Online LPN Programs in Missouri: Reviewing Top Schools
If you know that the LPN path is right for you, you can begin to explore top online LPN programs in Missouri with this guide. These programs have the flexibility you need to achieve your educational and career aspirations — and many accept financial aid. To help you find the perfect school, we’ve highlighted some notable LPN programs, detailed what’s involved in obtaining your license, broke down your career and salary outlook, and provided some helpful resources for Missouri LPNs. Tomorrow won’t wait, so start navigating your perfect path forward today.
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An Insight into Online LPN Classes in Missouri
Because licensed practical nursing is a hands-on profession, LPN programs cannot be completed solely online. However, many Missouri schools offer partially online coursework with clinical rotations — a cornerstone of practical nursing education — that require in-person participation at local health care facilities. As a student, you may also need to attend labs and simulations on campus.
The first step to becoming a licensed LPN is graduating from a state-approved program that meets Missouri LPN licensing requirements. From there, you’ll take the NCLEX-PN exam and then apply for licensure. A good way to discern between programs is by looking at the program’s NCLEX-PN pass rate and whether they are approved by the Missouri Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Here’s a breakdown of some of Missouri’s most high-quality online LPN programs.
Practical Nursing Program – Applied Tech
Applied Tech offers its one-year practical nursing program at two locations, North Tech in Florissant and South Tech in Sunset Hills. Students need a high school diploma or equivalent and a passing score on entrance exams. Practical nursing students learn basic bedside care, including measuring and recording vitals and assisting patients with essential daily self-care tasks. Applied Tech’s program is approved by Missouri’s Board of Nursing and accredited by the Council on Occupational Education. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
The estimated cost (tuition, books, uniforms, and other supplies) is approximately $22,555. Financial aid includes federal grants and loans, military tuition assistance, and Veterans Administration funding. Transfer credits for prior coursework are also evaluated and accepted on a case-by-case basis.
Duration: One year
Mode: In-person
Cost: $6,700 (tuition per trimester)
Admissions Requirements:
- A high school diploma or equivalent from a valid institution
- Pass the Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) with a minimum score of 19
- Complete a Criminal Background Check
- Proof of Immunizations
- Provide Professional References
Curriculum:
- Personal Vocational Concepts
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Human Growth and Development
- Pharmacology
- Intravenous Therapy
- Geriatric Nursing
- Adult Health Nursing
- Behavioral Health
- Simulation
- Nursing Children
- Maternal & Newborn Nursing
- Nursing Leadership
Practical Nursing – North Central Missouri College
The program offered at North Central Missouri College (NCMC) is one of the shortest online LPN programs in Missouri. Students can finish their studies in as few as 11 months with a combination of fully online, in-person, and hybrid courses. This program is approved by Missouri’s Board of Nursing, and NCMC is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Prospective students must complete several prerequisite courses and have a minimum GPA of 2.0 at their last school (high school or college). Applicants must also earn passing scores on the ATI TEAS exam.
NCMC’s well-rounded curriculum prepares students to pass the NCLEX-PN and succeed in the field. In fact, 85% of students pass it on their first attempt, and 90% of graduates are either employed or enrolled in an RN program within 6-12 months after graduation. Thanks to NCMC Foundation Scholarships, many students graduate with less debt.
Duration: 11 months
Mode: Fully online, in-person, or hybrid
Cost: $258 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- A high school diploma or equivalent from a valid institution
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 from high school or college
- Pass the Pre-Entrance Test – ATI TEAS with a minimum score of 58.7%
- Complete pre-requisites with a “C” or greater
- Complete a Criminal Background Check
- Proof of Immunizations
- Pass Drug Screening
Curriculum:
- Foundations of Nursing
- Introduction to Pharmacology
- Personal Vocational Concepts
- Nursing of Adults
- Intro to Mental Health Nursing
- Maternal and Child Health Nursing
Providing Answers to Popular Questions from LPN Students
Pursuing an LPN program can be overwhelming, so we’ve answered popular questions prospective Missouri students like you have about earning their LPN certificate online. Below you’ll find information on skills learned, financial aid availability, program length, and details about the NCLEX-PN exam.
What skills do you learn in LPN programs in Missouri?
LPN programs in Missouri teach students skills for success in their practice as working professionals. These skills include:
- Provision of safe, quality care to patients
- Hands-on skills, including medication administration and use of medical equipment
- Prevention of patient injuries and proper monitoring of patient health
- Supervision of work for nurse assistants, orderlies, and other unlicensed staff
- Oral and written communication skills when interacting with patients, families, and colleagues
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my LPN program in Michigan?
