13 Affordable Online LPN to RN Programs for Nurses

Registered Nurses earn more than licensed practicing Nurses. So, it is best to become a registered nurse to get an opportunity to advance in your career. This article compiles affordable online LPN to RN programs for nurses.

If you are already a licensed practicing nurse, you need to sign up and complete any of these RN programs. These accredited online LPN to RN nursing programs offers the opportunity to continue earning a living while earning an RN degree in about half the time required in a traditional educational environment.

Most LPNs who choose to advance their careers and seek an RN degree are already working and supporting themselves and their families. You can also check these top 20 Affordable Online LPN Programs. 

An accelerated LPN for the RN program will only last for one year or up to three semesters and should provide licensed practical nurses with the necessary qualifications to qualify as a Nursing Science Associate (ASN).

This article has compiled a comprehensive list of the Affordable LPN to RN Programs for Nurses that you can take Online.

But before we proceed, check out these answers to some frequent questions people ask about online nursing LPN to RN bridge programs that can guide your choice.

Some of these frequently asked questions are;

  • What is LPN to RN Program all About?
  • Are LPN-to-RN Online Programs Available?
  • What are the Benefits of LPN to RN online programs? 
  • How long is an LPN-to-RN online program?
  • The LPN to RN online Program courses are?
  • What are the Requirements for LPN to RN online programs?
  • LPN-to-RN Program Cost?

What is LPN to RN Program all about?

An LPN to RN program is an educational path that is often accelerated and prepares LPNs for licensing as an RN. Programs are deeper into the nursing theory as technical tasks at the bedside.

They are structured according to the skills learned at the LPN school and prepare the student to take on more clinical responsibility, promote critical thinking and decision-making, and work on a broader range of exercises.

However, If you have an LPN or LVN license, you may be well on becoming a registered nursing career. LPN programs for RN are widely used – they are considered valuable to meet the needs of health workers as well as individual career goals.

RN Care Program LPNs

RN Care Program LPNs have been developed to provide licensed Practitioner Nurses (LPNs) with the required training credentials for the NCLEX-RN Exam to obtain compulsory licensing as RNs. The programs aim exclusively at licensed, practical or experienced nurses interested in improving the health hierarchy. Under the program, students must participate in clinical rotations and undergo an internship. 

However, most schools understand that nurses aiming for a higher level of education are probably already on the job market. Because of this, many bridge programs are online or in a “hybrid” format. Online programs are a great option as they provide flexibility.

Students can study at their own pace and in full-time or part-time status, and admissions “roll” throughout the year. Students do not have to worry about going to campus, parking, and going to class. You can log in from home.

READ ALSO: Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into In 2023 | Expert Guide

Are LPN-to-RN Online Programs Available?

Like many other nursing degree programs, LPN-to-RN online programs are available. Offering schedule flexibility yet rigorous coursework, an online program is especially useful if you have other obligations, such as work and a family, that make it difficult to get to campus. Another perk? Many online schools charge lower tuition than their brick-and-mortar counterparts.

Although you can take many classes online, most LPN-to-RN bridge programs operate using a hybrid model. This means you’ll still be required to gain clinical experience in person.

Some schools also require students to complete college-level courses in math and English. Others require incoming students to submit a referral letter from an active nurse. Hence, make sure that the online program is accredited, has the same qualifications, and prepares you for participation in the National Council for Registered Nursing Licensing Exam (NCLEX) exam.

What are the benefits of LPN to RN online programs? 

One of the most significant advantages of signing up for an online program for LPN for RN is the ability to test general education courses by taking exams for class credits. This can speed up the process by giving LPNs less time to complete their degree and avoid having to spend hours on courses that do not directly contribute to the practical aspects of care.

LPN to RN online programs offers significant benefits. You are:

  • Flexible and provides the opportunity to learn while considering existing work schedules and busy lifestyles
  • Entitlement to federal grant
  • Efficient and offers the opportunity to acquire your RN degree in less time
  • There is no waiting list as registrations “roll” throughout the year
  • No route
  • Full and part-time programs available
  • Affordable, no matter where you live
  • Cheaper than degrees acquired in traditional educational environments

How long is an LPN-to-RN online program?

Working adults generally appreciate the approach of an online care program because of its flexibility. Depending on your needs, students may take more or fewer courses at the same time and may not be required to attend their synchronized meeting plan courses.

Most schools also offer an individualized way to work with students’ timetables instead of cohort learning, where a specific group of students is maintained throughout the program.

However, Progression, transfers of transcripts, and/or a student’s clinical hours may affect the duration of an online LPN for RN program. However, graduates can already be in 18 months. Some LPN-to-RN-Bridge programs also provide exams that allow students to earn more points in less time.

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What are the LPN to RN online program courses?

All online LPN-on-RN bridging programs cover the same core curriculum: a combination of English Composition, Anatomy and Physiology, Biology, General Chemistry, and nursing practice combined with physicians. While the details of the required courses per school are different, the following list shows students’ general classes in these programs.

  • Microbiology for health professionals: This course is in this scientific discipline but focuses on how microorganisms interact to trigger human disease. The course’s tasks and topics address microbiology’s role in health care for Allied nurses and health professionals.
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology I: Topics include the organization of the body, basic body systems, and the effects of disease on particular systems. The first course in this two-part sequence examines the structure and function of cells, tissues, and the skin, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology II: Based on the previous course participants will be introduced to the cardiovascular, endocrine, respiratory, lymphatic, digestive, reproductive and urinary systems. The course includes a lab component that online students complete at home.
  • Principles of Pharmacology: Topics include pharmacokinetics, receptor mechanisms and distribution, and drug metabolism. Students also learn how drugs interact with different systems in the human body.
  • Professional Nursing Concepts: This course examines the evolution of the professional roles of nurses. It combines knowledge of the liberal arts with practical skills in a nursing environment. It also examines the factors influencing clinical decision-making, professional judgment, and lifelong learning.

Requirements for LPN to RN online programs

Before you start a higher nursing course, you must first meet some requirements. Certain courses and values ​​vary according to educational background. The program duration also depends on how many requirements you have to fulfill.

Most importantly, Candidates for an LPN-RN program usually have nursing experience. For admission to an RN program, prospective students must provide evidence of an accredited nursing program.

They must state-issued nursing license along with a current BLS / CPR certification. The programs usually conduct an entrance test to ensure that their students meet the minimum requirements for mathematics and science.

While the specific requirements of the GPA may vary between schools, applicants almost always have to demonstrate a GPA of 2.0 or higher. If necessary, prospective students may need to complete preliminary courses such as childcare, mental health nursing, nursing mothers and children, or adult medical-surgical nursing.

Most importantly check the school website to aid you in getting the same program you can run there and if possible check also the 10 Most Useful Website Online for Nursing Students to get more opportunities.

How Much Does LPN to RN Program Cost?

The costs to attend an LPN-to-RN bridge program range depending upon whether you are pursuing an ADN or BSN degree. Hence, Other factors contributing to price include where the school is located. Whether you enroll in a community college program, a private college, or a state school matters.

And also whether you are attending as an in-state or out-of-state student. Some programs offer to pay per credit, while others permit students to pay a per-semester price and sign up for as many courses as they wish.

What is the fastest LPN to RN program?

According to nursejournal.org, LPN-RN bridge programs allow LPNs to become RNs in as little as one year. This program leads to an ADN and ADN holders qualify to take the NCLEX – RN. Afterward, they can apply for state RN licensure.

So, it would be best if you opted for LPN-RN bridge programs that can be completed in one year.

What to Look for in an Online LPN-to-RN Program

While there are many online LPN-RN programs, you should be careful in settling for one. Below are some factors to consider before enrolling in an online LPN – RN program:

#1. Admission Requirements

You should be certain you meet the admission requirement of an LPN-RN bridge program before applying. This will ensure you don’t spend time applying for programs you are not eligible for.

SEE ALSO: 15 Free Online Nursing Courses with Certificates in 2023

#2. Program Curriculum

It is important you scrutinize the curriculum. It would be best if you had a clear goal in mind. Be sure what area of nursing you would love to specialize in.

So, you should apply to only online programs for LPN-RN that offer the necessary classes.

#3. Clinical Experience

Take time to peruse the format of the clinical rotations. You should also put into consideration the location of the healthcare facilities. More importantly, does the program help you find opportunities?

#4. Accreditation

Attending an unaccredited LPN to RN online program is equivalent to not attending one at all. So, ensure the online program you want to enroll in is fully accredited by the relevant authorities.

Graduating from an unaccredited online LPN-RN program can impact your financial aid eligibility. Also, your employment prospect, graduate school admission, and transfer credit may be affected.

Affordable Online LPN to RN Programs for Nurses

Having provided the answer to some of the FAQs, let’s now dive into the accredited online LPN to RN nursing programs you can apply for.

#1. Fairmont State University

The online program LPN-ASN 3 semester Fairmont State University is approved for LPNs who have completed specific prerequisite courses to get a quick education to obtain their associate’s degree in science in nursing and to prepare for the NCLEX-RN. For admission,

  • Interested students should send Standard Admission Materials FSU
  • Transcript High School GPA of at least 2.0, ACT or SAT points, and Vaccination
  • The minimum score in the Academic Essential Skills Test (TEAS), proof of unencumbered LPN licenses and any previous college credentials with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Tuition Fees: $5,216

Financial Aid: 30%

Official Website

#2. College of Central Florida

At the College of Central Florida, licensed nurses (LPNs) can earn their associate’s degree through an LPN program for the DNA Bridge. This 3-year, 1-year program is a hybrid program that offers face-to-face and online courses along with campus lab work and clinical experience.

  • It is a program with limited access for students who have passed the PERT, ACT, SAT or TEAS tests.
  • Have completed or are currently taking the required courses; admitted to the university with an open admission guideline.
  • Maintain GPAs of at least 2.0 and 2.5 for care courses.
  • Have the American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support Certification for healthcare providers.

Tuition Fees: $1,910

Financial Aid: 22%

Official Website

#3. Oklahoma Panhandle State University

The Associate of Applied Science’s Nursing Program’s 71-Hour Hybrid Program at the Oklahoma State Panhandle combines some online and classroom courses with lab lessons and practical clinical experiences in the community.

However, Graduates can continue to earn their bachelor’s degree in nursing from the OPSU. To be included in the program, interested students must submit transcripts of early GPAs of at least 2.5 in college work and demonstrate HESI A2 to confirm the successful completion of the prerequisites.

Tuition Fees: $4,312

Financial Aid: 68%

Official Website

READ ALSO: How to Get a Nursing Degree Online in 2023: Schools, Cost, Job Outlook

#4. University of Alaska Anchorage

The University of Alaska Anchorage nursing assistants can complete a direct joint program to meet their Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and be trained to take the NCLEX exam to drop nurses.

Most importantly, students complete 70 credit hours in careful preparation after admission, taught in online or video classes. Students can also complete the 120-credit online RN-to-BSN program, which includes first-rate care courses and an introductory course.

Potential LPNs submit high school grades with a grade of C or higher in the Prerequisites, GPAs of 2.0 or higher, and LPN licenses for enrollment.

Tuition Fees: $5,936

Financial Aid: 30%

Official Website

#5. University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College

The LPN-to-RN Care Program at the University of Cincinnati’s Blue Ash College is a hybrid program that combines online and classroom teaching. It is intended to obtain licensed nurse practitioners to receive the training they need to pass the National Council Licensing Examination for Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

The requirements for this LPN online program for RN must be fulfilled successfully to be considered for admission.

Tuition Fees: $5,274

Financial Aid: 45%

Official Website

#6. Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology

At the Institute of Technology, University of Oklahoma (OSUIT), licensed practical nurses can complete an online transition program LPN to RN to earn and qualify for their associate of applied science in nursing, taking the NCLEX exam to become nurses.

However, LPNs can release their 33 general education credits and complete only 39 hours of nursing education to earn their degree. Admission is based on a scoring system that depends on factors such as previous GPAs, ACT / SAT scores and Accuplacer scores. OSUIT online students receive free software from Microsoft and resources such as consulting and career services.

Tuition Fees: $3,900

Financial Aid: 77%

Official Website

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#7. Palm Beach State College

The Nursing Transition Program Online Palm Beach State College is a 72 2 Credits 3-year program designed to recognize the professional experience of nurses and licensed paramedics. And also, It helps them complete their Grade Associate of Science, and prepare them for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX ) and become nurses.

This Lpn to RN nursing program requirements can be met personally, especially during the day. Upon completion, however, all theoretical care courses are available online. Nursing clinicians appear personally.

