Best LPN Programs in Oregon 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Oregon with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Oregon.

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 Oregon

If you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon, finding the right program is a big step. At practicalnursing.org, we have put together a list of the best LPN programs in the state to help you make a smart choice. Our rankings look at things like how well students do on exams, job placement rates, and what current students say. This guide points you to schools that offer strong training and support. We aim to give you clear, useful information so you can start your nursing career with confidence. Check out our full rankings and how we decide them here: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Sumner College

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - sumnercollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Sumner College's Practical Nursing Program in Portland, OR, is a 50-week diploma program approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing and accredited by ABHES. This campus-based program emphasizes hands-on training to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam and licensure as practical nurses. With a focus on workforce readiness, it offers financial aid options for eligible students who meet specific admissions criteria. The program's structured approach ensures comprehensive preparation for entry-level nursing roles in various healthcare settings.

50-week diploma program.
Approved by OSBN.
Accredited by ABHES.
Prepares for NCLEX-PN.
Campus-based in Portland.
Hands-on training focus.
Financial aid available.

Klamath Community College

Klamath Falls, OR - Public 2-Year - klamathcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Klamath Community College's one-year Practical Nurse Certificate program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and LPN licensure, with a specialized focus on rural community healthcare. The concept-based curriculum emphasizes deep understanding of nursing concepts through 48 credit hours that include clinical practice. Admission is competitive, requiring a 3.0 GPA and multiple science, communication, and health science prerequisites. This program offers advanced placement opportunities and is designed for those seeking to address healthcare needs in underserved rural areas.

One-year certificate program
NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
Concept-based curriculum approach
Rural community nursing focus
48 total credit hours
Competitive admission process
Extensive prerequisite requirements
Clinical practice components
Advanced placement opportunities
Multiple prerequisite science courses

Umpqua Community College

Roseburg, OR - Public 2-Year - umpqua.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Umpqua Community College's OSBN-approved Practical Nursing program in Roseburg provides comprehensive clinical training in modern facilities, preparing students for PN-NCLEX licensure. The competency-based curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and ethical care within diverse healthcare settings. As part of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education, the program focuses on promoting health, aiding recovery, and managing illnesses while developing teamwork skills. Scholarships and financial aid are available for candidates committed to career development in nursing.

OSBN-approved program.
Clinical training in modern facilities.
Prepares for PN-NCLEX licensure.
Focus on critical thinking skills.
Emphasizes evidence-based practice.
Teamwork and ethical care focus.
Competency-based curriculum.
Member of Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education.
Offers scholarships and financial aid.
Campus-based program in Roseburg, OR.

Central Oregon Community College

Bend, OR - Public 2-Year - cocc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Oregon Community College offers a two-year Practical Nursing certificate program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and entry into the nursing field. The curriculum includes rigorous prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, coupled with hands-on clinical training to build competencies in patient care and health promotion. A unique feature allows students to exit after one year as practical nurses or continue toward registered nurse training, providing flexible career paths. With a total program cost around $2,800 and selective admission, it emphasizes affordability and quality education, approved by the Oregon State Board.

Two-year certificate program
NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
Approved by Oregon State Board
Flexible career progression
Comprehensive clinical training
Selective admission process
Multiple prerequisite science courses
Total program cost ~$2,800
Licensing exam fee $360
Computer literacy recommended

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, OR - Public 4-Year - chemeketa.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Chemeketa Community College in Salem offers a campus-based Practical Nursing Certificate program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam with a strong focus on clinical excellence and patient-centered care. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, ethical practice, and safety protocols, supported by high completion and NCLEX-PN pass rates. Admission requires prerequisite courses, a criminal background check, drug screening, and immunizations. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making it an affordable pathway into nursing without entrance exams, ideal for those seeking a robust, practical education in Oregon.

High NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Campus-based program.
Requires criminal background check.
Drug screening mandatory.
Proof of immunizations needed.
Scholarships available.
Focus on patient-centered care.
Hands-on healthcare experience.
Ethical practice emphasized.
Safety in care prioritized.

*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

Oregon LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Admission into Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) programs in Oregon requires meeting specific prerequisites, which may vary slightly by institution. Generally, applicants must possess a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years of age. Most programs require satisfactory scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Additionally, students may need to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, or basic math. Background checks, immunization records, and CPR certification are also common requirements. Admission processes are competitive with some programs using point systems to evaluate applicants based on academic history and healthcare experience.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Oregon are designed to provide comprehensive training in patient care through classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical experiences. Course topics typically include pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Students also develop practical skills in administering medications, wound care, and monitoring vital signs.

Accreditation ensures the program meets educational and professional standards. In Oregon, programs are approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, which is the primary approval body for LPN programs in the state. Graduation from an OSBN-approved program is required to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, which is essential for licensure as an LPN in Oregon.

