2024 - Best LPN Programs in Wyoming

Details on Wyoming LPN Schools & Classes

For aspiring licensed practical nurses in the state of Wyoming, there are five schools to choose from that offer practical nursing programs. In general, practical nursing programs can be completed in one to two years depending on whether a student attends classes on a full- or part-time basis.

The typical LPN curriculum in Wyoming includes both classroom and clinical learning experiences. The coursework for these programs may include the following:

• Professional Nursing Care in Chronic Illness
• Practical Nursing Roles
• Nursing Theory
• General Psychology
• Human Anatomy & Physiology
• Nutrition for Healthcare
• Pharmacology for Practical Nursing
• Maternal Child Nursing

Accreditation

In order to become an LPN in Wyoming, nurses must graduate from a practical nursing program that is endorsed by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. In order to ensure the high quality of their practical nursing program, students should look for program accreditation. A properly accredited LPN program has met the standards set by a third party accrediting organization such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, meaning students can rest assured knowing their chosen program will provide them with a high quality nursing education.

Admission Requirements

Before applying to any LPN program, be sure you meet all relevant entrance criteria. Entrance requirements may vary slightly from school to school, but in general they include the following:

• Completion of high school or GED program (transcripts required)
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 including prerequisite college courses
• Completion of all prerequisite courses, such as college-level Math, English I and Basic Physiology & Human Anatomy
• Standardized Test Scores, such as the ACT or TEAS V exam
• Personal interview
• Background check, drug screen and proof of required immunizations
• Submission of completed application and associated fees

Tuition and Costs

Cost of an LPN program can be a deciding factor for many aspiring practical nurses. Tuition and fees can vary widely from school to school so applicants should inquire about tuition rates, mandatory school and program fees, supplies (including textbooks), and other mandatory expenses. In addition, students should factor in housing and commuting costs into their overall budget total. Students who need assistance in covering the costs of their LPN program should inquire with their school’s financial aid office for information about financial aid, loans, and scholarships that may offset some or all of these costs.

As an example of LPN program costs in Wyoming, Sheridan College in Gillette has a tuition rate for Wyoming residents of about $4,000 per year, which includes tuition and fees but does not include room and board.

For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our Wyoming LPN to RN/BSN programs page.

Wyoming LPN Licensing Requirements

To become an LPN in Wyoming, individuals must complete a state-approved nursing program. In addition, he or she must sit and pass the NCLEX-PN exam—the required state-test to show proficiency.

In order to receive state licensure, the applicant must submit an application to the state, including:

• Official transcript from state-approved nursing program, showing date of graduation and type of degree
• Copy of social security card and driver’s license (showing lawful presence)
• Proof of registration for the NCLEX
• Fingerprint card and criminal background check

Wyoming LPN licenses expire every 2 years and have competency requirements in order to renew. The licensee must have worked 1,600 hours in the last 5 years or 500 hours in the last 2 years in order to renew their license.

NCLEX Exam Information

Before a practical nursing program graduate can receive licensure in Wyoming, they must sit for and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. LPN program coursework should prepare students for this important exam. For more information, an overview of the NCLEX-PN can be found here. A critical study aid for many students, an NCLEX-PN practice test is available to help students prepare and study for their exam.

LPN Reciprocity and NLC

Wyoming takes part in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in participating states without having to apply for a new license.

LPNs from non-NLC states can apply for their license in the state of Wyoming by endorsement. Applicants must submit an application with the Wyoming State Board of Nursing, along with:

• Verification of current licensure (in good standing)
• Copy of social security card and driver’s license (lawful presence)
• Fingerprint card and criminal background check
• Meet one continued competency requirement (500 professional hours as an LPN in the last 2 years, 20 hours of continued education in the last 2 years, a refresher course in the last 5 years, certification in a specialty area within the last 5 years, or passed the NCLEX-PN exam within the last 5 years)

Individuals who have studied abroad and hold licensing in other countries must submit the following for consideration in order to apply for Wyoming licensure:

• Official transcript with English translation
• Proof of English proficiency
• Verification of current LPN license
• Sit for and pass the NCLEX exam

2024 WY NCLEX-PN Pass Rates and Statistics

• Total Number of State Approved LPN Schools: 5
• Total Number of Test Takers in 2022: 127
• 2022 Average Statewide Wyoming NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 98.1%

LPN Salary in Wyoming

The table below lists career information collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for licensed practical nurses in Wyoming. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.

Table data sourced from 2022 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm)