The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023-2030
If you’re a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking to boost your nursing career, an online LPN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN-to-BSN) program might be a smart choice. These flexible online bachelor’s programs recognize your prior training, and completing a BSN can qualify you for the atNional Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN), opening up better job prospects.
While an associate degree in nursing prepares you for the NCLEX-RN, top-rated online LPN-to-BSN programs provide specialized training for higher-paying roles and supervisory positions.
Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing
We assess the best LPN-to-BSN programs using data-driven criteria to help you find the right fit. Our evaluation focuses on key factors like academic quality, cost, reputation, and program offerings.
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Quick Overview: Leading Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
1. University of Arkansas
2. Excelsior College
3. Kent State University at Kent
4. Northern Michigan University
5. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
6. Southwestern Oklahoma State University
7. Cedar Crest College
8. Midland University
9. Kettering College
10. St. John’s College-Department of Nursing
We utilize publicly available data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to compile this information, and it is accurate as of the publication date. Specific program details may vary.
#1 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established in 1871, the University of Arkansas now enrolls over 30,000 learners in over 240 academic programs. The fully online LPN-to-BSN program, designed for working nurses, does not require any on-campus visits. Students may choose either fall or spring start dates.
The 120-credit curriculum offers courses in a six- or eight-week study plan, with practicums delivered over 16-week sessions, and during 10-week sessions in the summer. Online learners complete most of their clinical hours at approved sites in their communities.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $302 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program, valid LPN license; minimum 2.0 GPA; at least 2,000 professional hours as a licensed LPN in the last 12-24 months
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 83.1% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,308 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#2 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Excelsior College
- Albany, NY
- 4 years
- Online
A pioneer in online learning, Excelsior University offers over 35 academic programs, including a dual degree pathway for LPNs to earn their associate and bachelor’s degrees.
The associate in applied nursing portion emphasizes nursing theory and RN-level competencies, including online laboratories and two clinical placements in acute care settings. The upper division bachelor’s-level courses focus on population health, the role of RNs in healthcare delivery, and individual and collaborative practice experiences.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Albany, New York
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $550 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; 200 hours of work experience; TEAS exam
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 74.2% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $74,747 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#3 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Kent State University at Kent
- Kent, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kent State University has been designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League of Nursing. The school’s unique LPN & allied health-to-BSN degree is one of the few programs that meets the needs of working LPNs and other allied healthcare professionals, offering greater flexibility than a traditional BSN degree.
The 120-credit curriculum comprises prerequisite and foundational nursing courses and BSN nursing sequence courses. Students may take courses at Kent State regional campus and online.
- Program: LPN & allied health-to-BSN
- Campus: Kent, Ohio
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $400 per credit for Ohio residents; $410 per credit for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.75 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 39 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 79.79% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,073 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#4 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Northern Michigan University
- Marquette, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ranked as one of the most affordable schools in the state, Northern Michigan University administers over 170 programs on campus and online. The LPN-to-BSN option for nurses with an LPN follows the same plan of study as the traditional BSN track, but grants up to 12 advanced placement credits toward the 120 credits required for the BSN degree.
Online learners receive personalized attention from an academic advisor who assists them with planning and clinical placements.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Marquette, Michigan
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $367 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.75 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,776 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#5 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- Omaha, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A small, private institution founded in 1891, NMC currently serves a student body of just over 1,000 in programs that focus solely on nursing and healthcare. The 127-credit LPN-to-BSN program delivers courses in a hybrid format, requiring students to take classes online and on campus a few days a week. Online learners may fulfill their clinical requirements at locations accessible to them. The LPN-to-BSN program also offers students the option to pursue a Spanish for Healthcare Professionals minor.
- Program: Accelerated LPN-to-BSN program
- Campus: Omaha, Nebraska
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $308 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.5 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 95.27% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,196 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#6 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Weatherford, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
SWOSU, part of the Regional University System of Oklahoma, boasts affordable tuition and ample financial aid opportunities. The university offers over 100 fields of study, from wildlife ecology to nursing, at its Weatherford and Sayre campuses and online.
The BSN completion program, designed for working LPNs, is offered entirely online except for the clinical component. Students complete seven eight-week sessions, earning six credits for each session. Online learners can fulfill their clinical placements within 100 miles of their place of residence.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Weatherford, Oklahoma
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $226 for Oklahoma residents; $463 per credit for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.25 GPA; NACE exam
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 82.61% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $62,479 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#7 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Cedar Crest College
- Allentown, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1867 as a women’s college, Cedar Crest College is now a co-educational institution of over 1,300 students. The BSN program offers both full- and part-time options to accommodate the needs of working licensed practical nurses.
