LPN to BSN Programs

In the evolving landscape of healthcare, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are presented with a myriad of opportunities to advance their careers and contribute more extensively to patient care. One of the significant avenues available to LPNs seeking to broaden their horizons is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through LPN to BSN bridge programs. These specialized programs provide a seamless pathway for LPNs to enhance their clinical skills, deepen their theoretical knowledge, and embrace leadership roles in nursing.

What Is an LPN to BSN Bridge Program?

An LPN to BSN bridge program is designed to cater to the needs of practicing LPNs who aspire to transition into the role of a Registered Nurse (RN) by attaining a bachelor's degree in nursing. These programs are tailored to build upon the foundational knowledge and practical experience that LPNs have already acquired. LPNs bring their invaluable hands-on experience, an intimate understanding of patient care settings, and a profound awareness of the healthcare ecosystem while also acquiring a new set of skills and understanding in the world of nursing.

Are Online LPN to BSN Programs Available?

While in-person clinical hours will have to be arranged, an online LPN to BSN program can be a rewarding and viable option for LPNs who are interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree. These online programs cater to the needs of LPNs seeking to juggle their work, family commitments, and educational aspirations. Online LPN to BSN programs often feature interactive virtual classrooms, video lectures, virtual simulations, and online discussion boards, providing students with the opportunity to engage with course materials and interact with peers remotely.

Why Should an LPN Get a BSN Degree?

Obtaining a BSN degree offers a multitude of benefits for LPNs looking to advance their nursing careers. BSN-educated RNs typically have access to a broader array of job opportunities. Hospitals, nursing homes, and other typical employment facilities for nurses are valid options.

In addition, specialties such as endoscopy centers, cancer treatment centers, and administrative positions open up. Nurses of this high caliber are also able to educate patients and promote healthy living and management of existing medical conditions. When an RN earns a BSN, there are opportunities to work in broader settings than an associate or a diploma RN. Specialties like pediatrics, wound care, critical care, or school nurse can be chosen. Some hospitals, especially magnet hospitals, have chosen to hire only BSN RNs. Once a BSN is obtained, further specialization can be obtained, such as school nurse certification, critical care nurse certification, diabetes educator, and more.

bsn

LPN to BSN vs. LPN to ADN

As LPNs consider their options for nursing advancement, they often encounter the choice between pursuing an LPN to BSN program or an LPN to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program. Both paths lead to RN licensure, but there are significant distinctions to consider. LPN to BSN programs grant a more comprehensive education, including a broader array of nursing courses, leadership training, and opportunities for specialization.

On the other hand, LPN to ADN programs often offer a shorter time frame for completion, allowing for a quicker entry into the workforce. The choice between the two depends on individual career goals, time availability, and aspirations for higher education. Below is a table that demonstrates the important distinctions between the two options.

ProgramLPN to RNLPN to ADNLPN to BSN
Length1-2 years1-2 years2-4 years
Credential earnedAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
CourseworkNursing theory, pharmacology, patient care, leadership, and communication skillsNursing theory, patient care, pharmacology, and communication skillsNursing theory, patient care, pharmacology, leadership, communication skills, and additional general education courses
Clinical experience requiredYesYesYes
Admission requirementsActive LPN license, completion of prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, passing score on entrance exam, and letters of recommendationActive LPN license, completion of prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, passing score on entrance exam, and letters of recommendationActive LPN license, completion of prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, passing score on entrance exam, and letters of recommendation
Advancement opportunitiesRNs have more opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a charge nurse, clinical nurse leader, or nurse practitionerRNs have more opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a charge nurse or clinical nurse leaderBSN-prepared nurses have more opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a nurse manager, nurse educator, or nurse practitioner. Additionally, some employers require a BSN degree for certain positions.
CostVaries depending on the program and location, but generally less expensive than BSN programsVaries depending on the program and location, but generally less expensive than BSN programsVaries depending on the program and location, but generally more expensive than ADN and LPN to RN programs

Enrolling in an Online or Campus LPN to BSN Program

When deciding between enrolling in an LPN to BSN program, candidates must consider whether to opt for an online or campus-based program. Online programs provide flexibility, allowing LPNs to pursue their education while balancing work and family commitments. These programs often feature asynchronous learning, enabling students to engage with course materials on their schedules. Campus-based programs, on the other hand, offer face-to-face interaction with instructors and classmates, fostering a sense of community and facilitating hands-on learning experiences.

Browse LPN/LVN to RN Programs in Your State

Select the state below to see a full list of LPN/LVN to RN bridge programs.

LPN to BSN Admissions

Admission requirements for LPN to BSN programs can vary among institutions, but several common prerequisites exist. Prospective students typically need to provide:

  • Proof of a high school diploma or GED

  • Possess a valid, unencumbered LPN license

  • Meet or pass the institution’s minimum GPA requirement

  • Meet the minimum clinical hour requirements

  • Take any required composite courses

  • Pass the interview and submit a completed application

LPN to BSN Program Tuition Costs

Tuition costs for LPN to BSN programs can vary significantly based on factors such as the geographical location of the institution, the format of the program (online or on-campus), and the duration of the program. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $35,000 to $60,000. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, may be available to eligible students to alleviate the financial burden of tuition expenses. Many institutions offer resources to guide students through the process of applying for financial aid.

LPN to BSN Program Length

The length of an LPN to BSN program varies based on factors such as the program's structure, the student's enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and the student's prior education. Generally, LPN to BSN programs take around 2 to 4 years to complete. The curriculum includes a blend of general education courses, nursing theory, clinical practicum, and hands-on skill development. During clinical rotations, students apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings, refining their clinical competence under the guidance of experienced nursing professionals.

List of Accredited LPN/LVN to BSN Programs

ProgramWebsite
LPN to RN/BSN Online
Online Program - Achieve offers a fast-track program that combines the effectiveness of real classroom learning with the speed of credit-by- examination.
NOTE: MUST BE A LPN/LVN TO APPLY
Alderson Broaddus University
LPN to BSN
101 College Hill Drive
Philippi, WV
(304) 457-1700
Arkansas State University
LPN to BSN
2105 Aggie Rd.
Jonesboro, AR
(870) 972-2100
Arkansas Tech University
LPN to BSN
215 West O Street
Russellville, AR
(844) 804-2628
Azusa Pacific University
LVN to BSN
901 E. Alosta Ave. PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA
(626) 969-3434
Berkeley College - Woodland Park
LPN to BSN
44 Rifle Camp Rd
Woodland Park, NJ
(973) 278-5400
Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing & Health Sciences
LPN to BSN
3609 N. Marx Drive
Quincy, IL
(217) 228-5520
Bradley University
LPN to BSN
1501 W Bradley Ave
Peoria, IL
(309) 676-7611
California State University, East Bay
LVN to BSN
25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard
Hayward, CA
(510) 885-3000
California State University, Fullerton
LVN to BSN
800 N State College Blvd
Fullerton, CA
(657) 278-2011
California State University, San Marcos
LVN to BSN
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd.
San Marcos, CA
(760) 750-4000
California State University, Stanislaus
LVN to BSN
One University Circle
Turlock, CA
(209) 667-3141
Chamberlain College of Nursing - Cleveland
LPN to BSN
6700 Euclid Ave
Cleveland, OH
(216) 361-6005
Chamberlain College of Nursing - Columbus
LPN to BSN
1350 Alum Creek Dr,
Columbus, OH
(614) 252-8890
Chamberlain College of Nursing - Houston
LPN to BSN
11025 Equity Dr
Houston, TX
(713) 277-9800
Chamberlain College of Nursing - Irving
LPN to BSN
4800 Regent Blvd
Irving, TX
(469) 706-6705
Chamberlain College of Nursing - Pearland
LPN to BSN
12000 Shadow Creek Pkwy
Pearland, TX
(832) 664-7000
Chamberlain University - St. Louis
LPN to BSN
11830 Westline Industrial Dr #106
St Louis, MO
(877) 751-5783
Clarkson College
LPN to BSN
101 S. 42 Street
Omaha, NE
(402) 552-3100
Colorado Mesa University
LPN to BSN
1100 North Ave
