As advances in medicine and technology lead to longer-than-ever average life spans, many states are expected to experience a shortage of licensed practical nurses. Missouri is no exception; job growth estimations show that the call for LPNs is slated to increase 16.4 percent by 2022, translating to a projection of more than 2,500 new positions state-wide. LPN programs have sprung up throughout the state, with options now available in both urban and rural areas. Learn about what it takes to become an LPN, what average salaries in Missouri look like, and begin your program search below.
LPN, what average salaries in Missouri look like, and begin your program search below.
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Top LPN Programs in Missouri
Methodology +
Lpn Programs
The top LPN programs listed in this state's ranking were determined by comparison of three primary, equally-weighted criteria including
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- In-state tuition
- Graduation rate
Additional details for each school were included:
- Count of programs available
- Public and not-for-profit schools
- Normalized on a 100 percent curve
The methodology used for tie-break is as follows...
- Ties are broken based on lowest average net price for full-time, first-time undergraduates paying in-state tuition (average cost of tuition and expenses after grants and scholarships).
- If necessary, the lowest in-state tuition rate is used as a second tie-break
These rankings include
#1 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
Jefferson College
Hillsboro, MO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Missouri-based Jefferson College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. To qualify for nursing positions, students can earn an associate degree or certificate, which require coursework and technical training. To qualify for higher-paying jobs, many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Hillsboro to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Asynchronous nursing programs often attract busy students and working professionals, who need the ability to schedule coursework around other responsibilities. Before selecting a program, applicants should research the education requirements for positions they plan to pursue.
Jefferson College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 26
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 23
#2 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
Four Rivers Career Center
Washington, MO - 2 years
- Campus
Four Rivers Career Center is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. With online and in-person enrollment options, the school provides opportunities for both Missouri residents and out-of-state students. Flexible online nursing programs allow learners to attend classes without relocating.
Learners explore basic concepts related to nursing. Certificate programs often lead to entry-level employment in the field. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from community colleges.
Four Rivers Career Center at a Glance:
Number of Certificate Programs: 1
#3 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
North Central Missouri College
Trenton, MO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Delivering online and on-campus associate and certificate programs, North Central Missouri College educates learners based in the state and throughout the country. Associate and certificate programs in nursing prepare students for entry-level roles. Many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced positions.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to Trenton for in-person classes. Additionally, online learning provides flexible scheduling options that improve accessibility for busy students. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.
North Central Missouri College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 25
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 10
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 6
#4 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
Texas County Technical College
Houston, MO - 2 years
- Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate from Texas County Technical College, a private institution. The Houston-based school delivers courses online and on campus, providing opportunities for students located in Missouri and elsewhere. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
In addition to coursework, associate and certificate programs in nursing feature practical training opportunities to prepare participants for work in the field. The skills gained during these programs can be applied directly to entry-level work in nursing and related fields. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from community colleges.
Texas County Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 1
#5 Best LPN Programs in Missouri
Ozarks Technical Community College
Springfield, MO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Delivering online and on-campus associate and certificate programs, Ozarks Technical Community College educates learners based in Missouri and throughout the country. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the nursing-specific skills employers value. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
The school's online programs eliminate costs associated with transportation and relocation. Online programs typically offer more flexible scheduling options than on-campus programs, which can benefit busy students and working professionals. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Ozarks Technical Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 45
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 33
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
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Searching LPN Programs in Missouri
Whether considering a community college or career center, technical academy or vocational school, Missouri offers programs aimed at meeting the various needs of its students. The search tool below was designed to help prospective students narrow down their options and find the perfect program. Search schools by tuition, size and number of programs, and compare them side-by-side.
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Getting an LPN License in Missouri
Missouri takes pride in providing top notch heath services to its residents, and the state constantly works to ensure all healthcare providers are competent and knowledgeable professionals who excel at patient care. One of the main ways this is accomplished is by requiring all LPN candidates to go through a rigorous process of licensure. The following sections outline what it takes to become an LPN in Missouri.
