6-Month LPN to RN Programs Online: Finding Top Accelerated Degrees
If you’re a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking to become a registered nurse (RN), an accelerated online LPN to RN program can help you get there quickly without the expense of an on-campus program. Online LPN to RN students can face unique challenges, so read on to learn more about the programs available and see if one might be a fit.
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Explore Online LPN to RN Accelerated Degree Programs
As you begin to research various online LPN to RN programs, you may be unsure of what to expect. For instance, although a program is described as accelerated, timelines vary from program to program. Online LPN to RN programs also usually have some in-person requirements like clinical experiences at healthcare facilities. To help in your research, take a look at three high quality online accelerated LPN to RN programs for an idea of what you can expect.
ATA College
ATA College, accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, is a private for-profit institution offering allied health programs. Included is a hybrid accelerated LPN to RN offered at the Kentucky and Ohio campuses that prepares students for the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Throughout this 90-credit hybrid program, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of online coursework and extensive hands-on training through in-person labs and clinical experiences. Core nursing classes cover topics such as advanced pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal health, and mental health nursing. Before completing this program, nursing students also complete a four-credit integrated practicum.
Duration: 15 Months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $355/credit
Hutchinson Community College
Hutchinson Community College is a Kansas-based public institution with an LPN to RN online bridge program. Accredited by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Kansas State Board of Nursing Accreditation, the 69-credit online bridge program offers the flexibility working practical nurses need to earn their credential. Coursework is online; required clinical experience is in person.
Prospective students must hold an active LPN license and verify 1,000 work hours and demonstrate a minimum 2.0 GPA in prior college coursework.
Duration: 2 Years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $128/credit (in state); $159/credit (out of state)
Missouri State University–West Plains
Located in south-central Missouri, Missouri State University-West Plains is a community college that offers an accelerated LPN to RN bridge program that can be completed in just one academic year.
Throughout this accelerated LPN to RN program, students tackle theoretical coursework and advanced hands-on training, all while gaining the knowledge and skills required to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Students also complete a capstone course that dives into contemporary trends and issues in the nursing profession.
You must be admitted to Missouri State-West Plains before applying to the accelerated bridge program. Applicants must include proof of an active LPN license, a background check, and a negative drug test.
Duration: 1 Year
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $11,069
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We help thousands of LPNs/LVNs work towards achieving their Associate Degree in Nursing or RN. The Test-Out Bridge Program makes achieving your RN faster and affordable, and previous college credits will count toward your advanced degree.
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FAQs About Accelerated Online LPN to RN Programs
How long does it take to complete an accelerated online LPN to RN program?
You can expect your online accelerated LPN to RN to take anywhere from one to two years. Remember that this timeline varies by program and based on your circumstances. For instance, if you come into your program with more extensive academic credits from prior study, your time to graduation may be reduced.
How do I get clinical experience in my accelerated online LPN to RN program?
Clinical experience can be a vital part of your nursing education. An accelerated online LPN to RN program will include a clinical component which, while not strictly online, satisfies the hands-on requirements of nursing training. These can be at a clinical facility near campus, or at a hospital or other healthcare facility in your local area which has been approved for clinicals through your program.
Will I be able to work while I study my online LPN to RN program?
Whether or not you work while you complete your online LPN to RN program will be up to you, although some programs may encourage you to continue working as an LPN during your studies to hone skills in a clinical environment. With that in mind, be sure that you can handle balancing your studies with your job and ask your employer if they have tuition reimbursement or other education benefits.
Can I start working as an RN after I graduate from my accelerated online LPN to RN program?
Once you’ve completed your accelerated online LPN to RN, you will have the educational requirements to work as an RN. You’ll likely not be able to start working right away, though, since you will still need to become licensed. Licensure requirements vary from state to state, but typically you’ll need to pass the NCLEX exam and submit necessary paperwork to become licensed and start work as an RN.
Is there financial aid available for online accelerated LPN to RN students?
Yes, accredited online accelerated LPN to RN programs are usually eligible for federal aid, including grants and loans, as long as you submit your FAFSA on time. Your school may also offer institutional aid based on need, merit, or both, including scholarships and work study. Finally, be sure to explore scholarships and fellowships from private foundations and charitable organizations.
Challenges & Solutions for Students in Accelerated LPN to RN Programs
While there are advantages to studying an online accelerated LPN to RN program, the format and pace can pose unique challenges. Here are some common concerns and tips to help.
Challenge: Keeping Up With Your Fastest Ever Classwork Pace
By their very nature, accelerated online LPN to RN programs move fast. This will be a new pace of learning, which may be overwhelming for many students.
Solution: Create a study plan that suits your needs and stick to it. It’s important to know your learning style, like whether you learn better through visual or audio means, and develop a plan accordingly. Getting organized and setting a work plan before classes start can help prevent you from being overwhelmed or unaware when your schedule ramps up.
Challenge: Balancing Work With an Accelerated Study Schedule
For working adults, keeping up with studies in an accelerated program can be especially challenging.
Solution: Set your priorities, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You may need to speak to your school about your professional and financial obligations to see if there is aid available. You may also want to speak to your employer, especially if you are already working as an LPN in a hospital, doctor’s office, or other clinical setting, as they may offer flexible working programs or financial aid.
Challenge: Clinical Experience
One of the critical factors in many RN programs is clinical experience. This can be tricky to manage when studying online on a compressed timeline, especially if your program has no in-person aspects.
Solution: As mentioned above, the majority of accelerated online LPN to RN programs will require some form of clinical experience, including programs on campus, at a partner site, or in your local community. These can vary significantly, which is why it is crucial for you to look at the type of experiential learning required for clinicals to see if it works for you.
Challenge: Exam Prep on a Compressed Timeline
Not only will you need to pass traditional academic exams, but you’ll want to start prepping for your NCLEX once you’ve finished your program. This can be tough to balance on an accelerated timeline.
Solution: Your school will have exam prep resources available during your coursework, including study groups. Regarding the NCLEX, ensure you have time to prepare and remember there is no rush. Give yourself a period after finishing your accelerated online LPN to RN program to study for the NCLEX.
