💰 West Virginia LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
Transitioning from LPN to RN in West Virginia offers meaningful salary increases and expanded career opportunities. Here's what you can expect to earn:
LPN Average Salary
$52,003
$25.00/hour
Entry level: $45K–$48K
Experienced: $52K–$58K
RN Average Salary
$68,450
$32.91/hour
Entry level: $58K–$63K
Experienced: $68K–$78K
💵 Annual Salary Increase: $16,447+
That's an extra $1,370 per month — or a 31.6% pay raise by becoming an RN. Over a 30-year career, this translates to approximately $493,410 in additional earnings.
🏙️ West Virginia RN Salary by Region & City
| City/Region |
Average RN Salary |
Hourly Rate |
Notes |
| Charleston |
$70,200 |
$33.75 |
State capital; CAMC Medical Center; strong demand |
| Huntington |
$69,800 |
$33.56 |
Home to Marshall Health; university hospital opportunities |
| Morgantown |
$72,500 |
$34.86 |
WVU Medicine; academic medical center; higher pay |
| Wheeling |
$67,400 |
$32.40 |
Northern panhandle; Ohio Valley proximity |
| Parkersburg |
$66,900 |
$32.16 |
Mid-Ohio Valley; Camden Clark Medical Center |
| Martinsburg |
$71,800 |
$34.52 |
Eastern panhandle; DC metro proximity boosts pay |
| Beckley |
$65,200 |
$31.35 |
Southern coalfields region; rural health opportunities |
🎯 Key Salary Insights
- Highest-Paying Cities: Morgantown ($72.5K) and Martinsburg ($71.8K) offer top RN salaries
- Cost of Living Advantage: WV has one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S., making RN salaries go further
- Specialty Premiums: ICU, OR, and ER nurses can earn $5K–$10K more annually
- eNLC Benefits: West Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multi-state practice
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
🎓 Top 7 Accredited West Virginia LPN to RN Bridge Programs
West Virginia offers several accredited LPN-to-RN pathways through community colleges, technical schools, and universities. All programs are approved by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.
1. West Virginia Junior College (WVJC) — LPN to RN Bridge Online/Hybrid
Location: Bridgeport, Morgantown, Charleston (hybrid/online)
Program Length: 14 months (accelerated)
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; WV Board approved
Highlights: Flexible online/hybrid format designed for working LPNs; accelerated 14-month completion; evening clinical options; small cohorts; personalized advising; NCLEX prep integrated.
Website: www.wvjc.edu/lpn-to-rn-bridge
2. West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVU Parkersburg) — Accelerated LPN–RN
Location: Parkersburg, WV
Program Length: 3 semesters (12–15 months)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; WV State Board approved
Highlights: Accelerated pathway grants advanced standing for LPN experience; cohort model with dedicated faculty; clinical rotations at local hospitals; strong NCLEX pass rates; affordable tuition.
Website: www.wvup.edu/lpn-rn
3. BridgeValley Community & Technical College — LPN to RN Bridge (AAS)
Location: South Charleston, WV
Program Length: 3–4 semesters (part-time options available)
Degree: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; State Board approved
Highlights: Advanced placement credit for LPNs; flexible day/evening courses; clinical partnerships with CAMC and Charleston Area Medical Center; articulation agreements with 4-year BSN programs; dual Paramedic-to-RN option also available.
Website: catalog.bridgevalley.edu/lpn-rn-bridge
4. Eastern West Virginia Community & Technical College (Eastern) — LPN to RN Bridge
Location: Moorefield, WV
Program Length: 4 semesters (2 years part-time)
Degree: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; WV Board approved
Highlights: Small class sizes (high student-faculty ratio); bridge students receive advanced standing; application deadlines Dec 15, 2026; TEAS exam required (due Dec 1, 2026); rural health focus with clinical placements in community hospitals.
Website: easternwv.edu/nursing-program
5. Bluefield State University — Accelerated LPN to RN (ASN)
Location: Bluefield, WV
Program Length: 12–18 months (accelerated track)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; State Board approved
Highlights: University-level instruction with community college affordability; credit for prior LPN coursework; strong emphasis on evidence-based practice; pathway to BSN completion at Bluefield State; located in southern WV coalfields region.
