The Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs

If you are a licensed practical nurse (LPN) who wants to advance in your career, earning your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree online might be your strongest option.

There are lots of LPN-to-BSN bridge programs out there — so many that it can be tough to find the right one. What should you look for? How do you know if the school is credible?

In this guide, we’ve provided a ranking of the nation’s top LPN-to-BSN programs, as well as helpful tips for selecting the right school for you, optimizing your application, and preparing for the professional landscape that awaits after graduation.

Before choosing an online LPN-to-BSN, pay attention to important program features such as program length, clinical requirements, and proper accreditation. The key metrics described below, which form the basis for our rankings, can help you find the program that works best for you.

All online LPN-to-BSN programs selected for these rankings are accredited by either the CCNE or the ACEN. A program’s accreditation status determines financial aid and licensure eligibility, graduate school options, and future employment opportunities:

When pursuing a BSN, whether traditional or online, you will typically need to complete about 120 credits over four years. The BSN curriculum usually includes general education requirements, nursing coursework, and clinical experiences.

For those enrolled in LPN-to-BSN, online programs often allow you to complete your degree in less than four years. This will, however, be heavily influenced by the number of credits you transferred over from your LPN program.

Distance learners must fulfill clinical hours in person across a variety of practice settings. While some online programs help you find local placements or offer virtual clinical experiences, you should be prepared to travel to sites approved by your program.

Some programs may require you to complete more than the state-mandated number of clinical hours.

Admission criteria vary by school. Applicants often need a high school diploma or GED certificate, a minimum GPA, and specific prerequisites. All online LPN-to-BSN programs require a valid LPN license and work experience.

Some schools may ask you to take the National League for Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam to demonstrate the extent of your nursing knowledge.

Earning an LPN-to-BSN online takes less time and costs less than a traditional BSN. As you compare programs, keep in mind that your ability to pay for your nursing degree depends on program length, credits transferred, and whether you qualify for less-expensive in-state tuition, among other factors.

Many prospective nursing students overlook available financial aid opportunities. Try beginning your search for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for government-funded grants or loans.

A number of 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.

Registered nurses (RN) with a BSN degree can find careers in patient care across several high-demand specialties, including public health, geriatrics, and neonatology.

Hospitals and physicians’ offices are major employers, but many RNs find work in long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, outpatient clinics, and as home healthcare providers.

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.

Median Salary: $86,070

Job Outlook (2022-2032): 6%

A public health nurse promotes and protects the health and safety of targeted communities. They reduce health risks and prevent disease through education, advocacy, and the direct delivery of care. These nurses often find employment in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, community clinics, and school systems.

Average Salary: $78,437

Neonatal nurses specialize in the care of infants up to the age of two. They provide care to newborns and treat premature infants facing specific challenges or chronic conditions.

Average Salary: $127,391

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: $111,406

Critical care nurses specialize in the acute care of patients who have life-threatening conditions or injuries. These nurses work in hospital units such as the surgical intensive care unit (ICU), trauma ICU, medical ICU, cardiac ICU, and pediatric ICU. 

Average Salary: $118,725

Page last reviewed on November 14, 2022. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.