LPN to RN Online Programs: Top Accredited Schools for Working Nurses [2025]
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Navigate to: 6-Month LPN to RN Programs | Best Schools | Costs & Financial Aid | FAQs
⚡ Quick Answer: Are There 100% Online LPN to RN Programs?
Not quite—but close. True "100% online" LPN to RN programs don't exist because the RN license requires in-person clinical hours (typically 200-400 hours). However, hybrid programs offer the best of both worlds:
- ✅ 80-90% online coursework (lectures, exams, assignments)
- ✅ 10-20% in-person clinical (arranged near your home)
- ✅ Work-friendly schedules (evening/weekend clinical options)
- ✅ No campus commute for theory classes
Bottom line: You'll complete most of your LPN to RN program from home, with flexible clinical placements at local healthcare facilities.
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What Are LPN to RN Online Programs (Hybrid Model)?
An LPN to RN online program (officially called a hybrid bridge program) is an educational pathway that allows licensed practical nurses to:
- 📚 Complete most coursework 100% online (asynchronous lectures, readings, exams)
- 🏥 Complete required clinical hours at approved facilities near you (hospitals, clinics, nursing homes)
- ⏰ Study on your own schedule (evenings, weekends, between shifts)
- 💼 Keep working as an LPN while earning your RN (part-time or PRN)
- 🎓 Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
How the Hybrid Model Works (Weekly Schedule Example):
| Component | Time Commitment | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Online lectures & readings | 10-15 hours/week | Watch/read anytime |
| Online assignments & exams | 5-8 hours/week | Scheduled deadlines |
| Clinical rotations (in-person) | 12-16 hours/week | Local facilities, scheduled shifts |
| Total | 27-39 hours/week | Mostly online, some in-person |
Typical clinical schedule: 2-3 days per week (8-12 hour shifts) at a hospital/clinic near your home.
🏆 Top 10 LPN to RN Online Programs (2025 Rankings)
We evaluated 50+ programs based on accreditation, cost, NCLEX pass rates, flexibility, and student reviews. Here are the best:
| School | Format | Length | Tuition | NCLEX Pass Rate | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excelsior University | Online + clinical | 12-18 months | $24,000-$30,000 | 89% | ACEN |
| Indiana State University | Hybrid online | 12 months | $15,000-$20,000 | 92% | CCNE |
| Rasmussen University | Hybrid | 9-12 months | $28,000-$35,000 | 85% | CCNE |
| Herzing University | Hybrid online | 12-18 months | $30,000-$38,000 | 88% | CCNE |
| Chamberlain University | Online + clinical | 12-24 months | $35,000-$45,000 | 91% | CCNE |
| Gateway Community College (CT) | Hybrid | 9 months | $12,000-$18,000 | 88% | ACEN |
| Blinn College (TX) | Hybrid online | 12 months | $10,000-$15,000 | 90% | ACEN |
| Western Governors University | Online + clinical | 6-24 months | $7,500/semester | 84% | CCNE |
| South Texas College | Hybrid | 12 months | $8,000-$14,000 | 89% | ACEN |
| Florida Gateway College | Hybrid online | 12 months | $9,000-$16,000 | 87% | ACEN |
🌟 Editor's Pick: Excelsior University for maximum flexibility (self-paced, no campus visits except clinicals) and Blinn College (TX) for best value (Texas residents).
Compare Top Online Programs →LPN to RN Online vs. Traditional Campus Programs
| Factor | Online/Hybrid Programs | Traditional Campus Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework Location | 80-90% online (home) | 100% on-campus |
| Clinicals | Local facilities near you | Assigned by school |
| Schedule Flexibility | High (asynchronous classes) | Low (fixed class times) |
| Can Work While Studying? | Yes (part-time/PRN) | Difficult (full-time school) |
| Commute Required? | No (except clinicals) | Yes (2-5 days/week) |
| Tuition Cost | $10,000-$35,000 | $8,000-$30,000 |
| Program Length | 9-24 months | 12-24 months |
Choose Online/Hybrid If:
- ✅ You need to work while studying
- ✅ You have family/caregiving responsibilities
- ✅ You live far from a nursing school
- ✅ You prefer self-paced learning
Choose Traditional Campus If:
- ✅ You thrive with in-person instruction
- ✅ You want more hands-on lab time
- ✅ You can attend school full-time without working
💰 LPN to RN Online Program Costs (2025)
Tuition Breakdown by Program Type:
| Program Type | Average Tuition | Total Cost (with fees) |
|---|---|---|
| Community College (In-State) | $5,000-$12,000 | $8,000-$18,000 |
| Community College (Out-of-State) | $12,000-$20,000 | $15,000-$25,000 |
| Public University (In-State) | $10,000-$18,000 | $15,000-$25,000 |
| Private University | $20,000-$35,000 | $25,000-$45,000 |
| For-Profit Online Schools | $24,000-$40,000 | $30,000-$50,000 |
Additional Costs to Budget For:
- Books & Materials: $800-$1,500
- Nursing Supplies (stethoscope, scrubs, etc.): $300-$600
- Background Check & Drug Screening: $100-$200
- Clinical Transportation & Parking: $500-$1,000/semester
- NCLEX-RN Exam Fee: $200
- RN License Application: $100-$200
💡 Total estimated cost: $10,000-$45,000 depending on program type and state residency.
Financial Aid Options:
- FAFSA (Federal Student Aid): Apply at studentaid.gov
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (no repayment required)
- Federal Student Loans: Subsidized/unsubsidized options
- State Grants: Check your state's nursing board website
- Nursing Scholarships:
- HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Tylenol Future Care Scholarship ($5,000-$10,000)
- National Black Nurses Association Scholarships
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many hospitals offer $3,000-$10,000/year
- Military Benefits: GI Bill, National Guard State Tuition Assistance
📋 Admission Requirements for LPN to RN Online Programs
Standard Requirements (Most Programs):
- ✅ Active LPN license (in good standing, no disciplinary actions)
- ✅ Minimum GPA: 2.5-3.0 from LPN program
- ✅ Prerequisite Courses (must be completed with C or better):
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- English Composition
- Psychology and/or Sociology
- College Algebra or Statistics
- ✅ Work Experience: 1-2 years as an LPN (some programs waive this)
- ✅ CPR Certification: BLS for Healthcare Providers (American Heart Association)
- ✅ Background Check: Criminal background check and fingerprinting
- ✅ Drug Screening: Pre-admission and random during program
- ✅ Immunizations:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B series
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- TB test (within last 12 months)
- Annual flu shot
- COVID-19 vaccination (most programs)
Competitive Programs May Also Require:
- 📝 TEAS or HESI Entrance Exam: Minimum score 65-75%
- 📄 Personal Statement/Essay: 500-1,000 words on career goals
- 📬 Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 (from LPN instructors, supervisors, or physicians)
- 🎤 Admissions Interview: In-person or virtual
🗺️ State-by-State: Best LPN to RN Online Programs
Top Programs by Region:
🌟 Northeast:
- Connecticut: Gateway Community College (New Haven) - $12,000-$18,000
- Massachusetts: Quinsigamond Community College - $14,000-$22,000
- New York: Excelsior University (online) - $24,000-$30,000
🌟 Southeast:
- Florida: Florida Gateway College - $9,000-$16,000
- Georgia: Georgia Piedmont Technical College - $10,000-$18,000
- North Carolina: Central Piedmont Community College - $11,000-$19,000
🌟 Midwest:
- Indiana: Indiana State University (hybrid online) - $15,000-$20,000
- Ohio: Sinclair Community College - $12,000-$20,000
- Illinois: Rasmussen University (hybrid) - $28,000-$35,000
🌟 Southwest:
- Texas: Blinn College - $10,000-$15,000 (best value for TX residents)
- Texas: South Texas College - $8,000-$14,000
- Arizona: Pima Community College - $11,000-$18,000
🌟 West Coast:
- California: Antelope Valley College - $15,000-$25,000
- Oregon: Portland Community College - $13,000-$21,000
- Washington: Spokane Community College - $12,000-$19,000
🏥 Clinical Placements: How They Work in Online Programs
3 Models for Clinical Coordination:
Model 1: School Arranges Clinicals (Most Common)
- ✅ School partners with local hospitals/clinics nationwide
- ✅ You're assigned to a facility within 50 miles of your home
- ✅ Clinical schedule: Typically 2-3 days/week (8-12 hour shifts)
- ❌ Limited control over exact facility/schedule
Model 2: Student-Sourced Clinicals (Self-Placement)
- ✅ You find your own clinical site (must be school-approved)
- ✅ Maximum flexibility—choose facility and schedule
- ✅ Can potentially do clinicals at your current workplace
- ❌ Requires more legwork (contacting facilities, paperwork)
Model 3: Hybrid Model
- ✅ School provides a list of pre-approved facilities
- ✅ You select from the list and coordinate schedule
- ✅ School handles contracts and compliance
Typical Clinical Hours Breakdown (500-600 hours total):
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: 150-200 hours
- Maternal-Newborn (OB): 80-120 hours
- Pediatrics: 80-120 hours
- Mental Health/Psychiatric: 80-100 hours
- Community Health: 60-80 hours
- Leadership/Management: 40-60 hours
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✅ How to Choose the Best LPN to RN Online Program for YOU
Step 1: Verify Accreditation (NON-NEGOTIABLE)
Only attend programs accredited by:
- ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)
- CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
Why it matters: Unaccredited programs won't let you sit for the NCLEX-RN exam or transfer credits.
Step 2: Check NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
National average: 87%
Look for programs with: 85%+ pass rate (ideally 90%+)
How to check: Visit your state's Board of Nursing website (e.g., Texas: bon.texas.gov)
Step 3: Evaluate Clinical Placement Support
Ask admissions:
- "Do you arrange clinicals, or do students find their own?"
- "What's the typical distance to clinical sites?"
- "Are evening/weekend clinical options available?"
Step 4: Compare Total Cost (Not Just Tuition)
Calculate:
- Tuition + fees
- Books & supplies
- Clinical transportation
- Lost income (if reducing work hours)
Example: A "$10,000 program" might actually cost $15,000 after all expenses.
Step 5: Assess Schedule Flexibility
- Asynchronous (best for working nurses): Watch lectures anytime
- Synchronous: Live online classes at set times
- Part-time options: Extend program to 18-24 months
Step 6: Read Student Reviews
Check:
- Google Reviews
- AllNurses.com forums
- NursingCAS.org (centralized application system reviews)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I complete an LPN to RN program 100% online with no campus visits?
A: No. All RN programs require in-person clinical hours (200-600 hours). However, hybrid programs let you complete 80-90% of coursework online, with clinicals at facilities near your home.
Q: How long does it take to complete an LPN to RN online program?
A:
- Full-time: 9-18 months
- Part-time: 18-24 months
- Self-paced (e.g., WGU): 6-24 months depending on your speed
Q: Can I work full-time while doing an online LPN to RN program?
A: Difficult but possible. Most students work part-time (20-30 hrs/week) or PRN (as-needed shifts). Full-time work + full-time school is extremely challenging due to clinical requirements.
Q: Are LPN to RN online programs cheaper than traditional programs?
A: Not always. Tuition is similar, but you save on:
- Commuting costs
- Campus parking fees
- Relocation (if no local program exists)
Q: Do employers value online RN degrees the same as traditional degrees?
A: Yes—if accredited. Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, your license is identical. Employers care about:
- ✅ RN license (not how you got it)
- ✅ NCLEX pass
- ✅ Clinical competence
Q: What's the difference between ADN and BSN programs?
A:
| Factor | ADN (Associate Degree) | BSN (Bachelor's Degree) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 9-18 months | 18-36 months |
| Cost | $10,000-$25,000 | $20,000-$60,000 |
| Eligibility | Sit for NCLEX-RN ✅ | Sit for NCLEX-RN ✅ |
| Job Prospects | Good (bedside nursing) | Better (management, specialty units) |
| Salary | $70,000-$85,000 | $75,000-$95,000 |
Bottom line: ADN gets you licensed faster. You can always do an RN-to-BSN bridge later (12-18 months online).
