Best Oregon LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Oregon provides LPN to RN bridge programs focused on advanced coursework and clinical readiness. Students study nursing theory and participate in clinical practice across healthcare facilities. Programs prepare graduates for RN licensure and expanded professional roles.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in Oregon
Treasure Valley Community College
Ontario, OR - Public 2-Year - tvcc.cc
Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Treasure Valley Community College's LPN to RN Bridge Program is a 60-credit, campus-based pathway for licensed practical nurses aiming to become registered nurses, with a perfect NCLEX pass rate since 2020. The ACEN-accredited curriculum emphasizes nursing excellence and professional growth, spanning six quarters for completion. Starting its first cohort in Winter 2025, applications open in June 2025 at the Ontario, Oregon campus. Students gain from experienced faculty and high employment rates, focusing on comprehensive healthcare skills without a specified concentration, preparing for diverse clinical settings.
- 60-credit nursing program
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- ACEN accredited program
- Six quarter completion
- First cohort Winter 2025
- Applications open June 2025
- Ontario, Oregon campus
- High employment rate
- Experienced nursing faculty
Klamath Community College
Klamath Falls, OR - Public 2-Year - klamathcc.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Klamath Community College's LPN to RN Bridge Program enables licensed practical nurses to efficiently advance to registered nurse roles, with a curriculum that enhances clinical competencies and aligns with Oregon's nursing standards. Tailored for working professionals, it offers flexible scheduling and emphasizes rural healthcare, addressing local community needs. The program features a competitive admission process and thorough clinical preparation, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for RN licensure. No entrance exam is required, as this is a bridge program focused on building upon existing LPN experience.
- Bridge program for LPNs
- Prepare for RN licensure
- Rural healthcare focus
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical skill development
Central Oregon Community College
Bend, OR - Public 2-Year - cocc.edu
Associate - Nursing Advanced Placement Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Oregon Community College's Nursing Advanced Placement Program is tailored for LPNs in Oregon aiming to become RNs. It mandates a current Oregon LPN license, 400-600 hours of direct patient care experience, and completion of prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, math, and psychology with a 'C' or better and a 3.0 GPA. Anatomy and physiology courses must be recent, within five years. The program builds a robust foundation in nursing theory and hands-on skills, preparing graduates for RN licensure and the evolving healthcare landscape. No entrance exam is required for this associate-level pathway, focusing on career advancement through rigorous academic and practical training.
- Requires current Oregon LPN license.
- 400-600 hours of direct patient care.
- Prerequisite courses must be completed.
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher required.
- Anatomy and Physiology courses within 5 years.
- Math and psychology courses required.
- Focus on theoretical and practical nursing skills.
- Prepares LPNs for RN licensure.
- Strong foundation in nursing principles.
- Designed for career advancement in nursing.
Rogue Community College
Grants Pass, OR - Public 2-Year - roguecc.edu
Associate - LPN/RN Advanced Placement Associate Degree
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rogue Community College's LPN to RN Advanced Placement Associate Degree program provides a direct route for licensed practical nurses to advance their careers. In collaboration with Oregon Health & Science University, this on-campus program emphasizes a six-term accelerated curriculum that builds on clinical expertise and evidence-based practices. Admission is competitive, requiring a 3.0 GPA, a TEAS exam score of at least 58.7%, and an active LPN license. Graduates are well-prepared for high-demand RN roles in various healthcare settings, with strong local job prospects and an average annual salary around $102,994, plus opportunities for further BSN education.
- Six-term accelerated nursing pathway
- Co-admission with OHSU potential
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement
- TEAS exam score of 58.7%+
- Current unencumbered LPN license
- Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education curriculum
- Multiple clinical site experiences
- Comprehensive nursing competencies
- Competitive job market
- Average $102,994 annual salary
Chemeketa Community College
Salem, OR - Public 4-Year - chemeketa.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chemeketa Community College's LPN to RN Program, located on the Salem campus, provides a robust pathway for licensed practical nurses to advance their careers. This campus-based program requires a current, unencumbered LPN license and completion of prerequisite science courses, with a competitive admission process that includes a Kaplan entrance exam. It emphasizes comprehensive clinical training, patient advocacy, and evidence-based practice, achieving a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate and an 85% completion rate. Graduates benefit from multiple BSN transfer options, though a background check is mandatory for enrollment.
