Best LPN Programs in Wisconsin 2026

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

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

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2026 Best LPN Programs in Wisconsin

If you're looking to start a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wisconsin, finding the right program is key to your success. At practicalnursing.org, we've carefully reviewed and ranked the best LPN programs across the state to help you make an informed choice. Our rankings highlight schools that offer quality education, strong support for students, and good paths to employment. We focus on what matters most to future nurses, like program length, cost, and pass rates on the NCLEX-PN exam. By using our list, you can confidently select a program that fits your goals and sets you up for a rewarding career in healthcare. https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin

Green Bay, WI - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin's Practical Nursing Diploma program enables students to become LPNs in just 12 months through a hybrid format combining online coursework with on-campus sessions and hands-on clinical training. With eight annual start dates and no prerequisite requirements, the program offers flexible entry points and eliminates waiting lists for qualified candidates. Students receive comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam and gain practical skills for diverse healthcare environments, supported by career-focused training and dedicated student services throughout their educational journey.

12 months to completion
No prerequisite coursework
Eight start dates per year
Hybrid online and on-campus
Hands-on clinical experiences
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
Career-focused training
Support services available

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, WI - Public 4-Year - uwosh.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh's Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing offers a unique 1+2+1 collaborative pathway with Fox Valley Technical College, allowing students to earn a practical nursing diploma, associate degree, and BSN in four years. This hybrid program combines general education, hands-on training, and online BSN completion through BSN@Home. It features multiple start dates, high NCLEX pass rates, and accreditation, providing flexible, affordable entry points into nursing careers. Financial aid is available, and the program is military-friendly.

Four-year nursing pathway
Technical diploma and BSN
Multiple start dates
NCLEX RN pass rate high
Online and campus options
Financial aid eligible
Accredited nursing program

Lakeshore Technical College

Cleveland, WI - Public 2-Year - gotoltc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lakeshore Technical College's Practical Nursing program in Cleveland, WI, is a part-time evening option ideal for working students. It emphasizes hands-on training at the Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin Center for Healthcare Excellence, preparing learners for the NCLEX-PN with pass rates above national averages. Admission requires a background check, transcripts, and a Health Occupation Entrance Assessment (HESI) score of at least 70%. At $6,404.07 total cost including tuition and books, this ACEN-accredited program provides a solid foundation for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses in Wisconsin without a specific concentration.

Part-time evening program
Five terms total
31 credits required
On-campus learning only
Total cost $7,687
Tuition cost $6,363
Book cost $49
Supply cost $1,275
Financial aid eligible
NCLEX-PN exam preparation

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

Wauwatosa, WI - Private 4-year - bryantstratton.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa's 12-month Practical Nursing Diploma delivers an accelerated path to LPN licensure through a comprehensive 41-credit curriculum. Students engage in both classroom learning and hands-on clinical experiences, building essential healthcare skills for diverse settings like hospitals and nursing homes. The program emphasizes NCLEX-PN exam readiness, with ACEN accreditation ensuring quality education. It offers affordable entry into nursing, credit transfer options for advanced degrees, and strong job prospects, supported by multiple campus locations and military-friendly policies.

12-month program length
41 total credit hours
NCLEX-PN exam preparation
Multiple campus locations
ACEN accredited program
Clinical experience included
Transfer credit opportunities

Western Technical College

La Crosse, WI - Public 2-Year - westerntc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Technical College's Practical Nursing program in La Crosse provides comprehensive training for entry-level nursing roles, focusing on patient-centered care through evidence-based practices. The curriculum, approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing, integrates hands-on experiences to build essential skills, resulting in high NCLEX-PN pass rates. This campus-based program emphasizes a dynamic approach to nursing, preparing students for rewarding careers without requiring specific entrance exams. Admission follows the college's general criteria, offering a structured path to success in the healthcare field.

Approved by Wisconsin Board of Nursing.
High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Campus-based program.
Focus on patient-centered care.
Evidence-based practice curriculum.
Prepares for entry-level nursing positions.

*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

Wisconsin LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Wisconsin, prospective students must typically meet several baseline educational and legal prerequisites. Applicants are required to possess a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18 years old, and often must undergo a background check in compliance with Wisconsin’s caregiver laws. Admissions processes may also require pre-entrance testing such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Proof of immunizations, a negative tuberculosis test, and current American Heart Association CPR certification for healthcare providers are also commonly required before beginning clinical placements.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

Wisconsin LPN programs cover essential healthcare knowledge and hands-on clinical experience to prepare students for entry-level nursing practice. The curriculum generally includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, mental health, and nursing fundamentals alongside practical skills in patient care, wound care, and medication administration. Students also engage in supervised clinical rotations in healthcare settings to develop on-the-job competence.

Accreditation plays a critical role in ensuring the quality of nursing education. In Wisconsin, LPN programs are approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. National accreditation by organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) can enhance program credibility and may be required for federal financial aid or transferring credits. Graduates of Board of Nursing approved programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN, a mandatory licensure exam.

