75% Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Jones County Junior College Practical Nursing	Three-semester career certificate NCLEX-PN exam preparation Competitive admission process Multiple campus locations Comprehensive clinical training ACT score minimum 16 TEAS test score 50+ 18 years old minimum	Graduation Rate: 36% Retention Rate: 55% Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Mississippi

Finding affordable LPN programs in Mississippi is important for many students. These programs offer a great way to start a nursing career without high costs. In Mississippi, you can find low-cost options in cities like Jackson, Gulfport, and Tupelo. The tuition range varies, making it easier to pick a program that fits your budget. This helps more people get the education they need for good jobs. Using economical choices can lead to a stable future in healthcare. Look for programs that highlight hands-on training and support services. This makes your path to becoming a licensed practical nurse smoother and more cost-effective.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Copiah-Lincoln Community College Practical Nursing	One-year curriculum. Offered at three locations. Eligible for NCLEX exam. Requires high school diploma. Minimum ACT score required. ATI TEAS exam mandatory. Books cost $1,000. Student liability insurance $15.	$3,200 - $4,800 (Undergrad In-State) $4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Itawamba Community College Practical Nursing	3 semesters program length. Certificate of Completion awarded. Eligible for N-CLEX exam. Minimum ACT score of 16 required. 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Median annual wage $49,050. Employment growth projected at 3%. Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.	$2,700 - $4,100 (Undergrad In-State) $4,700 - $7,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Mississippi Delta Community College Practical Nursing	Three-semester program. Prepares for NCLEX-PN® exam. Certificate awarded upon completion. Eligible for Mississippi licensure. Focus on entry-level nursing practice. Campus-based learning environment. Supervised care training. Meets state educational requirements.	$2,800 - $4,200 (Undergrad In-State) $4,900 - $7,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Citation: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.

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

If you are looking to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Mississippi, you can find many great programs across the state. These schools offer training to help you start your nursing career. Below is a list of schools with their city and state, program highlights, and links to their program pages so you can learn more and apply.

Jump to City:

Booneville, MS

Northeast Mississippi Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Education
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Certificate of Practical Nursing.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Strong NCLEX-PN pass rates.
- Admission requires NEMCC application.
- Located in Booneville, MS.
- Prepares for basic nursing care.
- Supervised by registered nurses.

Decatur, MS

East Central Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- Fall admission only.
- Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.
- Applications open October 1.
- Priority deadline February 1.
- Campus-based program.

Ellisville, MS

Jones County Junior College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester career certificate
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Competitive admission process
- Multiple campus locations
- Comprehensive clinical training
- ACT score minimum 16
- TEAS test score 50+
- 18 years old minimum

Fulton, MS

Itawamba Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3 semesters program length.
- Certificate of Completion awarded.
- Eligible for N-CLEX exam.
- Minimum ACT score of 16 required.
- 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
- Median annual wage $49,050.
- Employment growth projected at 3%.
- Accredited by Mississippi Board of Nursing.

Goodman, MS

Holmes Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- 5 consecutive semester program
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Local clinical experiences
- Face-to-face lab sessions
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Prerequisite course requirements
- Career certificate option

Meridian, MS

Meridian Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN® licensure.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Focus on practical patient care.
- Supportive, dedicated instructors.
- Admission requires ACT or coursework.
- Covers body structure and function.
- Includes nursing fundamentals.

Moorhead, MS

Mississippi Delta Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN® exam.
- Certificate awarded upon completion.
- Eligible for Mississippi licensure.
- Focus on entry-level nursing practice.
- Campus-based learning environment.
- Supervised care training.
- Meets state educational requirements.