Top LPN Programs in Alaska

Last Updated/Verified: September 15th, 2023

Nursing is a highly satisfying profession and a fulfilling career.

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Nurses are well-paid with flexible hours, and they play a vital role in their communities. One of the easiest ways to join the nursing workforce is by becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), which requires less education and training years than an RN or BSN. Many LPNs begin their education and career right out of high school.

Alaska LPN Quick Facts

  • The average Alaska LPN wage is about $27/hour (according to Indeed.com)
  • LPNs in Alaska make more than any other state, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
  • There are currently no approved LPN programs in Alaska
  • The LPN job outlook is bright, with a 9% increase by 2029
  • Currently, there are no active LPN educational programs in Alaska. Previously, there was a program at the University of Alaska Anchorage, but it has been suspended.

LPN Licensing Requirements in Alaska

After completing an LPN program in another state, you will be eligible to apply for licensure with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing. You can obtain your initial LPN license by exam, or if you already have a nursing license in another state, you can apply for your Alaska LPN license by endorsement.

Checklist to become an Alaska LPN by Exam:

Checklist to become an Alaska LPN by Endorsement

  • Complete an online application
  • Complete background check and fingerprint card
  • Have LPN License Verification sent to Alaska Board of Nursing
  • Verify of at least 320 hours of LPN experience in the past two years

LPNs in Alaska must renew their license every even-numbered year by September 30th. In addition, LPNs must complete 30 hours of continuing education and 60 hours of “uncompensated professional activities.”

NCLEX-PN Exam

Every LPN practicing in the United States must pass the NCLEX-PN.  You will learn everything you need to pass the NCLEX-PN in your LPN program.

The NCLEX-PN is a multiple-choice computer-based test. It is a responsive test that changes based on your answers.  The test includes four categories: safe, effective care environments, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

LPN Reciprocity

Alaska is not a member of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC). There is currently no pending licensure to enroll Alaska in the NLC. To obtain licensure in other states, Alaska-licensed LPNs must complete full licensing procedures.

LPN Salaries in Alaska

According to Indeed.com, full-time Alaska LPNs make about $56,918 per year on average. This is higher than the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ stated national average salary of $50,090. However, Alaska is also a high cost-of-living state, and wages reflect that.

LPNs who work in certain parts of Alaska may make more than others. Here are some salaries from higher-paid regions (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics):

  • Anchorage ($69,990 per year)
  • Alaska nonmetropolitan area ($68,670)
  • Fairbanks ($59,630)

Source: https://www.bls.gov/

An LPN’s salary depends on both their specialty and experience. The salary of an experienced LPN is greater than that of a freshly graduated LPN. An LPN who works in an environment with a high-stress level will earn more than someone who works part-time in a leisurely outpatient setting.

Job Outlook for LPNs in Alaska

As life expectancies increase and the baby boomers get older, healthcare professionals will be in greater demand than ever before. There is a lot of variety in the types of jobs Alaska LPNs can perform, from long-term care to home health staffing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted that the demand for LPNs will grow by 9% by 2029, which is a “much faster than usual” rate of growth.

LPN graduates who want to continue with their education can do so in person at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Alternatively, some online colleges offer LPN to registered nurse or BSN options.

LPN employers often offer tuition reimbursement and bonuses to entice qualified nurses to work for them. In addition, LPN jobs in Alaska are sometimes in very remote locations and can therefore be quite lucrative.

Additional Resources

The following resources can help you learn more about being an LPN in Alaska:

The Alaska Nurses’ Association aims to support nurses across the state of Alaska.  Their website has information about education, legislation, and current issues impacting Alaska Nurses.

3701 E Tudor Road
Suite 208
Anchorage AK 99507
Phone: 907-274-0827

The Alaska Board of Nursing oversees licensing and educational accreditation for all nursing programs in the state.

550 W 7th AVE, STE 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501-3567
Phone: (907) 269-8160