Website: bluefieldstate.edu/lpn-rn
6. West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) — LPN to RN Bridge, A.A.S.
Location: Wheeling, WV (with New Martinsville and Weirton sites)
Program Length: 3–4 semesters (hybrid/in-seat)
Degree: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
Accreditation: ACEN candidate status; WV State Board approved
Highlights: Hybrid delivery (online + in-person clinicals); convenient for northern panhandle residents; affordable tuition; partnerships with Wheeling Hospital and Reynolds Memorial Hospital; LPN experience counts for advanced standing.
Website: www.wvncc.edu/lpn-to-rn-bridge
7. West Virginia University (WVU) School of Nursing — LPN to BSN
Location: Morgantown, WV (hybrid/online options)
Program Length: 2–3 years (part-time track)
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited; WV State Board approved
Highlights: Direct LPN-to-BSN pathway (skips ADN); university prestige with WVU Medicine clinical network; advanced standing for LPN experience; hybrid format allows work-life balance; prepares for graduate-level nursing (MSN/DNP).
Website: nursing.wvu.edu/lpn-to-bsn
🔍 How to Choose the Right Program
- Accreditation: Ensure ACEN or CCNE accreditation and WV State Board approval
- Schedule Flexibility: Consider hybrid/online options if you're working full-time
- Program Length: Accelerated (12–14 months) vs. part-time (2 years)
- Cost: Community colleges typically $8K–$15K; universities $15K–$25K total
- Location: Choose programs near clinical sites and your home/work
- BSN Option: Some programs offer direct LPN-to-BSN if you want a bachelor's degree
📋 Admission Requirements & Application Process
West Virginia LPN-to-RN bridge programs have competitive admission processes. Here's what you need to prepare:
✅ General Prerequisites
- Current WV LPN License: Active, unencumbered license in good standing
- High School Diploma or GED
- Prerequisite Courses: Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with lab), Microbiology, English Composition, College Math/Statistics, Psychology, Human Growth & Development
- Minimum GPA: Usually 2.5–3.0 cumulative; 2.75+ preferred for competitive programs
- TEAS Exam: ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) — typically 60–65% minimum score; some schools require 70%+
- Background Check & Drug Screening: Required for clinical placements
- Current BLS/CPR Certification: American Heart Association Healthcare Provider
- Immunizations: MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B, varicella, flu shot, COVID-19, TB test
- Work Experience: Some programs prefer 1+ year of LPN clinical experience
📝 Application Timeline (Fall 2026 Entry)
- August–October 2025: Research programs; complete prerequisite courses
- November 2025: Register and take TEAS exam; request transcripts
- December 1–15, 2025: Submit applications (most WV programs have December deadlines)
- January 2026: Interviews, background checks, document submission
- February–March 2026: Acceptance notifications
- April–July 2026: Orientation, registration, financial aid processing
- August 2026: Classes begin
💡 Application Tips
- Apply Early: Most WV bridge programs fill quickly — submit by early December
- Strong TEAS Score: Aim for 70%+ to be competitive; take a prep course if needed
- Meet Prerequisites First: Don't apply with pending courses — admissions prefer completed prereqs
- Request Transcripts Early: Allow 2–3 weeks for transcript processing
- Highlight LPN Experience: Emphasize clinical skills and patient care experience in your essay
💵 Financial Aid, Scholarships & Tuition Costs
West Virginia LPN-to-RN bridge programs are affordable compared to many states. Here's what you can expect and how to pay for it:
💰 Tuition Costs (2026 Estimates)
| School Type |
Total Program Cost |
Cost per Credit |
Notes |
| Community Colleges |
$8,000–$14,000 |
$150–$250 |
BridgeValley, WVU Parkersburg, Eastern WV |
| Public Universities |
$15,000–$25,000 |
$250–$400 |
WVU, Bluefield State (BSN programs higher) |
| Private Colleges |
$18,000–$30,000 |
$350–$500 |
WVJC (accelerated programs may cost more) |
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid Options
West Virginia-Specific Scholarships
- WV HEALTH SCIENCES Scholarship: Up to $10,000/year for nursing students; service commitment in underserved WV areas — Apply here
- WV Higher Education Grant: Need-based aid up to $3,000/year for WV residents
- WV Nursing Scholarship Program: Awards for students enrolling in WV nursing programs — contact WV Board of Nursing
- Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) Scholarship: For students in Charleston-area programs with CAMC service commitment
National Nursing Scholarships
- NURSE Corps Scholarship: Full tuition + stipend in exchange for 2 years of service in critical shortage facilities — HRSA NURSE Corps
- National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Scholarships for rural/underserved practice commitments
- Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: $5,000–$10,000 for nursing students
- Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship: Johnson & Johnson scholarship for diverse nursing students
Employer Tuition Assistance
Many West Virginia hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
- WVU Medicine: Up to $5,000/year tuition assistance for employees
- Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC): Tuition reimbursement + loan forgiveness programs
- Thomas Health: Financial support for LPN-to-RN bridge students
- Mon Health System: Tuition assistance + sign-on bonuses for bridge program graduates
Federal Student Aid
- FAFSA: Apply at studentaid.gov — Pell Grants up to $7,395/year
- Federal Stafford Loans: Low-interest loans for students
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus jobs to help pay tuition
💡 Financial Aid Tips
- File FAFSA Early: Priority deadline is March 1 for maximum aid eligibility
- Check Employer Benefits First: Many WV hospitals offer tuition assistance — ask your HR department
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Even small $500–$1,000 scholarships add up quickly
- Consider Service Commitments: NURSE Corps and state scholarships offer full rides in exchange for 2–3 years of service
- Budget for Extras: Include costs for books ($800–$1,200), NCLEX prep ($300–$500), uniforms, and supplies
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
📈 West Virginia RN Job Market & Career Outlook
West Virginia faces a critical nursing shortage, creating excellent job prospects for new RN graduates. The state's aging population and rural geography drive high demand for registered nurses.
+18%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
2,800+
Annual RN Job Openings in WV
19,500+
Currently Licensed RNs in WV
98%
Employment Rate for RN Grads
🏥 Top Employers for RNs in West Virginia
| Employer |
Location |
RN Starting Salary |
Specialty Focus |
| WVU Medicine |
Morgantown (statewide) |
$62,000–$70,000 |
Academic medical center; Level I trauma; specialty care |
| Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) |
Charleston |
$60,000–$68,000 |
Largest hospital in WV; cardiac, cancer, women's health |
| Thomas Health |
South Charleston |
$58,000–$66,000 |
Regional medical center; community hospital |
| Mon Health System |
Morgantown |
$61,000–$69,000 |
Formerly Monongalia General; community health |
| Wheeling Hospital |
Wheeling |
$59,000–$67,000 |
Northern panhandle leader; cardiac care |
| St. Mary's Medical Center |
Huntington |
$58,000–$66,000 |
Part of Mountain Health Network; trauma center |
| Camden Clark Medical Center |
Parkersburg |
$57,000–$65,000 |
Mid-Ohio Valley; community hospital |
💼 Career Specialties & Advanced Roles
After gaining RN experience, West Virginia nurses can pursue advanced roles and specializations:
- Critical Care (ICU): $70,000–$82,000 — high demand in Charleston, Morgantown
- Emergency Department (ED): $68,000–$80,000 — trauma centers need experienced RNs
- Operating Room (OR): $69,000–$81,000 — surgical centers across WV
- Labor & Delivery (L&D): $66,000–$78,000 — women's health focus
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $95,000–$115,000 — requires MSN/DNP; high demand in rural WV
- Nurse Educator: $70,000–$85,000 — teach in WV nursing programs
- Travel Nursing: $80,000–$110,000 — short-term contracts across the U.S.
🎯 Why West Virginia RNs Are In Demand
- Aging Population: WV has one of the oldest populations in the U.S., driving healthcare needs
- Rural Health Shortage: Many counties are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)
- Retiring Nurses: 35% of WV RNs are over age 55, creating workforce gaps
- eNLC Access: WV participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact — work in 40+ states with one license
📜 West Virginia RN Licensing Requirements
After completing your LPN-to-RN bridge program, you'll need to obtain RN licensure through the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.
✅ Steps to RN Licensure in West Virginia
- Graduate from Accredited Program: Complete a WV State Board-approved ADN or BSN program
- Apply for NCLEX-RN Authorization: Submit application through the WV RN Board website
- Submit Required Documents:
- Completed RN licensure application
- Official transcripts from nursing program
- Verification of LPN license (if transitioning)
- Criminal background check (state and federal)
- Passport photo
- Pay Application Fees: $95 initial RN license fee + $50 background check
- Receive NCLEX Authorization to Test (ATT): Typically within 2–4 weeks of application approval
- Schedule & Take NCLEX-RN: Register through Pearson VUE — test at Morgantown, Charleston, or Huntington testing centers
- Pass NCLEX-RN: Results typically available within 48 hours via "Quick Results"
- Receive WV RN License: License issued electronically within 1 week of passing NCLEX
🔄 West Virginia eNLC Participation
✅ West Virginia is an eNLC State
West Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which allows RNs to practice in 40+ compact states with a single multi-state license.
Benefits of eNLC:
- Multi-State Practice: Work in any eNLC state without additional licenses
- Telehealth Opportunities: Provide virtual care to patients across state lines
- Travel Nursing: Easily pick up assignments in other compact states
- Border Flexibility: Work in neighboring states (OH, PA, VA, KY) if they're eNLC members
Note: To qualify for a compact license, you must declare WV as your primary state of residence.
📞 Contact West Virginia Board of Nursing
West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses
Address: 5001 MacCorkle Ave SW, South Charleston, WV 25309
Phone: (304) 744-0900 or Toll-Free: 1-877-743-6877 (NURS)
Email: [email protected]
Website: wvrnboard.wv.gov
License Verification: Verify WV RN License
🔄 RN License Renewal
- Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years (by your birth month)
- Continuing Education: 24 contact hours required per renewal cycle; must include 2 hours on WV-specific topics (controlled substances, professional boundaries, etc.)
- Renewal Fee: $70 every 2 years
- Online Renewal: Available through the WV RN Board website 90 days before expiration
🏔️ Why Become an RN in West Virginia?
West Virginia offers unique advantages for LPNs transitioning to RN roles — from affordable living to strong community ties and outdoor recreation.
#3
Lowest Cost of Living (U.S.)
eNLC
Multi-State Licensure Access
18%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
No Tax
On Social Security Income
✨ Top Reasons to Pursue RN Licensure in West Virginia
1. Affordable Cost of Living
West Virginia ranks among the most affordable states in the U.S., making RN salaries stretch further. Median home prices in Charleston ($180K) and Morgantown ($220K) are well below the national average ($400K+).
2. Strong Community & Family Ties
WV is known for tight-knit communities and strong family values. Many nurses stay close to home, building long-term careers in their local hospitals and communities.
3. Outdoor Recreation & Natural Beauty
From the Appalachian Mountains to New River Gorge National Park, WV offers world-class hiking, white-water rafting, skiing, and outdoor adventure — perfect for work-life balance.
4. Rural Health Impact
WV has 55 counties, many of which are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). RNs in rural WV make a profound difference in underserved communities and often qualify for loan forgiveness programs.
5. eNLC Multi-State Practice
As an eNLC state, West Virginia RNs can work in 40+ compact states without additional licenses — ideal for travel nursing, telehealth, or relocating within the compact.
6. Academic & Specialty Opportunities
WVU Medicine in Morgantown is a Level I Trauma Center and academic medical center, offering RNs exposure to advanced specialty care and teaching opportunities.
🌟 Quality of Life Highlights
- Low Traffic & Commute Times: Most WV cities have 15–25 minute average commutes
- No Tax on Social Security: Great for retirement planning
- Affordable Housing: Median home price $150K–$220K (vs. $400K+ nationally)
- Outdoor Recreation: New River Gorge, Snowshoe Mountain, Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls
- Friendly Communities: Known for hospitality and neighborly support
💡 West Virginia RN Advantages at a Glance
- Salary Goes Further: Low cost of living makes $68K RN salary feel like $85K+ in higher-cost states
- Job Security: Critical nursing shortage = high demand and job stability
- eNLC Flexibility: Work in 40+ states with one license
- Community Impact: Make a real difference in underserved rural areas
📊 Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investing in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in West Virginia delivers strong financial returns. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs, earnings, and payback timelines.
💰 Investment Summary
Total Program Cost
$12,000
Average tuition + fees
Community college estimate
(Range: $8K–$25K)
Annual Salary Increase
$16,447
LPN $52K → RN $68K
31.6% pay raise
$1,370/month extra
⏱️ Payback Timeline
🎯 Break-Even Point: 9 Months
Based on a $12,000 program investment and $16,447 annual salary increase:
- Monthly Income Boost: $1,370 extra per month as an RN
- Payback Period: $12,000 ÷ $1,370/month = 8.8 months
- Result: Your investment is fully recovered in less than 1 year!
📈 Lifetime Earnings Comparison
| Career Path |
10-Year Earnings |
20-Year Earnings |
30-Year Earnings |
| Stay as LPN |
$520,030 |
$1,040,060 |
$1,560,090 |
| Advance to RN |
$684,500 |
$1,369,000 |
$2,053,500 |
| Difference |
+$164,470 |
+$328,940 |
+$493,410 |
💡 Additional Financial Benefits
- Employer Benefits: RNs typically receive better health insurance, retirement matching, and paid time off
- Specialty Pay: ICU, OR, ED nurses earn $5K–$10K more annually
- Shift Differentials: Night/weekend shifts often pay 10–20% premiums
- Overtime Opportunities: RNs frequently earn time-and-a-half for extra shifts
- Loan Forgiveness: NURSE Corps and rural health programs forgive $20K–$60K in loans
- Travel Nursing: RNs can earn $80K–$110K as travel nurses after 1–2 years of experience
🎯 ROI Bottom Line
- Fast Payback: Recover your $12K investment in just 9 months
- Lifetime Earnings Boost: Earn nearly $500K more over a 30-year career
- Career Advancement: RN license opens doors to NP, CRNA, CNS, and leadership roles
- Job Security: High demand ensures stable employment and career flexibility
🚀 Next Steps & NCLEX-RN Preparation
Ready to advance from LPN to RN in West Virginia? Here's your action plan to get started and prepare for NCLEX success.
✅ Your LPN-to-RN Action Plan
- Research Programs (Start Now): Compare the top 7 WV programs listed above — consider location, cost, schedule, and accreditation.
- Complete Prerequisites: Ensure you've finished Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and other required courses.
- Prepare for TEAS Exam: Take a prep course or use study guides — aim for 70%+ score.
- Apply by December 1–15, 2025: Most WV bridge programs have December deadlines for Fall 2026 entry.
- Secure Financial Aid: File FAFSA by March 1; apply for scholarships and employer tuition assistance.
- Plan Your Schedule: Coordinate work, family, and school — many programs offer hybrid/evening options.
- Complete Your Program: Stay focused, build strong clinical skills, and maintain good grades.
- Prepare for NCLEX-RN: Use a comprehensive review course and practice exams (see resources below).
- Pass NCLEX & Get Licensed: Apply for RN licensure through the WV Board of Nursing.
- Start Your RN Career: Apply for RN positions and enjoy your new salary and career opportunities!
📚 NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
West Virginia LPN-to-RN graduates typically have strong NCLEX pass rates (80–90%). Here are the best prep resources:
🎓 Recommended NCLEX Prep Courses
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Gold standard for NCLEX prep; 2,000+ practice questions, detailed rationales, performance tracking — UWorld ($199–$399)
- Kaplan NCLEX-RN Review: Comprehensive live or on-demand courses; decision tree method; pass guarantee — Kaplan ($299–$599)
- Hurst Review: Concise, focused content review; popular with WV nursing students — Hurst ($299–$499)
- ATI Comprehensive Predictor: Many WV programs include ATI — predicts NCLEX success with 95%+ accuracy
- NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test makers — NCSBN ($50–$150)
📖 Study Guides & Books
- Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN: 5,700+ practice questions; most comprehensive book
- NCLEX-RN Premier (Kaplan): 2,000+ questions, decision tree guide
- Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN: 6,000+ questions organized by content area
📱 Free & Low-Cost Resources
- Registered Nurse RN (RegisteredNurseRN.com): Free YouTube videos, study guides, and practice questions
- Simple Nursing: Animated video lessons and mnemonics
- NCLEX Mastery App: 3,000+ questions on iOS/Android ($29.99/year)
💡 NCLEX Success Tips
- Start Early: Begin NCLEX prep 8–12 weeks before graduation
- Practice Questions Daily: Complete 50–100 practice questions every day
- Focus on Weak Areas: Use performance analytics to identify content gaps
- Master Test-Taking Strategies: Learn priority-setting frameworks (ABCs, Maslow, Nursing Process)
- Simulate Test Day: Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Schedule Strategically: Take NCLEX within 4–6 weeks of graduation while content is fresh
📞 Need More Guidance?
Contact your program's academic advisor or the WV Board of Nursing for personalized guidance: