Best West Virginia LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
West Virginia’s bridge programs help practical nurses progress into RN practice. Students complete classroom courses and supervised clinicals. Programs prepare graduates for licensure and expanded patient care roles.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in West Virginia
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV - Public 4-Year - wvu.edu
Associate - LPN to Bachelor of Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia University's LPN to BSN hybrid program enables licensed practical nurses to advance to registered nursing roles efficiently. It awards 22 escrow credits for prior experience, reducing completion time to three years. The curriculum includes online coursework and in-person clinicals at the Keyser Campus, with evening and weekend classes for flexibility. Focused on professional transition, it covers clinical judgment and healthcare competencies, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. CCNE accredited and military-friendly, it features state-of-the-art simulation labs and comprehensive clinical experiences.
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Designed for working LPNs
- CCNE accredited program
- Keyser Campus location
- Three-year program completion
- Transition-focused nursing course
- Evening and weekend classes
- Clinical experiences included
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia University offers an LPN to BSN program through a hybrid model, blending online learning with clinical practice at the Keyser Campus. Designed for working LPNs, it provides 22 escrow credits to accelerate the path to RN licensure. The curriculum emphasizes science, clinical skills, and professional transition, with flexible scheduling including weekend and evening options. CCNE accredited and military-friendly, it includes advanced simulation labs and hands-on experiences to ensure readiness for the NCLEX-RN exam and career advancement.
- Hybrid online/clinical program
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- Designed for working LPNs
- CCNE accredited program
- Weekend/evening course options
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Smooth nursing profession transition
- Flexible learning schedule
- Comprehensive clinical experiences
Potomac State College of West Virginia University
Keyser, WV - Public 4-Year - potomacstatecollege.edu
Associate - Nursing (LPN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Potomac State College of WVU's LPN to BSN program offers a hybrid format for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance to registered nursing. It can be completed in under three years with flexible evening and weekend classes, plus online components. The curriculum awards 22 escrow credits for prior experience, includes simulation labs and clinical rotations, and requires an active LPN license, one year of experience, a 2.5 GPA, and a 60% TEAS score. CCNE accredited, it emphasizes practical skills without a specified concentration.
- Less than 3-year degree completion
- Hybrid learning format
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- State-approved nursing program
- CCNE accredited curriculum
- Evening/weekend class schedule
- Simulation and clinical experiences
- Requires 1 year LPN experience
- 60% minimum TEAS exam score
- 3.0 program GPA maintenance
Bachelor's - Nursing (LPN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
WVU Potomac State College's LPN to BSN program provides a hybrid pathway for LPNs to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing in less than three years. It features flexible scheduling with afternoon, evening, and weekend courses, awards 22 escrow credits, and integrates online learning, simulation labs, and diverse clinical experiences. Requirements include an active LPN license, community service hours, and a 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is mentioned. CCNE accredited, it focuses on comprehensive nursing education without a concentration.
- Less than 3-year program
- 22 hours escrow credits
- Hybrid learning format
- State-approved program
- CCNE accredited nursing degree
- Clinical practice across facilities
- Rural clinical experience included
- 50 hours community service
- Support services available
- 3.0 program GPA required
New River Community and Technical College
Beaver, WV - Public 2-Year - newriver.edu
Associate - LPN to ADN Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
New River Community and Technical College's LPN to ADN Program is a 12-month hybrid pathway, blending online coursework with in-person clinicals for LPNs aiming to become RNs. It emphasizes affordability and rapid completion, with a 100% employment rate and strong NCLEX pass rates. The curriculum covers medical-surgical, maternal-child, geriatric, and mental health nursing, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready. No entrance exam is required, and the program supports seamless credit transfers, making it ideal for advancing careers in West Virginia's healthcare sector.
- 12-month intensive nursing program
- Hybrid learning format
- 100% employment rate
- Accredited by nursing board
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Designed for LPNs and paramedics
- Clinical experience included
- Workforce-ready skills
- Multiple campus locations
- Transfer credit opportunities
Fairmont State University
Fairmont, WV - Public 4-Year - fairmontstate.edu
Associate - LPN to ASN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fairmont State University's LPN to ASN program is an online option for licensed practical nurses aiming to become registered nurses. It can be completed in as little as 12 months, with clinical experiences conducted in West Virginia. Admission requires a TEAs score of at least 60%, and the program is designed for students with online learning experience and basic computer skills. Small class sizes, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and credit transfer opportunities enhance flexibility for working professionals. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, with cohort admissions available in fall, spring, and summer terms.
