LPN to RN Online Programs in TN: Reviewing Top Degrees

Inside Different Types of LPN to RN Degrees in Tennessee

As there are dozens of LPN to RN bridge programs in TN, it can be tough to sort through the specifics of each option and find the best fit for your needs. We’ve done some of the heavy lifting for you, reviewing LPN to RN bridge programs in Tennessee to identify the cream of the crop. Here, we’ve spotlighted schools that are approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. We’ve also prioritized programs that are flexible, making them easier to balance with your LPN job.

Although many programs include online components, fully online programs probably don’t exist for LPN to RN degrees. Thanks to the state’s registered nurse requirements, clinical hours must be completed in-person during any state-approved bridge program. These required clinical hours for RN licensure still allow students to opt for hybrid education options to combine the flexibility of online classes while ensuring you receive the real-world experience needed for the field. Many hybrid programs also have hands-on labs and simulations that students must complete in-person on college campuses.

To get an idea of popular school options for students like you, learn about three reputable schools below.

FAQs for LPN to RN Programs in Tennessee

The three programs above provide a birds-eye view of what a LPN to RN program looks like, but they don’t get into the nitty gritty details such as the costs of a bridge program or the career opportunities available as an RN versus an LPN. Continue reading for important information about these programs and what to expect after graduating.

What can I expect to learn in an LPN to RN program in Tennessee?

Bridge programs build upon your existing experience and credentials to offer the practical and technical knowledge necessary to earn higher-level credentials. Since you’ll be studying alongside other LPNs, you won’t spend valuable class time reviewing concepts you already have dialed. Instead, your coursework will broaden your horizons and offer deeper insights into essential topics in nursing.

Although you likely already have experience working with patients, clinical experiences give you the opportunity to try on new responsibilities and practices to prepare for the next stage of your career. Many schools, like Southwest Tennessee Community College, have a clinical rotation specifically focused on the transition between LPN and RN to highlight the differences between the two roles.

Behind the scenes, you’ll flesh out your knowledge of essential subjects like nursing theory, anatomy, and pharmacology. Other popular curriculum classes include adult health nursing, pharmacology in nursing, ethics, life span psychology, and childbearing family nursing, among others.

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

LPN to RN programs in Tennessee vary in length; although they can typically be completed in 12-24 months, your timeline will vary based on several factors. A major variable in your timeline is the order of required courses and how much time you can devote to your degree.

The number of courses you take each semester will dramatically impact how long it takes to finish your program. Some students opt to pursue a degree part time, which may not be as fast as some accelerated LPN to RN programs that are available as full-time options.

What are the requirements to get into a Tennessee LPN to RN bridge program?

The hallmark of LPN to RN programs is that they cater specifically to LPNs, so across the board, most programs will require you to demonstrate that you have an active, unencumbered LPN license in Tennessee. Some schools, like Chattanooga State Community College, also require applicants to have already completed specific prerequisite courses, while other LPN to RN schools have no set prerequisites. Other common requirements for LPN to RN bridge applicants include a minimum GPA, standardized test scores, and an entrance exam.

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

Your total cost will depend largely on which school you attend; tuition in LPN to RN programs in Tennessee can range from as low as $6,000 to upwards of $30,000. Be sure to look into which options offer in-state tuition or financial aid packages to save money where you can. There are also additional financial aid opportunities, such as nursing scholarships and employer tuition reimbursement programs. Individual programs also offer grants and discounted rates, so ask an admissions counselor about their financial aid options before applying.

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

An expensive price tag doesn’t necessarily equal a high-quality education. Fortunately, there are ways to assess a school’s quality with only a few minutes of research. First, make sure your potential program is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing, or the nursing board of the state where you intend to pursue your license. Any school that doesn’t meet this criterion should be crossed off your list immediately. Finally, you can look up the school’s NCLEX-RN pass rates. High pass rates on this exam demonstrate that graduates were well prepared to apply for licensure.

Tennessee LPN vs. RN Salary & Career Comparison

Making the leap from LPN to RN in Tennessee offers substantial financial and career advantages. Registered Nurses (RNs) in the state earn a median salary of $76,200, significantly higher than the $49,780 median salary for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). At the upper end, RNs in Tennessee can earn up to $98,090 annually, while top-earning LPNs reach $62,370. This pay disparity reflects the added expertise and responsibilities required of RNs, making the transition a lucrative investment for career advancement.

Tennessee’s job market for both RNs and LPNs is expanding rapidly. RN roles are projected to grow by 12.8%, adding 7,700 new positions by 2030, while LPN roles are expected to increase by an impressive 19.6%, with 3,600 new jobs. Annual openings total approximately 4,200 for RNs and 1,890 for LPNs, reflecting high demand in the state’s healthcare sector. Explore the tables below to learn more about how moving from LPN to RN can transform your career in Tennessee.