Essential Information
Licensed practical nurse (LPN) to registered nurse (RN) programs are available through a number of colleges and universities via Web-based delivery systems. Online LPN to RN education programs typically take 16-18 months to complete. They help existing practical and vocational nurses advance their careers by qualifying them for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Programs can be found at both the associate's and bachelor's degree level and require applicants to be licensed nurses. Some programs are blended in that they combine online courses with in-person clinicals within the student's local area.
LPN to RN
Distance-learning programs include online lectures and deadline-driven assignments, and systems usually use e-mail, interactive chat rooms and streaming video to facilitate the classes. Coursework common to most online LPN to RN programs can include the following:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Lifespan development
- Reproductive disorders
- Transition from LPN to RN
Indiana State University
Program Details
Indiana State University and Ivy Tech Community College - Wabash Valley offer a joint distance-learning program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing for LPNs. Clinicals are arranged in the student's area of residence, so on-campus visits for this LPN-RN distance-learning program are not required. Additionally, students complete general education classes as well as coursework that includes:
- Mental health aspects of nursing
- Nursing care of adults and children
- Pathophysiology
- Nursing synthesis
- Health biostatistics
School and Accreditation Information
This program is approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. In addition, it is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
School Information
- Tuition and Fees: $8,580 in-state; $18,708 out-of-state (2015-16)
- Enrollment: 13,584
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Program Details
The online LPN to RN program provides instruction and training in hospital, long-term care, community health and clinic settings and results in an Associate of Science degree. Prospective LPN to RN students can choose a generic program or a mobility option program. The mobility option includes a 2-credit summer role transition class prior to uniting with the generic program students.
School and Accreditation Information
The Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) system enrolls more than 6,500 students each semester, both online and at physical campuses located in Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Moorhead and Wadena. M State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
School Information
- Tuition and Fees: $5,338 (2015-16)
- Enrollment: 6,391
A number of schools provide LPN to RN distance learning programs that result in either an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. These programs explore topics such as anatomy, chemistry, biostatistics and care of adults and children.
