[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you are a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/lpn-lvn/”]licensed practical nurse (LPN)[/hen-ui-link], earning your [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree can lead to greater professional autonomy, more specialization options, and higher pay.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]LPN-to-BSN online bridge program[/hen-ui-link] fast-tracks your nursing education by applying the credits from your LPN education to your BSN training. This [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]nursing bridge program[/hen-ui-link] can help you save time and money while qualifying you for a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]registered nurse (RN)[/hen-ui-link] license.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In this guide, we review the nation’s top LPN-to-BSN online nursing programs, offering helpful tips for selecting your ideal program, optimizing your application, and preparing for the professional landscape that awaits you after graduation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Best Online LPN-to-BSN Programs and School[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Rank Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best online LPN-to-BSN programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This ranking was created prior to 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What to Look for in an LPN-to-BSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before choosing an LPN-to-BSN online program, pay attention to important program components, such as overall length, clinical requirements, and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]nursing accreditation[/hen-ui-link]. The key metrics described below, which form the basis for our rankings, can help you find the program that works best for you.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is LPN-to-BSN Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] and licensure, your graduate school options, and future employment opportunities.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ACEN) and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link] (CCNE) accredit BSN programs. All online LPN-to-BSN programs in our rankings hold accreditation from CCNE or ACEN.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Here’s why program accreditation matters for LPN-to-BSN students:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal student aid programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits earned at nonaccredited schools may not transfer to accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State nursing boards grant licenses only to graduates of accredited nursing programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers and graduate nursing programs may not consider candidates with degrees from nonaccredited schools.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduating from an accredited program indicates a high-quality education.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online LPN-to-BSN Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Whether you’re earning a BSN in a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/in-person-vs-online-nursing-programs/”]traditional or online[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While taking online classes, distance learners must fulfill [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical hours[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online LPN-to-BSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some schools may ask you to take the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nln.org/education/assessment-services/assessments/nace-assessment” target=”_blank”]National League for Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam[/hen-ui-link] to demonstrate the extent of your nursing knowledge.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While admission criteria vary by school, many include the following requirements and materials:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Admission Requirements”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]High school diploma or GED certificate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Valid LPN license and one year of work experience[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Official transcripts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prerequisites, such as science courses[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Admission Materials”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letter(s) of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Essay or personal statement[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Resume or CV[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”GPA Requirement”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]2.0-3.0 minimum GPA[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Online LPN-to-BSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]paying for a nursing degree[/hen-ui-link] can pose a barrier.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Fortunately, BSN students qualify for many financial aid opportunities. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa” target=”_blank”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid[/hen-ui-link] (FAFSA) determines eligibility for government-funded grants and loans. Many nursing schools and private organizations offer need- or merit-based scholarships.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing students who agree to work in high-need areas when they graduate may qualify for federal or state [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]loan forgiveness programs[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do After an LPN-to-BSN Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following list covers job descriptions and current salary averages. Overall, the RN workforce is expected to grow 5% annually from 2024-2034, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salary data are from BLS and Payscale.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-salary/”]Registered Nurse[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Annual Salary (May 2024): $93,600 (BLS)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/public-health-nurse/”]Public Health Nurse[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Annual Salary (September 2025): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Public_Health_Nurse/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]$74,427[/hen-ui-link] (Payscale)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/neonatal-nurse/”]Neonatal Nurse[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Neonatal nurses specialize in the care of infants. They provide care to newborns and treat premature infants facing specific challenges or chronic conditions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Salary (September 2025): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Neonatal_Nurse_(RN)/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]$79,253[/hen-ui-link] (Payscale)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/psychiatric-nurse/”]Psychiatric Nurse[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric nurses care for patients with mental health and behavioral health conditions. They typically work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric clinics, and correctional facilities.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Salary (September 2025): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Psychiatric_Nurse_(RN)/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]$79,833[/hen-ui-link] (Payscale)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/critical-care-nurse/how-to-become/”]Critical Care Nurse[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Salary (September 2025): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Nurse%2C_Intensive_Care_Unit_(ICU)/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]$81,920[/hen-ui-link] (Payscale)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-article-card title=”Explore all speciality practice areas in our NP specialties guide” href=”/nurse-practitioner/specializations/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take for an LPN to become a BSN?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you bridge from LPN to BSN online?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can enroll in an LPN-to-BSN online bridge program to become an RN. Bridge programs can save you time and money. During an online LPN-to-BSN program, LPNs take undergraduate nursing courses and complete in-person clinical requirements. A BSN prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and an RN license.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the quickest LPN to RN program?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The quickest LPN-to-RN programs take around 12 months and award an ADN rather than a BSN. LPNs who want to expand their career opportunities can enroll in an LPN-to-BSN program to complete a bachelor’s in nursing in as little as two years. Like LPNs, ADN-trained nurses have limited autonomy and salary options.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is earning an LPN-to-BSN worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An LPN-to-BSN can pay off. Earning a BSN can mean higher paying jobs as an RN. LPNs earned a median annual wage of $62,340 in May 2024, according to BLS data, while RNs earned $93,600. RNs also have more career advancement opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]