Best LPN Programs in Kansas
Licensed practical nursing (LPN) offers one of the most accessible paths to a healthcare career. It only takes a year for many students in Kansas to obtain their LPN certificate or diploma.
LPNs fill several key roles in front-line patient care. Importantly, LPNs relay patient questions and concerns to other members of the care team, including doctors and more senior nurses. You can create a stable career as an LPN or use your training and experience to upgrade to a registered nurse (RN).
In Kansas, your journey begins with a nursing education program approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing (BON).
The following is a ranking of the best LPN programs in Kansas, as well as a career and salary outlook and guidance on how to get your license.
LPN Programs in Kansas
Finding the best LPN program in Kansas takes time and research. The following list of the state’s top programs can help learners begin their search. Factors that influence this ranking include cost and graduate success rate. Prospective students should contact the school’s admissions department to learn more before enrolling.
North Central Kansas Technical College
Beloit, KS- 2 year
- Campus
To qualify for nursing careers, learners can pursue North Central Kansas Technical College's associate or certificate programs. Based in Beloit, the school delivers many programs in online and on-campus formats. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
Associate degrees and certifications introduce participants to the basic ideas and practices used in nursing. These programs often lead directly to entry-level nursing positions. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
North Central Kansas Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 14
Number of Certificate Programs: 13
- In-State$4,512
- Out-of-state$4,512
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled913
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Manhattan Area Technical College
- Manhattan, KS
- 2 year
- Campus
Manhattan Area Technical College is a public institution offering nursing certificate programs. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, allowing busy learners to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
Certificate programs in practical nursing feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. Many individuals apply their training to entry-level positions in nursing immediately after graduation. An additional option for graduates of certificate programs is to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can lead to increased earning potential.
Manhattan Area Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 14
Number of Certificate Programs: 22
- In-State$5,040
- Out-of-state$5,040
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled912
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Seward County Community College
- Liberal, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Seward County Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Although the school's campus is in Liberal, Kansas, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. These flexible remote programs are a great option for those unable to move for their education.
Coursework in nursing programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the nursing field. With the knowledge and skills developed during their training, individuals can enter the workforce immediately after graduation. In addition to entering the workforce, graduates can continue their studies by earning a bachelor's degree.
Seward County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 29
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 26
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
- In-State$2,176
- Out-of-state$3,360
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,837
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Hutchinson Community College
- Hutchinson, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With online and on-campus options, Hutchinson Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in Kansas. While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, students gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. After completing their associate or certificate program, graduates can enroll in bachelor's programs to increase their job options and earning potential.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Hutchinson to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Working professionals often pursue online nursing programs because of the increased flexibility, which allows students to complete coursework at their convenience. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Hutchinson Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 40
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 37
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
- In-State$2,730
- Out-of-state$3,660
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,315
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Flint Hills Technical College
- Emporia, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Flint Hills Technical College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. While the school's campus is located in Emporia, Kansas, students can complete online programs from anywhere. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
While completing an associate or certificate program in nursing, participants develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. Many graduates of associate or certificate programs pursue bachelor's studies, often transferring their credits to reduce degree completion time.
Flint Hills Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 17
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 18
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
- In-State$4,512
- Out-of-state$4,512
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,514
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Garden City Community College
- Garden City, KS
- 2 year
- Campus
Learners interested in pursuing a certificate or an associate degree can study online or on campus in Kansas through Garden City Community College. After earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, graduates can apply for entry-level positions in the field. To qualify for higher-paying jobs, many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree.
With remote programs, the school provides opportunities for enrollees in any location to study online. Additionally, many online nursing programs allow students to complete coursework at their convenience, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants can speak with an admissions counselor to ensure the institution offers a program aligning with their goals.
Garden City Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 38
Number of Certificate Programs: 16
- In-State$1,830
- Out-of-state$2,400
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,892
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Dodge City Community College
- Dodge City, KS
- 2 year
- Campus
To qualify for nursing careers, learners can pursue Dodge City Community College's associate or certificate programs. Students located in Kansas can attend classes at the school's campus, while others can enroll online. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate and allows learners the flexibility to maintain full-time employment.
Coursework in nursing programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the field. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
Dodge City Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 66
Number of Certificate Programs: 21
- In-State$1,410
- Out-of-state$1,710
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,513
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Colby Community College
- Colby, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Colby Community College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. Although the school is located in Kansas, students in any state can enroll in its online programs. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
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. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Colby Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 13
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 16
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
- In-State$2,483
- Out-of-state$4,020
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,410
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Wichita State University
- Wichita, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Wichita State University helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Based in Kansas, the school delivers many programs in online and on-campus formats. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. These programs often lead directly to entry-level nursing positions. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Wichita State University at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 30
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 45
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$5,806
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Coffeyville Community College
- Coffeyville, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With associate and certificate programs in nursing, Coffeyville Community College is a public institution. Many of the school's programs are available in on-campus and online formats. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. After earning their degree or certificate, many individuals enter the workforce and apply their training to entry-level nursing positions. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from community colleges.
