Olivia Chen, NP
June 2, 2025
The healthcare industry in Kentucky is dependent on the support of LPNs in patient-care roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. LPNs check patients’ vital signs, administer medicine, and help patients recover. Kentucky relies heavily on LPNs for access to care in health professional shortage areas, due to inadequacy of available service in rural areas. The practical training combined with direct patient interaction makes LPNs vital for maintaining community health throughout the state.
Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Galen College of Nursing's Practical/Vocational Nursing program offers an accelerated pathway to kickstart your nursing career in just 12 months. Designed for those new to nursing, this on-campus program provides comprehensive training to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN). Students receive engaging clinical coursework and practice-based training, preparing them to take the NCLEX-PN® exam upon completion. With four start times annually and flexible full-time (12 months) or part-time (21 months) options, this program provides a quick and accessible route into the healthcare profession.
Ashland, KY - Public 2-Year - ashland.kctcs.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ashland Community and Technical College's Practical Nursing Diploma Program provides a fast-track pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in just 11 months. This comprehensive program equips students with essential nursing skills for diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, the program emphasizes practical nursing techniques, patient care, and health maintenance. Prospective students can benefit from potential free tuition for Kentucky residents and opportunities for further educational advancement through LPN to RN transition programs.
Cumberland, KY - Public 2-Year - southeast.kctcs.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College offers a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This program, completed in just two semesters, equips students with the necessary skills to excel as an LPN, including patient care, nursing judgment, and professional development. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX PN exam. The program features a comprehensive curriculum combining classroom and clinical instruction. Admission requires a selective process, including a pre-admission conference and submission of specific documents by October 1 for spring enrollment. Costs are transparent, with an approximate total of $5,291 for the entire program, covering tuition, uniforms, and other essentials.
Bowling Green, KY - Public 2-Year - southcentral.kctcs.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nursing - Practical Nurse - Diploma program at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing. This campus-based program focuses on essential nursing skills, patient care, and the healthcare system. Students will gain hands-on experience through clinical practicums, learning to provide high-quality care in various settings. The program requires a grade of 'C' or better in each course and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Graduates meet the KCTCS digital literacy requirement, equipping them with the skills needed for today's healthcare environment. This diploma opens doors to numerous opportunities in the nursing field, emphasizing practical skills and patient-centered care.
Hazard, KY - Public 2-Year - hazard.kctcs.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing program at Hazard Community and Technical College provides a comprehensive 12-month pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Students gain essential medical skills, learning to perform critical tasks like checking vital signs, starting IV fluids, and patient care. The program offers classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences across various healthcare settings. With a selective admissions process, students must meet specific requirements, including high school diploma or GED, assessment tests, and pre-admission conference. Tuition is potentially free for Kentucky residents, making this an accessible and affordable healthcare career training opportunity.
The clinical requirements of LPN programs make fully online programs impossible to obtain. The programs combine online theory-based courses with in-person laboratory and clinical requirements. The programs offer evening and weekend tracks specifically for working adults. Students can pursue flexible educational paths that accommodate their responsibilities yet must complete their clinical hours in person.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Maysville Community and Technical College |
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| Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College |
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| Galen College of Nursing-Louisville |
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| Certifying Board | Kentucky Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a KBN-approved practical nursing program with official transcripts |
| Application & Fees | $125 application fee, $200 NCLEX exam fee, $54 IdentoGO background check, provisional license valid for six months pending exam |
| Jurisprudence Exam | Must pass the KBN Jurisprudence Exam with a minimum score of 80% |
| Processing Time | Authorization to Test issued in about 1–2 weeks, permanent license typically issued within 4–6 weeks after passing NCLEX |
| Renewal & CE | Annual renewal September 15–October 31 with a $65 fee, complete required CE courses by October 31, no grace period |
| Endorsement | $165 endorsement application fee, verification of current unrestricted LPN license, background check, Jurisprudence Exam, and official transcripts if educated out of state |
The average yearly compensation for LPNs in Kentucky reaches approximately $47,000 although salaries differ according to work experience and geographic location. The state of Kentucky provides LPNs with stable employment opportunities throughout its regions although urban areas tend to pay slightly more. The healthcare industry in Kentucky maintains a consistent requirement for practical nurses which establishes LPN as a secure and sought-after profession in the state’s expanding healthcare sector.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Kentucky | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $54,046 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $26.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$60,401 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | ~$54,046 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$48,720 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~6.7% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~850 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College |
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| Hazard Community and Technical College |
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| Somerset Community College |
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LPNs in Kentucky have multiple career advancement options available to them. LPNs who want to advance their careers typically enroll in LPN-to-RN bridge programs to obtain additional credentials which enable them to practice in more areas. Some nurses choose to specialize in IV therapy, geriatric care, or wound management. LPNs who pursue additional education and work experience can transition into leadership positions and eventually earn bachelor’s or advanced nursing degrees to build their careers for the long term.
Additional Nursing Programs in Kentucky
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