LPN to RN Online Programs in KS: Top Schools & Essential Details
If you’re a Kansas-based LPN interested in becoming an RN but don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. LPN to RN bridge programs are uniquely designed to give LPNs the education, skills, and experience they need to further their careers and education. In this comprehensive guide to online LPN to RN bridge programs in Kansas, we’ll cover specific programs, learning outcomes, delivery methods, salary potential, and more.
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Inside Look at Online LPN to RN Degrees in Kansas
LPN to RN bridge programs provide a simple path for practical nurses to further their careers. Essentially, they give you a way to use the courses you’ve already taken and apply them to an RN program. That’s why these programs are typically shorter than other pathways to becoming an RN.
When it comes to flexible options for RN training, there are online and hybrid programs available. Some programs allow you to take most of your courses online with minimal visits to campus while others require you to complete clinicals in your community but don’t require any campus visits.
Choosing the right program for you in Kansas involves looking at the prerequisites, cost, and class options for each school. Below we’ve provided a snapshot of some of the best LPN to RN bridge programs available in Kansas to give you a general idea of what makes a program great.
Hutchinson Community College
Hutchinson Community College offers an LPN to RN online bridge program accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the Kansas Board of Nursing, and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Unlike many other programs, the majority of this program’s coursework is offered online. The online format at Hutchinson Community College makes it one of the best options for current LPNs in Kansas. At the end of this program, students will earn an associates of applied science degree (AAS) and be prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, military bases, correctional facilities, and educational facilities.
Duration: Three semesters
Mode: Online
Cost: $5,547 for in-state students; $6,457 for out-of-state students
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- Intravenous (IV) therapy certified in Kansas
- Pass the ATI TEAS exam with a minimum score of 58.7%
- More than 1,000 hours of documented LPN work if graduation was more than three years ago
Curriculum:
- Health Maintenance Promotion & Restoration
- Care of the Family
- Human Growth and Development
- Complex Care of the Adult
- Leadership and Management Concepts in Nursing
- Role Transition: Student to the Professional Nurse
Neosho County Community College
For students looking for an affordable education, Neosho County Community College (NCCC) offers a hybrid LPN to RN bridge program. The cost of this program is the same for both in-state and out–of-state students. The hybrid bridge program offered at Neosho County Community College is accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing.
This program is specifically for students who have completed their LPN training at another facility or completed their training at NCCC more than a year ago. Although certain classes, labs, and clinical learning experiences take place on campus, the bridge course is offered online.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $95 per credit forIn-state and out-of-state students
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Pass medication calculation proficiency examination with a 95% or higher
- Current IV certification
- Completed Level I general education courses with a “C” or better
- Completed Pathophysiology within seven years of applying with a grade of 80% or higher
- Completion of nursing entrance exam and HESI Bridge Entrance Assessment
Curriculum:
- Pathophysiology
- Patient-Centered Care
- Practicum
- Microbiology
- Professional Nursing Concepts L2
Addressing FAQs About Online LPN to RN Programs
You may still have questions before you decide where — or whether — to apply to an LPN-RN bridge program in Kansas. In this section we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about topics such as duration, cost, and admission requirements for some of the programs in Kansas.
How long are LPN to RN bridge programs?
Most LPN to RN bridge programs in Kansas can be completed in four semesters or approximately two years. The length of the program depends on whether you’ve completed pre-requisite courses prior to applying and whether you’re attending classes part or full-time.
Some bridge programs allow you to earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) while others lead to a more extensive bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN), which will also impact the length of the program.
What is the cost for LPN to RN bridge programs in Kansas?
Tuition can vary significantly between schools so it’s important to check each program before applying. We’ve given a few examples of tuition costs in the school spotlight section above but generally, tuition can range anywhere from $2,000-$20,000. Keep in mind that those numbers only cover tuition.
You may also need to factor in the cost of housing, transportation, textbooks, supplies, and other necessary equipment. If you’re concerned about paying for school, the good news is there are many online nursing programs with financial aid opportunities to help offset these costs.
What should I look for in an LPN to RN bridge program in Kansas?
The most important thing to look for in a nursing program is accreditation. Programs can be accredited at the national, school, and program level. If a program meets certain standards to receive accreditation, then it’s proof that a program is high-quality.
Another thing to look for is the faculty’s education and work experience. Your professors will play a key role in preparing you for your future as an RN because they will not only provide the necessary information you need but also help you establish professional relationships with hospitals and other health care facilities. Finally, looking at the published NCLEX exam pass rates can give you an idea of how well the program prepares students for their careers.
Do all LPN to RN programs have the same prerequisites?
Most bridge programs will have the same basic requirements for admission, but the prerequisite courses may differ. Most programs include prerequisite courses in medical terminology, general psychology, and English composition. Often, prerequisites for LPN to RN programs include passing certain courses that you might have already taken during your LPN training.
Although most schools require you to complete these prerequisites before applying, some allow you to work on prerequisite courses while you’re in the program. If you haven’t completed the prerequisite courses for most programs, it’s worth looking into LPN to RN online programs without prerequisites.
What are the learning outcomes in an LPN to RN program?
Students in Kansas LPN to RN bridge programs can expect to build on their previous medical training and experience. In a bridge program, students learn through a combination of classroom instruction, practicum experiences, simulations, and clinical work. You can expect to hone your communication skills and deepen your understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
The curriculum for each program differs slightly, but some of the most common courses include Microbiology, Pharmacology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Concepts of Nursing Practice for Adults and Children. There are a lot of differences in LPN vs RN responsibilities and training, so most bridge programs are designed to prepare you for the additional requirements.
Salary & Career Outlook: The Difference Between LPNs and RNs in Kansas
Now that you know the steps to go from LPN to RN, it’s important to look at the career possibilities after graduation. RNs in Kansas earn more than LPNs at all levels, showing a clear financial advantage to becoming an RN. At the 10th percentile, RNs earn $58,760, out-earning the median salary of $55,540 for LPNs. With experience or specialization, that number increases significantly; RNs at the 90th percentile earn $94,900.
Kansas has a 5% projected growth rate for RNs, which is close to the national average of 5.6%. For LPNs, the growth rate is 6%, which is slightly higher than the national average. Even though the growth rate for LPNs is higher, there are only 590 annual openings. Comparatively, there are 1,940 open jobs each year for RNs. Explore the data in the table below to learn more about what you can expect.
Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
---|---|---|---|---|
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Kansas | $42,200 | $55,540 | $66,860 |
Registered Nurses | Kansas | $58,760 | $75,780 | $94,900 |
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 | Kansas | 32,310 | 33,910 | 1,600 | 5.00% | 1,940 |
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Kansas | 7,000 | 7,420 | 420 | 6.00% | 590 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Kansas
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,230 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Neosho County Community College
- The Neosho County Community College LPN to RN Bridge program offers the same affordable tuition rate of $95 per credit for both in-state and out-of-state students, eliminating residency-based cost disparities.
- The program features a hybrid delivery model, combining online coursework with on-campus labs and clinical experiences, providing flexibility while ensuring hands-on nursing practice.
- Students benefit from instruction by faculty with extensive experience dedicated to academic and professional development, enhancing individualized learning and mentorship opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,230 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,745 Avg. Aid Amount
- 23% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Labette Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Labette Community College offers a flexible Bi-Level structure allowing LPNs to work and gain experience while completing their RN degree.
- Students benefit from a robust NCLEX-RN preparation system, including standardized testing, review, and remediation materials that have historically resulted in high first-attempt pass rates.
- The program requires completion of a focused 1-credit Bridge Course for LPNs entering the RN level, ensuring a seamless transition supported by faculty committed to student success.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,745 Avg. Aid Amount
- 23% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,944 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Washburn University
- Qualified licensed practical nurses (LPNs) receive 18 hours of college credit, accelerating their path to a BSN degree.
- Clinical placements are available throughout the Northeast Kansas region, providing diverse and extensive hands-on experience.
- Graduates become eligible for the NCLEX exam, enabling licensure as a registered nurse and broadening professional opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,944 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,060 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Newman University
- Newman University's LPN to RN Bridge program is attractive because it boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for its graduates, indicating strong exam preparation and program quality.
- The program offers a streamlined transition for licensed practical nurses, allowing credit for prior nursing training and reducing time to completion, facilitating faster career advancement.
- Newman emphasizes extensive clinical judgment development and real-world specialty experiences, preparing students comprehensively for diverse nursing roles and challenges.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,060 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,550 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Hutchinson Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Hutchinson Community College allows students to complete both an ADN from HutchCC and a BSN from the University of Kansas simultaneously, saving time and money through a unique partnership.
- Students can complete up to 70 clinical hours with a local preceptor during the fall term, offering flexible, community-based hands-on experience near their residence.
- The program features primarily online coursework combined with intensive in-person clinical practice, supporting flexible learning while maintaining strong clinical proficiency and critical thinking development.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,550 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Garden City Community College
Garden City, KSProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,548 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Garden City Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Garden City Community College offers high licensing pass rates exceeding both national and state averages, supporting strong job placement prospects upon graduation and licensure.
- All nursing students in the program typically receive scholarship assistance upon application, alongside encouragement to apply for Federal Student Aid and outside scholarships to help fund their education.
- Class sizes are capped at 40 students with a maximum faculty to clinical student ratio of 1:10, ensuring personalized instruction and quality clinical learning experiences.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,548 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,347 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Butler Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Butler Community College offers an accelerated track allowing students to complete their RN education faster, saving both time and money.
- Students benefit from a hybrid learning format that blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experience at reputable healthcare sites such as Kettering Health and Mercy Health.
- The program is taught by experienced nursing faculty who provide NCLEX-RN preparation, focusing on critical thinking and comprehensive nursing knowledge for successful licensure and career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,347 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Dodge City Community College
- Downtown College of Health Sciences (DC3) offers an LPN to RN Bridge program that provides accelerated completion by crediting prior LPN experience, enabling students to complete only three semesters of nursing courses.
- The program boasts strong clinical placement support, facilitating hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students effectively for RN roles.
- DC3 maintains partnerships with local healthcare employers, enhancing job placement prospects for graduates upon program completion.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,641 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Salina Area Technical College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Salina Area Technical College offers priority entrance to current PN students with a 3.0 GPA, enhancing competitive admission chances after PN graduation.
- The program requires only two semesters full-time to complete, allowing accelerated progression from LPN to RN with concentrated classroom and clinical training.
- Priority consideration and competitive selection are supported by a transparent admission process that includes provisional acceptance contingent on securing LPN licensure before program start.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,641 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- ACCJC Accreditation
- $22,521 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southwestern College
- The Step-Up LVN to ADN program offers an accelerated three-semester curriculum beginning in spring, allowing LVNs to efficiently transition to an RN role with credit granted for prior licensure.
- The program uses a Multi-Criteria Points System for admissions, which provides a transparent and merit-based selection process for prospective students.
- Students in the program start with a transition course before joining the ADN classes, ensuring tailored support and smooth integration into advanced nursing studies.
Program Details
- ACCJC Accreditation
- $22,521 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College 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*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- 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.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 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
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