Best LPN Programs in Missouri 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Missouri with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Missouri.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton
Fenton, MO - Private 4-year - slchc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton offers a Practical Nursing diploma program designed to equip students with the clinical and theoretical knowledge needed for entry-level LPN roles. Spanning four semesters plus prerequisites, the curriculum covers anatomy and physiology, nursing fundamentals, geriatric care, mental health, and pediatric nursing. Students complete two nursing practicums alongside 377.5 additional outside clock hours, gaining substantial hands-on experience. The program is currently available exclusively at the County Campus. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, opening career pathways in hospitals, nursing homes, physicians' offices, and outpatient clinics.
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Career settings: hospitals, nursing homes, clinics
- Eligible to sit for NCLEX-PN exam
- Additional outside clock hours: 377.5
- Available at County Campus only
- Includes nursing practicum courses
Hannibal-LaGrange University
Hannibal, MO - Private 4-year - hlg.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hannibal-LaGrange University offers a Missouri State Board of Nursing-approved Practical Nursing certificate that can be completed in just 12 months. Rooted in its Southern Baptist heritage, the program equips students with hands-on clinical training alongside classroom instruction, covering patient assessment, medication administration, care planning, and essential communication skills. Small faculty-to-student ratios mean students receive individualized guidance throughout their training. Graduates are well-positioned for employment across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. Financial aid is available for eligible applicants, making this career-focused program an accessible pathway into the healthcare workforce.
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- 12-Month program
- Financial aid available
- Low faculty-to-student ratio
- Employment in long-term care, hospitals, clinics
- Personalized attention
St. Charles Community College
Cottleville, MO - Public 2-Year - stchas.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Charles Community College offers a 46-credit Practical Nursing Certificate that delivers a streamlined pathway to LPN licensure, based at the Dardenne Creek Campus. The curriculum integrates patient-centered care, clinical judgment, safety, and health informatics alongside hands-on clinical rotations with respected regional partners including BJC and SSM Health. Recent cohorts have achieved an impressive 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate and 100% job placement rate (2023), reflecting the program's career-ready focus. Admission requirements include a HESI A2 exam with minimum 70% scores in key sections, a 2.7 GPA, and prerequisite science coursework. With both fall and spring enrollment options, this state board-approved certificate also serves as a foundation for future ADN advancement.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $25 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Crowder College
Neosho, MO - Public 2-Year - crowder.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse (LPN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Crowder College's Practical Nurse certificate program is a 52-credit, two-semester hybrid offering delivered at both the Nevada and McDonald County Instructional Centers. Designed without college-level prerequisites, the program opens doors for a wide range of applicants seeking entry into healthcare. Curriculum covers foundational nursing skills, patient care, and clinical competencies under the guidance of experienced faculty. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-PN and are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. A built-in bridge pathway to RN programs supports continued advancement. Accredited by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, with financial aid available and one fall start date annually.
- Missouri State Board of Nursing, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 52 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- $58,900 median earnings
- Financial aid available
- Bridge to RN programs
- Individualized instruction
- Hands-on training
Concorde Career College-Kansas City
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - concorde.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Concorde Career College-Kansas City's Practical Nursing Diploma Program is a 66-credit, Missouri Board of Nursing-approved pathway to LPN licensure. Designed for flexibility, students can complete the program in as few as 13 months through a full-time schedule or opt for part-time evening and weekend classes. The hybrid curriculum blends classroom learning with 188 hands-on lab hours and 695 clinical hours across real healthcare environments. Core coursework spans anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and mental health care, culminating in integrated NCLEX-PN exam preparation. Graduates are equipped to deliver direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health settings under RN supervision. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- 13-Month program
- 66 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 695 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 188 lab hours of hands-on training
- NCLEX-PN review included
Missouri LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission into a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Missouri, prospective students must hold a high school diploma or GED. Most programs require an applicant to be at least 17 years old and submit proof of immunizations and a negative tuberculosis test. Additional prerequisites may include passing an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), a background check, and a drug screening. Some schools may require interviews, letters of reference, or prior healthcare experience as part of the admissions process.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Missouri are designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge required for entry-level practical nursing roles. Core curriculum includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child nursing, and clinical rotations in real healthcare environments. Instruction also covers communication skills, legal and ethical responsibilities, and care across various patient populations.
Accreditation is critical because it ensures the program meets state and national standards of nursing education. In Missouri, LPN programs must be approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Accreditation confirms eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is required to become a licensed LPN in the state.
