8 Best 6-Month LPN to RN Programs Online in New Jersey

If you're already working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you may be curious about what it would take to become a registered nurse (RN). You've heard about 6-month LPN to RN programs online, and you're wondering if there are any programs like that in your home state of New Jersey.

If this sounds like you, keep reading as we discuss whether there are any 6-month LPN to RN programs in New Jersey and which schools offer accelerated options. We'll also explore some common questions you may be wondering about.

Are There Any 6-Month LPN to RN Programs in New Jersey?

Unfortunately, New Jersey doesn't offer any 6-month LPN to RN programs online. These programs are extremely rare in the United States, as it typically takes about two to four years of full-time study to become an RN.

That said, there are some schools that offer LPN to RN bridge programs or other accelerated options for nursing students. These programs typically offer credit for students' LPN training and experience, allowing them to earn a degree in nursing (usually an associate degree) in a shorter-than-average timeframe.

Some schools also offer flexible study options. These may include allowing students to take heavier courseloads to finish their studies sooner or ''test out'' of some courses through competency-based learning models.

In New Jersey, there are several accelerated LPN to RN programs that can be completed in under two years. These programs typically take anywhere from 10 to 18 months to complete.

Accelerated LPN to RN Programs in New Jersey

If you're ready to build on your LPN education and become a registered nurse, keep reading. Below, we'll explore some top accelerated education programs for aspiring nurses and the New Jersey schools that offer them.

1. Eastwick College

Eastwick College is an undergraduate school that offers LPN to RN bridge programs at its Ramsey and Hackensack campuses. Both day and evening options are available, with both programs running for 18 months.

Tuition costs approximately $16,913 to $17,028 a year, and the nursing programs are approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The program leads to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and prepares students to advance their nursing practice through patient care simulation labs and high-quality clinical experiences.

2. Ocean County College

Ocean County College is a public school offering an LPN to RN completion program for students with current LPN licensure and who have successfully completed an LPN program. Students are prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

The program provides the option to test out of the first semester of nursing courses, enabling students to accelerate their studies and complete the program in three continuous semesters. Affordable tuition costs around $4,690 per year; students must also pay a credit-by-exam fee of $1,000.

3. Raritan Valley Community College

Raritan Valley Community College is a public school located in Branchburg. Its LPN to RN program is accredited by both the New Jersey Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Students in this program may complete either a day or evening session in three continuous semesters; they can then pursue RN licensure and employment or continue their studies through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Tuition for the entire program typically costs around $13,000.

4. Salem Community College

Salem Community College is a public school with multiple locations in Salem County. Students can pursue enrollment in an accelerated LPN to RN program designed to be completed in three semesters.

This program is accredited by both the New Jersey Board of Nursing and the ACEN, and it provides some transfer credits for those hoping to pursue a BSN. The total program cost is estimated to be around $18,000, though financial aid can greatly reduce students' out-of-pocket expenses.

5. Passaic County Community College

Passaic County Community College offers an LPN to RN completion program that can be completed in about one year. It begins in May and is followed by three continuous semesters, ending with the following spring semester.

Students must meet a number of program requirements for acceptance into this competitive program, including taking a nursing acceleration challenge exam to test their competency at their current level of nursing practice. Tuition costs approximately $5,580 per year at this school.

6. Capital Health School of Nursing

Capital Health School of Nursing is a healthcare organization that partners with Mercer County Community College to provide a highly accelerated LPN to RN bridge program. The program consists of both coursework and hands-on experiences, and students can graduate within just 10 months.

Students must enroll in an LPN transition course; upon successfully completing this course, they will be awarded 16 credits, putting them on a fast track to their associate degree. The total cost for the program is estimated at $18,671.

7. Holy Name Medical Center

This medical center's Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing is located in Englewood Cliffs. It is a private school providing an accelerated LPN to RN program.

Students in this program must complete several prerequisites but, once they enter the program, they can graduate in just 45 weeks (three continuous semesters). Tuition at the school costs approximately $23,489 per year.

8. Jersey College

Jersey College is a private nursing school headquartered in Teterboro, though it has various locations in other states as well. Students at the school can complete an LPN to RN program through day or evening classes.

There is no set timeframe for completing this course; many students graduate within fifteen months, while those who study part-time may take up to three years. If you want to get your degree more quickly, you can take a heavier courseload to accelerate your studies. Total program costs, including tuition, fees, books, and other expenses, are estimated at around $44,000.

FAQs About the Fastest LPN to RN Programs in New Jersey

If you still have questions about pursuing an accelerated LPN to RN program in New Jersey, you're not alone. Read on as we provide answers to some frequently asked questions you may have.

How Long Does It Take To Go From LPN to RN in New Jersey?

As noted, there are no 6-month LPN to RN programs in New Jersey, though some schools do provide accelerated options. Most traditional training programs require two to four years of study, while accelerated options can typically be completed within one to two years.

How Fast Can You Go From LPN to RN Program in New Jersey?

Since New Jersey offers no 6-month LPN to RN programs online, the fastest LPN to RN program in the state is the 10-month option available through Capital Health. Even this program requires you to complete several general education courses before enrolling in the program itself; if you have not already taken these courses previously, you will need an additional one to two semesters to complete these prerequisites before beginning the program.

How Long Is the Jersey College LPN to RN Program?

Students often complete the Jersey College LPN to RN program in about 15 months, though it can take up to 24 or even 36 months depending on your study schedules and courseloads. This bridge program is highly flexible, allowing you to choose a schedule that works for you; this is why many students are able to complete the program in an accelerated timeframe.

Is There a Bridge Program for LPN to RN in New Jersey?

All of the programs discussed above, available through schools in New Jersey, are considered bridge programs. This is because they are accelerated programs available to students who have graduated from practical nursing programs and hold active LPN licenses.

What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in a 6-Month LPN to RN Program in New Jersey?

Prerequisites can vary from program to program. Generally speaking, students often have to complete general education courses like English, biology, psychology, and mathematics before enrolling in an LPN to RN program. They may also need to hold a high school diploma and minimum GPA, pass a background check, and obtain a minimum score on the TEAS exam.

Explore Nursing Degree Programs

If you're ready to earn a professional nursing degree, consider the colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools today to find out more about their LPN to RN programs and choose the best one for you.