Best LPN Programs in Utah 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Utah with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Utah.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Utah
Nightingale College
Salt Lake City, UT - Private 4-year - nightingale.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Diploma Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nightingale College's Practical Nurse Diploma Program in Salt Lake City offers a hybrid format that blends online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, providing flexibility for students at different life stages. This program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN® exam and immediate entry into nursing careers, emphasizing essential practical skills without requiring entrance exams. A high school diploma or GED is needed for admission, making it accessible for those pursuing licensure as practical nurses in Utah.
- Hybrid program format
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN® exam
- Located in Salt Lake City, UT
- High school diploma or GED required
- Combines online and clinical learning
- Focuses on practical nursing skills
- Flexible for various life stages
- Supports immediate nursing career entry
- No concentration specified
Eagle Gate College-Murray
Murray, UT - Private 4-year - eaglegatecollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eagle Gate College-Murray provides a 12-month hybrid Practical Nursing program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. This accelerated curriculum emphasizes nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and comprehensive patient care skills. Students gain practical experience through advanced simulation labs, which support preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial aid options enhance accessibility, offering an affordable route to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Utah.
- 12-month accelerated program.
- Blended online and in-person learning.
- Hands-on simulation lab training.
- NCLEX-PN preparation included.
- Financial aid available.
Eagle Gate College-Layton
Layton, UT - Private 4-year - eaglegatecollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eagle Gate College-Layton's hybrid Practical Nursing program accelerates LPN training to just 12 months, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences for flexibility. It focuses on nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam. Financial aid is available for eligible candidates, and the military-friendly environment supports diverse learners. This program emphasizes hands-on skills and efficient career entry without requiring entrance exams, making it ideal for those seeking a fast-paced path to licensure.
- 12-month accelerated program.
- Hybrid online and in-person learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Financial aid available.
Fortis College-Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, UT - Private 2-year - fortis.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fortis College-Salt Lake City's Practical Nursing program prepares students for entry-level LPN roles through a comprehensive curriculum that integrates classroom learning, hands-on labs, and clinical rotations. Key topics include anatomy, emergency care, and pediatric nursing, with graduates eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam. The program offers transfer credits for CNAs/STNAs, fostering career progression, and features small classes with experienced instructors for personalized education. This campus-based pathway supports diverse healthcare opportunities in Utah's growing nursing field, emphasizing practical skills and professional readiness.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Transfer credits for CNAs/STNAs.
- Small class sizes.
- Experienced faculty.
- Covers anatomy, emergency care.
- Includes pediatric nursing.
- Clinical experiences provided.
- For entry-level LPN positions.
- Supports career advancement.
Utah State University
Logan, UT - Public 4-Year - usu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Utah State University's one-year Practical Nursing Certificate offers an intensive curriculum focused on medical-surgical, mental health, and family health nursing. Students develop essential skills in patient care, medication administration, and health monitoring. The program prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure, with flexible learning across multiple campuses. ACEN accreditation ensures quality education for entry-level nursing careers in hospitals, physician offices, and nursing facilities.
- One-year certificate program
- Multiple campus locations
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- ACEN Accredited program
- Medical-surgical nursing focus
- Entry-level nursing preparation
- Career paths in healthcare
Utah LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply for a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Utah, prospective students must meet specific prerequisites. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, along with completion of prerequisite coursework in areas such as anatomy, physiology, and basic algebra. Applicants should also maintain a minimum GPA, typically around 2.5 or higher, and may need to submit scores from entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Some programs require students to pass a background check, provide immunization records, and complete a drug screening. Additional requirements may include letters of recommendation, a written personal statement, and an interview.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
Utah’s LPN programs combine classroom instruction with clinical practice to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. Coursework typically covers subjects such as pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, maternal and child health, and nursing fundamentals. Clinical training is conducted in local hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare environments to give students hands-on experience with patient care.
Accreditation is crucial for LPN programs as it ensures the education meets established standards and adequately prepares students to pass the NCLEX-PN exam. In Utah, students must ensure an LPN program is approved by the Utah Board of Nursing to be eligible for licensure. While not strictly required for state licensure, accreditation by a recognized national accrediting body such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is highly recommended and often valued by employers.