LPN Schools and Classes

Numerous technical colleges and community-based institutions throughout Wisconsin offer LPN programs. These schools consistently deliver concentrated nursing education tailored to meet state licensure requirements. Students can expect a combination of in-class instruction, lab simulations, and clinical practice.

Common courses include human biology, pharmacology, growth and development, medical-surgical nursing, and maternal-child health. Elective or additional coursework may cover elder care, IV therapy, or healthcare ethics. Classwork emphasizes patient communication, critical thinking, and nursing procedures to build confidence for clinical environments.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Wisconsin have substantial opportunities across diverse healthcare settings. LPNs often work in long-term care facilities, home health, clinics, physician offices, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals under the supervision of RNs or physicians. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development projects a steady demand for LPNs due to an aging population and growing need for long-term health services, particularly in rural areas. This career offers flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and overnight shifts, supporting a favorable work-life balance for many professionals.

LPN Program Length

Full-time LPN programs in Wisconsin typically take about 12 months to complete, including both classroom and clinical training. Part-time options are available for students balancing other responsibilities, and may take 18 to 24 months depending on the program schedule. Some Wisconsin schools offer evening or weekend classes, allowing greater flexibility but often extending graduation timelines. Regardless of pacing, all programs must meet the same clinical training hours and content requirements to qualify graduates for licensure.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Wisconsin

If you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wisconsin, you might look for the shortest programs. These faster options can help you start your career sooner. In Wisconsin, you can find such programs in cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay. The table shows details like program highlights, graduation rate, and retention rate. Quicker programs often fit busy schedules and get you into the workforce faster. This is key for meeting healthcare needs across the state. Check the table to compare and find what works for you.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Rasmussen University-Wisconsin Practical Nursing Diploma	12 months to completion No prerequisite coursework Eight start dates per year Hybrid online and on-campus Hands-on clinical experiences Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam Career-focused training Support services available	Graduation Rate: 63% Retention Rate: 100% Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing	Four-year nursing pathway Technical diploma and BSN Multiple start dates NCLEX RN pass rate high Online and campus options Financial aid eligible Accredited nursing program	Graduation Rate: 58% Retention Rate: 72% Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Fox Valley Technical College Practical Nursing	30-credit Technical Diploma $5,031 base tuition cost Multiple admission pathways Located in Appleton, WI ACEN Accredited Program Nursing Assistant prerequisite Eligible for LPN licensing exam Clinical experience included	Graduation Rate: 61% Retention Rate: 68% Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1

*IPEDS 2023 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Wisconsin generally ranges from $6,000 to $14,000, depending on whether the school is a public technical college or private institution. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, clinical supplies, testing fees, and transportation to clinical sites. Student housing can vary widely, with costs being more affordable in rural parts of the state. On-campus housing is limited at most technical colleges, so many students commute or seek affordable rental options close to campus.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Wisconsin

Finding affordable LPN programs in Wisconsin is important for many students. These programs help people start careers in nursing without a big financial burden. The state offers options in cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay. With tuition ranges that are low-cost, students can focus on learning skills for patient care. This makes education more accessible and supports the need for healthcare workers in Wisconsin by 2026. It's a practical way to enter the field and build a stable future.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Fox Valley Technical College Practical Nursing	30-credit Technical Diploma $5,031 base tuition cost Multiple admission pathways Located in Appleton, WI ACEN Accredited Program Nursing Assistant prerequisite Eligible for LPN licensing exam Clinical experience included	$3,900 - $5,900 (Undergrad In-State) $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Chippewa Valley Technical College Practical Nursing (LPN)	32 Credit Technical Diploma One-year Face-to-Face Program 92% Graduate Employment Rate $56K Average Starting Salary ACEN Accredited Program Pathway to Associate Nursing Direct Patient Care Training Located in Eau Claire, WI	$3,800 - $5,700 (Undergrad In-State) $5,500 - $8,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing	Four-year nursing pathway Technical diploma and BSN Multiple start dates NCLEX RN pass rate high Online and campus options Financial aid eligible Accredited nursing program	$6,600 - $9,900 (Undergrad In-State) $12,900 - $19,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (NCES).

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN programs in Wisconsin must include hands-on clinical experience and lab work that cannot be fulfilled in an online format. While some theoretical coursework such as anatomy or nursing ethics may occasionally be offered in a hybrid model, core nursing skills and patient care training demand in-person instruction. The Wisconsin Board of Nursing requires that all approved programs meet specific clinical hour requirements, ensuring students are prepared for safe, direct patient care. Therefore, a fully online LPN program is not permitted or available in Wisconsin.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Wisconsin

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wisconsin, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This standardized exam measures a candidate’s competency to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed, entry-level nurse. Graduates of approved practical nursing programs must first apply for licensure through the Wisconsin Board of Nursing before they can register for the NCLEX-PN. Applicants must submit an online application, pay the required fees, and provide verification of their education. Once approved, candidates register for the NCLEX-PN through nclex.com.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Wisconsin participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

Licensure Requirements

The Wisconsin Board of Nursing oversees the licensing process for LPNs in the state. Applicants must graduate from a practical nursing program approved by the Board or equivalent as determined by board standards. Applicants must submit an application through the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), along with a fingerprint-based criminal background check, official transcripts, and application fees. Additionally, the Board requires successful completion of the NCLEX-PN to be eligible for licensure.

