Online LPN to BSN Programs: Choosing the Best School
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin EditorialSenior CareDementia CareWhy Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
LPN to BSN bridge programs give working practical nurses a solid pathway to a bachelor’s degree. An online program makes the journey more flexible, with didactic coursework offered via online lectures and other web-based programs. But which schools offer the best LPN to BSN programs online? How do they work and how much do they cost? Get the inside scoop on these growing opportunities in nurse education.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Achieve Test Prep
PROGRAM: LPN to RN/BSN
We help thousands of LPNs/LVNs work towards achieving their Associate Degree in Nursing or RN. The Test-Out Bridge Program makes achieving your RN faster and affordable, and previous college credits will count toward your advanced degree.
Online LPN to BSN programs can make career growth convenient for LPNs. The online format is often asynchronous, meaning students can complete their coursework at their convenience, wherever they are. There may also be real-time elements, although many programs and courses prioritize student needs.
Ready to explore an online LPN to BSN program? Start with the basics, learn how they work, see top programs, and more.
Understanding the Basics
When considering an online LPN-to-BSN program, it’s important to understand the basics first. This includes how long the programs are, how much they cost, and whether they will prepare you for the NCLEX-RN. Get the answers you need here before taking your next steps.
How Long Are LPN to BSN Online Programs?
Most full-time LPN to BSN programs take approximately 18 months to earn a bachelor’s degree. However, the length of the program depends on two major factors: the type of program a student chooses – whether full-time or part-time – and the number of credits a student has when they come into the program.
Assuming they have completed all general education and prerequisite courses, the timeline will be closer to 18 months. However, this timeframe will extend to two or more years if the student is taking courses part-time.
In some cases, students may be able to earn their BSN in less than a year, depending on the semester they begin, if they pass the program’s nursing entrance exams (which allow them to skip certain nursing courses) and have previously completed the prerequisite and general education courses.
How Much Do These Programs Cost?
There is no general rule when it comes to calculating how much it will cost to complete an LPN to BSN program. Each school has its own tuition policy for online nursing students.
Some schools charge a special online rate, while others may charge a rate based on state of residence, such as a lower in-state rate or a higher out-of-state rate. Other schools may also offer financial aid more robust than what students can find elsewhere, which can significantly affect the bottom line.
Students interested in a particular school’s program should be extra careful when calculating the cost of attendance and never assume a certain tuition rate applies to them; they should also never discount the opportunities for financial aid. The best approach is to speak with a financial aid advisor before enrollment.
Does the LPN to BSN Online Bridge Prepare You for the NCLEX-RN?
Yes, any quality LPN-to-BSN online bridge program will fully prepare graduates to pass the NCLEX-RN, which is required to practice as a Registered Nurse.
However, this may not be important for those who want a BSN but don’t wish to become registered nurses. Regardless of their future career path, it’s important that these students seek an LPN-to-BSN program that provides adequate training and instruction to pass the NCLEX-RN.
That’s because preparing students for this essential exam is a mark of a high-quality program, and any job that requires a BSN will probably expect the BSN holder to have received a level of instruction that is adequate enough to pass the NCLEX-RN.
Are Online LPN to BSN Programs Accredited?
Yes, many online LPN-to-BSN programs are accredited. Accreditation refers to the independent review of a school’s curriculum to determine if it meets the standards of a solid, high-quality education. In other words, it confirms a degree is more than a piece of paper. It helps ensure a graduate’s hard work doesn’t go to waste.
When it comes to accreditation, there are two primary types:
- Regional: This refers to the school’s accreditation.
- Programmatic: This involves accrediting a specific program. When it comes to LPN-to-BSN bridge programs, there are two accrediting bodies, either of which will ensure graduates are prepared to pass the NCLEX-RN and practice as registered nurses after graduation. The first is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, or CCNE. The second is the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, or ACEN.
To become a licensed registered nurse, applicants must graduate from a nursing program approved by their state nursing board. In many instances, accreditation will ensure the program meets this requirement.
Additionally, accreditation helps students obtain financial aid. Most private scholarships and government-based aid require attendance at an accredited post-secondary institution.
How Online LPN to BSN Programs Work
Online LPN-to-BSN programs allow practical nurses to leverage their existing training and experience. This helps them earn a bachelor’s degree and become registered nurses more quickly than students without a nursing background.
Since many LPNs continue working while in school, while honoring family obligations, or both, online programs offer the flexibility busy students need. Even if some hands-on work is required, the bulk of the courses can be completed online. Many schools go a step further and make their programs either full-time or part-time.
Here’s a look at a full program, from prerequisites to graduation:
All LPN-to-BSN programs will require students to complete certain prerequisites by the time they enroll or, at the very least, before they take their first major course.
Despite being mostly similar to courses that any other college students may take, they are nonetheless important because they teach principles that later nursing courses will rely on.
- Class #1: College Writing
- Class #2: Introduction to Psychology
- Class #3: General Chemistry
- Class #4: Introduction to Microbiology
Entry-level nursing classes begin immediately after completion of prerequisites. At this level, the courses mostly focus on general health and medical concepts that many students in the healthcare field will likely take.
In fact, some of these courses might be quite easy for LPNs who already have a solid amount of work experience. Many of these courses will be available fully online.
- Class #1: Human Anatomy
- Class #2: Human Physiology
- Class #3: LPN to BSN Transition
- Class #4: Mental Health Nursing
Late in the LPN-to-BSN program, students will take a deep dive into advanced nursing coursework. Many of these classes discuss types of care for serious or unique patients, judgment-based decision making, and theory-based nursing care. There will also be a greater emphasis on completing clinical work during this phase of study.
- Class #1: Parent & Infant Nursing
- Class #2: Leadership & Management in Nursing
- Class #3: Critical Care Nursing
- Class #4: NCLEX-RN Prep
These crucial hands-on requirements can be completed at healthcare providers approved by the nursing program. In many programs, these include hospitals and clinics near the campus.
However, fully online programs often allow distance-learning students to find healthcare providers in their own communities, reducing the need for long commutes. As an added bonus, some students may currently work in an approved facility, meaning their everyday work can count toward the clinical work requirement.
Explore Online LPN to BSN Programs in Popular States
- LVN to BSN Programs in California (Online & On-Campus)
- LVN to BSN Programs in Texas (Online & On-Campus)
- LPN to BSN Programs in Florida (Online & On-Campus)
What Are the LPN to BSN Admission Requirements?
The specific admissions requirements will vary by LPN-to-BSN program. But for most prospective nursing students, they should expect to comply with the following admission requirements:
- Completion of an admission application.
- Up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae.
- Copy of the applicant’s LPN or LVN license.
- Graduation from an accredited or approved practical nursing program.
- A short list of professional references.
- Completion of certain nursing-based prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA.
- Pass one or more school specific nursing entrance exams, such as the National League for Nursing (NLN) Acceleration Challenge Examinations.
- A minimum amount of practical nursing experience.
What Can You Do After an LPN to BSN?
While it’s true that many BSN graduates will start their career as a registered nurse, there are a number of different careers available that can be just as challenging and fulfilling. Here are a few of the options:
Nurse case manager – After a few years of experience as a registered nurse, a nurse can work directly with patients to coordinate the entirety of their medical care.
Legal consultant – Legal consultants give advice to attorneys (and can testify in court as expert witnesses) as to how a given healthcare process should work.
Insurance claims consultant – They can help insurance companies make healthcare-related decisions, such as medical malpractice liability and workers’ compensation claims.
Pharmaceutical representative – Prior experience as an LPN will provide an edge when selling drugs for pharmaceutical companies.
Nurse educator – Nurse educators can teach the general public about staying healthy and help individuals understand the healthcare system.
Health coach – Someone who has worked in the healthcare field can provide a unique perspective when giving health-related advice to clients.
Lobbyist – Healthcare lobbyists with nursing experience can be very persuasive when lobbying government officials on behalf of clients.
Medical journalist – An LPN’s professional background in healthcare allows them to analyze newsworthy events effectively.
Life care planner – Life care planners coordinate with medical providers and insurance companies to get necessary medical services for their clients.
Nurse navigator – An LPN’s prior experience will come in handy when helping clients navigate the healthcare system.
