Olivia Chen, NP
June 4, 2025
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work as vital healthcare professionals in Wisconsin through patient care services that operate under registered nurse and physician oversight. The aging population of Wisconsin drives up long-term care needs which LPNs address through their vital work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior living facilities. The medical staff in Wisconsin depends on LPNs to provide timely compassionate care to patients across the state because they serve areas where healthcare access remains limited.
Oshkosh, WI - Public 4-Year - uwosh.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh's Technical Diploma in Practical Nursing exemplifies innovation in nursing education through its distinctive 1+2+1 collaborative program with Fox Valley Technical College. Students navigate a comprehensive pathway that strategically integrates multiple academic milestones, enabling them to progressively earn a technical diploma, associate degree, and bachelor's degree. This flexible program accommodates diverse learning styles with hybrid delivery options, ensuring students can balance academic pursuits with personal commitments. With consistently high NCLEX pass rates and multiple entry points, the program stands out for its commitment to producing well-prepared, adaptable nursing professionals ready to meet dynamic healthcare challenges.
Green Bay, WI - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rasmussen University-Wisconsin delivers an accelerated Practical Nursing Diploma that equips aspiring nurses with comprehensive training in just 12 months. Uniquely structured with flexibility, the program combines online coursework and in-person clinical experiences, allowing students to balance education with personal commitments. With eight annual start dates and no prerequisite requirements, students can quickly launch their nursing careers. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and professional preparation, ensuring graduates are thoroughly ready to pass the NCLEX-PN exam and excel in diverse healthcare environments. Military-friendly features and robust support services further distinguish this efficient nursing education pathway.
Cleveland, WI - Public 2-Year - gotoltc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Nestled in Cleveland, Wisconsin, Lakeshore Technical College's Practical Nursing program provides an intensive evening pathway for healthcare professionals. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes hands-on clinical training at the prestigious Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin Center for Healthcare Excellence. The program uniquely prepares candidates for NCLEX-PN success, consistently achieving pass rates above national benchmarks. Admission requires a rigorous Health Occupation Entrance Assessment (HESI), demonstrating the college's commitment to selecting dedicated and capable nursing candidates. With an affordable total cost of $6,404.07 including tuition and books, and accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), this program offers an exceptional value for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses seeking a robust educational foundation.
Wauwatosa, WI - Private 4-year - bryantstratton.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bryant & Stratton College's Practical Nursing Diploma in Wauwatosa delivers a dynamic 12-month program designed to rapidly transform students into skilled Licensed Practical Nurses. The comprehensive 41-credit curriculum blends rigorous classroom learning with extensive clinical training, ensuring graduates are fully prepared for diverse healthcare environments. Students benefit from NCLEX-PN exam preparation, hands-on experience across multiple clinical settings, and a pathway for potential future nursing degree advancement. The program's ACEN accreditation guarantees high-quality education, while its military-friendly status and multiple campus locations provide flexibility for aspiring healthcare professionals seeking an efficient entry into nursing.
La Crosse, WI - Public 2-Year - westerntc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Technical College's Practical Nursing program in La Crosse provides an innovative pathway into nursing, distinguished by its rigorous Wisconsin Board of Nursing-approved curriculum. Students engage in comprehensive training that blends theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level nursing roles. The program's standout feature is its commitment to patient-centered care and evidence-based practices, which translates to consistently high NCLEX-PN pass rates. With a focus on developing critical nursing skills and professional competencies, students learn through interactive classroom instruction and hands-on training, positioning them for successful careers in healthcare.
The state of Wisconsin does not offer fully online LPN programs because nursing education requires direct contact with patients. A few colleges in Wisconsin provide hybrid learning programs that let students finish general education classes or theory-based subjects through online education. Students must complete their core nursing courses and skills labs as well as clinical rotations in person because state licensure and educational standards require this format. Students who work or care for families can benefit from hybrid programs which provide scheduling flexibility.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Rasmussen University-Wisconsin |
|
|
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh |
|
|
| Fox Valley Technical College |
|
|
| Certifying Board | Wisconsin Board of Nursing, Department of Safety and Professional Services |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | High school diploma or equivalent and graduation from a Board-approved practical nursing program |
| Application & Fees | $57 initial credential fee, $200 NCLEX-PN exam fee, $10 temporary permit fee |
| License Renewal | Biennial renewal by April 30 of odd-numbered years with a $57 renewal fee (late renewals $82) |
| Continuing Competency | No continuing education required, complete Nursing Workforce Survey and report primary state of residency at each renewal |
| Licensure by Endorsement | $57 credential fee, NURSYS verification of active unrestricted LPN license, proof of primary state residency for multi-state privilege. |
Wisconsin’s practical nurses can expect a stable and satisfying career path. The state maintains an increasing need for healthcare personnel who work in long-term care and home health facilities. The increasing demand for healthcare workers stems from population aging alongside provider shortages which are most pronounced in rural areas. LPNs can secure positions throughout Wisconsin at hospitals together with nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation facilities. The average pay for LPNs in Wisconsin matches national standards and provides both financial security and professional contentment.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Wisconsin | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $56,499 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $27.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$63,142 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $56,499 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$50,930 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~1,000 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh |
|
|
| Fox Valley Technical College |
|
|
| Chippewa Valley Technical College |
|
|
Multiple career advancement choices exist in Wisconsin for LPNs who seek to advance their careers. Licensed practical nurses who want to become registered nurses can enroll in LPN-to-RN bridge programs to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees in nursing. The programs provide recognition for previous learning experience which shortens the duration needed to finish additional education. LPNs who obtain specialized certifications in IV therapy, wound care, and gerontology can boost their employability and expand their skills. Long-term care facilities provide charge nurse and team coordinator positions to LPNs who have gained experience in their field. Many employers back continuous education by providing tuition support and flexible work arrangements. The LPN role creates a solid base for future career advancement toward complex nursing positions and public health or healthcare management roles throughout the state.
Additional Nursing Programs in Wisconsin
LEARN MORE
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
