2024 - Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
In the state of North Dakota, professional nurses strive to provide treatment for not only a wide range of moderately to chronically ill people, but also help those who are healthy to maintain that quality of life. By 2029, it’s predicted that LPN jobs will increase up to 9%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals interested in this influx of jobs must meet state requirements and apply for a North Dakota LPN license. LPNs in North Dakota earn approximately $25.52 per hour, which equates to an average annual salary of $53,080. This is roughly $2,780 per year less than the national average.
Are you looking to become a licensed practical nurse in North Dakota? The school you choose is important when it comes to getting your license. Approved programs in North Dakota are offered at community colleges, technical centers, and private career schools - we list 7 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 3 programs. For more information on our LPN program rankings, see our Methodology page.
To see all the top ranked LPN programs in North Dakota click here.
Details on North Dakota LPN Schools & Classes
There are plenty of schools in North Dakota that offer quality practical nursing programs, from junior colleges to trade schools and everything in between. Most programs take around 1 year of full-time study, or 2+ years of part-time study to complete. Many schools are adopting “hybrid” programs, which incorporate some online courses. LPN program curriculum in North Dakota consists of classroom-based lectures, labs, and hands-on clinical experiences at local medical facilities. Common course topics include:
- Foundations of Nursing
- Intro to Medical Surgical Nursing
- Psychology
- Pharmacology
- Intro to Maternal Child Nursing
Accreditation
To ensure that a student is choosing a truly legitimate practical nursing program, accredited programs are recommended. Programs that are properly accredited signify quality and academic excellence. Students should check their program of choice for the symbols from national accrediting organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Additionally, students should ensure that their program is approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.
Admission Requirements
While schools in North Dakota will all have their own set of admissions requirements, most schools require the following:
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Minimum age of 18
- Current CPR certification
- Completion of all prerequisite courses
- Completion of ATI TEAS exam
Tuition and Costs
For those apprehensive about paying for a practical nursing program, there are many options. Financial aid, scholarships, loans, and payment plans are all typically available. Students must plan to pay for tuition, mandatory fees, and any supplies needed (textbooks, etc.). Indirect expenses such as transportation and/or room and board should also be factored in. To provide an example, the total estimated cost of the LPN program through Dakota College at Bottineau is between about $9,500 to $13,000. This includes tuition, fees, and necessary supplies.
For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our North Dakota LPN to RN/BSN programs page.
North Dakota LPN Licensing Requirements
North Dakota requires those seeking to become licensed in the state to complete an approved nursing education program and pass the state-required test. Once all educational requirements are complete, the applicant is encouraged to submit an application to the state, including:
- Official transcript sent directly from state-approved nursing program with degree posted
- Proof of registration (ATT) for the NCLEX
- Criminal background check
North Dakota LPN licenses expire every 2 years and require 12 contact hours of continued education during the licensing period to renew.
NCLEX Exam Information
To actually obtain a practical nursing license, students must pass the NCLEX-PN examination upon graduating from their PN program. This test covers a myriad of nursing topics. A comprehensive overview of this important examination can be found here. It is also recommended that students take a NCLEX-PN practice test to help them prepare and study for the actual exam.
LPN Reciprocity and NLC
North Dakota is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) which allows nurses from other NLC states to participate within its borders without having to apply for a new license. Those from non-compact states can apply for a North Dakota license by endorsement by submitting the proper application as well as the following:
- Verification of state licensure
- Official transcript from state-approved nursing program
- Criminal background check
Foreign applicants must also submit proof of English proficiency as well as an official transcript evaluation by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS).
2024 ND NCLEX-PN Pass Rates and Statistics
- Total Number of State Approved LPN Schools: 7
- Total Number of Test Takers in 2022: 175
- 2022 Average Statewide North Dakota NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 94.0%
Top Ranked North Dakota LPN Programs
Williston State College
Williston State College is one of the schools that takes part in the Dakota Nursing Program, preparing students through a comprehensive LPN curriculum. Through classroom and clinical learning, students enrolled in the 11-month program gain the knowledge and skills to find success in a number of medical environments as practical nurses.
Lake Region State College
Lake Region State College, located in North Dakota, is a prominent institution dedicated to providing high-quality education and technical training. With a focus on career preparation and community engagement, it equips students with the skills and knowledge they need for successful careers in various fields.
Bismarck State College
Bismarck State College, in collaboration with several area colleges, offers the Dakota Nursing Program. This program offers a competitive 11-month practical nursing pathway to meet the growing demand. Upon completion, students can sit for the NCLEX-PN or move on to a registered nursing program for further education.
Continued List of All Programs in North Dakota
| Ranked | Program | Score |
|---|---|---|
| #4 |
Dakota College Bottineau
105 Simrall Blvd, Bottineau, ND 58318
(701) 228-2277 | 95.15 |
| #5 |
Dickinson State University
291 Campus Dr, Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 483-2507 | 91.91 |
| #6 |
North Dakota State College of Science
800 6th St N, Wahpeton, ND 58076
(800) 342-4325 | 88.69 |
| #7 |
Sitting Bull College
9299 N Dakota 24, Fort Yates, ND 58538
(701) 854-8000 | 84.00 |
Are we missing your school's program or need to make changes to the information listed? Please contact us.
Additional ND Nursing Resources
- North Dakota Board of Nursing 919 South 7th Street, Suite 504 Bismarck, ND 58504 Phone: (701) 328-9777
- North Dakota Nurses Association 1515 Burnt Boat Dr. Suite C #325 Bismarck, ND 58503 Phone: (701) 335-6376
LPN Salary in North Dakota
The table below lists career information collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for licensed practical nurses in North Dakota. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.
| Area | Total Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | 970 | $25.14 | $52,280 |
| Bismarck | 480 | $25.97 | $54,020 |
| Grand Forks | 370 | $24.86 | $51,710 |
Table data sourced from 2022 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm)