Thomas Reed, RN
June 4, 2025
LPNs function as essential medical personnel in Mississippi because they serve rural regions that face limited healthcare accessibility. LPNs serve as nursing professionals who deliver crucial patient care while receiving supervision from Registered Nurses and physicians. Their responsibilities often include monitoring patient health, administering medication, and supporting daily living activities. The state of Mississippi faces ongoing LPN staffing challenges because its population ages while multiple healthcare provider shortages persist throughout different regions.
Summit, MS - Public 2-Year - smcc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing program at Southwest Mississippi Community College equips students with the essential skills and knowledge for a rewarding career in nursing. This 12-month certificate program covers biological, physical, behavioral, psychological, and sociological sciences, alongside nursing procedures. Graduates are prepared to provide general nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses, physicians, or dentists. Upon completion, students are eligible to apply for licensure through the Mississippi Board of Nursing and take the NCLEX-PN exam. The program emphasizes practical skills, patient care, and professional development, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses seeking a comprehensive education in a supportive environment.
Wesson, MS - Public 2-Year - colin.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Copiah-Lincoln Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for safe, effective nursing care. Available at Wesson, Natchez, and Simpson County Center locations, the program combines scientific foundations with practical skills. Graduates receive a certificate and are eligible to take the NCLEX for Practical Nurses. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED, a minimum ACT score, and passing the ATI TEAS exam. Costs include books, supplies, and various fees, with median loan debt for graduates at $6,250. This program prepares students for roles as Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses.
Decatur, MS - Public 2-Year - eccc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
East Central Community College in Decatur, MS, offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program designed for those aiming to enter the nursing profession. This program prepares students to work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed healthcare providers, focusing on safe, quality nursing practice. With a curriculum that includes cognitive, psychomotor, and affective behaviors, students learn to observe, report, and intervene in patient care. The program admits one class annually in the fall, with applications available from October 1. Accredited by the Mississippi Board of Nursing, it's a stepping stone for aspiring nurses.
Poplarville, MS - Public 2-Year - prcc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pearl River Community College offers a Practical Nursing certificate program designed to prepare students for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This program, available at multiple campuses, spans 12 to 18 months, depending on enrollment status. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. The curriculum focuses on safe, effective health care under professional supervision. Admission requirements and program fees are detailed on the college's website, providing a clear pathway for prospective students. This program is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Perkinston, MS - Public 2-Year - mgccc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College prepares students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) through a comprehensive curriculum. This program requires one semester of prerequisites and two semesters of ADN/PN coursework, followed by a final semester of PN coursework. Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure from the Mississippi Board of Nursing and take the NCLEX-PN® exam. The program is state and nationally accredited, ensuring a high-quality education. Costs include tuition, program fees, and additional expenses for exams, uniforms, and supplies. Admission requires passing the TEAS entrance exam and a criminal background check.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's Practical Nursing (PN) program provides a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in just three semesters. Students can enter through a pre-nursing track or as part of an Associate Degree in Nursing, with flexible options to complete the program. The curriculum focuses on client-centered care, emphasizing safety, evidence-based practice, and professional skills. Total program costs range from $2,000-$3,000, including fees, exams, and supplies. Graduates achieve a 100% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate and are prepared for diverse healthcare settings.
Some Mississippi schools have implemented hybrid programs that provide additional scheduling options for nursing education despite the need for clinical practice. A fully online LPN program does not exist because clinical requirements need students to be present in person. Students who enroll in hybrid programs can access online coursework and attend on-campus lab sessions and clinical rotations to better organize their schedules. The hybrid learning options work well for students who need to balance work responsibilities or family duties. The extended duration of certain programs with evening and weekend sessions allows students who cannot attend day classes to find a suitable learning path.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College |
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| Itawamba Community College |
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| Concorde Career College-Southaven |
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| Certifying Board | Mississippi Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from an MSBN-approved practical nursing program with official transcript and program verification |
| Application & Fees | $60 application fee, $75 criminal background check fee, $200 NCLEX exam fee, online application requires SSN and electronic payment |
| Temporary Permit | $25 permit fee once transcript is reviewed, permit issued within 3 business days for new graduates |
| Processing Time | Authorization to Test in ~1–2 weeks, licensure issued within 4–6 weeks after passing the exam |
| License Renewal & Continuing Education | Biennial renewal every odd-numbered year (Sept. 1–Dec. 31, expires Dec. 31) with a $100 fee, LPNs out-of-practice >5 years must complete 20 contact hours, late renewals carry additional fees |
| Licensure by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs apply online with the $60 application fee, $75 CBC, verification of current unrestricted license, official transcript, and proof of Mississippi residency. |
The state of Mississippi maintains a stable employment market for LPNs while offering wages that align well with the local cost of living. The demand for skilled nursing staff remains high because of population aging and expanded healthcare service availability. The state of Mississippi allows new LPN graduates to find employment positions right after obtaining their licenses. The profession provides both stability and career advancement possibilities which makes it an attractive career option. LPNs provide essential patient care and attention throughout both urban hospital settings and rural clinic environments.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Mississippi | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $51,221 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $24.89 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$57,243 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $51,221 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$46,172 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | 10% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~5,950 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Copiah-Lincoln Community College |
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| Itawamba Community College |
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| Southwest Mississippi Community College |
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LPNs in Mississippi possess various career progression possibilities through additional education combined with specialization. The most typical path for LPN advancement involves entering an LPN-to-RN bridge program that uses prior nursing education to grant RN licensure. The programs grant advanced standing and credit for previous academic work which leads to shorter completion times for associate or bachelor’s nursing degrees. Many educational institutions provide flexible learning options through a combination of online and classroom studies and weekend classes for students who need to balance work and education.
Additional Nursing Programs in Mississippi
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