Yes, financial aid is available to Missouri practical nursing students. Some options include:
- Loans, scholarships, and grants
- Work-study programs and employer tuition reimbursement programs
- VA benefits for active military and veterans
For example, the State of Michigan offers a Missouri Nursing Student Loan Program to Missouri residents enrolled full-time in an board-approved Missouri LPN program. Borrowers can receive up to $2,500 at a 0% interest rate. Preference is given to residents of underserved areas and underrepresented minority groups.
Missouri LPN students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need may also qualify for scholarships awarded by the Missouri League for Nursing. Find out about additional funding opportunities you may be eligible for by contacting the financial aid offices at each prospective school.
What are the differences between an LPN and an RN in Missouri?
The main differences between an LPN and an RN in Missouri include:
- Level of Education: You do not need a degree to become a practical nurse. LPNs earn certifications, but you need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) to become an RN
- Program Length: It generally takes longer to become a registered nurse. Full-time LPN students in Missouri can finish in 12-18 months. RN programs require at least two years of study.
- Salary: Registered nurses typically earn higher salaries than licensed practical nurses
- Role Expectations: RNs often have greater responsibilities, provide more complex care, and may delegate tasks to LPNs
Expert Insight
As an RN, I have worked in teams with LPNs. We all passed medications, educated patients, and followed orders from medical providers. The main differences were the LPNs could only pass certain IV medications if they had special training, and I was ultimately responsible for managing the overall care of the patient.”
How long do LPN programs in Missouri take to finish?
LPN programs can take about one year to finish. Most consist of three consecutive semesters (including one in the summer) of full-time study. Some accelerated programs can be completed in six months, but these require immense dedication and time study to meet the demands of the concentrated course load.
Keep in mind that LPN programs in Missouri typically include one to five prerequisite courses that must be completed before starting the LPN curriculum. Many LPN programs in Missouri also have waiting lists and, in most cases, students cannot be placed on those lists until all prerequisite coursework is completed.
What can I expect from the NCLEX-PN?
The National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) tests candidates on core nursing concepts, including:
- Basic care and comfort
- Safety and infection prevention
- Medication management
- Clinical problem solving
- Communication
- Culture and spirituality
You’ll register for the NCLEX-PN through the exam’s administrator, Pearson VUE. Register as soon as possible to secure your preferred test date and location. Pearson VUE will then issue you an Authorization to Test (ATT) that allows you to schedule and take the exam.
Once you complete the exam, you can expect to receive your results within six weeks. You can retake the test after 45 days by applying for a repeat examination if you don’t pass it the first time.
Expert Insight
Preparing for the NCLEX requires dedication and patience. The applications, deadlines, fees, and studying can be overwhelming. I would suggest keeping a planner or detailed calendar during this time so you don’t miss anything.
Steps for LPN Licensure in Missouri
Obtaining a LPN license in Missouri begins with completing a training program and ends with passing a state licensing exam. Though the process is straight forward, prospective LPNs must strictly follow the guidance provided by Missouri’s Board of Nursing, which includes filling out an application, registering for the NCLEX-PN, and paying associated fees.
How to obtain an LPN license in Missouri:
- Complete an accredited, board-approved LPN training program
- Apply for LPN licensure through Missouri’s board of nursing
- Pass a criminal background check
- Take and pass the NCLEX-PN
The first step in becoming a licensed practical nurse is completing an accredited, board-approved training program that gives you the skills needed to work as an LPN. Refer to the list of approved practical nursing programs through the Missouri State Board of Nursing for verification. After completing your LPN program, you must prove you possess the necessary skills by passing the NCLEX-PN.
Because LPNs often work with vulnerable patient populations, Missouri requires LPN candidates to pass a criminal background check as a measure for ensuring patient safety. This is included as part of the licensure application process, so any prior convictions that would present a conflict with nursing practice can result in disqualification.
Additional licensing information:
- LPN licenses in Missouri expire on May 31st of each even-numbered year, and they must be renewed three days prior. There is no grace period.
- If your license lapses, you will be required to reapply and pay extra fees.
- Renewal instructions are emailed approximately 90 days before expiration. The current renewal fee is $77.
- Missouri does not require LPNs to complete any continuing education credits for license renewal.
LPN Salary and Career Prospects in Missouri
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $47,960 | $62,340 | $80,510 |
| Missouri | $46,390 | $59,030 | $74,810 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $43,460 | $57,840 | $66,640 |
| Columbia, MO | $48,340 | $59,700 | $72,950 |
| Jefferson City, MO | $46,300 | $57,050 | $63,120 |
| Joplin, MO-KS | $46,280 | $56,800 | $68,450 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $51,200 | $62,700 | $76,090 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $46,550 | $58,040 | $65,580 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $50,550 | $62,540 | $78,180 |
| Springfield, MO | $42,180 | $57,800 | $70,910 |
Source: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Missouri | 13,010 | 13,750 | 740 | 5.70% | 1,090 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
