Alabama LPN to RN Guide
Requirements, Programs, Salary & Career Pathways
📋 Quick Summary: Alabama LPN to RN Path
- Bridge Program Duration: 12 months to 2 years
- Average Cost: $8,000 - $25,000
- LPN Salary: $50,350/year
- RN Salary: $71,040/year (Potential increase: $20,690/year)
- Board of Nursing: Alabama Board of Nursing
1. Why Advance from LPN to RN in Alabama?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Alabama who advance to Registered Nurse (RN) credentials can expect significant career benefits:
- Higher Salary: RNs in Alabama earn an average of $71,040/year compared to $50,350/year for LPNs (a $20,690 increase)
- Expanded Scope of Practice: RNs can administer medications, interpret test results, and create patient care plans
- Career Advancement: RN credentials open doors to management, specialization, and advanced practice roles
- Job Security: 6% projected job growth for RNs in Alabama through 2034
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2. Alabama LPN to RN Bridge Program Requirements
2.1 Prerequisites
To enroll in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in Alabama, you typically need:
- Active, unencumbered LPN license in Alabama
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA: 2.5 (varies by program)
- Prerequisite courses: Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers)
2.2 Program Options
| Program Type | Duration | Format | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| LPN to ADN (Associate Degree) | 12-18 months | Campus, Hybrid | $8,000 - $18,000 |
| LPN to BSN (Bachelor's Degree) | 2-3 years | Campus, Hybrid, Online | $15,000 - $35,000 |
| Accelerated LPN to RN | 12 months | Intensive, Full-time | $12,000 - $25,000 |
3. Top Accredited LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Alabama
3.1 Recommended Programs
- Central Alabama Community College – Alexander City, Alabama
Duration: 12-18 months | Format: Campus | Accreditation: ACEN
Website: www.cacc.edu/programs/lpn-to-rn-mobility - Herzing University - Birmingham Campus – Birmingham, Alabama
Duration: 18 months | Format: Hybrid | Accreditation: ACEN
Website: www.herzing.edu/nursing/lpn-rn/alabama/birmingham - University of South Alabama - LPN to BSN Pathway – Mobile, Alabama
Duration: 24 months | Format: Online | Accreditation: CCNE
Website: www.southalabama.edu/colleges/con/bsn/lpn-to-bsn.html
4. Alabama LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
| Experience Level | LPN Salary | RN Salary | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $42,000/year | $60,000/year | +$18,000 |
| Mid-Career (3-5 years) | $50,350/year | $71,040/year | +$20,690 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $56,000/year | $78,000/year | +$22,000 |
💰 Return on Investment: With an average salary increase of $20,690/year, most LPN-to-RN bridge programs pay for themselves within 1-2 years.
5. How to Apply to LPN to RN Programs in Alabama
5.1 Application Timeline
| Step | Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Research Programs | 3-6 months before | Compare programs, costs, formats, accreditation |
| 2. Complete Prerequisites | 6-12 months before | Anatomy, Microbiology, Psychology courses |
| 3. Submit Application | 3-6 months before start date | Transcripts, LPN license, references |
| 4. Entrance Exam | 2-3 months before | TEAS, HESI, or program-specific exam |
| 5. Acceptance & Enrollment | 1-2 months before | Secure funding, register for classes |
6. Financial Aid for LPN to RN Students in Alabama
Funding options for Alabama LPN-to-RN students include:
- Federal Financial Aid: Complete FAFSA for Pell Grants, Direct Loans
- Alabama Nursing Scholarships: Alabama Board of Nursing Scholarship Fund, Alabama League for Nursing Scholarships
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many hospitals offer $2,000-$5,000/year
- Nursing Workforce Development Programs: Loan forgiveness for working in underserved areas
- Private Scholarships: AACN, National League for Nursing, local foundations
7. NCLEX-RN Exam in Alabama
After completing your LPN-to-RN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed in Alabama.
7.1 Alabama NCLEX-RN Requirements
- Application Fee: $115 (Alabama Board of Nursing) + $200 (Pearson VUE exam fee)
- Pass Rate: 87% first-time pass rate in Alabama
- Exam Format: 75-145 questions, adaptive testing
- Scheduling: Test within 90 days of authorization
8. Alabama Board of Nursing Contact Information
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://www.abn.alabama.gov/ |
| Phone | 1-800-656-5318 or 334-293-5200 |
| abn@abn.alabama.gov | |
| Mailing Address | Alabama Board of Nursing P.O. Box 303900 Montgomery, AL 36130-3900 |
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