Tuition Fees: $2,424

Financial Aid: 13%

Official Website

#8. Olympic College

Transition College Online Associate Olympic in Technical Arts in Nursing is a credit program in two years 90 that will prepare graduate assistants to pass the NCLEX exam to become licensed nurses. The College offers interested students admission, applications, credentials and proof of completion of requirements.

Furthermore, The assumption is then made based on a factoring system that considers the markers in the prerequisite courses, grades applied on the placement test for the reading comprehension of Accuplacer and other factors such as the number of times applied or the general cumulative GPA received.

Tuition Fees: $3,393

Financial Aid: 8%

Official Website

#9. Indiana State University

Indiana State University’s LPN-RN online program allows licensed nurses to continue their studies with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a licensed nurse’s license. The accredited program prepares graduates to take the National Admissions Exam and meet the requirements of Indiana and other state nursing authorities.

However, Students complete all courses online and coordinate with local health facilities to complete the required clinical education. The 39 nursing credits include leadership, community health care, and a preparation course for admission. An RN diploma enables students to work as trained nurses and continues their education at the graduate level.

Tuition Fees: $7,393

Financial Aid: 25%

Official Website

#10. Allegany College of Maryland

The college has developed its online bridge program LPN-on-RN for professional nurses who want to take the next step in their careers. The school provides credits for training nurses in the workplace so that they can participate in the program for the second year.

Hence, Most classes use an asynchronous format, where students complete tasks and clinical rotations by the specified due date. Students can work with health authorities in their community to meet clinical requirements. Courses include caring for different populations, pharmacology, and transitioning from an LPN role to an RN.

Tuition Fees: $6,990

Financial Aid: 95%

Official Website

SEE ALSO: 10 Best Colleges in Texas for Nursing

#11. Hutchinson Community College

The school retains recognition from the Kansas State Board of Nursing and accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education. The Hutchinson program welcomes applicants with active licenses such as LPNs or EMT paramedics.

The curriculum includes courses in health and medicine as well as leadership development. The LPN online program for RN uses an online learning zone for seminars and lectures.

However, The school also works with many health facilities in the Hutchinson area, and aspiring online students can also search for locations in their area of ​​origin that can receive clinical training. Applicants must take the Kaplan Admissions Exam but may qualify for an advanced position in the program with up to 12 credits for prior learning.

Tuition Fees: $3,393

Financial Aid: 8%

Official Website

#12. Davidson County Community College

The Associate Degree Nursing curriculum provides knowledge, skills, and strategies to integrate safety and quality into nursing care, practice in a dynamic environment, and meet individual needs that impact health, quality of life, and achievement of potential.

Coursework includes and builds upon the domains of healthcare, nursing practice, and the holistic individual. Content emphasizes the nurse as a member of the interdisciplinary team providing safe, individualized care while employing evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics.

Tuition Fees: $ 8,732 

Financial Aid: 50%

Official Website

READ ALSO: 10 Best Nursing Student Loans of 2023

#13. University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville

This college is a public community that offers a traditional in-person LPN to RN program and an online version.

The current LPN must complete 58 credits with a grade of ‘C’ or higher to be awarded the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. However, This accelerated LPN to RN program online is an accredited two-year university offering various Associates of Arts and Associates of Science degrees.

Tuition Fees: $6,754

Financial Aid: 43%

Official Website

#14. North Dakota State University

To complete a baccalaureate degree in nursing and become eligible for licensure as a registered nurse, we invite you to explore the North Dakota State University (NDSU) nursing program. We offer a curricular pathway tailored for the working LPN.

However, NDSU’s nursing program allows nurses to earn a bachelor’s degree primarily online. The sequence of nursing courses is six semesters (including summers) in length.

Furthermore, The program currently only starts once a year (spring semester).  The program requires occasional time on campus and time in the clinical setting, primarily during the summer sessions.

Tuition Fees: $4,137.50

Financial Aid: 43%

Official Website

#15. LPN-to-RN online programs and clinical experience

When you sign up for an online nursing LPN to RN bridge program, your school will make demands on your clinical work. Some programs take students to a local health center, while other schools ask students to find their own clinical location.

If your program asks you to find a clinical location, it is a good idea to check the places in advance and ensure that you are admitted to the school.

Before you begin your search, make sure your program contains a list of approved sites. They can range from hospitals to school systems.

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