LPN Schools and Classes
Missouri offers a variety of LPN programs at community colleges, career and technical centers, and vocational schools. Many of these institutions provide hands-on education supported by experienced nursing faculty and local clinical site partnerships. Students can expect to enroll in both general education and healthcare-specific coursework. Classes typically include human biology, nursing skills, adult health, mental health nursing, and IV therapy. Clinical experiences are embedded throughout the program and offer practical skills development in local hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics.
Career Outlook
The career outlook for licensed practical nurses in Missouri remains strong due to the state’s aging population and healthcare needs in both urban and rural areas. LPNs can find employment in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, home healthcare services, physician offices, and outpatient clinics. Work/life balance can vary by setting, with some roles offering flexible schedules including nights and weekends. According to projections from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, healthcare support occupations, including LPNs, will see steady growth in demand through 2030.
LPN Program Length
Most full-time LPN programs in Missouri can be completed in approximately 11 to 12 months. Part-time programs, often designed for working adults, may extend to 18 to 24 months. Evening and weekend formats are also available at several schools, offering schedule flexibility with a similar extended duration. Completion times vary by institution, course load, and clinical availability.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Missouri
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| State Technical College of Missouri |
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| Ozarks Technical Community College |
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| Hannibal-LaGrange University |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Missouri generally ranges from $6,000 to $15,000 depending on the school, residency status, and program length. Additional expenses include textbooks, lab supplies, uniforms, liability insurance, certification exam fees, and clinical equipment. Students attending school away from home should also budget for housing, which averages $500 to $900 per month depending on the city and living arrangements. Financial aid and scholarship options are available at many institutions.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Missouri
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ozarks Technical Community College |
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| Crowder College |
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| Three Rivers College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN classes in Missouri cannot be completed fully online due to the required hands-on clinical training and lab components mandated by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. While some theoretical courses may be offered in a hybrid format, students must complete in-person clinical hours to meet licensing and educational standards. Direct patient care experience is essential in developing competency in practical nursing.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Missouri
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Missouri, graduates from a state-approved practical nursing program must pass the NCLEX-PN examination. This national licensing exam evaluates a candidate’s competency to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed, entry-level LPN. The Missouri Board of Nursing requires applicants to submit an online application, fingerprints for a criminal background check, and official transcripts directly from the nursing program before they can register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE.
The Missouri State Board of Nursing provides examination instructions and resources, including procedures for both first-time and repeat test-takers. State-specific guidance can be found on the Missouri State Board of Nursing website.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Missouri offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are licensed in another U.S. state or jurisdiction. Applicants must hold a current active license that is in good standing, complete an endorsement application, submit verification of licensure, fingerprinting, and a criminal background check. Additionally, applicants must meet a recent practice requirement by demonstrating 500 hours of nursing practice in the preceding 24 months, completing a nursing program within the last 24 months, or completing a board-approved refresher course.
Missouri is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs with multistate licenses to practice in other compact states without needing to obtain additional licenses. This benefits nurses looking to practice across state borders or move between states included in the agreement. LPNs whose primary state of residence is Missouri can apply for a multistate license through the Missouri Board.
Licensure Requirements
The Missouri State Board of Nursing regulates the licensure process for LPNs. To qualify for initial licensure, applicants must:
- Graduate from a Missouri Board-approved practical nursing program or a program in another state that meets Missouri’s standards
- Submit an application for licensure along with the required fee
- Complete criminal background check and fingerprinting
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
Internationally educated applicants must have their credentials evaluated by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and may need to complete additional requirements.
License Renewal
In Missouri, LPN licenses expire on May 31 of each odd-numbered year. The Missouri Board of Nursing does not require continuing education hours for renewal. However, licensees must submit a completed renewal application and pay the corresponding fee before the expiration date to maintain an active license status.
It is the responsibility of the LPN to ensure their contact information is current with the Board to receive timely renewal notifications. Failure to renew on time can result in a lapsed license, requiring reinstatement procedures.
Missouri LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Missouri is $58,900, which falls below the national average of $62,340. This wage difference is often influenced by Missouri's lower overall cost of living, a factor that generally correlates with more moderate salary levels across all professions. State-specific labor market dynamics, such as the demand for LPNs within the long-term care sector versus acute hospital settings and regional healthcare funding, also contribute to the variance from the national salary benchmark.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Missouri LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Typically 11-12 months.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate of Completion or Diploma in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the exam.
