Best LPN Programs in Oregon 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Oregon with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Oregon.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in Oregon

Choosing from the best LPN programs in Oregon takes careful thought. We at practicalnursing.org rank the top options to make that choice easier. Our ranking highlights schools with strong NCLEX pass rates, supportive instructors, and solid clinical experiences. We look at real data so future nurses can trust the results. Our team reviews accreditation, affordability, and student support to give a full picture. Whether a student wants a fast track or a more thorough schedule, these Oregon LPN programs offer something valuable. See the complete list to compare schools side by side. To understand exactly how we evaluate each program, read the ranking methodology at https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

Klamath Community College

Klamath Falls, OR - Public 2-Year - klamathcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Klamath Community College offers a one-year Practical Nurse Certificate comprising 48 credit hours, built around a concept-based curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, therapeutic communication, and evidence-based patient care across diverse clinical settings. Admission is competitive, requiring prerequisite coursework with a minimum 3.0 GPA, a pre-admission exam, and a formal interview. Accepted students must clear background checks, drug screenings, and submit immunization records along with current CPR certification. With a distinct focus on serving rural Oregon communities, graduates are well-prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN. The program also articulates with AAS-Nursing pathways, and KCC provides an LPN-to-RN bridge option for those pursuing RN licensure.

Entrance exam required
1-Year program
48 total credit hours
1 start dates per year
Starts fall
3.0 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Concept-based nursing curriculum

Sumner College

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - sumnercollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Sumner College offers a 50-week Practical Nursing Program diploma track designed for students eager to enter the nursing workforce without lengthy prerequisite requirements. The curriculum integrates foundational nursing competencies, pharmacology, patient care techniques, and hands-on clinical training within a campus-based setting. Graduates are fully prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination upon program completion. Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, the program upholds rigorous industry standards. Small class sizes foster individualized instruction, equipping students to work across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care environments.

Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN), Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredited
50-Week program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Umpqua Community College

Roseburg, OR - Public 2-Year - umpqua.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Umpqua Community College offers an OSBN-approved Practical Nursing certificate designed to prepare students for licensure as LPNs through a rigorous, competency-based curriculum. Developed in partnership with OHSU as part of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education, the program addresses health promotion, acute illness recovery, and chronic condition management. Students gain hands-on clinical experience in a modern training facility, building critical thinking, clinical judgment, and interdisciplinary collaboration skills. Graduates are eligible to sit for the PN-NCLEX and pursue roles such as home health aide or nursing assistant. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to qualifying applicants.

OSBN accredited
Prepares for PN-NCLEX
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
Clinical training in cutting-edge facility
Member of Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education
Jointly developed with OHSU
Qualify for thousands in aid
Career: Home Health Aide
Career: Nursing Assistant

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, OR - Public 4-Year - chemeketa.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical Nursing, Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Chemeketa Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate is a 60-credit program based at the Salem Campus, designed to equip students with the clinical and theoretical foundations needed to enter the workforce as an LPN. The curriculum addresses fundamentals of nursing, acute and chronic care management, patient-centered approaches across all age groups, and healthcare technology utilization. Prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and composition must be completed before entering the program. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and qualify to practice under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

60 total credit hours
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Salem Campus location
Emphasizes patient-centered care
60 credit hour certificate

Rogue Community College

Grants Pass, OR - Public 2-Year - roguecc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rogue Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing certificate program based at the Table Rock Campus, fully approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing. The curriculum equips students with hands-on clinical competencies including vital sign assessment, IV monitoring, catheter insertion, medication administration, wound dressing, and patient data collection. Students are trained to develop nursing care plans, deliver individualized bedside care, and evaluate patient progress across settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and physician offices — all under RN or physician supervision. Graduates qualify to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. LPNs in the Rogue Valley report average annual earnings of $51,447. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

Oregon State Board of Nursing accredited
1-Year program
$51,447 median earnings
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX
Military benefits accepted
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
Average annual salary $51,447
Located on Table Rock Campus

*NCES IPEDS database, 2025 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Oregon LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Admission into Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) programs in Oregon requires meeting specific prerequisites, which may vary slightly by institution. Generally, applicants must possess a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years of age. Most programs require satisfactory scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Additionally, students may need to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, or basic math. Background checks, immunization records, and CPR certification are also common requirements. Admission processes are competitive with some programs using point systems to evaluate applicants based on academic history and healthcare experience.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Oregon are designed to provide comprehensive training in patient care through classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical experiences. Course topics typically include pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Students also develop practical skills in administering medications, wound care, and monitoring vital signs.

Accreditation ensures the program meets educational and professional standards. In Oregon, programs are approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, which is the primary approval body for LPN programs in the state. Graduation from an OSBN-approved program is required to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is essential for licensure as an LPN in Oregon.

LPN Schools and Classes

Oregon offers LPN programs through technical colleges, community colleges, and some private institutions across urban and rural areas. These programs combine theoretical coursework with hands-on clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Students typically take courses such as fundamentals of nursing, nursing ethics, human anatomy, microbiology, nutrition, and practical clinical instruction. Specialized classes often cover maternal-child nursing, mental health, and long-term care. Clinical rotations help reinforce classroom learning with real-world application in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics.

Career Outlook

The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Oregon is stable, particularly in long-term care, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare. According to the Oregon Employment Department, job growth for LPNs is expected to align with national averages. Work settings often include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and residential homes. Advancement opportunities exist for LPNs who pursue further education to become Registered Nurses or specialize in areas like gerontology or palliative care.

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in Oregon generally offer full-time, part-time, and evening/weekend scheduling options. A full-time program can be completed in approximately 12 to 15 months. Part-time and evening/weekend programs are ideal for students balancing work or family obligations and may take 18 to 24 months to complete. Each learning path includes the same coursework and clinical training but differs in weekly time commitment and pace.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Oregon

Choosing the right LPN program in Oregon can feel overwhelming, especially when time matters. For many students, shorter programs make a big difference. The quickest options allow you to enter the nursing field sooner, start earning, and gain hands-on experience without years of delay. In a state like Oregon, where healthcare needs continue to grow across cities like Portland, Salem, and Bend, faster training helps fill critical roles. We’ve gathered information on several programs to help you compare. Look for the shortest path that still offers solid graduation rates and retention. Remember, a compact timeline doesn’t mean less quality. Use this table to find a program that fits your life and career goals.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Sumner College Practical Nursing Program	Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN), Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredited 50-Week program Prepares for NCLEX-PN	Graduation Rate: 83% Retention Rate: 100% Student to Faculty Ratio: 13 :1
Klamath Community College Practical Nurse Certificate	Entrance exam required 1-Year program 48 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts fall 3.0 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN	Graduation Rate: 43% Retention Rate: 48% Student to Faculty Ratio: 17 :1
Rogue Community College Practical Nursing	Oregon State Board of Nursing accredited 1-Year program $51,447 median earnings Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX Military benefits accepted Financial aid available Scholarships available	Graduation Rate: 9% Retention Rate: 53% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1

*Postsecondary education statistics from IPEDS 2025, NCES.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Oregon varies by institution but typically ranges from $6,000 to $15,000 for the entire program. Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, liability insurance, and NCLEX-PN exam costs. Students should also budget for living expenses, which can vary significantly depending on location within Oregon. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to assist with program costs.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Oregon

We have put together a table of schools across Oregon that offer LPN programs. This list helps future nurses find affordable paths to a certificate or diploma. Each entry shows the school name, program offered, program highlights, and tuition range. Comparing tuition is a smart first step for anyone watching their budget. Many programs in cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene provide quality training without a high price tag. Explore the options below to see which one fits your goals and your wallet. Finding an affordable LPN program in Oregon is possible with a little research.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Klamath Community College Practical Nurse Certificate	Entrance exam required 1-Year program 48 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts fall 3.0 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State) $6,400 - $9,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Umpqua Community College Practical Nursing	OSBN accredited Prepares for PN-NCLEX Financial aid available Scholarships available Clinical training in cutting-edge facility Member of Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education Jointly developed with OHSU Qualify for thousands in aid	$4,900 - $7,300 (Undergraduate)
Rogue Community College Practical Nursing	Oregon State Board of Nursing accredited 1-Year program $51,447 median earnings Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX Military benefits accepted Financial aid available Scholarships available	$4,200 - $6,300 (Undergrad In-State) $5,000 - $7,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 2025).

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN programs in Oregon cannot be completed entirely online. The nature of practical nursing education requires in-person clinical training and hands-on simulations to meet competency standards. While some general education or theoretical nursing courses may be offered in a hybrid format, students must attend in-person labs and complete clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities to fulfill state licensure requirements. The Oregon State Board of Nursing mandates direct clinical experience as a core component of any approved LPN program.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Oregon

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. The Oregon Board of Nursing determines eligibility to take the exam. Prior to testing, applicants must submit an application for licensure, complete fingerprinting for a criminal background check, and receive authorization to test (ATT) from Pearson VUE. Oregon requires all applicants to apply through the Oregon State Board of Nursing before scheduling the NCLEX-PN.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Oregon offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs licensed in other states, provided that their current license is active and in good standing. Applicants must submit verification of licensure, complete a criminal background check, and provide proof of graduation from an approved practical nursing program. However, Oregon is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that LPNs must obtain an Oregon-specific license to practice in the state, even if they hold a multi-state license from another NLC member state.

