Before LPN to RN programs existed, one had to become an RN before pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, however, LPNs are now offered bridge programs that allow them to shortcut the education process while saving time and money!
As you may know from reading other pages on this site, one of the fastest ways to start a career in the nursing field is to become a licensed practical nurse, or LPN. The education and training required for an LPN license only takes about a year to complete, but the LPN position is entry-level and for newcomers to the nursing field.
But getting a foot in the door and some experience under one’s belt is always a valuable stepping stone, and as we all know, we can’t run before we can walk. However, after acquiring that valuable experience, most nurses choose to further their careers and pursue registered nurse positions. Becoming an RN typically takes between two to four years of education/training, which is why LPN to RN programs are so attractive in comparison.
These programs allow nurses to build their skills and experience they’ve already acquired, which is why the education requirements aren’t as extensive as becoming an RN without prior nursing experience. As for the exact length of a particular bridge program, that depends on the degree you’re aiming for. As a registered nurse, there are many options such as, associate’s degrees, which take roughly a year via an LPN to RN bridge program. Otherwise one can obtain a bachelor’s degree, which will take between 2.5 to 3 years through the bridge program.
Online LPN to RN programs are also available, which don’t require physically going to classes every week. With the wide range of online programs to help LPNs become an RN, it is wise to research which ones will be the most convenient, depending on existing obligations. Of course choosing a highly recommended program will allow one to more easily meet their goals of becoming an RN through an online bridge program. One of the best forms of due diligence is to contact a representative or counselor to get your questions answered and help you get started. The more information one has on hand about as many programs as possible, the better their decision will be on which school to attend. Here are some considerations:
- Program Cost – Although the cost of the bridge program you choose should be a consideration, it should not be your number one consideration. However, making sure your education costs fit your budget is important nonetheless
- Time Requirements – Making sure the program class schedule fits within your existing schedule is obviously one of your main considerations
- Your Existing Employment – Although an online RN bridge program will save you significant time, make sure you can keep your existing LPN job to pay the bills while you further your education
Before applying for a bridge program, one must prove/verify their LPN license, which requires graduation from an accredited LPN program. Sometimes programs like this will require a certain number of months on the job as an LPN as well.
These programs are huge time and money savers that simply expand your existing knowledge base, so you don’t need to start from the beginning. However, even better than saving time is saving money, and since bridge programs aren’t as lengthy, they offer substantial savings on tuition costs. Since you’re already working as an LPN, you may qualify for a government grant program, or even be subsidized by your employer. Many hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities provide financial assistance for their nurses so they can go back to school. However this may require a commitment to work for the employer for a certain number of years after graduation in exchange.
Because you will start making money quicker than becoming an RN right out of the gate, you’ll start earning higher wages, over and above your previous LPN salary. And since you may want to continue working as an LPN while in school, you’ll really appreciate the expedited education you’ll receive. Part time students can take quite awhile to achieve their educational goals.
After graduation from the LPN to RN bridge program, the next step is to take the national licensing exam to obtain your state license for working as an RN. Most of these bridge programs offer students an excellent preparatory environment for the exam, some even providing students with additional guidance or study help, study groups, alumni associations, and more.
Lastly, if you go through a bridge program, you may even decide to go for your master’s degree in nursing, allowing you to pursue even more senior nursing positions, such as, a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or clinical nurse specialist. There are even doctorate degrees in nursing where you can work in the most advanced nursing positions available.
So even though becoming an LPN can be considered a nursing career starter position, it becomes much easier to gain experience and advance your career after becoming one. And as you can see the advancement opportunities are tremendous in the nursing field.
