Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can be a fulfilling career choice for those interested in healthcare. Vocational nursing programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin their careers as LPNs. Kansas City, Missouri, is home to several LPN programs that offer hands-on training and instruction. Applying to these programs can be a great way to start a career in healthcare, as they provide students with the opportunity to learn about patient care, medical terminology, and nursing procedures. In addition, vocational nursing programs can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries, making them a great investment in your future. Prospective students can choose from:
Concorde Career College – has both day and evening options covering a 50-week program
Metropolitan Community College – 1 year program offering clinical rotations
Kansas City Community College – preparing students for the NCLEX-PN with hybrid scheduling options
Johson Community College – covering key foundational nursing skills
Donnelly College – known for it’s affordable and flexible programs
Featured LPN Programs
Listed below is our featured LPN programs in the Kansas City area. We have provided details on each of these featured programs, including a summary of the program, requirements and basic information, such as tuition and class duration.
Concorde Career College
Concorde Career College offers a practical nursing diploma that covers a broad spectrum of nursing education, including anatomy, pharmacology, mental health, and more. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam with a combination of classroom learning and clinical experience.
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Photo ID and social security card
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- Entrance exam
- Negative TB test and up-to-date immunizations
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Varies, financial aid available |
| Program Duration | 50 weeks full-time, 80 weeks part-time |
| Class Schedule | Day and evening options |
| Website | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/kansas-city-missouri |
| Location | 930 Carondelet Drive, Kansas City, MO 64114 |
| Phone | 816-787-1029 |
Metropolitan Community College
This one-year program at Metropolitan Community College covers essential areas of nursing such as pharmacology, adult and child nursing, and mental health. The program utilizes classroom instruction and hands-on experience in healthcare facilities. This program is ideal for individuals looking to enter the nursing field quickly, as it provides the necessary training and qualifications to begin working as an LPN in various healthcare settings. For more specific details about costs and scheduling, it’s best to contact MCC directly. The curriculum includes comprehensive nursing education covering foundational topics like pharmacology, adult and pediatric nursing, and mental health care. It also involves significant practical experience in healthcare facilities. A major component of the program involves clinical rotations, where students apply their classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare environments under supervision.
Admissions Requirements
- Transcripts: Applicants must submit transcripts from all previous educational institutions.
- Standardized Tests: Prospective students must pass the Accuplacer exam and achieve specific scores in Algebra, Reading, and Writing sections.
- GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for all prerequisite courses.
- Entrance Exam: Applicants must pass the ATI TEAS exam with a score of 68% or higher.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $6,352.50 – $6,836.50 In District $12,442.50-$13,390.50 Out of District $16.800 to $18,080 Out of State |
| Program Duration | 1 Year |
| Class Schedule | Full-time |
| Website | https://mcckc.edu/programs/practicalnursing/ |
| Location | 3200 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111 |
| Phone | 816.604.1000 |
Kansas City Community College
The LPN program at Kansas City Kansas Community College is designed to prepare students for a career in practical nursing. The curriculum covers a range of essential nursing skills including medical terminology, anatomy, human growth, psychology, mental health nursing, and medication administration. Students will also prepare for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is necessary for licensure.
Admissions Requirements
- Minimum 2.50 GPA and completion of prerequisites.
- Minimum score of 60.0 on the ATI TEAS test.
- Additional requirements such as proof of identity and CPR certification may be necessary.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $8,777 In County $9,189.50 Out of County |
| Program Duration | Approximately 9-12 months |
| Class Schedule | Hybrid scheduling |
| Website | https://www.kckcc.edu/academics/programs-and-departments/nursing/practical-nursing.html |
| Location | 7250 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66112 |
| Phone | (913) 334-1100 |
Johnson County Community College
Johnson County Community College offers a comprehensive LPN program that provides training in key clinical nursing skills. This program is available in full-time and part-time formats, accommodating different scheduling needs. It covers foundational nursing skills and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
Admissions Requirements
- Minimum GPA: Cumulative academic GPA of 2.0 or higher.
- Prerequisite Courses: Must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher:
- BIOL 144 Human Anatomy and Physiology (5 credit hours) or both BIOL 140 Human Anatomy and BIOL 225 Human Physiology (8 credit hours combined)
- PSYC 130 Introduction to Psychology (3 credit hours)
- HC 130 Medical Terminology for Health Care Providers (3 credit hours)
- PSYC 218 Human Development (3 credit hours) must be enrolled in or completed
- Kansas CNA Certification: Required by the first day of classes. Must be active and verifiable through the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry.
