Best Hawaii LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026

Hawaii’s LPN to RN bridge programs prepare students for registered nursing through a combination of advanced coursework and direct patient care. Programs emphasize clinical reasoning, cultural competence, and leadership in healthcare. Graduates are eligible to apply for RN licensure after meeting state requirements.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN to RN Programs in Hawaii

At practicalnursing.org, we rank the best LPN to RN programs in Hawaii to help working nurses move up the career ladder. These bridge programs give licensed practical nurses the chance to earn an associate degree in nursing and sit for the RN licensure exam. Our rankings focus on what matters most to students, including NCLEX pass rates, accreditation, program cost, and flexibility for working professionals. Hawaii's top programs blend classroom theory with hands-on clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Whether the goal is better pay, more responsibility, or expanded job options, choosing the right school is a big step. To understand exactly how we evaluate each school, check out the full methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - hpu.edu

Associate - LPN/LVN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Hawaii Pacific University's LPN/LVN to BSN pathway gives licensed practical nurses a direct route to a bachelor's degree. This campus-based program leverages existing experience, integrating general education, prerequisites, and advanced clinical coursework. You'll sharpen critical thinking and clinical reasoning for RN licensure in hospitals, clinics, and community health. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Hawaii Board of Nursing, the 120-credit curriculum includes Oahu clinical rotations. Admission requires an unencumbered LPN license, 3.0 GPA, two letters of support, and a personal statement. TEAS is required but waivable for strong candidates; no ACT/SAT needed. Maintain a 2.75 nursing GPA and C grades or better in nursing courses. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
120 total credit hours
3.0 GPA minimum
2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
Prerequisite courses required
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
TEAS exam waiver available

Bachelor's - LPN/LVN to BSN Pathway

Campus Based - Visit Website

Hawaii Pacific University's LPN/LVN to BSN pathway helps licensed practical nurses advance their careers through a campus-based curriculum rooted in advanced nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and leadership. The program includes 60 credit hours of major courses atop general education and prerequisites, plus clinical experiences across Oahu. This CCNE-accredited, Hawai`i Board of Nursing-approved BSN totals 120 credit hours. Admission requires an unencumbered LPN license, a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The TEAS entrance exam is required but may be waived for strong candidates; ACT/SAT is not required. Students must maintain a 2.75 nursing GPA and earn C or better in each nursing course. Small class sizes, scholarships, financial aid, and a military-friendly environment provide robust support.

CCNE accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
120 total credit hours
3.0 GPA minimum
2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
Approved by Hawai`i Board of Nursing
Requires current unencumbered LPN/LVN license

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Kauai Community College

Lihue, HI - Public 2-Year - kauai.hawaii.edu

Associate - LPN – RN Transition pathway

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kauai Community College offers an LPN-to-RN transition pathway leading to an Associate of Science in Nursing. This ACEN-accredited program, ranked #1 in Hawaii, grants credit for prior LPN coursework in health promotion, professionalism, health and illness, and clinical immersion. Students prepare for the NCLEX-RN through a curriculum emphasizing patient care, critical thinking, and clinical skills. Admission requires a valid Hawaii LPN license, prerequisites, a 2.75 minimum GPA, and the ATI TEAS exam. Applications due May 1st; admission is competitive and space-available. The program supports working LPNs with individualized evaluation of prior education, offering a direct route to RN careers.

ACEN accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
2.8 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Application deadline May 1st
Credit granted for prior LPN coursework
Valid Hawaii LPN license required
ATI TEAS exam may be required

Kapiolani Community College

Honolulu, HI - Public 2-Year - kapiolani.hawaii.edu

Associate - LPN-RN Transition Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kapiolani Community College's LPN-RN Transition Program is an ACEN-accredited, selective admissions pathway for licensed practical nurses advancing to RN. This three-semester curriculum blends theoretical instruction with immersive clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, emphasizing evidence-based care, leadership, and client-centered nursing. Students prepare thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN while building on LPN experience. With fall and spring starts, the program requires a Hawaii LPN license, 2.5 GPA, prerequisites, and the ATI TEAS exam. Graduates enter RN practice and can seamlessly transition to BSN programs at UH Manoa and UH Hilo. Offered at KCC and LCC sites, the program focuses on hands-on skill application throughout.

ACEN accredited
3-Semester program
2 start dates per year
Starts fall/spring
2.5 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Selective admissions program
New students admitted each semester
Clinical application of nursing skills

*Higher education statistics sourced from IPEDS 2025 via NCES.

