Jake Flannigan, NP
June 4, 2025
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) functions as a vital healthcare provider who delivers basic medical care under the direction of both physicians and Registered Nurses. The state of Missouri heavily relies on LPNs throughout its healthcare system particularly because these professionals serve as primary care providers in rural and underserved areas. Through medication administration and daily care assistance LPNs provide patients with prompt compassionate medical attention. The increasing number of elderly people combined with rising home-based care requirements in Missouri demonstrates why LPNs play an essential role.
Hannibal, MO - Private 4-year - hlg.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hannibal-LaGrange University in Missouri offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This 12-month certificate program provides personalized education with a low faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring individualized attention. Graduates are ready to work in various settings, including long-term care facilities, hospitals, and clinics, under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. Financial aid is available for eligible students, making this program accessible to many. The application process is straightforward, inviting prospective students to start their journey toward becoming licensed practical nurses.
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - concorde.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Unlock a rewarding healthcare career with Concorde's Practical Nursing Diploma Program. In just 13-20 months, aspiring nurses can gain comprehensive skills to provide compassionate patient care across diverse settings. The program combines rigorous classroom learning with extensive clinical experience, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Students learn foundational nursing skills, patient care techniques, and critical healthcare communication strategies. With flexible full-time and part-time options, the program accommodates various schedules. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for qualifying students, making this an accessible pathway to a fulfilling nursing profession.
Fenton, MO - Private 4-year - slchc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing Diploma at St. Louis College of Health Careers in Fenton, MO, equips students with essential skills for patient care across various settings. The program covers vital signs, injections, dressings, and daily living assistance, preparing graduates for the NCLEX exam. With a curriculum spanning four semesters, students gain hands-on experience in labs and practicums. Admission requires meeting academic standards, with financial aid options available. Graduates find opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies, making it a solid step towards a rewarding healthcare career.
Moberly, MO - Public 2-Year - macc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Moberly Area Community College offers a 12-month Practical Nursing certificate program across its Moberly, Mexico, and Columbia campuses. This program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work under the supervision of professional registered nurses or licensed physicians in various healthcare settings. It includes intravenous therapy content and certification as per the Missouri State Board of Nursing standards. Graduates are prepared to deliver competent care, ensuring a strong foundation for a nursing career. The program emphasizes practical experience alongside theoretical learning, making it ideal for those seeking a fast-track to the nursing profession.
Linn, MO - Public 2-Year - statetechmo.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing Technology program at State Technical College of Missouri prepares students for frontline healthcare roles through hands-on training and clinical experiences. With small class sizes and real-world lab settings, students gain the skills needed for immediate employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses. The program also offers a pathway to an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing, it emphasizes non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all students.
The state of Missouri does not allow complete online LPN programs because nursing education requires direct patient contact. The educational landscape has adopted hybrid programs which teach theoretical content online while students complete required in-person laboratory sessions and clinical practice. Students can study theoretical subjects through online modules but must fulfill state requirements for hands-on training. Educational institutions use video conferencing and recorded lectures as flexible learning tools for working students and students from rural locations. Some institutions provide classes on evenings and weekends to support non-traditional students who want to become nurses.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Moberly Area Community College |
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| Mineral Area College |
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| Ozarks Technical Community College |
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| Certifying Board | Missouri State Board of Nursing, Division of Professional Registration |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a Board-approved practical nursing program, notarized application, program verification, Social Security number, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence |
| Application & Fees | State application fee $0 for first NCLEX attempt, NCLEX-PN exam fee $200, criminal background check fee $41.75, fees paid by check or money order |
| Application Processing Time | Authorization to Test in about 2 weeks, permanent license generally issued within 4–6 weeks of passing the exam, overall process typically 2–3 months |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal by April 30 of odd-numbered years with a $77 renewal fee, no grace period |
| Continuing Education | No continuing education required for LPN license renewal |
| Licensure by Endorsement | $101 endorsement fee, notarized endorsement application, official transcript, Nursys verification of active unrestricted license, fingerprint-based state and FBI background check. |
The state of Missouri provides LPNs with good compensation and promising career prospects in different healthcare facilities. The growing population combined with expanded healthcare services drives the need for trained practical nurses. The demand for qualified LPNs remains constant in Missouri because employers actively search for new candidates to fill open positions and new positions created by retiring staff. The combination of reliable income and stable career stability makes LPN positions appealing to individuals who want both professional security and community service opportunities.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Missouri | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $54,569 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $26.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$60,985 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $54,569 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$49,191 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | 3% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~5,950 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| State Fair Community College |
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| Three Rivers College |
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| Ozarks Technical Community College |
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The LPN credential provides practical nurses with a professional base to advance their nursing careers. LPNs in Missouri have access to bridge programs which allow them to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees in nursing after completing their LPN education with transferred credits. The designed programs enable students to earn RN credentials more quickly thus providing access to new career opportunities with increased salary potential. LPNs who want to advance their careers can obtain RN licenses and gain certification in IV therapy along with wound care and geriatric nursing. Specialized training builds expertise which leads to advanced nursing positions in specific healthcare settings. LPNs who gain experience can progress to supervisory duties such as leading nursing staff in long-term care facilities. Some professionals decide to guide recent graduates through mentoring programs and help with training initiatives. The healthcare field supports continuous learning through both degree-based education and professional development training. LPNs working in Missouri can access different career advancement opportunities because of established pathways.
Additional Nursing Programs in Missouri
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