2024 - Best LPN Programs in Minnesota

Last Updated/Verified: Aug 2, 2023

If you’re considering entering the nursing field in Minnesota, you’re in luck: the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects nearly 9% employment growth for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) through the year 2029. With the national nursing shortage, LPNs continue to be a hot commodity in hospitals and other healthcare environments. To reap the benefits of this rewarding career pathway, you must first find the right LPN program for you. LPNs in Minnesota earn approximately $26.38 per hour, which equates to an average annual salary of $54,870. This is roughly $990 per year less than the national average.

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Are you looking to become a licensed practical nurse in Minnesota? The school you choose is important when it comes to getting your license. Approved programs in Minnesota are offered at community colleges, technical centers, and private career schools - we list 26 schools across the state. After careful review of NCLEX-PN exam first-time pass rates over the past several years, we have ranked the top 10 programs. For more information on our LPN program rankings, see our Methodology page.

To see all the top ranked LPN programs in Minnesota click here.

Details on Minnesota LPN Schools & Classes

Whether you choose to attend an LPN program at one of Minnesota’s community colleges or vocational schools, there are options available all over the state. LPN programs typically require around 40 credits to complete, and can take 1-2 years from start to finish (total program length depends on part-time or full-time attendance). Prospective students are often curious about what kind of classes they will be taking in an LPN program. The curriculum of most programs consists of core nursing courses, some electives, and labs. Common course titles may include:

  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Dosage Calculations for Health Care Professionals
  • Foundations of Nursing
  • Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
  • Psychosocial Nursing
  • Maternal-Child Nursing

Accreditation

The key to picking a quality LPN program is to find a school that holds proper accreditation. Schools and programs can only hold accreditation if they meet specific requirements, so you can rest assured that they are academically up to par. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is one to look for, though regional accrediting organizations may also be available. You should also ensure that your LPN program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

Admission Requirements

It is imperative for all LPN program applicants to make sure that they meet all of their school of choice’s admissions requirements. These requirements will vary, but most include:

  • Must be a high school graduate or equivalent
  • Must have completed all prerequisite courses
  • Nurse Assistant/Medical Assistant certification may be required
  • Accuplacer and TEAS test scores
  • Must provide proof of up-to-date immunizations
  • CPR certification

Tuition and Costs

There are many factors that impact the total cost of an LPN program: where it is located, what type of school it’s offered at, and others. In all cases, students are expected to cover the costs of tuition, mandatory fees, and course materials like books and supplies. The complete cost of the LPN program at Dakota County Technical College, for example, is estimated at $12,306. For those concerned about paying for their LPN program, most schools have financial aid options available and are happy to provide information.

For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our Minnesota LPN to RN/BSN programs page.

Minnesota LPN Licensing Requirements

Completion of a state-approved nursing program is required in the state of Minnesota as well as a satisfactory score on the NCLEX-PN exam. Minnesota LPN licenses expire every 2 years. An application must be submitted for each license renewal with renewal fee and proof of completed continued education requirements of 12 contact hours during the registration period. If practicing less than the full 2 years, the continued education ratio is 1 contact hour for each 2 months of registration.

NCLEX Exam Information

The NCLEX-PN is the exam that all prospective LPNs must take and pass to officially gain licensure. It is comprised of roughly 100 nursing-based questions from a variety of categories. For detailed information on the exam, check out our comprehensive NCLEX-PN overview here. In addition to this, students can also hone their skills by taking the  NCLEX-PN practice test, designed to help students study and prepare for the real exam.

LPN Reciprocity and NLC

Minnesota is not currently a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC allows nurses to practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. Those with out-of-state nursing licenses must apply for a Minnesota license by endorsement. To apply for a Minnesota license via endorsement, a completed application must be submitted with the following:

  • Evidence of passing state-approved nursing program and NCLEX.
  • Credentials evaluation report.
  • Evidence of state licensure (home state).
  • Proof of employment as an LPN—if not employed in the last 24 months, proof of continued education must also be submitted.

Foreign educated or licensed individuals looking to receive a license in the state of Minnesota can qualify to take the NCLEX-PN by submitting transcripts and passing an English proficiency exam. The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) must perform a full course-by-course review and the applicant must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam.

2024 MN NCLEX-PN Pass Rates and Statistics

  • Total Number of State Approved LPN Schools: 26
  • Total Number of Test Takers in 2022: 833
  • 2022 Average Statewide Minnesota NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 80.5%

Top Ranked Minnesota LPN Programs

1

Minnesota West Community and Technical College

1450 College Way, Worthington, MN 56187 - (507) 372-3400 - Visit Homepage

Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Worthington is a comprehensive community and technical college with additional campuses located throughout the state. Minnesota West offers students programs that allow them to achieve an associate's degree, diploma, or career certificate in more than 60 disciplines. Graduates of the practical nursing diploma program are well prepared for gainful employment in the healthcare sector, or for continuation with an associate's degree in nursing.

Overall Score: 97.41 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
2

Rochester Community & Technical College

851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 - (507) 285-7210 - Visit Homepage

Rochester Community & Technical College (RCTC), located in Rochester, Minnesota, provides accessible, affordable, quality learning opportunities to a growing community. RCTC's Practical Nursing Diploma program consists of 39 credits and can be completed in 2.5 semesters. Students learn through classroom theory, labs, and clinical experiences.

Overall Score: 96.12 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
3

Minnesota North College

1515 East 25th Street, Hibbing, MN 55746 - (218) 293-6850 - Visit Homepage

Minnesota North College, a public institution situated in the heart of Minnesota, proudly offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing Program. With its commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing atmosphere, the college provides students with the ideal platform to develop their nursing skills. Experience quality education in a supportive community at Minnesota North College.

