New Mexico LPN to RN/BSN Programs
With the growing need for registered nurses in New Mexico, many LPNs are seeing an opportunity to go back to school to become RNs. The state offers several LPN to RN bridge programs in order to help these nurses meet their goals. The benefits to becoming an RN are many; they enjoy higher levels of responsibility, have better career prospects, and earn a substantially higher salary. In fact, New Mexico RNs earn an average of $20,900 more per year than LPNs do, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Looking for more information on the LPN to RN mobility track? Learn about taking and passing the NCLEX-RN exam and check out the New Mexico Board of Nursing for information on licensing, education, and associations for registered nurses in the state.
2025 Best LPN to RN Programs in New Mexico
Looking to advance your nursing career in New Mexico? PracticalNursing.org has ranked the best LPN to RN programs to help you make an informed decision. These programs are designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to become registered nurses, offering flexible schedules and quality education. Our rankings consider factors like program quality, affordability, and student support. Start your journey towards a higher nursing credential today. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
Central New Mexico Community College
Albuquerque, NM - Public 2-Year - cnm.edu
Associate - Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Mobility Option
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central New Mexico Community College's LPN to RN Mobility Option is tailored for Licensed Practical Nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications to Registered Nurses. This campus-based program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum, including microbiology, anatomy, and psychology, aimed at equipping students for the NCLEX-RN examination. Admission prerequisites include a 2.0 cumulative GPA, a 2.75 GPA in prerequisite courses, and a current New Mexico LPN license. Unique features include Credit for Prior Learning, allowing LPNs to earn up to four nursing credits, and a dual degree option with the University of New Mexico. The program is accessible every term, with 16 seats available, and operates on a lottery system if oversubscribed.
- Campus-based program.
- Minimum GPA 2.0 required.
- Calculated GPA 2.75 for prerequisites.
- Includes microbiology and anatomy courses.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Requires current NM LPN license.
- Credit for Prior Learning available.
- Entrance available every term.
- 16 seats available.
- Courses must be 'C' or better.
List of 2025 LPN to RN or LPN to BSN Programs in NM
Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LPN to RN programs in New Mexico. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.
Albuquerque, NM
Central New Mexico Community College
- Associate - Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Mobility Option
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Minimum GPA 2.0 required.
- Calculated GPA 2.75 for prerequisites.
- Includes microbiology and anatomy courses.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Requires current NM LPN license.
- Credit for Prior Learning available.
- Entrance available every term.
New Mexico LPN vs RN Salary Comparison By Area
The table below compares the annual salary of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN), along with the percent increase that can be expected. The data was organized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for LPNs and RNs in New Mexico.
On average an RN in New Mexico earns $47,091, which is 2% less than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).
| City/Area | Avg LPN Salary | Avg RN Salary | % Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque - NM | $47,980 | $75,010 | 56.3% |
| Las Cruces - NM | $45,590 | $65,820 | 44.4% |
| Santa Fe - NM | $41,020 | $70,800 | 72.6% |
| Farmington - NM | $52,530 | $70,300 | 33.8% |
Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm