LPN to BSN Programs
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects RN jobs to grow 7% from 2019-2029, generating nearly 220,000 positions. To meet the need for bachelor's-trained nurses, institutions nationwide offer accelerated nursing programs, including licensed practical nurse to bachelor's of science in nursing, or LPN-to-BSN, degrees.
Upon earning their LPN-to-BSN degree, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to earn their RN license. Some schools offer an RN-to-BSN program for associate-trained RNs wishing to continue their studies with a bachelor's.
This guide contains information that can help students determine whether pursuing an LPN-to-BSN program supports their current career objectives. We cover the benefits of online nursing programs, a ranking of the best LPN-to-BSN degrees, and scholarships for students pursuing online nursing degrees.
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Explore Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Best LPN-to-BSN Programs
#1 LPN to BSN Programs
North Dakota State University
- Fargo, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Dakota State University is a public institution.With nine online programs, the school provides distance learning options for students interested in various fields. The institution's offerings include an online LPN-to-BSN program that helps learners qualify for nursing careers.
In addition to core coursework, degree-seekers in the program complete advanced classes in field-related topics. Upper-division requirements help learners develop widely applicable skills, such as critical thinking abilities. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
Learners enrolled in the school's programs can access support services such as academic advising and career counseling. Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.
North Dakota State University Facts:
Applicants Admitted: 94%
Total Programs: 260
Total Bachelor's Programs: 109
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 LPN to BSN Programs
Kent State University
- Kent, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in nursing can enroll in the online LPN and allied health-to-BSN program from Kent State University. The school educates degree-seekers at its Ohio campus. Out of 330 programs offered at the school, 44 programs offer an online enrollment option.
The flexible online nursing program offers a high-quality learning experience. Online learning's customizable nature is ideal for students balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. Online learners can consult with professors virtually. Undergraduates typically require four years to earn their bachelor's degree if enrolled full time.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Financial aid counselors help students locate and apply for scholarships, grants, and loans.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 LPN to BSN Programs
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With 165 programs, Indiana State University provides academic programs for students in the state and those throughout the country. The public institution delivers bachelor's programs in online and in-person learning formats. The school's undergraduate programs include a convenient online nursing program.
The online LPN/LVN-to-BSN program delivers flexible learning options. Students complete general education courses, which strengthen skills such as critical thinking. The curriculum also includes upper-division coursework in the major and electives to customize the degree. Faculty advisors provide undergraduates with academic and professional guidance.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing undergraduate studies easier for many learners. Financial aid advisors connect degree-seekers with scholarship and grant opportunities.
Indiana State University Facts:
Number of Online Students: 5,748
Student Admission Rate: 90%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 80
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 LPN to BSN Programs
Presentation College
- Aberdeen, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Presentation College offers in-person programs on its Aberdeen campus. The institution also delivers academic programs in a flexible online format. Degree-seekers enrolled at the school can pursue eight online programs, three of which confer bachelor's degrees. The online LPN-to-BSN program features a curriculum designed to prepare enrollees for nursing careers.
To graduate, degree-seekers complete at least 120 credits. The bachelor's program requires general education courses and major classes. Faculty mentors assist learners as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations. In addition to coursework, the program features hands-on learning experiences, such as internship opportunities.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. The school reports that 100% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. Prospective students can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Why Get a Degree in Nursing?
Pursuing a BSN requires dedication, determination, and considerable resource investment. Nurses pursue a BSN for several reasons, even though they already endure long hours on the job and heavy workloads. We describe five such reasons below.
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BSN-trained RNs typically qualify for senior floor or management positions more easily than LPNs. Employers know they possess the knowledge and skills to handle greater responsibilities.
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A BSN presents the holder as a knowledgeable colleague who makes a meaningful contribution to patients' diagnostic and treatment plans.
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3
Requirement for Graduate Study
Most schools offering a master of science in nursing prefer applicants who already hold a bachelor's in nursing.
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A BSN allows practitioners to upgrade their skills and ensure their nursing knowledge stays current and inclusive of the latest developments.
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5
Increase Earning Potential
BLS data show that bachelor's degree-holders earn more than associate-trained workers or employees with some college but no degree. The different groups earn median weekly salaries of $1,248, $887, and $833, respectively.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse - Nursing Timeline
A typical nursing degree can take 2-4 years to complete. Each level of nursing has its own timeline, and that timeline can vary depending upon factors like part-time vs. full-time enrollment, certification, and the type of program.
Below is an overview of the typical amount of time it takes to complete a nursing degree, keep in mind that the length provided is for the amount of time it takes to complete that segment of the degree, not the entire academic path overall:
Nursing Timeline
Nursing Degree Level |
Time of Completion |
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) |
2-3 years |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) |
1-2 years |
Registered Nurse (RN) |
4 years |
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
4-5 years |
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
1.5-3 years |
Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
1-3 years |
How Much Does a Nursing Major Make?
A broad professional arena, the nursing field offers several specialization areas for nurses wanting to focus their careers or pursue a particular field of practice. Nursing specialties include geriatrics, mental health, ER, and critical care. According to the BLS, bachelor's-trained RNs earn a median annual salary of $73,300, much higher than the average of $39,810 for all professions. Master's-trained RNs, including nurse anesthetists and midwives, earn even higher median annual salaries of $115,800.
LPN-to-BSN Program Requirements
Specific requirements for admission to LPN-to-BSN programs vary between schools. Typical requirements include completion of an accredited practical nurse program, a valid LPN license and professional experience, and recommendation letters. Most schools require the completion of clinical hours while enrolled in the program.
BSN degree-holders pursue various career paths, each one with ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement. However, like many professional arenas, leadership and top administrative positions often require a master's or even a doctoral degree.
Courses in a LPN-to-BSN Program
LPN-to-BSN programs typically include foundation coursework, such as the three commonly offered courses described below. Many online nursing programs require public and community health, nursing informatics, and ethics classes. Well-developed LPN-to-BSN programs include several hours of supervised clinical training. This training helps students develop assessment and diagnostic skills and enhances their ability to relate professionally with different people.
Microbiology
Nurses use their knowledge of microbiology to create and maintain sterile environments, preventing contamination and cross-infection. Topics include biochemical characteristics of microbes, how microorganisms react to different therapies and medications, and the role of biotechnology in vaccine development.
Anatomy and Physiology
A nurse's knowledge in human anatomy and physiology helps them assess a patient's health status more accurately. The course familiarizes nurses with the fundamental components of physiology and anatomy, improving their ability to recognize patients' disease and illness symptoms. Nurses use their knowledge about the human body and its functions to help other medical practitioners craft effective treatment options.
Pharmacology
It often falls upon nurses to dispense patient medications, especially early in their career. A pharmacology course familiarizes nurses with different types of drugs, known side effects, and how each one affects the body and its normal functions. Nurses need a solid grasp of pharmacological concepts to avoid dispensing errors and potentially fatal drug interactions.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing FAQ's
What can you do with a LPN-to-BSN?
An LPN-to-BSN program qualifies graduates for more professional opportunities and greater autonomy. A BSN also meets the educational requirements for a master's in nursing.
Are there LPN-to-MSN programs?
Before they can apply to an MSN program, LPNs must first complete either an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN bridge program.
Is it easy to go from LPN to RN?
It can take a diploma-trained LPN another 2-4 years to become an RN. They must pass the NCLEX-RN before they can assume senior nursing duties typically assigned to RNs.