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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2027 Best LPN Programs in Wisconsin

Choosing the right LPN program can shape your future in nursing. We at practicalnursing.org have ranked the best LPN programs in Wisconsin to help you find a school that fits your goals. Our team looked at important factors such as tuition costs, NCLEX pass rates, and the quality of hands-on training. We also considered student reviews and job placement success. The schools on our list are known for preparing graduates to pass the licensing exam and build strong careers. For a detailed explanation of how we evaluate each program, check out our rankings methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Lakeshore Technical College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lakeshore Technical College offers a part-time Practical Nursing technical diploma program on campus in Cleveland, Wisconsin. The program spans five terms with 31 credits, featuring evening and some Saturday classes. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam for LPN licensure in Wisconsin, with pass rates above the national average. Total program cost is approximately $7,687, including tuition, books, and supplies. Admissions require an online application, high school transcripts, and meeting academic preparedness like background checks and health requirements. The curriculum includes hands-on learning at the Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin Center for Health Care Excellence, and there's a bridge option for current Medical Assistants to save time and money.

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

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

Green Bay, WI - Public 2-Year - nwtc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing technical diploma at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College prepares you for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, health promotion, and clinical care across the lifespan. You'll gain hands-on experience in settings like hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. NWTC boasts a 97% graduate employment rate and a 92% first-attempt NCLEX-PN pass rate. Faculty are experts with graduate-level education. The program is offered at four campuses and includes a part-time option. All credits apply toward the Nursing Associate Degree, and a bridge program is available for certified medical assistants. Study abroad opportunities add a unique dimension to your education.

ACEN accredited
34 total credit hours
Full-time and part-time options
92% licensure pass rate
97% job placement rate
$44,863 median earnings
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Offered at four campus locations
Credits transfer to ADN program

Chippewa Valley Technical College

Eau Claire, WI - Public 2-Year - cvtc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Chippewa Valley Technical College's Practical Nursing (LPN) technical diploma is a one-year, face-to-face program at the Eau Claire campus. Students learn direct patient care, medication administration, therapeutic communication, and basic wound care through courses like Nursing Fundamentals, Nursing Pharmacology, and Nursing Health Alterations. The curriculum prepares graduates for entry-level LPN roles in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and physician offices. The program is accredited by ACEN and offers a seamless pathway to an associate degree in Nursing. Graduates report an average starting salary of $56,550, with 86% employed in the field and a 100% NCLEX first-time pass rate. Financial aid is available, and students may earn credit for prior learning.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
$7,788 total program tuition
1-Year program
32 total credit hours
1 start dates per year
Starts fall
100% licensure pass rate
86% job placement rate
$56,550 median earnings
Prepares for NCLEX

Fox Valley Technical College

Appleton, WI - Public 2-Year - fvtc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Technical Diploma at Fox Valley Technical College equips students with essential skills for a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The curriculum covers health assessments, medication administration, drug classifications, and patient care across diverse populations. Students gain hands-on clinical experience in various healthcare settings, developing critical thinking and communication skills. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. This ACEN-accredited, full-time program is based at the Appleton campus. It is a high-demand program with a limited number of spots, so early application is encouraged. Admission requires a skills assessment and a minimum high school GPA of 2.75. Career opportunities include LPN roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

ACEN, Wisconsin State Board of Nursing accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: ACT
$5,306 total program tuition
30 total credit hours
2.8 GPA minimum
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
High-demand program with waitlist
Laptop required for core courses

Milwaukee Area Technical College

Milwaukee, WI - Public 2-Year - matc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Technical Diploma at Milwaukee Area Technical College prepares you for a career as a licensed practical nurse. The program blends classroom theory with hands-on clinical experiences in nursing homes and hospitals. Over 32 credits, you'll learn nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and clinical care. Graduates take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. ACEN accredited, this diploma ladders into the Registered Nursing associate degree. Admission requires a high school diploma, 2.5 GPA, anatomy with B- or higher, and the TEAS exam. With fall and spring starts and a waiting list, it's a fast track into healthcare.

Ladders into RN associate degree
High demand for licensed practical nurses
Classroom and clinical experiences
Waiting list admission process
60 seats per semester
High school diploma required
B-or higher in anatomy required
TEAS score of 58.7% required

*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2025 survey.

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.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Wisconsin

Time matters when starting a nursing career. In Wisconsin, many students seek the shortest LPN programs to begin working sooner. These fast-track options offer a direct path to a certificate or diploma, while some also lead to an associate degree. Shorter programs help learners save money and enter the workforce quickly, addressing the state's healthcare needs in cities like Milwaukee and Green Bay. The table below compares different schools, highlighting key program features, graduation rates, and retention rates. By choosing the quickest route, future nurses can gain skills and start making a difference without unnecessary delays. We encourage reviewing each option carefully to find the best fit for your goals and schedule.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Fox Valley Technical College Practical Nursing	ACEN, Wisconsin State Board of Nursing accredited Entrance exam required Exams: ACT $5,306 total program tuition 30 total credit hours 2.8 GPA minimum Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available	Graduation Rate: 65% Retention Rate: 80% Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 :1
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Practical Nursing	ACEN accredited 34 total credit hours Full-time and part-time options 92% licensure pass rate 97% job placement rate $44,863 median earnings Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available	Graduation Rate: 51% Retention Rate: 74% Student to Faculty Ratio: 17 :1
Chippewa Valley Technical College Practical Nursing (LPN)	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited $7,788 total program tuition 1-Year program 32 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts fall 100% licensure pass rate 86% job placement rate	Graduation Rate: 50% Retention Rate: 72% Student to Faculty Ratio: 14 :1

*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2025.

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.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Wisconsin

For 2027, finding an affordable LPN program in Wisconsin is a smart step toward a nursing career. This table lists three schools offering certificate and diploma options, along with associate degrees. We show program highlights and tuition ranges to make comparing easy. Training in cities like Milwaukee and Madison helps more people enter the field without financial stress. With the right tuition, students can gain essential skills and start working sooner. Exploring these options is a practical way to build a stable future.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Lakeshore Technical College Practical Nursing	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	$3,900 - $5,800 (Undergrad In-State) $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Chippewa Valley Technical College Practical Nursing (LPN)	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited $7,788 total program tuition 1-Year program 32 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts fall 100% licensure pass rate 86% job placement rate	$3,900 - $5,800 (Undergrad In-State) $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Practical Nursing	ACEN accredited 34 total credit hours Full-time and part-time options 92% licensure pass rate 97% job placement rate $44,863 median earnings Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available	$4,000 - $6,000 (Undergrad In-State) $5,800 - $8,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2025 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

Jump to City:

Appleton, WI

Fox Valley Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, Wisconsin State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT
- $5,306 total program tuition
- 30 total credit hours
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available