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.

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 Iowa

If you're looking to start your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Iowa, finding the right program is key. At practicalnursing.org, we've done the hard work for you by ranking the best LPN programs across the state. Our list highlights schools that offer quality education, hands-on training, and strong support to help you succeed. We focus on what matters most to students, like pass rates and job placement, so you can make a smart choice for your future. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out and why they made the list. https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Indian Hills Community College

Ottumwa, IA - Public 2-Year - indianhills.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa provides a campus-based Practical Nursing program focused on hands-on healthcare training. Students prepare for the NCLEX-PN exam through a blend of classroom learning and clinical experiences, with admission requiring a high school diploma or GED plus health screenings. Financial aid and scholarships support affordability, while the curriculum emphasizes patient care, safety, and professional ethics to ready graduates for diverse healthcare roles immediately after completion.

Campus-based program.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
High school diploma or GED required.
Financial aid available.
Emphasizes patient care.

Northwest Iowa Community College

Sheldon, IA - Public 2-Year - nwicc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northwest Iowa Community College's Practical Nursing diploma program spans two semesters, blending classroom theory with hands-on lab work and clinical rotations in local healthcare settings. Students develop expertise across medical-surgical, geriatric, maternity, pediatric, and mental health nursing, preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam. Admission requires a high school diploma with a 2.0 GPA, three years of science coursework, and a Certified Nurse Aide Certificate, plus health assessments and CPR certification. The program features high NCLEX pass rates and eligibility for the Future Ready Iowa Scholarship, offering potential tuition-free education. Entry is in the fall semester, emphasizing strong communication and interpersonal skills for patient care.

Two-semester program.
Campus-based with online general education.
Requires Certified Nurse Aide Certificate.
High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Qualifies for Future Ready Iowa Scholarship.
Combines theory, lab, clinical.
Fall semester entry.
Requires 2.0 GPA.
Three years of science required.
Health assessment and immunizations needed.

Marshalltown Community College

Marshalltown, IA - Public 2-Year - mcc.iavalley.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma

Campus Based - Visit Website

Marshalltown Community College's Practical Nursing Diploma is a one-year campus program that prepares students for licensure in Iowa and Illinois. The curriculum spans medical, surgical, maternal-child, pediatric, geriatric, and mental health nursing, with clinical rotations in hospitals, long-term care, and mental health facilities. Accredited by the Iowa Board of Nursing, it emphasizes science and patient care skills, leading to an average graduate salary of $45,876. No entrance exam is required for this diploma-level program.

One-year diploma program.
Campus-based learning.
Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
Clinical experiences in diverse settings.
Prepares for licensure in IA and IL.
Covers medical, surgical, pediatric nursing.
Focus on science and patient care.
Average salary $45,876 for graduates.

Hawkeye Community College

Waterloo, IA - Public 2-Year - hawkeyecollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Hawkeye Community College's Practical Nursing (LPN) diploma program in Waterloo provides a comprehensive one-year pathway to licensure. Students gain hands-on experience through 192 clinical hours across diverse healthcare settings, supported by a state-of-the-art simulation lab. The program's 96% NCLEX pass rate reflects its rigorous curriculum in patient care, medication administration, and essential nursing skills. Eligible students can access the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship for full tuition coverage. With fall and spring start dates and daytime classes, this campus-based program prepares graduates to address nursing shortages in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics through qualified faculty and academic advising.

1-year diploma program
96% NCLEX pass rate
192 clinical hours
Future Ready Iowa Scholarship eligible
Daytime classes
Fall and Spring starts
State-of-the-art simulation lab
Hands-on clinical experience
High-tech learning environment
Preparation for LPN licensure

Southwestern Community College

Creston, IA - Public 2-Year - swcciowa.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southwestern Community College's Practical Nursing program in Creston, IA, prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam with a strong 93% average pass rate. This campus-based curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical training under direct faculty supervision, covering essential nursing processes, health-illness dynamics, and critical thinking skills. Approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, it offers an affordable pathway with potential Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship eligibility and high job placement rates. Classes begin in late August, requiring only an online application—no entrance exams are needed for this LPN-focused program, which also supports advancement to RN roles through its ladder structure.

Campus-based program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
93% average pass rate
Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing
Eligible for Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship
Hands-on clinical experience
Focuses on nursing process
Includes health-illness continuum
Teaches critical thinking skills
Late August start date

*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 2023).

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.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Iowa

If you're looking to start a nursing career in Iowa, shorter programs can be a great choice. They help you enter the workforce faster, which is important in today's job market. Iowa offers various schools with programs that focus on practical skills. You can find options in cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport. When picking a program, check the graduation rate and retention rate to see how well students do. These factors show if the program supports learners effectively. Remember, the quickest path isn't always the best—choose one that fits your goals and lifestyle. For more details, click here.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Northwest Iowa Community College Practical Nursing	Two-semester program. Campus-based with online general education. Requires Certified Nurse Aide Certificate. High NCLEX-PN pass rates. Qualifies for Future Ready Iowa Scholarship. Combines theory, lab, clinical. Fall semester entry. Requires 2.0 GPA.	Graduation Rate: 55% Retention Rate: 70% Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Southwestern Community College Practical Nursing	Campus-based program Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam 93% average pass rate Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing Eligible for Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship Hands-on clinical experience Focuses on nursing process Includes health-illness continuum	Graduation Rate: 53% Retention Rate: 74% Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Southeastern Community College Practical Nursing - Diploma	1-year diploma program Campus-based learning Prepares for LPN licensure Pathway to RN programs Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible High school diploma required CNA certification needed Standardized test scores required	Graduation Rate: 43% Retention Rate: 69% Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1

*Source documentation: IPEDS 2023 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.

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.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Iowa

Looking for low-cost LPN programs in Iowa? Affordable education is key for many students, especially in healthcare fields like nursing. These programs help you start a career without a lot of debt. In Iowa, you can find options in cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport. They offer hands-on training and flexible schedules. The tuition range varies, so you can pick what fits your budget. This makes it easier to focus on your studies and future job. Investing in a cost-effective program can lead to a stable career in nursing. Check out the table below for details on schools and their offerings.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Indian Hills Community College Practical Nursing	Campus-based program. Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam. High school diploma or GED required. Financial aid available. Emphasizes patient care.	$3,900 - $5,800 (Undergrad In-State) $4,900 - $7,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Western Iowa Tech Community College Nursing - PN	1-year program duration. Hybrid learning format. Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam. CNA certification required. High NCLEX-PN pass rate. Multiple campus locations. Affordable in-state tuition. Additional fees for books.	$4,000 - $6,100 (Undergrad In-State) $4,100 - $6,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Northeast Iowa Community College Practical Nursing	12-month diploma program 96% NCLEX pass rate 100% job placement Hands-on simulation labs Affordable tuition options Financial aid available TEAS exam required Clinical experience included	$5,300 - $7,900 (Undergrad In-State) $6,000 - $9,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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 State Salary in Iowa

$59,640

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.

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

If you're looking to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa, you'll find many great programs across the state. This table lists schools in various cities, highlighting key program features and providing direct links to their program pages. Explore your options to find the right fit for your nursing career goals.

Jump to City:

Calmar, IA

Northeast Iowa Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month diploma program
- 96% NCLEX pass rate
- 100% job placement
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Affordable tuition options
- Financial aid available
- TEAS exam required
- Clinical experience included

Cedar Rapids, IA

Kirkwood Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN)
Campus Based - Website
- One-year LPN program
- 35 nursing scholarships available
- Comprehensive clinical training
- 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate
- Multiple healthcare modalities
- Supervised laboratory experiences
- Real-world patient care training
- Projected career growth

Council Bluffs, IA

Iowa Western Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- One-year diploma program
- Multiple campus locations
- 12 hours weekly lab work
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Preparation for NCLEX-PN
- Pathway to RN degree
- Entry wages $19.50/hour
- Iowa Board of Nursing approved

Creston, IA

Southwestern Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- 93% average pass rate
- Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing
- Eligible for Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Focuses on nursing process
- Includes health-illness continuum

Davenport, IA

Eastern Iowa Community College District

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Courses in pharmacology, anatomy.
- Available at multiple campuses.
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Combines classroom and practical learning.
- Specific admission criteria apply.
- Focus on patient care skills.

Estherville, IA

Iowa Lakes Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN-accredited nursing program
- One-year diploma (46 credits)
- Clinical rotations included
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Campus-based training
- Multiple clinical settings exposure
- Comprehensive nursing coursework
- State-of-the-art simulation labs

Fort Dodge, IA

Iowa Central Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 360 clinical hours
- Spring and fall starts
- Entry-level nursing positions
- Supervised by RNs or Physicians
- Blend of classroom and clinical work
- Option to continue to ADN program
- Must apply to Iowa Central first

Marshalltown, IA

Marshalltown Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- One-year diploma program.
- Campus-based learning.
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Clinical experiences in diverse settings.
- Prepares for licensure in IA and IL.
- Covers medical, surgical, pediatric nursing.
- Focus on science and patient care.
- Average salary $45,876 for graduates.