🏖️ Delaware LPN to RN Bridge Programs

1. Why Advance from LPN to RN in Delaware?

Delaware offers exceptional opportunities for LPNs to advance their nursing careers. Here's why making the transition is worth it:

Significant Salary Increase

• LPN Average Salary: $62,110/year ($29.86/hour)
• RN Average Salary: $85,020/year ($40.88/hour)
• Annual Increase: $22,910
• Lifetime Earnings Boost: Over $680,000 in a 30-year career

Strong Job Market

• Growing healthcare demand due to aging population
• Delaware hospitals actively recruit RNs
• Major employers: ChristianaCare, Bayhealth, Nemours Children's Health
• RN job growth projected at 6% through 2034

Enhanced Career Opportunities

• Broader scope of practice and autonomy
• Leadership and specialty positions
• Travel nursing opportunities (Delaware RNs: $1,800–$2,500/week)
• Flexible scheduling options
• Better benefits and retirement packages

Educational Advancement

• Foundation for BSN, MSN, or Nurse Practitioner programs
• Tuition assistance programs available at Delaware hospitals
• Delaware has excellent nursing schools (Delaware Tech, University of Delaware)

2. Delaware LPN-to-RN Bridge Program Requirements

To qualify for Delaware LPN-to-RN bridge programs, you'll need:

2.1 Basic Requirements

• ✅ Active, unencumbered Delaware LPN license (or compact state license)
• ✅ High school diploma or GED
• ✅ Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 (competitive programs may require 3.0+)
• ✅ 1–2 years of LPN work experience (preferred by most programs)

2.2 Prerequisite Courses

Most programs require these courses with a grade of C or better:

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
• Microbiology (with lab)
• General Chemistry or Chemistry I
• General Psychology
• Developmental Psychology or Lifespan Development
• English Composition I & II
• College Math or Statistics
• Nutrition (may be required or recommended)

2.3 Additional Requirements

• 🔍 Background Check & Fingerprinting: State and federal criminal background checks
• 💉 Drug Screening: 10-panel drug screen
• 🩺 CPR Certification: BLS for Healthcare Providers (American Heart Association)
• 📋 Physical Exam: Current health physical
• 💉 Immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B series, Tdap, annual flu shot
• 🩺 TB Test: 2-step PPD or QuantiFERON-TB Gold
• 📝 Entrance Exam: TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2
• 🏥 Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage

2.4 TEAS or HESI Exam

Most Delaware programs require:

• TEAS Score: Minimum 60–65% (competitive programs may require 70%+)
• HESI A2 Score: Minimum composite of 75–80%
• Test covers: Reading, Math, Science, English & Language Usage

3. Delaware LPN-to-RN Program Options

Delaware offers three main pathways for LPNs to become RNs:

3.1 LPN to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)

• Duration: 12–18 months (3–4 semesters)
• Format: Campus-based with hybrid options; clinical rotations required
• Cost: $9,000–$22,000
• Best For: LPNs who want to become RNs quickly and cost-effectively
• Outcome: Eligible for NCLEX-RN; can work as RN immediately

3.2 LPN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

• Duration: 2–3 years (depends on transfer credits)
• Format: Campus-based or hybrid; some online coursework with local clinicals
• Cost: $18,000–$42,000
• Best For: LPNs seeking management, leadership, or advanced practice roles
• Outcome: BSN degree; eligible for NCLEX-RN; pathway to MSN/DNP

3.3 Accelerated LPN to RN

• Duration: 12–15 months (intensive, full-time)
• Format: Campus-based; condensed curriculum
• Cost: $15,000–$26,000
• Best For: LPNs who can commit to full-time study and want to transition quickly
• Outcome: ADN or BSN; eligible for NCLEX-RN

4. Top Accredited LPN-to-RN Programs in Delaware

Delaware has several high-quality, accredited LPN-to-RN bridge programs:

💡 Pro Tip: Check the Delaware Board of Nursing's approved programs list for the most current information: Delaware Approved Nursing Programs PDF

5. Delaware LPN vs RN Salary Comparison

Here's how salaries compare at different career stages:

Experience Level	LPN Salary	RN Salary	Annual Increase
Entry (0-2 years)	$54,000	$74,000	+$20,000
Mid-Career (3-5 years)	$62,110	$85,020	+$22,910
Experienced (5+ years)	$68,000	$94,000	+$26,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

• Average Annual Increase: $22,910
• Typical Program Cost: $9,000–$26,000
• ROI Timeline: Less than 1 year of RN work
• 30-Year Career Boost: ~$680,000 in additional earnings

Additional Financial Benefits

• Better Benefits: RNs typically receive superior health insurance, retirement plans, PTO
• Shift Differentials: Evening/night/weekend shifts: $5–$10/hour extra
• Specialty Pay: ICU, ER, OR nurses: $5,000–$15,000/year more
• Sign-On Bonuses: $5,000–$15,000 (common in Delaware due to nursing shortage)
• Travel Nursing: Delaware travel RNs: $1,800–$2,500/week

Delaware Regional RN Salaries

• Wilmington/New Castle County: $87,000–$96,000
• Dover/Kent County: $80,000–$88,000
• Georgetown/Sussex County: $78,000–$86,000
• ChristianaCare (Wilmington): $88,000–$100,000+ (with experience)
• Bayhealth (Dover, Milford): $82,000–$92,000
• Nemours Children's Health: $85,000–$95,000

6. How to Apply to Delaware LPN-to-RN Programs

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Research Programs (4–6 months before desired start)

• Compare programs (ADN vs BSN, duration, cost, location)
• Attend information sessions or virtual open houses
• Contact admissions advisors

Step 2: Complete Prerequisites (6–12 months)

• Finish all prerequisite courses with grades of C or better
• Maintain minimum GPA (2.5–3.0+)

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials (3–6 months before deadline)

• Official Transcripts: High school and all college transcripts
• Delaware LPN License: Current, active license (copy)
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3 letters (nursing supervisor, instructor, or colleague)
• Personal Statement: 500–1,000 words explaining your motivation and goals
• Resume/CV: Include LPN work experience, certifications, volunteer work
• Application Fee: $30–$100

Step 4: Take Entrance Exam (2–3 months before application)

• Schedule TEAS or HESI A2 exam
• Study using prep materials (TEAS study guide, ATI, etc.)
• Send scores to programs

Step 5: Submit Application

• Apply by deadlines (many programs fill 4–6 months in advance)
• Double-check all materials are complete

Step 6: Acceptance & Enrollment (1–2 months before start)

• Receive acceptance letter
• Submit enrollment deposit
• Complete background check & drug screening
• Provide immunization records
• Complete TB test
• Upload health insurance proof
• Attend orientation

Step 7: Register for Classes

• Meet with academic advisor
• Register for first semester courses
• Apply for financial aid (FAFSA) if needed

Application Deadlines

• Fall Start: Applications typically due February–April
• Spring Start: Applications typically due September–November
• Rolling Admissions: Some programs accept applications year-round
• 💡 Tip: Apply early! Many Delaware programs fill quickly due to limited seats

7. Financial Aid for Delaware LPN to RN Students

7.1 Federal Financial Aid

• Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026) for eligible students
• Federal Direct Loans:
  • Subsidized: $3,500–$5,500/year
  • Unsubsidized: up to $12,500/year
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus employment
• FAFSA: File at studentaid.gov/fafsa (opens October 1)

7.2 Delaware State Financial Aid

• Delaware Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) Scholarship: Up to $2,200/year
• Delaware Nursing Incentive Program: Loan forgiveness for nurses working in Delaware
• Diamond State Scholars Program: Merit scholarships for Delaware residents
• Governor's Workforce Development Grant: Funding for high-demand careers (nursing included)
• Delaware Higher Education Office (DHEO): dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph

7.3 Employer Tuition Assistance

Many Delaware healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement:

• ChristianaCare: Up to $5,000–$8,000/year; 2-year commitment
• Bayhealth: $3,000–$6,000/year; 1–2 year commitment
• Nemours Children's Health: $4,000–$7,000/year; 2-year commitment
• Beebe Healthcare: $3,500–$6,000/year; work commitment
• Other employers: Check with your current employer for tuition benefits

7.4 Military & Veterans Benefits

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: Covers tuition, books, and housing
• Tuition Assistance (TA): Up to $4,500/year for active duty
• Delaware National Guard Education Assistance: Tuition support for Guard members
• Yellow Ribbon Program: Additional funding at participating schools