- 100% NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
- Current LPN License Required
- Salem Campus Location
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- Multiple BSN Transfer Options
- Background Check Required
- Competitive Admission Process
- Prerequisite Science Courses
- Kaplan Entrance Exam
- 85% Program Completion Rate
Oregon LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
- Active LPN license: Applicants typically must hold an active, unencumbered LPN license. If licensed in another state, you will need to be eligible to practice in Oregon by the time clinicals begin.
- Prerequisite coursework: Common prerequisites include Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology with lab, English composition, Nutrition, Human Development or Lifespan Psychology, introductory Psychology and Sociology, and college-level Math such as Statistics or Intermediate Algebra. A minimum grade and overall GPA are usually required.
- Admission testing: Many Oregon programs require a standardized entrance exam such as TEAS or Kaplan with competitive scores.
- Advanced placement for LPNs: Bridge programs often award credit or advanced standing for prior LPN education and experience; some require a skills validation or challenge exam.
- Clinical eligibility: Immunizations, TB screening, current American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers, criminal background check, and drug screening are required for clinical placement.
- Recent practice: Some programs prefer or require recent LPN work experience, which can strengthen your application and ease transition into advanced coursework.
- English proficiency and technology readiness: Non-native speakers may need to document language proficiency; all students should be prepared for electronic learning platforms used across Oregon programs.
For RN licensure after graduation, Oregon requires completion of an approved program, a fingerprint-based background check, and passing the NCLEX-RN. The Oregon State Board of Nursing publishes education standards, program approvals, and licensure steps.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN bridge curricula in Oregon build on practical nursing foundations and emphasize professional nursing scope, critical thinking, and leadership. You will study adult medical-surgical nursing across body systems, pharmacology and safe medication administration, health assessment, maternal-newborn care, pediatrics, mental health, community and population health, and care coordination. Courses in pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, ethics, informatics, and interprofessional communication prepare you to manage complex patient care and to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
Clinical learning occurs in hospitals, long-term care, clinics, and community settings with faculty supervision, supplemented by skills lab and simulation. Simulation supports learning but does not replace the need for direct patient care experiences required by state standards.
Accreditation and approval matter in Oregon. Programs must be approved by the state board to qualify graduates for RN licensure. Many Oregon schools also hold national program accreditation from ACEN or CCNE, which supports credit transfer, graduate school admission, and employer confidence. Institutional regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal financial aid and smoother transfer of general education credits.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
In Oregon, LPN to RN pathways are offered primarily by public community colleges and regional universities. Most community colleges offer LPN to ADN bridges that prepare you for RN licensure. Some universities offer BSN pathways for licensed nurses or accept ADN-prepared RNs for completion of a BSN after licensure. Availability of direct LPN to BSN options in-state is more limited, so many LPNs complete an ADN bridge first, then finish a post-licensure RN to BSN.
Coursework you can expect includes:
- Advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology integrated across the lifespan
- Adult medical-surgical nursing with emphasis on clinical judgment and prioritization
- Maternal-newborn and pediatric nursing focused on family-centered care
- Mental health nursing and therapeutic communication
- Community and population health, health promotion, and chronic disease management
- Nursing leadership, quality improvement, and care coordination
- Professional practice, Oregon nursing law and scope, ethics, and evidence-based practice
Career Outlook
RNs in Oregon work in acute care hospitals, primary and specialty clinics, long-term and transitional care, home health, behavioral health, public health, and school or occupational health. Scheduling varies by setting: hospitals commonly use 12-hour shifts with nights, weekends, and holidays, while clinics and many community roles offer more regular weekday hours. Rural facilities statewide also recruit RNs and may offer hiring incentives.
Compared with LPN roles, RNs in Oregon have broader assessment and clinical decision-making authority, manage more complex care plans, precept and lead teams, and have wider mobility into specialties such as critical care, perioperative, emergency, oncology, and public health. Earnings and advancement potential are generally higher for RNs. Demand remains steady due to population growth, aging Oregonians, chronic disease prevalence, and workforce retirements. National labor statistics and Oregon workforce projections consistently point to continued need for RNs across urban and rural regions.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full-time bridge: Commonly 3 to 4 academic terms for the nursing sequence after prerequisites, or about 12 to 18 months. Timing varies by whether summer terms are offered and by clinical availability.
- Part-time bridge: Designed for working LPNs, often 5 to 8 terms for nursing courses, or about 18 to 30 months after prerequisites. Weekly course and clinical loads are reduced.
- Evening or weekend cohorts: Select Oregon programs offer evening/weekend clinicals and hybrid didactic delivery. These typically align with part-time timelines and are competitive due to limited seats.
