Best LPN Programs in Minnesota 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Minnesota with details on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Minnesota.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Minnesota
Rasmussen University-Minnesota
St. Cloud, MN - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rasmussen University-Minnesota's Practical Nursing Diploma program delivers a fast-track 12-month hybrid pathway to LPN licensure. Combining flexible online coursework with essential clinical experiences, it prepares students thoroughly for the NCLEX-PN exam without prerequisite courses. With eight annual start dates and a cost of about $25,339—potentially reduced by up to $2,000 via the LPN Care Grant—graduates are equipped for roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, aligning with Minnesota's 4% job growth projection.
- 12-month program completion
- No prerequisite coursework
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Eight annual start dates
- 15 total courses
- 56 total credit hours
- Clinical experience included
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Up to $2,000 LPN Care Grant
Northwest Technical College
Bemidji, MN - Public 2-Year - ntcmn.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwest Technical College's hybrid Practical Nursing program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical training in advanced simulation labs. Students benefit from multiple entry points and credential stacking options, progressing toward an Associate of Science degree. The ACEN-accredited curriculum, taught by experienced faculty, emphasizes transfer opportunities to Bemidji State University for further nursing education. This flexible pathway prepares graduates for professional healthcare roles through supervised clinical experiences and state-of-the-art learning environments.
- Hybrid nursing program delivery
- Multiple credential pathways
- State-of-the-art clinical simulations
- ACEN accredited program
- Online lecture, onsite labs
- Transfer options available
- Experienced nursing faculty
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria, MN - Public 2-Year - alextech.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Alexandria Technical & Community College's Practical Nursing diploma program spans 2-3 semesters, emphasizing hands-on clinical training for immediate workforce readiness. Students must hold current CNA certification and achieve a TEAS exam score of 50+, alongside CPR/First Aid certifications and background clearance. The curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN, with the program boasting high first-time pass rates and accreditation from NLN CNEA. With Minnesota's LPN job growth at 12.8%, graduates enter a robust market with average starting wages of $19.81-$21.60/hour. Fall and spring admissions offer flexible scheduling, supported by strong job placement outcomes.
- 2 or 3 semesters program length
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure exam
- 12.8% LPN job growth in MN
- CNA certification required
- TEAS exam score of 50+ needed
- CPR and First Aid certification required
- Background study clearance mandatory
- Fall and spring admissions
- Diploma in Practical Nursing awarded
- Flexible scheduling opportunities
Pine Technical & Community College
Pine City, MN - Public 2-Year - pine.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pine Technical & Community College's Practical Nursing Diploma is an accelerated campus-based program that builds on nursing assistant skills, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical practice. It features comprehensive clinical training with a strong focus on patient-centered care, effective communication, and interdisciplinary teamwork. The program requires the TEAS exam for admission and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN, boasting a 100% pass rate and job placement. Ranked 4th in Minnesota, it offers a pathway to further nursing education, making it ideal for those pursuing a rewarding LPN career in healthcare.
- Diploma program in Practical Nursing
- 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Campus-based clinical training
- Pathway to further nursing education
- Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry required
- TEAS exam required for admission
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College
Cloquet, MN - Public 4-Year - fdltcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College's Practical Nursing diploma program in Cloquet provides comprehensive hands-on training for swift entry into nursing. Students gain essential clinical skills and foundational knowledge aligned with Minnesota state requirements, preparing them effectively for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. This campus-based program emphasizes practical experience through direct patient care scenarios, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Financial aid options enhance accessibility, supporting diverse learners in launching their healthcare careers efficiently without requiring entrance exams.
- Practical Nursing diploma
- Hands-on training
- Foundational nursing knowledge
- Prepares for licensure exams
- Financial aid available
- Short completion time
- State requirements met
- Campus-based program
Minnesota LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To be admitted to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Minnesota, applicants must typically hold a high school diploma or GED. Most programs also require completion of prerequisite courses such as biology, human anatomy and physiology, and basic math. Some schools may require applicants to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and undergo a criminal background check. Proof of up-to-date immunizations and CPR certification is often required before starting clinical training. Meeting minimum GPA requirements and submitting official transcripts are also part of the admission process in Minnesota.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Minnesota are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and hands-on clinical experience in practical nursing. Core coursework includes medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, geriatric care, maternal and child health, and nursing fundamentals. Clinical rotations are conducted in real-world healthcare settings such as nursing homes, clinics, and hospitals.
Accreditation is essential for LPN programs, ensuring the education meets state and national standards. Prospective students should choose programs approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing and accredited by national agencies like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Graduating from a program approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing is a requirement for taking the NCLEX-PN exam, which is mandatory for licensure in Minnesota.
