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's Practical Nursing certificate program spans 12 months and emphasizes personalized education through a low faculty-to-student ratio, preparing graduates for roles in long-term care, hospitals, and clinics under RN or physician supervision. As a campus-based program with financial aid options, it offers accessible training without a specified concentration or entrance exam requirements, supported by its Southern Baptist affiliation.
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - concorde.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Concorde Career College-Kansas City offers a Practical Nursing Diploma Program that can be completed in 13-20 months, blending hybrid learning with 695 clinical hours for hands-on experience. This Missouri State Board-approved program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, focusing on foundational nursing skills and patient care across diverse settings. With full-time and part-time options, it's designed for flexibility, and financial aid is available for eligible students, making it an accessible entry into the nursing field.
Fenton, MO - Private 4-year - slchc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Louis College of Health Careers in Fenton offers a campus-based Practical Nursing Diploma program that prepares students for the NCLEX exam over four semesters. The curriculum includes hands-on lab experience and practicum hours, covering essential skills like vital signs, injections, and patient care basics. Graduates are equipped for diverse career opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. Financial aid is available, and the program is military-friendly, providing a solid foundation for a rewarding healthcare career in Missouri.
Moberly, MO - Public 2-Year - macc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Moberly Area Community College's 12-month Practical Nursing certificate program is available at its Moberly, Mexico, and Columbia campuses. It prepares students to work under RNs or MDs in diverse healthcare settings, incorporating intravenous therapy training aligned with Missouri State Board of Nursing standards. The curriculum blends theoretical learning with clinical experience, focusing on practical skills for a swift entry into nursing careers. No entrance exam is required for this program.
Linn, MO - Public 2-Year - statetechmo.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
State Technical College of Missouri offers a Practical Nursing Technology program that equips students with essential skills for frontline healthcare roles through intensive hands-on training and clinical experiences in Jefferson City. Emphasizing small class sizes and real-world lab environments, it ensures graduates are prepared for immediate employment in various settings. The program is approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and provides eligibility for the NCLEX-PN exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, with a pathway to an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. No entrance exam is required for this program, and it upholds a non-discrimination policy.
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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