- LPN to BSN: Where available, plan for roughly 2 to 3 years of nursing coursework after prerequisites, depending on transfer credits and course sequencing.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Oregon
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Treasure Valley Community College |
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| Central Oregon Community College |
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| Lane Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition varies by institution and residency. Typical ranges for Oregon residents:
- LPN to ADN bridge at public community colleges: Approximately $8,000 to $18,000 in tuition for the nursing sequence after prerequisites, plus program fees.
- LPN to BSN or upper-division BSN coursework at public universities: Approximately $20,000 to $40,000 in tuition for the nursing portion, depending on credits and different tuition rates for professional programs.
Additional costs to plan for:
- Books, electronic resources, and supplies: $1,200 to $2,500
- Uniforms, stethoscope, shoes, skills lab kits: $300 to $800
- Immunizations, TB tests, BLS certification, background check, and drug screen: several hundred dollars total
- Admission testing and clinical onboarding fees
- Licensure and exam fees after graduation, including the NCLEX-RN and state application
Housing costs in Oregon differ widely by region. Many community colleges are commuter-based with limited or no campus housing, while public universities generally offer residence halls and meal plans. On-campus room and board at public universities commonly ranges from about $10,000 to $16,000 per academic year. Off-campus rents are higher in larger metros and lower in smaller cities and towns; budgeting for transportation and parking is also important for clinical travel.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Oregon
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Treasure Valley Community College |
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| Klamath Community College |
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| Central Oregon Community College |
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Yes, with limits. In Oregon, many bridge programs deliver some theory courses online or in hybrid formats to accommodate working LPNs. However, hands-on skills labs and supervised clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved sites within Oregon or approved regional partners. Programs follow state education standards for direct patient care experiences and appropriate use of simulation.
If you are considering an out-of-state program that plans Oregon clinical placements, verify that it is approved to operate in Oregon and meets state requirements. Prospective students should confirm program approval status, clinical expectations, and any distance education parameters with the program and the state board before enrolling.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Oregon
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
Graduates of Oregon LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN programs seeking RN licensure must pass the NCLEX-RN. In Oregon, candidates apply to the Oregon State Board of Nursing for RN licensure by examination, complete fingerprint-based background checks, have an official transcript sent directly from the school showing degree awarded and completion date, and register separately for the NCLEX-RN. After the Board determines eligibility, Pearson VUE issues an Authorization to Test. Results are transmitted to the Board; upon a passing result and completion of all requirements, Oregon issues a single-state RN license.
- Retesting follows national NCLEX policies. If needed, candidates may retake the exam after the standard waiting period set by NCLEX.
- International or out-of-state graduates may have additional documentation requirements, such as English proficiency or program verification, before the Board grants eligibility to test.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Oregon licenses experienced RNs from other states by endorsement. Applicants submit an online endorsement application to the Oregon Board, provide license verification from their original licensing state and any state of current or recent practice, complete fingerprinting and a background check, and meet competency requirements. Oregon does not maintain special reciprocity agreements with individual states beyond the standard licensure by endorsement process. You must hold an Oregon RN license to practice in Oregon.
Oregon is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. Oregon RN licenses are issued as single-state licenses. Oregon RNs who wish to practice in compact states must obtain the appropriate authorization from those states. RNs moving to Oregon from compact states must apply for Oregon licensure by endorsement before practicing in Oregon.
Licensure Requirements
The Oregon State Board of Nursing regulates RN licensure and practice. To become licensed as an RN by examination in Oregon, graduates of LPN to RN bridge programs generally must:
- Complete an approved prelicensure RN program (ADN or BSN) that meets Oregon standards.
- Submit the online RN licensure by examination application and fees to the Board.
- Complete fingerprinting for a state and federal criminal background check.
- Arrangethe school to send an official transcript directly to the Board after graduation.
- Register for the NCLEX-RN and obtain Authorization to Test once deemed eligible.
- Disclose any past discipline or criminal history as required by Oregon law.
- Provide a U.S. Social Security number if required for licensure processing under Oregon statutes.
License Renewal
Oregon RN licenses are renewed every two years. The first renewal may be prorated to align with the Board’s renewal cycle. Complete all renewal requirements before submitting your online renewal and keep documentation in case of a Board audit.
- Continuing competency: You must attest to current competency to practice, which typically includes recent nursing practice or completion of a Board-accepted pathway if you have not practiced recently.
- Cultural competency education: Complete at least two hours of cultural competency continuing education each renewal cycle as required by Oregon law.
