Transform Your Nursing Career in Hawaii
Hawaii's healthcare system is experiencing unprecedented growth, creating exceptional opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to advance to Registered Nurse (RN) positions. With the state's aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services across the islands, now is the ideal time to transition from LPN to RN.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in Hawaii, including accredited schools, salary expectations, certification requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Whether you're based in Honolulu, Hilo, Kailua-Kona, or any other Hawaiian community, you'll find valuable information to help you make this important career transition.
Hawaii LPN to RN Salary Increase
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1. Understanding LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Hawaii
What is an LPN to RN Bridge Program?
An LPN to RN bridge program is a specialized nursing education pathway designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who want to become Registered Nurses. These programs recognize your existing nursing knowledge and clinical experience, allowing you to complete your RN education more efficiently than traditional nursing programs.
- Accelerated Timeline: Complete your RN education in 12-24 months instead of the traditional 2-4 years
- Credit for Experience: Your LPN training and work experience count toward your RN degree
- Flexible Formats: Many Hawaii programs offer evening, weekend, and hybrid options for working nurses
- Cost Savings: Shorter programs mean less tuition and faster return to higher earning potential
- Career Advancement: Qualify for supervisory roles, specialized nursing positions, and higher salaries
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Types of LPN to RN Programs in Hawaii
Duration: 12-18 months (full-time) or 18-24 months (part-time)
Outcome: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree; eligible to take NCLEX-RN exam
Best For: LPNs who want to become RNs quickly and start earning higher salaries
Cost Range: $8,000-$20,000 total tuition
Duration: 2-3 years (may vary based on transfer credits)
Outcome: Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree; eligible to take NCLEX-RN exam
Best For: LPNs seeking leadership positions, specialized nursing roles, or future graduate education
Cost Range: $30,000-$60,000 total tuition
Hawaii-Specific Considerations
Hawaii's unique geographic and cultural environment presents both opportunities and challenges for LPN to RN students:
- Limited Program Availability: Hawaii has fewer nursing programs than mainland states, so early application is critical
- High Cost of Living: Housing and living expenses in Hawaii are among the highest in the nation; factor this into your financial planning
- Island-Specific Programs: Some programs are only available on specific islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island)
- Cultural Competency: Hawaii programs emphasize culturally sensitive care for diverse Pacific Islander and Asian populations
- No Compact State: Hawaii is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so you'll need a Hawaii-specific license to practice
2. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs across its islands. Here are the top options for aspiring RNs in 2026:
Location: Honolulu, Oahu
Program Type: LPN to ADN Bridge (Associate Degree)
Accreditation: Approved by Hawaii State Board of Nursing; Accredited by ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)
Duration: Approximately 3 semesters (varies based on completion of prerequisites)
Format: Hybrid (in-person clinical rotations with online coursework components)
Clinical Sites: Major Oahu hospitals including Queen's Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and community health centers
Estimated Tuition: $10,000-$15,000 (in-state); $25,000-$30,000 (out-of-state)
Key Features:
- LPN transition pathway recognizes prior nursing education and experience
- Advanced standing for qualified LPNs with current Hawaii license
- Evening and weekend options available for working nurses
- Strong clinical partnerships across Oahu healthcare facilities
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates (consistently above 85%)
Location: Honolulu, Oahu (with online components)
Program Type: LPN to BSN Bridge (Bachelor's Degree)
Accreditation: Approved by Hawaii Board of Nursing; Accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
Duration: 2-3 years (varies based on transfer credits and enrollment status)
Format: Hybrid/Online with required clinical practicums in Hawaii
Clinical Sites: HPU partners with major Hawaii healthcare systems including Straub Medical Center, Adventist Health Castle
Estimated Tuition: $35,000-$50,000 total program cost
Key Features:
- Flexible online learning designed for working LPNs
- Transfer up to 60 credits from previous nursing education
- BSN prepares you for advanced practice, leadership, and graduate nursing programs
- Small cohort sizes with personalized faculty support
- Emphasis on cultural competency and Pacific Islander health issues
- Career services and job placement assistance
Location: Lihue, Kaua'i
Program Type: LPN to RN Transition (Associate Degree pathway)