LPN Schools and Classes
Utah offers LPN programs across various community colleges, technical colleges, and public universities. These programs are available in both rural and urban areas, providing broad access for students in different regions of the state. Programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction, lab simulations, and supervised clinical practice.
Students can expect to take core nursing classes such as human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, and nursing concepts. Specialized courses often include practical applications in pediatric care, geriatric nursing, and chronic illness management. Clinical rotations prepare students for real-world settings through hands-on training in patient care under professional supervision.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Utah have a positive employment outlook. According to workforce data, LPN positions are expected to grow steadily due to increased healthcare demand, particularly among aging populations. LPNs in Utah can work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living centers, physicians’ offices, and home health care settings. Many also find opportunities in correctional facilities and public health programs.
The role offers a balanced work/life dynamic, especially in settings with regular hours such as clinics or schools. Shift work is common in hospitals and residential care. With additional experience or education, LPNs in Utah may pursue career advancement by transitioning into registered nursing or administrative roles.
LPN Program Length
The typical full-time LPN program in Utah lasts about 10 to 12 months. Part-time programs are designed for students balancing work or family obligations and generally take 18 to 24 months to complete. Evening and weekend tracks are available at some institutions and are structured similarly to part-time programs but offer greater flexibility for nontraditional students. While program structure varies, all pathways include clinical requirements that must be completed in person.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Utah
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Eagle Gate College-Layton |
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| Eagle Gate College-Murray |
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| Utah State University |
|
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Utah generally ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the institution and residency status. Public technical colleges tend to offer lower tuition rates, especially for in-state students. In addition to tuition, LPN students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, supplies, licensing exam fees, and background checks, which may add another $1,000 to $2,000 in total expenses.
Housing costs in Utah vary by location. While more affordable in rural regions, urban areas such as Salt Lake City may present higher living expenses. Students should also consider transportation, meals, and personal expenses when planning for total program costs.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Utah
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Eagle Gate College-Murray |
|
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| Eagle Gate College-Layton |
| - |
| Utah State University |
|
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
In Utah, LPN programs cannot be completed entirely online due to the hands-on nature of nursing education. While some theoretical coursework may be offered through online modules or hybrid formats, clinical components must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities. Practical nursing requires direct patient interaction, supervised skills training, and face-to-face evaluations, all of which are mandated by the Utah Board of Nursing for licensure eligibility.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Utah
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
Graduates of a practical nursing program in Utah must pass the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and evaluates the candidate’s knowledge and competency in practical nursing. Before taking the NCLEX-PN, candidates must first apply for licensure with the Utah Board of Nursing, which operates under the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Applicants must submit official transcripts from their nursing education program and receive authorization to test (ATT) before registering for the exam.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
LPNs licensed in other states may apply for licensure by endorsement in Utah. To qualify, applicants must hold a valid LPN license in another state and must have passed the NCLEX-PN. Utah requires verification of the current license and a clean disciplinary record. Fingerprints and a criminal background check are also mandatory. Applicants must apply through the Utah Division of Professional Licensing and must provide official transcripts from an approved nursing program.
Utah is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to hold one multistate license valid in other NLC participating states. This benefit lets licensed LPNs practice physically and via telehealth in any other NLC state without obtaining additional licenses, as long as they maintain Utah as their primary state of residence.
Licensure Requirements
The Utah Board of Nursing oversees licensure for LPNs in the state. To obtain an initial license, candidates must graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program, pass the NCLEX-PN, undergo a criminal background check, and submit a completed application to DOPL. There is no requirement for a temporary permit; graduates may not practice until they are fully licensed.
Nursing programs in Utah approved by the Board include offerings at institutions like Davis Technical College, Mountainland Technical College, and Ogden-Weber Technical College, where students can complete state-approved training as a prerequisite to certification and licensure.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Utah must be renewed every two years. The renewal period ends on January 31 of odd-numbered years. Utah does not require continuing education hours for LPNs to renew, but licensees must attest to working at least 400 hours during the previous two years or complete a reentry program if they have been inactive. Renewal is completed through the Division of Professional Licensing’s online portal, and late renewals may incur additional fees.
