LPN to RN Programs

Interested in an Online LPN to RN program?

Many LPNs wish to expand their clinical skills and scope of practice by becoming RNs. Because of the current nursing shortage in the United States, educational institutions are making it more convenient and timely way to earn an RN degree.

What Is an LPN to RN Program? What Are My Options in 2023?

An LPN to RN program is an educational path, often delivered at an accelerated pace, that prepares LPNs to become licensed as registered nurses (RNs). These programs are in-depth and delve more into nursing theory than technical bedside tasks. They are structured to build upon the skills learned in LPN school and to prepare the student to take on more clinical responsibility, increase critical thinking and decision-making, and work in an expanded scope of practice. Students enrolled in LPN to RN programs can choose to earn either an ADN or BSN degree in preparation for their RN license.

Best Ways to Find LPN to RN Bridge Programs Near Me

So where should a prospective LPN to RN student start looking for a program? Starting with local community colleges is an excellent way to begin your journey. Most campuses offer some type of bridge program, and students can compare programs as well as tuition rates. School websites tend to be very transparent - tuition rates, prerequisites, admission requirements, and curriculum courses are usually posted online.

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 RN Bridge Programs and How Does an LPN Become an RN?

Whether you are already an LPN, currently in school, or just interested in nursing, it is a good idea to consider furthering your education and career by becoming a registered nurse. Registered nursing is the next logical step up from LPN. Some duties and responsibilities are similar, or even the same. However, there are also many differences between an LPN and an RN.  LPN to RN programs are sometimes referred to as “bridge programs.” This is because the course of study essentially “bridges the gap” between the two career levels. Bridge programs are designed specifically for one group of nurses; in this case, LPNs wishing to become RNs. Due to this specific cohort of students, programs are streamlined to get students through the coursework relatively quickly. Further, certain bridge programs may also allow students to test out of certain courses based on test scores and experience.

Types of LPN to RN Programs

There are two types of LPN to RN programs - LPN to ADN and LPN to BSN, depending on whether the LPN wishes to earn an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing (BSN). The ADN is the entry-level degree required for RNs; however, as stated earlier, the BSN is becoming the preferred entry-level degree. Both programs involve the expanded scope of practice for RNs, but the BSN program incorporates leadership and management, public health, and research principles as well as more nursing theory (as opposed to nursing tasks).

BSN nurses are also in a better position to further advance their careers to advanced-practice nursing or organizational leadership and management. Due to this, the LPN to BSN pathway is a bit longer than the LPN to ADN route. Overall, however, the time to completion is extremely variable, depending on the program, learning format, and whether the LPN has the option to “test out” certain classes.

Hybrid/Online LPN to RN Programs

Most schools understand that nurses seeking a higher degree level are likely already out in the workforce. Because of this, many bridge programs are delivered online or in a “hybrid” format. Online programs are a great choice because they offer flexibility. Students can learn at their own pace and in full or part-time status, and admissions are “rolling” throughout the year. Students don’t have to worry about commuting to campus, parking, and walking to class - they can simply log in from home.

While online learning has many benefits, it has disadvantages as well. Some students rely on the support of student peers and need to consult with faculty face-to-face. Many find that online learning is isolating.

A happy medium between the two is a “hybrid” learning format. Depending on the program, some classes are taught online, while some require campus visits. Students, in this case, get the best of both worlds. See our section on online LPN to RN programs here.

The Importance of Accreditation

The two main accrediting bodies for nursing programs in the United States are the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The ACEN accredits all levels of nursing degrees, while the CCNE accredits baccalaureate programs and higher. Accreditation by these bodies ensures the nursing curriculum is standardized and meets current evidence-based practice standards. Sometimes, there are local accreditation entities, but students should be aware that these may not count for licensure, especially in another state.

Demand in 2023 for Campus or Online LPN to RN Programs

Remarkably, there is a great demand for LPN to RN programs. In recent years, LPNs were displaced from most inpatient settings and are working in outpatient clinics, nursing facilities, and schools. Many LPNs enjoy the challenges and excitement of inpatient nursing and wish to focus their career on acute care, opting to return to school to become RNs. Additionally, some LPNs hope to advance their clinical and leadership skills, and becoming an RN helps to achieve this. Finally, RNs earn more overall. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs earn a median salary of about $75,000 annually, compared to an LPN salary of about $48,000. See our breakdown of LPN to RN salary comparisons.

Overall demand for LPN to RN bridge program is also a result of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s position that the number of BSN nurses in the workforce should increase significantly in the coming years. Research has shown that BSN nurses in the healthcare setting result in lower patient mortality rates as well as improved patient care outcomes. Because of this recommendation, employers are actively seeking out BSN nurses when hiring and offering an educational incentive for current nurses.