- Pain management education: Complete the Oregon pain management education requirement. This includes at least one hour of pain management education each renewal cycle related to the prescribing or dispensing of opioid drugs. For the first renewal after initial Oregon licensure, this requirement is fulfilled by completion of an Oregon-approved pre-licensure nursing program.
- Timelines: Renewal is biennial. Complete required education before you attest during renewal. Failure to renew by the deadline results in license expiration and inability to practice until renewed or reinstated.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 to 18 months, often structured as four to six quarters.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
This pathway concentrates on providing the foundational clinical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for entry-level RN positions. The curriculum is designed to build upon the existing knowledge of an LPN, preparing graduates for direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:
The total cost for an LPN to ADN program at an Oregon community college can range from approximately $15,000 to $40,000, including tuition and fees. This is an estimate, and actual costs can vary by institution.
Best For:
LPNs who wish to become RNs as quickly as possible and are seeking a more affordable educational path to enter the RN workforce.
School Types:
Community colleges are the primary institutions offering LPN to ADN bridge programs in Oregon.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally takes two to three years to complete, depending on the number of transferable credits from the LPN's previous education.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
The LPN to BSN curriculum offers a broader and more in-depth study of nursing. Beyond clinical skills, the program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, research, and community and public health. This comprehensive education prepares graduates for a wider range of nursing roles and further graduate studies.
Average In-State Tuition in Oregon:
Tuition for LPN to BSN programs at Oregon universities can vary significantly. For example, in-state tuition at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is around $611 per credit for their accelerated BSN program. Private institutions like Linfield University have higher tuition rates. The total program cost can range from $40,000 to over $60,000 for in-state students.
Best For:
LPNs who are aiming for leadership positions, specialized roles, or plan to pursue graduate-level nursing education. It is also beneficial for those who wish to enhance their long-term career prospects and earning potential.
School Types:
Universities and four-year colleges, with many offering flexible online or hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Entry into the RN Role: This is the quickest route for an LPN to become a registered nurse and begin working with an expanded scope of practice.
- Lower Upfront Cost: Community college tuition is generally more affordable than university tuition, making this a more budget-friendly option.
- Immediate Career Advancement: Graduates can immediately qualify for RN positions and experience a significant salary increase compared to an LPN.
- Foundation for Further Education: An ADN can serve as a stepping stone to a BSN through a subsequent RN to BSN bridge program. Many Oregon community colleges have co-admission agreements with universities to facilitate this transition.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Expanded Career Opportunities: A BSN is often a requirement for leadership, management, and specialized nursing roles, and is increasingly preferred by hospitals and healthcare systems.
- Higher Earning Potential: Nurses with a BSN typically command higher salaries and have greater opportunities for salary advancement over their careers.
- Broader Skill Set: The curriculum provides a deeper understanding of nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and public health, which can lead to improved patient outcomes.
- Pathway to Advanced Degrees: A BSN is the necessary foundation for pursuing Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, which are required for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse anesthetist.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Oregon
Bend, OR
Central Oregon Community College
- Associate - Nursing Advanced Placement Program
Campus Based - Website
- Requires current Oregon LPN license.
- 400-600 hours of direct patient care.
- Prerequisite courses must be completed.
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher required.
- Anatomy and Physiology courses within 5 years.
- Math and psychology courses required.
- Focus on theoretical and practical nursing skills.
- Prepares LPNs for RN licensure.
Eugene, OR
Lane Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year Associate Degree program
- 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate
- Part-time to full-time flexibility
- Accelerated curriculum for LPNs
- Clinical experience opportunities
- Multiple RN to BSN transfer options
- Candidate for ACEN accreditation
Grants Pass, OR
Rogue Community College
- Associate - LPN/RN Advanced Placement Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Six-term accelerated nursing pathway
- Co-admission with OHSU potential
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement
- TEAS exam score of 58.7%+
- Current unencumbered LPN license
- Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education curriculum
- Multiple clinical site experiences
- Comprehensive nursing competencies
Klamath Falls, OR
Klamath Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Bridge program for LPNs
- Prepare for RN licensure
- Rural healthcare focus
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical skill development
Ontario, OR
Treasure Valley Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit nursing program
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- ACEN accredited program
- Six quarter completion
- First cohort Winter 2025
- Applications open June 2025
- Ontario, Oregon campus
- High employment rate
Salem, OR
Chemeketa Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
- Current LPN License Required
- Salem Campus Location
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- Multiple BSN Transfer Options
- Background Check Required
- Competitive Admission Process
- Prerequisite Science Courses
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