Transform Your Nursing Career in Nebraska
Nebraska'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 Nebraska, including accredited schools, salary expectations, Board of Nursing requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Nebraska is an eNLC state with affordable living costs and strong healthcare systems. The state offers rural healthcare loan repayment programs. Omaha is home to several major medical centers and healthcare systems.
Nebraska LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
Nebraska participates in the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means your Nebraska 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.
💻 Find LPN to RN Programs Near You --
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
1. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Nebraska (2026)
Nebraska offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top options for 2026:
Location: Lincoln, NE (with additional campuses)
Program Type: LPN to ADN Transition
Duration: 12-18 months for qualified LPNs
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$13,000 (Nebraska residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- LPN to RN transition pathway with advanced standing
- ACEN accreditation ensures high standards
- Clinical partnerships with Lincoln and surrounding area hospitals
- Affordable community college tuition
- Flexible scheduling for working nurses
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates (85%+)
- Financial aid available
Location: Omaha, NE
Program Type: Associate Degree Nursing (LPN advanced standing)
Duration: 2 years (standard); accelerated for LPNs
Format: Hybrid and in-person options
Estimated Tuition: $7,500-$12,000 (Nebraska residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- LPN advanced standing opportunities
- Clinical sites include major Omaha medical centers (CHI Health, Methodist, Nebraska Medicine)
- Evening and weekend courses available
- Affordable tuition in Nebraska's largest metro area
- Strong job placement in Omaha healthcare market
- Financial aid and scholarships
Location: Hastings, NE (with Grand Island campus)
Program Type: Associate Degree Nursing
Duration: Varies by enrollment; LPN advanced standing available
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $7,000-$11,000 (Nebraska residents)
Accreditation: Approved by Nebraska DHHS Division of Public Health
Key Features:
- LPN credit and advanced placement options
- Clinical experiences in central Nebraska healthcare facilities
- Affordable community college pricing
- Small class sizes
- Rural health emphasis
- Financial aid available for qualifying students
2. LPN vs RN Salary in Nebraska: Financial Benefits
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $60,000 | $28.85 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $78,000 | $37.50 |
| Salary Difference | +$18,000 | +$8.65 |
Regional Salary Variations Across Nebraska
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Omaha Metro | $75,000 - $85,000 | Largest healthcare market; most opportunities |
| Lincoln | $72,000 - $82,000 | State capital; Bryan Health is major employer |
| Grand Island/Kearney | $70,000 - $80,000 | Central Nebraska healthcare hubs |
| Scottsbluff/Western Nebraska | $70,000 - $82,000 | Regional West serves large rural area |
| Rural Nebraska | $72,000 - $88,000+ | Shortage incentives and loan forgiveness available |
Top Employers for RNs in Nebraska (2026)
- Nebraska Medicine (Omaha) - Academic medical center
- CHI Health (multiple Nebraska locations)
- Methodist Health System (Omaha, Fremont)
- Bryan Health (Lincoln)
- Children's Hospital & Medical Center (Omaha)
- Great Plains Health (North Platte)
- Regional West Medical Center (Scottsbluff)
- Good Samaritan Hospital (Kearney)
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System
- Critical Access Hospitals throughout rural Nebraska
3. Nebraska Board of Nursing & RN Licensure Requirements
Agency: Nebraska Board of Nursing
Address: Licensure Unit, P.O. Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
Phone: (402) 471-4376
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/pages/nurse-licensing.aspx
Steps to Obtain Your Nebraska 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 Nebraska RN License
4. Financial Aid & Scholarships in Nebraska
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27)
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
Nebraska-Specific Scholarships
Scholarships for Nebraska residents pursuing nursing and healthcare careers
Financial support for nursing students committed to working in Nebraska
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 Nebraska is approximately $78,000 per year, compared to $60,000 for LPNs—a $18,000 annual increase (30% raise).
Yes! Nebraska is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. Your Nebraska RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Nebraska?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $18,000+ per year. Nebraska's healthcare system needs qualified RNs.
Explore Nebraska LPN to RN ProgramsQuestions? Contact the Nebraska Board of Nursing at (402) 471-4376