Utah LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse in Utah is $61,390, falling just under the national average of $62,340. This slight variance is influenced by a combination of local market forces, including a state cost of living that aligns closely with the national median. While Utah's significant population growth boosts demand for LPNs, especially in long-term care, this pressure on wages is moderated by state regulations and the existing healthcare infrastructure. These balanced dynamics result in compensation levels that are highly comparable to the national benchmark.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Utah LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
9-12 months.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate of Completion or Diploma.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Concentrated, hands-on training in fundamental nursing skills and direct patient care for rapid entry into the workforce.
Average In-State Tuition in Utah:
Approximately $5,000 - $7,500 for the entire program (excluding books and supplies).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest and most cost-effective path to becoming a licensed practical nurse.
School Types:
Utah Colleges of Applied Technology (UCATs), such as Davis Technical College or Mountainland Technical College.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (typically 4-5 semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Combines core LPN clinical training with general education courses (e.g., English, anatomy, psychology), providing a broader academic base.
Average In-State Tuition in Utah:
Approximately $9,000 - $15,000 for the entire program (excluding books and supplies).
Best For:
Students who plan to continue their education and bridge to a Registered Nurse (RN) program in the future.
School Types:
Community Colleges and State Universities, such as Salt Lake Community College or Weber State University.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Speed to Employment: It is the fastest path to completing your education, getting licensed, and starting your career as an LPN, often in under a year.
- Lower Cost: The overall tuition and fees are significantly lower than for an associate degree program, reducing the financial barrier to entry.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates exclusively on the nursing skills and knowledge required for the job and the NCLEX-PN, avoiding general education requirements.
- Direct Skills Application: The heavy emphasis on hands-on, clinical training prepares you for the immediate practical demands of the LPN role.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Easier Transition to RN: The general education credits are already completed, creating a much smoother and more direct pathway to an RN bridge program (ADN or BSN).
- Broader Education: The curriculum provides a more well-rounded education, which can enhance critical thinking and communication skills valued by employers.
- Greater Transferability: The college credits earned are more easily transferable to other degree programs or universities if you change your career goals.
- Potential for Advancement: Some employers may offer slightly higher pay or more opportunities for leadership roles to LPNs who hold an associate degree.
đź“š LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Utah
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $50,500 - $74,000 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 450-550 hours | $5,500 - $7,000 |
| MA | $36,000 - $49,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) exam | 160-220 hours | $4,500 - $6,000 |
| CNA | $31,500 - $47,000 | 3-6 weeks | Utah Nursing Assistant Competency Exam | 24+ hours | $500 - $1,000 |
| DA | $37,500 - $58,000 | 9-12 months | DANB's CDA Exam (optional but standard) | 250-300 hours | $4,000 - $5,500 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,500 - $58,500 | 8-10 months | PTCB's PTCE or NHA's ExCPT | 180-240 hours | $4,000 - $5,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $36,000 - $48,500 | 2-4 months | NHA's CPT, ASCP's PBT, or similar | 100-120 hours | $2,000 - $3,000 |
| OTA | $54,000 - $81,500 | 20-24 months | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640-720 hours | $13,000 - $16,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Utah
Layton, UT
Eagle Gate College-Layton
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month accelerated program.
- Hybrid online and in-person learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Financial aid available.
Logan, UT
Utah State University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year certificate program
- Multiple campus locations
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- ACEN Accredited program
- Medical-surgical nursing focus
- Entry-level nursing preparation
- Career paths in healthcare
Murray, UT
Eagle Gate College-Murray
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month accelerated program.
- Blended online and in-person learning.
- Hands-on simulation lab training.
- NCLEX-PN preparation included.
- Financial aid available.
Salt Lake City, UT
Fortis College-Salt Lake City
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Transfer credits for CNAs/STNAs.
- Small class sizes.
- Experienced faculty.
- Covers anatomy, emergency care.
- Includes pediatric nursing.
- Clinical experiences provided.
Nightingale College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Diploma Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN® exam
- Located in Salt Lake City, UT
- High school diploma or GED required
- Combines online and clinical learning
- Focuses on practical nursing skills
- Flexible for various life stages
- Supports immediate nursing career entry
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