- Online program with clinicals in WV.
- Complete in 12 to 18 months.
- Small class size, limited to 32.
- TEAs score of 60% required.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Transfer credits accepted.
- Cohort admissions in Fall, Spring, Summer.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN post-graduation.
- Requires basic computer skills.
- Clinicals 2-3 days per month.
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Parkersburg, WV - Public 4-Year - wvup.edu
Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia University at Parkersburg offers a 16-month accelerated LPN to RN program leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. This campus-based pathway requires an active LPN license, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and specific prerequisites, with no entrance exam needed. Clinical training occurs at Marietta Health System and WVU Medicine: Camden Clark, providing hands-on experience. The curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, focusing on community healthcare needs. Accredited by ACEN, tuition is affordable at $188-$260 per credit, making it a military-friendly option for career advancement.
- 16-month accelerated program
- Clinical experiences at local healthcare systems
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Active LPN license required
- Tuition ranges $188-$260 per credit
- Accredited by ACEN
- No entrance exam for LPNs
West Virginia LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
LPN to RN bridge admission in West Virginia typically requires:
- Active, unencumbered LPN license and graduation from a state-approved practical nursing program
- Completion of prerequisite college courses with minimum grades set by the program, often including:
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs
- Microbiology with lab
- English composition
- General psychology and lifespan development
- College-level math such as algebra or statistics
- Nutrition and introductory chemistry as required by the program
- Current BLS for Healthcare Providers certification
- Criminal background check, drug screen, health physical, and required immunizations
- Entrance assessment such as TEAS or HESI, and a minimum cumulative GPA as set by the college
- Proof of residency for in-state tuition consideration
- For working LPNs: some programs may grant advanced standing after validation of skills and a transition course; recent LPN work experience can strengthen an application and may be required by select programs
Graduation from a board-approved RN program and passing the NCLEX-RN are required for licensure through the West Virginia RN Board.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN bridge programs in West Virginia build on practical nursing foundations to prepare graduates for the RN scope of practice and the NCLEX-RN. You can expect coursework and supervised clinical experiences that emphasize:
- Role transition from LPN to RN, professional standards, and clinical judgment
- Health assessment with advanced physical exam techniques and documentation
- Pathophysiology and pharmacology across the lifespan
- Adult medical-surgical nursing, including complex and acute care
- Maternal-newborn and pediatric nursing
- Mental health and community/public health nursing
- Care coordination, informatics, leadership, and quality improvement
Programs include hands-on skills labs and direct patient care in approved clinical settings. Simulation may be used to supplement but not replace essential clinical experiences.
Accreditation and approval matter in West Virginia. State approval is required for eligibility to test and license. Programmatic accreditation by recognized nursing accreditors and institutional accreditation support credit transfer, employer recognition, federal financial aid eligibility, and access to graduate study.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
Across West Virginia, LPN to RN bridge options are offered by public community and technical colleges, state colleges, universities, and some private institutions. Tracks commonly lead to an Associate Degree in Nursing, with selected institutions offering streamlined pathways that progress toward the BSN.
Typical classes include:
- LPN to RN transition and professional practice
- Advanced health assessment and clinical decision making
- Adult health nursing I and II with clinical
- Maternal-newborn and pediatric nursing with clinical
- Psychiatric mental health nursing with clinical
- Community and population health
- Nursing leadership, ethics, and management
- Evidence-based practice and informatics
Clinical placements may occur in hospitals, rural critical access facilities, long-term care, home health, outpatient clinics, and public health sites under faculty supervision.
Career Outlook
Registered nurses in West Virginia work in hospitals, ambulatory care, long-term care, home health, public health, schools, and behavioral health. Rural communities rely on RNs for inpatient and community-based services, and statewide workforce reports have noted ongoing demand in many regions.
Compared with LPN practice, RNs have a broader scope that includes comprehensive assessment, care planning, patient education, care coordination, leadership responsibilities, and administration of a wider range of medications and therapies. This broader scope can open roles in acute care, specialty units, case management, public health, and supervisory positions.
Work schedules vary by setting. Hospital roles often use 12-hour shifts with nights, weekends, and holidays. Community and outpatient positions may offer more regular hours. Continuing education is required for RN license renewal as directed by the state board.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full-time bridge programs: often 12 to 18 months for LPN to ADN after prerequisites
- Part-time tracks: commonly 18 to 30 months depending on credit load and clinical scheduling
- Evening and weekend options: designed for working LPNs, frequently 18 to 24 months with labs and clinicals outside typical weekday hours
- LPN to BSN pathways: approximately 24 to 36 months full time after general education and transfer credits, longer part time
Actual completion time depends on prerequisite status, transfer credits, and clinical site availability.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in West Virginia
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia University |
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| Fairmont State University |
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| Potomac State College of West Virginia University |
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Tuition and Costs
Costs vary by institution and residency. As general guidance for West Virginia public programs:
- LPN to ADN bridges at community and technical colleges: total in-state tuition for nursing coursework often ranges from the mid four figures to the low teens
- LPN to BSN pathways at public universities: in-state tuition for upper-division nursing coursework commonly ranges from the low to mid tens of thousands
Additional expenses to plan for include textbooks and digital resources, uniforms and clinical shoes, stethoscope and supplies, immunizations and titers, background check and drug screen, liability insurance, skills and lab fees, and application and testing fees for graduation, NCLEX, and licensure. Many students commute; on-campus room and board at West Virginia public institutions typically adds several thousand dollars per academic year when available.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in West Virginia
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg |
|
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| New River Community and Technical College |
|
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| Potomac State College of West Virginia University |
|
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
In West Virginia, LPN to RN programs may offer:
- In-person formats with on-campus lectures, labs, and local clinicals
- Hybrid formats that deliver some didactic content online with required on-campus skills labs and in-person clinical rotations
- Selective online courses for general education and nursing theory, paired with supervised clinical experiences in approved West Virginia healthcare settings
Fully online pathways without in-person clinical learning are not permitted for initial RN preparation. Programs coordinate clinical placements and skills validation to meet state approval standards and prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN and practice in West Virginia.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in West Virginia
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
After completing an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become a Registered Nurse in West Virginia. You will apply to the West Virginia Board of Registered Professional Nurses for licensure by examination, submit an official transcript showing RN program completion, complete state and federal fingerprint-based background checks, and register for the NCLEX-RN exam. The Board issues your Authorization to Test after your application and eligibility are confirmed. Official results are sent to the Board; if you do not pass, you may retest according to NCLEX retake policies.
State-specific notes: West Virginia requires submission of an official transcript directly from the RN program and completion of required background checks before eligibility can be granted. The Board’s website provides application instructions, fees, and timelines.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
West Virginia licenses RNs by endorsement if you already hold an active RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction. Endorsement typically requires verification of your current license (via a primary-source method such as Nursys when applicable), a background check, evidence of approved RN education, and application with fees to the West Virginia Board of Registered Professional Nurses.
West Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. If West Virginia is your primary state of residence and you meet the Compact’s uniform licensure requirements, you may hold a multistate RN license that allows practice in other Compact states without obtaining additional licenses. If you reside in another Compact state and already hold a multistate license, you may practice in West Virginia under that license. West Virginia does not maintain separate reciprocity agreements outside the Compact; nurses from non-Compact states apply by endorsement and will hold a West Virginia single-state license unless and until they qualify for multistate privileges.
Licensure Requirements
The West Virginia Board of Registered Professional Nurses regulates RN licensure and practice. Key requirements for initial RN licensure by examination include:
- Completion of an approved RN education program (ADN or BSN), including LPN to RN bridge programs that meet Board standards
- Application for licensure by examination with required fees
- Official transcript sent directly from the nursing program to the Board
- State and federal criminal background checks with fingerprinting
- Registration for and successful passage of the NCLEX-RN
Graduates of out-of-state or international programs must meet substantially equivalent education requirements; international graduates may need credential evaluation and English proficiency consistent with Board rules.
License Renewal
West Virginia RN licenses renew annually. The Board opens renewal in the fall and renewal must be completed by the end of the calendar year to avoid lapse. For routine renewal, West Virginia requires continuing education rather than clinical practice hours.
- Continuing education: 12 contact hours are required each year
- Content requirement: At least 3 of those contact hours must address drug diversion and related substance use disorder topics within every two-year reporting cycle, consistent with West Virginia law
- Recordkeeping: Maintain CE completion records in case of audit
- Multistate status: RNs holding a Compact license must continue to meet Compact requirements, including maintaining West Virginia as the primary state of residence if WV is the multistate issuing state
The Board’s website provides the current renewal window, CE details, and any updates to requirements. Always confirm deadlines and approved content before submitting your renewal.
Average LPN State Salary in West Virginia
$52,540
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Average RN State Salary in West Virginia
$80,650
2024 RN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 to 18 months. For example, West Virginia University at Parkersburg offers a 16-month program, and Bluefield State University has a one-year accelerated option.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Nursing or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Program Focus:
These programs concentrate on the direct transition of an LPN into the role of a registered nurse, with a curriculum that includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience in various healthcare settings. The focus is on developing the clinical skills and judgment necessary for RN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in West Virginia:
Tuition varies by institution. For instance, West Virginia University at Parkersburg has a tuition range of $188-$260 per credit hour.
Best For:
LPNs seeking the fastest route to becoming an RN and entering the workforce with expanded responsibilities. It is also a good option for those who wish to continue working while studying, as many programs offer flexible hybrid formats.
School Types:
Community and technical colleges are the primary providers of LPN to ADN bridge programs in West Virginia. Examples include West Virginia Northern Community College, Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College, and BridgeValley Community and Technical College.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally under three years. West Virginia Wesleyan College offers an accelerated program that can be completed in as little as six semesters.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Program Focus:
These programs provide a comprehensive education that builds on the LPN's experience, focusing on advanced assessment, critical thinking, and clinical judgment. The curriculum often includes online didactic coursework combined with in-person clinical experiences and may have a focus on rural healthcare.
Average In-State Tuition in West Virginia:
Specific average tuition is not readily available and varies by university.
Best For:
LPNs who have long-term career goals that may include leadership, management, or advanced practice nursing roles, as a BSN provides a strong foundation for graduate studies. It is also ideal for those seeking a broader education in nursing science, humanities, and social sciences.
School Types:
Universities are the primary providers of LPN to BSN programs. Examples include West Virginia University (at Potomac State College), West Virginia Wesleyan College, and West Virginia State University.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Entry into the RN Role: These programs are generally shorter, allowing for a quicker transition to a registered nursing position.
- Lower Cost: Typically, tuition and fees at community and technical colleges are lower than at four-year universities.
- Immediate Career Advancement: Graduates can immediately take on more responsibilities and earn a higher salary as an RN.
- Flexible Scheduling: Many programs are designed to accommodate working LPNs with hybrid or part-time options.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Broader Career Opportunities: A BSN is often required for leadership, management, and specialized nursing roles.
- Foundation for Advanced Education: This degree is necessary for pursuing graduate studies, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
- Enhanced Skill Set: The curriculum provides a deeper understanding of nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice.
- Higher Earning Potential Long-Term: While the initial salary increase may be similar to that of an ADN-prepared RN, a BSN can lead to higher-paying positions over time.
List of LPN to RN Programs in West Virginia
Beaver, WV
New River Community and Technical College
- Associate - LPN to ADN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month intensive nursing program
- Hybrid learning format
- 100% employment rate
- Accredited by nursing board
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Designed for LPNs and paramedics
- Clinical experience included
- Workforce-ready skills
Bluefield, WV
Bluefield State University
- Associate - Accelerated LPN to RN, A.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- Complete in one year.
- 10-week summer transition course.
- Requires 2.8 GPA.
- Active LPN license needed.
- ATI TEAS Admission test required.
- 28 credits in NURS courses.
- Aggregate 2.0 GPA required.
- Campus-based program.
Fairmont, WV
Fairmont State University
- Associate - LPN to ASN
Online Learning - Website
- Online program with clinicals in WV.
- Complete in 12 to 18 months.
- Small class size, limited to 32.
- TEAs score of 60% required.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Transfer credits accepted.
- Cohort admissions in Fall, Spring, Summer.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN post-graduation.
Keyser, WV
Potomac State College of West Virginia University
- Associate - Nursing (LPN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Less than 3-year degree completion
- Hybrid learning format
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- State-approved nursing program
- CCNE accredited curriculum
- Evening/weekend class schedule
- Simulation and clinical experiences
- Requires 1 year LPN experience
- Bachelor's - Nursing (LPN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Less than 3-year program
- 22 hours escrow credits
- Hybrid learning format
- State-approved program
- CCNE accredited nursing degree
- Clinical practice across facilities
- Rural clinical experience included
- 50 hours community service
Morgantown, WV
West Virginia University
- Associate - LPN to Bachelor of Science
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Designed for working LPNs
- CCNE accredited program
- Keyser Campus location
- Three-year program completion
- Transition-focused nursing course
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/clinical program
- 22 escrow credits awarded
- Designed for working LPNs
- CCNE accredited program
- Weekend/evening course options
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Smooth nursing profession transition
- Flexible learning schedule
Parkersburg, WV
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month accelerated program
- Clinical experiences at local healthcare systems
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Active LPN license required
- Tuition ranges $188-$260 per credit
- Accredited by ACEN
- No entrance exam for LPNs
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