Published in Devils Lake Journal December 3, 2023
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.
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.
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%
Of the top ranked North Dakota LPN programs ranking #2 is Lake Region State College, 1801 College Drive N, Devils Lake, ND 58301 – (701) 662-1600.
Lake Region State College, located in Devils Lake, ND, 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.
Overall Score: 99.36