Transform Your Nursing Career in Montana
Montana's healthcare system needs qualified Registered Nurses now more than ever. Whether you're an experienced LPN or just starting to consider advancing your career, transitioning from LPN to RN opens up significantly higher salaries, expanded career opportunities, and greater professional autonomy.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in Montana, including accredited schools, salary expectations, Board of Nursing requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Montana's rural and frontier communities offer excellent opportunities for RNs, including substantial loan forgiveness programs. eNLC membership provides flexibility to work in neighboring states. Montana has a lower cost of living than many western states.
Montana LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
Montana participates in the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means your Montana RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This opens up travel nursing opportunities, telehealth positions, and flexibility to work across state lines—a significant career advantage.
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1. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Montana (2026)
Montana offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top options for 2026:
Location: Billings, MT
Program Type: RN Program (LPN advanced standing available)
Duration: Varies based on advanced standing; typically 12-18 months for LPNs
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $10,000-$16,000 (Montana residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- LPN advanced standing options available
- ACEN accreditation ensures quality education
- Clinical experiences at Billings healthcare facilities
- Part of Montana State University system
- Evening and weekend course options
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Montana resident tuition discount
Location: Great Falls, MT
Program Type: Associate of Science in Nursing (LPN pathway available)
Duration: 2 years (standard); accelerated for LPNs with advanced standing
Format: In-person with clinical practicums
Estimated Tuition: $9,000-$14,000 (Montana residents)
Accreditation: Approved by Montana Board of Nursing
Key Features:
- LPN to RN pathway with credit for prior nursing education
- Clinical sites include Benefis Health System (Great Falls' largest hospital)
- Affordable Montana State University tuition
- Small class sizes in a supportive learning environment
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
- Rural health nursing emphasis
2. LPN vs RN Salary in Montana: Financial Benefits
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $59,000 | $28.37 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $83,000 | $39.90 |
| Salary Difference | +$24,000 | +$11.53 |
Regional Salary Variations Across Montana
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Billings | $80,000 - $90,000 | Largest city; major medical centers |
| Missoula | $78,000 - $88,000 | University town; growing healthcare market |
| Great Falls | $75,000 - $85,000 | Benefis Health System is major employer |
| Bozeman/Kalispell | $75,000 - $88,000 | Higher cost of living in resort areas |
| Rural Montana | $80,000 - $95,000+ | Critical shortage areas; loan forgiveness programs |
Top Employers for RNs in Montana (2026)
- Benefis Health System (Great Falls)
- Billings Clinic (Billings)
- St. Vincent Healthcare (Billings)
- Community Medical Center (Missoula)
- St. Patrick Hospital (Missoula)
- Kalispell Regional Healthcare (Kalispell)
- Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital (Bozeman)
- St. James Healthcare (Butte)
- VA Montana Health Care System (multiple locations)
- Indian Health Service facilities
- Critical Access Hospitals and rural clinics throughout Montana
3. Montana Board of Nursing & RN Licensure Requirements
Agency: Montana Board of Nursing
Address: P.O. Box 200513, Helena, MT 59620-0513
Phone: (406) 444-6880
Email: [email protected]
Steps to Obtain Your Montana RN License
- 1Graduate from Accredited RN Program
- 2Submit RN License Application
- 3Complete Criminal Background Check
- 4Register for NCLEX-RN Exam
- 5Pass NCLEX-RN
- 6Receive Your Montana RN License
4. Financial Aid & Scholarships in Montana
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27)
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
Montana-Specific Scholarships
Various scholarships available through Montana State University campuses for nursing students
Grants for Montana residents pursuing healthcare careers, including nursing
For Native American students pursuing nursing careers; Montana has multiple IHS facilities
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An LPN to ADN bridge program typically takes 12-18 months full-time or 18-24 months part-time. An LPN to BSN program takes 2-3 years depending on transfer credits and enrollment status.
The average RN salary in Montana is approximately $83,000 per year, compared to $59,000 for LPNs—a $24,000 annual increase (41% raise).
Yes! Montana is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. Your Montana RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Montana?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $24,000+ per year. Montana's healthcare system needs qualified RNs.
Explore Montana LPN to RN ProgramsQuestions? Contact the Montana Board of Nursing at (406) 444-6880