LPN to RN Online Programs in MS: Reviewing Top Schools
If you want to take your career from a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to a Registered Nurse (RN) you can with online bridge programs in Mississippi. Learn about the kinds of programs available (including their various formats), and how much you can expect to pay for your program in this guide. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions, spotlight high-quality schools, and detail expected salary and career growth opportunities throughout the state.
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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.
Inside Online LPN to RN Degrees in Mississippi
There are different types of online programs, especially when it comes to a hands-on career like nursing. Many LPN to RN programs are considered hybrid, meaning they have both online and in-person components. For example, you may be able to take most of your coursework online, then travel to campus for occasional in-person events and training, like orientation, practicums, and simulations. You may also be required to participate in an in-person skills assessment.
If you’re not interested in or able to travel to campus even occasionally, you could benefit from a fully online LPN to RN program in Mississippi. From classes to simulations, all components in these programs are available through your school’s learning management system. You won’t miss out on hands-on training, since you’ll still be required to participate in clinicals at a partner healthcare facility near you.
Mississippi Delta Community College
Mississippi Delta Community College’s Accelerated Track for LPNs allows busy practical nurses to complete their associate degree in just one year, giving them the opportunity to quickly move forward in their careers. To be admitted, you’ll need an unencumbered LPN license in Mississippi, a high school diploma or GED, an ACT score of at least 18, and a passing score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam. You should also have at least a C grade in prerequisite classes that include anatomy and physiology, nutrition, microbiology, English composition, and general psychology.
Once admitted, you’ll learn nursing processes RNs use to meet the physical, psychosocial, cultural, and safety needs of patients. You’ll also be trained in how to communicate effectively when speaking to patients, their family members, or colleagues. After you complete your courses, you’ll participate in an externship that will give you your first taste of what it’s like to be a registered nurse in the field. Though the nursing courses themselves aren’t available online, most prerequisite courses, some electives, and the required psychology and communications classes can be taken online.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $10,645
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum ACT score of 18
- TEAS entrance exam
- CPR certified
- Completed and passed prerequisite courses
- Background check performed by the college’s office
- Pre-admission drug screen
Curriculum:
- Nursing I-IV
- Nursing Review I & II
- Human Growth & Development
- Public Speaking
- Medical Terms
- Pre-health Professions
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
The LPN-to-RN Transitional Program at MGCCC is designed to help LPNs advance their careers and become registered nurses by earning their associate degree in nursing (ADN). This 66-credit program offers a streamlined pathway, recognizing the experience and skills you’ve already gained as an LPN. It combines online classroom instruction with in-person, hands-on clinical practice, providing the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in the RN role. You’ll learn advanced nursing techniques, critical thinking skills, and leadership strategies to prepare for a broader scope of practice. The program is flexible, with both full-time and part-time options, helping balance work and school. Upon completion, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and earn your RN licensure, opening more career opportunities and increasing your earning potential.
Duration: One to two years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $180/credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Prerequisites in Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, Psychology
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Current, active, unencumbered LPN license
- Two full-time years of documented work experience from the last two years as a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)
- Two letters of recommendation from people familiar with you in a professional capacity
- Criminal Background Check (fingerprinting) from a MGCCC Campus Police office
- ACT composite score of 18 or above
- Note: Hybrid applicants must achieve a composite score of 65 or above on the ATI TEAS 7 exam (the composite score for the LPN-to-RN non-hybrid weekday option is 60 or above)
Curriculum:
- Adult Health
- Mental/Behavioral Health
- Public Speaking
- Advanced Concepts of Nursing Practice
- Nursing Comprehensive Seminar
- Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
FAQs About LPN to RN Online Programs in Mississippi
Asking is a great way to get more information, so we’ve curated the most asked questions by LPNs looking to become RNs and provided the answers below. Find out about LPN-RN program length, program admissions requirements, tuition costs, and more below.
