Last Updated/Verified: January 12, 2022
LPN programs in the state of Minnesota offer extensive training for students who don’t want to complete four full years of education.
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The programs are flexible and allow LPN graduates to find work and a balance in their lives outside of work, too.
LPNs inMinnesotaQuick Facts
- LPNprograms typically take around 1-2 years to complete
- LPNs in Minnesota earn an average of $26.06/hr and a mean annual income of $46,789
- TheLPNjob outlook is bright. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be 9% more jobs in 2028 than there are now.
- LPNsmake up 20.5% ofMinnesota’s nursing population
- LPNs in Minneapolis, MN are the highest-earning group of LPNs in the state with an average annual income of $50,198.
LPNsare the eighth-most in-demand profession inMinnesotawith 3,240 new jobs expected to be created from 2012 to 2022. TheLPNeducation programs can typically be completed within one year, making it easy for people who want to enter nursing without going through years of schooling. The city ofMinneapolisis a bustling metropolis that will provide the most opportunities for those seeking careers as anLPN.
Overview ofLPNSchools inMinnesota
There are 26 programs offered by Minnesota schools that provide the chance to get your diploma and prepare for a rewarding future in healthcare.
LPNprogramscover the following topics:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Dosage Calculations forHealth CareProfessionals
- Foundations of Nursing
- Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
- Psychosocial Nursing
- Maternal-Child Nursing
LPNAccreditation
One of the most daunting aspects of finding an LPN program is the overwhelming number of schools to choose from. Fortunately, there are a few criteria that will help you narrow down your options: accreditation and approval by state agencies like Minnesota Board Nursing (MBN) as well as nationally accredited programs through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
LPNAdmissions Requirements
The medical field is a popular career path for many individuals, but it can be difficult to find the right school that will meet your needs. You need to research individual university websites and see their program requirements since every institution has different minimum qualifications; however, most schools require at least:
- A high school diploma or GED and official transcripts to apply
- Completion of allprerequisites
- Nurse Assistant/Medical Assistant certification
- Accuplacer test or and TEAS State exam
LPNTuition & Costs
As a student, one of the most important considerations in deciding whether to attend nursing school is how much it will cost. For example,Dakota County Technical College’sLPNprogramaverages $11,500 for tuition and fees.
However, don’t let the costs of school get in your way because many schools offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
LPNLicensing Requirements inMinnesota
Aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses in Minnesota should complete an LPN program from an approved nursing school and pass their NCLEX-PN exam.
Checklist to become aMinnesotaLPN:
- Complete the full LPN program
- Apply forLPN licensure
- Complete the NCLEX-PN examination
YourLPNlicensewill expire every two years unless it’s registered less than that time frame; then it is adjusted for how many months have been practiced since registration. Be sure to check your license issuer with updates on renewals, requirements, andcontinuing education.
NCLEX-PNExam
Once you graduate from a Minnesota LPN program, work toward becoming licensed by passing the NCLEX-PN exam. Take some time to study for the real deal with practice tests first.
LPNReciprocity
With more and more states recognizing the NurseLicensureCompact,Minnesotais looking into joining. The NLC allows nurses to practice in other member states without having to obtain additional licenses. Minnesota nurses who wish to work in other states must apply for an endorsement license.
LPNSalaries inMinnesota
LPNsinMinnesotaearn an average of $26.06/hr and an annual income of $46,789 which is equivalent to the national average.
According to theBLSthe average salaries ofLPNsinMinnesota’s major metropolitan areas are:
- Minneapolis, MN ($50,198)
- Bloomington, MN ($48,708)
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN ($47,578)
- Golden Valley, MN ($47,568)
- Rochester, MN ($47,452)
As a nurse, you have many different opportunities to explore with different ranges of salaries. LPNs serving in a hospital have an advantage as they are more in demand than those working at clinics or offices. Flexible work hours also make an LPN career more rewarding.
Job Outlook forLPNsinMinnesota
As the demand for nurses grows, America’s actual number of nurses is actually declining. Licensed Practical Nurses can take advantage of this. LPNs require less education than RNs or APNs, but the job functions are similar.