Coffeyville Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 21
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 16
- In-State$1,248
- Out-of-state$2,816
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,758
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Accreditation for Schools in Kansas
Two types of accreditation apply to face-to-face and online LPN programs in Kansas. They include institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation.
The school that hosts your program should be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. It may prove a bad investment to enroll in an unaccredited school or program, as employers and accredited schools may not accept credits or credentials from that institution.
Some nursing programs hold specialized but optional accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Overall, it is most important to ensure that the BON recognizes your program.
Nursing Licensing in Kansas
To obtain your LPN license in Kansas, you must graduate from an LPN education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Before you can sit for the exam, you must register for the exam and obtain an Authorization To Test (ATT).
The NCLEX-PN employs a testing evaluation method known as computer adaptive testing (CAT). With CAT, each examinee takes a unique version of the test.
Still, all NCLEX-PN test-takers answer questions drawn from four broad categories:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity
NCLEX exams use a pass/fail scoring system. You will answer 85-150 questions within a maximum of five hours, depending on how you perform. In most cases, the NCLEX-PN exam ends when the CAT system is 95% certain that you do or do not meet the passing standard.
Once you pass the NCLEX-PN, you can apply for your initial Kansas LPN license. You must pass a criminal background check before the Kansas State Board of Nursing can issue your permanent license.
License Renewal
After becoming an LPN in Kansas, professionals must apply for renewal every two years. Your license will expire on the final day of your birth month. If you were born in an odd-numbered year, you must renew every odd-numbered year. The same standard applies to nurses born in even-numbered years.
Kansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, an agreement that allows properly credentialed nurses to travel to and work in other participating states without obtaining a new license.
Career and Salary Outlook for LPNs in Kansas
Data from Projections Central projects a job growth rate of 6% for LPNs in Kansas from 2022-32. O*NET Online projections for Kansas suggest that about 580 LPN jobs will become available each year in the state through 2030.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2023 Kansas LPNs earned an average salary of $55,610 per year, or $26.74 per hour. However, LPNs earn more in some areas of Kansas and less in others based on a variety of factors.
The following table offers a more detailed breakdown:
| Location | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Topeka | $56,040 |
| Lawrence | $54,650 |
| Manhattan | $54,420 |
| Wichita | $53,410 |
| Kansas Nonmetropolitan Area | $51,810 |
While LPN salaries in Kansas fall below the national average of $60,790, the cost of living in Kansas is also lower than average. When combining the two factors, LPN salaries in Kansas may work out advantageously. The median salary for an LPN in Kansas is about 7% below the national average, but the state’s cost of living falls below the national average by 13%.
Courses in a Nursing Program
According to updated nursing standards in Kansas that are scheduled to take effect in the fall of 2025, state-approved practical nursing programs in Kansas must require at least seven semester credits or some equivalent in the following topics:
- Human anatomy and physiology (at least four credits)
- Human growth and development (at least three credits)
Programs must also include courses that develop professional skills in:
- Evidence-based nursing practice
- Relationship-centered care
- Safety, leadership, and professionalism
- Quality improvement and collaborative teamwork
Institutions may sequence this coursework within a program however they see fit. They also have the latitude to offer additional required or elective courses in these or other practice areas.
Scholarships for Nursing Students in Kansas
Scholarships, including scholarships for nursing school, can help students reduce costs and minimize debt. They can be very competitive to get but can make a huge difference for recipients. The good news is that there are many scholarships out there, offered by a host of different groups and organizations.
These scholarships are open specifically to LPN students in Kansas:
Who Can Apply: Kansas residents and U.S. citizens enrolled in a nursing program accredited by the ACEN, CCNE, or COA. Course loads must cover at least six credit hours per semester and your cumulative GPA must be at least 3.0 (out of 4.0).
Amount: Varies
Kansas Board of Regents Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The Kansas Board of Regents offers multiple scholarships for nursing students. Eligibility guidelines vary.
Amount: Varies
Kansas State Board of Nursing Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This award supports individuals currently enrolled in pre-licensure nursing programs, including for LPN program tracks. Applicants must submit an essay.
Amount: $1,000
National Black Nurses Associated, Inc. Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Kansas students who maintain membership with the National Black Nurses Association, Inc. and a local chapter of the organization. Applicants submit a two-page essay and academic transcripts.
Amount: $1,000-$15,000
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN Programs in Kansas
In Kansas, state-approved LPN programs require about one year of full-time study. You must then pass the NCLEX-PN exam and complete the state’s licensure application. If you pass the NCLEX-PN right away, you could be job-ready just weeks after graduating.
