LPN to RN Online Programs in IN: Top Degrees & Key Details
If you’re an LPN who wants to further your career, becoming an RN can be a rewarding change. Since you already have a nursing license, the path to becoming an RN is simpler than you may think.
In this guide, we’ll look at three top online LPN to RN bridge programs in Indiana. We’ll also review some of the courses you’ll take and answer common questions aspiring RNs often ask.
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Top Online LPN to RN Degrees in Indiana
LPN to RN bridge programs offer current practical nurses an opportunity to become an RN in as little as two years. Many aspiring RNs look for online bridge programs to fit classes into their busy schedules a bit easier.
“Online” degree programs are either fully online or hybrid:
- Fully online: all academic coursework is completed entirely online in a virtual classroom or learning management system
- Partially online (hybrid): some online courses may be offered, but in-person classes or regular campus visits are required
Although there are many flexible options for LPN to RN bridge programs in Indiana, no undergraduate nursing program is 100% online due to the hands-on nature of the profession. Instead, you’re most likely to encounter hybrid programs, offering a mix of both online and in-person learning activities.
After completion of an online LPN to RN bridge program:
- You will earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- You will become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam
Review these online LPN to RN bridge programs in Indiana for an idea of what to expect.
Indiana State University
Indiana State University’s LPN to RN/BSN program helps students transfer related credits and experience to Indiana State through course-equivalency examinations.
Although students gain hands-on experience by completing clinicals in their community, no trips to campus are required. All coursework is available online in this program.
Not only will students be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam by the end of the program, but they’ll also complete a bachelor’s degree at the same time. The completion of a BSN makes RNs more qualified for higher earnings and additional responsibility in the workplace.
Duration: 120 semester hours (three years)
Mode: Online
Cost: In-state tuition: $361 per credit (0 – 11.99 credits). $4,989/semester for 12 – 18 credits. Additional fees may apply, including a clinical fee of $300 – $500 per course.
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Completion of pre-admission courses
- Approval of LPN transcript evaluation
- Good standing at last accredited institution
- Minimum 2.0 GPA in all college-level studies
- Minimum Science GPA of 2.75
Curriculum:
- Transition from LPN to BSN
- Comprehensive Health Assessment for Nursing Practice
- Research Theoretical Basis for Nursing Practice
- Nursing Care of Adults II & III
- Mental Health Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
- Nursing Leadership
- Reflective Nursing Practice
- Professional Nursing Synthesis
- Licensure Preparatory Course
- Introduction to Pharmacology
- Maternal Child Nursing
Vincennes University–Nursing LPN to BSN Hybrid Degree
For students who are looking for a flexible hybrid bridge program, the Nursing LPN to BSN Hybrid Program at Vincennes University is an excellent choice. In this program, students complete most coursework online and only have to visit campus one day per week or less.
The flexible format allows students to continue working as LPNs while they work toward their BSN. This program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and ensures all students meet the requirements for professional licensure.
Duration: Three years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $250-$291 per credit hour for Indiana residents
Admissions Requirements:
- Current practical nurse license
- Evidence of recent placement test
- Grade of “C” or higher in required prerequisite courses
- Completed BIOL 208 within seven years of applying
Curriculum:
- Fundamentals of Nutrition
- Biomedical and Managerial Statistics
- Introduction to Baccalaureate Nursing
- Health Care Policy
- Physical Assessment
- Nursing Care of the Adult I & II
- Mental Health Nursing
- Introduction to Nursing Research
- Gerontology Nursing
- Nursing Care of Children and Childbearing Women
- Nursing Care of the Adult IV Clinical Concentration
- Community Health for Pre-licensure Student
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Quality and Safety in Nursing
- Capstone Planning for Baccalaureate Nursing
- Transition to Nursing Practice
- Licensure Preparation
Ball State University–LPN to BSN Concentration
Within their nursing program, Ball State University offers an LPN to BSN concentration that’s designed specifically for current LPNs who want to become RNs. This program allows you to apply your current experience and education toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Any of the required general studies courses can be taken either on-campus or as independent learning courses. Ball State University also offers some nursing courses fully online.