Grand Junction, CO
(970) 248-1020
Cox College
LPN to ADN,LPN to BSN
1423 N. Jefferson Ave
Springfield, MO
(417) 269-3401
Dakota Wesleyan University
LPN to BSN
1200 W University Ave
Mitchell, SD
(800) 333-8506
Davenport University
LPN to BSN
6191 Kraft Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 698-7111
Dillard University
LPN to BSN
2601 Gentilly Boulevard
New Orleans, LA
(504) 283-8822
East Tennessee State University
LPN to BSN
1276 Gilbreath Dr
Johnson City, TN
(423) 439-4578
Eastern Mennonite University
LPN to BSN
1200 Park Road
Harrisonburg, VA
(540) 432-4000
Fitchburg State University
LPN to BSN
160 Pearl St.
Fitchburg, MA
(978) 665-3000
Fort Hays Sate University
LPN to BSN
600 Park Street
Hays, KS
(785) 628-3478
Georgia Southern University
LPN to BSN
11935 Abercorn Street
Savannah, GA
(800) 633-2349
Georgia Southwestern State University
LPN to BSN
800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive
Americus, GA
(877) 871-4594
Hampton University - College of Virginia Beach
LPN to BSN
253 Town Center Drive, Suite 1035
Virginia Beach, VA
(757) 637-2200
Hawaii Pacific University
LPN to BSN
1 Aloha Tower Drive
Honolulu, HI
(808) 544-0200
Helena College University of Montana
LPN to RN/BSN
1115 N Roberts St
Helena, MT
(406) 447-6900
Hesston College
LPN to ADN,LPN to BSN
301 S. Main St.
Hesston, KS
(620) 327-4221
Indiana State University
LPN to BSN
200 N 7th St
Terre Haute, IN
(812) 237-6311
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
LPN to BSN
1010 Oakland Avenue
Indiana, PA
(724) 357-2557
Iowa Wesleyan University
LPN to BSN
601 N. Main Street
Mount Pleasant, IA
(800) 582-2383
Kettering College
LPN to BSN
3737 Southern Blvd.
Kettering, OH
(937) 395-8601
Lakeview College of Nursing - Charleston
LPN to BSN
580 W. Lincoln Avenue
Charleston, IL
(217) 345-1575
Lakeview College of Nursing - Danville
LPN to BSN
903 N. Logan Avenue
Danville, IL
(217) 709-0920
Langston University
LPN to BSN
701 Sammy Davis Jr Dr
Langston, OK
(405) 466-2231
Lewis-Clark State College
LPN to BSN
500 8th Avenue
Lewiston, ID
(208) 792-5272
Liberty University
LPN to BSN
1971 University Blvd
Lynchburg, VA
(434) 582-2000
Lourdes University
LPN to BSN
6832 Convent Blvd.
Sylvania, OH
(800) 878-3210
Madonna University
LPN to BSN
36600 Schoolcraft Road
Livonia, MI
(734) 432-5339
Martin Methodist College
LPN to BSN
433 West Madison St.
Pulaski, TN
(931) 363-9804
Marywood University
LPN to BSN
2300 Adams Avenue
Scranton, PA
(570) 348-6211
McNeese State University
LPN to BSN
4205 Ryan Street
Lake Charles, LA
(337) 475-5000
Midland University
LPN to BSN
900 North Clarkson
Fremont, NE
(800) 642-8382
Molloy College
LPN to BSN/RN
1000 Hempstead Avenue
Rockville Centre, NY
(516) 323-3000
Montana State University - Bozeman
LPN to BSN
211 Montana Hall
Bozeman, MT
(406) 994-0211
Mount Saint Mary College
LPN to BSN
330 Powell Ave
Newburgh, NY
(845) 561-0800
National University
LVN to BSN
16875 West Bernardo Drive, Ste 150
San Diego, CA
(858) 521-3900
Nazareth College
LPN to BSN
4245 East Ave
Rochester, NY
(585) 389-2525
Nebraska Methodist College
LPN to BSN
720 N. 87th Street
Omaha, NE
(402) 354-7000
Nicholls State University
LPN to BSN
906 East 1st St.
Thibodaux, LA
(877) 642-4655
Norfolk State University
LPN to BSN
700 Park Avenue
Norfolk, VA
(757) 823-8600
North Dakota State University
LPN to BSN
1919 University Drive North
Fargo, ND
(701) 231-7395
Northern Michigan University
LPN to BSN
1401 Presque Isle Ave
Marquette, MI
(906) 227-1000
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
LPN to BSN
709 Oklahoma Blvd.
Alva, OK
(580) 327-1700
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
LPN to BSN
175 Sam Sibley Dr
Natchitoches, LA
(318) 357-6011
Oklahoma Baptist University
LPN to BSN
500 W. University Ave
Shawnee, OK
(405) 585-4000
Pacific Lutheran University
LPN to BSN
12180 Park Ave S
Tacoma, WA
(253) 535-7411
Pennsylvania State University - College of Nursing
LPN to BSN
Old Main
State College, PA
(814) 865-5471
Piedmont College - Athens
LPN to BSN
595 Prince Ave
Athens, GA
(706) 548-8505
Piedmont College - Demorest
LPN to BSN
1021 Central Ave
Demorest, GA
(706) 778-3000
Prairie View A&M University
LVN to BSN
100 University Dr
Prairie View, TX
(936) 261-3311
Presentation College
LPN to BSN
1500 North Main Street
Aberdeen, SD
(800) 437-6060
Saint Xavier University
LPN to BSN
3700 W. 103rd Street
Chicago, IL
(844) 468-6798
Salem State University
LPN to BSN
352 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA
(978) 542-6000
Sam Houston State University
LVN to BSN
1905 University Ave
Huntsville, TX
(936) 294-1111
Sentara College of Health Sciences
LPN to BSN
1441 Crossways Blvd. - Suite 105
Chesapeake, VA
(757) 388-2900
Southeastern Louisiana University
LPN to BSN
500 W University Ave
Hammond, LA
(800) 222-7358
Southwestern Adventist University
LVN to BSN
100 W. Hillcrest Street
Keene, TX
(817) 645-3921
Tarleton State University - Stephenville
LVN to BSN
1333 W Washington St
Stephenville, TX
(254) 968-9000
Tarleton State University - Waco
LVN to BSN
1400 College Dr
Waco, TX
(254) 299-8322
Union College
LPN to BSN
3800 South 48th Street
Lincoln, NE
(402) 486-2600
Union University School of Nursing - Jackson Campus
LPN to BSN
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TN
(731) 661-6545
University of Akron
LPN to BSN
302 E Buchtel Ave
Akron, OH
(330) 972-7111
University of Arkansas
LPN to BSN
1 University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
(479) 575-2000
University of Arkansas at Monticello
LPN to BSN, LPN to RN
346 University Dr.
Monticello, AR
(870) 460-1026
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
LPN to BSN
1200 University Dr.
Pine Bluff, AR
(870) 575-8000
University of Central Arkansas
LPN to BSN
201 Donaghey Ave.
Conway, AR
(501) 450-5000
University of Louisiana Monroe
LPN to BSN
700 University Ave.
Monroe, LA
(318) 342-1640
University of Mary
LPN to BSN
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND
(701) 355-8030
University of North Dakota
LPN to BSN
430 Oxford St Stop 9025
Grand Forks, ND
(701) 777-4174
University of Oklahoma - Health Sciences Center
LPN to BSN
1100 N Stonewall Ave
Oklahoma City, OK
(405) 271-4000
University of Scranton
LPN to BSN
800 Linden St
Scranton, PA
(570) 941-7400
Walla Walla University
LPN to BSN
204 South College Avenue
College Place, WA
(800) 541-8900
Walla Walla University
LPN to BSN
10355 SE Market St,
Portland, OR
(503) 251-6115 x17304
Washburn University
LPN to BSN
1700 SW College Ave
Topeka, KS
(785) 670-1010
Wayland Baptist University - San Antonio
LVN to BSN
11550 Interstate 35 Frontage Rd
San Antonio, TX
(210) 826-7595
Waynesburg University
LPN to BSN
51 West College Street
Waynesburg, PA
(800) 225-7393
West Coast University
LPN to BSN
9250 NW 36th St
Doral, FL
(866) 508-2684
West Coast University - Dallas
LVN to BSN
8435 N. Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX
(214) 453-4533
West Coast University - Los Angeles
LVN to BSN
12215 Victory Boulevard
North Hollywood, CA
(818) 299-5500
West Coast University - Ontario
LVN to BSN
2855 E. Guasti Rd.
Ontario, CA
(909) 467-6100
West Coast University - Orange County
LVN to BSN
1477 S. Manchester Ave.
Anaheim, CA
(714) 782-1700
West Texas A&M University
LVN to BSN
2501 4th Ave
Canyon, TX
(806) 651-0000
Wichita State University
LPN to BSN
1845 Fairmout Street
Wichita, KS
(316) 978-3456
Wilkes University
LPN to BSN
84 W South St
Wilkes-Barre, PA
(570) 408-5000
William Carey University - Hattiesburg
LPN to BSN
710 William Carey Parkway
Hattiesburg, MS
(601) 318-6051
William Carey University - Tradition
LPN to BSN
19640 Highway 67
Biloxi, MS
(601) 318-6051
Worcester State
LPN to BSN
486 Chandler St
Worcester, MA
(508) 929-8000

Are we missing your school's program or need to make changes to the information listed? Please contact us.

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Last Updated/Verified: Apr 27, 2024