The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
- Best LPN-to-BSN Programs
- What To Look For
- Program Accreditation
- Applying to LPN-to-BSN Programs
- Paying for LPN-to-BSN Programs
- BSN Career Opportunities
- FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: Pixel-Shot / African / ShutterstockIf you are a licensed practical nurse (LPN), earning your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree can lead to greater professional autonomy, more specialization options, and higher pay.
An LPN-to-BSN bridge program fast-tracks your nursing education by applying the credits from your LPN education to your BSN training. This nursing bridge program can help you save time and money while qualifying you for a registered nurse (RN) license.
In this guide, we review the nation’s top online LPN-to-BSN nursing programs, offering helpful tips for selecting your ideal program, optimizing your application, and preparing for the professional landscape that awaits you after graduation.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Learn More About The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs and School
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,568
- Out-of-state$24,056
- In-State$7,752
- Out-of-state$21,032
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled27,562
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment97%
- AccreditationYes
Excelsior College
- Albany, NY
- 4 year
- Online
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled21,974
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Kent State University at Kent
- Kent, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,810
- Out-of-state$19,686
- In-State$11,766
- Out-of-state$21,952
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled26,822
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Michigan University
- Marquette, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,882
- Out-of-state$17,504
- In-State$9,408
- Out-of-state$12,864
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled7,368
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$15,089
- Out-of-state$15,089
- In-State$12,038
- Out-of-state$12,038
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled1,212
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Weatherford, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,368
- Out-of-state$13,478
- In-State$6,294
- Out-of-state$12,966
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled4,898
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment85%
- AccreditationYes
Cedar Crest College
- Allentown, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$40,967
- Out-of-state$40,967
- In-State$14,852
- Out-of-state$14,852
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled1,433
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
Midland University
- Fremont, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$34,778
- Out-of-state$34,778
- In-State$14,796
- Out-of-state$14,796
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled1,765
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Kettering College
- Kettering, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$13,824
- Out-of-state$13,824
- In-State$39,761
- Out-of-state$39,761
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate21%
- Students Enrolled763
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment96%
- AccreditationYes
St. John's College-Department of Nursing
- Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$23,850
- Out-of-state$23,850
- In-State$16,488
- Out-of-state$16,488
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled118
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment3%
- AccreditationYes
Using Our Rankings: What to Look for in an LPN-to-BSN Program
Before choosing an online LPN-to-BSN, pay attention to important program components, such as overall program length, clinical requirements, and nursing accreditation. The key metrics described below, which form the basis for our rankings, can help you find the program that works best for you.
Admission Requirements
Schools establish admission criteria to help them select candidates with the qualifications needed to succeed in the program. Online LPN-to-BSN requirements typically include a valid LPN license — or an LVN license in Texas or California — and a minimum GPA.
Program Curriculum
BSN programs strengthen patient care and clinical decision-making skills. Review the program’s curriculum to understand what courses you need to complete.
Clinical Experience
The number of required clinical hours depends on the school and your state nursing board. The boards may be able to help out with other questions as well. For example, ask whether the program helps you find clinical sites close to home. If not, will your schedule allow you to travel to placement sites?
Accreditation
Accredited online LPN-to-BSN programs have met rigorous professional and academic standards. Attending a nonaccredited program hinders your opportunities for employment, licensure, and graduate studies. It is reassuring to remember that unaccredited nursing schools are a rare exception.
Program Length
Earning an LPN-to-BSN online often takes 2-3 years of full-time study to complete, depending on the program and the number of credits you transfer from your LPN program. Your chosen pace (for example, full-time vs. part-time) can also play a role.
School Graduation Rate
A school’s graduation rate shows you what percentage of students graduate in the expected time frame. A high graduation rate is a good indicator of the program’s quality and commitment to student success. Additionally, a school’s NCLEX pass rate can help indicate how well a program prepares RNs.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Not all BSN programs use the same learning platforms. Choose a program that fits your learning style and personal needs. For example, asynchronous programs offer self-paced courses, while synchronous and hybrid formats contain more structure, such as fixed login times or in-person attendance.