7.5 Scholarships

• Delaware Nurses Association (DNA): www.denurses.org – Various scholarships
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): Multiple scholarships
• National League for Nursing (NLN): Scholarships for nursing students
• Institutional Scholarships: Offered by Delaware Tech, University of Delaware, Delaware State
• Local Organizations: Rotary Club, Kiwanis, local hospitals
• Minority Scholarships: National Black Nurses Association, Hispanic Nurses Association

💡 FAFSA Tips

• File FAFSA by October 1 for priority consideration
• Typical financial aid packages cover 60–80% of total costs
• Combine federal aid, state grants, employer assistance, and scholarships for maximum support

8. NCLEX-RN Exam in Delaware

After completing your LPN-to-RN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed:

8.1 NCLEX-RN Costs

• Delaware Board of Nursing Application Fee: $125
• Pearson VUE NCLEX-RN Exam Fee: $200
• Total Initial Cost: $325

8.2 Delaware NCLEX-RN Pass Rates

• Delaware First-Time Pass Rate: ~85–87% (2023–2024)
• National Average: 85–90%
• LPN-to-RN Bridge Graduate Pass Rates: Often 88–92% (higher due to prior nursing experience)
• Retake Limit: Up to 8 attempts per year; 45-day waiting period between attempts

8.3 NCLEX-RN Exam Format

• Question Range: 75–145 questions (Computer Adaptive Testing)
• Time Limit: Up to 5 hours
• Question Types:
  • Multiple choice
  • Select all that apply (SATA)
  • Fill-in-the-blank (calculations)
  • Ordered response (prioritization)
  • Hot spot (image-based)
  • Audio/video questions

8.4 NCLEX-RN Content Areas

Content Category	Percentage of Exam
Safe & Effective Care Environment	26–38%
Health Promotion & Maintenance	6–12%
Psychosocial Integrity	6–12%
Physiological Integrity	38–62%

8.5 How to Schedule Your NCLEX-RN in Delaware

Step 1: Apply for Licensure

• Submit licensure application to Delaware Board of Nursing
• Website: dpr.delaware.gov/boards/nursing
• Include all required documents and fees

Step 2: Background Check & Fingerprinting

• Complete state and federal background checks
• Fingerprinting required

Step 3: Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)

• Pearson VUE will send your ATT via email after Board approval
• ATT is valid for 90 days from issue date

Step 4: Schedule Your Exam

• Go to home.pearsonvue.com/nclex
• Select your testing center and date
• Delaware Testing Centers: Wilmington, Dover, Newark

Step 5: Take the Exam

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Bring two forms of ID (one government-issued photo ID)
• No personal items allowed in testing room

Step 6: Results

• Quick Results: Available 48 hours after exam for $8 (unofficial)
• Official Results: Sent to Delaware Board in 2–4 weeks
• Delaware license posted online once you pass

8.6 NCLEX-RN Preparation Tips

• NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test maker (learningext.com)
• Practice Questions: Complete 3,000–5,000 practice questions minimum
• Recommended Prep Programs:
  • UWorld (highly recommended for question bank)
  • Kaplan NCLEX Review
  • Hurst Review
  • ATI Comprehensive Predictor
  • Saunders Comprehensive Review
• Study Groups: Join NCLEX study groups with classmates
• Mark Klimek Lectures: Free audio lectures (popular with students)
• Content Focus:
  • Prioritization & delegation
  • ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)
  • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
  • Pharmacology & medication calculations
  • Infection control

9. Delaware Board of Nursing Contact Information

Delaware Board of Nursing

• Website: dpr.delaware.gov/boards/nursing
• Phone: (302) 744-4500
• Fax: (302) 739-2711
• Email: [email protected]

Mailing Address:

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation
Board of Nursing
861 Silver Lake Boulevard
Cannon Building, Suite 203
Dover, DE 19904

Office Hours:

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM ET

Online Services:

• License verification
• License renewal
• Address changes
• CE requirement tracking
• Submit complaints
• Access to online portal

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements:

• Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years
• CE Hours Required: 30 contact hours (including 2 hours in opioid prescribing if applicable)