LPN to RN Program Prerequisites

LPNs looking to return to school for their RN degree may not know where to start, or what admission criteria are needed. While admission requirements may vary slightly between programs, prospective students may need to:

• Provide proof of a high school diploma or GED
• Possess an unencumbered LPN license
• Submit proof of graduation from an accredited LPN program
• Demonstrate a GPA of 2.0 or higher in general education or LPN courses (specific GPA may vary between schools)
• Provide evidence of a specific number of clinical experience hours (determined by each state’s board of registered nursing)
• Have a current BLS/CPR certification
• Have completed specific general education requirements which may include:
  • English Composition
  • College Algebra or Statistics
  • Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Microbiology
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Sociology
• Have completed specific nursing courses such as:
  • Adult medical-surgical nursing
  • Maternal-child nursing
  • Psychiatric Nursing
  • Pediatric Nursing

Additionally, some programs may require writing samples or completion of National League of Nursing (NLN) Acceleration Challenge exams or the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam.

LPN to RN Classes and Courses

LPNs transitioning to the RN role have the benefit of prior knowledge in the field of nursing. Not only do they have the formal educational background from the LPN program, but they also have clinical experience from being out in the workforce.

Courses may vary depending on the school and degree type (ADN vs. BSN), but may include:

• Anatomy, physiology, and chemistry if not taken before, or taken more than several years before enrollment (a span of time may vary between schools)
• Adult Nursing and assessment- theory and clinical
• Leadership and management (BSN)
• Research (BSN)
• Communication
• Pediatric nursing and assessment-theory and clinical
• Pharmacology
• Collegiate writing
• Role transition

Additionally, clinical rotations/experiences are required for graduation. It’s important for LPNs to apply nursing theory into practice while developing their new role as an RN. If attending a program through a local college, the school will assign students to area hospitals, usually in groups. For online programs, many schools have agreements with various healthcare facilities in multiple states.

The clinical areas students may rotate through include:

• Adult acute care (ICU, ED, Med/Surg)
• Pediatric acute care
• Ambulatory care
• Mental Health
• Community Health (may include Home Health or school nursing)
• Labor/Delivery/Recovery/Post-Partum

Selecting the Best Online LPN to RN Program in 2023

Once prospective students identify local colleges and potential online program choices, they will need to compare the programs to fit their needs best. Some of the most common considerations may include:

• Cost - Tuition varies greatly depending on the school as well as the state. Financial aid options are usually readily available. Another consideration is out-of-state tuition costs.

• Accreditation - All LPN to RN programs, including both campus and online programs, must include which entity they are accredited by. As stated earlier, students should look for ACEN or CCNE accreditation.

• Online/Hybrid Options - Students who wish to enroll in an online program should determine clinical rotation requirements. They should not expect a completely online-only program, as clinical hours are required by state nursing boards for licensure as an RN. Additionally, they should find out where exactly their clinical rotations will take place - which facility and which clinical areas.

Another option for prospective students is LPN to RN "credit by exam". This means that students can test out of certain college classes. In other words, by passing the exams, college credits are earned. This helps to fast-track students through the bridge program.

The first step in this process is evaluation. Prior college courses are assessed, and students are given credit for certain coursework already completed. Students then enroll in a test-prep class for specific courses they will need to graduate. After that, students can enroll in courses. After an accelerated length of time (around four to ten weeks), students may take the exams for college credits.

The next step involves a clinical externship or exam. Depending on the college associated with the credit by exam, additional clinical experience may be required. Then the student is eligible to take the state NCLEX exam.

Online LPN to RN Program Advantages

The first and probably most important advantage of online programs is that they are flexible. This is because online bridge programs are geared toward non-traditional students. Online LPN to RN Bridge programs often have rolling admissions and year-round class schedules. The application process for many online programs is more relaxed than for traditional programs. Online schools also tend to be cheaper than their counterparts. One other hallmark of flexibility is the ability to enroll in part or full-time. Some nurses have used online programs, one class, at a time to further their education. While not ideal, it is an option for those who are very busy. Another positive is that online programs are convenient. Attending a university or college online eliminates the driving time, cost of fuel, and parking permits. It puts the focus on learning.

Online LPN to RN Program Disadvantages

There are several cons to online bridge programs as well. The first is that some students feel isolated. Because online bridge programs do not have a physical meeting place, there is a reduction in human interaction and human contact while engaged in the learning process.

Another issue that may occur at the same time as and be compounded by the previous issue is the certain “sink or swim” culture in some programs. When attending an online LPN to RN Bridge program, there are fewer chances to ask for help when learning. There is not as much peer interaction and it can be easy to fall behind. This may lead to failing a class and having to retake it. It is prudent for the online bridge program student to stay organized and ahead of schedule. Always ask for help sooner than later.

Some online LPN to RN Bridge programs require a contract. This can be an inconvenience and possibly more. These contracts may require the student to pay for classes not taken if they transfer or withdraw. Failed classes and leaves of absence may cause fines or break a contract. Always make sure you understand a contract is deciding to enter into it.

In the end, the choice is for each individual to make. Some students prefer online LPN to RN Bridge programs and excel in them. Other nurses need traditional brick-and-mortar programs to be happy with their education and stay on track.

Full List of Accredited Online LPN to RN Programs in 2023

The list below contains programs that offer online and hybrid LPN to RN programs, please follow the website links to get more information about each program.