LPN Schools and Classes

Oregon offers LPN programs through technical colleges, community colleges, and some private institutions across urban and rural areas. These programs combine theoretical coursework with hands-on clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Students typically take courses such as fundamentals of nursing, nursing ethics, human anatomy, microbiology, nutrition, and practical clinical instruction. Specialized classes often cover maternal-child nursing, mental health, and long-term care. Clinical rotations help reinforce classroom learning with real-world application in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics.

Career Outlook

The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Oregon is stable, particularly in long-term care, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare. According to the Oregon Employment Department, job growth for LPNs is expected to align with national averages. Work settings often include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and residential homes. Advancement opportunities exist for LPNs who pursue further education to become Registered Nurses or specialize in areas like gerontology or palliative care.

LPN Program Length

LPN programs in Oregon generally offer full-time, part-time, and evening/weekend scheduling options. A full-time program can be completed in approximately 12 to 15 months. Part-time and evening/weekend programs are ideal for students balancing work or family obligations and may take 18 to 24 months to complete. Each learning path includes the same coursework and clinical training but differs in weekly time commitment and pace.

2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Oregon

Looking for the quickest way to start a nursing career in Oregon? Shorter LPN programs can help you enter the workforce faster, saving time and money. These programs often lead to good job opportunities across the state, from Portland to the Willamette Valley. When choosing, check graduation and retention rates to ensure you're on a solid path. This table lists options with highlights to guide your decision. Get started soon and make a difference in healthcare with a faster education path.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Chemeketa Community College Practical Nursing Certificate	High NCLEX-PN pass rates. Campus-based program. Requires criminal background check. Drug screening mandatory. Proof of immunizations needed. Scholarships available. Focus on patient-centered care. Hands-on healthcare experience.	Graduation Rate: 22% Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Sumner College Practical Nursing Program	50-week diploma program. Approved by OSBN. Accredited by ABHES. Prepares for NCLEX-PN. Campus-based in Portland. Hands-on training focus. Financial aid available.	Graduation Rate: 79% Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Klamath Community College Practical Nurse Certificate	One-year certificate program NCLEX-PN licensure preparation Concept-based curriculum approach Rural community nursing focus 48 total credit hours Competitive admission process Extensive prerequisite requirements Clinical practice components	Graduation Rate: 37% Retention Rate: 50% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1

*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Oregon varies by institution but typically ranges from $6,000 to $15,000 for the entire program. Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, liability insurance, and NCLEX-PN exam costs. Students should also budget for living expenses, which can vary significantly depending on location within Oregon. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to assist with program costs.

2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Oregon

Finding affordable LPN programs in Oregon is important for many students. These certificate and associate degree options help people start nursing careers without high debt. Oregon has several low-cost programs in cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene. The tuition range varies, making it easier to find an economical choice that fits your budget. This focus on cost-effective education opens doors for more people to enter healthcare. It supports communities by training skilled nurses who can serve local needs. Look for programs with good highlights to match your goals.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Central Oregon Community College Practical Nursing	Two-year certificate program NCLEX-PN licensure preparation Approved by Oregon State Board Flexible career progression Comprehensive clinical training Selective admission process Multiple prerequisite science courses Total program cost ~$2,800	$5,400 - $8,000 (Undergrad In-State) $10,500 - $15,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Umpqua Community College Practical Nursing	OSBN-approved program. Clinical training in modern facilities. Prepares for PN-NCLEX licensure. Focus on critical thinking skills. Emphasizes evidence-based practice. Teamwork and ethical care focus. Competency-based curriculum. Member of Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education.	$4,700 - $7,100 (Undergraduate)
Chemeketa Community College Practical Nursing Certificate	High NCLEX-PN pass rates. Campus-based program. Requires criminal background check. Drug screening mandatory. Proof of immunizations needed. Scholarships available. Focus on patient-centered care. Hands-on healthcare experience.	$5,000 - $7,500 (Undergrad In-State) $11,100 - $16,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

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

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN programs in Oregon cannot be completed entirely online. The nature of practical nursing education requires in-person clinical training and hands-on simulations to meet competency standards. While some general education or theoretical nursing courses may be offered in a hybrid format, students must attend in-person labs and complete clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities to fulfill state licensure requirements. The Oregon State Board of Nursing mandates direct clinical experience as a core component of any approved LPN program.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Oregon

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. The Oregon Board of Nursing determines eligibility to take the exam. Prior to testing, applicants must submit an application for licensure, complete fingerprinting for a criminal background check, and receive authorization to test (ATT) from Pearson VUE. Oregon requires all applicants to apply through the Oregon State Board of Nursing before scheduling the NCLEX-PN.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Oregon offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs licensed in other states, provided that their current license is active and in good standing. Applicants must submit verification of licensure, complete a criminal background check, and provide proof of graduation from an approved practical nursing program. However, Oregon is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that LPNs must obtain an Oregon-specific license to practice in the state, even if they hold a multi-state license from another NLC member state.

Licensure Requirements

The Oregon State Board of Nursing oversees the licensing and regulation of LPNs in Oregon. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must:

Graduate from an OSBN-approved practical nursing program
Pass the NCLEX-PN examination
Submit fingerprints for a national criminal background check
Apply online and pay required licensure fees

Internationally educated nurses must also demonstrate English language proficiency and may need an evaluation of their foreign credentials to prove program equivalency.

License Renewal

Oregon LPN licenses must be renewed every two years by the licensee’s birthday. The renewal process includes the completion of continuing education (CE) requirements. LPNs in Oregon must complete at least 7 hours of pain management education (one hour must be from the Oregon Pain Management Commission), plus additional clinical practice or continuing education to satisfy the Board’s competency requirements. The Oregon State Board of Nursing advises license holders to keep documentation of all CE and practice hours in case of audit. Renewals can be submitted online through the Board’s licensure portal.

Average LPN State Salary in Oregon

$78,160

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.

Oregon LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

11-12 months (typically 4 consecutive academic terms).

Credential Awarded:

Certificate of Completion or Diploma.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. This is the primary purpose of the program.

Program Focus:

Concentrates on core clinical skills, patient care fundamentals, and practical knowledge required for entry-level LPN roles.

Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:

Estimated $10,000 - $15,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.

School Types:

Community colleges and some private career/technical schools.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

2 years (typically 6-7 academic terms).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. Students are typically eligible to take the NCLEX-PN after successfully completing the first year of the program. However, the program's ultimate goal is RN licensure.

Program Focus:

A broader curriculum that includes general education courses, nursing theory, leadership, and advanced clinical reasoning to prepare for the RN role. In Oregon, this is the standard Registered Nurse (RN) degree pathway.

Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:

Estimated $20,000 - $28,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Students who plan to become Registered Nurses from the outset but want the option to work as an LPN while completing their RN education.

School Types:

Community colleges.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Employment: It is the quickest path to becoming a licensed nurse and earning an income, often in just one year.
Lower Overall Cost: With a shorter program length, the total tuition and associated costs are significantly less than a two-year degree.
Focused Curriculum: The program is streamlined to teach the essential, hands-on skills needed for the LPN scope of practice without extra general education requirements.
Excellent Bridge Opportunity: It serves as a strong foundation, allowing you to work and gain experience as an LPN before entering an LPN-to-RN bridge program later.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Direct Pathway to RN: This route is designed for students whose ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse, which offers a wider scope of practice and higher earning potential.
Greater Career Mobility: An associate degree provides a stronger academic foundation, making the future transition to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other advanced degrees smoother.
Option to Work Sooner: Many Oregon programs allow students to take the NCLEX-PN after the first year, enabling them to work as an LPN while finishing their RN degree.
Deeper Knowledge Base: The curriculum is more comprehensive, including coursework in leadership, management, and complex health issues, preparing you for more diverse roles upon becoming an RN.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Oregon

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$63,600 - $79,250	12-15 months	NCLEX-PN	400+ hours	$14,000 - $20,000
MA	$44,700 - $58,350	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-220 hours	$10,000 - $18,000
CNA	$38,590 - $48,340	4-12 weeks	OSBN-approved competency exam	Minimum 75 hours	$1,200 - $2,500
DA	$46,650 - $60,450	9-12 months	DANB CDA Exam; OBD-approved exams for expanded functions	200-400 hours	$9,000 - $17,000
Pharm Tech	$45,800 - $59,620	6-12 months	PTCB's PTCE or NHA's ExCPT	240-320 hours	$8,000 - $15,000
Phlebotomist	$43,760 - $58,350	8-16 weeks	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA)	40-100 hours	$2,500 - $4,000
OTA	$63,600 - $82,460	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	Minimum 640 hours (Level II Fieldwork)	$20,000 - $30,000

List of LPN Programs in Oregon

If you are looking to start a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon, this list can help you find the right program. We have gathered schools across the state, showing you their city, program highlights, and direct links to learn more. Each school offers training to get you ready for your nursing career. Explore the options below to find a program that fits your goals and location.

Jump to City:

Bend, OR

Central Oregon Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year certificate program
- NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
- Approved by Oregon State Board
- Flexible career progression
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Selective admission process
- Multiple prerequisite science courses
- Total program cost ~$2,800

Eugene, OR

Lane Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1-year full-time certificate
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- $16,305 total program cost
- Multiple healthcare employment settings
- LPN to RN Bridge option available
- Clinical rotation experience
- ACEN candidate program
- Computer literacy requirements

Grants Pass, OR

Rogue Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program.
- Approved by Oregon State Board.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Located on Table Rock Campus.
- Focuses on practical nursing skills.
- Requires Social Security Number.
- Covers basic bedside care.
- Includes medication administration training.

Klamath Falls, OR

Klamath Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program
- NCLEX-PN licensure preparation
- Concept-based curriculum approach
- Rural community nursing focus
- 48 total credit hours
- Competitive admission process
- Extensive prerequisite requirements
- Clinical practice components