Accreditation: Part of University of Hawaii system; approved by Hawaii Board of Nursing
Duration: 12-18 months (depending on prerequisites and schedule)
Format: In-person with clinical rotations on Kaua'i
Clinical Sites: Wilcox Medical Center, Kaua'i Veterans Memorial Hospital, community clinics
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$12,000 (in-state residents)
Key Features:
- Specifically designed for LPNs with advanced standing options
- Small class sizes and personalized instruction
- Affordable tuition for Hawaii residents
- Community-focused nursing education with rural health emphasis
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities for qualifying students
- Apply early—Hawaii nursing programs have limited seats and competitive admissions
- Maintain a current, active LPN license in Hawaii before applying
- Complete all prerequisite courses (Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, etc.) before applying
- Strong GPA (3.0 or higher) significantly improves admission chances
- Some programs require TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI entrance exams
- Prepare for potential waitlists—alternate start dates may be available
3. LPN vs RN Salary in Hawaii: Financial Benefits of Advancement
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $65,000 | $31.25 | $58,000 - $72,000 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $113,000 | $54.33 | $95,000 - $130,000 |
| Salary Difference | +$48,000 | +$23.08 | 74% increase |
Regional Salary Variations Across Hawaii
Nursing salaries in Hawaii vary by island and healthcare facility type:
| Location/Island | RN Average Salary | Cost of Living Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Honolulu, Oahu | $115,000 - $125,000 | Highest (housing costs 2-3x national average) |
| Maui County | $108,000 - $118,000 | High (resort areas, limited housing) |
| Hawaii Island (Hilo/Kona) | $100,000 - $115,000 | Moderate-High (varies by region) |
| Kaua'i | $105,000 - $115,000 | High (limited housing, tourism-driven) |
Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investment Breakdown:
- Program Cost: $10,000 - $20,000 (ADN) or $35,000 - $50,000 (BSN)
- Time to Complete: 12-24 months (ADN) or 2-3 years (BSN)
- Annual Salary Increase: $48,000/year on average
- Payback Period: 3-6 months (ADN) or 9-12 months (BSN) after graduation
- 10-Year Career Earnings Increase: $480,000+ (before accounting for raises and promotions)
Bottom Line: Even with Hawaii's higher cost of living, the LPN to RN transition offers exceptional financial returns. Most graduates recoup their investment within the first year of RN employment.
Top Employers for RNs in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii's major healthcare systems actively recruit RNs and offer competitive salaries, benefits, and career advancement:
- The Queen's Medical Center (Honolulu) - Hawaii's #1 ranked hospital by U.S. News & World Report
- Kaiser Permanente Hawaii - Large integrated health system with facilities across Oahu
- Adventist Health Castle (Kailua, Oahu) - Community hospital with strong nursing culture
- Straub Medical Center (Honolulu) - Part of Hawaii Pacific Health system
- Wilcox Medical Center (Kaua'i) - Primary acute care hospital serving Kaua'i residents
- Maui Memorial Medical Center (Wailuku) - Largest hospital on Maui
- Hilo Medical Center (Hawaii Island) - Major facility serving East Hawaii
- Kona Community Hospital (Kealakekua) - West Hawaii healthcare provider
- VA Pacific Islands Health Care System - Federal healthcare for veterans
- Long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies across all islands
4. Hawaii RN Licensure Requirements & NCLEX Exam
Hawaii Board of Nursing Contact Information
Agency: Hawaii Board of Nursing (Professional & Vocational Licensing Division)
Address: P.O. Box 3469, Honolulu, HI 96801
Phone: (808) 586-2698
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/nursing/
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM HST
Steps to Obtain Your Hawaii RN License
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1
Graduate from an Accredited RN Program
Complete your LPN to RN bridge program from a Hawaii Board of Nursing-approved nursing school (ADN or BSN).
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2
Submit RN License Application to Hawaii Board of Nursing
- Complete the online or paper application for RN licensure
- Pay application fee (approximately $160-$200; check current fees with the Board)
- Submit official nursing school transcripts directly to the Board
- Provide government-issued photo ID
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3
Complete Criminal Background Check
- Fingerprint-based criminal history background check (federal and state)
- Background check fee (approximately $40-$50)
- Some past criminal convictions may affect licensure eligibility; contact the Board if you have concerns
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4
Register for the NCLEX-RN Exam
- After Board approval, register for NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE
- NCLEX-RN exam fee: $200 (non-refundable)
- Schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center (available on Oahu and neighbor islands, or mainland U.S.)
