SBU offers a paramedic-to-RN bridge program at its Missouri campuses in Salem and Springfield. Learners take most classes onsite. Degree-seekers complete 37-38 nursing credits and 20 general education credits. SBU courses integrate faith with academics.

Do you want to use your paramedic training to become a nurse and boost your earning potential? A paramedic-to-RN program lets you earn an associate in nursing degree (ADN) in about 1-2 years, with the fastest programs taking only nine months.
Graduates have the know-how to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) exam or pursue a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN).
Online paramedic-to-RN degrees offer a quick path to high-paying nursing careers by offering credit for work experience. Use our guide to learn more about the best online paramedic-to-RN programs, including common admission requirements and jobs you can get after graduation.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best paramedic-to-RN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: Academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
At a Glance: The Top 10 Paramedic-to-RN Programs
- 1. Southwest Baptist University
- 2. Waukesha County Technical College
- 3. Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
- 4. Mineral Area College
- 5. Dixie State University
- 6. Bevill State Community College
- 7. Hagerstown Community College
- 8. Mitchell Community College
- 9. NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- 10. Howard Community College
Keep reading to learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program or go straight to our ranking of the best paramedic-to-RN programs.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in a Paramedic-to-RN Program
Most paramedic-to-RN programs lead to associate degrees in nursing (ADN). Although, not every degree has the same curriculum or learning format, and some take longer than others.
When looking for a college, pay attention to the key markers of a quality program:
1. Admission Requirements
Are you eligible for an online paramedic-to-RN program? You do not know until you review the admission requirements, which detail the work experience, certifications, and educational background needed to become a student.
2. Program Curriculum
The general coursework in an online paramedic-to-RN program covers anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and fundamental nursing concepts. The electives and specialities vary by program — a good reason why prospective students should review a degree's curricula.
3. Clinical Experience
Because paramedics have emergency care training, an online paramedic-to-RN program often requires fewer clinical hours than traditional ADNs. Programs help students find clinical placements, but the hours may require students to complete clinical rotations that interfere with their work lives.
4. Accreditation
You want to attend an accredited paramedic-to-RN program because it increases your hireability as a nurse. Furthermore, only graduates from approved programs can take the NCLEX.
5. Program Length
A program's length determines how long it takes to start your new career — and often what you pay. Completing a paramedic-to-RN online program that takes longer to complete may cost more.
6. School Graduation Rate
Your prospective online paramedic-to-RN program should offer a quality education that prepares you for your career goals. How can you do a quality check? Review the graduation rate to see how many students graduate in a reasonable amount of time.
7. Online Learning Format and Requirements
Paramedic-to-RN online programs feature different learning formats. Students may study in a self-paced format without any live courses, or online learners may get one-on-one interaction through synchronous courses that meet live at specific times.
8. Specializations
RNs can specialize in areas of nursing that include critical care, neonatal, health policy, and trauma. The right online paramedic-to-RN program offers nursing concentrations that appeal to your interests and career goals.
Featured Online NP Programs
Why Is Paramedic-to-RN Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation not only ensures a quality education, but it also verifies a graduate's preparedness for nursing. The accreditation process benefits nursing as a whole and ensures students can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Upholding industry standards through accredited practices can also provide better nursing care outcomes. Learn more information about accreditation.
Nursing programs, such as those included in our ranking, receive accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Accreditation distinguishes a program's academics Students may not be able to transfer unaccredited credits Credentialing and licenses agencies may consider only candidates from accredited programs Employers want graduates from accredited programs
Learn More About the Best Paramedic-to-RN Programs & Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Southwest Baptist University
Bolivar, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#2 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Waukesha County Technical College
Pewaukee, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
WCTC's paramedic-to-nurse bridge program allows practicing paramedics to start their associate degree in the third semester. This hybrid program requires students to enroll full time.
Students need a "C" or higher in all general education classes. Learners complete 29 credits of nursing courses. The program accepts new students every August.
#3 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
Mountain Home, AR - 2 years
- Campus
ASUMH offers a paramedic-to-RN program that combines classroom instruction, online learning, and clinical experiences. Classes meet twice a week. Students take an average of nine clinical hours per week.
Enrollees need a 2.5 GPA and a "C" or higher in all nursing classes to graduate. ASUMH's 60-credit program requires four semesters to complete.
#4 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Mineral Area College
Park Hills, MO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
MAC's paramedic-to-RN bridge program emphasizes care provision and care management. Online enrollees need basic computer and internet skills. MAC's complete associate in nursing program requires 45 major credits and 86 total credits.
#5 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Dixie State University
Saint George, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dixie's paramedic-to-RN bridge program requires a transition course and a nursing skills lab. These experiences help paramedics develop basic nursing skills.
Dixie accepts 32 new students each spring. Graduates can take the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses and may then enroll in Dixie's online bachelor of science in nursing program.
#6 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Bevill State Community College
Jasper, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Bevill State's paramedic-to-RN bridge program requires 31 credits and takes three semesters to complete. Classes cover topics like microbiology and healthcare transition.
Enrollees can schedule classes, labs, and clinical hours on days, evenings, or weekends. Bevill State offers some classes through web-based instruction, intercampus television, and hybrid learning.
