Best LPN Programs in Wyoming – Accredited Online LPN Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Wyoming has the smallest population in America with only around 578,803 residents (Wisevoter, 2023). So, it is understandable that the state has only a small population of nurses, at 6,200 in 2022 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Of this small workforce, only 630 work as licensed practical nurses (LPNs). While the estimated job growth from 2020 to 2030 is 8.4%, the projected job change is only 40 by 2030.

As such, there are really no standalone traditional or purely online LPN courses and programs in Wyoming. To earn a certificate, one must be enrolled in an associate degree in nursing (ADN) programreceiving certification after a year or two. The quality of the training, however, is impeccable, with an NCLEX-PN pass rate of 98.40% in 2022 (Wyoming State Board of Nursing, 2023).

So, our team has extensively studied available LPN programs in Wyoming and compiled a list of these LPN pathways in ADN programs, ranked according to metrics such as student outcomes, faculty expertise, school facilities, and NCLEX-PN pass rates scores. Hopefully, you will find this helpful in choosing the best institution to start your career as an LPN in the state of Wyoming.

Best Online LPN Programs in Wyoming Table of Contents

1. How to Become an LPN in Wyoming
2. What is the typical cost of online LPN programs in Wyoming?
3. How long does it take to become an LPN in Wyoming?
4. Can you become an LPN in Wyoming with an online degree?
5. Online LPN Programs in Wyoming for 2025
6. Is Wyoming good for LPNs?
7. Can Cross-Training in Medical Assisting Enhance My LPN Career in Wyoming?
8. Can My LPN Certification Open Doors to Allied Health Careers?
9. What challenges do LPNs face in Wyoming’s evolving healthcare landscape?
10. Have Licensing Policy Changes Impacted LPNs in Wyoming Recently?
11. How Can I Leverage Professional Networks and Mentorship for Career Growth in Wyoming?
12. Can My LPN Certification Pave the Way to Advanced Nursing Roles in Wyoming?
13. What can I do with an LPN certificate in Wyoming?
14. Can My LPN Certification Transition Me into Specialized Roles Like Nurse Midwife in Wyoming?
15. What professional development opportunities are available for LPNs in Wyoming?
16. Building Long-Term Career Strategies as an LPN in Wyoming
17. How Can I Secure Financial Support for Advancing My Nursing Education in Wyoming?
18. How Do I Choose the Right Nursing School for My LPN Certification?

How to Become an LPN in Wyoming

In Wyoming, there is one pathway for high school graduates (or equivalent). That is to enter a program for higher levels of nursing, such as an ADN and BSN. The LPN application process is virtually the same for an RN license. Licensing is regulated by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBN).

Below are the general steps to become an LPN in Wyoming.

• Enroll in an ADN program. As mentioned, approved LPN programs in Wyoming are part of ADN programs. Typically, students are eligible for certification and to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam after a year or two of education.
• Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam. After completing the required credits that make you eligible for an LPN license from approved ADN programs, you must take the NCLEX-PN exam. So far, from January to June 2023, 61 out of 62 students passed the exam. This is at an impressive rate of 98.4%. The exam is administered by Pearson Vue.
• Submission of a License Application to the WSBN. After passing the NCLEX-PN exam, you need to apply for LPN licensure with the WSBN. You can submit an online application for LPN licensure by examination or endorsement on the WSBN website. You need to pay an application fee and upload copies of the required documents, such as your transcript and social security card, among others. Furthermore, you would need to undergo a criminal background. The WSBN will review your application and issue your license if you meet all the requirements. Licensing typically takes three weeks after all documents have been received.
• Request a Temporary License if Needed. If you need to start working as an LPN before receiving your permanent license, you can request a temporary license from the Board. A temporary license allows you to practice as an LPN for up to 90 days or until you receive your permanent license, whichever comes first.

License Renewal and Continuing Education

The WSBN has a unique, and you may say less restrictive, renewal process for nursing practice. LPN and RN renewal requirements are the same. They must demonstrate continuing competency. This can be achieved by completing:

1. 400 hours of active nursing practice;
2. 200 hours of active nursing practice along with 15 hours of continuing education; or
3. completing 30 hours of continuing education within the past two years, except during the first renewal period.

What is the typical cost of online LPN programs in Wyoming?

The average cost per credit for LPN certification in Wyoming can range from $105 to $153.75 for in-state students. For residents of states under the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, the average cost per credit is $214.13, and the total average tuition is $9,243. Out-of-state tuition ranges from $7,110 to $16,005, with an average of $12,625. The full tuition cost for in-state students ranges from $ 4,725 to $6,765, averaging at $5,880. Remember, however, that one must be enrolled in an ADN program to earn your LPN license.

How long does it take to become an LPN in Wyoming?

LPN programs in Wyoming can be completed from 9 months to 1.5 years. And, again, there are no standalone programs. All of them are part of ADN offerings that facilitate their students’ eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Students may also dedicate extra time for test prep, which can take up to eight weeks. Licensing can take up to three weeks. Considering these, it would take one to two years to become an LPN in Wyoming. This, of course, depends on the ADN program you are enrolled in.

Can you become an LPN in Wyoming with an online certification?

Again, there are no purely online LPN programs in Wyoming (and virtually in the US). This is because nursing is a hands-on profession, and in-person clinical training will always be required. While some programs may offer theoretical courses in distance learning formats, they still have in-person requirements. And, as LPN programs in Wyoming are part of larger on-campus ADN programs, earning an online certificate is impossible. The key thing, however, is to earn your certificate from LPN programs approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBN). There are, however, online options for full-fledged nursing degrees. These range from LPN to BSN bridge programs online offerings to graduate-level programs.

Online LPN Programs in Wyoming for 2025

Standalone LPN programs in Wyoming were relatively recently folded into ADN programs. This is primarily because of the lack of demand. Today, there are only five active LPN programs approved by the WSBN. The Research.com team ranked them according to faculty expertise, student outcomes, school facilities, and NCLEX-PN pass rates. Here they are below.

1. Casper College Practical Nursing Certificate

Casper College offers an ADN program that awards a practical nursing (PN) certificate to students after the first two semesters. With this certificate, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. But, of course, one must be enrolled in the ADN program to qualify. It also has an advanced LPN option, which is considered one of the best LPN to RN bridge programs in Wyoming.

1. NCLEX Pass Rate (2022): 97.44% (38/39)
2. Program Length: 9 to 11 months (part of ADN program)
3. Required Credits: 41
4. Cost per Credit: $147.00 (in-state); $200.00 (WUE); $357.00 (out-of-state)
5. Accreditation:  Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

2. Northern Wyoming Community College District Practical Nursing Certificate

Northern Wyoming Community College District (NWCCD) offers a nursing program that allows students to earn their LPN certificates after the first year. Those with the certificate can sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.

1. NCLEX Pass Rate (2022): 100% (29/29)
2. Program Length: 1 year (after the first year of ADN)
3. Required Credits: 44
4. Tuition Cost: $4,830.00 (in-state); $6,420.00 (WUE); $11,130.00 (out-of-state)
5. Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3. Laramie County Community College Certificate in Nursing

Laramie County Community College has an ADN nursing program that confers a Certificate in Nursing after its first two semesters. After completing this LCCC LPN program, students may choose to take the NCLEX-PN exam and earn licensure as an LPN in Wyoming.

1. NCLEX Pass Rate (2022): 96.77% (30/31)
2. Program Length: ~1 year (part of ADN program)
3. Required Credits: ~41 to 44
4. Cost per Credit: $153.75 (in-state); $206.75 (WUE); $363.75 (out-of-state)
5. Accreditation:  Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

4. Western Wyoming Community College Practical Nursing Certificate

Western Wyoming Community College confers a PN certificate for their ADN students after completing three program courseworkNURS 1100, NURS 1200, and NURSE 1900and their co-requisites. These three courses total 20 credits on top of the prerequisite 21 credits.

1. NCLEX Pass Rate (2022): 100% (15/15)
2. Program Length: ~1.5 years (part of ADN program)
3. Required Credits to Graduate: 41
4. Cost per Credit: $150.00 (in-state); $203.00 (WUE); $360.00 (out-of-state)
5. Accreditation:  Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

5. Northwest College Practical Nursing Program

Northwest College allows its ADN students to earn their LPN qualifications and sit for the NCLEX-PN exam after completing the first two semesters of the program. They must successfully earn a total of 45 credits to qualify.

1. NCLEX Pass Rate (2022): 100% (13/13)
2. Program Length: 1 year (part of ADN program)
3. Required Credits: 45
4. Cost per Credit: $105.00 (in-state); $315.00 (WUE); $158.00 (out-of-state)
5. Accreditation:  Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Is Wyoming good for LPNs?

So, is being a nurse worth it in Wyoming? The job outlook for LPNs, in particular, is not too bright. Considering that institutions no longer provide standalone LPN programs, there is little incentive to earn a certificate, given that it is only optional. As mentioned, in 2022, there were only 630 LPN jobs in Wyoming, just 10.16% of the total nursing occupations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). RNs have the highest percentage share at 81.77%, with 5,070 employees. And this is pretty understandable, given that ADN programs function more or less as entry-level nursing degree programs in the state.