Licensure Requirements

The Oregon State Board of Nursing oversees the licensing and regulation of LPNs in Oregon. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must:

Graduate from an OSBN-approved practical nursing program
Pass the NCLEX-PN examination
Submit fingerprints for a national criminal background check
Apply online and pay required licensure fees

Internationally educated nurses must also demonstrate English language proficiency and may need an evaluation of their foreign credentials to prove program equivalency.

License Renewal

Oregon LPN licenses must be renewed every two years by the licensee’s birthday. The renewal process includes the completion of continuing education (CE) requirements. LPNs in Oregon must complete at least 7 hours of pain management education (one hour must be from the Oregon Pain Management Commission), plus additional clinical practice or continuing education to satisfy the Board’s competency requirements. The Oregon State Board of Nursing advises license holders to keep documentation of all CE and practice hours in case of audit. Renewals can be submitted online through the Board’s licensure portal.

Average LPN State Salary in Oregon

$78,160

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Oregon LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

11-12 months (typically 4 consecutive academic terms).

Credential Awarded:

Certificate of Completion or Diploma.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. This is the primary purpose of the program.

Program Focus:

Concentrates on core clinical skills, patient care fundamentals, and practical knowledge required for entry-level LPN roles.

Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:

Estimated $10,000 - $15,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.

School Types:

Community colleges and some private career/technical schools.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

2 years (typically 6-7 academic terms).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. Students are typically eligible to take the NCLEX-PN after successfully completing the first year of the program. However, the program's ultimate goal is RN licensure.

Program Focus:

A broader curriculum that includes general education courses, nursing theory, leadership, and advanced clinical reasoning to prepare for the RN role. In Oregon, this is the standard Registered Nurse (RN) degree pathway.

Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:

Estimated $20,000 - $28,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Students who plan to become Registered Nurses from the outset but want the option to work as an LPN while completing their RN education.

School Types:

Community colleges.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Employment: It is the quickest path to becoming a licensed nurse and earning an income, often in just one year.
Lower Overall Cost: With a shorter program length, the total tuition and associated costs are significantly less than a two-year degree.
Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach the essential, hands-on skills needed for the LPN scope of practice without extra general education requirements.
Excellent Bridge Opportunity: It serves as a strong foundation, allowing you to work and gain experience as an LPN before entering an LPN-to-RN bridge program later.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Direct Pathway to RN: This route is designed for students whose ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse, which offers a wider scope of practice and higher earning potential.
Greater Career Mobility: An associate degree provides a stronger academic foundation, making the future transition to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other advanced degrees smoother.
Option to Work Sooner: Many Oregon programs allow students to take the NCLEX-PN after the first year, enabling them to work as an LPN while finishing their RN degree.
Deeper Knowledge Base: The curriculum is more comprehensive, including coursework in leadership, management, and complex health issues, preparing you for more diverse roles upon becoming an RN.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Oregon

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$63,600 - $79,250	12-15 months	NCLEX-PN	400+ hours	$14,000 - $20,000
MA	$44,700 - $58,350	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-220 hours	$10,000 - $18,000
CNA	$38,590 - $48,340	4-12 weeks	OSBN-approved competency exam	Minimum 75 hours	$1,200 - $2,500
DA	$46,650 - $60,450	9-12 months	DANB CDA Exam; OBD-approved exams for expanded functions	200-400 hours	$9,000 - $17,000
Pharm Tech	$45,800 - $59,620	6-12 months	PTCB's PTCE or NHA's ExCPT	240-320 hours	$8,000 - $15,000
Phlebotomist	$43,760 - $58,350	8-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-100 hours	$2,500 - $4,000
OTA	$63,600 - $82,460	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	Minimum 640 hours (Level II Fieldwork)	$20,000 - $30,000

List of LPN Programs in Oregon

Thinking about becoming a licensed practical nurse in Oregon? An LPN program can get you into the healthcare field quickly. We've collected details on schools across the state. The table below lists each program with its city and location, plus highlights like class length and clinical training. Use the links to visit the school's program page for the full story and how to apply. You can compare your options easily and find the right fit for your goals.

Jump to City:

Eugene, OR

Lane Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- $16,519 total program tuition
- 1-Year program
- Complete in year-long certificate program
- 88% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX PN
- 96% on-time completion rate

Grants Pass, OR

Rogue Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Oregon State Board of Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- $51,447 median earnings
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available