Salary Comparison: Practical/Vocational Nurses vs. Registered Nurses
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | U.S. | $49,740 | $64,400 | $83,440 |
| Registered Nurses | U.S. | $68,940 | $97,550 | $137,470 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Alabama | $39,880 | $57,030 | $69,120 |
| Registered Nurses | Alabama | $58,150 | $77,080 | $98,910 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Alaska | $62,400 | $80,800 | $96,700 |
| Registered Nurses | Alaska | $85,030 | $109,480 | $149,070 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Arizona | $61,050 | $77,070 | $89,850 |
| Registered Nurses | Arizona | $70,540 | $99,500 | $130,930 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Arkansas | $44,670 | $56,620 | $65,020 |
| Registered Nurses | Arkansas | $60,780 | $78,940 | $103,660 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | California | $64,390 | $79,750 | $100,450 |
| Registered Nurses | California | $101,260 | $140,270 | $213,320 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Colorado | $50,820 | $73,880 | $84,440 |
| Registered Nurses | Colorado | $79,500 | $100,260 | $124,940 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Connecticut | $62,610 | $73,690 | $81,060 |
| Registered Nurses | Connecticut | $80,350 | $102,740 | $134,870 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Delaware | $59,210 | $68,710 | $77,580 |
| Registered Nurses | Delaware | $78,340 | $99,520 | $123,860 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | District of Columbia | $62,880 | $75,740 | $87,470 |
| Registered Nurses | District of Columbia | $79,390 | $102,540 | $151,170 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Florida | $50,450 | $61,770 | $74,320 |
| Registered Nurses | Florida | $67,970 | $84,190 | $120,330 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Georgia | $46,010 | $62,030 | $76,690 |
| Registered Nurses | Georgia | $68,920 | $93,550 | $128,640 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Hawaii | $59,620 | $71,140 | $88,340 |
| Registered Nurses | Hawaii | $82,500 | $136,320 | $147,830 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Idaho | $47,890 | $63,800 | $77,850 |
| Registered Nurses | Idaho | $71,210 | $92,460 | $121,230 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Illinois | $58,880 | $75,000 | $89,810 |
| Registered Nurses | Illinois | $69,170 | $95,990 | $118,190 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Indiana | $50,550 | $65,720 | $77,220 |
| Registered Nurses | Indiana | $66,750 | $83,500 | $105,750 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Iowa | $50,550 | $62,630 | $77,710 |
| Registered Nurses | Iowa | $63,840 | $78,630 | $100,500 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Kansas | $49,780 | $61,760 | $77,290 |
| Registered Nurses | Kansas | $63,180 | $79,320 | $100,840 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Kentucky | $48,420 | $60,460 | $73,220 |
| Registered Nurses | Kentucky | $64,170 | $81,040 | $111,750 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Louisiana | $45,810 | $57,470 | $66,150 |
| Registered Nurses | Louisiana | $63,800 | $80,230 | $104,740 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Maine | $56,160 | $73,200 | $82,600 |
| Registered Nurses | Maine | $74,160 | $86,990 | $106,950 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Maryland | $60,720 | $74,660 | $90,010 |
| Registered Nurses | Maryland | $76,780 | $99,790 | $124,790 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Massachusetts | $61,690 | $80,220 | $93,980 |
| Registered Nurses | Massachusetts | $80,310 | $104,550 | $174,510 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Michigan | $56,160 | $65,460 | $77,780 |
| Registered Nurses | Michigan | $77,260 | $94,300 | $116,710 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Minnesota | $51,700 | $63,750 | $77,380 |
| Registered Nurses | Minnesota | $79,960 | $101,510 | $132,430 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Mississippi | $39,320 | $50,220 | $60,910 |
| Registered Nurses | Mississippi | $60,610 | $77,090 | $100,350 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Missouri | $48,580 | $61,530 | $77,120 |
| Registered Nurses | Missouri | $63,230 | $81,780 | $104,390 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Montana | $49,230 | $62,210 | $74,330 |
| Registered Nurses | Montana | $70,120 | $85,280 | $113,920 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Nebraska | $50,890 | $62,660 | $77,940 |
| Registered Nurses | Nebraska | $66,020 | $84,730 | $106,190 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Nevada | $61,750 | $76,160 | $89,420 |
| Registered Nurses | Nevada | $79,500 | $103,670 | $133,270 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | New Hampshire | $59,860 | $77,110 | $93,660 |
| Registered Nurses | New Hampshire | $75,610 | $99,700 | $123,190 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | New Jersey | $63,210 | $75,160 | $85,400 |