Hawaii LPN to RN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Active, unencumbered Hawaii LPN license and recent LPN practice may be required or strongly preferred for advanced standing.
Graduation from an approved practical nursing program with official transcripts.
Completion of common prerequisites with minimum grade thresholds set by the school. Typical courses include human anatomy and physiology I and II with labs, microbiology with lab, introductory chemistry, English composition, psychology, lifespan development, and college math or statistics.
Standardized nursing entrance exam, academic placement testing, and a competitive GPA for selective admission.
Health and safety clearances: physical exam, immunizations, TB clearance, drug screening, criminal background check, and current American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers.
Advanced standing for LPNs is often granted through transition coursework, skills validation, or challenge examinations so you can begin at an advanced point in the ADN or BSN sequence.
Working LPNs should ask about evening or hybrid cohorts designed for employed nurses and whether recent LPN work experience can satisfy certain clinical proficiencies.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN to RN bridge curricula build on your LPN foundation and focus on RN-level decision making, leadership, and care coordination. You will study advanced adult medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology and medication safety, pathophysiology, health assessment, maternal–newborn, pediatrics, mental health, population and community health, and evidence-based practice. Learning occurs through simulation labs and supervised clinical rotations in Hawaii hospitals, long-term care, and community settings, with NCLEX-RN preparation threaded across courses.

To be eligible for RN licensure in Hawaii, you must graduate from a prelicensure program approved by the Hawaii Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN. Many Hawaii programs also hold national nursing accreditation (for example, ACEN at the associate level or CCNE at the baccalaureate level). State approval enables licensure, while national accreditation supports credit transfer, employer preference, access to financial aid, and future graduate study.

LPN to RN Schools and Classes

Across the islands, most LPN to RN options are offered by public community colleges that award the Associate Degree in Nursing and include an LPN-to-RN transition track. A small number of universities in Hawaii offer BSN pathways and may evaluate LPNs for advanced standing on a case-by-case basis. Programs typically start with a transition course that bridges LPN competencies to RN scope, then progress into second-year RN coursework and clinicals.

Expect coursework in advanced health assessment, complex adult care, maternal–newborn and pediatric nursing, mental health, pharmacology with IV therapy, leadership and management, and community health. Many programs incorporate island-relevant topics such as rural and neighbor-island care delivery, cultural humility with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, disaster preparedness, and telehealth. Clinical placements span acute care, long-term care, ambulatory clinics, and public health agencies throughout Hawaii.

Career Outlook

Work settings: RNs in Hawaii practice in acute care hospitals, community health centers, long-term care facilities, home health, dialysis centers, schools, and public health agencies. Opportunities are concentrated on Oahu, with continuing demand on neighbor islands.
Demand: Population aging, chronic disease management, and ongoing staffing needs contribute to steady RN demand statewide. Clinical experience as an LPN can strengthen competitiveness for RN hospital roles.
Work/life balance: Many roles involve 12-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays. Unionized environments are common in hospitals. Ambulatory or community settings may offer more traditional schedules.
Why bridge from LPN to RN: RNs have a broader legal scope of practice in Hawaii, including comprehensive assessment, independent care planning, patient education, and care coordination. This supports higher earnings potential, wider employment options in acute care, and eligibility for leadership roles and advanced degrees.

LPN to RN Program Length

Full-time bridge (ADN): After completing prerequisites, many LPN-to-ADN tracks can be finished in about 12 to 18 months of nursing coursework and clinicals.
Part-time bridge: Designed for working LPNs, part-time options often extend to 18 to 30 months depending on course load and clinical scheduling.
Evening/weekend cohorts: Select programs offer evening or weekend lectures and labs with day, evening, or weekend clinicals. These typically take slightly longer than standard full-time paths.
LPN to BSN: Where available, LPN-to-BSN pathways take longer due to added general education and baccalaureate nursing credits, often 2.5 to 3 years after prerequisites.