Program Focus:
Intensive, hands-on clinical skills and foundational nursing knowledge required for direct patient care.
Average In-State Tuition in Missouri:
Approximately $10,000 - $18,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges, technical colleges, and vocational/career centers.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Typically 18-24 months (2 academic years).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the exam.
Program Focus:
Combines the core LPN clinical curriculum with required general education courses like English, math, and sciences.
Average In-State Tuition in Missouri:
Approximately $15,000 - $25,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Students who plan to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in the future.
School Types:
Primarily community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Speed to Employment: It is the fastest path to becoming a licensed nurse, allowing you to enter the workforce in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: With fewer credit hours, the total program tuition and associated fees are generally lower than an associate degree.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates exclusively on the nursing skills and knowledge needed for the LPN role, avoiding general education requirements.
- High Accessibility: These programs are widely available at numerous technical schools and community colleges across Missouri.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Smoother Transition to RN: The included general education credits are often designed to transfer directly into an LPN-to-RN bridge program, saving time and money later.
- Stronger Academic Foundation: Provides a broader educational base, which can improve critical thinking and communication skills valued by employers.
- Enhanced Career Mobility: The degree credential can be more attractive to employers and may open doors to LPN roles with greater responsibility or leadership potential.
- Broader Financial Aid Options: As a formal degree program, it may qualify for a wider range of scholarships and federal financial aid opportunities compared to some shorter certificate programs.
đź“š LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Missouri
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $47,700 - $62,100 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 500+ hours | $10,000 - $25,000 |
| MA | $34,900 - $46,600 | 8-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) | 160-220 hours | $8,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $31,500 - $38,100 | 4-12 weeks | State-approved two-part competency exam (written/skills) | 100 hours | $500 - $1,500 |
| DA | $37,800 - $52,000 | 9-11 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) for national certification | 250-400 hours | $12,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $32,400 - $41,400 | 6-12 months | PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) | 120-200 hours | $3,000 - $11,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $34,500 - $46,300 | 4-16 weeks | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) | 40-120 hours | $800 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $59,300 - $78,700 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $20,000 - $45,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Missouri
Bridgeton, MO
Saint Louis Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- $6,000 total program tuition
- $127 per credit
- 2-Semester program
- Complete in In just two semesters
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Patient simulation labs replicate hospital
Cottleville, MO
St. Charles Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Fenton, MO
St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Career settings: hospitals, nursing homes, clinics
- Eligible to sit for NCLEX-PN exam
- Additional outside clock hours: 377.5
- Available at County Campus only
- Includes nursing practicum courses
Hannibal, MO
Hannibal-LaGrange University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- 12-Month program
- Financial aid available
- Low faculty-to-student ratio
- Employment in long-term care, hospitals, clinics
- Personalized attention
Houston, MO
Texas County Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program
- One-year program length
- 47 weeks total duration
- No prerequisites required
- On-campus program format
- IV certification included
- 432 clinical hours
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility
Kansas City, MO
Concorde Career College-Kansas City
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- 13-Month program
- 66 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 695 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- $126 per credit
- Complete in less than one year
- Apply by 2026-03-31
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Faster than average job growth projected
- Median annual salary of $59,030 in Missouri
Linn, MO
State Technical College of Missouri
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Technology
Campus Based - Website
- 11-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- 11-month program with clinical rotations
- Hands-on training in our lab
- Clinical sites in Jefferson City area
- Small classroom settings
- Pathway to Associate Degree in Nursing
- Approved by Missouri State Board of Nursing
Moberly, MO
Moberly Area Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- Offered at three campuses
- Intravenous therapy content and certification
- Candidate for ACEN accreditation
Neosho, MO
Crowder College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse (LPN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 52 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- $58,900 median earnings
- Financial aid available
- Bridge to RN programs
Park Hills, MO
Mineral Area College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Semester program
- $0 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Fast-track option for ADN bridge
Poplar Bluff, MO
Three Rivers College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 99% licensure pass rate
- 94% job placement rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
Sedalia, MO
State Fair Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Professional Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in Year One
- 55 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- $0 application fee
Springfield, MO
Ozarks Technical Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing—Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- 49 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- 100% employment or education rate
- Average salary $51,000
Trenton, MO
North Central Missouri College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Career: practical nurse
Union, MO
East Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Missouri State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- Apply by 2026-05-01
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- On average, an LPN will start with an annual salary of $35,000-$65,000
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
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