LPN to BSN Programs

How Does an LPN Get a BSN?

BSN, Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, is the most comprehensive of the three options for LPN to RN bridge programs. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, bachelor-prepared RNs account for 40% of total RNs. ADN is the second most popular choice, followed by the waning popularity of the diploma RN. Many RNs have a master of nursing or another advanced degree. There have been pushes for many years by various forces to make the BSN degree mandatory for all RNs. To date, these attempts have not been successful; however, the popularity of the BSN degree continues to rise.

Bachelor-prepared nurses have a stronger knowledge base and a broader overall education. In addition to the core nursing classes and clinical requirements, there are general education credits required. Classes such as English composition and social sciences classes must be taken. In addition, there are often public speaking classes, leadership classes, or similar ones. Having a bachelor’s degree opens many opportunities that are not available to nurses that are not as educated. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills allow BSN RNs to work in many different healthcare settings.

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.

One important thing to remember when bridging from LPN to RN is that your roles will change. This is because the legal scope of practice changes. This is often addressed in transition classes that are built into the LPN to RN Bridge program curriculum. The degree of change in daily responsibilities and legal limitations depends on the state in which you are practicing. Some states are very restrictive with the scope of practice for LPNs.

How Long Are LPN to BSN Programs?

Usually, a bachelor’s degree takes four years to earn. It encompasses general education requirements such as math, English, science, humanities, etc., in addition to the required nursing credits. Some LPN to BSN RN Bridge programs are shorter than this. The length of the program can vary based on any previously earned college credits, if applicable. BSN degrees usually require 120 credits. This may be higher depending on the educational institution.

Before admittance to an LPN to RN Bridge program, there is almost always entrance testing, and sometimes an interview is required. A minimum 2.0 GPA for LPN education and any college credit obtained is required as well. Once admitted, the student will enroll in classes either part-time or full-time. LPN to RN Bridge programs are offered by universities and community colleges. Average tuition at a community college starts around $17,000 for a three-year LPN to RN Bridge program. At a regular college or university, the cost can be higher. Financial aid is usually available. Worried about paying for LPN or RN school? See our guide on the cost of LPN school. We discuss not only the cost of LPN school but financial aid and the financial aid process.

Selecting the Best LPN to BSN Program

With a wide array of educational opportunities available, selecting the right BSN program for you may seem like a daunting task. Here are some options to consider when choosing a BSN program that will meet your needs best.

• Is the university and nursing program well established? How long has it been around? Is the program well-recognized and fully credentialed? What percentage of graduates find work quickly after graduation? What percentage of graduates pass their RN boards on their first attempt?

• How is the education provided? Is it campus-based or primarily online? Does the school follow a regular semester schedule, or is it possible to begin courses at any time? How available are instructors or advisors?

• Find out how long the program lasts. Is there a bridge program that results in an earlier graduation date? Do you have the option of obtaining an associate’s degree in nursing and sitting for the RN boards while you complete the requirements which lead to a bachelor’s degree in nursing?

• What will your education cost? If you currently work at a healthcare facility and you are planning to take advantage of a tuition reimbursement benefit, are there any restrictions on schools which your employer will reimburse tuition for? Are scholarships available? Does tuition have to be paid in full at the beginning of each course or semester, or do you have the option to spread out payments?

• If you are considering a program that is not local, find out if there is an on-campus commitment. If there is one, learn how frequently you have to be on campus.  Are low-cost housing and meals available when you are required to be on campus?

• What is the average class size? How many students are usually supervised by each instructor during clinicals? Smaller classes afford you the opportunity to get extra personalized attention. What resources are available if you need extra help on a subject? If you have special needs, ask what accommodations are available.

• What healthcare facilities is the college affiliated with? Are they the top hospitals in your area? As an LPN, you likely have an idea of what type of nursing you enjoy. Does the program offer opportunities to work in settings that interest you? If it is a distance learning program, how involved are you expected to be regarding setting up practicums?

• Is there an on-campus nursing simulation laboratory conveniently located? If you tour campus, be sure to take a careful look at the laboratory. The best nursing simulation labs contain state-of-the-art medical equipment. You will have opportunities to document electronic medical records and learn how to handle medical emergencies. Learn how the laboratory is utilized as that is as important as the equipment it contains.

• Find out if there is an opportunity to communicate with current students. They can tell you what the program's assets and shortcomings are.

It is important that you enroll in a nursing program that meets your needs. Many universities offer top-notch programs. The key is finding the right fit for you. Enrolling in the right program will make learning easier and prepare you for an outstanding career as an RN with a BSN degree.

Browse LPN/LVN to RN Programs in Your State

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LPN to BSN Classes & Courses

LPNs who pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing will find that a vast majority of the early coursework is based on the theoretical understanding of the biological and behavioral sciences and less on the practical curriculum that LPNs start with.  As a counterpoint to the heavily book-oriented course of study, clinical experiences do begin early in each program. These clinical learning environments will be familiar to LPNs who are changing career tracks and take place in schools, clinics, senior citizens’ centers, and care facilities. What LPNs may notice, however, is the greater responsibility and autonomy that is expected of students pursuing their BSN.  While course curricula and timelines may vary significantly between institutions, programs will include the following:

• Discuss the contents and roles of various genomes along with their identification and implications
• Review of the Human Genome project and the tools used in discovering and identifying sequences in a particular genome
• Become familiar with the analysis of gene expression
• Study the development of plants and animals at the organism and molecular level
• Study sequential morphological changes and gene expression during development, sexual maturation, and the aging process in humans, animals, and plants
• Analyze biological synthesis of commercial products and its relation to the genetic engineering of plants and animals
• Survey the diagnostic tools and production of recombinant vaccines
• Understand the organization and structure of the immune system including immunological techniques
• Learn about the molecular and cellular foundations of immunity, histocompatibility antigens, autoimmune disorders, and the role of sanitation
• Understand the various bodily systems (integumentary, reproductive, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, digestive, urinary, cardiovascular, lymphatic, and respiratory).
• Develop an overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms in a cell.
• Understand evolution, diversity, and ecology and the roles that each has on human physiology.
• Discuss the diversity of living organisms as it relates to evolutionary processes.
• Explore evolution including mechanisms of speciation, extinction, adaptive radiation, and phylogenetic
• Study the structure, physiology, development, and classification of animals - beginning with protozoa and ending with vertebrate mammals
• Understand and endorse practices associated with person- and family-centered care
• Develop empowering partnerships with patients and families
• Survey the healthcare system in current and theoretical models, as well as the role of the hospital, insurance, and regulatory stakeholders
• Understand and emulate workflow best practices for nurses in various kinds of medical environments
• Assess popular ethical and decision-making models to give students a framework for patient care and professional behavior that upholds medical standards.
• Participate in a range of clinical settings with mentors and partners, first as an observer, and then with greater opportunities for autonomy as experience and skillsets develop
• Analyze and evaluate the many aspects of clinical experience

BSN Careers

As an LPN, you provide care in many patient areas. Unfortunately, some of the most interesting areas of nursing require that you are a registered nurse.

Cardiovascular Intensive Care (CVICU) Nurse

Limited opportunities exist for LPNs who desire to care for critically ill cardiac patients. Greater opportunities for working in a cardiovascular intensive care unit, CVICU, exist if you become a registered nurse and obtain your Bachelor of Science, BSN, or another degree in nursing. Getting your BSN, in addition to obtaining licensure as an RN, will open many doors for you as you pursue a career in cardiovascular nursing.

Case Management Nurse

One expanding field which needs RNs who have a BSN is case management. Due to regulatory issues, case management is the domain of RNs, particularly RNs with bachelor's or higher degrees. If you desire to work as a case manager, becoming an RN with a BSN degree will open doors that were previously closed to you. Learn more about Case management careers. Learn more about a career as a case manager.