Overall Score: 95.80 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
4

Pine Technical & Community College

900 4th St SE, Pine City, MN 55063 - (320) 629-5100 - Visit Homepage

Pine Technical and Community College, located in Pine City, boasts a practical nursing program aimed at those who want a fulfilling healthcare career. Enrolled students learn problem-solving, ethics, and communication skills in addition to nursing skills. Both classroom and clinical coursework are weaved into the curriculum to give students a well-rounded nursing education.

Overall Score: 94.35 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
5

Lake Superior College

11501 State Highway 23, Duluth, MN 55808 - (218) 733-1074 - Visit Homepage

Duluth’s Lake Superior College offers a practical nursing program designed to be completed in just two semesters. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and evidence-based medicine, and tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. This program is both board-approved and ACEN-accredited.

Overall Score: 93.67 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
6

Northland Community and Technical College

2022 Central Ave NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721 - (218) 793-2800 - Visit Homepage

Northland Community and Technical College of East Grand Forks offers students a 44-credit practical nursing diploma program. NCTC's experienced faculty guides and supervises students through a number of nursing tasks and experiences, emphasizing critical thinking and technical skill. Graduates are well prepared for the NCLEX-PN examination.

Overall Score: 90.77 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
7

Alexandria Technical & Community College

1601 Jefferson St, Alexandria, MN 56308 - (888) 234-1222 - Visit Homepage

The Practical Nursing program at Alexandria Technical and Community College is designed to prepare future LPNs in the care of patients experiencing injury, in need of rehabilitation, and in the prevention of illness. Students can complete the program in either 2, 3, or 4 semesters. Graduates of the program are prepared to enter the workforce as LPNs or continue with their education to pursue registered nursing.

Overall Score: 90.22 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
8

Rasmussen College - Mankato

1400 Madison Avenue, Mankato, MN 56001 - (507) 625-6556 - Visit Homepage

Rasmussen College’s Mankato campus offers a quality, affordable practical nursing program. Small class sizes, experienced nurse faculty, and an emphasis on hands-on care set this program apart from the rest. The career-focused curriculum gives students the skills they need to succeed in the industry.

Overall Score: 90.06 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
9

South Central College

1920 Lee Blvd, North Mankato, MN 56003 - (507) 389-7200 - Visit Homepage

South Central College offers a practical nursing program at campus locations in North Mankato and Faribault. The PN program takes just 2 semesters to finish once prerequisite courses have been completed. Enrolled students move through a comprehensive curriculum which includes courses such as Pharmacology for Practical Nurses, Nursing Interventions, and more.

Overall Score: 88.57 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
10

Northwest Technical College

905 Grant Avenue SE, Bemidji, MN 56601 - (218) 333-6600 - Visit Homepage

Northwest Technical College, a public institution nestled in the scenic landscapes of Minnesota, is renowned for its Practical Nursing Program. As a dedicated provider of technical education, the college offers state-of-the-art facilities and personalized learning experiences, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses seeking hands-on training and career growth opportunities.

Overall Score: 88.23 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools

Continued List of All Programs in Minnesota

RankedProgramScore
#11 Minnesota State College Southeast
1250 Homer Rd, Winona, MN 55987
(507) 453-2700
87.14
#12 Minnesota State Community & Technical College
1900 28th Ave S, Moorhead, MN 56560
(877) 450-3322
84.25
#13 Central Lakes College
501 W College Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401
(218) 855-8000
83.80
#14 St. Cloud Technical & Community College
1540 Northway Dr, St Cloud, MN 56303
(320) 308-5000
83.35
#15 Rasmussen College - Eagan
3500 Federal Drive, Eagen, MN 55122
(651) 687-9000
82.68
#16 Riverland Community College
965 Alexander Dr SW, Owatonna, MN 55060
(507) 455-5880
82.20
#17 Mesabi Range College
1001 Chestnut St W, Virginia, MN 55792
(218) 741-3095
81.81
#18 Anoka Technical College
1355 U.S. 10, Anoka, MN 55303
(763) 576-4700
81.65
#19 Rasmussen College - St. Cloud
226 Park Avenue South, St. Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 251-5600
80.89
#20 Dakota County Technical College
1300 145th St E, Rosemount, MN 55068
(651) 423-8000
78.08
#21 Rasmussen College - Moorhead
1250 29th Avenue South, Moorhead, MN 56560
(218) 304-6200
74.30
#22 Hennepin Technical College
9000 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
(952) 995-1300
73.38
#23 Ridgewater College
2101 15th Ave NW, Willmar, MN 56201
(320) 222-5200
69.53
#24 Saint Paul College
235 Marshall Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
(651) 846-1600
65.59
#25 Rasmussen College - Brooklyn Park/Maple Grove
8301 93rd Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
(763) 493-4500
56.73

Programs Not Included In Rankings

Program
Itasca Community College
1851 East Highway 169, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
(218) 322-2300

Are we missing your school's program or need to make changes to the information listed? Please contact us.

Additional MN Nursing Resources

LPN Salary in Minnesota

The table below lists career information organized by the BLS for licensed practical nurses in Minnesota. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.

AreaTotal EmploymentAverage Hourly WageAverage Annual Salary
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington7,310$27.70$57,620
Rochester2,110$25.78$53,620
St. Cloud840$24.97$51,940
Duluth570$24.48$50,910
Mankato, North Mankato290$25.54$53,130

Table data sourced from 2022 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm)