Online LPN Programs in Mississippi: Exploring Top Schools

How LPN Programs in Mississippi Work

The first step toward building a successful career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is enrolling in a fully accredited LPN program. Mississippi offers a range of flexible options, including online and hybrid programs designed to fit busy schedules. With job growth well above the national average, Mississippi is an excellent place to begin your nursing journey and prepare for a rewarding, high-demand role.

While LPNs share some responsibilities with certified nursing assistants (CNAs), their training allows them to perform more advanced tasks, such as:

• Administering medications and injections
• Assisting in minor surgical procedures
• Dressing and caring for wounds
• Monitoring patients and reporting changes to RNs and physicians

LPNs play a crucial role under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs), bridging the gap between basic care and advanced medical support. Explore a featured in-person LPN program in Mississippi, followed by our ranking of the best online options available.

Student Support: FAQs About LPN Programs

As you learn more about the journey to becoming an LPN, it’s natural for more questions to arise. In this FAQ section, we’ve compiled common questions from students in the same boat as you and detailed specific answers so that you’re well-equipped to move forward in your plans for a medical career. Continue on to explore all you’ll need.

How long does it take to become an LPN in Mississippi?

The timeframe for becoming an LPN in Mississippi, much like the timeline of other medical roles, can take around one to two years, but the duration will ultimately vary depending on what program length you choose. For example, most full-time courses can be completed in one year, including the summer semester. Part-time students can complete their studies in around two years. Fast tracked or accelerated LPN programs can propel students to finish their programs in as little as six to 12 months.

Can LPN programs be done online?

Although LPN programs can be completed online in Mississippi, there will be in-person requirements for online students to fulfill. The flexibility of virtual classes can be scheduled around a student’s personal commitments while still ensuring that they gain the necessary hands-on clinical experience needed for success in their field.

One of the main factors in your school search should be to ensure proper accreditation for online programs. This way, you can feel secure in knowing that your educational path is recognized and provides you with the right tools for your career.

How can I effectively prepare for the NCLEX-PN?

Here are a few tips for preparing for the NCLEX-PN:

• Enroll in an NCLEX-PN review course.
• Utilize all the free resources available online.
• Take practice tests to assess where you might need to study more.
• Develop essential study skills.
• Take care of your mental health and minimize stress.
• Check out our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX.

The final step to obtaining your LPN licensure is passing the NCLEX-PN exam. The online, standardized test assesses your competency in several key focus areas. You must earn a certain score on the examination in order to obtain your nursing license, which means preparation is key.

What are some resources for Mississippi LPN students and professionals?

• Mississippi Board of Nursing The Mississippi Board of Nursing is the regulatory body for nursing standards and practice in Mississippi. The organization’s website provides extensive resources to help nurses stay up to date on laws and regulations, licensure, and compliance. The board also operates the Office of Nursing Workforce, which helps support nursing education and practice.
• Mississippi Hospital Association The Mississippi Hospital Association (MHA) provides representation and service to hospitals and healthcare networks in the state. The association advocates for over 100 hospitals and 50,000 employees and helps address concerns, perspectives, and needs. The MHA also provides education opportunities and shares information on current trends in healthcare.
• Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning is a public university system made up of eight universities that aim to enhance the quality of life of Mississippians. The organization helps establish nursing standards for programs and provides a list of approved nursing programs in Mississippi. The organization’s website also posts employment opportunities to help you find your next nursing role.
• Mississippi LPN Association (MSLPNA) Since its founding in 1970, the Mississippi LPN Association has been working to enhance the growth of the LPN profession, support best practices, and create opportunities for the 14,000 LPNs in the state. The organization works in collaboration with the Mississippi Board of Nursing to provide courses for current and aspiring LPNs.
• Mississippi Nurses’ Association As a professional organization for nurses within the state, the Mississippi Nursing Association represents, advocates, and lobbies for nursing professionals of all specialties and levels. The association is also known for providing continuing education opportunities through its events. All members of the association have access to the latest nursing news and continuing education events and receive discounts on American Nurses Credentialing Center initial certification and renewals.
• Mississippi Nurses Foundation As a charitable organization, the Mississippi Nurses Foundation aims to raise, accept, and disperse donations to help enhance professional nursing and healthcare within the state. The organization has several programs available including scholarships, grants, and a Nurses in Need initiative that provides financial assistance to members who are experiencing hardships such as loss of employment, physical injury, disaster, travel cost, childcare, supplies, and more.

What are the background check requirements for LPNs in Mississippi?

To become an LPN, you’ll need to pass a background check that will be conducted by the Mississippi Board of Nursing. They verify your experience, education, licensure, and criminal history. If you’ve never completed a background check, here are a few tips to help the process go smoothly:

• Gather your license information, records of employment history, and any other documents that may be helpful to reference as you’re filling out information.
• Choose references that you can trust. Some background checks may ask you to provide references, so it’s important to have their contact information ready.
• Prepare to explain any discrepancies or issues that may arise from the background check.

Mississippi’s LPN Licensing Requirements

Earning your practical nursing certificate isn’t the only step to becoming an LPN in Mississippi. From passing licensure exams to completing background checks, you’ll need to jump through a couple more hoops before you can care for patients. After the Mississippi Board of Nursing completes your background check, you’ll need to complete an accredited training program to ensure you have the skills to provide the highest quality care to patients. Once you take and pass the NCLEX-PN, you’re able to start working as an LPN.

Obtaining your license isn’t a one-and-done deal, though. In Mississippi, LPNs are required to renew their license every two years. Additionally, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education to be able to renew your license. The continuing education requirement ensures you’re staying current with best practices for safe and effective patient care. You should choose courses and trainings that help fill skills gaps and elevate the level of care you can give your patients, align with your goals and career aspirations, are offered by reputable and accredited organizations and programs, and fit your schedule and budget.

Salary & Career Outlooks for Mississippi’s Practical Nurses

Ranking Mississippi’s Best Online LPN Programs

To make things easier on future LPN students, we’ve gathered some of the best online LPN programs in Mississippi to give you an idea of programs that will satisfy the need for proper accreditation, online/hybrid learning, student resources, and more. Data was self-reported by the schools themselves and pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). To understand our ranking methodology further, click the About the Rankings button. Below, find out which schools made their way onto our list as prime choices for students like you.