Best LPN Programs in Oregon
The nationwide nursing shortage is contributing to increased employment opportunities for LPNs in Oregon. The State of Oregon Employment Department estimates LPN job growth of nearly 20 percent from 2012 to 2022, a faster rate than the statewide average for all occupations.
With an LPN education, aspiring nurses can take advantage of this growth. Before settling on an LPN program, prospective students should take time to research school options to make sure they earn an accredited education that will be respected by employers and approved by the state.
Continue reading to learn more about LPN programs and careers in Oregon, including a list of top-ranked schools, an overview of state licensure requirements, as well as salary and employment trends by area.
Finding an LPN Program in Oregon
LPN programs are offered at a variety of public and private colleges around the state of Oregon. This search tool can help prospective LPNs narrow their results based on preferences for tuition rate, school size/type, and degree options.
Licensure Requirements for Oregon LPNs
All practicing vocational and practical nurses must be licensed to work in the U.S., but the licensing process varies from state to state. This section explains the process of becoming licensed and maintaining licensure in the state of Oregon.
Basic Eligibility
Education & Training Requirements
LPN eligibility is based on the applicant’s nursing education. To qualify for a license, applicants must have completed one of the state-approved LPN programs in Oregon resulting in a practical nursing certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Because Oregon has not yet entered into the compact for interstate licensure, graduates of out-of-state nursing degree programs are still required to become licensed in Oregon.
Applicants for licensure who have not graduated from a state of Oregon-approved nursing program must have practiced for at least 960 hours within the last five years or complete an OSBN-approved re-entry program within the last two years to satisfy the education requirement. Nurses with out-of-state licenses can apply for an LPN Limited License while waiting to complete a re-entry program.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
Renewal
Oregon nursing licenses expire every two years at midnight on the day before your birthday—in even years if born in an even year and odd years if born in an odd year. As a courtesy, OSBN send a renewal notification to LPNs by email 6-8 weeks before license expiration. Renewal applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
Late renewal applications are accepted within 60 days of the expiration date. The online application automatically calculates late fees. After 60 days, expired licenses must be reactivated, which includes additional fees and a national background check. Practicing without a license can result in a civil penalty of up to $5,000.
Salary for LPNs in Oregon
Opportunities for employment can be found all over the state, but certain regions of Oregon pay higher salaries than others. This table identifies the areas of Oregon where LPNs earn the most.
Oregon LPN Employment Trends
According to the State of Oregon Employment Department (SOED), the number of LPNs in the state is expected to grower faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. Specifically, SOED projects an increase of 19.9 percent between 2012 and 2022 and 120 openings annually (including replacement openings). The Portland-Metro area has the highest population in the state and employs the most LPNs. They will experience higher employment growth compared to smaller counties such as Clackamas and East Cascades.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro OR-WA | 1,620 |
| Salem | 370 |
| Eugene-Springfield | 310 |
| Medford | 200 |
| Southern Oregon and Linn County nonmetropolitan area | 190 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| North Central Oregon nonmetropolitan area | 100 |
| Coastal Oregon nonmetropolitan area | 80 |
| Eastern Oregon nonmetropolitan area | 70 |
| Bend | 60 |
| Corvallis | 30 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in Oregon
2012 2,710
2022 3,240
Average Annual Openings 120
Source: Projections Central
Top LPN Programs in Oregon
Columbia Gorge Community College
The Dalles, OR- 2 year
- Campus
A public institution, Columbia Gorge Community College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in Oregon and other parts of the country. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels help participants develop foundational knowledge and practical skills in the field. Many individuals apply their training to entry-level positions in nursing immediately 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.
Columbia Gorge Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 9
Number of Certificate Programs: 12
- In-State$3,852
- Out-of-state$8,568
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled773
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment69%
- AccreditationYes
Oregon Coast Community College
- Newport, OR
- 2 year
- Campus
Learners interested in nursing can pursue a certificate or an associate degree from Oregon Coast Community College, a public school. While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, students gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to Newport for in-person classes. Additionally, many online nursing programs allow students to complete coursework at their convenience, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities. Prospective applicants should review the associate and certificate programs available from the institution before enrolling.
Oregon Coast Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 9
- In-State$4,140
- Out-of-state$8,064
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled452
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Clatsop Community College
- Astoria, OR
- 2 year
- Campus
With associate and certificate programs in nursing, Clatsop Community College maintains a campus in Oregon. Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature technical training to prepare students to succeed in specialized roles. These programs also prepare certificate-holders to transfer into bachelor's programs for further education.