Experts predict that, by 2030, there will be only 40 additional LPN jobs in the state (Projections Central, 2023). This is from a base of 450 in 2020. The nursing occupations with the highest projected job growth are nurse practitioners (54.3%) and nurse anesthetists (20%).

LPN Salary in Wyoming

In 2022, the LPN salary in Wyoming was $54,880 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). This is $440 higher than the average salary in the state. LPNs in the state may expect to earn even more in the near future. For many healthcare facilities in Wyoming, the persistent nursing shortage has resulted in a bidding war of sorts, with employers offering large bonuses to attract nursing staff. This has resulted in higher earnings for the state’s nurses, from certified nursing assistants to RNs.

What opportunities are available for LPNs to advance to higher nursing roles in Wyoming?

For LPNs in Wyoming looking to advance their careers, there are several options to consider. One potential pathway is to pursue a degree as a nurse practitioner. To learn more about the best programs available, visit the best nurse practitioner programs in Wyoming and explore the various opportunities for professional growth and development. Additionally, LPNs can consider enrolling in bridge programs, such as LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN, to increase their qualifications and gain access to leadership roles in healthcare. By exploring these options, LPNs in Wyoming can position themselves for fulfilling nursing opportunities that align with their personal aspirations and the state's healthcare needs.

Can Cross-Training in Medical Assisting Enhance My LPN Career in Wyoming?

Supplementing your LPN certification with additional clinical training in medical assisting can diversify your skill set and broaden career opportunities in Wyoming’s competitive healthcare market. Cross-training enables you to gain hands-on expertise in areas such as patient intake, administrative procedures, and basic clinical support, thereby increasing your flexibility within multidisciplinary teams. Furthermore, obtaining complementary credentials may improve your prospects when seeking leadership roles or transitioning into specialized practice areas. Interested candidates should review program offerings and outcomes available through reputable institutions, including the best medical assistant programs in Wyoming, to determine the most beneficial pathway for career advancement.

Can My LPN Certification Open Doors to Allied Health Careers?

Licensed practical nurses in Wyoming can leverage their clinical experience to transition into allied health roles that extend beyond traditional bedside care. By capitalizing on their established skills, LPNs may explore career avenues in sectors such as healthcare administration, patient wellness, and nutritional counseling. With targeted continuing education and specialized certifications, professionals can diversify their expertise and pursue focused fields—a pathway that may offer enhanced job satisfaction and broader career opportunities. For those with an interest in nutrition, detailed guidance is available on how to become a nutritionist in Wyoming, highlighting prerequisites and steps necessary to enter this allied discipline.

What challenges do LPNs face in Wyoming’s evolving healthcare landscape?

LPNs in Wyoming encounter obstacles stemming from a limited number of positions, an evolving scope of practice, and competitive advancement into higher nursing roles. With few standalone programs available, professionals must pursue ADN pathways, which increases competition with RN candidates and intensifies the need for continuous clinical skill enhancement. Navigating changing regulatory requirements and emerging healthcare technologies adds further complexity. Addressing these challenges often involves strategic career planning and targeted continuing education, such as exploring cheapest accelerated nursing programs, to expedite upward mobility in a constrained job market.

Have Licensing Policy Changes Impacted LPNs in Wyoming Recently?

Recent updates in state regulations may affect practice parameters and renewal procedures for LPNs, necessitating close monitoring of evolving standards. Staying informed on emerging policies ensures that LPNs align with compliance requirements and can strategically plan career advancements. For a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of these changes, refer to Wyoming nursing license requirements.

How Can I Leverage Professional Networks and Mentorship for Career Growth in Wyoming?

Establish connections with local nursing associations and healthcare forums that specialize in Wyoming’s unique clinical landscape. Participating in region-specific conferences and mentorship programs can facilitate direct engagement with experienced professionals, offering insights on regulatory updates and emerging practice standards. Consider exploring structured programs provided by hospitals and educational institutions, which not only foster professional growth but also promote leadership development. For a detailed overview of foundational steps, review our guide on how to become a certified LPN in Wyoming.

Can My LPN Certification Pave the Way to Advanced Nursing Roles in Wyoming?