Distance learners work with a dedicated nursing coach throughout their plan of study to provide academic support and help with clinical placements. LPNs must complete general education requirements, including global studies and ethics courses, nursing prerequisites, and the upper division nursing sequence in the BSN major.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Allentown, Pennsylvania
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $1,057 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.75 GPA, TEAS exam
- Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on transfer credits
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 93.8% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,406 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#8 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Midland University
- Fremont, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Midland University, a private Lutheran-affiliated school founded in 1883, administers programs in over 30 academic fields, including several professional studies degrees. The six-semester LPN-to-BSN transition degree allows LPNs to transfer previous credits to meet prerequisites before completing the rest of their coursework in the traditional BSN curriculum.
Students may begin their clinical experiences as soon as their sophomore year at multiple sites in Fremont and Omaha hospitals and healthcare agencies.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Fremont, Nebraska
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $18,750 per semester
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.75 GPA; one year of experience in an acute care settings
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88.24% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,771 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#9 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
Kettering College
- Kettering, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Operating under a charter of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Kettering College focuses entirely on healthcare education. The college offers certificate programs, associate of science and bachelor’s degrees, a master’s in physician assistant studies, and an occupational therapy doctorate.
The 125-credit LPN-to-BSN degree features a full-time track that takes three years to finish or a part-time option designed for working nurses that can be completed within five years.The affiliated Kettering Health network offers a variety of clinical placement opportunities.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Kettering, Ohio
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $9,795 per semester
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; minimum 2.8 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 74.16% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,955 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
#10 The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
St. John’s College-Department of Nursing
- Springfield, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint John’s College, founded by the Hospital Sisters of Saint Francis in 1886, runs the oldest Catholic hospital-based nursing program in the United States. The department of nursing offers master’s and upper division bachelor’s nursing degrees.
The LPN-to-BSN program admits students two times a year. Designed for working nurses with active LPN licenses, the program offers full- and part-time tracks. LPNs accepted into the program receive 10 credit hours toward the BSN curriculum.
- Program: LPN-to-BSN
- Campus: Springfield, Illinois
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $471 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Completion of a practical nursing program; valid LPN license; TEAS exam
- Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on transfer credits
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,996 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Key Considerations for Choosing an LPN-to-BSN Program
When deciding on an online LPN-to-BSN program, it’s crucial to take certain factors into account, including program duration, clinical requirements, and accreditation. The following metrics, which underpin our rankings, can aid in selecting the most suitable program.
Admission Criteria
Schools establish admission standards to ensure that candidates have the necessary background to succeed in the program. Prior to applying to an online LPN-to-BSN program, ensure that you meet the admission prerequisites.
Program Curriculum
Before enrolling, identify the number of credits you can transfer from your previous nursing training and determine the general education requirements you need to fulfill. Check if the program offers specializations in nursing areas of interest to you.
Clinical Experience
The number of mandatory clinical hours varies depending on the school and state nursing board regulations. Determine if the online LPN-to-BSN program you’re considering assists you in finding local clinical placements. If not, assess if your schedule allows you to travel to approved clinical sites.
Accreditation
Accredited online LPN-to-BSN programs meet national professional and academic standards. Attending a non-accredited program can limit your employment prospects, certification options, and opportunities for advanced studies.
You can verify the accreditation status of your chosen program by consulting databases maintained by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Program Duration
Completing an LPN-to-BSN program online usually takes two to three years of full-time study, depending on the program and the number of credits transferred from your LPN program.
Graduation Rate
The school’s graduation rate reflects the percentage of students who complete their studies within the expected timeframe. A high graduation rate is indicative of the program’s quality and commitment to student success. Additionally, a school’s NCLEX pass rate can provide insight into how well the program prepares graduates.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Not all BSN programs use the same distance learning platforms. Select a program that aligns with your learning style and personal needs. Programs that offer asynchronous courses allow for self-paced learning, while synchronous or hybrid programs may require scheduled login times or in-person attendance.
Specializations
A BSN can prepare you for specialized nursing roles in fields such as pediatrics, emergency care, and oncology, among others. Specializing as a registered nurse can lead to enhanced job opportunities and salaries. When comparing schools, check if they offer specializations in your areas of interest.
The Importance of Accreditation for LPN-to-BSN Programs
All online LPN-to-BSN programs included in our rankings hold accreditation from either CCNE or ACEN. The accreditation status of a program plays a critical role in determining eligibility for financial aid, licensure, graduate study options, and future employment prospects:
– Federal government financial aid is typically only available to students attending accredited institutions.
