Best LPN Programs in Montana 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Montana with details on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Montana.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Montana
Great Falls College Montana State University
Great Falls, MT - Public 2-Year - gfcmsu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Great Falls College Montana State University’s Practical Nurse Certificate of Applied Science is a hybrid, limited-enrollment program approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing. Students complete coursework in nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, adult health, gerontology, and leadership, with hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN. The program offers full-time (two semesters) and part-time (four semesters) pathways, plus distance learning options for remote students. Total program cost is $9,745, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies; tuition alone is $6,392. Prerequisites include psychology, writing, biology, and math, with a 2.5 minimum GPA. Early application is encouraged due to limited capacity.
- $6,392 total program tuition
- 2-Semester program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Hybrid program with distance options
- Approved by Montana State Board of Nursing
- Prepares for national licensure exam
- Limited enrollment program
Montana State University Billings
Billings, MT - Public 4-Year - msubillings.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Montana State University Billings delivers a Practical Nursing Certificate of Applied Science through a flexible hybrid format, combining online coursework with limited on-campus sessions and clinical experiences at approved sites across Montana. The curriculum covers patient care, health monitoring, data collection, and interprofessional communication, preparing graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue careers in clinics, physician offices, community health, and long-term care. Approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing, the program features competitive, point-based admission with prerequisite courses, including online options. Successful completers can bridge into ASN or BSN pathways. Graduates have been hired by Billings Clinic and report a median annual wage of $54,385. Military-friendly; the application deadline is October 22, 2025.
- Montana State Board of Nursing accredited
- Apply by 2025-10-22
- $54,385 median earnings
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Hybrid delivery with on-campus visits
- Clinical placements across Montana
- Competitive admission based on points system
- Career opportunities in clinics and long-term care
- Pathway to ASN and BSN degrees
Helena College University of Montana
Helena, MT - Public 2-Year - helenacollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate of Applied Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Helena College University of Montana offers a Practical Nursing Certificate of Applied Science for aspiring LPNs. This hybrid program blends online didactic coursework with in-person labs, simulations, and clinical experiences in doctor's offices, urgent care, and long-term care facilities. With a small cohort of just 16 students per year, learners receive personalized attention. Prerequisite courses are available on campus. Graduates consistently achieve 100% licensure pass rates, job placement, and retention/completion rates. Admission requires the TEAS entrance exam. The program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing, ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for the NCLEX-LPN and a rewarding career in practical nursing.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2026-11-02
- Starts spring
- Synchronous online classes
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-LPN
- 16 students admitted per year
Montana LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Montana, prospective students must typically hold a high school diploma or GED. Many programs require applicants to complete specific prerequisites, such as coursework in biology, anatomy, or math. Additionally, students may need to pass an entrance exam like the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), complete a background check, and provide immunization records. Some programs also request letters of recommendation or a personal statement. Each school in Montana may have specific requirements, so it is important to check directly with the desired program.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
The LPN curriculum in Montana is designed to prepare students to deliver safe and effective nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Coursework generally includes fundamentals of nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, maternal and child health, geriatrics, and mental health nursing. Clinical training is a key component and includes supervised, hands-on experience in healthcare facilities.
Accreditation ensures that a program meets national standards for nursing education. In Montana, programs should be approved by the Montana Board of Nursing and may also be accredited by national organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Graduating from a program approved by the Montana Board of Nursing is essential for taking the NCLEX-PN licensing exam and becoming eligible for employment throughout Montana.
LPN Schools and Classes
Montana offers a range of LPN programs through community colleges, technical schools, and universities located in both urban and rural areas of the state. Programs blend classroom instruction with clinical experiences designed to prepare students for a range of patient care responsibilities. Core classes often include anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing. Specialized training in pediatrics, long-term care, and psychiatric nursing may also be offered depending on the school. Clinical hours are completed in healthcare settings such as hospitals and long-term care facilities across Montana.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Montana are in steady demand, especially in rural communities where access to healthcare professionals can be limited. LPNs commonly work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and clinics. Some may also find positions in home health care or physician offices. The profession offers a favorable work/life balance due to options for flexible scheduling, including part-time and full-time roles. According to labor market trends, Montana expects continued growth in practical nursing jobs due to an aging population and increased need for healthcare services in underserved areas.
LPN Program Length
Full-time LPN programs in Montana typically take about 12 months to complete, including both coursework and clinical rotations. Most LPN programs in Montana are designed for full-time study. Dedicated part-time options extending to 18–24 months, or evening and weekend tracks, are not commonly available for these intensive programs.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Montana
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Great Falls College Montana State University |
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| Helena College University of Montana |
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| Montana State University Billings |
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Tuition and Costs
LPN program tuition in Montana varies depending on the type of institution. Community colleges often range from $6,000 to $10,000 for the full program, while private institutions may charge higher fees. Additional costs include textbooks, uniforms, background checks, licensing exam fees, and lab supplies. Housing expenses can vary widely depending on the city or town; on-campus housing is less common, so many students rent off-campus with monthly housing costs ranging from $500 to $1,000 depending on location and shared arrangements.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Montana
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Great Falls College Montana State University |
|
|
| Helena College University of Montana |
|
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| Montana State University Billings |
|
|
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
No, LPN programs in Montana cannot be completed entirely online. While some theoretical coursework such as anatomy or nutrition may be available in a hybrid format, the hands-on clinical training is a critical component of practical nursing education and must be completed in person under supervision. The Montana Board of Nursing requires that all approved programs include a clinical component that helps students build essential patient care skills in real-world settings.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Montana
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
Prospective Licensed Practical Nurses in Montana must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and is designed to assess the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level nursing practice. Candidates must apply for licensure with the Montana Board of Nursing before registering for the NCLEX-PN. Upon receiving authorization to test (ATT), candidates can schedule their exam at a designated testing center. NCLEX-PN exam results are sent directly to the Montana Board of Nursing.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Montana offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who hold an active license in another state. To apply for reciprocity, applicants must submit verification of licensure from their original state, complete a background check, and meet equivalent educational and examination standards. Montana is also a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows qualified LPNs to hold a multistate license and practice in other compact member states without obtaining additional licenses. To be eligible, applicants must declare Montana as their primary state of residence and meet uniform licensure requirements outlined by the NLC.