Although Wyoming’s LPN certification is structured as an entry-level credential, targeted academic and clinical advancements can transform it into a launching pad for advanced practice. Focused bridge programs and specialized clinical training can equip LPNs with the competencies required for nurse practitioner roles while expanding their scope of practice. For a detailed exploration of this advancement pathway, review how to become a nurse practitioner in Wyoming. Strategic career planning and focused training are essential to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the state’s evolving healthcare landscape.

What can I do with an LPN certification in Wyoming?

Can My LPN Certification Transition Me into Specialized Roles Like Nurse Midwife in Wyoming?

Licensed practical nurses in Wyoming can leverage their clinical experience to transition into specialized roles with advanced certification, expanding their scope of practice into areas such as nurse midwifery. This pathway allows LPNs to build upon practical patient care skills by pursuing additional clinical education and hands-on training necessary to meet state standards. For detailed guidance on prerequisites and certification steps, please review the nurse midwife education requirements in Wyoming.

What professional development opportunities are available for LPNs in Wyoming?

While Wyoming’s nursing landscape may offer limited opportunities for LPNs due to a small population and relatively low job growth, licensed practical nurses in the state can still find meaningful ways to advance their careers and skills through professional development. Here are some key options available:

• LPN to RN Bridge Programs: LPNs in Wyoming can leverage bridge programs to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), allowing them to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This step not only expands their clinical knowledge and skills but also opens doors to higher-paying roles with more responsibilities. Many institutions offer flexible bridge programs, some with online components to accommodate working professionals.
• Specialized Certifications: LPNs can pursue certifications in areas like IV therapy, geriatrics, and wound care to develop expertise in specialized fields. These certifications can enhance their skill set, improve patient care, and make them more competitive in the job market. Local hospitals and healthcare organizations may offer or support these certification courses.
• Continuing Education and Workshops: Attending workshops and continuing education (CE) courses is essential for maintaining an LPN license and staying updated on the latest nursing practices. The Wyoming State Board of Nursing allows various CE options, making it feasible for LPNs to meet renewal requirements. Topics often cover updates in healthcare regulations, patient safety, and disease management.
• Professional Networking and Mentorship Programs: Engaging in mentorship programs or joining professional organizations, such as the Wyoming Nurses Association, can provide valuable networking opportunities. Connecting with other nursing professionals can lead to insights on career advancement, job openings, and potential mentors who offer guidance on furthering one’s nursing career.
• Career Advancement through Leadership Roles: LPNs interested in leadership may seek roles as team leaders or supervisors within healthcare settings. These positions can develop leadership skills and pave the way for future advancements within nursing.

Building Long-Term Career Strategies as an LPN in Wyoming

To thrive as a licensed practical nurse in Wyoming and maximize career prospects, it is essential to plan for long-term growth. Given the state’s limited LPN demand, many practitioners opt to build pathways toward advanced nursing roles. One highly effective strategy is pursuing further education and certifications to transition into registered nursing (RN) roles or other specialized fields. Leveraging your LPN certification as a foundation for further learning is highly beneficial, especially in Wyoming’s healthcare landscape.

For those interested in advancing their career, enrolling in bridge programs, such as LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN, is an excellent option. These programs provide a streamlined approach to increasing qualifications, making it easier to command higher salaries and gain access to leadership roles in healthcare. Moreover, with Wyoming experiencing a significant shortage of nursing professionals, aspiring registered nurses may find plenty of opportunities upon obtaining their RN license. To better understand the requirements and process, ensure you explore this comprehensive guide on how to become a registered nurse in Wyoming.

Ultimately, enhancing your skills and qualifications not only increases job security but also positions you for fulfilling nursing opportunities that align with both personal aspirations and Wyoming's healthcare needs.

How Can I Secure Financial Support for Advancing My Nursing Education in Wyoming?

To ease the transition from LPN to advanced nursing roles, explore targeted financial aid options that complement career development. Investigate state-specific scholarships, federal grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs designed for healthcare professionals. Additionally, consider cost-efficient educational pathways by reviewing opportunities in bridge programs, such as the most affordable BSN to DNP programs online. Assess eligibility criteria and application deadlines early to align funding with your educational timeline while ensuring that every investment contributes effectively to your professional growth.

How Do I Choose the Right Nursing School for My LPN Certification?

Evaluate educational institutions by reviewing accreditation status, NCLEX-PN success rates, and the quality of clinical training opportunities. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, student support services, and program cost efficiency while comparing curriculum rigor and facility resources. Leverage reviews and rankings from the best nursing schools in Wyoming to make an evidence-based decision that aligns with career objectives and long-term professional goals.