- Transcripts: All previous college transcripts must be submitted by July 1. JCCC transcripts are not needed if already on file.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $97 per credit hour In County $116 per credit hour Out of County $228 per credit hour Out of State |
| Program Duration | 9 months Full-Time, 14 months Part-Time |
| Class Schedule | Flexible Scheduling |
| Website | https://www.jccc.edu/academics/credit/nursing/practical-nurse/pn-admission-requirements.html |
| Location | 12345 College Blvd Overland Park, KS 66210 |
| Phone | (913) 469-8500 |
Donnelly College
Donnelly College offers a Licensed Practical Nursing Certificate program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, essential for practicing as an LPN. The program is known for its affordability and flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, and weekend classes, which allows students to work while studying. This program is state-approved and is WIOA-approved, indicating that it meets certain standards for workforce training programs. Financial aid options such as PELL, SEOG, and Work-Study are available to eligible students. The program’s curriculum includes both didactic and clinical instruction, ensuring that students are well-prepared for practical nursing roles upon graduation.
Admissions Requirements
- Complete Donnelly College’s application.
- Submit a Nursing Program application by the specified deadline.
- Provide valid photo ID and Social Security number.
- Complete prerequisite classes including Human Growth & Development, Physiology & Anatomy, and Physiology & Anatomy Lab.
- Submit official transcripts from high school and any colleges/universities attended.
- Provide confirmation of FAFSA submission with Donnelly College listed.
- Take the SSEIT exam.
- If accepted, complete a background check and drug screen, and obtain CPR certification and required vaccinations.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $11,144 |
| Program Duration | 4 semesters, integrating 35 credit hours plus 8 credit hours of prerequisites. |
| Class Schedule | Flexible with day, evening, and weekend options. |
| Website | https://www.donnelly.edu/academics/practical-nurse |
| Location | 608 North 18th Street, Kansas City, Kansas 66102 |
| Phone | (913) 621-6070 |
LPN Salaries in Kansas City
LPNs in the Kansas City area can vary from healthcare employer to employer. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there are over 4,00 LPNs working in the Kansas City area. The mean annual salary of LPNs in Kansas City is $54,700 with an hourly wage at $36.30. This far outpaces both the state and national averages for LPN salaries. Those LPNs across the state of Missouri make $23.80 an hour with an average annual salary of $49,500. Meanwhile – of the 135,500 LPNs working in the United States – the reported hourly wage is $19.51 with an annual salary of $40,580. Evaluating these numbers – it shows that it is very beneficial from an earnings standpoint to work as an LPN in Kansas City.
| # of LPNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| Missouri | 12,110 | $ 23.80 | $ 49,500 |
| Kansas City | 4,070 | $ 36.30 | $ 54,700 |
Influences on LPN Salaries in Kansas City
Several factors can impact LPN salaries in Kansas City, MO. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Experience: One of the primary factors influencing LPN salaries is the level of experience. Generally, LPNs with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries. Healthcare facilities often value the knowledge and expertise gained through years of practice, which can result in increased compensation.
Education and Certification: LPNs who have pursued additional education or obtained specialized certifications may have an advantage in the job market and can negotiate higher salaries. Advanced certifications or degrees, such as becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or pursuing specialized training in areas like gerontology or critical care, can demonstrate a higher level of expertise and may result in higher pay.
Healthcare Setting: The specific healthcare setting in which an LPN works can impact their salary. LPNs employed in hospitals or specialty clinics, for example, may receive higher wages compared to those working in long-term care facilities or home health settings. The demand for LPNs in different healthcare sectors and the complexity of the work involved can influence salary differentials.
Demand and Supply: The supply and demand dynamics of LPNs in the Kansas City area can affect salary levels. If there is a shortage of LPNs in the region, employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified candidates. Conversely, if there is an oversupply of LPNs, salaries may be more competitive or relatively lower.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Kansas City, MO, can also influence LPN salaries. Areas with a higher cost of living typically have higher wages to match the increased expenses. Employers may adjust salaries accordingly to ensure that LPNs can meet their financial needs and maintain a reasonable standard of living.
Unionization: Unionized LPNs may benefit from collective bargaining agreements that establish minimum wage standards, salary scales, and negotiated benefits. Union representation can provide LPNs with increased bargaining power and potentially lead to higher salaries and better working conditions.