LPN Programs
In North Dakota, there are nearly twice as many licensed practical nurses per 1,000 people than the national average. Most of these LPNs work in nursing homes, extended care facilities or hospitals around the state. In order to assist registered nurses with patient monitoring and bedside care, LPNs must earn a certificate or associate degree and meet all state licensing requirements.
The following guide explores LPN programs in North Dakota, steps for licensure, and career outlook and salary data by region.
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Top LPN Programs in North Dakota
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#1 Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate from Bismarck State College, a public institution. With online and in-person enrollment options, the school provides opportunities for both North Dakota residents and out-of-state students. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
In addition to practical training, associate and certificate programs in nursing help participants gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. Immediately after graduation, many individuals use their training to secure entry-level nursing roles. Graduates often pursue bachelor's studies before entering the workforce, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salary potential.
Bismarck State College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 42
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 16
Number of Certificate Programs: 51
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 23
#2 Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
Lake Region State College
Devils Lake, ND - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing can consider Lake Region State College, a public institution. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in North Dakota and other parts of the country. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, allowing busy learners to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
In addition to practical training, associate and certificate programs in nursing help participants gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
Lake Region State College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 16
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 12
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#3 Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
Dakota College at Bottineau
Bottineau, ND - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Dakota College at Bottineau delivers associate degrees and certificates in nursing. Associate and certificate programs in nursing foster the field-specific skills graduates need to impress prospective employers. After completing their associate or certificate program, graduates can enroll in bachelor's programs to increase their job options and earning potential.
While enrollees located near Bottineau can study on campus, others may pursue the school's programs online. Additionally, many online nursing programs allow students to complete coursework at their convenience, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should review the institution's available programs to ensure they align with their goals.
Dakota College at Bottineau at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 23
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 12
Number of Certificate Programs: 19
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 12
#4 Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota State College of Science
Wahpeton, ND - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At North Dakota State College of Science, learners can obtain a certificate or associate degree by enrolling online or on campus. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the nursing-specific skills employers value. After completing their associate or certificate program, graduates can enroll in bachelor's programs to increase their job options and earning potential.
Offering online programs, in addition to on-campus classes in Wahpeton, the school educates enrollees in many states. An additional benefit of online learning is the scheduling flexibility, which can be important to working professionals and students with family responsibilities. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
North Dakota State College of Science at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 36
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 32
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#5 Best LPN Programs in North Dakota
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate from Dickinson State University, a public institution. Although the school is located in North Dakota, students in any state can enroll in its online programs. Learners with full-time jobs often study online because of the increased flexibility remote learning offers.
Participants in associate and certificate programs complete nursing-specific coursework and training. Immediately after graduation, many individuals use their training to secure entry-level nursing roles. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits from two-year programs.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 4
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 4
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
Search for LPN Programs in North Dakota
Those who want to become LPNs in North Dakota can enroll in programs at technical schools, community colleges, and large universities. Potential nursing students can find an LPN program that meets their individual career goals and educational needs. Using the search tool below, aspiring LPNs can compare program options based on tuition, location and school type.
Licensing Requirements for North Dakota LPNs
Every year, nursing school graduates finish their LPN programs with the hopes of finding a job in the state. But before they can get employment, they must become licensed through the North Dakota Board of Nursing. This section will explore the licensure process, including how licenses are initially granted and renewed.
Basic Eligibility
- Complete the Application for Licensure by Examination and submit it to the North Dakota Board of Nursing.
Education & Training Requirements
Those who want to pursue a career as a licensed practical nurse must complete an LPN program that is approved by the Board. For those who attended nursing school out of state, the Board requires that they graduate from a program educationally comparable to those available in North Dakota. Out-of-state programs must include supervised clinical experience that teach students how to provide care across the life span.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
- Pay the required $130 application fee. This can be paid by check, PayPal, or credit or debit card.
- Arrange to have official school transcripts sent to the Board of Nursing directly.
- Register for the NCLEX-PN examination through Pearson VUE.
- Pass the NCLEX.
- Submit fingerprints in order to participate in the state's criminal background check.
Renewing Your License
LPN licenses are renewed every two years. In order to renew a license, nurses must finish 24 hours of continuing education coursework. When submitting an application for license renewal, LPNs must pay the $110 fee, update their demographic information, and outline the number of hours they worked each year.
Earning Potential for LPNs in North Dakota
Licensed practical nurses can make a good living, but, like every other profession, the amount of money they make depends on where they work. Salaries vary from state to state, but they also vary depending on what part of North Dakota LPNs find employment in. The following data outlines the earning potential of LPNs in the state.
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas
North Dakota Employment Data for LPNs
Employment potential for LPNs in North Dakota depends on several factors, including what part of the state they work in, what kind of health care facility employs them, and what practice area they choose. The following data breaks down the employment for LPNs in the state and exemplifies where the most opportunities are.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Fargo ND-MN | 1,250 |
| Grand Forks ND-MN | 480 |
| Bismarck | 450 |
| East Central North Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 410 |
| West Central North Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 380 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Far Eastern North Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 250 |
| Far Western North Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 240 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in North Dakota
2012 3,340
2022 4,030
Average Annual Openings 150
Source: Projections Central
Resources for North Dakota LPNs
2013-2014 Education Annual Report - North Dakota Board of Nursing
Includes detailed information on nurse employment, education, and demographics.
Board Approved IV Therapy Courses
This site includes a list of IV therapy courses that provide the required education LPNs need to treat patients with intravenous medications.
Board Approved Programs of Nursing
This website lists the LPN programs that the North Dakota Board of Nursing has sanctioned.
Continuing Education for Renewal
This page of the nursing board's website outlines the acceptable continuing education courses that can be taken for license renewal.
LPN IV Therapy Course Guidelines
Provides information on the education LPNs must receive in order to provide IV drugs to patients.
Nurses can verify their license, receive information on obtaining a license through examination or endorsement, and find schools sanctioned by the state on the Board's website.
North Dakota Nurses Association
Nurses in North Dakota receive professional development and advocacy services through this association. There is also a career center where LPNs can find job leads.
Snapshot of North Dakota's Health Care Workforce
This report includes information about the health care industry from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. LPN student enrollment and employment is included.
Standards of Practice for Licensed Practical Nurses
Outlines what is expected of LPNs in the state based on guidelines passed by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly.
Supply and Demand Projections Technical Report
Includes nursing job predictions by the North Dakota Center for Nursing Research.