Best LPN Programs in Michigan 2026
Find Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Michigan with details on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Michigan.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Michigan
St Clair County Community College
Port Huron, MI - Public 2-Year - sc4.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Clair County Community College's Practical Nursing program provides comprehensive training for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses, focusing on diverse healthcare environments such as hospitals, long-term care, and home health. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience and a strong foundation in patient care, preparing students for the NCLEX licensure exam. Admission is competitive, relying on GPA, HESI scores, and healthcare experience, with financial aid and scholarships available. This program is ideal for those seeking a rewarding nursing career with practical skills and robust preparation for various medical settings.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Competitive admission process.
- Hands-on healthcare experience.
- Financial aid available.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Scholarships for eligible students.
- Focus on patient care.
- Preparation for licensure.
- Strong foundation in nursing.
West Shore Community College
Scottville, MI - Public 2-Year - westshore.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Shore Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate is an intensive two-semester program designed to prepare students for LPN licensure. It combines classroom instruction with extensive clinical practice, covering medical-surgical, pediatric, and obstetric nursing. Students must maintain a 75% grade average in this competitive program, which includes 34 credit hours focused on anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and psychology. Graduates gain the essential skills needed for diverse healthcare roles, emphasizing hands-on experience without requiring entrance exams.
- Two-semester nursing certificate
- Competitive program admission
- 34 total credit hours
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Diverse nursing specialties covered
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - Private 4-year - davenport.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Davenport University's Practical Nursing Diploma program provides comprehensive training for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses through its 46-credit curriculum approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing and accredited by NLNAC. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings, focusing on critical thinking, patient care for all age groups, and effective team communication. Coursework covers nursing processes, pharmacology, nutrition, and specialized care for adults, children, and geriatric patients. Admission requires completion of specific biology courses at Davenport with a C+ or better, preparing graduates thoroughly for LPN licensure and professional demands in various medical environments.
- 46-credit diploma program.
- Approved by Michigan Board of Nursing.
- Accredited by NLNAC.
- Prepares graduates for LPN licensure.
- Focus on nursing process and patient care.
- Includes pharmacology and nutrition courses.
- Hands-on clinical practice included.
- Covers care for all age groups.
- Requires C+ or better in biology courses.
- Specific biology courses must be completed at Davenport.
North Central Michigan College
Petoskey, MI - Public 2-Year - ncmich.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate (PN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Central Michigan College's Practical Nurse Certificate program spans three consecutive semesters starting each January, requiring a 2.0 GPA and recent science coursework. This campus-based program emphasizes extensive hands-on clinical training across diverse healthcare settings, preparing students thoroughly for the NCLEX-PN exam. Enrollment operates on a first-come, first-served basis with cohorts of 40 students, and financial aid options are available. Students must arrange reliable transportation for clinical rotations and are advised to limit work hours due to the program's full-time intensity.
- Campus-based program
- Starts every January
- Three consecutive semesters
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 required
- Science courses within last five years
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
- 40 students per cohort
Kellogg Community College
Battle Creek, MI - Public 2-Year - kellogg.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kellogg Community College's campus-based Practical Nursing Certificate program in Battle Creek equips students for the NCLEX-PN exam and LPN licensure. Offering flexible full-time and part-time schedules, it emphasizes hands-on training through advanced simulation labs and diverse clinical experiences. The curriculum, accredited by ACEN, focuses on patient-centered care and professional ethics, ensuring graduates meet Michigan Board of Nursing standards. With high NCLEX-PN pass rates and strong employer feedback, this program prepares nurses for roles in hospitals and long-term care, while supporting further educational advancement.
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Full-time and part-time options
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Hands-on learning approach
- Meets Michigan Board of Nursing standards
- Accredited by ACEN
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Prepares for LPN licensure
Michigan LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Prospective students seeking admission to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Michigan must meet specific prerequisites before applying. Typical requirements include having a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check, and submitting proof of immunizations. Some programs require applicants to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and complete prerequisite coursework in subjects such as biology, anatomy, and basic math. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate English proficiency. Each school may have specific admission criteria, so it’s important to carefully review program-specific requirements.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN program curricula in Michigan blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences to develop fundamental nursing skills. Coursework commonly includes pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, pediatric care, and gerontology. Clinical rotations take place in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings to give students real-world practice under supervision.
Accreditation is a critical element of any LPN program in Michigan. An accredited program meets the educational standards recognized by the Michigan Board of Nursing and national accrediting bodies. Completing an accredited program ensures eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN examination, which is required for licensure in the state. It also increases future employment opportunities and eligibility for further nursing education. Students can verify program accreditation by checking with the Michigan Board of Nursing.
LPN Schools and Classes
In Michigan, LPN programs are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and some universities with allied health departments. These institutions are spread throughout the state to accommodate students in both urban and rural areas. Programs typically include both theoretical and clinical instruction.
Students can expect to take courses such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, patient care, and infection control. The curriculum also includes specialized classes in areas like maternal health, geriatrics, and behavioral health. Practical training in laboratories and clinical settings helps reinforce skills including patient monitoring, administering medications, and recording vital signs.
Career Outlook
LPNs in Michigan work in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, clinics, and hospitals. LPNs also serve in home healthcare roles and community-based settings. The state’s aging population contributes to continued demand for practical nurses, especially in long-term care facilities and rural areas.
The career offers stable employment and opportunities for professional growth. Many LPNs pursue advanced nursing education over time to become registered nurses. Work schedules often include evening, night, and weekend shifts, which means flexible scheduling options are available, improving work-life balance depending on the workplace.
LPN Program Length
Michigan LPN programs typically take 12 to 16 months to complete when pursued full-time. Part-time options extend the program length to 18 to 24 months, allowing students to balance work and personal commitments. Evening and weekend programs are also available at select institutions, catering to adult learners and those needing flexible schedules. These alternative formats follow the same curriculum and clinical requirements but over a longer duration.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Michigan
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Monroe County Community College |
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| North Central Michigan College |
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| Kalamazoo Valley Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
The tuition for LPN programs in Michigan generally ranges from $5,000 to $18,000 depending on the institution and program structure. Community colleges tend to offer the most affordable options, especially for in-district students. Additional costs include books, uniforms, lab fees, and medical supplies, which can range from $1,500 to $3,000. Housing expenses vary by location but often range between $500 and $1,000 per month depending on whether students live on campus, in shared apartments, or commute from home.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Michigan
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Macomb Community College |
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| Kalamazoo Valley Community College |
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| North Central Michigan College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in Michigan cannot be completed entirely online because hands-on clinical training is required by state licensure rules. The Michigan Board of Nursing mandates that students complete a specific number of supervised clinical hours in approved healthcare settings. While some theoretical coursework might be available in a hybrid format, all clinical components must be completed in person to ensure students develop the practical skills needed for safe and effective patient care.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Michigan
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Michigan, graduates of a state-approved practical nursing program must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This nationally standardized exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and tests essential knowledge and skills required for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice.
Applicants must first obtain Authorization to Test (ATT) from the Michigan Board of Nursing after submitting their LPN licensure application and verifying graduation from an approved program. Fingerprints for a criminal background check are required for licensure in Michigan, though this process does not need to be completed before being approved to take the exam. Full details and application forms are available through the Michigan Board of Nursing.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Michigan offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who hold current, active licenses in other states. Nurses applying for reciprocity must provide verification of their license, proof of completion from an approved nursing program, and pass a criminal background check. Endorsement applicants licensed for three years or longer in another state must attest to meeting Michigan’s continuing education requirements for the two-year period immediately preceding the application date, or complete a Board-approved refresher course.
Michigan became a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) on January 19, 2023. This means that LPNs holding a multi-state license from Michigan can practice in other NLC member states without obtaining additional licenses. Similarly, LPNs with a multi-state license from another NLC state can practice in Michigan. This enhances multi-state practice flexibility for Michigan-based LPNs.