Licensure Requirements
The Montana Board of Nursing regulates the practice of practical nursing and establishes the requirements for licensure. To become licensed as an LPN in Montana, applicants must:
- Graduate from a Montana-approved practical nursing program or an equivalent out-of-state program
- Submit a complete application to the Montana Board of Nursing
- Pay the required fees
- Pass the NCLEX-PN examination
- Undergo fingerprint-based criminal background checks
The Board also sets standards for ethical practice and continuing competence in the profession.
License Renewal
Licensed Practical Nurses in Montana must renew their licenses every two years. The renewal period begins on November 1 and ends on December 31 of even-numbered years. To maintain an active license, LPNs must complete 24 continuing education (CE) hours during each two-year renewal cycle. These CE credits must be directly related to nursing practice and be approved or accepted by the Board. Montana does not require a specific number of clinical hours for renewal. Licensees are encouraged to submit renewal applications early in the renewal period to avoid delays.
Montana LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) salary in Montana, at $58,710, is lower than the national average of $62,340. This disparity is frequently linked to the state's lower cost of living, which means local wages may offer similar purchasing power. Other contributing factors include Montana's rural setting and lower population density, which can impact the demand for long-term care services and competition among healthcare employers.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Montana LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
11-12 months (typically 3 full semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Certificate of Applied Science (CAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
Program Focus:
Concentrates on core nursing fundamentals, hands-on clinical skills, and direct patient care to prepare for an entry-level LPN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Montana:
Approximately $9,000 - $12,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees, not including books or supplies).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges and university-affiliated two-year colleges (e.g., Helena College, Great Falls College MSU).
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (typically 4-5 semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No. These programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse, not an LPN.
Program Focus:
A broader curriculum that includes general education courses, advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and critical thinking to prepare for the wider scope of RN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Montana:
Approximately $16,000 - $22,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees, not including books or supplies).
Best For:
Students committed to becoming a Registered Nurse from the start, or current LPNs seeking to advance their career through an LPN-to-RN bridge program.
School Types:
Community colleges and university-affiliated two-year colleges (e.g., Flathead Valley Community College, City College at MSU Billings).
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Employment: It is the quickest path to licensure and employment in the nursing field, often taking only one year to complete.
- Lower Initial Cost: The overall tuition and fees are significantly lower than a two-year associate degree program, reducing the initial financial burden.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is intensely focused on the essential clinical skills needed for the LPN role, without the additional general education requirements.
- Valuable Experience: It allows you to start working in a clinical setting sooner, gaining practical experience and income while deciding on future educational steps, like an LPN-to-RN bridge program.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Higher Earning Potential: Registered Nurses have a significantly higher earning potential and a wider range of job opportunities compared to LPNs.
- Greater Scope of Practice: The RN role involves more autonomy, complex patient care responsibilities, and critical decision-making.
- Foundation for Advanced Degrees: An associate degree provides a clear and direct pathway to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pursuing further graduate studies.
- Leadership Opportunities: RNs are more likely to hold supervisory, management, and specialized roles within healthcare facilities.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Montana
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $49,000 - $62,000 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 400-500+ hours | $7,000 - $11,000 |
| MA | $38,000 - $48,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) | 160-220 hours | $5,000 - $8,000 |
| CNA | $36,000 - $41,000 | 3-8 weeks | Montana Nurse Aide Competency Exam | 16-40 hours | $600 - $1,500 |
| DA | $38,000 - $49,000 | 9-12 months | DANB RHS exam for radiography | 300+ hours | $5,000 - $8,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $39,000 - $50,000 | 9-12 months | PTCE or ExCPT | 200-300 hours | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $36,000 - $46,000 | 3-4 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 100+ hours | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $58,000 - $75,000 | 2 years (AAS degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $12,000 - $16,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Montana
Billings, MT
Montana State University Billings
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Montana State Board of Nursing accredited
- Apply by 2025-10-22
- $54,385 median earnings
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Hybrid delivery with on-campus visits
- Clinical placements across Montana
- Competitive admission based on points system
Great Falls, MT
Great Falls College Montana State University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Online & Campus Based - Website
- $6,392 total program tuition
- 2-Semester program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Hybrid program with distance options
- Approved by Montana State Board of Nursing
Helena, MT
Helena College University of Montana
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate of Applied Science
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2026-11-02
- Starts spring
- Synchronous online classes
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
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