LPN to BSN Bridge Programs
Many licensed practical nurses (LPNs) go on to become registered nurses (RNs). LPN to BSN programs are ideal for those who want to take full advantage of the many opportunities available to nurses with bachelor’s degrees.
These “bridge” programs take about three to four years to complete. Initial admission requirements are the same as applying to any four-year college or university. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require that you take the SAT or the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which evaluates basic grammar and math skills. You’ll need proof of a current LPN license, and at least six months experience working as an LPN.
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Before you start the nursing curriculum, you need to complete classes necessary for a bachelor’s degree such as social sciences, English, math, history, or basic life sciences. You must achieve a minimum GPA in these classes (usually 2.5) to be considered as a BSN candidate. Those with higher GPAs are preferred.
The nursing curriculum begins with classes such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and statistics. Clinical classes may be in specialties such as medical-surgical nursing, psychiatry, maternal and child health, and geriatrics.
An advantage of being an LPN is that you may be able to take a competency test and skip classes in subjects such as basic skills. Depending upon your work experience, you may also waive some clinical classes, or get credit for your previous or current work experience.
LPN to BSN programs often have flexible class schedules with online components or evening and weekend hours to allow you to keep working while attending school.
The curriculum prepares you to take your state’s RN licensing exam. Contact your state board of nursing for details about this exam. You can also check out the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Having your BSN opens up a world of professional and educational opportunities. You can work in almost any nursing role and practically anywhere that requires nursing expertise or skills. This includes clinical settings as well as private businesses such as insurance or case management companies. Having your BSN also means you can go on to graduate school and get your MSN, Ph.D., DNP, and become an advanced practice nurse in roles such as practitioner, anesthetist, midwife, or clinical specialist.