| Registered Nurses | New Jersey | $83,060 | $106,500 | $135,170 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | New Mexico | $38,090 | $59,330 | $78,110 |
| Registered Nurses | New Mexico | $74,300 | $94,340 | $123,540 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | New York | $54,480 | $67,180 | $81,530 |
| Registered Nurses | New York | $79,760 | $109,440 | $157,090 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | North Carolina | $50,480 | $63,270 | $74,730 |
| Registered Nurses | North Carolina | $67,660 | $84,350 | $110,220 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | North Dakota | $50,950 | $62,300 | $74,130 |
| Registered Nurses | North Dakota | $65,520 | $80,730 | $103,480 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Ohio | $50,030 | $61,950 | $74,120 |
| Registered Nurses | Ohio | $66,980 | $82,510 | $105,290 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Oklahoma | $45,440 | $58,320 | $66,410 |
| Registered Nurses | Oklahoma | $60,530 | $82,920 | $106,390 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Oregon | $64,000 | $80,470 | $98,990 |
| Registered Nurses | Oregon | $95,280 | $129,010 | $155,010 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Pennsylvania | $51,500 | $63,940 | $77,750 |
| Registered Nurses | Pennsylvania | $70,800 | $96,430 | $117,900 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Rhode Island | $65,650 | $80,090 | $94,540 |
| Registered Nurses | Rhode Island | $77,410 | $100,640 | $129,840 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | South Carolina | $50,370 | $61,820 | $76,420 |
| Registered Nurses | South Carolina | $66,860 | $82,360 | $106,520 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | South Dakota | $40,770 | $52,750 | $67,700 |
| Registered Nurses | South Dakota | $54,040 | $78,060 | $98,220 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Tennessee | $41,110 | $58,870 | $67,540 |
| Registered Nurses | Tennessee | $63,970 | $81,500 | $104,920 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Texas | $48,910 | $62,240 | $76,140 |
| Registered Nurses | Texas | $67,120 | $95,970 | $127,950 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Utah | $37,480 | $63,230 | $77,540 |
| Registered Nurses | Utah | $68,920 | $84,600 | $109,050 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Vermont | $50,230 | $69,930 | $84,710 |
| Registered Nurses | Vermont | $77,670 | $97,460 | $126,100 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Virginia | $50,580 | $64,920 | $79,170 |
| Registered Nurses | Virginia | $67,830 | $93,600 | $125,580 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Washington | $64,230 | $83,150 | $100,950 |
| Registered Nurses | Washington | $89,630 | $124,200 | $161,910 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | West Virginia | $45,690 | $55,360 | $70,960 |
| Registered Nurses | West Virginia | $57,210 | $80,130 | $131,760 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Wisconsin | $51,820 | $63,760 | $78,490 |
| Registered Nurses | Wisconsin | $77,470 | $95,530 | $119,860 |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | Wyoming | $46,700 | $63,460 | $77,000 |
| Registered Nurses | Wyoming | $65,770 | $83,760 | $107,350 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Online LPN to BSN Programs
For LPNs looking to advance, it can be hard to find time for education. Going to school while working requires dedication from the student and flexibility from the program. To help, more and more schools are offering LPN-to-BSN bridge programs with online components.
These opportunities allow you to take advantage of online learning for the academic portions and schedule the hands-on elements on campus or a nearby third-party site. But which online LPN-to-BSN programs stand out?
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Madonna University
- Madonna University's LPN to BSN Bridge program allows working licensed practical nurses to maintain employment while balancing home, work, and academic responsibilities through a flexible format.
- The program includes hands-on clinical placements that deepen practical skills and prepare students to deliver relationship-centered care aligned with Madonna’s values of integrity, compassion, spirituality, and ethical behavior.
- It offers a specialized curriculum focusing on advanced nursing topics, leadership, and health assessment, designed to elevate existing professional knowledge and broaden career advancement opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff, ARProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,974 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- The University of Arkansas LPN to BSN program is fully online with no campus visits required, allowing students to complete practicums in their own geographic area via a preceptor model.