2027 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Hawaii

Looking to advance from LPN to RN in Hawaii? Faster programs can make a big difference. The table below highlights several options across the islands, from Honolulu to Hilo. Choosing one of the shortest programs means less time in class and more time earning a higher salary. The fastest tracks often have strong graduation and retention rates, showing that students stay on track. We suggest comparing program highlights to find the best fit for your goals. With an associate or bachelor's degree, you can boost your nursing career quickly. Remember, the shortest path may not always be the easiest, but it can get you into the workforce sooner. Explore the data to make an informed choice for your future in Hawaii's healthcare system.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Kapiolani Community College LPN-RN Transition Program	ACEN accredited 3-Semester program 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring 2.5 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-RN Selective admissions program	Graduation Rate: 22% Retention Rate: 63% Student to Faculty Ratio: 15 :1
Kauai Community College LPN – RN Transition pathway	ACEN accredited Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 2.8 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-RN Ranked #1 nursing program in Hawaii Application deadline May 1st	Graduation Rate: 48% Retention Rate: 61% Student to Faculty Ratio: 11 :1
Hawaii Pacific University LPN/LVN to BSN LPN/LVN to BSN Pathway	Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 120 total credit hours 3.0 GPA minimum 2 letters of recommendation (minimum) Prerequisite courses required Financial aid available	Graduation Rate: 35% Retention Rate: 56% Student to Faculty Ratio: 15 :1

*IPEDS 2025 dataset, accessed via NCES Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Tuition and Costs (Range of common state LPN to RN costs)

Tuition: Public LPN-to-ADN bridge programs in Hawaii generally fall in the mid four-figure to low five-figure range for in-state tuition for the nursing portion after prerequisites, with differential nursing fees added. Private BSN pathways typically cost more and are priced per term or credit at a higher rate.
Program fees and supplies: Expect additional costs for textbooks, online learning platforms, skills lab kits, uniforms, clinical shoes, stethoscope, background check and drug screen, immunizations and titers, BLS certification, liability insurance, and NCLEX testing and licensure fees.
Housing and living expenses: Hawaii has high living costs. Off-campus rent, utilities, food, and transportation can exceed national averages, particularly on Oahu. Many students commute, share housing, or remain employed part-time while enrolled.
Travel: Interisland travel may be necessary if a program or clinical placement is not available on your home island; budget for airfare, lodging, or increased commute costs if applicable.

2027 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Hawaii

We know that becoming an RN is a big step for LPNs. In Hawaii, many look for ways to advance their careers. The table below shows schools and their LPN to RN programs. It includes program highlights and cost ranges. Finding an affordable option is key. Low costs help nurses avoid too much debt. A cost-effective program lets you focus on learning, not finances. Whether you are in Honolulu or the neighboring islands, this list helps compare choices. See which program fits your needs and budget. Use this table as a starting point for a smart career move.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Hawaii Pacific University LPN/LVN to BSN LPN/LVN to BSN Pathway	Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 120 total credit hours 3.0 GPA minimum 2 letters of recommendation (minimum) Prerequisite courses required Financial aid available	$27,500 - $41,300 (Undergraduate)
Kapiolani Community College LPN-RN Transition Program	ACEN accredited 3-Semester program 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring 2.5 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-RN Selective admissions program	$2,600 - $3,900 (Undergrad In-State) $6,700 - $10,100 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Kauai Community College LPN – RN Transition pathway	ACEN accredited Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 2.8 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-RN Ranked #1 nursing program in Hawaii Application deadline May 1st	$2,600 - $3,900 (Undergrad In-State) $6,700 - $10,100 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2025. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?

Hawaii LPN-to-RN programs commonly use hybrid delivery, with some theory courses online and required in-person skills labs and clinical rotations at Hawaii healthcare facilities. Fully online prelicensure RN programs are not offered because hands-on clinical education must occur face to face under supervision. If considering an out-of-state distance program, confirm it is approved for prelicensure in Hawaii, can place you in local clinical sites, and meets all requirements of the Hawaii Board of Nursing.

LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Hawaii

Hawaii licenses Registered Nurses through the state’s Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, under the oversight of the Hawaii Board of Nursing. LPNs who complete an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN program must meet Board requirements, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check to obtain RN licensure.

NCLEX-RN Exam Information

Graduates of LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge programs apply to the Hawaii Board of Nursing for RN licensure by examination. The Board reviews education, identity, and background check materials and, when eligible, authorizes the candidate to test.
After the Board grants Authorization to Test, candidates register for the NCLEX-RN through the NCLEX program siteand schedule with the testing vendor. Bring required identification on test day and follow all exam protocols.
Hawaii recognizes the NCLEX-RN as the required national examination for RN licensure. Candidates who do not pass may retest according to NCLEX retake policies after the standard waiting period.
State-specific guidance, forms, and instructions for RN licensure by exam are published by the Hawaii Board of Nursing. Internationally educated applicants must follow additional Board requirements for credential review and English proficiency.

RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Hawaii offers licensure by endorsement for RNs who hold a current license in another U.S. state or territory. Endorsement applicants typically submit verification of original licensure and current status, proof of education, evidence of having passed the NCLEX-RN, a criminal background check, and required fees.
Hawaii does not maintain separate reciprocity agreements with individual states. Recognition of other states’ licenses occurs through licensure by endorsement once Hawaii’s requirements are met.
Hawaii is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. RNs practicing in Hawaii must hold a Hawaii single-state RN license. Likewise, Hawaii licensees who wish to practice in other states must obtain that state’s license unless they reside in and hold a multistate license from an NLC member state.

Licensure Requirements

Education: Graduate from an approved RN program such as an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge program that meets Board standards. Official transcripts must verify degree and completion date.
Application and fees: Submit the RN application by examination or endorsement to the Hawaii Board of Nursing with all required fees and documents.
NCLEX-RN: Achieve a passing result on the national NCLEX-RN examination.
Criminal background check: Complete fingerprint-based background checks as directed by the Board.
S. or international graduates: Internationally educated applicants may need a credentials evaluation and proof of English proficiency as outlined by the Board.

Professional fitness: Disclose any prior disciplinary actions or criminal history as required by Hawaii statutes and rules.

License Renewal

Renewal cycle: RN licenses in Hawaii renew on a two-year cycle, with the renewal deadline typically on June 30 of odd-numbered years. The Board announces renewal windows and processes ahead of each cycle.
Continuing competency: To renew, RNs must meet Hawaii’s continuing competency requirement during the biennium. One common pathway is 30 contact hours of continuing education. The Board also recognizes several alternatives such as current national certification, completion of Board-approved refresher courses, qualifying post-licensure academic coursework, approved preceptorship activities, or a defined number of practice hours as specified by Board rules.
Recordkeeping: Keep documentation of completed continuing competency activities for the Board’s audit period. Do not submit certificates with the renewal unless requested.
Late renewal and reactivation: Licenses not renewed by the deadline may be forfeited. Reinstatement or reactivation requires additional steps and fees, and you must satisfy continuing competency requirements before returning to practice.

Average LPN State Salary in Hawaii

$67,540

2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Average RN State Salary in Hawaii

$123,720

2024 RN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

LPN to ADN Bridge Program

Program Length:

Approximately 12 to 18 months.

Credential Awarded:

Associate in Science (AS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).

NCLEX-RN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Provides the fastest route to becoming a Registered Nurse, focusing on core nursing skills and clinical practice to prepare for entry-level RN positions.

Average In-State Tuition in Hawaii:

Approximately $7,000 - $8,500 for the entire program.

Best For:

LPNs seeking the quickest and most affordable path to RN licensure, with the option to pursue a BSN later.

School Types:

Community colleges, such as Kapi'olani Community College, Hawai'i Community College, and Kauai Community College.

LPN to BSN Bridge Program

Program Length:

Typically 2 to 3 years, depending on the number of transfer credits accepted.

Credential Awarded:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

NCLEX-RN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Offers a comprehensive education that includes advanced clinical skills, nursing theory, leadership, and research, preparing graduates for a wider range of nursing roles.

Average In-State Tuition in Hawaii:

Approximately $31,940 per year.

Best For:

LPNs aiming for leadership positions, advanced practice roles, or who plan to pursue graduate studies in nursing.

School Types:

Private universities, such as Hawai'i Pacific University.

Choose LPN→ADN If:

Faster Entry into the RN Workforce: These programs are significantly shorter, allowing for a quicker transition to an RN role.
Lower Cost: Tuition and fees at community colleges are substantially lower than at four-year universities, making it a more financially accessible option.
Flexible Entry Points: Graduates can begin working as an RN and gain experience while having the option to later enroll in an RN to BSN bridge program.
Strong Foundation in Clinical Skills: The curriculum is intensely focused on developing the essential hands-on skills needed for direct patient care in various healthcare settings.

Choose LPN→BSN If:

Expanded Career Opportunities: A BSN is often a requirement for leadership, management, and specialized nursing roles.
Higher Earning Potential: Nurses with a BSN generally have a higher earning potential over the course of their careers.
Foundation for Advanced Education: The BSN degree is a prerequisite for master's and doctoral nursing programs, such as those for nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse anesthetists.
Broader Skill Set: The curriculum includes not only advanced clinical training but also education in nursing research, public health, and healthcare policy, providing a more holistic understanding of the profession.

List of LPN to RN Programs in Hawaii

We've put together a handy list of LPN to RN programs in Hawaii to help you compare your options. Each entry shows the school's city and state, key program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Whether you're looking for a fast track or a more flexible schedule, this table makes it easy to find the right fit for your nursing career.