LPN to ADN Bridge Programs Online: Top Schools & Degree Info

Comparing Online LPN to ADN Programs

Ready to level up your nursing career? Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs offer a bridge to becoming a registered nurse (RN), which in turn can lead to higher pay, expanded roles, and greater autonomy. But how do these programs work, and what does an online program entail?

LPN to ADN programs are designed for licensed practical nurses who are ready to advance. While online learning offers flexibility, most programs aren’t entirely online due to the essential hands-on clinical components. Typically, coursework and lectures are online, while labs, some exams, and clinical rotations in healthcare settings are in-person.

When it comes to choosing a program, consider accreditation, online format, clinical placement locations, costs, scholarships, financial aid options, and more. You’ll also want to factor in program length, as fast-track and accelerated programs can typically be completed in two years or fewer. Here we’ll explore three top schools, salary insights, and a ranking of some of the best programs available.

LPN to ADN Student FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Want to learn more about LPN to ADN online programs? Here are answers to five of the most common questions asked by practical nurses interested in pursuing their ADNs online.

Are all LPN-ADN programs accredited?

No. Not all programs are accredited. But accreditation is key when choosing an LPN to ADN online program, as it ensures academic quality, which is critical when applying to take the NCLEX-RN and when seeking employment. The leading accreditor for associate degree programs in the United States is the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Always verify a program’s accreditation and confirm approval from its state’s board of nursing before enrollment. Additionally, ensure the program qualifies you for the NCLEX-RN exam and state registered nurse licensure. This also helps ensure your credits will transfer if you pursue a BSN later.

Are LPN-ADN programs available entirely online?

Due to the inherent hands-on nature of nursing, almost all “online” programs require at least some in-person labs, clinicals, and/or simulations. That said, much of the coursework or lectures are often offered online. Thus, most online programs are actually hybrid models.

Can I transfer credits from my previous LPN program?

Credit transfer policies vary by institution, but many programs allow you to transfer some credits from your previous LPN program. Programs typically evaluate transfer credits on a case-by-case basis, focusing particularly on general education courses. The process requires sending official transcripts directly from your previous institution for evaluation. Most schools have specific grade requirements for transferable courses, such as requiring a minimum grade of “C” for general education courses and often a “B” or better for science courses like anatomy and physiology. It’s essential to contact your intended program early in the application process to understand their specific transfer credit policies and have your credits evaluated before starting the program. This helps ensure you know exactly which courses you’ll need to complete and can plan accordingly.

How long are LPN-ADN programs?

Program lengths vary from program to program, but most students will complete their program requirements in under two years. Some LPN to ADN programs with fast-paced schedules can be finished in as little as one year for full-time students. You’ll also find a few programs with two-year lengths to accommodate especially busy students. Factors that influence completion times include study pace (full-time or part-time) and the number of previously earned credits that can be transferred into the program.

How much do LPN-ADN programs cost?

Costs for LPN to ADN programs can vary significantly from one program to another. Several key factors influence these costs, including the program’s length and total credit requirements, whether the program is offered by a public or private institution (as private school tuition tends to be higher than that of public schools), and whether it is provided by a community college or a four-year university. Community colleges typically have much lower tuition rates compared to four-year colleges. Students attending public schools outside their home state also may face higher tuition rates than in-state residents. LPN to ADN program costs generally range from $5,000 to $15,000.

LPN vs. ADN Salary & Career Comparison

The transition from being an LPN to an ADN-educated RN represents a significant career advancement with substantial financial and professional benefits. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean annual salary for LPNs is $50,090, while RNs make $94,480.

Beyond the salary advantage, ADN-educated RNs enjoy broader career opportunities and greater autonomy. While LPNs typically work under RN supervision with limited responsibilities, RNs can work in diverse settings from hospitals to private practices and specialize in areas like critical care or pediatrics. They have the authority to make independent patient care decisions and pursue leadership roles, with opportunities to advance their education through BSN programs.

The career outlook also favors RNs, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 6% job growth from 2023 to 2033, outpacing LPN growth rates of 3%. This faster growth translates to more job opportunities and greater job security for ADN-educated nurses. For LPNs considering advancement, the transition to ADN represents not just a significant salary increase but also expanded professional opportunities, greater autonomy, and stronger long-term career prospects in the growing healthcare field.

Top Picks: Online LPN to ADN Bridge Programs

EduMed rankings help nursing students identify top LPN to ADN bridge programs using comprehensive evaluation criteria. Programs are assessed based on key factors including accreditation, online learning options, financial aid availability, and student success metrics. The methodology prioritizes institutional accreditation and online program availability, while also considering factors like student-to-faculty ratios and graduation rates. For detailed information about the ranking process, refer to the “About the Rankings” section.