LPN Programs in North Dakota: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
North Dakota LPN programs prepare students for a rewarding nursing career in the Peace Garden State. With approximately 2,070 LPNs employed across the state and a median salary of $51,290, North Dakota offers meaningful employment opportunities for practical nurses — particularly in Fargo, Bismarck, and the state’s many rural healthcare facilities that depend on LPNs to meet patient needs. LPN schools in North Dakota include state colleges that have long served the region’s healthcare workforce, providing hands-on training in communities where nurses make a direct impact. The ND Board of Nursing oversees all LPN licensure requirements. If you’re searching for LPN classes in North Dakota, this guide covers the top programs, state requirements, salary outlook, and how to get started. North Dakota is also a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, giving licensed LPNs the flexibility to practice in dozens of other states.
LPN Salary in North Dakota
The median annual salary for LPNs in North Dakota is $51,290, which is $8,440 below the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 2,070 LPNs, with projected job growth of 4% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in North Dakota
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Fargo | $52,500 |
| Bismarck | $51,200 |
| Grand Forks | $50,800 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LPN in North Dakota
To practice as an LPN in North Dakota, 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 ND Board of Nursing. North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the ND Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LPN license.
Apply for North Dakota licensure
Submit your license application through the ND Board of Nursing. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many North Dakota employers hire pending license verification.
Top LPN Programs in North Dakota
The following accredited programs are among the most established LPN schools in North Dakota:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota State College of Science | Wahpeton | 12 months | In-person |
| Lake Region State College | Devils Lake | 12 months | In-person |
| Dakota College at Bottineau | Bottineau | 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 North Dakota LPNs
Your LPN license in North Dakota 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 Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana.
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Programs in North Dakota
How much do LPNs make in North Dakota?
The median LPN salary in North Dakota is $51,290 per year. LPNs in the Fargo metro area earn slightly more at approximately $52,500, while Bismarck LPNs average around $51,200. Shift differentials and overtime can push total compensation higher, especially in long-term care facilities and hospital settings serving rural communities.
How long does it take to become an LPN in North Dakota?
Most North Dakota 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 ND Board of Nursing, which typically takes an additional 2 to 6 weeks.
What are the best LPN programs in North Dakota?
North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton is one of the most established LPN programs in the state, with a strong NCLEX-PN pass rate. Lake Region State College in Devils Lake and Dakota College at Bottineau also offer accredited programs serving students in the eastern and north-central regions of the state.
Does North Dakota have online LPN programs?
Some North Dakota LPN programs offer hybrid formats with online lectures and in-person clinical rotations. However, fully online LPN programs are not available in North Dakota because clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities.
What does the North Dakota Board of Nursing require for LPN licensure?
The ND 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. North Dakota participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other compact states with a single license.
Find LPN Programs in North Dakota
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.