You can enjoy a rewarding career in the healthcare field as an LPN. These jobs are expected to increase in Minnesota, with over 1,550 available positions by 2026.
TopLPNSchools inMinnesota
RochesterCommunity & Technical College
851 30th Ave SE,
Rochester, MN 55904
(507) 285-7210
RochesterCommunity and Technical College is a great school for students looking for post-secondary options inRochester. RCTC’s accessible, affordable quality education can help you meet your goals as they provide classes that teach critical thinking, human diversity awareness, and much more.
MinnesotaState Community & Technical College
900 Hwy 34 E,
Detroit Lakes,MN56501
(877) 450-3322
You can get a great education by enrolling inthePractical NursingprogramatMinnesotaState Community and Technical College. The 40-credit course prepares you to practice nursing under the supervision of an RN, providing directpatient careat hospitals andnursing homes.
Rasmussen College –St. Cloud
226 Park Avenue South,
St. Cloud,MN56301
(320) 251-5600
TheSt. Cloudcampus of Rasmussen College provides students with apractical nursing programthat is sure to set them up for success in the field and will prepare graduates well for their future as nurses. The 12-month long course teaches real-world skills like handling an emergency or assessing patients who are experiencing pain management issues.
MinnesotaWest Community and Technical College
1450 College Way,
Worthington,MN56187
(507) 372-3400
TheMinnesotaWest Community and Technical College has a rich history of giving students the tools they need to succeed in their future careers. Theirpractical nursing diplomaprogram is designed for trainees who wish to work as nurses immediately after graduation.
Pine Technical & Community College
900 4th St SE,
Pine City,MN55063
(320) 629-5100
Pine Technical and Community College values innovation. The school is always looking for new ways to serve people’s needs in the future. Whether you want a career program, skills training, orcomplete LPN accreditation, this community-minded institution will be there waiting.
St. CloudTechnical & Community College
1540 Northway Dr,
St Cloud,MN56303
(320) 308-5000
St. CloudTechnical & Community College is proud to offerpractical nursing programsfor those looking forward to careers in thehealthcareindustry. The school offers 90 different programs, including a highly engaged workforce development program that will suit any student’s needs.
Itasca Community College
1851 East Highway 169
Grand Rapids,MN55744
(218) 322-2300
A nursing education leader inGrand Rapids,Itasca Community Collegehas an impressive 100%NCLEX-PNpass rate. Their 2-semester program can be taken on campus or online.
Lake Superior College
11501 State Highway 23,
Duluth,MN55808
(218) 733-1074
Duluth’s Lake Superior College has a nursing program that takes just two semesters to complete.Enrollmentin their program will involve critical thinking and evidence-based medicine. This school has beenACENaccredited.
South Central College
1920 Lee Blvd.
NorthMankato,MN56003
(507) 389-7200
If you’re looking to become a practical nurse and want the instruction of an expert,South Central College’s LPN program is perfect for those who like hands-on learning. The 2 semester-long course covers all aspects from pharmacology to interventions so you are fully prepped to practicelong-term careupon graduation.
Riverland Community College
965 Alexander Dr. SW
Owatonna,MN55060
(507) 455-5880
Riverland Community Collegehas campuses in Austin, Owatonna, and Albert Lea. They are always striving to offer students personalized education through innovation and resourcefulness. With Riverland’s dedication to excellence, they hope their name will become synonymous with learning and success.
Additional Resources
For more information on becoming an LPN in Minnesota, explore the following resources:
ForLPNs, there is no other site like MBN. Here you’ll find information for those in the know as well as newcomers just starting their license journey, with details about public meetings and more.
ApprovedPractical Nursing Programs
If you’re looking to become afull-timeLPNinMinnesotaand want a state-approved program that will help get your career off the ground as quickly as possible, this list compiled byMinnesota’s Board of Nursing is for you.
FAQs
How hard is it to pass LPN school? ›
LPN school is relatively difficult and demanding. LPN school is a challenging undertaking for aspiring nurses, but with good study habits and a healthy work ethic, completing the program can be much easier.
What's the fastest you can get your LPN? ›The fastest way to become an LPN is through an accelerated LPN program. Some schools, for example, offer fast-track licensed practical nurse (LPN) programs that you can complete in as little as six months. The average time to become an LPN is between 1 and 2 years, depending on the program.
How much is an LPN per hour in MN? ›How much does a Clinic Lpn make in Minnesota? As of Jun 14, 2023, the average annual pay for a Clinic Lpn in Minnesota is $56,435 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $27.13 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,085/week or $4,702/month.
How much math is in LPN? ›All nursing revolves around a few basic math skills – adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing decimals, fractions and whole numbers, and converting numbers from the English system to a metric one, among them.
What is the hardest class in LPN school? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
- Know what to expect on the exam. ...
- Start studying early and plan. ...
- Study by your learning style. ...
- Study practice questions. ...
- Use the best exam resources.
- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
- University of Arkansas Community College - Morrilton, AR. ...
- Annenberg School of Nursing - Reseda, CA. ...
- Bolivar Technical College - Bolivar, MO. ...
- Athena Career Academy - Toledo, OH. ...
- Professional Skills Institute - Maumee, OH. ...
- Herzing University - Birmingham, AL.
- LVN LPN. Salary range: $59,500-$85,500 per year. ...
- RN and LPN. Salary range: $54,500-$80,500 per year. ...
- LVN Home Health. Salary range: $54,500-$71,000 per year. ...
- Clinic Lpn. Salary range: $41,000-$64,500 per year. ...
- LVN. Salary range: $47,500-$64,500 per year. ...
- LPN Private Duty. ...
- LPN Medical Assistant.
The highest paying states and districts for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Alaska, Nevada and Connecticut.
What is the best pay for LPN? ›
Nursing home LPN
Nursing home LPNs typically make about $28.28 an hour. Their average annual salary is $58,818, with entry-level professionals making around $47,500 and experienced workers earning up to $81,000 a year.
Here are some free websites to help you review your math skills for the LPN Entrance Exam: Adding fractions. Subtracting fractions. Adding and subtracting mixed numbers.
Is LPN even worth it? ›Is LPN a Good Career? We could say that any career that involves helping people is a good one, and caring for the well-being of others on a daily basis is especially gratifying. Although LPNs work under the supervision of RNs, which means they earn less, it doesn't make them any less essential to the healthcare system.
What kind of questions are on the LPN entrance exam? ›It includes 160 multiple choice questions covering three subject areas: 60 questions in reading comprehension and word knowledge. 40 math questions. 60 science questions.
How to survive LPN school? ›- Get to know your professors early in the semester. ...
- Review every single test you get back. ...
- READ YOUR BOOKS! ...
- Get your assignments done early. ...
- Get organized!!!! ...
- Find good study habits. ...
- Study during your breaks. ...
- Self-care is so important for nursing students.
As registered nursing degree programs go, the easiest one out there is the ADN. An associate's degree program can prepare you for a career as a registered nurse, but you should know that this degree meets only the bare minimum requirement for qualification as an RN.
What is the easiest course in nursing school? ›- Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
- Humanities.
- Intro to Speech (or Communication)
- English Composition.
- History.
- Using Information Technology.
If they fail, they'll need to wait 45 days before retesting. After failing three times, though, they'll need to complete a board-approved remediation program before the next retake. test-takers have six attempts to pass in total.
How many questions are on the LPN exit exam? ›The HESI LPN Exit Exam has either 150 or 75 questions. Both exams aim to assess critical thinking and mimic the respective NCLEX Exams. As a similar test to the NCLEX, the HESI Exit Exam includes the following types of questions: Multiple choice.
How many questions do you have to get right on the NCLEX LPN? ›Failing the test can result in not answering the minimum amount of 70 questions within the allotted time. You can answer the first 69 questions correctly, but you will automatically fail the exam if you don't reach number 70.
Can you make 6 figures as a LPN? ›
Can Nurses Make Six Figures? Yes, you can 100% make six figures as a nurse. The disclaimer is that working in some states may make this easier than working in other states. Geographic location is a huge indicator of starting salary and can be a reason why some of you are not as close to others when looking at raw data.
Is an MA higher than an LPN? ›LPNs report a higher median salary compared to medical assistants. But the BLS projects higher employment growth for medical assistants. Both careers require about a year of training. Most LPN programs also require some patient care experience, while medical assistant programs do not.
Can you make a lot of money as a LPN? ›Although, nationwide, the average LPN pay is $24.93 hourly and $51,850 annually, the highest-paid 10 percent of LPNs earn $30.67 hourly and $63,790 annually. That said, there are cities, industries, and even an entire state where LPN salary is higher than these figures.
Can you take the NCLEX without going to nursing school? ›No, you can't take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) until you complete a nursing degree. The type of degree needed depends on the nursing license you wish to obtain. In general, you'll need to pass a diploma program or get an associate's (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN).
Where is the best place for an LPN to work? ›Some of the most common places for an LPN to work are at a nursing home, assisted living facility or retirement home to assist elderly people with their care. There are other workplaces where many LPNs can find work, including facilities that require a medical professional like an LPN to be present.
Is Minnesota a compact state? ›Is Minnesota A Compact State? Yes, Minnesota has passed legislation to become an NLC state but has not yet enacted it as of January 2023.
Is 60 too old to become a LPN? ›A common question often asked by nontraditional students is whether or not they're too old to go to nursing school. The short answer is that you're never too old to go to nursing school. Even if you're not physically able to do certain nursing jobs, there are other nursing specialties you're going to be able to do.
Can I get into nursing school with a 2.5 GPA? ›Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
Is an LPN really a nurse? ›A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a nurse that performs basic medical tasks, including checking vital signs and feeding patients. They're also responsible for maintaining a clear line of communication between a patient, their family and their caregivers.
What is the median salary of a LPN? ›Who get paid the most an LPN or RN? ›
Let's compare their average salaries to find out who makes more LPNs or RNs. According to March 2022 data, registered nurses earn more than licensed practical nurses, making $34 per hour. Meanwhile, LPNs make $22 per hour. This means that the average annual salary of an RN is $70,335, while that of an LPN is $46,282.
What state is best for LPN? ›1. California
No surprise here: California is also the highest-paying state for registered nurses (RNs) and among the highest-paying states for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Likewise, California tops our list of the highest-paying states for LPNs, with an average annual salary of $65,140.
- Monitoring patients, such as charting vital signs.
- Changing bandages and catheters.
- Keeping detailed records of patients' health.
- Collecting samples for blood tests, urinalysis, and more.
- Communicating treatment and health information to patients, doctors, and nurses.
How much does a Lvn School Nurse make in California? As of Jun 13, 2023, the average annual pay for a Lvn School Nurse in California is $49,827 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $23.96 an hour. This is the equivalent of $958/week or $4,152/month.
What is the highest salary for a LPN in Florida? ›$33,058 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $46,600 is the 75th percentile.
How much does a practical nurse earn in Canada? ›The average licensed practical nurse salary in Canada is $58,535 per year or $30.02 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $51,787 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $103,758 per year.
Where do LPNs get paid the most in Canada? ›- Medicine Hat, AB. $39.20 per hour. 54 salaries reported.
- Courtenay, BC. $33.56 per hour. 78 salaries reported.
- Victoria, BC. $33.42 per hour. 661 salaries reported.
- Vancouver, BC. $33.04 per hour. 443 salaries reported.
- Halifax, NS. $32.50 per hour. 248 salaries reported.
If you've been in the workforce and out of school for years, you may not remember a lot of the material covered. Overall, the TEAS test is difficult because nursing school is difficult. The test allows nursing schools to select students who have the best chance of successfully practicing.
Can you use a calculator on the LPN entrance exam? ›Yes, you can use a calculator on the Kaplan Nursing test. However, you are not allowed to bring your own calculator. If you're taking the KNAT in person, a 4-function calculator will be provided to you.
What is on the TEAS test? ›The TEAS exam covers four main content areas: reading, math, science, and English and language usage. Each content area consists of a different number of questions and has its own time limit. The total amount of time for the exam is 209 minutes or 3 hours and 29 minutes.
Why do LPNs call themselves nurses? ›
Without question, LPNs like Becky Rhodes and Sharon Blackmon embody the title of a nurse because they provide incomparable nursing care and convey unparalleled professionalism. Nevertheless, some registered nurses deem that LPNs should not hold the title since they have less clinical training and education.
Why are LPNs not considered nurses? ›But what does it stand for? LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, is a nurse who provides primary nursing care and works under the supervision of more advanced nurses, like RNs. It's similar to LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) as they have similarities in their work settings.
What are the hardest classes for LPN? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
For students applying to an associate's degree program, the typical score is about 66 percent. Students applying to a bachelor's degree program have an average score around 70 percent. For very competitive programs, you'll need a score in the “Advanced” category, which shows TEAS test scores between 80 and 91.3%.
How can I be successful in LPN school? ›- Learn How to Study Efficiently. Adaptation is the key here. ...
- Establish a Routine. ...
- Be Organized. ...
- Treat Nursing School Like Your Full-Time Job. ...
- Ask Questions. ...
- Study with Peers. ...
- Remember Your Why. ...
- Rely on Family and Friends.
While it's possible to pass the NCLEX after answering all 135, it's also possible to pass the test with a minimum of 70 questions or any number in between. Keep in mind NCLEX has a time limit of five hours. If you haven't answered enough questions correctly when the clock runs out, you will fail the test.
Is LPN easier than RN? ›Difference: Education
Becoming an LPN is much easier than becoming an RN. That is because you can work as an LPN after attending a one-year course to receive a practical nursing certificate. To become a registered nurse, you must get a bachelor's degree in nursing, which takes four years.
- Study Daily. ...
- Make the Best Use of Study Guides. ...
- Enroll in a Study Group. ...
- Do Not Mug Up or Memorize. ...
- Prepare Strategically. ...
- Make Sure to Take a Coffee-Break. ...
- Do Not Ignore Your Diet. ...
- Read the Right Reading Material.
- 1. California. No surprise here: California is also the highest-paying state for registered nurses (RNs) and among the highest-paying states for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). ...
- Alaska. ...
- Washington. ...
- Massachusetts. ...
- Nevada. ...
- Oregon. ...
- Rhode Island. ...
- Connecticut.
How many hours a day should I study for nursing school? Everyone is different, but in general, it is recommended that nursing school students study anywhere from 2-4 hours a day. Committing class material to memory is essential to becoming a registered nurse, so the more time studying, the better!
How many times can you take the NCLEX for LPN? ›
Frequently Asked Questions About the NCLEX
According to NCSBN rules, you can take the NCLEX eight times a year with 45 days in between attempts.
What Are Your Chances Of Failing NCLEX-RN On The First Attempt? The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) reports 13.43% of NCLEX-RN candidates fail the exam on their first attempt. The number of unsuccessful test-takers is low compared to the more than 86% who pass the exam on their first try.
Why LPN instead of RN? ›LPNs usually provide more basic nursing care and are responsible for the comfort of the patient. RNs on the other hand, primarily administer medication, treatments, and offer educational advice to patients and the public. LPNs earn your ADN or BSN degree online in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs.
What can LPNs not do compared to RN? ›LPNs can typically insert IVs and draw blood for labs. LPNs cannot administer IV push medication or start blood transfusions. RNs perform health assessments and provide prevention education. RNs also have the authority to create nursing care plans.
What is the key to answering nursing test questions? ›Carefully read the entire question. Don't rush through it or stop halfway through because you assume that you know what's being asked. Reword the stem to make it easier to understand, and answer the question. Look for hints or key words, such as most, all, first, best, primary, initial, always, and never.
How to pass every nursing test? ›- Time Management. To be successful in nursing school, you must manage your time appropriately. ...
- Get Organized. ...
- Use Mnemonics. ...
- Study Everyday. ...
- Complete Practice Questions. ...
- Participate in a Study Group. ...
- Focus on course objectives when studying. ...
- Know your learning style.
- Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
- Focus on the material covered in class. ...
- Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
- Form a study group. ...
- Skim-read first. ...
- Use outside sources. ...
- Know your learning style. ...
- Use downtime as study time.