If you're a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) who wants to continue your education while holding down a full-time job, consider the distance learning options available through some schools' LVN-to-RN programs. While you won't be able to find any that can be completed entirely online, there are some hybrid programs available. Read on for more details about your program options.
Online LVN-to-RN Programs
LVN-to-RN programs are designed for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who want to advance in the field. These programs can be completed relatively quickly because they don't require students to take courses covering the nursing skills and knowledge they already have. Program graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The following information gives some important facts about online LVN-to-RN programs as well as overviews of schools that offer LVN-to-RN programs with a distance learning component.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThesePrograms">Important Facts About These Programs</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High school diploma, at least 18 years of age, must be a licensed vocational nurse</td></tr>
<tr><td> Common Courses </td><td> Microbiology, human anatomy, human physiology</td></tr>
<tr><td> Continuing Education </td><td> IV Therapy and Blood Withdrawal certifications are available. Additionally, RNs can apply for NP and nurse anesthetist programs</td></tr>
<tr><td> Possible Careers </td><td> Administrator, clinical specialist, community health nurse, critical care nurse</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $77,600 (<i>for all registered nurses</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td>6% growth (<i>for all registered nurses</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic</i>
</p><h3 id="section---IndianaStateUniversity">Indiana State University</h3><p>Indiana State University offers a distance learning option for current LVNs who want to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Curriculum consists of three phases. The first two include prerequisite English, psychology, science and introductory nursing classes that can be completed through a combination of online and on-campus study or via transfer credit and passing scores on equivalency exams.
</p><p>Phase three largely consists of nursing coursework that combines online instruction with clinical experiences at health care settings located in your area. In addition to a nursing transition course, classes include nursing research, community health nursing and nurse leadership as well as mental health nursing and adult care.
</p><h3 id="section---AlleganyCollegeOfMaryland">Allegany College of Maryland</h3><p>Allegany College of Maryland's online LPN-to-RN program grants an associate degree to program graduates. In addition to current LVN licensure, admission requirements include two years of work experience. Successful applicants have also completed prerequisite courses in English, math, psychology and biology in addition to an online bridge course.
</p><p>Once admitted, you can take the remaining nursing courses without having to set foot on campus. However, more than 700 hours of clinical experience must be completed at approved training sites. These experiences correspond with online class lectures on child care and human development, mental health care and the care of adults with various conditions requiring medical and surgical intervention. Additional lecture courses cover the history of nursing as well as nurses' role in the health care system and their legal liability.</p>