LPN Schools and Classes
LPN programs in Minnesota are available at technical colleges, community colleges, and select universities throughout the state. These educational institutions provide comprehensive training, combining classroom instruction, laboratory skills practice, and clinical experiences. Students can expect to take core courses such as nutrition, pharmacology, human growth and development, and nursing care across the lifespan.
Specialized training also includes practical experience in administering medications, wound care, IV therapy, and handling medical emergencies. Minnesota programs emphasize patient-centered care, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making to prepare students for a variety of healthcare settings.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Minnesota have a favorable job outlook, with growing demand across rural and urban areas. LPNs typically work in long-term care facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, home health settings, and hospitals. The state continues to experience a high demand for LPNs due to an aging population and ongoing healthcare workforce shortages.
Work schedules can include day, evening, night, and weekend shifts, offering flexible options and potential for good work/life balance. LPNs in Minnesota often use the position as a long-term career or as a stepping stone to advanced nursing roles such as Registered Nurse (RN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP).
LPN Program Length
Full-time LPN programs in Minnesota generally take about 12 months to complete, preparing students for licensure in under a year. Part-time and evening/weekend tracks are available at some institutions and can take 18 to 24 months to finish. These flexible options are ideal for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities, although they extend the time required to graduate.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Minnesota
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Rasmussen University-Minnesota |
|
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| Alexandria Technical & Community College |
|
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| Central Lakes College-Brainerd |
|
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Minnesota typically ranges from $6,000 to $13,000, depending on the school and length of the program. Community and technical colleges tend to offer more affordable rates for in-state residents. In addition to tuition, students should budget for books, supplies, uniforms, and testing fees, which may add $1,000 to $2,500 to total costs. Housing expenses vary by city, with monthly student housing in urban areas like Minneapolis or St. Paul averaging $850 to $1,500. Financial aid and scholarship options are available to help offset costs.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Minnesota
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College |
|
|
| South Central College |
|
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| Minnesota West Community and Technical College |
|
|
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
In Minnesota, LPN programs cannot be completed fully online due to the clinical and hands-on nature of practical nursing education. While some theoretical coursework may be offered through online or hybrid formats, students must attend in-person clinical labs and rotations conducted in healthcare facilities. These experiences are vital for meeting licensure requirements and developing patient care skills under the supervision of licensed professionals.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Minnesota
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Minnesota, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Before taking the exam, applicants must complete a Minnesota Board of Nursing-approved practical nursing program and submit an application for licensure along with a criminal background check. The Board must approve the application before a candidate is authorized to test. The NCLEX-PN is a standardized exam used nationwide to assess a candidate’s competency to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Licensed practical nurses who are licensed in another U.S. state may apply for licensure by endorsement in Minnesota. The Minnesota Board of Nursing requires verification of the out-of-state license, completion of an approved nursing program, and evidence that the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE. Minnesota does not currently participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to hold one multistate license and practice across compact member states. Therefore, LPNs from compact states must apply separately for Minnesota licensure.
Licensure Requirements
The Minnesota Board of Nursing oversees LPN licensure in the state. Initial licensure requires graduation from a state-approved practical nursing program, submission of an application, passing the NCLEX-PN exam, and completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check. International applicants must also meet educational equivalency standards and demonstrate English language proficiency if required. Applicants can track their license application status through the Minnesota Board of Nursing’s online services.
License Renewal
In Minnesota, LPN licenses are renewed every two years. LPNs must complete the renewal process by the last day of their birth month in the year their license expires. To renew, nurses must attest to having practiced nursing for at least 520 hours in the previous five years or have completed a re-entry or refresher course. Minnesota does not currently require continuing education for LPN license renewal. Renewal applications are submitted online through the Board’s website, and nurses should ensure their employment and contact information is current to avoid missed notifications.
Minnesota LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Minnesota is $61,270, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340 for LPN/LVNs. This small variance is influenced by several state-specific economic factors, including a cost of living that is close to the national benchmark, which tempers wage escalation compared to higher-cost states. The balance between the supply of LPNs and the demand from Minnesota's healthcare sector, particularly within its robust long-term care industry, also contributes to a salary level that is comparable to, but just under, the nationwide average.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Minnesota LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Typically 9-12 months of full-time study.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
Program Focus:
Concentrated curriculum on core nursing theory and essential, hands-on clinical skills required for entry-level LPN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Minnesota:
Approximately $10,000 - $18,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Minnesota State community colleges and technical colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Typically 2 years (around 24 months) of full-time study.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure.
Program Focus:
Combines the core practical nursing curriculum with required general education courses like English, psychology, and humanities for a broader academic foundation.
Average In-State Tuition in Minnesota:
Approximately $20,000 - $30,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Students who desire a formal college degree and a stronger academic base, which can facilitate a smoother transition into an LPN-to-RN bridge program later.
