LPN to RN Online Programs in OH: Your Guide to Top Schools

Inside Different Types of LPN to RN Degrees in Ohio

LPN to RN bridge programs give practical nurses an opportunity to gain more skills and experience while preparing to meet the RN licensure requirements for their state. The best bridge programs have accreditation, flexibility, and in-state tuition discounts. They should also be approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

It’s challenging to find fully online programs, and it’s important to note that there aren’t any in the state of Ohio. Hybrid programs offer many courses online while clinicals and labs still require in-person attendance, but even these are hard to find. However, there are universities, such as Kent State, that allow you to schedule classes in the evenings or on weekends so that students can enjoy some flexibility in their education options. Other programs allow you to take any general education courses online while the core nursing classes are taken on-campus.

To help you in your search for a flexible LPN to RN program in Ohio, take a look at some popular options below.

All You Need to Know: LPN to RN Student FAQs

Before applying for an LPN to RN program, you likely have a lot of questions about costs, admissions requirements, durations, and more. We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions so you can prepare to apply for a bridge program in Ohio.

How long does it take to finish an LPN to RN bridge program in Ohio?

Because you’re already a licensed nurse, LPN to RN bridge programs in Ohio are designed to be completed in just one to two years, though this can vary from program to program. To give you a better idea of how long it might take, here’s the average time it takes to complete four of the most popular programs in the state:

• Kent State University: 12-16 months, once accepted into Technical Study Sequence
• Central Ohio Technical College: Four semesters
• Ohio University: Three semesters
• Knox Technical Center: 12 months

What are the admissions requirements for LPN to RN bridge programs in Ohio?

The main requirement for most LPN to RN programs is a current LPN license. However, these programs can be competitive, so many universities have other requirements. These can include:

• A high school diploma
• Passing a fit-for-work health exam
• Providing a work history or a list of nursing skills an applicant already has
• An application fee
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

Most schools also have certain prerequisite courses you’ll have to take before applying. This isn’t the case for all programs, though, since there are some LPN to RN online programs without prerequisites. If there’s a specific program you’re interested in, be sure to check the requirements before applying.

How much do LPN to RN bridge programs in Ohio cost?

The cost of an LPN to RN program in Ohio can range from $15,000 to $25,000. Getting any higher education degree can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be if you choose a program that offers in-state tuition. If cost is a top consideration for you, there are many nursing programs with financial aid opportunities. Additionally, there are scholarships offered by state organizations, like the Ohio Nurses Foundation.

What should I look for in an LPN to RN program in Ohio?

Any program you apply to should be properly accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation is important because you won’t become a licensed nurse upon graduating if a program is not accredited. The program you choose should also be approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Beyond accreditations, the best LPN to RN programs will also have high NCLEX-RN pass rates. Passing this exam is a requirement for you to gain your license, so it’s important that the program you choose adequately prepares students for success. Check out our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX, essential study skills guide for healthcare students, and test-taking strategies guide for extra preparation resources.

Are There 6 Month LPN to RN Programs in Ohio?

Although 6-month LPN to RN programs may sound like a good option for you, none of these programs are available in Ohio. However, the good news is you can still advance your career by enrolling in one of the many LPN to RN completion programs in the state.

Ohio LPN vs. RN Salary & Career Comparison

As you consider transitioning from LPN to RN, it's important to evaluate your return on investment, and Ohio offers notable advantages. The median RN salary in Ohio is $79,940, compared to $58,130 for LPNs, representing a 38% increase, not to mention the higher long-term earning potential. Entry-level RNs earn $64,480, which surpasses even the median salary for LPNs. Meanwhile, experienced RNs in the 90th percentile earn $105,380, nearly $35,000 more than top-earning LPNs.

While Ohio's projected RN growth rate of 3.4% is below the national average of 5.6%, it still exceeds the LPN growth rate of 1.7%, indicating a stronger overall demand for RNs. Ohio anticipates 7,630 annual RN openings compared to 2,930 for LPNs. This higher demand and financial gain make the RN path a sound choice. Browse through the information below to see the potential your new career as an RN holds.