Your LPN Certification as a Stepping Stone

The structure and process of earning your LPN certificate from Wyoming institutions really incentivizes students to aim for full-fledged degrees. As such, many consider an LPN certification as a stepping stone rather than a terminal education credential. Once you have earned it through an ADN degree program, you can leverage your nursing training to attain higher degrees.

And it is these higher degrees that typically have online offerings. These include the best accelerated nurse practitioner online programs from top universities. Hopefully, you have found this guide helpful in deciding what to do after earning your certificate from LPN programs in Wyoming.

Key Insights

• Limited LPN Workforce: Wyoming has a very small nursing workforce with only 630 licensed practical nurses (LPNs) as of 2022. The state projects minimal growth in LPN jobs, with only 40 new positions expected by 2030.
• Integrated ADN Programs: Wyoming does not offer standalone LPN programs. Instead, students enroll in Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, where they can earn an LPN certificate after completing a portion of the program.
• High NCLEX-PN Pass Rates: Despite the small number of LPNs, Wyoming boasts a high NCLEX-PN pass rate of 98.4% in 2022, indicating the quality of nursing education provided.
• Cost of LPN Programs: The average full tuition cost for in-state LPN students ranges from $4,725 to $6,765, with an average of $5,880. Out-of-state tuition averages $12,625.
• Career Advancement: Earning an LPN certificate is often seen as a stepping stone to higher nursing degrees. Many students continue their education to become registered nurses (RNs) or advance to more specialized nursing roles.
• Supportive Legislative Environment: Wyoming's Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) membership and legislation like Senate Bill 137, which removes barriers for immigrants to obtain licenses, support the growth and flexibility of the nursing workforce.

FAQ

1. How do I become an LPN in Wyoming? To become an LPN in Wyoming, you must enroll in an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, complete the required coursework, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the exam, you need to apply for licensure with the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBN) and submit the necessary documentation, including transcripts, a completed criminal background check, and a social security card.
2. What is the typical cost of online LPN programs in Wyoming? The cost of LPN programs in Wyoming varies. For in-state students, the average full tuition cost is $5,880, while out-of-state students pay an average of $12,625. The cost per credit for in-state students ranges from $105 to $153.75, with out-of-state students paying between $158 and $363.75 per credit.
3. How long does it take to become an LPN in Wyoming? It typically takes one to two years to become an LPN in Wyoming, depending on the ADN program you enroll in. The duration includes the time needed to complete the required coursework and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Licensing can take up to three weeks after all documents have been received.
4. Can you become an LPN in Wyoming with an online certification? No, there are no purely online LPN programs in Wyoming. While some theoretical courses may be offered online, in-person clinical training is required. LPN certification in Wyoming is part of larger on-campus ADN programs.
5. Is Wyoming good for LPNs? The job outlook for LPNs in Wyoming is not very promising, with only 630 LPNs employed in 2022 and minimal projected job growth. However, the state offers competitive salaries and high NCLEX-PN pass rates. Many LPNs use their certification as a stepping stone to advance to higher nursing degrees.
6. What are the benefits of pursuing an LPN certification in Wyoming? Pursuing an LPN certification in Wyoming provides a high-quality education with high NCLEX-PN pass rates. Additionally, the certification can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced nursing degrees and roles. The state's supportive legislative environment and Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) membership also offer flexibility and opportunities for career growth.
7. What can I do with an LPN certificate in Wyoming? With an LPN certificate, you can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. However, due to limited job growth, many LPNs in Wyoming use their certification as a foundation to pursue higher nursing degrees and more specialized roles.
8. How does the cost of living in Wyoming affect LPNs? Wyoming has a relatively low cost of living, which can be beneficial for LPNs. The average LPN salary in Wyoming was $54,880 in 2022, slightly above the state average salary. This competitive salary, combined with the lower cost of living, makes Wyoming an affordable place for LPNs to live and work.
9. Are there any financial aid options for LPN students in Wyoming? Yes, financial aid options are available for LPN students in Wyoming. These include scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs offered by various institutions and the state government. Students can also benefit from the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, which offers discounted tuition rates to students from participating states.

References:

1. Projections Central. (2023). Long-term occupational projections (2020-2030). Retrieved October 25, 2023, from PMP.
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Wyoming 2022 occupational employment and wage statistics. Retrieved October 25, 2023, from BLS.
3. Wisevoter. (2023, May 30). States by population 2023. Retrieved October 25, 2023, from Wisevoter.
4. Wyoming State Board of Nursing. (2023). 2022 NCLEX Statistics. Retrieved October 25, 2023, from WSBN.