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.
Cities in Oklahoma That Have LPN Programs
2026 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 delivers 1,415 hours of intensive training, preparing adults for the NCLEX-PN exam with a perfect 100% placement rate. Students gain hands-on clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings, supported by an ACEN-accredited curriculum covering anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care. Financial aid and VA assistance are available, with graduates earning competitive salaries from $40,490 to $71,650 annually in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
- 1,415 total class hours
- 100% positive placement rate
- NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
- Clinical rotations included
- VA assistance available
- Adult students only
- Full-time program
- Advanced simulation lab
- Multiple healthcare settings training
- ACEN accredited program
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing 1+1 (LPN 1+1)
Campus Based - Visit Website
This 10-month LPN 1+1 program at Moore Norman Technology Center equips adult learners with comprehensive clinical skills through 1,415 class hours, including rotations in multiple healthcare environments. ACEN-accredited and focused on NCLEX-PN preparation, it boasts an 83% on-time completion rate and 100% positive job placement. Full-time daytime scheduling, VA assistance eligibility, and financial aid options support students in securing roles with competitive wages ranging from $40,490 to $71,650.
- 10-month adult program
- 1,415 total class hours
- ACEN accredited program
- Clinical rotations included
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- 100% positive placement rate
- VA assistance eligible
- Full-time daytime schedule
- Competitive wage potential
Certificate/Diploma - PN Select
Campus Based - Visit Website
PN Select at Moore Norman Technology Center offers high school seniors a direct path to LPN licensure via 1,415 hours of campus-based training. The ACEN-accredited program emphasizes practical skills like medication administration and patient care through clinical rotations and simulation labs, preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam. With a high on-time completion rate and 100% placement, graduates can pursue immediate employment, advanced certifications, or further nursing education, supported by financial aid and scholarships.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Open to high school seniors.
- 1415 total class hours.
- Focus on practical nursing skills.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships for eligible students.
- Prepares for immediate employment.
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 equips students for LPN certification through flexible 15-month daytime or 18-month evening schedules. Emphasizing hands-on clinical training in advanced simulation labs, the curriculum builds critical thinking and confidence while preparing graduates for high-demand healthcare roles. This campus-based program focuses on developing competent patient care skills without requiring entrance exams, making it accessible for aspiring nurses.
- 15-month, all-day program.
- 18-month, evening program.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Prepares for LPN certification.
- Focus on critical thinking skills.
- Increases student confidence.
- Opportunities for self-reflection.
- Simulation counts toward certification.
- High demand for graduates.
Gordon Cooper Technology Center
Shawnee, OK - Public 2-Year - gctech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon Cooper Technology Center in Shawnee provides an intensive 11-month Licensed Practical Nursing program designed for rapid career entry. Students complete 1343 hours of instruction through classroom theory, lab training, and clinical practice, preparing thoroughly for the NCLEX licensure exam. The curriculum requires prerequisites in Medical Terminology, Long Term Care certification, and CPR certification. With books and uniforms included in program fees, this campus-based option offers a cost-effective pathway for high school graduates or GED holders seeking weekday classes from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., plus some evening clinical hours.
- 11-month program length
- 1343 hours of instruction
- Campus-based learning
- Includes books and uniforms
- NCLEX licensure exam prep
- 9th grade level requirements
- High school or GED needed
- Medical Terminology prerequisite
- Long Term Care certification required
- CPR certification prerequisite
Meridian Technology Center
Stillwater, OK - Public 2-Year - meridiantech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Meridian Technology Center's 12-month Practical Nursing program in Stillwater provides comprehensive training for aspiring LPNs through campus-based instruction and clinical rotations. Students develop essential skills in diverse healthcare environments during flexible evening hours. The curriculum includes prerequisites in Medical Math, Anatomy & Physiology, and Medical Terminology, leading to strong NCLEX-PN exam preparation with high pass rates. Accredited by ACEN, this program emphasizes hands-on experience and offers financial aid options, resulting in excellent job placement outcomes for graduates entering the nursing field.
- 12-month program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Flexible evening hours.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Strong job placement outcomes.
- Prerequisites required.
- Financial aid available.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee
Muskogee, OK - Public 2-Year - ictech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee's Practical Nursing program provides comprehensive training for adult students seeking entry into nursing. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking and communication skills essential for quality patient care. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in settings like nursing homes, hospitals, and home health. With multiple campus locations across Oklahoma, the program offers flexibility and accessibility. Admission is competitive with specific deadlines, and financial aid is available for eligible students, making it a strong option for those pursuing practical nursing careers. No entrance exam is mentioned for this program.
- Adult students only.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Develops critical thinking skills.
- Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Competitive admission process.
- Financial aid available.
- Rigorous curriculum.
- Effective communication training.
- Quality patient care focus.
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.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Oklahoma
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Moore Norman Technology Center |
|
|
| Metro Technology Centers |
|
|
| Gordon Cooper Technology Center |
|
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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.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Oklahoma
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee |
| - |
| Moore Norman Technology Center |
| - |
| Metro Technology Centers |
| - |
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-PNÂ 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
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
- Comprehensive 1,540-hour program.
- Hands-on clinical experience included.
- Covers medical-surgical, pediatric nursing.
- Focus on pharmacology, mental health.
- Adult-only program.
- Entry-level salary $12-$27/hour.
- Requires scrubs for class.
Muskogee, OK
Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Adult students only.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Develops critical thinking skills.
- Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Competitive admission process.
- Financial aid available.
- Rigorous curriculum.
Norman, OK
Moore Norman Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - PN Select
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Open to high school seniors.
- 1415 total class hours.
- Focus on practical nursing skills.
- Financial aid available.
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- 1,415 total class hours
- 100% positive placement rate
- NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
- Clinical rotations included
- VA assistance available
- Adult students only
- Full-time program
- Advanced simulation lab
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing 1+1 (LPN 1+1)
Campus Based - Website
- 10-month adult program
- 1,415 total class hours
- ACEN accredited program
- Clinical rotations included
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- 100% positive placement rate
- VA assistance eligible
- Full-time daytime schedule
Oklahoma City, OK
Metro Technology Centers
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure.
- Offers day and evening cohorts.
- 11 to 12 months program length.
- Focuses on safe, quality nursing care.
- Emphasizes ethical nursing behaviors.
- Financial aid available.
- VA educational benefits for eligible students.
- Prepares for immediate employment.
Shawnee, OK
Gordon Cooper Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 11-month program length
- 1343 hours of instruction
- Campus-based learning
- Includes books and uniforms
- NCLEX licensure exam prep
- 9th grade level requirements
- High school or GED needed
- Medical Terminology prerequisite
Stillwater, OK
Meridian Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Flexible evening hours.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Strong job placement outcomes.
- Prerequisites required.
- Financial aid available.
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa Technology Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month, all-day program.
- 18-month, evening program.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Prepares for LPN certification.
- Focus on critical thinking skills.
- Increases student confidence.
- Opportunities for self-reflection.
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