Salary, Training Time, Requirements & Which to Choose
| Category | PCT | LPN |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $32,000/year ($16.0/hr) | $57,500/year ($27.65/hr) |
| Training Time | 1-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Program Cost | $1,500-$5,000 | $4,000-$12,000 |
| License Required? | No | YES (NCLEX-PN) |
| Give Medications? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
💰 Salary Difference: LPNs in Montana earn $25,500 MORE per year than PCTs (79% higher).
Note: Montana's rural healthcare shortage creates high demand for both PCTs and LPNs.
3-12 months
14-20 months
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
PCT: Community colleges, private training centers (3-12 months).
LPN: Great Falls College MSU, Montana State University-Billings, Flathead Valley Community College offer accredited LPN programs (12-18 months).
PCT: Limited (mostly workforce grants).
LPN: YES! Federal Pell Grants, state scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement available. Many students attend LPN school for little/no cost.
Yes! This is a popular path. Work as a PCT (earn $32,000/year), attend LPN school part-time evenings/weekends. Many Montana hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for PCTs advancing to LPN.
Whether PCT (fast entry) or LPN (higher pay), both lead to rewarding healthcare careers.