Q: Will my LPN credits transfer?
A: Some yes, some no. Most programs give credit for:
- ✅ Basic nursing skills (reduced clinical hours)
- ✅ Prerequisite courses (if recently completed)
- ❌ LPN theory courses (usually must repeat at RN level)
Typical credit granted: 15-30 credits (saves 1-2 semesters)
Q: What if I fail the NCLEX-RN after graduating?
A: You can retake it. Most states allow unlimited attempts with 45-90 day waiting periods between tries. Many schools offer free NCLEX review courses for graduates.
🚀 Next Steps: Start Your LPN to RN Journey Today
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility ✅
- Active LPN license?
- 1-2 years experience (if required)?
- Prerequisites completed or in progress?
Step 2: Research & Compare Programs 🔍
- Use our comparison table above
- Request info packets from 3-5 schools
- Verify accreditation (ACEN/CCNE)
- Check NCLEX pass rates with your state board
Step 3: Apply for Financial Aid 💰
- Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
- Research nursing scholarships (HRSA, state programs)
- Ask your employer about tuition reimbursement
Step 4: Submit Applications 📝
- Apply to 2-3 programs (increase acceptance odds)
- Request official transcripts from LPN program
- Schedule TEAS/HESI exam if required
- Gather letters of recommendation
Step 5: Prepare for Success 📚
- Save 3-6 months living expenses (if reducing work hours)
- Notify your employer (many offer tuition assistance + flexible scheduling)
- Arrange childcare/family support for clinical days
- Get organized: planner, study space, reliable internet
💼 Career Outcomes: What Happens After You Become an RN?
Immediate Benefits:
- 💰 Salary increase: +$33,000/year average (LPN $48,070 → RN $81,220)
- 📈 More job opportunities: Hospitals, specialty units, travel nursing, management
- 🏥 Expanded scope of practice: IV therapy, advanced assessments, medication administration
- 🎓 Career advancement: Pathway to BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner
RN Career Paths (5-10 Years Post-Graduation):
- Charge Nurse: $85,000-$95,000/year
- Nurse Manager: $95,000-$120,000/year
- Travel Nurse: $90,000-$140,000/year (with housing stipends)
- Specialty Certifications: ICU, ER, OR, NICU (+$5,000-$15,000/year)
- Nurse Practitioner (MSN): $110,000-$130,000/year
- Nurse Educator: $75,000-$95,000/year
- Informatics Nurse: $85,000-$110,000/year
Long-Term ROI Example:
| Timeframe | LPN Path | RN Path (After Bridge) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Years 1-2 | $96,140 | $162,440 (-$20k program cost) | +$46,300 |
| Years 3-5 | $144,210 | $243,660 | +$99,450 |
| Years 6-10 | $240,350 | $406,100 | +$165,750 |
| 10-Year Gain | +$311,500 | ||
*Assumes 3% annual raises, does not include overtime/bonuses.
✅ Final Thoughts: Is an LPN to RN Online Program Right for You?
An LPN to RN online/hybrid program is ideal if you:
- ✅ Want to advance your nursing career without quitting your job
- ✅ Need schedule flexibility (family, caregiving, financial obligations)
- ✅ Live far from a traditional nursing school campus
- ✅ Are self-motivated and comfortable with online learning
- ✅ Want to increase your salary by $30,000+ per year
The investment pays off: With an average program cost of $15,000-$25,000 and a salary increase of $33,000/year, most RNs break even within 8-12 months of graduation.
Your nursing career transformation is 9-18 months away. Take the first step today—research programs, apply for financial aid, and start building the future you deserve.
Related Articles:
- 6-Month LPN to RN Programs: Complete Guide
- Accelerated LPN to RN Programs
- LPN to RN Salary Increase Calculator
- Cheapest LPN to RN Programs by State
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