How long are LPN-RN bridge programs?
LPN to RN bridge programs in Mississippi usually take one to two years to complete but vary according to several factors. If you attend a school that provides an associate degree at the end of the program, it will take you less time to finish your degree than it will if your bridge program culminates in a bachelor’s degree. Also, enrolling as a part-time student can add at least a year to the amount of time you spend in school.
What are the admissions requirements for LPN to RN programs in Mississippi?
LPN to RN programs in Mississippi will first look for an unencumbered LPN license for prospective students. Schools will also ask you to demonstrate proof that you’ve earned at least a certain grade point average in nursing prerequisite classes, which can include mathematics, anatomy and physiology, and biology (not all programs have prerequisite requirements). Schools may also require specific TEAS and ACT exam scores.
What is the cost for LPN to RN programs?
The cost of Mississippi LPN to RN programs depends on the school. For example, Mississippi Delta Community College charges $1,645 per semester, while Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College charges $1,650 per semester. Every school is a little different, and the number of credits in your program will determine how much you pay.
What should I look for in an LPN to RN program in Mississippi?
Above all, you want to find an LPN to RN bridge program in Mississippi that is accredited, so you know you’re getting a quality education. That means finding a program approved by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or a similar entity. You’ll also want to look at a school’s NCLEX pass rate. Northeast Mississippi Community College showcases its NCLEX pass rate on the program website to demonstrate that LPNs are taught what they need to know to obtain their registered nursing license. Is there a certain type of clinical experience you’re interested in? Be sure to inquire about that. If the amount of time you can spend on campus is a concern, look for whether schools offer completely online or hybrid programs.
What will I learn in LPN to RN programs in Mississippi?
In an LPN to RN program, you’ll learn the skills you need to become a registered nurse. You’ll be exposed to the professional, ethical, and legal standards expected of RNs and become familiar with the challenges registered nurses face when treating patients from different populations and backgrounds. LPN to RN online bridge programs in Mississippi also cover the role that technology, nursing regulations, and access to resources play in the delivery of quality care.
Ranking the Best Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Mississippi
When choosing an online LPN to RN program, we understand that you need to know if you’ll be at a school that fits your unique needs and interests. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the most popular programs available in Mississippi, vetted for quality. For details about our rankings, see the methodology above.
Mississippi University for Women
Columbus, MSProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,535 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mississippi University for Women
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at MUW offers an accelerated, fast-paced three-semester option with a three-week preceptorship immediately before graduation.
- Licensed Practical Nurses with one year of recent clinical experience receive advanced placement credit for 16 credits by completing specific summer nursing transition courses, shortening the path to the ASN degree.
- The program maintains a strong legacy since 1971 with over 1,600 graduates employed nationwide, reflecting its commitment to excellence and strong clinical workforce placement.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,535 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,034 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected William Carey University
- The LPN to RN Bridge program offers free textbooks, reducing the financial burden of educational materials for students.
- Students can earn up to 18 credit hours via advanced placement testing, accelerating degree completion and saving time.
- The program provides flexible part-time or full-time study options with entirely online theory courses, enabling balance with work and life commitments.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,034 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,483 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Itawamba Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Itawamba Community College offers two advanced placement options that validate prior LPN knowledge and allow credit toward RN courses, accelerating progression to RN status.
- Option 2 requires minimum one year of work experience and a transition course for streamlined entry into the final year of the RN program, demonstrating recognition of practical experience.
- Successful completion of the program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, with program oversight by experienced faculty ensuring alignment with current nursing standards.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,483 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,961 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Coahoma Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program awards 14 credit hours upon successful completion of the Nursing Transition course, accelerating progress through advanced placement.
- Students partner with committed faculty who provide the most current information and trends, ensuring a supportive transition to Registered Nurse practice.
- The program offers a small, personalized learning environment with engaging classroom, clinical, and virtual simulation experiences building on previous LPN skills.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,961 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,173 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected East Central Community College
- East Central College’s LPN to RN Bridge program offers an evening and every-other-weekend class format, enabling LPNs to work while completing their RN courses.
- The program uses distance-learning technology at the Rolla location to provide enhanced access and flexibility for students.
- Articulation agreements with several BSN completion programs facilitate seamless progression to higher nursing education levels beyond the AAS degree.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,173 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Pearl River Community College
Poplarville, MSProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,423 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 27/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Pearl River Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Pearl River Community College offers waived nursing course fees totaling 14 credit hours, reducing time and cost for LPNs advancing to RN status.
- The program provides flexible scheduling with both daytime and nighttime options, accommodating working LPNs seeking to complete their RN degree within three semesters.
- Admission selection uses a competitive points system favoring in-district residents with high academic performance, enhancing student quality and community healthcare impact.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,423 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 27/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Perkinston, MSProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,630 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
- The program offers hybrid weekday or evening/weekend classes that provide flexibility for working LPNs to continue education without interrupting their careers.
- Students receive 14 semester hours of credit for prior nursing education, allowing them to bypass first-year ADN courses and accelerate program completion.
- The LPN-to-RN track includes focused clinical coursework alongside EMS, Paramedic, and Respiratory Therapy students, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and broadening clinical experience.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,630 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,867 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 24/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Jones County Junior College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Jones College grants 15 hours of credit by exam, accelerating degree completion for licensed practical nurses.
- Applicants who pass the National League for Nursing’s NACE I Foundations of Nursing Examination gain eligibility for further specialized nursing exams, streamlining progression through the program.
- Academic advisors tailor course sequencing individually, allowing customization for students’ career goals and transfer plans to other colleges or universities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,867 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 24/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,572 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Holmes Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Holmes Community College offers an accelerated 12-month track specifically designed for LPNs with medical-surgical experience, enabling quicker eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Students enrolled in the ADN program, including the LPN to RN bridge, are recommended to maintain 15 credit hours per semester to qualify for state aid, institutional scholarships, and a tuition break, enhancing affordability.
- The program provides a structured transition with Nursing Transitions courses in summer terms and advanced clinical nursing courses in subsequent semesters, ensuring focused preparation and high clinical placement opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,572 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,142 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Meridian Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Meridian Community College offers an accelerated pathway that allows LPNs to complete the ADN in three semesters instead of four, recognizing prior nursing education for advanced placement.
- The program’s hybrid format combines online instruction with face-to-face labs and clinical experiences, providing flexibility while maintaining rigorous hands-on training in local healthcare settings.
- Students benefit from a transition course designed to bridge gaps in first-year nursing objectives, facilitating smoother progression into upper-level nursing coursework and increasing success in RN licensure preparation.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,142 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 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
Mississippi LPN vs. RN Salary & Career Comparison
Now that you know how to transition from LPN to RN, let’s take a closer look at your career opportunities after graduation. Mississippi has a projected growth rate of 6.4% for RNs, which is higher than the national average of 5.6%. This rate is also slightly above the state growth average of 5.5% for LPNs. Additionally, RNs have more job openings than LPNs; each year, there are 1,860 open RN positions compared to 740 for LPNs.
Beyond more opportunities, Mississippi RNs also earn higher salaries than LPNs. The median salary for RNs is $69,370, while the median pay for LPNs is $48,260. Some nurses in high-demand specializations can earn over six figures; RNs in the 90th percentile earn $100,160, while LPNs in the 90th percentile make $60,170. Check out the following information table to get a clearer idea of your future career as an RN.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Mississippi | $37,540 | $48,260 | $60,170 |
| Registered Nurses | Mississippi | $54,580 | $69,370 | $100,160 |
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 | Mississippi | 29,980 | 31,910 | 1,930 | 6.40% | 1,860 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Mississippi | 8,930 | 9,420 | 490 | 5.50% | 740 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
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