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
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.