– Credits earned at non-accredited schools may not transfer to accredited programs.
– The NCLEX-RN exam and advanced practice certification exams usually require applicants to hold degrees from accredited nursing schools.
– State nursing boards typically only grant RN licenses to graduates of accredited programs.
– Employers and graduate nursing programs may not consider candidates with degrees from non-accredited institutions.
– Graduating from an accredited program enhances your competitiveness in the job market, signaling to employers that you have received a quality education.
How Online LPN-to-BSN Programs work
Both traditional and online bachelor’s degrees in nursing generally require approximately 120 credits and around four years to complete. BSN programs consist of general education requirements, nursing coursework, and clinical experiences.
Depending on the number of credits awarded for previous LPN training, an online LPN-to-BSN degree can typically be completed in less than four years.
Online learners should anticipate in-person clinical hours across various practice settings. While some online programs help you secure local clinical placements or offer virtual clinical experiences, you should be prepared to travel to approved sites when necessary.
Some programs may require more clinical hours than the minimum mandated by the state.
Applying to an LPN-to-BSN Program
Admission criteria vary from one school to another. Applicants often need a high school diploma or GED certificate, a minimum GPA, and specific prerequisites. All online LPN-to-BSN programs require a valid LPN license and prior work experience.
Some schools may also require you to take the National League for Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam to demonstrate your nursing knowledge.
Admission Requirements
– High school diploma or GED certificate
– Valid LPN license and one year of work experience
– Official transcripts
– Prerequisites in natural science
– Online application and payment of application fees
– Basic life support (BLS) certification
Admission Materials
– Letters of recommendation
– Essay or personal statement
– Criminal background check and fingerprinting
– Physical exam and drug screening
– Immunization verification
GPA Requirement
– Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
Financing Your LPN-to-BSN Program
Earning an LPN-to-BSN degree online typically takes less time and costs less than a traditional BSN. As you compare programs, consider that your ability to pay for your degree depends on several factors, including program length, the number of transfer credits accepted, and eligibility for in-state tuition rates.
The workload and pace of online programs may not always permit you to work while studying. Many prospective nursing students are unaware of the financial aid opportunities available to them. Always start your financial aid search by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for government-funded grants or loans.
Numerous schools and private organizations offer need-based or merit-based scholarships. Nursing students who commit to working in underserved areas upon graduation may also qualify for federal and state government-sponsored student loan forgiveness programs.
Opportunities After Earning an LPN-to-BSN Degree
Registered nurses (RNs) with a BSN degree have diverse career options, including generalist patient care and various high-demand specialties such as public health, geriatrics, and neonatology.
Hospitals and physician’s offices are among the major employers for RNs, but they can also find employment in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare.
Employers often prefer BSN graduates, especially for supervisory and administrative roles. Pursuing advanced practice registered nursing certification typically requires a BSN for admission.
Registered Nurse (RN)
– RN generalists provide patient care, including assessments, diagnostic tests, treatment administration, and patient and family support. RNs work in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to home care.
– Median Salary: $77,600
– Job Outlook (2021-2031): +6%
Public Health Nurse
– Public health nurses promote and protect the health and safety of specific communities. They mitigate health risks, prevent disease through education and advocacy, and deliver care directly. Public health nurses often work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, community clinics, and school systems.
– Average Salary: $64,910 (as of Oct. 2023)
Neonatal Nurse
– Neonatal nurses specialize in the care of infants up to two years old. They provide care to newborns and treat premature infants facing specific challenges or chronic conditions.
– Average Salary: $71,390 (as of Oct. 2023)
For additional information on various nursing specialization areas, explore our nurse practitioner specialties guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN-to-BSN Programs
1. Can you become a registered nurse online?
– Many schools offer online BSN and LPN-to-BSN programs. While most coursework can be completed through online platforms, clinical requirements often necessitate in-person attendance.
2. What can an RN do that an LPN cannot?
– RNs have a broader scope of practice than LPNs. They can administer medications and treatments, conduct diagnostic tests, initiate IV drips and blood transfusions, and assist patients in managing their conditions. RNs also supervise LPNs, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and home health aides.
3. How long does it take to go from LPN to BSN?
– LPN-to-BSN online programs usually take 2-3 years to complete, depending on the specific program, clinical requirements, the number of transferable credits, and whether you attend full- or part-time.
4. Are registered nurses in high demand?
– The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an addition of over 203,000 RN positions annually between 2021 and 2031. Factors contributing to this demand include expected nurse turnover and retirements, the growing healthcare needs of an aging population, and increased access to healthcare coverage following the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010.
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