Basic Eligibility
Before enrolling in an LPN program, prospective students should first ensure they are able to meet these basic requirements for eligibility:
- Are at least 17 years of age
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Are competent English language skills
Education & Training Requirements
After completing a state-approved practical nursing program, graduates must start the process of receiving their license. Missouri allows students to work as graduate nurses after all degree requirements have been completed. This is allowed until a) the student has received their NCLEX results or b) 90 days have passed, whichever comes first.
To move from graduate nurse to fully licensed practical nurse, candidates must complete the license application, have it notarized, and submit it to the Board of Nursing along with a $41 processing fee. They must also request for their school to send an official final transcript to the Board. After registering with a local Pearson Vue testing center for the NCLEX, students will receive an Authorization to Test form allowing them to sit the exam. Students are typically notified within two weeks after the test whether or not they passed.
Additional Requirements
After meeting basic and educational requirements, candidates have a few more steps before receiving full licensure. These include:
- Providing a2x2 inch passport-style photograph, signed
- Submitting to criminal background checks from the FBI and Missouri Highway Patrol
Renewing Your License
LPN licenses issued in Missouri expire on May 31st of each even-numbered year, with renewal reminders being sent out approximately 45-60 days prior. In order to renew their license, LPNs must fill out an online or paper application and pay a $50 renewal fee. The state does not mandate that continuing education credits be shown at the time of renewal.
LPN Salary in Missouri
The annual mean wage for LPNs in Missouri sits just below the statewide average for all occupations, although practical nurses who are in the top percentiles of the industry can earn much more. Being in a metropolitan versus rural area can also have significant impact on salaries, as evidenced in the tables below.
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Top Paying Metropolitan Areas
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Employment Trends for LPNs in Missouri
Although St. Louis or Jefferson City are the first places usually coming to mind when someone thinks of Missouri, LPNs are needed throughout the state. The following tables provide data about the rate of growth for LPN roles in various areas of Missouri and compares them to the national average of job expansion.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| St. Louis MO-IL | 5,920 |
| Kansas City MO-KS | 4,470 |
| Central Missouri nonmetropolitan area | 1,670 |
| Springfield | 1,460 |
| Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area | 1,350 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| North Missouri nonmetropolitan area | 990 |
| Columbia | 600 |
| Southwest Missouri nonmetropolitan area | 540 |
| Jefferson City | 460 |
| St. Joseph MO-KS | 390 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in Missouri
2012 - 10,860
2020 - 12,890
Average Annual Openings 470
Source: Projections Central
Resources for LPNs in Missouri
Board of Nursing – Frequently Asked Questions
The MO Board provides a helpful section of questions answered in topics ranging from education and fees to licensure and board regulations.
License Status Explanations
Wondering about the differences between inactive and lapsed licenses, or what it means to have and keep an active license? All four types of licenses awarded in Missouri are explained on this website.
License Verification
Whether looking to check the status of your own license or review those of other practicing LPNs in the state, the Board provides an instant verification process through the Nursys system.
Licensure Information and Forms
Whether applying for license via endorsement or examination, from a different state, or outside the country, this list of documents and applications provides any form a prospective or current LPN may need.
Missouri Approved Programs of Practical Nursing
Prospective LPN students can use this list, provided by the Missouri Board of Nursing, to see the full list of 46 schools which have been approved for individuals seeking licensure.
Missouri Health Professional Nursing Student Loans
The MO Department of Health & Senior services offers loans to students looking to complete a nursing program, including LPNs. As of 2016, LPNs-in-training can receive a loan for $2,500 to help cover their educational costs.
Missouri Nurses Association
MONA works on behalf of thousands of nursing practicing throughout the Show Me State, with a range of advocacy efforts, conferences and member events, job postings, and details about continuing education credits.
Missouri's Nursing Workforce 2014 Report
Compiled by the Office of Primary Care & Rural Health, this report highlights the state of nursing in Missouri and provides valuable data about the current workforce, including LPNs.
Missouri State Association of Licensed Practical Nurses
This member organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, provides educational and professional resources, and advocates on behalf of LPNs throughout the state. Prospective LPN students can also take advantage of scholarships provided by MSALPN.
NCLEX pass rates for approved LPN programs
Wondering which schools have the highest rates of success when it comes to the NCLEX? This table, provided by the Board, highlights pass rates of all approved programs for the past five years.