LPN Programs in Minnesota: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
Minnesota LPN programs prepare students for a rewarding nursing career in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. With approximately 14,040 LPNs employed across the state and a median salary of $54,080, Minnesota offers competitive earning potential for practical nurses — especially in the Twin Cities and Rochester metro areas. LPN schools in Minnesota benefit from a strong technical college network, with programs in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, and the surrounding communities that train nurses for the state’s robust healthcare sector. The MN Board of Nursing oversees all LPN licensure requirements. If you’re searching for LPN classes in Minnesota, this guide covers the top programs, state requirements, salary outlook, and how to get started. Minnesota is also a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, giving licensed LPNs the flexibility to practice in dozens of other states.
LPN Salary in Minnesota
The median annual salary for LPNs in Minnesota is $54,080, which is $5,650 below the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 14,040 LPNs, with projected job growth of 5% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in Minnesota
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $55,800 |
| St. Paul | $55,200 |
| Rochester | $54,500 |
| Duluth | $52,800 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LPN in Minnesota
To practice as an LPN in Minnesota, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Here's the process:
Complete prerequisites
High school diploma or GED, CPR/BLS certification, passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, background check, and current immunizations.
Enroll in an approved LPN program
Choose a program approved by the MN Board of Nursing. Minnesota LPN programs typically require 600+ clinical hours across acute care, long-term care, and community health settings.
Complete coursework and clinical rotations
Programs cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical rotations take place at hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across Minnesota.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the MN Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LPN license.
Apply for Minnesota licensure
Submit your license application through the MN Board of Nursing. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many Minnesota employers hire pending license verification.
Top LPN Programs in Minnesota
The following accredited programs are among the most established LPN schools in Minnesota:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis Community and Technical College | Minneapolis | 12 months | In-person |
| Saint Paul College | St. Paul | 12 months | In-person |
| Rochester Community and Technical College | Rochester | 12 months | In-person |
| Hennepin Technical College | Brooklyn Park | 12 months | In-person |
Program details are subject to change. Verify current offerings directly with each school.
Browse LPN programs in all 50 states
Career Pathways for Minnesota LPNs
Your LPN license in Minnesota opens several advancement routes:
MA to LPN
Already a medical assistant? Bridge programs can fast-track your LPN in 6–12 months.
CNA to LPN
CNAs can earn advanced standing and complete LPN programs faster.
LPN to RN
Advance to Registered Nurse and boost your salary to $86K+ median.
LPN to BSN
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing for the widest career options.
Exploring options in nearby states? Check out LPN programs in Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota.
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Programs in Minnesota
How much do LPNs make in Minnesota?
The median LPN salary in Minnesota is $54,080 per year. LPNs in the Minneapolis metro area earn slightly more at approximately $55,800, while St. Paul LPNs average around $55,200. Shift differentials and overtime can push total compensation higher, especially in long-term care facilities and hospital settings.
How long does it take to become an LPN in Minnesota?
Most Minnesota LPN programs take 12 months to complete as a full-time student. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and apply for licensure through the MN Board of Nursing, which typically takes an additional 2 to 6 weeks.
What are the best LPN programs in Minnesota?
Minneapolis Community and Technical College and Saint Paul College are among the top state-approved LPN programs in Minnesota, both with strong NCLEX-PN pass rates. Rochester Community and Technical College serves the southeastern part of the state, while Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park provides another strong option in the Twin Cities metro.
Does Minnesota have online LPN programs?
Some Minnesota LPN programs offer hybrid formats with online lectures and in-person clinical rotations. However, fully online LPN programs are not available in Minnesota because clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities.
What does the Minnesota Board of Nursing require for LPN licensure?
The MN Board of Nursing requires completion of an approved practical nursing program, a passing score on the NCLEX-PN exam, a criminal background check, and submission of a license application with fees. Minnesota participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other compact states with a single license.
Find LPN Programs in Minnesota
Compare accredited LPN programs near you. Search by location, schedule, and cost to find the right fit.
Last updated: 2026-03-03. Salary data: BLS May 2024 OES, SOC 29-2061.