How Long Does an Online LPN-to-BSN Program Take to Complete?
If you are a licensed practical nurse who wants to become a registered nurse, you may want to consider an online degree program. Learn more about how long it can take you to complete an online bachelor's degree in nursing.
Overview of LPN to BSN Programs
You'll find many colleges and universities offer full-time and part-time online programs for licensed practical nurses (LPN) to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). Depending on the program, your previous college credits and your pace of study, it may take between 18 months and four years to complete a BSN online. Because LPN's usually possess a certificate, you may be able to transfer some of your credits to your online bachelor's degree program if they meet the transfer requirements.
Important Facts About LPN to BSN Programs
| Prerequisites | Current LPN license, science-related coursework, specific Internet and software requirements may be needed to access learning materials |
| Key Skills | Communication, detail oriented, compassion, emotional stability, physical stamina |
| Similar Degree Programs | LVN to RN, RN to BSN |
| Continuing Education | Master's degree in Nursing is available to bachelor's degree holders |
Benefits of Online Degree Programs
An online program may make sense if you need the flexibility of a part-time academic schedule that fits your full-time work schedule and the demands of your family life. To participate in an online degree program, you'll use the Internet to log in to your school's website to review lessons, participate in group discussions, communicate with your instructor and submit homework. Because you'll be doing your work online, you can study when your schedule allows, including late at night, on weekends or whenever you have time. Plus, unlike traditional classes, you generally won't have to be logged in at the same time each day for your lessons.
Coursework
In many programs, you can complete all of your non-clinical courses online, meaning you won't need to travel to a campus. Nursing care and practice courses will require you to travel to a clinical setting. Your school may make arrangements for you to complete this training at a participating hospital near where you live. Upper-level courses that you'll take online include health assessment, community nursing, leadership, research methods and statistics.
Career Information
With a BSN, you'll be eligible to become a registered nurse (RN) upon passage of a national licensing examination for registered nurses. As an RN, you'll be given more responsibilities and be allowed to perform more types of patient care. Also, you'll have more opportunities for advancement and pay and may move into nursing administration positions, such as a clinical manager or health services manager.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for registered nurses is expected to be much faster than average compared to other careers nationwide. Job growth is expected to increase by 15% between 2016 and 2026. The top industries for RN employment were in hospitals, physicians' offices, and home health care services. The median annual salary for RNs in May 2018 was $71,730 (www.bls.gov).