School Types:
Primarily offered at Minnesota State community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Speed to Employment: It is the fastest educational path to becoming a licensed LPN, allowing you to enter the workforce and start earning in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: With a shorter program length and fewer required credits, the total tuition and associated costs are significantly lower.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is intensely focused on the specific skills and knowledge needed for the LPN role, which is ideal for students who want to concentrate solely on nursing.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Stronger Academic Foundation: Earning a college degree provides a broader education, enhancing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Easier Pathway to an RN: The general education credits earned are highly transferable and often satisfy the prerequisite requirements for LPN-to-RN bridge programs, making future career advancement simpler.
- Greater Credential Recognition: An associate degree is a more widely recognized academic credential than a diploma, which may be valued by some employers or for future educational pursuits.
- Eligibility for Broader Financial Aid: As a full degree program, it may open up eligibility for a wider range of scholarships and financial aid options compared to some certificate programs.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Minnesota
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $56,000 - $68,000 | 9-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-500 hours | $11,000 - $13,000 |
| MA | $45,000 - $58,500 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) | 160-240 hours | $7,500 - $10,000 |
| CNA | $38,000 - $48,000 | 3-6 weeks | Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation | 16+ hours | $800 - $1,500 |
| DA | $53,500 - $67,500 | 9-12 months | DANB RHS, ICE, and MN Jurisprudence exams for licensure | 300+ hours | $8,000 - $10,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $41,000 - $51,000 | 9-12 months | PTCE or ExCPT | 240-320 hours | $6,000 - $8,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $42,000 - $51,000 | 1-4 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 100+ hours | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| OTA | $62,500 - $79,000 | 18-24 months (Associate Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $20,000 - $60,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Minnesota
Alexandria, MN
Alexandria Technical & Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% job placement rate
- Average starting wage $19.81-21.60/hour
- Prerequisite courses required
Anoka, MN
Anoka Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Rolling admissions
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 90% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
Austin, MN
Riverland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 2-Semester program
- 39 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Bemidji, MN
Northwest Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Hands-on nursing education
- Experienced faculty
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Direct supervised clinical experiences
- Clear pathways to licensure
- Practical Nursing diploma
Brainerd, MN
Central Lakes College-Brainerd
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 1-Year program
- 37 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Clinical placements halfway through first semester
Brooklyn Park, MN
Hennepin Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Cohort model with 48 students
Cloquet, MN
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Practical Nursing diploma
- Hands-on training
- Foundational nursing knowledge
- Prepares for licensure exams
- Financial aid available
- Short completion time
- State requirements met
- Campus-based program
Duluth, MN
Lake Superior College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 40 total credit hours
- 2.4 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
Fergus Falls, MN
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 40 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Supervised clinical experiences in healthcare settings
- Background check required for entry
- Approved by Minnesota Board of Nursing
Granite Falls, MN
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 3-Semester program
- 39 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Scholarships available
- Above state average NCLEX pass rates
- Ladder into RN program
North Mankato, MN
South Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 82% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
Pine City, MN
Pine Technical & Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Ranked 4th in Minnesota by practicalnursing.org
- Credit for prior learning accepted
- Pathway to AD-Mobility RN program
- 30 full-time and 10 part-time seats per semester
- ATI TEAS or NLN NEX entrance exam
- In-person proctored TEAS required
Rochester, MN
Rochester Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Complete in 2.5 semesters
- 39 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Ranked #2 in Minnesota
Rosemount, MN
Dakota County Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Focuses on patient care.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Requires 'C' or higher.
- Structured course sequence.
- Teaches safety and communication.
- Prepares for nursing career.
- Includes clinical settings.
Saint Cloud, MN
St Cloud Technical and Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Career mobility to RN programs
- Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, home health
- Prerequisite: 75-hour NA course
- Prerequisite courses include Medical Terminology and Human Biology
- Clinical experiences in Semesters I and II
Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in just three semesters
- Apply by 2026-10-30
- 75% job placement rate
- $29 Median hourly wage in Minnesota
- Prerequisite courses required
- Multi-million dollar simulation center
- Fastest route into nursing
St. Cloud, MN
Rasmussen University-Minnesota
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- $26,533 total program tuition
- $373 per credit
- 15-Month program
- 56 total credit hours
- 15 total courses
- 8 start dates per year
- 100% licensure pass rate
Thief River Falls, MN
Northland Community and Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- median pay for LPNs in Minnesota is $29.15/hour and $29.23/hour in the US
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Scholarships available
- Career settings: hospitals, clinics, long-term care
Willmar, MN
Ridgewater College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Program (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- $9,509 total program tuition
- 1-Year program
- 41 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Full-time enrollment
- Starts fall
- 2.0 GPA minimum
Winona, MN
Minnesota State College Southeast
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $8,338 total program tuition
- 2-Semester program
- 34 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
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