License Renewal

In Wisconsin, LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal cycle ends on April 30 of odd-numbered years. There is no continuing education (CE) requirement for LPN renewal; however, LPNs must affirm they have maintained competence in their professional practice. The online renewal process can be completed through the DSPS portal. Any disciplinary actions or legal issues must be disclosed as part of the renewal application.

Wisconsin LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wisconsin is $61,680, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This modest difference is often reflective of Wisconsin's lower overall cost of living compared to the national index, which can affect wage scales across various professions. Other contributing factors include the regional demand within the long-term care sector and the relative stability of the state's healthcare employment market, which result in compensation aligning closely with the national benchmark.

Average LPN State Salary in Wisconsin

$61,680

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.

Wisconsin LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

10-12 months, typically completed over two to three academic semesters.

Credential Awarded:

Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.

Program Focus:

Concentrates on core clinical skills and fundamental nursing knowledge required for direct patient care under the supervision of an RN or physician.

Average In-State Tuition in Wisconsin:

Approximately $5,000 - $8,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees, excluding books and supplies).

Best For:

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

School Types:

Wisconsin's 16 public technical colleges are the primary providers of this program.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

The PN portion is completed in 10-12 months within a larger 2-year (24 month) RN program.

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. Students can become eligible after successfully completing the first year of a qualified ADN program.

Program Focus:

Provides a broader educational foundation, including general education courses (e.g., psychology, communications) alongside deeper nursing theory in preparation for RN-level practice.

Average In-State Tuition in Wisconsin:

Approximately $9,000 - $15,000 for the full two-year associate degree.

Best For:

Students who are certain their ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a seamless academic progression.

School Types:

Wisconsin's public technical colleges are the primary providers of ADN programs with PN exit options.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Faster Entry into the Workforce: You can be working and earning an income as a nurse in about one year.
Lower Upfront Cost: The overall tuition and fees are significantly less than a two-year associate degree program, reducing student debt.
Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates entirely on the essential skills and knowledge needed to be a successful LPN, avoiding extensive general education requirements.
Career Pathway Flexibility: It allows you to start working as an LPN and have your employer potentially help pay for a future LPN-to-RN bridge program.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Seamless Path to RN: This is the most direct route to becoming an RN, as all coursework is integrated into a single program.
Greater Credit Transferability: The general education credits earned are more likely to transfer to a four-year university for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
Broader Education: The curriculum develops stronger critical thinking and communication skills through required general education courses, which is beneficial for advanced roles.
Higher Long-Term Earning Potential: While you exit as an LPN, completing the full degree to become an RN opens the door to significantly higher salaries and more career opportunities.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Wisconsin

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$49,000 - $65,000	9-12 months	NCLEX-PN	400-500 hours	$5,000 - $8,000
MA	$38,000 - $53,000	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-200 hours	$5,000 - $7,000
CNA	$32,000 - $48,000	4-8 weeks	National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP)	32+ hours	$700 - $1,500
DA	$39,000 - $61,000	9-12 months	DANB CDA Exam	300-400 hours	$5,500 - $8,000
Pharm Tech	$32,000 - $50,000	9-12 months	PTCE (CPhT)	200-320 hours	$4,500 - $6,500
Phlebotomist	$38,000 - $50,000	3-6 months	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-120 hours	$1,500 - $2,500
OTA	$49,000 - $76,000	2 years (Associate Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours	$14,000 - $18,000

List of LPN Programs in Wisconsin

If you are looking to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wisconsin, you can find many schools offering LPN programs across the state. These programs prepare you for a rewarding career in healthcare. The table below lists schools by city and state, highlights key features of each program, and provides links to their program pages where you can learn more and apply.

Jump to City:

Appleton, WI

Fox Valley Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 30-credit Technical Diploma
- $5,031 base tuition cost
- Multiple admission pathways
- Located in Appleton, WI
- ACEN Accredited Program
- Nursing Assistant prerequisite
- Eligible for LPN licensing exam
- Clinical experience included

Cleveland, WI

Lakeshore Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Part-time evening program
- Five terms total
- 31 credits required
- On-campus learning only
- Total cost $7,687
- Tuition cost $6,363
- Book cost $49
- Supply cost $1,275

Eau Claire, WI

Chippewa Valley Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- 32 Credit Technical Diploma
- One-year Face-to-Face Program
- 92% Graduate Employment Rate
- $56K Average Starting Salary
- ACEN Accredited Program
- Pathway to Associate Nursing
- Direct Patient Care Training
- Located in Eau Claire, WI