Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs
2025 Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs You Should Know About
If you’re a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)—or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), depending on your state—and you’ve been thinking about becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), an LPN to RN Bridge Program is one of the smartest moves you can make.
These programs give you credit for the education and experience you already have, meaning you can skip repeating courses and complete your RN education more quickly and affordably. Many nurses choose an Online LPN to RN Bridge or hybrid format so they can keep working while studying, while others opt for accelerated tracks—like a 9 Month LPN to RN Program—to move into RN roles as soon as possible.
Whether you’re searching for an LPN to RN Online Program that fits into your schedule or an LPN to RN pathway available in your area, there’s a program out there that can help you take the next big step in your nursing career.
University Recommendations
Ranking Criteria: Selections are based on tuition cost, acceptance rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation status, using the latest Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data.
1. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas offers an LPN to RN Online Program tailored for working nurses, allowing them to balance family, work, and study while completing clinicals in their own communities across several eligible states.
Eligible States: AL, AR, KS, KY, MS, MO
Program Length: 2–3 years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? Yes
2. Indiana State University
Indiana State University offers one of the leading Online LPN to RN Programs, allowing students to earn a BSN degree by transferring eligible credits and completing clinical rotations locally—no in-person classes required. Open to in-state and many out-of-state applicants.
Program Length: 3 Years
Accreditation: ACEN
Online Options? Yes
3. Saint Xavier University
Saint Xavier University’s pioneering LPN to RN Bridge Program, established in 1991, offers Illinois students an accelerated path to a BSN by integrating LPN coursework with the undergraduate nursing curriculum.
Program Length: 1-2 Years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? No
4. Herzing University
Herzing University’s tailored program helps LPNs leverage their experience to earn a BSN and start RN careers faster. With six campuses—including three in Wisconsin and locations in Florida and Minnesota—it offers accessible LPN to RN Bridge Programs across multiple regions.
Program Length: 4-5 Semesters
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? Yes
5. University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma offers a 9-month hybrid Online LPN to RN Bridge program with evening classes and clinical rotations for working nurses in Oklahoma. Students complete 60 credits—half via exam and half through BSN courses—and graduate eligible for RN licensure in the state.
Program Length: 9 Months
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? Yes
6. North Dakota State University
North Dakota State University offers a primarily online LPN to BSN program spanning six consecutive semesters, combining online coursework with in-person clinical rotations in Fargo and Moorhead during the summers.
Program Length: 6 Semesters
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? Yes
7. Saint Martin’s University
Located in Washington’s South Puget Sound region, Saint Martin’s offers a two-year hybrid LPN to RN pathway available in your area, combining online and in-person coursework with scholarships for all students.
Program Length: 2 years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? No
8. Chamberlain College of Nursing
Chamberlain College of Nursing offers LPN to RN Online Programs across 23 campuses with no waitlists at most locations. Students can accelerate their BSN by transferring qualifying credits, pending skills validation. With a 130-year history and high NCLEX pass rates, Chamberlain is a trusted choice nationwide.
Program Length: 3 Years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? Yes
9. California State University East Bay
CSU East Bay’s LPN to RN Bridge Program accelerates RN licensure by tailoring coursework based on students’ work experience and education, with credit-by-exam options to optimize their path.
Program Length: 3 Years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? No
10. Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University in Southern California offers LVN to BSN bridge programs at three campuses with hands-on clinicals and advanced simulation technology. New cohorts start each fall, spring, and summer.
Program Length: 2 years
Accreditation: CCNE
Online Options? No
Q&A
Q: What does bridge mean in nursing?
Nursing bridge programs are educational pathways that “bridge” the gap between RN education for aspiring nurses. These programs help nursing professionals or non-nursing degree holders become RNs without starting their education over from scratch.
Q: How long do LPN to RN bridge programs take?
They typically take 12–24 months, but accelerated options like the 9 Month LPN to RN Program are available.
Q: Can I complete my LPN to RN entirely online?
Many schools offer an Online LPN to RN Bridge or hybrid format, but you will still need to complete in-person clinical requirements.
Q: What’s the benefit of an LPN to RN program over starting RN school from scratch?
You can skip repeated coursework, save money, and enter the RN workforce faster.
Q: Do I need a bachelor's degree in nursing to get into an MSN bridge program?
You may not need a BSN to enter an RN to MSN program. Some programs are for ADN RNs, and others are for students with non-nursing degrees. Thorough research on programs of interest will help you find one that suits your educational background.
Conclusion
From accelerated tracks like the 9 Month LPN to RN Program to flexible Online LPN to RN Programs, today’s options make it easier than ever to upgrade your credentials without putting your career on hold. Whether you prefer a fully LPN to RN Online Program or a local hybrid option, these LPN to RN Bridge Programs are designed to help you advance in your nursing career, increase your earning potential, and make a bigger impact in patient care. 🌟