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Accredited LPN Programs & Colleges in Nebraska
Southeast CC and Metropolitan CC run the primary public LPN pathways. Bryan College of Health Sciences (Lincoln) operates directly within the Bryan Health system, creating a seamless training-to-employment pipeline. Programs run 12 months statewide. Employer-sponsored options at Bryan Health and CHI Health cover tuition and guarantee employment.
| School | City | Type | Program Length | Approx. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southeast Community College | Lincoln | Community College | 12 months | $5,600 |
| Central Community College | Grand Island | Community College | 12 months | $5,200 |
| Metropolitan Community College | Omaha | Community College | 12 months | $5,400 |
| Northeast Community College | Norfolk | Community College | 12 months | $5,100 |
Tuition figures are approximate and reflect in-state rates. Contact each school for current pricing, financial aid, and enrollment deadlines. Always confirm the program is approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
Online & Hybrid LPN Programs in Nebraska
No Nebraska LPN program is fully online — clinical training is required. Some community colleges offer hybrid coursework components. Nebraska's smaller population means clinical sites are less crowded than in high-population states, providing more hands-on patient interaction per student.
Hybrid programs are ideal for working adults, parents, or anyone who needs scheduling flexibility. Typical hybrid programs cover 40–60% of coursework online, with the remainder as on-site clinical hours at approved partner hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and clinics.
For a complete list of online-friendly LPN programs available to Nebraska residents, visit our dedicated guide:
Requirements to Enroll in a Nebraska LPN Program
Nebraska programs use standard prerequisites. Employer-sponsored programs (Bryan Health, CHI Health) have their own application processes separate from community college admissions — apply to both if you're interested in the sponsored route. Nebraska is an NLC compact state.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum age of 18 (some programs accept students at 17 with parental consent)
- Completed prerequisite courses — typically includes basic math, English, and introductory biology or anatomy & physiology
- Passing score on an entrance exam (TEAS or HESI A2 are most common)
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- Current CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association)
- Up-to-date immunization records including TB test, Hepatitis B, and flu vaccine
Quick Facts: LPN Licensing in Nebraska
After completing an approved program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and apply for licensure through the Nebraska Board of Nursing. Most candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing.
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LPN Salary & Job Outlook in Nebraska
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 OEWS data), LPNs in Nebraska earn an average of $60,240 per year ($28.96/hour). This places Nebraska near the national average the national LPN average of $62,340.
Salaries in Nebraska typically range from $44,800 for entry-level positions to $75,200 for experienced nurses in high-demand specialties or metro areas.
LPN Salary by City in Nebraska
| City / Metro Area | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Omaha | $62,800 |
| Lincoln | $60,200 |
Job Outlook
Employment of LPNs in Nebraska is projected to grow 3% over the next decade — about as fast as average for all occupations. The state sees approximately 500 annual job openings for LPNs, driven by retirements, career transitions, and growing demand in skilled nursing facilities and home health.
Where LPNs Work in Nebraska
The majority of LPNs in Nebraska work in skilled nursing facilities and long-term care, which together employ roughly 35% of the state's practical nurses. Other common employers include hospitals, physician offices, home health agencies, and outpatient care centers. Shift differentials for evenings, nights, and weekends can add $2–$5/hour on top of base pay.
First Job Tips for New LPN Graduates
Landing your first LPN position in Nebraska is usually straightforward given current demand. Skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers actively recruit new graduates and often offer sign-on bonuses. Staffing agencies are another option — they can place you quickly and often pay above-average hourly rates. Once you have 6–12 months of experience, you'll qualify for positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.
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Explore More Nursing & Healthcare Careers in Nebraska
Whether you're starting out or planning your next credential, these guides can help:
Nebraska
Nebraska LPN Scope of Practice — What You Can and Can't Do
Nebraska LPNs are regulated by the Nebraska Board of Nursing under DHHS. Nebraska is an NLC state. Nebraska has issued a specific IV infusion advisory for nurses.
You Can Direct Patient Care
- Medication administration (oral, IM, SubQ, topical, rectal, inhaled)
- Focused assessments and ongoing monitoring
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Vital signs and point-of-care testing
- Foley catheter insertion and management
- Tracheostomy care and suctioning
- Contributing to care plans
- Supervising CNAs/UAPs
Conditional IV Therapy
- LPNs may perform IV therapy after completing a Board-approved IV therapy course
- Must work under direction of an RN or physician
- Peripheral IV starts and IV fluid/medication administration permitted
- Nebraska Board of Nursing has issued an IV/infusion therapy advisory opinion clarifying LPN scope
- LPNs CANNOT administer blood products, chemotherapy, or manage central lines
You Cannot RN-Only Functions
- Comprehensive assessments
- Creating or modifying care plans
- Blood product or chemotherapy administration
- Central line management
- Triage
- Independent practice
Nebraska LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs
| School | Format | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southeast Community College | On-campus + clinical | 12–16 months | ADN bridge in Lincoln area |
| Metropolitan Community College | On-campus + clinical | 12–18 months | ADN bridge in Omaha |
| Excelsior University | 100% Online | Self-paced | Online + local clinicals, no waitlist |
Nebraska Board of Nursing Contact
- Website: dhhs.ne.gov — Nursing
- Phone: (402) 471-4376
- Address: 301 Centennial Mall S, Lincoln, NE 68508
Ready for the Next Step?
Bridge from LPN to RN — Expand Your Scope and Your Paycheck
Tired of scope limitations? RNs earn 35–50% more, perform initial assessments, create care plans, start IVs without extra certification, and run triage. Bridge programs let you earn your RN while you keep working.
Explore LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs →