LPN to RN Online Programs in GA: Reviewing Top Degrees

Spotlighting Georgia’s Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs

If you’re a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in Georgia ready to advance your career, online LPN to RN bridge programs are a great way to become a registered nurse (RN) and get a bump in pay and responsibilities. Of course, nursing is a hands-on profession, so it should be no surprise that Georgia’s online LPN to RN bridge programs have in-person components. These usually include campus-based nursing classes, labs, and clinical rotations attended at healthcare facilities in the school’s local area.

It’s also important to note that very few LPN to RN programs in Georgia bill themselves entirely online. Nevertheless, you’ll discover in your search that many programs offer their required general education and possibly even some nursing courses either fully or partially online, including some delivered in an asynchronous format.

To provide you with a better understanding of how these programs incorporate distance learning into their curriculums, here are profiles of three current LPN to RN programs in Georgia that feature online components.

Answering Student FAQs About LPN to RN Programs

The profiles above provide an excellent look at how specific online LPN to RN programs in Georgia work. However, you likely still have several questions about LPN to RN programs in general. To help, here are the answers to five of the most often asked questions by prospective LPN to RN students.

What should I look for in an LPN to RN program?

Affordability, study flexibility, and access to support services are all essential elements to look for. First and foremost, you’ll want to find the program that best prepares you to take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain your RN license. Foundationally, that means a program approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Another indication of a program’s effectiveness is its NCLEX-RN pass rate. You can check current state approval status and recent NCLEX-RN pass rates here. Accreditation status information is available using these ACEN and CCNE search engines.

What are the admissions requirements for Georgia’s LPN to RN bridge programs?

The admissions requirements for Georgia’s LPN to RN bridge programs vary somewhat from program to program. But you will likely find that any program you consider will include requirements similar to these:

• Current, unencumbered LPN license: In most cases, a Georgia LPN license.
• Prerequisite coursework: Typically in subjects like anatomy, biology, English, mathematics, physiology, and psychology.
• Preadmission testing: The two most common tests are the TEAS and the HESI Admission Assessment Exam.
• Requirements for participation in clinicals: Including a physical examination, CPR certification, and several vaccinations. Passing both a criminal background check and drug screening is also required.

What will I learn in my online Georgia LPN to RN bridge program?

The nursing coursework in Georgia LPN to RN bridge programs focuses on providing students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for competent practice as a registered nurse beyond those of practical nurses. The specifics are commonly spelled out in the form of end-of-program student learning outcomes (EOPSLOs), which you’ll typically find on LPN to RN program websites. A good example of EOPSLOs for an LPN to ADN program is Southern Regional Technical College.

How affordable are LPN to RN bridge programs?

Affordability is a key feature of LPN to RN bridge programs. This is particularly true of ADN programs offered by public two-year state and technical colleges. The cost figures quoted throughout this guide give you a general idea of what you can expect to pay for your LPN to RN education. Remember that most of these figures are for tuition only and do not include other program and school fees. You’ll additionally need to factor in the costs of such things as books, supplies, uniforms, etc.

It’s also beneficial to seek out financial aid opportunities, as they may significantly reduce your total program bill. Popular financial aid types include scholarships and grants, tuition reimbursement programs, and tuition installment plans, among others.

How long does an LPN to RN bridge program take to complete?

Program lengths for LPN to RN bridge programs in Georgia vary somewhat due primarily to the credential awarded (ADN, BSN) and whether the program is full-time or part-time. Also, some programs allow more flexibility in completion times for prerequisite requirements. Nevertheless, you’ll find program lengths (including prerequisites) between 18 months and two years for LPN to ADN programs and two and four years for LPN to BSN programs.

Career & Salary Outlook for Georgia RNs

Now that you're familiar with the path from LPN to RN, it’s worth exploring what lies ahead in your career after you complete your training. At the 10th percentile, RNs in Georgia earn $63,450, which is higher than the median salary of $54,770 for LPNs. This makes even entry-level RN salaries competitive with mid-career LPNs. RNs also out-earn LPNs at the 90th percentile, topping out at $124,330. By comparison, LPNs at the same level only earn $69,220.

The job market for RNs in Georgia is projected to grow by 15.3%, much higher than the national average of 5.6%. Overall, Georgia is expected to add 12,510 new RN jobs in the future, while only 2,780 new LPN jobs are projected. This shows the clear high demand for RNs in Georgia. Take a look at the data below to get an idea of your potential future as an RN.

Top Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Georgia