Licensure Requirements
The Michigan Board of Nursing, operating under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), regulates the licensure process for practical nurses. To apply for an LPN license in Michigan, candidates must:
- Graduate from a Michigan Board-approved LPN program
- Submit a complete application through the Michigan Professional Licensing User System (MiPLUS)
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
- Provide fingerprint-based background check results
Educational programs must be approved by the state for students to be considered eligible for licensure. A list of approved programs can be found on the Michigan Board of Nursing website.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Michigan must be renewed every two years. As part of the renewal process, LPNs are required to complete 25 contact hours of continuing education during each licensing cycle. At least one of these hours must cover pain and pain symptom management, as required by Michigan law.
LPNs should maintain documentation of their continuing education in case of audit. No minimum number of clinical hours is mandated, but failure to meet the continuing education requirements can prevent renewal. Renewal applications are typically processed through the online MiPLUS system, and nurses should begin the process well in advance of their license expiration date.
Michigan LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Michigan is $65,430, which is notably higher than the national average of $62,340. This wage premium can be attributed to several state-specific factors, including a regional cost of living that influences compensation benchmarks. Furthermore, Michigan's demographic trends, which affect long-term care demand, coupled with the dynamics of hospital openings and closures, create competitive labor conditions that can drive salaries upward. State regulations governing the LPN scope of practice also play a role in determining overall compensation levels within Michigan's healthcare market.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Michigan LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12 to 15 months on average.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate or Diploma of Completion.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated on core nursing theory and essential hands-on clinical skills required for entry-level LPN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Michigan:
Total program cost typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000, varying widely between public and private schools.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges, private career colleges, and vocational/technical schools.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (approximately 24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Includes all LPN clinical and theory coursework, plus required general education courses like English, math, and social sciences.
Average In-State Tuition in Michigan:
Total program cost typically ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 at a community college.
Best For:
Students who plan to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and want a degree with transferable credits.
School Types:
Primarily community colleges. This option is less common in Michigan than the certificate/diploma route for LPNs.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Completion: You can enter the workforce and start earning an income in about one year, significantly faster than a degree path.
- Lower Overall Cost: With fewer required credit hours and a shorter time in school, the total tuition and associated costs are generally lower.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates solely on the nursing skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work as an LPN, avoiding general education requirements.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Clearer Pathway to RN: The general education credits earned are typically designed to transfer directly into an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN bridge program, saving time later.
- Broader Education: The curriculum develops stronger critical thinking and communication skills, which are highly valued in healthcare settings.
- Enhanced Career Foundation: Holding a college degree (AAS) can be a personal achievement and may provide a stronger academic foundation for future leadership or specialized roles.
- Financial Aid Options: As a full degree program, it may qualify for different or more extensive types of federal financial aid and scholarships compared to some non-credit certificate programs.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Michigan
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $52,000 - $78,000 | 10-15 months | NCLEX-PN | 500-600 hours | $12,000 - $18,000 |
| MA | $32,000 - $48,500 | 8-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) | 160-200 hours | $6,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $31,000 - $47,500 | 3-8 weeks | Michigan Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation | 16-40 hours | $500 - $2,000 |
| DA | $37,000 - $57,500 | 9-11 months | DANB (CDA) Exam; MI RDA Exam | 300-450 hours | $8,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $31,000 - $47,500 | 7-12 months | PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) Exam | 120-200 hours | $5,000 - $16,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $32,000 - $49,000 | 4-16 weeks | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) | 40-120 hours | $800 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $49,000 - $79,500 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours | $18,000 - $25,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Michigan
Alpena, MI
Alpena Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester LPN certificate
- State of Michigan approved
- ACEN accredited program
- No program waitlist
- Two campus locations
- Hands-on simulation learning
- 2.0 GPA program requirement
- Prerequisite courses needed
Battle Creek, MI
Kellogg Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Full-time and part-time options
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Hands-on learning approach
- Meets Michigan Board of Nursing standards
- Accredited by ACEN
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates
Detroit, MI
Dorsey College-Dearborn
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Hands-on clinical training included.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- ACEN accredited.
- Covers anatomy and pharmacology.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on patient care skills.
- Includes geriatric nursing.