#7 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Hagerstown's paramedic-to-RN bridge program includes 33 credits of lecture, laboratory, and clinical experiences. Classes cover topics like behavioral health nursing and nursing care of women and infants.
Hagerstown reports that 75% of enrollees complete the program on time and 90% work in nursing practice within six months of graduation.
#8 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Mitchell Community College
Statesville, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Mitchell's paramedic-to-RN bridge program emphasizes the role nurses play on a healthcare team. The program requires four semesters of coursework. Students take microbiology and complex health concepts. Coursework also covers paramedic-to-RN bridge concepts.
Graduates can move directly into the RN-to-BSN program at one of North Carolina's several participating universities.
#9 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
NorthWest Arkansas Community College
Bentonville, AR - 2 years
- Online + Campus
NWACC accepts 40 students annually into its paramedic-to-RN bridge program. The program begins in the spring and runs four consecutive semesters. Learners complete 29 paramedic-to-RN credits.
Classes include nursing care of adults and essentials of paramedic-to-RN. Learners complete classes online. They complete clinicals on nights and weekends.
#10 The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Howard Community College
Columbia, MD - 2 years
- Campus
Paramedics licensed in Maryland can take a transition course and then begin the second year of HCC's nursing program. Students participate in simulations and study evidence-based data. Enrollees can participate in Alpha Delta NU, a national honor society. The program requires 61 credits.
How Online Paramedic-to-RN Programs Work
Online paramedic-to-RN programs function virtually except for clinical rotations and labs that require in-person participation. In-person components vary by program.
Self-paced programs may provide the opportunity for students to schedule labs or clinical rotations on the weekends or in the evenings.
In other circumstances, paramedic-to-RN online learners may enroll in hybrid programs with daytime classes that incorporate in-person and virtual coursework. Some students may study entirely asynchronously, meeting weekly deadlines.
Find out more information about the clinical experience as an online nursing student and in person vs. online nursing program differences.
Applying to a Paramedic-to-RN Program
An online paramedic-to-RN program lets working paramedics speed through an ADN by giving them credit for what they already know. Leveraging existing skills and knowledge held by paramedics, bridge courses focus on developing the critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills needed to deliver patient-centered care as an RN.
Prospective students need to be current paramedics and meet other admission requirements, which differ by program.
1. Admission Requirements
Incoming students often need to have at least a high school diploma or GED certificate , and at least one year of paramedic experience to apply to an online paramedic-to-RN program.
Colleges often require official high school or college transcripts. Additionally, applicants often must take pre-admission nursing assessments.
2. Admission Materials
Prospective students may need to take placement tests to measure their reading, writing, and math skills. Online paramedic-to-RN programs may also require at least a C grade for courses in biology and psychology.
Programs also require background checks to clear students for clinical work. Other common application materials include personal essays and letters of recommendation.
3. GPA Requirement
Candidates need at least a 2.0-2.5 GPA to enter online paramedic-to-RN programs. Students with lower GPAs may get provisional admittance.
Paying for Paramedic-to-RN Programs
Various factors contribute to the cost of an online paramedic-to-RN program. It can be difficult or impossible to pay upfront for an online paramedic-to-RN program if you cannot work while in school. Paying out-of-state rates, or staying in school longer than normal, can also drive up the cost of tuition.
Colleges offer numerous federal financial aid resources to help you pay for your nursing degree. You can visit your financial aid office and take out loans that come with repayment terms and conditions, or you can apply for grants and scholarships that need not be repaid. Many need-based and merit-based scholarships directly award nursing students.
What Can You Do After a Paramedic-to-RN Program?
Rewarding nursing careers await graduates of online paramedic-to-RN programs. The lessons prepare students to sit for the NCLEX exam and become a registered nurse. Becoming an RN requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam and qualifying for a state license.
Graduates of online paramedic-to-RN degrees can continue their education with a BSN degree. Earning an ADN gives graduates the clinical and theoretical nursing foundation to earn a four-year BSN degree.
Most RNs work in hospitals. RNs also work in ambulatory healthcare services, nursing facilities, government agencies, and educational services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paramedic-to-RN Programs
Can paramedics become nurses?
Yes. Online paramedic-to-RN programs give paramedics the nursing training to become an RN. Paramedics have emergency care experience, which allows them to get advanced placement in an ADN program.
Courses such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and NCLEX preparation focus on training paramedics to become nurses.
What can an RN do that a paramedic cannot?
Paramedics and nurses have daily responsibilities that overlap, but there are differences in their scope of practice and training. Paramedics transport patients in need of critical care and follow medical protocols. According to protocol, paramedics can also insert IVs, give IV medications, and provide other life-saving interventions.
Unlike RNs, a paramedic can intubate a patient in an emergency. RNs have a generalist training and can specialize in areas of nursing such as critical care units or intensive care.
How long does it take to go from paramedic to RN?
The average paramedic-to-RN program takes 1-2 years. However, some of the fastest programs take only nine months. Taking the NCLEX exam requires additional time. Many graduates take the NCLEX about 45 days after graduation.
Are registered nurses in high demand?
The BLS projects that occupations for RNs to increase at a rate of 6% from 2021-2031, on track with other jobs. That said, employers should add about 203,200 RN positions during the decade.
Page Last Reviewed: November 15, 2022
Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.
Related Paramedic-to-RN Resources
Popular Nursing Resources
Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you.