Best LPN Programs in Wyoming 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Wyoming with details on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Wyoming.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Wyoming
Sheridan College-Northern Wyoming Community College District
Sheridan, WY - Public 2-Year - sheridan.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Wyoming Community College District's Certificate in Practical Nursing, offered at Sheridan and Gillette campuses, provides intensive hands-on training through advanced simulation centers and diverse clinical rotations. Students develop essential practical nursing skills for various healthcare settings, with graduates eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam. The program is ACEN-accredited and emphasizes real-world application, supported by scholarship opportunities and partnerships with institutions like the University of Wyoming to enhance educational pathways.
- Hands-on simulation training.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Scholarships available.
- Campus-based program.
- Extensive clinical experience.
- Located in Sheridan and Gillette.
- Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
- High-tech simulation centers.
- Partnership with University of Wyoming.
Northwest College
Powell, WY - Public 4-Year - nwc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), C.S.C.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwest College's Comprehensive Skills Certificate in Practical Nursing in Powell provides a direct 45-credit pathway to LPN licensure. This on-campus program emphasizes extensive hands-on clinical training alongside theoretical coursework, preparing students for immediate entry into healthcare roles. With flexible fall and spring start dates, it requires a high school diploma and focuses on developing comprehensive nursing competencies. The curriculum integrates practical skills with essential medical knowledge, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse patient care settings in Wyoming's healthcare system.
- 45 credit hours required.
- On-campus program format.
- Fall and Spring entry terms.
- Comprehensive Skills Certificate.
- Prepares for practical nursing roles.
- Hands-on experience emphasized.
- High school diploma required.
- Direct path to nursing career.
- Blend of theory and practice.
- Located in Powell, Wyoming.
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY - Public 4-Year - westernwyoming.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Wyoming Community College's hybrid Practical Nursing Certificate program blends online coursework with hands-on labs and clinicals, requiring proximity to campus for in-person sessions. Competitive admission demands a 2.5 GPA, prerequisites in biology, algebra, English, and anatomy, and passing the ATI TEAS exam. Focused on active learning, it prepares students for the NCLEX-PN, enabling swift entry into nursing careers with skills for high-quality patient care.
- Hybrid program format.
- Competitive admission process.
- Requires ATI TEAS exam.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Focus on active learning.
- Combines online and practical sessions.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required.
- Prerequisites include biology and algebra.
- Hands-on lab and clinical experiences.
- Designed for swift nursing field entry.
Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, WY - Public 4-Year - lccc.wy.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate of Completion
Campus Based - Visit Website
Laramie County Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate of Completion is a 48-credit, three-semester program that prepares students for entry-level nursing roles. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, chronic illness management, and clinical practice through courses in human anatomy and physiology. Prerequisites include English, mathematics, anatomy coursework, and a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification. A capstone clinical experience integrates classroom learning with real-world healthcare applications, providing hands-on training. The program is campus-based and focuses on building essential nursing skills without requiring entrance exams like the ACT or SAT, as it is a certificate-level program.
- 48-credit nursing certificate
- CNA certification required
- Three-semester program structure
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Health sciences focus
- Campus-based learning
- Includes anatomy, physiology courses
- Capstone clinical experience
Wyoming LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To enter a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Wyoming, prospective students must meet specific eligibility requirements. Applicants typically need to possess a high school diploma or GED and must pass a background check and drug screening. Some programs may require applicants to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, CPR certification, and basic math or English proficiency testing. An entrance exam such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is commonly used to assess readiness for nursing education. Proof of immunizations, including TB testing, is also required for clinical participation.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Wyoming provide the academic and clinical training needed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and entry-level employment as practical nurses. Curriculum includes instruction in basic nursing care, pharmacology, nutrition, patient care across the lifespan, and medical-surgical nursing. Students also complete supervised clinical practice in healthcare settings. Accreditation from a recognized body, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensures the program meets industry standards. Accreditation is essential for eligibility for the NCLEX-PN and for employers and state boards to recognize the credential. In Wyoming, all practical nursing programs must also be approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
LPN Schools and Classes
Wyoming offers LPN programs through community colleges and technical institutes located throughout the state. These programs blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Students can expect to take courses in human anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, pediatric and maternity nursing, and geriatric care. Training is focused on developing practical skills in patient assessment, wound care, medication administration, and effective communication within the healthcare team.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Wyoming can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including long-term care facilities, home health agencies, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Due to the rural nature of much of the state, LPNs are often in high demand, particularly in underserved areas. The small-town and community-focused settings frequently offer work/life balance opportunities and job stability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for licensed practical nurses is expected to grow steadily, with opportunities expanding as the population continues to age.
LPN Program Length
Wyoming LPN programs generally offer flexible scheduling to accommodate different student needs. Full-time students typically complete the program in about 12 months. Part-time programs may take 18 to 24 months, depending on the pace of coursework and clinical hours. Some schools also provide evening and weekend options for working adults, allowing for extended completion timelines without compromising educational quality. Program length varies slightly by institution and clinical availability.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Wyoming
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Sheridan College-Northern Wyoming Community College District |
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| Northwest College |
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| Western Wyoming Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
The cost of attending an LPN program in Wyoming typically ranges from $7,000 to $21,000, depending on whether the student is in-district, in-state, or out-of-state. These figures usually include tuition and basic fees but do not account for additional expenses such as uniforms, books, licensing exam fees, and clinical supplies. Housing costs will vary by region but can range from $500 to $1,200 per month for student accommodations near college campuses. Additional expenses may include transportation to clinical sites and personal health insurance.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Wyoming
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Western Wyoming Community College |
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| Laramie County Community College |
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| Northwest College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
Wyoming does not allow fully online LPN programs due to the clinical nature of the training required. Practical nursing education includes essential hands-on skills that must be practiced in person under licensed supervision. While some general coursework, such as introductory health sciences or nursing theory, may be offered in a hybrid or online format, the core of LPN education—including clinical rotations—must be completed on-site to meet licensure requirements established by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Wyoming
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wyoming, graduates of state-approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The NCLEX-PN is a national examination administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This test evaluates the entry-level competency of practical nursing candidates and is required for licensure in all U.S. states.
After completing an approved practical nursing program, applicants must submit an application to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing for licensure by examination. Along with the application, candidates must complete fingerprint-based background checks, provide official transcripts from their nursing program, and register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE. Candidates can monitor their application status with the Wyoming Board and are notified about their eligibility to test via email.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Wyoming offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are already licensed in another state. To apply, nurses must have graduated from an approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-PN, and possess an active, unencumbered license in another jurisdiction. Applicants must also submit verification of current licensure, complete a background check, and apply to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
Wyoming is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This agreement allows LPNs with a multistate license in another compact state to practice in Wyoming without obtaining additional licensure. Nurses living in Wyoming and meeting all eligibility criteria can apply for a multistate license, enabling them to work in other participating NLC states without further paperwork.
Licensure Requirements
The Wyoming State Board of Nursing sets the regulations for LPN licensure in the state. Applicants must have graduated from an approved practical nursing program, passed the NCLEX-PN exam, submitted fingerprints for a criminal background check, and provided proof of lawful presence in the United States.
The board also has strict criteria for maintaining an active license, including staying up-to-date with professional standards and complying with continuing competence documentation when requested. All licensure applications, whether by exam or endorsement, are reviewed to ensure the applicant meets all state-mandated standards.
License Renewal
Wyoming LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal cycle ends on December 31 of even-numbered years. To be eligible for renewal, LPNs must meet the state’s continued competence requirements. This includes one of the following within the past five years:
- 500 hours of active nursing practice
- Completion of a nursing refresher course
- Graduation from a nursing education program
- National certification in the LPN’s nursing specialty
LPNs must submit renewal applications and fees online using the Wyoming Nurse Portal. It is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure their contact information is current and to complete the renewal process before the license expiration date to avoid practicing without a valid license.
Wyoming LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wyoming is $61,080, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This modest difference can be attributed to several state-specific factors, including a lower population density which can temper wage competition among healthcare facilities. While Wyoming's aging demographic may increase demand in the long-term care sector, this is balanced by a cost of living that is close to the national average, allowing for wages to remain competitive without exceeding the national benchmark. State regulations and the number of regional hospital systems also play a role in shaping the local salary landscape for LPNs.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Wyoming LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12-18 months
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes
Program Focus:
Core nursing skills and patient care fundamentals.
Average In-State Tuition in Wyoming:
$3,000 - $15,000
Best For:
Students wanting the fastest route to becoming an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges, vocational schools, technical colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes
Program Focus:
Broader education including general education courses alongside nursing curriculum.
Average In-State Tuition in Wyoming:
$6,000 - $20,000
Best For:
Students who plan to eventually become a Registered Nurse (RN).
School Types:
Community colleges, junior colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- You want to enter the workforce as quickly as possible.
- You prefer a program focused solely on essential nursing skills.
- You are looking for a more affordable entry point into nursing.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- You plan to continue your education to become an RN in the future.
- You want a more well-rounded education with general studies.
- You want to maximize your credit transferability for a future BSN degree.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Wyoming
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $51,000 - $63,000 | 9-10 months | NCLEX-PN | 600-650 hours | $8,000 - $11,000 |
| MA | $37,000 - $46,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) | 160-180 hours | $5,500 - $7,000 |
| CNA | $35,000 - $41,000 | 8-12 weeks | Wyoming NNAAP Competency Exam | 30+ hours | $800 - $1,500 |
| DA | $39,000 - $52,000 | 9-10 months | DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) | 300+ hours | $6,000 - $8,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,500 - $47,000 | 9 months | PTCE (CPhT) or ExCPT (CPhT) | 240+ hours | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $32,500 - $43,000 | 3-5 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 100-120 hours | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| OTA | $60,000 - $78,000 | 2 years (AAS degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $10,000 - $13,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Wyoming
Cheyenne, WY
Laramie County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate of Completion
Campus Based - Website
- 48-credit nursing certificate
- CNA certification required
- Three-semester program structure
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Health sciences focus
- Campus-based learning
- Includes anatomy, physiology courses
- Capstone clinical experience
Powell, WY
Northwest College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), C.S.C.
Campus Based - Website
- 45 credit hours required.
- On-campus program format.
- Fall and Spring entry terms.
- Comprehensive Skills Certificate.
- Prepares for practical nursing roles.
- Hands-on experience emphasized.
- High school diploma required.
- Direct path to nursing career.
Rock Springs, WY
Western Wyoming Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Competitive admission process.
- Requires ATI TEAS exam.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Focus on active learning.
- Combines online and practical sessions.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required.
- Prerequisites include biology and algebra.
Sheridan, WY
Sheridan College-Northern Wyoming Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Hands-on simulation training.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Scholarships available.
- Campus-based program.
- Extensive clinical experience.
- Located in Sheridan and Gillette.
- Prepares for diverse nursing roles.