Wayne County Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month certificate program
- Campus-based clinical training
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Clinical simulation labs
- Multiple healthcare setting experiences
Escanaba, MI
Bay de Noc Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse, Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, 3-semester program
- Clinical experiences in multiple settings
- 36 total credits required
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Offered at Escanaba and Iron Mountain campuses
- Must maintain 'C' or better grades
- Background check and immunizations required
- Comprehensive nursing skills training
Flint, MI
Mott Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate in Practical Nursing
- NCLEX-PN Exam Eligibility
- Michigan Board of Nursing Approved
- 24 Total Program Credits
- Clinical Training Included
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Background Check Mandatory
- Science Prerequisites Required
Grand Rapids, MI
Davenport University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 46-credit diploma program.
- Approved by Michigan Board of Nursing.
- Accredited by NLNAC.
- Prepares graduates for LPN licensure.
- Focus on nursing process and patient care.
- Includes pharmacology and nutrition courses.
- Hands-on clinical practice included.
- Covers care for all age groups.
Grand Rapids Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 35 total credit hours
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Accredited nursing program
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Multiple biology course options
- Advanced standing potential
- Competitive admission requirements
Ironwood, MI
Gogebic Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2½ year Associate Degree
- NLN CNEA Accredited Program
- Both campus locations
- Clinical simulation experiences
- LPN certification option
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement
- 64 total program credits
- Current CNA certification needed
Jackson, MI
Jackson College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing - Certificate (PN-C)
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester program.
- Starts in March.
- Includes licensure prep course.
- Competitive admission process.
- Requires pre-admission exam.
- Background check required.
- Drug screening mandatory.
- Combines lectures and labs.
Kalamazoo, MI
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Approved by Michigan Board
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Includes prerequisite coursework
- Three semesters of nursing
- Financial aid available
- Support services offered
- Eligible for RN licensure
- Career opportunities diverse
Lansing, MI
Lansing Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - PN Option CA 0235
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- Two program track options
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Competitive admission requirements
- Multiple prerequisite course paths
- 42 total credit hours
- Career-focused healthcare training
- Milestone courses with grade requirements
Livonia, MI
Schoolcraft Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing: Practical Certificate (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited program.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN.
- 80% minimum grade required.
- Livonia Main Campus.
- Clinical rotations included.
- Computer lab use required.
- Financial aid available.
- BIOL 236 prerequisite.
Madison Heights, MI
Dorsey College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Covers patient care basics.
- Includes pharmacology training.
- Medical terminology included.
- Financial aid available.
- Accredited by ACEN.
Monroe, MI
Monroe County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing: Practical, Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Fully approved by Michigan Board of Nursing.
- Combines classroom, lab, and clinical learning.
- Prepares for roles as licensed practical nurses.
- Limited-admission program with specific criteria.
- Pathway to PN to RN program available.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Learning opportunities in diverse settings.
- Equips for employment in various healthcare settings.
Muskegon, MI
Muskegon Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- High school diploma required.
- Minimum C grade in courses.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Strong patient care foundation.
- Emphasizes practical nursing skills.
- General education courses included.
Petoskey, MI
North Central Michigan College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Starts every January
- Three consecutive semesters
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 required
- Science courses within last five years
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Financial aid available
Port Huron, MI
St Clair County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Competitive admission process.
- Hands-on healthcare experience.
- Financial aid available.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Scholarships for eligible students.
- Focus on patient care.
Scottville, MI
West Shore Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Two-semester nursing certificate
- Competitive program admission
- 34 total credit hours
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Diverse nursing specialties covered
Traverse City, MI
Northwestern Michigan College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing - Practical, Certificate of Achievement
Campus Based - Website
- Two-semester LPN program
- NCLEX exam preparation
- Michigan Board of Nursing approved
- 5-10% job growth projected
- Multiple articulation agreements
- Campus-based training
- Accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive clinical skills training
University Center, MI
Delta College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- One-year advanced certificate program
- 9,000 sq. ft. healthcare simulation lab
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Michigan Board of Nursing approved
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple healthcare employment settings
- Less than half university cost
- Interest-free tuition payment plan
Warren, MI
Macomb Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program
- Prepares for LPN board tests
- Estimated cost $12,000
- Selective admissions
- Prerequisite courses required
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Theory and clinical training
- Lab instruction included