Best LPN Programs in Iowa 2026
Find Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Iowa with details on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Iowa.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Iowa
Western Iowa Tech Community College
Sioux City, IA - Public 2-Year - witcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - PN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Iowa Tech Community College offers a 36-credit Practical Nursing diploma designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN examination and entry-level LPN practice. The curriculum encompasses vital signs assessment, sterile dressing application, patient health education, and general nursing care performed under RN, physician, or dentist supervision. Notably, CNA certification is a prerequisite for admission, and applicants are evaluated through a point ranking system that factors in ACT or TEAS scores alongside biology coursework performance. The program is available across three Iowa campuses—Sioux City, Cherokee, and Denison—with a hybrid option blending online learning and in-person sessions. Both fall and spring enrollment windows are available, with an April 1 priority deadline for fall entry. Completing the diploma in approximately one year, graduates may also pursue advancement into Western Iowa Tech's ADN program to earn RN licensure.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 36 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prerequisite: CNA certification
- Offered at Sioux City, Cherokee, Denison
- Hybrid format with online classes
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IA - Public 2-Year - kirkwood.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids offers a one-year LPN program accredited by the Iowa Board of Nursing, designed for students seeking a fast, practical entry into healthcare. Clinical training begins in the first semester, incorporating supervised labs, simulation exercises, and real-world placements across medical, surgical, geriatric, maternal-child, pediatric, and mental health settings. A CNA certificate is required for admission, and prerequisite coursework must be completed before enrollment. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, boasting an impressive 100% pass rate for four consecutive years. Financial support is robust, with 35 nursing-specific scholarships available, including the Last Dollar Scholarship and Kibbie Grant.
- Iowa Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 1-Year program
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 35 scholarships available for nursing students
Iowa Central Community College
Fort Dodge, IA - Public 2-Year - iowacentral.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Iowa Central Community College's Practical Nursing program offers a structured pathway into entry-level nursing, blending rigorous classroom instruction with 360 clinical hours across varied healthcare environments, including long-term care facilities, physician offices, and operating rooms. One standout aspect of the program is its alignment with the Associate Degree Nursing curriculum during the first two semesters, giving students the flexibility to exit as a licensed LPN after the first summer or continue toward an RN designation. Both fall and spring start dates are available, with application deadlines opening well in advance. Graduates leave prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and pursue roles in medical-surgical units and assisted living settings.
- Apply by 2026-09-15
- Starts fall/spring
- 360 clinical hours
- Prepares for LPN career
Iowa Lakes Community College
Estherville, IA - Public 2-Year - iowalakes.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Visit Website
Iowa Lakes Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing Diploma that holds ACEN accreditation, covering 46 total credit hours across disciplines including pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child care, and geriatrics. Applicants must meet a 2.0 GPA minimum, complete prerequisite courses, and submit ACT scores for admission. The program launches in fall and summer terms, blending simulation lab training with supervised clinical rotations across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-PN to earn LPN licensure and can continue their education via an LPN to ADN bridge pathway. Financial aid and the Last-Dollar Scholarship help make this program highly accessible.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 1-Year program
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts fall/summer
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
Southeastern Community College
West Burlington, IA - Public 2-Year - scciowa.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing - Diploma
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeastern Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing Diploma designed to launch graduates directly into LPN careers across long-term care, clinics, hospital units, and medical offices. Core coursework includes Introduction to Nursing, Pharmacology I, and Nursing I & II, with students gaining hands-on clinical experience in physical assessment, medication administration, infection control, and patient safety. An ACT or SAT entrance exam is required for admission, along with prerequisite coursework. Delivered across West Burlington and Keokuk campuses with both morning and afternoon scheduling options, the program accommodates working students. Iowa residents may qualify for the Last-Dollar Scholarship, potentially enabling tuition-free completion. Graduates can also pursue further education through ADN and RN to BSN pathway partnerships.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, SAT
- 1-Year program
- Starts summer
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Physical assessment skills
- Medication administration training
- Safety and infection control
Iowa LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission into a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Iowa, students must meet several key prerequisites. Applicants are typically required to possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Most programs also require students to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) examination, which measures readiness in reading, math, science, and English. In addition, many LPN programs in Iowa require background checks, proof of immunizations, and successful completion of a basic health screening. Some schools may have prerequisites in courses such as biology or anatomy and physiology. Meeting or exceeding minimum GPA requirements is also often part of the admission criteria.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
The curriculum for LPN programs in Iowa is designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles and the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Core subjects include pharmacology, human anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child care, nutrition, and mental health nursing. Clinical experiences in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings are mandatory and provide supervised hands-on practice.
Accreditation is vital for ensuring the quality of education. In Iowa, programs must be approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing for graduates to be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) confirms that a program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, which is especially important for the transferability of credits and future employment.
LPN Schools and Classes
In Iowa, a variety of community colleges, vocational schools, and private institutions offer LPN programs. These programs blend classroom instruction with clinical training. Coursework typically covers foundational and specialized areas including human growth and development, fundamentals of nursing, geriatric nursing, and pharmacology. Students also receive instruction in patient care, communication skills, and ethical/legal aspects of nursing.
Hands-on clinical rotations take place in various healthcare settings to provide experience with diverse patient populations. These lab and clinical hours are an essential part of the curriculum, helping students transition theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Iowa have strong employment prospects due to the growing demand for healthcare services, especially in rural areas. LPNs commonly work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician offices, home health services, and rehabilitation centers. Many enjoy a stable work/life balance with opportunities for full-time and part-time employment. According to Iowa Workforce Development, the demand for LPNs in the state is expected to remain steady, with openings projected due to both growth and worker retirements. Career advancement opportunities exist, especially for those who pursue further education to become Registered Nurses (RNs).
LPN Program Length
Most full-time LPN programs in Iowa can be completed in approximately 12 to 14 months. For students needing flexibility, part-time programs are available and typically take 18 to 24 months depending on the institution and scheduling. Some schools also offer evening and weekend programs designed for working students, which may extend the program length but provide greater convenience. Regardless of the format, all programs must meet the Iowa Board of Nursing’s educational and clinical hour requirements.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Iowa
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Iowa Community College |
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| Southwestern Community College |
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| Kirkwood Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
In Iowa, tuition for LPN programs generally ranges from $6,000 to $16,000, depending on the institution and whether the student is classified as in-state or out-of-state. Community colleges usually offer more cost-effective options compared to private institutions. Students should also budget for books, supplies, uniforms, and licensure exam fees, which can add several hundred dollars to the total cost.
Student housing costs vary by location, with more affordable options often available in rural areas compared to urban centers. On-campus housing is limited at many LPN program sites, so students may need to seek off-campus accommodations. Transportation costs for commuting to clinical sites should also be considered.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Iowa
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Hawkeye Community College |
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| Kirkwood Community College |
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| Northeast Iowa Community College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in Iowa cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on clinical training required for licensure. Practical nursing education involves direct patient care, supervised clinical hours, and lab simulations that must be completed in person. While some theoretical coursework, such as medical terminology or anatomy, may be offered in a hybrid format, the state requires students to fulfill clinical competencies through in-person experiences.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Indiana
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa, applicants must pass the NCLEX-PN examination after graduating from a state-approved practical nursing program. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and assesses knowledge and competencies required for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice.
The Iowa Board of Nursing (IBON) provides guidance on registering for the NCLEX-PN. Candidates must first apply for licensure with the Board and then register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE. The Board requires submission of an official transcript from the nursing program before authorizing test candidates.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Iowa is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
For LPNs licensed in non-compact states, Iowa offers licensure by endorsement. Applicants must submit verification of their current license from the original state of licensure, complete a criminal background check, and provide proof of graduation from an approved nursing program. The Iowa Board of Nursing reviews each endorsement application individually.
Licensure Requirements
The Iowa Board of Nursing sets and enforces licensure requirements to ensure public safety and quality in nursing care across the state. To qualify for initial LPN licensure by examination, applicants must:
- Graduate from an Iowa Board-approved practical nursing program
- Submit an application for licensure and pay the required fee
- Request a criminal background check and fingerprinting
- Submit official transcripts directly from the nursing school
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Iowa are valid for a three-year period. To renew, licensees must complete 36 contact hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle. Courses must be approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing or recognized providers.
Renewal deadlines are determined by the licensee’s birth month and year. The renewal process opens 60 days before a license’s expiration date. Clinical practice hours are not specifically required for renewal, but licensees must maintain up-to-date information with the Iowa Board of Nursing.
Iowa LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa, at $59,640, falls slightly below the national average of $62,340. This wage difference can often be attributed to Iowa's lower-than-average cost of living, which typically correlates with more moderate compensation scales across various sectors. While an aging state population drives consistent demand for LPNs, especially in long-term care, this is likely balanced by slower overall population growth and local healthcare system dynamics, contributing to a salary just under the national benchmark.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Iowa LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11-12 months (typically 3 full-time semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. This program's primary goal is to prepare students for this exam.
Program Focus:
Concentrated training on core nursing skills, hands-on clinical practice, and direct patient care within the LPN scope of practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Iowa:
Typically ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 (excluding fees, books, and supplies).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
The full RN degree is 2 years. Students are typically eligible to test for their LPN license after the first year (~12 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) upon completion of the full two-year program.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, after completing the required first-year coursework of an Associate Degree nursing program.
Program Focus:
The first year covers LPN fundamentals, while the full degree provides a broader education with more in-depth theory, leadership, and critical thinking skills required for the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Iowa:
Approximately $12,000 to $16,000 for the full two-year degree (excluding fees, books, and supplies).
Best For:
Students who ultimately plan to become a Registered Nurse (RN) but want the option to work as an LPN after their first year of study.
School Types:
Community colleges and some private colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Speed to Employment: It is the quickest path to becoming a licensed nurse and earning an income in the field, often in just one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: With a shorter program length, the total tuition and associated costs are significantly less than for a two-year degree.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is highly concentrated on the essential, hands-on skills required to work effectively as an LPN, without the additional general education courses.
- Clear Career Goal: It is ideal for individuals who are certain about their goal to work as an LPN and are not immediately planning to pursue an RN license.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Built-in Career Ladder: It provides a seamless transition to becoming an RN. You can work as an LPN while finishing the second year of your associate degree.
- Greater Flexibility: This path keeps your options open. You gain an LPN-eligible education while already on track for the next level of nursing.
- Enhanced Transferability: The general education credits earned in an associate degree program are more easily transferred to a four-year university for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in the future.
- Broader Skill Set: The curriculum includes a wider range of knowledge in theory, patient management, and critical thinking, which provides a strong foundation for the RN role.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Iowa
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $48,300 - $61,200 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-550 hours | $10,000 - $13,000 |
| MA | $36,200 - $46,500 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) Exam or RMA (AMT) Exam | 160-200 hours | $6,500 - $8,500 |
| CNA | $32,100 - $39,300 | 3-8 weeks | State Competency Exam (written & skills) | 30+ hours | $500 - $900 |
| DA | $39,400 - $50,600 | 9-11 months | IA Jurisprudence & Infection Control exams | 300-400 hours | $6,500 - $8,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $36,200 - $46,500 | 8-12 months | PTCE (CPhT) or ExCPT (CPhT) | 200-300 hours | $5,500 - $7,500 |
| Phlebotomist | $35,200 - $45,700 | 4-6 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 100-120 hours | $1,800 - $2,500 |
| OTA | $54,900 - $74,300 | 2 years | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours (16 weeks minimum) | $18,000 - $22,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Iowa
Calmar, IA
Northeast Iowa Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $10,036 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 42 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
Cedar Rapids, IA
Kirkwood Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Iowa Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 1-Year program
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
Council Bluffs, IA
Iowa Western Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- 43 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Creston, IA
Southwestern Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Iowa Board of Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 93% licensure pass rate
- 60% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
Davenport, IA
Eastern Iowa Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Iowa Board of Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- 47 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Offered at three college campuses
- First two semesters at any of three campuses
- Final semesters at Clinton or Scott
Estherville, IA
Iowa Lakes Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- 1-Year program
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts fall/summer
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Fort Dodge, IA
Iowa Central Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Apply by 2026-09-15
- Starts fall/spring
- 360 clinical hours
- Prepares for LPN career
Sheldon, IA
Northwest Iowa Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Iowa Board of Nursing accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 45 total credit hours
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- The salary range in northwest Iowa is $18.50–$28/hour
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Sioux City, IA
Western Iowa Tech Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - PN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 36 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prerequisite: CNA certification
Waterloo, IA
Hawkeye Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- Complete in 1 ½ years
- 41 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 96% licensure pass rate
- 192 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
West Burlington, IA
Southeastern Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing - Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, SAT
- 1-Year program
- Starts summer
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Physical assessment skills
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