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Best LPN Programs in Kentucky – Accredited Online LPN Programs for 2025
Kentucky is a great place for those who want to experience small-town charm while still getting the conveniences of urban living. However, in a 2022 report from the United Health Foundation, the Bluegrass State found itself in 43rd place when it comes to healthiness (America’s Health Rankings, 2022), which suggests the need for well-trained healthcare professionals like LPNs in the state.
LPNs are vital in patient care and assistance. They monitor patient conditions, change their clothes, or help them eat. Moreover, they raise concerns to other healthcare professionals like doctors or RNs, ensuring smooth communication.
As of October 2023, there are 13,462 active practical nurses in KY (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, n.d.). If you want to join their ranks, plenty of on-site or online LPN programs in KY can prepare you for the National Council Licensure Examination-PN.
To help you get started, our team prepared a list of the best online LPN programs in KY and nearby states. We also discuss the process of becoming an LPN in the state, program costs, salary, job outlook, and other important factors to guide your way into this pathway.
Best Online LPN Programs in Kentucky Table of Contents
Aspiring LPNs must obtain a certificate or diploma from Board-approved programs in the state. Most nursing schools will also require you to take the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) test, an entrance exam for nursing programs. This determines your eligibility to enroll in an LPN program.
As of 2022, a total of 1,726 Kentuckian students enrolled in LPN programs (Kentucky Board of Nursing, 2023). Accomplishing all the LPN degree requirements in KY enables you to take the NCLEX-PN and start the initial steps to becoming a nurse practitioner, especially if you wish to pursue more challenging roles in the field.
The next step is to take the NCLEX-PN and the KY Jurisprudence Exam. If passed successfully, you can apply for licensure to the Kentucky Board of Nursing. In addition, you may need to complete criminal or background checks and pay application or testing fees. LPNs must renew their license every year and accomplish at least 14 contact hours from accredited CE providers.
What is the typical cost of online LPN programs in KY?
From 2022 to 2023, most two-year public institutions in Kentucky require a payment of $5,700 for tuition and fees (in-district). Meanwhile, the state’s tuition for four-year public institutions costs $11,390 during the same year (Ma & Pender, 2022). Because online LPN programs in KY usually have fewer credit hours than standard degrees, the tuition and overall cost of these programs tend to be much cheaper. However, you must consider other expenses, such as laboratory and distance learning fees or institutional charges.
How long does it take to become an LPN in Kentucky?
Fulfilling the most common nursing school prerequisites in online LPN programs in KY can take as quickly as 12 months. However, some programs can extend anywhere from 15 to 20 months. The duration of LPN programs also depends on the number of units you prefer to enroll in every semester. However, it is important to remember that the program length does not necessarily mean sacrificing the quality of your education, as shorter programs often maintain the same rigorous standards as their longer counterparts.
Can you become an LPN in Kentucky with an online degree?
Students wondering if they can complete online LPN programs in KY and become licensed are assured of the same quality of education as traditional programs as long as these are recognized or accredited by the KY Board of Nursing (KBN). Meanwhile, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) typically vet bridge programs and degrees.
Due to the nature of the profession, most undergraduate degrees, whether LPN to RN online programs or accelerated BSN-MSN degrees, are not 100% online. Students will still need to accomplish practical in-person classes while general education courses are taken remotely.
From January to December 2022, the pass rate of Kentuckians in the NCLEX-PN was 79.7%, just slightly under the national average of 79.9% (NCSBN, 2023). Although this figure does not include other types of test-takers, like RN ADN/BSN examinees, it provides significant insight, suggesting that there is room for enhancement in LPN schools, online or not.
Online LPN Programs in Kentucky for 2025
In this section, our team of review experts at Research.com rounds up a list of the best online LPN programs in KY and nearby states that offer online programs for aspiring practical nurses. We looked into the institutions’ program offerings, curricula, affordability, accreditation, and other key metrics to curate this roster.
1. Jefferson Community & Technical College
Jefferson Community & Technical College offers an LPN diploma that students can complete in two years. As one of the nursing schools in Kentucky, the college enables students to take select general courses online. However, core nursing classes are done in person, where you can maximize the usage of laboratories and other equipment. Some courses learners will encounter are human anatomy, interpersonal communication, pharmacology, and mental health. Candidates must also attend a PN Preadmission Conference to ensure they can apply for the program. This program is also offered on-site in almost all Kentucky Community & Technical College System institutions.
Other Programs Offered:
CNA/Nurse Aide Certificate ProgramAAS in Nursing
Accreditation: KBN, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
2. Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University stands out by providing an array of online LPN programs in KY, giving students the flexibility to tailor their pathways. For instance, learners with prior credits can leverage their skills and knowledge to accelerate their progress. The LPN-ASN bridge program features courses like pediatric nursing, medical-surgical nursing, microbiology, and the fundamentals of LPN to RN transition. As part of their learning experience, students must undergo clinical placement in various fields. Candidates must submit their transcripts, HESI exam scores, and LPN license to start their application.
Estimated Cost: $18,738
Other Programs Offered:
BSNMaster-Entry RN
BSN
Master-Entry RN
Accreditation: KBN, SACSCOC, ACEN
3. Indiana State University
Providing online LPN programs in KY, Indiana State University extends its LPN-BSN to help professionals push their education and careers forward. Students are not required to go to campus for classes. Instead, they attend clinical activities within their communities. In addition, they will tackle lessons in human anatomy laboratory, physiology, general psychology, and chemistry. With the university’s 1:18 student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.
Herzing University’s campuses in Tennessee and Ohio provide inclusive degrees, including online LPN programs in KY, to various kinds of learners all over the country. General courses are taken online, while core nursing classes are conducted in person. The diploma curriculum features career-focused courses such as professional development, nursing specialty, practical experiences, and preparation for the LPN exam. To offer more variety and flexibility to nursing students, the university has an alternative pathway through a BSN or master’s program. Most students complete the program within 12 months, covering 37 to 48 credits.
Estimated Cost: $400/semester
Other Programs Offered:
LPN-BSNParamedic-BSNBSN-MSNDirect Entry MSN
LPN-BSN
Paramedic-BSN
BSN-MSN
Direct Entry MSN
Accreditation: HLC
5. Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crump
Providing hybrid online LPN programs in KY and other states, Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crump prepares students for the LPN exam through its extensive diploma program. Courses include pediatric nursing, medication, worker characteristics, and advanced LPN relations. Students typically complete the program in 16 months. Moreover, this 1,296-clock-hour program is full-time and requires learners to attend online and night classes on Tuesdays or Saturdays. Applicants must pass their HESI PN Pre-Admission Test and attend informal sessions during the spring.
Estimated Cost: $4,236 total tuition ($100/trimester)
Other Programs Offered:
Health Information Management TechnologyEmergency Medical Technology
Health Information Management Technology
Emergency Medical Technology
Accreditation: National Council Licensure Examination, Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE)
What is the job outlook and demand for LPNs in Kentucky?
As healthcare demands grow, the job outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Kentucky remains promising. The state's aging population, coupled with its emphasis on improving healthcare accessibility, has led to a consistent need for skilled nursing professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of LPNs is expected to grow by 6% nationwide from 2021 to 2031, and Kentucky is no exception. This demand is particularly evident in rural areas and community health settings, where healthcare providers often face staffing shortages.
In Kentucky, LPNs are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home healthcare services, creating diverse job opportunities. Additionally, Kentucky's healthcare initiatives aim to address its relatively low health rankings, further underscoring the significance of LPNs in providing accessible care.
Moreover, for those looking to advance within the field, Kentucky offers several pathways for career growth. Transition programs like LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN allow practical nurses to elevate their roles and acquire higher certifications. These programs enable LPNs to cater to more specialized patient needs, earn better salaries, and take on leadership opportunities within healthcare teams. To explore more about further career advancements, including guidance on how to move from being an LPN to an RN, visit the step-by-step guide on how to become a registered nurse in Kentucky.
Overall, Kentucky provides a fertile environment for aspiring and practicing LPNs, combining strong job prospects with the potential for long-term professional growth.
Is Kentucky good for LPNs?
Before committing to a program in nursing in Kentucky, it is also important for you to know the landscape of the industry in the state. Being familiar with this can help you make more informed decisions about creating short and long-term goals in this field.
Low wages. Regrettably, KY isn’t among the best cities and states to work as an RN or LPN. This is partly due to the LPN salary in Kentucky, which is $49,570 annually, lower than the national average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). To address this, the Kentucky Nurses Association (2021) proposed financial solutions that would not only fund staffing needs but also retention bonuses or loan forgiveness.
Local efforts. To draw in and maintain a higher number of nurses, local initiatives, such as Kentucky SB 10, have been implemented to ease the restrictions on enrollment caps within nursing programs. Moreover, financial assistance, like the Nursing Incentive Scholarship Fund (NISF), is also available to qualified students to further encourage their pursuit of nursing careers.
Workplace discriminations. Despite Kentucky’s strong history of Black nurses contributing to the healthcare industry, racism in the workplace has a significant impact on nurses, causing them to leave or seek employment elsewhere. To avoid this and promote a more equitable and supportive healthcare setting, the KNA now requires nurses to take implicit bias training (Watkins, 2023).
What is the earning potential for LPNs in Kentucky?
Recent data indicates that LPNs in Kentucky can expect competitive salaries that reflect both regional economic conditions and the demand for quality healthcare providers. While exact figures may vary by location, employer, and experience level, industry benchmarks from leading healthcare institutions and governmental agencies suggest that entry-level LPNs typically start with salaries that offer room for growth as they gain expertise and additional certifications. Detailed, localized salary comparisons and analyses—taking into account benefits, shift differentials, and incentive pay—help prospective professionals gauge realistic expectations and plan for career advancement. For insights on comparable career pathways and complementary roles in the healthcare field, consult the best medical assistant programs in Kentucky.
How Can LPNs Progress Towards Advanced Nursing Roles in Kentucky?
Licensed Practical Nurses aiming to expand their scope of practice in Kentucky can pursue structured bridging pathways that integrate advanced clinical training with comprehensive academic coursework. Transitioning through accredited LPN-to-RN and BSN programs prepares professionals for higher responsibilities and specialized roles. These programs offer strategic advantages in developing critical leadership and decision-making skills essential for advanced practice. For an efficient career progression into nurse practitioner roles, consider exploring BSN to NP programs that streamline the transition to a higher level of practice.
How Can LPN Skills Facilitate a Transition into Nutrition Roles in KY?
Licensed practical nurses possess a strong clinical foundation and patient communication skills that can be further leveraged into specialized nutrition roles. Integrating bedside care with nutrition counseling, LPNs may explore certification programs or continuing education courses that bridge clinical practice with dietary wellness. This targeted skill set not only enhances patient care by addressing nutritional needs but also creates pathways into emerging fields where holistic health is prioritized. For insights on combining nursing practice with nutritional expertise, consider reviewing how to become a nutritionist in Kentucky.
Is an LPN Degree in Kentucky a Worthwhile Investment?
When evaluating the return on investment, consider the balance between affordable tuition, flexible program formats, and strong job stability in the healthcare sector. An LPN credential in Kentucky not only opens doors to immediate employment opportunities but also lays the foundation for career advancement through structured bridging pathways. For professionals desiring rapid progression, accelerated upgrade options—such as the 6-month RN to BSN program—offer a streamlined route to higher qualifications and improved earning potential.
What are the key licensing and regulatory requirements for LPNs in Kentucky?
Kentucky enforces a detailed framework for LPN licensure that includes not only passing the NCLEX-PN and the state jurisprudence exam but also fulfilling specific administrative procedures such as background checks and periodic renewal through continuing education. Prospective and practicing LPNs should remain aware of state-specific statutes and guidelines to ensure full compliance with professional standards. For up-to-date and comprehensive information, refer to Kentucky nursing license requirements. This streamlined process fosters consistent adherence to quality care and facilitates smooth transitions into advanced roles within the state’s healthcare system.
What challenges do LPNs face in Kentucky’s healthcare environment?
In Kentucky, LPNs often encounter unique challenges related to staffing shortages, diverse patient populations, and evolving healthcare standards. Many facilities, particularly in rural settings, require LPNs to manage high patient volumes while adapting to limited resources, resulting in increased workplace pressure and varied shift patterns. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date clinical skills amid a rapidly changing healthcare landscape calls for continuous professional development and adaptation to state-specific regulations. For detailed guidance on navigating these challenges and exploring career pathways, learn from our post on how to become a certified LPN in Kentucky.
What are the bridging pathways for LPNs to become nurse practitioners in Kentucky?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Kentucky can access targeted bridge programs that integrate advanced academic coursework with specialized clinical training to facilitate the transition into nurse practitioner roles. These pathways typically require documented clinical experience and prerequisite courses, ensuring candidates meet rigorous standards for advanced practice. Prospective students should confirm that programs are accredited and designed to support both examination preparation and licensure requirements, including strategic course sequencing and hands-on clinical placements. For a comprehensive guide on program selection and progression benchmarks, review how to become a nurse practitioner in Kentucky.
What factors should I consider when choosing an online LPN program in Kentucky?
When evaluating online LPN programs in Kentucky, review the program’s accreditation status and curriculum rigor, ensuring clinical partnerships offer robust hands-on experience. Investigate the availability of student support services, including academic advising and career placement assistance, and compare tuition costs alongside available financial aid options. Additionally, assess the program’s reputation through reviews and performance metrics, such as exam pass rates and licensure success. For a detailed comparison of program quality, consider exploring the best nursing schools in Kentucky.
Can LPNs advance into specialized roles like nurse midwifery in Kentucky?
LPNs seeking to specialize beyond traditional practical nursing can explore advanced certifications and targeted educational pathways that emphasize enhanced clinical practices and focused patient care. By pursuing specialized training, these professionals may gain a deeper expertise in areas such as maternal and infant health, which can lead to roles that require refined clinical judgment and independent practice. Prospective candidates should evaluate nurse midwife education requirements in Kentucky to align their prior LPN experience with prerequisite coursework and certification standards, ultimately increasing their versatility in the evolving healthcare landscape.
What can I do with an LPN degree in Kentucky?
From 2020 to 2030, LPNs in the state are projected to increase by 9.01% (KY Center for Statistics, n.d.), and other types of nurses are also expected to grow during the same period. Because online LPN programs in KY open up many doors, one of the things to know about nursing career is understanding of potential career paths with this credential.
For instance, you can work in insurance companies to review claims and cases or in mental health facilities to assist practitioners and patients. Alternatively, you can dive into emergency and immediate response training and become a paramedic. Another option is to pursue higher-level education and enter the forensics or medical writing industries. With the number of opportunities available, however, select a pathway that aligns with your skills and offers you a clear advantage.
What are the top financial aid options for LPN students in Kentucky?
LPN students in Kentucky have several financial aid options to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. These financial resources can alleviate the burden of paying for nursing education, making it more accessible for aspiring nurses.
Federal and State Grants
Pell Grant: This need-based federal grant does not require repayment and is available to students who demonstrate financial need. The maximum award amount can change annually, so it's important to check the current limits.
Kentucky Tuition Grant (KTG): This state grant is available for eligible students attending private colleges and universities in Kentucky. It provides financial assistance to residents based on need.
Scholarships
Nursing Incentive Scholarship Fund (NISF): Offered by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, this scholarship is available to nursing students, including those pursuing an LPN program. Recipients must agree to work as a nurse in Kentucky for one year for each academic year the scholarship is awarded.
Kentucky Nurses Association (KNA) Scholarships: The KNA offers various scholarships for nursing students based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. These scholarships help cover tuition and related educational expenses.
Work-Study Programs
Federal Work-Study (FWS): This program provides part-time employment to students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for their education. Many participating schools in Kentucky offer work-study positions related to healthcare, which can provide valuable experience in addition to financial support.
Student Loans
Federal Direct Loans: These low-interest loans are available to LPN students, with subsidized and unsubsidized options based on financial need. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while the student is enrolled in school.
Private Student Loans: While private loans can cover any remaining costs, they typically come with higher interest rates and less flexible repayment options compared to federal loans.
Employer-Sponsored Tuition Assistance
Some healthcare employers in Kentucky offer tuition reimbursement programs or financial assistance to employees pursuing an LPN credential. Students should check with their current or prospective employers to see if such programs are available.
Career Advancement Pathways for LPNs in Kentucky
A career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is just the beginning of many opportunities in the healthcare field. After gaining experience, LPNs in Kentucky can consider further education and specialized certifications to advance their careers.
One popular pathway is bridging to a Registered Nurse (RN) role. Programs like the MA to LPN Bridge Program Online offer flexible options for working professionals to achieve this goal. RNs enjoy higher earning potential, expanded responsibilities, and opportunities to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care.
Another option is pursuing certifications in fields like IV therapy, wound care, or geriatric nursing, which can increase employability and salary prospects. For those interested in leadership or administrative roles, LPNs can eventually transition to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master’s in Nursing (MSN) programs, often available in hybrid or online formats to accommodate busy schedules.
These pathways ensure that an LPN credential is not the endpoint but a stepping stone to a fulfilling and rewarding career in healthcare.
What are the next steps after becoming an LPN in Kentucky?
After becoming an LPN in Kentucky, the next steps often involve seeking advanced education or specialized certifications to enhance career prospects. For those interested in furthering their education, pursuing an best nurse practitioner programs in Kentucky can provide advanced training and qualifications, leading to higher salaries and more complex patient care responsibilities. Additionally, LPNs can explore various specialty certifications or bridge programs to transition into roles like registered nurses, each offering unique challenges and rewards in the healthcare field.
What are the clinical training requirements for online LPN programs in Kentucky?
When pursuing an online LPN program in Kentucky, clinical training is a critical component of the curriculum that cannot be overlooked. While many of the academic courses can be completed online, hands-on experience in a healthcare setting is necessary to gain the practical skills needed to become a licensed practical nurse.
Clinical Placements: Most online LPN programs in Kentucky include a clinical component that requires students to complete a certain number of hours working directly with patients in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics. These placements are arranged by the program and must meet the standards set by the Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN).
Varied Clinical Settings: The clinical training typically covers a range of healthcare settings to provide students with a broad understanding of patient care. This can include working in acute care, long-term care, pediatric, geriatric, and other specialized units, giving students diverse exposure to the nursing field.
Supervised Experience: During clinicals, students work under the supervision of a licensed nurse or other healthcare professionals. This allows them to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom in real-world scenarios, ensuring they’re prepared for their future roles as LPNs. For those who later pursue further education, such as LPN to BSN online programs, these clinical hours also form the foundation for more advanced nursing roles.
Requirements for Completion: Students must pass clinical evaluations to demonstrate their competence in essential nursing tasks such as monitoring patient health, administering medications, and assisting with daily living activities. Clinical hours are typically arranged locally, but students may need to travel to nearby facilities depending on the program’s location and the area where they reside.
Online and Hybrid Options: Some online programs offer hybrid clinical training models, where students combine online learning with in-person clinical practice in their community. This flexibility allows students to complete their clinicals closer to home while still benefiting from a comprehensive online education.
Devote Your Services to Patients by Enrolling in Online LPN Programs in KY
In this guide, our team has compiled a list of remote and hybrid LPN programs in Kentucky and nearby states. We also provided information on the cost and duration of LPN programs and details on how to become one or what to look out for in the industry to assist aspiring LPNs in their decision-making process.
The landscape of nursing in Kentucky still has a long way to go to achieve stability and progress. As you commit to the right program that meets your academic needs, you also begin your dedication to a lifelong career that requires you to champion your patients and the profession. By staying informed and devoted to your goals, you can contribute to the ongoing transformation of the healthcare system and enhancement of the nursing profession in the Bluegrass State.
Key Insights
High Demand for LPNs: Kentucky faces a significant need for well-trained healthcare professionals, with over 13,000 active practical nurses and a projected 9.01% growth in LPN positions from 2020 to 2030.
Affordable Education: Online LPN programs in Kentucky are relatively affordable, with costs ranging from $5,700 for two-year public institutions to $11,390 for four-year public institutions.
Flexible Learning Options: Many institutions offer hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training, providing flexibility for students.
Accredited Programs: Programs accredited by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and national accrediting bodies ensure high-quality education and eligibility for licensure exams.
Career Opportunities: LPNs in Kentucky can work in various settings, including hospitals, mental health facilities, insurance companies, and emergency response, with opportunities for further education and specialization.
Local Initiatives: Kentucky is implementing measures like financial assistance, enrollment cap easing, and implicit bias training to improve the nursing profession and address challenges such as low wages and workplace discrimination.
FAQ
How do I become an LPN in Kentucky?
To become an LPN in Kentucky, you must complete a Board-approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN and KY Jurisprudence Exam. You also need to submit an application for licensure, complete background checks, and pay any necessary fees. LPNs must renew their license annually and complete at least 14 contact hours of continuing education.
What is the typical cost of online LPN programs in Kentucky?
The cost varies depending on the institution. Two-year public institutions generally charge around $5,700, while four-year public institutions charge approximately $11,390. Additional expenses may include laboratory fees, distance learning fees, and other institutional charges.
How long does it take to become an LPN in Kentucky?
Most online LPN programs in Kentucky can be completed in 12 to 20 months, depending on the number of units taken per semester. Some programs may offer accelerated options, but all require a combination of online coursework and in-person clinical training.
Can you become an LPN in Kentucky with an online degree?
Yes, you can become an LPN in Kentucky with an online degree, provided the program is accredited by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and other relevant accrediting bodies. However, practical, in-person clinical training is still required.
What are some of the best online LPN programs in Kentucky?
Some of the top online LPN programs in Kentucky include those offered by Jefferson Community & Technical College, Western Kentucky University, Indiana State University, Herzing University, and Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crump. These programs offer a mix of online coursework and in-person clinical training.
Is Kentucky a good place to work as an LPN?
Kentucky offers many opportunities for LPNs, though the average salary of $49,570 is lower than the national average. The state is working on initiatives to improve conditions for nurses, including financial incentives and training programs to address workplace discrimination and low wages.
What career opportunities are available with an LPN degree in Kentucky?
LPNs in Kentucky can work in hospitals, mental health facilities, insurance companies, emergency response, and more. Opportunities for further education and specialization are also available, allowing LPNs to advance in their careers.
What should I look for in an online LPN program in Kentucky?
When choosing an online LPN program in Kentucky, look for accreditation by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and national accrediting bodies, affordability, flexible learning options, and programs that offer both online coursework and in-person clinical training. Consider programs with good student support services and high NCLEX-PN pass rates.