Specializations
A BSN can prepare you for specialized nursing roles in pediatrics, emergency care, oncology, and more. When comparing schools, find out if they offer specialty courses or clinical experience in fields that interest you.
Why Is LPN-to-BSN Program Accreditation Important?
Accredited nursing programs follow the best practices for preparing RNs for licensure and nursing careers. A program’s accreditation status can determine your eligibility for financial aid and licensure, your graduate school options, and future employment opportunities.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredit BSN programs. All online LPN-to-BSN programs in our rankings hold accreditation from CCNE or ACEN.
Here’s why program accreditation matters for LPN-to-BSN students:
- Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal student aid programs.
- Credits earned at nonaccredited schools may not transfer to accredited programs.
- State nursing boards grant licenses only to graduates of accredited nursing programs.
- Employers and graduate nursing programs may not consider candidates with degrees from nonaccredited schools.
- Graduating from an accredited program indicates a high-quality education.
How Online LPN-to-BSN Programs Work
Whether you’re earning a BSN in a traditional or online program, you typically need to complete about 120 credits, which takes around four years. An LPN-to-BSN program allows you to complete your degree in less than four years by granting credit for your prior coursework and LPN license.
Online programs meet the same nursing accreditation standards as in-person programs. An online BSN from an accredited program also meets the requirements for an RN license.
While taking online classes, distance learners must fulfill clinical hours in person across a variety of practice settings. Some online programs help you find local placements or offer virtual clinical experiences. You may need to travel to sites approved by your program.
Applying to an Online LPN-to-BSN Program
Online LPN-to-BSN programs require a valid LPN license, and many require or recommend work experience. Applicants also typically need a high school diploma or GED certificate, a minimum GPA, and specific prerequisites.
Some schools may ask you to take the National League for Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam to demonstrate the extent of your nursing knowledge.
While admission criteria vary by school, many include the following requirements and materials:
Paying for Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
The LPN-to-BSN online program takes less time and costs less than a traditional BSN. Nevertheless, just like the reality for students in many fields, paying for a nursing degree can pose a barrier.
Fortunately, BSN students qualify for many financial aid opportunities. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for government-funded grants and loans. Many nursing schools and private organizations offer need- or merit-based scholarships.
Nursing students who agree to work in high-need areas when they graduate may qualify for federal or state loan forgiveness programs.
What Can You Do After an LPN-to-BSN Program?
RNs with a BSN degree can find careers across several high-demand specialties, including public health, geriatrics, and neonatology, to name just a few. RNs work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, outpatient clinics, and in patient homes as a home healthcare provider.
The following list covers job descriptions and current salary averages. Overall, the RN workforce is expected to grow 6% annually from 2023-2033, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salary data are from BLS and Payscale.
Registered Nurse
An RN provides patient care by performing assessments and diagnostic tests, administering treatments and medications, and providing support to patients and their families. RNs find employment in every type of healthcare setting, from hospitals to home care.
Average Annual Salary (May 2024): $98,430 (BLS)
Public Health Nurse
Public health nurses reduce health risks and prevent disease through education, advocacy, and the direct delivery of care. These nurses often work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, community clinics, and school systems.
Average Annual Salary (April 2025): $74,010
Neonatal Nurse
Neonatal nurses specialize in the care of infants. They provide care to newborns and treat premature infants facing specific challenges or chronic conditions.
Average Salary (April 2025): $78,060
Psychiatric Nurse
Psychiatric nurses care for patients with mental health and behavioral health conditions. They typically work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric clinics, and correctional facilities.
Average Salary (April 2025): $76,420
Critical Care Nurse
Critical care nurses specialize in the acute care of patients who have life-threatening conditions or injuries. These nurses work in intensive care units (ICUs), including surgical, trauma, and pediatric ICUs.
Average Salary (April 2025): $80,890
Frequently Asked Questions About Online LPN-to-BSN Degree Programs
LPNs can become BSN-prepared nurses in as little as 2-3 years with an LPN-to-BSN program. These programs give nursing students credit for their LPN education and experience. Applicants typically need a valid LPN license, and programs may require a minimum of one year of experience as an LPN.
Explore Other LPN and BSN Nursing Programs
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