Online Nursing Programs in Wyoming
Wyoming is one of 34 states that have enacted Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) legislation, which means that nurses with a license from Wyoming can practice in any other NLC state. Wyoming issues licenses to work as an advanced practice nurse, registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), and certified nurse’s assistant (CAN). Licenses must be renewed every two years. There are several online nursing programs in Wyoming for students to consider. The University of Wyoming offers an online BSN for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, as well as an online BSN completion program for those who hold an associate degree in nursing from select Wyoming community college programs.
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Become a Nurse CNA Certification LPN License RN LicenseAPRN License FAQs
Comprehensive List of Online Nursing Schools in Wyoming
| School | Annual Tuition | NCLEX Pass Rate | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest College - WY | $10,210 | 82.61% | Powell |
| University of Phoenix | $9,552 | 90.0% | Nationwide |
| University of Wyoming | $18,151 | 78.05% | Laramie |
Becoming a Nurse in Wyoming
As the least populated state in the nation, Wyoming faces a number of labor issues in the healthcare field. The state has an aging population and a shortage of talent in the nursing industry, so those wishing to pursue a career in nursing have numerous opportunities in Wyoming. Along with work opportunities, there are eight nursing schools in Wyoming with many different programs for students to choose from.
Wyoming is also a member of the enhanced nursing license compact which allows licensed nurses in other participating states to practice in Wyoming as well.
This flexibility in licensure — paired with ample employment opportunities — makes the nursing programs in Wyoming a promising place to start a nursing career at any level. Students can learn about Wyoming's licensing requirements for certified nurse aids (CNAs), licensed practice nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) below.
Can I Take a Nursing Course Online?
A nursing degree can definitely be earned online, and it can help you pursue your ideal career. Beyond the practical experience needed to become a nurse, a lot of nursing professions require knowledge that can be gained through online courses. Sometimes, nursing programs accept work experience as credit, or they may help you find local internships and clinical hours you can take near you.
To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
How To Get CNA Certification in Wyoming
To work at a licensed nursing home, CNAs must register themselves on the Wyoming Nurse Aide Registry, which is maintained by the Wyoming Department of Health. To become a CNA in Wyoming, students must complete the following:
1
They must graduate from a CNA training and competency evaluation program that is approved by the state.
2
The next step is to submit an application, which has a $60 fee.
3
There's also a requirement for fingerprint cards and a background check. Both of these have fees that are included in the overall application fee.
4
Applicants must also pass the CNA Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) or another comparable national exam. Prometric provides the exam and will send results to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WBSN).
CNA Certification Renewal
CNAs must pay a $50 fee every two years to renew their CNA registration. The WBSN opens renewal on October 1st of even-numbered years. There are three ways for CNAs to demonstrate continuing competency. The first is to complete 400 hours of employment as a CNA. The next option is to complete 200 hours of employment and 15 hours of continuing education. The third option for CNA licensees is to complete 30 hours of continuing education in their field. If a Wyoming CNA licensee doesn't meet any of these requirements, they must repeat their training and competency evaluation before renewing their license.
How To Get an LPN License in Wyoming
Students who wish to pursue a Wyoming LPN license must graduate from a board-approved LPN pre-licensure nursing education program. Next, they must submit the application, which ranges from $120-130, depending on whether an applicant pursues their license through examination or endorsement, respectively. Additionally, if you’re interested in receiving a temporary permit before the official one arrives, the application fee includes an additional $25. There is a required background check as well, which has a $60 fee. After these conditions are met, applicants must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
LPN License Renewal
When it comes time to renew their Wyoming nursing license, LPNs must pay a $90 renewal fee in October of even-numbered years. Additionally, they must meet competency standards throughout the licensing period. The first option is to complete 400 hours of active nursing practice, but this can drop to 200 hours if the LPN also completes 15 hours of continuing education. No active practice hours are required for nurses who complete 30 hours of continuing education.
How To Get an RN License in Wyoming
The Wyoming Board of Nursing requires aspiring RNs to graduate from a board-approved RN pre-licensure nursing education program. Once this nursing program in Wyoming is completed, aspiring RNs must submit the application, which has a fee of $130-135, depending on whether an aspiring RN is going the exam or endorsement route, respectively. The state of Wyoming also requires a background check, which has a $60 fee.
After these conditions are met, applicants must pass the NCLEX-RN administered by the NCSBN. They must pass this exam to successfully become licensed in the state.
RN License Renewal
The renewal period for Wyoming nursing licenses happens every two years, and the fee for an RN is $110. Licensees must complete a renewal application and meet competency requirements during the two-year period. RNs may either accumulate 400 hours of active nursing practice or 200 hours of practice combined with 15 hours of continuing education. Another option is to forego active nursing practice hours and instead opt for 30 hours of continuing education.
How To Get an APRN License in Wyoming
Obtaining a Wyoming APRN license starts with graduating from an accredited graduate or post-graduate level educational program designed for APRNs. Graduates must complete a program of study in a role with a population-focused area and pass the NCLEX-PN, which is administered by the NCSBN.
Applicants must fill out the APRN application, which has a fee ranging from $250-255, depending on whether they go the examination or endorsement route. The standard background check and fee is also required.
APRN License Renewal
APRNs must pay a $180 fee as part of the Wyoming nursing license renewal process, plus an extra $70 for each certification and another $70 for prescriptive authority. Continuing competency must be evidenced by maintaining a current national certification as an APRN in the recognized role and population focus area. APRNs are required to complete 60 hours of continuing education and 400 hours of active practice every two years. APRNs with a prescriptive license must complete 3 hours of continuing education related to that focus.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Wyoming
How Do I Become a Nurse in Wyoming?
To become a nurse in Wyoming, individuals must attend and graduate from an approved nursing program. There are several online nursing programs in Wyoming that prepare students to sit for their license exams and earn their nursing license. Once an individual has graduated, they sit for the NCLEX and apply for their license from the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
Does Wyoming Have a Nursing Program?
Yes, there are eight Wyoming nursing schools that offer approved programs, both online and in person. It's helpful to research programs in order to determine the best nursing school in Wyoming for you. Most nursing programs offer paths to certification and licensure. There are also master’s programs in nursing (MSNs) that provide more education for interested individuals.
How Long Is a Nursing Program in Wisconsin?
Nursing programs vary in length. If you already have an associate degree, you may be able to complete a nursing program in about two years. If you’re starting from scratch, it may take between three and four years to complete a bachelor's in nursing program in Wyoming.
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