How to Go From LPN to RN: Bridge Programs, Degree Options, and More
Are you a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking to expand your scope of practice, take on greater responsibilities, and advance in your nursing career? Becoming a registered nurse (RN) could be the key to unlocking new opportunities, higher salaries, and increased autonomy in patient care. LPN-to-RN bridge programs are designed to help LPNs transition smoothly into the RN role by building upon their existing skills, education, and hands-on experience.
If you’re ready to take the next step and explore a practical nursing to registered nurse bridging program, this article will guide you from where you are now to where you want to be in your career.
LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs: Snapshot
- Program types: You can enroll in bridge programs leading to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Prerequisites: To enter a practical nursing to registered nurse bridging program, you must hold an active LPN license, a high school diploma or GED, and either have completed prerequisite courses or have relevant work experience, depending on the program’s requirements.
- Education formats: You can complete the theoretical portion of the program through in-person, hybrid, or online formats.
- Coursework: You’ll likely study subjects like pharmacology, health assessment, and professional nursing.
- Clinical training: You’ll gain hands-on experience in medical facilities, working alongside a preceptor to develop essential nursing skills.
- Length: You can expect LPN-to-ADN programs to take about 12–18 months, while LPN-to-BSN programs generally take about 28 months. This timeline can vary based on prior credits and program structure.
Switch From LPN to RN: Step-by-Step Guide
Excited to learn what it takes to become an RN? Depending on the program type and format, your path may look slightly different. Let’s walk through the essential steps and the details you’ll need to know along the way.
Step 1: Select the Right Program
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right practical nursing to registered nurse bridging program for you, including the program format, the type of degree you want to pursue, and whether you want to attend full-time or part-time. Let’s break down your options.
First, you’ll also need to decide between earning an ADN or a BSN degree. Both paths lead to RN licensure, but the BSN offers more in-depth education, especially in areas like leadership and patient care management.
| LPN-to-ADN | LPN-to-BSN |
|---|---|
| Typically takes 12–18 months to complete
Focuses on fundamental nursing concepts like pharmacology, anatomy, and patient care Provides minimal training necessary to sit for the licensure exam and work at entry-level positions upon graduation Allows you to work in most healthcare settings, though further education (e.g., RN to BSN) may be needed to apply for graduate degree programs |
Typically takes 24–28 months to complete
Provides comprehensive nursing education, including leadership, research, and public health BSN is the preferred degree by many healthcare employers It’s often required for specialized roles and is valued by institutions seeking to meet higher accreditation standards, such as Magnet status Provides a solid foundation for further advanced degrees like MSN, DNP, or PhD |
Next, decide on the program format that suits you best — online, in-person, or hybrid. Each option has its benefits, and your choice will depend on your schedule, learning preference, and lifestyle. Here are three common formats to choose from:
- Online LPN-to-RN programs allow you to complete coursework remotely. Clinical hours are completed in person at designated facilities.
- In-person programs require attendance at classes held at a physical location with scheduled clinical rotations often led by a professor.
- Hybrid programs combine online classes with in-person sessions, making it a great option for those considering LPN-to-RN online pathways who still want some classroom instruction.
Finally, LPN-to-RN programs are also offered in full-time and part-time formats, depending on your work schedule and personal commitments. Full-time programs are best suited for students who can dedicate most of their time to studying. On the other hand, part-time programs allow students to balance their education with work and personal responsibilities.
Tip: Regardless of the program you choose, make sure it is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Check with your state’s board of nursing for a list of approved programs.
Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements
The next step is to review the eligibility criteria for the LPN-to-RN programs you plan to apply to. Most programs have similar core requirements, but specific details may vary by school. Common requirements you’ll likely need to meet include the following:
- Hold an active LPN license in the state where you plan to study.
- Nursing entrance exams, such as the HESI or TEAS, are often required to assess your preparedness for the academic challenges ahead.
- Work experience as a practicing LPN may be required by some programs, while others may accept new graduates.
- Prerequisite coursework in subjects such as anatomy, mathematics, and chemistry is typically required, with specific course requirements varying by program.
- Professional certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS), tend to be mandatory.
- Background checks and drug screenings are routine requirements to ensure students meet professional and ethical standards before working with patients.
- Academic transcripts from previous institutions, including your LPN program, must be submitted to verify your education history.
- Immunizations are typically required to ensure the safety and health of both students and patients during clinical training. These may include vaccines for a variety of preventable diseases, depending on current health guidelines.
Finally, you may be asked to submit a nursing philosophy or motivational letter, where you outline your approach to patient care and your core values as a nurse. In addition, you may need to submit a nursing resume that highlights your work experience, certifications, and career achievements.
Tip: Be sure to check the NCLEX pass rates for each school you’re planning to apply to. These rates reflect how effectively a school prepares students for the licensure exam.
Step 3: Enroll in a Practical Nursing to Registered Nurse Bridging Program and Begin Coursework
Once you’re admitted to the program, your curriculum will consist of two main components: a theoretical portion and clinical rotations in healthcare facilities. Depending on the program, you may also gain hands-on experience in a simulation lab.
The theoretical portion typically covers essential nursing courses, such as the following:
- Nursing transitions
- Geriatrics and pharmacology
- Psychiatric nursing
- Medical nursing
- Surgical nursing
- Obstetric nursing
- Pediatric nursing
- Professional nursing
During your clinical rotations, you’ll step into real healthcare environments where you can apply your classroom knowledge to hands-on patient care. Under the guidance of skilled nursing preceptors and faculty, you’ll have the chance to build and refine the following key nursing skills:
- Conducting head-to-toe assessments
- Administering medications and therapies
- Initiating and managing IV therapy
- Providing wound care and dressing changes
- Developing nursing care plans
- Educating patients on managing their condition
- Maintaining precise and up-to-date documentation
- Using electronic medical records (EHR) systems like Epic
Step 4: Prepare for the NCLEX-RN
You’ve made it through nursing school — now one final hurdle remains: the NCLEX-RN. This exam will test everything you’ve learned, from patient care fundamentals to clinical decision-making, ensuring you’re ready to provide safe, quality care. Since you’ve taken the NCLEX-PN before, you already have a head start in understanding the exam format.
The NCLEX-RN is a computerized exam that lasts up to five hours, with anywhere from 75 to 145 questions. You’ll encounter different question formats, and the questions will adjust in difficulty based on your performance.
Step 5: Apply for RN Licensure
Your next step is to apply for licensure. While each state has its own licensure process, here’s a general overview of what to expect:
- Submit your application to your state’s board of nursing.
- Complete the required background check and fingerprinting through a state-approved vendor.
- Pay any applicable fees related to your licensure application and background check.
If you’re planning to practice in multiple states, check if your state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which grants you the flexibility to work across compact states with a single multi-state license.
LPN to RN Salaries: How Do They Compare?
The typical salary for LPNs in the U.S. is about $64,150 annually, while RNs earn an average of $98,430. However, your salary can vary depending on factors like your education and years of experience.
Additionally, some locations pay better than others. RNs can expect higher salaries in the following states known for competitive annual wages:
Tip: To make the most of your nursing career, continuously look for opportunities to further your education, such as gaining professional certifications and attending nursing conferences.
FAQ: LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs
How long does it take to go from LPN to RN?
It can take anywhere from 12 months to 28 months, depending if you decide to pursue an ADN or BSN.
Can I work while enrolled in LPN-to-RN online programs?
Yes, many online programs are designed to accommodate working professionals. However, keep in mind that the clinical components of the program require in-person attendance at healthcare facilities, which might require you to adjust your work schedule.
How do I pay for my education?
Funding your education can feel overwhelming, but there are several options out there to help make it more manageable. Here’s a breakdown of some of the ways you can finance your career upgrade:
- Seek out nursing scholarships and grants.
- Explore federal financial aid options.
- Inquire about employer-sponsored tuition assistance.
- Look into loan repayment programs.
- Consider part-time LPN positions or student nurse jobs.
How much do programs cost?
The cost of an LPN-to-RN program can vary significantly, but it typically ranges from around $4,000 on the lower end to $28,000 on the higher end. However, you might encounter even higher costs if you pursue a traditional BSN program.
Find the Best-Fitting Nursing Jobs With IntelyCare
Whether you’ve completed an LPN-to-RN bridge program or you’re still in school, IntelyCare can help you find quality nursing roles that align with your ambitions, experience, and desired lifestyle. Get started on your personalized job search today.