[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics are first responders who help patients in the field and then transport them to emergency rooms or other healthcare settings.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics play a critical role in the healthcare system, but it is relatively easy for paramedics to change careers, building on their knowledge and expertise to become [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurses (RN)[/hen-ui-link], which can also increase income potential.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A paramedic-to-RN [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]bridge program[/hen-ui-link] allows you to earn an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link] in 1-2 years. You can qualify for more job opportunities and take on greater clinical responsibilities by becoming an RN.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We’ve identified the best paramedic-to-RN bridge programs in the country. Explore common admission requirements for training, salary, and career outlooks 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 RN-to-BSN 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″]The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs in 2025[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading] [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 nursing 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 list is from 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What To Look for in an Online LPN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs prepare graduates for RN licensure. However, not every program comprises the same curriculum or format, and some may take longer to complete than others.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When looking for the right program for your needs, consider the following factors:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Paramedic-to-RN Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation ensures a quality education and verifies a graduate’s preparedness for nursing careers. The accreditation process benefits nursing as a whole and ensures students can sit for the NCLEX-RN. Upholding industry standards also provides better nursing care outcomes.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The nursing programs in our ranking hold accreditation from the[hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”] Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Here’s why nursing school accreditation matters for nurses:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited programs follow the best practices for educating nurses.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students may not be able to transfer credits from unaccredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State boards of nursing only license candidates from accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers may only hire graduates from accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Paramedic-to-RN Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs build on your prior medical training and clinical skills to prepare you for licensure as an RN. You complete courses in health assessment, evidence-based practice, and patient care, while also gaining hands-on skills through clinical rotations and labs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you choose to attend a paramedic-to-RN bridge program online, you may take classes virtually while meeting clinical requirements in person, often in your local area. Online programs may offer asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid delivery formats, which provide flexibility for paramedics who plan to work while earning a nursing degree.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Find out more information about [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical experiences[/hen-ui-link] as an online nursing student and the differences between [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/in-person-vs-online-nursing-programs/”]in-person and online nursing programs[/hen-ui-link] with our helpful guides.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to a Paramedic-to-RN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before paramedics can take nursing classes, they need to apply to paramedic-to-RN programs. That means meeting the admission requirements.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most paramedic-to-RN bridge programs require:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A valid paramedic certification or licensure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A high school diploma or the equivalent[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]1-2 years of experience working as a paramedic[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may need to submit a resume, letters of recommendation, and essays during the admission process. Many programs also require a background check and updated immunizations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Paramedic-to-RN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Becoming an RN can boost your earning potential, but paying for a paramedic-to-RN bridge program poses a barrier for many students.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It’s important to understand your [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/financial-aid/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] options to help [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]pay for your nursing degree[/hen-ui-link]. Start by completing the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/” target=”_blank”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid[/hen-ui-link] (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal, state, and private funding sources.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next, research [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarships/”]grants and scholarships for nursing students[/hen-ui-link]. Because they do not require repayment, grants and scholarships are ideal sources of funding.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a prospective healthcare worker, you can also explore details on [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]student loan forgiveness programs[/hen-ui-link] and employer [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-jobs-to-pay-off-student-loans/”]tuition reimbursement[/hen-ui-link], which can help you cover costs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do After a Paramedic-to-RN Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After graduating from a paramedic-to-RN program, you can take the NCLEX-RN and apply for RN licensure. If you earned an ADN, you can also consider an RN-to-BSN program to enhance your clinical knowledge and move into specialized roles.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The scope of practice for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/rn-vs-paramedic/”]RNs and paramedics[/hen-ui-link] varies. For example, RNs can work in many more clinical settings, including hospitals and medical offices.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Like RNs, paramedics can insert IVs, give medications, and provide life-saving interventions, but paramedics can intubate patients in emergencies while RNs cannot. Nurses help determine and deliver patient care in all settings and situations, including emergencies and non-emergencies.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many RNs work in hospitals, while others find employment in ambulatory healthcare services, nursing and rehab facilities, medical practices, and government agencies.[/hen-ui-text][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 a paramedic to become an RN?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can become RNs in as little as 1-2 years with a paramedic-to-RN bridge program. These programs incorporate nursing courses and clinical rotations to prepare graduates for RN licensure and higher earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is paramedic-to-RN worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can increase their earning potential by becoming RNs. EMTs and paramedics reported a median annual salary of $46,350 as of April 2024, according to BLS data, while RNs earned $93,600.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the path from paramedic to nurse?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can enroll in bridge programs to become registered nurses. These programs, which take 1-2 years, build on the expertise of paramedics to meet the licensure requirements for RN jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can a paramedic pass the NCLEX?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics who want to take the NCLEX need to attend an accredited nursing program. Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs offer an accelerated path to RN careers, and these programs prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-RN.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]