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Hawaii Board of Nursing (valid for 90 days)
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5
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Computer adaptive test (CAT) with 75-145 questions
- Maximum time: 5 hours
- Covers safe and effective care environment, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity
- Results typically available within 48 hours
- Retake policy: Can retake after 45 days if you do not pass; additional registration and fees apply
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6
Receive Your Hawaii RN License
After passing NCLEX-RN, your license will be issued by the Hawaii Board of Nursing. You can verify your license online through the state's license verification system.
- Hawaii is NOT a Compact State: Hawaii does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). You must hold a Hawaii-specific RN license to practice in Hawaii.
- Renewal: Hawaii RN licenses must be renewed biennially (every 2 years) by December 31 of even-numbered years
- Continuing Education: Hawaii does not currently mandate continuing education for RN license renewal, but employers may require it
- Processing Time: License applications typically take 4-8 weeks to process; plan accordingly
NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
Passing the NCLEX-RN on your first attempt is critical. Here are recommended study resources:
- Official NCSBN Learning Extension: Created by the organization that writes the NCLEX (ncsbn.org)
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Highly-rated question bank with detailed rationales
- Kaplan Nursing: Comprehensive NCLEX prep courses and resources
- Saunders Comprehensive Review for NCLEX-RN: Popular textbook with practice questions
- ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute): Many nursing programs include ATI as part of curriculum
- NCLEX-RN Mastery App: Mobile app for studying on-the-go
- Free Resources: YouTube channels (RegisteredNurseRN, Nurse Nachreiner), NCSBN practice exams
- Start studying 6-8 weeks before your exam date
- Complete at least 2,000-3,000 practice questions before the exam
- Focus on understanding rationales, not just memorizing answers
- Take a review course if you're not confident in your preparation
- Get adequate sleep and manage stress before exam day
5. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transition from LPN to RN in Hawaii
This comprehensive roadmap will guide you through every stage of your LPN to RN transition in Hawaii:
Phase 1: Research & Planning (3-6 months before application)
- Assess Your Current Situation
- Confirm your Hawaii LPN license is active and in good standing
- Evaluate your work schedule and financial situation
- Determine if you can study part-time (while working) or full-time
- Research childcare, family support, and other logistical needs
- Choose Your Degree Path
- ADN (Associate Degree): Faster (12-18 months), lower cost, immediate RN eligibility
- BSN (Bachelor's Degree): Longer (2-3 years), higher cost, but better long-term career prospects and higher earning potential
- Research Hawaii Programs
- Review the top 3 programs listed in Section 2 of this guide
- Contact admissions offices to request information packets and application requirements
- Attend virtual or in-person program information sessions
- Confirm accreditation status with Hawaii Board of Nursing
- Plan Your Finances
- Calculate total program costs (tuition, fees, books, transportation)
- Factor in living expenses if reducing work hours during school
- Research financial aid options (see Section 6 below)
- Consider employer tuition reimbursement programs
Phase 2: Prerequisites & Application (6-12 months before program start)
- Complete Prerequisite Courses
Most LPN to RN programs require the following prerequisites (if not completed during your LPN program):
- Anatomy & Physiology I and II (with labs)
- Microbiology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab, for some programs)
- English Composition
- College-level Math or Statistics
- Psychology
- Human Growth & Development (Lifespan Development)
Where to Take Prerequisites in Hawaii: Community colleges (Kapi'olani, Kaua'i, etc.), University of Hawaii campuses, or online through accredited institutions
- Prepare for Entrance Exams (if required)
- Some programs require TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 exams
- Study using official prep materials (ATI TEAS Study Manual, Elsevier HESI Review)
- Aim for scores in the 70th percentile or higher for competitive programs
- Gather Application Materials
- Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
- Copy of current Hawaii LPN license
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3, from nursing supervisors or instructors)
- Personal statement or essay explaining your motivation to become an RN
- Resume highlighting your LPN work experience
- Immunization records and health clearances
- Submit Your Application
- Apply early—Hawaii programs have limited seats
- Pay close attention to application deadlines (often 3-6 months before program start)
- Follow up to confirm receipt of all materials
- Be prepared for potential interviews or additional assessments
Phase 3: Enrollment & Program Completion (12-24 months)
- Accept Admission & Complete Enrollment
- Accept your offer of admission and pay enrollment deposit
- Attend mandatory orientation sessions
- Register for first-semester courses
- Complete background check and drug screening (required by clinical sites)
- Purchase textbooks, supplies, and required equipment (stethoscope, uniforms, etc.)