After graduation, you’ll be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and can pursue a career as an RN.
Duration: 120 credit hours (Three semesters)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,068 per credit hour for students taking less than 12 credits
$12,759 for students taking 12-18 hours
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Completion of all required science courses within seven years of applying
- Pre-assessment score from NLN PAX test
Curriculum:
- Health Appraisal Across the Lifespan
- Fundamental Nursing Skills
- Adult Health 1, 2, 3 & 4
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- Research in Nursing
- Pediatrics
- Community Health
- Nursing of Childbearing Families
- Transition to Practice
- Leadership and Management
Indiana LPN to RN FAQ
Many aspiring RNs have the same questions, and we’ve answered several of them below. These answers should give you a glimpse at some of the most important aspects of an in-person or online LPN to RN bridge program.
How long are LPN to RN bridge programs in Indiana?
Indiana LPN-RN programs have different lengths depending on the program, your enrollment status (part-time or full-time), and whether you’ve already completed coursework beforehand. The degree you’re seeking also plays a major role:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): as little as three semesters (i.e., University of Saint Francis)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): two or three years
How much do LPN to RN programs in Indiana cost?
The cost of LPN to RN programs in Indiana can range from $2,500 to $17,700 per semester, but it typically depends on the type of institution and whether any financial aid opportunities are available.
Below are three example programs throughout Indiana and their corresponding costs.
- Indiana State University – $351/credit hour or $4,856/semester – 70-77 total credits
- University of Saint Francis – $1,120/credit hour or $17,710/semester (fall or spring) – 70-84 total credits
- Ivy Tech Community College – $170.07/credit hour or $2,445.76/semester – 75-77 total credits
What should I look for in an Indiana LPN to RN program?
Two of the main things you should look for in an LPN to RN bridge program are accreditation and flexibility. You should always look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
If you’re currently working as an LPN, flexibility is also important so you have time to attend classes around your work schedule. Other things to look for include:
- LPN transcript evaluations (to receive credit for prior education)
- Location of clinical experiences
- Availability of courses in various formats
What will I learn in an LPN to RN bridge program?
During an LPN to RN bridge program students will learn to transition from the role of a pseudo-assistant to that of an independent worker. These programs include a combination of:
- General education courses
- Nursing/healthcare courses
- Clinical training opportunities
All of the courses in the program are meant to prepare you for the unique skills necessary to succeed as an RN and expand your knowledge as a healthcare professional.
How can I prepare for an LPN to RN bridge program?
One of the best ways to prepare for an LPN to RN bridge program is to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Every LPN to RN program requires an LPN license, so make sure your license is up-to-date.
Most programs also require certain prerequisite courses, and each program may differ slightly in what they require. That’s why researching multiple programs and reviewing their requirements is a key part of preparing before you choose a program.
Expert Insight
There will be days and nights where most of your time will be spent studying and completing assignments. Studying for the NCLEX-RN will require immense focus as well. A great way to prepare for RN school is to make sure you have a strong support system before you begin.
Indiana LPN vs. RN Salary & Career Comparison
As you work toward becoming an RN, understanding what to expect after graduation can help you make the most of your new career. At the 10th percentile, RNs in Indiana earn $61,710, which is already higher than the median salary of $60,500 for LPNs.
This means entry-level RNs often earn more than experienced LPNs, suggesting faster financial growth and higher income potential. Specialized RNs earn even higher pay; the 90th percentile RN salary is $103,710.
Indiana’s expected growth rate for RNs is 5.4%, just slightly below the national average of 5.6%. In contrast, the growth rate for LPNs is 7.5%, which is above the national rate of 5.3%.
However, there are 3,630 annual job openings for RNs, which is much higher than the 910 LPN openings. Review the data below to learn more about what lies ahead in your RN career.
| Occupation | Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Indiana | $48,170 | $60,500 | $72,470 |
| Registered Nurses | Indiana | $61,710 | $78,530 | $103,710 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Occupation | Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Registered Nurses | Indiana | 67,390 | 71,020 | 3,630 | 5.40% | 4,090 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Indiana | 12,080 | 12,990 | 910 | 7.50% | 1,040 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
