Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
To meet the high demand for nurses with bachelor’s degrees, institutions nationwide offer accelerated nursing programs, including licensed practical nurse to bachelor’s of science in nursing, or LPN-to-BSN, degrees.
Upon earning their LPN-to-BSN degree, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to earn their RN license. Some schools offer an RN-to-BSN program for associate-trained RNs wishing to continue their studies with a bachelor’s program.
In this guide, we’ll cover the benefits of online nursing programs, provide a ranking of the best LPN-to-BSN degrees, and explore scholarships for students pursuing online nursing degrees.
LPN-to-BSN Degree at a Glance
- Typical Program Length: 2-3 years, depending on your study pace, nursing experience, and academic background
- Typical Admission Requirements: Active LPN license, high school diploma or equivalent; some programs require minimum levels of nursing experience and/or pre-admission nursing exams
- Top Skills Gained: Clinical nursing, interdisciplinary patient care, evidence-based research literacy, critical thinking, professional communication
- Popular Concentrations: Family nursing, gerontology, global health, mental health, occupational health, pediatric nursing
Top Online LPN-to-BSN Programs
North Dakota State University
- Fargo, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
North Dakota State University is a public institution.With nine online programs, the school provides distance learning options for students interested in various fields. The institution's offerings include an online LPN-to-BSN program that helps learners qualify for nursing careers.
In addition to core coursework, degree-seekers in the program complete advanced classes in field-related topics. Upper-division requirements help learners develop widely applicable skills, such as critical thinking abilities. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
Learners enrolled in the school's programs can access support services such as academic advising and career counseling. Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.
North Dakota State University Facts:
Applicants Admitted: 94%
Total Programs: 260
Total Bachelor's Programs: 109
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
58%
$ 9,309
77%
$13,963
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,952
- Institution Type
- Public
Kent State University
- Kent, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners interested in nursing can enroll in the online LPN and allied health-to-BSN program from Kent State University. The school educates degree-seekers at its Ohio campus. Out of 330 programs offered at the school, 44 programs offer an online enrollment option.
The flexible online nursing program offers a high-quality learning experience. Online learning's customizable nature is ideal for students balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. Online learners can consult with professors virtually. Undergraduates typically require four years to earn their bachelor's degree if enrolled full time.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Financial aid counselors help students locate and apply for scholarships, grants, and loans.
62%
$12,674
80%
$22,523
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 26,106
- Institution Type
- Public
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With 165 programs, Indiana State University provides academic programs for students in the state and those throughout the country. The public institution delivers bachelor's programs in online and in-person learning formats. The school's undergraduate programs include a convenient online nursing program.
The online LPN/LVN-to-BSN program delivers flexible learning options. Students complete general education courses, which strengthen skills such as critical thinking. The curriculum also includes upper-division coursework in the major and electives to customize the degree. Faculty advisors provide undergraduates with academic and professional guidance.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing undergraduate studies easier for many learners. Financial aid advisors connect degree-seekers with scholarship and grant opportunities.
Indiana State University Facts:
Number of Online Students: 5,748
Student Admission Rate: 90%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 80
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
54%
$ 9,712
69%
$21,454
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,305
- Institution Type
- Public
St. Ambrose University
- Davenport, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
St. Ambrose University delivers academic programs in a flexible online format. Degree-seekers enrolled at the school can pursue eight online programs, three of which confer bachelor's degrees. The online LPN-to-BSN program features a curriculum designed to prepare enrollees for nursing careers.
To graduate, degree-seekers complete at least 120 credits. The bachelor's program requires general education courses and major classes. Faculty mentors assist learners as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations. In addition to coursework, the program features hands-on learning experiences, such as internship opportunities.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. The school reports that 100% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. Prospective students can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
72%
$22,385
51%
$22,385
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 615
- Institution Type
- Private
Price Check
A BSN can deliver strong returns: According to Payscale data from September 2025, professionals with the degree earn an average annual salary of $97,000.
Why Get a BSN Degree?
Pursuing a BSN requires dedication, determination, and considerable resource investment. Nurses pursue a BSN for several reasons, even though they already endure long hours on the job and heavy workloads. We describe five such reasons below.
Career Advancement
BSN-trained RNs typically qualify for senior floor or management positions more easily than LPNs. Employers know they possess the knowledge and skills to handle greater responsibilities.
Enhance Credibility
A BSN presents the holder as a knowledgeable colleague who makes a meaningful contribution to patients’ diagnostic and treatment plans.
Requirement for Graduate Study
Most schools offering a master of science in nursing prefer or even require applicants to already hold a bachelor’s in nursing.
Update Skills
A BSN allows practitioners to upgrade their skills and ensure their nursing knowledge stays current and inclusive of the latest developments.
Increase Earning Potential
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that bachelor’s degree-holders earn more than associate-trained workers or employees with some college but no degree. Bachelor’s degree-holders earned a median annual salary of $80,240 as of 2024, whereas associate degree-holders and those with some college but no degree earned median salaries of $57,150 and $53,040, respectively.
Career Outlook for BSN Graduates
With a BSN, you can qualify for numerous career tracks in nursing and healthcare. Many positions have strong growth projections, largely due to age-related demographic trends. Keep in mind that each of these occupations comes with its own specific licensing and certification requirements.
The following table profiles five specific roles you could target with a BSN degree:
| Job | Annual Mean Wage, May 2024 | Projected Job Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Health Education Specialist | $63,000 | 4% |
| Health Information Technologist | $67,310 | 15% |
| Recreational Therapist | $60,280 | 3% |
| Registered Nurse | $93,600 | 5% |
| Respiratory Therapists | $80,450 | 12% |
LPN-to-BSN Program Requirements
Specific requirements for admission to LPN-to-BSN programs vary between schools. Typical requirements include completion of an accredited practical nurse program, a valid LPN license and professional experience, and recommendation letters. Most schools require the completion of clinical hours while enrolled in the program.
BSN degree-holders pursue various career paths, each with ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement. However, like many professional arenas, leadership and top administrative positions often require a master’s or even a doctoral degree.
Ways to Save on an LPN-to-BSN Degree
A BSN can increase your earning potential, but you must first find a way to finance your program before you can enjoy that benefit.
These strategies may help:
Employer Assistance
If you are currently working as an LPN, your employer may offer financial support for your educational upgrade. Employer-based programs typically take the form of tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement.
Scholarship Programs
Nursing grants and scholarships are widely available. Start your search with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Health Resources & Services Administration.
Study Online
You can avoid relocation, transportation, and parking costs by studying online. Some LPN-to-BSN online programs may also offer reduced tuition rates, since online learners use fewer campus resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN-to-BSN Programs
An LPN-to-BSN program qualifies graduates for more professional opportunities and greater autonomy. A BSN also meets the educational requirements for a master’s in nursing.
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