- Successfully Complete Coursework & Clinicals
- Maintain a GPA of 2.75-3.0 or higher (program requirement)
- Attend all lectures, labs, and clinical rotations
- Balance work, school, and personal life (time management is critical)
- Utilize tutoring, study groups, and faculty office hours if needed
- Complete clinical hours at assigned Hawaii healthcare facilities
- Prepare for NCLEX-RN While in School
- Many programs integrate NCLEX prep into the curriculum
- Take advantage of ATI, HESI, or Kaplan assessments offered by your school
- Practice NCLEX-style questions regularly throughout the program
Phase 4: Graduation & RN Licensure (Final semester + 2-3 months post-graduation)
- Graduate from Your Program
- Complete all degree requirements and clinical hours
- Request official transcripts be sent to Hawaii Board of Nursing
- Celebrate your achievement! 🎓
- Apply for Hawaii RN License
- Submit RN license application to Hawaii Board of Nursing (details in Section 4)
- Complete background check and fingerprinting
- Pay all required fees
- Register for and Pass NCLEX-RN
- Dedicate 6-8 weeks to full-time NCLEX prep after graduation
- Schedule your exam once you receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
- Take the exam within 90 days of receiving ATT
- Pass NCLEX-RN on first attempt (typical pass rate for Hawaii graduates: 85-90%)
- Receive Your RN License & Begin Your Career
- Once you pass NCLEX-RN, your Hawaii RN license will be issued
- Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with RN credentials
- Notify your current employer (if seeking RN position) or apply for new RN jobs
- Negotiate your new RN salary (aim for $95,000-$115,000+ based on experience and location)
- Time Management: Most students underestimate the workload. Plan for 20-30 hours/week of study time outside of class and clinicals.
- Support System: Family and employer support are critical. Communicate your schedule and needs early.
- Financial Planning: Have 3-6 months of living expenses saved before starting full-time programs.
- Stay Organized: Use planners, apps, or calendars to track assignments, exams, and clinical schedules.
- Self-Care: Nursing school is demanding. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and mental health.
6. Financial Aid, Scholarships & Employer Tuition Assistance in Hawaii
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
The first step to funding your LPN to RN education is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):
- Website: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
- Deadline: Priority deadlines are typically in early spring for the upcoming academic year (check your school's specific deadline)
- Eligible Aid:
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27) for eligible students (does not need to be repaid)
- Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans: Up to $5,500-$12,500/year depending on dependency status and grade level
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs to help pay for education expenses
Hawaii-Specific Scholarships & Grants
Hawaii offers several scholarships specifically for nursing students, including LPN to RN candidates:
Eligibility: Must be attending a nursing program in Hawaii; pursuing RN or LPN degree with interest in geriatric nursing
Award Amount: Varies (typically $500-$2,000)
Application: Available through Going Merry platform
Learn More →Eligibility: Hawaii nursing students
Award Amount: Varies; multiple awards offered
Deadline: February (annual)
Learn More →Eligibility: Native Hawaiian students pursuing health professions (including nursing)
Award Amount: Federal financial support for tuition and living expenses
Commitment: May require service commitment to underserved Native Hawaiian communities
National Nursing Scholarships
In addition to Hawaii-specific aid, consider these national scholarship opportunities:
- National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) Foundation Scholarships: Over $500,000 awarded annually to nursing students (nsna.org/scholarships)
- Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships & Grants: Various scholarships for nursing students (nursing.jnj.com/scholarships)
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: Federal program that covers tuition, fees, and provides monthly stipend in exchange for service commitment at critical shortage facilities
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships: For students enrolled in AACN-member institutions
- National Black Nurses Association Scholarships: For African American nursing students
- American Indian Nurse Scholarship: For Native American/Alaska Native nursing students
Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Many Hawaii healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
Typical Employer Benefits:
- Tuition Reimbursement: $2,000-$5,000/year or up to 50-100% of tuition costs
- Flexible Scheduling: Modified shifts to accommodate class and clinical schedules
- Loan Repayment Assistance: Some employers help pay off nursing school loans
- Scholarship Programs: Competitive internal scholarships for employees
- Commitment Requirement: Most programs require 1-3 years of employment after graduation
Major Hawaii Healthcare Employers with Tuition Programs:
- Kaiser Permanente Hawaii
- Hawaii Pacific Health (Kapi'olani, Pali Momi, Straub, Wilcox)
- The Queen's Medical Center
- Adventist Health Castle
- VA Pacific Islands Healthcare System
Action Step: Contact your current employer's HR department or nurse manager to inquire about tuition assistance programs. If your employer doesn't offer this benefit, consider applying to employers who do.