- The program offers part-time scheduling with flexible fall and spring start dates, enabling working LPNs to earn their BSN while continuing to work full time in their hometowns.
- It provides a specialized pathway that acknowledges prior practical nursing experience, allowing completion in as little as approximately three years and contributing to improved patient outcomes in Arkansas.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,974 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected West Virginia University
- Potomac State College’s LPN to BSN program offers a hybrid learning format with flexible evening and weekend classes, accommodating working nurses’ schedules effectively.
- The program awards 22 escrow credits for prior LPN licensure and professional experience, which reduces the time and coursework needed to complete the BSN degree.
- Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and diverse clinical placements, ensuring hands-on experience in realistic healthcare settings to enhance clinical skills.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,239 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected IU Indianapolis
- Indiana State University's LPN to BSN program offers a fully online format with no required campus visits, allowing working nurses to complete their degree flexibly from home.
- Students can transfer applicable credits and may satisfy some courses through challenge or equivalency exams, accelerating their path to graduation.
- Clinical experiences are conveniently arranged within the student's local community, enabling practical training without relocation or travel burdens.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,239 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $18,024 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Molloy College
- Licensed Practical Nurses with at least one year of clinical experience can receive advanced standing credit, including waiver of the NUR 2240 course, accelerating degree completion.
- Students gain valuable hands-on training in a state-of-the-art simulation learning laboratory guided by expert nursing faculty, enhancing clinical judgment and skills.
- The program features a low student-to-faculty ratio with dedicated faculty support, ensuring personalized academic advising and promoting student success throughout the program.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $18,024 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent
- Kent State’s LPN and Allied Health to BSN bridge program offers flexible cohort options with multiple start dates annually and evening/weekend schedules to accommodate working professionals.
- The program boasts nearly a 95% NCLEX-RN pass rate and almost 100% job placement within six months of graduation, demonstrating strong outcomes for graduates.
- Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and comprehensive clinical experiences in Northeast Ohio, enhancing practical skills and real-world readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, SDProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,709 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Sioux Falls
- The University of Sioux Falls LPN to BSN Bridge program offers tuition discounts for licensed LPNs, making the degree more affordable for working nurses.
- The program features an accelerated course pathway, enabling students to complete their BSN more quickly by recognizing their prior LPN education and experience.
- It provides high-quality faculty expertise combined with personalized academic advising, ensuring strong mentorship and support throughout the program.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,709 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Mary Washington
Fredericksburg, VAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,457 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Mary Washington
- The University of Mary’s LPN to BSN program offers a flexible blended learning format allowing busy nurses to work while earning their degree, with most coursework online and limited on-campus days.
- Students benefit from designated clinical coordinators who secure clinical rotation placements in their home communities across Minnesota, South Dakota, and North Dakota, minimizing disruption to their personal lives.
- The program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and boasts high NCLEX pass rates, reflecting the quality and rigor of education provided.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,457 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $5,866 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Frostburg State University
- The LPN to BSN Bridge program at Frostburg State University offers a fully online, part-time format that provides maximum flexibility for working nurses to complete clinical hours locally.
- Students receive 15 college credits awarded for their LPN licensure and experience, accelerating their progress toward the BSN degree.
- The program is delivered by engaged faculty committed to student success, providing personalized support to help learners meet education and career goals.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $5,866 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CAProgram Details
- WSCUC Accreditation
- $5,787 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-Stanislaus
- The LPN to BSN Bridge program at California State University-Stanislaus offers flexible clinical assignments that can be completed locally, providing convenience for working nurses balancing education and work commitments.
- The program features accelerated completion options, allowing students to advance their careers more quickly by finishing the degree in as little as 12 months.
- It maintains high affordability and accessibility, supported by considerable institutional aid which makes the BSN degree financially feasible for budget-conscious students.
Program Details
- WSCUC Accreditation
- $5,787 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online Undergraduate Bridge Program Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
*Metrics #1-2 and #3-5 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
Keep Learning
Online RN to BSN Degree Programs: Choosing a School
LPN to ADN Bridge Programs Online: Top Schools & Degree Info
Online RN to MSN Programs: Find the School for You
