LVN to RN Bridge Programs
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Licensed vocational nurses may want to advance their career prospects in the nursing field by becoming registered nurses (RNs). RNs typically command higher salaries than LPNs, and have greater career advancement opportunities because of their higher knowledge base and credentials. However, since a university degree is not required in order to practice as an LVN, many potential students do not know where to start. One excellent thing to consider is an LP\VN to RN bridge program.
LVN to RN bridge programs are geared specifically towards LVNs who are currently practicing and wish to be properly prepared for their National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This exam can be quite challenging, so taking courses specifically designed to give students information and problem solving techniques that are useful for the test can be a huge benefit. The other benefit, is that these bridge programs offer students a way to obtain an associates degree, which further increases their earning potential. Additionally, some of these programs will allow students to earn Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. While this type of program is longer, the higher degree level can often result in a significant earnings increase for the nurse.
LVN to RN bridge programs typically take about two years of study for completion. This time can be decreased with prior credit, fast-track programs, or if the university allows students to test out of certain subjects and courses. This time can be increased if students decide to only attend classes on a part time basis, or have to take a term off for whatever reason. While their are many traditional brick and mortar LVN to RN programs, there are also distance education options available. Distance education can be an excellent choice for nurses who do not want to stop working as an LVN in order to become an RN. The flexibility offered by online LVN to RN courses can also be helpful for anyone who has family commitments. While a majority of the coursework may be completed online, it is important to note that clinicals will still need to be completed in person.
LVN to RN Bridge Programs
LPN to RN College Programs
While several schools have online nursing degrees available, few offer LPN to RN programs. What's the good news? We have listed some accredited schools below that do offer the program in addition to schools with other bridge programs available. Find out more information and contact each school by using any of the links below.
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Indiana State University—Indiana State University offers a robust online program designed for LPNs wanting to become registered nurses and earn their BSN degree. Since ISU's credits transfer to over 80 campus majors, this is an ideal program for people wanting to open opportunities for their career down the road. |
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The College Network—The College Network is a partnership with several universities and organizations like the National League for Nursing that focuses on online education and programs, with several courses for nurses or those interested in a nursing career. Specifically, TCN helps students prepare for their PN and RN licensures and move on to earn graduate degrees. |
Other Nursing Degrees
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Walden University—Walden University is typically a graduate school with several masters and doctoral programs available, but they do have BSN and RN to MSN bridge programs available. Walden is based out of Minneapolis and offers several options in transferring your previously earned credits to and from (or even within) the school. |
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Kaplan University—Kaplan University is one of the nation's largest and leading online educators and offers several bridge programs for registered nurses to earn their BSN or MSN degree. If you have previously earned credits, Kaplan makes it easy for you to transfer to any one of their undergraduate or graduate programs. |
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Herzing University—While Herzing University does not offer an undergraduate nursing degree, it is a great choice for working nurses wanting to pursue leadership positions in Nurse Education or Management. With over 10 campuses and 45 online programs available, Herzing has a massive network that makes it easy to transfer to or from the school. |
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