Additional Funding Strategies
- Payment Plans: Many Hawaii nursing schools offer interest-free monthly payment plans
- Private Student Loans: Compare rates from multiple lenders (credit unions often have better rates than national banks)
- Part-Time Work as an LPN: Continue working part-time during school if your program allows
- Family Support: Discuss financial assistance with family members
- Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe for education expenses (though success varies)
7. Career Advancement Opportunities for RNs in Hawaii
Why Becoming an RN Opens More Doors
While LPNs provide essential patient care, RN licensure unlocks significantly more career opportunities, higher salaries, and paths to leadership and specialization:
| Career Aspect | LPN | RN (ADN/BSN) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Practice | Basic patient care, vital signs, medication administration under supervision | Independent assessment, care planning, patient education, IV medications, supervision of LPNs/CNAs |
| Work Settings | Long-term care, clinics, home health (limited hospital roles in Hawaii) | Hospitals (all departments), clinics, home health, schools, management, specialty units, research |
| Leadership Roles | Limited; typically no supervisory positions | Charge nurse, nurse manager, director of nursing, clinical educator, case manager |
| Specialty Certifications | Few specialty certification options | 50+ specialty certifications (critical care, ER, oncology, pediatrics, etc.) |
| Advanced Education | Must become RN first | Can pursue MSN, DNP, or PhD programs to become Nurse Practitioner, CRNA, CNS, etc. |
High-Demand RN Specialties in Hawaii
After gaining RN experience, you can pursue specialty certifications and higher-paying positions:
Average Salary in Hawaii: $120,000-$140,000/year
Description: Care for critically ill patients in intensive care units; requires advanced assessment skills and ability to manage complex medical equipment
Certification: CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) through AACN
Average Salary in Hawaii: $115,000-$135,000/year
Description: Provide rapid assessment and treatment in emergency settings; fast-paced environment requiring quick decision-making
Certification: CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse) or TCRN (Trauma Certified Registered Nurse)
Average Salary in Hawaii: $115,000-$130,000/year
Description: Assist surgeons during surgical procedures; requires specialized training in sterile technique and surgical instruments
Certification: CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room)
Average Salary in Hawaii: $110,000-$125,000/year
Description: Care for mothers and newborns during childbirth and postpartum recovery
Certification: RNC-OB (Registered Nurse Certified in Inpatient Obstetric Nursing)
Average Salary in Hawaii: $110,000-$125,000/year
Description: Specialize in cancer care; administer chemotherapy and provide supportive care to oncology patients
Certification: OCN (Oncology Certified Nurse)
Average Salary: $130,000-$180,000/year (including housing stipends and bonuses)
Description: Work temporary assignments (13 weeks) at healthcare facilities experiencing staffing shortages; high pay and flexibility
Requirements: Typically need 1-2 years of acute care RN experience
Advanced Practice Nursing (Graduate Education)
With your BSN, you can pursue advanced practice roles that require a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $130,000-$160,000/year in Hawaii; diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications (similar to physician roles)
- Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): $180,000-$220,000/year; administer anesthesia during surgeries (highest-paid nursing specialty)
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): $110,000-$140,000/year; expert in specialized area of nursing; provide consultation and education
- Nurse Educator: $90,000-$120,000/year; teach in nursing schools or provide staff education in healthcare facilities
- Nurse Administrator/Executive: $120,000-$180,000/year; leadership roles such as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) or Director of Nursing
- Year 0-1: Complete LPN to RN program; pass NCLEX-RN; start first RN job
- Year 1-3: Gain experience as a staff RN; pursue specialty certification if desired
- Year 3-5: Move into charge nurse or specialty roles; consider BSN if you have ADN
- Year 5+: Pursue management, advanced practice (NP, CRNA), or other leadership roles
- Long-term: CNO, NP with own practice, nursing educator, healthcare consultant
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The timeline varies by program type and enrollment status. An LPN to ADN bridge program typically takes 12-18 months if you attend full-time, or 18-24 months part-time. An LPN to BSN program takes 2-3 years depending on how many transfer credits you have and whether you attend full-time or part-time. You'll also need to account for time completing prerequisites (if not already done) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam after graduation.
Yes, many LPN to RN students continue working part-time during their programs. Hawaii's bridge programs often offer evening, weekend, or hybrid formats to accommodate working nurses. However, nursing school is demanding—expect to spend 20-30 hours per week on coursework and clinicals in addition to class time. Most students reduce their work hours to part-time (20-30 hours/week) to balance school and employment successfully. Discuss your situation with your employer; some healthcare facilities offer flexible scheduling for employees in nursing school.
Program costs vary by institution and degree type. Community college ADN programs (like Kapi'olani CC) typically cost $10,000-$20,000 total for Hawaii residents ($25,000-$30,000 for out-of-state students). BSN programs at private universities (like Hawaii Pacific University) cost $35,000-$50,000 total. These estimates include tuition and fees but not textbooks, supplies, or living expenses. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
No, LPN to RN bridge programs are specifically designed to build on your existing LPN education. You'll receive advanced standing or credit for your LPN coursework and clinical experience, which shortens the program. However, you will need to complete RN-level courses that cover more advanced nursing concepts, such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, complex patient care, leadership, and community health. You may also need to complete prerequisite courses like Anatomy & Physiology II or Microbiology if you didn't take them during your LPN program.
No, Hawaii is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact. This means you must hold a Hawaii-specific RN license to practice nursing in Hawaii, even if you have a compact license from another state. If you move to Hawaii from a mainland state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement with the Hawaii Board of Nursing. Similarly, if you hold a Hawaii RN license and want to work in another state, you'll need to apply for licensure in that state.
NCLEX-RN pass rates vary by program, but Hawaii's accredited nursing programs typically have first-time pass rates between 80-95%. For example, Kapi'olani Community College and Hawaii Pacific University consistently report pass rates above 85%. The national average first-time pass rate is around 80-85%. Your likelihood of passing increases significantly with proper preparation—most successful students complete 2,000-3,000 practice questions and dedicate 6-8 weeks to full-time NCLEX study after graduation.
In most cases, yes—but it depends on your employment situation. If you're working as an LPN and your employer has RN positions available, you can typically transition to an RN role once you pass the NCLEX-RN and receive your license. Your salary will increase to the RN pay scale, which averages $113,000/year in Hawaii (compared to $65,000 for LPNs). Some employers offer automatic promotions and raises for employees who advance their education. If your current employer doesn't have RN openings, you may need to apply for RN positions at other Hawaii healthcare facilities to realize the full salary increase.
Partially—many programs offer hybrid formats with online coursework combined with in-person clinical rotations. Fully online RN programs don't exist because nursing licensure requires hands-on clinical experience in healthcare settings. Hawaii Pacific University offers a largely online LPN to BSN program, but you'll still need to complete clinical practicums at Hawaii healthcare facilities. Kapi'olani Community College offers hybrid options with some online lectures. All RN programs require in-person clinical hours to meet Hawaii Board of Nursing and national accreditation standards.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Hawaii?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $48,000+ per year. Hawaii's healthcare system needs qualified RNs, and LPN to RN bridge programs make the transition faster and more affordable than ever.
Next Steps:
- Contact the top 3 Hawaii programs listed in this guide to request information
- Complete the FAFSA to determine your financial aid eligibility
- Schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor to discuss your application
- Review prerequisite requirements and plan your course schedule
- Apply early—Hawaii programs have limited seats and competitive admissions
Have questions? Contact the Hawaii Board of Nursing at (808) 586-2698 or email [email protected] Explore Hawaii LPN to RN Programs