Transform Your Nursing Career in Mississippi
Mississippi's healthcare system needs qualified Registered Nurses now more than ever. Whether you're an experienced LPN or just starting to consider advancing your career, transitioning from LPN to RN opens up significantly higher salaries, expanded career opportunities, and greater professional autonomy.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in Mississippi, including accredited schools, salary expectations, Board of Nursing requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Mississippi has one of the lowest RN salaries nationally but also one of the lowest costs of living. eNLC membership allows MS RNs to work in higher-paying neighboring states. Mississippi offers several rural healthcare loan repayment programs.
Mississippi LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
Mississippi participates in the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means your Mississippi RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This opens up travel nursing opportunities, telehealth positions, and flexibility to work across state lines—a significant career advantage.
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1. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Mississippi (2026)
Mississippi offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top options for 2026:
Location: Multiple campuses (Perkinston, Jackson County, Harrison County)
Program Type: LPN to RN Transition (Hybrid)
Duration: Approximately 3 semesters
Format: Hybrid (online coursework + in-person clinicals)
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$12,000 (Mississippi residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited (Continuing Accreditation status)
Key Features:
- LPN to RN transition pathway with advanced standing
- Hybrid format accommodates working nurses
- ACEN Continuing Accreditation for quality assurance
- Clinical sites throughout coastal Mississippi
- Affordable tuition for Mississippi residents
- Multiple campus locations for convenience
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
Location: Summit, MS
Program Type: LPN to RN Transition (Accelerated)
Duration: Accelerated option for qualified LPNs
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $7,000-$11,000 (Mississippi residents)
Accreditation: Approved by Mississippi Board of Nursing
Key Features:
- Accelerated RN program option for LPNs
- LPNs may receive advanced placement credit
- Clinical experiences in southwestern Mississippi healthcare facilities
- Affordable community college tuition
- Financial aid available
- Small class sizes with individualized attention
Location: Wesson, MS
Program Type: LPN to RN Transition Program
Duration: Varies based on advanced standing
Format: In-person with clinical practicums
Estimated Tuition: $7,500-$11,500 (Mississippi residents)
Accreditation: Accredited by Mississippi Board of Trustees; approved by MS Board of Nursing
Key Features:
- LPN to RN transition program for licensed LPNs
- Associate Degree Nursing program accredited by state boards
- Clinical partnerships with central Mississippi hospitals
- Evening course options available
- Affordable tuition and payment plans
- Strong job placement rates in Mississippi
Location: Jackson, MS (multiple campuses)
Program Type: LPN/Paramedic/Respiratory Therapist to RN Transition
Duration: Varies by program track
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$13,000
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- Designed for LPNs, paramedics, and respiratory therapists transitioning to RN
- Multiple campus locations in Jackson metro area
- ACEN accreditation ensures quality
- Clinical sites include major Jackson-area hospitals
- Flexible scheduling options
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Location: Decatur, MS
Program Type: LPN to ADN Transition
Duration: Accelerated pathway for LPNs
Format: In-person
Estimated Tuition: $7,000-$10,000 (Mississippi residents)
Accreditation: Accredited by Mississippi Board of Trustees and MS Board of Nursing
Key Features:
- Licensed Practical Nursing Transition to ADN at Decatur campus
- State board accreditation and approval
- Affordable tuition rates
- Clinical experiences in east-central Mississippi
- Financial aid available
- Small town setting with personalized education
2. LPN vs RN Salary in Mississippi: Financial Benefits
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $50,000 | $24.04 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $60,000 | $28.85 |
| Salary Difference | +$10,000 | +$4.81 |
Regional Salary Variations Across Mississippi
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson Metro Area | $58,000 - $68,000 | Largest healthcare market; most opportunities |
| Gulf Coast (Biloxi, Gulfport) | $55,000 - $65,000 | Coastal healthcare facilities |
| Tupelo/North Mississippi | $55,000 - $62,000 | North MS Health Services is major employer |
| Hattiesburg/South Mississippi | $54,000 - $62,000 | Forrest General and regional facilities |
| Rural Mississippi | $55,000 - $70,000+ | Shortage incentives and loan forgiveness available |
Top Employers for RNs in Mississippi (2026)
- University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson)
- Baptist Memorial Health Care (multiple MS locations)
- Singing River Health System (Pascagoula, Ocean Springs)
- Merit Health (multiple locations including Biloxi, Meridian, Natchez)
- North Mississippi Health Services (Tupelo)
- Forrest General Hospital (Hattiesburg)
- Mississippi Baptist Medical Center (Jackson)
- VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System
- Long-term care facilities throughout Mississippi
- Rural health clinics and community hospitals
3. Mississippi Board of Nursing & RN Licensure Requirements
Agency: Mississippi Board of Nursing
Address: 713 S. Pear Orchard Road, Suite 300, Ridgeland, MS 39157
Phone: (601) 957-6300
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.msbn.ms.gov
Steps to Obtain Your Mississippi RN License
- 1Graduate from Accredited RN Program
- 2Submit RN License Application
- 3Complete Criminal Background Check
- 4Register for NCLEX-RN Exam
- 5Pass NCLEX-RN
- 6Receive Your Mississippi RN License
4. Financial Aid & Scholarships in Mississippi
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27)
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
Mississippi-Specific Scholarships
Scholarships for Mississippi nursing students pursuing RN degrees
Federal program covering tuition for service commitment in underserved areas (Mississippi has many qualifying sites)
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An LPN to ADN bridge program typically takes 12-18 months full-time or 18-24 months part-time. An LPN to BSN program takes 2-3 years depending on transfer credits and enrollment status.
The average RN salary in Mississippi is approximately $60,000 per year, compared to $50,000 for LPNs—a $10,000 annual increase (20% raise).
Yes! Mississippi is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. Your Mississippi RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Mississippi?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $10,000+ per year. Mississippi's healthcare system needs qualified RNs.
Explore Mississippi LPN to RN ProgramsQuestions? Contact the Mississippi Board of Nursing at (601) 957-6300