Critical Care Nurse

While limited opportunities exist for LPNs who desire to care for critically ill patients, your likelihood of working in critical care will be vastly improved if you become a registered nurse. Getting your BSN in addition to obtaining licensure as an RN will broaden your career opportunities in critical care even further. Learn more about a career as a critical care nurse.

Diabetes Nurse Educator

As an LPN, you work with many people who have diabetes. You know that people who are diagnosed with diabetes have complex medical needs. It is challenging for you and your patients to keep abreast of all of the ongoing recommendations and changes in care that people who have diabetes require. Research a career as a diabetes nurse educator as well as the education needed.

LPN Instructor

Have you ever thought about how interesting it might be to become a nursing instructor? If you would like to educate people and help to prepare them to become LPNs or CNAs, you need to become a registered nurse and obtain your bachelor’s degree in nursing. Since you are already a licensed practical nurse, you have firsthand knowledge about what students need to know. Being a nursing instructor can be a great career option. It offers many professional and personal perks. Research a career as an LPN instructor.

Military Nurse

Military nursing provides benefits that are unmatched by private industries. Nurses are officers in the military. Only registered nurses who possess bachelor’s degrees in nursing are eligible to serve as military nurses. If you are an LPN and you want to help the exceptional men and women who serve this country, consider obtaining your Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN, degree and becoming a registered nurse. Read about a career as a military nurse.

Nurse Coach

Have you heard about the growing opportunities for nurse coaches? Nurse coaching is an exciting and growing nursing specialty area. Nurse coaches work in a vast array of healthcare settings. Many nurse coaches go into private practice, which is unusual among nursing careers. LPNs are not employed as nurse coaches. If you want to become a nurse coach, you must be a registered nurse and obtain your bachelor’s degree in nursing. Learn more about a career as a nurse coach.

Pain Management Nurse

You became an LPN in order to help people optimize their health and quality of life. Unfortunately, you see many individuals who are unable to live well because they suffer from poorly managed pain. As an LPN, your ability to help relieve their suffering is limited. If you become an RN you will be able to do more to comfort them. While some pain management opportunities exist for RNs who do not possess Bachelor’s degrees, more opportunities are available for nurses who have obtained their BSN degrees.   I encourage you to obtain your BSN degree and become an RN if you want to enter the exciting field of pain management. Research a career as a pain management nurse.

Perianesthesia (PACU) Nurse

Perianesthesia (PACU) nurses provide care to patients who undergo surgical or other medical procedures which require sedation. They work in hospital and outpatient settings. PACU nurses are registered nurse experts who ensure that patients recovering from anesthesia are safe and comfortable. PACU nursing is a critical care nursing specialty that offers nurses many benefits while they provide high-quality patient care. Learn more about a career as a PACU nurse.

Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurse

Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurses provide lifesaving care to very sick children. If you would like to work in a PICU you must first become a registered nurse. Potential employers may hire you directly into a PICU or they may require that you gain experience working with children in another setting first.

Employers prefer that you are a registered nurse who possesses a bachelor’s degree in nursing if you want to work as a PICU nurse. Read on to explore a career as a PICU nurse.

Public Health Nurse

The majority of public health nursing positions are only available to RNs who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. LPNs who seek to work in public health may want to investigate nursing programs that offer credit for prior course work and professional experience so that they may make a smooth transition from being an LPN to becoming a registered nurse in the field of public health.  Explore a career as a public health nurse.

School Nurse

A school nurse may work in one school or several. Some districts utilize emergency medical technicians or other health care professionals. The registered nurse provides supervision and serves as a resource to those health care providers. Be prepared to earn your BSN and become an RN. Learn more about a career as a school nurse.

List of Accredited LPN/LVN to BSN Programs

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

Other LPN bridge program options:

• CNA to LPN Programs
• LPN to RN Programs
• Online LPN to RN Programs
• LPN to ADN Programs
• Online LPN Programs