Iowa LPN Programs

Directory of state-approved LPN training classes

Iowa faces a big challenge. Like many other Midwestern states, it needs more skilled nurses for its nursing homes, hospitals, and elderly care centers.

As a result, the demand for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) keeps rising. In fact, Indeed.com reports that the average LPN salary in Iowa is $59,700 per year in 2025.

These numbers make Iowa an attractive place for new and experienced practical nurses alike.

LPN Job Duties, Daily Tasks & Role Within the Health Care System

Practical nurses play a key role in patient care. They monitor patients closely. They measure and record vital signs and watch mental and physical conditions. In addition, they track dietary needs.

Licensed practical nurses update patient medical charts every day. They also work with teams of skilled health care professionals to ensure total care.

Often, the LPN gives medications and injections. These duties require attention to detail and compassion.

Shortage of LPNs in Iowa

Right now, Iowa faces a growing shortage of nurses. As demand rises, the state has expanded its number of LPN programs in Iowa.

Today, you can find at least 15 community colleges in Iowa with diploma nursing programs or two-year associate degrees in nursing courses.

State approved LPN training programs in Iowa help meet the need for skilled nurses and support better patient care across the state.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs in Iowa

To enter the LPN diploma program at Hawkeye Community College, you need a high school diploma. You must also pass either the ACT or the Compass exam.

The training lasts three semesters. You will complete 42 credits in total.

How Much do Iowa LPN Programs Cost?

The course costs about $8,000. This price covers tuition, books, and supplies.

With these requirements, you can start your journey toward becoming a practical nurse.

Iowa LPN Training Coursework

You must take several courses to earn a Practical Nursing diploma at Hawkeye Community College.

For example, you will study three human anatomy and physiology courses. Two of these include labs, while one provides an overview.

You also complete many nurse-specific courses. These include Fundamentals I and II, Client Care, Nutrition, Clinical Practice, Psychology, and Medical-Surgical Nursing (Med/Surg).

Additionally, you will take Nursing A and B, Nursing Practice, and Mental and Psychiatric Patient Care.

The program also features courses about nursing issues, thoughts, perspectives, and mental health nursing.

Each class helps build your skills and confidence as a future nurse.

Hawkeye Community College boasts a strong placement record. In fact, 78.2% of students who finish the licensed practical nursing course find jobs in nursing.

LPN Jobs in Iowa

Right now, Iowa offers many opportunities for licensed practical nurses. You can work in nursing care facilities, home health, elderly communities, or general care centers. There are also positions available in psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals.

These options give you a variety of paths to start your nursing career.

LPN Programs in Iowa

Schools With LPN Training Programs in Iowa

You can find every approved practical nursing program in Iowa using our directory.

The Iowa State Board of Nursing oversees and approves all Iowa LPN programs. Schools must show that their LPN training programs prepare students well. In other words, the board expects each student to gain the right knowledge and skills to become a licensed practical nurse.

Approval does not last forever. The board reviews each program often. Graduation rates and NCLEX pass rates matter most when deciding if a program should keep its approval.

If a program’s results drop in either area, the board acts quickly. The school can lose approval or enter probation until results improve.

These checks help ensure high-quality LPN training for future nurses in Iowa.

Required Classes in Iowa LPN Programs

Practical nursing programs offer different courses at each school.

Still, most programs share some core subjects. You will usually study Anatomy and Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology, and Pharmacology. These classes appear in almost every curriculum.

Each subject builds your knowledge and skills. As a result, you gain what you need to work as a licensed practical nurse.

With this strong foundation, you can step confidently into your nursing career.

Steps to Become an LPN in Iowa

Begin by researching education programs that fit your schedule and needs.

Next, enroll in an Iowa LPN training program approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing. Most programs take about one year to complete, so you can enter the field quickly.

Once you finish your courses, you become eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. Passing this test is the next big step.

After you pass, you may register as a licensed practical nurse in Iowa.

Finally, you can start looking for a job. Each step moves you closer to your nursing career.

Find LPN Programs Near You