With remote programs, the school provides opportunities for enrollees in any location to study 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 research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Clatsop Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 15
- In-State$3,780
- Out-of-state$7,560
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled786
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Central Oregon Community College
- Bend, OR
- 2 year
- Campus
With associate and certificate programs in nursing, Central Oregon Community College maintains a campus in Bend. Associate and certificate programs in nursing foster the field-specific skills graduates need to impress prospective employers. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
While enrollees located near campus can study in person, others may pursue the school's programs online. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Prospective applicants should base their enrollment decision on their chosen field's education requirements.
Central Oregon Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 30
Number of Certificate Programs: 44
- In-State$5,346
- Out-of-state$11,124
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,818
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Klamath Community College
- Klamath Falls, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public school, Klamath Community College educates learners based in Oregon and throughout the country by offering online and on-campus programs. While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, students gain technical skills necessary for positions in the field. Before pursuing employment, graduates can also earn a bachelor's degree, which can increase career opportunities.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Klamath Falls to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Additionally, online nursing programs can benefit busy students by allowing them to complete assignments and view lectures on evenings and weekends. The institution's admissions counselors can provide program details and help prospective applicants understand their options.
Klamath Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 24
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 9
Number of Certificate Programs: 37
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
- In-State$3,708
- Out-of-state$6,282
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,715
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Umpqua Community College
- Roseburg, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Umpqua Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Although the school's campus is in Roseburg, Oregon, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
Associate degree-seekers explore basic concepts related to nursing. Individuals often use the training from their degree or certificate program to succeed in entry-level roles in nursing and related fields. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Umpqua Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 22
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 40
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 8
- In-State$3,939
- Out-of-state$4,563
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,458
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Mt. Hood Community College
- Gresham, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Mt. Hood Community College, a public school in Oregon, is a great choice for learners in search of an associate or certificate degree in nursing. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the nursing field. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
The school's online options provide opportunities for enrollees not based near Gresham. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should review the institution's available programs to ensure they align with their goals.
Mt. Hood Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 84
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 55
- In-State$4,140
- Out-of-state$8,388
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,463
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Treasure Valley Community College
- Ontario, OR
- 2 year
- Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate from Treasure Valley Community College, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its Oregon campus. Featuring crucial technical training, associate and certificate programs help students gain nursing-specific skills necessary for entry-level positions. Additional education, such as a bachelor's degree, can help graduates qualify for more advanced positions in the field.
Offering online programs, in addition to on-campus classes in Ontario, the school educates enrollees in many states. 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 research their chosen profession's education requirements.
Treasure Valley Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 72
Number of Certificate Programs: 30
- In-State$4,280
- Out-of-state$4,677
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,721
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Clackamas Community College
- Oregon City, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Clackamas Community College offers associate and certificate programs in nursing. Students can enroll online or on campus in Oregon City. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate and allows learners the flexibility to maintain full-time employment.
In addition to practical training, associate and certificate programs in nursing help participants gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. Individuals often use the training from their degree or certificate program to succeed in entry-level roles in nursing and related fields. Graduates often pursue bachelor's studies before entering the workforce, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salary potential.
Clackamas Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 44
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 79
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 7
- In-State$4,635
- Out-of-state$12,330
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,270
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Rogue Community College
- Grants Pass, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Rogue Community College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. In addition to on-campus programs in Grants Pass, Oregon, the school offers online classes students can attend remotely. Flexible online programs allow learners to attend classes without relocating.
While earning a nursing associate degree or certificate, participants complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. These programs often lead to entry-level employment in the nursing field. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Rogue Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 38
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 70
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$4,932
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,634
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Resources for LPNs in Oregon
This LPN association provides continuing education opportunities, lobbying services, an annual convention.
OSBN publishes this guide for RNs and LPNs in Oregon.
This is the list of approved LPN programs from the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
This site for Oregon RNs and LPNs publishes educational offerings, cultural competence digests, and a quarterly newsletter. Members can also access the podcast Oregon Nursecast.
Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) offers a dues reduction for new graduates, scholarship opportunities, and the monthly publication Oregon Nurse, as well as leadership and training opportunities for LPNs.
Oregon Nurses Foundation (ONF) is a charitable organization that seeks to advance the profession of nursing by providing scholarships, workforce assistance, and retention programs for RNs and LPNs.
The Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) regulates LPN licensure and practice in the state of Oregon. Licensing and renewal information and forms are available at this site.
Oregon Student Nurses Association (OSNA) supports student nurses in their pursuit of professional LPN careers by offering discounts on national dues, NCLEX study materials, and nursing journal subscriptions.
This is the complete set of standards for LPNs set by Oregon State Board of Nursing.
This diverse nursing community provides discounts on conference registration fees, subscriptions to publications, and networking opportunities for RNs and LPNs in Oregon.
